Ireland Explorer: Six City Stay
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.
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 Newpark Hotel, or similar
- 1 night in Cork at the River Lee Hotel, or similar
- 2 nights in Killarney at the International Hotel, or similar
- 1 night in Limerick at the Absolute Hotel, or similar
- 2 nights in Galway at the Hardiman Hotel, or similar
- Admission to the Cliffs of Moher
- 2 nights in Dublin at the Ashling 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. Continue on to Limerick on the River Shannon and visit the 13th century King John's 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 Newpark Hotel, or similar
- 1 night in Cork at the River Lee Hotel, or similar
- 2 nights in Killarney at the International Hotel, or similar
- 1 night in Limerick at the Absolute Hotel, or similar
- 2 nights in Galway at the Hardiman Hotel, or similar
- Admission to the Cliffs of Moher
- 2 nights in Dublin at the Ashling 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. Continue on to Limerick on the River Shannon and visit the 13th century King John's 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.
Enhance your vacation with:
- Upgraded hotels in all locations!
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.
Built on over 40 acres of parkland, the Newpark Hotel provides family-friendly elegance for visitors to the area. The dedicated staff works tirelessly to make sure you and your family receive top-notch service. Many of the spacious, well-appointed rooms include serene views of the green gardens and parkland. Scott's Bar & Bistro has a sparkling reputation for delicious, locally sourced food and is a favorite among the locals.
Strike out for day trips to discover the treasures of Kilkenny, or stay on-property to take advantage of the hotel's many exciting amenities. Newpark hotel offers family room accommodations and activities everyone can enjoy, such as the Newpark adventure trail, where you can catch glimpses of the alpacas and llamas that live there. The Krazy Kats Kids Club is bustling with activity and affords parents a few hours to slip off to unwind at the Escape Health Club and Spa.
Situated on Kilkenny’s most exclusive street, the Pembroke Hotel is right in the center of action. Just a 4-minute walk from Kilkenny Castle, you'll be able to walk to all of the city's top attractions with ease. The hotel offers luxury 4-star accommodation with 74 quiet, spacious guest rooms all featuring air conditioning and complimentary Wi-Fi. Statham’s Restaurant combines traditional hospitality with delicious local Kilkenny produce. Statham's Bar, with its easygoing and relaxed atmosphere, is a great place to meet, drink and dine in Kilkenny city center. From brunch to lunch, from afternoon tea, to all day dining specials, they offer something for everyone throughout the day and evening.
The Kilkenny Ormonde Hotel is an exceptionally beautiful hotel with 118 spacious guestrooms all complete with free Wi-Fi, comfortable accommodations and stunning views of the city. Although you will be within walking distance of a variety of restaurants and pubs in Kilkenny, the hotel also offers its guests the option to dine on site. Try out the Ormonde Lounge for a comfortable yet sumptuous bite to eat paired with a cocktail. There is also O'Reilly's Restaurant for a more vibrant atmosphere and a more extensive menu, or Savour where you can browse a creative dinner menu incorporating the best local produce. Enjoy the hotel's many other amenities including the KO Spa, fitness center and more!
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.
Situated on a picturesque bend in the river, The River Lee is one of Cork’s leading destination venues. All aspects of Cork local life is played out here, from business events and family celebrations, to glamorous get-togethers in the hotel’s highly popular The River Club Bar, Terrace & The Grill Room, the perfect place to eat, drink and be social. Enjoy a sumptuous breakfast in The Mirror Room, as you sit back and gaze at the passing river, or indulge in champagne afternoon tea served in The Cocktail Bar. Resident guests also have complimentary access to the hotel’s in-house health and fitness club with a 20m swimming pool. This luxury Cork hotel is the perfect base from which to explore all the delights which this great city has to offer, from its great music pubs to its bustling markets, and from its fascinating museums to its historic monuments.
Located right in the heart of Cork city center and overlooking the River Lee, the Maldron Hotel South Mall makes sightseeing in Ireland's Rebel City easy. You'll be just steps from Cork's bustling center with easy access to the famous English Market, Crawford Art Gallery, Cork City Hall and Cork Opera House to name a few attractions. The main shopping streets including St. Patrick’s Street and Opera Lane are just a few minutes’ walk from the hotel. Comfortable and spacious rooms are equipped with a large flat screen TV, laptop safe, tea/coffee making facilities, free WiFi and a dual rain shower. Choose from two restaurants and a coffee shop serving breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks.
The elegant Address Cork presides with an air of grandness from the top of Military Hill in the historic area of St. Luke’s, providing the perfect location for leisure in the heart of Cork City.
The impressive facade of this wonderful red brick Victorian building gives any visitor a sense of the rich history of the area, and a clear example of 1870’s Irish architecture at its best. Cork’s newest eatery, McGettigan’s Cookhouse & Bar was launched at The Address Cork and is committed to using locally sourced ingredients. It provides a relaxed and enjoyable environment for its guests – including a new outdoor decking area.
The Address Cork is ideally located just minutes from some of Cork City's main shopping areas and tourist attractions including; Blarney Castle, The English Market, Opera Lane Shopping district, Cork City Opera House, and the Fota Wildlife Park, to name but a few. It’s a short distance from Cork City's Bus Station in Parnell Place, and Kent Railway Station, and just 5 minutes from Cork City Airport.
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!
