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

Last Updated March 26, 2024 William Tang

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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% .

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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.

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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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20 Best Places to Visit in Southern Ireland

Posted on October 13, 2023 | Julie J. |

Last Updated on October 13, 2023

Planning a trip to Ireland? Let me help you! I have just gotten back from an epic vacation in Ireland and share below my top recommendations for the best places to visit in the south of the country.

I’ve added a blend of well-known destinations you simply can’t miss as well as hidden gems and alternatives , so you can pick and choose where you want to visit and get a good overview of what this area has to offer.

You can also check out my 7-day Southern Ireland itinerary featuring most places listed here as well as my South East Ireland travel guide featuring many more places to visit if you have extra time.

If it’s your first time trip to Ireland , I’d recommend you pack layers and be ready for all weather, no matter what time of the year you go – a good raincoat and sturdy shoes are a must!

Also, renting a car will make your trip much easier as many places can’t be visited via public transportation. If renting a car is not an option, you could base yourself in Galway, Killarney, then Cork, and take day tours from there.

Without further ado let’s dive into the best places to visit in Southern Ireland.

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Cliffs of Moher, Co. Clare

One of the most visited sites in Ireland , the majestic Cliffs of Moher are a must-visit in Southern Ireland ! There are several ways to see the cliffs , either from above or from below.

Taking a cruise to see the cliffs is one of the most relaxing ways to visit. Departing from Doolin, the cruises last for around an hour , with multiple daily departures. They follow along the coastline providing great views from different vantage points . The ferries run from April to October .

Another option is to hike along the cliffs . The Doolin Cliff Walk  is considered one of the most scenic trails in Ireland, running over 10 miles (15 kilometers) from Doolin to Hags Head, with the visitor center more or less in the middle. You can choose to hike all or part of it.

If you head straight to the visitor center (where most tours take you), you can see the cliffs from there without having to walk too much.

Burren National Park, Co. Clare

One of my favorite places in Ireland, the Burren is a land like no other, featuring incredible landscapes and awesome opportunities for hiking . Head to the national park for the best views.

The start of most hikes is at the “Gortlecka Crossroads” where you can park and see the map of trails with length, duration, and difficulty level. I did the Blue Trail , which offers the best views but is quite challenging (still doable if you take breaks). It took us around 3 hours back and forth (it’s a loop).

There are also a couple of easier and shorter trails you can hike if you want something more laid back.

There’s nothing there, so pack enough water and snacks . The park’s Visitor Center is located in Corofin, during the summer months they offer a  free park-and-ride service as parking space is limited at the trailheads.

Dingle Peninsula, Co. Kerry

With a plethora of hidden gems and popular sights , the Dingle Peninsula is one of the best places to visit in Southern Ireland . It’s best visited as a road trip but you can also spend some time in the charming seaside town of Dingle and go on a couple of hikes from there.

The Tralee to Dingle Walk , also known as the Dingle Way , is a popular multi-day hike you can go on if you’re craving a unique and adventurous experience. The walk takes 8 to 9 days to complete passing by stunning landscapes, archaeological wonders, and quaint villages. You can choose to hike only part of it if you’re short on time.

You can also just drive around, following the coastline, for a day or two. Don’t miss stopping by the beautiful Glanteenassig Forest Park , Fermoyle Beach , the longest beach in the country, and Brandon Point .

Make sure to also drive by Conor Pass and the Slea Head Drive where you can stop at Cashel Murphy, Dunmore Head, Clogher Strand, and the Gallarus Oratory.

Ring of Kerry, Co. Kerry

The Ring of Kerry is another of Southern Ireland’s top attractions that you simply can’t miss. Same as for the Dingle Peninsula, it’s better to visit it as part of a road trip , otherwise you can hike, bike, or book a tour.

Following the coastline, you’ll be surrounded by dramatic landscapes and stunning scenery with plenty of places to visit in between.

There are a lot of beaches you can stop at, however, I would recommend not missing Kells Bay and Derrynane Beach , from there, you can cross over to Abbey Island (at low tide) and visit the ruins of the 6th-century Ahamore Abbey. Within walking distance of Derrynane, you’ll also find Derrynane House , the former home of Daniel O’Connell, an important figure in Irish history.

Among the many towns you can stop by for a meal or to spend the night, don’t miss Kenmare, Waterville, and Portmagee , all scenic seaside towns. Valentia Island is also a must-visit, from Bray Head you can get a stunning view over the iconic Skellig Islands.

Other must-sees include the Kerry Bog Village Museum , a living history museum depicting a traditional 19th-century Irish village, and the majestic Skellig Ring leading to dramatic cliffs.

Depending on your schedule, you should be able to tour the peninsula in a day , however, you can plan to spend more time there as there are plenty of things to do, especially if you like hiking.

The Kerry Way is a popular multi-day hike in Ireland. It’s a quite challenging hike as the elevation varies a lot, so you need to be prepared. It’s divided into 9 sections so you can also choose to hike only part of it.

If you’re going to book a tour, I would suggest booking one from Killarney this way you can also visit the park the day before or after. This full-day tour from Killarney is a good option – you’ll also find tours from Cork and Limerick . If you can afford it, do book a private tour .

Skellig Michael, Co. Kerry

Technically part of the Ring Of Kerry, Skellig Micheal deserves a part all to itself. From May to September, spend the night in Portmagee and go on a morning cruise to the island.

