south ireland tours

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Southern Ireland Tours & Trips

Discover amazing adventures through Southern Ireland visiting places like Dublin, the Atlantic Ocean and Killarney. Most travellers enjoy exploring our Southern Ireland trips in September, making it the most popular time of the year. Check here the best Ireland vacations .

212 Southern Ireland tour packages with 5,747 reviews

• In-depth Cultural
• Coach / Bus

Irish Highlights (Summer, 7 Days)

Thoroughly enjoyed the trip but would have been better if other countries were included in the history instead of catering only to the USA. Australia and New Zealand have a huge history of immigrants from Ireland and our population, roots and culture are very Irish. Would have been nice to hear about that instead of all about the USA

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

7-Day Ireland to Island Small Group Tour of Ireland

Very good and varied progam and excellent guide

• Sightseeing

7-Day Emerald Explorer Small Group Tour

Mike Duggin was a fabulous guide, passionate, entertaining, and well versed in Irish history. Our group of 13 get along well and the itinerary suited our needs, thank you!

Best of Ireland (10 Days)

It was fantastic! Our Travel Manager, James Creegan was excellent. He kept us ontrack the whole tour. Love his accent. Its obvious he is from Dublin. His knowlege of places, history, people, music was outstanding. He took us to a couple places off the beaten which I appreciated very much. We met some nice locals which made the experience even better. I would love to go on another of his tours again! Kris was a great tour bus driver. He made it into places I didn't think possible. He got us to our destinations safely. He and James, are very nice guys. I would go anywhere with James and Kris. I have dreamed about coming to Ireland all my life. This tour met and exceeded my expectations.

The Celtic Voyage - Multi-Day - Small Group Tour of Ireland

This tour was so good! We experienced more of Ireland than the itinerary indicated (because of stops we made along our journey, which I loved!), but never felt rushed. Our guide Diarmuid is such a professional - he provided us with interesting information about the places we stopped and Ireland in general, kept us on schedule with a relaxed demeanor, and is genuinely a very nice person. I've never traveled with a tour group before and this one couldn't have been any better. The Emerald Isle is so beautiful and everyone is so friendly that, even when there was a bit of rain, it was still fun. Many thanks to Mick and Diarmuid (the best!!) for making this a most memorable trip. PS the accommodations were fantastic - especially the breakfasts!

Northern & Southern Ireland

there is a difference between, a tour guide and a tour leader, this i did not know. a leader is the organizer of all events, transportation and accommodations. Zoe far exceeded my expectations in this role, and i would highly recommend her. She was not a tour guide. I was expecting more information about the people, locations and cultures of Ireland.

10 Day Wild Irish Experience - Small Group Tour

Irish experience tour group was fantastic. Great value for your money and Lee, our tour guide, was amazing. Always going above and beyond and made us feel like family. A beautiful and friendly country that slows down to smells the roses.

• €99 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

8 Day Castles & Coast Experience - Small Group Tour

Wonderful small bus experience. I think we saw everything there was to see. Lots of fun.

Wild South - Multi-Day - Small Group Tour of Ireland

The tour was absolutely perfect, everyone was incredibly welcoming and it was a fantastic way to explore Ireland! ????

3-Day Blarney Castle, Kilkenny & Irish Whiskey Small-Group Tour from Dublin

Marcus, accomodation, and the tour was great

• Hiking & Trekking

Highlights of Ireland

Great Tour of Ireland ( 7 days )

Introduction to Ireland

I was unable to rate my tour guide Fiona. She was excellent. History knowledge as well as cultural insight was excellent . Fiona was very personable and extremely helpful. I was having a little trouble with my back and she did everything to accommodate me. I would rate her as EXCELLENT. The bus driver, Gary, was EXCEPTIONAL A. Very friendly and an Excellent driver. His helpfulness with all of us that had disabilities was very much appreciated. Gary was funny and took a lot of reading from the passengers very graciously and jokeD back. Tour schedule was very good. Hotels were excellent but did not care for the last hotel in Dublin.

3-Day West Coast Explorer Small-Group Tour from Dublin

I had a blast on this tour! It had a sweet mix of Irish towns, culture, and some seriously breathtaking nature. Stephanie, our guide, was awesome - she had all the inside knowledge at every spot, making the trip super fun. This was my first time on a tour like this, but I'm definitely down for more in different places!

Kerry Royal

Overall good...don't like showers over tub..dangerous...slip mats essential. Gresham Dublin confusing because of the Reno's. Our tour leader and driver were excellent, but the relief driver for our visit to Dingle was downright scary.

What people love about Southern Ireland Tours

The entire trip was wonderful, very well organized, and satisfying. Peter Flood was an excellent tour guide. He was as knowledgeable as could be, funny, and helpful; and really seems to love what he does.

Small Bus touring is the way to go!

Mike was amazing! We had such a great group of people, Mike was so full of knowledge about the history and culture of Ireland, and it was so laid back. We got to explore each destination at a leisurely pace and enjoyed most evenings checking out the local bars. Highly recommend!

Southern Ireland Tours starting in:

• Dublin (132)
• London (17)
• Killarney (8)
• Group (179)
• Fully Guided (161)
• Family (144)
• Explorer (131)
• In-depth Cultural (86)
• Personalized (69)
• Coach / Bus (47)
• Private (32)
• Self-Guided (32)
• Active (27)
• Hiking & Trekking (24)
• Partially Guided (18)
• Bicycle (6)
• Train & Rail (6)
• Small Group (47)
• 3 Day Tours (12)
• 7 Day Tours (79)
• 10 Day Tours (74)
• 2 Week Tours (13)
• Spring 2024 (124)
• Summer 2024 (154)
• Fall / Autumn 2024 (150)
• Winter 2024 / 2025 (37)
• Spring 2025 (85)
• Summer 2025 (72)
• Fall / Autumn 2025 (72)
• Winter 2025 / 2026 (18)
• April 2024 (52)
• May 2024 (130)
• June 2024 (146)
• July 2024 (138)
• August 2024 (145)
• September 2024 (141)
• October 2024 (114)
• November 2024 (41)
• December 2024 (36)
• January 2025 (25)
• February 2025 (28)
• March 2025 (58)
• April 2025 (63)
• May 2025 (68)
• June 2025 (69)
• July 2025 (70)
• August 2025 (69)
• September 2025 (70)
• October 2025 (47)
• November 2025 (21)

Other Regions in Ireland

• Ireland Wild Atlantic Way (193)
• Munster (89)
• Ring of Kerry (39)
• Leinster (14)
• Connemara National Park (10)
• Connacht (8)

Travel Styles

• Budget (16)
• Luxury (12)
• Singles and Solo (168)
• For Couples (81)
• Young Adults (8)
• Seniors (108)

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Go South Tour

Travel to southern Ireland with this spectacular one-week, small group tour!

Stand in an ancient stone circle, explore an Irish tower castle and be amazed by the mountains and lakes of Killarney National Park. Enjoy two nights of great traditional music, food and fun on the Dingle Peninsula. Cross a slender bridge to Ireland’s most southerly point on the Mizen Head peninsula. Delve inside a medieval monastery, touch beautifully inscribed Celtic crosses, and marvel at the colossal Cliffs of Moher. Enjoy the lovely River Shannon on a leisurely cruise. 

You will walk the land, capture the spirit, and find Ireland forever in your heart!  All this and more on the Go South tour - please see below for all the details.

Check out all of our great tours!

• Trip Itinerary
• Dates & Prices
• Tour Guide & Transportation

Overnight Stays

• Photo Gallery

Go South Tour Itinerary

Read all about this fantastic one-week tour taking you to the best back roads sites, quaint coastal towns, and majestic scenery in glorious southern Ireland!

Select  "+"  to read about a specific day or select  " expand all"  to read the entire itinerary. Slainte! (Irish for Cheers!)

Monday, Day 1: Arrival in Dublin, Ireland

Welcome to Ireland!  You arrive in Dublin and check in to your city center hotel. Nothing is planned for this day so you can relax and explore Dublin as you’d like. Then off to bed with you for a good night's sleep, for tomorrow begins what we hope will be one of your best experiences yielding a lifetime of happy memories!

* Your Dublin hotel is included in your tour. With a fantastic central location, it's an easy walk to amazing sites and things to do in Dublin 😃

Tuesday, Day 2: Dublin to Dungarvan

Highlights:  8th Century Celtic High Cross, Medieval Norman Monastery, 6,000 year-old Ancient Tomb, Harbor Town of Dungarvan

Meet your guide and trip participants and begin your exciting travels in Ireland. Leaving Dublin and heading south, you’ll discover an incredible 17-foot Celtic High Cross, standing watch since the 8th Century. High crosses like this one and their intricately carved designs have inspired the faithful through the ages and became integral to Irish culture, history and art.

You’ll then journey further south to one of the largest medieval churches in Ireland. Built in the 13th Century, this beautifully restored Cistercian Monastery was founded by the Normans at one of the most strategic points in the country along the River Barrow. This serene waterway has enabled passage inland for thousand of years and is still used today by colorful barges and river cruisers.

Lost among a maze of small farm roads in bucolic southern County Kilkenny, you’ll find a 6,000 year-old megalithic tomb! This precariously, balanced structure will boggle your mind as to how the Stone Age Irish erected such large stones at this impressive site.

Onto County Waterford where your overnight stop is the lovely harbor town of Dungarvan on Ireland's southern Atlantic shore. Enjoy dinner at a cooking school run by one of Ireland's renowned chefs or find a pub with music on Grattan Square or Davitt's Quay.  The night is yours to relax and enjoy! 

Wednesday, Day 3: Dungarvan to Clonakilty

Highlights:  9th Century Round Tower, Kinsale, Ancient Stone Circle, Town of Clonakilty

Amazing views as you travel along the scenic southern coast to see Ireland's finest example of a medieval Round Tower. Multi-story stone towers like this were built over a thousand years ago by pious monks and endured a long and turbulent history. Founded by Saint Declan, this site is one of Ireland’s earliest Christian settlements. Explore the church ruins and discover its incredible stone carvings and ancient standing stones.

Enjoy free time and a lunch break in the town of Kinsale. Known for its excellent cafes, you’ll have fun meandering streets of colorful stores and walking along its beautiful harbor.

Continuing on, you find a tranquil Stone Circle with a mystifying solar alignment. This secluded site was of great importance to the early Irish who aligned its axis to the setting sun of the winter solstice. 

You then head to your overnight town of Clonakilty, famously linked to Michael Collins who was instrumental in Ireland’s uprising and subsequent independence from Britain. In addition, Clonakilty has a lively music scene. Stop by the legendary DeBarras Pub for a pint, music, and to admire the Jimi Hendrix Experience memorabilia donated by their bass player, Noel Redding, who regularly performed at DeBarras on Friday nights. Kick back, relax, and tap your toes in this colorful and fun town!

Thursday, Day 4: Clonakilty to Kenmare

Highlights:  Mizen Head Signal Station, Bantry, The Beara Peninsula, Colorful Town of Kenmare

A magnificent day as you travel through some of the most visually stunning parts of Ireland. First, you head to the Mizen Head Signal Station perched on Ireland's most southerly point. Stroll this rugged headland, learn about lighthouses along the coast, and visit the keeper’s quarters via a beautiful arched bridge spanning a deep ravine.

Moving northwards leads you to the town of Bantry. Wander its old streets and gaze upon a statue of 6th Century Saint Brendan, possibly the first European to find America! As you leave, you'll have fine views of the beautiful bay and can spot palm trees in this unusually tropical region.

You then follow an amazing route through the Beara Peninsula over countless switchbacks and a high mountain pass for inspiring views and down to your overnight town of Kenmare. Your lovely B&B is situated in the heart of this magical Kerry town, full of quaint shops, lively bars, and great traditional Irish music.

Friday, Day 5: Kenmare to Dingle

Highlights:  Killarney National Park, Ross Castle, Slea Head Drive, Gallarus Oratory, Dingle Town

Saying goodbye to Kenmare, your route takes you to the MacGillycuddy's Reeks, the largest mountains in Ireland, and home to the spectacular Killarney National Park. A photographer's dream...you may well wish for an extra pair of eyes! You'll make your way over the pass at Moll's Gap and work your way down by Killarney's captivating lakes, waterfalls, and panoramic vistas. Here, you will visit one of the most photographed castles of Ireland, Ross Castle.

You next take a gentle stroll by beautiful fields and grazing deer as you come to the 15th Century Muckross Abbey. Walk beneath the vaulted cloisters and gaze upon the centuries old yew tree in the central courtyard and imagine life in an abbey 500 years ago.

The views keep coming along coastal roads and sandy beaches flanked by green hills as you make your way to the Dingle Peninsula. You take a trip around the dramatic landscape of the Slea Headland. This Gaeltacht (or Irish speaking) area is rich in archeological sites including the Gallarus Oratory and is Ireland's most westerly shore.

You'll then make your way back to Dingle town. This charismatic fishing town is filled with colorful buildings and many fine places to dine or shop. Have fun discovering pubs that double as hardware or shoe stores and you’ll be staying for two nights in Dingle's best boutique B&B!

Saturday, Day 6: Free Day in Dingle

Your free day! There are many interesting things to do such as shopping, biking, golfing, fishing, falconry, or horseback riding. Take a walk through lively Dingle town and enjoy a boat ride. Or you could find a nice pub or coffee shop to while away the hours and strike up a conversation with some of the friendly characters to be found in Dingle. Enjoy another wonderful night in this enchanting town!

Sunday, Day 7: Dingle to Ballina/Killaloe

Highlights:  Ferry Across the River Shannon, Cliffs of Moher, Portal Tomb, Sister Towns of Killaloe and Ballina

You depart Dingle heading over the Slieve Mish Mountains through northern County Kerry and on to Ireland's longest river, the Shannon. This ancient river has moved trade for thousands of years and boarding a ferry, you’ll feel its gentle flow and cross to the geological wonders of County Clare.

Passing through seaside towns, where surfers and horses stride grand beaches, you'll head north to one of the world's most spectacular sights, the Cliffs of Moher. Looming over 700 feet above the smashing force of the Atlantic Ocean, these sheer and majestic cliffs are simply not to be missed!

