Keen on travelling the Emerald Isle from A to Z? Take our 10 days in Ireland itinerary as your blueprint and tick off your road trip bucket list as you go from mountain range to city break throughout the country.
How long do you need to travel Ireland? There is probably no definitive answer to this question. However, our 10 days in Ireland itinerary might just be just the right amount.
With its many quaint towns, bustling cities, beautiful landscapes and stunning views, you could spend an entire summer touring the Emerald Isle.
And the whole summer you may very well have. However, if you do not, we have decided to offer our version of the best answer to this question.
It is our contention that a week and a half would be more than enough to embrace all these green fields have to offer.
Our Irish road trip itinerary will take you through all of her four provinces, carve through a brave number of our 32 counties, into some of the bright lights of the cities, to the cliff edges of the Wild Atlantic Way, to a journey into the Ancient East, and much, much more.
This is not an exhaustive list, and if you know somewhere better, then make sure to add it to the bucket list. However, with our recommendations, you are sure to have an incredible stay.
Here is our 10 days in Ireland Itinerary: the ultimate guide to your next trip to the Emerald Isle.
Tips and advice − useful info for your Irish road trip itinerary
- Booking.com is the best site for booking hotels in Ireland.
- Best ways to travel: Hiring a car is one of the easiest ways to explore Ireland in a limited amount of time. Public transport to rural areas is not as regular, so travelling by car will give you much more freedom when planning your own journey and day trips. Still, you can book guided tours that will take you to all the best things to see and do, according to your preference.
- Hiring a car: Companies such as Avis, Europcar, Hertz, and Enterprise Rent-a-Car offer a range of car rental options to suit your requirements. Cars can be picked up and dropped off at locations around the country, including at airports.
- Travel insurance: Ireland is a relatively safe country. However, it is important to make sure you have appropriate travel insurance to cover unforeseen circumstances. If you’re hiring a car, it is also important to make sure that you are insured to drive in Ireland.
- Popular tour companies: If you want to save some time planning, then booking a guided tour is a great option. Popular tour companies include CIE Tours, Shamrocker Adventures, Vagabond Tours, and Paddywagon Tours.
Day 1 − arrive in and tour the Irish capital
Dublin City
If possible, we recommend that you arrive in the Irish capital early to make the most of your first full day of travelling and ensure that you get a wider spread of scenery for your ten days in Ireland itinerary.
No trip to Ireland is complete without seeing the very best of Dublin City.
Highlights
- St Stephen’s Green
- Grafton Street
- Trinity College
- Trinity Library and the Book of Kells
- Guinness Storehouse
- O’Connell Street
- GPO
- Temple Bar Area
Starting and ending point: Dublin
Area of Ireland: Leinster
Morning
We recommend an early morning walk around St. Stephen’s Green, and if you are a coffee connoisseur, then a flat white won’t go a miss on this bliss walk. At 27 acres (11 hectares), it is a very manageable city centre walk. The very best of Georgian Dublin.
From there, complete your morning with a short walk down Grafton Street, the iconic shopping street in the heart of Dublin. Then, head over to Trinity College.
From here, you can do a tour of the university, Ireland’s premier and the largest of the Cambridge universities. You can also explore the famous Trinity Library, home of the Book of Kells and a wealth of literature.
Afternoon
In the afternoon, you could complete the Guinness Storehouse tour. Guinness is a world-renowned drink, and this summer, you can sip a pint from Ireland’s highest garden.
With a lot of your day taken up, you may enjoy a walk down O’Connell Street. Here, you will pass Ireland’s most historic building, the GPO, the Headquarters of the 1916 Easter Rising.
Evening
Temple Bar. Very little more needs to be said. While the prices can be quite extortionate, it is a hive of activity and perhaps the hub of Dublin’s nightlife.
Two of the best may be the Auld Dubliner of the Temple Bar itself. A pint of Guinness here is an absolute must.
Where to eat
Breakfast and lunch
Being the bustling, modern and unique city that it is, Dublin now plays host to a number of top-class breakfast, lunch and brunch spots, such as:
- Póg: Here, you can create your own pancake stack and fill yourself for the day ahead.
- Tang: Located on Dawson and Abbey Street, Tang covers all your breakfast needs, from granola to poached eggs and more.
- Two Boys Brew: Found in Phibsborough, Two Boys Brew indeed brew some of the city’s best coffee. An essential morning café stop.
- One Society: This can be found in Lower Gardiner Street and serves incredible pancakes, poached eggs, and a Breakfast Bun.
- Beanhive Coffee: For quaint coffee ideas and a full Irish breakfast, with an address at Dawson Street.
