5 day bus tours of ireland

Deals of the Week   European Long Weekends   Up to 50% OFF

Coach / Bus Tours in Ireland 2024/2025

Take in the picturesque landscapes and remarkable sights on a guided Coach / Bus adventure of Ireland. There are 106 vacation packages to choose from, that range in length from 3 days up to 15 days. The most popular month for these tours is August.

106 Coach / Bus trips around Ireland with 5,814 reviews

• In-depth Cultural
• Coach / Bus
• Sightseeing

Best of Ireland (10 Days)

It was fantastic! Our Travel Manager, James Creegan was excellent. He kept us ontrack the whole tour. Love his accent. Its obvious he is from Dublin. His knowlege of places, history, people, music was outstanding. He took us to a couple places off the beaten which I appreciated very much. We met some nice locals which made the experience even better. I would love to go on another of his tours again! Kris was a great tour bus driver. He made it into places I didn't think possible. He got us to our destinations safely. He and James, are very nice guys. I would go anywhere with James and Kris. I have dreamed about coming to Ireland all my life. This tour met and exceeded my expectations.

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Irish Highlights (Summer, 7 Days)

Our Tour Director Maeve was incredibly knowledgeable and gave the best free time suggestions. Couldn’t imagine having a better time.

The Celtic Voyage - Multi-Day - Small Group Tour of Ireland

The Celtic Tour by Wild N Happy went way beyond my expectations! It was a complete delight to be enlightened by such knowledgeable, native guides of Gaelic Irish culture who authentically could share the stories of the historical unfolding of Irish history. I would only trust driving to the tour guide along those narrow and windy roads to awesome ancient historical landmarks along the amazing western coastline. Our guide knew the best spots to go to, depending on what your desire was to explore in the quaint villages and gave us plenty of time to assimilate. The Tour provided diversity, a well thought-out mix of outdoor and indoor activities, lots of surprising stops along the way, and everyone seemed fulfilled and reluctant to end this highly recommended Celtic adventure!

Wild South - Multi-Day - Small Group Tour of Ireland

Perfect size small group tour to allowed some small deviations due to weather and group vote that highlighted the most picturesque, historical, and thrilling sights of Southwest Ireland. Diarmuid and Michael proved worthy guides who are proud, passionate and knowledgeable about their homeland. My daughters and I truly enjoyed some of the recommended extra excursions (Gaelic Roots show with premium seating, Skellig Islands boat tour, and kayaking) along the way. Bring your rain gear and see Ireland without worrying about driving (these country roads are narrow). Absolutely amazing. Accommodations and breakfasts were nice, though room temp is generally out of your control in Ireland. Our favorites were Mizen Head, the Dingle Peninsula, and Killarney National Park. Will stick with us for life!

Kerry Royal

Adrian was a great driver, I felt he did a wonderful job navigating the treacherous roads. Gordon, our team guide, was a good sport and tried his best to keep us all on schedule. He was knowledgeable, interesting and entertaining. I am not sure that he liked the driver though. There seemed to be some tension between them. I thought the Dingle peninsula area was spectacular. I loved the sheep dog demo, the farm visits and nature visits throughout. The hotels were all comfortable and clean. The breakfasts were plentiful. The entertainment options were lovely.

Great Tour of Ireland ( 7 days )

Introduction to Ireland

Fantastic trip enjoyed by my whole family! Mary and Tony were the perfect tour guide and professional driver. They made the trip more enjoyable as they shared their experience and knowledge with us.

Emerald Isle

Our guide Angels was awesome as well as our driver George. They both went out of their way to make us feel welcome and comfortable The tour was great I felt like we saw so much of Ireland and it’s different landscspes

Focus on Ireland (Classic, 7 Days)

I have been on many tours and Greg is one of the best tour guides that I have ever had. He has a love and passion for his job and he made everyone on the tour share his feelings for the places we went in Ireland. I was amazed at how much he knew from memory about Ireland and its history. He made this vacation very special.

3-Day Blarney Castle, Kilkenny & Irish Whiskey Small-Group Tour from Dublin

Loved it!! Our tour guide Tony was so nice.I wanted a small group....and there were only 6 of us on the tour which was great! We loved the Irish people and saw some beautiful castles and scenery. I would definately recommend TourRadar and would do another in Ireland. :)

Best of the West

Our guide was very knowledgeable and we had a very good schedule. Would have liked the maps and info PRIOR to the tour taking off. Maybe some local music to support the bus rides. More info on where our stops were and what there was there (if they only take euros or if they take cards etc)

3-Day West Coast Explorer Small-Group Tour from Dublin

Great sites. Very friendly driver. Great bus.

Land of Saints & Scholars (Hotel) - 7 days

• Christmas & New Year

South West Ireland Uncovered (Hotel) - 5 days

Went well wished there was more time to do events or some excursions included for price but overall fun and enjoyed it.

Irish Elegance (Small Groups, 8 Days)

Traveling with Greg was an unexpected delight! I had imagined a guide who would point things out and give some history or information. What I didn’t expect was a funny and vibrant young man who was willing to go the extra mile at any and every opportunity. From spurring us on to sing “Here Cones the Sun” every single morning as we drove off (and in our case in Ireland it actually worked!) to walking the full length of the bus to ask each of us if we had questions or thoughts, several times a day, to providing us with what he called “little flourishes”—a refreshing mint after we had been walking, or a sample of Butler’s chocolate or tastes of different local beverages— all of it thoughtful and enriching to the trip. His love of music kept us energized as he played songs in the bus to match different locales. He took requests! He gauged the overall feel of the group regularly, getting us off on the road earlier on some days, making sure we had some moments of relaxation to revive before the next stop, or adding in extra things along the way if he heard different members chatting about something. He was quite willing to take hold of someone’s cell phone and capture photos of them at key points. He was consistently upbeat even in some tough moments, like having to chase after a couple who were waylaid for 4 days from catching the tour through no fault of their own and who were terribly sad about it. Greg made sure to save as many events for them as he could and to enfold them into the group so they felt welcomed and supported as soon as they finally caught up with us. I feel that Greg was a fabulous person to travel with and cannot recommend him highly enough.

Ireland Coach / Bus Tour Reviews

This was my first time in Ireland. I absolutely loved everything about this trip. Tour guide and bus driver were amazing. Totally worth every penny. Would go back in a heartbeat

The entire trip was wonderful, very well organized, and satisfying. Peter Flood was an excellent tour guide. He was as knowledgeable as could be, funny, and helpful; and really seems to love what he does.

The tour went as planned. The guide was excellent. Recommendations would be to extend the time to 8 or 9 days to maximize two days in Lahinch and Galway to experience more of the culture and scenery. One night in each of the cities does not allow for to that experience.

Regions in Ireland

• Ireland Wild Atlantic Way (56)
• Southern Ireland (49)
• Munster (19)

Travel Styles

• 10 Best Coach & Bus Companies (with Reviews)
• Ireland Travel Guide | All You Need to Know
• Best 7 Day Ireland Itineraries 2024/2025 (with Reviews)
• Best 10 Day Ireland Itineraries 2024/2025 (with Reviews)

5 Day Private Tour of Ireland Itinerary

Free cancellation.

Up to 14 days before

Private Group Tours

Bespoke Complimentary Itinerary

15+ Years Experience

Certified Driver-Guides

Home » Itineraries » 5 Day

5 Day Irish Tour Itinerary Summary

This 5-day Irish driver-guided tour itinerary has been designed for you to enjoy must-see sights and locations in Ireland to provide you with a great taste of what makes this little island of ours so unique and special.

This itinerary is merely a guideline, however, and should you wish to alter it in any way, or even if you have completely different locations in mind for your Irish vacation, simply request your tour quote today and we can create a completely custom itinerary to suit your needs.

• Kilkenny Castle Tour
• Killarney Day Tour
• Killarney National Park

Cliffs of Moher

• Dublin Day Tours
• Risk-free booking guarantee: Full refunds up to 7 days before the start date
• Certified driver-guides with 15+ years of experience, passionate about sharing their love of Ireland
• Discover the historic legends, stunning natural beauty, and fascinating tales woven into Irish culture with your private guide
• Exclusive experiences that others without our local insight will not provide
• Travel in style in our luxury air-conditioned Mercedes vehicles
• Fully customizable bespoke and complimentary itinerary for your vacation

Day 1: Dublin Airport Collection & Kilkenny Tour

This 5 Day Tour of Ireland starts in the capital city of Dublin as your driver-guide collects your group from the airport and whisks them off for a magical tour of Ireland. 

We waste no time in starting the tour, heading straight to the medieval heart of Ireland, Kilkenny, to visit:

Kilkenny Castle

Built in 1195, the castle was featured in Oliver Cromwell’s re-conquest of Ireland in 1650 and was besieged during the Irish Civil War in 1922.

St. Mary’s Medieval Mile Museum brings to life Kilkenny’s history as a medieval city. Displays of Kilkenny’s civic treasures and replicas of some of the High Crosses of Ossory illustrate the local Gaelic monastic heritage and the ancient city’s historic role in Ireland.

Kilkenny City Tour

A city in the ‘Sunny South East’ of Ireland and the country’s medieval capital, Kilkenny offers the traveler a mixture of rich cultural heritage, beautiful streetscapes, exciting vibrant nightlife, and great shopping opportunities. The River Nore flows through the city, splitting it in two, with most sights of interest on the western side of the river. Kilkenny is the county town or main center of County Kilkenny. With a population of 26,000, it’s the size of a large town but retains the official status of a city, a status granted it by King James I of England in 1609.

Once you’ve had a quick tour of the city, we’ll head to your accommodation for the evening in Kilkenny.

Day 2: Killarney Day Tour

Your driver-guide will collect you & you will make your way to the infamously beautiful Killarney, first stopping at: 

Muckross House

This nineteenth-century Victorian mansion bearing all the necessary furnishings and artifacts of the period is set against the outstanding beauty of Killarney National Park. As a focal point within Killarney National Park, Muckross House is the ideal base from which to explore this landscape.

Torc Waterfall

You will visit the famous Torc Waterfall which is located close to the entrance to Muckross House. From the viewing point, you will have a view over the Middle Lake as well as the falls themselves. 

You will marvel at the falls that are a 20-meter high, 110-meter-long cascade waterfall formed by the Owengarriff River as it drains from the Devil’s Punchbowl corrie lake at Mangerton Mountain and sits at the base of Torc Mountain.

Killarney National Park Drive

Killarney National Park, the very first national park to be established in Ireland in 1932, is a very popular tourist attraction, for its diverse nature and amazing scenery. The park is of high ecological value because of the quality, diversity, and extensiveness of many of its habitats and the wide variety of species that they accommodate, some of which are rare. The park was designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 1981.

The park contains an expanse of rugged mountainous country. This includes the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks, the highest mountain range in Ireland. 

Your driver-guide will return you to your Killarney hotel for the evening where you can simply take a stroll through the quaint streets of Killarney.

Day 3: Cliffs of Moher & The Burren Private Tour

This morning after breakfast your driver-guide will collect you from your hotel and drive you north towards the Limerick Clare border to your first stop:

Bunratty Castle & Folk Park

Here you will visit the acclaimed 15th century Castle, the most complete and authentic castle in Ireland. The site on which Bunratty Castle stands was in origin a Viking trading camp in 970. The present structure is the last of four castles to be built on the site. You will take a tour of this iconic fortress; hear and see how the lords and ladies of this castle lived; hear stories of battles and bravery and enjoy stunning views across the idyllic Clare countryside.

The Folk Park, set on 26 acres of unspoiled Clare countryside, is a treat for persons young, old, and in-between, and features over 30 buildings in a ‘living’ village in a rural setting. Farmhouses, village shops, and streets are recreated and furnished as they would have been at “that time” according to their social standing, from the poorest one-roomed dwelling to Bunratty House a fine example of a Georgian residence that was home to the Studdarts, the last family to occupy the Castle.

Neither words nor pictures can fully capture the power and grace of the Cliffs.

Rising over 200 meters high and spanning 8 kilometers along the wild Atlantic coast, the Cliffs provide stunning views of the Aran Islands with the ocean crashing below. Your driver-guide will be able to inform you of all the folklore and myths that surround this incredible testament to the beauty of nature.

It is not just the setting of the cliffs of Moher that will blow you away, fans of wildlife and bird watching will want to spend hours here appreciating the Puffins, razorbills, Kittiwakes, and occasional peregrine Falcons that call the area home.

Next on your tour is  The Burren , a region famous internationally for its landscape and flora. Most of the Burren is designated a Special Area of Conservation to protect this extremely unusual habitat of Limestone Pavement, Calcareous Grassland, Hazel scrub, Ash/Hazel Woodland, Turloughs, Lakes, Petrifying Springs, Cliffs, and Fen.

The word “Burren” comes from the Irish word “Boíreann” meaning a rocky place. An invading Army Officer once said, “here there is not water enough to drown a man, wood enough to hang one, nor earth enough to bury one”. 

Once you’ve explored The Burren with your guide, we’ll head up the coast to Galway and to your accommodation for the evening.

Day 4: Transfer to Dublin & Half Day Tour

This morning, your driver-guide will collect you from your hotel & will take you to Dublin where you will visit some of the city’s best sites throughout the next two days.

Today, we’ll spend the afternoon visiting: 

Dublin Castle

The castle is one of the most important buildings in Irish history. From 1204 until 1922 it was the seat of British rule in Ireland serving as a residence for the British monarch’s representative, the Viceroy of Ireland. After a fire in 1684, it was rebuilt with grand reception rooms known as the State Apartments which were the focus of great state occasions. In the early nineteenth century, the Castle was enhanced by the addition of the Chapel Royal. This magnificent Gothic Revival structure, bristling with pinnacles on the outside and rich with ornamental features within, is one of the architectural highlights of Georgian Dublin today.

Kilmainham Gaol

Kilmainham Gaol, built in 1796 and located in the heart of Dublin City in Ireland, served as a prison in former times where many Irish revolutionaries were imprisoned and executed by the British. Today it houses a museum on the history of Irish nationalism and offers guided tours of the building. An art gallery on the top floor exhibits paintings, sculptures, and jewelry of prisoners incarcerated in prisons all over the country.

Kilmainham Gaol, one of the biggest gaols – or ‘jails’ – in Europe and sometimes referred to as the ‘Irish Bastille’, is among the most popular tourist attractions in Dublin, attracting thousands of visitors every year.

Guinness Storehouse

Your next visit is the world-famous Guinness Storehouse where you can experience the history, heart, and soul of Ireland’s most iconic beer by exploring the past, present, and future of St. James’s Gate. The Guinness Storehouse building was once the fermentation plant of the brewery but now you can make your way through the space, exploring the ingredients, history, and culture that tell the Guinness story. Your visit will culminate in the Gravity Bar, where you can enjoy a taste of the Black Stuff, some food tasting, and receive a Guinness branded gift. 

Finally, on your last evening in Ireland on this tour, visit the Temple Bar District to see firsthand why the Irish are so famous for their drinking culture by exploring the wonderful selection of traditional bars that fill the street with the sound of laughter and traditional Irish music.

Finally, after a long day of touring, we’ll settle into your accommodation in Dublin for the evening.

Day 5: Dublin Day Tour & Airport Drop-off

And alas, we reach the final day of your tour in Ireland! We’ll round off the trip with some visits to some more of Dublin’s best sites before your flight (depending on flight/departure times):

EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum

Take part in this incredible interactive journey to learn about how this small island and its people have made such an impact across the world.

General Post Office

Where the Proclamation was read on Easter Sunday, 1916, for the first time ever.

Irish Whiskey Museum

Taste the true spirit of the Island and learn a complete and unbiased history of Irish whiskey from experts!

Trinity College Dublin

The oldest university in Ireland and the host of the hallowed ‘Book of Kells’ which dates back to 384AD!

Call +44 287 051 4460

Free for US, Canada & UK

Create your perfect custom tour of Ireland

If you’d like us to book your accommodation or have any special requests, let us know in the comments.

Talk To Our Team +44 287 051 4460

Let us know your questions!

other popular Tour Itineraries in Ireland

3 day tour of ireland.

Only got three days to spend in Ireland and want to see some of our most incredible...

14 Day Tour of Ireland

Our 14 day itinerary, designed by local tour planning specialists, is the finest way to explore Ireland...

28 Day Tour of Ireland

Over the course of a month, this exclusive driver-guided tour traverses both Northern Ireland and the Republic,...

7 Day Tour of Ireland

Experience the best of what Ireland has to offer in our seven-day driver-guided tour. Your local driver guide...

16 Day Tour of Ireland

The ultimate adventure through the heart of Ireland! Our 16-day itinerary allows you to discover the best...

18 Day Ireland & UK Tour

From London to the Cliffs of Moher, from Stirling Castle to vibrant Belfast, this 18-day tour covers...

Ultimate 25 Day UK & Ireland Tour

Welcome to the ultimate 25-day driver-guided tour of the United Kingdom & Ireland, an extraordinary journey through...

10 Day Ireland & Scotland Tour

Our enchanting 10-day Best of Ireland & Scotland driver-guided tour lets you explore the magical landscapes &...

10 Day Tour of Ireland

Our 10-day driver-guided Wild Atlantic Way itinerary has been designed to deliver the best of this iconic...

21 Tour of Ireland

Have a taste of everything that makes Ireland so special on our grand 21-day driver-guided tour itinerary....

2 Week Tour of Scotland & Ireland

Explore Celtic heritage & culture on our 2-week driver-guided private tour of Scotland & Ireland with your...

9 Day Tour of Ireland

Our 9 day North of Ireland private tour itinerary has been designed to highlight the ways in...

8 Day Tour of Ireland

This guided tour combines some of the very best highlights of the renowned Wild Atlantic Way, with...

Search For More Prestige Experiences

Popular Searches: Wild Atlantic Way , 10 Days in Ireland , UK Tours , Scotland Tours …

Discover Ireland Your Way

• Complimentary Tailored Itinerary
• Private Luxury Vehicle
• Personal Driver-Guide
• Free Cancellation & Rescheduling

Contact Prestige

Ireland Itineraries

Private Tours

Other Destinations

Useful Links

Prestige Tours Ireland LTD, 138 Hawthorn Glen, Hannahstown, Belfast, Northern Ireland. BT17 0NU | Partnered with DABA

Tour Itineraries

Useful links

Get A Free Custom Tour Itinerary From Our Planners Here!

• Privacy Overview
• Strictly Necessary Cookies
• 3rd Party Cookies
• Cookie Policy

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.

Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings.

This website uses Google Analytics to collect anonymous information such as the number of visitors to the site, and the most popular pages.

Keeping this cookie enabled helps us to improve our website.

Please enable Strictly Necessary Cookies first so that we can save your preferences!

More information about our Cookie Policy

USA/Canada Toll Free: 1-888-508-6639 USA/Canada Toll Free / Landline: (046) 9437555

ALL OUR TOURS are fully customizable We offer 24/7 customer care on arrival in Ireland

Where the Love for Ireland Begins

• COACH TOURS OF IRELAND

Travel Ireland, Scotland, Britain or a combination of all three with our popular luxury bus tours, for small groups and large groups . Depending on your budget and length of your stay, we have the perfect coach trip for you to see the best of these beautiful countries.

Travel in comfort from coast to coast and experience varied treasures, from stunning countrysides and coastlines to picturesque towns and World heritage landmarks. In Ireland, tick the Wild Atlantic Way, The Cliffs of Moher and the Giant’s Causeway off your travel bucket list as well as Dublin City, historic Castles and much more.

Choose from our wide range of small and large group coach tours, led by your own personal, expert driver guide. Our all-inclusive bus tours of Ireland, Scotland and Britain include wonderful accommodation, meals and guided excursions.

For a more customized tour experience, we also have a great range of private tours. Be sure to also take a look at our self-drive tours if you would prefer to be in the driving seat.

SMALL & LARGE GROUP TOURS

Small group tours.

6 DAY NORTHERN ISLAND

6 Day Flavour of Ireland

7 DAY TREASURE IRELAND TOUR

7 DAY BEAUTFULL SOUTH TOUR

• 8 Day Love Ireland

10 DAY LOOP OF IRELAND TOUR

11 DAY DISCOVER IRELAND TOUR

Large group tours.

