Authentic Ireland: Landscapes, Legends & Local Connections
A Road Trip for Friends
Discover Ireland with the freedom and flexibility of a self-drive journey. From the scenic roads of Kerry and the dramatic Cliffs of Moher to the lively streets of Galway and Dublin, this itinerary allows you to explore on your own schedule, stop when something catches your eye, and enjoy the adventure of the open road.
Blending independent travel with select guided experiences, you'll experience Ireland's iconic landscapes, rich culture, and warm hospitality while maintaining the flexibility to make the journey uniquely your own.
September 24 - Overnight Flight
September 25 - Welcome to Ireland
Upon your early morning arrival at Shannon Airport, your Irish adventure begins with renting a car! Be prepared for roundabouts and right-hand drives. We suggest a stop in the charming village of Adare before arriving to Killarney. Your hotel will be ready for you to check in this afternoon so you can rest up after your flight.
🏨 Overnight in Killarney
September 26 - The Ring of Kerry
Your day will be filled with the breathtaking scenery of the Ring of Kerry, where you can marvel at the dramatic cliffs, ancient forts, and pristine beaches of the Iveragh Peninsula. To take full advantage of the views, and to avoid some precarious driving situations, you’ll be taking a guided coach tour that will take you around the full ring, returning to town in the evening.
🏨 Overnight in Killarney
September 27 - Coffee and Cliffs
Today, you'll visit the Foynes Flying Boat & Maritime Museum, where you can explore the history of transatlantic aviation and the birthplace of Irish Coffee. Afterward, you'll take a short ferry to County Clare across the River Shannon and marvel at the stunning Cliffs of Moher, which offer breathtaking views. Conclude your day with an overnight stay in a small charming County Clare town.
🏨 Overnight in Ennis
September 28 - Ireland's Favorite Past Time
Travel to the bustling city of Galway this morning and begin your day learning about GAA sports, an integral part of Irish culture. If you’re feeling nervous or a tad out of shape for the world's fastest field sport, have no fear- you can try your hand at as much or little of it as you’d like, and the instructors are well versed in adapting to your needs. After working up an appetite, spend some time in the city center for lunch, shopping, and relaxing in some of the best pubs on the island.
🏨 Overnight in Galway
September 29 - Connemara Charm & Country Traditions
Today, you'll journey through the stunning Connemara region with another guided coach tour. Known for its wild and rugged landscapes, it is the largest Irish speaking area in the country. You’ll have the opportunity to visit Kylemore Abbey, where you can explore its magnificent Victorian walled gardens and visit the craft center.
🏨 Overnight in Galway
September 30 - Legends, Libations & Dublin Lore
Travel to Dublin this morning, stopping at Ireland’s oldest pub along the way. Drop your bags off at your hotel, and enjoy an afternoon at leisure to explore the sites of the capital city before capping off your trip with a finale of a storytelling pub crawl. A local guide and storyteller will take you to some of Dublin’s coziest pubs, sharing stories about the city and Ireland’s mythological tales - a tradition central to Irish life.
🏨 Overnight at Dublin Airport Hotel
October 1 - Slán, Ireland
Dublin airport hotels typically have complimentary shuttles to both terminals at the airport.