Ultimate May 2026 European Road Trip: Ireland, Austria, Czech Republic, Switzerland & France

Day 1: Start Irish Road Trip

Dublin, Ireland on May 4, 2026

8:00am

Breakfast at Queen of Tarts

Enjoy traditional Irish breakfast pastries and fresh coffee at this popular Dublin cafe, open from 8am.
EUR15, 1h00m

9:30am

Explore Dublin Castle

Visit the historic Dublin Castle, once the seat of British rule in Ireland, for a guided tour of its elegant government buildings and gardens. Opens 9:45am.
EUR14, 1h30m

12:00pm

Lunch at The Brazen Head

Dine at Ireland's oldest pub offering hearty Irish stews and local brews in a cozy medieval setting. Open 12pm.
EUR20, 1h00m

1:30pm

Drive to Glendalough

Drive south to Glendalough to explore early medieval monastic ruins in a stunning valley setting. Approx. 1.5 hour drive.
Free, 2h00m

4:00pm

Hike Glendalough Upper Lake Trail

Take an easy 3.5 km trail around Upper Lake for serene views and wildlife spotting.
Free, 1h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at The Wicklow Heather

Enjoy fresh local produce and traditional Irish dishes with lake views near Glendalough. Open till 9pm.
EUR30, 1h00m
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Day 2: Ireland West Coast

Galway, Ireland on May 5, 2026

7:30am

Breakfast at McCambridge's Galway

Start your day with a hearty Irish breakfast or homemade pastries at this local favorite. Opens 7am.
EUR12, 1h00m

8:30am

Drive to Cliffs of Moher

Drive approximately 1.5 hours to the iconic Cliffs of Moher, famous for their dramatic sea views and towering cliffs.
EUR10, 2h00m

11:00am

Visit Cliffs of Moher Visitor Centre

Explore interactive exhibits about the cliffs’ geology and wildlife. Open 9am - 7pm.
Included, 1h00m

12:30pm

Lunch at The Roadford Restaurant

Enjoy fresh seafood and regional dishes close to the cliffs, open from 12pm.
EUR25, 1h00m

2:00pm

Drive to Galway City

Drive about 1.5 hours to vibrant Galway City known for its culture and music.
Free, 1h30m

3:30pm

Explore Galway City

Walk through the Latin Quarter, visit Eyre Square, and see Galway Cathedral. Enjoy street performances.
Free, 3h00m

6:30pm

Dinner at Ard Bia at Nimmos

Delight in creative Irish cuisine with international touches in a cozy setting near the Spanish Arch. Open till 10pm.
EUR35, 1h30m
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Day 3: Explore Connemara

Connemara, Ireland on May 6, 2026

8:00am

Breakfast at Cava Bodega

Enjoy light bites and excellent coffee before heading into Connemara. Opens 8am.
EUR10, 0h45m

8:45am

Drive to Connemara National Park

A scenic 1-hour drive to Connemara for hiking and exploring rugged landscapes and wildlife.
EUR6, 0h45m

9:30am

Hike Diamond Hill Trail

A moderately challenging 7 km loop with panoramic views over Connemara and the Atlantic.
Free, 3h00m

12:30pm

Lunch at Connemara Greenway Café

Light Irish fare and refreshments near the park entrance. Opens from 11am.
EUR15, 1h00m

1:30pm

Visit Kylemore Abbey

Tour the ornate Benedictine abbey, Victorian walled garden, and visitor center, open 9:30am - 5:30pm.
EUR13, 2h00m

3:30pm

Drive through Village of Clifden

Explore the quaint town of Clifden with shops and cafes, the gateway to Connemara.
Free, 1h00m

6:00pm

Dinner at Mitchell’s Restaurant, Clifden

Highly-rated spot serving classic Irish dishes with a modern twist. Opens 5pm.
EUR30, 1h30m
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Day 4: Wild Atlantic Way South

Killarney, Ireland on May 7, 2026

7:30am

Breakfast at The Blackbird Café, Galway

Start early with artisan pastries and coffee. Opens 7am.
EUR12, 0h45m

8:15am

Drive to Killarney via Wild Atlantic Way

A long scenic drive of approx. 3.5 hours along Ireland’s famed west coast with photo stops.
Free, 3h30m

12:00pm

Lunch stop at Dromid Café

Casual stop for fresh sandwiches and coffee. Opens 9am.
EUR15, 0h45m

4:00pm

Check into accommodation and relax

Settle into your hotel or B&B in Killarney then freshen up before evening activities.
Varies, 1h00m

