Classic Ireland Upgrade
Upgraded hotels + 5-star castle stay!
Explore Dublin, Cork, Killarney and more on this self-drive vacation package to Ireland. You’ll see famous sights like Blarney Castle, the Ring of Kerry, and the Cliffs of Moher plus all that the capital city of Dublin has to offer. This upgrade includes enhanced hotels in each city plus a stay in the 5-star Dromoland Castle!
What's Included
- Round-trip economy class airfare into Dublin (DUB), home from Shannon (SNN)
- Manual, economy-sized rental car for duration of trip- automatic available for upgrade
- 3 nights in Dublin at The Merrion, or similar
- 2 nights in Cork at Hayfield Manor, or similar
- 2 nights in Killarney at Muckross Park Hotel & Spa, or similar
- 1 night in County Clare at Dromoland Castle
- Dublin Hop-On/Hop-Off Bus Pass (48-hour)
- Blarney Castle Admission
- Ring of Kerry Guided Tour
- Admission to the Cliffs of Moher
- Breakfast Daily
Great Ways to Explore
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Tour the factories of your favorite Irish stouts and spirits in Dublin, from the Guinness Storehouse to the Teeling Whiskey Distillery.
- Sample homemade goods and shop homemade wares at Cork's English Market, which has been operating since 1788!
-
Explore Ireland's first national park in Killarney, where you'll stumble upon castle ruins, scenic lakes, waterfalls and more.
-
Take the perfect selfie at Cliffs of Moher, Ireland's dramatic sea cliffs which rise over 700 feet above sea level.
-
In County Clare, live like royalty as you enjoy stays on castle grounds!
See the most coveted and visited places in Ireland with this 8-night getaway! You'll start in the capital city of Dublin, where you can ascend 13th century castles, explore historic prisons or tour the factories of your favorite Irish stouts and spirits. See the main highlights while using your included hop-on/hop-off bus pass; you'll be able to see the sights in a short period of time while also enjoying panoramic views a top an open double-decker bus.
Next you'll head to the sunny city in the south, Cork. Known by locals as Ireland's "real capital," this vibrant and trendy city is sure to send you off on a cheerful note. Shop the historic English market or stop by the nearby seaside village of Cobh for a bite - the choice is yours!
You'll then continue to Killarney, home to Ireland's first national park and a popular starting point on the Ring of Kerry driving route. You'll enjoy a guided tour of this idyllic mountain road and stop at several charming villages along the way.
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 into Dublin (DUB), home from Shannon (SNN)
- Manual, economy-sized rental car for duration of trip- automatic available for upgrade
- 3 nights in Dublin at The Merrion, or similar
- 2 nights in Cork at Hayfield Manor, or similar
- 2 nights in Killarney at Muckross Park Hotel & Spa, or similar
- 1 night in County Clare at Dromoland Castle
- Dublin Hop-On/Hop-Off Bus Pass (48-hour)
- Blarney Castle Admission
- Ring of Kerry Guided Tour
- Admission to the Cliffs of Moher
- Breakfast Daily
-
Tour the factories of your favorite Irish stouts and spirits in Dublin, from the Guinness Storehouse to the Teeling Whiskey Distillery.
- Sample homemade goods and shop homemade wares at Cork's English Market, which has been operating since 1788!
-
Explore Ireland's first national park in Killarney, where you'll stumble upon castle ruins, scenic lakes, waterfalls and more.
-
Take the perfect selfie at Cliffs of Moher, Ireland's dramatic sea cliffs which rise over 700 feet above sea level.
-
In County Clare, live like royalty as you enjoy stays on castle grounds!
See the most coveted and visited places in Ireland with this 8-night getaway! You'll start in the capital city of Dublin, where you can ascend 13th century castles, explore historic prisons or tour the factories of your favorite Irish stouts and spirits. See the main highlights while using your included hop-on/hop-off bus pass; you'll be able to see the sights in a short period of time while also enjoying panoramic views a top an open double-decker bus.
Next you'll head to the sunny city in the south, Cork. Known by locals as Ireland's "real capital," this vibrant and trendy city is sure to send you off on a cheerful note. Shop the historic English market or stop by the nearby seaside village of Cobh for a bite - the choice is yours!
You'll then continue to Killarney, home to Ireland's first national park and a popular starting point on the Ring of Kerry driving route. You'll enjoy a guided tour of this idyllic mountain road and stop at several charming villages along the way.
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 (DUB) and collect your belongings. Make your way to the rental area to pick up your car and head to your first hotel. Begin exploring with your Hop-On/Hop-Off Pass
Celebrate your first night in the Emerald Isle by treating yourself to a drink at Ireland's oldest pub, The Brazen Head, which has been pouring pints since 1198!
