Our Ireland to Island Tour is quickly becoming one of our most popular Small-Group Ireland Tours, and once you join us, you will understand exactly why. Designed for curious travellers who want a perfect mix of adventure, culture, scenery and authentic Irish experiences, this 7-day Ireland tour showcases the very best of the mainland and its mystical offshore islands along the Wild Atlantic Way.
Over the course of one unforgettable week, you will journey from Dublin to Cork, Kerry, Clare and Galway, uncovering Ireland’s dramatic coastlines, medieval landmarks, hidden gems, and warm-hearted local communities. This tour blends relaxed sightseeing with soft adventure, including cycling, kayaking, hiking and coastal walks, all set against some of the most spectacular landscapes in Ireland.
When it comes to Ireland tours from Dublin, this is one of the very best. Scroll down to find out even more about this experience!
On this Ireland itinerary for 7 days, you will explore icons such as the Rock of Cashel, Blarney Castle, and a breathtaking stretch of the Ring of Kerry before venturing out to one of the country’s most extraordinary places: Skellig Michael. Weather permitting, this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers dramatic views, ancient monastic ruins and (between May and mid-July) the unforgettable sight of puffins nesting on the cliffs.
Back on the mainland, you will immerse yourself in the tranquillity of Killarney National Park, visit the mighty Cliffs of Moher, and wander through the lunar-like landscape of the Burren. The adventure continues across the Atlantic to Inis Oírr, the smallest of the Aran Islands, where you will cycle past stone walls, pristine beaches, shipwrecks, and Gaelic-speaking communities who keep centuries-old traditions alive.
Throughout the journey, our experienced guides share stories, local insights, and the kind of hidden spots you won’t find in any guidebook. And thanks to careful planning and a relaxed pace, you will see more of Ireland in seven days than many visitors do in two weeks, all without ever feeling rushed.
This 7-day Ireland tour offers the perfect blend of adventure, culture, comfort, and craic. Keep scrolling to explore the full itinerary, or if you would like a slightly longer adventure, take a look at our Emerald Explorer 8-Day Ireland Tour, another memorable way to experience the magic of the place we call home.
Accessibility: Our small-group Ireland tours from Dublin 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. However, we can accommodate many needs through our Tailor-Made Tours of Ireland. If you have any questions for the Overland team, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.
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.
At Overland Ireland, we pride ourselves on including as many amazing experiences as possible in your tour price. That means no hidden surprises! Your accommodation, transport, entry fees, activities, and much more are all taken care of. All you need to do is relax, enjoy yourself, and make lifelong memories.
Below, you will find a full breakdown of everything included in this Ireland itinerary for 7 days. It covers accommodation, attraction tickets, transport and a wide range of unique experiences. Our mission is simple: keep prices fair while elevating your tour experience, giving you unbeatable value on an unforgettable Irish adventure.
Please note one exception: the Skellig Michael Experience is not included in the tour price. A €135 fee is payable directly to your guide on Day 1 to cover this extraordinary excursion.
If you have any dietary requirements or preferences, please let us know in advance. We are happy to cater for vegetarians, vegans, and pescatarians on our Ireland tours from Dublin. You can also read our guide to what Ireland is like for vegetarian and vegan tourists for more helpful information.
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 30 minutes, excluding stops
Your Irish adventure begins as we depart Dublin and travel south toward the charming harbour town of Cobh in County Cork, one of the world’s great natural harbours and the final port of call for the Titanic’s last 123 passengers.
Our first major stop is the spectacular Rock of Cashel, a 1,000-year-old medieval stronghold rising dramatically above the Golden Vale. With your expert guide, explore its ancient round tower, Cormac’s Chapel, atmospheric cathedral ruins, and sweeping views. It’s the perfect place for the first unforgettable photos of your trip.
Next, we continue to the legendary Midleton Distillery, home to some of Ireland’s most iconic whiskeys. Here, you will enjoy a fascinating distillery tour and have the chance to sample Ireland’s rich whiskey-making tradition.