From the cliffs, you’ll head to Ireland's UNESCO Geopark with the oldest dated megalithic monument in Ireland. Walk across the vast, moonlike landscape of the Burren and see the awesome beauty and history of this part of Ireland.

Your overnight town is Ballina (in County Tipperary) along the River Shannon. With its sister town across the river, Killaloe (in County Clare), you have two picture perfect Irish riverside towns with pubs, great restaurants, walkways along the river’s edge, and a beautiful 18th Century stone bridge with 13 arches. Your hotel overlooks the river and you can stroll into town for delicious food and stop by Liam O’Riain’s pub for a pint and traditional Irish music.

Monday, Day 8: Ballina/Killaloe to Dublin

Highlights:  Privately Chartered Cruise on the River Shannon, Historic Pubs, Bog Path and Ancient Ruins, Vibrant Dublin City

Start your day with a relaxing cruise on Ireland’s finest waterway, the River Shannon. Hop aboard your privately chartered boat, learn about the history of the area, and explore serene Lough Derg and enjoy breathtaking views of Counties Clare and Tipperary.

You’ll then head east to enjoy lunch in the town of Abbeyleix, where you will be able to walk out onto the bog and learn about its important conservation.  

Walk off lunch by exploring the ruins of a fortress with stunning views of the surrounding patchwork countryside. Perched on top of an outcrop, it is said to have appeared on the early maps of the Greek cartographer Ptolemy and plundered by the Vikings. The is the perfect way to take a last 360 degree view of the beauty of Ireland’s landscape.

You’ll then head back to your lovely Dublin hotel and your last night in the Emerald Isle. Enjoy a meal in one of the many fine restaurants, savor the final hours of your Go South tour, and cherish a lifetime of incredible memories!

Slan Beo! Irish for "Goodbye, live life!"

*While it is our intention to adhere to the route described above, there is a certain amount of flexibility built into the itinerary and on occasion, it may be necessary, or desirable, to make alterations. The information in the itinerary has been compiled with care and is provided in good faith. However, it is subject to change, and does not form part of the contract between the client and Inroads Ireland.

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Go South Tour Fact Sheet

On the one-week Go South tour, you discover Ireland's best off-the-beaten-track sites in southern Ireland!

• Connect with the ancient Irish as you stand in a millennia old Stone Circle aligned to the setting sun of the winter solstice
• Explore a fantastic medieval Irish Castle and an 800 year-old Norman Abbey
• Be amazed by the Beara Peninsula's mountain passes and gorgeous lakes in County Kerry's Killarney National Park
• Enjoy a privately chartered cruise on the leisurely River Shannon and into Lough Derg
• Unwind for two nights in Dingle town with its colorful pubs, traditional Irish music, and serene beauty
• Discover millenia old Celtic high crosses with their intricate stone carvings, a Round Tower, and an ancient Monastery
• Marvel at the colossal 700 foot high Cliffs of Moher along Ireland's western Atlantic coast
• View the thrilling southern Atlantic coastline and learn about lighthouses at spectacular Mizen Head Signal Station on Ireland's most southerly point
• Travel without crowds on scenic, back roads to lively small towns
• Counties visited: Cork, Kerry, Clare, Tipperary, Kilkenny, Waterford, Offaly, Dublin

2024 Go South Tour Dates

• May 20 - 27
• June 10 - 17
• June 24 - July 01
• August 05 - 12
• September 16 - 23

2024 Go South Tour Price - $3395 (USD) per person based on double occupancy.

• Our upfront price has no hidden costs or excursion fees. For solo travelers, there is a US$615 single supplement.
• Guaranteed departures.  No worries if the tour doesn't fill up to the maximum, our departures are always guaranteed.
• Included in the tour price: 7 full days of touring in a mini-coach with your Irish guide, 8 nights accommodations, site entrance fees, local tours, River Shannon ferry, River Shannon cruise, and daily breakfasts
• Not Included in the tour price: Airfare to/from Dublin, Ireland, lunches, and dinners

2024 Tours 

All prices are in U.S. dollars and per person (based on double occupancy). Our upfront price has no hidden costs or excursion fees. For solo travelers, there is a US$615 supplement.

• 2024 Go South tour: US$3395

Full payment is due when you reserve your tour. Your payment options are Visa, MasterCard, Discover, PayPal, or check. 

** Guaranteed Departures.   No worries if the tour doesn't fill up to the maximum, our departures are always guaranteed.

** Combination Special!  Double or triple the fun and create your own vacation package. Combine 2 tours and save US$200. Combine 3 tours and save US$300.

• June 24 - July 01 

What's Included in the Go South Tour Price?

• 8 nights of local guesthouses or hotels based on double occupancy (Monday through Monday). For solo travelers, please see the 'Solo Travelers' section below.
• 7 days of touring and sightseeing (Tuesday through Monday)
• All admissions into historical sites and local tours
• Daily Irish breakfast
• Touring in a comfortable mini-coach with your experienced Irish tour guide
• Leisurely cruise on the River Shannon and into Lough Derg
• Ferry across the River Shannon 
• Our upfront price has no hidden costs or excursion fees.
• When you make a reservation, you receive a confirmation email with details about the meeting hotel in Dublin.
• If you want to come to Dublin a few days before the tour or stay longer after the tour, in your confirmation email you receive information about how to book additional nights at the Dublin hotel.

What's Not Included in the Tour Price?

• Airfare to / from Dublin, Ireland
• Lunches and dinners
• Personal expenses / Gratuities

Solo Travelers

• If you are traveling solo, there is a US$615 supplement.
• You can have your own room OR share a room with another solo traveler of the same gender, if one is available.
• If you choose to share a room and we can provide a roommate, the US$615 supplement will be refunded.

Tour Guides

We pride ourselves on our native Irish guides who combine a depth of knowledge and history about their homeland with a fun and easygoing approach to showing you the best of Ireland. Our flexible style allows each guide to bring their own unique talents and personality to our tours. When you're in Ireland, you want more than a tour guide, you want a friend to show you the hidden secrets - that's where Inroads Ireland comes in.

Our guide was the best. He gave us safe passage with his excellent driving skills, his dialogue with us was personable and at the same time was most informative. It was like taking a trip with someone you had previously known---he was very approachable. He attended to the different needs and expectations of all 13 travelers and presented information in an entertaining and folksy manner. I have only good things to say. Thank you for finding this gem! Vic and Gladys from South Euclid, Ohio, USA

Meet Your Guides

Meet Hugh and Jonny - expert Irish guides waiting to show you the very best of Ireland!

Hugh is from Dublin, Ireland and is a seasoned world traveler with a passion for unique travel experiences and has guided groups throughout the world including China, Brazil, and Chile. His unflappable countenance, fun loving nature and love of Ireland’s rich cultural diversity has made him fast friends with our great travelers seeking new adventures on Ireland’s maze of back roads and cultural landscape.

When Hugh is not showing you the best of Ireland’s rural splendor, he bikes it for fun, and in the dark winter months, he enlightens the masses at the much-lauded Maynooth University just outside Dublin.

Jonny is from Galway, Ireland and is a renowned classic car restoration expert who, as a kid began exploring his homeland on his grandfather’s assignments as the official photographer for Ireland’s vast array of heritage sites. Later he ran into the bucolic hinterland and onto winning Ireland’s cross-country championships. His great humor and pride in Ireland’s epic culture is infectious and through his lens, you’ll focus on what makes Ireland so truly fun, friendly and fascinating.

Between revealing Ireland’s great back roads and hidden delights, he helps ensure his wee kids flourish, fully immersed in this fantastical ancient land!

Transportation

• Take in Ireland in a comfortable Meredes mini-coach, small enough to navigate Ireland's twisting and narrow back roads and get you to the off-the-beaten-track places. 
• The Go South tour includes two experiences on the River Shannon: a leisurely cruise of the river / Lough Derg and a ferry crossing the river.

I have been trying to compose a decent thank you since before we arrived home. Nothing seems special enough to express our appreciation. So I'll just say thank you SO VERY MUCH for the best vacation we have ever had.  What a luxury to leave the driving - and everything else! - in your very capable hands. Everything went so smoothly. You really know how to take care of your passengers. From relating Irish history to the sing alongs - it was all so much fun. Good craic!  I was impressed with the kindness and respect you showed everyone in your care. Thank you again John - we enjoyed every minute of our Inroads Ireland trip thanks to you! Donna & Mark from Elyria, Ohio, USA

I really appreciated the opportunity to see sites that many others do not have the opportunity to and that I otherwise would not be able to find. Our guide was very informative and made the tour incredibly enjoyable. He told marvelous stories and was able to answer practically every question we threw at him. Also, he handled the roads in a very experienced manner and I truly felt comfortable with him driving - even on narrow and winding cliff roads! All of the accommodations were very comfortable and everyone there was very helpful. 

I really feel like I got a great feel of the Irish south in just a week. Thank you! Janie from Tampa, Florida, USA

Our guide was a delight - engaging, knowledgeable, a tour de force when it comes to all things Ireland. Ancient, Celtic, Roman, modern, fantastical, you name it - a bottomless source of information, stories, and anecdotes. I had an amazing time on the tour! Matt from New York, New York, USA

I enjoyed our guide John's style of guiding with his personal interaction with the group, a wealth of interesting information on sites visited, history, politics, culture, language, sense of humor, poetry recitations and readings (very special), music (both singing and CDs), and his spontaneity (buying fresh strawberries for us down a country lane). Thank you! Diane from Brisbane, Queensland, Australia

Thank you for making each of us welcome and bringing a group of strangers together in such a way we all felt comfortable. I am unable to convey the gratitude and appreciation I have for your integrity, your professionalism, all your amazing stories, and being able to balance each day so well. I hope to return and without any doubt we will be booking through you again...having the certainty that all things are taken care of is such a spoiling vacation!! Jill from University Place, Washington, USA

An important part of any Irish vacation is a great place to stay and a relaxing night's sleep.

All of your accommodations (B&B, guest house, or boutique hotel) have been carefully selected for their excellent location in the small towns (step out your door for food, drinks, shopping, music, and evening walks) and the high level of comfort each room provides. Add to that your welcoming Irish host and a good time is guaranteed 😃

• Stay in locally owned, beautiful B&B's, guesthouses, and boutique hotels.
• Each room has a private bathroom (en suite).
• A delicious daily Irish breakfast is included.
• When making a reservation, you will have the option of choosing a room (Double or Single) and your sleeping arrangements.

Solo travelers:

• If you are not sharing a room, there is a single supplement of $615.
• You will be charged a $615 single supplement. If we are able to provide a roommate, the $615 will be refunded.

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• 6 Day Tour of Southern Ireland
• Tours of Ireland
• 5 or 6 Day Tours

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Pick-up Points

• 09:00am - 5 Beresford Pl, Mountjoy, Dublin 1, D01 V2V4, Ireland

Day 1: Dublin - Glendalough - Kilkenny Castle - Waterford Crystal - Waterford City

Day 2: waterford city - cobh - blarney castle - dingle peninsula - annascaul, day 3: dingle peninsula - slea head - annascaul, day 4: killarney - ring of kerry - spanish point, day 5: spanish point - cliffs of moher - burren - galway, day 6: galway - connemara - dublin, additional info.

Accommodation

Free cancellation.

• For a full refund, you must cancel at least 72 hours before the tour's start time.
• If you cancel less than 72 hours before the tour's start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
• Any changes made less than 72 hours before the tour's start time will not be accepted.
• Cut-off times are based on the local time in Ireland.

Why Book Direct?

You help a local business to recover from the pandemic

You help to maximise the employment of our amazing guides

You enjoy a Best Price Guarantee

You enjoy the Best Cancellation Policy in Ireland

You enjoy Guaranteed Access where tours are overbooked

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We say Go Raibh Mile Maith Agat (1000 thanks!)

Paddywagon Tours

You might also like..., 3 day tour of southern ireland (galway and kerry), 4 day tour of south western ireland (galway, cliffs of moher, kerry, dingle and blarney), 3 day tour of northern ireland (belfast, derry and giant's causeway), cancellation policy, free cancellation.

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Elegant Southern Ireland

7-night tour originating in Shannon and ending in Dublin

Luxurious properties in magnificent settings, customized sightseeing, and the secret ingredient, the irish people being themselves.

Our “Elegant Small group Tour of Ireland” combines luxurious properties in magnificent settings, customized sightseeing and the secret ingredient, the Irish People being themselves! Each property is selected for its amenities and ambiance. Sightseeing tours are designed to give you the quaint and the extraordinary. This tour is the perfect mixture of escorting and leisure time for each client. Each tour has no more than 14 passengers which assures you of an intimate setting. You will receive the lap of luxury touring Ireland in our Midi coach that can travel to the places not accessible to the large coaches.

View Tour PDF

Your Tour Includes:

• Sightseeing via deluxe new Luxury Mercedes Benz Executive Midi Coach throughout your tour from Day 3 Limerick until Day 7 arrive Dublin
• Tour Cliffs of Moher Day 2
• County Limerick – Adare Manor, Dromoland Castle, Limerick Savoy – 1 Night
• Killarney – The Killarney Park Hotel – 2 Nights
• Cork – The Hayfield Manor – 2 Nights
• Dublin – Westbury, Shelbourne, Fitzwilliam,  Intercontinental or Westin – 2 Nights.
• Full Irish breakfast daily
• 1 Dinner (Adare Manor, Dromoland or Savoy), 1 Hayfield Manor
• Admissions to the following are INCLUDED on this tour: Cliffs of Moher, Cobh Heritage Center, Rock of Cashel, Dublin Hop on Hop off Bus Pass
• Fully escorted sightseeing as per itinerary
• Hotel Taxes
• Deluxe portfolio of travel documents professionally executed by Hammond Tours

Not Included:

• Tip to Driver Guide
• Any items of a personal nature.
• Dinners and suggested optional sightseeing that are not mentioned as included in itinerary.

“Southern Elegant Ireland” is a 7-night tour originating in Shannon and ending in Dublin.

Southern Elegant Ireland Tour 2024 land tour dates and rates

Example small public group itinerary.

USA-Ireland Depart from USA for overnight flight to Ireland. Flight not included.