Fans of Star Wars will recognize it as Luke Skywalker’s Island Sanctuary on the planet Ahch-To – it’s also a UNESCO World Heritage Site . It used to be a Gaelic monastery, founded between the 6th and 8th centuries. Today you’ll use the stairs the monks built to reach the top, where you’ll find the ruins of the monastery.

You can either book a tour including some time on the island , or book an eco-tour where you just circle the island and stay on the boat. If you’re planning on visiting the island, book the cruise as soon as you can as the number of daily visitors is limited.

While there, keep an eye out for gannets, puffins, razorbills, and grey seals .

Killarney National Park, Co. Kerry

Surrounded by incredible scenery, I loved just driving around Killarney National Park and making stops to viewpoints and for short hikes . Most people stick to seeing the main highlights, Torc Waterfall, Ross Castle, and Muckross House , but I highly recommend going on longer hikes and exploring the park further.

The town of Killarney is a great base to explore the park from. There, you’ll find accommodations to fit all budgets, supermarkets, and restaurants.

If driving, make sure to take the scenic road , entering the park (or leaving it) from the west, and driving through the iconic Gap of Dunloe .

You can also rent kayaks and explore the park through its lakes and waterways or go on a boat cruise.

Beara Peninsula, Co. Kerry & Co. Cork

One of the wilder and less touristy peninsulas in the south of Ireland, the Beara Peninsula feels like another world. Featuring rugged landscapes, cute villages, and archaeological sights , the peninsula is a must-see. I just loved the remoteness of it, we barely saw anyone there, even on the road.

It took us about half a day to drive it, including stops, but you can definitely plan to spend more time, especially if the weather is nice enough for some beach time or if you like hiking .

Along the way, you can go for a hike at Gleninchaquin Park , see archaeological sites like the Uragh, Derreenataggart, or Ardgroom Stone Circles , and stop for a meal at quaint villages such as Ardgroom, Eyeries, Allihies, or Castletown.

Don’t miss driving the Healy Pass , heading to the tip of the peninsula to take the only cable car in Ireland , and kayaking to a seal colony in Adrigole.

Sheep’s Head, Co. Cork

If the Beara Peninsula feels remote, Sheep’s Head feels like a world apart. The 43-mile (70-km) loop will take you through spectacular landscapes . Make sure to drive all the way to the tip and see the lighthouse and high cliffs.

Mizen Head, Co. Cork

The last peninsula on this list to visit in Southern Ireland, Mizen Head is often overlooked by international tourists but is well-known by locals. Drive all the way to Mizen Head Station and cross the bridge (on foot) trying to spot seals, dolphins, and whales .

From there, you can also hike to the ruins of Dunlough Castle known for its three towers that withstood time.

You can easily visit both Mizen Head and Sheap’s Head within the same day.

If you’re heading to Cork or Kinsale next, you can stop by the 3000-year-old Drombeg Stone Circle, one of the best preserved in the country, take a whale-watching cruise from Baltimore, and go surfing at Inchydoney Beach.

Gougane Barra Forest Park, Co. Cork

The Gougane Barra Forest Park is a popular place to hike among locals looking for an escape from the city. The forest is beautiful and peaceful with several trails for all levels. You can walk through the forest and around the lake or go up the mountains for stunning views.

On your way there, there’s a hotel with a restaurant and a shop if you need something. Once in the park, there’s nothing, just restrooms. Some people park before the entrance to not pay for parking, but then you have to walk for a while before reaching the beginning of the trails.

While I loved hiking there, if you’re short on time, I would say you can skip it. It’s a nice stop if it’s on your way and you have some extra time, but I wouldn’t necessarily say you HAVE to see it.

Kinsale, Co. Cork

Kinsale is a popular coastal town known as Ireland’s culinary capital. It’s a nice place to go for a stroll through the historic streets and, of course, to enjoy a meal. From a Michelin-starred restaurant to unpretentious eateries, you’ll find plenty of options.

You can plan to spend a few days there and just enjoy the laid-back vibes, maybe taking a few day trips to explore the area, or just pass through. A few hours are enough to see everything.

Make sure to tour the Kinsale Museum  housed in the 16th-century Town Hall and, a bit outside of town, Charles Fort .

Some people think Kinsale is overrated, and that there are better coastal towns to visit, while it might be true, I still enjoyed walking around, seeing the colorful buildings and paved streets. However, I would say you can skip it if you’re short on time, but it ultimately depends on the type of places you like to visit, it is a charming town after all.

Cork, Co. Cork

Cork is a busy historic city with plenty to offer. Start by strolling around the downtown area, passing by the English Market, the Butter Museum, St Anne Church, University College Cork, and St Fin Barre’s Cathedral .

This should take you a couple of hours, but you can also choose to base yourself there for a few days and take day trips from there. It’s also a good option if you don’t have a car, as there are plenty of day tours you can take from Cork.

Cork is known for its potato pies which have nothing to do with what you can imagine, it’s actually breaded and fried mashed potatoes formed into a ball, usually served with French fries. You’ll find the best ones at Jackie Lennox’s , where I discovered that white vinegar on fries is actually quite good.

Nearby, you can tour the Jameson Distillery and sample rare whiskeys in Middleton, there’s also a weekly farmers market held in the town every Saturday morning. People who want to learn more about the Titanic can head to Cobh , its last port of call, where you’ll find 2 museums with exhibits centered on the iconic liner and its sinking.

