Southern Ireland Tours & Trips
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Table of contents
- The best Southern Ireland tour packages
- What people love about Southern Ireland Tours
- Travel Southern Ireland your way
- Top operators in Southern Ireland
- Discover Southern Ireland tours for every budget
- Southern Ireland tours for every group
- Top Southern Ireland travel itineraries to fit your plans
- Demographics
- Best time to visit Southern Ireland
- Contact our Southern Ireland travel experts
The best Southern Ireland tour packages
Compiled by
MelissaSouthern Ireland travel expert at TourRadar
Northern & Southern Ireland (14 destinations)
11 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“6 trips and all great.”
Andrea, traveled in April 2019
The route from Cliffs of Moher to Ring of Kerry features centrally located hotels and hostels. Visitors can tour St Patrick's Cathedral in Dublin, wander through Galway's harbor city, and watch traditional sheep herding at Kerry farms. The package includes 8 breakfasts, Aran Islands ferry excursion, and guided tours of Belfast's Cathedral Quarter and Derry's Bogside history.
Duration 9 days Destinations Belfast, Giants Causeway, Galway, Aran Islands, Cliffs of Moher, Adare, Killarney, Ring of Kerry, Dublin, Cork Age Range 15 to 99 year olds Operator Intrepid Travel From $3,765
15% Off- US$3,200You save $565
Highlights of Ireland
21 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Tour Rader was Excellent 5 star.”
Diana, traveled in July 2024
Southern Ireland's treasures unfold from Dublin Castle to Ring of Kerry's coastal beauty. The tour takes you to Ross Castle, through Killarney National Park, and into the heart of traditional music at Temple Bar. Central accommodations and Cliffs of Moher hiking are included.
Duration 9 days Destinations Dublin, Killarney, Ring of Kerry, Galway, Cliffs of Moher, Londonderry, Belfast, Giants Causeway Age Range 12 to 99 year olds Operator G Adventures From $2,699
10% Off- US$2,429You save $269
Best of Ireland (10 Days)
33 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“I have never had such a deep learning experience, and I have traveled a fair bit!”
Mitchel, traveled in May 2024
Explore Southern Ireland's treasures from Dublin's EPIC Museum to Waterford's crystal workshops. Kiss the Blarney Stone, drive Ring of Kerry's scenic route past Black Valley, and discover Bunratty Castle. Stay in Clayton hotels while enjoying traditional High Tea at Westport House. Rated 4.7/5 by travelers, with expert local guides.
Duration 10 days Destinations Dublin, Wicklow, New Ross, Waterford, Blarney, Killarney, Ring of Kerry, Adare, Limerick, Cliffs of MoherSee all destinations Age Range up to 99 year olds Operator Trafalgar From $3,350
12% Off- US$2,948You save $402
Irish Highlights (Winter, 7 Days)
72 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Our group was amazing! I felt the pace of the trip was perfect. We saw a lot, but I felt like I still had time to explore some on my own.”
Camryn, traveled in December 2019
Ireland's finest destinations include the UNESCO-listed Cliffs of Moher and historic Blarney Castle. Premium hotels like Clayton Ballsbridge serve as base camps, with traditional meals at Glenealy House. The Ring of Kerry drive and Waterford Crystal workshop are featured. Approx. $350 per day.
Duration 7 days Destinations Dublin, Galway, Bunratty, Limerick, Cliffs of Moher, Killarney, Blarney, Youghal, Waterford, New RossSee all destinations Age Range 5 to 99 year olds Operator Trafalgar From $2,063
10% Off- US$1,857You save $206
Introduction to Ireland
584 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“The tour was fantastic and we had a wonderful time.”
Jean, traveled in October 2023
Ireland's highlights unfold over 7 days from Dublin (Total costs around $2,700). The itinerary includes Trinity College, the Blarney Stone, and the dramatic Cliffs of Moher. Authentic Irish culture comes alive at Rathbaun Farm's scone-making class, the House of Waterford Crystal, and along the stunning Ring of Kerry coastline.
Duration 7 days Destinations Dublin, Kildare, Limerick, Ennis, Galway, Cliffs of Moher, Killarney, Ring of Kerry, Blarney, WaterfordSee all destinations Age Range up to 80 year olds Operator Globus From $2,569
6% Off- US$2,419You save $150
What people love about Southern Ireland Tours
- Best of Ireland (10 Days)
This was our first guided tour. We loved it
- Irish Highlights (Winter, 7 Days)
Great experience, very worthwhile
The trip was wonderful, all I’d hoped for!!
