One-Week Ireland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Dublin to Kilkenny, Killarney, and Galway

Day 2 offers an itinerary packed with the best things to see in Dublin. You’ll stay in Dublin for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Grafton Street is a fantastic place you can explore today in Dublin. This street is a testament to the city’s character, and it's easy to spend hours just walking around and admiring the surroundings. Soak in the Dublin-way-of-life and visit all the nearby sights.

Dublin Zoo is perfect for a self-paced visit during the day. This instagrammable zoo is sure to impress. Next on your list is Dublin Castle, another must-visit landmark and notable castle renowned for its culturally significant features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Dublin by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Book Of Kells. This history-steeped museum is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Dublin experience. We also recommend visiting Trinity College Dublin, a worthwhile university.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Ireland. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

For an unforgettable shopping experience, visit Henry Street, the top shopping destination in Dublin. Browse local shops and stores, each offering delightful surprises. Find unique souvenirs or items to take home. After shopping, explore what Henry Street has to offer, including attractions, essential services, and vibrant community activities.

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

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.

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

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Ireland!

Your itinerary for day 3 of your road trip in Ireland includes 1 stop and features some of the highlights of Kilkenny. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Kilkenny, where you'll spend 1 night.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Dublin, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Kilkenny. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 35 min.

St Canice's Cathedral is an intriguing church we recommend visiting today. Discover its historic features before continuing your self-guided tour to Rothe House & Garden, a respected museum that’s well-regarded in the area.

Next, stop by Smithwick's Experience Kilkenny, a photogenic brewery. While you’re nearby, don’t forget to visit Kilkenny Castle, a majestic and truly unique castle. End your sightseeing at Kilkenny Castle, an interesting park that’s highly recommended by travelers passing through the city.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Billy Byrnes Gastro Bar & Venue, a highly-rated dining destination in Kilkenny. If you're eager to try something different, consider Langtons Hotel Kilkenny, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Sullivan's Taproom. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Kilkenny this evening.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting The Dylan Whisky Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Biddy Early´s is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Tynans Bridge House Bar also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

On day 6 of your road trip in Ireland, your travel plans include 1 stop at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Galway are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Galway, where you will stay for 1 night.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Galway. This car ride takes around 2 hours 45 min.

Our first attraction recommendation in Galway is Galway Atlantaquaria, a frequently visited aquarium that draws attention for its picture-perfect features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Cathedral Of Our Lady Assumed Into Heaven And St Nicholas, Galway, a picture-perfect church that stands out in the city.

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 Great Escape Rooms, an up-and-coming escape room that offers a unique experience. Be sure to also explore Eyre Square, a nearby public square, highly recommended by other travelers.

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.

Dine in style at The Front Door Pub, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, The Creamery Cafe, Ice Cream, Bistro boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Busker Brownes. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Galway.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at The Dew Drop Inn, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Freeney's Bar. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Tigh Neachtain, another top-rated place in the area.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Ireland!

On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Ireland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, including Ballyvaughan. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Dublin, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

After soaking in Galway’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Ballyvaughan. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 54 min. When you arrive in Ballyvaughan, it's time to take a break from the road.

Savor the day by heading to Ballyvaughan Pier, an up-and-coming pier that draws visitors from near and far.

Savor the day by heading to Cliffs Of Moher, an interesting cliff that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Burren National Park, where you can soak in the instagrammable surroundings.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Dublin, 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 Dublin's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

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

Continue your lively evening at The Bridge 1859, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. The Dame Tavern is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Mary's Bar & Hardware ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in Ireland.