Road trip in Ireland: detailed itinerary with map + photos

Set off to discover enchanting landscapes with this one-week itinerary of a road trip in Ireland! From the medieval city of Kilkenny to the spectacular Cliffs of Moher, passing through Cork and Galway, this route will guide you through the most iconic sites and hidden treasures of the Emerald Isle. 

Whether you are a hiking enthusiast, a history buff, or simply in search of breathtaking panoramas, this comprehensive guide offers you an unforgettable adventure on the picturesque Irish roads.
 

Map of the road trip in Ireland

Summary of the road trip in Ireland

Day 1 : Kilkenny

After landing in Dublin, head straight out after picking up your car rental in Ireland towards Kilkenny, a charming medieval town about 1.5 hours away. Cobblestone streets, historic pubs, and traditional music await you! 

So, to start, I recommend beginning this day with the Kilkenny Castle, a magnificent 12th-century building surrounded by gardens. 

Next, head to the Saint Canice's Cathedral and climb to the top of the round tower for a panoramic view of the city. You can also make a detour to The Black Abbey to discover this 14th-century religious building and its beautiful stained glass windows. Don't miss the Smithwick’s Experience, where you can learn about the history of Irish beer through a guided tour and a tasting at Ireland's oldest brewery, no less!

For a peaceful stroll, follow the Nore, the river that runs through Kilkenny. It's an excellent way to get the feel of the city.

In the evening, enjoy a meal at the Left Bank, known for its wide selection of beers and cottage pies, or at Kyteler’s Inn, a historic pub offering a cozy atmosphere and traditional Irish dishes.

Days 2-3 : Cork and the south coast

The next morning, drive towards Cork to discover the wonders of Ireland's south coast. In Cork, start by visiting the English Market, a historic covered market perfect for tasting local specialties. Don't hesitate to take a trip to the Jameson Distillery in Midleton, which dates back to the 18th century, where a guided tour will reveal the secrets of making the famous Irish whiskey. Grab a quick meal at Market Lane, known for its modern Irish cuisine made from local ingredients and its warm atmosphere.

During your stay in Cork, explore the Killarney National Park, where you can visit the Muckross House, a historic mansion surrounded by beautiful gardens. Enjoy a boat trip or a hike around the Killarney lakes to admire the region's natural beauty and discover some of the most beautiful landscapes of Ireland.

If you get a little or a big hunger during your visit to Killarney, don't miss Quinlan’s Seafood Bar to enjoy an excellent fish & chips. A culinary must during a road trip in Ireland!

The Torc waterfall, Muckross Abbey, Ladies View Point, Innisfallen Island, and of course Ross Castle are must-sees. Continue the Ring of Kerry itinerary, passing through Moll’s Gap, Dunloe Pass, not forgetting the stunning beaches of Derrynane, Rossbeigh and St Finian’s Bay. 

The colorful villages of Waterville, Sneem, and Kenmare are also worth a visit. 

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Days 4-5 : Galway

Head to Galway, making a detour to the famous Cliffs of Moher. These spectacular cliffs, one of Ireland's most iconic natural attractions, offer breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. It's also a great opportunity to take some amazing photos to immortalize your road trip in Ireland!

In Galway, start by exploring the cathedral, an impressive structure in the heart of the city. Then stroll through the Latin Quarter, a lively area filled with shops, pubs, and restaurants. This district is somewhat equivalent to Temple Bar in Dublin.

For your meals in Galway, The Quay Street Kitchen offers authentic and modern Irish cuisine, while Aniar, a Michelin-starred restaurant, provides a unique gastronomic experience.

The Connemara National Park is also a must-see. For hiking enthusiasts, Diamond Hill offers incredible panoramic views of Connemara. Don’t miss Kylemore Abbey either, a picturesque building surrounded by Victorian gardens.

The Twelve Bens circular hike starts in Letterfrack and covers the highest mountains in the region. A must if you enjoy walking! Lake Corrib and its 365 islands, one for each day of the year, is also a highlight. Don't hesitate to drive to the Killary Fjord which is really worth the trip.

Days 6-7 : Dublin

Head back to Dublin to conclude this road trip in Ireland in style. Start by visiting Trinity College and the Book of Kells, a historic treasure located in the heart of Dublin. Then, dive into the history of Guinness at the Guinness Storehouse, an interactive tour that ends with a tasting at the Gravity Bar, offering a panoramic view of the city.

The Temple Bar district is a must-see with its lively pubs and live music. For an urban hike, Phoenix Park, one of the largest urban parks in Europe, is perfect for a walk or a picnic.

Take some time to visit the Irish Whiskey Museum for a humorous tour that traces the history of Irish whiskey followed by a tasting. The Kilmainham Gaol is a historic site that has seen many prisoners over the ages. So, ready to take a trip back in time?

For meals, The Woollen Mills offers modern Irish cuisine with a view of the River Liffey, while The Brazen Head, Ireland’s oldest pub established in 1198, provides a traditional atmosphere and classic dishes.

This is the end of this 7-day road trip in Ireland, it’s time to return your car rental in Ireland. I hope you enjoyed discovering these iconic sites, beautiful landscapes, and the warm culture of the island. Make the most of each stage of this unforgettable journey to capture stunning photos!

Feel free to ask your questions or share your travel experiences in the comments with the Authentik community.