Exploring the Emerald Isle
Discover the magic of Ireland
What's Included
- Round-trip economy class airfare into Dublin (DUB)
- Manual economy car for duration - upgrade to automatic available
- 1 night in Kilkenny at Kilkenny Ormonde or similar
- 2 nights in Limerick at Absolute Hotel or similar
- 2 nights in Sligo at Ocean Sands Hotel or similar
- 1 night in Dublin at Roganstown Hotel or similar
Great Ways to Explore
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Experience Ireland's top attractions at your leisure with your own rental car.
Be mesmerized by the Emerald Isle's stunning coastlines, rolling hills, and ancient castles.
-
See iconic places like Blarney Castle and St. Mary's Cathedral.
-
Feast on your fill of fish n chips, soda bread, and Guinness!
-
Explore ancient Viking caves and magnificent castle ruins.
An epic vacation where you'll journey through some of Ireland's best cities. From ancient castles to Viking caves, to incredible mountains and exquisite cuisine, this trip offers the very best of Ireland. With your own rental car, the Emerald Isle is yours to explore however you please.
Please note that some recommendations in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check What's Included above for full details on inclusions.
Enhance your vacation with:
- EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum
- Ring of Kerry Tour
- Bunratty Castle & Folk Park Admission
- Cliffs of Moher Admission
- Kilkenny Castle
- Kildare Village Voucher
- Round-trip economy class airfare into Dublin (DUB)
- Manual economy car for duration - upgrade to automatic available
- 1 night in Kilkenny at Kilkenny Ormonde or similar
- 2 nights in Limerick at Absolute Hotel or similar
- 2 nights in Sligo at Ocean Sands Hotel or similar
- 1 night in Dublin at Roganstown Hotel or similar
-
Experience Ireland's top attractions at your leisure with your own rental car.
Be mesmerized by the Emerald Isle's stunning coastlines, rolling hills, and ancient castles.
-
See iconic places like Blarney Castle and St. Mary's Cathedral.
-
Feast on your fill of fish n chips, soda bread, and Guinness!
-
Explore ancient Viking caves and magnificent castle ruins.
An epic vacation where you'll journey through some of Ireland's best cities. From ancient castles to Viking caves, to incredible mountains and exquisite cuisine, this trip offers the very best of Ireland. With your own rental car, the Emerald Isle is yours to explore however you please.
Please note that some recommendations in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check What's Included above for full details on inclusions.
Prices From:
Enhance your vacation with:
- EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum
- Ring of Kerry Tour
- Bunratty Castle & Folk Park Admission
- Cliffs of Moher Admission
- Kilkenny Castle
- Kildare Village Voucher
Departure Airport:
Departure Month:
Prices From:
Day 1. Welcome to Dublin!
Touch down in Dublin! Pick up your rental car and drive southwest to the medieval city of Kilkenny. Known as the "Marble City", Kilkenny is filled with ancient sites, recognizable landmarks, and cobbled lanes. You'll definitely want to visit the impressive Kilkenny Castle, which was built in the 12th century and is now open to the public. Relax at the terraced rose garden, walk through the fifty acres of beautiful woodland, and unwind inside the castle's tearoom.Â
You can also admire the city's stunning architecture at the St. Mary's Cathedral, an iconic landmark which can be seen throughout the city. Inside the cathedral you can find the new Medieval Mile Museum, where you can learn all about the hidden, exciting secrets of the city. Afterwards, take a short stroll to the 16th century Tudor Rothe House. This building is home to two beautiful courtyard gardens and a museum featuring ancient artifacts and collections.
The Kilkenny Ormonde Hotel is an exceptionally beautiful hotel with 118 spacious guestrooms all complete with free Wi-Fi, comfortable accommodations and stunning views of the city. Although you will be within walking distance of a variety of restaurants and pubs in Kilkenny, the hotel also offers its guests the option to dine on site. Try out the Ormonde Lounge for a comfortable yet sumptuous bite to eat paired with a cocktail. There is also O'Reilly's Restaurant for a more vibrant atmosphere and a more extensive menu, or Savour where you can browse a creative dinner menu incorporating the best local produce. Enjoy the hotel's many other amenities including the KO Spa, fitness center and more!