Day 2 Shannon-Limerick-Adare. Upon arrival at Shannon Airport, make our way via taxi to our five-star hotel. This afternoon you enjoy a tour to the majestic Cliffs of Moher. Dinner and Overnight at a Five Star Property Hammond will select the five-star hotels from the following: Dromoland Castle, Adare Manor, Savoy Limerick.

Limerick-Dingle-Killarney. After breakfast we depart Limerick for the Dingle Peninsula. The journey begins with some of the most magnificent scenery in all of Ireland. The little town of Dingle is straight out of a story book. The fishing boats in the harbor and tiny brightly painted pubs reflect a place where time has continued to stand still. We continue to Slea Head. Along the way, we will see bee-hive style huts, originally inhabited by 12th century monks, which overlook the rugged Blasket Islands. There is no other landscape in western Europe with the density and variety of archaeological monuments as found on the Dingle Peninsula. It is then onto Killarney for our overnight. Overnight in Killarney at the Killarney Park Hotel. The Killarney Park Hotel is one of the finest luxury hotels Ireland has to offer. Perfectly located in the heart of Killarney town center, set in mature grounds and framed by the legendary surroundings of Killarney National Park, this is a Five Star Hotel really like no other.

Ring of Kerry.  After breakfast we enjoy an optional tour to the beautiful Gap of Dunloe in the Killarney National Park. We then start on a full day tour of “The Ring”. There is an unspoiled nature to Ireland’s most beautiful region and the Ring of Kerry provides many unforgettable memories as it passes through the many picturesque villages such as Glenbeigh, Waterville and Sneem and returns via Ladies View and the famous Lakes of Killarney. Overnight Killarney Park Hotel.

Killarney-Blarney-Cork. After breakfast we depart Killarney and head towards Cork City. Our next stop, the picturesque town of Blarney, is the home of Blarney Castle and the Blarney stone (optional admission), which legend has it bequeaths the “gift of eloquence” to all who kiss it. Time to shop at the historical woolen mills or stop in Christy’s Pub for a Pint! We depart Blarney and travel to Cork City. Driving into Cork City, we are treated to a panoramic tour before reaching our destination, the five-star Hayfield Manor. A sanctuary in the city, the Hayfield Manor is set among two acres of park-like grounds. Overnight at the Hayfield Manor.

Cork-Kinsale-Cork After breakfast we travel to the Cobh Heritage Center . Over three million Irish people emigrated from this port. Learn about Irish Emigration story, trace your ancestors, hear about the ill-fated Titanic and the Lusitania, and immerse yourself in Irish naval and military history at Cobh Heritage Centre Then we travel on to Kinsale for lunch. The picturesque yachting harbour of Kinsale is one of many colorful gems strung along the coastline of County Cork. Narrow, winding streets lined with galleries and gift shops, lively bars and superb restaurants, and a handsome natural harbour filled with yachts and guarded by a huge 17th-century fortress make it an engrossing place to spend the day. Dinner and Overnight at The Hayfield Manor.

Cork-Cashel-Kildare-Dublin We depart Cork after breakfast traveling northeast. We stop for a photo opportunity in County Tipperary at the historic Rock of Cashel. The Rock of Cashel is a stone fort poised 200 feet above the town. Built in the 5th century, it is said to be the site where St. Patrick illustrated the sacred trinity to the Kings of Munster using the modest shamrock. It is on through Kildare, home of the famous Irish National Stud, where horse breeding and racing is an art (optional admission). Our final stop today is Dublin. This time is on our own to explore all the shops and pubs via the famous pedestrian walkways. Overnight Dublin. Hammond will select the five-star hotels from the following: the Shelbourne, Westbury, Fitzwilliam, Intercontinental or Westin Hotel. We bid farewell to our driver guide who has become like a member of the family.

Dublin Today you tour the town of Dublin on your own. Included is a Hop on Hop Off Dublin Bus Pass . You will be sure to see St. Patrick’s Cathedral where writer Jonathan Swift gave his sermons, The G.P.O. on O’Connell Street scene of the 1916 Easter Uprising where the bullet holes remain to this day. Drive through famous Phoenix Park where the Pope said Mass in late 70’s and finally Trinity College to view the 8th century manuscripts, The Book of Kells, still preserved as they were when the Monks produced them all those centuries ago. Why not visit Jamison Distillery? Overnight Dublin. Hammond will select the five-star hotels from the following: the Shelbourne, Westbury, Fitzwilliam, Intercontinental or Westin Hotel.

Day 9 Dublin-Dublin Airport Morning departure from Dublin hotel via taxi on own to Dublin Airport (please ask concierge to arrange a taxi pickup at your desired time) for our flight onwards.

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6 Day Great Southern Ireland Tour

Southern ireland is calling.

Knights and castles, mountains and coastlines; you're about to fall in love with eastern and southern Ireland!

Fully refreshed for 2024, this easy-paced 6 day small group tour itinerary departs Dublin and visits Tipperary, Cork, Cobh, Kinsale, Kilkenny, Waterford and Wicklow.

Our expert tour guides will inspire you at eye-opening destinations like Blarney Castle, the Rock of Cashel and the Jameson Irish Whiskey Distillery.

This 6 day fully escorted tour runs from April through October in 2024. There's no best month to visit, anytime is good; so take a moment, breathe the fresh air and savour all the beauty!

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "The hotels where we stayed were in perfect locations, and the small bus allowed us to get to places inaccessible to larger buses ... The trip was quite simply perfect ... We are already beginning to plan our next Vagabond trip."   Guest Review , July 2023

August 2024

September 2024, october 2024, august 2025, september 2025, october 2025.

*Price displayed is the discounted rate for departures in April & October 2024.

If the date you want is full please contact us  and we will do our best to accommodate you.

A €250 deposit per person is all we need to secure your tour online. All our departure dates are guaranteed .

**All tours are charged in EURO. Exchange rates quoted are online rates and may differ to the rate our payment partner Flywire and banks offer.

Single Supplements apply to Single Room Occupancy.

Genuine Guest Reviews

My wife and I just completed our first tour of Southern Ireland with Vagabond Tours.

To say this met our every expectation would be a gross understatement! The Mercedes van was comfortable, easily accommodating all, was immaculate and our guide Jason was humorous, knowledgeable and a wonderful driver.

Vagabond gets 5 stars from us and we will travel with them again!

You'll never look back at this trip and regret even a moment.

This was the absolutely BEST vacation experience we've ever had!

Our guide Andrew was exceptional. Experienced driver & guide and very passionate regarding the love of his native land. He's the sort of fella we all wish we had as a friend back home.

The trip was quite simply perfect.

Our guide was Michael, who was local to the area we traveled, and the breadth and depth of his knowledge of the area was staggering, as was his warmth and kindness.

The hotels where we stayed were in perfect locations, and the small bus allowed us to get to places inaccessible to larger buses.

We are already beginning to plan our next Vagabond trip.

Find answers to questions about the 6 Day Driftwood Ancient Ireland Tour itinerary.

When & Where Do Vagabond/Driftwood Tours Depart From?

All of our tours leave from our pick-up/drop-off point at the Grand Canal Hotel in Dublin .

Our pick-up times from the Grand Canal Hotel vary by tour:

Who Guides The Tours?

All of our tours are fully guided by our team of expert driver guides.

We call them VagaGuides .

What Activities Have Weight Limits?

We always put guest safety first on Vagabond Cultural Adventures.

For this reason, when engaging in kayaking and horseback-riding activities, the following personal weight limits apply:

🐴 Horseback-Riding

Male weight limit: 238lbs / 17 stone / 108kg

Female weight limit: 225lbs / 16 stone / 102kg

Per person Double Kayak weight limit: 110kg / 17.5 stone / 245lbs

Total Double Kayak weight limit for 2 guests: 190kg / 30 stone / 420lbs

Per person Single Kayak weight limit: 92kg / 14.5 stone / 200lbs.

Are There Any Luggage Restrictions?

Yes, we do operate a limit on luggage.

Owing to the compact nature of our small-group tour vehicles , your luggage limit is one suitcase per person (no bigger than 30” or 75cm along their longest side).

What Day Do Tours Return To Dublin?

To help you plan your return flights, here are the days and times that our tours return to Dublin.

The return point for all tours is Dublin's Grand Canal Hotel

Where Can I Do Laundry On Tour?

Serviced laundry facilities are available on tours that stay 2 nights in the following towns:

• 🧺 Dingle - Check which tours visit Dingle

Do All Hotels Provide Separate Bathrooms?

Yes, all hotel rooms on Vagabond and Driftwood Tours of Ireland are ensuite.

Expect your own separate bathroom with toilet, sink and shower and/or bath.

Where Is My Luggage Stored On Tour Vehicles?

The answer depends on which tour style you have chosen.

Driftwood vehicles have space for luggage onboard. Vagabond vehicles tow a trailer.

Which Small Group Tours of Ireland Visit Kinsale?

Kinsale is a quaint harbour town located in Cork, Ireland.

The following small group tours of Ireland explore Kinsale:

• 👑 7 Day Driftwood Castles & Kingdoms Tour
• ☘️ 6 Day Driftwood Great Southern Tour

Actons Hotel Kinsale

Over the years, Actons Hotel has established a reputation for personalised guest care.

This matches our own high standards at Vagabond & Driftwood Tours.

Allied with breathtaking maritime views over Kinsale Harbour, Actons Hotel offers the perfect base to explore the famous county of Cork.

Savour the luxurious spa, relax in your modern, comfortable room or grab a bite to eat in the outdoor garden dining area.

Bayview Hotel

Hear the waves crash outside your bedroom...

The Bayview Hotel is a fine manor house hotel, located on cliffs above the Celtic Sea in Cork.

Wander its delightful gardens or explore the beautiful fishing village of Ballycotton with its sandy beaches.

Only lucky Driftwood guests on our 6 Day Ancient Ireland Tour get to enjoy the Bayview Hotel.

The Tower Hotel

Welcome to the heart of Waterford city, Ireland's oldest urban settlement.

The Tower Hotel overlooks Waterford's famous waterfront.

Lucky for our Driftwood guests, this is the city's most central location.

Why the Tower? Well, your home for the night overlooks the 600-year-old Reginald's Tower.

Step outside and you're free to explore the vibrant Viking Triangle area, with multiple cultural attractions and dining options on your doorstep.

Pembroke Hotel Kilkenny

This 4 star hotel in Kilkenny is situated right in the centre of Kilkenny city.

With over 400 years of history and a vast array of beautiful countryside to explore, the Pembroke Hotel in Kilkenny provides a perfect base for Driftwooders.

The Pembroke is an extremely comfortable hotel with delicious food.

Don't miss the fun 'shebeen' space for socialising.

All Driftwood tours are flexible. Your 6 Day Driftwood Great Southern Ireland Tour is no different.

Unmissable activities are included. Where there are great options, we’ve left the final decision up to you. Feel free to choose your evening meals and lunches. All additional tour options are marked clearly below.

• A journey of discovery in a super-comfy, slick Mercedes mini-coach
• The services of a highly-trained and professional VagaGuide tour guide
• 6 full days on tour
• 5 nights' accommodation
• 5 delicious and filling hot Irish breakfasts
• Most daily activities and essential attractions
• Guided Tour of Jerpoint Park
• Guided Tour of the Dunbrody Famine Ship
• Wicklow Sheepdog Demo & Sheep Farm Experience
• Guided Tour of the Jameson Whiskey Distillery
• Guided Tour of Hook Lighthouse
• Entrance into Tintern Abbey
• Entrance into Rock of Cashel
• Entrance into Blarney Castle & Gardens

All details of prices and suppliers listed here are correct at time of publication. Our suppliers occasionally increase prices for optional tour activities during the touring season. This is a rare occurence. In the unlikely event of a major price increase, we will do our utmost to update you.

** Cash is required for this activity. No card payment available.

• Queenstown Experience €12.00 Museum attraction about Cobh's role in emigration and the Titanic.
• Waterford Freedom Pass €20 Access five museums and take a 60 minute walking tour in central Waterford.
• Waterford Crystal Tour €17.00 Guided tour of famous glass-making factory and craft glassware collection.
• King of the Vikings VR €10.00 Watch Vikings come to life at his virtual reality experience in Waterford.
• Kilkenny Castle €8.00 Self-guided tour of 12th century Kilkenny Castle.
• Shenanigans Kilkenny Walking Tour €22.40 Discover Ireland’s medieval capital on foot. Mix of historical facts and fun.
• Smithwick's Brewery Tour €18.00 Guided tour and ale tasting at the Smithwick’s Brewery in Kilkenny

6 Day Great Southern Ireland Tour Intro & Highlights

• Explore historic cities, like Kilkenny and Waterford ; both with elegant medieval buildings.
• Soak up stunning scenery  in the Wicklow Mountains National Park , Ireland’s largest upland wilderness area.
• Encounter jaw-dropping landscapes at Glendalough , a 6th century monastic site in a glaciated valley.
• Experience quaint villages , such as Cobh , ‘one of Europe's most beautiful small towns’ (Condé Nast Traveler).
• Take an Irish whiskey tasting tour at the historic Jameson Distillery near Cork.
• Tour secluded coves and ancient relics along the criminally underrated Copper Coast .
• Kiss the Blarney Stone and wander through the magical Blarney Castle & Gardens .
• Follow in the footsteps of Viking raiders and Norman knights , who invaded and settled Ireland's southeast.

Day 1: Blarney Stone & Rock of Cashel

Begin your 6 day Ireland tour at Grand Canal Hotel in Dublin at 8.10am. Board your Mercedes tour vehicle, bound for Tipperary and Cork.

• Take a self-guided tour of the imposing medieval complex at the Rock of Cashel (Fee Included).
• Kiss the Blarney Stone to receive the gift o' the gab (Fee Included) .
• Imbued with your new powers, chatter your way around the lush gardens at Blarney Castle (Fee Included).

Accommodation tonight is at Actons Hotel.

The average driving time today is 4 hours 30 minutes.

Day 2: Cobh & Irish Whiskey Tour

The second day of your 6 day southern Ireland tour is a pleasant ramble through charming coastal towns in Cork.

• Choose free time exploring the colourful streets of Kinsale or a scenic coastal drive to the Old Head of Kinsale.
• Delve into maritime history in Cobh — pronounced cove — an historic town located on an island in Cork Harbour.
• Taste authentic Irish whiskey on a guided tour of the Jameson Whiskey Distillery , in Midleton (Fee Included).