We finish the day in the colourful harbour town of Cobh, where you can wander the waterfront, take in the vibrant streets, and enjoy the lively local atmosphere before settling in for the night.
Commodore Hotel
Built in 1854 as the Queens Hotel to commemorate Queen Victoria’s visit, the Commodore Hotel has been a proud witness to nearly 170 years of Cobh’s history. Overlooking the harbour in the heart of town, it offers guests a luxurious stay near top attractions like Spike Island, the Cobh Heritage Centre, Fota Island Wildlife Park, and The Titanic Experience.
Visit the Overland Accommodation page for more details.
Total driving time: 3 hours 45 minutes, excluding stops
Before we begin our journey into the breathtaking Ring of Kerry, it’s time to tick off one of Ireland’s most iconic experiences – kissing the Blarney Stone! Legend says this ancient ritual bestows the “gift of the gab”, so you will soon be chatting like a true local. Take your time exploring Blarney Castle, its enchanting gardens, and the mystical Rock Close before enjoying lunch in the area.
In the afternoon, we continue into the panoramic Kingdom of Kerry and stop in the colourful town of Kenmare, a charming gateway to the Ring of Kerry. From here, we follow one of the most scenic stretches of the route, travelling past dramatic coastlines, mountain vistas, and picturesque villages that showcase the wild beauty of Ireland’s southwest.
As evening falls, we arrive in the peaceful fishing village of Waterville, with its twinkling harbour lights and serene atmosphere. It’s the perfect place to unwind before tomorrow’s Skellig Michael adventure, one of the most anticipated highlights of this 7-day Ireland tour.
Smugglers Inn
The Smugglers Inn is a chic seaside boutique escape for golfers, adventurers, and those seeking something unique. With cosy, stylish rooms blending modern and vintage design and an award-winning restaurant, it offers an unforgettable coastal experience.
Visit the Overland Accommodation page for more details.
We wanted to give you a friendly note: on just a few select dates, your booking may be moved to a different, but equally wonderful Butler Arms Hotel or the Royal Valentia.
Total driving time: 1 hour 45 minutes, excluding stops
There are only a handful of places on earth that can truly be described as otherworldly, and Skellig Michael is one of them. Today, we journey to this extraordinary UNESCO World Heritage Site, a place that has captivated everyone from Star Wars fans to history lovers.
Long before Skellig Michael appeared as Luke Skywalker’s sanctuary in The Force Awakens, it was home to monks who carved a life of devotion into its cliffs. Explore the island’s remarkable beehive huts and feel the atmosphere of this sacred, windswept outpost, a place where peace, solitude, and raw natural beauty meet at the edge of the Atlantic. Not many Ireland tours from Dublin make it down to Skellig Michael, so this is a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Next, we travel onward to Killarney, the vibrant capital of Kerry. Settle in for a well-earned evening of great food, lively pubs and traditional Irish music.
Note: All Skellig Michael landings are weather dependent. If conditions prevent access, an excellent alternative experience will be arranged.
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.
Visit the Overland Accommodation page for more details.
Total driving time: Minimal!
Start your day with an unforgettable kayaking adventure on the Lakes of Killarney. Glide across calm waters beneath the towering walls of Ross Castle, surrounded by ancient woodlands, mountain views, and hidden caves. It is one of the most unique ways to experience Killarney National Park and yet another highlight of this Ireland itinerary for 7 days.
If kayaking isn’t for you, you can enjoy a relaxed morning exploring Killarney town at your own pace. In the afternoon, we visit the elegant Muckross House & Gardens, one of Ireland’s finest 19th-century manor homes. Wander through the beautifully landscaped gardens, explore the interior of the house, and take a leisurely walk out to Torc Waterfall, one of Kerry’s most photographed natural gems.
After a day of activity and fresh air, unwind back in Killarney town. Enjoy an evening of traditional music, boutique shopping, or a cosy dinner in one of Killarney’s welcoming pubs and restaurants.