Situated on Kilkenny’s most exclusive street, the Pembroke Hotel is right in the center of action. Just a 4-minute walk from Kilkenny Castle, you'll be able to walk to all of the city's top attractions with ease. The hotel offers luxury 4-star accommodation with 74 quiet, spacious guest rooms all featuring air conditioning and complimentary Wi-Fi. Statham’s Restaurant combines traditional hospitality with delicious local Kilkenny produce. Statham's Bar, with its easygoing and relaxed atmosphere, is a great place to meet, drink and dine in Kilkenny city center. From brunch to lunch, from afternoon tea, to all day dining specials, they offer something for everyone throughout the day and evening.
Built on over 40 acres of parkland, the Newpark Hotel provides family-friendly elegance for visitors to the area. The dedicated staff works tirelessly to make sure you and your family receive top-notch service. Many of the spacious, well-appointed rooms include serene views of the green gardens and parkland. Scott's Bar & Bistro has a sparkling reputation for delicious, locally sourced food and is a favorite among the locals.Â
 Strike out for day trips to discover the treasures of Kilkenny, or stay on-property to take advantage of the hotel's many exciting amenities. Newpark hotel offers family room accommodations and activities everyone can enjoy, such as the Newpark adventure trail, where you can catch glimpses of the alpacas and llamas that live there. The Krazy Kats Kids Club is bustling with activity and affords parents a few hours to slip off to unwind at the Escape Health Club and Spa.
Lyrath Estate is a 5-star hotel located in the center of medieval Ireland, Kilkenny. The hotel is surrounded by stunning Irish countryside, lakes, and historic gardens. The hotel boasts 3 restaurants that serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner, as well as a drawing room where Afternoon Tea is served with pastries and other delicacies.
There is also a spa where guests can indulge in treatments, use the hydro-pool, and detox in the sauna. The hotel also has an on-site gym for guests who wish to keep up an exercise routine during their stay.
Guest rooms are spacious and luxurious. There is a private bathroom with a hair dryer. Amenities include free Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, a mini-fridge, bath robe and slippers, in-room safe, iron/ironing board, a coffee maker, and a TV. Additionally, most rooms have a view of the park, gardens, or lake.
Kilkenny Castle, St. Mary's Medieval Mile Museum, and Rothe House are all within a 14-minute drive from the hotel.
Day 2. Kilkenny - Limerick
Consider taking a quick detour before going to your next city. About 25 minutes outside of Kilkenny is the Jerpoint Abbey, a mystical National Monument that's a monastic ruin founded in the 12th century. There is also a 15th-century tower where you can climb up the stairs to be rewarded by breathtaking views of the ruins. When you're ready, drive to one of Ireland's oldest cities, Limerick.
Perhaps you want to enjoy a cozy night in at a local pub for your first night in the city, or mix it up with a night of theatre or comedy. Whether you want to relax in a snug pub or have a fun night out, Limerick has everything to offer.
This stunning hotel features 99 contemporary guestrooms with space, style and sophistication. The Absolute Bar & Grill includes an outdoor terrace overlooking the Abbey River and serves fresh and modern international cuisine in relaxed, informal surroundings. The luxurious spa offers a range of relaxing body and beauty treatments, including a salt grotto, tropical showers and a crystal steam room.
Situated on the Wild Atlantic Way, Hotel Woodstock is the ideal base to explore many of Ireland’s natural attractions. Situated at the edge of the beautiful medieval market town of Ennis, County Clare yet surrounded by the lush West coast countryside, Hotel Woodstock offers you the best of both worlds. Located within short driving distance of Limerick, Galway and the surfers’ paradise that is Lahinch. Shannon Airport and Lahinch are only a 30-minute drive away. The Cliffs of Moher are less than 30 miles from the hotel.Â
Surrounded by a stunning parkland championship golf course, the hotel in Ennis is situated in 155 acres of beautiful countryside in Ennis. From the moment you step into the wide, airy foyer to be greeted by a sumptuous lounge, roaring log fire and friendly management, you’ll feel the love this family-run hotel. The 4-star Woodstock Hotel offers you a range of spacious bedrooms, decorated in light modern colors, many offering you beautiful views over Woodstock Golf Course. Dining options include the relaxed intimate atmosphere of the Hotel Woodstock Bar, or the family-friendly spacious restaurant. The hotel features impressive facilities – including the newly refurbished deck-level pool, Jacuzzi, refitted sauna and brand new steam room.Â
Located in the beautiful County Clare countryside, The Inn at Dromoland commands panoramic views across the Clare Hills and Shannon Estuary - and is ideally situated just eight miles from Shannon Airport, a 15-minute drive from Ennis and a 20-minute drive from Limerick.