5 DAY TASTE OF IRELAND

6 DAY TASTE OF IRELAND

7 DAY BEST OF IRELAND SOUTH

7 DAY Southern Gems

8 DAY IRISH GOLD

8 Day Irish Heritage & Dromoland Castle

• 8 Day Mystical Ireland

8 DAY The Irish Pub Tour

8 DAY Irish Spirit

9 Day Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way

9 DAY IRISH ADVENTURE

This coach tour is also available in a 8 day tour so pop us an email to get your quote and further details

10 Day Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way

• 10 Day Irish Legends

12 DAY IRISH ODYSSEY

14 Day Jewels of Ireland

5 DAY TASTE OF SCOTLAND

8 DAY SCOTTISH DREAM

Scotland & ireland.

7 DAY IRISH & SCOTTISH SAMPLER

10 DAY TASTE OF SCOTLAND & IRELAND

14 DAY SCOTTISH & IRISH DREAM

15 DAY THE SCOTS IRISH TOUR

16 DAY SCOTTISH & IRISH GOLD

Britain & ireland, coming soon.

Contact Info

• Love Irish Tours
• Unit 8 Scurlockstown Business Park Trim Co Meath
• 1888-508-6639
• (046) 9437555
• edel@loveirishtours.com
• 5 Day Taste Of Ireland
• 6 Day Taste Of Ireland
• 7 Day Best Of Ireland South
• 7 Day Southern Gems
• 8 Day Irish Gold
• 8 Day Irish Heritage & Dromoland Castle
• 8 Day The Irish Pub Tour
• 8 Day Irish Spirit
• 9 Day Irish Adventure
• 9 Day Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way
• 10 Day Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way
• 12 Day Irish Odyssey
• 14 Day Jewels Of Ireland Tour
• 6 Day Flavour of Ireland Tour
• 6 Day Northern Island
• 7 Day Treasure Ireland Tour
• 7 Day Beautiful South Tour
• 10 Day Loop of Ireland Tour
• 11 day Discover Ireland Tour
• 5 Day Taste of Scotland
• 8 Day Scottish Dream
• 7 Day Irish & Scottish Sampler
• 10 Day Taste of Scotland & Ireland
• 14 Day Scottish & Irish Dream
• 15 Day The Scots Irish Tour
• 16 Day Scottish & Irish Gold

Love Irish Tours © 2024 · Website Designed by Website Design Ireland

• REQUEST PRICING
• Send Payment
• SELF DRIVE TOURS OF IRELAND
• PRIVATE ESCORTED TOURS
• PRIVACY POLICY & COOKIE POLICY

Free Attraction Ireland booklet

Just enter your email below to receive our

Free attraction guide right to your inbox

• Escorted Tours

Taste of Ireland 5 Days

When it comes to guided tours of Ireland, catch the highlights on a Taste of Ireland tour enjoying Dublin, Blarney, Killarney and the Cliffs of Moher in a 5 day trip. Visit historic Dublin Castle, kiss the Blarney Stone and see the spectacular Cliffs of Moher. Traditional Irish music and dance as well as a medieval banquet will give you a taste of Ireland and whet your appetite for a return visit!

Taste of Ireland

If you're looking for a shorter vacation, our Taste of Ireland Tour comes in 5, 6 and 7 day variations and includes some of Irelands most popular attractions! On this tour you can see the incredible Ring of Kerry, Kiss the Blarney stone and view the daunting Cliffs of Moher.

Also included is a medieval banquet and dinner show, two dining experiences not easily forgotten! There’s also the option to add a couple of extra nights, for more time in the capital, Dublin and the restored Castle and grounds at Bunratty!

• Roundtrip Group transfers when you book our flights ($30 fee for transfers on land-only bookings)
• Sightseeing by luxury coach throughout
• Services of a professional Irish tour director
• Dublin open-top bus tour with complimentary visit and a drink at Guinness Storehouse or General Post Office (Tours C & D only)
• Superior & first class hotels with private bath/shower
• Full Irish breakfast daily (B) except on day of arrival
• 5 day Tour Meals: 3 dinners (D) including: - Dinner and traditional Irish entertainment at the Merry Ploughboy Pub - Bunratty Castle Medieval Banquet - 1 table d'hote dinner in Killarney - 1 Lunch
• Welcome get-together drink
• Tour of Dublin with a local guide
• Sheepdog trials on Ring of Kerry
• Ferry ride across the River Shannon
• Tea and Scones at Connemara Marble Factory
• Visits and admissions to Blarney Castle, Cliffs of Moher, Dublin Castle, Ring of Kerry, Sheepdog Demonstration and Skellig Experience.
• Deluxe flight bag, ticket wallet, luggage tags & strap
• All local taxes, hotel service charges & porterage for one suitcase per person
• Free Wi-Fi on coaches and in hotel lobbies

Overnights for the 5 day tour:

• Clayton Hotel Ballsbridge,  Dublin (1 night)
• Killarney Towers Hotel, Killarney (2 nights
• Bunratty Castle Hotel , Bunratty (1 night)

(Please note prices are based on a 5 day tour).

Day 1: Dublin & Merry Ploughboy Pub Your tour starts at 2:00 PM from the hotel lobby when all participants join a local guide for a tour of ancient and modern Dublin. Drive through the main streets to see historic buildings such as Trinity College, where the Book of Kells is housed; rows of Georgian houses with colorfully painted doorways; and the new buildings around the Financial Centre beside the River Liffey. Take a guided tour through parts of Dublin Castle, which was the seat of power and government for many centuries and today plays a leading role in European Union activities. Return to your hotel for a get-together with your tour group and a welcome drink. In the evening head to the Merry Ploughboy Pub for a great dinner of Irish specialties and a lively show with popular Irish songs and intricate step-dancing. (D) Day 2: Blarney Castle & Killarney Depart Dublin and travel through the midlands of Ireland, which has many mixed farms. Stop for photos of the stately ruins on the Rock of Cashel, rising high above the surrounding plain. Continue your drive south and, just a few miles outside Cork, visit Blarney Castle to kiss the famous “Stone of Eloquence.” Visit the Blarney Woollen Mills where you can find quality Irish made goods of all types, conveniently displayed under one roof. Drive through Macroom, built around a fine castle, and into County Kerry where the scenery becomes more mountainous. Arrive in Killarney, picturesquely set beside lakes with Ireland’s highest mountains, the Macgillycuddy’s Reeks, forming a backdrop. Check in to your hotel and relax before dinner. (B, D) Day 3: Ring of Kerry & Skellig Experience Today embark on Ireland’s most popular scenic drive of 100 miles – the Ring of Kerry. This winding route reveals breathtaking views of Macgillycuddy’s Reeks as well as the scenic coast of beaches and cliffs. As you travel along, there will be plenty of stops for photos at the best vantage points. After a casual lunch in a cozy restaurant you’ll continue your scenic drive. Cross to Valentia Island by bridge where you’ll visit the Skellig Experience. Learn about the off-shore island of Skellig Michael where early Christian monks lived in austere conditions and how it was used as one of the locations for the film “Star Wars VII.” Pause for a stroll around Sneem, with its brightly painted houses, and again at Moll’s Gap for panoramic views of Ireland’s highest mountains and deep valleys. Get a taste of farm life with a sheepdog demonstration of herding flocks, and see different breeds of sheep. Return to Killarney and enjoy a free evening for independent dining or exploring the many pubs in the town. (B, L) Day 4: Cliffs of Moher & Medieval Castle Banquet Leave Killarney and drive north to Tarbert for a 20-minute ferry ride across the wide River Shannon Estuary. Your tour continues along the coast of County Clare to the Cliffs of Moher, a spectacular wall of sandstone that reaches almost 700 feet above the Atlantic Ocean. Drive past Lahinch Golf Course, one of Ireland’s most famous, and through the marketing town of Ennis to Bunratty. Check into Bunratty Castle Hotel, which is located close to Bunratty Castle and Folk Park. In the evening head to Bunratty or Knappogue Castle for a memorable experience in a wonderful historic setting with good food and entertainment. Take your place in the Great Hall for a medieval-style feast of excellent dishes and plenty of wine. During and after the meal the lords and ladies will serenade you with song and harp music evocative of the Middle Ages. (B, D) Day 5: Tour Ends in Shannon Your tour ends after breakfast today. (B) B: Breakfast; L: Lunch; D: Dinner

Start planning your vacation... Enquire Now

"I just wanted to take a minute to thank you for arranging such a wonderful trip. You are just the best. When I show my pictures "everyone" wants to visit Ireland."

Carol from New York

"Thank you so much for planning such a wonderful trip! We enjoyed every aspect of it."

Janet from California

"Our trip that you arranged was fabulous! We thoroughly enjoyed our stay."

Camille from Minnesota

"Just wanted to send you a big Thank You. We returned from our Ireland vacation yesterday afternoon and we had a wonderful time!"

John from Massachusetts

"Just wanted to let you know we had the best time on our vacation to Ireland. Everything went smoothly. Does you company handle other destinations besides Ireland by chance?"

Debbie from Canada

"Rest assured, when I visit Ireland again (and I will) you will be the first people I call."

Mak from California

Driving Vacations in Ireland

Visit anywhere in Ireland at your own pace and experience the charm

See Fly Drive Vacations

Special Offer $409

7 Day Vacation with stay in an Authentic Irish Castle.

Honeymoons in ireland.

Choose Ireland for your Dream Romantic Honeymoon

See Irish Honeymoons

Escorted Tours of Ireland

All inclusive tours by luxury coach escorted by expert tour guide

See Escorted Tours

Group Tours

Enjoy Ireland with your Group

See Group Vacations

Get discounts and updates for Discovering Ireland Vacations

Sign up now for the official Discovering Ireland Vacations Update e-newsletter, designed to keep you up-to-date on what's new and exciting at Discovering Ireland and indeed in Ireland travel itself! You will also be among the first to know about our great special offers, vacation in Ireland deals and trip to Ireland cost!

Sign Up for News and Offers

THE 10 BEST Ireland Bus Tours

Bus tours in ireland.

• Cultural Tours
• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Beer Tastings & Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Chinese (Traditional)
• Likely to Sell Out
• Special Offers

• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Dublin to Cliffs of Moher, Burren, Wild Atlantic and Galway Tour

2. Aran Islands and Cliffs of Moher Cruise from Galway

3. Blarney Castle Day Tour from Dublin Including Rock of Cashel & Cork City

4. Northern Ireland Highlights Day Trip Including Giant's Causeway from Dublin

5. From Galway: Aran Islands & Cliffs of Moher including Cliffs of Moher cruise.

6. Dublin Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour with Guide and Little Museum Entry

7. Cliffs of Moher and Burren Day Trip, Including Dunguaire Castle, Aillwee Cave, and Doolin from Galway

8. Kilkenny, Wicklow Mountains, Glendalough, Sheep Dog Trials, Day Trip from Dublin

9. Castles and Whiskey Tour

10. Galway to Cliffs of Moher, Burren, Kinvara and Doolin Guided Tour

11. Cobh (Cork) to Blarney Castle & Kinsale - Shore Excursion

12. Dublin: Giants Causeway, Dunluce Castle, Dark Hedges and Belfast

13. Private Tour:Ring of Kerry,Kerry Cliffs, starting in (from) Killarney

14. Sustainable Dublin to Limerick, Cliffs of Moher, Galway by Rail

15. Titanic Belfast Experience,Giant’s Causeway, Dunluce Castle Day Trip from Dublin

16. Private Cliffs of Moher Day Tour

17. Dublin to Wicklow and Glendalough Guided Tours with Horse Riding

18. Dublin to Newgrange, Bru Na Boinne, Monasterboice Monastic Site

19. Connemara Day Trip Including Leenane Village and Kylemore Abbey from Galway

20. Ring of Kerry Private Day Tour from Killarney

21. Full-Day Tour of the Dingle Peninsula, Slea Head, and Inch Beach

22. Cliffs of Moher, Bunratty Castle and Ennis Shared Tour with Guide

23. Dublin to Glendalough, Wicklow and Kilkenny Full Day Guided Tour

24. Dublin: Giant's Causeway, Dark Hedges, Dunluce and Belfast Titanic entrance fee

25. Guinness Storehouse Ticket and Big Bus Dublin Hop-on Hop-off Tour

26. Dublin to Cork, Blarney Castle, Cobh Cathedral by Train and Coach

27. Blarney, Rock of Cashel & Cahir Castles Day Tour From Dublin

28. Cliffs of Moher Day Tour from Dublin: Including The Wild Atlantic Way

29. Small Group - Cliffs Cruise, Aran Islands AND Connemara in One Day from Galway

30. Dingle Peninsula Four Hour Private Tour

What travelers are saying.

• Europe Tours
• Ireland Tours
• Ireland 5-Day Itinerary And Tours

Ireland 5-Day Tours and Itineraries

See the top Ireland 5-Day tours and itineraries. Select from 5 5-Day tours in Ireland with a total of 54 genuine reviews. Each of Bookmundi's 5-Day Ireland itineraries are carefully handpicked.

• Ireland Travel Guide
• Best Time To Visit Ireland

5 Trips in Ireland with 54 Reviews

• Starts Dublin, Ireland
• Ends Kilkenny, Ireland

South West Ireland Uncovered (Hotel) - 5 days

• Best price guaranteed
• No booking fees
• Tour Type Small Group Tour
• Activities Explorer
• Accommodation Hotel
• Transport Coach & Ferry
• Age Range 18-80 yrs
• Operated in English
• Brochure Price: US$ 2,065
• Special Deal (15%): - US$ 310
• Total Price from: US$ 1,755
• Apr 18 10+ seats left
• Apr 21 10+ seats left
• View More Jan 1, 2019 Jan 2, 2019 Jan 3, 2019

South West Ireland Uncovered - 5 days

• Accommodation Guest House & Hotel
• Brochure Price: US$ 1,795
• Special Deal (15%): - US$ 269
• Total Price from: US$ 1,526

• Ends Galway, Ireland

Dublin, Northern Ireland & Galway - 5 days

• Transport Coach & Flight
• Brochure Price: US$ 1,695
• Special Deal (15%): - US$ 254
• Total Price from: US$ 1,441
• Apr 28 10+ seats left

Dublin, Northern Ireland & Galway (Hotel) - 5 days

• Brochure Price: US$ 1,925
• Special Deal (15%): - US$ 289
• Total Price from: US$ 1,636

• Starts Cushendall, Ireland
• Ends Bushmills, Ireland

Walking the Antrim Coast

• Tour Type Private Tour
• Activities Trekking and Hiking & Walking tours Trekking and Hiking , Walking tours , Sightseeing Tours & Beach 'data-more-tripid='34694'>+2 more
• Transport Bus
• Age Range 12-95 yrs
• Apr 18 Only 8 seats left
• Apr 19 Only 8 seats left

Ireland 5-Days Tour Reviews

• Ireland budget tours
• Eco tours in Ireland
• Ireland guided tours
• Ireland family tour packages
• Ireland luxury tours
• Ireland private tours
• Ireland self-guided tours
• Ireland small group tours
• Ireland solo trips
• Ireland tailor-made vacation packages
• Ireland tours for senior citizens
• Ireland tours for young adults
• Ireland group tours
• Ireland last minute deals
• Ireland travel deals

Other Ireland Durations

Best price guaranteed - No booking fees

Sign-in to unlock instant trip discounts. Create wish lists and save up to USD 1,500.

Where should you travel next? Take the free quiz!

These Are the 12 Best Ireland Bus Tours from Dublin

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my links, at no extra cost to you. Please read  full disclosure  for more information.

What better way to explore the Emerald Isle than by hopping on one of these Ireland bus tours from Dublin ?

Ireland is a country that should be on every traveler’s bucket list. Renowned for its lush green landscapes, warm hospitality, and rich history – it’s brimming with reasons to visit. 

I was lucky enough to study abroad in Dublin and was able to take a few bus tours during my time there!

This small island certainly packs a punch, and each region holds unique attractions. This makes it challenging to choose just one area to visit – which is where Ireland bus tours from Dublin come in.

By adding a few bus tours to your itinerary, you can be sure not to miss out on experiencing the real Ireland. 

The many Ireland bus tours on offer boast carefully curated itineraries, encompassing some of the country’s best landscapes and attractions. Choosing a bus tour is a surefire way to get the most out of your Ireland trip.

Table of Contents

Best Bus Tours from Dublin in Ireland

Northern Ireland Highlights Day Trip Including Giant’s Causeway from Dublin

✅ Explore Belfast

✅ Visit Giants Causeway

✅ Visit Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge

Cliffs of Moher Tour Including Wild Atlantic Way and Galway City from Dublin

✅ See the Cliffs of Moher

✅ Drive part of the Wild Atlantic Way

✅ Visit Burren National Park

Kilkenny, Wicklow Mountains, Glendalough, Sheep Dog Trials, Day Trip from Dublin

✅ Visit Kilkenny Castle

✅ Drive the Wicklow Gap

✅ Guided walk of Wicklow Mountains National Park

Ireland Bus Tours from Dublin

⭐️ RATING:  5/5 Stars | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  13.5 hours | ✅   Book it!

Northern Ireland absolutely should not be missed on your Ireland adventure, and this bus tour is a great way of experiencing its highlights. This 13-hour day tour sets off from Dublin and will start by taking you on a 2-hour drive to Belfast.

Here, you’ll jump into a black cab for a Belfast tour led by a guide who grew up in this city during the ‘troubles’ (the Northern Ireland conflict).

The tour will take you through the neighborhoods that were at the heart of the conflict, as well as the famous peace wall, and along the way, you’ll listen to tales of this city’s bloody past. 

There is the option to swap the black cab tour for a visit to the Titanic Dock and Pump House, the site where the ship was constructed before beginning its tragic journey.

The Titanic Experience, situated next door, is a fantastic museum containing artifacts from the ill-fated ship, as well as many interactive exhibitions. 

Next, you’ll head to the UNESCO World Heritage sight of the Giants Causeway. This natural wonder is a true sight to behold, and learning about the mythology surrounding the causeway is fascinating.

Test your bravery by crossing the nearby Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, suspended 100 feet over the fierce Irish Sea. 

All admission costs are included in this trip, and the onboard guides are informative and will keep you entertained throughout the day. 

⭐ Click here to book this tour! ⭐

⭐️ RATING:  5/5 Stars | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  13 hours | ✅   Book it!

The Wild Atlantic Way is a popular trail covering the entire east coast of Ireland, taking in some of the country’s most breathtaking scenery. The road is windy in many parts, and conditions can be treacherous, thanks to Ireland’s unpredictable weather.

This means that driving the Wild Atlantic Way as a self-guided trip can be a stressful experience, and you’re likely to spend more time looking at maps than appreciating the magnificent views. 

There are many Ireland tour packages that cover this route, and a bus tour of the area means all hassle is removed – instead, you can sit back and take in the epic beauty in comfort.

The Cliffs of Moher Tour takes you through the most scenic spots along the Wild Atlantic Way, and you’re given free time to explore the magnificent cliffs at your own pace.

The trip also makes a stop at Burren National Park, famed for its thousands of archaeological sites and rocky landscapes. 

Your final stop will be Galway City, where you’ll enjoy a 30-minute introductory tour before spending a few hours exploring this waterfront paradise on your own accord.

Wandering around Galway’s brightly colored buildings and sampling fresh local cuisine is an experience not to be missed! 

The day trip lasts for around 13 hours, and your local guide will share their knowledge of the Irish countryside as you pass each stop.

There’s even Wi-Fi on board the coach, so you can keep your Instagram followers updated with all the incredible things you see throughout the day. 

Grab the Free Ultimate Ireland Bucket List

Sign up to get access to some of the best things to do in Ireland – perfect for planning your trip!

We respect your privacy. Unsubscribe at any time.

⭐️ RATING:  5/5 Stars | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  10 hours | ✅   Book it!

This bus tour will take you on a journey exploring Ireland’s mythical folklore and stunning medieval architecture. You’ll start at Kilkenny Castle, an 800-year-old Castle founded soon after the Norman occupation of Ireland.

After spending time exploring this remarkable site, you’ll head to a working sheep farm where you’ll watch sheepdog trials and learn how these dogs heard the farm’s animals.

Getting an opportunity to visit a working Irish farm isn’t part of the usual tourist trail, and this is just one of the things that makes this bus tour a great choice. 

After this, you’ll drive through one of the highest mountain passes in Ireland – the Wicklow Gap. This road is nestled between rugged green hills, and the scenery is breathtaking. Make sure to pack your camera!

This area was used as a filming location for ‘Braveheart’ and ‘P.S. I love you’; it’s one of the most stunning spots in Ireland. 

The nearby Wicklow Mountains National Park is your next stop, and here, you’ll enjoy a two-hour guided walk that takes in impressive views across the dramatic mountain range.

From here, you’ll head to the Glendalough Monastic Settlement. This early Christian settlement was founded in the 6th century, and your guide will walk you through the church ruins and ancient graveyards while recounting folklore tales.

