One-Week Relaxed Ireland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Dublin to Kilkenny

On day 2 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Ireland, you’ll go deep into Dublin, where you'll stay for 3 nights, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Dublin, and meet locals along the way!

Make time for Phoenix Park, a captivating park that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Dublin Zoo, enchanting visitors with its stunning appeal. Continue your exploration at Guinness Storehouse. This brewery is one of the city’s most locally renowned spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Dublin at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Dublin Castle. After exploring the castle, head to the well-known National Botanic Gardens.

Make the most of your time in the country by joining activities that let you discover more about Ireland. Check out all of the tours you can join this day of your leisurely self-drive holiday in Ireland and ensure the experience of a lifetime.

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Start your culinary exploration in Dublin by securing a reservation at Bastible. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Patrick Guilbaud, celebrated for its delectable modern french menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Chapter One by Mickael Viljanen, a top local spot known for its tantalizing modern menu. With a 2-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in Ireland.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Bruxelles, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Light House Cinema is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Bowe's Lounge Bar is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure in Ireland!

Day 3 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Dublin, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Ireland are extraordinary.

Dublin is brimming with adventures.

St Patrick's Cathedral is must-visit church and a great option for a daytime tour of the area. Continue your journey to St Stephen's Green, a well-known park, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to National Museum Of Ireland – Archaeology, an instagrammable museum, also available for your discovery today.

Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Dublin. When you're ready, let your sightseeing route take you to the interesting National Gallery Of Ireland. If you’re looking for more, Book Of Kells is also a well-known attraction that is worthwhile a visit.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Ireland by joining a traveler-approved tour in Dublin. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Dublin that will make your slow-paced self-drive tour in Ireland more memorable. Check out all the most recommended and top-rated tour options in the city of Dublin to find the best options for you!

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Dublin, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Enjoy a delicious meal at The Brazen Head, a highly-rated dining destination in Dublin. If you're eager to try something different, consider Bewley's Grafton Street, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The Shack Restaurant Temple Bar. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Dublin this evening.

After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Dublin and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like The Bridge 1859, known for its lively atmosphere. The Dame Tavern is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Mary's Bar & Hardware offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Raise your glass to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in Ireland!

On day 4 of your relaxed road trip across Ireland, you’ll explore the area around Dublin, where you’ll be staying for another 1 night. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Dublin will make you fall even more in love with the city and uniqueness of Ireland.

Dún Laoghaire is brimming with adventures.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Dún Laoghaire. This car ride takes around 39 min.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Dún Laoghaire Harbour Police, a frequently visited marina in Dún Laoghaire. Explore its enchanting features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, People's Park. This locally appreciated park is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’re ready to explore more, Forty Foot is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most mesmerizing beach in the region. Next, continue your sightseeing at the increasingly popular Killiney Hill Park and discover what makes this park unique.

Dundrum’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Dún Laoghaire behind. This drive usually takes around 21 min. Dundrum 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 Marlay Park, a frequently visited park that everyone visiting Dundrum should see.

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

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Ireland. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Dublin, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at SOLE Seafood & Grill, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Kehoes Pub? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at The Cobblestone as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Dublin.

As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Dublin. The bars in Dublin make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at John Fallon's "the Capstan Bar" after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments.

Soak in the unique atmosphere of Dublin as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip with a toast. Cheers to a memorable, leisurely self-drive holiday in Ireland!

On day 6 of your relaxed road trip in Ireland, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Kilkenny and visit amazing attractions in The Municipal District of Castlecomer and Kilkenny, just outside the city. You still have 1 night left in Kilkenny, so today is another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

High Street is one of the highlights of today. Take your time exploring this iconic street in The Municipal District of Castlecomer, which offers a perfect blend of history and culture. Plus, it's close to many must-see landmarks in the town.

Awaiting your discovery is the often recommended St Canice's Cathedral, a historic church in Kilkenny. Next, go to Kilkenny Castle.

After visiting St Canice's Cathedral and Kilkenny Castle, have a stroll along Kilkenny's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Kilkenny Castle. This visually striking park offers a unique experience.

Set your GPS to Kilkenny and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 21 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Kilkenny beckons with new experiences!

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Castlecomer Discovery Park, a beloved adventure park that everyone visiting The Municipal District of Castlecomer should see.

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

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Kilkenny, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

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

After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.

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

Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across Ireland.

Day 7 of your easy, relaxed road trip through Ireland lets you travel at your own pace and visit multiple places in a single day. Begin by exploring the best sights in Laragh. By evening, drive toward the Dublin, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Laragh and set your GPS to Wicklow. 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 31 min. Upon reaching Wicklow, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Glendalough Cathedral is an up-and-coming church we recommend visiting today. Discover its historic features before continuing your self-guided tour.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Wicklow, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Laragh to Wicklow may take around 31 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Wicklow, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Wicklow Mountains National Park is an often recommended national park we recommend visiting today. Discover its mesmerizing features before continuing your self-guided tour.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Wicklow and set your GPS to The Municipal District of Bray. 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 26 min. Upon reaching The Municipal District of Bray, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Powerscourt Waterfall is a worthwhile waterfall we recommend visiting today. Discover its romantic features before continuing your self-guided tour.

You'll be staying in Dublin on this laid-back road trip through Ireland. You'll stay here for 1 night.

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Enjoy a lovely meal at The Stags Head, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Chapter One Restaurant is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at The Bank on College Green. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Dublin tonight.

After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Dublin and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.

Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back road trip adventure across Ireland.