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 2. Dublin
Continue using your hop-on/hop-off bus pass today so you can jump right into exploring all the sites and secrets of Ireland's capital city! Make stops at the religious and spiritual highlights from St. Patrick's Cathedral to the Christ Church Cathedral. You may also want to visit Dublin Castle, St. Stephen's Green and perhaps even the historic prison the Kilmainham Gaol depending on your interests!
Included with your bus ticket is access to a free 1916 walking tour, in which your local guide will bring the events of Ireland's Easter Rising to life, while showing you the highlights of the city. Â
A Tip For Your Trip: The included walking tour starts at 12:00 p.m. and operates February - October; ask your bus driver for further details.
Day 3. Dublin
Continue using your hop-on/hop-off bus pass today. Why not make stops at the factories of your favorite sips and spirits? Treat yourself to tours at the Guinness Storehouse or Teeling Whiskey Distillery. If you haven't yet explored the literary gems of the city, Â you may want to hop off at Trinity College and pay the Book of Kells and Trinity College Library a visit as well!
In the evening, head to the Temple Bar district and enjoy a pint at a local pub with live Irish music. Temple Bar is world-renowned for its nightlife and is also home to a handful of unique galleries and boutiques worth exploring.Â
Day 4. Dublin - Cork
Cork is known by locals as Ireland's "real capital," so going from Dublin to Cork will be a truly unique juxtaposition!Â
On your way to Cork, make a stop at the nearby Blarney Castle, so you can explore the castle grounds and pay a visit to the famous Blarney Stone. Legend has it that those who kiss the stone will be rewarded with the gift of eloquence; give it a peck and find out for yourself!
Check-in - Hayfield Manor
Blarney Castle
Blarney Castle was built nearly six hundred years ago by one of Ireland's greatest chieftains, Cormac MacCarthy, and has been attracting attention beyond Munster ever since.
Over the last few hundred years, millions have flocked to Blarney, making it a world landmark and one of Ireland's greatest treasures. Now that might have something to do with the Blarney Stone, the legendary Stone of Eloquence, found at the top of the Tower. Kiss it and you'll never again be lost for words.
Day 5. Cork
Spend the entire day exploring the city of Cork today. 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.  Enjoy a light lunch at Cork's iconic English Market, a must-visit attraction in the city.Â
In the evening, head to the nearby seaside village of Cobh and enjoy a freshly-caught meal while surrounded by Cobh's picturesque charm.Â
Day 6. Cork - Killarney
Head to your accommodation in Killarney today. After you've settled in, consider venturing out to the nearby Killarney National Park and explore the natural and man-made wonders scattered throughout the park. You'll encounter the picturesque Torc Waterfall and the historical Muckross House, as well as a number of lakes, mountains and castle ruins!
Check-in - Muckross Park Hotel & Spa
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.
Day 7. Killarney
Today, explore the majestic beauty of the spectacular mountain road, the Ring of Kerry, with a guided tour. Over the centuries this famous loop has been the inspiration of poets and writers because of its magnificent coastal scenery and rugged countryside.
This tour allows travelers to share in the history, geography, culture, stories and folklore of the enchanting Ring of Kerry. You'll see seaside villages, coastal cliffs, market towns and more while enjoying scenic views from the comfort of your motorcoach.Â
Ring of Kerry Guided Bus Tour
The Iveragh Peninsula - which contains Ireland’s most spectacular mountain road - the Ring of Kerry - is situated in the southwest corner of Ireland. Over the centuries it has been the inspiration of poets and writers because of its magnificent coastal scenery and rugged countryside.
This motorcoach tour allows travelers to share in the history, geography, culture, stories and folklore of the enchanting Ring of Kerry. This is an ideal opportunity for you to forget about the left-hand side of the road for a day and relax in worry-free comfort.
The Ring of Kerry is usually done in a counter-clockwise direction along the banks of the River Laune to Killorglin, via Glenbeigh, Kells, Caherciveen and the southern shores of Dingle Bay. The tour continues to Waterville and along the coast via Coomakista Pass and Derrynane and on to Sneem. From Sneem you travel up the mountain road to Molls Gap, then via Ladies’ View and back to Killarney. In addition to stopping at all points of interest en route you also stop for an hour at lunchtime. In the afternoon a stop will be made for tea/coffee/Guinness/refreshments.
Day 8. Killarney - County Clare
You'll next head to County Clare, home to Ireland's most visited natural attraction: the Cliffs of Moher. These dramatic sea cliffs rise over 700 feet above sea level and offer some of the most idyllic, undisturbed views; on a clear day you can even see as far as the Aran Islands and Galway Bay!
You may also want to explore the nearby Burren area, a karst landscape composed of limestone pavements. Here you may even stumble upon the remains of a Prehistoric civilization!
Check-in - Dromoland Castle
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 9. Depart Ireland
In accordance with your departure flight, make your way to Shannon (SNN) Airport.Â
A Tip For Your Trip: Your accommodation is a 15-minute drive from Shannon Airport.