Six incredible days along the Wild Atlantic Way and the Ring of Kerry.
Welcome to Overland Ireland’s Magical Southern Ireland Tour. On this 6-day tour of Ireland, we immerse you in the very best that this part of the Emerald Isle has to offer. If you are short on time but do not want to miss a thing, this itinerary is the ideal way to experience Ireland’s beauty, history, culture, and coastal wonders all in less than a week.
As part of our Relaxed Small-Group Tours of Ireland, this adventure moves at an easy, enjoyable pace. You will never feel rushed, yet you will see and experience more than you ever thought possible in six days. Beginning in Dublin, we trade city streets for Ireland’s Ancient East, then follow the Wild Atlantic Way to the legendary Ring of Kerry, travelling through landscapes filled with history, colour, and soul.
If you would like to explore for a little longer than this 6-day trip to Ireland, take a look at our Ireland to Island 7-Day Tour with a Skellig Michael visit, or ramp up the adventure with our Ultimate Ireland 10-Day Tour Package. Whichever you choose, our expert local guides will bring Ireland to life, from bohemian Galway to windswept Dingle Bay.
If you prefer something fully custom, our Tailor-Made Tours of Ireland let you design your own perfect Irish holiday.
We are proud of the wonderful feedback we receive from guests who fall in love with Ireland through our tours. With expert guides, thoughtful itineraries and special local connections, we have built a reputation for delivering extraordinary experiences, and this journey is no exception.
This tour is packed with experiences, including Glendalough’s monastic valley, Kilkenny Castle, the Blarney Stone, Killarney National Park, an immersive farm experience, and of course, the mighty Cliffs of Moher, where land and ocean meet at the world’s edge.
You will wander the colourful streets of Dingle, taste fresh seafood, hear live traditional music, and maybe even raise a pint or two with the locals. In just six days, you will explore castles, coastlines, monasteries, mountains, and medieval towns, a true taste of Ireland’s history, heritage, natural beauty, and warm hospitality. From Kilkenny to Galway, from lively pubs to peaceful valleys, this tour is unforgettable, and we cannot wait to welcome you to our island.
If you would like more information about this 6-day trip to Ireland, our friendly team is always here to help. Please get in touch with any questions you may have.
Accessibility: Our small-group tours are not wheelchair accessible due to the off-the-beaten-path nature of our routes, the size of our vehicles, and the fact that not all accommodation partners have ramps or elevators.
Please note: While we always aim to follow the outlined itinerary, unforeseen circumstances such as weather, traffic, or local events may require adjustments. In some cases, certain activities may be cancelled. If this happens, your guide will always provide a thoughtful and enjoyable alternative to ensure your experience remains unforgettable. For this reason, we do not offer refunds for cancelled activities. Your comfort and enjoyment are always at the heart of everything we do.
Overland Ireland is all about value, transparency and unforgettable experiences. We pack as much adventure, culture, and fun into your tour price as possible, no hidden extras, no unexpected costs, just a fully planned holiday where you can relax and enjoy every moment. Accommodation, transport, guided activities, and entrance fees are all included, and we are happy to cater for a wide range of dietary needs, including vegetarian, vegan and pescatarian guests.
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Note: Booking for 2026 or 2027? As we continually strive to enhance your experience, please note that our tour route and inclusions may vary slightly from year to year. If you have any questions about upcoming departures or any of our tours, we would love to hear from you! Feel free to get in touch with our team for the most up-to-date information.
Booking Information: To confirm your booking, a non-refundable deposit of €250 per person is required for all small-group tours. Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any questions about this or any of our other tours, and be sure to check our Frequently Asked Questions page, where you may already find your answer.
Total driving time: 3 hours, excluding stops
Your 6-day tour of Ireland begins as we depart Dublin along the Ancient East, travelling the scenic Military Road through the breathtaking Wicklow Mountains. Along the way, soak in the dramatic views of rolling hills, deep valleys, and shimmering lakes that make this region so unforgettable.
Our first stop is the historic Glendalough Monastery, nestled in a glacial valley surrounded by two peaceful lakes. With your expert local guide, you will explore the monastery’s ancient ruins and walk trails while taking in its tranquil, picture-perfect scenery.
Next, we visit Kilkenny Castle for a guided tour. This is one of Ireland’s most impressive and best-preserved castles. Step back in time as you wander through its grand halls, elegant rooms, and fascinating art collections.
In the charming medieval city of Kilkenny, enjoy free time to stroll through the old quarter’s narrow lanes, browse lively shops, or unwind in a cosy pub before settling into our comfortable local accommodation, refreshed and ready for the adventure ahead!
Accommodation
Kilkenny Hibernian Hotel
Our classic double rooms offer a spacious, boutique charm with 4-star amenities, including complimentary Wi-Fi and coffee machines. Located right on the doorstep of Kilkenny City, the hotel also features the beautiful Ember Restaurant and the historic Hibernian Bar.
Total Driving time: 3 hours 30 minutes, excluding stops
“It’s a long way to Tipperary…” as the song goes, but just a short and scenic journey from Kilkenny to the impressive Cahir Castle. Dating back to the 13th century and standing proudly on a rocky island in the River Suir, this magnificent fortress offers fascinating insights into Ireland’s medieval past.
Next, we travel to one of Ireland’s most iconic landmarks, Blarney Castle and Gardens. Here, you will have the chance to kiss the legendary Blarney Stone and receive the famed “gift of the gab.” Take time to wander through the castle’s stunning gardens, explore its mysterious dungeons, and enjoy a leisurely lunch surrounded by lush scenery.
This evening, we arrive in the lively town of Killarney, the beating heart of the Kingdom of Kerry. Settle in and enjoy a relaxed evening filled with traditional music, great food, and warm Kerry hospitality. This is a true highlight of your 6-day trip to Ireland.
