5 Day Ireland’s SouthEast Including Admission from Dublin

Discover Ireland’s South East in 5 Days with Expert Guides and Rich Highlights

This 5-day small-group tour from Dublin offers a carefully curated journey through Ireland’s Southeast, blending historic ruins, coastal wonders, and cultural experiences. Priced at $1,714.74 per person, it includes accommodation, admission to key attractions, and tasting experiences like the Midleton whiskey tour. With a maximum of 16 passengers, the tour promises an intimate experience, guided by knowledgeable drivers who blend storytelling with local insights.

While the tour offers a balanced mix of scenic drives and cultural stops, it is best suited for travelers interested in history, architecture, and Ireland’s coastal scenery. The itinerary is quite full, covering eight locations in five days, so expect a busy schedule with some walking at historic sites. The tour’s reviewers praise the expert guides and stunning views, though some note that the bus environment can be warm and that group changes on days 5-7 may be less comfortable. This tour provides a solid introduction to Ireland’s southeast, with an emphasis on history, scenery, and local flavor.

Key Points

• 5 days of exploring Ireland’s southeast from Dublin, with small-group comfort
• Includes admission to Jameson Midleton Whiskey Distillery and rock sites like Dunamase and Cashel
• Visits iconic landmarks such as Blarney Castle, Kinsale, Charles Fort, and Jerpoint Abbey (admission not included for some stops)
• Scenic coastal drives along the Wild Atlantic Way, with stops at Mizen Head and Old Head of Kinsale
• Overnight stays in Kinsale and Waterford, both lively towns with cultural and culinary appeal
• Max 16 travelers per group, led by friendly, knowledgeable guides

Starting Point and Practical Details

The tour begins at the Rabbie’s Tours Dublin Departure Point opposite the Kilkenny Shop on Nassau Street at 9:00 AM. It concludes back at the same meeting point after five days of adventure. The tour utilizes air-conditioned mini-coach transport, providing comfort on long drives and scenic routes. Travelers are advised to arrive 15 minutes early and should be prepared for a full schedule, with some stops lasting up to 2 hours.

The tour includes 4 nights of en-suite accommodation with breakfast, making logistics easier. While most attractions are included, note that admission to Powerscourt House & Gardens and Jerpoint Abbey is not included. Meals and additional refreshments are also not included, allowing flexibility for personal dining choices.

From Dublin to the Rock of Dunamase and Cashel

The journey kicks off with a visit to the Rock of Dunamase in County Laois. The ruins are impressive, offering a glimpse into Ireland’s Celtic past with free admission. The imposing fortifications and beautiful surroundings make this a camera-friendly stop, with ample free time to explore the scenic site.

Next, the tour heads to Cashel, home to the famous Rock of Cashel—a striking medieval complex perched on limestone. Visitors have about 1 hour and 35 minutes here, giving enough time to wander the grounds and admire medieval architecture. The site is a highlight for its dramatic setting and historical significance.

Visiting Blarney Castle and Kinsale’s Colorful Streets

A key highlight is Blarney Castle, where visitors can stroll the castle grounds and, if they choose, kiss the Blarney Stone to gain the gift of gab. The admission fee is not included, but the castle’s woodland strolls and gardens add to the experience.

Later in the day, the tour arrives in Kinsale, a vibrant fishing village known for its brightly colored houses, lively pubs, and seaside charm. With an hour of free time, visitors can explore the narrow streets, enjoy local cuisine, or relax on the waterfront. Kinsale’s lively atmosphere makes it a favorite stop and an ideal overnight base for the tour.

Exploring Ireland’s Coastal Wild Atlantic Way

On Day 2, the itinerary focuses on Ireland’s rugged coastlines. A photo stop at Old Head of Kinsale provides panoramic views of the Atlantic. Then, at Drombeg Stone Circle, the eerie stone ruins offer a glimpse into Ireland’s prehistoric past, with local legend associating it with Druids.

The tour reaches the Mizen Head Visitor Centre, Ireland’s most south-westerly point, where spectacular cliff views and crashing waves showcase the power of the Atlantic. Visitors can cross the bridge to the Signal Station and snap photos of the dramatic scenery, with around 2 hours and 15 minutes allocated for this stop. The admission is not included, but the views are well worth the visit.

The day ends with a visit to Bantry, a harbor town with quaint shops and the Bantry House & Gardens (admission free), offering a relaxing seaside atmosphere and a chance to soak in local hospitality.

History and Whiskey in Waterford

Day 3 begins with a visit to Charles Fort, one of Ireland’s largest military sites, with free admission. Its star-shaped design and extensive ruins make it a compelling stop for history enthusiasts.

The tour then moves to Midleton Distillery, where a guided tour and whiskey tasting are included. This experience highlights Ireland’s whiskey craftsmanship, and visitors leave with a new appreciation for the spirit’s history and production.