Dinner
You will, of course, need to stop and refuel during your stay in Dublin, and thankfully the city provides numerous excellent restaurants to eat in, including:
- FIRE Steakhouse and Bar: This is arguably Dublin’s top steakhouse, so if it is a steak you are after in the capital, why look elsewhere?
- Uno Mas: Located on Aungier Street, this Spanish-inspired restaurant with tapas and steak and some Spanish and Portuguese wine.
- Forest Avenue: One of the top spots for fine dining in Dublin, which can be found near the Canals.
- PI Pizzas: It wouldn’t be a dinner list without a pizza option. Test out PI Pizzas with its Neapolitan-style pizzas in South Great George’s Street.
- Chapter One: In Parnell Square, this is one of Dublin’s top creations in recent years. Elegant and fine-dining at its core.
Where to drink
We have already mentioned the iconic Temple Bar area and some of its top bars. However, here are some other fantastic options:
- John Kavanagh’s: According to many, this spot serves the best pint of Guinness in Dublin. What else is there to say?
- 9 Below: One of the newest bars in Dublin found near St Stephen’s Green, with superb wine and a vast selection of cocktails.
- Vintage Cocktail Club: Housed in the Temple Bar area, it’s all in the name, really, mixed with a unique interior design.
- The Brazen Head: A grand old Dublin institution once frequented by Johnathan Swift and Wolfe Tone.
Where to stay
Splashing out: The Westbury Hotel
Recently voted the best hotel in Ireland in the Condé Nest Reader’s Choice Awards. It is a beautiful 5-star boutique hotel in Dublin city centre that includes breakfast with a view, a 30’s cocktail bar, and an all-day Bar and Restaurant.
Mid-range: The Dean Hotel
Found in Harcourt Street, this is the top choice if you don’t want to spend too big but still want some top quality. Close to St Stephen’s Green making it very central.
Budget: Jury’s Inn Dublin Parnell Street
Incredible and easy access to O’Connell Street coupled with a comfortable hotel stay in the heart of Dublin city centre. All you need.
READ MORE: our ultimate Dublin Bucket List
Day 2 − head north for some of Ireland’s most historic scenery
Belfast and the Antrim coast
Highlights:
- Belfast
- Titanic Quarter and Museum
- Black Taxi Tours
- The Giant’s Causeway
- Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge
- Glenarrif Forest Park
- Dunluce Castle
- Mussenden Temple
Starting and ending point: Dublin to Belfast –> the Causeway Coast
Mileage: 247 km (154 miles)
Area of Ireland: Leinster and Ulster
Kicking off day two of your ten days in Ireland itinerary is a trip up the M1 to Belfast in Northern Ireland. It is only around an hour and forty-five minutes from Dublin. Again, we recommend an early departure to make the most of your day.
Bear in mind there is a toll on this motorway. It is only €2, so make sure to have some spare change in the car. Alternatively, tolls now accept card payments.
Morning/Afternoon
We suggest one of two things for your morning in Belfast. You could go to the Titanic Quarter and explore the Titanic Museum.
Here, you will learn about the famously unsinkable ship built in the city’s docks and more about Belfast’s maritime history.
Alternatively, if you are looking for a more political explanation of Belfast’s past, hop on the Black Taxi tours, which reach both the Falls and Shankill roads and offer a comprehensive overview of the city’s divided history. This begs to be one of the highlights of your trip.
The above activities will take up a decent amount of your day, so we suggest leaving in the afternoon to take your ten days in Ireland itinerary further north.
The Giant’s Causeway and the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge are your destinations to visit on the Causeway Coast.
Watch the sunset on the Antrim coast as you walk where the once mythical Fionn MacCumhaill walked. In this area, you will find a lot of famous Game of Thrones filming locations to explore.
Other attractions on the way and nearby include Glenariff Forest Park and the ruins of Dunluce Castle. On the way to day three, a stop at Mussenden Temple could also be on the card.
MORE: our guide to visiting the Causeway Coastal Route
Evening
If you are looking for a pint, Kelly’s Cellars in the city centre is an excellent spot with Irish music. It is one of the affordable options if you want a Guinness. The Cathedral Quarter is also a hive of activity.
There are some excellent bars and pubs in Belfast for live music and great craic. In the evening, a trad session at Maddens should certainly be on your to-do list. Plus, there’s an array of delicious restaurants to suit all tastes and budgets.
Where to eat
Breakfast and lunch
With your first half of the day spent in Belfast, we would recommend breakfast and lunch at any of these spots:
- Neighbourhood: One of Belfast’s top café’s serving stunning coffee and food. Get there early, as it is very popular.
- Maggie Mays: A variety of locations, including its massive Bumper Fry and more. Fill yourself up.
- Hatch: Perfect if you are taking the Taxi Tour. Located on Falls Road, this is one of the city’s most popular spots.