Opulence awaits at Killarney Royal Hotel in Kerry. Wrap yourself in luxury from the moment you arrive until the moment you depart. Abandon yourself the charms of Killarney Town and the beauty of County Kerry. Upon arrival, you can enjoy the wood burning fire in the lobby with a complimentary cup of tea or bring it up to your spacious guestroom. Slip off to The Candle Room for an intimate meal of locally sourced ingredients and masterful presentation. Afternoon tea is presented daily in the lobby lounge, where you can relax into a hot cup of tea and choose from a selection of warm scones and fresh cream, sandwiches, mini desserts, and biscuits. The Royal Bar & Bistro offers an extensive menu of everything ranging from light options to local favorites. A popular lunch spot for everyone, you can mingle with guests and locals before you venture out to explore the treasures of the city.
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 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 - Limerick
Today you'll be based out of Limerick, which was chosen as Ireland's first ever Irish City of Culture in 2014. The city dates back to 812 and is home to the iconic King John's Castle, a breathtaking 13th century castle which dominates the city.
You can also take a walk across The Living Bridge, which is Ireland's longest pedestrian bridge and connects County Limerick to County Clare.
This stunning hotel features 99 contemporary guestrooms with space, style and sophistication. The Absolute Bar & Grill includes an outdoor terrace overlooking the Abbey River and serves fresh and modern international cuisine in relaxed, informal surroundings. The luxurious spa offers a range of relaxing body and beauty treatments, including a salt grotto, tropical showers and a crystal steam room.
Day 6. Limerick - 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.
The Hardiman Hotel is ideally located on Galway's Eyre Square. Mere footsteps from the city's top shopping, bars, theaters, and historic sights, the hotel is the ideal base for visiting the city or taking excursions on the Wild Atlantic Way. Enjoy close proximity to the main transportation hubs that provide convenient access to the Cliffs of Moher, the Burren, the Aran Islands, and Connemara.
Over its half-century history, the property has hosted several notable guests and special occasions. The luxurious hotel offers peerless service, charming guestrooms, several restaurant options, and spa treatments.
Ideally located just minutes from the city centre, Maldron Hotel Sandy Road Galway offers comfortable and spacious accommodation in Galway, delicious dining, and generous meeting room space. All rooms come fully equipped with air-conditioning, with guests also having complimentary access to a quaint fitness suite. The hotel also provides free underground parking and WiFi to all guests within the hotel. Whether you’re travelling to Galway for business or pleasure, Maldron Hotel Sandy Road is the perfect choice.
Located on its own private grounds, this elegant and romantic 4-star hotel is just a 15 minute walk from Galway’s city center and a 5 minute walk from the nearest shopping center. The property is within easy access from main roads, making it easy to see Connemara and Burren if you have your own rental car.
Menlo Park Hotel features 70 stylish guest rooms including spacious bathrooms and complimentary Wi-Fi. Guests will not be disappointed with the tempting choice of delicious eating options available. The Bia Beo Restaurant offers an extensive wine list and hearty food made with fresh, locally sourced produce. For something more relaxed, The Bar Beoga serves fresh coffee and an extensive bar food menu in a traditional Galway pub atmosphere.
The Clayton Hotel is only minutes from Galway city center, with 195 spacious & luxurious bedrooms, and complimentary parking and Wi-fi for all guests. At the Clayton Hotel Galway you are guaranteed a warm welcome and professional service delivered with a friendly smile throughout your stay. A great day starts with a great night's sleep! Relax at this Galway hotel in one of our contemporary and chic bedrooms and enjoy the comfort of a pillow topped mattress, complete with crisp white linen, fluffy duvets and comfy pillows.
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 Alex was the third of O'Callaghan Hotel Group's Dublin hotels on this corner of Merrion Square. This thoughtfully designed contemporary hotel welcomes you into its spacious lobby where the team will give you a great welcome, excellent service and will be more than happy to show you everything on our doorstep.
The Alex is close to Dublin city's Georgian squares where business and culture meet as neighbors. Grafton Street, the flagship location for many shops, is just a minutes' walk from the hotel. For the adventurous visitor, there is a Dublin Bike station on Merrion Square and you can join the other enthusiastic cyclists in Dublin traveling from one point of interest to another.
The Green is ideally placed in the heart of Dublin City Centre, adjacent to St Stephen’s Green and less than five minutes’ walk from Grafton Street. The hotel boasts 99 guestrooms with air conditioning and complimentary WiFi. Guests at The Green can enjoy a buffet breakfast. The restaurant has a unique bistro and retro style and offers a selection of international dishes prepared with locally sourced ingredients. The Green also has 24-hour room service and a gym with the state-of-the-art equipment.
Hotel Riu Plaza The Gresham Dublin is a 288 room hotel within walking distance from some of Dublin's top attractions. Located on famed O'Connell Street, the hotel provides modern rooms with excellent amenities to guarantee a comfortable stay. All rooms are equipped with air conditioning, television, and free WiFi. For those seeking a more spacious accommodation, the hotel offers a penthouse suite with incredible city views. Additional hotel amenities include Toddy's Brasserie, which features classic Irish cuisine and beverages, and the Writer's Lounge where guests can enjoy afternoon tea in a classic and sophisticated setting. Take advantage of the hotel's location right near the Abbey Street tram, making the entire city easily accessible throughout your stay.
Across the street from Croke Park stadium, The Croke Park's location makes it a unique destination, close to both Dublin airport and Dublin's city center. Dublin Airport is 15-minute drive away, while the National Botanic Gardens are a 25-minute walk. Connolly Metro Station is a 15-minute walk, while Trinity College Dublin can be reached in 25 minutes on foot.
In a world of bland offerings, service by numbers and generic experiences, The Croke Park bucks the trend by offering guests a personable and memorable stay. This luxury 4-star hotel boasts spacious rooms with free Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, flat-screen TVs and more. Guests can enjoy hot towels on arrival, free parking, and a European bistro.
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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