In Cobh, travelers have free time for lunch and exploration, with options including the Titanic Experience or visiting the grand cathedral. The day concludes in Waterford, Ireland’s oldest city, with scenic coastal drives and optional stops like Bunmahon Beach or Tankardstown Copper Mine.

Medieval Monastic Sites and Kilkenny’s Cultural Scene

Day 4 features a visit to Jerpoint Abbey, a 12th-century Cistercian monastery in ruins, showcasing Romanesque and Gothic architecture. Note that Jerpoint Abbey will be unavailable on May 28, 2024, affecting the tour scheduled around that date.

Next, Kilkenny offers a lively mix of medieval and modern culture. The Smithwick’s Experience brewery tour introduces visitors to Ireland’s beer tradition, with plenty of time to explore shops, museums, and the castle. The city’s vibrant atmosphere is a highlight for those wanting both history and lively streets.

The day ends with a visit to Kells Priory, one of Ireland’s largest medieval sites. The ruins include infirmary, workshop, kitchen, and defences, earning it the nickname “the Seven Castles of Kells.” This substantial site offers a glimpse into Ireland’s medieval military and religious history.

Final Day: Emigration, Monastic Serenity, and Gardens

The tour’s last day involves a visit to the Dunbrody Famine Ship in New Ross, providing insight into Ireland’s emigrant experience during the famine. The 1 hour and 45 minutes allotted allows for an immersive look into this crucial part of Irish history.

Next, Glendalough Village features the monastic site and beautiful lakes, perfect for a peaceful walk and reflection. The visit lasts about 1 hour and 15 minutes, offering a tranquil contrast to the busier days.

The tour wraps up with a visit to Powerscourt House & Gardens, known for its landscaped gardens and scenic views. While admission is not included, the gardens’ ornamental lakes, statues, and hidden hollows provide a stunning farewell to Ireland’s southeast.

Overall Experience and Suitability

This 5-day tour from Dublin offers a comprehensive look at Ireland’s southeast, combining historic sites, coastal scenery, and local culture. Highlights include the Rock of Cashel, Blarney Castle, Mizen Head, and the Jameson whiskey experience. The intimate group size makes for a more personal experience, and the driver-guides are praised for their knowledge and humor.

While the schedule is packed and some attractions involve additional fees, the inclusion of accommodation, whiskey tasting, and many key sites makes this tour a good value for those wanting a well-rounded introduction. The main limitations are the change of groups mid-tour (on days 5-7) and the potential for hot buses during long drives, which might impact comfort.

Final Thoughts on the Ireland’s South East Tour

This tour appeals most to history buffs, coastal scenery lovers, and culture enthusiasts who want a structured, immersive experience of Ireland’s southeast. The combination of ancient ruins, scenic drives, and local hospitality makes it a solid choice for first-time visitors or those limited on time.

The small-group format ensures a more personalized journey, and the guided commentary adds depth to every stop. While some attractions require additional admission fees, the overall experience provides a meaningful taste of Ireland’s heritage and landscapes.

For travelers seeking a well-organized, culturally-rich trip with authentic stops, this 5-day tour offers a balanced introduction to Ireland’s southeast at a reasonable price point.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The price includes 4 nights of en-suite accommodation with breakfast, admission to Midleton Whiskey Distillery, and a driver-guided tour.

Are meals included?
No, meals and refreshments are not included, giving flexibility for personal dining choices.

What attractions require additional payment?
Admission to Powerscourt House & Gardens and Jerpoint Abbey are not included. Visiting Blarney Castle also incurs an extra fee if you choose to kiss the stone.

What are the group size and transportation details?
The tour operates with a maximum of 16 travelers in an air-conditioned mini-coach, ensuring comfort and intimacy.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children under 5 years old are not accommodated. The tour is most suited for most travelers who are comfortable with a full schedule and some walking.

What is the cancellation policy?
The tour is non-refundable and cannot be changed once booked. Cancellation requests are not accepted.

How early should I arrive at the meeting point?
It is recommended to arrive 15 minutes before departure at the Nassau Street Dublin meeting point.

Can I book for a group of more than 8 people?
Groups of three or more can be accommodated, with efforts made to assign suitable rooms. Larger groups should contact the provider in advance.

Does the tour include scenic stops and photo opportunities?
Absolutely, the itinerary emphasizes photo stops at Old Head of Kinsale, Mizen Head, and scenic coastal areas.

How physically demanding is the tour?
Most stops involve standing and walking, but the itinerary is suited for travelers comfortable with moderate activity and outdoor exposure.

Is this tour a good introduction to Ireland’s southeast?
Yes, it offers a broad overview of the region’s history, scenery, and culture, making it ideal for first-time visitors or those with limited time.