Add dates

Ring of KerryCulture & history

Our most recommended Ring of Kerry Culture & history

From Killarney: Ring of Kerry Guided Day Tour

1. From Killarney: Ring of Kerry Guided Day Tour

Enjoy the sights of the world-famous Ring of Kerry. You’ll see breathtaking scenery like Ireland’s highest mountain, Carrauntoohil, experience Killarney National Park, stroll through the Kerry Bog Village, and more. The first thing you’ll see when leaving Killarney is the view over the McGillycuddy Reeks mountain range, with the famous Gap of Dunloe clearly visible, slicing into the mountain range. From there it’s on to the Kerry Bog Village, which offers fascinating insights into how people lived and worked in Ireland in the 18th century. You’ll stop in Cahersiveen, one of the original towns along the Ring of Kerry. One of its many attractions is the Daniel O’Connell Memorial Church, named for one of Ireland’s most important historical figures, Daniel O’Connell, often referred to as the Liberator. The next stop is the village of Waterville, where you can enjoy a walk along the seafront while taking in the charming surroundings. Majestic viewing points offer stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. This is where the coach will stop for free time for lunch and shopping. Learn the often tragic history of Ireland and hear folklore from qualified local guides. Return to Killarney through the rugged Moll's Gap and take in the beauty of Killarney National Park.

From Cork: 9-Hour Guided Ring of Kerry and Killarney Tour

2. From Cork: 9-Hour Guided Ring of Kerry and Killarney Tour

Take a 9-hour guided bus tour of the enchanting county of Kerry and admire magnificent scenery from soaring hills to rolling landscapes scattered with traditional stone walls. Enjoy the unsurpassed, rugged coastline and the buzz of the traditional town of Killarney. Board your bus at the meeting point in Cork, then feel Irish rural life from days gone by coming alive at your first stop at the Kerry Bog Village in Glenbeigh. Wander through thatched cottages, visit a traditional farmhouse, and meet the resident Irish wolfhounds. You might even choose to treat yourself to a little something to drink at the Red Fox Inn. From Glenbeigh, travel around the Iveragh Peninsula, along the most beautiful stretch of coastline. The next stops are at Waterville and Coomakista, two of Kerry’s most scenic spots with panoramic views stretching from the mountains to the sea. Look toward the ocean and catch a glimpse of the iconic Skellig Islands, Celtic pyramids reaching out from the sea. These natural monuments were famously featured in the recent Star Wars movie. Make your next stop on the famous Ring of Kerry in Sneem, a picturesque Irish seaside village nestled in the sheltered waters of Kenmare Bay with wonderful choices for a traditional Irish lunch. Choose bacon and cabbage — an Irish staple — or, since you are beside the sea, freshly-caught fish served with chips. Lunch is at your own expense. After the lunch stop, prepare for a drive you will never forget. Verging deep into the MacGillycuddy's Reek mountains and the moody Black Valley, numerous scenic viewpoints can be found along the route: Moll’s Gap mountain pass, Ladies View lookout (a favorite spot of Queen Victoria), and even a Leprechaun crossing. Along the shores of Lough Leane, drive through the woodlands of Ireland’s last native oak trees. Then, arrive in Killarney, often voted the most beautiful town in Ireland. Killarney has so much to offer. Opt to spend your time seeing the surrounding area from a traditional horse and cart or walk the streets soaking up the atmosphere. Finally, hop back on the bus for the return journey to Cork where you will be dropped off at the starting point.