Blarney Castle, Co. Cork

Not far from Cork, Blarney Castle is one of the best places to visit in Southern Ireland, and kissing the Blarney Stone is a must-do! Try to visit it at opening time , especially if you want to kiss the stone, as the line can get quite long. The stone is believed to grant you the gift of gab if you kiss it.

The castle was entirely rebuilt in the 15th century on the ruins of an older castle. The gardens are definitely worth a stroll – don’t miss the Arboretum with its trees from all over the world and the mysterious Poison Garden .

If you like historic castles and estates, in the area, you can also visit the 16th-century Blackrock Castle , Fota House , known for its painting collection and gardens, and Doneraile Estate .

Rock of Cashel, Co. Tipperary

One of Ireland’s best-preserved medieval castles, the Rock of C ashel is a must-visit in Southern Ireland. The castle is over 1,000 years old and was a symbol of power for kings and priests for centuries.

Sitting on top of a hill, there are several viewpoints from which you can see the castle, make sure to go to at least one to get a nice overview. There’s one easily reachable on the main road, at the Circle K.

Once inside you can tour the castle on your own or book a guided tour if you want to learn more about its architecture and history. Note that to visit Cormac’s Chapel , one of the highlights of the castle, you’ll need to go with a guide – guided tours have a set schedule so make sure to check it out first.

If you don’t have a car, you can take a bus to the town of Cashel – from there, a 5-minute walk will take you to the castle.

In town, you can also stop by the Cashel Folk Village to learn more about Irish history (visits by appointment only during the off-season), and check out what’s happening at the Brú Ború Heritage Centre .

Kilkenny, Co. Kilkenny

Kilkenny is a popular destination in Ireland even for locals, usually looking for a weekend escape. There are plenty of fun things to do while there like taking a brewery tour and tasting at the Smithwick’s Experience or checking out the activities at Castlecomer Discovery Park .

Don’t miss touring the castle too and learning more Irish history at St. Mary’s Medieval Mile Museum . The historic Rothe House & Garden is also worth checking out.

The town’s historic center is an ideal place to go for a stroll , do some shopping, and enjoy a meal or drink at one of the many pubs.

If you’re on a tight schedule, half a day is enough to visit but you can also base yourself here for a few days and visit the surroundings.

Copper Coast Geopark, Co. Waterford

A UNESCO geopark, the Copper Coast in Southern Island is a beautiful place to visit with pretty beaches and dramatic cliffs.

Start with an easy hike to Mahon Falls , then rent a bike at O’Mahonny’s Pub and  cycle the Waterford Greenway which follows the coast.

You can take as long as you want, especially during summer, when you might want to spend some time at the beach. Otherwise, you can make it into a short trip and continue on along the southern coast.

Waterford, Co. Waterford

Waterford makes a great base to explore all that the county has to offer. Founded in 914AD by Vikings , the town is the oldest one in Ireland and definitely a must-visit on its own.

Don’t miss the Viking Triangle, Reginald’s Tower, the Medieval Museum, and the Bishop’s Palace .

The town is also known for producing some of the best crystal in the country – head to Waterford Crystal to tour the main factory.

Saltee Islands, Co. Wexford

The Saltee Islands are a paradise for birders with many  Gannets, Puffins, Guillemots, and Razorbills  being spotted frequently, depending on the season.

Take a ferry from Kilmore Quay. Saltee Ferry  offers daily departures from April to September . You get around 3.5 hours on the island where you can just stroll around and enjoy the views and abundant wildlife. 

Pack a picnic and bring enough water, as the islands are mostly uninhabited.

Be ready to get wet  on the boat and to get your feet in the water when disembarking (there is no pier on the island).

Wexford, Co. Wexford

County Wexford is known for its beautiful beaches, historic towns, and its wide array of outdoor activity options . The town of Wexford is a great base, worth a visit as well. Don’t miss the ruins of the 12th-century Selskar Abbey , strolling around the historic district , and catching a show at the National Opera House.

A bit outside of town, don’t miss the Irish National Heritage Park , a living history museum with costumed guides and reenactments. In the opposite direction, the Johnstown Castle Estate, Museum & Gardens is also worth checking out.

If you like hiking or birding, spend some time at Wexford Wildfowl Reserve before hitting beaches like the famous Curracloe Beach , featured in the movie “Saving Private Ryan”, or Rosslare Beach , great for water sports.

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Southern Gems

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Blarney Castle

Embark on an extraordinary journey at Blarney Castle and unlock the power of the legendary Blarney Stone.

Cliffs of Moher

Immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring majesty of the Cliffs of Moher, a natural wonder that will leave you speechless.

Dublin Castle

Discover the rich history and architectural splendor of Dublin Castle, an iconic symbol of Ireland's past and present.

Medeival Castle Banquet

Step back in time and indulge in a medieval feast at Bunratty Castle, where ancient traditions and culinary delights come to life in a truly unforgettable experience.

Taylors Three Rock Pub

Visit Taylor's Three Rock in Dublin for an unforgettable evening of lively traditional Irish music, spirited dancing and a welcoming atmosphere that embodies the true essence of Irish hospitality./p>

Day 1 Dublin City Tour | Dublin Castle

Day 2 dublin hop-on hop-off bus tour | taylors three rock pub, day 3 blarney castle | kinsale walking tour, day 4 killarney | dingle, day 5 slea head loop | blasket centre | murphy's ice cream | dingle, day 6 cliffs of moher | medieval castle banquet, day 7 tour ends in shannon, where you’ll stay.

