5 Day South of Ireland Tour

Traveling through Ireland can feel like stepping into a storybook, with lush landscapes, historic castles, and vibrant towns waiting around every corner. This 5-day South of Ireland tour, operated by Killarney Town Cars, offers a unique way to experience the best of Ireland’s southern regions — all from the comfort of a private vehicle with a dedicated guide. It’s perfect for travelers who want flexibility, personalized attention, and a relaxed pace, without the hassle of arranging accommodation or transportation.

What sets this tour apart is its customizable approach. You get to book your own accommodations in Cork, Killarney, and Galway, allowing you to tailor your stay. Meanwhile, the tour’s private guide handles all logistics, taking you comfortably from one incredible site to the next with on-board WiFi, mineral water, and expert commentary. The downside? The price tag of nearly $7,000 per group might seem steep, especially since accommodations and entry fees aren’t included. But for those craving a private, curated Irish adventure, this could be well worth the investment.

If you’re someone who values storytelling, authentic experiences, and scenic drives, this tour is an excellent choice. It suits adventurous travelers, history buffs, or groups wanting a flexible yet guided exploration of Ireland’s most famed sights.

• Tailored experience: You pick your accommodations, while the guide takes care of transportation and routing.
• Private guide: A knowledgeable and passionate guide handles your journey, providing insider insights.
• Flexible itinerary: Stops can be customized, and the pace is relaxed, with time to truly enjoy each location.
• Stunning scenery: From castles and cliffs to charming villages, you’ll see some of Ireland’s most iconic vistas.
• Cost considerations: The tour price covers transportation and guide services but excludes accommodations, entry fees, and meals.
• Ideal for private groups: Designed for small groups of up to seven, ensuring a personalized experience.

How the Tour Works: From Kilkenny to Galway

This tour is remarkably flexible—an ideal setup for travelers who prefer to book their own stay but want a seamless, guided itinerary. The journey kicks off in Dublin, but the real magic happens as you venture south into the heart of Ireland’s scenic and historic spots.

The day begins around 9:00 am, with your private guide ready to pick you up in an air-conditioned vehicle equipped with WiFi. The journey is as much about the scenery as the sites, with the guide sharing stories and insights along the way.

The Itinerary in Detail

Kilkenny Castle & Medieval Town

Your adventure starts with a visit to Kilkenny Castle, a medieval fortress that has been a symbol of Irish history since the 12th century. The castle grounds and surrounding town offer a wonderful blend of history and lively street life. While the admission fee isn’t included, the exterior and the atmospheric town make for great photos and wandering.

Waterford Crystal

Next, you’ll visit the Waterford Crystal visitor center, where you can admire the craftsmanship behind Ireland’s famous glassware. Though the admission isn’t included, the opportunity to see artisans at work and browse the shop for souvenirs is a highlight.

Midleton Distillery Experience

A personal favorite for many travelers, the Midleton Distillery hosts a whiskey tasting session. It’s a chance to learn about Ireland’s storied whiskey tradition from expert guides, with the added thrill of sampling some fine Irish whiskey. The two-hour stop (admission not included) promises both education and indulgence.

Cork City & Blarney Castle

Afterward, you’ll get a panoramic tour of Cork, Ireland’s vibrant second city. Then, the highlight for many — Blarney Castle & Gardens, home to the famous Blarney Stone. Climbing the castle and kissing the stone (not included) is a quintessential Irish experience. The two-hour stop allows plenty of time to explore the gardens and soak up the atmosphere.

Scenic Drives and Small Villages

The tour continues through Macroom and Kenmare, charming towns offering quick stops to enjoy local life. Passing Moll’s Gap and Killarney National Park, your guide will point out stunning vistas, including the view of Moll’s Gap, and drive through Killarney National Park—a highlight for nature lovers.

Lakes and Historic Sites

Queen Victoria’s Ladies’ View offers a spectacular overlook of the Lakes of Killarney. You’ll also visit Muckross House and Gardens, a stunning country estate with walks through its grounds, and Inch Beach, a sweeping stretch of sand where the Atlantic meets Ireland’s coast.

Dingle Peninsula & Cultural Highlights

One of the tour’s most memorable parts is exploring Dingle, a lively fishing village famed for its craft shops and seafood restaurants. The Dingle Crystal workshop introduces you to Ireland’s best crystal artisans, offering insight into their craft. From the headland, you can also glimpse Great Blasket Island, home to Irish storytellers such as Peig Sayers, and learn about the area’s dark history at Smerwick Harbour.