Dinner
By this time of the day, you will be on the Causeway Coast. Here are some of our top recommendations:
- Bushmills Inn Restaurant: A mixture of live traditional Irish music and Irish food together as one. The perfect spot.
- Ramore Restaurant: This modern spot provides you with a lively atmosphere coupled with a rich menu of fresh food to eat.
- Harry’s Shack: For seafood right on the Irish coastline, this place is for you. There are also other meat options if fish isn’t for you.
- Carrick-a-Rede Bar & Restaurant: For food with views – eat here and gaze out towards Sheep Island, Rathlin Island and Scotland.
Where to drink
- The Harbour Bar: Located in Portrush, not too far from the Causeway Coast & Glens, this is a great spot to finish the night with a drink.
- The Central Bar: Located on the Antrim Coast in Ballycastle. A favourite for locals and tourists alike.
- Kelly’s Cellars: If you want a pint in Belfast at any point in the day, head here. One of the city’s most lively spots.
READ MORE: Top 10 best bars and pubs in Belfast
Where to stay
Splashing out: The Salthouse Hotel
Located in Ballycastle, Co. Antrim, they offer breathtaking views along the Antrim coast, with Raithlin Island and Scotland on the horizon. Pure, modern luxury.
Mid-range: Marine Hotel, Ballycastle
This 3-star hotel comes in at around £180 per night, with views of Ballycastle Beach, a lounge, restaurant, and a bar. All that you need for your one-night stay.
Budget: Glenmore House
For just under £100 a night, this is a lovely and cosy spot to stay along the Causeway Coast. It is a lofty country house a mere 10-minute drive from the Giant’s Causeway.
READ MORE: IB4UD’s NI Bucket List
Day 3 – a day full of exploring the hills of Donegal
County Donegal
Highlights:
- Malin Head
- Letterkenny
- Glenveagh National Park and Derryveagh Mountains
- Dunlewey and Mount Errigal
- Slieve League
- Donegal Town
Starting and ending point: Causeway Coast –> Malin Head –> Letterkenny –> Glenveagh –> Slieve League –> Donegal Town
Mileage: 254 km (183 miles)
Area of Ireland: Ulster
There is so much to do in County Donegal that it could be given a ten-day itinerary of its own. However, for the purposes of our 10-day Ireland itinerary, we have allocated Tir Chonaill one day.
Morning
Donegal is a fair journey from Antrim, so again, make sure to leave early and give yourself plenty of time. If you head past Derry city, then you are only one hour from Malin Head, Ireland’s most northern point.
However, the key to completing Donegal in a day is maximising your time. Alternatively, you can go straight to Letterkenny. Here, you can replenish with an Irish breakfast or a delicious meal.
Then, it is only 20 minutes to Glenveagh National Park, where the Derryveagh Mountains caress into one. Spend your morning here and walk right up to the castle and lake.
Afternoon
In the afternoon, it is time to hit the road again. Make sure to drive past Dunlewey, where you will drive under the majestic Errigal Mountain.
Not far from here is the small town of Annagry, where you will then reach the Blue Flag Carrickfin Beach. Grab a coffee and a snack and watch the airplanes come and go at Donegal Airport, with Errigal peering in the background.
Evening
To conclude your day and to ensure you are closer to your destination on day four, head to Slieve League to spend the evening.
These are Ireland’s largest sea cliffs, and you will leave in awe of them. An epic sight. Finish off the evening in Donegal Town.
READ: Slieve League Cliffs: 2023 travel info
Where to eat
Breakfast and lunch
We would recommend stopping in Letterkenny for some breakfast, lunch or brunch after Malin Head. Here are some options:
- Florence Food Co: Consistently great homemade food and café in the heart of Letterkenny town.
- Honeypot Coffee House: Home of a variety of speciality coffees for you to choose from, including top picks such as an Irish breakfast and Eggs benedict.
- Kernan’s Bistro & Coffee House: Found in Letterkenny Retail Park, this spot provides you with a quick and all-around dining experience.
- Sonder: A unique café experience on Pearse Road that is a must when in Letterkenny.
Dinner
Dinner is perhaps best served in Donegal Town after your long day and evening at Slieve League, where you could choose from:
- Olde Castle Seafood Bar: A gastropub specialising in quality seafood with a diverse menu on offer.
- Quay West Restaurant: A stunning waterside restaurant that overlooks Donegal Bay as you feast.
Where to drink
Aside from dinner, you may wish to indulge in a pint or two in Donegal Town, and we don’t blame you! Here are some watering holes:
- McCafferty’s Bar: One of the longest and best bars in Donegal town with a truly authentic Irish feel to it.
