6-day All Ireland & Northern Ireland Rail Tour from Dublin

Traveling through Ireland in just over a week might seem ambitious, but this 6-day rail journey from Dublin packs in enough sights, stories, and scenic moments to satisfy even the most eager explorers. With transportation by train, coach, and ferry, the tour promises comfort and ease, letting you focus on soaking in the stunning landscapes and cultural treasures without the hassle of planning every detail.

What we particularly appreciate about this tour is the thoughtful itinerary—it hits many of Ireland’s most famous landmarks while allowing enough free time to enjoy the local atmosphere. The inclusion of accommodation, select meals, and admission tickets simplifies the experience, making it a convenient option for those looking to see Ireland’s best with minimal stress.

That said, the tour isn’t without its long travel days—some travelers might find the schedule quite packed, especially with lengthy coach rides. But if you’re someone who loves a comprehensive, guided adventure that provides a broad overview of Ireland’s highlights, this trip could be just what you’re after.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want to maximize their time, enjoy guided insights, and are comfortable with long days of sightseeing. It’s ideal for first-time visitors wanting a structured overview, but possibly less appealing for those seeking a slow-paced or highly customizable experience.

Key Points

Comfortable transport with reserved train seats and an escorted coach make covering large distances easier.
All-inclusive admissions save you from hunting down tickets and waiting in lines at major sights.
Guided commentary from knowledgeable guides enhances the experience, providing context and local insights.
A varied itinerary includes both natural wonders and historical sites, appealing to diverse interests.
Long days mean packing in a lot, which might be tiring for some, but rewarding for those eager to see it all.
Authentic experiences like local food stops, traditional Irish music, and visits to iconic landmarks make the trip memorable.

In-Depth Tour Breakdown

Day 1: From Cork to Cobh and Killarney

The journey kicks off in Cork with a visit to Blarney Castle, famous for the legendary kissing of the Blarney Stone. This part of the day is a favorite among travelers, especially as the guide emphasizes the fun of trying to “earn” the gift of eloquence—an often humorous highlight. The included admission ticket means no waiting, and the lush gardens surrounding the castle make for excellent photo ops.

Following Blarney, the tour moves to Cóbh, where the Cobh Heritage Centre offers a compelling look at Ireland’s emigration stories and the impact of the Famine. The Victoria Railway Station and the Queenstown Story shed light on Ireland’s maritime history, which many reviews appreciated as a meaningful cultural stop.

The day ends in Killarney, a lively town with a rich array of pubs, cafes, and live music venues. Reviewers mention that the free evening here is a chance to experience authentic Irish hospitality and atmosphere.

Day 2: The Famous Ring of Kerry

This day is dedicated to the spectacular Ring of Kerry, a classic Irish drive—though in this case, a guided tour—around some of Ireland’s most breathtaking landscapes. Expect mountain vistas, coastal views, and the chance to spot Carrantuohill, Ireland’s highest peak, at 1,041 meters.

The tour stops are well-spaced for photos and light walks, with plenty of opportunities for morning tea and lunch. Reviews highlight that the scenic vistas are a highlight, with travelers noting the route offers many picture-perfect moments along Dingle Bay and Kenmare Bay.

Day 3: Cliffs of Moher and The Burren

The day starts with a visit to Bunratty Castle and Folk Park, where you can explore a restored 15th-century castle and a folk village built with buildings transported from across Ireland. Reviewers love this as it gives a tangible sense of Irish life in past centuries.

Next, the Cliffs of Moher steal the show. With about two hours here, travelers have time to walk the cliff edges, take photos, and maybe even brave the visitor center’s exhibits. The views are often described as awe-inspiring, and with admission included, there’s no need to worry about extra costs or long queues.

From there, passing through The Burren, a unique rocky landscape with diverse flora, is a highlight for many. The landscape is stark yet beautiful, and the stop for photos is appreciated.

Day 4: Kylemore Abbey and Connemara

The day begins with a visit to Kylemore Abbey, a Benedictine monastery set in the rugged Connemara region. Known for its stunning architecture, pottery, and gardens, it’s a peaceful retreat and a favorite for those who love scenic, historic settings.

Traveling along the shores of Galway Bay, you get views of the Burren and neighboring hills, which many reviewers say is the perfect way to experience the Irish countryside. The guide’s commentary enriches the experience, sharing insights into Irish language and culture.

