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Tours & Trips to Ireland Castles

12 tour packages to ireland castles with 225 reviews.

7 Day Atlantic Way Experience - Small Group Tour

"Thoroughly enjoyed our 7 day tour. Lodging was excellent, especially Brosnan's in Dingle." Cynthia, traveled in April 2024

• €99 deposit on some dates

3-Day Blarney Castle, Kilkenny & Irish Whiskey Small-Group Tour from Dublin

"It was a great experience! Our accommodations were always close to City Centre, clean, comfortable and had a delicious breakfast." Jennifer, traveled in October 2023

Focus on Ireland (Classic, 7 Days)

"Everything was well organized, on time and memorable!" Kevin, traveled in May 2024

Castles and Manors (8 Days)

"The accommodations were beautiful and very welcoming. Our experience was fantastic and would recommend." Tiffany, traveled in April 2024

• €100 deposit on some dates

Exploring Britain & Ireland featuring England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales (Edinburgh to Dublin) (2024)

Shades of Ireland featuring Northern Ireland (Dublin to Belfast) (2024)

Best of Ireland (10 Days)

"The trip was fantastic! The optional activities were well rounded with something to appeal to a wide variety of interests." Kim, traveled in May 2023

Great Britain and Ireland (Until March 2025, Summer 2024, 16 Days) (23 destinations)

Great Britain and Ireland (From March 2025, 18 Days)

Iconic Ireland and Ashford Castle (10 Days)

"Everything was perfect with M&M. Highly recommend this combo." butch, traveled in October 2023

Top operators in Ireland Castle

"The guide Lee Jones made the trip outstanding. His funny, engaging, and sincere personality was the key to a fantastic trip.

Irish Experience Tours is an expert in:

• In-depth Cultural

"Marcus was funny informative and made this tour excellent. Loved the pace and all the places we stopped Only suggestion would be to have cup holders on the tour vehicle.

Rabbie’s Small Group Tours is an expert in:

"We really enjoyed our tour, everything was well organized, on time and memorable! Our drivers and guides were very professional.

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2024 Tour Packages:

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• Iconic Britain & Ireland Tour 18 Days | From €4390 | 2024 | Max 26 ppl.
• Iconic Britain Tour 10 Days | From €2490 | 2024 | Max 26 ppl.
• Iconic Ireland & Scotland Tour 14 Days | €3690 | 2024 | Max 26 ppl.
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• 10-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland 10 Days | From €1690 | 2024 | Max 26 ppl.
• 8-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland 8 Days | From €1590 | 2024 | Max 26 ppl.
• 6-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland 6 Days | From €990 | 2024 | Max 26 ppl.
• Deluxe Irish Castles Tour 10 Days | From €2790 | 2024 | Max 26 ppl.
• Historic Irish Castle Tour 7 Days | From €1790 | 2024 | Max 26 ppl.
• Ancient Ireland & Scotland Tour 13 Days | From €5390 | 2024 | Max 8 ppl.
• Ancient Ireland Tour 8 Days | From €3390 | 2024 | Max 8 ppl.
• Discover Northern Ireland 6 Days | From €995 | 2024 | Max 26 ppl.

2025 Tour Packages:

• Iconic Britain & Ireland Tour 18 Days | From €4590 | 2025 | Max 26 ppl.
• Iconic Ireland & Scotland Tour 14 Days | €3990 | 2025 | Max 26 ppl.
• Highlights of Ireland & Scotland Tour 9 Days | €2490 | 2025 | Max 26 ppl.
• 14-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland 14 Days | From €2990 | 2025 | Max 26 ppl.
• 10-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland 10 Days | From €1990 | 2025 | Max 26 ppl.
• 8-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland 8 Days | From €1690 | 2025 | Max 26 ppl.
• 6-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland 6 Days | From €1090 | 2025 | Max 26 ppl.
• Deluxe Irish Castles Tour 10 Days | From €2890 | 2025 | Max 26 ppl.
• Ancient Ireland & Scotland Tour 13 Days | From €5690 | 2025 | Max 8 ppl.
• Ancient Ireland Tour 8 Days | From €3290 | 2025 | Max 8 ppl.
• Discover Northern Ireland 6 Days | From €1090 | 2025 | Max 26 ppl.
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Deluxe Irish Castles Tour 2025

• Tour highlights
• Dates & prices
• What's included

A luxury tour with castle accommodation

Live like royalty on this luxurious exploration of Ireland's best-loved attractions. On this tour, you won't simply be visiting the landmarks of Ireland's rich history. You will actually be staying in its historic luxury castles and manor houses. On a tour that promises more, you can expect the finest accommodation (including the exquisite The K Club ), the best food and the most luxurious tour transportation.

• €2,890 - €3,190
• 26 guests maximum
• Stay in real castles
• Arrival & Departure in Dublin

Tour Gallery

• Trim Castle

On Day Two you will visit Trim Castle. This is the largest Anglo-Norman castle in Ireland. Hugh de Lacy and his son Walter built it over a 30 year period until its completion in 1206.

• Belleek Pottery

On Day Two you will also visit Belleek Pottery, one of the oldest potteries in the world, established in 1857.

• Lough Eske Castle

On Day Two & Three you will overnight and dine in Lough Eske Castle. This 5-star luxury hotel is located in County Donegal, in the picturesque and tranquil north west of Ireland.

Derry/Londonderry

On Day Three you will visit Derry/Londonderry, a captivating city enclosed within ancient walls, possessing a rich and diverse past.

• Kylemore Abbey

On Day Four you will also visit Kylemore Abbey. This is, arguably, Ireland's most beautiful building. Located at the base of Duchruach Mountain on the shores of Lough Pollacappul.

Glenlo Abbey Hotel & Estate

On Day Four & Five you will overnight and dine in an elegant 18th century manor house on the edge of Connemara, Glenlo Abbey Hotel & Estate. A luxury hotel with a unique charm. Enjoy garden or river views from the lavish rooms and a host of dining options. Visit their website...

On Day Six you will take a trip to The Burren, which is Gaelic for rocky land – a vast limestone plateau. In the 1640s, Cromwell's surveyor described it as "a savage land, yielding neither water enough to drown a man, nor tree to hang him, nor soil enough to bury".

The Cliffs of Moher

On Day Six you will also visit The Cliffs of Moher. Take the best possible viewpoint to gaze at the Atlantic Ocean. Reaching a staggering 702ft (214m) high and 9 miles (14km) long.

• Adare Village

Day Six also sees you travel to Adare Village in County Limerick. Known as one of Ireland's Prettiest Villages.

Cahernane House

On Day Seven you will overnight and dine in Cahernane House Hotel. Soak in the atmosphere of this old House Hotel. A private estate on the edge of Killarney National Park. Visit their website...

The Rock of Cashel

On Day Eight you will visit Rock of Cashel. Travel to County Tipperary in the heart of the country to visit the Rock of Cashel. Up until the 17th century, the Rock of Cashel was the seat of kings for the province of Munster.

• Blarney Castle

On Day Eight you will also visit Blarney Castle. Witness Ireland's most famous Castle and kiss its majestic Blarney Stone... which, if legend is to be believed, will grant you the gift of the gab!

Your base for Day Eight & Nine will be K Club. This exquisite five-star accommodation is located in County Kildare. Home to an Arnold Palmer-designed Ryder Cup Golf Course and the world-famous K Spa. Visit their website...

• Christ Church Cathedral

On Day Nine you will visit Christ Church Cathedral. At almost 1,000 year old this famous cathedral in Dublin City has a storied history. The legendary cathedral crypt dates back to the 12th Century and holds a 14th century copy of the Magna Carta.

EPIC: The Irish Emigration Museum

On Day Nine you will visit EPIC: The Irish Emigration Museum. Located in Dublin City's docklands, the museum, via cutting-edge interactive displays, explores the history of the mass emigration experienced by Ireland over the past three centuries.

Tour Itinerary

Throughout ten unforgettable days, the Deluxe Irish Castles Tour ranges widely across the length and breadth of Ireland. Click on the days below to find out what adventures you can look forward to on each day of your tour.

Day 1: Arrival (Dublin)

Day 1 itinerary.

Welcome - you've arrived on your Irish castle tour. On arrival in Dublin Airport, reclaim your baggage and enter the Arrivals Hall. Here, you will meet your Irish tour guide (who is also your driver). There will be three Group transfers this morning between 7:00 am and 1200 noon. To ensure a smooth start to your tour, it is advisable to aim for an arrival time in Dublin Airport before 11:00 am, as clearing immigration and reclaiming baggage typically takes around 1 hour.

Board your luxury air-conditioned coach and make the short transfer to Dunboyne Castle Hotel where you can relax and unwind after your flight.

3:00 PM Check-in time. Hotel reception will store your luggage prior to Check-in.

At 6:00 PM this evening, all participants will gather for dinner in the hotel restaurant, where you will become acquainted with your fellow travellers and the coming days can be discussed at leisure with your tour guide.

Included Today

• Welcome Dinner

Dunboyne Castle Hotel

Day 2: belleek pottery & trim castle, day 2 itinerary.

After some much-needed sleep and a hearty full Irish breakfast, we will depart for the 5-star Lough Eske Castle .

Our first stop today will be County Meath. Trim Castle . The largest Anglo-Norman castle in Ireland. Hugh de Lacy and his son Walter built it over a 30-year period and finished it in 1206. Trim Castle was also a film location for the movie "Braveheart".

Continue on through the lake region of Cavan and briefly cross the border into Fermanagh in Northern Ireland and along the shores of Lough Erne Upper and Lough Erne Lower to visit Belleek Pottery , one of the oldest potteries in the world, and has been in operation since 1857.

Cross the border back into Donegal in the Republic of Ireland and travel on to Lough Eske. Enjoy a leisurely afternoon on the grounds of Lough Eske Castle . Tonight you will overnight and dine in Lough Eske Castle Hotel and Spa. After dinner, you might like to retire to the Gallery Bar for a nightcap before bed.

• Irish Breakfast
• Evening Dinner

Day 3: Derry City Tour

Day 3 itinerary.

Leisurely morning on the grounds of Lough Eske Castle Hotel and Spa. Depart for the historic fortified walled city of Derry/Londonderry City . The city fortifications are amongst the best preserved in Europe and were completed in 1618 to defend the city from Gaelic chieftains in Donegal.

Afternoon guided walking tour of the historic walls with a local guide. The city walls are up to 8 metres (26 feet) in height and in places are 9 metres (29 feet) wide.

