South West Ireland Uncovered - 5 days
South West Ireland Uncovered - 5 days
South West Ireland Uncovered - 5 days
5 Days Starting in Dublin and ending in Kilkenny
Visiting: Dublin, Galway, Killarney, Carrauntoohil, Kilkenny
Tour operator:
Specialist Group:
Family/Kids
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
2 - 16
Age range:
Min:5yrs with an adultChild discount available for 5-15 yrs sharing with 2 adults
Trip Styles:
Tour Overview
Take in the best of South West Ireland in five action-packed days, departing from Dublin! Enjoy a glass of Irish whiskey at a traditional distillery and explore the cosy pubs and seafront views of Galway. Marvel at the dramatic Cliffs of Moher on the Wild Atlantic Way, discover the Dingle Peninsula and the ancient forts of Slea Head. See Ireland's highest mountain, the cascading Torc Waterfall and impressive Blarney Castle, finishing back in the Irish capital.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Dublin
Location: Dublin
Dublin - Galway. Welcome to Ireland! Departing Dublin, we drive west through the rural landscapes of County Kildare and Offaly, passing farmland and peat bogs. Our first stop is Kilbeggan Distillery, we can take a moment to unwind with a taste of their renowned whiskey.
After a tasty tipple (or two!) we journey onwards to the stunning ruins of Clonmacnoise Abbey, on the banks of the River Shannon. This holy site boasts an impressive collection of ancient stone crosses, churches, and remarkable round towers, giving you an insightful glimpse into Ireland's rich spiritual history.
There is free time for you to tuck into a traditional pub lunch in one of the pretty nearby villages before we head to our accommodation for the evening in Galway. Galway boasts plenty of excellent restaurants and bars, as well as quaint seafront views.
Please note: Check-in closes at 08:45 on day 1 (tour departs at 09:00) - Dublin Nassau Street Pick Up, Opposite the Kilkenny Shop, Nassau St, Dublin.
Accommodation: Ashgrove, Desota House B&B or similar
Day 2: Galway
Location: Galway
Meals Included: Breakfast
Galway - Kilfenora - Killarney. Just off the coast of Galway City lies the Burren, one of Ireland's iconic landmarks. As one of the earliest Christian settlements in Ireland, it boasts broad limestone pavements and rare flora. After exploring the area, we head to Kilfenora, known as the "town of the crosses". We can see the ancient cathedral and enjoy lunch independently in the area.
Our next stop is the breathtaking Cliffs of Moher. There is time for us to hike the dramatic cliff trails here and see seabirds soaring through the clear air. The nearby environmental exhibition provides insights into the unique ecosystem.
We then drive through County Clare, taking in the famous golf course before arriving at picturesque Lahinch Beach. From here we board a ferry across the Shannon Estuary to Killarney, a lively town and home for the next three nights. Killarney is known for its traditional pubs and live music - the perfect place for a Guinness or two!
Accommodation: Kingfisher Lodge, Ashville B&B, Algret House B&B or similar
Day 3: Killarney
Location: Killarney
Meals Included: Breakfast
Killarney - Dingle Peninsula - Killarney. Heading out for a day's activities from Killarney, we travel to the magnificent Dingle Peninsula. We stop first at Inch Beach, where we can stroll along the extensive sands.
Passing through Dingle town, our next stop is Slea Head. Here we admire the ancient forts and prehistoric dwellings amidst breathtaking views of the nearby Blasket Islands. If the weather is favourable, we will have the opportunity to explore the beaches and cliff tops to fully appreciate the stunning scenery.
We then return to Dingle to spend a few hours at leisure. We recommend you savour some of the town's famous seafood! In the early evening, we make our way back to Killarney.
Accommodation: Kingfisher Lodge, Ashville B&B, Algret House B&B or similar
Day 4: Carrauntoohil
Location: Carrauntoohil
Meals Included: Breakfast
Killarney - Carrauntoohil - Portmagee - Waterville - Derrynane House - Killarney. Today we take in the best of South West Ireland's wild side, exploring the popular Ring of Kerry route. The day starts with a visit to Carrauntoohil, Ireland's highest mountain. Snap some photos before we head along the picturesque coast road through Glenbeigh and Kells to Cahersiveen.
There is free time for lunch in the quaint fishing village of Portmagee, and there is also the opportunity for travellers to head to Valentia Island for the Skellig Experience. This waterfront centre showcases the history of the ancient community of monks who made the rocky islands their home.
Our tour continues to Waterville, where we make a short stop at Charlie Chaplin's "home away from home" before enjoying stunning views at the top of Coonmakista pass. We then visit Derrynane House, home to the O'Connell family. Daniel O’Connell was known as the "The Liberator of Ireland". This Irish nationalist led Ireland's Roman Catholic majority in the first half of the 19th century. He had a strong attachment to Derrynane House, and you will understand why after exploring its scenic gardens or exploring the main house.
We make our way back to Killarney, stopping at Moll’s Gap and Ladies View, from where we can make the short walk to admire Torc Waterfall.
Please note: On some departures of this itinerary, days 3 and 4 are switched. All inclusions and sights visited remain the same.
Accommodation: Kingfisher Lodge, Ashville B&B, Algret House B&B or similar
Day 5: Kilkenny
Location: Kilkenny
Meals Included: Breakfast
Killarney - Blarney Castle - Kilkenny - Dublin. We begin our eastward journey back to Dublin. Driving through the mountainous region of West Cork, we admire the Lee Valley and arrive at Blarney Castle. There is time to explore the grounds and if you would like to kiss the famous Blarney Stone to gain the gift of eloquence, then you are welcome to do so!
Continuing to Cahir, we can see the unique island castle before arriving in Kilkenny, a vibrant city that boasts an impressive ancient castle, a thousand-year-old round tower, and a remarkable National Craft Centre. There's time to explore at leisure or enjoy a final Guinness before we arrive back in Dublin and our Irish adventure comes to an end.
Please note: This tour ends at 19:30 - Dublin Nassau Street Drop Off, Opposite the Kilkenny Shop, Nassau St, Dublin.
What's Included
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Accommodation
Simple guesthouse (hotel upgrade available) -
4 breakfasts
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4 nights simple guesthouse (hotel upgrade available)
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Escorted by a local driver-guideÂ
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Transportation in 16 seat Mercedes mini-coach with air-conditioning
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Shannon Estuary ferry
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Entrance to the Cliffs of Moher
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All road tolls
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20kg luggage - see Trip Notes for details
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Note: This tour is operated in conjunction with our trusted partner and you will join travellers from different operators, not solely On The Go.
What's Not Included
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International flights & visas
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Airport transfers (pick up and drop off information can be found in the Trip Notes)
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Meals not specified in itinerary
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Tipping - an entirely personal gesture!
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Entry fees unless specified
Age Policy
Min:5yrs with an adultChild discount available for 5-15 yrs sharing with 2 adults
Check out our Q&As
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Ensuring our footprint is light and that the benefits of travelling reach the local communities you visit is paramount to us. We’re proud to say that when travelling with us, the large majority of your holiday funds remain within the countries you visit, supporting local economies at a grass roots level.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1998
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
With English-speaking tours, it's not a huge surprise that most on our travellers are from English-speaking countries or have English as their second language. Our group tours cater for everyone from 18 years old to 70+
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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Mar 29, 2026 - Apr 02, 2026Book with Confidence
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Low Deposit
On The Go Tours requires a minimum deposit of 600 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of on the go tours charges.
Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.