Highlights
- Experience the ancient streets of Dublin
- Visit Ireland's first National Park
- Seek history along the Ring of Kerry
- Explore the beauty of Dingle & Slea Head
Brief Itinerary
Day | Highlights | Overnight |
---|---|---|
Day 1 | Dublin | Dublin |
Day 2 | Killarney via the Rock of Cashel | Killarney National Park |
Day 3 | The Ring of Kerry | Killarney National Park |
Day 4 | Dingle Peninsula | Dingle Town |
Day 5 | Departure |
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Dublin
After arriving at Dublin Airport, you'll have the day free to explore the city. Step back in time with a visit to Dublin Castle, visit Trinity College’s Old Library to catch a sight of the ancient Book of Kells, stroll down bustling Grafton Street, or relax in a cozy pub with live music and great company. No matter how you decide to spend your first few hours in the city, you'll start to experience what makes Dublin special.
Day 2: Killarney via the Rock of Cashel
On day two, pick up your car rental and leave the capital, traveling southwest towards County Kerry. An unmissable highlight along the way is the Rock of Cashel. Once home to the High Kings of Ireland, this group of medieval buildings is set on a spectacular outcrop of limestone. After continuing through the mountainous terrain separating Cork and Kerry, you’ll arrive in the town of Killarney, home to Ireland’s first National Park.
Driving time: 4 hours
Driving distance: 189 miles (305 km)
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
Day 3: The Ring of Kerry
Today’s adventure takes you on a 28-mile (45 km) drive to the world-famous Ring of Kerry. Considered one of the most spectacular locations in Ireland, this route will offer you dramatic landscapes of rugged coastline, golden beaches, picturesque villages, and green mountains.
If you feel like a hike, drive about 13 miles (22 km) to Derrynane National Park near Caherdaniel. The Derrynane Loop, a moderate 5.5-mile (9 km) walking route, follows some of the old mass path pilgrimage route and the Kerry Way. You'll pass through the hillside woodland above the Derrynane Blue Flag Beach and the imposing Derrynane House.
After a long day of sightseeing, driving, and hiking, you'll head back to Killarney for the night.
Driving time: 1 to 1.5 hours
Driving distance: 28 miles (45 km) to 41 miles (65 km)
Day 4: Dingle Peninsula
Dingle is your destination today, as you explore this dramatic peninsula littered with archaeological and historical wonders. Your first stop is Inch Beach, famous for being the place where an inch is 3 miles long. Take a short walk along its golden sands, then head west to the edge of Europe, also known as Slea Head. Feast your eyes on breath-taking scenery of its rugged coast, windswept beaches, and the magnificent Blasket Island, before ending your day in the colorful seaside village of Dingle Town.
Driving time: 1 hour
Driving Distance: 40 miles (64 km)
Day 5: Departure
After breakfast, you’ll drive back east to Dublin to return your car rental and bid farewell to the Emerald Isle.
Driving distance: 215 miles (346 km)
Driving time: 4 hours