The Gibson Hotel Dublin, Ireland

The Gibson is a highly stylish, contemporary hotel in the heart of Dublin’s new cultural hub....

Kinsale Hotel & Spa Cork, Ireland

The Kinsale Hotel & Spa is a luxury hotel on 90 acres of mature parkland, a five-minute drive...

Dingle Skellig Hotel Dingle, Ireland

The Dingle Skellig Hotel is situated on the magnificent Dingle Peninsula and boasts stunning views...

Treacy's Oakwood Hotel Shannon, Ireland

Treacys Oakwood 4-star Hotel, Shannon is a newly refurbished hotel located 2 miles from Shannon...

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• Comprehensive travel itinerary

*Breakfast is not included on Day 1

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The Gibson Hotel, Dublin

The Gibson is a highly stylish, contemporary hotel in the heart of Dublin’s new cultural hub. Calming, comfy and tranquil, our hotel rooms are the ultimate escape from all the hustle and bustle outside. With carefully chosen soothing colors and textures, plus a host of little luxurious extras you can chill out. Located near the River Liffey, a brisk 15-minute walk will bring you to O’Connell Street or you can take a short tram ride on Luas.  

Gibson Hotel Exterior

• 24-hour Front Desk
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• Wifi in Public Areas (Complimentary)
• 24-hour Room Service
• Air Conditioned
• Cable/Satellite Television
• Coffee & Tea-making Facilities in Room
• Complimentary Bottled Water
• Daily Maid Service
• In-Room Wifi (Complimentary)
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Superior Double Room

Kinsale Hotel & Spa, Cork

The Kinsale Hotel & Spa is a luxury hotel on 90 acres of mature parkland, a five-minute drive from the historic harbor town of Kinsale. With a tranquil location on the coast, it offers panoramic views over Oysterhaven Bay. It has 70 bedrooms, a bar and restaurant, and a luxury spa.  

• Business Center
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Dingle Skellig Hotel, Dingle

The Dingle Skellig Hotel is situated on the magnificent Dingle Peninsula and boasts stunning views of Dingle Bay. The Peninsula Spa offers a wide range of luxurious treatments using Yon Ka products. Dingle Skellig Hotel is renowned for it's outstanding service, great food and superior hospitality. Facilities include Skellig Creche, Fungi Kids Club, Leisure Club including Pool, Kids Pool and Gymnasium. Dingle town center is a short stroll away.

Treacy's Oakwood Hotel, Shannon

Treacys Oakwood 4-star Hotel, Shannon is a newly refurbished hotel located 2 miles from Shannon Airport. It is centrally located to explore the Wild Atlantic Way and just a quick drive from Limerick City. They provide complimentary car parking and Wi-Fi for our Hotel guests.  Regular entertainment and great food in our Bistro Bar served all day in newly refurbished surroundings with fast and friendly service. Their restaurant serves both continental and fully cooked breakfast daily.

Oakwood Hotel

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Mr. david joseph handley, best vacation ever.

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Excellent tour. The area we went to were great.

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Fantastically informative.

Everything advertised was on point! The only reason I didn’t give 5 stars were for two reasons: 1- after traveling for two straight days from the other side of the world, the bus dropped me off at the hotel and was told by front desk I was too early to check in and to come back in a few HOURS. 2- as much rich history Ireland has, some days were too political and down right depressing. So perhaps certain details should be kept on the museum tours and not on the bus. Since most vacations people are trying to get away from those subjects. Other than that our tour guide was fantastic!

There was so much to see and so little time to see it all.

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Five years ago we did "A taste of Scotland and a taste of Ireland". We really enjoyed our guide who shared a little more information.

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Southern Ireland

Take a 12 Day Tour of the South of Ireland. Starting in Shannon, this tour encompasses areas from Galway, Kerry & Cork and also takes in Dublin. Upgrade to luxury 4 and 5 star accommodation in our premium tour.

Ross Castle in County Kerry

Gap of Dunloe near Killarney

Ireland's wonderful South West

The English Market in Cork City

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* This special offer cannot be used in conjunction with other discounts or special event tours.

Book any of our wonderful self-drive vacation packages before the 30th of April 2024 to receive a 15% discount off your tour price! This offer cannot be used in conjunction with other discounts or special event packages.

Take a 12 Day Tour of the South of Ireland. Starting in Shannon, this tour encompasses areas from Galway, Kerry & Cork and also takes in Dublin. Upgrade to luxury 4 and 5-star accommodation in our premium tour.

The Southern Ireland self drive vacation is a great place to travel on your honeymoon in Ireland or as a family vacation in Ireland , talk to one of our vacation specialists for more information. Alternatively, if you are looking for guided tours then contact us to find out about our group tours to Ireland, escorted bus tours Ireland or Ireland tours with private driver .

Accommodation Options

• Clarion Hotel Limerick , Limerick (1 night)
• Fairview Guesthouse , Killarney (2 nights)
• Casey's Hotel , Cork (2 night)
• Trident Hotel , Cork (1 night)
• Cedar Lodge , Wexford (1 night)
• Mont Clare Hotel , Dublin (2 nights)
• Hyland's Burren Hotel , Clare (2 nights)

To book or customize this tour please call us in Ireland Toll free from the USA on 1 800 963 9260 or +353 28 22100 from the Rest of the World.