The mystical energy in this place makes it a truly special environment to explore. 

This 10-hour day trip is one of the best Ireland bus tours from Dublin for anyone interested in delving into Ireland’s mystical history while also soaking up some of the country’s best natural wonders. 

Small-Group Wicklow, Powerscourt, and Glendalough Day Tour from Dublin

⭐️ RATING:  4.5/5 Stars | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  8 hours | ✅   Book it!

One of the downsides to bus tours is that traveling in a large group can come with downsides.

Larger queues for attractions, not being able to ask your guide all your questions, and people getting in the way of your pictures – these are all things that sometimes happen in a large group. 

This Ireland bus tour from Dublin is the perfect trip if you’re worried about these problems. With a guaranteed maximum of 16 people, this is a great way of experiencing all the perks of bus tour travel without any of the downsides.

You’ll have plenty of exploration time at each spot, making it the perfect tour for the more independent traveler. 

This 8-hour trip starts and ends in Dublin and makes seven stops. Your first stop is the Molly Malone statue, and then you’ll drive to Powerscourt House and Gardens. These gardens are voted 3rd best gardens in the world by National Geographic! 

Next, you’ll head to the charming Enniskerry Village Square. Traveling as part of a small group means you get to visit more local attractions, and Enniskerry Village Square is somewhere that larger group tours don’t tend to visit. 

Next, you’ll spend an hour driving through the Wicklow Mountains National Park, stopping at all the noteworthy points along the way, such as the Guinness estate and Sally Gap.

You’ll visit the bridge used for filming in P.S. I Love You before heading to the beautiful Lough Tay, also known as Guinness Lake. Guinness Lake is where the series ‘Vikings’ was created, and the view over the lake is one of Ireland’s most spectacular. 

Finally, you’ll head to the Glendalough Monastic Settlement, where you’ll have time to explore the beautiful valley and all its ruins.

This is an excellent Ireland bus tour from Dublin as you get to escape the city for a few hours and explore rural Ireland without having to spend too much time on the road – all of the stops are relatively close to one another. 

Titanic Belfast Experience, Giant’s Causeway, Dunluce Castle Day Trip from Dublin

Game of Thrones fans won’t want to miss this Northern Ireland bus tour. You’ll board the bus in Dublin for a 2-hour drive up to Belfast, where you’ll head straight to the Titanic Belfast Experience.

This world-class attraction delves into Belfast’s role in the Titanic’s history and features nine interactive galleries, where visitors will be immersed in the sights and smells of the ship.

Here, you’ll hear stories of life aboard the Titanic and learn about the people who made her – in the very place you stand. 

Following this, you’ll head to the 500-year-old Dun Luce Castle. This iconic castle is located on a cliff edge, towering high above the wild Atlantic Ocean – making it one of the most dramatic views in the country.

It was used as a filming location in Game of Thrones, and fans of the show will recognize it instantly. 

Your final stop will be at the Giant’s Causeway, one of Ireland’s most famous landmarks. You’ll have 2 hours to explore this magical site before returning to Dublin. 

All entry admissions are included in this bus tour, making it a very convenient day out. The day trip is 13 hours long and suitable for all age groups. 

Celtic Boyne Valley Day Trip from Dublin

⭐️ RATING:  4.5/5 Stars | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  10 hours | ✅   Book it!

This is one of the best bus tours in Ireland for history lovers. Ireland has a rich history, and on this trip, you’ll travel more than 5000 years back in time as you explore some of the country’s most significant historical sites. 

The 10-hour-long tour will start and end in Dublin. Your first stop is the famous Hill of Tara, the most sacred ancient site in Ireland. You’ll have an hour to explore this giant mound, which is where the high kings of Ireland watched and ruled over the country.

A quarter of the country can be viewed atop this hill on a clear day – it’s a pretty special place. 

Next up is Trim, an Anglo-Norman castle that is the largest of its type in Ireland. Admission here is included, and your guide will teach you all about the history and significance of the castle.

It has been remarkably well preserved and is surrounded by stunning scenery, and you’ll spend an hour taking it in in all its glory. 

Following this, you’ll go to Loughcrew Cairns, a passage of 5000 Neolithic burial tombs which are filled with ancient rock art.

The next stop is the nearby Fore Abbey, a fascinating area home to 7 wonders – the monastery in the bog, the mill without a race, the water that flows uphill, the tree that has three branches/the tree that won’t burn, the water that won’t boil, the anchorite in a stone and the stone raised by St Fechin’s prayers. Pretty impressive! 

This is a fantastic day out, offering the chance to delve into ancient Ireland without spending the night away from the city. 

Afternoon Tea Bus Tour in Dublin

⭐️ RATING:  4.5/5 Stars | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  1.5 hours | ✅   Book it!

Vintage Tea Trips offer a bus tour with a twist. This hour-and-a-half-long journey is a unique way to see Dublin while sitting in the comfort of a cozy vintage bus, listening to the sounds of smooth jazz and nibbling on divine freshly baked goods. 

There is no structured commentary on the bus, but the friendly tour escorts create a warm and sociable atmosphere among the passengers. You’ll pass all the best sites in downtown Dublin and listen to the team as they share their favorite Dublin stories. 

This trip is a great way to spend an afternoon and is a fun way to experience this quirky city. 

Blarney Castle Day Tour from Dublin Including Rock of Cashel & Cork City

⭐️ RATING:  4.5/5 Stars | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  12 hours | ✅   Book it!

This is a great bus tour from Dublin that explores the highlights of County Cork and County Tipperary.

The first stop is the Rock of Cashel, famous as one of Ireland’s most important historical sites. This cluster of medieval buildings is home to a vast collection of Celtic artwork, and its medieval architecture is renowned as some of the best in Europe.

The buildings perch atop a hill and overlook quintessentially Irish rolling green hills. You’ll have an hour to spend here, and admission is included in the ticket. 

Next, you’ll have an hour and a half to explore the city of Cork. There is no guided tour here, so you can spend your time as you please, and you certainly won’t struggle to find things to do in Cork!

The buzzing city contains a truly vibrant Irish atmosphere and is a foodie’s paradise. 

After your time in Cork, the next stop is the famous Blarney Castle. This beautiful castle is famous in Irish legend – the Irish have been kissing the Blarney Stone for centuries, and it’s believed that by kissing the stone, you’ll receive the ‘gift of the gab’… otherwise known as seven years of eloquent speech. Maybe there’s some truth in it – the Irish are great storytellers! 

This 12-hour tour is a must for history lovers, as it journeys around some of Ireland’s most impressive historical landmarks. 

Dublin: Cliffs of Moher, Kilmacduagh Abbey, Wild Atlantic Way, and Galway

⭐️ RATING:  5/5 Stars | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  12.5 hours | ✅   Book it!

This West Ireland tour covers the same stops as the above Cliffs of Moher tour, but it also includes an additional stop that is exclusive to this tour operator. Kilmacduagh monastery is a 1000-year-old ruin and graveyard and is one of Ireland’s best collections of monastic buildings. 

During your visit, you’ll spend time exploring the 12th-century round tower as well as the ruins and graveyard. The area is surrounded by Ireland’s famous verdant green hills and here you’ll spot more cows than you will people!

The tour is 12 and a half hours long and includes all admission fees, as well as fantastic live commentary, which will teach you everything there is to know about Ireland’s wild and enchanting west. 

Dublin Mountain Pub Tour

⭐️ RATING:  5/5 Stars | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  5 hours | ✅   Book it!

Ireland is famous for its pubs, and for good reason – you’d be hard-pressed to find a country with more charming and atmospheric watering holes. 

The best way to experience Ireland’s pubs is by visiting with a local. This Ireland bus tour from Dublin is hosted by a local guide, meaning you can do just that!

You’ll venture into the mountains of Dublin and tour three different pubs, and your guide will share his knowledge and stories with you at each spot. The tour is 5 hours long, so you’ll have ample drinking time in each.

The best part is that you don’t have to worry about being the designated driver as you’re on a bus tour! This trip is a fantastic way to experience Dublin’s pubs. 

The places you’ll visit are real local pubs, rather than the touristy ones you’re likely to find in the city center. Each pub is located in a scenic mountain setting, and you can expect to find live traditional music at each spot.

The Irish are an incredibly friendly and welcoming bunch, so expect to meet some fantastic people and enjoy brilliant conversation along the way. 

Dublin Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

⭐️ RATING:  4.5/5 Stars | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  1 hour 45 minutes | ✅   Book it!

If you’re a seasoned city-hopper, you’ll be no stranger to seeing Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tours. These cheery red double-decker buses can be found in most cities around the world, and they’re an excellent way to see all the sights and learn along the way. 

Dublin has multiple tour providers offering Hop-On and Hop-Off tickets, each of which allows you to explore the city at your own pace.

On board, you’ll receive an audio guide with an informative commentary of each sight you pass, along with interesting facts about the city.

These buses all follow a similar route around Dublin’s most popular attractions, including everything from the iconic National Gallery to the world-renowned Temple Bar. 

Your ticket is usually valid for 24 hours and allows you to get off at each site you want to explore and skip the ones you aren’t interested in.

Many of the tour providers (such as Big Bus Dublin) also include a free walking tour within the ticket, led by a local historian who takes you to some of the lesser-known sites in areas the bus can’t reach.

This bus tour is the perfect way to get the most out of the city without the additional expense and stress of navigating transport yourself. 

Game of Thrones – Winterfell Trek from Dublin

⭐️ RATING:  5/5 Stars | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  11 hours | ✅   Book it!

Thanks to its stunning scenery and out-of-this-world nature, Ireland has been used in countless film and television productions over the years.

Some Ireland tour packages offer trips that bring these cinematic worlds to life, and this Winterfell Trek is an absolute must-do for fans of Game of Thrones. 

The tour starts when you board the bus in Dublin, where you’ll be given a cloak to wear for the tour – you’ll be feeling like a member of House Stark in no time!

Along the way to visit filming locations from the series, you’ll stop at some of Northern Ireland’s most scenic locations, like Tollymore Forest Park and Strangford Lough. 

Then, you’ll arrive at Old Castle Ward, which was the location of Winterfell in series 1. The tour is led by guides who were extras in the series, and they’ll lead you on a walking tour of areas like Walder Frey’s Twins and Robb Stark’s camp in the Riverlands. 

The guides will share tales of their experience during filming, and you’ll even get to watch special behind-the-scenes footage on tablets. The final stop is Inch Abbey, the 12th-century ruins where Robb Stark became king in the North. 

This trip is an incredible experience for fans of the series, and when surrounded by the ethereal forests and medieval ruins of Ireland, it’s impossible not to feel like you’re in Winterfell. 

Final Thoughts: Ireland Bus Tours from Dublin

As you can see, there are multiple incredible Ireland bus tours from Dublin. Traveling in this way enables you to maximize your time in the Emerald Isle and discover all the best sites without the headache of organizing your own tour.

The only problem with bus tours in Ireland is… which one to choose?!

Related Posts

See All Posts →

9 Awesome Whiskey Tours in Ireland

5 Incredible Cliffs of Moher Tours from Dublin

13 Charmingly Best Cities to Visit in Ireland

13 Best Coffee Shops in Dublin, Ireland

14 Best Views in Dublin That You Can’t Miss

6 Best Day Trips from Galway, Ireland

KP is the head blogger and founder behind Volumes & Voyages. After studying abroad in Dublin for a semester, KP got bitten by the travel bug. Now, she writes articles to help other travelers in between trips where she chases her wanderlust. KP has lived in many different places, including Boston MA, Denver CO, Las Vegas NV, southern VT, and Dublin IE.

Similar Posts

10 Mouthwatering Food Tours in Las Vegas

How Many Days in Barcelona is Enough? (Includes Itineraries!)

11 Amazing Spots for Breakfast in Edinburgh

Don’t Miss These 13 Best Things to do in Dornoch, Scotland

14 Best Road Trips from Barcelona

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Privacy Overview

• Taste of Ireland (Tour C)- 5 Days/4 Nights

Tour highlights include Blarney Castle, Cliffs of Moher, Dubln Castle, Ring of Kerry, Sheep dog Trials& Skellig Michael

• Tour Attractions

Tour Overview

Authentic local experiences.

• Visit a farm in the beautiful mountains of County Kerry and watch border collies hard at work as they round up sheep.
• Tour the magnificent State Apartments of Dublin Castle – once the living quarters of the viceregal court, the Apartments today are the venue for presidential inaugurations and other State ceremonies.

Dining Experiences

• 4 breakfasts (B) ,1 lunch (L) and 3 dinners (D) including a night at the Merry Ploughboy Pub for dinner and a traditional show, and a medieval castle banquet
• 4 daily breakfasts (B) ,1 lunch (L) and 3 dinners (D) including a night at the Merry Ploughboy Pub for dinner and a traditional show, and a medieval castle banquet

Tour highlights

Bunratty castle & folk park, bunratty medieval banquet, blarney castle, rock of cashel.

Overnights for this tour

• 1 night in the Clayton Hotel Ballsbridge
• 1 night in the Killarney Towers Hotel
• 1 night in the Bunratty Castle Hotel

Accommodation options

• Superior & First Class Hotels
• Private En-Suite Facilities in All Rooms
• Breakfast Included
• All Local Taxes and Hotel Service Charges Included

Tour itinerary

Day 1 - dublin & merry ploughboy pub.

Your city tour starts at 2:00 PM from the hotel lobby with a local guide for a panoramic tour of ancient and modern Dublin. Drive through the main streets to see historic buildings such as Trinity College, rows of Georgian houses with colorfully painted doorways and the new buildings around the Financial Centre beside the River Liffey. Take a guided tour through parts of Dublin Castle, which was the seat of power and government for many centuries and today plays a leading role in European Union activities. Return to your hotel for a welcome drink with your group. In the evening, head to the Merry Ploughboy Pub for a dinner of Irish specialties and a lively show with popular Irish songs and intricate step-dancing. (D)

Day 2 - Blarney Castle &;Killarney

Depart Dublin and travel through the midlands of Ireland, which has many farms. Stop for photos of the stately ruins of the Rock of Cashel, rising high above the surrounding plain. Continue your drive south and, just a few miles outside Cork, visit Blarney Castle to kiss the famous “Stone of Eloquence.” Drive through Macroom, built around a fine old castle, and into County Kerry where the scenery becomes more mountainous. Arrive in Killarney, picturesquely set beside lakes with Ireland’s highest mountains, Macgillycuddy’s Reeks, forming a backdrop. Check in to your hotel and relax before dinner. (B, D)

Day 3 - Ring of Kerry & Skellig Experience

Embark on Ireland’s most popular 100-mile scenic drive – the Ring of Kerry. This winding route reveals breathtaking views of Macgillycuddy’s Reeks as well as the scenic coast of beaches and cliffs. There will be plenty of stops for photos at the best vantage points. After a casual lunch in a cozy restaurant, you’ll continue your scenic drive to Valentia Island where you’ll visit the Skellig Experience. Learn about the island of Skellig Michael where early Christian monks lived in austere conditions and how it was used as one of the locations for the film “Star Wars VII.” Pause for a stroll around Sneem, with its brightly painted houses, and at Moll’s Gap for panoramic views of Ireland’s highest mountains and deep valleys. Get a taste of farm life with a demonstration of a sheepdog herding flocks, a shearing demonstration (seasonal), and see different breeds of sheep. Return to Killarney and enjoy a free evening for independent dining or exploring the many pubs in the town. (B, L)

Day 4 - Cliffs of Moher & Medieval Castle Banquet

Leave Killarney and drive north to Tarbert for a 20-minute ferry ride across the wide River Shannon Estuary. Your tour continues along the coast of County Clare to the Cliffs of Moher, a spectacular wall of sandstone that reaches almost 700 feet above the Atlantic Ocean. Drive past Lahinch Golf Course, one of Ireland’s most famous, to Bunratty. Check into Bunratty Castle Hotel, which is near Bunratty Castle and Folk Park. In the evening, head out for a medieval-style feast of excellent traditional dishes and wine. During and after the meal the lords and ladies will serenade you with songs and harp music evocative of the Middle Ages. (Please note that January departures may offer a different dining experience.) (B, D)

Day 5 - Tour Ends in Shannon

Your tour ends after breakfast. (B) B: Breakfast; L: Lunch; D: Dinner  >

Tour attractions

Bunratty Castle is now a very popular tourist attraction. The interior has been furnished by Lord Gort with tapestries & artifacts from various eras in the history

Cliffs of Moher

The Cliffs of Moher boast one of Ireland's most spectacular views On a clear day the Aran Islands are visible in Galway Bay as are the valleys and hills of Connemara.

Doolin is small fishing village on a sandy bay world-famous for its wealth of Irish music & has been attracting crowds to spontaneous sessions and festivals. Overlooked by Doonag...

Dublin is both the largest city and capital of Ireland. It is located near the midpoint of Ireland's east coast, at the mouth of the River Liffey and at the centre of the Dublin ...

This little town is world-famous due to its exquisite location beside lakes and mountains.Take a horse-drawn jaunting car ride through the grounds of the Killarney National Park ...

Bunratty Castle offers visitors the opportunity to experience a medieval 15th century castle banquet fallowed by music and entertainment.

Cork is the second largest city in Ireland. Sophisticated, vibrant and diverse while still retaining its friendliness, relaxed charm and quickfire wit, Cork buzzes with the energ...

Blarney Castle is a medieval stronghold in Blarney, near Cork, Ireland. It is near the River Martin. The castle originally dates from before AD 1200. It was destroyed in 1446, bu...

The Rock of Cashel, also known as Cashel of the Kings is a historic site in Ireland's province of Munster, located at Cashel, Co.Tipperary.

Tour Prices

Prices in other currencies are indicative only. Please note that we charge in Euro.

Detailed Enquiry Form

Please enter your vacation requirements in the form below. If your enquiry requires a more immediate response, please use the Tollfree & International numbers as listed down the page.

For customers based in North America, please note that as we are based in Ireland, we are 5 hours ahead of EST.

Detailed enquiry form

Party details, preferred accommodation.

Accommodation Types (you can select more than one option)

• Escorted Tours
• Escorted Bus Tours Ireland

Let us show you the magic of Ireland

See what people say about the vacations we plan

"Rest assured, when I visit Ireland again (and I will) you will be the first people I call."

Mak from California

"Just wanted to let you know we had the best time on our vacation to Ireland. Everything went smoothly. Does you company handle other destinations besides Ireland by chance?"

Debbie from Canada

"I just wanted to take a minute to thank you for arranging such a wonderful trip. You are just the best. When I show my pictures "everyone" wants to visit Ireland."

Carol from New York

"Just wanted to send you a big Thank You. We returned from our Ireland vacation yesterday afternoon and we had a wonderful time!"

John from Massachusetts

"Thank you so much for planning such a wonderful trip! We enjoyed every aspect of it."

Janet from California

"Our trip that you arranged was fabulous! We thoroughly enjoyed our stay."

Camille from Minnesota

Other tours you might be interested in.

Best of Ireland South (Tour C) - 7 Days/6 Nights

Best of Ireland South (Tour A) - 8 Days/7 Nights

Best of Ireland South (Tour B) - 7 Days/6 Nights

Irish Explorer - 10 Days/9 Nights

Irish Adventure - 8 Days/7 Nights

Irish Heritage & Dromoland Castle - 8 Days/7 Nights

Call us here in Ireland to discuss your plans

Let us help you create that dream Irish vacation that you will remember forever.

UK FreeFone

USA & Canada

International

Subscribe to our newsletter

• Terms & Conditions
• Travel Agents
• The Irish Tourism Group Sustainability Policy

RU | Site built by Granite Digital & Crafted by Artisan

How do you like to travel?

• Self Drive Tours Ireland
• Honeymoons in Ireland
• Private Group Tours Ireland

How much time do you have have to spend in Ireland?

What kind of experience are you looking for?

Food/Dining

History & Heritage

Honeymoon & Romance

Scenic Attractions

Talk to our Irish experts

Call us here in Ireland to discuss your plans.

Let's keep in touch

Sign up here to get the latest news, updates and special offers.