The Inn at Dromoland features 181 guestrooms, each individually designed and decorated with guests' comfort and relaxation in mind. Its health and leisure club boasts a large swimming pool and children's pool, sauna, steam room, Jacuzzi and plunge pool, plus fully equipped fitness center. The hotel is renowned for its seasonal and fully supervised Blue Dolphin Kids Club, as well as other family friendly activities.
Fitzgerald's Woodlands House Hotel is a beautiful 4-star property set in 44 wooded acres amidst the rich, quiet farmlands of the Golden Vale. The hotel is conveniently located only 30 minutes from Shannon Airport. The charming Adare town is only 1.6 km with its streets lined with enchanting thatched cottages, selling crafts, clothes and antiques.
Fitzgerald's Woodlands House Hotel offers 94 comfortable and stylish guest rooms, first-class service and excellent facilities including the award-winning Brennan Room Restaurant and a leisure club featuring a swimming pool. The state-of-the-art Health & Leisure Centre boasts a spacious cardiovascular gym and weight training area with variety of fitness classes, a 65-foot swimming pool, sauna, steam room, Jacuzzi, children's pool and play room, as well as the Failte Ireland Award-winning Revas Spa.
Day 3. Limerick
Maybe today you'll want to see the oldest monument in Limerick, St Mary’s Cathedral. Once used as a Viking meeting place, this site was founded in 1168 and has experienced many power changes. Next, delight your taste-buds at the Milk Market, where you can buy your share of fine meats, artisan cheese's, and fresh hot breads.Â
Visit the town of Newtown Pery, the retail district of Limerick known for its 200-year-old properties and brilliant Georgian architecture. Stroll through the quaint People’s Park where you'll be surrounding by diverse trees and cute gazebos.Â
Limerick
Day 4. Limerick - Sligo
A short drive from Limerick is Lough Gur, a sparkling horseshoe lake in a beautiful hilly valley. This countryside has an over 5,000-year-old history of human occupation, meaning you can walk along historic trails where stone-age houses once stood.Â
Next you'll drive north to the historic town of Sligo, known for its rich history, literary icons, and bustling nightlife. This is the perfect town to find a pub and experience local culture!
Enjoy a quiet escape on the Atlantic coast at the Ocean Sands Hotel Sligo. Ideally situated to provide stunning views of Enniscrone Beach and Killala Bay, the hotel oozes coastal charm and Irish hospitality. Equipped with modern comforts and amenities, the property offers fantastic cuisine and unbeatable coastal views. Enjoy high-quality food and live entertainment at the hotel restaurant, as well as close proximity to Enniscrone's championship golf links.Â
Nestled directly on the Wild Atlantic Way in Enniscrone, Sligo's stunning Killala Bay region, this opulent new hotel offers stunning vistas of Enniscrone's championship golf course and 5 km of pristine beaches and dunes.
With its close proximity to the beach, the Diamond Coast is perfect for indulging in water sports, swimming, and leisurely strolls. The surrounding countryside is an ideal playground for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a plethora of cycling and hiking opportunities.
Exuding elegance and comfort, the Diamond Coast Hotel features 98 lavishly furnished rooms, delectable cuisine at the Coral Restaurant, and a serene ambiance at the Stir Bar & Bistro.
Set on beautiful grounds and within walking distance from the bustling town of Sligo, Clayton Hotel Sligo is the perfect retreat in western Ireland. Set in a historic building dating back to 1848, the hotel also boasts two churches on site, Canis Major and Canis Minor. Providing a range of luxurious accommodations, guests can enjoy the utmost comfort from over 162 rooms varying from superior rooms to suites. Enjoy meals and drinks at the two restaurants and lounge, a swimming pool, spa, gym and plenty of family friendly activities.Â
Day 5. Sligo
Sligo is a land offering tons of beautiful countryside's, coastlines, and mountains for you to explore. Start by taking a quick drive to Benbulben, a spectacular limestone mountain formed in the Ice Ages. Alternatively, you can visit the sea-village of Rosses Point. Right where the Sligo Bay and ocean connects, Rosses Point offers quaint beaches and cliffsides for you to explore.Â
If you happen to be visiting when it's rainy, be sure to check out the tallest waterfall in Ireland, the Devil’s Chimney. And if you're feeling extra adventurous, take the approximate one mile vertical trail for the astounding views of Glencar Lough lake.
