Ireland's Top Sights
Emerald Isle Explorer
If you're looking for Ireland's greatest hits, this vacation is for you. Spend 7, 8 or 9 nights exploring the best the Emerald Isle has to offer from the Cliffs of Moher in County Clare to the Ring of Kerry in County Kerry.
What's Included
- Round-trip economy class airfare to Dublin (DUB)
- Manual car rental for the duration - upgrade to automatic available
- Pick-up and drop-off at Dublin Airport
- 1 night in Kilkenny at the Hoban Hotel (Formerly the Aspect Hotel), or similar
- Admission to Kilkenny Castle
- 1 night in Waterford at the Viking Hotel, or similar
- Admission to Blarney Castle
- 2 nights in Tralee at the Rose Hotel, or similar
- Tour of the Ring of Kerry
- 1 night in County Clare at the Inn at Dromoland, or similar
- Admission to the Cliffs of Moher
- 2 nights in Dublin at The Address Connolly (formerly known as North Star Hotel), or similar
- Admission to the EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum
- Breakfast daily
Great Ways to Explore
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Drive though Ireland's famous rolling green countryside as you go from destination to destination.
- Enjoy admission to not one but two incredible castles: Kilkenny Castle and Blarney Castle!
-
See the Ring of Kerry with ease on your guided tour in a comfortable, air-conditioned coach.
-
Feel your eyes widen as you approach Ireland's #1 number attraction: the Cliffs of Moher.
-
End your stay in the cosmopolitan capital of Dublin, where you'll have admission to Kilmainham Gaol.
Sublime countryside, history bursting at the seams, and a pub on every corner...this is the Ireland you've always dreamed of. On this vacation, you'll experience it all with ease! Arrive in Dublin and spend a couple days exploring Kilkenny and Waterford, two highlights of Ireland's Ancient East. Enjoy admission to the beautiful Kilkenny Castle, right in the center of town.
From there, drive to Tralee and explore everything County Kerry has to offer. See the sights of the Ring of Kerry from a comfortable motorcoach, then cozy up with a pint in a traditional pub. You'll also make a quick stop in County Cork to see the famous Blarney Stone!
You'll then continue your journey to County Clare, home of Ireland's most well-known natural attraction, the Cliffs of Moher. Don't leave without taking a selfie with these ruggedly beautiful cliffs as the backdrop. Your trip ends in - where else? - Dublin. Learn the fascinating history behind the EPIC Irish Emigration Museum.
Please note that some package inclusions may be restricted or unavailable at time of travel. We will substitute them with similar options of equivalent value, as available.
- Round-trip economy class airfare to Dublin (DUB)
- Manual car rental for the duration - upgrade to automatic available
- Pick-up and drop-off at Dublin Airport
- 1 night in Kilkenny at the Hoban Hotel (Formerly the Aspect Hotel), or similar
- Admission to Kilkenny Castle
- 1 night in Waterford at the Viking Hotel, or similar
- Admission to Blarney Castle
- 2 nights in Tralee at the Rose Hotel, or similar
- Tour of the Ring of Kerry
- 1 night in County Clare at the Inn at Dromoland, or similar
- Admission to the Cliffs of Moher
- 2 nights in Dublin at The Address Connolly (formerly known as North Star Hotel), or similar
- Admission to the EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum
- Breakfast daily
-
Drive though Ireland's famous rolling green countryside as you go from destination to destination.
- Enjoy admission to not one but two incredible castles: Kilkenny Castle and Blarney Castle!
-
See the Ring of Kerry with ease on your guided tour in a comfortable, air-conditioned coach.
-
Feel your eyes widen as you approach Ireland's #1 number attraction: the Cliffs of Moher.
-
End your stay in the cosmopolitan capital of Dublin, where you'll have admission to Kilmainham Gaol.
Sublime countryside, history bursting at the seams, and a pub on every corner...this is the Ireland you've always dreamed of. On this vacation, you'll experience it all with ease! Arrive in Dublin and spend a couple days exploring Kilkenny and Waterford, two highlights of Ireland's Ancient East. Enjoy admission to the beautiful Kilkenny Castle, right in the center of town.
From there, drive to Tralee and explore everything County Kerry has to offer. See the sights of the Ring of Kerry from a comfortable motorcoach, then cozy up with a pint in a traditional pub. You'll also make a quick stop in County Cork to see the famous Blarney Stone!
You'll then continue your journey to County Clare, home of Ireland's most well-known natural attraction, the Cliffs of Moher. Don't leave without taking a selfie with these ruggedly beautiful cliffs as the backdrop. Your trip ends in - where else? - Dublin. Learn the fascinating history behind the EPIC Irish Emigration Museum.
Please note that some package inclusions may be restricted or unavailable at time of travel. We will substitute them with similar options of equivalent value, as available.
Departure Airport:
Departure Month:
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Day 1. Welcome to Dublin!