Take some free time in Derry/Londonderry City to visit the shops and cafés of the area and get a flavour of Northern Ireland, before returning to Lough Eske Castle Hotel. Again this evening dine in Lough Eske Castle Hotel and Spa.

• Derry Walking Tour

Day 4: Ben Bulben & Drumcliffe

Day 4 itinerary.

This morning, after breakfast, you will depart for Glenlo Abbey Hotel & Estate . A luxurious five-star hotel in Co. Galway, Glenlo Abbey Hotel & Estate is nestled elegantly on pristine 138-acre grounds, alongside Ireland's largest lake.

Your route south to Glenlo Abbey Hotel & Estate will take you through Sligo with its distinctive high plateau mountain of Ben Bulben , which featured so prominently in the poetry of W.B. Yeats, one of the foremost figures in 20th-century literature.

Visit Drumcliffe . Located in County Sligo, this is the picturesque final resting place of W.B. Yeats. Here you can read the epitaph on the grave of one of Ireland's greatest poets.

Travel on via Mayo, famous for its important pilgrimage sites including Knock Shrine.

Continue on to Galway City .

Afternoon free in Galway City , known as the "City of the Tribes". Today, it is a vibrant bustling harbour town with medieval origins and with a long tradition of Irish language, music, song, and dance..

Tonight, you will overnight and dine in Glenlo Abbey Hotel & Estate .

Day 5: Kylemore Abbey & Connemara

Day 5 itinerary.

Today you will tour the sights of wild Connemara , via the villages of Moycullen, Oughterard, Maam Cross and Maam to Leenaun, the film location of John B Keane's play – "The Field".

Travel on via the shores of Killary Harbour, Ireland's only fjord to Kylemore.

Here, you will visit Kylemore Abbey . An historic building nestled at the base of Duchruach Mountain, on the northern shore of Lough Pollacappul — in the heart of the Connemara Mountains. It is regarded as one of Ireland's most romantic buildings.

Travel down the spectacular Inagh Valley with the 12 Bens of Connemara on your right and the Maumturks Mountains on your left as you travel to Recess.

Return east to Glenlo Abbey Hotel & Estate .

Tonight you will overnight and dine in Glenlo Abbey Hotel & Estate .

Day 6: Cliffs of Moher & Wild Atlantic Way

Day 6 itinerary.

This morning after breakfast, you will depart for the Cahernane House Hotel , situated less than 2 miles from Killarney National Park . The hotel is set in a beautiful mansion dating back to the 1870s and on impeccably manicured grounds. Your journey to Killarney Town will take you down the Atlantic seaboard on the west coast of Clare via Galway.

You will see The Burren , which is Gaelic for rocky land—an apt name for this vast limestone plateau. In the 1640s, Cromwell's surveyor described it as "a savage land, yielding neither water enough to drown a man, nor tree to hang him, nor soil enough to bury".

On the Atlantic coast, you will visit the Cliffs of Moher . Braced against the ocean, on the coast of County Clare. Here you will stand on the dramatic 702ft (214m) high and 9 miles (14km) long cliffs, a Wild Atlantic Way signature discovery point, to gaze out on the vastness of the Atlantic Ocean. Further south in County Limerick, take time to stroll the main street of the beautiful thatched village of Adare , before travelling on to Killarney Town .

Tonight you will overnight and dine in Cahernane House Hotel . After dinner, you might like to retire to the Cellar Bar for a nightcap before bed.

• Cliffs of Moher

Cahernane House Hotel

Day 7: the ring of kerry, day 7 itinerary.

This morning after breakfast, you will set off on the world-famous Ring Of Kerry . It is officially known as the Iveragh Peninsula. You will travel via Killorglin, Glenbeigh, Cahersiveen, Waterville, Coomakesta Pass with its magnificent views over Derrynane, home of Daniel O' Connell, known as "The Liberator", to Caherdaniel. Travel on via the hamlet of Castlecove, the colourful village of Sneem and on via Moll’s Gap, Ladies View, Killarney National Park and along the Lakes of Killarney to Killarney town.

Stopover at the Blind Piper Pub . Here you will have a traditional Irish Pub Lunch . Located in the village of Caherdaniel, locals and visitors alike have been drinking here since 1865. Who is the Blind Piper, you may ask? The Blind Piper is Mici Cumba O'Sullivan, who was born nearby in 1835 and became one of Ireland's most famous pipers.

Continue on via the pretty village of Sneem, Moll’s Gap, Ladies View and along the Killarney Lakes to Killarney Town . Tonight you will overnight and dine in Cahernane House Hotel .

Included today:

Traditional pub lunch, day 8: blarney castle & rock of cashel, day 8 itinerary.

This morning after breakfast, you will depart for the 5-star The K Club . Set amidst over 550 acres of historic and intriguing gardens, walkways and parkland with magnificent views of the Kildare countryside and the River Liffey. Steeped in history, The K Club combines old-world elegance with indulgent luxury. Formerly the home of the Barton's, founders of the famous wine firm Barton and Guestier, The K Club today is home to two golf courses including the Arnold Palmer-designed Ryder Cup Golf Course and the K Spa .

Journey west through the "county bounds" via the wild Derrynasaggart Mountains, sometimes referred to as the Cork/Kerry Mountains and made famous in the ballad - "Whiskey in the Jar".

Travel on to the village of Blarney via the valley of the River Lee. Visit Blarney Castle . Built on this site in 1446 by Dermot McCarthy. You will have the chance to kiss the legendary Blarney Stone. You will also have an opportunity to shop at Blarney Woollen Mills , boasting a huge selection of Irish arts, crafts and produce.

Today, visit The Rock of Cashel . Rising dramatically from the grassy plains of county Tipperary. This was the seat of kings and medieval bishops for 900 years and flourished until the early 17th century. Brian Ború was crowned King of Munster here in 977, before becoming High King of Ireland in 1002.

Continue on to County Kildare.

Tonight you will overnight & dine in The K Club . After dinner, you might like to retire to the "Media Puzzle Lounge" for a nightcap before bed.

Day 9: Irish Emigration Museum & Guinness Storehouse

Day 9 itinerary.

After breakfast this morning, you will explore Dublin City .

Visit EPIC: The Irish Emigration Museum . Voted, recently, as "Europe's Leading Tourist Attraction", this museum tour tells the story behind the millions of people who fled, or were forced from, Ireland over the past three centuries. Located in Dublin's Docklands.

Also included today is a visit to Christ Church Cathedral . Founded by the Viking King Sitric almost 1000 years ago in 1034. The cathedral crypt is one of the largest in the UK and Ireland, dating back to the 12th Century. Here, in the crypt, you can see the mummified remains of the Cat and the Rat which were found in the cathedral organ, and a rare 14th century copy of the Magna Carta.

Take a trip to Guinness Storehouse . With an address at the world-famous St. James's Gate. Here you will tour the world-renowned brewery and enjoy a perfect complimentary pint of Guinness in the Gravity Bar — located at the top of a glass tower that commands spectacular views of Dublin City .

Return to County Kildare.

Tonight you will overnight & dine in The K Club .

Today, instead of touring Dublin, you may like to consider a leisurely day at The K Club

The Guinness Storehouse

Day 10: departure (dublin), day 10: departure day.

Today marks the end of the Deluxe Castle Tour of Ireland.

After a final great Irish breakfast this morning, there will be three group transfers between 0500 and 1100 to get you to Dublin Airport for your return flight home. The confirmed transfer times will be advised 10 days prior to the tour start date.

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We are still Ireland's best-reviewed tour operator, with 97.3% five-star reviews.

Brenda Hyde

July 2024  •  Deluxe Castles Tour

We just returned home last week from an amazing Deluxe Castle Tour. There are not enough words to describe the beauty of Ireland or our tour guide /driver David. The tour was relaxing, extremely interesting and a chance in a life time experience. Highly recommend My Ireland Tours, David, and the Deluxe Castle Tour. Everyone ask us what was our favorite site on the tour…and our response is that all 22 sites were fascinating and memorable. Highly recommend.

Tony Caudill

My wife and I celebrated our 20th anniversary with the Deluxe Irish Castle Tour. We had an incredible trip! We arrived in Dublin a day early and did our own thing - but it was very easy to meet up with the group at the first hotel the next day. David Breen was our driver/guide - we could not imagine a better guide. He was a wealth of knowledge about Ireland’s history, geography, and culture. And he was just an all around great guy. This was our first visit to Ireland, and this was a great way to see a large part of the country, taking in some amazing natural scenery and some amazing castles along the way. Breakfasts and dinners were included each day - all were excellent, though we did do dinner on our own a couple of evenings just to mix things up and enjoy some “us” time. The lodging was very nice as well. I also need to say that our walking tour of Derry in Northern Ireland with Rodan as our guide was terrific - he was an amazing guide! And we had simply amazing weather all week as well. Lastly, Shannon was very helpful answering our questions about the trip before we left. We would definitely recommend this tour. My Ireland Tour made our first trip to Ireland very memorable - we will look forward to going back someday!

Cheryl Morgan

My girlfriend and I booked the Deluxe Castle Tour. Accommodations were fantastic and we were able to see a LOT of Ireland in 10 days. Our guide Tom Lavin was a wealth of information and his driving skills were impeccable. Probably our only 'complaint' was the amount of time spent on the bus traveling from place to place. We opted out of one days touring to stay in Killarney and enjoy the area for the day. And, of course, the weather. Be prepared for rain daily even during 'summer' in Ireland. We had no idea it would be that wet. Take appropriate clothing and layering no matter the time of year. The Irish people are incredibly friendly, the isle is super clean, and the landscapes are divine.

Angel Piombino

This was by far the best trip experience we have ever had. Our tour guide/driver Tom Lavin was EXCELLENT! He was knowledgeable, entertaining, insightful and sensitive to the needs of the tour group. The Deluxe Castle Tour accommodations exceeded our expectations. The itinerary was a good mix of historic venues and more contemporary locations. We will be recommending this trip to all our friends!

George Golvan

We joined a Deluxe Irish Castle with with our guide/driver Garey Goddard. The tour was well organised and comprehensive. Garey was excellent, very knowledgeable, with terrific insights into every destination we visited. He was also a first class driver and had a dry sense of humour. We also met very good local guides, particularly on our walking tour of Derry City. The Castle accommodation in beautiful manicured estates, was 5 star. This was our first trip to Ireland and we enjoyed the experience very much. A highlight was the visit to historic Kylemore Abbey.