5:30pm

Visit Muckross House and Gardens

Explore the traditional mansion and lush gardens, open 9am-6pm.
EUR12, 1h30m

7:30pm

Dinner at Bricín Restaurant and Boxty House

Experience authentic Irish cuisine featuring Boxty pancakes and local meats. Opens till 9:30pm.
EUR30, 1h30m
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Day 5: Ring of Kerry

Killarney, Ireland on May 8, 2026

7:00am

Breakfast at your accommodation or local café

Fuel up early for a day driving the famous Ring of Kerry.
Varies, 1h00m

8:00am

Drive Ring of Kerry

Complete the 179 km scenic circular route featuring coastal views, mountains, and historic sites at your own pace.
Free, 6h00m

12:30pm

Lunch at The Strawberry Field Kitchen

Enjoy fresh salads, wraps, and smoothies in Kenmare on the route.
EUR20, 1h00m

6:30pm

Return to Killarney

Relax in Killarney after the scenic drive, perhaps enjoy an Irish pub session.
Free, 1h00m

7:30pm

Dinner at The Laurels Pub

Traditional Irish pub offering live music and hearty food. Opens till midnight.
EUR25, 2h00m
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Day 6: Drive back Dublin

Dublin, Ireland on May 9, 2026

8:00am

Breakfast at Killarney Coffee Co.

Grab quick coffee and pastries before your drive back.
EUR10, 0h45m

8:45am

Drive to Dublin

Approximate 4-hour drive back to Dublin for flight departure or further plans.
Free, 4h00m

1:00pm

Lunch at The Woollen Mills

Relax and enjoy Irish fare near the River Liffey, open 12pm.
EUR25, 1h00m

2:30pm

Leisure time in Dublin or airport transfer

Depending on flight time, finish last-minute sightseeing or rest.
Varies, Varies
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Day 7: Travel to Vienna

Vienna, Austria on May 20, 2026

Morning

Fly Dubrovnik to Vienna

Take a morning flight from Dubrovnik to Vienna. Approximate duration 2 hours.
EUR100+, 2h00m

Afternoon

Check-in and Rest

Arrive, check into your hotel, and relax from travel.
Varies, 2h00m

5:00pm

Evening stroll at Stadtpark

Enjoy a pleasant walk in Vienna’s famous park featuring the golden statue of Johann Strauss.
Free, 1h00m

7:00pm

Dinner at Plachutta Wollzeile

Famous for Tafelspitz, enjoy traditional Viennese boiled beef dishes. Open till 10pm.
EUR40, 1h30m
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Day 8: Vienna Imperial

Vienna, Austria on May 21, 2026

8:00am

Breakfast at Café Central

Historic café known for Viennese pastries and coffee. Opens 8am.
EUR15, 1h00m

9:30am

Visit Schönbrunn Palace

Explore the summer residence of the Habsburgs with its magnificent gardens. Palace opens 8:30am.
EUR25, 3h00m

1:00pm

Lunch at Glacis Beisl

Lovely garden restaurant in MuseumsQuartier offering seasonal Austrian dishes. Open 12pm-10pm.
EUR30, 1h00m

2:30pm

Visit Belvedere Palace

Tour the stunning baroque palace complex with art collections including Klimt's The Kiss.
EUR19, 2h00m

5:00pm

Coffee and cake at Demel

Savor classic Sachertorte at this historic pastry shop and café. Open till 6pm.
EUR12, 1h00m

7:00pm

Dinner at Steirereck

Michelin 2-star restaurant offering innovative Austrian cuisine in Stadtpark. Reservations recommended.
EUR90+, 2h00m
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Day 9: Vienna Culture

Vienna, Austria on May 22, 2026

8:00am

Breakfast at Café Sperl

Traditional Viennese café with historic atmosphere. Opens 8am.
EUR15, 1h00m

9:30am

Visit Kunsthistorisches Museum

Explore one of the world’s finest art museums, featuring Old Masters and Egyptian artifacts. Opens 10am.
EUR20, 3h00m

1:30pm

Lunch at Naschmarkt

Experience Vienna’s famous market with diverse stalls and eateries open till late afternoon.
EUR20, 1h00m

3:00pm

Visit St. Stephen’s Cathedral

Climb the tower or explore the Gothic interior of Vienna’s iconic church. Open till 7pm.
EUR6, 1h00m

