You can have it all on this 10-day tour of Ireland. The Ultimate Ireland Tour covers the length and breadth, north and south, of our magical Emerald Isle. We have designed this to be the ultimate Ireland tour experience, perfect for anyone eager to try everything our stunning country has to offer, covering more ground and seeing more sights than our other small group tours of Ireland!
After years of testing, this tour is the Ultimate trip to Ireland!
Spoil yourself throughout this 10-day tour of Ireland with unrivalled scenery, a feast of tradition, history, culture, castles, and the great outdoors. If you’re looking for a similarly epic Overland Ireland tour package with a few more active, adventure elements, you might like to check out our Great Atlantic Adventure as well— our Ireland tours take you to all the best places, both on and off the beaten path.
Looking for a Belfast tour package? On this Ultimate Ireland Trip, you will cross the border to Northern Ireland and lose yourself at the Giant’s Causeway on Antrim’s coastline and be blown away at the Titanic Experience in Belfast – the world’s most famous ship.
Note: Due to popular demand, we will be running two Ultimate tours, both departing on Tuesdays from March to October 2024. With that in mind, if you are traveling with another guest/group who booked separately (they are not on your booking) please let us know so that we can ensure that you and your group are together for the duration of your tour.
Start your experience with an iconic Irish experience: kissing the Blarney Stone at Blarney Castle. Legends say you will receive the treasured “gift of the gab” and will be able to talk your way out of all sorts of trouble…
You will have an unforgettable vacation on this incredible Overland Ireland tour, exploring everything our stunning little country has to offer. From kayaking to the magnificent sights at the Ring of Kerry (For the full Ring of Kerry tour check out our Ireland to Island Tour!) be prepared to create memories that will last a lifetime.
Due to our tours’ off-the-beaten-path locations, the size of our vehicles, and the fact that we cannot guarantee that all accommodation partners have ramps/elevators, unfortunately, our tours are not wheelchair accessible.
We are one of the only tour companies to include as much as possible within your tour price. This means there are no hidden surprises on your tour, and this takes away the hassle of unexpected charges. You will notice that the list of what’s included is quite big, covering entrance fees, transport, accommodation, and kayaking — to name just a few!
Our quest is to bring your price down and your tour experience up… to the max! It’s our hope that people who normally plan their own self-drive vacations will see the added value of everything on our tour’s itinerary and choose to travel with us on their next visit to Ireland.
If you have any special dietary requirements or preferences, please let us know; we can cater this tour to vegans, vegetarians, and pescatarians.
This tour can be operated in reverse and combined with other tours that follow the same route for the best guest experience.
Note: This is our current itinerary for this year. If you’re booking for next year, the plan could change slightly. Feel free to get in touch if you have any questions about this or our other tours!
Total driving time: 3 hours 30 minutes, excluding stops
Leave the bright lights of our capital behind and get ready to experience the REAL Ireland.
Our first stop will bring us to the Rock of Cashel. Here, you will get to visit the medieval round tower, chapel, cathedral, and castle steeped in 1,000 years of history. Be blown away by the beauty of your first castle experience.
We continue our route south to one of Europe’s most vibrant cities: Cork. Cork is Ireland’s second largest city but people from Cork refer to it as the nation’s TRUE capital.
Our visit to County Cork begins with the obligatory kiss of the Blarney Stone where you will be bestowed with the “gift of the gab”. You will also have time to explore Blarney Castle and the gardens, before enjoying a delicious local lunch.
Our first day ends with a night in West Cork’s stunning harbour town of Kinsale. Kinsale is renowned for its award-winning restaurants and dramatic scenery. Seafood lovers will be spoilt for choice.
Have our local friend Barry show you around this town known for its castles, forts, galleries, shops, and arts & crafts.
Total Driving time: 3 hours 30 minutes, excluding stops
Our route out of Kinsale will bring us towards the Ring of Kerry. (For the full Ring of Kerry please see our Ireland to Island Tour) Our first stop is the beautiful heritage town of Kenmare.