Mike Del Balzo

We just got back from the 10 day Castle Tour. Tom our guide was excellent. Very informative. The hotels and food were amazing and we saw more that we thought we'd ever see. Such a beautiful country. Would highly recommend this tour. The K Club hotel on the last 2 nights was amazing.

susan burns

Absolutely 5 stars, what an all around lovely trip! We were a group of 8 women and we could not have had more fun, there wouldn't have been chronologically possible. Every day was a new adventure and breathtaking view. So much history and knowledge, I just wish I could retain more. We did the deluxe castle tour and frankly I don't want to travel any other way from now on. We barely had to handle our bags and our tour guide Ben was top notch. He was so funny, smart and talented. Great voice and ability to remember lyrics. I might venture to say this was at least among the top 5 trips I have ever taken. ( I do travel a lot so...) The food, lodgings and amenities were phenomenal. I highly recommend this trip to anyone who is inquiring. Thank you all!!!

Jennie Austin

My husband and I had a fantastic time on the 10 day Castle Tour! The group of 24 people was perfect. Ben Sullivan, our tour guide/driver was informative, organized and very entertaining. Local guides, accommodations and food were great. We saw and did more than we could have ever done on our own. It was one of the top tours we’ve ever been on! We love the beautiful country of Ireland and its friendly, people!

Patricia Bird

June 2024  •  Deluxe Castles Tour

My daughter and I were on the 10 day Ireland Castle tour in June and we had a wonderful time. Ben Sullivan was our driving and guide and everyone on the tour was wonderful. We all enjoyed getting to know each other. We loved all the places we stayed and all the history we learned while there. We would definitely tour with My Ireland Tour again and my son is already asking me to take him on the England tour. We would love to go back to Ireland and visit again. It was a great tour for my daughter's first time overseas.

Marla K. Bechtel

I recently took my 88-year-old mother on the My Ireland Tour Deluxe Irish Castles Tour (April 28 - May 7, 2024), and it was a truly wonderful experience. This was my first time on a bus tour, and it exceeded all expectations. The tour was incredibly well-organized, the bus was spacious and comfortable, and we made great new friends along the way. I was initially concerned about my mother making the trip, but our tour guide, John Dennany, was absolutely amazing. He was incredibly kind, considerate, and always went the extra mile to ensure everyone’s comfort. A true Irish gentleman - John even took my mom to tea when she couldn't join a longer walk and helped her up the hill to see The Rock of Cashel - which ended up being her favorite site. John's great sense of humor and fun personality truly made the trip the best it could be, keeping everyone entertained and engaged throughout. His extensive knowledge of Irish history also made the tour exceptional. Highlights included the stunning Cliffs of Moher, the romantic Kylemore Abbey, and there was even a delightful surprise at Lough Eske Castle. We had (mostly) beautiful sunny weather and the drives through miles of gorgeous green scenery were simply breathtaking. So much beauty in one country was unforgettable. The final nights at the incredible K-Club Hotel were a perfect conclusion to the trip. The hotel's stunning grounds and luxurious accommodations, along with its beautiful golf course, added an extra layer of magic. This trip was an absolute joy and a fabulous memory of a perfect mother-daughter adventure. Everything from the accommodations to the food was top-notch. My Ireland Tour provided an unforgettable experience, and I highly recommend this tour to anyone wanting to explore the beauty of Ireland in comfort and style.

Thomas Pinkawa

Ann and I had a wonderful time on our 10 day Deluxe Irish Castle Tour. The trip was very informative and we really got a flavor for Irish culture. I cannot say enough about our guide Sean O'Sullivan. He really turned the trip into one of the best vacations we've ever had. His knowledge of Ireland is amazing. He truly gave a master class on Irish history. He has a great sense of humor and is a genuinely nice person. Our trip was flawless. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!

Just back from My Ireland Tour's 'Deluxe Irish Castles' 10-day tour. The tour was excellent! Our guide, Sean, was so charming and humorous, passionate about sharing his knowledge of Irish history as well as current life, and extremely professional and efficient in managing all details and safety. He effortlessly brought us all together as a family of travellers. The hotels we stayed at were each unique and top-notch in terms of comfort, service and meals. An organized bus tour typically means being on the go every day. My Ireland Tours handled this better than many companies, as we were booked for two nights in every hotel (other than the first night) and our daily starting time was a reasonable 9:00. We were generally back to our hotel by 5:00 and had time to relax before dinner at 6:30. Because of the unique locations of our hotels, we were usually not in walking distance of a village, but the grounds were beautiful and wonderful to explore.

Cathie Hurlburt

May 2024  •  Deluxe Castles Tour

My husband and I just returned from the Deluxe Irish Castle Tour with My Ireland Tour Company. It was fantastic. Our guide, Colm Clarke, is an Irish treasure! So organized, so friendly, so funny, so knowledgeable about Ireland and its history. He also gave us recommended places, restaurants, pubs, to visit in our free time. The hotels we stayed at on this tour were amazing. The dinners were fantastic. We were a small group (24). Everyone got along famously (I think Colm had a lot to do with that. His energy and personality were infectious!) We were fortunate to have sunny weather every day except one. The Cliffs of Moher were stunning. Galway City was great - very lively, very walkable. Loved the visit to Belleek Pottery. Loved the lunch at the Blind Piper Pub during our drive around the Ring of Kerry. I had the Guinness stew. Highly recommend it. The Blarney Woolen Mill near Blarney Castle had an incredible selection of clothing, wools, crystal, all made in Ireland. Enjoyed the visit to the Guinness Storehouse in Dublin. Although touristy, it's kind of a must-see! Loved everything about this trip. The country is beautiful, and the people are incredibly friendly. Hope you get Colm as your guide!

Jerrilynn Applegate

October 2023  •  Deluxe Castles Tour

My Ireland Tour created a magical experience I will never forget! Our guide, Michael, was phenomenal! He spun the tales of Irelands's lore while we drove through spectacular views. We thought we had our money's worth after just 3 days of our 10 day Deluxe Irish Castle tour. Every stop was new and exciting. We wouldn't have known to google most of our favorite adventures - and would've missed them, had we tried to do this on our own. We made new friends and are already planning our next trip.

Meredith Williams

We did the 10-day Deluxe Castle Tour for my boyfriend's 60th birthday in May. It was phenomenal. Our tour guide/driver, Colm, was fantastic! His historical knowledge of everything we saw made all the difference as we visited so many significant sites throughout the country. We would highly recommend this tour and company to anyone considering an Ireland tour; we knew we didn't want to deal with driving on our own, and we wanted something special for this trip. We got exactly that! At every stop, the hotels and local restaurants mentioned that My Ireland Tour was top of the line. The accommodations were top notch, including the many meals that were included in the tour price. I would not hesitate to book your trip with them, but do it fast as it seems they sell out every one of them!

Jennifer Pelletier

Our 10 day Castle Tour was truly amazing! You will not be disappointed. Tom, our tour guide, was fun and knowledgeable. I know that will go on another tour with the hope of having Tom as a guide again.

John Pelletier

My Wife and I took our dream trip to Ireland for our 30th Anniversary and the 10 day castle tour was ourstanding. Tom Lavin our guide was always on top of the Itinerary, genuinely informative, and his driving was smooth and flawless, as the roads in Ireland can be tricky. Food and hotels were on spot. This Itinerary was well planned and gets you to experience a broad view of the country, which was appreciated since we are novice travelers. We made some great friends in our group.

Catherine M Caldwell

My first visit to Ireland, what a beautiful Country to see and learn more of its history. That of my family's fatherland. I had a wonderful time!! To then meet so many nice people on our Tour. Many thanks to the My Ireland Tour Co., its team, after being on their 10-day Deluxe Castle Tour. The 10-day itinerary was so fantastic; which allowed me, along with friends, and everyone on the tour to explore so much of what Ireland, of its beautiful destinations, has to offer a traveler. Ireland, its people, only welcome you with open arms. To hear this phrase as well, Cead Mile Failte, a hundred-thousand welcomes. Our driver, tour guide, Mark made the tour even nicer. Such a gentleman, friendly, with a good sense of humor, and being in his presence a person would then only sense that of his spirit and of his passion for his home, Ireland. Mark gave us all such insight each day of the tour's itinerary. So grateful to learn from his knowledge, sharing of Ireland's history and more. Also, to hear his handsome voice sing, The Fields of Athenry, as he told us more on the history of the famine. I would look to My Ireland Tour in the future, and will continue to brag about my wonderful, fun-filled experience. To then share My Ireland Tour Co. with family and friends. The fine, friendly hospitality extended and that of our accommodations and dining rooms were so luxurious and all the meals so delicious. I extend compliments to all the Chef's, their team, a true culinary experience for all the senses. I cannot say thank you enough. Thank you! A trip, a dream come true, to visit Ireland. I will be back one day.

Julie Meeks

September 2023  •  Deluxe Castles Tour

I just finished the Deluxe Irish Castles tour. What a fabulous trip. It was a wonderful overview of the whole country. Our guide Mark was simply the best. Personable, professional, funny and very, very helpful. He was so passionate and knowledgeable about Irish history that when I came home, I ordered the DVDs and books he'd recommended to learn more. This tour was a perfect taste of all parts of Ireland. Magnificent castles, hotels and food were terrific. My Ireland Tour is so easy and efficient to deal with, I'd love to take another tour with them and I would highly recommend them.

Shannon O'Donnell

My husband and I recently finished the 10-day Deluxe Irish Castles tour. We loved every minute of this tour and that we got to see so much of Ireland in a short time. Our tour guide, Mark, was extremely professional and patient. My Ireland Tours was very easy to book with and attentive to all of the details from start to finish. We are so glad we booked this trip and will definitely get in touch with them again when it comes time for our next trip to Ireland.

Rozanne Hakala

We recently returned from an awesome 10-day Deluxe Irish Castles Tour. Accommodations were top-notch; my favorite was Glenlo Abbey, but all were unique and special in their own way. Our amazing guide, Tom Lavin, took great care of us and attended to all our needs. He gave us just the information we needed to know each day, as we went. We relaxed into that knowing we didn't need to be overwhelmed with all details far in advance. He had a few surprises along the way, was an incredible driver, and offered great bits of history and culture, all with a quick wit and sense of humor. Thanks, Tom! We loved the Ring of Kerry, the visit to Connemara, the tour with Ronan in Derry, the added sheepdogs visit and so much more. It was such a wonderful and enjoyable trip. I would not hesitate to recommend My Ireland Tour for your special visit to Ireland!

