7-Day Southern Ireland Cultural and Culinary Road Trip from Dublin

Day 1: Explore Dublin

Dublin, Ireland

9:00AM

Breakfast at Queen of Tarts

Start your day with a traditional Irish breakfast featuring homemade bread and local sausages at this charming café.
Located in the city center, it’s easily accessible by foot or public transport.
EUR15, 1 hour

10:30AM

Trinity College and the Book of Kells

Visit this historic university and marvel at the stunning manuscript that showcases Ireland’s medieval history.
A short walk from the café, you'll reach this iconic site.
EUR16, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

St. Patrick's Cathedral

Explore the largest cathedral in Ireland, admiring its stunning architecture and beautiful gardens.
Walk to this site, it's about a 15-minute stroll from Trinity College.
EUR8, 1 hour

1:30PM

Lunch at The Woollen Mills

Savor a bowl of traditional Irish stew or fish and chips in a vibrant eatery that celebrates local produce.
Located near the cathedral, it’s a quick walk.
EUR20, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Guinness Storehouse

Dive into the history of Ireland's most famous beer with interactive exhibits and enjoy a pint with a view at the Gravity Bar.
Take a 20-minute walk or a short taxi ride from lunch.
EUR25, 2 hours

5:30PM

Drive to Kilkenny

Hit the road for a scenic drive to Kilkenny, known for its medieval buildings.
Drive for about 1.5 hours to reach Kilkenny.
COST OF FUEL, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Langton House Hotel

Enjoy a gourmet dinner featuring local ingredients in a historic setting, complete with classic Irish hospitality.
This hotel is located centrally in Kilkenny.
EUR40, 2 hours
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Day 2: Historic Charm of Kilkenny

Kilkenny, Ireland

8:00AM

Breakfast at Cafe La Coco

Indulge in freshly baked pastries and quality coffee at this cozy local café.
Conveniently located in the town center.
EUR10, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Kilkenny Castle

Explore the stunning grounds and interiors of this historic castle that dates back to the 12th century.
A 10-minute walk from the café.
EUR7, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Stroll through the Medieval Mile

Wander the picturesque streets lined with historic buildings from the medieval period.
You're already in the heart of the Medieval Mile.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Zuni Restaurant

Enjoy a meal with seasonal ingredients and creative dishes in a welcoming atmosphere.
It's a short walk back towards the main square.
EUR25, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Smithwick’s Brewery Tour

Learn about Kilkenny's brewing history and enjoy some samples of this famous ale.
A 10-minute walk from the restaurant.
EUR18, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Drive to Waterford

Continue your journey to Ireland’s oldest city, Waterford.
A 1-hour drive down the N25.
COST OF FUEL, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at The Reginald's Tower Restaurant

Savor some modern Irish cuisine while overlooking Waterford’s waterfront.
Located in the historic part of Waterford.
EUR35, 2 hours
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Day 3: Waterford Wonders

Waterford, Ireland

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Granary Cafe

Start your day with a hearty breakfast made from local produce in a laid-back setting.
Located near the waterfront.
EUR12, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Waterford Crystal Visitor Centre

Learn about the artistry of glass-making and watch skilled craftsmen at work.
Just a short drive or walk from the café.
EUR15, 2 hours

11:30AM

Explore the Viking Triangle

Discover Waterford's Viking heritage while walking through this historic district filled with museums and medieval sites.
Easily walkable from the Visitor Centre.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at The Bishops Palace

Enjoy light bites or a full meal, surrounded by 18th-century décor and beautiful local flavors.
Located in the Viking Triangle.
EUR20, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Drive to Cork

Head to the vibrant city of Cork, famous for its markets and food culture.
Expect a drive of around 1.5 hours via the N25 and N20.
COST OF FUEL, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Visit the English Market

Browse through a variety of local produce, meats, and artisan goods, perfect for cultural immersion.
Located in the heart of Cork city.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Dinner at Café Paradiso

Delight in a vegetarian fine dining experience that showcases seasonal ingredients from local farms.
Close to the English Market.
EUR45, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Cork and Kinsale

Cork, Ireland

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Butter Museum Cafe

Enjoy tasty breakfast dishes along with a fascinating look into Ireland’s butter-making history.
Directly accessible via public transport.
EUR8, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Cork City Gaol

