Enjoy an unforgettable 7-day tour through the breathtaking landscapes and rich history of Ireland. Start your journey in the vibrant city of Dublin, where you’ll visit the iconic Trinity College and explore its historic library. From there, we’ll take you to the enchanting Malahide Castle, followed by a visit to the famous Blarney Castle, where you can kiss the Blarney Stone for the gift of eloquence. As we travel through the stunning Lakes of Killarney, you’ll have the chance to visit Ross Castle and immerse yourself in its fascinating history. The tour continues along the scenic Ring of Kerry, showcasing Ireland’s natural beauty, before a visit to the magnificent Muckross House. Your journey culminates with visits to the historic Bunratty Castle and the elegant Dromoland Castle, offering a glimpse into Ireland’s regal past.
Itinerary Highlights
Explore Historical homes and castles
Localised Private Tours
Stunning Lakes of Killarney
Visit UNESCO World Heritage sites
Kiss the Blarney Stone!
What’s included
Private tours for most included activities
Meet & greet airport service
Luxury or boutique accommodation at your chosen level
Expert guides in each destination
flexibility
This is an example itinerary. It is fully flexible; you can add or detract days and include hotels at your chosen budget. It departs daily.
06
Nights
Price Guide
$POA
Our quotes are bespoke for your customised trip. The prices displayed are indicative only, read more
Day 1
Fly to Dublin
Day 1
Arrive in Dublin
Upon arrival at Dublin airport, you are welcomed to Ireland by your driver and transferred to your hotel.
Day 2
Dublin – Malahide – Dublin
This morning meet your local guide and driver to embark on a city adventure. Visit the impressive Trinity College, Ireland’s oldest university. Here you witness the Book of Kells, a fabulous example of early Irish manuscript illumination that is on display in the Old Library. Continue exploring Dublin by visiting St. Patrick’s Cathedral, the largest church in Ireland. After lunch at leisure drive to the north of Dublin to Malahide Castle, one of the oldest and most historic castles in Ireland. From 1185 until 1975 it was the home of the Talbot family. This was a remarkable tenure by a single family and is one of the longest in Ireland. In 1169, at the time of the Anglo-Norman invasion, Malahide was under the control of Hammund Mac Turkill, the last Viking King of Dublin. The estate began in 1185, when Richard Talbot, a knight who accompanied England’s king, Henry II to Ireland in 1174, was granted the ‘lands and harbour of Malahide’. Strongbow was granted the remainder of Leinster. The oldest parts of the castle date back to the 12th century and it was home to the Talbot family for 790 years, the only exception being the period from 1649-1660, when Oliver Cromwell granted it to Miles Corbet. The building was notably enlarged in the reign of England’s king, Edward IV, and the towers were added in 1765.
Day 3
Dublin – Killarney
Check out of your hotel in Dublin this morning for a full-day journey to the south-western tip of Ireland. Drive into County Tipperary, where you visit the Rock of Cashel. The ruined cathedral and the round tower of the early archbishops of Munster perches dramatically on top of this outcrop, and you can learn about its history in the interpretative centre. You then drive through Cork City, continuing to nearby Blarney Castle for a visit. In the parapet of this ruined tower house lies the Blarney Stone, said to bestow the ‘gift of the gab’ on all who kiss it. (Please note: the ascent to the castle is not recommended for anybody who has difficulty climbing stairs). Continue along the Lee Valley and over the Derrynasaggart Mountains to your hotel in Killarney.
Day 4
Killarney
Embark on an adventure through The Gap of Dunloe. This is a beautiful glacial valley in the Macgillacuddy Reeks mountain range, which dominate the skyline of Killarney. The scenery all around the famous Lakes of Killarney is breath-taking and there are many viewing points around the lakes. On arrival at Kate Kearney’s Cottage you board your waiting jaunting cart (pony & trap) for a six-mile trip along the mountain pass between Macgillycuddy’s Reeks and Purple Mountain to Brandon Cottage. Enjoy lunch at leisure at Brandon’s Cottage before taking a boat down river and across the lake to Ross Castle, taking in the most glorious of all Killarney’s scenery. The Old Weir Bridge links Killarney’s Upper Lake, Lough Leane and Muckross Lake at a place called the Meeting of the Waters. The trip finishes at Ross Castle which dates from the fifteenth century and was the stronghold of the local chieftains, the O’Donoghues. It was the last castle to surrender to the Roundheads during the Cromwellian wars. Return to Ross Castle, from where your driver-guide transfers you back to your hotel.