Ireland: 5-Day Escape to the Southwest Tour

3. Ireland: 5-Day Escape to the Southwest Tour

Discover the scenic splendor of southwest Ireland on a comprehensive 5-day tour of The Burren, the Dingle Peninsula, and the fabled Ring of Kerry. Stop at historic castles and monasteries, and wander the colorful fishing villages to sample fresh seafood. Enjoy dramatic views from the Cliffs of Moher, and stroll along the vast stretch of Inch Beach watching the local surfers. Transportation is by small minicoach, with accommodation in quaint bed and breakfast guesthouses for a more intimate experience. Day 1: Depart Dublin and head west through the farmland and peat bogs of Kildare and Offally counties. Stop at Locke’s Distillery, reputedly the oldest legal distillery in the world. Sample the local whiskey to experience the true spirit of Ireland. Continue west to the mighty Shannon River, and vist the early Christian site of Clonmacnoise. Admire its collection of churches, stone crosses, and round towers. After an afternoon stop in a traditional pub in one of the attractive villages, travel to Galway City to check into your base for the night. This lively student town has no shortage of good pubs and restaurants to enjoy in the evening. Day 2: From Galway City it’s only a short drive along the coast to The Burren, one of Ireland’s great natural treasures. Marvel at the limestone pavements, barren hills, and rare flora. See Christian settlements and ancient stone monuments. You will spend most of the morning exploring this unique area, stopping in Kilfenora for lunch. Known as the “Town of the Crosses,” there will also be time to visit the old cathedral before driving to the Cliffs of Moher. Marvel at this natural beauty, where the cliffs drop almost 700 feet into crashing Atlantic Ocean waves. Take a walk along one of the cliff top trails, and watch the seabirds at work. Alternatively, visit the award-winning environmental exhibition to learn about the region’s ecology. Then, travel south through County Clare, passing the famous golf course and beach at Lahinch to catch the ferry across the Shannon Estuary and into County Kerry. Go to the beautiful lakeside town of Killarney, your base for the next 3 nights. The pubs here are great for food and most have live music in the evenings. Day 3 Today, you will explore the Dingle Peninsula, one of the most scenic parts of Ireland. Your first stop in this heartland of Gaelic culture will be Inch Beach, a vast expanse of sand facing the Atlantic Ocean popular with surfers. From here, increasingly narrow roads lead onto the peninsula itself, through the town of Dingle and out to Slea Head. This is an area of ancient forts and dwellings that date back thousands of years. Visit some of the best examples along the way. Enjoy views of the Blasket Islands as they rise dramatically from the sea. Marvel at the mountains of the famous Ring of Kerry to your south. Weather permitting, time will be allotted for a walk on the beach or along the cliff tops. Learn why the area is important in Gaelic literature. Then, head back to Dingle town with its brightly colored buildings and busy harbor. Spend the rest of the afternoon at leisure, before returning to Killarney. If the weather is good you could enjoy an evening walk in Killarney National Park, just on the edge of town. Day 4: Today, you will take one of the world’s classic routes, the 100-mile Ring of Kerry. Depart Killarney and enjoy the views to Carrauntoohil, Ireland’s highest mountain. Join the coast road through Glenbeigh and Kells to Cahersiveen. Possible stops along the way include Daniel O’Connell’s birthplace, and the ring fort of Cahersiveen. Go to the little fishing village of Portmagee for a lunch of local seafood. Alternatively, cross to the island of Valencia and visit the Skellig Experience to learn about the small community of monks who once lived on the nearby rock island of Skellig Michael. In the afternoon, stop in picturesque Waterville, a favourite holiday destination for Charlie Chaplin. Stop again at the top of the Coonmakista Pass for one of the best views in Ireland. From here, the road drops down to sea level, where you will visit Derrynane House, the family home of Daniel O’Connell. You can stroll in the gardens and down to the beach, as well as look inside the house itself. Continue around the Ring, stopping at Moll’s Gap and Ladies View. There will also be time for a short walk to the Torc Waterfall before returning to Killarney. Day 5: The final day of your tour heads east through the mountains of West Cork and the market town of Macroom. Then, drive along the Lee Valley to Blarney Castle. Visit the castle and take one of the woodland walks to the mystical Rock Close. Explore the village of Blarney, stopping for lunch and a bit of shopping. There may even be time to kiss the famous Blarney Stone, although in peak season it can be very busy. In the afternoon, head to the Rock of Cashel to see the medieval monastery complex high above the town. Finally, go to Kilkenny, a bustling city with a fine castle and park, as well as some lovely riverside walks. Visit the National Craft Centre, or just hang out in one of the pubs for a last Guinness. Hit the road again for the final leg of your journey, arriving back in Dublin at approximately 19:30.