Day 5: Inis Mór Island

A ferry ride takes you to Inis Mór, the largest of the Aran Islands. Here, you’ll visit Dún Aonghusa, a 2,000-year-old stone fort with dramatic Atlantic views, along with the Seven Churches and Kilronan village. The local guides and the opportunity to explore at your own pace make this a memorable day. Reviewers mention the ferry’s timing and the chance to purchase local crafts and snacks.

Day 6: The Causeway Coast and Giant’s Causeway

The final day takes you along Northern Ireland’s Causeway Coastal Route. The journey offers stunning vistas of the sea, mountains, and quaint villages like Cushendun. A highlight is the Giant’s Causeway, with its iconic basalt columns formed by ancient volcanic activity. Spending about two hours here allows plenty of time for photos, wandering the cliffs, and soaking in the remarkable geology.

A quick stop at Dunluce Castle enriches the day with a touch of medieval history, rounding out the trip’s mix of natural beauty and historical intrigue.

Practical Details and Value

The tour’s price of $2,403.98 per person includes return rail tickets, reserved seats, guided commentary, hotel accommodation, and admissions to key sights. This makes it a reasonably priced way to cover Ireland’s top attractions without the hassle of independent planning or ticketing.

Many reviews mention the hotels being of at least 4-star quality, and the inclusion of breakfasts and select meals adds to the convenience, especially after long sightseeing days. The group size, capped at 53 travelers, strikes a balance between socializing and personal space.

The long days are a point of discussion; while some mention the schedule feels “long” or “packed,” most agree that the value of seeing so much in a short time outweighs the fatigue. The experienced guides and drivers are often praised for their knowledge and professionalism, making the journey smoother and more enjoyable.

Transportation and Comfort

Traveling mostly by reserved train seats and escorted coach, you benefit from comfortable, reliable transit through varied Irish scenery. The ferry to Inis Mór is an added adventure, offering a real sense of island life and geography.

Flexibility and Additional Costs

While admissions and some meals are included, travelers should plan for additional costs, such as meals not covered on the itinerary. The tour is structured, leaving little room for solo detours, but this ensures you don’t miss key highlights.

Reviews & Authentic Feedback

From reviews, guides like Brendan are singled out for their engaging, informative manner. Travelers also appreciated the delicious food stops and the opportunity to experience local music and culture. However, some noted the tour’s price as a bit steep, especially considering the long travel days, but most agreed the included entries and hotel standards justified the expense.

Final Thoughts

This 6-day All Ireland & Northern Ireland Rail Tour offers a comprehensive and well-organized way to see the highlights of Ireland and Northern Ireland. If you’re after a hassle-free experience with comfortable transportation, expert guides, and a mix of natural and cultural sights, this tour ticks many boxes. It’s especially suited for first-time visitors or those with limited time who still want to get a solid taste of the island.

The balance of structured days, scenic stops, and authentic Irish culture makes it a worthwhile choice for those eager to explore without the stress of logistics. Just be prepared for some long days of sightseeing, and consider your stamina if you prefer a more relaxed pace.

FAQs

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes. The tour includes return rail tickets, reserved train seats, and an escorted coach for the entire trip, plus a ferry to Inis Mór.

Are meals included?
Accommodation and select meals are included in the price. However, you should plan for extra expenses for meals not specified in the itinerary.

What sights are covered?
You’ll visit Blarney Castle, Cobh Heritage Centre, Ring of Kerry, Cliffs of Moher, Kylemore Abbey, Inis Mór, and the Giant’s Causeway, among others.

How long are the travel days?
Days are quite full, with some travel days exceeding 7 hours. Reviewers mention the schedule is “packed,” but most find it worthwhile given the sights covered.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children under 16 cannot book independently and must be accompanied by a guardian, so it’s suitable for families with suitable children.

What is the group size?
The tour accommodates up to 53 travelers, balancing social interaction with comfort.

To sum it up, this tour offers a highly organized and scenic way to explore Ireland’s most famous landmarks, ideal for travelers who prioritize convenience, guided insight, and variety. While it’s a bit intensive, the rich experiences, comfortable transport, and knowledgeable guides make it well worth considering for your Irish adventure.