Alternatively, complete our short enquiry form .

Included in your price:

• Free calls to your personal Ireland vacation specialist
• 11 nights accommodation on a B&B basis across  Ireland
• Road map of Ireland
• Heritage guide to Ireland including admission special offer

Car Rental:

Rental of a economy-size car. Included with your car is all compulsory insurances - Collision Damage Waiver insurance (CDW with an excess/deductible), theft protection insurance, location fee of €30, Road fund tax, sales tax at 13.5%, unlimited free mileage, third party liability insurance, 24 hour peace of mind breakdown cover.

Prices are per person based on 2 persons in each room with full Irish breakfast and taxes included. A single supplement will apply to rooms and car rental in the case of single occupancy.

Please note that we charge in Euros (€). Prices in other currencies are for indication only and subject to fluctuation.

Day 1:  On arrival into Shannon Airport at the start of your  vacation in Ireland , head towards the City of Limerick for your first night.

Day 2 & 3:  From Limerick drive onto  Killarney  for your next 2 nights. On your way don't miss to stop at the beautiful village of Adare . Visit the  Muckross House , Killarney National Park,  Ross Castle  or even go for a round of golf at one of Killarney Golf and Fishing Clubs two Championship courses.

After dinner you may explore some of the traditional pubs and maybe enjoy an Irish Music Seisiun. From Killarney also you can travel 40 miles to Dingle town, the most westerly town in Europe. Dingle is a charming little fishing town that offers quite a lot for visitors to see and do. Dingle was the setting for movies such as Ryan's Daughter and Far and Away.

Also enjoy the popular  Ring of Kerry  tour where the winding road leads you between breathtaking Atlantic coastline and the higest mountains in Ireland. Glenbeigh, Waterville and Sneem are on route and there will be plenty of stops to admire.

Day 4 & 5:  Depart from Killarney and drive west along the north side of the  Beara Peninsula  to Allihies, Castletownbere, Glengarriff and in to Bantry where you can stop for lunch. Bantry House is superbly located overlooking the harbour and is well worth a visit. Continue on to Skibbereen which is a small busy town packed with tourists in the summer time. From there drive onto Baltimore for your next two nights stay. From Baltimore you can go sailing and also visit Clear and Sherkin Islands.

Day 6:  From Baltimore drive up through  West Cork  to Kinsale otherwise known as the "Gourmet Capital of Ireland". Its location ensures a plentiful supply of seafood for the town's restaurants and eateries. These premises, in guaranteeing their reputations, insist upon the highest quality of locally produced meat, vegetables and dairy produce. An extensive selection of pubs, restaurants and hotels are available as would be expected from such an acclaimed centre of tourism. The yachting and sailing fraternity frequent the town through the summer and the Point to Point Festival at the end of May is just one of the town's many annual events.

Day 7:  From Kinsale drive towards Wexford passing through Waterford City and maybe stopping for lunch and explore the city and maybe stop for some  Waterford Crystal  at the Crystal Factory. Once in Wexford also know as the "Model County" you will see the most beautiful coastal villages, sunny seashores with numerous beaches and bird watch reserves. Upon reaching the Viking town of Wexford you should try and visit the  JFK Arboretum , a 252 hectare arboretum which is dedicated to the memory of the late US President. The county is also proud of its 50 castles and you should try and visit some of them, Ballyhack Castle, Ferns Castle and Slade Castle to name but a few.

Day 8 & 9:  Leave Wexford and drive a short distance north to Dublin. Take a guided tour of Dublin's City Centre, eat at one of Dublin's many top class restaurants and sample Dublin's nightlife. Ireland is famous for its friendly pubs and these are but a drop in an ocean of fun to be had in Dublin!

Day 10 & 11:  Drive to Galway, regarded by many as Ireland's nicest city. Connemara lies north west of Galway and has some of the best scenery in the country. You could decide to stay in Connemara for an extra day to see it in more detail. Travel south to the  Cliffs of Moher  to see one of Ireland's most popular attractions. Visit the Burren Interpretive center. Doolin, Lahinch (famous for the Golf course) and Lisdoonvarna are worth a visit also.

Day 12:  Leave Shannon Airport to return home with foud memories of your memorable trip to Ireland

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"Just wanted to send you a big Thank You. We returned from our Ireland vacation yesterday afternoon and we had a wonderful time!"

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"I just wanted to take a minute to thank you for arranging such a wonderful trip. You are just the best. When I show my pictures "everyone" wants to visit Ireland."

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Discover Southern Ireland

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Let your curiosity run wild and discover Southern Ireland's hidden gems .

Observe the spectacular Cliffs of Moher, experience a private tour of the Irish National Stud in County Kildare and dine like a king in Kilkenny. Southern Ireland is yours to explore.

Dublin, Kildare & Ennis

Starting in Dublin we venture to the Irish National Stud in County Kildare for an exclusive private tour of the magnificent horses and glorious gardens. Continue to Portumna Castle in County Galway, a semi-fortified house built in the 17th century. The day finishes with a hearty dinner in Ennis.

Ennis, Cliffs of Moher & Killarney

Begin with a walking tour through the character-filled avenues of Ennis whilst listening to tales about its colourful history. Onwards to the Cliffs of Moher to marvel at their natural beauty and try to spot a resident Puffin. Next we head towards Killarney and the panoramic Ring of Kerry.