Killarney Towers Hotel
Total driving time: 3 hours 30 minutes, excluding stops
Today’s adventure begins with a traditional sheepdog demonstration, where you will witness the remarkable teamwork between farmer and dog as they guide sheep across the fields with skill and precision. For many guests, this authentic slice of rural life is an unexpected highlight of this 7-day Ireland tour.
We will then take the short Shannon Ferry crossing into County Clare, where the landscape shifts dramatically. Enter the otherworldly limestone terrain of the Burren National Park, a region shaped by glaciers, dotted with ancient ruins, and home to rare Arctic and Mediterranean plants that grow side by side.
Next, prepare to be amazed by the iconic Cliffs of Moher. Feel the Atlantic breeze as waves crash far below, and enjoy an off-the-beaten-path hike with a local guide who will lead you along quieter trails and spectacular viewpoints most visitors never experience.
As evening falls, we settle into the colourful village of Doolin, famous for its lively pubs and traditional Irish music. Enjoy the warm hospitality, coastal charm, and unforgettable atmosphere of this much-loved Irish village.
Doolin Inn
Doolin Inn is a modern four-star country house in the heart of Doolin, renowned for its warm hospitality, cosy comfort, and king-worthy breakfasts made from local produce. Perfectly located at the start of the Cliffs of Moher Walking Trail, it offers easy access to scenic hikes, local shops, and lively pubs filled with traditional Irish music.
Visit the Overland Accommodation page for more details.
Total driving time: 1 hour 30 minutes, excluding stops
Today, we set sail for Inis Oírr, the smallest and most remote of the Aran Islands. Just a short ferry ride from Doolin, this enchanting island feels like stepping back in time, a place where traditional Irish culture thrives, and the landscape holds stories carved over centuries.
Explore Inis Oírr by bike, following quiet winding roads past stone walls, white-sand beaches, shipwrecks, and ancient ruins. Meet the friendly islanders, hear the Irish language (Gaeilge) spoken in daily life, and soak up the rugged beauty that defines this special place.
On your return journey, enjoy a spectacular Cliffs of Moher cruise, where you will witness their towering height and dramatic folds of rock from the Atlantic Ocean, an unforgettable perspective of this world-famous landmark.
Back on the mainland, we continue to the vibrant City of the Tribes – Galway. Known for its rich culture, medieval charm, and bohemian spirit, Galway buzzes with energy every night of the week. Wander the lively streets filled with traditional music, buskers, artists, and cafés and immerse yourself in the city’s unmistakable atmosphere.
Accommodation
HYDE Hotel
HYDE Hotel is a stylish boutique retreat in the heart of Galway, just steps from Eyre Square, offering modern, comfortable rooms designed for relaxation. With its award-winning bar, warm Irish welcome, and prime location, it’s the perfect base for exploring Galway City and the Wild Atlantic Way.
Visit the Overland Accommodation page for more details.
Total driving time: 2 hours 30 minutes, excluding stops
On your final morning of this Ireland itinerary for 7 days, enjoy some free time to explore the bohemian city of Galway at your own pace. Wander through its vibrant streets, browse local boutiques for Claddagh rings, woollen shawls, or last-minute souvenirs, and soak up the colourful atmosphere that makes Galway so beloved.
Next, experience the Walk, Talk, Taste Tour, Galway’s famous food and culture experience. This guided culinary walk brings the city’s story to life through its flavours and its people. As you explore Galway’s charming lanes, you will sample delicious local produce, meet passionate food makers, and learn about the city’s rich history, traditions, and creative heartbeat.
Afterwards, we make our way back to Dublin City, arriving in the early evening. If you are spending a few extra days in the capital, your guide will be happy to share recommendations on the best places to eat, drink, visit, and explore.
As we travel east, take a moment to reflect on a week filled with discovery, laughter, and unforgettable moments; the perfect finale to your Ireland to Island Tour.
What’s included
What’s not included
