Ireland Explorer: Six City Stay Upgrade
See the best of Ireland in 10 days
Spend 10 days exploring six different Irish cities on this self-drive vacation. Starting from the southern half of Ireland from Dublin to Galway in the west, you'll see beautiful countryside and charming villages without missing anything. This upgrade package includes upgraded hotels in each city!
What's Included
- Round-trip economy class airfare to Dublin (DUB)
- Manual, economy-sized rental car for duration of trip - upgrade to automatic available
- 1 night in Kilkenny at the Lyrath Estate Hotel, or similar
- 1 night in Cork at the Hayfield Manor Hotel, or similar
- 2 nights in Killarney at the Muckross Park Hotel & Spa, or similar
- 1 night in Country Clare at Dromoland Castle, or similar
- 2 nights in Galway at The g Hotel & Spa Galway, or similar
- Admission to the Cliffs of Moher
- 2 nights in Dublin at the Merrion Hotel, or similar
- Dublin Hop-on/Hop-off Pass (48-hour)
- Breakfast Daily
Great Ways to Explore
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Explore the Dingle Peninsula in County Kerry, home to almost 2,000 archaeological sites!
- Climb up O'Brien's Tower at the Cliffs of Moher for spectacular views of the Aran Islands and Galway Bay.
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Be endowed the gift of flattery when you kiss the stone at Blarney Castle in Cork.
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Stroll through Galway City - one of the the most scenic in Ireland - and indulge in a plate of oysters!
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See Kilmainham Gaol in Dublin, a former prison that played an important part in Irish history - many leaders of Irish rebellions were imprisoned there.
From Dublin in the east to Galway in the west, explore Ireland's highlights on this 9-night adventure! Get behind the wheel and begin in Kilkenny, a small medieval city best known as the home of Kilkenny Castle. Then, take a short drive east to Cork where you'll see another famous castle, Blarney Castle, and kiss the stone!
You will then head south to Killarney in County Kerry. Visit Killarney National Park to experience Ireland's great outdoors and drive the Ring of Kerry, a popular scenic route. From there, you will head to County Clare to stay at the luxurious 5-star Dromoland Castle.
Your journey then takes you to seaside Galway in the wild western coast of Ireland. Hear Gaelic spoken on the streets as you wander this charming city, then drive along the dramatic coastline to the Cliffs of Moher.
End your Ireland vacation in Dublin, where you'll have access to a 2-day hop-on/hop-off bus pass. Walk the storied Trinity College campus, then stroll the streets of hip and cool Temple Bar. Experience urban Irish life in Dublin and end your whirlwind tour with a beer at Dublin's oldest pub, The Brazen Head!
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 economy class airfare to Dublin (DUB)
- Manual, economy-sized rental car for duration of trip - upgrade to automatic available
- 1 night in Kilkenny at the Lyrath Estate Hotel, or similar
- 1 night in Cork at the Hayfield Manor Hotel, or similar
- 2 nights in Killarney at the Muckross Park Hotel & Spa, or similar
- 1 night in Country Clare at Dromoland Castle, or similar
- 2 nights in Galway at The g Hotel & Spa Galway, or similar
- Admission to the Cliffs of Moher
- 2 nights in Dublin at the Merrion Hotel, or similar
- Dublin Hop-on/Hop-off Pass (48-hour)
- Breakfast Daily
-
Explore the Dingle Peninsula in County Kerry, home to almost 2,000 archaeological sites!
- Climb up O'Brien's Tower at the Cliffs of Moher for spectacular views of the Aran Islands and Galway Bay.
-
Be endowed the gift of flattery when you kiss the stone at Blarney Castle in Cork.
-
Stroll through Galway City - one of the the most scenic in Ireland - and indulge in a plate of oysters!
-
See Kilmainham Gaol in Dublin, a former prison that played an important part in Irish history - many leaders of Irish rebellions were imprisoned there.
From Dublin in the east to Galway in the west, explore Ireland's highlights on this 9-night adventure! Get behind the wheel and begin in Kilkenny, a small medieval city best known as the home of Kilkenny Castle. Then, take a short drive east to Cork where you'll see another famous castle, Blarney Castle, and kiss the stone!
You will then head south to Killarney in County Kerry. Visit Killarney National Park to experience Ireland's great outdoors and drive the Ring of Kerry, a popular scenic route. From there, you will head to County Clare to stay at the luxurious 5-star Dromoland Castle.
Your journey then takes you to seaside Galway in the wild western coast of Ireland. Hear Gaelic spoken on the streets as you wander this charming city, then drive along the dramatic coastline to the Cliffs of Moher.
