Best of Ireland

Welcome to Ireland! After arriving at Dublin Airport, you’ll collect your hire car and begin your Irish adventure. Depending on your arrival time, you may wish to drive directly to your hotel and take a short rest before heading out to explore.

Dublin is a walkable city, rich in history and buzzing with character. Spend your afternoon strolling along Grafton Street, visiting Trinity College to see the Book of Kells, or wandering through the lively Temple Bar district. For those interested in Ireland’s most famous exports, the Guinness Storehouse and the Jameson Distillery offer engaging introductions to the country’s brewing and whiskey-making traditions.

This evening, enjoy dinner in one of Dublin’s traditional pubs or modern bistros, many of which feature live music.

ACCOMMODATION: 4* The Address Connolly, 4* The Mayson, 4* The Mont or similar

After breakfast, set off south towards Cork. The drive takes approximately three hours; enroute you may wish to pause in the medieval city of Kilkenny, where Kilkenny Castle and its surrounding gardens make a pleasant stop for a walk and lunch.

Arrive in Cork during the afternoon. Often referred to as Ireland’s culinary capital, Cork is known for its friendly atmosphere and excellent local food scene. Visit the historic English Market, stroll along the River Lee, or take a short trip to nearby Blarney Castle to kiss the famous stone, if you’re feeling brave.

ACCOMMODATION: 4* The Montenotte Hotel, 4* The Address Cork, 4* The River Lee Hotel or similar

DRIVING TIME: 3 hrs / 162 mi

This morning, continue west towards County Kerry, a region famed for its spectacular landscapes. The drive to Killarney takes around two hours and passes through charming rural scenery.

On arrival, settle into your accommodation before exploring Killarney National Park. Wander around the lakes, visit elegant Muckross House and Gardens, or simply enjoy one of the many gentle woodland walks. Killarney is also well known for its traditional music scene, and the town’s pubs offer a warm welcome in the evening.

ACCOMMODATION: 4* Great Southern Killarney, 4* The Ross or similar

DRIVING TIME: 1 hr 15 min / 55 mi

Today is dedicated to one of Ireland’s most celebrated scenic drives. The Ring of Kerry winds through coastal villages, rugged mountains and sweeping Atlantic views. Stop at viewpoints such as Ladies View and Moll’s Gap, explore colourful villages like Sneem, and admire the dramatic coastline along the Skellig Ring.

Take your time, stopping frequently for photographs, short walks and refreshments. Return to Killarney in the late afternoon, where the rest of the day is at leisure.

ACCOMMODATION: 4* Great Southern Killarney, 4* The Ross or similar

After breakfast, journey north towards Galway. The drive takes approximately three and a half hours. Along the way, a stop at the Cliffs of Moher is highly recommended. A short walk along the clifftop paths provides unforgettable views over the Atlantic Ocean.

Continue to Galway, a lively harbour city known for its arts scene, colourful shopfronts and friendly locals. Spend your evening wandering through the Latin Quarter, enjoying seafood restaurants, cosy pubs and street performers.

ACCOMMODATION: 4* The Harbour Hotel, 4* The Galmont Hotel & Spa, 5* The G Hotel & Spa or similar

DRIVING TIME: 2 hrs 50 min / 134 mi

Today is free to explore Galway and its beautiful surroundings. You may wish to drive into Connemara, a wild and unspoilt region of mountains, lakes and open bogland. Connemara National Park offers easy walking trails and breathtaking scenery.

Alternatively, stay in Galway to browse craft shops, visit small museums, or relax in one of the city’s excellent cafes.

ACCOMMODATION: 4* The Harbour Hotel, 4* The Galmont Hotel & Spa, 5* The G Hotel & Spa or similar

DRIVING TIME: 2 hrs 50 min / 134 mi

After breakfast, drive to Dublin Airport, allowing time to return your hire car and check in for your flight home. Depart Ireland with lasting memories of dramatic landscapes, welcoming towns and lively culture.

The best time to visit Ireland is from May to September, when the weather is mild and daylight hours are long - perfect for scenic drives and sightseeing. Late spring (May–June) offers fewer crowds and blooming landscapes, while July and August provide the warmest weather and vibrant atmosphere, ideal for exploring towns, castles, and coastal scenery.

Please note that to rent a car, the lead driver must have a credit card in their name; debit cards are only accepted in some cases. GPS is automatically included when available; otherwise, it can be confirmed and paid for locally. We will advise at the time of booking whether GPS is included.

An excess may apply to car rentals in Ireland, and this will be confirmed when you book. You may wish to include rental car excess cover in your travel insurance policy, or speak to one of our team about an additional policy that can be added to your holiday.

British passport holders do not require a visa to enter Ireland. Please visit the FCDO website for more information.
Please note that there are no mandatory vaccinations required to enter Ireland. However, we recommend consulting your GP or a travel health clinic before you travel to ensure your routine vaccinations are up to date and to receive any personalised health advice.