- The Forge: A resident blues band sound good? Test out this excellent spot for a fun night.
- O’Donnell’s: One of the best bars in all of Donegal, nevermind just Donegal Town. A superb spot for a pint or two.
Where to stay
Splashing out: Lough Eske Castle
Just a 12-minute drive from Donegal Town is the awe-inspiring Lough Eske Castle, a masterpiece and 5-star resort that is the gem in the crown of Donegal’s hotels.
Mid-range: Central Hotel Donegal
A 3-star hotel that is located in the centre of Donegal Town for easy navigation. There is also live entertainment and leisure facilities to use.
Budget: Atlantic Guesthouse
A cosy family-run establishment a mere 5-minute walk from the River Eske and right in the heart of Donegal Town for low prices.
Day 4 − your choice between rest and climbing Ireland’s holy mountain
Sligo and County Mayo
Highlights:
- Benbulbin Mountain
- Sligo Town
- Westport
- Croagh Patrick
- Enniscrone
Starting and ending point: Donegal Town –> Sligo Town –> Westport
Mileage: 168 km (104 miles)
Area of Ireland: Connacht
Your 10 days in Ireland itinerary will include a lot of driving, so it would be prudent to break up your journey with stops and views along the way.
Morning
Just over an hour away from Donegal Town is the magnificent Benbulbin Mountain, Ireland’s horseshoe mountain and found deep in Yeats territory.
From there, Sligo Town is just over 20 minutes, and here you can conclude the morning with food and drink.
Afternoon/Evening
As you are approaching the halfway point of your 10 days in Ireland itinerary, you may want to take a break and stay in one spot for a prolonged period of time.
We advise taking the 90-minute journey to Westport, one of the best towns in Ireland and the jewel in Mayo’s crown. Here, you can drink the night away at Matt Molloy’s in the town.
Alternatively, if you still have plenty of energy and want to scale the heights, take on the challenge of Croagh Patrick, Ireland’s holy mountain. You will need around three and a half hours for this.
Where to eat
Breakfast and lunch
With Sligo Town being one of our first options, brunch may well be satisfied at any of these spots:
- Margaret’s Café: Found in the heart of Sligo Town with a lovely outdoor section if the sun is shining.
- Lyons Café and Bookshop: If you are a book lover and find yourself along the West of Ireland, this is for you.
- Hooked: An all-day option for you, one of Sligo’s best and certainly one to try.
Dinner
By this stage of the day, you will be in Westport, County Mayo. Here are some dinner options:
- JJ O’Malley’s: Over 100 dishes to choose from in one of Westport’s most known and loved restaurants.
- La Bella Vita: For anyone with a taste for Italian, this is the place for you.
- Gallery: This is Ireland’s first wine bar and offers gorgeous tapas food for a luxury night of feeding.
RELATED: The top restaurants for foodies in Sligo
Where to drink
- Matt Molloy’s: Westport’s most famous bar with an incredible array of live traditional music.
- The Towers: A pint right on the Mayo seaside with Croagh Patrick peeping in over the distance.
- Mac Brides: the classic Irish pub in the heart of Westport.
- Thomas Conolly Pub is one of the best pubs in Sligo.
Where to stay
Splashing out: Knockranny House Hotel & Spa
This 4-star hotel is one of the best in its region and is great for a luxurious one-night stay in Westport.
Mid-range: Westport Woods Hotel & Spa
Buried deep in the Woodland and only a very short distance from the centre of Westport town. There is also a buffet breakfast and all-day menu.
Budget: Westport Country Lodge Hotel
A mere 5-minute drive from Westport with unbridled views of Croagh Patrick at a decent price, this is a great choice.
There are also a number of great restaurants for foodies in Sligo to refuel after a long day of exploring.
READ MORE: Top 10 best hotels in Mayo for all budgets
Day 5 − one of the best days on your 10 days in Ireland itinerary
Connemara National Park and the Cliffs of Moher
Highlights:
- Connemara National Park
- Clifden
- Galway city centre
- Cliffs of Moher
- Doolin
Starting and ending point: Westport –> Connemara –> Clifden or Galway City Centre –> Doolin
Mileage: 213 km (132 miles ) or 205 km (127 miles)
Area of Ireland: Connacht to Munster
Morning
Day 5 of your 10 days in Ireland itinerary will take you to some of the most awe-inspiring natural spots in all of Ireland.
From Westport, the drive to Connemara National Park is a mere hour. Take the full morning to wander through one of the Emerald Isle’s most magical national parks.
Afternoon
Once you have seen all you can see in Connemara, head to the quaint town of Clifden, hidden deep in the mountainous Galway countryside. This is one of the most charming towns in Ireland.