End your Ireland vacation in Dublin, where you'll have access to a 2-day hop-on/hop-off bus pass. Walk the storied Trinity College campus, then stroll the streets of hip and cool Temple Bar. Experience urban Irish life in Dublin and end your whirlwind tour with a beer at Dublin's oldest pub, The Brazen Head!
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.
Departure Airport:
Departure Month:
Prices From:
Day 1. Welcome to Dublin!
Arrive in Dublin Airport and pick up your rental car from the rental area. Make your way to your first accommodation in Kilkenny, a medieval city with deep religious roots. Here you can explore well-preserved churches and monasteries. Take a walk down the city's "Medieval Mile," where you'll encounter breathtaking sites from the 13th century St. Canice's Cathedral to the Black Abbey Priory.
Check-in - Lyrath Estate Hotel
Lyrath Estate is a 5-star hotel located in the center of medieval Ireland, Kilkenny. The hotel is surrounded by stunning Irish countryside, lakes, and historic gardens. The hotel boasts 3 restaurants that serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner, as well as a drawing room where Afternoon Tea is served with pastries and other delicacies.
There is also a spa where guests can indulge in treatments, use the hydro-pool, and detox in the sauna. The hotel also has an on-site gym for guests who wish to keep up an exercise routine during their stay.
Guest rooms are spacious and luxurious. There is a private bathroom with a hair dryer. Amenities include free Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, a mini-fridge, bath robe and slippers, in-room safe, iron/ironing board, a coffee maker, and a TV. Additionally, most rooms have a view of the park, gardens, or lake.
Kilkenny Castle, St. Mary's Medieval Mile Museum, and Rothe House are all within a 14-minute drive from the hotel.
Day 2. Kilkenny - Cork
Your next destination is Cork, known by locals as Ireland's "real capital." Uncover the secrets of an old prison at the Cork City Goal, then enjoy amazing panoramic views from the bell tower at the famous St. Anne's Church.
Stop by for lunch in the iconic English Market, one of the largest markets in Ireland. Or, head to the nearby seaside village of Cobh and enjoy a freshly-caught meal while enjoying the picturesque backdrop.
Check-in - Hayfield Manor
Day 3. Cork - Killarney
Head to your next accommodation in Killarney today. Along your route, you may wish to stop and visit the famous Blarney Stone, which legend says will reward those who kiss it with the gift of gab; give it a peck and find out for yourself!
Located in the breathtaking expanse of Killarney's National Park, the Muckross Park Hotel and Spa redefines what it means for a hotel to be the epitome of luxury and relaxation. Spanning 25,000 acres of pristine natural surroundings, this hotel offers an escape into nature without sacrificing the amenities of a contemporary hotel.
Nature lovers will particularly adore the scenery that can be enjoyed through unforgettable walks and bike rides right around the hotel. The Spa at Muckross provides a tranquil environment for those seeking respite from outdoor activities. Take a dip in the pool, relax in the thermal area, book a massage, or witness the perfect blend of modern pampering and natural scenery in the outdoor hot tub. Past guests indicate that the Gothic-inspired (and award-winning) spa is one of their favorite parts of staying at the Muckross Park Hotel & Spa.
The elegance of this hotel extends far beyond the spa, with air-conditioned rooms adorned with plush furnishings, luxurious fabrics, and elegant furniture. Each room features at least one king-sized bed, a large private bathroom, TV, heated towel rail, 24-hour room service, free Wi-Fi, and so much more.
Guests may also savor the culinary delights at the hotel's on-site dining locations. The AA Rosette winner Yew Tree Restaurant and Major Colgan's Gastropub both offer gourmet cuisine that draws from both local and worldwide cultures. The Monks Lounge invites patrons to enjoy handcrafted cocktails amidst leather couches, wood-paneled walls, and an alluring atmosphere.
Nearby points of interest include Killarney National Park, Killarney Town, Lough Leane, and the Wild Atlantic Coast.
Cahernane House Hotel is situated on its own private estate, at the edge of the renowned Killarney National Park, an area of outstanding natural beauty with an untamed landscape of mountains, lakes and woodland walks. Only a ten minute walk to Killarney town center, the approach to Cahernane House Hotel is through a tunnel of greenery which frames the long private avenue and instills a slower sweeter tempo and a true sense of tranquility.
Cahernane House Hotel is a unique experience of old Irish history and modern hotel luxuries. All of the sophisticated rooms in the Manor House and newer Garden Wing feature plush furnishings and marble bathrooms, while superior rooms include private garden patios, expanded sitting areas, and Jacuzzis or claw-foot tubs. Dine on local produce in the award winning Herbert Restaurant with Head Chef Eric Kavanagh or relax and enjoy bistro style dining in the old wine cellar now the Cellar Bar.
