6-Day South of Ireland Tour from Dublin

Traveling through Ireland’s south without the hassle of driving sounds pretty appealing, doesn’t it? This 6-day guided tour offers a comprehensive look at some of Ireland’s most iconic sights, from dramatic coastlines to historic castles and lively villages. With a mix of scenic drives, cultural stops, and charming accommodations, it’s designed for those who want to soak up Ireland’s beauty while enjoying the comfort of organized travel.

What we really like about this experience is how it balances structured sightseeing with authentic local encounters—like visiting Blarney Castle or watching glass artisans at Waterford Crystal. However, one thing to consider is the itinerary’s flexibility; some travelers have mentioned that schedules can shift, and at times, more time is spent on the bus than exploring. Still, if you’re after a well-rounded introduction to Ireland’s south, this tour is hard to beat, especially for first-timers or those uncomfortable with self-driving.

This tour tends to attract a wide range of travelers—from solo adventurers to couples and families—who appreciate guided commentary and a set itinerary. If you want to see Ireland’s highlights without the stress of planning and navigation, this could be the ideal fit.

Key Points

Convenient Guided Experience: No need to worry about driving or navigation, just enjoy the scenery and commentary.
Iconic Destinations Covered: From Cliffs of Moher to Ring of Kerry, Blarney Castle, and Dingle Peninsula.
Comfortable Accommodation Options: Choices cater to different budgets and solo travelers, ensuring a cozy stay.
Inclusive Price & Entrance Fees: Most major sights are covered, so no surprises or extra charges during the tour.
Authentic Local Stops: Waterford Crystal, Kilkenny, Cobh, and Galway, offering genuine Irish culture and craftsmanship.
Well-Reviewed Guides: Guides like Barry, Rory, and Brian are praised for their knowledge, anecdotes, and driving skills.

A Deep Dive Into the Itinerary

Day 1: From Dublin to Waterford via Glendalough and Kilkenny

The tour kicks off bright and early at Paddy’s Palace in Dublin. Your first stop is the Glendalough Monastic Settlement—a site brimming with ancient Celtic crosses and round towers. Reviewers like Janette describe it as “natural beauty” that’s perfect for photos and leisurely walks. Expect about an hour here, giving enough time to stretch your legs and snap pictures of the historic ruins.

From there, the journey takes you through lush Wicklow Mountains towards Kilkenny, a town that feels like stepping back into medieval Ireland. Here, you can explore the castle, cathedral, and cobbled streets, all rich with Norman history. Reviewers highlight Kilkenny’s charm, mentioning its “famous beer” and “beautiful cobbles,” which make wandering around feel like a step into a fairy tale.

Your first evening is spent in Waterford, famed for its Crystal Factory, where artisans craft glass in traditional styles. Watching glass cutters at work is a highlight, with some reviewers noting how mesmerizing the process is. It’s a quick visit but memorable, especially if you’re into craftsmanship and design.

Day 2: Blarney Castle and Cobh

The day begins with a visit to Blarney Castle, arguably Ireland’s most famous attraction. Spending about two hours here, travelers have the chance to kiss the Blarney Stone and browse the gardens. Many say it’s a “must-do,” with some reviewers mentioning that the gardens are equally impressive. One review notes that “the gift of gab” is real—so you might leave feeling more eloquent!

After lunch, the journey continues to Cobh, a picturesque port town. Many travelers are intrigued by its Titanic connection, with the opportunity to visit the Titanic Museum housed in the original White Star Line office. This stop offers a mix of maritime history and scenic views, perfect for a relaxed afternoon.

Day 3: Dingle Peninsula and Slea Head Drive

This is often cited as the tour’s highlight. You’ll drive to Dingle, a colorful fishing village famous for Fungi the Dolphin, who’s become a local celebrity. Travel writer Patty notes that Dingle has 52 pubs for just 2,000 residents, making it lively and charming. You’ll have time to explore the shops, enjoy some seafood, or simply soak in the vibrant atmosphere.

The day continues with a scenic drive around Slea Head, considered by many to be Ireland’s most beautiful peninsula. Expect breathtaking views of islands, ancient ruins, and rugged beaches. Reviewers like Karen mention that “the vistas and castles were countless,” and the landscape feels like something out of a postcard.

Day 4: Ring of Kerry and Killarney

The Ring of Kerry is a classic Irish experience, often praised for its lush pastures, lakes, and mountain views. Highlights include Moll’s Gap, Ladies View, and Torc Waterfall. You might also opt for a horse-drawn carriage ride through Killarney National Park, which reviewers say adds a charming touch to this scenic day.

Some note that the schedule can be packed, but the panoramic views make every minute worthwhile. The day also offers some free time in Killarney town, perfect for shopping or grabbing a bite.