Accommodation tonight is at The Bayview Hotel.

The average driving time today is 3 hours.

Day 3: The Copper Coast

On day 3 of your southern Ireland tour, you’ll take the scenic route from Ballycotton to Waterford, Ireland's oldest city.

• Scenic drive through the Comeragh Mountains , including a short walk to Mahon Falls .
• Drift along the Copper Coast to visit secluded coves and see dramatic sea stacks.
• Discover wonderful Waterford , a city first established on the south coast by 10th century Vikings.

Accommodation tonight is at The Tower Hotel.

Day 4: Lighthouse Tour & Waterford City

Freedom abound on day 3, exploring Waterford and Wexford – the twin jewels of southern Ireland.

• Don't miss a guided tour of the world's oldest operational lighthouse at Hook Head  (Fee Included).
• Meet the Normans at 13th century Tintern Abbey and its beautiful gardens (Fee Included).
• Free afternoon in Waterford to relax, wander the streets or visit several heritage attractions (Optional Extra).

The average driving time today is 2 hours.

Day 5: Kilkenny Castle & Jerpoint Park

Your tour moves from historic Waterford to medieval Kilkenny.

• Step on-board the Dunbrody Famine Ship ; an exact replica of a 19th century Irish emigrant vessel (Fee Included).
• Take a guided tour of the historic ruins at Jerpoint Park  (Fee Included).
• This afternoon, relax with free time in Kilkenny   or choose a self-guided tour of Kilkenny Castle (Optional Extra).

Accommodation tonight is at The Pembroke Hotel.

The average driving time today is 1 hours 30 minutes.

Day 6: Kilkenny & Wicklow Mountains National Park

Turning northward, your tour takes in amazing sights on the journey from Kilkenny back to Dublin.

• Discover Bronze Age Rathgall – one of Ireland’s largest ringforts.
• Enjoy a sheepdog demo at a working Irish sheep farm (Fee Included).
• Cross the wilderness of Wicklow Mountains National Park .
• Explore the 6th century monastery of Glendalough .

The average driving time today is 3 hours 30 minutes.

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Detailed itineraries + travel guides

7 Day Ireland Itinerary – Ultimate Road Trip Guide For The South

Last Updated March 26, 2024 William Tang

You are here: Home » Travel Itineraries » 7 Day Ireland Itinerary – Ultimate Road Trip Guide For The South

This 7-day Ireland itinerary guide is broken into three main parts – trip planning decision points, the comprehensive breakdown of each day, and my personal planning tips.  This is meant to be super comprehensive and is everything I would have wanted to know when I planned this South Ireland road trip, along with what to see in 7 days.

Ireland is a place where legends, epics, and science fiction become reality.  Ireland is a breathtaking ancient landscape, rolling green hills and craggy sharp rock. Ireland is céad míle fáilte (a hundred thousand welcomes).

Read more about Ireland

• Things you have to see and do on your Ireland road trip
• 6 of the Best Things to do in Galway
• Must-read Ireland travel guide

TOP TIPS FOR TRAVELING IRELAND

• Our favorite spot – You’ll discover this as you go through the itinerary but if I had to pick, I’d say it was our day at Skellig Michael , not only as a Star Wars nerd, but our timing in being able to see the puffins in droves.  Truly a special day.
• Where to stay – We used Booking.com for all of our stays and is great for finding those charming B&Bs. Alternatively, you can always see if hotel corporate codes might work for you.
• Renting a car – An important part to a road trip is obviously a car. Save the most money through car rental coupon codes and always start your search with Discover Cars and RentalCars so you know what the best deals are.
• Flights – International flights are never cheap, but with the Skyscanner “Everywhere” feature you can find the best deals. Check how much it would be for you to get to Ireland!
• Insurance – This is a must for a road trip! Check out the best travel insurance .
• Hottest deals – Bookmark our frequently updated travel deals page .

In This Article

Recommended travel time

Areas to focus, best time to go, packing essentials, where to stay, flying into ireland, interactive map, itinerary day 1 – a peek inside the ancient east, itinerary day 2 – from castles to a ring called kerry, itinerary day 3 – magic on skellig michael, itinerary day 4 – a day in killarney, itinerary day 5 – coastal adventures on dingle peninsula, itinerary day 6 – mighty cliffs and the burren, itinerary day 7 – clash of gaelic sport and dublin delight, itinerary flexibility and changes, frequently asked questions, travel resources for your next trip, ireland road trip planning.

Planning a South Ireland road trip isn’t hard.  There’s a few things to consider as you put everything together before you start planning.

For more details make sure to read everything you need to know when you plan a trip to Ireland .

There’s three scenarios here: 1) You have limited vacation days, 2) you found a flight deal with specific dates, or 3) there’s flexibility.

If it’s #1 or #2, you already know your answer but if it’s #3, things become intriguing.  It’s in part dictated by your decision on how much you’d like to see and the pace at which you travel.

Our week in Ireland wasn’t enough to see everything we wanted in the south but was the perfect amount to see the highlights.  I’d say Ireland in 7 days is a bare minimum and your itinerary will be decently packed.  Any less, you’ll have to focus on less regions or drive aggressively which isn’t recommended.

Two weeks is the perfect amount whether you decide to deep dive in a specific area or see the whole island.  For the sake of keeping this guide focused, let’s say you only have 7 days to work with.

A week in the Emerald Isle is certainly not enough but if you’ve got limited time like we did, you’ll have to make a pretty critical decision.  Do you focus on the North, South, or the whole island?  Do you want to take it slow or hit up as much as you can? 

The island of Ireland is divided into two parts.  The majority of the land is covered by the Republic of Ireland (officially named Ireland) and the other sixth is Northern Ireland which is part of the United Kingdom to the northeast.

One of the most recognizable places of Ireland is Giant’s Causeway and it’s the reason you’ll want to come to this part of the island.  The unusual basalt pillars are incredibly unique and will boggle your mind.  In the north, it’s cities like Belfast and Derry which present the most compelling and fascinating political history if you’re interested in learning about that and the complicated past around Ireland’s independence.  There is plenty to see here and it’s just as beautiful as the southern part of the island.

Other highlights include:

• Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge
• Dark Hedges
• Donegal – There’s a reason why this region was picked as ‘Coolest Place on the Planet for 2017’ by  National Geographic Traveler

There is no official “southern Ireland” borderline but we’re labeling that as everywhere below the line connecting Galway to Dublin.

Southern Ireland is dramatically different in terrain and sights than the north.  The south is where you’ll find a majority of the larger cities of Ireland including Dublin, Cork, Galway city, and Limerick.

Our main reason for doing a South Ireland road trip is to experience the Ring of Kerry, Skellig Michael, Dingle, Connemara National Park and explore castles and ancient ruins.

The full loop

The island itself isn’t that large (area wise, it is in fact smaller than Iceland) and doing a loop is certainly possible in 7 days.  It’s an ambitious schedule but definitely possible.

Ultimately we chose to do the south because we had done Northern Ireland on a separate short stopover trip and wanted to see a different side to Ireland.

The summer months are short and in the winter most things in the country are shut down.  As a result, it kind of makes it simple in terms of when to plan your trip.

July and August are the peak of high season; school is out and you contend with the large hoards of tourists, both domestic and international.  On average these months have a high of 20C.

Spring and fall are going to be a bit temperamental but, if you’re okay with rain, you’ll find awesome flight deals and cheaper hotels.  Expect the temperatures to be colder though with highs of 15C.

The sweet spot, however, has to be June .  It’s during the summer solstice with the longest days of the year and it’s the start of high season.  You get the best of amazing weather and smaller crowd sizes.  It was incredible that there was enough light to sightsee until 10PM.

Packing for a South Ireland road trip shouldn’t be too hard as you’ll be staying at B&B’s and hotels all the way through.

Since you’ll have access to a car you don’t have to pack ultra-light.  You will want to rent the smallest car possible though, which means minimal trunk space.

Waterproof – You’re not going to skip every spot you have on your itinerary because of rain.  This means that you’ll have to brave the elements.  Have rain gear with you in case you need it.

GPS – If you have a data plan, using your smartphone for GPS will be your first choice so you can leverage any traffic information to take the most optimal route.  If not, a stand-alone unit will work just as well. Don’t assume your car will have GPS built in.  Before your trip, make sure you save areas offline on Google Maps and Save/Star all your destinations.  Google Maps will work offline (minus traffic adjustments).

Money – Ireland is part of the EU and as such, Euro is the currency.  Cash or credit is widely accepted.  If you’re from Canada, make sure you have the right credit card to either minimize on foreign exchange fees or maximize points.

Always cool – In the summer, it tops out in the low 20Cs.  Evenings drop down to the 10Cs or lower so pack accordingly.  I had a light Quiksilver hoodie always ready to go in the car in case things got chilly.

Other gear that I recommend for a trip to visit Ireland .

After deciding the focus area of your trip and having a rough idea of the spots you want to see, the next step is figuring out where to stay.

The best part about Ireland is the hospitality and it’s a big reason we had such a great time.  The scenery blew our minds, but those conversations with the owners of the B&Bs and hotel staff made for a lasting impression.

B&B’s:   You’ll only find hotels in the big cities. In the country-side you’re going to rely on family owned B&B accommodations.  Each one is unique and the best part is the delicious breakfast included.

Hotels:   In the bigger cities you’ll have the option to stay at a hotel.  We quite enjoyed our big rooms, luxurious beds, and room cleaning when we had the opportunity.  Not to say we didn’t have that at the B&Bs, but it was nice to go into a hotel knowing the level of service and quality that you’d expect.

Glamping:   When I found out about Galway Glamping with Mongolian yurts, I knew we had to try it.  You get an experience that gets you into the charming countryside setting while not sacrificing the comforts of a hot shower, kitchen, and lounge rooms.  Similar to B&Bs, the hosts are just as accommodating, friendly, and helpful.

Places we stayed across Ireland in 7 days:

• Kilkenny – Newlands Lodge
• Portmagee – Skellig View White Room Airbnb
• Killarney – The Lake Hotel
• Dingle – An Portán
• Lisdoonvarna (near Doolin) – Slieve Elva B&B
• Galway – Galway Glamping
• Dublin – The Croke Park Hotel

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

Tips and Advice:

• Be careful about check-in times.  Typically there are very specific time slots where they expect you to come in.  If you aren’t able to, make sure you reach out to them beforehand, give the owners an estimate of when you’ll arrive, and get approval.
• When glamping, make sure to ask what facilities are available so you come prepared.  In Galway Glamping’s case, they did not provide towels so we had to bring our own travel towel .

The main international airport is Dublin (DUB) but there are also airports in Shannon (SNN), Belfast (BFS), Cork (ORK), and Knock in West Ireland (NOC).

Coming from Canada, Dublin airport will be your primary access point into Ireland.  Our choice of airline is Air Transat .  We flew economy and were greeted with great leg room, a solid entertainment system, excellent service and amazing food.

If you’re coming from another part of Europe, you have even more airports open to you.

• Kerry Airport : Served by flights from Dublin, Manchester, London-Luton, London-Stansted and Frankfurt.
• Waterford Airport:  Served by flights from London-Luton, Manchester, Birmingham, Bordeaux, Lorient.
• Galway Airport:  Served by flights from Dublin, Belfast, Cork, Edinburgh, Leeds Bradfort, London Luton, Manchester, Newcastle, Southampton.
• Donegal Airport
• Sligo Airport
• George Best Belfast City Airport
• City of Derry Airport

These options allow you to get creative with your itinerary.  For instance, instead of doing a round trip journey in and out of Dublin, you could start in Dublin on the East side of the island to Shannon on the West.

Table of Contents

The 7 Day Ireland Itinerary

With the basics covered, the next step is to plan your day by day Ireland itinerary.

This high level outline shows everything we did across the 7 day road trip including sights, restaurants we tried, where we stayed, and invaluable insight we learned through adventure and misadventure.

This is meant to be a guideline because everyone’s situation will be different.  That said, if you’re looking for a baseline to start from, this guide is probably the best out there.  Sign up to become an insider and get access to the downloadable spreadsheet .

If you’re coming from North America, you’ll most likely be taking a red-eye flight, flying out in the evening and arriving the next morning.  This means you may be too tired to hit the ground running.  For us, we tried to sleep through the flight so that we’d have enough energy to last the first day.

Upon landing in Dublin and out of the airport by 1PM, we made an explicit decision to hit the road right away.  There’s more details in the driving section of our road trip guide but since I knew driving in Dublin was going to be a headache, it seemed more logical to finish there, return the car in the city and then rely on local transportation.

After picking up our rental car from Europcar we found our way to Glendalough in the gorgeous Wicklow Mountains region.  Glendalough Monastic City ruins were very impressive and almost fairytale-like with the Round Tower, Cathedral of St. Peter and St. Paul, the high crosses in the graveyard, and the priest’s house.  Make sure not to miss the walk up to the Upper Lake which has a postcard worthy view.  It’s roughly a 30 minute walk each way.

We then drove to the city of Kilkenny, our final destination of the day.  We arrived too late to do the Kilkenny Castle tour but there was plenty to see walking around the grounds, including the massive green park on one side and the rose garden on the other.

After dinner, we treated ourselves to Murphy’s Ice Cream.   Our favorite flavor has to be their Dingle Sea Salt, try it!

If we had more time:

Smithwick’s Experience – Smithwick’s ended up being our beloved beer for the trip and would have loved to have done this tour.  They also had an evening experience that sounded fun.

PETRONELLA RESTAURANT & CAFE

Quaint restaurant down a small alleyway in Kilkenny that serves excellent European dishes that span Irish to Italian.  Ordered the Baked Goatsbridge trout and Pappardelle pasta and both were very good.  Loved the decor here as well.  Best part was when the manager, Frank, came out to greet all the customers to see how everything was.

TripAdvisor

NEWLANDS LODGE

Just outside of Kilkenny, this B&B is a lovely property that will exceed all expectations whether it comes to the spacious rooms that are impeccably clean, friendly service from owners Mairead and Jimmy, and delicious all-inclusive breakfast.