Arrive at Dublin's airport, grab your car and make your way to your first destination: Kilkenny. This medieval city has deep religious roots; here you can explore well-preserved churches and monasteries. Start with a trip to Kilkenny Castle, then perhaps you'd like to visit the 13th century St. Canice's Cathedral or the Black Abbey Priory.
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.
Kilkenny Castle Admission & Self-Guided Tour
This 12th century castle, remodeled in Victorian times and set in extensive parklands, was the principal seat of the Butler family, Marquesses and Dukes of Ormonde.
Due to major restoration works, the central block now includes a library, drawing room, and bedrooms decorated in 1830's splendor, as well as the beautiful Long Gallery. Pay a visit to the Butler Art Gallery, housed in a suite of former servants’ rooms; here you'll find frequently changing exhibitions of contemporary art.
Day 2. Kilkenny - Waterford
Make the short drive today to your next destination - Waterford! As Ireland's oldest city, Waterford bursts with over 1,000 years of history, from the Vikings to the Normans. Climb to the top of Reginald's Tower, a massive stone fortress, and wander through the Medieval Museum. You may also want to check out the Waterford Crystal factory and peruse the incredible glass creations.
Escape to the contemporary Viking Hotel, located less than three miles from Waterford's bustling city center! Experience luxurious rooms, traditional comfort, and extraordinary hospitality at this perfect home away from home. After checking-in, walk through the hotel's bright lobby and head to up to your relaxing retreat. Open the door to your spacious room and notice rich colors, flat-screen TVs, luxurious bath amenities, and much more. Sprawl out on your large cozy bed and use the hotel's complimentary WiFi to say hello to family and friends.
After exploring the historic city of Waterford, head back to the Viking Hotel and relax in the trendy Asgard Bar. Unwind with a cocktail, then savor the hearty flavors of one of the best carveries in Waterford. After a restful night's sleep, indulge in some fresh scones and coffee in the morning.
In the center of Waterford, Dooley's is a family-run hotel offering spacious rooms and full Irish breakfasts. Guests can enjoy weekend live music, and Christchurch Cathedral is just a 10-minute walk away. Rooms at Dooley's Hotel are brightly furnished and all feature a private bathroom with a hairdryer. Each room provides a TV, free tea and coffee, and ironing facilities. The New Ship Restaurant serves creative Irish cuisine and desserts. The bar offers a range of dishes, including light snacks, cooked breakfasts, and lunch, afternoon, and evening menus.
Come to Faithlegg House Hotel for exquisite spa and hotel accommodations! Unwind at The Treatment Suites with a pool, steam room, sauna, spa treatments, and a fitness center. Have a bite to eat at The Roseville Room or a cocktail in the Aylward Lounge. Rooms at Faithlegg House Hotel offer TVs, hairdryers, and coffee and tea making facilities.
Steeped in the history of the city. The Granville Hotel provides its guests with a warm Irish welcome and all the comforts of home. Serving visitors since the late 70s, owners Liam and Anne Cusack delight in the Granville's heritage (the building dates back to the 1700s!), and vigorously pursue the hotel's long tradition of hospitality, friendliness and comfort. From the moment you walk through the doors of the Granville Hotel in Waterford city center you will experience the professionalism & hospitality that is the essence of the hotel. A dedicated team of management and staff are on hand to ensure that your stay in Waterford is pleasant and memorable.
Day 3. Waterford - Tralee
Say goodbye to Waterford as you make your way to Blarney Castle, home to the famous stone that bears the same name.
You'll then head to Tralee, home to one of Ireland's most breathtaking regions: County Kerry. Pay a visit to the 200-year-old Blennerville windmill or soak up some culture at the County Kerry Museum.
Located just a short walk from Tralee town center, and a 15-minute drive from Kerry Airport, The Rose Hotel Tralee, boasts a range of facilities ensuring that your stay with The Rose Hotel will be a relaxed and memorable one.
The Rose Hotel in Tralee is a 4-star accommodation that prides itself on providing a high standard of service, taking care of all your requirements, to ensure that your stay is stress-free and enjoyable. With an abundance of things to see and do, you’ll be spoiled by choice. This Tralee hotel is the perfect base, allowing you explore the Ring of Kerry.
Centrally located in the center of Killarney Town, Scotts Hotel Killarney is a stylish, upscale escape perfect for exploring County Kerry and the Ring of Kerry. Over the years, this family run hotel in Killarney has established a reputation for its excellent location, friendly customer service and very welcoming atmosphere. The hotel offers 105 guest rooms and 10 deluxe suites. These spacious rooms feature free Wi-Fi, en suite bathroom, tea and coffee making facilities and flat-screen TVs. Guests are sure to indulge in the cozy comforts during their stay with an on-site restaurant and three bars. The hotel is opposite Killarney train and bus stations and just a 2-minute walk from the shopping district.