Day 5
Killarney
Today you tour one of the best-loved coastal drives in Europe: the Ring of Kerry. The road follows the shoreline of the Iveragh Peninsula, passing some of the most beautiful mountain and moorland scenery in the whole of Ireland. En-route pass Derrynane House, the home of Daniel O’Connell, a nineteenth-century politician known as the ‘Great Liberator’ of Ireland. In the midst of Killarney National Park stands Muckross House, set in the shadow of Macgillycuddy’s Reeks, the highest mountains in Ireland. You can explore its lovely gardens and traditional farms, which recreate farming methods that were used back in the 1930s. Between April and July, the gardens are even more attractive, as they are beautifully embellished in red and pink flowers of Rhododendrons.
Day 6
Killarney – Newmarket-on-Fergus
Leaving your hotel this morning for a full-day journey into the Shannon region. En route stop to explore the charming village of Adare, a very picturesque village with thatched cottages, quaint coffee houses and antique shops. Continue to Bunratty Castle, the largest fifteenth-century tower house in Ireland. The castle contains some of the country’s greatest collections of medieval tapestries and furniture, capturing the mood of life back in the sixteenth century. Around the castle are a number of thatched cottages where you can smell, hear and feel what life was like back in those times. From here it is just a short drive to Dromoland Castle.
Day 7
Depart Dublin
A note on price
The prices outlined above are a rough guide to give you an idea of costs and enable you to budget for your trip.
Guide prices are generally for private arrangements based on twin share, in well located, good quality accommodation (excluding international flights).
Please note costs are indicative and may vary due to a number of factors such as; travel date, hotel choice, room category, number of people travelling and prevailing exchange rates.
Price Guide $POA
When to travel
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The weather in Ireland is generally mild and rainy throughout the year, with temperatures ranging from 5°C to 20°C. The best time to travel to Ireland is during the summer months of June to August when temperatures are warmer, and the days are longer. This is also the peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds and higher prices. If you prefer a quieter and more affordable trip, consider traveling during the shoulder seasons of April to May or September to October when the weather is still pleasant, and there are fewer crowds.
In Ireland, January is one of the coldest months of the year, with temperatures ranging from 2°C to 8°C. The weather during this time is typically wet and windy, with occasional snowfall in some parts of the country. If you plan on traveling to Ireland in January, be sure to pack warm clothing and waterproof gear to stay comfortable in the chilly and damp conditions. Despite the colder weather, January can still be a great time to visit if you're looking for a quieter and more peaceful experience without the high tourist crowds.
In February, Ireland's weather remains chilly and wet, with average temperatures ranging from 3°C to 8°C. Similar to January, the country experiences windy and rainy conditions, with occasional snowfall in some regions. If you're planning on traveling to Ireland in February, be sure to bring warm clothing and waterproof gear to stay comfortable and dry during your trip. While some tourist attractions may be closed during this time of year, it can still be a great time to visit if you're looking for a quieter and more budget-friendly trip.
March in Ireland marks the beginning of spring, and temperatures start to rise slightly, ranging from 4°C to 10°C on average. The weather remains wet and windy, with occasional bursts of sunshine. While the weather can be unpredictable during this time of year, it is still a beautiful time to visit Ireland, with the countryside awash in vibrant greens. If you're planning on traveling to Ireland in March, be sure to pack warm clothing and waterproof gear, as well as some lighter layers for the occasional sunny spells. March is also a great time to experience St. Patrick's Day celebrations, which take place on March 17th, in Dublin and other cities across the country.
April in Ireland sees an improvement in weather conditions, with temperatures ranging from 6°C to 12°C on average. While rain is still a possibility, it tends to be less frequent than in the winter months. April is a great time to visit Ireland if you're looking to experience the countryside at its best, with lush green fields and blooming flowers. If you're planning on traveling to Ireland in April, be sure to pack layers, as temperatures can still be chilly, especially in the evenings. April can also be a great time to attend the many cultural and music festivals that take place across the country.
May is a beautiful time to visit Ireland, with temperatures starting to warm up and ranging from 8°C to 15°C on average. The country experiences longer days and more sunshine during this time, with less rainfall than in the earlier months. May is a great time to explore the stunning countryside, with wildflowers in bloom and rolling green hills. If you're planning on traveling to Ireland in May, be sure to pack some warmer layers for the cooler evenings and some light clothing for the warmer days. May is also a great time to attend some of the many outdoor festivals and events that take place across the country.