Booking.com

Tips and Tricks:

• Car rental and driving tips – See everything you need to know to plan a trip to Ireland . We found our car rental via Discover Cars .
• Parking at Glendalough – We parked at the first parking lot we saw which turned out to be the Glendalough Hotel.  The parking was “free” and we weren’t ticketed although I’d say in high season it may not be as easy as it was for us.
• Glendalough Monastic City – No admission required.
• Relieve and hydrate – The walk to the Upper Lake is long and there isn’t much cover at the main site so either use the visitor center or Glendalough Hotel for the bathroom facilities.
• Kells Priory – This is an off-the-beaten-path spot that would be worth considering in your itinerary.  Read more about it here .

With a full stomach from our Irish breakfast, we hopped into our car and made our way to the Rock of Cashel .  

On a green hill with banded limestone, ancient fortifications create a ring around the Gothic cathedral, round tower, and chapel.  We were able to walk through the open, yet remarkably intact, ruins while also enjoying the rolling countryside of Tipperary.

Next stop was the famed Blarney Castle just outside of Cork.  The grounds of Blarney Castle and Gardens are huge and require a half day to fully explore everything.  We walked straight to the castle tower to line up to kiss a stone famed for giving the gift of eloquence.  

Wrapping up at Blarney Castle, we rushed through Killarney and connected to the Ring of Kerry to start our counter-clockwise rotation.  

The scenery at this point dramatically changed from tree lined country roads to coastal cliffs and crashing waves.  This is where you’ll appreciate having your own car .

After a few impromptu stops along the way, we made our final stop of the night at Kells Bay House & Gardens .  Here, we had a lovely and surprisingly authentic Thai meal at their in-house Sala Thai Restaurant.

We had the Summer Solstice on our side and there was still a ton of light out after dinner.  This made navigating the road to Portmagee and over to our Airbnb much easier.  Sadly, we had to skip pretty much everything along the way along this part of the Ring of Kerry except a quick stop at a gas station to pick up breakfast and snack items for the next day.

• Cork – It would’ve been nice to explore Cork and their English Market and visit the Cobh Heritage Centre.
• Blarney Gardens – I would have loved to have spent more time doing the various walks around the Poison Garden, Fern Garden, Arboretum, and the endless other garden walks that explore the mystical and magical landscapes.
• Killorglin – This is the first town we passed by along the Ring of Kerry.  We zipped right through but I would have loved to have stopped here even for a few minutes to get a feel for a small town like this one.
• Cahirciveen – This is home to the Ballycarbery Castle and the Old Barracks which is built in the Schloss style.  Legend says they mixed up plans for this and a building designed for somewhere in Punjab, India.

SALA THAI RESTAURANT

This is the in-house restaurant as part of the Kells Bay House property.  As someone that’s had a lot of Thai food, I have to say that the curries, noodles, and skewers we had were all very good and very authentic.  The only knock I’d have on this place is the service.  Our order took way too long to get to the table and only after following up did they realize that they missed our order completely and had to make it from scratch at that point.

SKELLIG VIEW WHITE ROOM AIRBNB

A no frills kind of Airbnb that I booked pretty early on because I was worried that the town of Portmagee would sell out.  Our host, Marie, was very accommodating of our late check-in request and I appreciated the free passes to Kerry Cliffs.  The room was just the right size and in relatively clean condition.  Wifi included as well.

Check rates

Tips and Tricks :

• Rock of Cashel – Parking is right up the narrow road right at the base of the hill.  It’s an automated parking system where you pay the machine when you’re leaving.  This parking costs 4.50 EUR.  To save money you could park in town and walk up.  Entrance is 8 EUR per person.
• Blarney Castle  – Be ready for lines to kiss the Blarney Stone.  If you’re not in a rush, I recommend doing the other parts of the garden, waiting for the line to subside and then doing the castle itself.
• Blarney Gardens –   Entrance is 14 EUR per person booked online.

Thinking about what to see in Ireland in 7 days, this is my #1 must-do.  The entire pilgrimage experience of zipping across the North Atlantic to discover that the white tipped Little Skellig was in fact covered by white gannets and adorable puffins that made Skellig Michael their home.  Then following in the ancient footsteps of Luke Skywalker and Rey up to the monastery itself was pure magic.

The 2.5 hours we had on the island seemed like a lot initially but once we started climbing the steps and exploring the beehive huts of the monastery, time passed quickly.

Back on the mainland and after lunch, we explored the lesser-known Valentia Island.  We wouldn’t have known about this part of the Ring of Kerry if it wasn’t for incredible photos I had seen from this area.  With the higher vantage points of Geokaun Mountain (5 EUR per car) and the slate quarry behind Valentia Lighthouse (5 EUR per person), the scenery was as close to postcard perfect as it gets.

We then continued along our ring road journey by joining up with the Skellig Ring where we stopped by Kerry Cliffs (4 EUR per person) which is an impressive view of the jagged edged rocky coast.  It’s at the edge of the peninsula where the land rises and then sharply drops into the ocean.

The driving adventure continued along until rejoining the main Ring of Kerry.  Due to time, we couldn’t stop in the towns along the way.  From Waterville and onwards, it was straight driving.  Since we weren’t close to the coast there wasn’t much to stop and see.

At Molls Gap , we took a quick break before descending into Killarney National Park with sunlight starting to wane.  We were able to make quick stops at Ladies View where you can see where the glaciers carved through the valley before the opening into Killarney itself.

It was late by the time we checked into The Lake Hotel so no restaurants were open.  We hopped downstairs to the Devil’s Punchbowl Bar , grabbed a pint, and ordered a sandwich.

• Waterville, Sneem, Caherdaniel, and Kenmare – It would’ve been nice to take our time through these idyllic coastal towns but I feel the trade off of spending more time on Valentia Island and the Skellig Ring was worth it.

THE BRIDGE BAR

With barely any time to snack on Skellig Michael, we were famished by the time we arrived back in Portmagee.  Right along the main street is this nice little local restaurant which gets all the Skellig tourists.  Their fish and chips definitely hit the spot.

THE LAKE HOTEL

A historic hotel that is full of character but doesn’t show its age.  The rooms here are incredibly spacious and comfortable.  Breakfast as part of the B&B package was of the highest quality and the perfect charge-up for the day.  Location wise, it can’t be beat either being practically on Killarney National Park Grounds with that amazing view of the old castle ruins at the footsteps of Lough Leane.

• Booking:  You must book at least 4-5 months in advance in order to guarantee a spot for a specific date.  If you haven’t, don’t fret because cancellations happen all the time.
• Casey’s Tours to Skellig Island
• Skellig Michael Cruises
• The Skelligs – Force Awakens Boat Trip – Leaves from Ballinskelligs which is a totally different pier from Portmagee
• Skellig Boat
• Skellig Walker Cruises
• Skellig Michael Voyage
• The Skelligs Tour – Departs from Caherdaniel
• Skellig Experience Visitor Centre also has a page for boat tours here .
• Weather:  If the weather is poor for the boats, they’ll cancel the trip.  That’s why Skelligs Rocks ensured we called the morning of to confirm whether the trip would be a go or not.  There’s not much you can do here other than perhaps planning 2 days in the Ring of Kerry area so that if one day doesn’t work, you can reorganize things so you can have a second day to attempt a trip out.
• Boat ride:   With the speed of the boat, you’re not going to get that rocky, nausea inducing feeling that folks sensitive to being on the water get.  That being said, the water does get choppy especially on the way out which is why you have to wear the waterproof gear provided by the boat.  For those that get sea sick easily, they do offer medicine on board prior to leaving the pier if you need it but nobody on our boat ride had issues.  Make sure you tuck your camera away once the boat is out in open water because you will get very wet especially if you sit near the back.  The captain was also nice enough to provide big zip-loc bags in case.
• Difficulty:   There are two main sets of steps to the Monastery but I would say it’s relatively easy.  The first set slowly winds up with some natural spots for breaks.  The steps are wide enough to allow people to pass.  The second set of steps are more steep but if you take your time, you’ll make it up with no issues.  Compared to the Inca Trail where altitude was in effect , this felt very easy since it only required short spurts of energy.
• Tour:  Make sure you stick around for the educational talk given by one of the rangers when you get to the Monastery.  I don’t think there’s a fixed schedule but I could be wrong.  It felt like it was every hour.
• Valentia Lighthouse  – Admission to here was 5 EUR per person but didn’t think it was worth it.  The lighthouse and the small museum weren’t too interesting and the views weren’t anything special.  What was a nice view was in fact from the slate quarry which is visible when you look back inland from the lighthouse.  From here you get sweeping views of the lighthouse and the sprawling peninsula fingers that meet here.
• Skellig Ring – The Skelligs are in view for most of the drive around here and was honestly more of a joy to drive through compared to the Ring of Kerry because the large coaches don’t come here.  There weren’t designated stops per say but it was a joy to find pullovers to see the villages below.
• Ring of Kerry –  I would recommend driving counter-clockwise which is the official designated route for all the coach buses.   I’d much rather be stuck behind one and feel comfortable that opposing traffic will have to yield and when the opportunity arises to pass.  The driving section will cover this in more detail but I’ll say two things. 1) The speed limit is way too high so don’t feel pressured to drive that fast and 2) As scary as everyone made driving the ring sound, it wasn’t that bad because you’re never at a cliff’s edge and there are usually tiny pull offs for oncoming cars.

After a hearty breakfast at The Lake Hotel , we ventured about the hotel grounds.  The hotel backs right into the largest lake of the national park and as part of that, there’s also the ruins of The McCarthy Mór Castle.

You’ll need a full day exploring Killarney National Park because it’s huge.  For us, we wanted to hit up the main sights.  We were able to see Muckross Abbey, Muckross House, Torc Waterfall, and Ross Castle.  I was probably most impressed with the Abbey and its courtyard that must’ve inspired Tolkien.

Wanting to spend time in the town of Dingle, we hit the road right after we finished at the castle.  The drive through the southern coast of the peninsula was amazing with views of the water as you winded through.  The Ring of Kerry side was always visible across the water and we made quite a few stops along the way.

We quite enjoyed our time in Dingle as we were able to take a relaxing stroll along the main streets of town, popping into the small shops that were painted in a variety of colors.   After dinner, we also made sure we tried a few more flavors at Murphy’s Ice Cream.

• Killarney National Park – I would’ve loved to have done a few hikes in the park.  I was also sad that we weren’t able to take the boat across from Ross Castle to the Meeting of the Waters and Old Weird Bridge.
• Gap of Dunloe – This was part of the plans but had to be cut.  There’s an awesome hike there that takes around 2 hours with breathtaking views of the lake, a heritage cottage, and the surrounding mountains.
• Killarney City – If there’s one city we completely skipped because of time, it was Killarney.  It’s supposed to be a charming city with great food options like Quinlan’s Seafood Bar and Lane Cafe Bar.

OUT OF THE BLUE

If you love seafood, this is your spot.  The seafood chowder is out of this world.  The fish is all locally caught and fresh and it comes through in the two dishes we had – sea bass and pollock were probably the best of the entire trip.

This is one of the few B&Bs located on the western part of Dingle Peninsula which is the perfect spot to launch into the main sights along Slea Head Drive and the ferry out to the Blasket Islands.  The owners, Rónán and Geraldine are warm and friendly hosts that also serve up delicious breakfast.  The rooms are spacious, clean, and even come furnished with a rocking chair.

Starting in Dunquin, which is where our B&B was located, was a bit of a blessing and a curse because it allowed us to jump right into Dunquin Harbour and The Blasket Centre but since driving counter to traffic is highly inadvisable as we were told, we had to cut across the mountain in order to drive on Slea Head Drive in the clockwise direction.

When it comes to Slea Head Drive , there really wasn’t a specific sight that you’re looking for.  It’s very much a look out into the ocean as you’re driving around.

We were told that the Famine Cottages are a tourist trap so we skipped that.  There are also beehive huts along the way but because as we had done Skellig Michael, we passed as well.  Cross at Slea Head is a good spot for a quick stop where you’ll see great views of the Blasket Islands.  From there, you can see Coumeenoole Beach .  The beach is a good spot for a picnic and there’s a nice hike to the peninsula’s edge.

We continued around the peninsula with stops at Clogher Head, which is more or less another beach, and the Louis Mulcahy Pottery studio (good for a bathroom break and quick peek).

We drove back into town for another quick stop before detouring north to cross Conor Pass.  At the peak, there’s a carpark where we stopped briefly to check out the magnificent sights here.  You can see the coast in the distance, farms at the valley floor, along with lakes and cliffs.

This is when the heavy driving started as we had to wind up Northeast towards Limerick before turning Northwest.  Along the way, we stopped in the city of Ennis where it started pouring but we ducked into Cruises Pub for dinner.

• Gallarus Oratory – This was on our itinerary for the drive around Dingle but because we didn’t have enough time, I quickly flew the drone and continued along our way.
• Quaint small towns of Dingle – Our B&B hosts recommended that we stop by Ballydavid but short on time, we had to skip them.
• Blasket Islands – This is a full day kind of event but if you had a couple of days in the area, we recommend getting a ferry over to the Great Blasket Island to create your own eco adventure.

CRUISES PUB

This spot was a bit of a happy accident for us.  Originally we wanted to eat at The Cloister Restaurant & Bar but they weren’t taken anyone without reservations.  This pub was full of energy when we stepped in with a Gaelic football match televised with live Irish music.  There was a good selection of local beer here on top of comfort Irish bar food.  The Guinness meat pie and bangers and mash were perfect.

SLIEVE ELVA B&B

Just outside the town of Lisdoonvarna is this amazing B&B which features cosy guest rooms which are both spacious, clean, and modernly renovated.  What makes any stay special is the hospitality of the owners Kris and Ireen who will go out way to make you feel at home.  Their breakfast is marvelous and you will love their personal touch of home made bread and jams.  On top of that, each room gets Ireen’s homemade biscuits.  This would be my B&B of choice for anyone want to visit Cliffs of Moher or The Burren in County Clare.

• Driving in Dingle – Having done the drive myself, I can confidently say that you do not want to drive counter-clockwise.  Slea Head Drive is designated as a two way road but some parts along the coast are only wide enough for one car.
• Tarbert to Killimer Ferry – Instead of driving through Limerick as we ended up doing, there’s an alternative route that involves a ferry from Tarbert and goes across to Killimer.  We were originally going to do this but it didn’t save us any time so we just kept on driving.  However, if you plan it well or just have a more flexible schedule, check the schedule beforehand and this’ll be a great way to cut down driving time.  It costs 19 EUR per car or 17.10 if you book online .

