Morning: Land at Dublin Airport at 08:00, collect your rental car from Budget and drive to Clontarf Castle for check‑in. Enjoy a light breakfast in the castle’s lounge while planning the day.
Afternoon: Head to the historic heart of the city to visit Trinity College and see the Book of Kells, then stroll through the nearby St. Stephen’s Green for a relaxing walk.
Evening: Experience Dublin’s nightlife with a tour of the iconic Guinness Storehouse, topping off the night with a pint at the Gravity Bar overlooking the city lights.
Find HotelsMorning: Explore the vibrant streets of Temple Bar, stopping at the National Museum of Ireland for a quick cultural immersion.
Afternoon: Visit the historic Kilmainham Gaol for a guided tour, then relax in the expansive Phoenix Park, perhaps spotting the resident deer.
Evening: Dine at a traditional Irish pub in the Docklands and enjoy live music before returning to the castle for a restful night.
Find HotelsMorning: Check out of Clontarf Castle, drive south along the scenic N11 and M8, stopping at the historic town of Kilkenny to explore Kilkenny Castle.
Afternoon: Arrive in Cork and check in at the Residence Inn. After settling, wander the lively streets to the English Market for a tasting of local delicacies.
Evening: Enjoy a relaxed dinner at a waterfront restaurant along the River Lee, then take an evening stroll through the illuminated streets of Cork City.
Find HotelsMorning: Drive to Blarney Castle to kiss the famous Blarney Stone and explore the castle’s beautiful gardens.
Afternoon: Return to Cork for a guided visit to the historic Cork City Gaol, followed by coffee at a local café.
Evening: Sample the vibrant food scene with a dinner at the acclaimed Market Lane restaurant, then relax back at the Residence Inn.
Find HotelsMorning: Check out and embark on a scenic drive along the Wild Atlantic Way, stopping at the picturesque town of Kinsale for a brief harbor walk.
Afternoon: Continue to Galway, checking in at your accommodation. Take a leisurely walk through the charming streets of the Latin Quarter, visiting the iconic Spanish Arch.
Evening: Enjoy fresh seafood at a local Galway eatery and soak up the lively atmosphere with traditional Irish music at a nearby pub.
Find HotelsMorning: Depart early for a day trip to the breathtaking Cliffs of Moher, exploring the visitor centre and walking along the cliff‑edge trails.
Afternoon: On the return route, stop at the quaint village of Doolin for a quick lunch and perhaps a short traditional music session.
Evening: Back in Galway, unwind with a sunset walk along the Salthill Promenade before dinner at a cozy restaurant in the city centre.
Find HotelsMorning: Check out of your Galway lodging and drive back north, taking a brief detour to visit the historic town of Athlone and its impressive Athlone Castle.
Afternoon: Arrive in Dublin and check in at the Brooks Hotel. Spend the afternoon exploring the nearby National Gallery of Ireland or shopping on Grafton Street.
Evening: Celebrate the final night with a farewell dinner at a Michelin‑starred restaurant, followed by a leisurely night‑cap at the hotel bar.
Find HotelsMorning: Enjoy a relaxed breakfast at the hotel, then take a short walk to St. Patrick’s Cathedral for a quick visit before heading to the airport.
Afternoon: Return the rental car at Dublin Airport and board your flight home, taking with you wonderful memories of Ireland.
Find HotelsIf you have extra time, consider adding a day in the Ring of Kerry for stunning coastal scenery, or extend your stay in Galway to explore the Connemara region. Conversely, to shorten the trip, you can combine the Cork and Galway sections by flying between the two cities, saving a day of driving while still experiencing the highlights.