2-Day Cork, Blarney Castle and Ring of Kerry Rail Trip from Dublin

Travel to Ireland’s stunning southwest over 2 days from Dublin with this rail-based tour that takes you through some of the country’s most beloved locations. Priced at $626.82 per person, this journey combines scenic train travel, expertly guided visits, and a comfortable overnight in the lively town of Killarney. Notable highlights include kissing the Blarney Stone at Blarney Castle and exploring the Ring of Kerry, with plenty of stops for photos, shopping, and meals.

While the trip offers rich experiences and a well-organized itinerary praised by many, it’s best suited for those who enjoy guided tours and scenic travel by train. The group size is limited to a maximum of 53 travelers, ensuring a personalized feel. The tour’s reviews average 4.2 out of 5, with high marks for knowledgeable guides, beautiful scenery, and good value — though some note the B&B accommodations can vary in comfort.

Key Points

• Two-day tour departing from Dublin Heuston Station at 7:00 am.
• Includes train and coach travel with reserved seats.
• Visits Blarney Castle to kiss the famous Blarney Stone and explore its gardens.
• Stops at Cobh Heritage Centre to learn about Irish emigration, the Titanic, and Queen Victoria’s visit.
• Explores the Ring of Kerry, passing through Glenbeigh, Waterville, and Sneem, with views of Carrantuohill, Ireland’s highest peak.
• Overnight stay in Killarney with full Irish breakfast included.
• Guided commentary from knowledgeable guides enhances each stop.
• The tour is highly booked, averaging 111 days in advance.

Discovering Blarney Castle and Its Gardens

The first major stop is Blarney Castle, built over 600 years ago by Cormac McCarthy. The castle’s gardens are renowned for their beauty, and the chance to kiss the Blarney Stone is a key highlight, as it’s believed to bestow eloquence on those who do. Visitors have ample time to explore the castle interior, shop in the village, and enjoy a lunch break here, which is recommended as the only substantial meal during the first day.

The admission ticket for Blarney Castle is included, and the timing allows for a relaxed visit without feeling rushed. The experience emphasizes the castle’s historic charm and the lushness of its surrounding gardens.

Exploring Cobh and Its Heritage

After Blarney, the tour heads to Cobh, a historic port town. Here, visitors see St. Colman’s Cathedral, perched above the town with impressive views. The Cobh Heritage Centre—housed in a restored Victorian railway station—offers insights into Irish emigration, Queen Victoria’s visit, and the final port of the Titanic.

The Queenstown Story exhibit chronicles Ireland’s past, including the Great Famine and waves of emigration, with Annie Moore’s statue marking her historic arrival. The center also highlights the Lusitania sinking and the Irish Navy, making this a meaningful stop for understanding Ireland’s maritime history.

The visit lasts 1 hour and 20 minutes, with the admission ticket included, giving visitors time to soak in the history and enjoy the seaside scenery.

The Scenic Beauty of the Ring of Kerry

Day 2 centers on Ireland’s most famous scenic drive, the Ring of Kerry. The route takes about 7 hours and includes multiple stops for photo opportunities, lunch, and refreshments. Travelers see Ireland’s highest mountain, Carrantuohill, standing at 1041 meters, and pass through picturesque villages like Glenbeigh, Waterville, and Sneem.

The tour circles the MacGillycuddy Reeks, running along the shores of Dingle Bay and Kenmare Bay. The landscape remains impressively unspoilt, with plenty of chances to photograph the lakes, mountains, and coastal views. The return journey passes Ladies View and the Lakes of Killarney, with a drive through Killarney’s Oakwoods and National Park.

Comfortable Overnight in Killarney

The tour includes overnight accommodation in the lively town of Killarney, where a full Irish breakfast awaits the next morning. Many reviews praise the quality of the B&B, with some describing it as more than just a typical bed and breakfast, often being a hotel with good views and comfortable rooms.

This overnight stop allows for some leisure time in Killarney, giving guests the chance to explore the town or relax before continuing the next day. The full Irish breakfast is appreciated as a hearty start to the day.