Discover the fascinating history of this 19th-century jail through interactive exhibits.
A short taxi ride away.
EUR10, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Drive to Kinsale

Enjoy a scenic coastal drive to the charming fishing town of Kinsale.
Around a 30-minute drive from Cork.
COST OF FUEL, 30 minutes

12:00PM

Lunch at Fishy Fishy

Taste fresh seafood dishes at this renowned restaurant, a must-visit for food lovers.
Located in Kinsale's waterfront area.
EUR30, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Explore the Kinsale Heritage Town Walk

Enjoy a leisurely walk through Kinsale's colorful streets and historic sites.
The walk starts nearby the restaurant.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Visit Charles Fort

Take in panoramic views and learn about the fort's strategic importance in Irish history.
A short drive or walk from the town center.
EUR5, 1 hour

5:00PM

Dinner at The Black Pig

Experience modern tapas with a focus on local charcuterie and wines.
Located in the heart of Kinsale.
EUR40, 2 hours
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Day 5: Journey to Galway

Galway, Ireland

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Blue Haven

Relish a hearty breakfast with a selection of traditional Irish dishes and fresh coffee.
Conveniently located on the main street.
EUR12, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Galway

Set off for Galway, known for its vibrant arts scene and friendly atmosphere.
Expect around 2.5 hours of drive time via the N18.
COST OF FUEL, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Quay Street Kitchen

Indulge in delicious, locally sourced ingredients in a cozy environment in the heart of Galway.
Located along the bustling Quay Street.
EUR20, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Explore Galway Cathedral

Visit one of the largest cathedrals in Ireland, with beautiful stained glass and impressive architecture.
A lovely 15-minute walk along the River Corrib.
Free, 1 hour

3:00PM

Wander through the Latin Quarter

Stroll through vibrant streets filled with shops, pubs, and art, soaking in the lively atmosphere.
This area is within walking distance from the cathedral.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Aniar Restaurant

Treat yourself to a multi-course dining experience highlighting the best of local and seasonal products.
Located in the Latin Quarter.
EUR70, 2 hours
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Day 6: Discover the Cliffs of Moher

Galway, Ireland

8:00AM

Breakfast at Gourmet Tart Co.

Enjoy artisanal pastries and quality coffee in a trendy café setting.
In the heart of Galway, easily accessible on foot.
EUR10, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Cliffs of Moher

Set off for one of Ireland’s most iconic natural sites, a must-see for breathtaking views.
About a 1.5-hour drive on the N67.
COST OF FUEL, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Cliffs of Moher Visit

Explore the stunning cliffs and visitor center, taking in the dramatic coastal scenery.
Park in the visitor center parking lot.
EUR10, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Cliffs View Café

Enjoy a casual lunch with a view, offering traditional Irish fare.
Located right by the visitor center.
EUR15, 1 hour

2:30PM

Return to Galway

Drive back to Galway after an inspiring visit to the cliffs.
The same route back, taking approximately 1.5 hours.
COST OF FUEL, 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Visit the Galway Market

Experience local culture at this vibrant market teeming with artisan stalls and crafts.
Located in the city center and is easily walkable.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Cottage Bar

Wind down by sampling local pints alongside comforting pub fare in a friendly atmosphere.
It’s located a short walk from the market.
EUR30, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Return to Dublin

Dublin, Ireland

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Druid

Enjoy breakfast in one of Galway’s most charming cafes with locally sourced ingredients.
A short walk from your accommodations.
EUR12, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive back to Dublin

Begin your return trip to Dublin, reflecting on your wonderful experiences.
Expect around 2.5-3 hours via the M6 and M3.
COST OF FUEL, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Woollen Mills (Dublin)

Revisit this popular spot for a final taste of classic Irish cuisine before flying home.
Located centrally near your starting point.
EUR20, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Souvenir Shopping in Dublin

Take some time to explore Dublin's shops for souvenirs, local art or Irish whiskey.
Walk through O'Connell Street or Grafton Street for plenty of shopping options.
Dependent on purchases, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Return Rental Car and Head to Airport

Ensure you're on time for your flight, returning your rental car and heading to the terminal.
Dublin Airport is about a 30-minute drive from the city center.
CAR RETURN COST, 1 hour
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