The Cliffs of Moher & Galway

No Irish trip would be complete without viewing the Cliffs of Moher, towering sea cliffs that plunge into the Atlantic. The UNESCO-listed site offers breathtaking views and photo opportunities. Continuing north, the tour takes you along the coast to Galway, a lively city renowned for its pubs, music, and relaxed vibe—perfect for an evening of leisure.

Connemara & Kylemore Abbey

The wild beauty of Connemara unfolds as you drive through rugged landscapes, with the story of the famine woven into its history. The Kylemore Abbey and Victorian Walled Garden provide a picturesque finale, where you can enjoy some time soaking in the scenery.

Final Stops and Return to Dublin

On the return journey, the Killimer Ferry across the River Shannon offers potential dolphin sightings, adding a special touch to the trip. If the weather cooperates, you might catch a glimpse of seals or dolphins swimming alongside.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

The real strength of this experience lies in its personalized approach. Unlike large group tours, you get to choose your accommodations and have your own expert guide with you all day. The guide’s knowledge is evident, with one reviewer describing the guide as “passionate and extremely positive” when handling requests for different stops.

The scenic drives through regions like Connemara and Killarney are unforgettable, with viewers highlighting the dramatic beauty of Moll’s Gap and the Lakes of Killarney. The guide’s ability to share stories and local insights enhances each stop, transforming simple sightseeing into an educational experience.

Costs and Value

While the $6,982.38 price covers transportation, guide services, parking, tolls, and taxes, it does not include accommodations, entrance fees, or meals. For some travelers, especially those who already have arrangements in place, this represents excellent value for the convenience, comfort, and personalized attention.

Traveler Feedback

One reviewer, Cheryl, called it an “amazing experience” and appreciated the guide’s knowledge and flexibility, noting that requests for different stops were handled positively. This suggests that the tour’s flexibility is genuinely valued by participants.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is best suited for small groups or families who want a tailored Irish adventure without the hassle of self-driving or rigid schedules. It’s ideal for those who value comfort, flexibility, and insider knowledge. If you prefer a more spontaneous, relaxed way of exploring Ireland’s countryside and coastlines, this private tour will fit perfectly.

Final Thoughts

Traveling through Ireland with this 5-day private guided tour offers a combination of scenic drives, historic sites, and authentic towns—all while maintaining the comfort of a tailored experience. The flexibility to book your own accommodations paired with the guide’s local expertise creates a balanced, enjoyable trip that can be customized to your interests.

Though the cost is on the higher side, the value lies in the personalized service, stunning scenery, and expert guidance. If you’re seeking a well-organized, private Irish adventure that allows you to experience the country at your own pace, this tour ticks many boxes.

In the end, this is a fantastic option for travelers who prioritize comfort and customization, and who want a knowledgeable guide to unlock Ireland’s many treasures.

FAQs

Is accommodation included in this tour?
No, accommodations are not included. You need to book your own stays in Cork, Killarney, and Galway before the tour.

What is the tour price?
The cost is $6,982.38 per group, which covers private transportation, guide, parking, tolls, and taxes.

Can I request different stops during the tour?
Yes, reviewers mention that stops can be requested and handled positively by the guide, making it a flexible experience.

How long is each stop?
Stops range from brief comfort breaks of around 15-30 minutes to longer visits of up to 3 hours, depending on the site.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance fees to attractions like Kilkenny Castle or Blarney Castle are not included; you’ll need to pay those separately if you wish to visit inside.

Is this tour suitable for children or those with limited mobility?
The tour requires moderate physical fitness, especially for sites like Blarney Castle or Kylemore Abbey, which involve some walking and climbing.

What’s the best way to prepare for this tour?
Bring comfortable shoes, layered clothing, and your own snacks or drinks if needed. Having your accommodations booked beforehand is essential.

What language is the guide?
While not explicitly stated, it’s implied the guide is English-speaking and highly knowledgeable about local sites.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, this tour is booked about 284 days ahead, so early planning is recommended if you want to secure your preferred dates.

To sum it up, this private, flexible tour offers a memorable way to explore Ireland’s south, perfect for those who want expert guidance without sacrificing the comfort of their own accommodations. With stunning vistas, historic landmarks, and a guide who’s passionate about Ireland, it promises an enriching experience that remains highly personalized from start to finish.