• Sign Up For Emails
• Get A Free Brochure

• All Destinations
• England & Wales
• Multi-Destination
• All Travel Types
• ​Guided Tours
• Guided Small Groups
• Group Travel
• Custom Private Driver
• Independent Adventures
• Kick Up Your Kilt
• 2025 Early Bird Discount
• Last Minute Deals
• 2025 Tours Available
• Repeat Guest Savings
• Group Discount
• Solo Travel
• Honoring Heroes
• All Travel Deals & Promotions
• The CIE Tours Difference
• CIE Tours Travel Blog
• Guest Reviews
• Responsible Tourism
• Health & Safety

• Select Month
• August 2024
• September 2024
• October 2024
• November 2024
• December 2024
• January 2025
• February 2025
• August 2025
• September 2025
• October 2025
• November 2025
• December 2025

Experience the Best of the Emerald Isle

Ireland is the land of breathtaking landscapes, friendly people, and once-in-a-lifetime experiences. CIE Tours' vacations to Ireland help you experience the real Emerald Isle, whether you’re raising a pint with new Irish friends at a lively pub, following in the footsteps of your ancestors among the rolling hills and picturesque castles, or enjoying the best of Irish culture through tastings and authentic experiences. You’ll see Ireland in a whole new light.

• Ballintubber Abbey

Elaborately carved Celtic crosses dot the grounds of this ancient church founded in 1216, in Ireland's scenic County Mayo.

O'Brien's Tower

Originally built as a viewing area for 19th Century visitors, O'Brien's Tower sits near the high point of the Cliffs of Moher.

A vibrant arts and culinary scene—and colorful buildings set along medieval streets—make Galway a can't-miss stop.

• Blarney Castle

Kissing the "Stone of Eloquence" may be the reason millions of tourists flock to Blarney Castle every year, but the gardens around it—including its new Poison Garden filled with dangerous and toxic plants—are another reason to add this to your must-do list.

Trinity College & Book of Kells

Ireland's oldest college houses one of the country's most cherished treasures—a beautiful illuminated version of the New Testament Gospels, created by monks in the 9th century. It's one of the essential things to see in Dublin.

Giant's Causeway

Legend has it that the basalt stone columns were set into the sea by giants creating stepping stones—but volcanic activity set these stones in place millions of years ago.

Kylemore Abbey

This 19th century grand manor and its legendary gardens became the home to Benedictine nuns fleeing Belgium during World War I.

• Skellig Experience

Learn about the island of Skellig Michael, where early Christian monks lived in austere conditions. This beautiful and remote location was used in the film "Star Wars VII".

Dublin's Ha'penny Bridge

This cast-iron walking bridge, which spans the River Liffey, was built in the 19th century. Join the 30,000 Dubliners and visitors who walk across Dublin's iconic Ha'Penny Bridge each day.

• Ring of Kerry

The Ring of Kerry offers one of the most scenic drives in the world, with emerald green meadows, stark cliffs and sandy shores dotted with ruins.

• Dingle Peninsula

The Irish mainland's westernmost point features wide, sandy beaches and rocky cliffs along its edges, and dramatic hills and mountains at its center.

Aran Islands Cliffs

These beautiful cliffs rise dramatically along the entire western side of Inis Mor island and yield great views of the Cliffs of Moher across Galway Bay.

Musicians and artists are an integral and vibrant part of fabric of the lively, cultured city of Galway.

Cheesemonger

Ireland's food renaissance includes many artisan producers who take full advantage of its natural bounty.

• Bunratty Castle

This splendid 15th-century tower house in County Clare includes a living reconstruction of the life of Ireland over a century ago.

Get a fascinating glimpse into Ireland's long-practiced art of falconry, the country's traditional "Sport of Kings."

Flavors of the Sea

Ireland abounds with the savors of the sea and the folk who fish it.

Fine Dining

A generation of culinary innovation and exploration has made modern Ireland a foodie's paradise.

In Ireland, fresh seafood is never more than a short swim away.

Merry Ploughboy

Dine at this iconic pub and come alive to the fancy footwork of Irish step dancers and lively traditional tunes.

• Cliffs of Moher

These shale and sandstone cliffs rise 700 feet above the Atlantic, and serve as one of the most iconic pieces of scenery in all of Ireland.

Sheep Herding

Ireland's emerald green pastures are home to countless flocks of sheep. Irish wool is used for the intricately knitted Aran sweaters and other goods.

Ireland Tours

• A La Carte B&B
• custom travel test
• Hand-Picked Accommodations
• Ireland - Custom Groups
• Self-Drive Classic Itineraries
• England & Wales - Custom Groups
• Self-Drive: Traveler’s Choice
• Scotland - Custom Groups
• Iceland - Custom Groups
• 8 - 14 Days
• 3D Battle Show
• Abbey Tavern
• Achill Island
• Alnwick Castle
• Aran Islands
• Arigna Mining Centre
• Ashford Castle
• Ballachulish
• Ballinwillin House
• Ballycotton
• Ballyfarnon
• Ballyknocken Cookery School
• Bernese Oberland
• Black Forest
• Blakes of the Hollow Pub
• Bristol Tour
• Brjansstadir
• Cambridge Punting
• Cambridge Tour
• Canterbury Cathedral
• Carlingford
• Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge
• Carrick-on-Shannon
• Causey Farm
• Celtic Whiskey Bar
• Charles Fort
• Chavenage House
• Chocolate-Making Experience
• Church Bar and Restaurant
• Cobh Heritage Centre
• Connemara Celtic Crystal
• Cooking Competition
• Croke Park Stadium
• Cross Guns Gastropub
• Crosskeys Inn
• Culzean Castle
• Dalkey Castle
• Derrynane House
• Distillery Visit
• Down Cathedral
• Dromoland Castle
• Dublin Tour
• Dun Aengus Fort
• Dun Laoghaire
• Ely Cathedral
• Farm to Table Dinner
• Farmhouse Visit
• Florence Court House
• Gallarus Oratory
• Gedächtniskirche
• Glasgow Tour
• Glasnevin Museum
• Glastonbury Tor & Abbey
• Glenlo Abbey
• Glenveagh National Park
• GPO Witness History
• Grasmere Gingerbread Shop
• Hampton Court Palace
• Hazel Mountain Chocolate Factory
• Highland games
• Irish National Stud
• Irish Whiskey Museum
• Isle of Capri
• Jameson Experience
• John B. Keane's Pub
• Johnstown Castle
• Kilkenny Castle
• Kilronan Castle
• King John's Castle
• Kyle of Lochalsh
• Lake Distillery
• Leeds Castle
• Letterkenny
• Long Meadow Cider
• Lough Ree Viking Cruise
• Malahide Castle
• Mary Rose Museum
• Melrose Abbey
• Montecatini Terme
• Muckross House
• Muckross Schoolhouse
• National Piping Centre
• New Chocolate Company Tasting
• Newmarket-on-Fergus
• O'Connors Famous Pub
• Páidí Ó Sé’s Pub
• Parknasilla House
• Peace Bridge
• Pollok House
• Quiet Man Walking Tour
• Rhine Gorge
• Riverside Transport Museum
• Robert Burns Birthplace Museum
• Rosscarbery
• Royal Tunbridge Wells
• Royal Yacht Britannia
• Scotney Castle
• Scottish Evening
• Seaweed Foraging
• Shepherd Neame Brewery
• Sissinghurst Castle Garden
• Sistine Chapel
• Slane Castle & Distillery
• Slea Head Loop
• Smithwick's Experience
• Spike Island
• St Michael's Mount
• St Patrick's Day in Dublin
• St. Austell
• St. Michan's Church Crypt
• St. Paul's Cathedral
• St. Peter's Basilica
• Stone of Destiny
• Strahov Stadium
• Stratford-upon-Avon
• Strokkur Geysir
• Svartifoss Waterfall
• Taigh Chearsabhagh
• Taylors Three Rock Pub
• Teeling Distillery
• Tenby Walking Tour
• Thames River Cruise
• The Armitt Museum
• The Church Bar and Restaurant
• The Glyde Inn
• Thingvellir National Park
• Three Bridges
• Timoleague Franciscan Friary
• Tintern Abbey
• Titanic Belfast
• Titanic Walking Tour
• Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
• Toompea Castle
• Tower of London
• Town Crier Tour
• Trafalgar Square
• Trevi Fountain
• Trim Castle
• Trim Living History
• Trinity College
• Triona Design
• Trotternish Peninsula
• Turf-Cutting Demonstration
• Turkish Bazaar Bas Carsija
• Uffizi Gallery
• UN Building
• Upper and Lower Old Town
• Urquhart Castle
• Veliko Jezero
• Venice Gondola Ride
• Venice Walking Tour
• Victorian Tall Ship
• Viking Splash Dublin Tour
• Villa Borghese Gardens
• Vilnius Castle
• Vilnius University
• Vintage Afternoon Tea Tour
• Walking Tour of Korcula
• Walled City Brewery
• Warner Brothers Studio “Making of Harry Potter”
• Waterford Crystal
• Waterford Tour
• Welsh Banquet
• Welsh Language Lesson
• Wenceslas Square
• West Coast Coastal Drive
• Westminster Abbey
• Westport House
• Whitby Tour
• White Cliffs
• Wild Atlantic Way Drive
• Windsor Castle
• Winter Palace
• Yansa Gora Monastery
• York Minster
• York Walking Tour
• Zwinger Palace
• Abbotsford House
• Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
• Ardmhor on Barra
• Armadale Castle
• Armory Museum
• Astronomical Clock
• Auschwitz-Birkenau
• Bamburgh Castle
• Bannockburn Visitor Center
• Baroque Town Hall
• Basilica of San Marco
• Bell Tower Clock
• Belleek Pottery
• Belvedere Palace
• Betws-y-Coed
• Black Madonna
• Blair Athol Distillery
• Blair Castle
• Blarney Castle & Killarney
• Blarney Woollen Mills
• Blasket Centre
• Bled Castle
• Blenheim Palace
• Blue Lagoon
• Bodmin Moor
• Bodnant Welsh Food Centre
• Boka Waterfall
• Book of Kells
• Bosta Beach
• Brecon Beacons National Park
• British Golf Museum
• British Museum
• British Music Experience
• Brodie Castle
• Brú na Boinne Visitor Center
• Burren Smokehouse
• Cabra Castle
• Caernarfon Castle
• Callanish Standing Stones
• Canal Cruise
• Cardiff Bay Tour
• Cardiff Castle
• Cardiff Tour
• Castle Esplanade
• Castle Hill
• Castle Howard
• Castle Square
• Cathedral of St. Dude
• Cathedral of St. Vitus
• Catherine Palace & Park
• Cavern Club
• Cawdor Castle
• Charles Bridge
• Chester Cathedral
• Chester Walking Tour
• Church of St. Donat
• Churchill Barriers
• Clan Donald Centre
• Clonmacnoise Monastic Site
• Corrib Cruise
• Crown Jewels
• Cruiser Aurora
• Crumlin Road Gaol
• Culloden Battlefield Visitor Center
• Culross (Outlander)
• Culross Abbey
• Culross Palace
• Daliborka Tower
• Dan O’Hara’s Homestead Farmhouse Visit
• Dartmoor National Park
• Derry’s Medieval Walls
• Dingle Bay Cruise
• Diocletian’s Palace
• Doge’s Palace
• Dome Cathedral
• Dominican Monastery
• Donegal Castle
• Doune Castle
• Dublin Castle
• Dubrovnik Walking Tour
• Dun Carloway Broch
• Dunbrody Famine Ship
• Dunrobin Castle
• Dunvegan Castle
• Edinburgh Castle
• Edinburgh Tour
• Eiffel Tower
• Eilean Donan Castle
• EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum
• Evening Canal Cruise
• Falconry Exhibition
• Famous Blacksmiths Shop
• Field of Mars
• Firth of Forth
• Fisherman’s Bastion
• Florence Walking Tour
• Fort Augustus
• Fort William
• Forth Bridge
• Foynes Flying Boat & Maritime Museum
• Franciscan Monastery
• Fridheimar Tomato Farm
• Gavrilo Princip Museum
• Gearrannan Blackhouse Village
• Gediminas’ Tower
• Gellert Hill Citadel
• General Post Office Museum
• Giant’s Causeway
• Glamis Castle
• Glasgow Cathedral
• Glen Grant Distillery
• Glencoe Mountains
• Glendalough, Co. Wicklow
• Glenfiddich Distillery
• Glenfinnan Viaduct (Harry Potter)
• Glengesh Pass
• Goathland Station (Hogsmeade from Harry Potter)
• Golden Circle
• Golden Lane
• Goriska Brda
• Gothic-Baroque Cathedral of St. Mark
• Government Palace
• Gower Peninsula
• Grafton Street, Dublin
• Grampian Mountains
• Great Orme Tramway
• Gruz Harbor
• Guinness Storehouse
• Gullfoss Waterfall
• Hallgrímskirkja
• Harlech Castle
• Harry Potter Walking Tour
• Harry’s Bar
• Hebridean Smokehouse
• Hekla Volcano
• Heroes’ Square
• Highland Safaris
• Hillsborough Castle
• Hofburg Palace
• Holy Trinity St. Sergius Lavra
• Horgabost Beach
• Horseshoe Pass
• Houses of Parliament
• Husref Bay’s Mosque
• Hvar Island
• Inveraray Castle
• Inverewe Gardens
• Iron Age House
• Isle of Benbecula
• Isle of Bute
• Isle of Harris Distillery
• Isle of Lewis
• Isle of Skye
• Italian Chapel
• Jacobite Steam Train
• Jamaica Inn
• Jaunting Car Ride
• Jewish Ghetto
• Johnstons of Elgin
• Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon
• Jupiter’s Temple
• Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church
• Kashmir Goats
• Kensington Palace
• Killarney National Park
• Killarney’s Lakes
• Killary Harbour
• Kilmainham Gaol
• Kilmuir Graveyard
• Kinsale Walk
• Knock Shrine
• Kylemore Abbey & Gardens
• Lake Bohinj
• Lake District
• Lake Windermere Cruise
• Lanhydrock House
• Lava Center
• Lazienki Park & Palace
• Leverburgh on Harris
• Liberty Monument
• Limerick Panoramic Tour
• Lissadell House
• Literary Tea with Scones
• Little Museum of Dublin
• Llandudno Tram
• Loch an Duin
• Loch Linnhe
• Loch Lomond
• Lochboisdale
• London Pub Food Tour
• London Tour
• Lovespoon Workshop
• Luskentyre Beach
• Lynch’s Castle
• Machynlleth
• Malo Jezero
• Matthias Church
• Mayflower Steps
• Medieval Castle Banquet
• Mercato Centrale
• Merry Ploughboy Pub
• Mljet Island & National Park
• Monument to the Heroes of the Warsaw Ghetto
• Moscow University
• Mount Snowdon
• Mount Stuart House
• Nace Homestead
• Nant Gwrtheyrn Welsh Heritage Centre
• National Slate Museum
• Nelson’s Column
• Neolithic Tombs
• Nevsky Prospect
• Nine Glens of Antrim
• North Yorkshire Moors Railway
• Northern Lights
• Novodevichy Convent
• Old Market Square
• Old Royal Palace
• Olive Oil & Wine Tasting
• Olympic Stadium
• Orlando’s Column
• Our Lady of the Rocks
• Oxford Walking Tour
• Palace of Holyroodhouse
• Palace of Science and Culture
• Palace Square
• Palaces for the People
• Palazzo Vecchio
• Pembroke Castle
• Penderyn Distillery
• Peter and Paul Cathedral
• Peter and Paul Fortress
• Petrodvorets
• Piazza della Signoria
• Piccadilly Circus
• Pitlochry Pub Lunch
• Plitvice Lakes
• Politician Pub
• Poljanska Sora
• Postojna Cave
• Powerscourt House
• Prater Amusement Park
• Provand’s Lordship
• Rannoch Moor
• Rector’s Palace
• Red Deer Encounter
• Reykjavik City Tour
• Reynisfjara Beach
• Riga Castle
• Ring of Brodgar
• River Avon Cruise
• River Clyde
• River Moskva
• River Shannon
• Robba’s Fountain
• Roman baths
• Roman Forum
• Ross Castle
• Royal and Ancient Clubhouse
• Royal Castle
• Royal Castle of Hradcany
• Royal Cathedral
• Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo
• Royal Military Tattoo
• Royal Route
• Russborough House
• Russian Folklore
• Saxon Gardens
• Schiller Theater
• Schloss Charlottenburg
• Scone Palace
• Secret Lagoon
• Seine River Cruise
• Seljalandsfoss Waterfall
• Selska Sora
• Semper Opera House
• Senate Square
• Sergiev Posad
• Shakespeare’s Birthplace
• Sheepdog Demonstration
• Shepherd’s Museum
• Shrewsbury Walking Tour
• Skaftafell National Park
• Skofja Loka
• Skogafoss Waterfall
• Skogar Folk Museum
• Slieve League Cliffs
• Smallest House in Britain
• Smolny Cathedral
• Snowdonia National Park
• South Pole Inn
• Spanish Steps
• Spean Bridge
• Speyside Distilleries
• Sponza Palace
• Square of the Five Wells
• St. Anastasia
• St. Andrews Castle
• St. Andrews Walk
• St. Anne’s Church
• St. Asaph’s Cathedral
• St. Basil’s Cathedral
• St. Catherine’s Church
• St. Columba’s Cathedral
• St. David’s Cathedral
• St. Fagans Castle
• St. Fagans National Museum of History
• St. George’s Basilica
• St. Isaac’s Cathedral
• St. Isaac’s Square
• St. Jacobs Cathedral
• St. John’s Cathedral
• St. Magnus Cathedral
• St. Mark’s Church
• St. Mary’s Church
• St. Michael’s Mount
• St. Patrick’s Cathedral
• St. Patrick’s Grave
• St. Paul’s Cathedral
• St. Peter and Paul’s Church
• St. Peter’s Church
• St. Stephen’s Cathedral
• Step Dancing
• Stirling Castle
• Staff Picks
• Price (Low to High)
• Price (High to Low)

2025 Tours: Book Early, Save $300pp - Use Code EBD25300

Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way

Starting from $2,695

Discover the untamed nature and rich cultural heritage of Ireland’s western coast, with its spectacular ocean vistas, enchanting towns, and craftsmanship deeply rooted in tradition.

​Guided Tours, Guided Small Groups

2025 Tours: Book Early, Save $100pp - Use Code EBD25100  

Taste of Ireland

Starting from $1,395

This fast-paced, short-and-sweet Ireland tour is the perfect introduction to the Emerald Isle. Taste of Ireland hits all of the "greatest hits" highlights—from Blarney Castle to the Cliffs of…

​Guided Tours, Guided Small Groups, Independent Adventures

2025 Tours: Book Early, Save $200pp - Use Code EBD25200

Irish Adventure

Starting from $1,945

Make the most of every moment of your Ireland vacation—you'll discover all the can't-miss Irish scenery and history on this fast-paced tour.

2024 Tours: Save $300pp - Use Code TARTAN300 2025 Tours: Save $300pp - Use Code EBD25300

Taste of Scotland & Ireland

Starting from $3,195

The perfect combination of two great countries in one itinerary. Start in Glasgow before exploring the Scottish Highlands with a Loch Ness cruise and whisky tasting. Visit St Andrews and Edinburgh…

Best of Ireland South

Starting from $1,845

Give us a week, and we'll tour the best of Ireland with you. Thrill at the amazing Cliffs of Moher and the gorgeous Dingle Peninsula on this perfect introduction to the Emerald Isle. 

Starting from $2,445

Take your time on this Ireland tour, which explores the most acclaimed sights in the south and west, including the mountainous beauty of Connemara.

2025 Tours: Book Early, Save $400pp - Use Code EBD25400

Irish Odyssey

Starting from $3,395

Explore Ireland's gorgeous scenery and rich history on this comprehensive Irish tour that hits every corner of the island.

Ireland South Daytripper

Starting from $2,295

Turn your Irish vacation into a staycation. Set up your home base in the lovely village of Adare, then set out on day trips to see some of Ireland's top attractions. 

Irish Legends

Starting from $2,745

Delve into Ireland and its past on this tour, which mixes in plenty of hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path sights among the tried-and-true favorites. 

2025 Tours: Book Early, Save $500pp - Use Code EBD25500

Irish Classic

Starting from $3,745

Skirt along the entire rugged coastline to see the highlights on this Ireland tour. 

A hidden gem

Ireland at a glance

Euro (Sterling in Northern Ireland)

Optional 10-12% on dining

Avg.Summer Temp

Avg. winter temp, peak tourist season.

July & August

English & Irish

Must-have souvenirs

Irish whiskey

Aran sweaters

Waterford crystal

Local lingo

Craic (fun)

Banjaxed (broken)

Sláinte (cheers!)

So much beauty in one country as we travel from coast to coast…I truly was not ready to leave.

Explore your heritage

Want to visit the land of your Irish or Scottish ancestors? Enter last names from your family tree and we can guide you to tours that visit the place your family called home.

