13-Day Ireland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cork traveling north to Killarney, Galway, and Kilkenny

Greet day 2 of your road trip in Ireland with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You have 2 nights to stay in Cork, so get ready to make the most of your time in the region. On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Cork and Blarney.

A top thing to do today is to explore Shandon, a must-see neighborhood in Cork. It's the perfect starting point for touring the top attractions in the area.

Enjoy all that Shandon Bells & Tower St Anne's Church has to offer. This is an intriguing church you should not miss. Another must-see is Cork City Gaol, a frequently visited museum in Cork.

Upon reaching Blarney, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Blarney Castle & Gardens. Spend some time admiring the majestic features of the castle before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Blarney Stone. This underrated monument is a traveler-favorite in the city.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Cork and your accommodation.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Cork's best restaurants.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at South County Bar & Café, Douglas, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Liberty Grill offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Canty's Bar. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Cork.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 3 of your road trip, you'll get the chance to experience Cobh. At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Cork, where you still have 1 night left to stay.

Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Cobh.

When you’ve had your share of Cork, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Cobh. Your travel time is around 26 min.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to St. Colman's Cathedral, Cobh, an intriguing church that everyone visiting Cobh should see. Next, head to "deck Of Cards" Houses. This visually striking street is one of the most curiosity-inducing attractions in the region.

If you're keen to see more, don’t miss out on Titanic Experience Cobh, a photogenic museum popular among locals as well as travelers. Cobh Heritage Centre. The Queenstown Story is an excellent attraction to visit next. Spend some time learning more about this increasingly popular museum before you continue your journey.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Cork.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Cork's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Dan Lowrey's Tavern, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Ziggys Bar is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Luigi Malones Cork. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Cork tonight.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Ireland!

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Ireland. Today you'll explore 1 destination, including Killarney. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Killarney, where you'll spend 3 nights.

After soaking in Cork’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Killarney. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 13 min. When you arrive in Killarney, it's time to take a break from the road.

Our first attraction recommendation in Killarney is Ross Castle, an increasingly popular castle that draws attention for its history-steeped features.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Cork, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Killarney. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 13 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Muckross House, an up-and-coming museum known for its breathtaking features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Killarney National Park, a captivating national park.

If you're starting to feel hungry, this is a great time for a break at a nearby restaurant or cafe. When you're ready for more, stop by Torc Mountain and uncover the details of this mesmerizing waterfall.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Killarney. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the town.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Killarney's best restaurants.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Malarkey, a highly-rated dining destination in Killarney. If you're eager to try something different, consider The Mad Monk by Quinlans, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Vendricks Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Killarney this evening.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, John M. Reidy offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Courtney's Bar is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Jimmy Brien's is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 5 of your road trip in Ireland, you’ll start and end your day in Killarney, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the town. Since you still have 2 nights to spend in Killarney, there’s no need to rush. Experience Waterville, Kenmare, and Sneem to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Waterville. This car ride takes around 1 hour 10 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Charlie Chaplin Statue. Then, head to Waterville Beach. This intriguing beach is a traveler-favorite in the village.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Waterville, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Kenmare. This drive usually takes around 18 min.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Derrynane House, a frequently visited museum in Kenmare. Explore its picture-perfect features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

When you’ve had your share of Kenmare, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Sneem. Your travel time is around 28 min.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Sneem Sculpture Trail, an underrated sculpture garden that everyone visiting Sneem should see.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Killarney and your accommodation.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Killarney. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Killarney Royal Hotel, a popular restaurant in Killarney. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Killarney at Hannigans Bar, Restaurant & Rooftop Balcony, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Curious Cat Café. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Killarney tonight.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Paddy Sheehan The Grand Bar & Niteclub, known for its inviting atmosphere.

As the sun sets, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Ireland.

On day 6 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Killarney, where you still have 1 night left. You'll spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate town, including Dingle and Kenmare.

Dingle is brimming with adventures.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Dingle may take around 1 hour 4 min. Upon your arrival in Dingle, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Spend your afternoon discovering Dingle Oceanworld Aquarium, a locally appreciated aquarium known for its photogenic features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Dingle Distillery, an intriguing distillery.

Kenmare’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Dingle behind. This drive usually takes around 22 min. Kenmare welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the town's best attractions, visit Coumeenoole, an often recommended beach that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Killarney.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Killarney. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Dine in style at Speakeasy Bar, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, The Shire Bar & Cafe boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Caragh Restaurant & Lounge Bar. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Killarney.