Day 4. Killarney
Drive the popular Ring of Kerry route, where you will be able to see the Muckross House, Ross Castle, Lough Leane, and more.
Leave extra time to explore the famous Killarney National Park. Within the park you'll be treated to stunning woodland views and postcard-worthy lakes, and will hopefully spot a native red deer or two.
Day 5. Killarney - Clare
Bid farewell to Killarney and set your course for Clare today! After checking in at your hotel, embark on an exploration of the city's finest attractions. For an extra dose of charm, consider venturing to the coastal town of Lahinch and immersing yourself in its delightful ambiance.
You can also take a walk across The Living Bridge, which is Ireland's longest pedestrian bridge and connects County Limerick to County Clare.
Check-in - Dromoland Castle
Day 6. Clare - Galway
Make your way to your next accommodation in Galway. After checking in, explore the surrounding vibrant city; view the breathtaking Galway Cathedral and its stunning stained glass mosaics, then grab a bite at one of the many eateries in the Latin quarter. In the evening, have a walk through lively Quay Street and enjoy the city's nightlife scene.
Check-in - The g Hotel & Spa
Day 7. Galway
Today, discover one of the gems of Ireland and County Clare's most popular attraction, the Cliffs of Moher. The cliffs rise 702 feet above the Atlantic Ocean and are home to variety of unique bird species, including the elusive puffin.
Weather permitting, treat yourself to a boat ride and see these stunning cliffs from below!
Cliffs Of Moher Admission
See Ireland's most visited sea cliffs; these dramatic cliffs rise over 700 ft above sea level and offer some of the most breathtaking coastal views.
On a clear day, see as far as the Aran Islands! Take a leisurely stroll along the guided path, climb the castle at the top of the hill, or see how many different species of birds you can spot - you may even see a puffin or two!
Day 8. Galway - Dublin
After getting settled into your Dublin hotel, activate your hop-on/hop-off bus pass and start exploring Ireland's capital city! You'll make stops at Croke Park Stadium (headquarters of the Gaelic Athletic Association), the historic prison Kilmainham Gaol, St. Patrick's Cathedral and more.
A Tip For Your Trip: Your pass also includes access to a free walking tour which you can use today or tomorrow.
The Merrion, located in the heart of Dublin city center, is the capital’s most luxurious five-star hotel, and a proud member of The Leading Hotels of the World. Occupying some of the finest, most beautifully restored, and best-located Georgian buildings in the city, this 142-room hotel is as welcoming as it is stylish. The Merrion is a marriage of exquisite comfort, relaxed elegance and advanced guest facilities, including free Wi-Fi, and luxurious Spa and Health Club with 60-foot pool and fitness center. As much a favorite with Dubliners as it is with visitors to the city, The Merrion is home to the 2-star Michelin Restaurant Patrick Guilbaud, The Cellar Bar, The Garden Room, and the intimate No. 23 Cocktail Bar.
Brooks Hotel is located on Drury Street, just a two minute walk from Grafton Street and close to many of the city’s major attractions. Brooks is proud to be located in Dublin's cultural quarter and is near some of Dublin's most exclusive restaurants and bars.
With an emphasis on personal service and attention to detail, the staff at Brooks Hotel can provide recommendations for local restaurants, shops and attractions. The hotel's café lounge features a piano and the drawing room is a great place to enjoy a coffee or cocktail, with its French oak-panelled walls and enviable library.
Dublin Big Bus Essential Hop-on/Hop-off - 48-hour
Visit Ireland’s capital and discover the city from the top of an open-top double-decker bus. Let City Sightseeing entertain, inform and highlight all the things to do and see in Dublin to help you make the most of your stay. The 48-hour ticket is the perfect hassle-free way to get around town and visit all of Dublin’s major sights.
Includes:
- Unlimited travel ticket for 48 hours
- Free guided walking tour
- Free night tour
- Choice of two routes (blue & red)
- English speaking live guides, and pre-recorded commentary
- Wheelchair accessibility
- Covered buses for inclement weather
Day 9. Dublin
Today is your last full day in the Emerald Isle. Continue using your bus pass and spend the day discovering all the sights and secrets of Ireland's capital city. Pay a visit to Dublin Castle, explore the Trinity College Campus and all of its literary gems, or tour the factories of your favorite Irish sips and spirits - the choice is yours!
Celebrate your last night in Ireland by treating yourself to a pint at Ireland's oldest pub, The Brazen Head, which has been pouring pints since 1198!
Day 10. Depart Ireland
Make your way to the airport in accordance with your departure flight. Be sure to leave extra time to drop off your car at the rental area.
Fly home!
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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