Alternatively, you could skip Clifden and head to Galway City, where your afternoon would also be well-spent in Ireland’s cultural capital.
This is also the more economical choice, as it is only an hour and a half from our evening destination. The choice is yours, depending on your penchant for long-distance driving.
Evening
As the evening comes around, it’s time to fill the tank again as we cross county borders for the eleventh time. Next stop is County Clare, and the famous Cliffs of Moher, one of the Emerald Isle’s top tourist destinations.
Marvel at the sheer beauty of the Clare coast and cliff edges. The Cliffs of Moher run for around 14 km (8 miles) and are said to be over 300 million years old. This is one of the best stops on the entire 10 days in Ireland itinerary.
Doolin is only 10 minutes away, and you may want to secure accommodation in this town to recuperate for day six of your 10 days in Ireland itinerary.
Where to eat
Breakfast and lunch
Before setting off for Connemara, try some of the brunch spots in Westport:
- Christy’s Harvest: A popular spot in Westport that even claims to have the best apple pie in the town! Test it out and see.
- Ginger & Wild Café: A beautiful and airy spot with indoor and outdoor seating plans with views of Achill Island.
- This Must Be The Place: Another popular spot in the town for you to test out.
Dinner
If finishing the evening in Doolin, here are some restaurants:
- Russell’s Seafood Bar: Seafood here is sourced within a 25km radius, making it extremely fresh when served.
- Stonewall Wood-Fried Pizzeria: Authentic wood-friend Italian pizza with a wine bar and café. Delightful.
- Glas Restaurant: A good spot if an informal and relaxed dinner is what you are after.
Where to drink
- Fitz’s Pub: Lots of lively traditional Irish music sessions and home of the Wild Atlantic Session.
- McDermott’s: A traditional Irish pub with music and great pints. All that you need.
- Gus O’Connor’s Pub: A very popular spot amongst the tourists who visit Doolin, so add to the list!
Where to stay
Splashing out: Salthill Hotel
Just outside Galway city centre and overlooking the famous Salthill Promenade. It caters for an excellent leisure facility and all amenities you can need and think of.
Mid-range: Clifden Station House Hotel
If you opt to stay in Clifden, this is the spot for you. It is a reasonable price for its location and is a mere 15-minute drive from Connemara National Park.
Budget: Kinlay Hostel Eyre Square
Eyre Square is the beating heart of Galway city centre and this is a fantastic and affordable choice for a quick, one-night stay.
Day 6 − into the Kingdom we go
Limerick and County Kerry
Highlights:
- Limerick City
- Killarney National Park
- Dingle town
- Dingle Peninsula
Starting and ending point: Doolin –> Limerick –> Killarney –> Dingle
Mileage: 252 km (156 miles)
Area of Ireland: Munster
Morning
In just over an hour’s drive, you will reach Limerick city. We recommend that you spend the morning here and grab a bite to eat.
This can act as your stop during the long journey. You will need the energy for your next drive, and in one hour and 47 minutes, you will reach Killarney National Park.
Afternoon
We recommend that you spend your afternoon in Killarney National Park, Ireland’s first national park. You are surrounded by magnificent lakes, mountains, and woods; perhaps the premier picks that Ireland has to offer.
With 10,000 hectares of land, you can spend the afternoon here and let the time pass.
READ MORE: our guide to visiting Killarney National Park
Evening
As the evening dawns, we recommend a stay in the town of Dingle for the night, a mere one hour and 13-minute drive from the National Park.
The Dingle Peninsula is enmeshed in rugged scenery and is also home to a litany of popular bars and pubs in the traditional Irish mould.
RELATED: our 48-hour guide to the Dingle Peninsula
Where to eat
Breakfast and lunch
- Café Rosé: a small café with a cosy and lively atmosphere in Limerick city centre. A selection of hot beverages and homemade food.
- Story Café: This spot in Limerick city centre is well-known for its big feeds, so a good option to fuel up for the day.
- Green Onion Café: If it is some coffee you are after to start the day, there’s no better spot in Limerick.
Dinner
- The Mad Monk: An incredible seafood bar serving fresh from the menu for you in Killarney.
- Treyvaud’s Restaurant: One of the best fine dining experiences in all of Killarney town.
- Kitty O’Se’s Seafood and Grill: The open plan seating gives it a different vibe from the rest, but equally as enjoyable and delicious.
Where to drink
Closing the night in Dingle, here are some good ideas:
- Dick Mack’s: One of the favourites with the locals, and the beer garden is buzzing during the summer months.
- Foxy John’s: A small and traditional Irish pub for a quiet pint of Guinness to close off the long day.
Where to stay
Splashing out: Dingle Skellig Hotel
A fantastic four-start hotel only 200 metres from Dingle Bay, with views of this provided by the restaurant. You also have access to three pools and a gym.