Introduction to Ireland
Travel Southern Ireland your way
Ireland's multi-day treks let you really get into the landscape's character. The Wild Atlantic Way route takes you across the unique limestone terrain of The Burren - it's actually one of the few places where Arctic and Mediterranean plants grow side by side. Mount Brandon might only reach just under 1000m, but don't let that fool you; it's a proper 4-hour trek that rewards you with Atlantic views all the way to the Blasket Islands. If you're after something more demanding, the full-day Carrauntoohil climb gets you to Ireland's highest point at 1039m. The Dingle Peninsula and Gap of Dunloe walks run 13-15km with plenty of old ruins and local stories along the way. Our customers keep telling us the Cliffs of Moher routes are their favorites - you've got options from easy walks to serious hikes there.
See all Hiking & Trekking toursIreland's active tours mix things up nicely with plenty to keep you moving. The e-bike routes along the Great Western Greenway let you cover loads of ground while taking in the coast views. Our guests love getting out on the water around Dingle Bay - you're kayaking through caves and inlets, often with seals popping up to say hello. Over on the Aran Islands, cycling really is the way to go; you'll pedal past miles of stone walls before reaching spots like Dun Aengus fort, sitting 300 feet above the Atlantic waves. Diamond Hill in Connemara offers solid trails and views that stretch out to the islands. Groups stay small, usually 8-12 people, and guides adjust the day based on weather and what the group's up for. Most of our travelers tell us they love how the days flow - you might catch some waves at Inch Beach in the morning and finish up learning tunes in a Dingle pub.
See all Active toursExplore a wide diversity of coach / bus tours through Southern Ireland. We have 59 adventures that vary from 3 days to 13 days. With the greatest number of departures in June, this is also the most popular time of the year.
See all Coach / Bus toursFor travelers seeking to really experience Southern Ireland, several explorer-focused tours stand out based on what our customers loved. The most popular 7-day routes take you through the heart of Irish life - from kissing the Blarney Stone to feasting in medieval castles. You'll spend evenings in local pubs where traditional music fills the air and locals share stories over a pint. Our travelers particularly praise the small-group formats that let them stop at hidden spots like the Connemara marble factory and sheep herding demonstrations. The guides consistently receive high marks for mixing historical knowledge with local jokes and stories, while keeping things casual enough to adapt to weather and group interests.
See all Explorer tours
More travel styles:
Top operators in Southern Ireland
I'd recommend Wild 'N Happy or Irish Experience Tours if you want that genuine local feel - they keep groups small and their guides really make the difference. Our travelers love how Michael, Sean and also Andy take them to spots most tourists never see. CIE Tours is another solid pick - Bob, Jim and also Ken lead fantastic trips that hit all the classic spots while keeping everyone entertained with great stories along the way. If you're after something more upscale, Insight Vacations pays attention to those extra touches, especially that final night at Ashford Castle which our guests always talk about. Just a heads up about Globus Tours - we've heard some complaints about their refund process and customer service lately. That's worth keeping in mind when you're deciding. No matter which company you go with, pack smart for Ireland's changeable weather - you might get four seasons in one day! The locals are incredibly welcoming though; that's something every single one of our travelers mentions when they get back.
- 5.0 (22,799 reviews)
"Tour Rader was Excellent 5 star
- Tours
- 4 tours
- Age range
- 12 to 90 years old
- Adventure type
- Hiking & Trekking
- Response time
- 1h
- Response rate
- 96%
- Average price
- $489
- 4.5 (11,928 reviews)
"The trip not only covered what was in the itinerary but there was lots of added on things we did that were recommended by the tour leader. His knowledge of Ireland and additional things to do really made this an awesome holiday.
- Tours
- 1 tours
- Age range
- 5 to 99 years old
- Adventure type
- In-depth Cultural
- Response time
- 6h
- Response rate
- 88%
- Average price
- $520
- 4.0 (4,700 reviews)
- Tours
- 1 tours
- Age range
- 3 to 85 years old
- Adventure type
- Explorer
- Response time
- 6h
- Response rate
- 96%
- Average price
- $293
Discover Southern Ireland tours for every budget
For budget-conscious travelers, several well-rated Southern Ireland tours offer excellent value without compromising on experiences. These tours pack in major highlights like the Ring of Kerry, Cliffs of Moher and Blarney Castle while keeping costs down through efficient routing and mid-range accommodations. Our customers particularly praise the Celtic Voyage tour for its mix of guided exploration and free time - you'll kayak Killarney's lakes one day and meet locals in Doolin's pubs the next. The Irish Escape route gets high marks for including special touches like Irish coffee demonstrations and medieval feasts without breaking the bank. What stands out in reviews is how these tours balance structured sightseeing with plenty of opportunities to explore villages and towns at your own pace.
