Ireland Explorer – 9 Days

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Category: Ireland Small Group Tours

Duration: 09 days/08 nights
Destinations: Northern Ireland and Ireland South West Coast and Atlantic Coast
Starting and Ending Points: Dublin
Tour Size and Guests: Maximum of 16

Discover the Wonders of Ireland

Embark on an Ireland Explorer journey through the captivating landscapes and enchanting myths of the Emerald Isle.

It’s no wonder the Irish are known for their charm and conversational eloquence. Their homeland boasts a rich history steeped in lyrical legends, poetic panoramas, and rolling mountains that seem to go on forever.

With so much to see, do, and talk about, exploring Ireland can be overwhelming. But with our nine-day tour, you’ll have the opportunity to experience it all.

Marvel at the picturesque scenery that will leave you breathless and yearning for more. Savor the flavors of whiskey from an ancient distillery, and test your stamina as you traverse rugged mountain slopes and lush valleys.

You’ll uncover the tales of past conflicts and battles, witness the subtle majesty of ancient ruins, and hear the heartaches and legends of a land rich in history and culture.

Take on the challenge of learning “the gift of the gab” and join us on a lifetime journey through Ireland.

Tour Itinerary

Day 1: Dublin – BelfastThe Titanic Quarter – Giant’s Causeway

you’ll head north to Belfast, taking a short city tour covering the capital’s triumphs, tragedies, and soul. Spend some time exploring and having lunch in the Titanic Quarter, a regenerated hub where the famous liner was built and launched in 1911. Here you can visit the award-winning Titanic museum, board the HMS Caroline, or take a black cab tour of the city.

After exploring Belfast, you’ll travel through the phenomenal scenery of the Antrim Coast and Glens, an official Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Along the way, you’ll stop at Giant’s Causeway, a place where history and myth collide spectacularly with raw geological power. You’ll spend the night in Portrush, a charming fishing village.

Day 2: Derry – Donegal –

you’ll visit Derry, the fabulous 17th-century walled city that boasts 7 ornate gates. Here, you can explore its museums, galleries, and excellent markets. Afterwards, you’ll head to County Donegal, which boasts stunning scenery and a strong Gaelic heritage. You’ll travel through the picturesque Glenveagh National Park, past the soaring peak of Mount Errigal, and through traditional fishing villages before arriving at your overnight stop in Donegal.

Day 3:Carrowmore – County Mayo -Atlantic coast

you’ll visit Carrowmore, where you’ll have the chance to visit the largest collection of megalithic tombs in Ireland, some of which date back over 6000 years. You’ll then move westward to County Mayo, an area ravaged by the Great Potato Famine, and visit the dramatic Achill Island, where you can savour the rugged sea and peaceful beauty. From there, it is a short drive to Westport – your base for the next two nights.

Day 4: Connemara National Park – Kylemore Abbey

you’ll explore Westport and the Connemara National Park, where you’ll have a choice of activities, including the beautiful house and grounds at Kylemore Abbey, the Sky Road, and the Twelve Bens of Connemara.

Day 5: Cong Abbey- Galway City-Dublin

you’ll travel through the heart of Connemara to the town of Cong, where you can wander the local museum devoted to “The Quiet Man” or visit the magnificently restored 12th-century Cong Abbey. Afterward, your route weaves through the Maam Valley before you head to Galway City, a vibrant harbour city that combines traditional market life with high-quality restaurants and pubs.

The afternoon and evening are free to explore this lively university city. You will be collected from your accommodation the following morning by your new tour guide.

Day 6: Burren – Kilfenora – Cliffs of Moher – County Clare

The Burren, one of Ireland’s most precious natural wonders, is a short drive along the coast from Galway City. The area is home to one of the earliest Christian settlements in Ireland, as well as extensive limestone pavements and rare flora.

After exploring the area, you head to Kilfenora, known as the “town of the crosses”. You can visit the town’s impressive ancient cathedral before stopping for lunch in one of the picturesque villages nearby.

Next, you visit the awe-inspiring Cliffs of Moher. Take a stroll along the magnificent cliff trails while seabirds soar through the clear air above you. You can also learn about the unique ecosystem in the excellent and award-winning environmental exhibition nearby.

Continuing south through County Clare, you pass by its renowned golf course on the way to the picturesque beach at Lahinch. From there, you take a ferry across the Shannon Estuary to the lakeside town of Killarney, your base for the next three nights. Take your time exploring the vibrant area and enjoying its superb collection of traditional pubs and live music.

Day 7: Dingle Peninsula – Slea Head – Inch Beach

On day three, you embark on a tour of the stunning Dingle Peninsula. Your first stop is Inch Beach, a vast expanse of sand stretching out into the Atlantic. As you venture down the narrow roads away from the beach, you pass through the charming town of Dingle.

You continue towards Slea Head, an area brimming with ancient forts and prehistoric dwellings. The spectacular views of the nearby Blasket Islands make this an excellent spot for panoramic photos. If the weather is pleasant, you can take a leisurely walk along the beaches and cliff tops to appreciate the incredible vistas fully.

