7-Day Ireland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Dublin traveling west to Galway and Killarney

On day 2 of your road trip in Ireland, your travel plans include 3 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Dublin, Athlone, and Galway are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Galway, where you will stay for 2 nights.

No visit to Dublin is complete without Book Of Kells. This interesting museum is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Molly Malone Statue, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Dublin, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Dublin Castle. This interesting castle is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find St Patrick's Cathedral, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Athlone may take around 1 hour 22 min. Upon your arrival in Athlone, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Athlone Regional Sports Centre, a beloved sports complex in Athlone.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Athlone, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Galway. This drive usually takes around 59 min.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Eyre Square, an interesting public square that everyone visiting Galway should see.

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.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at The Front Door Pub, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? The Creamery Cafe, Ice Cream, Bistro offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Busker Brownes. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Galway.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at The Dew Drop Inn, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Freeney's Bar, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Tigh Neachtain provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Ireland!

Wake up to day 3 of your road trip in Ireland. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of Galway. With 1 night to stay in Galway, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

One of the most iconic spots you can visit today is Salthill. Allow yourself some time to explore this neighborhood and discover its unique quirks. You'll also find many of the best sightseeing spots nearby. You can also explore Shop Street, a street that offers a glimpse into local life and culture.

One of the most intriguing attractions included on the itinerary is Cathedral Of Our Lady Assumed Into Heaven And St Nicholas, Galway. This majestic church will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to The Latin Quarter and learn what makes this history-steeped street unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Cliffs Of Moher, a locally renowned cliff in Galway. Explore its mesmerizing features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Poulnabrone Dolmen. This curiosity-inducing archeological site is a top recommendation in the area.

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

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

Don’t miss out on dining at Apoema Bistro, a top-rated dining destination in Galway. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Finnegans, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Gemelle's. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Galway this evening.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at The Crane Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to O'connor's Famous Pub for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Sally Longs Rock Bar is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Ireland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, including The Municipal District of Adare — Rathkeale and Killarney. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Killarney, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Galway and set your GPS to The Municipal District of Adare — Rathkeale. 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 1 hour 21 min. Upon reaching The Municipal District of Adare — Rathkeale, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the village's best attractions, visit Trinitarian Abbey, an up-and-coming church that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey. Next, head to Adare Town Park and admire its enchanting features.

Set your GPS to Killarney and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 47 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Killarney beckons with new experiences!

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Killarney National Park. Spend some time admiring the standout features of the national park before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Torc Mountain. This frequently visited waterfall is a traveler-favorite in the village.

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

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Malarkey, an iconic dining spot in Killarney. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of The Mad Monk by Quinlans, a popular restaurant in Killarney. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Vendricks Restaurant, a hidden gem nestled in Killarney. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting John M. Reidy after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Courtney's Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Jimmy Brien's also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Ireland!

On day 5 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Killarney, where you have 1 night left to stay.

Ross Castle makes a great addition to your morning plans. This beloved castle is a picture-perfect place to see in Killarney.

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

After soaking in Dingle’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 8 min. When you arrive in Killarney, it's time to take a break from the road.

Spend your afternoon discovering Dingle Distillery, an underrated distillery known for its visually striking features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Dingle Oceanworld Aquarium, a worthwhile aquarium.

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 St Mary's Church and uncover the details of this standout church.

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

Killarney 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 Killarney.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Killarney Royal Hotel, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Hannigans Bar, Restaurant & Rooftop Balcony offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Curious Cat Café is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Killarney.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Paddy Sheehan The Grand Bar & Niteclub offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Ireland!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 of your road trip in Ireland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 places, which are The Municipal District of Cahir — Cashel and Kilkenny. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Dublin, where will spend 1 night.

The Municipal District of Cahir — Cashel’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Killarney behind. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 2 min. The Municipal District of Cahir — Cashel welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Rock Of Cashel, a well-known castle that everyone visiting The Municipal District of Cahir — Cashel should see.

After soaking in The Municipal District of Cahir — Cashel’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Kilkenny. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 53 min. When you arrive in Kilkenny, it's time to take a break from the road.

Our first attraction recommendation in Kilkenny is Kilkenny Castle, an interesting castle that draws attention for its romantic features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Smithwick's Experience Kilkenny, a heritage-rich brewery that stands out in the town.

Time flies when you're having fun! But don't forget to stop for a bit to eat and drink between your adventures. When you're rested and recharged, head to St Canice's Cathedral, a beloved church that offers a unique experience.

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

Dublin 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 Dublin.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Taste Food Company, a top-rated dining spot in Dublin. If you're in the mood for something new, try Sophie's Restaurant, Bar & Terrace, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at The Confession Box. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Dublin.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Bruxelles. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Light House Cinema, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Bowe's Lounge Bar provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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