Southern Ireland Explorer with Sightseeing
Travel through beautiful Limerick, Cork, Ennis and Killarney
This 6- or 8-night, self-drive vacation to Ireland will show you all of the gems of the south and the dramatic coastline of the west.
What's Included
- Round-trip airfare from New York (JFK) to Shannon (SNN)
- Manual shift car rental for duration
- 1 night at the Strand Hotel or the Absolute Hotel in Limerick
- 2 nights at the Scotts Hotel or the International Hotel in Killarney or the Fels Point Hotel in Tralee
- 1 night at the Actons Hotel or the Carlton Hotel Kinsale in Kinsale
- 2 nights at the Temple Gate Hotel in Ennis
- Breakfast Daily
- Tour of the House of Waterford Crystal
- Admissions to the Bunratty Castle & Folk Park
- Admissions to the Cliffs of Moher
Great Ways to Explore
- Start on the west coast and see it all!
- Driving in Ireland allows you freedom over how you spend your days.
- Visit the Bunratty Castle & Folk Park in County Clare.
- Perhaps you'll find a sparkly souvenir at the House of Waterford Crystal.
- While in Cork, spend a morning at the English Market and see how the locals operate.
Please note that some recommendations in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check What's Included above for full details on inclusions.
- Round-trip airfare from New York (JFK) to Shannon (SNN)
- Manual shift car rental for duration
- 1 night at the Strand Hotel or the Absolute Hotel in Limerick
- 2 nights at the Scotts Hotel or the International Hotel in Killarney or the Fels Point Hotel in Tralee
- 1 night at the Actons Hotel or the Carlton Hotel Kinsale in Kinsale
- 2 nights at the Temple Gate Hotel in Ennis
- Breakfast Daily
- Tour of the House of Waterford Crystal
- Admissions to the Bunratty Castle & Folk Park
- Admissions to the Cliffs of Moher
- Start on the west coast and see it all!
- Driving in Ireland allows you freedom over how you spend your days.
- Visit the Bunratty Castle & Folk Park in County Clare.
- Perhaps you'll find a sparkly souvenir at the House of Waterford Crystal.
- While in Cork, spend a morning at the English Market and see how the locals operate.
Please note that some recommendations in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check What's Included above for full details on inclusions.
Day 1. Welcome to Shannon!
You will pick up your rental car at Shannon Airport and take off to your first destination: the Strand Hotel in Limerick. Keep in mind that you will be driving on the opposite side of the road so proceed with caution! You’ll be in prime location to explore sites such as Arthur’s Quay Park, the Treaty Stone and King John’s Castle.
Check-in - The Limerick Strand Hotel
Day 2. Limerick - Killarney
Today you will drive about two hours southeast to the town of Killarney where you will stay for two nights in either the Scotts hotel or International Hotel (depending on availability.) Both hotels are located in the town centre of Killarney about 1 block apart from each other. Killarney is a very enticing coastal city along the Southern coast of Ireland with several attractions nearby. Once you arrive in Killarney, you can relax at your hotel or jump right in!
Check-in - Scotts Hotel Killarney
Centrally located in the center of Killarney Town, Scotts Hotel Killarney is a stylish, upscale escape perfect for exploring County Kerry and the Ring of Kerry. Over the years, this family run hotel in Killarney has established a reputation for its excellent location, friendly customer service and very welcoming atmosphere. The hotel offers 105 guest rooms and 10 deluxe suites. These spacious rooms feature free Wi-Fi, en suite bathroom, tea and coffee making facilities and flat-screen TVs. Guests are sure to indulge in the cozy comforts during their stay with an on-site restaurant and three bars. The hotel is opposite Killarney train and bus stations and just a 2-minute walk from the shopping district.
Day 3. Killarney
Explore the breathtaking Ring of Kerry or Dingle Peninsula for some of Ireland’s purest beauty or stroll through the town of Kerry and soak in the lively atmosphere! Also nearby is the famous Killarney National Park and The Gap of Dunloe. Both of these sights are perfect for couples and families alike.
Day 4. Killarney - Kinsale
The next night will be spent in Kinsale, a short drive from Cork. Local sites of particular note are the Blarney Castle, the Fota Wildlife Park, the Cobh Titanic Heritage Centre and the historic Cork Gaol. Cork is a gorgeous coastal city with delicious fresh seafood you must try before leaving.
Check-in - Actons Hotel
Established in 1946, Actons Hotel is the oldest in Kinsale. The hotel stands on the banks of Kinsale Harbour and provides guests with an unsurpassable view of the yachts in the water. The boutique style hotel has 73 rooms, all day dining, and fitness facilities as well as a pool, sauna, and wellness treatment rooms.
Unwind by the harbor after you've had a chance to explore the historic town. Known as the Gourmet Captial of Ireland, Kinsale won't disappoint with its selection of restaurants, shopping opportunities, or options for excursions during the day.
Day 5. Kinsale - Ennis
For the six night vacation package your last two nights will be at the Temple Gate Hotel in Ennis, County Clare. There is a list of attractions that are less than an hour away including the Burren, the Ailwee Caves and the Bunratty Castle and Folk Park.
Check-in - Temple Gate Hotel
With a unique blend of warm hospitality and friendly service, the Temple Gate Hotel welcomes you to a charming family owned and run hotel in the heart of Ennis, Co. Clare. It provides the perfect location to wander the cobblestone streets of Ennis or explore the west of Ireland. Discreetly situated just off the town centre, a short walk through the warm glow of the Victorian lamps in the cobblestoned courtyard leads guests to the heart of the historical and vibrant town of Ennis.
Day 6. Ennis
The most important must-see sight of this area is the Cliffs of Moher. This iconic spot along the Wild Atlantic Way offers visitors the most spectacular views of the Aran Islands and Galway Bay.
Day 7. Depart Ireland
Your adventure comes to an end today. You’ll fly out of Shannon Airport.
We have selected the most economical flight schedule for you. Please note that shorter and more convenient flight options may be available at an additional cost.
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