Arriving back amidst the brightly coloured houses and jolly harbour of Dingle, you can spend the rest of the afternoon enjoying delicious seafood in this idyllic setting. In the evening, take a stroll in the National Park surrounding the town.

Day 8: Carrauntoohil – Derrynane House

Today’s adventure takes you on a breathtaking journey through the Ring of Kerry, showcasing some of Ireland’s most visually stunning areas. The journey begins in the morning, where you’ll make your first stop at Ireland’s highest mountain, Carrauntoohil. With its rugged majesty, you’ll want to capture some photos before joining the scenic coast road through Glenbeigh and Kells on the way to Cahersiveen. Along the way, various stops exist, including the birthplace of “The Liberator of Ireland,” Daniel O’Connell, and an impressive ring fort outside Portmagee.

For lunch, you’ll visit the quaint fishing village of Portmagee, or you can head to the island of Valentia to visit the Skellig Experience. This excursion teaches you about the ancient community of monks who made the outcrop of rocky islands their home. In the afternoon, enjoy a photo stop in Waterville, which Charlie Chaplin once called his “home away from home” before taking in the magnificent views at the top of Coonmakista Pass.

As you wind down from the peaks, you’ll head to Derrynane House, home of the O’Connell family, where you’ll learn about the strong bond Daniel O’Connell, “The Liberator of Ireland,” had with this place. Explore the scenic gardens, walk along the beach, and tour the main house.

Continuing along the Ring, stop at Moll’s Gap and the Lady’s View. Take a short stroll to the Torc Waterfall before heading back to Killarney. (Note: On some tours, days seven and eight are switched).

Day 9: Blarney Castle – Kilkenny Castle – Dublin

On day five, head east through the mountains of West Cork, weaving along the Lee Valley until you reach Blarney Castle. You’ll have ample time here to take in the castle grounds, and there may even be a chance to kiss the famous Blarney Stone and receive the “gift of the gab”! In the afternoon, the tour heads to the heritage town of Cahir, where a distinctive island castle is situated in the River Suir.

The tour’s final stop is Kilkenny, a bustling city with a fine castle, a thousand-year-old round tower, and an impressive National Craft Centre. Take advantage of the opportunity to have one last Guinness before heading back on the road for the last leg of the journey. You’ll arrive back in Dublin in the evening.

NOTE: The itinerary’s estimated duration and travel distance are based on each day’s starting and ending points for direct routes. These estimates do not include possible detours or sightseeing stops. Actual journey times may vary due to traffic, road conditions, or unforeseen circumstances. Additionally, if our chosen hotels are fully booked, we will book another hotel with the same star rating and facilities. We are also unable to customise the tour itinerary.

Tour Inclusions

Highlights of Ireland Explorer Tour:

Explore historic Belfast with an insightful city tour
Learn about the tragic history of the world’s most famous maritime disaster in the museums and attractions of the Titanic Quarter
Wander the glens and coast at Antrim, an area of outstanding natural beauty overlooking the superb Scottish coast
Walk where giants fought and changed the earth at the unique and stunning Giant’s Causeway
Marvel at the 17th-century walled city of Derry, with its famous 7 gates and bustling markets
Immerse yourself in the ancient Gaelic culture of Donegal as you pass through its rugged mountains
Experience the haunting beauty of the remote Glenveagh National Park
Wander amongst the ancient standing stones of Carrowmore
Explore the bogs and misty moors of County Mayo
Gaze in awe at the magnificent sea cliffs of Achill Island
Explore the Connemara National Park’s verdant marshes and incredible historical sites
Stroll through the superb grounds at Kylemore Abbey
Roam Clifden, site of the first transatlantic flight landing and home to a delightful castle
Be enchanted by the seemingly infinite blend of earth and sky at sunset on the Sky Road
Prepare to be stunned by the legendary Twelve Bens, Connemara’s famous jagged mountain range.
Gaze into the past at the iconic 7th-century ruins of Cong Abbey
Walk the iconic locations of “The Quiet Man” on the scenic shores of Lough Corrib
Enjoy the culture, sea views, and historic streets of Galway City
Roam the Burren, home to some of Ireland’s most profound spiritual and natural experiences
Marvel at the steep Cliffs of Moher and the stunning 700ft drop into the waves of the Atlantic Ocean
Relax with traditional Irish music in the atmospheric pubs and bars of Killarney
Traverse the Dingle Peninsula, famous for its scenery and Gaelic culture
Wander ancient forts and religious sites of the past at Slea Head
Stroll the beautiful length of Inch Beach on your way to Dingle
Tour the world renowned Ring of Kerry, hailed globally for its incredible scenery and cultural heritage
Kiss the famed Blarney Stone within the walls of the medieval stronghold of Blarney Castle
Explore Kilkenny Castle and its impressive craft centres