Mid-range: Barr na Sraide Inn
A great three-star choice right in the centre of Dingle Town that will only cost you €165 for a one-night stay.
Budget: The Grapevine Hostel
If you are on a budget when travelling through Dingle, check out the Grapevine Hostel; great if you are in and out quickly and not looking for something fancy.
READ MORE: Top 10 best hotels in Kerry for all budgets
Day 7 – from the Kingdom to the Rebel County
From Kerry to County Cork
The next leg on your 10 days in Ireland itinerary will see you go from the Kingdom to the Rebel County Cork.
Highlights:
- Kenmare
- Ring of Kerry
- Bantry Bay
- Cork City
Starting and ending point: Dingle –> Bantry –> Cork
Mileage: 238 km (147 miles)
Area of Ireland: Munster
Morning
As you spent the night in Dingle, the next stop for you could be Kenmare, still in County Kerry.
While you will go back on yourself, the drive forms part of the iconic Ring of Kerry and so is worth the trip. The journey will take around an hour and 40 minutes, with some stops along the way – let this be your morning.
Afternoon
In the afternoon, it’s time to finally reach County Cork. Bantry Bay is around a 50-minute drive from Kenmare.
This busy market town is steeped in history and sandwiched between flowing mountain ranges on either side.
Evening
Bantry will be just a stop along the way, as the main destination for day 7 of your 10 days in Ireland itinerary is Cork City.
Should you be lucky to get a warm summer evening, take a walk down the bustling Oliver Plunkett Street. For a live performance that night, head to the Cork Opera House. Theatre, music, and comedy are regular here.
Where to eat
Breakfast and lunch
Starting the morning in Dingle and wanting to fuel can be made easy at these spots:
- My Boy Blue: Extensive coffee and a bustling brunch menu with the likes of pancakes, eggs, and chicken melts.
- Coastguard Restaurant: Found inside the Dingle Skellig Hotel, traditional Irish breakfast and scrambled egg is hot on the menu.
- An Cupan Tae: Embrace the tradition of the Irish language in a truly Irish town with breakfast here.
Dinner
- Greenes: Found in Cork City’s Victorian Quarter, this fine dining cuisine is amongst some of the best in Ireland.
- Paradiso: A popular Cork City vegetarian spot if that is what you are after.
- Market Lane: Won numerous awards and also has an outdoor diner to test out on a warm summer’s evening.
Where to drink
- Sin É: A range of liquor and craft beer on show with regular sessions of traditional Irish music.
- Tom Barry’s: One of the oldest and most historic pubs in all of Cork, with a great outdoor area to drink your pint.
- The Corner House: regarded as the home of traditional Irish music in Cork. Have a Guinness or Murphy’s here and see.
Where to stay
Splashing out: Hayfield Manor
Five stars and only 1.4 km (0.9 miles) from Cork city centre. This is a luxury and leafy hotel with a spa and elegant restaurant.
Mid-range: Riverview Apartment Suite
A renovated apartment again located right in the heart of Cork city centre but for much less of a price with independence, a hotel can’t offer.
Budget: Belvedere Lodge
A four-star guesthouse built into a stunning Victorian building with easy bus access to the city centre at only €152.
READ MORE: Top 10 hotels in Cork for all budgets
Day 8 − an essential stop on your 10-day Ireland road trip itinerary
Cork City to Tipperary
Highlights:
- Cork City, and in particular St Finnbar’s Cathedral and Fitzgerald Park
- Rock of Cashel
- Cashel Town
Starting and ending point: Cork –> Cashel
Mileage: 92 km (57 miles)
Area of Ireland: Munster
Morning/Afternoon
One evening is probably not enough to see the best of Cork City, so we recommend that we spend the morning of day 8 here during your 10 days in Ireland itinerary.
One of Cork City’s top-rated attractions is The English Market, found in the heart of the city.
For those who want to shop, there’s all you need in St Patrick’s Street, and only 10 minutes from here, you will reach St Finbarr’s Cathedral. To continue your brisk morning and afternoon, take a walk through Fitzgerald Park.
Evening
In the evening, we recommend you take the short hour’s drive to the Rock of Cashel, located near the town of Cashel in County Tipperary.
The Rock of Cashel is a stunning castle overlooking the rolling Tipperary countryside. Cashel town itself is easily reached from the castle, and from there, you will be greeted by a series of restaurants and bars to close out the night.
READ: IB4UD’s guide to visiting the Rock of Cashel
Where to eat
Breakfast and lunch
For some of the best brunch spots in Cork City, we recommend here:
- Liberty Grill: offering an all-day brunch for your choosing. Test out their quinoa and sweet potato fritters.