Day 5: Cliffs of Moher and Galway

The Cliffs of Moher are undeniably a star attraction. Rising over 700 feet, they offer spectacular photo opportunities and a chance to see sea birds like puffins and gannets nesting along the cliffs. Many reviewers describe the cliffs as “majestic” and “breathtaking,” with the views along the West Coast of Clare also including the Burren landscape—a unique, lunar-like terrain with underground rivers.

Lunch in Doolin, the traditional music hub of Ireland, is a highlight for music lovers and foodies alike. The day ends in Galway, a vibrant city known for its art, music, and lively streets. Reviewers often mention Galway’s “cultural buzz” and that it feels like a city that has preserved Irish traditions beautifully.

Day 6: Connemara and Return to Dublin

The last day takes you through Connemara, with visits to Maam’s Cross and Glengowla farm. The area is poignant, reminding visitors of Ireland’s Famine history, and offers a peaceful, scenic farewell to the trip. Travelers appreciate the local farms and the drive through the midlands, with some saying it adds depth to their Irish experience.

The journey concludes back in Dublin after about 8 hours, leaving you with a wealth of memories and photos to take home.

Transport, Accommodation, and Value

The tour uses coaches equipped for comfort, often praised for smooth rides and Wi-Fi availability, making long days more bearable. The group size, typically up to 56 travelers, allows for social interactions but also enough space for comfort, especially during bus travel.

Accommodation options are varied, with five nights in different towns. Reviewers note that the bed and breakfasts are generally clean and comfortable, with some mentioning that some accommodations are on upper floors requiring stairs—so travelers with mobility issues should ask in advance. The breakfasts are generally well-received, especially for those who enjoy a hearty Irish start.

The cost of around $1,042 per person seems reasonable considering entrance fees are included, eliminating surprise expenses. For those who want a worry-free way to see Ireland’s key sights without self-driving, the value proposition is solid, especially when you consider the expert guides, comfortable transport, and curated stops.

Authentic Experiences and Authenticity

Many reviews highlight the guides’ deep knowledge and engaging storytelling. Guides like Barry, Rory, and Brian get high praise for their local insights, anecdotes, and driving skills in sometimes tricky Irish roads. Some travelers mention that the guides made the trip memorable by sharing stories and answering questions, which adds a personal touch.

Food and local stops are genuinely Irish—waterfront pubs, traditional music venues, and historic castles provide an authentic feel. Watching glass artisans at the Waterford Crystal Factory or exploring the medieval streets of Kilkenny gives you a taste of Ireland beyond just the scenery.

The Sum Up

This 6-day tour offers a comprehensive, well-structured way to see the south of Ireland. It’s especially suited for travelers who prefer to enjoy the scenery without the hassle of planning or driving. The inclusion of major sights like the Cliffs of Moher, Blarney Castle, and Ring of Kerry ensures you’ll leave with a solid sense of Irish landscapes and culture.

While some reviewers note that schedules can shift unexpectedly, most agree that the tour’s highlights and guides make up for it. The accommodations, although sometimes on upper floors with stairs, are generally comfortable and add to the authentic Irish experience. The price, inclusive of most entrance fees, makes this a good value for a guided adventure covering so many iconic locations.

This tour shines for its passionate guides, breathtaking scenery, and opportunities to connect with Irish culture. It’s perfect for first-time visitors or anyone wanting to tick off Ireland’s top sights without the stress of self-driving.

FAQs

Is transportation comfortable on this tour?
Yes, the coach is praised for being comfortable and equipped with Wi-Fi, making long drives more relaxing.

Are entrance fees included?
Most major sights like Blarney Castle, Waterford Crystal, and Cliffs of Moher are included, so there are no hidden costs during the trip.

Can I choose different accommodations?
The tour includes 5 nights in various towns with options to suit different budgets; specific details on accommodation types aren’t provided but are generally well-reviewed.

What’s the group size?
The tour can have up to 56 travelers, providing a balance between social atmosphere and personal space.

Is there enough free time during the tour?
Yes, especially in towns like Kilkenny, Galway, and Killarney, where you can explore, shop, or relax.

How physically demanding is the tour?
Most stops involve walking and some stairs—reviewers suggest asking if mobility is a concern, as some accommodations are on upper floors.

What’s the best way to prepare?
Bring layers for changing weather, a good camera, and snacks for long travel days. Guides typically provide interesting commentary along the way.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Absolutely, reviewers frequently praise guides like Barry and Rory for their storytelling, local insights, and driving skills.

Would this tour suit solo travelers?
Yes, many solo travelers found it to be a friendly, organized way to see Ireland and meet new people, with solo travelers well accommodated.

This 6-day guided journey through Ireland’s south offers a fantastic mix of scenery, history, and culture—delivered comfortably and with expert guidance. Whether it’s your first trip or a return visit, it provides a solid foundation to fall in love with Ireland’s charm.