Louise Brzuchalski

We just returned from the Deluxe Irish Castles Tour and I would give it 10 stars if I could. The tour exceeded our expectations in every way! Every detail was well planned from the time we arrived until the time we departed. Our guide, Tom Lavin, worked tirelessly to ensure our trip was perfect. Not only is Tom an excellent driver, he is kind, witty, considerate and very knowledgeable about all things Irish. He made our trip thoroughly enjoyable. The accommodations were outstanding. Every hotel was unique and memorable. We were welcomed warmly at each hotel and catered to in every way. Every stop along the way was timed perfectly. We were fortunate to have a fun group of people and made some new friends which made the trip all the more enjoyable. Thank you Tom and My Ireland Tours for an amazing Ireland experience!

We just returned home from the Deluxe Irish Castle Tour, and it was definitely 5+++++stars! It was magical - everything we could have hoped for. I'll just say, on behalf of our group, we are having major Ireland withdrawals. It was such a spectacular tour (thank you My Ireland Tour)- everything from the service, the gourmet food, the 5-star accommodations, the scenery, and visits were just fabulous. From the brilliant tour by Rowan in Derry/Londonderry, the delightful chocolate factory (who knew), the shopping in Galway, the beautiful grounds of Lough Eske (we did a sunrise walk around the grounds), the castles, ancestry old haunts, Dublin fun, the Ring of Kerry, the Cliffs - EVERYDAY WAS SOMETHING SPECIAL! Each hotel was so unique and fabulous. I would recommend this trip be extended at least another day or two to get a chance to enjoy and relax at the resorts. Of course, the weather was very typical for Ireland - we had all 4 seasons in one day! But - Tom had arranged for the sun to be out during the Ring of Kerry and the Cliffs so we got the most gorgeous pictures. The breakfasts were delicious/full Irish. We always had time for a quick bite or nice lunch while on the road, so not to worry. The Blind Piper Pub was much fun and delicious. The gourmet dinners were fabulous only to be topped by the deserts! All of this was due to our spectacular tour guide, Tom Levin. Tom showed us how special Ireland really is. It's their people, the historic places, their music, their culture and history with their beautiful land. We are so grateful to have experienced this land and the tour with Tom as our guide. He took care of everything for us (all done behind the scenes too). He had a few surprises up his sleeve for us during the trip which were extra and really great (fairies, juice and dogs)! He was a professional for sure, a great driver and had a sense of humor too. A really fun bus load of people made our trip very special, and we have great memories and lots of pictures! It was perfect.

Linda Awand

I just returned from the extraordinary 10-day Deluxe Castle Tour. This was my second time touring with My Ireland Tours, and I have already decided to book for a third tour in 2024. From start to finish this tour was a stellar experience! The major reason this tour was such a memorable experience is our tour guide and driver, Tom Lavin. Tom is personable and professional with a quick wit and spot on sense of humor. He is a consummate professional driver, and took extremely good care of us. Tom is a great ambassador for My Ireland Tours. He kept us totally engrossed in Ireland's beautiful landscape and history as we toured the length and breadth of Ireland. I am still in awe at how much Tom can recount of the history and information for each stop we made along the tour. Starting from the North to Derry and then down the West coast to the South, through the Ring of Kerry and back up the East coast to the very special K Club. Our accommodations at Lough Eske Castle, Glenlo Abbey, and Cahernane House, and the K Club were all top notch, with fabulous gourmet food and attentive and professional staff. We also had a great fun group that made the long jaunts on the bus that much more enjoyable. Course you know that means 'Mimi' and the rest of her 'crew'! One of the highlights of this tour was a very enjoyable luncheon at the Blind Piper Pub...fabulous fish and chips and lovely friendly people. Another highlight I cannot fail to mention was Ronan McNamara, our guide in Derry/Londonderry, who shared his expert knowledge of the history of this city. If I could give this tour a hundred stars I would gladly do so. Thanks Tom, you made it a special memory for all of us! A special thank you also to Eric O'Gorman and Keith for making the booking process seamless and easy, and answering all my questions.

jackie mcguire

Russell and I just returned from our 10 day 'Deluxe Castle Tour' with our guide Harry Fischer. The tour was wonderful with the sheep-studded landscape, the break from the August heat (fires in the hearth!) and the historical information. This was a busy tour with not a lot of relaxation time, but we saw so many places which was our goal. Our guide was the epitome of an Irish gentleman. He was highly experienced and intuitive concerning the needs and appropriate adjustments that were suitable for our particular group. The accommodations were outstanding, and the food was wonderful. Our group of 26 was a nice size and mix. We enjoyed everyone's company and felt right at home.

Karen Stephens

My sister-in-law and I just spent 10 awesome days enjoying the Deluxe Irish Castle Tour. Our amazing and I say amazing tour guide was Harry Fisher. His knowledge, his years of expertise, his kindness, humor, and patience was a gift to our tour group. I can only say , My Island Tours, and Harry Fisher made my visit to beautiful Ireland unforgettable. There are just too many high points to even begin to list. Thank you Harry, you are the best. A big thank you to My Island Tours for such great planning. And a special thank you to our wonderful tour group! Until we meet again!

Dawn Hullender

I can't say enough about our Deluxe Castle Tour. Our tour guide, Harry Fisher, was amazing. We learned so much about Ireland in a short time. The accommodations were beautiful. My least favorite was Dunboyne Castle but the food was outstanding and we only spent one night there. The whole team at My Ireland Tour was top notch from Shannon in the planning to Harry our tour guide and driver.. Thank you for sharing Ireland with us.

Barbara Zwilling

August 2023  •  Deluxe Castles Tour

My husband and I just spent 10 wonderful days enjoying the Deluxe Irish Castle tour with Harry Fisher as our guide! My Ireland Tours does a great job of planning the trip and Harry, with 40+ years of experience, added a few special visits to our itinerary. Our group of 26 got along beautifully! Harry's kindness, humor and patience were much appreciated. We dined and stayed at 4 and 5 star hotels, with the stay at Glenlo Abbey and dining in the Pullman Restaurant 'one of the many' highpoints! Ireland's beauty was enjoyed by all. Thank you so much!

Stephen Ryan

July 2023  •  Deluxe Castles Tour

My partner and I did the Deluxe Castles Tour over nine days with Colm Marshall as our driver/guide. The highs included the visit to the Beleek Pottery where we got to see how their pottery is made, our time at Loch Eske Hotel, the visit to Derry, dinner in the Pullman Carriage at the Glenlo Abbey Hotel and Estate, the many new friends that we made and of course the skill and humour of Colm. The few lows were the incessant wet weather that followed us right round Ireland and our small room in the Cahernane Hotel with the Fawlty like staff at breakfast both days. Would we recommend the tour - definitely we lowered the experience and in dry weather it would be brilliant.

Laura Deise

When we decided to make a journey to Ireland, we searched through many websites and landed on My Ireland Tours because of their reputation for great excursions and the sense of family woven into the business. And when we emailed Eric, all of our concerns faded away - our 10-day tour of historic Deluxe Irish Castles was brought to life! Rick and I were celebrating both my 60th birthday and our 15th wedding anniversary and were hoping to see much of Ireland while staying in best-in-class hotels. We were not disappointed! We met our careful and unbelievably skilled tour guide Eamonn Broderick and it was immediately apparent that he was a prolific storyteller and engaged us in many, MANY stories! He was the perfect host for this adventure; he single-handedly kept us all in stitches throughout the journey. The accommodations were all excellent - 4 and 5 stars; each unique in its own way. The hospitality and meals at each location were superb. Meals presented the perfect opportunity to engage with others on our trip. Throughout the days and evenings, we were able to share meals with everyone and had very special moments with each of them. We enjoyed a few meals 'on the road. 'A highlight was lunch at The Blind Piper Pub; since 1865 serving the best fish & chips and beef & Guinness pie (and Guinness Stout)! In addition to the planned itinerary, Eammon scheduled an impromptu visit to Atlantic Sheepdogs in Streedagh, Grange, north of County Sligo (nestled in between the Atlantic Ocean and beneath the tabletop of Benbulben Mountain). The enterprise is run by Martin and Trish Feeney (with three children and Martin's wonderful father and mother who live next to the farm) and has been winning awards since Martin was 11-years old (the youngest ever to win). Martin and “Mol' were so closely choreographed with one another….Mol would do whatever Martin commanded with his whistle! Their exploits were stunning! We stopped for classic photo opportunities along the way and visited towns where we could shop for keepsakes and to simply get a flavor of Irish life. We were most impressed with Kylemore Abbey. Built as a castle in 1868 with a thousand acres of land, the Abbey had so much to discover, we would have liked an entire day to discover its many wonders. We could not leave the Abbey without trying their warm apple pie with custard (highly recommended by Eammon) - oh, what a delight! We even had dinner in authentic carriages from the Orient Express at Glenlo Abbey Hotel & Estate with 138-acres of meticulous, five-star quality! And, of course, our final lodging was the K Club, a five-star estate founded in 1832 with 550-acres of lush property. Everything about this property was spectacular - a genuine treat for our 'family' of twenty-six. Our review is 5-stars because everything that was promised was delivered! We tip our hats to Eric and My Ireland Tours, Eamonn - an excellent ambassador, and 'the family' we came to know and love for a most memorable trip!

Karen Essery

My husband and I would recommend the Deluxe Castle tour to anyone who wants to stay in 4.5 to 5 star accommodations, enjoys having someone do your thinking for you and wants a taste of Ireland in 10 days. We especially enjoyed the guidance of our driver Paddy who offered historic and personal knowledge of the areas we visited. Expect to pack comfortable shoes, sweaters and a raincoat but also a couple of dress outfits ( men, you may want nice slacks and a dress shirt). Do not expect to spend hours on your own shopping. This is a trip to experience history and culture. Given the opportunity by your driver/guide, take advantage of short side trips “ into town', especially to Donegal ( wool shops) and Killarney ( pubs and music). This particular tour was for 26 people allowing us to get to know others on our coach. What wonderful memories.

Donna Lewis

We are back from an amazing 12 day Ireland Deluxe Castle Tour with our family of six and feel like this was a top notch experience. We were treated likely royal quest at each location we visit with accommodations that exceeded my expectations. The tour description was more than was outlined as far as expectations and our guide Eammon was amazing - an amazing story teller, historian, comedian and all around amazing person. My Ireland Tour has a family feel to the experience but also provides a professional experience for travelers of all ages. Our group of 26 had 8 year olds to 70 year olds people alike. Our group became like a large family which only enhanced the experience.