Our visit to Killarney National Park includes stops at stunning overlooks like Molls’ Gap and Ladies’ View before a tour of Ross Castle where you will discover what life was really like behind the stone walls. Let a guide bring these castle stories to life!
The day ends in the celebrated, cosy coastal town of Dingle. The evening is yours to experience the atmosphere in Dingle’s famous quirky pubs, and fantastic restaurants, and to stumble across unforgettable traditional music sessions.
Total driving time: 2 hours, excluding stops
A special start to the morning as we adventure out on an optional kayaking adventure around Dingle Bay to explore the sea caves. If kayaking is not your thing, we will take you on a walk up to Eask Tower
where you will be rewarded with views of the Great Atlantic on either side of the Dingle Peninsula.
And if some retail therapy is what you’re after, you can also choose to take some time out and visit the local shops. It’s your holiday, do it your way!
Your expert local guide will take you on a breath-taking trip along the Slea Head Drive — expect amazing scenery, beehive huts, and beautiful harbours for those all-important Instagram photos.
Spend a second evening really getting to know Dingle and find more hot- spots for food and entertainment. The best thing is you do not have to re- pack your bags. Just relax and enjoy!
Total driving time: 3 hours 30 minutes, excluding stops
Your Ultimate Irish Experience continues as we leave Dingle and travel north, taking in spectacular views of The Connor Pass and Castlegregory along the way.
Prepare to be awestruck at a traditional sheepdog demonstration. The skill of the farmer and his furry friend will leave you flabbergasted. This is one of our guest’s favourite experiences on tour.
Next, we take the short ferry ride to County Clare, home of the world-famous Cliffs of Moher and take in the Burren National Park.
From sheepdog demonstrations in Co.Kerry to the Cliffs of Moher, we are spoiled for natural beauty. The cliffs in their wonder, need to be seen to be appreciated and a guided hike with the roaring Wild Atlantic
provides the perfect soundtrack.
Your Overland Ireland guide will take you off the beaten track and point out secret passages that you won’t find on the typical tourist route. Your Insta followers will be green with jealousy when you show off your ‘unfiltered’ photos at this stunning landmark.
Tonight get your dancing shoes on and tap out a few steps in the hometown of traditional Irish music – Doolin. You are in for a treat in the lively bars nestled throughout the most welcoming little village in Ireland.
Total driving time: 2 hours, excluding stops
You will travel through the Burren National Park and take a leisurely drive to Galway. You are in for a treat this morning as we stop for a quick photo-op at the 16th Century Dunguaire Castle in the quaint fishing village of Kinvara.
Glide into Galway and meet one of our local friends for a Walkin’ Talkin’ Tastin’ tour of Galway! Have them point out all their favourite spots while trying traditional Irish cuisine, tasting locally distilled gin and learning about the rich history of Galway.
You’ll have free time this afternoon to try on Claddagh rings, Galway shawls, and pass through The Spanish Arch to take in the famous Claddagh fishing village.
This city is a destination for both tourists and Irish people, where entertainment is always high on the agenda. Its quirky medieval streets are alive with street entertainers and musicians all day. Its historic buildings are now home to many wonderful shops, bars, and restaurants.
Total driving time: 1 hour 45 minutes, excluding stops
We leave Galway and drive west to Rossaveal Pier along the coast road. From Rossaveal, we will sail across Galway Bay to the Aran Islands. Our destination is the rugged Inishmore which is the largest of the three Aran Islands.
We will explore the island by cycling through its meandering roads. You can also choose a jaunting cart (Horse and Buggy) to bring you along the way. This is an optional added cost that we will be happy to arrange for you.
We will no doubt meet many locals and pick up a few words in “Gaelic” along the way. Our tour of the island will take us to the stone fort of Dún Aengus, which lies 100m over the ocean, before making our way back to the mainland.