Killarney: Guided Tour with Afternoon Tea

4. Killarney: Guided Tour with Afternoon Tea

Begin your tour with a lively jaunt through the bustling streets of Killarney Town, bursting with scenes of colour and charm before entering the quiet and peaceful surroundings of the picturesque Killarney National Park. Enjoy views of the magnificent MacGillycuddy Reeks, the highest mountain peaks in Ireland, witness the country’s last remaining herd of majestic Red Deer, and take in the unique sights and sounds of the Oak and Yew Woodland, as you learn about the history of the Park and how it came to be. Journey on towards Ross Castle and its Tower Keep on the edge of Lough Lein and be spellbound by spectacular views along the way. Once the ancestral home of the O’Donoghue Clan, you will be enchanted by the striking beauty of the Castle as you listen to your Jarvey Guide unfold its history with tales of woe and warship as well as the ancient prophecy and legends of the fortress. Take a quick jaunt back through the leafy green suburbs of Killarney’s Ross Road and back into the outskirts of the Town before disembarking from your journey at the Great Southern, Killarney’s Premier Historic Hotel and the perfect place to end the most memorable tour. Relax and rewind in the splendour of the spacious Grand Foyer where High Tea has been served since Victorian times. Relish in a selection of finger sandwiches, freshly baked fruit or plain scones with clotted cream and jam, as well as a selection of pastries and banana bread, and of course, freshly brewed tea or coffee, complimented by a refreshing glass of prosecco. Children’s option also available. Please notify us of any dietary requirements.

Rail Tour from Dublin: 6 Days All of Ireland

5. Rail Tour from Dublin: 6 Days All of Ireland

Day 1 Check in Dublin Heuston Station (Customer Service Desk) for 7:00 departure of InterCity train to Cork (breakfast available). We visit Blarney Castle, the Queenstown Story at Cobh, then train to Killarney for two nights B & B with en-suite facilities. Day 2 10.00 depart Killarney on Ring of Kerry tour. We have a wonderful day viewing some of Ireland’s most spectacular scenery, including Dingle Bay. We also see the Macgillicuddy Reeks, Ireland's highest mountain Carrantuohill, Moll's Gap, Ladies View and the world famous Lakes of Killarney. Overnight in Killarney. Day 3 07.30 transfer from Killarney to Limerick, to join the Cliffs of Moher Tour, visit Bunratty Castle, Cliffs of Moher, Galway Bay, overnight Galway City in 3 star Hotel (2 nights). Day 4 Get the ferry to Inis Mor and explore the largest of the Aran Islands. After lunch in Kilronan, enjoy a tour of the ancient fort Dun Aengus, admiring its sharp cliffs and dramatic seascapes. Day 5 10.00 depart Galway for tour of Connemara, including Kylemore Abbey after which we depart Galway by train, arriving Dublin Heuston 20.45 transfer by tram to three star hotel for two nights (room only). Day 6 Check in Dublin Connolly Station at 07.10 departure for the Giants Causeway tour. At Belfast we join our tour and head to the famous Antrim Coast Road crossing the lovely Glens of Antrim en route to Ballycastle and the Carrick-a-rede* rope bridge (Mid March - October only. Glimpse the Scottish coast on a clear day. We continue to the stunning Giant's Causeway next, seeing Dunluce Castle (photo stop only). We return to Belfast and our train to Dublin arriving at Connolly station at 22:20 for second night in three star hotel. Depart Monday/Wednesday, Thursday & Saturday (March to October only) * Price is per person sharing Single Room Supplement applies

2-Day Cork, Blarney Castle and the Ring of Kerry

6. 2-Day Cork, Blarney Castle and the Ring of Kerry

Day 1 Check in Dublin Heuston (Customer Service Desk) for 7:00am departure of the InterCity train (breakfast available) to Cork. We transfer to Blarney Castle and kiss the Blarney Stone. After time for lunch and shopping we have a short city tour of Cork and then visit Cobh Heritage Centre home of the "Queenstown Story". We travel back to Cork station for train to Killarney where we are transferred to our comfortable Bed and Breakfast accommodation (with en-suite facilities). Evening free. Day 2 10.00am we embark on the famous Ring of Kerry tour, which is a large coastal drive around the Iveragh Peninsula, on one side of which is Dingle Bay. Lots of stunning mountain and coastal scenery including the famous Lakes of Killarney. Return train to Dublin departs Killarney 17.50 and arrives Dublin Heuston 21.15. Departs Daily (Monday - Saturday)