The Inclusive Advantage

Get more without spending more. CIE Tours includes every experience and most meals so you won't be hit with hidden expenses.

How can we help you?

Tours from Dublin

Welcome to history-soaked dublin.

A tale or two can come from touring around Dublin. It’s inevitable. You’ll find yourself in a pub in Dublin.

Perhaps with a pint of Guinness in your hand, quoting Pippin (“It comes in pints?!”), completely overcome with this feeling. One of excitement. Happiness. Possibility. Because you’re in Dublin and this city is like the hug of a loud and rambunctious friend when you finally arrive at the pub on a night out. But why stop there?

Ireland’s beauty is infectious and should be experienced in full. Step out of the bustling city and take a tour from Dublin. The Emerald Isle is ready to tell you some stories. To show you a good time. To score itself into your memory for a long time to come, and become a lifelong friend. 

Find your perfect tour of Ireland from Dublin below.

Planning Your Tour from Dublin

We love the pub-ridden alleys and history-soaked streets of Dublin. But when you explore Ireland and take a trip from Dublin, you escape the city and discover the authentic Emerald Isle. You find cliffs as epic as the ancient sagas, you encounter too-strange-to-be-true traditions, and you taste whiskies that you never knew you needed in your life.

Travel Responsibly from Dublin

Cultural, passionate, historical - we love the life that bursts forth from a city like Dublin. Which is why one of our missions is to protect the places we love. Through our responsible travel initiative , we donate, volunteer, use small mini-coaches and do as much as we can to protect the locations we tour for future generations to enjoy.

Did You Know?

- Trinity College has more than just a pretty face, she’s had some famous graduates too – such as Oscar Wilde and Bram Stoker. - The idea for the Guinness Book of Records originated at the Guinness Brewery in Dublin (now the Guinness Storehouse , which you can visit).

Don't Miss Out

- How can you visit the home of Guinness and not visit where it all began? Even if you’re not a big Guinness fan, the tours themselves are still super interesting. - If you can time it right, why not celebrate St Patrick’s Day in the city of Dublin? Bring your A-Game and lots of the colour green.

Best Tours of Ireland

Cliffs of Moher Tour from Dublin

Giant's Causeway Tour from Dublin

Blarney Castle Tour from Dublin

Ireland's Leading Tour Operator

30,000+ Guest Reviews

Amazing Irish Experiences

Free Cancellation

Our top tours.

Discover Ireland with us!

(Morning) Glendalough & Wicklow Mountains Half Day Tour from Dublin

Belfast (including titanic experience) tour from dublin, cliffs of moher tour from cork, cliffs of moher tour from limerick, giant's causeway tour from belfast.

You'll receive a full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance of most experiences

Discover unique experiences with Paddywagon Tours. Departing daily from many different locations.

Dunmore East

Top attractions.

Explore Ireland's top attractions with Paddywagon Tours.

Belfast City

Blarney Castle

Cliffs of Moher

Dingle Peninsula

Giant's Causeway

Ring of Kerry

Wild Atlantic Way

Nº1 tour operator in ireland since 1998.

TripAdvisor Travelers' Choice - 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020 & 2023

We use cookies to give you the best experience across our Paddywagon Tours website. By continuing to use our website, you are agreeing to the use of cookies. More details can be found in our Cookie Policy .

World Class Small-Group Tours of Ireland*

Breathtaking scenery. Inspiring people and hospitality. Legendary history and culture.

Vagabond have been THE leaders in small-group tours of Ireland since 2002.

That's 22 years of magic memories, locally-owned hotels, passionate driver guides, exceptional tour vehicles, delicious food and unmissable local Irish experiences.

What's more, we are the only Irish tour company named in Travel + Leisure's World's Best Awards 2023 and the first tour operator in Ireland to become a certified B Corp .

🎶 NEW MUSIC TOUR:  Hit the high notes on our brand new Irish music itinerary, the 8 Day Jigs & Reels Ireland Music Tour

💚 Our Guests Love Us!

I consider Vagabond the best choice because they are flexible and open to suggestions ...

It was obvious that Vagabond's only goal is to make sure their customers have an excellent experience while visiting Ireland. Highly Recommend!

Every day was full of off the beaten path experiences.

Traveling with a small group is definitely the way to go. If Ireland is on your bucket list, be sure to go with a Vagabond Driftwood tour!

Our Driftwood tour was amazing. Having a small group made the adventure so much more fun.

Having a smaller vehicle let us explore places that big buses couldn’t reach. My only dilemma is what trip to book with them next.

Vagabond Tours Are..

Ireland's original small-group tours.

In 2002, Rob led his first ever small-group tour of Ireland. Twenty-two years later, we are still listening, learning and improving every season. Every Vagabond & Driftwood itinerary distils decades of experience into one amazing adventure!

Family-Owned With Local Guides

Based in Ireland, Vagabond & Driftwood has always been family-owned and operated. We recruit and train our driver guides locally. Our network of independent hotels and activity suppliers helps our tours contribute directly to the local economy.

An Award Winning Irish Tour Company

Exceptional quality runs right through Vagabond & Driftwood. Our standards have been recognised internationally. Most recently, we were the first B Corp from the Irish travel industry and the only tour operator awarded in the Travel + Leisure World's Best Awards 2023.

Choose Your Tour Style x

Driftwood - relaxed pace.

Relax on a Driftwood small-group tour of Ireland featuring quality time to explore Ireland's scenery, history & culture.

• ✔️ Maximum 14 Other Guests
• ✔️ Comfortable Mercedes Tour Vehicles
• ✔️ Explore Castles, Gardens & Scenery
• ✔️ Guaranteed Scheduled Departures
• ✔️ Relaxed Tour Pace

Vagabond - Active Adventure

Get active on a small-group tour of Ireland featuring adventure, history, culture and wild destinations.

• ✔️ Maximum 12 Other Guests
• ✔️ Chunky 4×4 Mercedes Tour Vehicles
• ✔️ Hiking, Biking, Horseback-Riding & Kayaking
• ✔️ Upbeat Tour Pace

Vagabond - Active Small-Group Tours of Ireland

Driftwood - Easy-Paced Small-Group Tours of Ireland

Our Ireland Tours Care For Community and Planet

Like you, we want our children and grandchildren to be able to enjoy authentic travel experiences into the future.

We aim to bring long-term benefits to both community and planet as part of our responsible tourism mission.

That's why we're a certified B Corp .

Rob & Amy Rankin + the Vagabond Team

FLEXIBLE BOOKING TERMS

Reserve your seat for 7 days for free. Book your tour for €250 per person.

Learn more about the flexibility built into Vagabond & Driftwood Tours.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

We've answered a few questions about Ireland since 2002...

Dive into our FAQs  to learn more.

Where We Tour In Ireland

Our expert VagaGuides know every last corner of Ireland!

We tour Northern Ireland , the Wild Atlantic Way  and Ireland's Ancient East .

Highlights include the Ring of Kerry , Dingle, Giants Causeway, the Cliffs of Moher, Connemara, the Burren, Kilkenny Castle and the Blarney Stone.

The counties we visit include Belfast, Derry/Londonderry, Donegal, Galway, Waterford, Sligo, Clare, Cork and Tipperary. For convenience, all of our small-group tours depart from Dublin .

Expect Excellence On Your Ireland Tour

We were ranked #12 in the Travel + Leisure   World’s Best Awards 2023 — one of the travel industry's most prestigious international accolades.

Can more than 1,000 5-Star Reviewers on TripAdvisor be wrong? Our small-group tours of Ireland are rated 5/5 and were awarded a 2023 Travellers Choice Award .

Our amazing tours of Ireland were awarded Feefo's 2023 Gold Trusted Service Award based on verified guest reviews. Thank you for sharing the love!

Our tours of Ireland are a force for good in the community. We are immensely proud to have become Ireland's first B Corp certified travel and tourism company.

Our 8 Day Vagabond Wild Irish Rover Tour was the only tour of Ireland selected by National Geographic Traveler Magazine's 50 Tours of a Lifetime

We care about the impacts of our Ireland tours. To back this commitment up and strive for improvement, we are active members of Sustainable Travel Network

Our 6 Day Driftwood Ancient Ireland Tour took home the 2019 award for Best Ireland’s Ancient East Tourism Experience

We were delighted when our small-group tours of Ireland were awarded the Green Tourism & Entertainment Award at the Green Awards 2018

Frequently Asked Questions

• 🚶‍♀️ How Fit Do I Need To Be?
• 📏 What Size Luggage Can I Bring?
• 🐴 How Do I Book Excursions?
• 🚐 How Many Tours Are There?
• 🛬 Are Flights Or Transfers Included?

Read Ireland Tour Tips On Our Blog

7 Reasons Guided Tours Beat Self-Drive

Best Places To Go Biking in Ireland

☘️ Worry-Free Bookings. ONLY €250.00 DEPOSIT PER PERSON. See Our Flexible Terms

5 Days In Ireland: 56 Itineraries For A Mighty 5 Day Road Trip

By Author Keith O'Hara

Posted on Last updated: December 29, 2023

We’ve meticulously mapped out 56 different 5 days in Ireland itineraries.

Why 56? Well, no 1 itinerary will ever suit every person.

So, we’ve made it that you can pick a 5 day Ireland itinerary based on:

• Your start point:  E.g. Dublin, Shannon, Belfast, etc.
• Your mode of transport:  Car or public transport
• How you like to travel:  Fast or slow
• Your fitness level:  Fit or unfit

Table of Contents

The best itinerary for 5 days in Ireland

Click to enlarge map

We’ve split this guide up into two sections:

• Section 1 (right below): This has links to our different 5 day Ireland itinerary guides
• Section 2 (a short scroll down): If you want to see what’s possible in 5 days, you’ll find 5 sample trips here

Pick your 5 day Ireland itinerary

OK, it’s time to find the perfect 5 day Ireland itinerary based on where you’re starting your road trip and how you like to explore.

The graphic above gives an overview of some terms you need to understand in order to pick the itinerary that’s most suited to you.

When you’re ready, you’ll find the different itineraries split up based on the starting point, e.g. Dublin:

From Dublin

For those of you with a car

• A 5-day slow trip for those with good fitness
• A 5-day slow trip for those with poor fitness
• A 5-day fast trip for those with good fitness
• A 5-day fast trip for those with poor fitness

For those of you using public transport

From Shannon

From belfast, from donegal, from rosslare, what to see in ireland in 5 days (5 sample itineraries).

Photos via Shutterstock

Below you’ll find 5 different sample itineraries that’ll give you a sense of what to see in Ireland in 5 days.

Note: These are fast, adventure packed itineraries. If you’d like slower 5 day road trips or if you don’t have a car, find all of our 5 day road trip guides here ).

Here’s an overview of the 5 different routes:

• Route 1: Fermanagh, Sligo, Donegal and Derry
• Route 2: Wicklow, Carlow, Kilkenny, Wexford and Waterford
• Route 3: Clare, Galway and Mayo
• Route 4: Meath, Louth, Down and Antrim
• Route 5: Cork and Kerry

Ireland itinerary 5 days (route 1): Fermanagh, Sligo, Donegal and Derry

Photos by The Irish Road Trip

Our first 5 day Ireland itinerary takes us to counties Fermanagh, Sligo, Donegal and Derry, on an Ireland road trip that you won’t forget anytime soon.

We’ll cover things to do and where to stay along with where to eat and drink. Need a car? See our guide to renting a car in Ireland .

Day 1: Fermanagh and Sligo

Where you start your 5 days in Ireland is entirely up to you. Don’t feel like you have to begin where we have in Fermanagh.

You may need to adjust the itinerary slightly to suit your departure point – if you have any questions, pop a comment in the comments section at the bottom of this guide and I’ll help you out.

1. Climbing Ireland’s Stairway to Heaven 

// Aim to arrive here for 10:00 //

You’ll often hear the boardwalk on Cuilcagh Mountain referred to ‘ Ireland’s Stairway to Heaven ‘ or ‘ Ireland’s Great Wall ‘ (not sure where they’re getting the ‘wall’ from…).

The marvellous wooden boardwalk above that you’re currently devouring with your eyes sits on Cuilcagh, a mountain that straddles the Fermanagh and Cavan border.

The boardwalk covers an impressive 1.6km of Cuilcagh Mountain, making it very walker friendly (especially for those with lower levels of fitness).

Pre-walk good-to-knows

• Walk time : the last time I did it (2017) it took 2 hours and 20 minutes.
• Difficulty : moderate levels of fitness needed.
• Tip : arrive early – parking here at peak times is an absolute disaster
• More info : here’s everything you need to know about walking the Cuilcagh Boardwalk .

2. The Marble Arch Caves (and a light bite to eat)

// Finish up the walk at 13:00 and arrive to the caves for 13:20 //

If you’re in need of a light post-walk feed, drop into the cafe on-site first.

The Marble Arch Caves are found within throwing distance of where you’ll be finishing up your walk.

They’re a series of natural limestone caves that are around 11.5 km in length. Interestingly enough, the caves form the longest known cave system in Northern Ireland.

Those that nip along to the Marble Arch Caves will experience a natural underworld of;

• Winding passages
• Lofty chambers

The tour takes visitors on a short stroll down through the Marble Arch National Nature Reserve, before taking a short 10-minute underground boat journey and then a 1.5km walk through the showcave that you can see above.

3. The Benbulben Forest Walk

// Marble Arch Caves to the start of the walk – 1-hour drive (arrive for 16:30) //

We’re going to round off day 1 by making our way into Sligo. We’ll be taking the glorious 1 and a half hour Benbulben Forest walk .

If you’ve never heard of Benbulben, it’s arguably Ireland’s most distinctive mountain thanks to its almost table-top-like appearance.

According to the lads at Sligo Walks (an excellent resource), the trail begins in a secluded forest area before later opening up and offering spectacular close-up views of Benbulben Head.

Over the course of the walk, you’ll also be treated to views of Donegal Bay, Slieve League, and Mullaghmore and Classiebawn Castle.

Pre-walk good-to-knows r

• Walk time : 1.5 hours
• Difficulty : easy
• Parking : stick ‘Benbulben Walk’ into Google Map. This’ll take you right to the carpark.

4. A bed for the night

// Your accommodation (Benbulben Farmhouse B&B) is only a 2-minute drive from the carpark  //

Photos via Booking.com

The first night of our 5 day trip to Ireland will be spent in Benbulben Farmhouse B&B – a gorgeous spot situated at the foot of Benbulben in the heart of Yeats Country.

This little B&B offers guests views of Benbulben Mountain that are simply out of this world.

Drop your bags off and we’ll head for a feed to polish off the night.

// Your B&B to the Yeats Country Hotel, Spa & Leisure Club – 15-minute drive (arrive around 19:00) //

Photos via Davis’ Restaurant on FB

Take the short spin from your accommodation over to the Davis’ Restaurant & Yeats Tavern and grab a bite to eat.

We’ve a busy day tomorrow, so I’m going to recommend that you eat and then head back for an early night.

Day 2: Sligo and Donegal

We’ll be finishing up in Sligo on Day 2 and moving on to Donegal on day 2 of our 5 day trip to Ireland.

If you fancy exploring more of the county, check out our guide to 48 hours in Sligo .

Ready for day 2 of our 5 days in Ireland guide? Let’s get cracking!

1. The Knocknarea Queen Maeve Trail

// Start the walk at 08:45 (it’s a 25-minute drive from your B&B) //

You need to get up early on day 2, so get fed in your B&B, and start the walk before 9. Day 2 is going to be long. It’s also going to be packed with lots of great stuff!

We’ll be polishing off the day with pints later, so you’ve that to look forward to!

As you’ve probably gathered, many of the best things to do in Sligo revolve around the county’s glorious landscape..

So, it’s probably no major surprise that the first activity of the day is a hike – the first of many in this 5 day Ireland itinerary!

We’re going to take the Queen Maeve Trail up the clear-cut limestone Knocknarea Mountain , which should take us around 1 and a half hours to complete.

• Walk time : you should be able to finish it in under 2 hours
• Difficulty : strenuous

2. The road to Donegal

// Knocknarea to Ballyshannon – 50-minute drive (arrive for 12:00) //

We’ve a decent drive ahead of us to get to our first handful of Donegal stops. Stop in Bundoran (above) on the way if you fancy a seaside stroll.

I’m going to recommend that you stick Ballyshannon into Google Maps and head there for a bit of lunch.

I can’t even begin to recommend Shannon’s Corner in Ballyshannon enough – I had food here recently and it was top-class.

Looking for longer road trips? We’ve guides to:

• 7 days in Ireland
• 10 days in Ireland
• 14 days in Ireland

3. The mesmerising cliffs at Slieve League

// Ballyshannon to Slieve League – 1 hour and 20 minute drive (arrive for 14:30) //

Our next stop of the day takes us to the Slieve League Cliffs .

Towering above the ocean at 1,972 feet/601 meters, (over twice the height of the Cliffs of Moher), the Slieve League Cliffs are an explorers dream.

There’s ample opportunity for those of you in search of a lengthy walk and plenty of handy strolls for those looking to take it easy.

Recommendation for this trip : start your walk from the first car park you meet. This’ll give you the opportunity to take the 45-minute or so (depending on fitness and pace) walk up to the viewing point.

If you’re with someone with limited mobility, just open the gate near the carpark and drive on up. Just be careful of walkers and cyclists.

4. Silver Strand Beach

// Slieve League to Malin Beg – 40-minute drive (arrive for 17:00) //

You’ll find the magnificent Silver Strand Beach in Malin Beg, a little Gaeltacht village just south of Glencolumbkille.

Whether you’re chilling out on the grass above and gazing down at it, or rambling along the sandy shores and listening to the music of the waves crashing, this horseshoe-shaped beach is well worth dropping by.

This is one of the most widely missed stop off points in many Wild Atlantic Way Donegal guides. Make sure you don’t miss it!

5. Get dizzy at the Glengesh Pass

// Malin Beg to Glengesh – 35-minute drive (arrive for 18:00) //

Those of you that have read our guide to the craziest roads in Ireland will recognise the bendy road through Glengesh Pass .

It meanders through the seemingly endless mountainous terrain that connects Glencolmcille to Ardara.

Tip : Hop out of your car (or dismount your bike) at the little viewing point that’ll be on your right as you approach the pass and admire the view from above.

7. Food, drink and a bed for the night

Photo left and top right: Martin Fleming. Bottom right: Gareth Wray

The second night of our 5 day tour of Ireland will be spent in Ardara – a 12-minute drive from Glengesh.

There’s only a handful of places to stay in Ardara . If you can, try and stay in the town itself.

Any time I’m in Ardara for a night I’ll take a stroll down to Nancy’s Bar for a pint or three. This is a gorgeous old pub that’s especially cosy in the winter thanks for a roaring fire.

Kick back and chill for the evening.

Day 3: Donegal

Day 3 of our 5 day Ireland itinerary takes us further into Donegal.

The best way to explore this corner of Ireland is by foot, so we’ll be spending a good chunk of day 3 out rambling.

1. A walk in Glenveagh National Park

// Ardara to Glenveagh – 60-minute drive (arrive for 11:00) // 

We’re going to kick things off with a looped walk in Glenveagh National Park.

The park is made up of an impressive 16,000 hectares that includes most of the Derryveagh Mountains, the Poisoned Glen and part of Errigal Mountain .

For those looking to get a lungful of fresh air, there are several walks  that you can choose from.

Tip : If you’re looking for a reasonably handy walk that treats you to some of what Glenveagh has to offer, give the Garden Trail (a 1-hour looped trail) a bash.

2. The Horn Head Loop

// Glenveagh to Horn Head – 35-minute drive (arrive for 15:00) //

The drive up to Horn Head is one of my favourite spins on our first 5 days in Ireland route.

Point the car in the direction of Dunfanaghy – this’ll be the starting point for the Horn Head Loop Drive.

The drive kicks off from the Market Square in Dunfanaghy village. Find info on the route in this guide .

3. Killahoey Beach

// Horn Head to Killahoey Beach – 15-minute drive (arrive for 16:30) //

You’ll hear Killahoey Beach often referred to as Dunfanaghy beach.

It’s one of Donegal’s many Blue Flag beaches and it’s well known for watersports.

Stop off here, hop out of your shoes and socks and head for a walk along the shore.

4. Ards Forest Park

// Killahoey Beach to Ards Forest Park – 10-minute drive (arrive for 17:30) //

Photos courtesy of Gareth Wray Photograph

Our next stop takes us to the often overlooked  Ards Forest Park , where you can choose from nine different trails to head off on.