Ring of Kerry & Killarney

Welcome to the magical Ring of Kerry with its wild Atlantic seascapes and undulating hills. Discover the ancient Staigue Stone Fort and explore the Skellig Michael monastery for insights into the lives of the early Christian monks.

Tralee, Kenmare & Kinsale

A morning visit to Molly Gallivan’s 19th century cottage awaits. Hear how this mother of seven brewed whiskey illegally and turned her rustic farmhouse into a pub. Onwards to the medieval town of Kinsale, with its mixture of cosy pubs, brightly coloured houses and sea views.

Kinsale, Midleton & Kilkenny

First up is a walking tour of the cobbled streets that wind through the pretty bay of Kinsale. The bay was the departure point for the last 123 passengers that boarded the Titanic – look out for the poignant markers throughout town. The afternoon takes us to the Old Midleton Distillery to discover the craftsmanship that goes into creating their iconic whiskey before sampling this lustrous golden tipple. Finally an evening in Kilkenny and a chance to enjoy a king’s feast.

Kilkenny & Dublin

After a final stroll around Kilkenny we head back to Dublin. En route are many photo opportunities as we pass through the heather-clad hills and fairytale glens in the Wicklow Mountains. Nestled in the heart of this dramatic scenery is Avoca and a chance to pay homage to the Irish institution Ballykissangel where you can sit at the famous bar in Fitzgerald’s Pub. There will be a chance to buy a memento from your travels at the Woollen Mills before saying goodbye.

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Congratulations!

Starting in Dublin we venture to the Irish National Stud in County Kildare for an exclusive...

Begin with a walking tour through the character-filled avenues of Ennis whilst listening to tales...

Welcome to the magical Ring of Kerry with its wild Atlantic seascapes and undulating hills....

A morning visit to Molly Gallivan’s 19th century cottage awaits. Hear how this mother of seven...

First up is a walking tour of the cobbled streets that wind through the pretty bay of Kinsale....

After a final stroll around Kilkenny we head back to Dublin. En route are many photo...

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• 1x in the Ennis area
• 2x in the Killarney area
• 1x in the Kinsale area
• 1x in the Kilkenny area

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10 Must-See Attractions in Southern Ireland

Ireland has many beautiful attractions that appeal to all sorts of travellers. History, castles, national parks, beaches, and cliffs – Ireland has it all! Here is a list of 10 must-see attractions that I visited in southern Ireland. Enjoy!

Powerscourt Estate

Powerscourt Estate was the first stop on my road trip through southern Ireland and I was blown away by the beauty of the estate’s vast grounds. You could spend hours walking around the gorgeous property and admiring the backdrop of the Wicklow Mountains. 

Glendalough

The magical monastic ruins of Glendalough will transport you to medieval Ireland. Additionally, there are great hiking trails along two different lakes and several spots to stop and admire nature.

Blarney Castle

Blarney Castle is my favourite castle that we visited in southern Ireland. For over 200 years, people around the world have climbed the steps of the castle to kiss the famous Blarney Stone. According to legend, kissing the stone grants the gift of eloquence! After kissing the stone yourself, make sure to explore the surrounding estate. Don’t miss the Castle Gardens, Blarney House, and the Rock Close.

Rock of Cashel

Just a short drive from Blarney Castle is the Rock of Cashel. This fortress has one of the most remarkable collections of Celtic art and medieval architecture in Europe. The ruins are fascinating and the views from the castle of Irish pastures are stunning!

Killarney National Park

Killarney National Park is a stunning area of natural beauty in southern Ireland. I went horseback riding through Killarney National Park with Killarney Riding Stables and it was wonderful. I highly recommend trying it as a way to explore the park! 

Muckross House

Located in Killarney National Park is Muckross House; a beautiful Victorian mansion where Queen Victoria actually stayed for a visit! You can tour the house and traditional farms, walk around the estate, and hike or take a horse and carriage ride to Torc Waterfall.

I was stunned to come across this expansive beach with soft sand and views of the Irish coastline. Can you believe that the Atlantic Ocean was warm enough to take a dip?

Cliffs of Moher

Of course the Cliffs of Moher are on this list! Despite the number of tourists, the Cliffs of Moher are a must-see in southern Ireland.

The Burren will blow your mind. This limestone landscape is rugged and uniquely beautiful. You will feel like you are on another planet – especially when you have the place to yourself!

Kylemore Abbey

Before becoming an Abbey, Kylemore Castle was built in the late 1800s by a wealthy businessman, inspired by the love for his wife. How romantic! You will love exploring this gorgeous estate. Make sure to take the shuttle to the Victorian Walled Garden. 

I hope you enjoyed this list of 10 must-see attractions in southern Ireland!

To read my blog post, “A Road Trip Through Southern Ireland,” click here.

To read my blog post, “10 Amazing Castles in Southern Ireland,” click here.

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Live & study in ireland, top 10 day trips and attractions.

These top attractions are all too good to put in a strict order. So just think of them as ten of the best. The ten attractions and destinations that you won't want to miss.

1. Dublin City Sightseeing

2. The Cliffs of Moher

3. Killarney & National Park

4. the giant's causeway.

5. Cork City Sightseeing

6. Clonmacnoise

7. Galway City Sightseeing

8. Rock of Cashel

9. Derry City & Walls

10. Kylemore Abbey & Gardens

City tours of england, scotland, ireland & wales.