We started off by crossing through the countryside before dropping to the coast.  Where there were rolling valleys before, large forested areas popped up and the ground burst with streams of sharp jagged limestone.

The Cliffs of Moher were staggeringly impressive with its continuous sheer drop of 214 meters that winds out as far as the eye can see.  Where the vistas truly opened up was beyond the fences of the maintained park.  There, I only dared to walk to the death-defying edges a few times before following the ridge line down to the most northern point.   We ended up spending quite a bit of time here.

Our next stop was Burren Smokehouse .  What we learned was that the Smokehouse itself is just a store and next to it on the same street is the Storehouse.  We grabbed a sample platter to eat one of our few lunches on the trip.  It was so good that after lunch we picked up a few for home.  The tricky part was figuring out how to keep it refrigerated the remainder of the trip.

The rest of the afternoon was spent in Burren National Park , followed by a quick walk around the portal tomb, Poulnabrone .  The Burren region is out of this world.  Even though we didn’t get to do a full hike in this geopark, it shows the power of glaciers that carved through and left behind limestone pavement with fissures created by rainwater dissolution.  The end result is something that is so dramatically different from anywhere else in Ireland.

We closed out the day in Galway , my favorite city in Ireland.  We didn’t get to stay there long but it was somewhere that was full of energy with all the street performers.  Pedestrian streets ruled the downtown core, making it easy to walk and so approachable with its many shops and restaurants.

At the end of the night, we drove outside of the city to get to Galway Glamping where we had a chance to meet the owners and get a full tour of the grounds.  This night was hands down the most memorable of stays with an eclectic assembly of furniture in the Mongolian yurt which was surprisingly very cozy and warm thanks to the electrical heater.

We closed out the day in Galway which has got to be my favorite city in Ireland.  It’s not like we even got to stay there that long but it was somewhere that was full of energy with all the street performers.  Pedestrian streets ruled the downtown core which made it easy to walk and so approachable with its many shops and restaurants.

At the end of the night, we drove outside of the city to get to Galway Glamping where we had a chance to meet the owners where they gave us the full tour of the grounds.  This night was hands down the most memorable of stays with eclectic assembly of furniture in the Mongolian yurt which was surprisingly very cosy and warm thanks to the electrical heater.

• I put together an article about top things to do in Galway .  Head over there for more ideas.
• Ballyvaughan Fairy Fort – A hidden spot in The Burren, this ring fort is said to be on the road up to Poulnabrone, just opposite the left hand turn into the Ailwee Caves. Access is restricted but it’s supposedly easy to walk in.
• Ballyvaughan – Pretty thatched cottages, nice crafts shops, and restaurants.
• Aran Islands – The easiest way to get there is by catching a ferry from Doolin.  I’d recommend staying overnight at a minimum.  There are 3 islands in the chain but the most interesting is Inis Mór which features the cliff tops prehistoric ring forts.  A ton to see and explore here.
• Burren National Park – I’m still a bit disappointed in the hike we attempted here.  With a little better planning, I would’ve picked a better marked hike.
• Aillwee Cave/Pollnagollum  – Pollnagollum is a secret spot but if you know where to look, you can find the cave that inspired Lord of the Rings’ character, Gollum.  Entrance to the longest cave in Ireland, the more accessible way is through Aillwee Cave which is open to the public.  The best way to see it is to join up with a local caving tour ( Back West Adventures ).

THE BURREN STOREHOUSE

Everyone raved about The Burren Smokehouse and their restaurant (Storehouse next door) and it sure didn’t disappoint.  After our morning at the Cliffs of Moher, we made our way over here for a quick bite.  While they have a ton of other great menu items such as their pizza, what we really wanted to try was a sampling of their smoked fish. Luckily they have the Smokehouse Platter which has 6 of their products.  Two of us shared one plate and it was just right for a half lunch.  There’s often live music playing here as well.

GALWAY GLAMPING

The most unique accommodations of our Ireland itinerary.  Who would’ve thought we’d be able to stay in a Mongolian yurt in the middle of the Irish countryside.  What used to be an estate in ruins, the grounds have now been converted to this eclectic mix of yurts, axe-throwing, group games, party rooms, and other funky rooms.  What makes it glamping is that all rooms are furnished and powered while also including super clean bathroom, kitchen, and lounging facilities next door.

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• What the entry ticket is actually for – The entry ticket is only to get into the mass lot across the street.  Once you’re parked, all you do is cross the street and that’s it.  This kind of makes sense because there’s no way to police the cliffs to the north and the south.  Anyone can walk in.  They just bank on everyone driving.  You do have to get in the same line as everyone regardless if you purchase your ticket online ahead of time.
• How to get in for free – There’s a farmer that has land right next to the most northerly edge of the cliffs who is apparently super cool with people parking along the road as long as his car can still drive through.  The photo below is the spot that you should be looking for.  If you’re coming from the north, you’ll see this before the mass parking lot.  You can use either side as you can see.
• Best time to go – If I were to do it again, I’d definitely plan to go after 4PM.  During the middle of the day, there are way too many tourist buses and the sun is right above you which creates incredibly harsh shadows.  I’ve seen the photos and sunsets are epic here.
• Best spots for photos – To get that postcard perfect shot, you need to leave the official bounds of the tourist site (there are signs that let you know).  We couldn’t do both ends but chose to hike to the northern edge which gives a full view of the pinnacle and a long depth of cliffs front to back.

• Burren National Park – This park is unique because there aren’t any specific boundaries and isn’t run like a national park that we’re used to.  That’s why the visitor center is in the nearby town of Corofin.  We didn’t go there and just plotted a route to the park via Google Maps.  In retrospect it wasn’t a good idea because I had no clue where the hike trails were.  At the Gortlecka Crossroads, we saw a bunch of cars parked here so we did as well.  Thing is, there’s only one board here that indicated there was a trail here.  We tried to follow it but eventually got side tracked by a gate opening that we thought was the right way.  Long story short, we gave up and turned back.  Either we are terrible at hiking or the trails are just poorly marked.  Lesson learned:  Get a trail map from the visitor center first.
• Tunnel toll – When driving up to Galway, we hit an unexpected toll since there’s a tunnel you have to go through.  This is an unattended machine so you have to make sure you have enough coins for this.  The toll is 1.90 EUR.
• Galway parking – You’re probably not going to find free parking here.  We circled around for a bit to see if we could get free parking to no avail.  In the end, we found a paid lot.

On our last full day in Ireland we started early.  We had an exciting morning planned with Clash Gaelic Games and we needed to travel East to get there.  While that sounds daunting, it was mostly on the motorway (highway) and took about 2 hours.

One thing you need to understand about Ireland is that while European football is popular, it pales in comparison to the Gaelic sports.  Gaelic Football and Hurley are the top two sports in the country and what better way to end off the trip than to get to learn how to play these two sports.  I had found out about Clash Gaelic Games through my research and I thought it was such a fun way to learn about culture while burning a few calories and making a fool of ourselves.  

After our mini workout, we had to get into the city, check into our hotel, cab over to Kilmainham Gaol prison, then make it late to Trinity College’s Old Library to see the Book of Kells .  We were able to stroll the streets and get some retail therapy at the hyper cheap Penny’s following.

With one night to make it count, we had dinner at L. Mulligan Grocer and spent the rest of the night drinking Guinness and listening to live Irish music at The Temple Bar .

• Dublin  – I would have liked to have seen St. Patrick’s Cathedral, St. Stephen’s Green, done more shopping, tried more restaurants, and drank a little harder.
• Pubs – The Temple Bar is the most popular one in the city but there are so many other good ones including The Dame Tavern and The Brazen Head.
• Guinness – While we weren’t big fans at the beginning, this famous stout grew on us throughout the trip.  The Guinness Storehouse is in Dublin and would be a fun place to visit for any lover of this beer. You can get advance tickets here .
• Newgrange – While technically not in Dublin, north of the city is a large and ancient burial site built of stone and architectured to only let light into the ritual chamber at sunrise on Winter Solstice.
• Howth – This is a village north of Dublin and near Portmarnock.  Located on a bulbous peninsula and featuring sweeping coastal views, it includes a superb food and crafts market.  It’s a place that gives you a flavor of everything we saw on the west coast without driving too far from Dublin.
• Malahide Castle & Gardens – While I’m sure this would’ve been impressive, we couldn’t fit this in with how long Clash went.  I wasn’t too sad in this case though since we had seen Blarney Castle & Gardens and I imagine it would be somewhat similar.

L. MULLIGAN GROCER

It’s a peculiar name for sure and it’s a bit far from the city centre but well worth it for the wide range of craft beers on tap and menu items.  We tried a most interesting watermelon wheat beer which tasted like…you guessed it…watermelon!  Our Moules Frites and Free Range Chicken Kiev were most excellent.

THE CROKE PARK HOTEL

This Doyle Collection hotel is located right next door to the famed Croke Park stadium where all the biggest Gaelic sport matches are held.  This signature hotel in the Dublin is a contemporary hotel that is big on comforts.  Their mattresses are heavenly with velvety duvets, there’s good table space to work, comfy furniture to relax, and the marbled bathrooms.  If you get the packing that includes breakfast, you’ll be treated to a wide buffet selection including honey straight from the honeycomb and my favourite, the croissants, which were delightful.  The staff was incredibly friendly and lastly, parking is included for free.  It’s the perfect hotel to launch your Dublin adventures from.

• Clash Gaelic Games  – While it was a bit of a specialized session with just the two of us, if you’re traveling with a big group of friends or if you’re a family, this is a great way to stay active and honestly try something you’d never be able to do anywhere else.
• Driving in Dublin – Everyone said “don’t do it” and they were right.  The core is a mess especially with the construction going on.  You do not want to drive in the city.  Taking a cab or local transit is the way to go so make sure you either return the car rental, wait to rent the car later, or your hotel has free parking.
• Uber – I experienced the most peculiar thing with Uber in Dublin.  There were numerous times when I’d order a cab and while it was on its way, they could cancel the ride.  I couldn’t understand why this kept happening until I realized that all the Uber drivers were regular cabbies essentially.  Every cab had Uber and another local app running on their phones and so they had to allegiance to any one of them and if they found a more convenient ride along the way, they’d take it.  On top of that, Uber also doesn’t display prices because it’s all standard meters.  At the end of the day, just understand that hailing a cab or ordering an Uber is no different.  In Dublin, I’d say hailing is just easier if you’re in a busy area because you won’t get canceled on.
• Kilmainham Goal is 8 EUR per person (plus booking fees online) and Book of Kells is 10 to 13 EUR depending on peak or off-peak hours per person.

Trips never go as planned.  This one was no different.  For the most part though, nothing dramatically changed where we had to restructure things around.  This trip was one where I simply packed too much in and had to make the call to fast forward if time was running low.

Here’s a little insight into why I feel that our plans deviated to help in your own planning:

• Not starting the day early enough – We could’ve fit more in if we hit the road after breakfast by 8AM instead of 9 or 10AM on most days.
• Taking too long in each spot – Between photos, videos, drone, and eyes, we spent more time than we had planned for.
• Driving time according to GPS is inaccurate – If you drove by Ireland’s ridiculously high speed limit and didn’t stop, sure, but the reality is that you’ll be making stops to take photos of the views and you’ll be slowing down around all corners and when there’s opposing traffic.
• Skipping meals – This is more of what happened as a result of a packed schedule.  Since we always had breakfast included by our B&Bs or hotels, lunch was the first thing to go out the window.
• Unexpected stops – You can’t plan for these but we stopped along the Ring of Kerry to help a couple with their flat tire which put us behind.  Alternatively, I didn’t have much planned for Dingle but we got a long list of suggestions from the B&B, so we ended up spending more time there before driving out of the peninsula.
• Losing track of time – As much as it was a massive advantage to have incredibly long days (usable light up until 10PM), it was also easy to just keep going.  As a result, there were a few times where we got to our dinner spot too late and had to make alternate plans.

So there you have it, the itinerary guide for a south Ireland road trip.  It was an ambitious trip for sure, but we only covered a small portion of everything Ireland has to offer.

Hopefully you’ll be able to use this as a starting point for your trip planning and if you have any questions don’t hesitate to leave a comment below!

Make Trip Planning To Ireland A Breeze Make sure to read this companion travel guide to planning the best road trip in Ireland.

No, as long as you have a valid driver’s license you do not need an international one. A valid driver’s license allows you to rent a car as well. Note that there are different age requirements in Ireland when it comes to renting a car, be sure to look into that if concerned.

The amount of days really depends on what parts of Ireland you’d like to see and if you’d like to take your time seeing them all or not. You’ll need to decide if you want to do the north part, the south or the full loop. In our case, 7 days was barely enough to tour southern Ireland, but to do the full loop we would recommend more.

The best month to travel Ireland is June. There’s not as much rainfall during this month and the days are longer due to summer solstice, therefore you get more time to do and see more.

What you should read next

• A Week in Ireland – Enchanting Castles, Wild Coastline, and Star Wars
• 10 Must-See and Do Things For Any Road Trip in Ireland
• Ireland Road Trip Travel Guide – Everything You Need To Know
• Why You Absolutely Must Do A Road Trip Around Ireland In Photos

If you’re in the process of planning your trip and putting together your itinerary, these are genuinely the best resources that the Going Awesome Places team stands by 100% .

Credit cards: Don’t get burned by hidden fees on top of terrible exchange rates. When we travel now, we use the Wise Card . Simply load it with the currency you need before you go and use it as a regular VISA or their digital wallet card. Use their free app to track how much you have and top up when you need to.

Flights: Of all the booking search engines, Skyscanner is the most helpful and easy to use thanks to their Everywhere feature . Kayak is also another that’s we will often check as well.

Car Rental: If you’re looking to save money, these car rental coupon codes will be a true game-changer. Otherwise, DiscoverCars and RentalCars are great places to start.

Airport Parking: You’ll need a spot to leave your car at the airport so why not book a spot at a discount. Use code AWESOME7 to get at least $5 off at Airport Parking Reservations or Park Sleep Fly packages.