Over the course of your walk, you’ll encounter sand dunes, beaches, salt marshes, saltwater lakes, rock face and, of course, coniferous and deciduous woodlands.

You’ll also happen upon the remains of four ring forts together with a holy well and a mass rock.

• Car parking fee : €5 fee (card taken)
• Opening hours : The car park opens at 8 am and closes at 8 pm from April to September and opens from 8 am to 5 pm from October to March

5. A bed for the night

// Ards Forest Park to Downings – 25-minute drive (arrive around 19:00) //

Photos via The Galley on FB

I’m going to recommend that you spend the third night of our 5 days in Ireland road trip in Downings, at the Downings Bay Hotel .

You can then either head down to the hotel’s Haven restaurant or nearby The Galley for a bite to eat.

Day 4 (Donegal + Derry) – Fanad Lighthouse, Lough Salt and Malin Head

Day 4 is our last day in Donegal before our 5 day trip to Ireland moves to Northern Ireland.

We’ll be kicking off the day with a drive near where you stayed on day 3 before moving on to Lough Salt and then Fanad.

The day will be rounded off with a walk at Malin Head.

1. The Tra Na Rossan loop drive

// Downings to Tra Na Rossan View – 15-minute drive (take your time on this drive and arrive for 11:00) //

Get up early and grab a decent bit of breakfast. When you’re ready to hit the road, point your car in the direction of Tra Na Rossan View.

This drive is locally known as the Atlantic Drive.

Keep on going until you see a little pull in point on the right (hopefully you’ll arrive when there are no cars around). The view from here is sensational.

Related reads:  See our guides to the best time to visit Ireland and our The weather in Ireland by month

2. Lazing at Lough Salt

// Tra Na Rossan View to Lough Salt – 20-minute drive (arrive for 14:00) //

Photo left: Chris Hill. Others: Nomos Productions (via Failte Ireland)

Lough Salt is a small mountain lake located at the base of Lough Salt Mountain in Donegal.

I stumbled upon this place not long ago and liked it so much that I spent an hour or so sat on the little grassy hill that you’ll see in the photo below.

Keep driving from Tra Na Rossan until you come to the little parking area that’ll be on your left as you drive up the hill.

From here, you can have a look at the lake to your left or climb the grassy hill on the other side of the road.

3. Fanad Head Lighthouse

// Lough Salt to Fanad head – 40-minute drive (arrive for 15:30) //

A visit to Fanad Head Lighthouse is one of the more popular things to do in Donegal .

I’ve been here when it’s raining and I’ve been here when the sun was blazing, and thoroughly enjoyed Fanad on both occasions.

The drive to and from Fanad Lighthouse is worth the spin alone, as you spin through the beautifully quaint countryside that engulfs it.

The lighthouse at Fanad stands proudly between Lough Swilly and the sandy Mulroy Bay.

Plonk yourself down on the stone wall to the left of the lighthouse and switch off for a while.

4. The beautiful Ballymastocker Bay

// Fanad Head to Ballymastocker Bay – 20-minute drive (arrive for 16:00) //

Ballymastocker Bay (aka Portsalon Beach) is another magnificent Blue Flag beach that you should take some time to ramble along.

Located on the Fanad Peninsula, It was once voted the second most beautiful beach on earth by readers of the Observer Magazine.

This gorgeous pile of sand offers fabulous views out towards the Inishowen Peninsula , the best of which can be seen from a viewpoint on the Knockalla coast drive.

If you’re wondering what to see in Ireland in 5 days, this should be near the top of your list.

5. Grianan of Aileach

// Ballymastocker Bay to Grianan of Aileach – 55-minute drive (arrive for 17:30) //

Grianan of Aileach is a hillfort that sits on top of the 801 ft high Greenan Mountain at Inishowen, 

When you reach the top you’ll be treated to a magnificent 360 view that takes in Lough Swilly, Lough Foyle and the gorgeous countryside of the Inishowen Peninsula.

You can drive pretty close to the top and then it’s a handy walk to the area in the photos above.

6. Food, drink and a bed

Photos courtesy of Tourism Northern Ireland

The 4th night of our 5 days in Ireland will be spent in the lively City of Derry.

Don’t worry, we’ll still be visiting Malin Head, but Derry is a handy spin from stop 5 and it’s getting late.

I’m going to recommend that you head to Fitzroy’s Restaurant for dinner.

Get in, order food, and spend some time looking back over the last few days of our 5 day Ireland itinerary.

When you’ve finished eating, take the short stroll to Peadar O’Donnell’s pub for a few pints.

If you’re looking for a place to stay, the Bridge House is central, has great reviews and there’s free parking.

Day 5: Derry and Donegal

You need to get up early on the last day of our first 5 day trip to Ireland.

We’re going to spend a chunk of it exploring the best that Derry has to offer before polishing off the trip with a long walk at Malin Head.

Get up. Get breakfast and a good whack of coffee and hit the road.

1. Derry City Walls

// Arrive for 09:00) //

The first stop of the day takes us around the only remaining completely walled city in Ireland.

The Derry City Walls were erected between 1613-1618 and were used to defend the city against the early 17th-century settlers from England and Scotland.

They form a walkway around Derry’s inner city and offer a unique promenade to check out the layout of the original town.

2. Free Derry Corner

// Derry City Walls to Free Derry Corner – 2-minute drive/6-minute walk (arrive for 10:00) //

Left and bottom right photo: The Irish Road Trip. Top Right: Shutterstock

The Free Derry Corner is an iconic landmark in the Bogside neighborhood of Derry.

It was at this corner (and in many of the surrounding streets) where the Battle of the Bogside in 1969 and Bloody Sunday in 1972 took place.

The Free Derry Corner was first painted in January 1969 and has seen many iterations over the years.

Please do take some time to read about both of the above events before you visit.

3. Learn the story of the city at the Museum of Free Derry

// Free Derry Corner to the Museum of Free Derry – 3-minute walk or a 1-minute drive (arrive for 11:00) // 

Photo left courtesy of Visit Derry. Others via Museum of Free Derry on FB

The Museum of Free Derry opened back in 2007. It exists to tell the story of what happened in Derry from 1968 to 1972.

The story is told from the point of view of the people that were most involved in and affected by the events that took place at the time.

A visit to the Museum of Free Derry will help you understand the history of the city and its contribution to the civil rights struggle that took place in Derry in the mid-1960s.

According to those that run the museum, their ‘focus is not just to share our history, but to encourage those who come to the Museum to see the struggle for human and civil rights as an ongoing contemporary undertaking’ .

4. Grab a bite to eat

// Museum of Free Derry to Scullery Cafe – 5-minute walk or a 2-minute drive (arrive for 13:00) // 

Photos via Scullery Cafe on FB

Right – it’s time for a bite-to-eat. When you’re ready, taken the short stroll (or the shorter drive) to nearby Scullery Cafe.

This is a peach of a spot for breakfast or lunch and it’s popular with locals and tourists alike.

Get in and fuel up for the rest of the day.

5. Ramble along the Peace Bridge 

// Scullery Cafe to the Peace Bridge – 7-minute walk or a 2-minute drive (arrive for 15:00) // 

After you had your fill of food, take the walk along the river to the Peace Bridge.

The now iconic Peace Bridge opened in 2011 and has won a clatter of awards since.

it connects the old army Barracks in Ebrington to the city center and was intended to end a 400-year-old physical and political gap by bringing the largely unionist east side of Derry closer to the largely nationalist west.

Here’s how the architect describes the design of the bridge:

‘It is designed as two identical halves, each suspended from a single, inclined steel pylon, which overlap at the centre of the river to form a ‘structural handshake’ – a powerful metaphor for reconciliation, drawing on inspiration from the sculpture “Hands Across the Divide” by Maurice Harron which can be found nearby.’

6. Malin Head

// Peace Bridge to Malin Head – 50-minute drive (arrive for 17:00) //

Our final stop on this 5 day Ireland itinerary takes us to Malin Head – the most northerly point of the island of Ireland.

Now, if you’re visiting during the winter months, this stop won’t be possible, as it’ll be dark by the time you arrive.

If you visit from April to September when the days are longer, you could easily head off on a ramble here.

There are several walks you can do at Malin Head – the road walk to Banbas crown is roughly 12km and will take you around 5 hours depending on fitness levels (only do this if you arrive later in the day. Otherwise, you’ll be there after dark when visibility is low and/or non-existent.

As you explore Malin head, keep an eye out for a large ‘ EIRE ’ on the ground. It’s written out in white stones and acted as a reminder to aircraft that they were flying over a neutral state during the war.

7. A bed for the night

// Malin Head to the Strand Hotel – 25-minute drive (arrive for 21:00) //

I’m going to recommend that you round off our first 5 day tour of Ireland with a stay in the Ballyliffin Townhouse .

It’s been a busy few days. But you’ve packed a lot into your 5 days in Ireland.

5 day Ireland tour (route 2): Wicklow, Carlow, Kilkenny, Wexford and Waterford

Our second 5 day Ireland itinerary takes us through Wicklow, Carlow, Kilkenny, Wexford and Waterford.

Below, you’ll find a full guide to the route that contains things to do and where to eat, sleep and drink.

Day 1: Wicklow

The first day of this 5 day Ireland itinerary kicks-off in County Wicklow.

We’ll be starting things off with a hike, so make sure you’re dressed for the occasion.

1. Pick a hike/long walk

We’re kicking off this 5 day Ireland itinerary with the option of several walks and hikes.

Although there are plenty of things to do in Wicklow , it’s the various walks in Wicklow that steal the show.

So, with that in mind, I’m going to pop in several walk/hike options for you to choose from.

Option 1: The Great Sugar Loaf

If you can add this hike to your 5 days in Ireland, do – it’s brilliant!

You’ll first notice the Great Sugar Loaf Mountain on the skyline as you drive south from Dublin into Wicklow.

You’ll also cop it every once and a while when you’re exploring Dublin (you can see it from Howth on a clear day).

This is a handy 2.5km walk that, on a clear day, provides spectacular views of the surrounding countryside.

• Where to start : The car park on Red Lane (type ‘ car park near Red Lane, County Wicklow ‘ into Google Maps.
• Climb time : 60 minutes

Option 2: The Spinc Loop

The Spinc Walk is one of my favourite walks in Glendalough .

I’ve been doing it with a group of friends for years and it just never gets old.

The views that you’ll be treated to as you gulp down a lungful of mountain air and bask in the brilliance of the Wicklow Mountains are superb.

The hike kicks-off at the Upper Lake carpark and follows the Poulanass Waterfall before entering the Lugduff Valley.

From here, climb the steep wooden steps to the top of the boardwalk that runs along the top of The Spinc .

This path is around 500m and it takes you up to a section of the boardwalk that overlooks the Upper Lake.

• Where to start : Glendalough Upper Lake carpark
• Climb time : 3 – 4 hours (will depend on fitness levels)

2. Head to the Wicklow Heather for lunch

// Glendalough to the Wicklow Heather – 5-minute drive (arrive for around 13:00) //

Photo left: The Irish Road Trip. Others: Via Wicklow Heather

I visited the Wicklow Heather for the first time with my Mam and Nan in late 2018.

I’d go back for the coffee and the beautiful interior alone.

Grab a bite to eat here and admire the many different trinkets and artifacts hanging from every inch of the walls that surround you.

3. Admiring the view at Lough Tay (Guinness Lake)

// Wicklow Heather to Lough Tay – 25-minute drive (arrive for 14:45) //

Now that you’ve had a stroll and you’re well fed, we’re going to explore some more that Wicklow has to offer.

Take the 25-minute drive from the Wicklow Heather up to Lough Tay .

As you approach the viewing point (you’ll see a little makeshift car park on the right), you’ll have incredible views of the mountain and the lake to your left.

When you’ve parked up the car, cross the road and walk down the grassy hill until you’re treated to the incredible view above.

Ehhhhh – why’s it called Guinness Lake?!

There’s a couple of reasons why Lough Tay is often referred to as ‘Guinness Lake’.

Reason 1 : Luggala ( the private estate where Lough Tay is found) is owned by the trustees of the Guinness family trust and was the former home of Guinness heir and co-founder of Garech Browne.

Reason 2 : The shape of the lake combined with the white sand at the top makes it look like a Pint of Guinness… kinda!

4. The Sally Gap drive

// This is a looped drive rather than a stop. Start it at 15:15 (head in the direction of Glenmacnass Waterfall and then Laragh) //

The vast landscape that engulfs you as you spin along the Sally Gap in Wicklow feels almost other-worldly at times.

This drive will only take around 25 minutes, but allow plenty of time to hop out of your car at will.

I’m going to recommend that you spend the first night of your 5 days in Ireland in Lynhams Hotel in Laragh .

It’s a short drive from the last stop and the reviews are top notch.

Grab some food in their restaurant and head to Jake’s Bar (part of the hotel) and relax after your long day on the road.

Looking for more things to do in Wicklow? Check out our 24-hour Wicklow guide .

Day 2: Carlow and Kilkenny

The second day of our second 5 day Ireland itinerary takes us to Carlow first before tipping onto Kilkenny.

Feel free to spend more or less time than we recommend for each section.

We pop in times to give you a rough guide.

1. Huntington Castle and Gardens

// Your B&B to Huntington Castle – 1-hour drive (arrive for 10:00) //

Our first stop of day 2 on our second 5 day Ireland itinerary takes us to County Carlow to check out Huntington Castle and its extensive gardens.

You’ll be driving quite a bit today, so this will be a nice way to get you out of the car for an hour or so and into nature.

Hungtington Castle is a 17th-century treasure trove of historical architecture and was originally built as a defensive garrison.

If you fancy checking out the castle itself, you can head off on a guided tour.

2. A view you’ll never forget at the Nine Stones

// Huntington Castle to the Nine Stones Viewing Point – 25-minute drive (arrive for 11:30) //

Photos courtesy Suzanne Clark (©Failte Ireland and Carlow Tourism)

Our second stop of the day will treat you to one of many must see places in Ireland .

The Nine Stones Viewing Point provides an unrivaled vista of the lush Carlow countryside along with 7 other counties… yes, 7! On a clear day you’ll see:

On the lower side of the road, you’ll notice 9 small stones in the ground. According to legend, these stones are said to commemorate nine shepherds lost on Mount Leinster.

3. Kilkenny for lunch

// The Nine Stones to the Left Bank in Kilkenny – 45-minute drive (arrive for 13:00) //

Head to the Left Bank in Kilkenny for a bite to eat. We have a busy day ahead.

A solid option for food in Kilkenny is the Fig Tree!

4. Ramble around the city (and the castle) with a coffee

// Finish up eating at around 14:15 and hit the road for a ramble //

When you’ve had your fill, get a coffee to go and head for a wander around Kilkenny.

When you’re ready, make your way towards Kilkenny Castle – one of the most impressive castles in Ireland .

Kilkenny Castle is a 12th-century structure that was originally constructed with wood in 1172.

Overlooking the River Nore, the castle stood in all its wooden glory for a short thirty years before it was rebuilt with stone by the Earl of Pembroke.

5. The Medieval Mile Museum

// Kilkenny Castle to the Medieval Mile Museum – 4-minute walk (arrive for 15:00) //

Photos courtesy Brian Morrison via Failte Ireland

Kilkenny’s Medieval Mile Museum is located on the 13th-century site of St Mary’s cruciform church and graveyard and boasts an immense treasure trove of artifacts encompassing the work and lives of Ireland and its people across more than 800 years of history.

Visitors to the museum will be treated to an insight into some of Ireland’s finest examples of medieval sculpture, but also the country’s largest collection of Renaissance tombs.

6. The Smithwick’s Experience

// Arrive at the Smithwick’s Experience for 16:00 //

Photo left: Courtesy Dylan Vaughan (via Failte Ireland). Others via Smithwick’s

The Smithwick’s brewery was founded in Kilkenny way back in 1710 by John Smithwick, on the site of a Franciscan abbey where monks brewed ale since the 14th century.

Parts of the old brewery now play host to the Smithwick’s Experience .

During the tour, you’ll learn about Ireland’s rich history of brewing and see first-hand where Smithwick’s beer was once produced.

The tour, which lasts between 45 and 60 minutes, costs €13.00 for an adult and has racked up excellent reviews online.

7. Check into your accommodation for the night

When you finish up at the Smithwick’s, head to your accommodation and get checked in.

Here are some recommendations on where to stay in Kilkenny on the second night of this 5 day Ireland itinerary (these are Affiliate links):

Central hotels (prices between €100 and €200)

• Kilkenny Ormonde Hotel
• Kilford Arms
• Langton House Hotel
• Kilkenny Pembroke Hotel

Central hotels, guesthouses, B&Bs and hostels below €100

• JBs Bar & Guest Accommodation
• The Metropole
• Celtic House B&B
• Fanad House

8. Live music

Photos courtesy Allen Kiely via Failte Ireland

When you’ve chilled for a bit, head over to Kytlers Inn.

We’ve chosen Kytlers Inn for dinner based on its history and the fact that I’ve eaten here before and have fond memories of the place.

Dating back to 1263, Kytlers was first established by Dame Alice de Kytler – the first recorded person condemned for witchcraft in Ireland.

Grab some food and a drink and chill for the night.

Day 3: Wexford

Day 3 of your 5 days in Ireland takes us back to the coast to County Wexford.

We’ve a busy day ahead, so make sure you’re not out too late the evening before.

1. The Dunbrody Famine Ship Experience

// Kilkenny to The Dunbrody Famine Ship Experience in New Ross – 50-minute drive (arrive for 09:00) //

Photo left: Via Failte Ireland. Others ©Tourism Ireland

The Dunbrody Famine Ship Experience is an authentic reproduction of an 1840s emigrant vessel located in the town of New Ross.

Visitors to the ship will follow in the footsteps of those who left during Ireland’s Great Famine.

The tour provides an insight into a significant period in Irish history that shaped our culture forever.

2. A coffee and a stroll at Tintern Abbey

// New Ross to Tintern Abbey – 25-minute drive (arrive to Tintern at 10:40) //

You’ll find Tintern Abbey on the west shore of Bannow Bay in Wexford.

Once one of the most powerful Cistercian foundations in the South East, the Abbey is now a big (and incredibly well maintained) crumbly ruin.

Although the Abbey is the big attraction for visitors, many people that I chat to that have visited mention the walled garden as being the highlight of the visit.

3. Loftus Hall (one of the most haunted houses in Ireland)

// Tintern Abbey to Loftus Hall – 20-minute drive (arrive for 12:00) //

You’ll find the intimidating structure known as Loftus Hall on the wild and windy Hook Peninsula , close to Hook Lighthouse.

It’s a massive old mansion house that was built in the mid-1300s during the time of the black death.

According to legend, the mansion is haunted by both the devil and by the ghost of a young woman.

If you fancy a bit of a scare, you can take a guided interactive tour of the ground floor of Loftus Hall (lasts around 45 mins).

When you’ve finished up the tour, grab a light (and I mean  light ) bite to eat in the little cafe on site.

We’re heading out on the water next, so we don’t want an almighty amount of food bobbing around in our stomachs.

NOTE:  Loftus Hall has been sold and is no longer accessible

4. Exploring some caves by kayak 

// Loftus Hall to the Irish Experience – 11-minute drive (arrive for 13:35) //

This won’t be for everyone. If you don’t fancy hopping in a kayak and exploring a chunk of the Hook Peninsula by sea, then head on to Hook Head Lighthouse .

The Irish Experience offers a Sea Cave Kayaking tour that takes explorers off along this magical stretch of coastline.

According to their website, ‘The visually stunning natural area around The Hook Peninsula in County Wexford is steeped in jaw-dropping historical stories with a rich heritage and diverse wildlife, all of which you will enjoy during this unique experience’ .

Over the course of the tour you’ll be treated to everything from golden sandy beaches and coves to an impressive variety of Sea Caves and, hopefully, some dolphins and seals.

5. One of the oldest operational lighthouses on earth

// The Irish Experience to Hook Lighthouse – 15-minute drive (arrive for 17:20) //

While the current lighthouse at Hook has been marking the entrance to Wexford Harbour for at least 800 years, it’s history goes back much further.

During the period 500-1000 AD, Monks maintained a warning beacon to warn approaching sailors of the dangers of the rocky headland.

I’ve been here several times before and can’t recommend it enough. Grab a coffee from the cafe and head for a ramble around the grounds.

6. A bed for the night, food and a pint or 3

// Hook Lighthouse to Inishross House – 20-minute drive (arrive for 18:40) //

Photos via Mannions on FB

I’m going to recommend that you spend the third night of your 5 days in Ireland in the brilliant Inishross House in New Ross .