June is one of the warmest months in Ireland, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 18°C on average. The country experiences longer days, with up to 17 hours of daylight in some regions, and less rainfall than in the earlier months. June is a great time to explore the stunning countryside, with lush greenery and blooming wildflowers, and to enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking and cycling. If you're planning on traveling to Ireland in June, be sure to pack some light clothing for the warmer days, as well as some warmer layers for the cooler evenings. June is also a great time to attend some of the many outdoor festivals and events that take place across the country, including the Bloom Festival, which celebrates gardening, food, and family fun.
July is one of the warmest months in Ireland, with temperatures ranging from 12°C to 20°C on average. The country experiences long days, with up to 18 hours of daylight in some regions, and less rainfall than in the earlier months. July is a great time to enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and water sports, and to explore the stunning countryside, with lush greenery and blooming wildflowers. If you're planning on traveling to Ireland in July, be sure to pack some light clothing for the warmer days, as well as some warmer layers for the cooler evenings. July is also a great time to attend some of the many outdoor festivals and events that take place across the country, including the Galway International Arts Festival and the Cork Jazz Festival.
August is one of the warmest months in Ireland, with temperatures ranging from 12°C to 19°C on average. The country experiences long days, with up to 16 hours of daylight in some regions, and less rainfall than in the earlier months. August is a great time to enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and water sports, and to explore the stunning countryside, with lush greenery and blooming wildflowers. If you're planning on traveling to Ireland in August, be sure to pack some light clothing for the warmer days, as well as some warmer layers for the cooler evenings. August is also a great time to attend some of the many outdoor festivals and events that take place across the country, including the Puck Fair in Killorglin and the Rose of Tralee Festival.
September marks the beginning of autumn in Ireland, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 16°C on average. The country experiences shorter days and more rainfall during this time, but it is still a great time to visit if you're looking for a quieter and more affordable trip. September is also a great time to explore the stunning countryside, with trees changing color and beautiful autumnal landscapes. If you're planning on traveling to Ireland in September, be sure to pack some warmer clothing for the cooler days and evenings, as well as some waterproof gear for the occasional rain showers. September is also a great time to attend some of the many cultural and music festivals that take place across the country, including the Dublin Fringe Festival and the Lisdoonvarna Matchmaking Festival.
October is a beautiful time to visit Ireland, with temperatures ranging from 8°C to 13°C on average. The country experiences shorter days and more rainfall during this time, but it is still a great time to explore the stunning autumnal landscapes and colorful countryside. If you're planning on traveling to Ireland in October, be sure to pack some warm layers for the cooler days and evenings, as well as some waterproof gear for the occasional rain showers. October is also a great time to attend some of the many cultural and music festivals that take place across the country, including the Cork Folk Festival and the Wexford Festival Opera.
November marks the beginning of winter in Ireland, with temperatures ranging from 5°C to 10°C on average. The country experiences shorter days, and more rainfall during this time, with occasional bouts of strong winds. November is a great time to explore the countryside, with the autumnal colors still present, and fewer tourists around. If you're planning on traveling to Ireland in November, be sure to pack warm clothing for the cooler temperatures and waterproof gear for the frequent rain showers. November is also a great time to attend some of the many cultural and music festivals that take place across the country, including the Guinness Cork Jazz Festival and the Waterford Winterval Festival.
December is one of the coldest months of the year in Ireland, with temperatures ranging from 3°C to 8°C on average. The country experiences short days, with up to 7 hours of daylight, and more rainfall during this time. December is a great time to experience the festive season in Ireland, with Christmas markets and holiday events taking place across the country. If you're planning on traveling to Ireland in December, be sure to pack warm clothing for the chilly temperatures and waterproof gear for the frequent rain showers. December is also a great time to attend some of the many Christmas concerts and festivals that take place across the country, including the Dublin Christmas Flea Market and the Galway Christmas Market.
Add on’s
After experiencing the charm of Ireland, consider extending your travels to the neighbouring United Kingdom. From the historic landmarks of England to the breathtaking landscapes of Scotland and the cultural richness of Wales, the UK offers a diverse array of experiences. Alternatively, you might venture to the continent and explore the picturesque countryside of France, the timeless beauty of Italy, or the vibrant cities of Spain.
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