Data: We’ve been a huge fan of wifi hotspot devices like PokeFi because their rates are so good and you can use it globally but recently, we’ve really loved using eSIMs. The best one is Airalo . Save money by getting region-specific eSIMs and use referral code WILLIA9500 to get $3 USD credit on your first purchase. Ubigi is another one that we’ve had success with where they uniquely offer 5G coverage. Use code AWESOME10 to save 10% on your first order.

Hotels: Our go-to is Booking.com because they have the best inventory of properties including hotels and B&Bs plus they have their Genius tier discounts . The exception is Asia where Agoda always has the best prices. TripAdvisor is also useful for reviews and bookings.

Vacation Rentals: Your first instinct will be to check Airbnb but we always recommend checking VRBO as well if you’re looking for a vacation rental.

Tours: When planning our trips, we always check both Viator and GetYourGuide to at least see what’s out there in the destination that we’re going to. They often have different offerings and prices so check both.

Travel Insurance: Learn how to buy the best travel insurance for you. This isn’t something you want to travel without.

• Insured Nomads – Popular insurance provider for frequent travelers and comes with great coverage and special perks.
• RATESDOTCA – Search engine Canadians looking for the cheapest insurance including multi-trip annual policies.
• SafetyWing – A perfect fit for long-term nomads.
• Medjet – Global air medical transportation.
• InsureMyTrip – Best for seniors, families, and those with pre-existing conditions.

If you need more help planning your trip, make sure to check out our Travel Toolbox where we highlight all of the gear, resources, and tools we use when traveling.

About William Tang

William Tang is the Chief of Awesome behind the award-winning Going Awesome Places which is focused on outdoor adventure, and experiential travel. His true passion lies in telling stories, inspiring photography and videos, and writing detailed itineraries and travel guides. He is a member of Travel Media Association of Canada (TMAC), Society of American Travel Writers (SATW), Adventure Travel Trade Association (ATTA), and Travel Massive. He has also been featured in publications such as Reader's Digest, Entrepreneur, Men's Journal, and Haute Living. Make sure to learn more about William Tang to find out his story and how Going Awesome Places started.

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Laura Baker says

March 8, 2023 at 11:41 PM

Thank you sooooo much for your informative guide on Southern Ireland. I truly enjoyed reading about your adventures. Keep on adventuring and sharing it with all of us!!

William Tang says

March 9, 2023 at 1:18 PM

Thanks for stopping by! You’re welcome and oh how I miss the southern part of Ireland. Hope you have an amazing time when you go!!

Sara Riobom says

June 22, 2022 at 12:21 PM

Really cool article, William. As a fellow travel blogger I am finding it hard to find really informative and honest articles to plan my trip to Ireland, and yours helped a lot. Thanks! :)

June 23, 2022 at 8:48 PM

I’m so glad Sara!!

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Experience the true essence of Ireland in under a week. Ireland's unmissable destinations and the Wild Atlantic Way in one unforgettable hub-and-spoke tour.

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Discover the Island of Ireland, North and South with this unforgettable 14-day tour. Spend 4 days in Ulster, and 10 more in Eire.

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Northern Ireland's natural beauty awaits on this six-day fully-inclusive tour of Ulster. Picturesque towns, untamed coastlines and friendly locals await.

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Why not add England and Scotland to your Irish tour experience? A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to compare and contrast these unique but interconnected cultures. Experience a rich and overlapping history, told from three singular perspectives. Three distinct outlooks, three separate national identities — one friendly welcome. Compare the royalty and pageantry of London with the very different majesty you will find in the rolling glens, lochs and highlands of Scotland. Of course, we think that Ireland holds the crown, with a landscape, a culture and a heritage that puts the Emerald Isle among the jewels of all European travel.

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Adare Village and Thatched Cottages

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Adare is a small town in Co. Limerick, known for its quaint and colourful thatched cottages. Adare is considered to be one of Ireland's most beautiful towns so stop and take in the view. Don't forget your camera today - the perfect chance to capture the essence of old Ireland.

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Black Taxi Tour Belfast

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Take a journey through this once troubled city. See the murals of the Loyalist Shankill Road & Nationalist Falls Road. The Troubles took their toll on the economic life of Belfast, but the past ten years of peace have returned much prosperity while the genuine friendliness of the city never left.

• Blarney Woollen Mills

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Culloden Battlefield

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The Culloden Battlefield Visitor Centre commemorates the last pitched battle fought on British soil, in April 1746. Learn more about the Jacobite intent to overthrow the House of Hanover and return the House of Stuart to the British throne.

Glenveagh Castle

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Located within Glenveagh National Park, Glenveagh Castle was built by Captain John George Adair between 1870 and 1873. Having made his fortune through land speculation in America, Adair return to Ireland and began large amounts of land in County Donegal. The castle was built in the Scottish Baronial style and is surrounded by a garden and commands stunning views of the nearby mountains, lakes, woodlands and valleys.

Highland Folk Museum

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About Highland Folk Museum is a museum and open-air attraction located in the Scottish Highlands. It is designed to showcase the domestic and working lives of the early highland people.

King John's Castle

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Located alongside the River Shannon in County Limerick, on King's Island. Dating back to 922, to a time when Vikings were the inhabitants of the island (Thormodr Helgason, the Viking sea-king, built the first settlement here. The castle itself was built in 1200, under the instruction of King John of England.

About Moriarty's

Located close to the Killarney National Park, Moriarty's is an Authentic Irish Gift Store and Restaurant. Hand crafted Irish jewellery, Waterford Crystal and classic and modern tweed fashions and furnishings are all on offer at the gift store. The restaurant is an 85 seater offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Mount Congreve Gardens

About Mount Congreve Gardens

Mount Congreve Gardens. Located in Kilmeaden, County Waterford, Mount Congreve Gardens is an 18th century Georgian estate and mansion. It was designed by the same architect that created both of Waterford's cathedrals, John Roberts.

Mount Stewart House & Gardens

About Mount Stewart House & Gardens

Recently recognised as being one of the top 10 gardens in the world, Mount Stewart is a rich tapestry of planting plant life and stunning walking trails. The house dates back to the 19th century, and was the Irish seat of the Vane-Tempest-Stewart family.

Muckross House

About Muckross House

Located on the grounds of the expansive and idyllic Killarney National Park. Muckross House, and its 11,000-acre grounds, was donated to the Irish state in 1932.

Muckross House Traditional Farms

About Muckross House Traditional Farms

Located on the grounds of the picturesque Muckross House and its impeccable gardens. Take a step back in time and see the Irish farming lifestyle of the 1930s and '40s. A time when the horse was responsible for much of the labour and the weather was the be all and end all in terms of production.

The Quiet Man Museum

About The Quiet Man Museum

The Quiet Man Museum. A reproduction of the quaint thatched cottage from the John Wayne starring, John Ford directed movie of the same name. all costumes, artefacts and furnishings have been recreated in precise detail, to reflect the setting of the 1952 classic. Located in the picturesque village of Cong, County Mayo.

18-Day Iconic Britain & Ireland Tour

• Free time in London
• Shakespeare's Birthplace
• Manchester River Cruise
• Tour of York City
• York Minster
• Jedburgh Abbey
• Tour of Edinburgh City
• Holyrood Palace
• Tour of Glasgow City
• Tour of Belfast City
• Titanic Belfast
• Giant's Causeway
• Kylemore Abbey
• Cliffs of Moher
• Ring Of Kerry
• Blarney Castle
• Irish Emigration Museum
• Christ Church Cathedral
• Guinness Storehouse
• Departure flight home

10-Day Iconic Britain Tour

• Roman Baths
• Broadway to Cheltenham Railway
• Afternoon Tea at Broadway Hotel
• Chatsworth House
• Edinburgh Castle
• Stirling Castle
• Loch Lomond Cruise
• Glasgow City

14-Day Iconic Ireland & Scotland Tour

• Arrival at Edinburgh Airport
• St. Andrews Golf Club
• Kingsbarns Distillery Tour
• Loch Ness cruise
• Glasgow Cathedral
• Belleek Pottery
• Sheepdog Demo
• Blind Piper Pub
• Rock of Cashel

14-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland

• Trim Castle
• Belfast City
• Belfast Murals
• Hillsborough Castle & Gardens
• Bushmills Distillery
• Derry City Walls
• Lough Erne Cruise
• Devenish Island
• Jameson Distillery Midleton

10-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland

• Dublin Airport
• Clonmacnoise
• Free time in Galway City
• Killary Fjord
• Free time in Cork City
• Charles Fort
• Irish National Stud
• Traditional Farm Lunch

8-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland

• Mikey Ryan's Bar
• Killarney National Park
• Hazel Mountain Chocolate Factory
• Galway City
• Free time in Dublin City
• St Patrick's Cathedral

6-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland

• Glendalough Monastic Site
• Ring of Kerry

• Dublin Airport arrival
• Waterford Crystal
• Kilkenny Castle

• Arrival in Edinburgh Airport
• Edinburgh City tour
• Dalwhinnie Distillery
• Eilean Donan Castle
• Isle of Skye
• Glasgow City tour
• Belfast City tour
• Derry City tour
• Dublin City tour

• Lough Eske Castle
• Derry City Tour
• Free time in Derry City

• Pearse Lyons Distillery
• Traditional Music Night

• Derry City walking tour
• Ulster American Folk Park

9-Day Highlights of Ireland & Scotland Tour

• Cruise Loch Lomond
• Clydeside Distillery Tour
• Glasgow City Tour
• Ferry to Belfast
• Belfast City Tour
• Glenshane Country Farm
• Giants Causeway
• Hillsborough Castle
• Carlingford Lough Ferry
• Farewell dinner and show

My Ireland Tour:

My Ireland Tour is a family business based right here in County Cork. Thanks for visiting our website: we're thrilled that you're interested in visiting the country we call home. As an independent Irish business, we're proud that we can give each guest the kind of service that has made us Ireland's top-rated tour operator. We hope to offer you a real Irish welcome soon. Our family business (My Ireland Tour Limited) is registered in Ireland, Company Number 547775.

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Spectacular South & West 5-Day Active Tour of Ireland

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Your Action-Packed Activity Holiday in Ireland Begins Here!

Welcome to one of our zingiest Ireland Adventure Tours to date — the Spectacular South & West extravaganza! If you want the perfect mix of culture and adventure, this Ireland 5-day itinerary is the one for you.

This Ireland activity holiday ventures along part of Ireland’s breathtaking Wild Atlantic Way and has everything we could possibly fit into a 5-day itinerary. And best of all, we use local expert guides. This means you’re guaranteed a genuine Irish experience.

This active tour of Ireland starts in the Viking capital of Dublin. It carries you southwest, via the Blarney Stone (which you can kiss to get the “gift of the gab”) to the rugged and wonderful Wild Atlantic Way. You will visit some of the most spectacular sights on the Ring of Kerry, with highlights like Ladies View and Moll’s Gap. Then put some zing into your tour by kayaking in beautiful Dingle Bay.

This is a truly action-packed adventure through some of Ireland’s most stunning landscapes, and we can’t wait for you to discover our country’s natural beauty first-hand.

Are you interested in the full Ring of Kerry experience? Check out our equally incredible Ireland to Island tour ! And for even more inspiration, check out our broader range of Adventure Small Group Tours of Ireland . 

Highlights on this 5-day Ireland Activity Holiday

• Cycle through the mountains and along the lakes of Killarney National Park before getting off the beaten path on the Dingle Peninsula.
• Hike along the iconic Cliffs of Moher where the Emerald Isle meets the roaring Atlantic Ocean.
• Soak up Galway City’s unique bohemian atmosphere on a fun and fascinating walking tour that completes this one-of-a-kind trip.
• We have packed this 5-day active Ireland tour with scenery, castles, culture, heritage, history, wildlife, and experiences you won’t want to end.
• You will leave us with memories that last a lifetime!

Keep scrolling down to read the full 5-day itinerary and please feel free to contact us with any questions you may have. If you have more time to play with, our 7-day Great Atlantic Adventure is another fantastic active Ireland tour that lasts a little longer.

Due to our tours’ off-the-beaten-path locations, the size of our vehicles, and the fact that we cannot guarantee that all accommodation partners have ramps/elevators, unfortunately, our tours are not wheelchair accessible .

What's included & excluded on this 5-day Ireland Itinerary?

With Overland Ireland, you can be sure that you’ll get the most experiences possible for your tour price.

No unexpected charges or hidden surprises are waiting for you on the road!

Read the list of inclusions below and you will see just how much we cover, including accommodation, transportation, entrance fees, kayaking, and much more.

In the event of bad weather, or for any other reasons beyond our control, an activity cannot go ahead, we do not issue refunds.

We offer a full range of catering options, including those for pescatarians, vegetarians, and vegans.

For the optimal guest experience, we can operate this tour in reverse and combine it with any of our other tours that follow the same route.

• 4 nights in local guest house and boutique hotel accommodation Carefully selected by our team
• Professional, qualified Irish tour guide
• Kayak or E-bike tour of Dingle Bay
• Cycling tours
• Guided Cliffs of Moher Hike
• Guided walking tours
• Sheepdog trials show
• Great breakfasts
• Transport to all locations by air-conditioned mini coach
• Blarney Castle entrance
• Entrance fees for national parks
• Ferry crossings
• Go-Bus transport to Dublin
• Lunch and dinner
• Food and drinks
• Gratuities Optional
• Private room upgrade for solo travellers Mandatory

Download this itinerary as a PDF

Note: This is our current itinerary for this year. If you’re booking for next year, the plan could change slightly. Feel free to get in touch if you have any questions about this or our other tours!

5-day Ireland Tour Itinerary

Day 1: Cork, the Rebel County

Total driving time: 3 hours 30 minutes, excluding stops

This zingiest of Zest tours departs Dublin for County Cork in the stunning Southwest of Ireland.

En route to our first destination, we stop at the famous Rock of Cashel, renowned for its medieval round tower, cathedral, and chapel.

Lonely Planet describes Cork as “at the top of its game, sophisticated, vibrant and diverse”. At Overland Ireland, we completely agree!

In fact, Corkonians argue that their city is Ireland’s REAL capital.