Arthur Fleischmann

June 2023  •  Deluxe Castles Tour

1st time ever doing a bus tour and could only hope they are all like this. Our 10 day castle tour was better than we expected and our tour operator Tony M was the best ever. He taught us so much about Ireland as a whole, we left with a very good understanding of what life was and is today. A++++ experience and hope to do another tour in the future.

Peter & Angela Williams

We had a very enjoyable and memorable tour. Incredible that in the 10 days of the tour (in Ireland), that we had only one day with a light shower and did not need our warm or waterproof clothing! The castles accommodation were all very comfortable and the meals excellent - all contributing to a memorable experience. Our Driver/Tour Guide, Tom, is a BIG asset to My Ireland Tours! He was courteous, knowledgeable, considerate and has a good sense of humour. Timings and baggage requirements were handled with efficiency and his 'personal touch' - with handouts of crunchie bars and other items, were enjoyed by all. Tom was always a safe and considerate driver. Well done and thank you to Tom and My Ireland Tours.

Carole Blakey

We were on the Castles tour in early June. We saw many interesting places and learned so much about Irish history. Our driver, Tony, was a safe and very capable driver. He was also a great raconteur who kept us both informed and entertained. There were some really great local guides too (Cashel, Londonderry, Trim). The hotels were good: large country houses turned into very comfortable hotels…. they are not castles. Sadly the very first one was a disappointment and failed on a number of levels, but the rest were very nice. The meals were also of good quality. This is quite a full-on tour with not a lot of time to relax, however it packed in many places which, if you tried to do as a self drive in the same time, would be difficult to do. Perhaps some of the stops could have been shorter- we felt that the time allotted for shopping after a visit to eg a tweed shop, crystal maker, chocolate maker, was rather excessive- perhaps catering for some clientele more than others. It meant days were long and resulted in arrivals at our hotels barely giving time to shower and change before the early dinner. These are small points. Nonetheless, we thoroughly enjoyed our trip. All other group members were from US and were a great bunch with whom we spent many enjoyable hours.

Suzette Ferry

I wish that I could give this tour 10 stars! We just came back two weeks ago from the 10 day Irish Castle Tour. There were six of us travelling together. From the first time I reached Shannon on the phone all the way to the moment we were dropped off at the airport to go home, everything was amazing!! Our tour guide Tom Lavin, was amazing! It was like he was hand-picked for us! He is not only knowledgeable, he was thorough and his driving skills are possibly unmatched!! I don't know how he is able to drive that big bus on the narrow roads in Ireland while explaining to us in full detail everything we were looking at, the history behind it, the year it happened and so on and never miss a beat and never even stopped short!! His humor was so appreciated and his ability to take a joke was refreshing! THANK YOU FOR HELPING MAKE MY 50th BIRTHDAY TOP BUCKET LIST ITEM THE TRIP OF A LIFETIME TOM LAVIN!! YOU ROCK!!!! The Castles that we stayed in were absolutely beautiful! The staff were so accommodating and pleasant everywhere we went. The rooms were beautiful! The grounds were impeccable! My favorite castle was in Donegal, Lough Eske Castle. Their greeting for us was so appreciated. Our room was a master suite like I've never seen before! The staff was so very accommodating and appreciative. The sites that we saw, the beauty in this country was more mesmerizing than I could have imagined. I would HIGHLY recommend My Ireland Tour to anyone that plans to travel to Ireland and wants to see all the beauty and hear all the stories of both the past and present. I also want to thank Roland, our tour guide in Derry. He was also very knowledgeable and very funny! These guys have definitely done their homework in their beautiful country!! A few people here at home asked me what my favorite part about Ireland was and I said 'THE PEOPLE' They were all so friendly and so kind! You know you made a good vacation choice when the people that live there thank you for coming! To all of you that helped make our stay perfect... WE THANK YOU!!!

Betty Shepherd

We just came back from the deluxe castle tour and can share this was one of the best vacations we have had! Accommodations were beautiful. The sites we were able to see and activities involved were absolutely wonderful and of course, we couldn't have requested a better host than Tom Lavin! Was truly a wonderful experience

This company is absolutely fantastic! From booking, needing to reschedule due to COVID, travel and everything in-between they made this process smooth and easy. The food was wonderful, the sights you get to see are beautiful and everything is taken care of for you regarding admission etc. I did the 10 day luxury tour of castles with my fiance and it was money well spent! Our group of 14 was so wonderful and our driver Colm was friendly, personable, knowledgeable, and flexible when it came to certain things in the tour! The only reason it got 4* was I felt certain sites we didn't get enough time to stay at and explore, sometimes only an hour which seems like a lot but it flies by when you're sight seeing. And you're on the bus a lot, however that's understandable with the sheer amount of land they need to cover each day to show you what Ireland has to offer. They break up the time on the bus with breaks VERY well, and stop with some amazing sights on the side of the road. All and all the quality for money was astounding and I'd recommend this company to everyone!!

Linda W. Fisher

Our Tour Guide, Tom, took excellent care of our group. Our coach was comfortable, clean, and very nice. We took the Deluxe Castle Tour. Never a dull moment. The group was small (26 people), giving us time to get to know everyone in our group. Tom was very entertaining with lots of history and current knowledge of Ireland. Our Castle hotels were wonderful and the food was great. The day trips were well planned, interesting and beautiful. I would travel with My Ireland again in a heartbeat.

Gregory Engel

May 2023  •  Deluxe Castles Tour

My wife and I would rate the My Ireland Tour 10-day Deluxe Castle Tour a 5-star tour from booking to departure. Communications from owner Eric during booking and pre-planning were always prompt and thorough. Our driver/guide Tom was always pleasant, helpful, responsive, passionate, funny and knowledgeable while keeping the tour group safe, on time and engaged from the time he picked us up at the airport to our last early morning getting dropped off. He shared many stories with us as well as some famous Irish Crisps and Seaweed snacks. Many of the group continued purchasing Irish Crisps, none were seen purchasing the Seaweed. The castle/hotel rooms were luxurious, clean and comfortable with all the amenities you'd expect. Views from our rooms at 3 of the 5 hotels were average at best while 2 of the 5 were spectacular. This was expected with tour groups and didn't matter as we spent little time in our rooms. The castle/hotel meals were excellent. We had plenty of time for the full Irish breakfast experience each morning with continental buffets or ordering hot items off menus. The dinners were all high quality Prix Fix menus with several options for starters, main course and dessert. Depending on the hotel, they can last from 1.5-2.5 hours and while most dressed casual, a sport coat and dress would also be appropriate. The Pullman Restaurant at The Glen Abbey was a special highlight that should not be missed. We will say that after so many of these meals, the group was getting restless and decided to cancel the group dinner and head into Kerry for Pizza/Beer/Wine. There were also several opportunities for a quick pub lunch and a Guinness during our tour. You will come away gaining about 10 lbs! WiFi was readily available on the bus, in hotels, at most tour sites, shops and restaurants. Charging electronics was easy with USB ports on the bus and hotel rooms. This was a jam packed tour with many outstanding historical and geographic sites and we would not change a thing. We will definitely consider My Ireland Tours for future family vacations.

Irene Radda

Our recent tour, the Deluxe Castle Tour of Ireland, was wonderful and exceeded expectations. Our guide/bus driver, Tony McGoey, was not only competent in explaining the sights and quite a bit of Irish history, but also a huge part of the enjoyment, with his anecdotes, his singing, and his personal touch in making everyone feel, for those 10 days, like part of a happy family. Thank you Tony, and My Ireland tours for a great experience!

It's been a week since i returned home from the Deluxe Castles Tour. My driver guide George was AMAZING. He was friendly, knowledgeable and worked around the clock to ensure our group's satisfaction. The Castle hotels we stayed at were immaculate. The food was delicious and like works of art on a plate. Ireland is so beautiful, pictures do not do it justice, you need to go experience it for yourself. I highly recommend My Ireland Tours and i hope to return again for the Scotland/Ireland tour.

William Mahoney

October 2022  •  Deluxe Castles Tour

Our family group of 6 had a wonderful time on the 10-day Deluxe Irish Castles tour with a group of 24 people. Michael, our driver/guide, was courteous, on time, and very knowledgable about the history of Ireland and the sites we visited. The accommodations were luxurious, and the food was delicious. I highly recommend My Ireland Tours.

Joan Sienkiewicz

Great tour from our driver/guide (Michael), to accommodations to sights seen and experienced. Loved the accommodations (Deluxe Castle Tour), great food, and comfortable bus with onboard wifi and power. Some adaptability such as adding sheep farm/ dog herding demo was a wonderful add. Only 'complaint' (not really :-) )would be wanting more time as there was so much to experience in our time. Got a thorough view of so many parts of the country. Much greater appreciate for the raw beauty that is so much or Ireland. Also, learned more of the history including the mythology that predated Christian times. Highly recommend!

Marguerita Riggall

September 2022  •  Deluxe Castles Tour

We enjoyed our 10-day Deluxe Irish Castle tour immensely! we had a great overview of the island and the spectacular scenery, the hotels were terrific, and the coach was very comfortable. We had elaborate meals every night with delicious food. Above all , George Connolly, our guide, is a jewel. He is well-informed, courteous, thoughtful and extremely kind. He got us everywhere on time, and displayed a wonderful sense of humor along the way. George is outstanding. We recommend the tour and the My Ireland group as first-rate. The only place which was somewhat disappointing was Dunboyne Castle, our first stop, which was very comfortable, but not exceptional like the other hotels. Glenlo Abbey and The K club are extraordinary and 5-star establishments.

Ken Dickerson

We loved the 10-day deluxe Irish Castles tour. There are a number of factors why this tour is a wonderful tour for anyone who wants to enjoy the beauty and history of Ireland in comfort and style. First, the tour includes so much more than similar length tours at the same or higher price point. We considered and researched numerous other options and none really seemed to come close. It is simply an excellent value for the level of amenities, quality and luxury provided. Second, the hotels, all 4 or 5-star, are each unique and ever so comfortable. In particular we loved Lough Eske Castle, Glenlo Abbey hotel, Cahernane House and the of course The K-Club (the grand finale). These hotels are certainly among the top hotels in all of Ireland. Third, the food on the tour was amazing with a full Irish breakfast and a variety of upscale choices available each morning, and a near gourmet 3-course dinner each night. The other tours we looked at were nowhere near the number of meals included, nor the quality. Last, our tour bus driver, George, was absolutely fantastic. Friendly, ever so knowledgeable, and a student of history, he engaged with us all along the way. With George as our guide, we were able to make the most of each day and learn all about Irish history from the neolithic period to the present day. George made a great tour even better. We will recommend My Ireland Tours, and this tour in particular, to all of our friends!