Guided Tours and Expert Commentary

A major strength of this trip is the guides’ knowledge and friendly demeanor. Guides lead the group through each site, providing context about Ireland’s history, culture, and geography. The driver also shares insights into local life and the scenery along the route.

Throughout the tour, stops for shopping, photographs, and meals help break up the day, maintaining a good rhythm. Some reviews highlight guides like Norman and John as particularly enthusiastic and informed, making the experience both entertaining and educational.

Logistics and Group Size

This tour operates with a maximum of 53 travelers, ensuring a manageable group size that facilitates interaction and easy movement. The meeting point is at Dublin Heuston Station, where the tour starts early at 7:00 am. The transport involves first-class rail and coach travel, with reserved seats on the train, enhancing comfort and convenience.

The inclusion of train travel offers a more relaxed way to enjoy the Irish countryside, providing scenic views en route. The trip is designed for those who value a structured itinerary with plenty of guided commentary and organized stops.

Accommodation and Meal Details

The tour covers overnight accommodation in Killarney, including a full Irish breakfast. The included breakfast is often praised for being fulfilling, providing energy for the day’s activities. Food and drinks beyond the breakfast are not included unless specified, so travelers should plan accordingly.

Reviews mention that some accommodations may vary in comfort, but overall, many find the quality of the B&Bs or hotels satisfactory for a short overnight.

Flexibility and Booking Considerations

Booking for this tour is popular, with most travelers reserving about 111 days in advance. Participants can cancel up to 6 days before for a full refund, making it a flexible option for planned trips. The tour allows stops for shopping and photo-taking along the route, adding to its relaxed pace.

While the itinerary may occasionally be altered due to operational reasons, the core attractions and stops are reliably included. The tour is suitable for most travelers, including children over 16 when accompanied by a guardian.

Final Thoughts on the 2-Day Cork, Blarney, and Ring of Kerry Rail Trip

This well-organized tour combines train travel, guided visits, and comfortable overnight stays to showcase Ireland’s scenic beauty and cultural landmarks. The highlights—Blarney Castle, Cobh Heritage Centre, and the Ring of Kerry—are presented with insightful commentary that enhances the experience.

The group size and professional guides make for a smooth, engaging journey, though some accommodations may differ in quality. The price reflects the comprehensive nature of the tour, with included meals, train tickets, and guided commentary.

This trip appeals most to those who enjoy guided sightseeing, scenic railway journeys, and exploring Ireland’s coastlines with a bit of structured comfort. Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, the beautiful scenery, and the organization that ensures a smooth experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of this tour?
The tour runs for 2 days, starting early in the morning and ending back at the original meeting point.

Where does the tour begin and end?
It departs from Dublin Heuston Station and returns there at the end of the second day.

What are the main stops during the tour?
Stops include Blarney Castle, Cobh Heritage Centre, and scenic points along the Ring of Kerry.

Are meals included in the price?
A full Irish breakfast is included for the overnight stay, but other meals are not included unless specified.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of train and coach travel, guided commentary, and the focused itinerary covering Ireland’s highlights make this a popular choice.

Can children participate?
Children over 16 can join when accompanied by a guardian, but independent bookings for minors are not accepted.

Is the tour suitable for travelers with mobility issues?
The tour features several stops with walking and some uneven surfaces, so travelers should consider their mobility level.

How many travelers typically join this tour?
The group size is limited to 53 people, promoting a comfortable and engaging experience.

What is the cancelation policy?
Full refunds are available if canceled at least 6 days in advance of the start date.

Who operates this tour?
The experience is provided by Railtours Ireland First Class, known for their scenic rail journeys in Ireland.

This 2-Day Cork, Blarney Castle, and Ring of Kerry Rail Trip offers a well-paced, scenic exploration of southwest Ireland, blending historical sites, coastal vistas, and authentic hospitality in a manageable package perfect for those seeking an organized introduction to this beautiful region.