Luxury tours of Southern Ireland focus on elevated experiences and premium accommodations. The standout options include castle stays at properties like Ashford Castle, where you're welcomed by a lone piper across the drawbridge. These high-end tours incorporate private access to attractions, expert local specialists and carefully curated dining experiences. Our travelers rave about the Irish Elegance tour's perfectly paced itinerary and special flourishes - think falconry schools, spa treatments and Michelin-starred restaurants. The Northern & Southern Ireland tour earns praise for its intimate group sizes and opportunities to meet local artists, craftspeople and also aristocratic families in their historic homes.
Southern Ireland budget tours- Southern Ireland luxury tours
Southern Ireland tours for every type of group
Who are you traveling with?
Group
193 tours in Southern IrelandGroup tours offer fantastic social experiences while covering Southern Ireland's must-see attractions. The most popular options run 7-10 days and include comfortable coach transport between destinations. What makes these tours special is how they blend scheduled activities with free time - you might spend the morning exploring Trinity College with a historian before having the afternoon to discover Dublin's literary pubs. Our customers consistently highlight the camaraderie that develops, especially during included experiences like medieval banquets at Bunratty Castle, traditional music sessions in Killarney and visits to working sheep farms where you'll learn to make traditional scones.
Small Group
29 tours in Southern IrelandSmall group tours limited to 8-16 people allow for deeper cultural immersion and flexibility. These intimate tours can visit places larger groups can't access, like family-run whiskey distilleries, remote hiking trails and also small fishing villages. The Wild Irish Experience gets excellent reviews for its ability to adjust the route based on weather and group interests. Travelers love how their guides share personal stories about growing up in Ireland while navigating scenic backroads. These tours excel at spontaneous moments - stopping at local festivals, joining impromptu music sessions or visiting artisan workshops when the opportunity arises.
Private / Personalized
34 tours in Southern IrelandEnjoy the exclusivity of our Private Southern Ireland tours, tailored to your own group, preferences and pace with over 34 itineraries to choose from.
Top Southern Ireland travel itineraries to fit your plans
Our 3-day tours of Southern Ireland pack a lot into a short time. One route takes you through Cork's lively port town of Kinsale and along the copper coast UNESCO Geopark, with time for a proper visit to Jameson Whiskey Distillery. Another popular option explores the Dingle Peninsula where our small groups can take their time at secluded beaches and ancient beehive huts. You'll find tours combining Glendalough's quiet lakes with the rugged Wicklow Mountains and also medieval Kilkenny - our travelers love having free afternoons there to wander through craft shops and cozy pubs in what locals often call Ireland's friendliest city.
TourRadar recommends visiting:
Dublin, Glendalough, Dingle, Killarney National Park, Cashel
A week in Southern Ireland lets you really sink into the culture. Our 7-day trips start from Dublin before heading west where you'll join authentic music sessions in Galway and watch skilled shepherds work with their dogs at local farms. At the Cliffs of Moher, local experts explain the 300-million-year story behind these incredible rock formations. Our customers particularly like spending multiple nights in Killarney - it's perfect for day trips around the Ring of Kerry's small fishing villages and quiet valleys. You'll learn proper Irish coffee making, try your hand at baking scones with farming families and also enjoy dinner in actual medieval castle halls.
TourRadar recommends visiting:
Dublin, Cashel, Midleton, Cobh, Blarney, Kenmare, Skellig Michael, Ring of Kerry, Killarney, Tralee, Cliffs of Moher, Doolin, Aran Islands, Galway
Ten days gives you space to properly discover Southern Ireland's character. These routes venture into quieter areas like Connemara's raw landscapes and Kylemore Abbey with its lovely Victorian gardens. Our travelers appreciate how the pace feels just right - maybe hiking Diamond Hill one day, then exploring the Gaelic-speaking Aran Islands by bicycle or minibus the next. You'll meet local smokehouse owners who share traditional salmon smoking methods, visit working farms to see sheep herding in action and also explore ancient settlements. Several tours include nights in historic buildings like Westport House, where you'll hear tales about the famous Pirate Queen while enjoying local treats in elegant 18th-century rooms.
TourRadar recommends visiting:
Dublin, Kilkenny, Waterford, Cobh, Blarney, Killarney, Dingle, Cliffs of Moher, Galway, Aran Islands
Demographics
Solo travelers have several excellent tour options that balance guided exploration with independent discovery. The small group formats, typically 8-12 people, create natural social connections while touring famous sites like the Rock of Cashel and Ring of Kerry. Our customers particularly enjoy tours featuring 3-night stays in Killarney, where the town's lively atmosphere makes it easy to meet locals and fellow travelers. Tours earning high marks include kayaking on Killarney's lakes, hiking Torc Mountain and also cycling through national parks. What sets these tours apart is how they mix active outdoor experiences with cultural immersion - you might spend mornings exploring ancient ruins before joining traditional music sessions in local pubs each evening.