It’s a handy drive from our last stop so head there, check-in and chill for a bit.

When you’re ready, head down to the hotels Steak House for a bite to eat and round off your night with a few drinks (or mugs of tea, whichever tickles your fancy).

Day 4: Waterford City

We’ll be spending the next two days of this 5 days in Ireland road trip in Waterford.

The first day will be dedicated to the city while the second will revolve around the wonderful (and often missed) Copper Coast.

1. Reginald’s Tower

// New Ross to Waterford City – 30-minute drive (arrive for 11:00) //

Photos courtesy Waterford Museum of Treasures via Failte Ireland

Get a lie in on the morning of day 4 and aim to be in Waterford City for 11:00.

Our first day in Waterford is going to be spent wandering around Ireland’s oldest city.

The city, which was founded by the Vikings way back between 856 and 914, is over 1,000 years old and boasts the largest collection of medieval defensive towers and walls on our island.

Head off in the direction of Reginald’s Tower , first.

Reginald’s Tower is easily the most impressive of the 6 towers that are still standing in the city and can be found at the highest point of the Viking Triangle.

Inside Reginald’s Tower, you’ll find a brilliant exhibition on Viking Waterford that houses 9th-century swords and weapons from a Viking warrior’s grave along with a magnificent Waterford Kite Brooch.

Take a bit of time and have a float around the tower and soak up some of the city’s rich past.

2. The Medieval Museum

// Look to start your visit here at 13:00 //

Next, take the short stroll to the Medieval Museum . Here, you can soak up the story of what life was like in the historic City of Waterford many years ago.

Waterford City center was excavated between 1986 and 1992 and the many unique discoveries that were found during this time are housed in this finely designed Museum.

Spend some time wandering around the museum, and head off on the guided tour if you fancy.

3. Jack Burtchaell’s Walking Tour

// Aim to start the tour at 14:00 //

I’m going to recommend that you take Jack’s one-hour award-winning walking tour that’ll take you all around Waterford City, where you’ll see:

• Two cathedrals
• four national monuments
• A gallery of many a rogue and rascal.

Although the walking tour is just one-hour long, it packs in 1,000 years of history and is delivered in a witty manner that’ll leave you itching for more.

4. The Waterford Crystal Tour

// Aim to start the tour at 15:45 //

Photos courtesy Patrick Browne via Failte Ireland

Our next stop takes us to the famous House of Waterford Crystal to embark upon their world-renowned factory tour.

Those that take the tour can observe craftsmen meticulously transforming glowing balls of molten crystal into elegant shapes.

The skills that have taken two hundred years to perfect are clearly visible in every piece.

This type of thing completely transfixes me – what an absolutely incredible craft to have.

7. Chill and get ready for the evening ahead

Photo left: Google Maps. Others via An Uisce Beatha on Fb

When you finish up in the museum, head to your accommodation for night 4 of your 5 days in Ireland.

For this trip, I’m going to recommend that you spend the night at Dooley’s Hotel , as it’s nice and central and the reviews are top-notch.

Check-in, rest the body for a while and then get out for food and a drink.

If you follow our guide to the best things to do in Waterford in 48 hours, you’ll recognise the pub above.

We’re going to recommend that you grab a bite to eat in Bodega!, followed up by a drink in Uisce Beatha.

Day 5: Waterford

The final day of our 5 days in Ireland takes us to a place in Ireland that’s too often missed.

The wonderful Copper Coast.

We’ll be doing a hike today, so make sure you have sturdy hiking boots, weather appropriate clothing, and some water and snacks.

1. The Copper Coast

// Start your drive at 9:00 //

The lovely chunk of coastline that sits between the towns of Tramore and Dungarvan is known as the Copper Coast .

Although it’s widely regarded as one of the most beautiful, unspoiled and scenic drives in Ireland, it’s regularly overlooked by those planning a trip to Ireland .

We have a number of stop-off points along this wonderful stretch of craggy coast.

Stop 1. Dunhill Castle

// Dooley’s Hotel to Dunhill Castle – 25-minute drive (arrive at Dunhill Castle for 9:00) //

Our first stop on the Copper Coast is a short spin from our base on day 4 – Dunhill Castle .

This castle was built in the early 1200s by ‘The la Poer family’, who became infamous in the 14th century after they launched a flurry of attacks on Waterford City.

Drop by and have a little ramble around.

Stop 2. Kilmurrin Beach

// The Castle to the Beach – 10-minute drive (arrive for 9:40) //

Photos courtesy Failte Ireland

The little beach of Kilmurrin packs a mighty punch, considering its size.

Hop out of the car for a while, stretch the legs, and gulp down some of that glorious fresh sea air.

If weather permits, chill on the sand and enjoy the view of the horseshoe-shaped cove.

Stop 3. Bunmahon Beach

// Kilmurrin Beach to Bunmahon Beach – 10-minute drive (arrive for 10:20) //

Bunmahon is another beautiful beach on the Copper Coast. Larger than the beach at our previous stop, Bunmhon stretches for an impressive 5km.

I know we’ve already visited a beach this morning, but this place is definitely worth dropping by.

Stop 4. The stop that isn’t really a stop

Like many of the Ireland itineraries that we create on this site, the best advice that I can offer is to let your gut guide you.

Take your time on the Copper Coast.

Jump out of the car. Walk. Climb. Listen to the waves and allow this place to consume you.

We’re going to allow for another 2 hours on this stretch of coast for those of you that fancy spending some time exploring.

2. The Coumshingaun Lake Walk

// Aim to start this walk at 12:00 //

Our second stop of day 5 involves a challenging hike that’ll treat you to one of the best views in the land – the Coumshingaun Lough Walk .

This is a tough aul hike that’ll suit those with good fitness levels that have hiking clothing with them and the ability to navigate. Here’s a full guide to the hike.

3. Mahon Falls

// Coumshingaun Lough to Mahon Falls – 10-minute drive (arrive for 17:00) //

Hop back into the car and head straight for the Mahon Falls walk (there’s a car park on-site).

The walk from the car park up to the waterfall is facilitated by a gravel path that takes visitors up to the main attraction (the walk takes around 20 minutes).

As you move higher up the path, the roar of the water will get louder and louder, willing your weary legs to keep on going.

When you reach a point that you’re happy with, kick-back, soak up the natural beauty in front of you and let the music of the water crashing against rock sing in your ears.

4. The Comeragh Drive

// Mahon Falls to Dungarvan – 25-minute drive (arrive at around 18:30) //

At this point you should be fairly knackered – fear not, however, we’re going to polish off the day with a scenic drive.

The Comeragh Drive is another regularly overlooked part of Waterford.

When you leave the car park at Mahon Falls, turn right and continue up the hill until you reach the top.

You can park the car here and enjoy a spectacular view from the Comeragh Heights overlooking the Mahon River Valley to the east and the Tay Valley to the west.

When you’ve had your fill, hop back into the car and continue on the same road (it’ll start to wind down the hill).

We’re heading for Dungarvan, so pop it into the sat nav/Google Maps and head off on your merry way.

5. Dungarvan for the night

Photos via 2 Sisters on FB

I’m going to recommend that you stay in the Park Hotel on the final night of this 5 day Ireland itinerary.

Grab a few hours rest and head on down to The Moorings for a bite to eat and a well-earned pint to polish off your 5 days in Ireland.

5 day tour of Ireland (route 3): Clare, Galway, and Mayo

We’re only onto our third 5 day Ireland itinerary and my fingers are already fit to collapse.

If you’re finding this useful, please do let me know in the comments below.

Our third route takes us to Clare, Galway and Mayo over the course of 5 glorious days.

Ready to get started? Let’s go so!

Day 1: Clare

The first day of your 5 days in Ireland will see you explore a good chunk of the Clare coast.

Now, you could easily spend a week in Clare, but our time is limited.

Get on the road early and start day 1 for 10:30.

1. The Doolin Cliff Walk

// Start the walk around 10 //

There’s plenty of things to do in Doolin but it’s the Doolin Cliff Walk that’s hard to bate!

You can do a guided or unguided walk. The guided walk is a unique way to experience the iconic Cliffs of Moher and is run by local expert Pat Sweeney.

The 3-hour walk kicks off from Fisher Street in Doolin, just outside of O’Connors Pub (we’ll be nipping in here later).

The walk will take you towards Doonagore Castle (we’ll visit this again later for a proper look) and up to the walking trail along the Cliffs of Moher.

2. A post-walk feed

// Arrive to Gus O’Connor’s or Hotel Doolin for around 13:30  //

Photos via Hotel Doolin on FB

There’s some great places to eat in Doolin. If you don’t fancy pub-grub, Hotel Doolin is a great option.

If you’re after a hearty feed in a traditional pub setting, head to Gus O’Connor’s Pub where they’ve been in operation since way back in 1832.

3. The iconic Doonagore Castle

// Arrive at Doonagore Castle for around 14:45 //

If you’re spending 5 days in Ireland and looking for an off-the-beaten-path castle to visit, get yourself here!

After you’ve made your belly happy, point the car in the direction of Doonagore Castle .

This tower house castle is finely plonked on a hill that overlooks Doolin Point and the Aran Islands . On a clear day, you’ll even catch a glimpse of the Connemara hills.

Dating back to the 16th century, this castle looks like something plucked straight from a Disney Movie.

4. Doolin Cave

// Take the short spin to Doolin Cave for 15:15 //

Courtesy Doolin Cave Co Ltd

The Doolin Cave is home to the largest free-hanging stalactite in the Northern Hemisphere.

Known as ‘The Great Stalactite’, it hangs from the ceiling like some giant cone-shaped chandelier.

The tour itself packs a punch, taking visitors to the natural entrance of the cave, a stream sink at the base of a cliff face, through the main chamber where a guide turns on a light to illuminate the Great Stalactite.

// Arrive at your hotel for 17:00  //

Photos courtesy of Chaosheng Zhang

I’m going to recommend that you stay in the Doolin Inn on night 1 of your 5 days in Ireland.

I stayed here a couple of years ago and it was flawless (and cheap).

We stayed in a private twin room and were able to take the 1-minute stroll over to Gus O’Connor’s Pub for food and pints after the sun dropped.

Check-in and chill for a while.

6. Enjoy some live music and a drink (or 3)

Photos left and bottom right: The Irish Road Trip. Other: Google Maps

When you’re done with chilling, walk across the road to Gus O’Connors for a bite to eat.

I wouldn’t normally recommend eating in the same place twice in a day, but the pub is a handy walk from the Inn.

Get fed and soak up some live music.

Days 2 and 3: Galway

The next 2 days of this 5 day Ireland itinerary takes you all around Galway.

Now, as we have a guide to spending a  weekend in Galway I won’t include the 2-day breakdown here.

Or, if you’re wondering what this county has to offer, hop into our guide to the best things to do in Galway .

Day 4: Mayo

Day 4 on our third 5 day Ireland itinerary takes us to Mayo.

Today, I’m going to recommend that you climb Croagh Patrick and then head on out to Achill before chilling for the evening in Newport.

1. Croagh Patrick

// Aim to start the hike at 10:30 //

Photos courtesy Gareth McCormack/garethmccormack via Failte Ireland

Croagh Patrick is widely considered to be Ireland’s holiest mountain.

It’s renowned for its Patrician Pilgrimage in honor of Saint Patrick, Ireland’s patron Saint and it was at the summit of the mountain that Saint Patrick fasted for forty days in 441 AD.

This climb is relatively strenuous and will take anywhere between 3 and a half to 6 hours depending on your fitness levels.

I did it with my Dad a few years back and it’s one of my favorite memories from exploring Ireland.

Well worth doing to say the very least.

2. A post-hike feed in Westport

// Aim to arrive back to Westport for around 14:00 //

At this stage, you’ll be ravenous.

We’re going to grab a bit of food in Westport next.

I’m going to recommend you head to J.J O’Malleys Bar & Restaurant for a bite to eat. Get fed, chill for a while and then get on the road.

3. Exploring Achill Island

// Westport to Achill – 50-minute drive (arrive for 16:30) //

Achill Island is connected to the mainland by The Michael Davitt Bridge, which means you can cycle, drive or walk to it with ease.

The island is scattered with peat bogs, rugged mountains, towering sea cliffs and an abundance of beautiful beaches and bays.

We’re going to skip Keel Beach on this trip, but feel free to stop here if you like. Our destination for this road trip is Keem Bay .

If you take the road that hugs the coast, you’ll be guided along narrow roads that, at times, meander through the island and are an absolute joy to cruise along.

If you can, pull in at the side of the road after you come up the hill just before the bay comes into view (there’s limited parking on either side).

Spend some time on the beach admiring the view before making your way up the hill that sits to the right of Keem. From here, the view is just out of this world.

3. Newport for the Night

// Achill to Newport – 55-minute drive (arrive to Newport for 19:00) //

It’s time for a bit of R&R in a town called Newport. I’m going to recommend that you stay in Hotel Newport .

It’s central and the views are exceptional. Nip over to The Grainne Uaile for a bite to eat and then into Brannen’s for a pint.

Day 5: Mayo

We’re going to be on the road for a good while on the last day of our 5 day Ireland itinerary.

Grab some snacks in Newport to tide you over until dinner later.

1. Erris Head Loop Walk

// Newport to the start of the Erris Head Loop Walk – 70-minute drive (arrive for 11) //

Map via Sport Ireland. Photos via Shutterstock

We’re going to kick off  the final day of your 5 days in Ireland with the Erris Head Loop Walk.

The landscape at Erris is unspoiled, wild and unique. Expect Ireland’s raw beauty at its very best here.

The walk is around 5km and can be completed in around 2 hours, depending on pace (and how much time you linger at certain spots).

The folks at Discover Ireland have prepared a handy guide to the walk here .

2. The Céide Fields

// Erris to the Céide Fields – 50-minute drive (arrive for 14:00) //

Photo left and bottom right: Michael Mc Laughlin. Top right: Alison Crummy. Via Failte Ireland

Beneath the boglands of North Mayo lies the Céide Fields – the most extensive Stone Age monument in the world, as it happens.

The Céide Fields consist of field systems, dwelling areas and megalithic tombs.

The magnificent stone walled fields extend over thousands of acres and are a whopping 6,000 years old.

Enjoy the drive on the way from Newport and then drop into the Céide Fields visitor center for a ramble around.

2. Downpatrick Head

// Céide Fields to Downpatrick Head – 20-minute drive (arrive for 16:00) //

You’re in for another early-morning treat.

This is hands-down one of my favourite places to visit in Ireland .

Jutting out of the ocean and rising roughly 40m above the wild Atlantic waves, Downpatrick Head treats visitors to incredible views of the iconic Sea Stack known as Dún Briste.

Dun Briste was formed over 350 million years ago when sea temperatures were higher and the coastline was a greater distance away.

Spend a bit of time enjoying the view.

3. Kilcummin Back Strand

// Downpatrick Head to Kilcummin Back Strand – 30-minute drive (arrive for 17:30) //

Photos courtesy Christian McLeod via Fáilte Ireland

We’re going to round off our 5 days in Ireland with a walk on Kilcummin Back Strand (Carrowmore).

This is a proper hidden gem on the North Mayo coastline.

Hop out of the car, suck down that fresh sea air and reminisce on the eventful 5 days that you’ve just had.

If you’re in search of somewhere to stay on your final night, there’s plenty of accommodation nearby.

Burkes of Ballycastle is a handy 20-minute drive from Downpatrick Head

Ireland in 5 days (route 4): Meath, Louth, Down and Antrim

Our next route for those of you looking to spend 5 days in Ireland with a car takes us to counties Meath, Louth, Down and Antrim for 5 more days of adventure.

This is a handy road trip to embark upon for those of you flying into Dublin airport, as the first stop is less than an hour from the two terminals.

Ready? Let’s get stuck in!

Day 1: Meath

As we’ve already written up a 1-day guide to Meath, I’m going to link to it here so you can jump in and use it to see what day 1 is like.

If you follow the guide, you’ll visit;

• Trim Castle
• The Hill of Tara
• Balrath Woods

Day 2: Louth

We’ll be spending day 2 of this 5 day Ireland itinerary working our way through as much of County Louth as physically possible.

Get up early and hit the road for 9.

1. Exploring the historic city of Drogheda

// Arrive to Drogheda for 09:30 //

We’re going to kick-start our time in Louth with a visit to the Drogheda Millmount Museum .

You’ll find the museum and the Martello Tower located at the great fort that towers over the town of Drogheda, on an ancient hill overlooking the river Boyne.

It’s the oldest surviving center of settlement in Drogheda town and it boasts a dramatic history.

Naturally enough, there are plenty of stories to tell, so head off on a guided tour and learn more about the towns historic past.

2. Mellifont Abbey

// The museum to Mellifont Abbey – 15-minute drive (arrive for 11:30) //

Our second stop of the day takes us to the first Cistercian monastery in Ireland which founded in 1142 by St Malachy of Armagh – Mellifont Abbey .

The Abbey was consecrated in 1157 and it was from here that the Cistercian community spread out throughout Ireland founding other abbeys throughout the country.

Have a ramble around here and then nip into the Visitor Centre and check out the interesting exhibition on the work of masons in the Middle Ages.

You’ll find fine examples of their craft on display.

3. Monasterboice Monastic Site

// Mellifont Abbey to Monasterboice – 10-minute drive (arrive for 12:30) //

Our next stop of the day takes us ten minutes down the road to the historic ruins of Monasterboice .

Founded in the late 5th century by Saint Buithe, this was an important center of religion and learning until the founding of nearby Mellifont Abbey (stop 2) in 1142.

On the site, visitors can discover:

• An old graveyard
• Two churches
• A well-preserved round tower (28m high)
• Two spectacular Celtic Crosses

4. Carlingford for a stroll, food and pints

// Monasterboice to Carlingford – 40-minute drive (arrive for 16:00) //

Photos by Tom Archer via Tourism Ireland

At this point, you’ll be in need of a feed. Head to Ruby Ellen’s Tea Rooms in Carlingford for an early dinner.

I had breakfast here recently and it was incredible.

Grab a nice strong coffee to go after you finish eating and walk down and towards the marina.

Ramble along here till your heart’s content.

When you’ve had your fill of walking, head to one of the towns many pubs and chill for the evening (I’m a fan of PJ O Hare’s, personally).

I’d recommend staying at the Oystercatcher Lodge as it’s central and reasonably priced.

Day 3: Down

I’ve bee looking forward to this day since the start of this 5 days in Ireland guide.

This part of Ireland is home to some of the finest trails in the country. Dive on in!

1. Slieve Donard

// Carlingford to Slieve Donard – 1-hour drive (arrive for 10:30) //

Day 3 sees us moving upwards into County Down to climb the highest peak in Northern Ireland.

Slieve Donard stands at an impressive 850m, towering above the areas much loved Mourne Mountains .

From the top, you’ll be treated to a spectacular view of the Mournes, which stretch out all around you.

On a clear day, you’ll also be able to see the Isle of Man, the Wicklow Mountains and the peaks of Donegal.

This hike will take you around 4-5 hours. If you fancy giving it a crack on this trip, see our guide to the Slieve Donard walk .

2. Treat yourself to a stay at Slieve Donard Hotel

// Slieve Donard to Slieve Donard Resort and Spa – 10-minute drive (arrive for 15:30) //

You’ve just finished a pretty decent hike, so the chances are you’re in need of some R&R.

I’m going to recommend staying in the gorgeous Slieve Donard Resort .

Check-in, and get food. When you’ve been fed, head on down to the spa and rest your weary legs.

Day 4 and 5: Antrim

As was the case with Meath, we’ve already created a 2-day guide to Antrim that you can use when planning your trip.

Hop into our Causeway Coastal Route 2-day guide and finish off your 5 days in Ireland in style.

Ireland itinerary 5 days (route 5): Cork and Kerry

OK, as was the case with some of the previous 5 days in Ireland, we’re going to use existing itineraries from the site for part of our Cork and Kerry route.

There’s also an alternative option for day 5 which allows you to choose between Ballybunion and Dingle.

Day 1, 2 and 3: West Cork

We’ll be spending the first three days of this road trip spinning around West Cork.

We have a 4-day guide to the best things to do in West Cork already created that you can dip into.

As we’re only spending 3 days in West Cork on this trip, take day 1, 3 and 4 from our ready-made guide.

Here’s how your first 3 days on the road will look.