Kick off your Cork experience by kissing the Blarney Stone. This might grant you the coveted “gift of the gab”.

While at Blarney Castle, we also take an easy stroll around the stunning castle and gardens, before exploring the mystical rock close.

Your Cork experience continues as your expert guide leads you on a walking tour through Kinsale, a historic port and fishing town.

Kinsale is known for its castles, forts, shops, galleries, arts and crafts, and the Kinsale Gourmet Academy.

We spend the first night of this Ireland tour in this incredible harbour town.

With outstanding, award-winning restaurants and dramatic scenery, boredom is an impossibility in Kinsale.

Day 2: Killarney National Park

We depart Kinsale in the morning and follow the road to the Ring of Kerry.

This famous route, which takes us through Moll’s Gap and Ladies View, is filled with many jaw-dropping sights and hidden gems.

Enjoy a two-hour bike ride around Killarney National Park, taking in iconic Irish sights like Ross Castle, Torc Waterfall, and Muckross House & Gardens!

This adventure on two wheels is a nature lover’s dream. You will have a choice of trails to follow, but they’re all right options! Each has its own unique splendour to admire.

We then journey up to the celebrated, cosy coastal town of Dingle, where we spend the night.

The evening is yours to discover and absorb the atmosphere in the town’s famous quirky pubs and fantastic restaurants.

This is an unmissable opportunity to stumble across a traditional Irish music session. It’s also a great spot for that long-awaited perfect pint of Guinness.

Day 3: Dingle

Total driving time: 2 hours, excluding stops

On day three, you have a choice of activities to enjoy. You can either hit the water and paddle amongst Dingle Bay’s marine life or whizz around the peninsula on an e-bike.

The Dingle Bay kayak tour is led by our friends at Irish Adventures, and they know how to show you a great time!

The e-bike tour is self-guided and follows the beautiful Slea Head loop. E-bikes are a joy to ride and you can cover so much ground with minimal effort.

If you decide to go kayaking, the fun continues in the afternoon with the Slea Head Drive experience by bus.

If you chose to cycle the route earlier in the day, the afternoon is yours to enjoy everything that Dingle has to offer, from its quirky craft shops to its great cafes and welcoming pubs.

This is your holiday. We want you to enjoy every second!

Day 4: Cliffs of Moher & Doolin

The adventures continue on day four as we leave Dingle and travel north. Our path allows you to take in spectacular views of Castlegregory along the way.

We then stop off for one of the most popular experiences on all of our Ireland tours.

Our local farmer and his four-legged friends will amaze you with a traditional sheepdog show!

Watching the border collies work with the farmer is a captivating sight and a true taste of Irish heritage.

We then leave the South West behind as we take a ferry across the River Shannon. On the other side, we arrive in County Clare, home to the jaw-dropping Cliffs of Moher.

We explore this world-famous place on an invigorating two-and-a-half-hour hike.

The fresh air will fill your lungs, the dramatic coastline will widen your eyes!

Our local guides use their expertise and knowledge to take you off the beaten track, showing you secret passages that outshine the hot spots on the main tourist path.

Capture all the highlights of this experience with envy-inducing pictures.

The views are steeped in myth and wonder, and the roar of the wild Atlantic Ocean will echo in your ears long after we’ve left.

Spend the evening in Doolin, a warm, welcoming, and colourful village that just so happens to be the hometown of traditional Irish music.

Put on your dancing shoes!

Day 5: Galway, The City of the Tribes

Total driving time: 2 hours, excluding stops and trip back to Dublin

We leave Doolin and head toward Galway, stopping at the spectacular Burren National Park on the way.

There’s also a quick photo-op at Dunguaire Castle, a 16th Century fortification located in the quaint fishing village of Kinvara.

Galway is known around the world as a city of festivals and culture. In 2020, the city was voted European Capital of Culture, a year-long celebration of all that Galway is famous for.

This medieval city lives and breathes history. Many of Galway’s buildings date back hundreds of years, now serving as shops, bars, and restaurants.

Brightly-painted pubs heave with live music, while the cafés provide front-row seats for watching street performers, musicians, and an array of local characters.

Enjoy a historical walking tour and discover the many corners of this cultural town.

After exploring Galway’s hidden gems, you have a free afternoon to enjoy entertainment, great food, and craic in this much-celebrated city.

Watch some Irish dancing and feel your toes tapping to the pulse of pure Celtic music and dance.

Sadly, it’s time to say goodbye! But as you travel to Dublin on pre-arranged transport, you’ll have a catalogue of memories to look back on.

Note: To confirm your booking, you are required to pay a non-refundable deposit of €250 per person for Small-Group tours .

Please don’t hesitate to contact us if you have any questions about this tour or any others we operate. We may have already answered your question on our frequently asked questions page.

Related Tours

The Full Irish: 11-Day Zest Tour of Ireland

The Great Atlantic Adventure 7-day Ireland Holiday

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Experience the Best of the Emerald Isle

Ireland is the land of breathtaking landscapes, friendly people, and once-in-a-lifetime experiences. CIE Tours' vacations to Ireland help you experience the real Emerald Isle, whether you’re raising a pint with new Irish friends at a lively pub, following in the footsteps of your ancestors among the rolling hills and picturesque castles, or enjoying the best of Irish culture through tastings and authentic experiences. You’ll see Ireland in a whole new light.

• Ballintubber Abbey

Elaborately carved Celtic crosses dot the grounds of this ancient church founded in 1216, in Ireland's scenic County Mayo.

O'Brien's Tower

Originally built as a viewing area for 19th Century visitors, O'Brien's Tower sits near the high point of the Cliffs of Moher.

A vibrant arts and culinary scene—and colorful buildings set along medieval streets—make Galway a can't-miss stop.

• Blarney Castle

Kissing the "Stone of Eloquence" may be the reason millions of tourists flock to Blarney Castle every year, but the gardens around it—including its new Poison Garden filled with dangerous and toxic plants—are another reason to add this to your must-do list.

Trinity College & Book of Kells

Ireland's oldest college houses one of the country's most cherished treasures—a beautiful illuminated version of the New Testament Gospels, created by monks in the 9th century. It's one of the essential things to see in Dublin.

Giant's Causeway

Legend has it that the basalt stone columns were set into the sea by giants creating stepping stones—but volcanic activity set these stones in place millions of years ago.

Kylemore Abbey

This 19th century grand manor and its legendary gardens became the home to Benedictine nuns fleeing Belgium during World War I.

• Skellig Experience

Learn about the island of Skellig Michael, where early Christian monks lived in austere conditions. This beautiful and remote location was used in the film "Star Wars VII".

Dublin's Ha'penny Bridge

This cast-iron walking bridge, which spans the River Liffey, was built in the 19th century. Join the 30,000 Dubliners and visitors who walk across Dublin's iconic Ha'Penny Bridge each day.

• Ring of Kerry

The Ring of Kerry offers one of the most scenic drives in the world, with emerald green meadows, stark cliffs and sandy shores dotted with ruins.

• Dingle Peninsula

The Irish mainland's westernmost point features wide, sandy beaches and rocky cliffs along its edges, and dramatic hills and mountains at its center.

Aran Islands Cliffs

These beautiful cliffs rise dramatically along the entire western side of Inis Mor island and yield great views of the Cliffs of Moher across Galway Bay.

Musicians and artists are an integral and vibrant part of fabric of the lively, cultured city of Galway.

Cheesemonger

Ireland's food renaissance includes many artisan producers who take full advantage of its natural bounty.

• Bunratty Castle

This splendid 15th-century tower house in County Clare includes a living reconstruction of the life of Ireland over a century ago.

Get a fascinating glimpse into Ireland's long-practiced art of falconry, the country's traditional "Sport of Kings."

Flavors of the Sea

Ireland abounds with the savors of the sea and the folk who fish it.

Fine Dining

A generation of culinary innovation and exploration has made modern Ireland a foodie's paradise.

In Ireland, fresh seafood is never more than a short swim away.

Merry Ploughboy

Dine at this iconic pub and come alive to the fancy footwork of Irish step dancers and lively traditional tunes.

• Cliffs of Moher

These shale and sandstone cliffs rise 700 feet above the Atlantic, and serve as one of the most iconic pieces of scenery in all of Ireland.

Sheep Herding

Ireland's emerald green pastures are home to countless flocks of sheep. Irish wool is used for the intricately knitted Aran sweaters and other goods.

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• Cardiff Castle
• Cardiff Tour
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• EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum
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• Field of Mars
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• Fort Augustus
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• Foynes Flying Boat & Maritime Museum
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• Giant’s Causeway
• Glamis Castle
• Glasgow Cathedral
• Glen Grant Distillery
• Glencoe Mountains
• Glendalough, Co. Wicklow
• Glenfiddich Distillery
• Glenfinnan Viaduct (Harry Potter)
• Glengesh Pass
• Goathland Station (Hogsmeade from Harry Potter)
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• Goriska Brda
• Gothic-Baroque Cathedral of St. Mark
• Government Palace
• Gower Peninsula
• Grafton Street, Dublin
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• Senate Square
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• Smallest House in Britain
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• Snowdonia National Park
• South Pole Inn
• Spanish Steps
• Spean Bridge
• Speyside Distilleries
• Sponza Palace
• Square of the Five Wells
• St. Anastasia
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• St. Fagans Castle
• St. Fagans National Museum of History
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• Step Dancing
• Stirling Castle
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Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way

Starting from $2,695

Discover the untamed nature and rich cultural heritage of Ireland’s western coast, with its spectacular ocean vistas, enchanting towns, and craftsmanship deeply rooted in tradition.

​Guided Tours, Guided Small Groups

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Taste of Ireland

Starting from $1,395

This fast-paced, short-and-sweet Ireland tour is the perfect introduction to the Emerald Isle. Taste of Ireland hits all of the "greatest hits" highlights—from Blarney Castle to the Cliffs of…

​Guided Tours, Guided Small Groups, Independent Adventures

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Irish Adventure

Starting from $1,945

Make the most of every moment of your Ireland vacation—you'll discover all the can't-miss Irish scenery and history on this fast-paced tour.

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Taste of Scotland & Ireland

Starting from $3,195

The perfect combination of two great countries in one itinerary. Start in Glasgow before exploring the Scottish Highlands with a Loch Ness cruise and whisky tasting. Visit St Andrews and Edinburgh…

Best of Ireland South

Starting from $1,845

Give us a week, and we'll tour the best of Ireland with you. Thrill at the amazing Cliffs of Moher and the gorgeous Dingle Peninsula on this perfect introduction to the Emerald Isle. 

Starting from $2,445

Take your time on this Ireland tour, which explores the most acclaimed sights in the south and west, including the mountainous beauty of Connemara.

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Irish Odyssey

Starting from $3,395

Explore Ireland's gorgeous scenery and rich history on this comprehensive Irish tour that hits every corner of the island.

Ireland South Daytripper

Starting from $2,345

Turn your Irish vacation into a staycation. Set up your home base in the lovely village of Adare, then set out on day trips to see some of Ireland's top attractions. 

Irish Legends

Starting from $2,745

Delve into Ireland and its past on this tour, which mixes in plenty of hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path sights among the tried-and-true favorites. 

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Irish Classic

Starting from $3,795

Skirt along the entire rugged coastline to see the highlights on this Ireland tour. 

Ireland at a glance

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Avg. winter temp, peak tourist season.

July & August

English & Irish

Must-have souvenirs

Irish whiskey

Aran sweaters

Waterford crystal

Local lingo

Craic (fun)

Banjaxed (broken)

Sláinte (cheers!)

So much beauty in one country as we travel from coast to coast…I truly was not ready to leave.

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Rugby Union

Autumn Internationals 2024: Fixtures, schedule and kick-off times for England, Wales, Ireland, Scotland and more

When are the rugby Autumn Internationals? Who do England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales play and where? Key dates, fixtures and full schedule as Australia, New Zealand, South Africa and Argentina all travel to the Northern Hemisphere for Tests in the Autumn Nations Series

Tuesday 23 April 2024 12:41, UK

The full schedule has been confirmed for rugby's Autumn Internationals, with the giants of the Southern Hemisphere once again coming to take on the Six Nations teams in a busy month of rugby.

England will have Tests against New Zealand and Australia before hosting world champions South Africa, a repeat of their World Cup semi-final, before completing their run of fixtures against Japan.

Six Nations champions Ireland have Friday night matches against New Zealand and Argentina ahead of further games against Fiji and Australia, while the All Blacks' autumn tour also contains trips to France and Italy.

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South Africa also take on Scotland and Wales during their three-Test tour, with Scotland having further games against Fiji, Portugal and Australia during a busy November. Wales' meeting with the Springboks follows matches with Fiji and Australia.

Autumn Internationals: Fixtures and UK kick-off times

Saturday november 2.

3.10pm England vs New Zealand, Twickenham Stadium

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5.40pm Scotland vs Fiji, Murrayfield

Friday November 8

8.10pm - Ireland vs New Zealand, Aviva Stadium

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Saturday November 9

3.10pm England vs Australia, Twickenham

5.40pm Italy vs Argentina, TBC

8.10pm France vs Japan, Stade de France

Sunday November 10

1.40pm - Wales vs Fiji, Principality Stadium

4.10pm Scotland vs South Africa, Murrayfield

Friday November 15

8.10pm - Ireland vs Argentina, Aviva Stadium

Saturday November 16

3.10pm Scotland vs Portugal, Murrayfield

5.40pm England vs South Africa, Twickenham

8.10pm France vs New Zealand, Stade de France

🏉 Here are your 2024 #AutumnNationsSeries Fixtures 🙌 pic.twitter.com/S8GUhS2bw5 — Autumn Nations Series (@autumnnations) April 22, 2024

Sunday November 17

1.40pm - Italy vs Georgia, TBC

4.10pm - Wales vs Australia, Principality Stadium

Friday November 22

8.10pm France vs Argentina, Stade de France

Saturday November 23

3.10pm - Ireland vs Fiji, Aviva Stadium

5.40pm - Wales vs South Africa, Principality Stadium

8.10pm - Italy vs New Zealand, TBC

Sunday November 24

1.40pm Scotland vs Australia, Murrayfield

4.10pm England vs Japan, Twickenham

Saturday November 30

3.10pm - Ireland vs Australia, Aviva Stadium

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