Blarney Castle
Blarney Castle was built nearly six hundred years ago by one of Ireland's greatest chieftains, Cormac MacCarthy, and has been attracting attention beyond Munster ever since.
Over the last few hundred years, millions have flocked to Blarney, making it a world landmark and one of Ireland's greatest treasures. Now that might have something to do with the Blarney Stone, the legendary Stone of Eloquence, found at the top of the Tower. Kiss it and you'll never again be lost for words.
Day 4. Tralee
Embark on a full-day tour discovering some of Ireland's most majestic natural wonders on your Ring of Kerry tour.
Ring of Kerry Guided Bus Tour
The Iveragh Peninsula - which contains Ireland’s most spectacular mountain road - the Ring of Kerry - is situated in the southwest corner of Ireland. Over the centuries it has been the inspiration of poets and writers because of its magnificent coastal scenery and rugged countryside.
This motorcoach tour allows travelers to share in the history, geography, culture, stories and folklore of the enchanting Ring of Kerry. This is an ideal opportunity for you to forget about the left-hand side of the road for a day and relax in worry-free comfort.
The Ring of Kerry is usually done in a counter-clockwise direction along the banks of the River Laune to Killorglin, via Glenbeigh, Kells, Caherciveen and the southern shores of Dingle Bay. The tour continues to Waterville and along the coast via Coomakista Pass and Derrynane and on to Sneem. From Sneem you travel up the mountain road to Molls Gap, then via Ladies’ View and back to Killarney. In addition to stopping at all points of interest en route you also stop for an hour at lunchtime. In the afternoon a stop will be made for tea/coffee/Guinness/refreshments.
Day 5. Tralee - Clare
Today you'll head to Clare, home to Ireland's most famous end-of-the-world cliffs: the Cliffs of Moher. Make sure your camera is charged and ready to go!
You can also visit Bunratty Castle & Folk Park if you wish or the prehistoric Burren area nearby.
In the evening, consider heading to Doolin Village, known as Ireland's home of "traditional Irish music."
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.
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.
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.
Cliffs Of Moher Admission
See Ireland's most visited sea cliffs; these dramatic cliffs rise over 700 ft above sea level and offer some of the most breathtaking coastal views.
On a clear day, see as far as the Aran Islands! Take a leisurely stroll along the guided path, climb the castle at the top of the hill, or see how many different species of birds you can spot - you may even see a puffin or two!
Day 6. Clare - Dublin
Head to your final destination today: the vibrant city of Dublin! Make stops along the way or head straight there and unwind at your accommodation.
Celebrate your first night in Ireland's capital by treating yourself to a drink at Ireland's pub: the Brazen Head.
The Address Connolly is ideally located in the heart of Dublin City Centre, just a short walk from all of Dublin’s most popular venues, shopping streets, entertainment districts, and tourist attractions. This design-driven hotel offers an eclectic mix of luxe interiors and traditional design pieces all sourced from and crafted in Ireland.
The Address Connolly promises the ultimate 4-star hotel experience full of special touches that surprise and delight. The Address Connolly boasts newly refurbished guestrooms, its own fitness center, and Scandinavian saunas, plus the independently branded bar and restaurant within the hotel, McGettigans Cookhouse. The Cookhouse provides a casual, diverse, and relaxed dining environment serving international cuisine with an extensive cocktail list, craft beers, and specially selected wines. The food curation focuses on sustainability, seasonality, and locality for its inspiration and is open for both lunch and dinner.
Across the street from Croke Park stadium, The Croke Park's location makes it a unique destination, close to both Dublin airport and Dublin's city center. Dublin Airport is 15-minute drive away, while the National Botanic Gardens are a 25-minute walk. Connolly Metro Station is a 15-minute walk, while Trinity College Dublin can be reached in 25 minutes on foot.
In a world of bland offerings, service by numbers and generic experiences, The Croke Park bucks the trend by offering guests a personable and memorable stay. This luxury 4-star hotel boasts spacious rooms with free Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, flat-screen TVs and more. Guests can enjoy hot towels on arrival, free parking, and a European bistro.
Day 7. Dublin
Explore the highlights of Dublin today! Start the day with a stroll over to Dublin Castle, the perhaps unwind at the picturesque grounds. Additionally, you can take advantage of your included EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum Admission!
EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum
Irish history should never be a long list of names and dates, it should be an experience. Get hands-on with Irish culture and its past with this fully interactive museum – swipe through video galleries, dance through motion sensor quizzes, listen to remastered audio from 100 years ago and watch videos that bring Irish history to life. At EPIC you’ll discover the far-reaching influence of Irish history, and the impact the 10 million Irish men and women who left Ireland had on the world.
Day 8. Depart Ireland
Hop in the car and make your way back to Dublin airport for your flight home. Be sure to leave extra time to return your car to the rental area.