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Ireland Road Trip

Dublin, Cork, Ring Of Kerry, Killarney, Dingle, Doolin, Belfast
Best-Time
May - October
Stops
7
Experience
Adventure, Beaches, City Life, Culture, Family, Nature
Length
14 Days
Type
Tailormade

Highlights

Embark on a journey to the Emerald Isle surrounded by landscapes that will take your breath away. This two-week road trip takes you to southern and westerly corners of Ireland with a quick stop in Belfast.

See ancient ruins, visit colourful towns, sip on Irish beer and drive through endless coastlines. Venture into traditional Irish towns as your drive along the Ring of Kerry and Dingle Peninsula before walking on the edge of the mighty Cliffs of Moher. Head to Belfast and explore the Northern Ireland countryside. Stand atop hexagonal rock columns in Giant’s Causeway and hold your breath as you cross the nerve-racking Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge suspended high above choppy Atlantic waters.

With so much to see and so much to do, a road trip in Ireland is perfect for a family holiday filled with adventure and exploration.

What will you cover?

Suggested Itinerary

DAY 1
DAY 2
DAY 3
DAY 4
DAY 5
DAY 6
DAY 7
DAY 8
DAY 9
DAY 10
DAY 11
DAY 12
DAY 13
DAY 14

Day 1 : Dublin Arrival

Arrive at Dublin airport and a private vehicle will take you to your hotel where you can check in. Later in the evening, proceed for a Traditional Irish Musical Pub Crawl.

Learn the history and stories behind traditional Irish music in a fun and informative way during this Pub Crawl, led by two professional musicians. Your guides, who are with you the entire tour, perform songs and instrumental Irish Jigs and Reels. This Dublin experience is more like a moving concert, than a drinking pub crawl. Along with a lot of audience participation, you’ll enjoy an interactive evening of Irish music and dancing.


Where to rest your head ?

Accommodation in Dublin

Day 2 : Dublin

After breakfast, enjoy early access to Trinity College Library and see the Book of Kells.

Book of Kells is widely considered among the most important of all Ireland’s ancient treasures. Listen as your guide brings medieval Ireland to life, shedding light on the Book of Kells’ profound historical significance. You will be led upstairs from the Book of Kells Treasury to the magnificent Long Room which houses 200,000 of the Library’s oldest books in its oak bookcases.

Afterward, enjoy a guided walking tour around Dublin Castle’s mighty exterior. Visit the gardens and yards, and learn of the castle’s role as court, fortress, treasury and jail.


Where to rest your head ?

Accommodation in Dublin

Day 3 : Dublin - Cork

Start your day early as you pick up your rental car and drive to Cork.

Your first stop will be to the world-famous Rock of Cashel in Co. Tipperary. One of Ireland's most evocative sites, you can stroll in the footsteps of St. Patrick flanked by ruins, Celtic crosses and round towers. It is one of the best examples of medieval architecture anywhere in Europe.

Located just down the hill from the Rock of Cashel, you will find Hore Abbey which is far less touristy. It’s another great place to explore ancient, castle-like ruins.

Continue your drive to Cork where you can check in at the accommodation.

Drive to the colourful town Cobh in the evening. Cobh is home to a Titanic Museum experience and is actually the last stop the Titanic made before crossing the Atlantic. Spend your time exploring the colourful neighbourhoods perched on a steep hill.


Where to rest your head ?

Accommodation in Cork

Day 4 : Cork

After breakfast, visit Blarney Castle

The famous Blarney Stone at Blarney Castle is officially called the Stone of Eloquence, with a legend that states if you kiss the stone, you will never be at a loss for words. People travel from all over the world to kiss this mystical stone, which can only be done by hanging upside down over a sheer drop from the castle's tower. In addition to the draw of the stone, the 600-year-old fortress also boasts an array of handsome gardens and several interesting rock formations known collectively as Rock Close and given whimsical names such as Wishing Steps and Witch's Cave. Take your turn to kiss the stone, but don't leave the castle without exploring the grounds.

Indulge in the tax-free shopping haven of the Blarney Wollen Mills, Ireland's biggest craft shop


Where to rest your head ?

Accommodation in Cork

Day 5 : Cork - Ring of Kerry

After breakfast, drive to one of the most famous road trip journeys of Ireland, the Ring of Kerry, a 110-mile (180-km) scenic circuit route of narrow roads winding around the Iveragh Peninsula. Pass through historic seaside villages, the rugged Atlantic coast, waterfalls, and a few Irish castles. Stop to admire the Kerry cliffs, a miniature version of the Cliffs of Moher. They are located in the middle of Skellig Ring which is a short circle drive that is at the end of the Ring of Kerry. From the Kerry Cliffs, you will also be able to see Skellig Islands where Star Wars was filmed. If you like, you can visit these islands.

Later, drive to your accommodation and check in.


Where to rest your head ?

Accommodation in Ring of Kerry

Day 6 : Ring of Kerry - Killarney

After breakfast, drive to Killarney. Check in at the accommodation and spend the day exploring Killarney.

Visit Muckross House & Killarney House

Muckross House, is set against the stunning beauty of Killarney National Park. The house stands close to the shores of Muckross Lake, one of Killarney's three lakes, famed worldwide for their splendour and beauty. You can spend some time walking around these stunning grounds for free. Just like Muckross House, Killarney House and Gardens is a treasure of the Killarney National Park. While away your time at the gardens as you sit on the benches and watch the world go by.


Where to rest your head ?

Accommodation in Killarney

Day 7 : Killarney

Today, take a break from driving and embark on a half-day tour of the Gap of Dunloe.