6-Day Tour of Southern Ireland from Dublin

7. 6-Day Tour of Southern Ireland from Dublin

Embark on a 6-day tour from Dublin and discover Glendalough, Kilkenny, Waterford, Blarney Castle, Dingle Peninsula, Cork, Slea Head, Ring of Kerry, Killarney, the Cliffs of Moher, Galway, and Connemara. Day 1: Dublin - Glendalough - Kilkenny Castle - Waterford City Begin the tour in central Dublin. Leave the capital behind and drive through rolling countryside to the Wicklow Mountains. Your first stop is the monastery ruins at Glendalough, the Valley of Two Lakes. Admire the natural beauty and enjoy the local walks and trails with views of ancient Celtic crosses and round towers. Afterward, continue to the medieval city of Kilkenny with its cobbled streets and famous red ale. Not far from Waterford Harbor on the southeast coast, Dunmore East is a relaxing spot to spend the evening with a handful of pubs and some great seafood restaurants. Day 2: Waterford City - Waterford Crystal - Blarney Castle - Dingle Peninsula Your day begins with a visit to the world-famous Waterford Crystal factory. Stock up on fine-cut glass at the outlet store or simply pause a while to watch the artisans at work. Continue with a scenic drive through County Waterford and a panoramic drive through Cork city. The highlight for many today is the world-renowned Blarney Castle. After lunch, continue on your journey to the Dingle Peninsula, where you will stay overnight at one of the westernmost points of Ireland. Day 3: Dingle Peninsula - Slea Head - Killarney Take the short drive to Dingle, a charming Irish-speaking fishing village. Famed in many films like Far and Away and Ryan's Daughter, Dingle is celebrated for having the most pubs in Ireland for a town of its size, 52 pubs and 2000 people. Then it's off on a wonderful pleasant trip around Slea Head with amazing views of Sleeping Giant Island, the Blasket Islands, and Beehive Huts. Day 4: Killarney - Ring of Kerry - Killarney Discover the amazing scenery of the Ring of Kerry. Begin with a horse and cart ride through Killarney National Park (optional) or a horseback ride through the park for the energetic and adventurous (optional). Your afternoon is packed with many highlights including Moll's Gap, Ladies View, Leprechaun Crossing, Killarney National Park, Lakes of Killarney, Torc Waterfall, and much more. Day 5: Killarney - Cliffs of Moher - Galway Visit the town of Killarney and Bunratty Castle in the morning. Then in the afternoon, continue north along the Wild Atlantic Way. Stop at the iconic Cliffs of Moher and the village of Doolin. Stay overnight in Galway, known as the city of the tribes and Ireland's cultural capital, with a vast array of fine seafood eateries, and home to an endless selection of traditional Irish music venues. Day 6: Galway - Connemara - Dublin Discover the rugged beauty of the Connemara region, located west of Galway city. Have time to visit Cong Abbey before heading off on your journey through the midlands back to Dublin.

Best of Ireland 6-Day Backpackers Economy Tour

8. Best of Ireland 6-Day Backpackers Economy Tour

Discover the highlights of Ireland’s 4 corners, including all the sights of Northern Ireland. Enjoy a night at a traditional Irish pub, plenty of opportunities to dance the night away, hikes through bogs and castle ruins, and much more.  Day 1: Dublin - Belfast Visit Belfast and discover Titanic Belfast and the historic downtown quarter. Spend the night in Belfast. Day 2: Belfast - Derry Explore the Antrim Coast with visits to Dunluce Castle and Giants Causeway and photo opportunities at the Dark Hedges and Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge. Enjoy a historic walking tour in Derry. Spend the night in Derry. Day 3: Derry - Galway Depart Northern Ireland and road trip along the Wild Atlantic Way to Galway. Stop in surfing hotspot Strandhill for lunch and enjoy a walk on the beach. Enjoy a free walking tour in Galway. Spend the night in Galway. Day 4: Galway - Dingle Head to Annascaul via the Cliffs of Moher and the Burren. Spend the night in Annascaul on the Dingle peninsula. Day 5: Dingle - Killarney Enjoy a full day of touring on the Dingle Peninsula, one of Europe’s most spectacular road trips. Spend the night in Killarney. Day 6: Killarney - Dublin Depart Killarney for Dublin. Enjoy a tour of the Killarney National Park and a visit to Blarney Castle in Cork. The tour ends in Dublin by the early evening.