Ashley Boedges

We were on the Deluxe Castle tour in June 2022. This was hands down the best trip I have ever been on. Our tour guide Tom L. was the absolute best, everyday he gave us history about the different areas we were in and added little stops of his own along the way. He even gave everyone a map of Ireland and outlined the route we took on our tour. The accommodations were amazing, from the cleanliness of the rooms to the friendliness of the staff, I had zero complaints. I was very impressed with how well everything was planned out, we were able to see some much of the county on our 10 day tour and even had several opportunities to explore on our own. The tour was so lovely, I honestly didn't want to leave and would have flown my kids over and stayed in Ireland forever if my husband would have let me! We will definitely visit Ireland again and will be using My Ireland Tour for another incredible experience!

Sandy Gulotta

Our Ten Day Castle Tour was above and beyond wonderful!!! What an amazing Tour company!! We didn't have to worry about ANYTHING! From the beginning with our driver/guide, Pat Pendergast picking us up at the airport and accompanying and guiding us so pleasantly through every Castle, every meal , and every tour to taking us back to the airport at the end, no convenience was overlooked! Our bags were handled from the bus to our room and back with every single move. The castles were magnificent in grandeur as well as well appointed. The meal choices were outstanding. The tours were so encompassing. We learned so very much about the beautiful country of Ireland. When booking a tour in another country, going only by the website and reviews, I feel we struck gold!!! I would HIGHLY recommend My Ireland Tours !! I can't say enough good things about them.

Myrna Torrie

We thoroughly enjoyed our Deluxe Castles tour. There were only 15 of us so it was great having a small group. Everyone was very friendly and very nice. Pat our tour guide/bus driver was FABULOUS. Extremely knowledgeable, helpful and just great overall. The Tour was great. With just a little rain at the beginning. The accommodations were over the top. Would definitely recommend MIT.

Charles R. Hughes

July 2022  •  Deluxe Castles Tour

Hello, we were on the Deluxe Irish Castle Tour starting on June 12th. Due to our flight we had to meet our group at Dunmore Castle. From moment one we were impressed and in awe of the accommodations on our trip. Our driver/guide was Garey Goddard. He was also one of the highlights of the trip. The coach on our tour was very clean and comfortable and Garey maneuvered it like it was nothing. His sense of humor and knowledge of the sites and local areas was top notch. He would tell us the times of stops on the days itinerary and we would arrive within minutes of the time stated. Each day's accommodation was more impressive than the last. The dinners in the evenings where first class along with breakfasts in the mornings. Everything about the tour was amazing. We will be reliving our trip with anyone who will listen to us. It was our first time in Ireland, and we definitely want to return. We will book with My Ireland Tours for sure. We will also see which tours Garey is on and try to tour with him again. Thank you putting together an amazing tour.

Brad Niewierowski

June 2022  •  Deluxe Castles Tour

We were extremely happy with the experience we had on our first visit to Ireland through My Ireland Tour in May/June. The 10-day Deluxe Irish Castles Tour had a great blend of attractions, culture, history and fun that left us not wanting to leave come the last day of our visit. We made the trip in celebration of our 25th anniversary and Eric and Shannon did a great job in answering all of our early questions and making the booking as seamless as possible. They must have also passed on our celebration information to all the hotels where we stayed as there was a congratulatory letter and treat awaiting us in our rooms upon arriving at each new location. It was a nice gesture by the tour company and employees for going above and beyond to make our trip special and memorable! Everything was wonderful, from the accommodations, to the tour sites and smaller excursions, and even the comfort of the bus, which also offered the conveniences of Wi-fi and a cooler. What probably made the actual tour great though was having a quality guide and driver, ours being Tom Lavin. Not only was he excellent on the driving, but he offered so much insight, history and information along the way, in addition to sharing personal stories that helped paint a picture of actual cultural life, that it really helped you feel immersed in the experience of Ireland beyond the just the awesome sights. You could tell that he genuinely cared about ensuring that all of the guests felt like they got the most out of the experience, which we definitely felt like we did. Not only was he an excellent representative of his country, but also just a genuine, likeable guy that you would hope to meet again some day. Overall, we would highly recommend My Ireland Tour for anyone planning a visit to this beautiful country as their team was top notch from start to finish. We enjoyed it so much that it has left us with continued discussions about a return visit! Thank you all for a great experience!

Laura Wainscott

We chose the Deluxe Irish Castles tour for May 29-June 7, 2022. We had a wonderful driver/guide for our tour, Tom, who was calm, funny, informative and always looking out for our group. We had planned this tour pre-covid, and due to Covid we had to reschedule it twice, so it was a long time coming and did NOT disappoint. Weather was great for the most part, hotels were amazing, rooms were comfortable and beautifully appointed. Dinners were 3 course and the food choices were varied and delicious and what you would expect from 4 and 5 star hotels. Our bus was comfortable and had free wifi which worked quite well. The views of the Irish countryside were breathtaking thru the large windows. Tom treated us to a couple of off the beaten path attractions that we all enjoyed. Tips to keep in mind: there is storage space above your seat on the bus but it is very narrow, dinners run a little late, and trust the “place your bags out in the hall' process. My Ireland Tours knows what they are doing and they do a great job. It's was worth every Penny! Thank you to Tom and all the folks at My Ireland Tours for making this trip a dream come true.

In April 2022, I was fortunate enough to visit Ireland by joining My Ireland Tours on the 10-day Deluxe Irish Castle Tour. What a beautiful country and amazing people. This was my first group tour, and I was pleasantly surprised, the group was so fun and very engaged. Our guide/driver was Austin Mc Ardle, he was highly informative and comical. I could not have asked for a better tour guide. Our castle stays were incredible, it would have made a tremendous difference if our guide stayed overnight with the group. This could have prevented a few hiccups within the hotels. The dinners were amazing and did not disappoint. Every stop was carefully planned and gave us ample time to tour and shop. My favorite stop was at a sheep farm, we observed a farmer and his use of sheep dogs. There were numerous stops throughout the country, and cultural experiences that I will remember for a lifetime. Thank you My Ireland Tours!

I am so excited to write this review for the Deluxe 10-day Irish Castle Tour with My Ireland Tours. This was a wonderful experience. I had the pleasure of having Mr. Austin Mc Ardle as my driver/tour guide, he was informative and experienced. My group consisted of twenty-four individuals, Austin brought our group together, and by the end of the tour, we were family. My Ireland Tours went beyond my expectations, the itinerary was carefully planned and well balanced. My only suggestion would be to have the guide stay overnight at the same castles the group stays in. It would assist with a few bugs that had to be worked out. This was my first trip to Ireland and My Ireland Tours made it so special, we were able to observe a sheep farmer, an Irish family crystal factory, a wool factory, and a handmade pottery factory. I must say, visiting these local businesses was my favorite part of the tour. I would highly recommend My Ireland Tours to my friends and family. Ireland was absolutely beautiful, and the people were charming. Brenda Damp

May 2022  •  Deluxe Castles Tour

I was on the 10 day Deluxe Castle Tour in May, 2022. Overall I was very satisfied with the tour. Our driver guide (Tony) was professional, friendly, helpful, and informative. There is a lot of riding on this tour, but despite suffering from a recent back injury I found the seats to be very comfortable, and there were great views out the windows. The 'castle' hotels we stayed in were wonderful--and for me, a highlight of this tour were the luxury accommodations. This was a very 'busy' tour. If you are interested in anything you see listed in the itinerary you may want to contact 'My Ireland Tour' in advance to find out how much time will be spent there, for in some places less than an hour is allocated. There is a bit of walking and stairs at some of the sites--I am a 'senior' and managed these easily. I do not recommend this particular tour for children. Also good to know--communication with the company prior to the tour was fantastic. We'd originally booked this just before Covid shut everything down, and ended up having to change our tour date 4 times before we were able to finally take the tour. During all of this time the company kept us informed of the 'covid situation', and any questions we had prior to the tour were quickly answered.

Kent Anderson

My wife and I had a terrific time on our first trip to Ireland. With several tour companies to choose from, we were extremely happy with My Ireland Tour (Deluxe Irish Castle Tour), who provided great communication and treated us with courtesy and professionalism from start to finish. We were very pleased with our experienced tour guide and coach driver, Mr. McArdle, who shared a wealth of knowledge of Ireland's interesting history and culture--he struck the perfect balance in sharing education, humor, personal insights and stories. He tirelessly made sure we were all taken care of and had a memorable experience. The hotel accommodations exceeded expectations and the food was first class. With only (10) days in the tour, I felt we were given an excellent overview of the country and culture along with many interesting stops while still having time to explore on our own. I highly recommend this trip to anyone who has Ireland on the bucket list!

Angela Breen

Our 10 day Deluxe Irish Castle Tour was a wonderful introduction to Ireland's beautiful scenery, culture, and friendly people. We had a terrific tour guide, Austin McCardle, who helped us understand the complicated history of Ireland but also regaled us with humorous stories of everyday life. There was a nice mix of travel, free time to explore on our own, scaling old ruins, learning about weaving and crystal making, elegant accommodations, and delicious food. We felt well taken care of from start to finish.

Catherine McCabe

Such a great trip! We did the Deluxe Castles tour and it exceeded our expectations. The itinerary and pacing were perfect. Our accommodations--both the coach and the lodging, were top-notch and the dinners (pre-selected menus with several choices for appetizer, main course and dessert) were delicious and beautiful. We learned SO MUCH about Ireland's political, cultural and religious history. Our guide and driver was Austin McArdle and he was a wealth of information. He was organized, professional and shared a few stories of his upbringing that offered a little more context to what we were learning. A few of us especially appreciated his help with questions about covid testing locations. He volunteered to do a little homework so we could coordinate our test with the tour itinerary. It was just a delightful, well-organized experience from start to finish.

Jodi Vicario

Our Deluxe Castle Tour was absolutely wonderful. The accommodations were outstanding, the food was delicious, the pace was perfect, and the bus driver/tour guide Austin Mc Ardle made the trip memorable. The size of the group was great; we had room to spread out on the bus. I highly recommend this tour company and the 10 Day tour..

Martha Whitmore

October 2019  •  Deluxe Castles Tour

Great trip! We did the Deluxe Castle tour. Everything was as advertised. Our driver/guide was Calm - absolutely fantastic. He arranged some additional demonstrations - crystal making, weaving, and Conamara marble. Our group was friendly and congenial. We highly recommend My Ireland and the Deluxe Castle tour.