Sligo
Day 6. Sligo - Dublin
Maybe you want to take in more of the town's history and culture before departing Sligo! Head to the Yeats Society Sligo & Visitors Centre where you can view gallery exhibits and learn more about the renowned Irish writer, WB Yeats. You can also visit The Model, Home of the Niland Collection, which is famous for its contemporary art collections.
Take in the magnificent scenery and artful culture of Sligo one last time before making your way back to Dublin! Take a walk across the Ha’Penny bridge, visit the wonderous 12th century St. Patrick’s Cathedral, and get your fill of Fish n Chips. Maybe you'd like to leisurely stroll along Grafton Street where traditional Irish music or some performance will likely welcome you, or hike through Merrion Square Park where you can check out a smirky statue of Oscar Wilde. End your night with a Dublin favorite, comforting coddle washed down with some Guinness (or whatever Irish delicacy tickles your fancy).
Compliment your trip to Ireland with a stay at Roganstown Hotel & Country Club. Idyllic from top to bottom, the hotel is 10 minutes from the Dublin airport and a short drive from the M50, M1, and M2 motorways. The romantic estate offers 52 inviting guestrooms, including family rooms and master suites. Nestled in the countryside, an 18 hole golf course stretches over 300 acres of meticulous lawns and Japanese gardens. The Roganstown Leisure Centre boasts a gym, heated pool, Jacuzzi, steam room, sauna, fitness classes, and more. Pamper yourself with treatments at Sakura Spa or Roganstown Hair Salon during your stay. Spend an afternoon on the links, then discover the fine dining at McLoughlin's Restaurant or kick back at O'Callaghan's Bar with your favorite bar food and a fresh pint.
Located just outside Dublin's city center, you'll have easy access to Ireland's vibrant capital by either local bus or taxi. Enjoy close smooth access to the M50 for day trips, sightseeing, and self-guided tours. Start each morning with the hotel's Vitality Breakfast, which offers a wide selection of cooked foods, cereals, pastries, fruit, and more. An on-site bar and lounge, as well as restaurant Grain & Grill, are also open daily for lunch and dinner. 297 spacious guestroom are brightly decorated and are soundproofed to ensure the best night's sleep possible.Â
With a sophisticated combination of traditional old-world opulence and contemporary design, Dunboyne Castle Hotel & Spa sets a new precedent and fresh interpretation for hotels around Ireland. As one of the leading 4-star hotels in Ireland, Dunboyne Castle Hotel & Spa features unique attributes that emphasize the beauty of its estate. Standing on 21 acres of mature manicured lawns and gardens, the hotel's most unique attribute is the peaceful oasis it offers guests, while also being located in such close proximity to Dublin's city center and surrounding golf courses.
The hotel is situated on the grounds of a former castle; the original castle was destroyed during the Cromwellian invasion of Ireland. The 18th-century Georgian house that we see today is at the heart of the hotel, blending seamlessly with the stylish, modern bedrooms and restaurant in the contemporary wing. The historic mansion, once home to the Lord of Dunboyne, today serves as one of Ireland's foremost exclusive hotels on Dublin's doorstep.
Its 145 large, comfortable rooms boast free WiFi, air-conditioning, HD TV, and much more. Relax at Seoid, meaning jewel in Irish, the decadent on-site spa. Unwind in the crystal steam room, enjoy an herbal sauna, pamper yourself with a mud treatment, and more. Take a stroll through the lavish garden, then indulge in a delicious meal at the Ivy Restaurant. Feast your eyes on its carefully prepared seasonal menu, then taste the award-winning flavors of the in-house chefs, who've earned 2 AA Rosettes from 2013 to date.
Day 7. Depart Dublin
Treat yourself to a full Irish breakfast before leaving Dublin - a scrumptious blend of eggs, baked beans, sausages, and fried tomatoes. If you have the time to take in more of Dublin's rural scenes, hike through the urban Phoenix Park where you can visit the Dublin Zoo or see herds of wild deer. You can also take a short drive to Howth Cliff Walk, where you'll be mesmerized by sweeping views of Dublin Bay and Howth Harbor.Â
When it's time, head to the Dublin Airport where you'll drop off your car and depart for home!