Four-Day Tour of the Southern and Western Coast: Ireland

9. Four-Day Tour of the Southern and Western Coast: Ireland

Day 1 Check in Dublin Heuston Station (Customer Service Desk) for 07:00am departure of InterCity train to Cork (breakfast available). We visit Blarney Castle, The Queenstown Story at Cobh, then train to Killarney for three nights B & B with en-suite facilities. Day 2 10.00 depart Killarney on Ring of Kerry tour. We have a wonderful day viewing some of Ireland’s most spectacular scenery, including Dingle Bay. We also see the Macgillicuddy Reeks, Ireland's highest mountain Carrauntoohil, Moll's Gap, Ladies View and the world famous Lakes of Killarney. Overnight in B&B in Killarney. Day 3 10.00 we tour the Dingle Peninsula made famous as the location for the movie "Ryan's Daughter" overnight in Killarney. Day 4 07.30 depart Killarney to Limerick, to join the Cliffs of Moher tour, visit Bunratty Castle, Cliffs of Moher, Galway Bay return to Dublin Heuston by train from Galway arrival 20:45. Depart Monday/Tuesday/Wednesday, Friday & Saturday Price is per person sharing Single Room Supplement applies*

From Dublin: 3-Day Cork, Ring of Kerry & the Cliffs of Moher

10. From Dublin: 3-Day Cork, Ring of Kerry & the Cliffs of Moher

Day 1 Check in Dublin Heuston (Customer Service Desk) for 07:00 departure of InterCity train (breakfast available) to Cork. Transfer by road to Blarney Castle and kiss the famous stone. After time for lunch and shopping and a flavor of Cork City, visit Cobh Heritage Centre, home of the "Queenstown Story," where the Titanic made its last port of call, and from where 3 million Irish people emigrated. Depart Cobh by train to Killarney, where you will be taken to your bed & breakfast accommodation, with en-suite facilities. There are numerous restaurants in Killarney, as well as traditional pubs-many with live traditional Irish music. Day 2 Embark on the famous Ring of Kerry tour, which is a largely coastal drive around the Iveragh Peninsula, with lots of stunning mountain and coastal scenery, including the famous Lakes of Killarney. After the day's touring, the evening is free in Killarney. Day 3 Leave Killarney for Limerick, to join the Cliffs of Moher tour. Take a short city tour of Limerick, and then visit Bunratty Castle, before lunch at a traditional pub. You will have plenty of time to see the majestic Cliffs of Moher, before taking the coastal route around Galway Bay, with stops for photos. Return to Dublin by InterCity train, arriving at 20:45. * Prices are per person sharing Single Room Supplement applies

10 activities found
Sort by:

You might also like...

Frequently asked questions about Ring of Kerry Culture & history

What are other things to do than Culture & history that are worth visiting in Ring of Kerry?

Other Sightseeing Options in Ring of Kerry

Want to discover all there is to do in Ring of Kerry? Click here for a full list.

What people are saying about Ring of Kerry

Overall rating

4.4 / 5

based on 30 reviews

Our guides were excellent Brian and Paddy. They were very informative. I learned so much about the Irish History. Pro's: Pro's great way to see most of the country and learn about the history from a professional. Everything was included as far as tickets, hotels and breakfast. I enjoyed being with other travelers and we made lasting friendships. Cons: We are on a schedule and so could not spend as much time as we wanted at some of the sights and venues. Lunch place was always predetermined so you were stuck going only to their choice. Most places were pretty good by average cost of the meals were 40-50 Euros per couple. It would have been nice to have a day off in the middle to rest a bit. Overall it was a great way to see the country for the first time.

The tour was well organized- our guides met us every step of the way and ensured comfort and safety. The planned days went smoothly. It can be hard to be on the bus when you would like to stop for more photos! Reserved first class train seats were appreciated. The chosen hotels were nice, clean, comfortable and well located. The food was good. We really enjoyed the other travelers in our group. This is a nice way to see Ireland for the first time.

John was a fantastic guide and shared so much information on this tour. You felt like he was just conversing as a friend pointing out so many things along the way. The size of the coach was very comfortable with only 12 on board. We thoroughly enjoyed this full day around the ring of Kerry.

William, our guide was AMAZING! His grand Irish personality, humour, and wonderful singing voice added so much more to our experience. He answered all our questions and provided excellent information along our travels.

My daughter and friends we’re traveling for her 21st birthday. I booked this excursion for them. They loved it!