Head back to your accommodation in Killarney and get some rest to prepare for another magical day of your road trip in Ireland.

On day 7 of your road trip in Ireland, your travel plans include 4 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. The Municipal District of Adare — Rathkeale, Bunratty, Ennis, and Galway are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Galway, where you will stay for 3 nights.

The Municipal District of Adare — Rathkeale’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Killarney behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 17 min. The Municipal District of Adare — Rathkeale welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Adare Town Park, a frequently visited park in The Municipal District of Adare — Rathkeale. Explore its enchanting features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Set your GPS to Bunratty and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 25 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Bunratty beckons with new experiences!

Our first attraction recommendation in Bunratty is Bunratty Castle & Folk Park, a well-known castle that draws attention for its breathtaking features.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Bunratty and set your GPS to Ennis. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 22 min. Upon reaching Ennis, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Ennis Friary is a worthwhile monastery we recommend visiting today. Discover its instagrammable features before continuing your self-guided tour.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Galway. Galway offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

Galway is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Galway.

Make sure to reserve a table at The Front Door Pub, an iconic dining spot in Galway. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of The Creamery Cafe, Ice Cream, Bistro, a popular restaurant in Galway. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Busker Brownes, a hidden gem nestled in Galway. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting The Dew Drop Inn, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Freeney's Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Tigh Neachtain also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Ireland!

On day 9 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Galway, where you have 1 night left to stay.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Kylemore Abbey & Victorian Walled Garden, a well-known monastery in Clifden. Explore its romantic features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Connemara National Park. This often recommended national park is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’re ready to explore more, Walled Victorian Garden is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most standout botanical garden in the region.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Galway. This car ride takes around 1 hour 24 min.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Wild Atlantic Way Signature Discovery Point @derrigimlagh, an often recommended historical landmark that everyone visiting Clifden should see.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Galway and your accommodation.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Galway, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at The Galleon Restaurant, a top-rated dining spot in Galway. If you're in the mood for something new, try John Keogh's Gastropub, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at RÉ NAO. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Galway.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Garavan's Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Caribou for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Tonerys Bar is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Say good night to Galway and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Ireland!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 10 of your road trip in Ireland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 place, which are Kilkenny. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Kilkenny, where will spend 2 nights.

When you’ve had your share of Galway, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Kilkenny. Your travel time is around 2 hours 28 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering The National Reptile Zoo, a locally appreciated zoo known for its photogenic features. Next, continue your sightseeing at St. Mary’s Medieval Mile Museum, a curiosity-inducing museum.

If you're starting to feel hungry, this is a great time for a break at a nearby restaurant or cafe. When you're ready for more, stop by Kilkenny Castle and uncover the details of this enchanting castle. Make sure to also explore Kilkenny Castle, a popular park.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Kilkenny, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Kilkenny. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Savor the flavors at Billy Byrnes Gastro Bar & Venue, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Langtons Hotel Kilkenny beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Sullivan's Taproom. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Kilkenny tonight.

Keep the evening going at The Dylan Whisky Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Biddy Early´s, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Tynans Bridge House Bar, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Ireland!

Wake up to day 11 of your road trip in Ireland. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of Kilkenny and The Municipal District of Callan — Thomastown. With 1 night to stay in Kilkenny, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Whether you decide to explore Kilkenny on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss.

Start your day at St Canice's Cathedral. This historic church is an intriguing place to see in Kilkenny. Then, wander over to Smithwick's Experience Kilkenny. If standout sites excite you, this brewery will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Rothe House & Garden. This heritage-rich museum is a favorite among visitors.

Kilkenny offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, The Black Abbey is a beloved spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm.

After soaking in Kilkenny’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: The Municipal District of Callan — Thomastown. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 25 min. When you arrive in The Municipal District of Callan — Thomastown, it's time to take a break from the road.

Savor the day by heading to Jerpoint Abbey, a worthwhile monastery that draws visitors from near and far.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Kilkenny.

Kilkenny is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Kilkenny.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Italian Connection, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Syd Harkin's Pub offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Butcher Restaurant is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Kilkenny.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Blue Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Ryans Bar offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Christy's Bar, another top-rated bar in the area.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Ireland.