David Darby

September 2019  •  Deluxe Castles Tour

We just returned from a 10 day Deluxe Castle Tour and had an absolute fantastic trip. Working with Martina prior to the trip was really nice as she was quick to respond to our questions. Our tour director/driver, Nigel really made the trip a very special and memorable one for all of us as he was very knowledgeable, informative, responsible, and he made us laugh quite a bit with his humor (and he even sang a few lines of songs for us which was a good touch). Nigel was very accommodating for any special requests. According to him, he even arranged for the good weather we experienced, or so he said. Our group was amazing as we had 26 total people which is a very good and manageable size. Many new friendships were made and the group exchanged email addresses, took a group picture with our driver and many new phone numbers are now in my phone so we can stay in touch. We quickly all became very comfortable with each other which made for a fantastic tour. Ireland is such an amazing country and the Irish people were very friendly; the sites and places we toured were beautiful, wonderful, and educational. The other tour guides at some of the stops were so informative and obviously wanted to share their love for Ireland. The accommodations and food were excellent. This really was the perfect 1st trip to Ireland for us and we really have a big thanks for Nigel for making the trip so special.

Aldo Columbano

My wife and I, along with another couple with whom we are close friends, had the pleasure of enjoying the Deluxe Castle 10 day tour beginning August 4, 2019. Let me say the accommodations, comprised of 5 castles/hotels were top notch, as was the delectable food we enjoyed at each venue. One venue was better than the next, and they were ALL excellent. We stayed two nights at each venue, with the exception of the first, at which we stayed one night. Our tour guide/driver, Tom Lavin, was excellent. He was accommodating, informative and humorous, and provided much insight about Ireland and its people. Tom's driving was amazing, as he navigated many rural roads and quaint towns expertly. The coach bus was quite comfortable and provided Wi-Fi and charging stations for our cell phones. The tour itself was incredible as we left Dublin, headed north to Northern Ireland, then to NW Ireland, and then south along the east coast, down to Kerry/Killarney, then west and northwest back to Dublin. We enjoyed so many attractions along the way, and loved the beautiful and scenic Irish countryside and its quaint towns, including Donegal, Westport, Galway and Killarney. Dublin was amazing, and we actually tacked on a few days to enjoy Dublin a bit longer. The Irish people we met were super friendly and just a joy. This was a truly memorable trip. I would highly recommend it to anyone wishing to see as much of a beautiful country as one can see within a 10 day period of time. Excellent!!!

Sharon Loucks

June 2019  •  Deluxe Castles Tour

The 10-day Deluxe Castles Tour is the trip of a lifetime. We stayed at five luxury castles/hotels. Each one was rich with history and beauty. We loved swimming in the indoor pool, riding bikes and walking trails around gorgeous lakes. We also visited many of the historic sites in Ireland such has Derry, Kylemore Abbey, the Cliffs of Moher and Trinity College. Our tour guide Michael Coleman, a true Irishman, made the historical and cultural significance of the Irish people clear. Michael welcomed us to Ireland with consideration for each person's interests and wellbeing.

Lynsee Evans

My friend and I did the 10 day deluxe Irish castle tour in May 2019. We chose My Ireland Tour due to the glowing reviews and the itinerary that seemed perfect for everything we wanted to experience on our trip. They did not disappoint! Booking and payment was easy, excellent communication, we never felt in the dark during the planning process. To be safe we arrived in Dublin the day before our tour started and met up with our driver/guide Mark back at the airport on the first day of the tour. I cannot say enough wonderful things about Mark! He worked so hard to make sure the entire trip went as smoothly as possible. He was full of information, tips, and even has a lovely singing voice! The group of 26 ,on a 34 seat bus, was the perfect size. Enough diversity to make the trip interesting without ever feeling crammed or lost in the crowd. Being able to sit back, relax, and enjoy the view without the stress of driving was amazing. The accommodations were all top notch and the food was to die for. Baggage service between the bus and the hotel rooms was a treat. ,Boy did we miss that when we were back on our own in Dublin after the tour!, If you are going to Ireland ,especially for the first time, and want to make the absolute most of your time, book with My Ireland Tours!!

Yong-Fong Lee

We highly recommend My Ireland Tour for anyone who wants to visit Ireland. My wife and I joined the 10-day Deluxe Irish Castles Tour during June 2-11, 2019. It was a wonderful experience for us to get to know about Ireland: history, geography, culture, food, and people. Our tour director Tom was excellent. He was passionate in sharing various things about Ireland. We had 21 members in our group, and our fellow travelers were wonderful. They helped make our Ireland tour more enjoyable. One thing we did not have control over, was the weather. We had rain nearly everyday. But it did not rain the entire day. Instead, the weather could change quickly from sunny to cloudy to rainy, and then back to cloudy and maybe sunny in sequence. We would think the weather we experienced to be Irish too.

Jonathan Snoots

My wife and I just returned from the Deluxe Irish Castle Tour. We were celebrating our anniversary. Our experience exceeded our expectations. Thanks to our driver, Tom, who did a fantastic job driving and sharing about the Irish culture and history. We highly recommend this tour group. Good work and thanks again for an amazing time.

Rhonda Rine

October 2018  •  Deluxe Castles Tour

I went on the 10 Day Deluxe Castle Tour with my son and we had a very memorable trip. It was our first time in Ireland and so we decided to take a tour so that we wouldn't miss any history in the places that we visited and we wanted to get the most out of our days there. Our tour guide Joe was beyond wonderful. He was very knowledgeable and we learned a lot about Ireland and it's history. My only negative comment would be that while the places that we stayed were all top notch and beautiful, almost all of them were a little too out of the way in terms of being able to walk into any towns and check out the local life. I would do it again in a heartbeat.

Paul Frederick

September 2018  •  Deluxe Castles Tour

TONY was Fantastic........ My wife and I completed the Deluxe Castle tour in September of 18. What made this 5-stars was the dedication, professionalism and knowledge of our tour director/driver Tony. The man is full of stories(some true, about the country and areas we visited. He guided us well, we saw much and enjoyed our time in Ireland. I felt we got a great sense of the country we visited. I liked the idea that we stayed two nights in all of our 'Castles'. Plus we had all breakfasts and dinners provided making for an easier vacation. All we needed to do was get on the bus to see the next area of Ireland. We left the driving to Tony. I highly recommend this company and if one is fortunate enough to have Tony, you are indeed in for a fine 'Irish' experience.

Lisa Endres

My sister and I just returned 2 days ago from Ireland after joining your Deluxe Castles Tour, and adding a couple days at the end to see more of Dublin. It was the first time in Ireland for each of us. We were very much impressed with all the aspects of the Castles Tour. The accommodations, food, and daily excursions were very nice, the staff were always helpful, and the service by everyone was incredible. I have to report that your country is very beautiful! Especially for me remembering the beauty of the Ring of Kerry drive, and our time at Connemara, the views out over Ballynahinch Castle grounds, and all of the mountains.

Jill Whitman

Two of my friends and I went on the Deluxe Castle Tour in August of 2018. It was a once-in-a-lifetime trip and we had a fantastic time. Our driver was George and he was incredibly knowledgeable about all things Ireland! I would definitely recommend My Ireland Tours!!

Maggie Chris

July 2018  •  Deluxe Castles Tour

This tour company is absolutely amazing and I would give it more than 5-stars if I could! We booked the Deluxe Castle Tour for our honeymoon and we could not have asked for a better experience!!! Martina did a fantastic job helping us decide which tour would meet our sightseeing criteria, and she helped us figure out what to pack and responded quickly to our questions via email.

Sean Daugherty

June 2018  •  Deluxe Castles Tour

This Deluxe Castle Tour was phenomenal. The staff and tour guide were beyond excellent and my wife and I enjoyed the trip very much. If you get the chance to tour Ireland, I would highly recommend this company and this particular tour. It was first class! Thank you Tony and Martina for making our 30th anniversary trip one to remember.

Susan Ouellet

February 2018  •  Deluxe Castles Tour

We absolutely can't say enough about our My Ireland Deluxe Castle Tour. We are telling all our friends...do this...you will NOT regret it. Enda, our driver/tour guide was absolutely amazing...to the point that we miss hearing his voice every day. He was full of wonderful information and insight about what we were seeing and the people. All the other guides we met along the way were also extremely knowledgeable. The hotels were gorgeously stunning to stay in and we were treated as royalty by much of the staff at each hotel. Despite some days with poor weather, we were able to keep smiling and keep seeing the many highlights that were on our bucket list. We even got engaged on the Cliffs of Moher...and all our tour-mates and Enda made that joyous occasion even more so. We would absolutely recommend and take another tour with My Ireland Tour...and would absolutely request Enda as our guide.

Tonjua Donnelly

October 2017  •  Deluxe Castles Tour

Job well done! to my husband who set up the trip and to My Ireland Tour for being a great host to the Emerald Island. We had a fantastic time and met some wonderful people. Plus, our tour guide/bus driver Edna Sheehan was just amazing. We did the Deluxe Irish Castle Tour and went around a good portion of the island and saw a lot of history. Our accommodations at each location had very nice rooms, excellent food and wonderful staff members. We took our time in the mornings to take leisure walks to explore the grounds and the many wonderful sites to see. During the day we did our exploring with Edna to all Ireland's amazing sites and history. At night we enjoyed a wonderful dinner with new friends. Just a time to remember for a lifetime. Can't say enough wonderful things about Ireland, My Ireland Tour and Enda Sheehan!

