Southern Ireland Discovery Tour- 7 Days

Tour Itinerary

Day 1: Dublin – Kilbeggan Distillery – Clonmacnoise-Galway City
Start your adventure by visiting the oldest licensed distillery in the world, Kilbeggan Distillery, and indulge in a glass or two of their famous whiskey. Afterwards, head to Clonmacnoise, an ancient ruined abbey on the banks of the River Shannon, with a collection of stone crosses, churches, and round towers, which provides insight into Ireland’s spiritual past. You can have lunch in a traditional pub in one of the nearby villages before making your way to Galway City, where you’ll spend the night. This vibrant city is known for its lively atmosphere, excellent restaurants, and bars.

Day 2: Burren – Kilfenora – Cliffs of Moher – Killarney
Today, drive along the coast to The Burren, one of Ireland’s national treasures, with broad limestone pavements and rare flora. You can explore one of the earliest Christian settlements in Ireland before heading to Kilfenora, known as the “town of the crosses,” where you can visit the fabulous ancient cathedral. Afterwards, continue to the Cliffs of Moher, an incredible natural wonder with stunning cliff trails and an award-winning environmental exhibition nearby. You’ll then travel south through County Clare and take a ferry across the Shannon Estuary to the picturesque town of Killarney, where you’ll spend the next three nights.

Day 3: Dingle Peninsula – Slea Head
Today, you’ll explore the Dingle Peninsula, famous for its scenic beauty and Gaelic culture. Start by visiting Inch Beach, a vast expanse of sand leading to the town of Dingle. Next, head to Slea Head, an area rich in ancient forts and prehistoric dwellings, with impressive views of the Blasket Islands. Spend the rest of the afternoon in Dingle, enjoying delicious seafood, colourful houses, and the charming harbour. In the evening, return to Killarney, where you can stroll through the National Park.

Day 4: Waterville – Glenbeigh and Kells
On this day, tour the world-renowned Ring of Kerry, known for its incredible scenery and cultural heritage. You’ll start by visiting Ireland’s highest mountain, Carrauntoohil, before taking the scenic coastal road through Glenbeigh and Kells. Possible stops include Daniel O’Connell’s birthplace and an impressive ring fort outside Portmagee. After lunch in the fishing village of Portmagee, you can visit the Skellig Experience on the island of Valentia, learning about the ancient monks who once lived there. In the afternoon, take a photo stop in Waterville before enjoying fine views at the top of Coonmakista Pass. You’ll then visit Derrynane House, home of the O’Driscoll family, before stopping at Moll’s Gap and the Ladies View. Before returning to Killarney, take a short stroll to the Torc Waterfall. (Note: on some tours, days three and four may be switched).

Day 5: Blarney Castle and Jameson Whiskey Distillery
Your fifth day in Ireland begins with a visit to the medieval stronghold of Blarney Castle. Located in West Cork, the castle is famous for its Blarney Stone, which is said to give those who kiss it the “gift of the gab” or the ability to speak eloquently. You’ll have time to explore the castle grounds and kiss the stone.

Next, you’ll head to the Jameson Whiskey Distillery to learn about the history and process of making this beloved Irish drink. You’ll also get to taste some of the whiskey for yourself.

In the afternoon, you’ll travel along the scenic coastline south of Cork to the charming fishing village of Kinsale. Known as the “gourmet capital of Ireland,” Kinsale boasts various local restaurants and lively pubs. You’ll have the evening to explore the narrow streets and brightly coloured houses around your accommodation.

Day 6: Cobh, Copper Coast, and Waterford
After breakfast, you’ll leave Kinsale and head to the historic port town of Cobh. This was the central departure point for Irish emigrants in the 19th and 20th centuries and was also the last port of call for the Titanic on its fateful maiden voyage. You’ll learn about the town’s fascinating history before continuing your journey east along the Copper Coast, a UNESCO Geopark renowned for its beauty and intriguing narratives.

Your next stop is Waterford, Ireland’s oldest city, founded by Vikings in the 9th century. You can explore the Waterford Crystal Factory, famous for its exquisite craftsmanship, or wander through the Viking Triangle on foot. In the late afternoon, you’ll travel north to the vibrant city of Kilkenny, where you’ll spend the night. Kilkenny has an impressive castle, parklands, and a thriving pub and restaurant culture.

Day 7: Kilkenny Castle, Wicklow Mountains, and Glendalough
On your final day in Ireland, you’ll have free time to explore Kilkenny Castle and its impressive craft centres. Afterwards, you’ll travel north into the Wicklow Mountains, known as the “Garden of Ireland.” The National Park features steep granite mountains, captivating green paths, and famous valleys carved by ancient glaciers. You’ll follow winding paths that lead to Glendalough, a site of an awe-inspiring 6th-century monastery at the heart of the park’s woodland trails. This is an ideal opportunity for photography, from the verdant natural setting to the much-admired round tower of the monastery.

After visiting Glendalough, you’ll continue through the National Park centre to cross the famous Sally Gap before descending the short distance back to Dublin, where your tour concludes.

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.