• Grab coffee in Kinsale and head for a ramble
• A stroll around the Old Head of Kinsale
• Another ramble – this time on the sandy shores of Inchydoney Beach
• A spot of lunch in Clonakilty
• Drombeg Stone Circle for a gander
• A spin through Glandore and Union Hall
• A climb to the top Knockomagh Hill
• Brow Head – one of the wildest places in Ireland
• A nosey around Mizen Head
• The Sheep’s Head Way Cahergal Loop
• Bantry for a post-walk coffee and cake
• A walk through Glengarriff Nature Reserve
• Bantry for the night
• The Winding Road at Healy Pass
• Getting lost near Hungry Hill
• Ireland’s only cable car
• The wonderful drive to Allihies
• The Coastal Drive to Eyeries

Day 4 and 5: Kerry

We’ve a 48-hour guide to Kerry that we’ll be dipping into for days 4 and 5. It’s nice and detailed so it’ll save you having to plan.

In a nutshell, it takes you to many of the best things to do in Kerry , from the Ring of Kerry to the Dingle Peninsula .

Here’s where you’ll visit over the 2 days.

• The Gap of Dunloe
• Killarney Town
• Torc Waterfall
• Killarney National Park
• Ross Castle
• Ladies View
• Moll’s Gap
• Derrynane Beach
• Kerry Cliffs
• Valentia Island
• Rossbeigh Beach
• Inch Strand
• The Slea Head Drive

Wrapping up our 5 day trip to Ireland guide

If you’re after a 5 day Ireland itinerary that packs a whole lot in, I can’t recommend this enough.

If you aren’t scared of a bit of driving, and you want to squeeze in some of Cork, Kerry, Galway and Mayo, then this route will suit you to the ground.

It’s packed with amazing things to see from the get-go and takes in a good chunk of Ireland.

Obviously, there are many things I would have done differently, but for the most part, I was pretty happy with how it went.

If you’ve yet to embark upon an Irish road trip of your own, now’s the time to do it.

FAQs about what to see in Ireland in 5 days

We’ve had a lot of questions over the years asking about everything from ‘Which is best for first time visitors?’ to ‘What 5 day Ireland tour is the easiest?’.

In the section below, we’ve popped in the most FAQs that we’ve received. If you have a question that we haven’t tackled, ask away in the comments section below.

Can you get around Ireland in 5 days by train?

Yes. Deciding what to see in Ireland in 5 days if you’re solely relying on buses and trains can be tricky. Check out our public transport road trips where we’ve done the planning for you.

What route would you take if you had 5 days in Ireland with a car?

If it was me, I’d do the Cork and Kerry route. I’d go with this one as Cork and Kerry are two of my favourite counties in Ireland to visit.

Is 5 days enough in Ireland?

No, not really. The more time you have to explore, the better. That being said, you can still see plenty of things with 5 days. You just need to plan efficiently.

Keith O’Hara has lived in Ireland for 35 years and has spent most of the last 10 creating what is now The Irish Road Trip guide. Over the years, the website has published thousands of meticulously researched Ireland travel guides, welcoming 30 million+ visitors along the way. In 2022, the Irish Road Trip team published the world’s largest collection of Irish Road Trip itineraries . Keith lives in Dublin with his dog Toby and finds writing in the 3rd person minus craic altogether.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Julee Torrance

Monday 6th of September 2021

Keith We are planning a trip to Ireland next September. We will arrive Sept. 24 and have 5 to 7 days to see what we can. There is a group of 6 of us; four late 60's/early 70's and two in their late forties so strenuous hikes are out for most but we are all still active. We are planning on flying into Cork and ending in Dublin but are flexible on this. The group would like to see cliffs and amazing scenery while also getting some history (a castle?) and local flavor of pubs. We are thinking this: 2 days in Cork (following your itinerary suggestions); day threetravel through Kerry to Pormagee on day three seeing sites along the way; stay overnight in Pormagee and boat out to the Skellig of Michael on day four and begin to head back towards Dublin (where we will do some limited exploring) but not sure by what route. We had thought about trying to work Dingle in too but now we are leaning toward the Beara Peninsula while in Cork. Any advice is greatly appreciated. This is our first visit to Ireland and although we know we won't get to see much we want it to be a slow enough viewing that we enjoy our time. Thanks! Julee

Friday 28th of February 2020

We will be traveling into and out of Dublin at the end of April. I was looking at your Route 5: Cork and Kerry itinerary. We were thinking... Day 1-3: Driving to Kindle and doing the routes first 3 days, ending in Kenmare. Day 4: Driving to Kerry Airport to Dublin Day 4-6: Dublin OR Ring of Kerry Loop and Dingle Loop Day 1-3, and Dublin 4-6. Is this doable or do you have other suggestions. Both your day 1-3 and Ring of kerry/dingle look beautiful. We have seen others say Dingle is a must and is superior to the other peninsulas but researching google maps and seeing the pictures leaves us questioning that. Any help would be appreciated.

Wednesday 4th of March 2020

The Dingle Peninsula is incredible. However, there are a number of other magnificent peninsulas in the area (the Beara Peninsula in Cork is out of this world).

The Ring of Kerry and Dingle route is an old reliable. I don't know anyone that's done it for the first time and that hasn't loved it. There's an endless clatter of natural beauty and plenty of adventure opportunities.

The first route you listed above sounds spot on to me. Is it your first time exploring this corner of Ireland?

Monday 13th of January 2020

Hi Keith! I will be traveling to Ireland the end of May with my boyfriend and 2 other couples. We all fly into Dublin and have about 4.5 full days to travel around, and want to fit in as much as possible. I've been once before but its everyone else's first time. I think we like route 5 the best. We plan on renting a car; everyone else would like to all be in the same car (so a minivan to fit 6) but I remember how narrow the roads can be and would rather have 2 smaller cars. Any advice? Are the roads through route 5 pretty driveable or would you recommend renting smaller? Thanks!

Sayar Karmakar

Saturday 11th of January 2020

Dear Keith, I wanted to personally thank you for this amazing trip guidance. I wanted to tell you how I used this guide to make ONE 5 day trip around the entire island! Daylight was short and we had to skip lunch and do it with dry foods during the day to at least see a few highlights every day.

Starting from Ireland on mid day we started with Dublin castle, Beer factory, stopped at Belfast city center, Belfast castle and then finished Day 0 near Dark hedges.

Next morning started with Dark hedges, Carrick-a-rede, Ballintoy harbour, Giant causeway, Dunluce castle, Mossaden temple and rested for day 1 night just inside the ireland border.

Next day was the hardest in terms of driving. Started by going up to Malins head, visited Glenvagah national park, stopped by Mount erigal, wanted to go to slieves head but decided against and chose Downpatrick's head instead. And then a brutal drive for 3.5 hours in dark to finally finish in Liscannor and rest for the night.

Next day started with the great great Cliffs of Moher. While trying to find a cheaper parking got a chance to take a look at Doolin cliffs as well! Then headed towards Nun's beach in ballybunion and then finally sunset at Dunquin harbour and Dunmore head (star wars fame). Rested in a great hilly house near Waterville!

Next day started with Kerry cliffs, then onto gap of Dunloe, Ross castle, Torc waterfall, Queen's point ( a bit disapoointing tbh) and then off to Old head of Kinsale.. Wanted to go to Blarney castle on my way to Dungarvan castle but my family was against it as they were already a bit bored. We stayed right opposite Dungarvan castle.

Then on the fifth and final half day started super early to go to Ballydwoane cove and beach, Huntington castle, then the final stop at lough tay and then finally dropped the car off at Dublin airport! Me and my brother have clicked 3000 pictures on this nothing but insane trip, and currently busy editing and spamming our insta feed.

Thank you so much for this guide. This trip wouldnt be possible without you kindly sharing it here.Can't wait to go back again during the summer and see how it feels with almost double the time with light.

Cheers, Sayar

Sunday 12th of January 2020

Hi Sayar - thanks for getting in touch and for the kind words!

That's a pretty packed itinerary - the above, for the most part, should be fine once you're not bothered by all of the driving and you just want to squeeze in as much as possible.

If you can, I'd definitely recommend trying to slow it down a bit. My only worry with an itinerary like this is that you're constantly flying about the place and that you don't leave yourself with a huge amount of time to explore around you (obviously if that's how you like to travel then that's perfect!).

I think your first day (exploring Dublin from mid-day and then heading up to Belfast and then onto the Dark Hedges) could be a little too much. Especially when you want to start Day 2 with doing the Causeway Coastal Route.

If you play around with some of your stops on day 2 a little, you'll spend less time driving and you'll line yourself up a little better route wise, here's a suggestion:

Day 1: Do Dublin Castle and the Guinness Storehouse as you mentioned above. When you finish up, head for Belfast and make that your base for the first night. Day 2: The Causeway Coastal Route: If you start this from Belfast, you'll end up at the Dark Hedges at the end (here's a full guide to driving the causeway coastal route ). Spend the night in Portrush.

If there's anything I can help with let me know!

Cheers - Keith

Julee Craypo

Tuesday 26th of November 2019

Ireland is on the top of my bucket list and my husband and I are pulling the plug and coming for our ten year anniversary. We get in April 14th and flying to Edinburgh Scotland on the 20th. I dream of coastlines, cliffs and plenty of local Irish music to fill my cup, my husband want to see Star Wars filming locations haha! What would you suggest since we’re starting in Dublin and ending in Dublin?

Wednesday 27th of November 2019

Congrats in advance! OK - this was actually much trickier than I thought. The main filming locations are in Cork, Kerry and Donegal. Realistically, with the time you have, you need to pick either the Cork and Kerry locations or the ones at Malin Head in Donegal.

Personally, I think you'll get more bang for your buck in Cork and Kerry, as there are more filming locations to see.

Here's what I'd do:

// April 14th //

- Arrive in Dublin and ramble around the city for the day - If you're looking to stay somewhere fancy, try the

// April 15th //

- Spend day exploring Wicklow (stay near the Wicklow Heather - it doesn't get much cosier than this place - Google to see what I mean) - Lynham's Hotel is a solid option for the night (central and the reviews are excellent)

// April 16th //

- A big day of driving: Get up early this morning and drive to Cobh. This is your first stop off (3 hour and 10 minute drive from Wicklow) - Visit Kinsale next and then head along the coast to Brow Head (filming location) and visit Mizen Head after - Spend the night in Bantry ( the Maratime is central, nicely priced, and has great reviews)

// April 17th //

- Limit the driving on this day. Make Killarney your base (there are loads of things to do in Killarney and closeby) - The Killarney Plaza hotel is central and has great reviews. It's a little pricer at around €130 per night, but the reviews are top-notch

// April 18th //

- Drive to Portmagee. The Skellig Michael boat tours start in April but you'll need to book in advance (note that weather conditions can result in sailings being cancelled) - Skellig Michael is arguably the most iconic of Ireland's Star Wars filming locations - Spend the night in the Moorings in Portmagee

// April 19th //

- Drive to Dingle. There's loads to see around here - Ceann Sibéal was another prominent filming location that you can visit while you're here - Spend the night in either the Dingle Skellig or the Dingle Garden Townhouse

I hope this is of some help.

Have a read of our guide to visiting Ireland in April - it's packed with info on weather, things to do, what to pack and all of that craic.

• Small Group Tours
• Self-Drive Tour
• Tailor-Made Tours
• Private Tours
• Overland TV
• Travel Guides
• Jewel Tours
• Self-Drive Tours
• Trust in Travel
• Accommodation
• Overland Transport

Spectacular South & West 5-Day Active Tour of Ireland

Adding item to wishlist requires an account, already a member.

Username or E-mail

Forget Password?

Don't have an account? Create one.

Book with confidence.

• Guaranteed Departures
• 5 Star Rated on TripAdvisor
• Small Groups
• Can be booked as a private tour
• Local Irish Guides

Self Drive Tours

• Expertly Designed Itineraries
• Support Concierge Service
• Overland Ireland Virtual Tour Guide
• Fully Comprehensive Insurance
• Small Group - 15 Max

Your Action-Packed Activity Holiday in Ireland Begins Here!

Welcome to one of our zingiest Ireland Adventure Tours to date — the Spectacular South & West extravaganza! If you want the perfect mix of culture and adventure, this Ireland 5-day itinerary is the one for you.

This Ireland activity holiday ventures along part of Ireland’s breathtaking Wild Atlantic Way and has everything we could possibly fit into a 5-day itinerary. And best of all, we use local expert guides. This means you’re guaranteed a genuine Irish experience.

This active tour of Ireland starts in the Viking capital of Dublin. It carries you southwest, via the Blarney Stone (which you can kiss to get the “gift of the gab”) to the rugged and wonderful Wild Atlantic Way. You will visit some of the most spectacular sights on the Ring of Kerry, with highlights like Ladies View and Moll’s Gap. Then put some zing into your tour by kayaking in beautiful Dingle Bay.

This is a truly action-packed adventure through some of Ireland’s most stunning landscapes, and we can’t wait for you to discover our country’s natural beauty first-hand.

Are you interested in the full Ring of Kerry experience? Check out our equally incredible Ireland to Island tour ! And for even more inspiration, check out our broader range of Adventure Small Group Tours of Ireland . 

Highlights on this 5-day Ireland Activity Holiday

• Cycle through the mountains and along the lakes of Killarney National Park before getting off the beaten path on the Dingle Peninsula.
• Hike along the iconic Cliffs of Moher where the Emerald Isle meets the roaring Atlantic Ocean.
• Soak up Galway City’s unique bohemian atmosphere on a fun and fascinating walking tour that completes this one-of-a-kind trip.
• We have packed this 5-day active Ireland tour with scenery, castles, culture, heritage, history, wildlife, and experiences you won’t want to end.
• You will leave us with memories that last a lifetime!

Keep scrolling down to read the full 5-day itinerary and please feel free to contact us with any questions you may have. If you have more time to play with, our 7-day Great Atlantic Adventure is another fantastic active Ireland tour that lasts a little longer.

Due to our tours’ off-the-beaten-path locations, the size of our vehicles, and the fact that we cannot guarantee that all accommodation partners have ramps/elevators, unfortunately, our tours are not wheelchair accessible .

What's included & excluded on this 5-day Ireland Itinerary?

With Overland Ireland, you can be sure that you’ll get the most experiences possible for your tour price.

No unexpected charges or hidden surprises are waiting for you on the road!

Read the list of inclusions below and you will see just how much we cover, including accommodation, transportation, entrance fees, kayaking, and much more.

In the event of bad weather, or for any other reasons beyond our control, an activity cannot go ahead, we do not issue refunds.

We offer a full range of catering options, including those for pescatarians, vegetarians, and vegans.

For the optimal guest experience, we can operate this tour in reverse and combine it with any of our other tours that follow the same route.

• 4 nights in local guest house and boutique hotel accommodation Carefully selected by our team
• Professional, qualified Irish tour guide
• Kayak or E-bike tour of Dingle Bay
• Cycling tours
• Guided Cliffs of Moher Hike
• Guided walking tours
• Sheepdog trials show
• Great breakfasts
• Transport to all locations by air-conditioned mini coach
• Blarney Castle entrance
• Entrance fees for national parks
• Ferry crossings
• Go-Bus transport to Dublin
• Lunch and dinner
• Food and drinks
• Gratuities Optional
• Private room upgrade for solo travellers Mandatory

Download this itinerary as a PDF

Note: This is our current itinerary for this year. If you’re booking for next year, the plan could change slightly. Feel free to get in touch if you have any questions about this or our other tours!

5-day Ireland Tour Itinerary

Day 1: Cork, the Rebel County

Total driving time: 3 hours 30 minutes, excluding stops

This zingiest of Zest tours departs Dublin for County Cork in the stunning Southwest of Ireland.

En route to our first destination, we stop at the famous Rock of Cashel, renowned for its medieval round tower, cathedral, and chapel.

Lonely Planet describes Cork as “at the top of its game, sophisticated, vibrant and diverse”. At Overland Ireland, we completely agree!

In fact, Corkonians argue that their city is Ireland’s REAL capital.

Kick off your Cork experience by kissing the Blarney Stone. This might grant you the coveted “gift of the gab”.

While at Blarney Castle, we also take an easy stroll around the stunning castle and gardens, before exploring the mystical rock close.

Your Cork experience continues as your expert guide leads you on a walking tour through Kinsale, a historic port and fishing town.

Kinsale is known for its castles, forts, shops, galleries, arts and crafts, and the Kinsale Gourmet Academy.

We spend the first night of this Ireland tour in this incredible harbour town.

With outstanding, award-winning restaurants and dramatic scenery, boredom is an impossibility in Kinsale.

Day 2: Killarney National Park

We depart Kinsale in the morning and follow the road to the Ring of Kerry.

This famous route, which takes us through Moll’s Gap and Ladies View, is filled with many jaw-dropping sights and hidden gems.

Enjoy a two-hour bike ride around Killarney National Park, taking in iconic Irish sights like Ross Castle, Torc Waterfall, and Muckross House & Gardens!

This adventure on two wheels is a nature lover’s dream. You will have a choice of trails to follow, but they’re all right options! Each has its own unique splendour to admire.

We then journey up to the celebrated, cosy coastal town of Dingle, where we spend the night.

The evening is yours to discover and absorb the atmosphere in the town’s famous quirky pubs and fantastic restaurants.

This is an unmissable opportunity to stumble across a traditional Irish music session. It’s also a great spot for that long-awaited perfect pint of Guinness.

Day 3: Dingle

Total driving time: 2 hours, excluding stops

On day three, you have a choice of activities to enjoy. You can either hit the water and paddle amongst Dingle Bay’s marine life or whizz around the peninsula on an e-bike.

The Dingle Bay kayak tour is led by our friends at Irish Adventures, and they know how to show you a great time!

The e-bike tour is self-guided and follows the beautiful Slea Head loop. E-bikes are a joy to ride and you can cover so much ground with minimal effort.

If you decide to go kayaking, the fun continues in the afternoon with the Slea Head Drive experience by bus.

If you chose to cycle the route earlier in the day, the afternoon is yours to enjoy everything that Dingle has to offer, from its quirky craft shops to its great cafes and welcoming pubs.

This is your holiday. We want you to enjoy every second!

Day 4: Cliffs of Moher & Doolin

The adventures continue on day four as we leave Dingle and travel north. Our path allows you to take in spectacular views of Castlegregory along the way.

We then stop off for one of the most popular experiences on all of our Ireland tours.

Our local farmer and his four-legged friends will amaze you with a traditional sheepdog show!

Watching the border collies work with the farmer is a captivating sight and a true taste of Irish heritage.

We then leave the South West behind as we take a ferry across the River Shannon. On the other side, we arrive in County Clare, home to the jaw-dropping Cliffs of Moher.

We explore this world-famous place on an invigorating two-and-a-half-hour hike.

The fresh air will fill your lungs, the dramatic coastline will widen your eyes!

Our local guides use their expertise and knowledge to take you off the beaten track, showing you secret passages that outshine the hot spots on the main tourist path.

Capture all the highlights of this experience with envy-inducing pictures.

The views are steeped in myth and wonder, and the roar of the wild Atlantic Ocean will echo in your ears long after we’ve left.

Spend the evening in Doolin, a warm, welcoming, and colourful village that just so happens to be the hometown of traditional Irish music.

Put on your dancing shoes!

Day 5: Galway, The City of the Tribes

Total driving time: 2 hours, excluding stops and trip back to Dublin

We leave Doolin and head toward Galway, stopping at the spectacular Burren National Park on the way.

There’s also a quick photo-op at Dunguaire Castle, a 16th Century fortification located in the quaint fishing village of Kinvara.

Galway is known around the world as a city of festivals and culture. In 2020, the city was voted European Capital of Culture, a year-long celebration of all that Galway is famous for.

This medieval city lives and breathes history. Many of Galway’s buildings date back hundreds of years, now serving as shops, bars, and restaurants.

Brightly-painted pubs heave with live music, while the cafés provide front-row seats for watching street performers, musicians, and an array of local characters.

Enjoy a historical walking tour and discover the many corners of this cultural town.

After exploring Galway’s hidden gems, you have a free afternoon to enjoy entertainment, great food, and craic in this much-celebrated city.

Watch some Irish dancing and feel your toes tapping to the pulse of pure Celtic music and dance.

Sadly, it’s time to say goodbye! But as you travel to Dublin on pre-arranged transport, you’ll have a catalogue of memories to look back on.

Note: To confirm your booking, you are required to pay a non-refundable deposit of €250 per person for Small-Group tours .

Please don’t hesitate to contact us if you have any questions about this tour or any others we operate. We may have already answered your question on our frequently asked questions page.

Related Tours

The Great Atlantic Adventure 7-day Ireland Holiday

The Ultimate Ireland 10-day Tour Package