Discover Britain and Ireland's top tourist towns for yourself with a self-guided walking tour of these world-famous British and Irish cities. Some of the world's most famous and iconic cities are to be found here on these islands. Not sure where to start? Compare all the cities here...

1. Dublin, Ireland

• The Ha'penny Bridge
• Dublin Castle
• St Stephen's Green

2. London, England

• The Tower of London
• Shakespeare's Globe Theatre
• Tate Modern
• St. Paul's Cathedral
• Covent Garden
• Leicester Square & Piccadilly Circus
• Big Ben & The Palace of Westminster

3. Cardiff, Wales

• Cardiff Castle
• National Museum Cardiff
• Mermaid Quay
• Welsh Senedd (parliament)
• Millennium Centre & National Opera

4. Cork, Ireland

• Cork City Hall
• St. Fin Barre's Cathedral
• University College Cork
• Fitzgerald's Park
• The English Market
• Shandon Bells

5. Edinburgh, Scotland

• National Museum of Scotland
• The Scotch Whisky Experience
• St Giles' Cathedral
• The Scottish Parliament Building
• The Palace of Holyroodhouse
• Calton Hill

6. Stratford-upon-Avon, England

• Shakespeare's Birthplace
• Hall's Croft
• Holy Trinity Church
• The Royal Shakespeare Theatre
• Anne Hathaway's Cottage

7. Chester, England

• The City Walls
• Chester Cathedral
• Roman Amphitheatre
• Grosvenor Park
• The Roman Gardens
• Shopping at The Rows
• The Grosvenor Museum

8. Galway, Ireland

• Eyre Square
• Galway Cathedral
• Galway City Museum
• Spanish Arch
• Latin Quarter

9. Belfast City, Northern Ireland

• Maritime Mile
• Belfast City Hall
• The Cathedral Quarter
• Peace Walls

10. Derry City, Northern Ireland

• The Peace Bridge
• Derry Girls Mural
• Derry City Walls
• Museum of Free Derry
• Tower Museum

11. Oxford, England

• The Radcliffe Camera & Bodleian Library
• Sheldonian Theatre
• Bridge of Sighs
• University Church of St Mary the Virgin
• Christ Church College
• Christ Church Meadow
• Magdalen College and Tower

12. York, England

• York Museum Gardens
• Bettys Tea Rooms
• The Shambles
• JORVIK Viking Centre
• Clifford's Tower
• Rowntree Park

13. Bath, England

• Roman Baths
• Pulteney Bridge
• Henrietta Park & Sydney Gardens
• The Circus and The Royal Crescent
• Jane Austen Centre
• Thermae Bath Spa

What interests you most?

Discover the face of Ireland that interests you most. We've broken Ireland's attractions, locations, and events into categories so you can easily find what appeals to you and your group.

A nation of poets, playwrights, thinkers, and creators. See the homes and landscapes that inspired the likes of Swift, Wilde, Yeats, Joyce and Heaney.

Find out more

Tv & film.

You've seen them on the big screen. Now experience Ireland's landscapes for yourself, visiting the sets of Game of Thrones, Star Wars and other classics.

Castles & History

An ancient world awaits you. From within the stones of Ireland's ancient castles and monuments, the legends of ages past will reveal themselves to you.

Outdoor Pursuits

Don't forget your camera as you head outdoors in Ireland. Some magnificent landscapes await you whether you're walking, cycling, sailing or climbing.

Island Life

As well as being an Island itself, Ireland is surrounded by smaller islands with tiny populations and fascinating backstories. We're working our way through them!

Photography

Ireland's stunning scenery and breathtaking natural landscape make it a photographer's dream. The urban environments are also very snap-worthy!

Regions of Ireland & Britain

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• UK & Ireland Cities

Your Group & Interests

• Our Ireland Tour Packages

Adare Village and Thatched Cottages

About Adare Village and Thatched Cottages

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.

Explore Adare Village along the Wild Atlantic Way .

Black Taxi Tour Belfast

About Black Taxi Tour Belfast

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

About Blarney Woollen Mills

Originally built in 1823, Blarney Woollen Mills was mainly used for the spinning and weaving of wool. After it closed in 1973, it reopened in 1975 — as an Irish heritage shop.

Visit their website...

Culloden Battlefield

About Culloden Battlefield

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

About Glenveagh Castle

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

About Highland Folk Museum

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

About King John's Castle

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.

As a local Irish company, we at My Ireland Tour are passionate about our country and our local community. We're thrilled that you're interested in visiting the place we call home. That's why we put together this definitive travel guide for anyone who wants to come to Ireland and discover this amazing place for themselves.

This is a completely free resource covering everything from top tourist attractions to the nearest yoga centre. We hope it helps!

Got questions?

• (US / Ca) 011 353 21 237 9006
• (EU) 00 353 21 237 9006
• [email protected]
• 5 Church Hill  Carrigaline  Co. Cork  P43 X376  Ireland

Useful Links:

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Southern Ireland Tours & Trips from Dublin

An adventure starting in Dublin is a great way to see Southern Ireland. We have 135 tours that range from 3 days up to 15 days. The most popular time for tours from Dublin is June, which has the most tour departures.

135 Southern Ireland tours from Dublin with 4,657 reviews

• In-depth Cultural
• Coach / Bus

Irish Highlights (Summer, 7 Days)

The Irish Highlights Trafalgar Tour was excellent. The tour director and driver were great and the events and scenery were amazing. The weather was very hot and it was good that fans were available in the rooms.

