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
- 2 nights in Kilkenny at the Aspect Hotel or the Newpark Hotel
- Admission to Kilkenny Castle
- 1 night in Waterford at the Viking Hotel
- Admission to Blarney Castle
- 2 nights in Tralee at the Rose Hotel
- Tour of the Ring of Kerry
- 1 night in County Clare at the Inn at Dromoland or similar
- Admission to the Cliffs of Moher
- 3 nights in Dublin at North Star Hotel or The Bonnington Hotel
- Admission to Kilmainham Gaol
- Breakfast daily
Great Ways to Explore
- 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 Kilmainham Gaol, the site of many of Ireland's most important events.
- 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
- 2 nights in Kilkenny at the Aspect Hotel or the Newpark Hotel
- Admission to Kilkenny Castle
- 1 night in Waterford at the Viking Hotel
- Admission to Blarney Castle
- 2 nights in Tralee at the Rose Hotel
- Tour of the Ring of Kerry
- 1 night in County Clare at the Inn at Dromoland or similar
- Admission to the Cliffs of Moher
- 3 nights in Dublin at North Star Hotel or The Bonnington Hotel
- Admission to Kilmainham Gaol
- 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 Kilmainham Gaol, the site of many of Ireland's most important events.
Learn More about Kilkenny, Waterford, Tralee, Clare and Dublin
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. Imagine yourself as part of Irish royalty as you stroll the grounds overlooking River Nore.
Check-in - The Hoban Hotel (Formerly the Aspect Hotel)
Day 2. Kilkenny
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.
Explore Kilkenny's town center, filled with charming medieval architecture! Pop into one of the shops on the Medieval Mile, then discover the secrets of the Smithwick's story at the Smithwick's experience.
Kilkenny Castle Tour Admission
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 3. 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.
Check-in - Viking Hotel
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.
Day 4. 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.
Check-in - The Rose Hotel
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.
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 5. 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 6. 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."
Check-in - The Inn at Dromoland (formerly Clare Inn)
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.
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 7. 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.
North Star Hotel
Escape to the cozy, yet elegant North Star Hotel. Opposite Dublin's Connolly Station and the IFSC, this hotel blends contemporary design with rustic brick and wood accents. Open the door to your room and fall into an instant state of tranquility and relaxation. Sprawl out on your large, plush bed and use the hotel's free WiFi to get in touch with family and friends.
After a quick nap, begin exploring Dublin! Stroll on over to Trinity College, the O2 Arena, and the Temple Bar District - all within a 10-minute walk from the hotel. When it's time to eat, relax in the cozy atmosphere of McGettigan's Cookhouse and Bar. Start with a pint, then indulge in modern Irish cuisine that consists of only locally sourced ingredients.
Bonnington Dublin
Day 8. Dublin
Explore the higlights of Dublin today! Start the day with a stroll over to Dublin Castle, the perhaps unwind at the picturesque grounds. Take advantage of your included tours to some of Dublin's most iconic places; discover Dublin's history of rebellion at the Kilmainham Gaol, then learn to pour the perfect pint at the Guinness Storehouse!
Kilmainham Gaol
Kilmainham Gaol opened in 1796 as the new County Gaol for Dublin, and closed its doors in 1924. Today, it is one of the largest unoccupied jails in Europe, covering some of the most heroic and tragic events in Ireland's emergence as a modern nation from 1780s to the 1920s.
In addition to a guided tour, you can visit the permanent exhibition detailing the social and political history of the prison, as well as any of the other exhibitions on display.
Guinness Storehouse
A visit to the magical home of Guinness is a must for anyone visiting Dublin. The Guinness Storehouse® is Ireland’s number one visitor attraction, located in the heart of the Guinness Brewery at St James’s Gate.
Housed in a former fermentation plant, this seven-story historical building is central to Dublin's and Ireland's heritage, and has been continually updated to create a blend of fascinating industrial tradition, with a contemporary edge.
The adventure begins the moment you walk through the door and into the building’s giant, pint-shaped heart of glass – and tells a dramatic story that begins over 250 years ago and ends in Gravity Bar, where visitors will receive a complimentary pint of Guinness while relaxing and enjoying spectacular views over Dublin.
Includes:
- Self-guided tour of Guinness Storehouse (tour visit is approximately 2 hours)
- Pint of Guinness or soft drink in Gravity Bar (under 18 receive soft drink)
Day 9. Dublin
Continue exploring the wonders of Dublin today. Why not take a stroll through the Trinity College Campus, then pop into the Book of Kells for a visit if you like. Don't forget to stop by the iconic long room!
Unwind at the picturesque St. Stephen's Green before continuing your exploration through the city. You can also visit the Christ Church Cathedral or go shopping along Grafton street.
Tonight's your last night in Dublin! Head to the Temple Bar District and experience its famed nightlife. Find a pub with live music and join the locals in a song and dance.
Day 10. 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.