- Dwyers of Cork: If it is bottomless brunch you are after, this is the spot for it!
- SOMA: One of the best cafes in all of Cork City, offering delicious espresso options and cakes.
Dinner
Spending most of your evening in Cashel, here is where to dine:
- Bailey’s: Located inside Bailey’s Hotel, this restaurant offers a menu mixed with Irish and European cuisine.
- Ladyswell Restaurant: Delicious homemade grub with an exquisite steak on the menu. Certainly one to try.
- Mikey Ryan’s Bar & Kitchen: An Irish gastropub that cooks their food from scratch. A truly authentic experience. Also great for a pint.
Where to drink
- TJ Ryan: A small, friendly and warm Irish pub, the quintessential quarters to enjoy a nice and quiet pint.
- Brian Ború Bar: A more lively choice if you plan on going out for drinks during your stay at Cashel.
Where to stay
Splashing out: Hotel Minella & Leisure Centre
This spot is found only 22 km (14 miles) from Cashel, in Clonmel, close to the River Suir. It has all that a top four-star hotel has to offer and is very reasonably priced, too.
Mid-range: Tir na nOg B&B
Only a few km outside of the town centre, this is a stunning, four-star stay for a night in Cashel. It is an award-winning guesthouse with 2 acres of nature and views.
Budget: Cashel Holiday Hostel
Less than a ten-minute walk from the Rock of Cashel and will cost you the guts of €40, perfect for a solitary night stay in the town. Centrally located for nightlife, too.
Day 9 − winding down in Kilkenny town
Kilkenny Town
Highlights:
- Kilkenny Town, and Kilkenny Castle.
- St Mary’s Cathedral, Kilkenny
- Dunmore Cave
Starting and ending point: Cashel Town –> Kilkenny –> Dunmore –> Kilkenny
Mileage: 83 km (52 miles)
Area of Ireland: Leinster
Some of the journeys on our 10 days in Ireland itinerary can be tiring and hectic, so we suggest you take day nine for some rest and recuperation for your last day.
However, don’t mistake this rest for a boring day. Kilkenny Town is one of the best spots in Ireland, and there is lots to do here. It is only around 48 minutes by car from Cashel, your previous stop.
Morning
Perhaps the best way to spend your morning in Kilkenny is to take in the splendour of Kilkenny Castle, one of the best castles in all of Ireland.
Then, only 10 minutes away is St Mary’s Cathedral, a neo-Gothic beauty and another great sight in the town. Morning well spent.
Afternoon
In the afternoon, it might be worth taking the 15-minute drive outside of the town to Dunmore Cave, limestone chambers that have been formed over millions of years.
There is also a visitor centre with excavated items such as coins and bones. Many of these date back to the 10th century.
Evening
To complete day 9 of your 10 days in Ireland itinerary, we recommend a trip to a pub, where there is plenty to choose from in the town. Your best options would be Matt the Millers, Kytelers Inn, and The Left Bank.
Where to eat
Breakfast and lunch
If you give yourself enough time in Cashel before leaving, here are some breakfast and lunch options:
- Bowes & Co: An extensive breakfast menu in the centre of this Tipperary town.
- Granny’s Kitchen: Very close to the famous Rock of Cashel. The archetypal quaint Irish café along a colourful street.
- Grogan’s Café: A fantastic spot for some lunch in Cashel with very welcoming staff.
Dinner
- Billy Byrnes: a well-known dining pub in Kilkenny and is a great choice if you are on a budget.
- Matt the Millers: An extensive menu for those with all tastes and needs, alongside plenty of beverages and live music.
- The Lady Helen: If you do find yourself staying in Mount Juliet, this is a fine dining experience within the Estate fit to accompany your stay.
Where to stay
Splashing out: Mount Juliet Estate
Located 14 km (9 miles) outside of Kilkenny, this five-star retreat is just for you if you want to splash out. It dates back to 1757 and also offers a Michelin-star restaurant.
Mid-range: Lyrath Estate
Soundproof rooms on a green estate covering 170 acres of parkland just outside of Kilkenny city centre and all for an affordable price. What’s not to like?
Budget: Kilkenny Tourist Hostel
At just under €50, you can secure your one-night stay here. It is found in an 18th-century townhouse in the centre of town with easy access to everything you need.
Day 10 – an idyllic end to your 10 days in Ireland itinerary
Glendalough and the Wicklow Mountains
Highlights:
- Wicklow Mountains
- Glendalough
- Greystones
- Bray
Starting and ending point: Kilkenny –> Glendalough –> Greystones or Bray
Mileage: 134 km (83 miles) or 136 km (84 miles)
Area of Ireland: Leinster
End your 10 days in Ireland itinerary with a peaceful and graceful tour of some of Ireland’s most stunning gardens and greenery.