7-Day Ireland to Island Small Group Tour of Ireland

I have been on many guided tours before (> 20) and I must rank Finn the best tour guide I have ever had. He was very well organised, gave clear instructions and offered a variety of spot-on recommendations. His commentary was always relevant and interesting with an amusing twist. No one could convey his or her passion for their country better than Finn, and I found it heart-warmingly infectious. He was knowledgeable, warm, humorous, and unfailingly accommodating. He even took some amazing photos of us - not an easy task. Finn was a great ambassador for his company and his country. I highly recommend the 7-day Ireland to Island tour with Overland Ireland. Having Finn as your guide is the icing on the cake ... a rich, diverse, multi-layered, heavenly cake.

• 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)

Excellent tour. Very well organized. Saw a lot but never felt rushed through any of the sites. Everything was timed perfectly.

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

The tour went as planned. The guide was excellent. Recommendations would be to extend the time to 8 or 9 days to maximize two days in Lahinch and Galway to experience more of the culture and scenery. One night in each of the cities does not allow for to that experience.

Taste of Ireland (Tour D) - 6 Days/5 Nights

How can you go wrong visiting Ireland? Especially if your tour guide/driver is Mark. Literally a "taste" leaving us wanting more, the tour was wonderful. Mark is knowledgeable and full of stories. And what a driver!!! The hotels were the cleanest we've ever stayed at. Overall, a wonderful experience!

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

Excellent tour and company. Tour guides and accommodations were second to none. If you want to know the real Ireland and it’s rich history in a comfortable setting and without the stress of driving you will not be disappointed. This was a trip of a lifetime and we would recommend to anyone.

7 Day Atlantic Way Experience - Small Group Tour

We enjoyed our trip very much even though the weather was challenging at times. Anthony was professional at all times and good fun to be with. The Irish Experience team gave us great support when our flight was cancelled. Lots of thanks to you all.

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

Taste of Ireland (Tour A) - 7 Days/6 Nights

Fast paced overview of Ireland, history ,culture and most beautiful landscapes. Guide Willy was silly and fun, giving many facts and fictions of Ireland. Fair hotels, fun Ploughboys evening.

8 Day Castles & Coast Experience - Small Group Tour

AMAZING TOUR! Loved every second of it and can't wait to go back to Ireland! Kieran and Lee were our guides and can't say enough about their knowledge and their helpfulness. Thank you!

• Hiking & Trekking

Highlights of Ireland

Focus on Ireland (Classic, 7 Days)

Greg was a fantastic tour guide. He was very informative and funny. Kept everyone organized.

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

We really enjoyed our tour. Our tour guide, Marty, was terrific! He shared the history of each area we visited, the meaning of Irish words, fantastic pub/restaurant and museum recommendations and even had alternate plans for us when the Jameson Whiskey tour was canceled because of record rainfall and flooding (we got a refund too!). Our accommodations were always close to City Centre, clean, comfortable and had a delicious breakfast. It was a great experience!

Great Tour of Ireland ( 7 days )

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

Excellent guide and excellent vehicle

What people love about Southern Ireland Tours from Dublin

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!

Tours starting from Dublin

• Dublin to Dublin tours (103)
• Dublin to Shannon tours (7)
• Dublin to Belfast tours (6)
• Family from Dublin (102)
• Explorer from Dublin (76)
• In-depth Cultural from Dublin (66)
• Coach / Bus from Dublin (41)
• Active from Dublin (16)
• Self-Guided from Dublin (11)
• Private from Dublin (11)
• Hiking & Trekking from Dublin (9)
• Custom from Dublin (5)

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Discover the long and winding roads of Ireland

Taking to the open road in Ireland gives you the ultimate freedom.

Discover the long and winding roads of Ireland with these self-drive tours in the north, west, east and south, including maps, itineraries, sightseeing attractions, activities, where to stay, eating, drinking and festival fun. Includes a practical guide to driving in Ireland that tells you everything you need know for a journey of discovery.

Ireland really does have it all – from bustling towns and cities to peaceful lakelands, lush green forests, towering cliffs, heart-stopping beaches and world class attractions. Ireland is literally crammed full of breathtaking sights, both natural and man-made.

This guide contains driving tours and suggestions for places to visit and stay along the way. Get ready for the drive of your life and go where Ireland takes you!

Be part of the Gathering in 2013

Whether you've Irish heritage or you're just Irish in spirit, you're invited to connect with Ireland's music, dance, literature, food and sports at the unique Gathering, an Ireland-wide feast of fun, festivals and exhilarating events.

A year of fabulous events

2013 is a special year in Ireland – a time when everyone is invited to visit for 12 months of festivities, reunions and good times. The creative energy will be bouncing off the 400-year-old walls of Derry~Londonderry as the city celebrates becoming UK City of Culture 2013 in spectacular style.

Explore the countless inspiring sights, from the awesome Cliffs of Moher, jutting out into the Atlantic, to the legendary steps of the Giant's Causeway, where a spectacular new visitor centre awaits you. Immerse yourself in the story of the world's most famous ship at the incredible Titanic Belfast experience.

Joyce, Wilde, Yeats, Beckett and Shaw are waiting to welcome you to Dublin, UNESCO City of Literature, in a country where conversation is an art form. Raise a glass to new friends at the Guinness Storehouse – the party's just getting going!

Ireland's North Coast

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