4:30pm

Relax at a Viennese Heuriger

Enjoy local wine and light snacks in a traditional wine tavern on the outskirts of Vienna.
EUR20, 2h00m
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Day 10: Travel to Prague

Prague, Czech Republic on May 23, 2026

Morning

Train/Flight Vienna to Prague

Travel by train (approx. 4h) or flight (1h) from Vienna to Prague.
EUR30-100, Varies

Afternoon

Check-in and light sightseeing

Settle into your accommodation, stroll Old Town Square and Charles Bridge.
Free, 3h00m

7:00pm

Dinner at Lokál Dlouhááá

Traditional Czech food in a lively environment. Open from 11am to 11pm.
EUR20, 1h30m
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Day 11: Prague Historic

Prague, Czech Republic on May 24, 2026

8:00am

Breakfast at Café Savoy

Classic European breakfast in an elegant setting. Opens 8am.
EUR12, 1h00m

9:30am

Visit Prague Castle

Explore one of the largest castle complexes in the world, including St. Vitus Cathedral. Opens 9am.
EUR16, 3h00m

1:00pm

Lunch at Kuchyň

Enjoy farm-to-table Czech meals with castle views. Open 11am-10pm.
EUR18, 1h00m

2:30pm

Walk Golden Lane and Explore Lesser Town

Discover historic streets, artisans’ shops, and quaint cafés.
Included, 2h00m

6:30pm

Dinner at Mlejnice

Hearty Czech specialties in atmospheric setting near Old Town. Open till 10pm.
EUR25, 1h30m
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Day 12: Prague Art & Culture

Prague, Czech Republic on May 25, 2026

8:00am

Breakfast at Café Louvre

Historic café favored by Kafka and Einstein. Opens 8am.
EUR12, 1h00m

9:30am

Visit National Gallery Prague

Explore Czech and international art, located in Trade Fair Palace. Opens 10am.
EUR10, 3h00m

1:00pm

Lunch at Eska

Modern Czech cuisine and bakery in stylish setting. Open 11am - 10pm.
EUR20, 1h00m

2:30pm

Visit Vyšehrad Fortress

Historic fort with panoramic views of the city, gardens, and cemeteries.
Free, 1h30m

5:00pm

Relax at Letná Park

Enjoy views of Prague and the Vltava River while sipping coffee or having a light snack.
Free, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Lokál Hamburk

Authentic Czech food in a casual atmosphere. Open till 10pm.
EUR20, 1h30m
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Day 13: Prague Leisure

Prague, Czech Republic on May 26, 2026

9:00am

Breakfast at Můj šálek kávy

Enjoy specialty coffee in a cozy café. Opens 8am.
EUR10, 1h00m

10:30am

Boat Tour on the Vltava River

Relax and see Prague’s landmarks from the water. Tours run from 10am.
EUR15, 1h00m

12:00pm

Lunch at Manifesto Market

Trendy outdoor market with international street food stalls. Open 10am-9pm.
EUR20, 1h00m

1:30pm

Shopping and exploration in Old Town

Browse artisan shops and enjoy last sightseeing spots.
Free, 3h00m

5:00pm

Early dinner at Café Imperial

Viennese-style grand café serving classic dishes. Open 10am-8pm.
EUR30, 1h30m
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Day 14: Travel Switzerland

Swiss Alps, Switzerland on May 27, 2026

Morning

Fly or train from Prague to Zurich

Travel to Switzerland’s main hub; approx. 1.5h flight or 7h train.
EUR60-150, Varies

Afternoon

Train or drive to Interlaken/Jungfrau Region

Scenic 2-hour trip deeper into the Alps for nature and mountain views.
EUR50, 2h00m

Late afternoon

Check-in and explore Interlaken

Walk along the lakefront and through the charming town.
Free, 2h00m

7:00pm

Dinner at Husi Bierhaus

Swiss cuisine in a rustic tavern atmosphere, open till 10pm.
CHF40, 1h30m
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Day 15: Jungfrau Excursion

Jungfrau Region, Switzerland on May 28, 2026

7:00am

Breakfast at Café de Paris

Enjoy a quality breakfast in Interlaken. Opens 7am.
CHF15, 1h00m

8:00am

Day trip to Jungfraujoch

Take the Jungfrau railway to Europe’s highest train station and explore ice caves and observation decks. Station opens early, good to go morning to afternoon.
CHF110, 7h00m