Visit Kate Keaney's Cottage, admire spectacular views of the McGillycuddy Reeks and the Purple Mountains as you hike or ride a pony trap (own expense) through the Gap, then cruise around the Lakes of Killarney to Ross Castle. The towering summits of the Reeks, the changing shadows on the Purple and Tomies mountains, the silence and solitude of the rugged glen – all combine to make an unforgettable impression.


Where to rest your head ?

Accommodation in Killarney

Day 8 : Killarney - Dingle

After breakfast, start your day’s journey to Dingle. Arrive in Dingle and check in at the accommodation.

Later, drive through Slea Head Drive & stop at Dunquin Pier.

The Slea Head Drive is a scenic loop drive that starts and ends in Dingle and forms part of the Wild Atlantic Way. It is also considered to be the most western point in Europe. The scenic view point offers visitors a look at the Blasket Islands and South Kerry. The drive passes through the village of Ventry which is on the coast and has a good beach for swimming and water sports. Dunquin Pier is the iconic postcard destination on the Dingle Peninsula. It is famous for its narrow winding pathway which snakes down to the sea. You may get to see sheep lining up in the narrow pathway as they make their way from the pier to the mainland. Make sure to catch the sunset at the Dunquin Pier.


Where to rest your head ?

Accommodation in Dingle

Day 9 : Dingle

Today, explore the town of Dingle & visit Coumeenoole Beach.

Packed with pubs and brightly painted shops, the compact and colourful Irish-speaking fishing town of Dingle is popular for good reason—it has a busy arts and music calendar, an artisan distillery, and a number of restaurants serving fresh seafood. Spend your time wandering around this town and getting to know the locals.

Later, fi weather permits, visit Coumeenoole Beach. Famous for its picturesque surroundings and stunning ocean views, this beach is set against a dramatic backdrop of sheer cliffs. Spend your time walking along the shore and dipping your feet in the shallow pools in the sand. 


Where to rest your head ?

Accommodation in Dingle

Day 10 : Dingle - Doolin

After breakfast, hit the road and make your way to the town of Doolin.

En route, visit the famous Cliffs of Moher.

Towering 702 feet (214 meters) above the Atlantic Ocean at their highest point and stretching for 8 km along the water, the world-famous Cliffs of Moher define the rugged west coast of Ireland. Once at the cliffs, you can wander a number of winding coastal trails and pathways, capture photos of the dramatic scenery, and walk out to peer over cliff edges at the waves below.

The onsite underground Visitor Centre features educational exhibits and a number of arts and crafts gift shops, while the viewing platform atop the historical O’Brien’s Tower provides stellar views stretching west to the Aran Islands, north to Galway, and out along the Atlantic Coast.

Once you finish admiring the beauty of the Cliffs, hear to the town of Doolin and check in at your accommodation. Spend the evening exploring the town and admiring the brightly painted fishermen’s cottages. The town’s biggest attraction is its trio of music pubs which is a perfect way to settle in for an evening of live music. 


Where to rest your head ?

Accommodation in Doolin

Day 11 : Doolin - Belfast

After breakfast, hit the road as your drive to Belfast. Arrive in Belfast and check in at the accommodation. Rest of the day is at leisure.

With engaging visitor attractions, lively nightlife, and some of the most magnificent scenery at its doorstep, Belfast is a perfect city to get a glimpse of Northern Ireland.


Where to rest your head ?

Accommodation in Belfast

Day 12 : Belfast

Today, visit Titanic Belfast, the world’s largest Titanic exhibition.

Delve into the fascinating history of the Titanic at Titanic Belfast on a self-guided tour of the magnificent museum. Explore the institution at your own pace in order to discover insightful exhibits detailing the construction, voyage and legacy of the infamous ship. Enjoy interactive displays; watch audio-visual presentations; and feel your adrenaline levels surge during an exhilarating Shipyard Ride.

Also visit the on-site Ocean Exploration Center as well as SS Nomadic with your Titanic Belfast ticket.


Where to rest your head ?

Accommodation in Belfast

Day 13 : Belfast

Today, drive on the Antrim Coast stopping at the various attractions along the way.

Make your first stop at The Dark Hedges, the picturesque tree tunnel, formed by the overhanging and intertwined branches of beech trees that line on either side. A

After clicking ample of photos, drive to Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge. Summon your courage to cross the nail-biting rope bridge that is suspended 100 feet (30 meters) above the crashing waves of the Atlantic Ocean.

Your next stop is at the Giant’s Causeway, famous for the formation of the mystifying natural wonder that consists of approximately 40,000 basalt hexagonal rock columns that fit together like a puzzle. Spend your time photographing this natural wonder.

Your next stop is the 15th century Dunluce Castle that is nestled high along the Antrim coastline offering dramatic views of the sea.

Head to Whiterock Beach that offers stunning views. Imagine wandering on the golden sand and splashing in turquoise waters with a background of white limestone cliffs. Picture perfect, right?

Catch the sunset at Mussenden Temple that is perched atop a 120 feet cliff overlooking a white sand beach and the Atlantic Ocean.

Journey back to Belfast satisfied at having seen the best of Northern Ireland.


Where to rest your head ?

Accommodation in Belfast

Day 14 : Belfast - Dublin Departure

After breakfast, transfer to Dublin airport and return your rental car before catching your flight back home.


Where to rest your head ?

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Inclusions

accommodation
Hotels & Apartments
meals
Daily Breakfast
sightseeing
Tours & Excursions
transfers
Private Airport Transfers
transport
Private Car
visa
Irish Visa
travel insurance
14 Days

Exclusions

flights
International Flights
meals
Food & Drinks

Starting from
111500 per person