6-Day South of Ireland Tour from Dublin

Explore Southern Ireland Without the Driving Stress

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The 6-Day South of Ireland Tour from Dublin offers an engaging way to experience Ireland’s most iconic sights. Priced at $1,042.35 per person, this tour provides a comprehensive itinerary over six days with included entrance fees and a choice of accommodations. It departs from Paddy’s Palace in Dublin at 9:00 am and covers highlights like the Cliffs of Moher, Blarney Castle, the Ring of Kerry, and Waterford Crystal Factory.

Designed for those who prefer a relaxed, guided experience, this tour is especially suitable for anyone wanting to avoid the complexities of self-driving. Review scores average 4.0 out of 5, reflecting strong praise for the guides and scenery, though some note schedule changes and minor service inconsistencies. The tour’s group size limits to 56 travelers, creating an intimate yet lively atmosphere.

Key Points

• All-inclusive 6-day itinerary covering major sights in southern Ireland
• Experienced guides providing insight and anecdotes throughout the trip
• Visits to iconic locations like Cliffs of Moher, Blarney Castle, and Waterford Crystal
• Comfortable coach transport with a choice of accommodation options
• Perfect for travelers seeking a hassle-free Irish adventure without self-driving
• Moderate physical activity involved, especially during walking stops and optional park rides

Departure from Dublin and Initial Stops at Glendalough and Kilkenny

The tour begins at 9:00 am in central Dublin, with an easy meeting point at Paddy’s Palace. The first stop is the Glendalough Monastic Settlement, where the ruins of Celtic crosses and round towers await. Visitors enjoy time at leisure to walk among the scenic Valley of Two Lakes, appreciating the natural beauty and historic remains.

Following Glendalough, the group heads south to Kilkenny, a city famous for its medieval castle and cobbled streets. Here, the tour allows about 1 hour 30 minutes to explore Kilkenny Castle, the Cathedral, and the Norman-era churches. This stop offers a glimpse into Ireland’s Norman past and its charming town atmosphere.

The next evening, the journey concludes in Waterford City, located near Waterford Harbour. This relaxed setting provides an opportunity for enjoying local pubs and seafood restaurants. The highlight here is a visit to the Waterford Crystal Factory, where artisans demonstrate traditional glass-cutting techniques.

The Enchanting Blarney Castle and the Dingle Peninsula

On Day 2, the tour features the world-famous Blarney Castle, where visitors spend about 2 hours exploring the castle grounds and gardens. The chance to kiss the Blarney Stone is included, offering the legendary gift of eloquent speech. Blarney Woolen Mills provides shopping opportunities for authentic Irish souvenirs.

After Blarney, the group travels to Cobh, a historic port known for its connection to the Titanic. Here, the Titanic Museum can be visited within an hour, housed in the original White Star Line ticket office. The day ends with a drive into the Dingle Peninsula, recognized for its gaelic-speaking villages and breathtaking coastlines.

Dingle and the Slea Head Drive

Day 3 centers on the Dingle Peninsula, famous for its spectacular scenery along the Slea Head Drive. The picturesque fishing village of Dingle offers about 2 hours to explore its colorful pubs and meet the local Fungi the Dolphin.

The drive around Slea Head provides views of Sleeping Giant Island, Blasket Islands, and Beehive Huts dating back to 2000 B.C. Many consider this region the most beautiful part of Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way, with fabulous beaches and dramatic cliffs. The day concludes in Killarney, setting up for an exciting exploration of the Ring of Kerry.

The Iconic Ring of Kerry and Killarney National Park

On Day 4, the tour takes in the Ring of Kerry, a renowned route featuring Moll’s Gap, Ladies View, and the Lakes of Killarney. The journey emphasizes emerald pastures, charming villages, and panoramic vistas. Visitors enjoy free time to walk around or visit local shops.

A highlight is an optional horse-drawn carriage ride through Killarney National Park, offering an authentic way to see the landscape. The park is famous for Torc Waterfall and lush woodlands. The day wraps up with free time in Killarney town, known for its vibrant pubs and restaurants.

