9-Day Ireland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Dublin to Cork, Killarney, and Galway

Day 2 of your road trip across Ireland promises a magnificent time exploring what to see in Dublin. You have 1 night left in Dublin. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Dublin is brimming with adventures. Grafton Street is a street that stands out as one of the must-see places in Dublin. Take a moment to explore its distinct atmosphere, and don’t miss the popular sightseeing spots just a short walk away.

St Stephen's Green is an ideal stop early in the day. This well-known park is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Book Of Kells, which may be one of the most historic places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Dublin on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Dublin Castle, a captivating castle in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for St Patrick's Cathedral and Phoenix Park.

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.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Taste Food Company, a top-rated dining destination in Dublin. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Sophie's Restaurant, Bar & Terrace, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The Confession Box. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Dublin this evening.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Bruxelles offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Light House Cinema is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Bowe's Lounge Bar is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

Your itinerary for day 3 of your road trip in Ireland includes 1 stop and features some of the highlights of Cork. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Cork, where you'll spend 2 nights.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Dublin, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Cork. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 51 min.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Shandon Bells & Tower St Anne's Church and explore the picture-perfect features. Next, make your way to Cork Opera House, another highlight in Cork. When you’re done exploring the opera house, continue to Crawford Art Gallery, a noteworthy art gallery.

Nearby, you will also find St Patrick's Bridge. This often recommended monument is a top place to see in the area.

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

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

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

Cap off your dinner by heading to Impala, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. The Shelbourne Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, The Oval is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

On day 4 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Cork, where you have 1 night left to stay.

Saint Fin Barre's Cathedral is must-visit church and a great option for a daytime tour of the area. Continue your journey to Fitzgerald's Park, a beloved park, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Cork City Gaol, a history-steeped museum, also available for your discovery today.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Cork, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Blarney. This drive usually takes around 10 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Blarney Stone, an intriguing monument known for its historic features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Blarney Castle & Gardens, a notable castle.

When you’ve had your share of Blarney, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Ballincollig. Your travel time is around 15 min.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Regional Park Ballincollig, a worthwhile park in Ballincollig. Explore its majestic features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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

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

Dine in style at South County Bar & Café, Douglas, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Liberty Grill boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Canty's Bar. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Cork.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Ireland!

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Ireland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, including Killarney. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Killarney, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Killarney’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Cork behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 13 min. Killarney welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the town's best attractions, visit Ross Castle, a curiosity-inducing castle that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Killarney. This car ride takes around 1 hour 13 min.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Muckross House, an underrated museum that everyone visiting Killarney should see. Next, head to Killarney National Park. This standout national park is one of the most captivating attractions in the region.

If you're keen to see more, don’t miss out on Torc Mountain, an eye-catching waterfall popular among locals as well as travelers.

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.

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 Killarney, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Malarkey, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try The Mad Monk by Quinlans? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Vendricks Restaurant as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Killarney.

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

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

Greet day 6 of your road trip in Ireland with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You have 1 night to stay in Killarney, 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 Kenmare and Portmagee.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Kenmare. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 31 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Cromwell Point Lighthouse and explore the romantic features. Next, make your way to The Valentia Island Tetrapod Footprints, another highlight in Kenmare. When you’re done exploring the archeological site, continue to Kerry Cliffs (aillte Chiarraí), a peaceful cliff.

Nearby, you will also find Cúm An Easpaig (cliff View). This underrated cliff is a top place to see in the area.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Portmagee.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to The Skellig Experience Visitor Centre, an increasingly popular visitor center that everyone visiting Portmagee should see.

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

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 Killarney, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Savor the flavors at Killarney Royal Hotel, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Hannigans Bar, Restaurant & Rooftop Balcony beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Curious Cat Café. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Killarney tonight.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Paddy Sheehan The Grand Bar & Niteclub, a prime destination for a thrilling night out.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 7 of your road trip in Ireland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 place, which are Galway. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Galway, where will spend 1 night.

As you explore Galway’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city.

Our first attraction recommendation in Galway is Cliffs Of Moher, a well-known cliff that draws attention for its romantic features.

Set your GPS to Galway and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 8 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Galway beckons with new experiences!

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit Cathedral Of Our Lady Assumed Into Heaven And St Nicholas, Galway, an often recommended 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 Eyre Square and admire its photogenic features.

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.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at The Front Door Pub, a highly-rated dining destination in Galway. If you're eager to try something different, consider The Creamery Cafe, Ice Cream, Bistro, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Busker Brownes. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Galway this evening.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at The Dew Drop Inn, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Freeney's Bar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Galway. Tigh Neachtain is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

Dive into day 8 of your remarkable road trip in Ireland. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Dublin, where you'll spend 1 night.

Walled Victorian Garden is an increasingly popular botanical garden we recommend visiting today. Discover its eye-catching features before continuing your self-guided tour to Kylemore Abbey & Victorian Walled Garden, an awe-inspiring monastery that’s well-regarded in the area.

Next, stop by Ionad Cultúrtha A Phiarsaigh, Conamara, a heritage-rich cultural center.

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.

Don’t miss out on dining at The Brazen Head, a top-rated dining destination in Dublin. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Bewley's Grafton Street, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The Shack Restaurant Temple Bar. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Dublin this evening.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at The Bridge 1859, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, The Dame Tavern offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Mary's Bar & Hardware provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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