Couples consistently praise tours that combine romantic settings with authentic Irish experiences. The most popular options include medieval banquets in historic castles, private tastings at Kilbeggan Distillery and also scenic drives along the Wild Atlantic Way. Our travelers love how these tours balance structured activities with free time to explore together - you could take a horse-drawn jaunting car through Killarney National Park or wander hand-in-hand through colorful fishing villages. Reviews highlight the intimate accommodations in places like Dingle and Galway, where you can step out your door into streets filled with music and culture. Many tours include special touches like Irish coffee demonstrations, sheep herding displays and also traditional music performances that create perfect moments for couples to share.
Senior travelers appreciate tours that thoughtfully combine comfort with cultural richness. The most highly rated options feature carefully paced itineraries with 2-3 night stays in each location, eliminating rushed departures. Our customers particularly value tours that include local specialists sharing insights at places like Trinity College, Bunratty Castle and also the House of Waterford Crystal. What makes these tours special is their balance - you might spend mornings exploring historic sites before enjoying relaxed afternoons in charming villages. Reviews consistently praise the included experiences like scone-making demonstrations at local farms, traditional music evenings in cozy pubs and also guided walks through Ireland's most scenic landscapes at a comfortable pace.
- Solo Travelers187 tours All tours for Solo Travelers
- Couples100 tours
- Young Adults (18 - 39)7 tours
- Seniors (50+)109 tours
Best time to visit Southern Ireland
- Spring 2025
Spring brings out the best in Southern Ireland's tour offerings. Our most popular routes run 7-12 days and capture the emerging colors of the season - wildflowers dotting the Burren's limestone landscape and puffins returning to nest at the Cliffs of Moher. Several tours include special springtime activities like sheep herding demonstrations with newborn lambs and visits to historic gardens coming into bloom. The routes blend active exploration with cultural immersion - you might spend a morning hiking Torc Mountain followed by an afternoon learning to bake scones at a family farm. Our travelers consistently praise how these spring tours mix scheduled highlights with spontaneous stops at local festivals and fairs that pop up as Ireland awakens from winter.
- 84 tours
- 140 tours
- popular 163 tours
- Summer 2025
Summer tours make the most of long daylight hours and typically warmer weather. The most sought-after routes run 7-14 days and include extended evening activities like sunset kayaking in Killarney's lakes or traditional music sessions in Dingle's pubs that stretch into the bright summer twilight. Several tours incorporate special seasonal experiences - swimming at Inch Beach, visiting the Skellig Islands when boat trips are running and hiking the full length of the Cliffs of Moher trails. What makes these summer adventures special is how they blend active outdoor exploration with cultural experiences - you could be cycling through Connemara National Park in the morning and learning Irish language basics in a Gaeltacht village that afternoon.
- 168 tours
- 166 tours
- popular 170 tours
- Fall / Autumn 2025
Autumn brings rich experiences to Southern Ireland's tour circuit. Our popular routes run 7-8 days and take advantage of golden light and quieter attractions. Several tours focus on harvest time traditions - you might visit ancient monasteries during apple picking season or join local food festivals in market towns. What makes autumn special is how the tours mix outdoor adventures with cozy cultural experiences - perhaps a morning hike through Killarney National Park's changing colors followed by a whiskey tasting in a historic distillery. Our travelers particularly enjoy the small group sizes which let them stop at local craft studios or join impromptu music sessions in village pubs. The guides earn high praise for sharing personal stories about growing up in Ireland while navigating scenic backroads between dramatic coastal sites and historic towns.
- popular 161 tours
- 124 tours
- 45 tours
- Winter 2025 / 2026
Winter tours in Ireland offer unique experiences away from peak season crowds. Several highly-rated routes run 6-7 days and focus on the southern highlights at a relaxed pace. Our travelers particularly enjoy cozy evenings in traditional pubs after days exploring - think Irish coffee demonstrations in Kerry and medieval feasts in ancient castles near Limerick. The tours mix guided city walks through Dublin's Georgian squares with rural adventures along the Wild Atlantic Way. What stands out in winter is how the guides adapt to weather conditions, often adding special indoor experiences like crystal-cutting demonstrations at Waterford or traditional music workshops in Killarney's pubs. Our customers love the smaller winter group sizes which let them really connect with local communities and culture.
- 22 tours
- popular 43 tours
- 43 tours
Contact our Southern Ireland travel experts
Tetiana
Expert in Southern Ireland at TourRadar
Tetiana is one of our seasoned Southern Ireland Travel Experts. Reach out to us to get all your questions about Southern Ireland tours answered!
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