Located in County Wicklow, day ten of your road trip will just leave you wanting to add a further ten days to your journey.
Morning/Afternoon
As per usual, leave early if you can and make your way to the Wicklow Mountains National Park and Glendalough for the day. This breathtaking scenery is the perfect idyllic way to end your Irish trip.
We suggest walking at your leisure and truly taking in all the sights. Spend your morning and even your afternoon here as well, if you wish. The park covers a total of 20,843 hectares.
Take in the sights of the mountain ranges, and make sure to visit the Early Medieval monastic settlement dating back to the 6th century. You can also visit the remains of the old Miners’ Village, and you’ll be joined by wildlife throughout.
Evening
To conclude your 10 days in Ireland itinerary, we recommend a stay in the coastal towns of either Greystones (37 minutes away) or Bray (38 minutes away). Both are excellent options. Both are only around a 40-minute drive to Dublin Airport.
We, therefore, recommend, if possible, booking your flight for early morning on the 11th day, which allows you to fully enjoy day 10 and to have a smooth and short journey to the airport.
Where to eat
Breakfast and lunch
- Casey’s Bar and Restaurant: Located in the Glendalough Hotel.
- Wicklow Heather Restaurant: Just minutes from the Park and offering Eggs benedict, full Irish, granola, and veggie options.
- Glendalough Green: An award-winning deli café that offers the likes of homemade soups, salads, sandwiches and more.
Dinner
- The Hungry Monk: If you find yourself in Greystones, this may be the spot for you. Offering a wide-ranging menu for all needs.
- Daata: Another Greystones option that gives you a fancy feed.
- Platform Pizza: If pizza is what you are looking for and you find yourself in Bray, here will not disappoint.
Where to drink
- The Martello: One of the best spots in all of Bray to drink, found right on the seafront.
- The Harbour: Found in Bray, it was once voted one of the most loved pubs in the world by Lonely Planet.
- The Mollys: An excellent choice if you find yourself in Greystones, located in the heart of the main street.
Where to stay
Splashing out: Powerscourt Hotel
Only 5 km (3.1 miles) from Bray and 7 miles (11km) from Greystones, this is your ultimate luxury choice for concluding your ten days in Ireland.
Mid-range: Glenview Hotel & Leisure Club
An excellent four-star hotel in Bray. Offering views of the green Glens of Wicklow and top-range leisure facilities, along with a great bar.
Budget: The Martello Hotel
Just coming in at over €100, making it a great budget choice for your last night in Ireland. It is located in the town of Bray.
Notable mentions
It is important to keep in mind that this itinerary is not set in stone. The locations are subject to change according to your own preference, and the following selections are not too far from what we have already put in above. Chop and change as you see fit.
Burren National Park: This is somewhere you can add to day five of your 10 days in Ireland itinerary. Only 40 minutes from the Cliffs of Moher or an hour directly from Galway.
Christ Church Cathedral: This Medieval structure has stood tall in Dublin for around 1,000 years. It welcomes many visitors yearly.
Mourne Mountains, County Down: Can easily be reached en route to Belfast. You will need to dedicate most of your day here. One of Ireland’s famous landmarks with beautiful views.
Achill Island: A stunning stop off the coast of Mayo. Keem Bay is a particularly good attraction here.
Valentia Island: Valentia Island is found off the coast of County Kerry. You can also take a boat out to Skellig Michael, used in the recent Star Wars movies.
The Aran Islands: Located off the west coast of Galway Bay, the three Aran Islands, Inishmore, Inishmaan, and Inisheer, are some of the most beautiful islands in Ireland to visit.
Slea Head Drive: If you have the time, the Slea Head Drive is a stunning route circular route to explore that starts and ends in Dingle.
Blarney Castle: For the sake of saying you visited, take a trip to Blarney Castle near Cork and kiss the Blarney Stone to tick off a stop on your tourist bucket list.
Your questions asked about our Irish road trip itinerary
If you still have questions, we have you covered! In this section, we’ve compiled some of our readers’ most frequently asked questions and popular questions that have been asked online about this topic.
How long do you need to see Ireland?
There is no fixed time. Ireland is a small country, and many of its key attractions can be reached in good time. However, the longer you stay, the more you see.
Where does the Wild Atlantic Way start and finish?
The Wild Atlantic Way starts at the Inishowen Peninsula in County Donegal and finishes in Kinsale in County Cork.
What can you do in Ireland for 10 days?
Anything at all. You can see any of Ireland’s cities and drive through the majority of counties. Quaint towns, mountain lakes, beautiful landscapes, and Irish hospitality awaits.