5:00pm

Return to Interlaken

Relax after an exhilarating mountain day.
Free, 1h00m

7:00pm

Dinner at Restaurant Laterne

Casual dining with Swiss and international dishes. Open till 9:30pm.
CHF35, 1h30m
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Day 16: Swiss Lakes & Travel

Lucerne, Switzerland on May 29, 2026

8:00am

Breakfast at Bäckerei Konditorei Wendländle

Traditional Swiss bakery breakfast to start the day. Opens 7am.
CHF12, 0h45m

9:00am

Travel to Lucerne

Around 2-hour scenic train ride or drive from Interlaken to Lucerne.
CHF30, 2h00m

11:00am

Explore Chapel Bridge and Old Town

Walk across the iconic wooden bridge and stroll through the historic town center.
Free, 2h00m

1:00pm

Lunch at Wirtshaus Galliker

Traditional Swiss comfort food in a family-run restaurant. Open 11:30am-2pm.
CHF25, 1h00m

2:30pm

Lake Lucerne Boat Cruise

Relaxing 1.5-hour cruise on the scenic lake with mountain views.
CHF25, 1h30m

5:00pm

Relaxation and shopping

Enjoy souvenir shopping or a café stop in downtown Lucerne.
Free, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Scala Restaurant

Upscale dining with regional and international cuisine near the lake. Open till 10pm.
CHF50, 1h30m
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Day 17: Travel to Lyon

Lyon, France on May 30, 2026

Morning

Train from Lucerne to Lyon

Travel approx. 4.5 hours via high-speed rail through the Alps into France.
EUR70-120, 4h30m

Afternoon

Check-in and explore Vieux Lyon

Wander through the Renaissance Old Town with traboules (hidden passageways).
Free, 3h00m

7:00pm

Dinner at Bouchon Les Lyonnais

Traditional Lyonnaise cuisine served in a classic bouchon setting. Open till 10pm.
EUR40, 1h30m
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Day 18: Lyon Food & Culture

Lyon, France on May 31, 2026

8:00am

Breakfast at La Marlotte

Renowned bakery serving fresh croissants and coffee. Opens 7:30am.
EUR10, 1h00m

9:30am

Visit Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière

Take in panoramic views over Lyon from the hilltop basilica. Opens 8am.
Free, 2h00m

12:00pm

Lunch at Paul Bocuse Market

Sample fresh local produce and gourmet foods at this famous indoor market. Open till 2pm.
EUR20, 1h30m

2:00pm

Explore the Museum of Fine Arts of Lyon

One of France’s largest fine arts museums with extensive collections. Opens 10am-6pm.
EUR12, 2h00m

5:00pm

Relax at Parc de la Tête d'Or

Enjoy a walk through this vast urban park with botanical gardens and a lake.
Free, 1h30m

7:30pm

Dinner at Les Apothicaires

Creative modern French cuisine with a focus on local ingredients. Reservations recommended.
EUR60, 2h00m
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Day 19: Lyon Relaxation

Lyon, France on June 1, 2026

8:30am

Breakfast at Mokxa Coffee Roasters

Specialty coffee and light breakfast in a modern café. Opens 7:30am.
EUR10, 1h00m

9:30am

Walking tour of Croix-Rousse district

Explore the bohemian neighborhood known for its history of silk weaving and street art.
Free, 3h00m

12:30pm

Lunch at Le Bistrot du Potager

Enjoy fresh, seasonal French cuisine in a cozy setting. Open 12pm-2:30pm.
EUR25, 1h00m

2:00pm

Visit Confluence Museum

Modern science and anthropology museum located at confluence of Rhône and Saône rivers. Opens 10am-6pm.
EUR9, 2h00m

5:00pm

Optional wine tasting at Cave d’Oullins

Sample regional wines with expert guidance near city center.
EUR30, 1h30m

7:30pm

Dinner at Le Café des Fédérations

Rustic bouchon serving traditional Lyonnaise dishes with a warm atmosphere. Open till 10pm.
EUR35, 1h30m
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Day 20: Departure

Lyon, France on June 2, 2026

8:00am

Breakfast at your hotel or nearby café

Enjoy a final French breakfast to wrap up your trip.
Varies, 1h00m

Morning

Prepare for departure

Pack, check out, and transfer to airport or next destination.
Varies, Varies
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