2-Day Southern Ireland Tour from Dublin:Including Blarney and Cliffs of Moher

The 2-Day Southern Ireland Tour from Dublin offers an accessible way to explore some of Ireland’s most iconic sights. Priced at $236.44 per person, this tour provides round-trip transportation, accommodation in Cork, and entrance to key attractions like Blarney Castle and the Cliffs of Moher. Departing early at 8:00 am from Dublin, the tour spans approximately two days, making it ideal for travelers with limited time in Ireland.

While the tour covers a rich selection of sites, it also includes practical details such as WiFi onboard and breakfast at the B&B, with the ability to explore Cork’s famous English Market. Feedback highlights knowledgeable guides and stunning scenery, although some reviews note room for improvement in accommodations and organization. This tour caters well to those eager to see Ireland’s highlights in a structured, cost-effective package.

Key Points

• Highlights include Blarney Castle, Cliffs of Moher, and Rock of Cashel
• Includes round-trip transport from Dublin, overnight in Cork, and entrance tickets
• Tour departs at 8:00 am and lasts roughly two days
• WiFi is available on the bus, and breakfast is included at the overnight B&B
• Some reviews mention room and organizational issues, so manage expectations accordingly
• A good choice for travelers wanting a rundown of southern Ireland in a short time

Starting Point and Transportation Logistics in Dublin

This tour begins at Paddy’s Palace in Dublin at 8:00 am. The meeting point is Beresford Place in Mountjoy, easily accessible near public transportation. The tour uses an air-conditioned vehicle equipped with WiFi, making the journey comfortable and connected.

The group size is capped at 56 travelers, which helps maintain a balance between social atmosphere and passenger comfort. The driver and guide are described as professional and friendly, with some reviews praising their humor and knowledge. The tour operates in all weather conditions, so packing appropriately is advised.

Exploring the Historic Rock of Cashel

The first stop is the Rock of Cashel in County Tipperary, a site famed for its medieval architecture and historical significance. It was once the seat of the Kings of Munster and later became a cathedral complex given to the Catholic Church nearly 1,000 years ago.

Visitors walk amongst ruins, Celtic crosses, and round towers, seeing Ireland’s ancient past. The entrance fee of EUR 7.00 is included, so no extra cost surprises await here. Expect about 45 minutes to explore this evocative site, which is easily one of the most striking stops on the tour.

Cork’s Historic and Culinary Charm

After visiting Cashel, the tour heads to Cork city, roughly a 60-minute drive away. Here, ample time is allocated for exploring the English Market, a renowned food hub that has hosted Queen Elizabeth II. The market offers a variety of Irish produce, artisan meats, cheeses, and more, making it an ideal spot for lunch or simply browsing local flavors.

In Cork, the tour stays overnight, giving an authentic feel of Irish city life. The accommodation is in a Bed & Breakfast, which some reviews suggest could be better in terms of comfort, but generally provides a cozy base for the night. The lively city features traditional eateries, music, and dance venues, adding a cultural dimension to the stay.

Visiting Blarney Castle and Its Legendary Stone

A highlight of the tour is the visit to Blarney Castle, where travelers get to kiss the Blarney Stone. Doing so is believed to endow one with the gift of eloquent speech for seven years. The castle’s gardens and arts and crafts shops, including Blarney Woolen Mills, are also worth exploring.

The entrance fee is included, and visitors spend approximately 2 hours at this site, enjoying the gardens, shops, and the chance to kiss the stone. The castle’s historical charm and the legend make this a memorable stop, though some reviews mention the accommodations nearby may not meet expectations.

Day Two: From the Golden Vale to the Cliffs of Moher

The second day begins with a scenic drive through Ireland’s Golden Vale, renowned for its fertile farmland. The group then stops in Limerick City to view King John’s Castle and the River Shannon, offering a quick but picturesque glimpse of Ireland’s historical cityscape.

Next, the tour proceeds to the Wild Atlantic Way, where visitors enjoy views of rugged coastline, beaches, and possibly dolphins playing in the waves. The Burren, a vast lunar landscape dating back 300 million years, features underground rivers and waterfalls, adding geological curiosity to the trip.