Cliffs of Moher and the West Coast

Day 5 begins with a sightseeing stop at Bunratty Castle, then proceeds to the Cliffs of Moher, Ireland’s most visited natural attraction. Rising over 700 feet, the cliffs provide spectacular views of Galway Bay and the Aran Islands. The colony of puffins and gannets inhabits the cliffs, making it a birdwatcher’s paradise.

Lunch takes place in Doolin, renowned for traditional Irish music. Afterward, the tour explores the Burren landscape, characterized by limestone formations and underground rivers. The evening is in Galway, a city famed for its cultural scene and seaside charm. The city’s vibrant ambiance is complemented by a rich tradition of music and seafood.

Connemara and the Return to Dublin

On the final day, Day 6, the tour visits Connemara, a region marked by Maam Valley and Maam Cross, evoking memories of the 1845 famine with its haunting landscapes. The group visits Glengowla family farm and silver mine, gaining insight into local life and history.

The journey concludes with a scenic drive back to Dublin, wrapping up the 6-day itinerary filled with spectacular vistas, historic sites, and authentic Irish culture. The tour ends at the starting point in Dublin, usually around 4:00 pm.

Practicalities: Transport, Accommodation, and Group Size

All travel occurs by coach, with all entrance fees included. The tour features a choice of accommodation options, with five nights spent in well-located hotels in Waterford, Dingle, Kerry, and Galway. The group size typically does not exceed 56 travelers, fostering a comfortable and engaging atmosphere.

The tour provides breakfasts as an optional addition, and lunches or dinners are not included unless specified. The meeting point is Paddy’s Palace in Dublin, and the tour ends back at the same location.

Honest Look at the Tour Experience

Most reviews praise the knowledgeable guides, particularly Barry and Brian, for their stories and insights. Visitors highlight spectacular scenery, diverse stops, and the convenience of guided travel as major strengths. Some note schedule adjustments or schedule changes that affected the experience, and a few mention less attentive driver service or accommodations on upper floors without elevators.

The non-refundable policy is strict, so travelers should plan accordingly. Despite some minor criticisms, the overall ratings of 4.0 out of 5 reflect a well-rounded experience, especially for those seeking to see Ireland’s highlights without the stress of organizing transport and tickets themselves.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This guided 6-day tour is ideal for first-time visitors or those who prefer a relaxed pace with all logistics handled. It suits travelers who value expert guides, scenic views, and comfortable group travel. The tour’s cultural stops, like Blarney Castle and the Waterford Crystal Factory, appeal to those interested in Ireland’s heritage and craftsmanship.

However, travelers who prefer total independence or customized schedules might find the fixed itinerary limiting. It’s also worth noting that some stops involve walking on uneven terrain or upstairs accommodations, which could be challenging for those with mobility concerns.

Final Thoughts on the 6-Day South of Ireland Tour

The 6-Day South of Ireland Tour from Dublin provides a rundown of Ireland’s most famous sights, all within a comfortable guided setting. The price includes entrance fees and transport, offering good value for those eager to explore without the hassle of driving.

While some reviews mention schedule changes and variable driver service, the expert guides and spectacular scenery consistently earn praise. This tour best suits history lovers, scenery enthusiasts, and culture seekers who enjoy learning from guides while relaxing in a group setting.

For travelers ready to see Ireland’s highlights in a structured, friendly atmosphere, this tour offers a reliable, enjoyable experience that covers the essential sights in southern Ireland.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of this tour?
The tour costs $1,042.35 per person.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for 6 days, with each day lasting approximately 8 hours.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Paddy’s Palace in Dublin at 9:00 am and returns to the same location.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, all entrance fees are included in the tour price.

What stops are featured on this tour?
Stops include Glendalough Monastic Settlement, Waterford Crystal Factory, Kilkenny, Blarney Castle, Cobh, Dingle, Slea Head Drive, Ring of Kerry, Cliffs of Moher, Galway, and Connemara.

Is accommodation included?
Yes, five nights of hotel accommodation are included, with options in Waterford, Dingle, Kerry, and Galway.

Can I customize my stay?
The tour offers a choice of accommodation options, but no customizations are specified.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is 56 travelers.

Are meals included?
Breakfast is optional; other meals, such as lunch and dinner, are not included unless specified.

Is the tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but those with mobility issues should be aware that some accommodations involve stairs without elevators.