Accommodation
The Killarney Towers Hotel
Killarney Towers Hotel & Leisure Centre is a 4-star retreat in the heart of Killarney, offering stylish rooms, excellent dining, and complimentary access to its leisure centre with a pool, sauna, steam room, and gym. Its prime location makes it the perfect base for exploring Killarney’s attractions, shops, and restaurants.
Total driving time: 3 hours, excluding stops
Today’s journey takes you through some of Ireland’s most enchanting landscapes, blending tranquil gardens, misty mountains, and wild beauty on the road to Dingle. We begin the morning exploring Muckross House and Gardens, a magnificent 19th-century Victorian mansion set within Killarney National Park. Take a stroll through the lush gardens or enjoy a coffee overlooking the lakes before continuing on foot to the nearby Torc Waterfall, one of Kerry’s most photographed natural gems.
Next, experience the breathtaking Gap of Dunloe, a glacial mountain pass carved between the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks and the Purple Mountain Range. Take time to enjoy the dramatic scenery and capture stunning photos of one of Ireland’s most iconic landscapes. Guests who wish may choose to take a traditional jaunting car ride through the valley (optional, not included).
From here, we continue west toward the colourful harbour town of Dingle, travelling through some of Kerry’s most scenic countryside. Settle into your accommodation and enjoy a relaxed evening exploring Dingle’s charming streets, famous seafood restaurants, and lively pubs filled with traditional music.
Please note: We don’t complete the full Ring of Kerry on this 6-day tour of Ireland. Please see our Ireland to Island Tour if you are interested in the entire journey.
Accommodation
Dingle Marina Lodge
Dingle Marina Lodge is a waterfront B&B offering modern, comfortable rooms with marina and harbour views. Guests can enjoy freshly prepared breakfasts and easy access to Dingle’s restaurants, pubs, shops, and the surrounding peninsula.
Total driving time: 1 hour 30 minutes, excluding stops
This morning, we set off on one of Ireland’s most breathtaking routes, the iconic Slea Head Drive. With every turn, the Dingle Peninsula reveals something new: sweeping Atlantic views, windswept cliffs, ancient stone huts and tiny coves carved into the coastline. It is the kind of place where you will want to keep your camera close and your eyes wide open.
We will stop at some of the peninsula’s most unforgettable viewpoints, from the Beehive Huts to Gallarus Oratory, Dunquin Pier, and the golden sands of Coomeenoule Beach. Your guide will share stories, local legends, and their favourite hidden spots along the way, making this an experience you will remember long after the tour ends.
In the afternoon, we return to Dingle for a special treat, a guided tour of the renowned Dingle Distillery, home to some of Ireland’s most celebrated craft spirits. Discover how their award-winning whiskey, gin, and vodka are made, and enjoy a tasting that captures the true spirit of the peninsula.
Afterwards, enjoy a relaxed evening in Dingle’s colourful harbour town. Browse local craft shops, sip a creamy Guinness, listen to traditional music drifting from cosy pubs, or simply wander the waterfront as the sun sets over Dingle Bay.
Accommodation
Dingle Marina Lodge
Total driving time: 3 hours, excluding stops
Enjoy a relaxed morning in the colourful harbour town of Dingle, where you can wander the streets, sip a coffee by the water or browse the local craft shops before we continue our Wild Atlantic Way adventure.
Late morning, we journey north and cross the River Shannon by ferry, a short, scenic crossing that offers beautiful coastal views and a chance to spot seabirds along the way. As we arrive in County Clare, the landscape transforms into the dramatic limestone beauty of the Burren.
After a lunch stop in the lively seaside village of Lahinch, it’s time for one of the true highlights of our Southern Ireland tours: the Cliffs of Moher. Rising 214 metres above the Atlantic Ocean, these world-famous cliffs are an unforgettable sight. Stroll the cliff paths, take in the sweeping views and breathe in the fresh Atlantic air; this is one of Ireland’s most iconic moments.
This evening, we make our way to the beautiful coastal village of Spanish Point, where we will stay for the night. Known for its long sandy beach, ocean views and peaceful atmosphere, it is the perfect place to relax after a day of adventure. Enjoy cosy pubs, delicious local seafood and the warm West Clare hospitality that makes this region so special.
Accommodation
Armada Hotel
The Armada Hotel is a stunning West Clare retreat in Spanish Point, offering Atlantic views and beautifully designed rooms. With diverse dining and the traditional Johnny Burke’s Pub, its Wild Atlantic Way location is perfect for exploring the Cliffs of Moher and The Burren.
Total driving time: 1 hour 40 minutes, excluding stops
Goodbye, County Clare; hello, bohemian Galway!
This morning begins with a truly memorable Irish experience: an Irish Farm Safari with our friends at the Burren Farm Experience. Your local hosts will share their 200-year family history and guide you across their 500-acre working farm in the heart of the UNESCO-recognised Burren. You will get to walk, taste, and explore your way through one of Ireland’s most unique landscapes, learning how traditional farming thrives in this wild, stony region.
Afterwards, we continue through the Burren National Park, admiring its rare flora, dramatic limestone pavements, and spectacular scenery, before arriving in the vibrant City of the Tribes – Galway. Spend your final afternoon wandering colourful cobbled streets, lively pubs, boutique shops, and buzzing cafés. Soak up Galway’s creativity, music and infectious energy one last time, the perfect way to close out your Irish adventure.
As this 6-day tour of Ireland finishes here in Galway, we will assist with pre-arranged onward transport back to Dublin. You head home with stories, laughter, and an experience of Ireland you will treasure long after you leave its shores.