Doolin and Traditional Irish Music

The tour makes a lunch stop in Doolin, a village celebrated for its Irish traditional music. Here, travelers can sample homemade Irish dishes, seeing local cuisine and culture. Doolin serves as a relaxed break before heading to the final major stop.

The Iconic Cliffs of Moher

The Cliffs of Moher are the tour’s crown jewel. Rising over 700 feet, these cliffs offer sweeping views of the Atlantic and are home to diverse seabirds like puffins and gannets. Visitors get about 1 hour and 30 minutes to explore the visitor center and walk along the cliffs, taking in the breathtaking scenery.

Feedback consistently highlights the spectacular views and the ample time at this site as major positives. The cliffs are accessible via included admission, and the site is well-equipped to host large crowds, although some reviews suggest arriving early helps avoid peak times.

Accommodations and Overall Value

Overnight in Cork is included with the tour, with breakfast served at the Bed & Breakfast. Some reviews note that the accommodation quality can vary and the buffet breakfast may not meet all expectations, but the convenience of a centrally located stay is appreciated.

The value for money is considered good, as the tour combines transportation, entrance fees, overnight accommodation, and breakfast into one package. Travelers also enjoy WiFi on the bus, making planning or sharing moments easier during the journey.

Review Highlights: Strengths and Weaknesses

The guides, especially those who are native Irish, receive praise for their knowledge, storytelling, and humor. Some reviews mention excellent guides like Mary and Paul, who add personality and insights that enhance the experience.

On the downside, some travelers report organizational issues, such as missed stops, confusing itineraries, and accommodation concerns. Several mention multiple bus changes and poor communication, which can cause stress. The lack of WiFi in some accommodations and some vehicle delays also appear as minor frustrations.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This 2-day Southern Ireland tour is best suited for travelers seeking a rundown of Ireland’s highlights in a cost-effective, guided format. It fits those comfortable with group travel and who are okay with some organizational hiccups.

It offers a balanced itinerary with plenty of sightseeing, authentic meals, and the chance to experience Irish culture firsthand. However, those seeking luxury accommodations or a more relaxed pace may find some of the logistical issues less appealing.

Final Thoughts on the 2-Day Tour from Dublin

The value and scope of this tour make it a popular choice for travelers with limited time. The key attractions—Blarney Castle, Cliffs of Moher, and Rock of Cashel—are all included and accessible, with admissions covered.

While some reviews mention organizational issues and variable accommodations, the knowledgeable guides and stunning scenery generally outweigh these concerns. It is ideal for those wanting an efficient, lively introduction to southern Ireland, especially if they prioritize seeing multiple major sites over a perfectly smooth schedule.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this tour include hotel pickup and drop-off?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included. The tour begins at Paddy’s Palace in Dublin.

What is the price for this tour?
The tour costs $236.44 per person, which covers transportation, overnight lodging, breakfast, and attraction tickets.

Is WiFi available during the tour?
Yes, WiFi is provided on the bus, allowing passengers to stay connected during the trip.

How long is the stay at the Cliffs of Moher?
Visitors typically have about 1 hour and 30 minutes to explore the Cliffs of Moher and visit the visitor center.

Are meals included?
Breakfast is included at the overnight accommodation. Lunch and dinner are at travelers’ own expense, with Doolin offering several traditional Irish dining options.

Are accommodations comfortable?
Some travelers find the B&B accommodations in Cork to be basic or inconsistent in quality, with reviews mentioning issues like heat and amenities.

Can I customize the itinerary or add optional activities?
The tour does not specify options for customization or additional activities beyond the planned stops.

Is the tour suitable in bad weather?
Yes, the tour operates in all weather conditions, so travelers should dress appropriately for rain or shine.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is 56 travelers, facilitating a lively but manageable atmosphere.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, this tour is booked 61 days in advance, indicating good availability for early planners.

Can I combine this tour with other Ireland excursions?
Links to similar experiences are provided, including tours to Galway, Guinness, and Jameson, which might complement this trip.

This 2-Day Southern Ireland Tour from Dublin offers a practical and scenic way to experience Ireland’s highlights, balancing guided insights with free time in Cork. It’s an efficient option for those eager to see famous sights without the hassle of self-planning, despite some organizational quirks.