We then leave Rossaveal for Ireland’s favourite town – Westport taking in the breathtaking views of Connemara National Park along our route. It’s then time to ease into an unforgettable night in County Mayo. Unwind in Westport with some local craft beers and mouthwatering food. And no trip to Westport is complete without a visit to Matt Molloy’s bar where you can enjoy a traditional Irish music session and some good old ‘Craic – fun’.
Note: The Aran Islands ferry crossings are weather permitting. If it is unsafe to travel we will provide wonderful alternative plans for the group!
Total driving time: 2 hours 30 minutes, excluding stops
We love showing off Westport town and its gorgeous little shops bursting with nick-nacks, antiques and Irish crafts. This could be the perfect opportunity to do some retail therapy on tour or our friends in Westport will while away the morning with you on a walking tour of the town.
Up north we go travelling through County Sligo and making a wonderful loop of Mullaghmore, taking in Cassiebawn Castle – owned by Lord Mountbatten when he was tragically killed. Here you will begin your education on Northern Irish history and get a great insight into the contrast between the north and south of Ireland.
You are in for a treat. Before settling into the 5-star Lough Eske Castle Hotel and enjoying this luxury experience we will stretch our legs at Glencar’s magnificent waterfall. Donegal’s rugged wild landscape will take your breath away as will the charming locals! You’ll have to retune your ears to understand their sing-song lilt!
Tonight is all about treating yourself on the grounds of the castle and embracing your inner King/Queen at the home of the powerful O’Donnell Clan from the 14th Century.
Total driving time: 3 hours, excluding stops
Now it is time to explore the North West: the Hills of Donegal. We continue our Ultimate Tour and embark on a magnificent drive over the Glengesh Pass and the Assaranca Waterfall. Discover remote stunning beaches, hidden caves and amazing views all round.
Continue your exploration of the gorgeous hills of Donegal Hill at the newly established Ardara Distillery. Learn about the tradition of whiskey and even have a taste of what Irish playwright George Bernard Shaw
described as “liquid sunshine”.
Our next stop is Derry. Northern Ireland’s second-largest city, which is steeped in rich Irish history. We provide a walking tour of the city, helping visitors to learn about the Troubles. Derry is also here where we will spend the evening. Enjoy the amazing restaurants Derry has on offer.
Total driving time: 3 hours, excluding stops
Today will be both a test of mental strength and a celebration of your soul. The Giant’s Causeway is one of the most anticipated experiences in this small group tour of Ireland and it never disappoints.
The Causeway Coastal Route is breathtaking, to say the least. If you have the nerve, cross the Carrick-a-Rede Rope bridge and feel the exhilarating air beneath your feet.
The opening of the bridge is weather-dependent but we can take a visit to Dunluce Castle and hear great tales of battles fought won and lost in the middle ages.
Game of Thrones fans will have officially landed in their spiritual home as we take a sneak peek at one of its most famous filming locations: The Dark Hedges.
We will finish the day with an enthralling black cab tour of Belfast. This tour is optional but highly recommended. Alternatively, if you just need to take a breath and relax, you can spend some time exploring the city’s coolest pubs, shops, and restaurants.
Total driving time: 2 hours 30 minutes, excluding stops
On this final morning, get ready for the full Titanic experience at Titanic Belfast. Prepare to be moved by the wonderful stories told about the world’s most famous ship.
Last but not least, we will visit the magical stone age passage tomb at Newgrange, richly decorated with neolithic art. On some dates Newgrange is swapped for the amazing ancient ceremonial and burial site: the Hill of Tara.
All good things must come to an end! We will say our fond farewells in Dublin City. If you have some time left in Ireland and would like to spend some time in Dublin your expert guide will arm you with great recommendations for things to see and do in the capital.
Due to our tours’ off-the-beaten-path locations, the size of our vehicles, and the fact that we cannot guarantee that all accommodation partners have ramps/elevators, unfortunately, our tours are not wheelchair accessible.
Note: To confirm your booking, you are required to pay a non-refundable deposit of €250 per person for Small-Group tours.
Please don’t hesitate to contact us if you have any questions about this tour or any others we operate. We may have already answered your question on our frequently asked questions page.