Michael Gaumer

September 2017  •  Deluxe Castles Tour

Absolutely AMAZING!!!! My son and I went on the Deluxe Castle Tour and everything far exceeded our hopes and expectations , our driver / guide, Brian O'Rourke was fantastic , he provided very interesting information along the way and worked very hard to make our trip incredible . All of the lodging was first class and the meals were outstanding , we visited some of the most beautiful country I have ever seen , the Hill of Tara , Cliffs of Moher and the rest of the Ring of Kerry , simply breathtaking pictures do not even begin to do it justice. The historic sites : the walled city of Derry , Kylemore Abbey , the Rock of Cashel , Trinity College , Christchurch Cathedral and the Blarney Castle were outstanding , so much history . Our schedule had enough flexible time for individuals in our group to do their own sight seeing , I enjoyed our time in the Guinness Storehouse . I would highly recommend My Ireland Tour to anyone interested in visiting Ireland , I am anxiously waiting to return with the rest of my family so that they can have the same experience . I am looking forward to traveling with My Ireland Tours again , in the near future . Thank you Kristel and My Ireland Tours for giving my son and I memories that will last a lifetime :-,

Kristin Garro

My mother and I had a fantastic time on the Deluxe Castle Tour with My Ireland Tours. The company is based locally in Ireland; the tour group was just 20 people; the bus was spacious and comfortable; and most importantly, our guide ,Brian, was fantastic! Staying at the castles was fun and one of our favorites moments of the trip was pulling up to Lough Eske Castle where the staff members greeted us out front lined up like the scenes Downton Abbey! The tour stops were all interesting and worthwhile, but two of the best stops were unplanned places Brian added once he got to know the group ,Triona Tweed shop in Donegal and Celtic Crystal near Galway., Our tour group had a range of people: married couples and single travelers; a teenager and some senior citizens; Americans and Brits, etc. We were a mother/adult daughter duo and it was a great fit for us. Go to Ireland! You'll love it!

Holliday Harrigan

August 2017  •  Deluxe Castles Tour

Fantastic experience! My husband and I went on the 10-Day Deluxe Castle tour in mid-July and it was perfect. Our main concern was what the group dynamic would be - a bunch of strangers together on a bus for 9 days?? It ended up being great! Our entire group was 12 people; many of them told us of previous tours they had gone on with other popular companies where they were part of 50+ people, so there were two buses full of tourists getting on and off the bus at every site; sounds like mayhem and pretty impersonal. All of us were from the US, of all walks of life, with all different interests and experiences, but we were all eager to explore and see everything we could while in Ireland. We all had two seats to ourselves on the bus, so we could spread out as we pleased. It also allowed us to eat most breakfasts and dinners together which was a great bonding time. Don't even get me started on our bus driver, the wonderful Brian. He was so kind and eager to let us do as much as we could.

Mike Curtis

July 2017  •  Deluxe Castles Tour

The 'BEST' that we could hoped for! My wife and I were celebrating our 30th anniversary during the Deluxe Castle Tour. The tours, accommodations, the food, and our tour guide Tom were outstanding! Every day was a new treat with the different tours and accommodations. Only having 26 people on the tour was perfect size, plenty of room to spread out on the bus. We made friends for life and memories we will cherish forever.

TheSymphony06

June 2017  •  Deluxe Castles Tour

We thoroughly enjoyed our Deluxe Castle Tour! Every detail was met. Kristel, in the office did a great job in planning and attending to the details of our trip and accommodations. Every place we stayed was beautiful. The places we visited on the tour were interesting and fun. Tony our tour guide is simply the best! He was very informative and has a very nice singing voice! What a treat it was to learn from and travel with him. If you have a chance to travel with Tony, take it! Since this was our 40th anniversary celebration, extra special touches were added. This was truly the trip of a lifetime. We highly recommend using My Ireland Tour when traveling to Ireland. It really is the best way to go. You will be pleased.

November 2016  •  Deluxe Castles Tour

We went on the luxury castle tour and got a very good, broad sense of Ireland. The tour went into Northern Ireland and then south in a general loop of the island back into Dublin. At some stops we had local guides who were fantastic. More of that could be good, but we feel like we got what we paid for. Some hotels were definitely superior to others. The dinners at the great hotels were great but the dinners at the attractive but mediocre hotels were clearly on a 'package' level and midrange quality which was our biggest disappointment. It would suit me if they moved dinners to 7PM instead of 7:00 and 8:00.

Marla K Bechtel

Melissa Hibbard

I can't say enough good things about the Deluxe Irish Castle Tour. It was so well organized. Our tour guide, Garey G. was professional, timely, and very knowledgeable. The bus was clean and comfortable and the sounds system were pleasant. The accommodations were superb and the food was excellent. All the destinations were interesting and well-timed. The daily schedule was full and while I wish there had been a bit more downtime, I don't see how they could have planned it any better. Leading up to the trip, all of my emails were answered in a timely matter with the appropriate answers. It was truly memorable and I'm already planning my next tour with them!

Joan Collins

31 May 2024  •  Deluxe Castles Tour

Amy Cournoye

08 May 2024  •  Deluxe Castles Tour

My husband and I just returned from the 10 day Deluxe Castle tour last week. This was our first bus tour so we weren't really sure what to expect, I can honestly say it was AMAZING!! The hotels were beautiful, all the stops we made (which we didn't have to drive to), the breathtaking scenery, and to top it off the BEST tour guide...Eamonn Broderick! His knowledge of Irish history was incredible, his light and fun attitude, his singing and jokes kept us engaged during the drive. It was like he was part of the tour group, not just our guide. Thank you to Shannon as well for making the booking process so easy and keeping us well informed leading up to the trip. We would definitely recommend My Ireland Tours , and maybe someday we will be back again

Susan Confrancisco

22 July 2023  •  Deluxe Castles Tour

Just returned from the Deluxe Castle tour - and DELUXE it was! One hotel nicer than the next (Eske was my favorite)! The food was amazing every night but dinner on the Pullman car from the real Orient Express..that was a once in a lifetime experience. Our tour guide was phenomenal- Paddy was entertaining and thoughtful, he went above and beyond. The group of 26 was aged from 8 years to early 70s, and everyone enjoyed the tour. This trip has significantly raised the bar for our future vacations to compare to, but I don't think any other vacation will beat it!

Mary Thurston

21 July 2023  •  Deluxe Castles Tour

My wife and I recently returned from our 10 Day Deluxe Irish Castle tour and it was amazing and exhausting all at the same time. Our driver/tour guide Paddy Keenahan was very knowledgeable and a fantastic driver. The hotels, food and sites were everything we thought they would be. I highly recommend My Ireland Tours.

Shannon Paasch

15 July 2023  •  Deluxe Castles Tour

We recently returned from the 10 day Deluxe Castle tour to celebrate our daughter's 10th birthday. This trip was absolutely amazing! Our tour guide, Paddy, was wonderful and very informative. The accommodations and food were fantastic as well! We very much enjoyed all the sights and experiences we had during the trip. I cannot recommend My Ireland Tour enough! We only wish the trip had been longer so we could have spent more time exploring and learning all we could.

Jennie Applegate Carter

18 October 2022  •  Deluxe Castles Tour

LOVED our visit to Ireland. Our guide Michael went above and beyond to make sure everything was perfect! I highly recommend the 10 day deluxe castle tour.

Alana Al Sumpter

19 October 2019  •  Deluxe Castles Tour

A complete Ireland tour at a reasonable price. Competent, professional, well organized driver who truly knows Ireland (ask for Tony - he's the best), comfortable buses, excellent accommodations, good meals, thorough coverage of the special places in Ireland. Tours were interesting, thorough, and conducted at a good pace. Good variety of points of interest with some free time thrown in to allow for a more personalized experience. This tour is conducted in such a way that a single traveler would feel totally at ease and safe.

Chris Cataldo

13 October 2019  •  Deluxe Castles Tour

Me and my wife Kelly went on the 10 Day Deluxe Castle Tour in September 2019. This tour was amazing. It all started with Martina booking everything for us in 2018. We didnt have not one issue. Our tour guide Colm Clarke was absolutely amazing. He made the tour extremely enjoyable. All the hotels were very nice and the staff at each of those hotels were great. All the people on the tour were great as well. We got to see so many different things. This tour was defintely worth the money. We do plan on going back.

Julie Butler Odom

17 August 2019  •  Deluxe Castles Tour

I highly recommend My Ireland Tours! This was a trip of a lifetime for my sister, daughter, and I. I had researched travel companies and went with My Ireland tours based on reviews. I was not disappointed! Our group was a lot if fun and our driver/ guide was exceptional! Tom Lavin gave us the inside history of this wonderful place. The castles and manor homes we stayed at were first class and food was wonderful. This tour will not disappoint. My sister Gail Shourds did a great job of reviewing this tour and I agree wholly with her. It was the trip of a lifetime!

Gail Butler Shourds

15 August 2019  •  Deluxe Castles Tour

After our mother passed away my sister and I put aside some inheritance money for two trips. Last summer we took one of my sons to Washington DC and this year we took one of her daughters with us on a tour of Ireland. We went on the Deluxe Castle Tour from August 4-13th. We were by far the luckiest to get Tom Lavin as our driver and guide for the tour. We stayed in fantastic Castle/ manor house hotels, saw incredible sites, did fantastic shopping and enjoyed every single minute. Tom is incredibly knowledgeable about people, politics, places and history. One of my fondest memories is sitting in the coach watching fantastic scenery go by while he was either telling a story, filling us in on the background or history of where we were going or what we were seeing or we were listening to wonderful Irish music that he played for us. He made sure we were on time for everything and kept us on schedule yet made time to be most accommodating to everybody and he was always making sure that we were happy with where we were staying, with the service we were receiving and he had a fantastic sense of humor. I can't tell you how many wonderful things we saw but it was a once-in-a-lifetime trip and having breakfast, dinner and entrance fees already included made things so easy. Our group was wonderful and I can truly say that it was like being on vacation with a bunch of friends rather than a driver and a tour group. I want to thank Tom profusely for making us all feel like family and showing us all such a spectacular time. If you want a trip to remember forever this is definitely the one.

Debbie Williams

24 July 2019  •  Deluxe Castles Tour

The Deluxe Castle Tour was amazing; what a great trip! Tom was an outstanding Tour Leader. His driving skill on the narrow roads was exceptional and we felt safe and comfortable throughout. His planning was seamless and we seemed to arrive everywhere at the perfect time with everything ready for us. His knowledge of geography, history, economics and politics combined with his eloquent narrative kept us well informed at every stage. The coach was very comfortable with great views, air-conditioning and even Wi-Fi. The hotels were well chosen, providing 5-star accommodation, exceptional meals and fantastic views. In summary, this was a luxurious way to see Ireland and learn about its history and current affairs. I would have no hesitation in recommending this to my friends and we will now be looking to repeat the experience in Scotland.

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The Wild Atlantic Way and Ireland's Ancient East

This tour features both of the iconic Irish regions of The Wild Atlantic Way and Ireland's Ancient East .

Prices, Availability & Payment

Reviews • What's included • Other tours

Payment terms

For payment terms click here . Alternatively, you can also view our full terms and conditions .

Flexible Cancellations

We have added extra flexibility to our cancellation timeline. This means you can now make unlimited changes to your chosen tour up to 60 days before your arrival . Our cancellation timeline is as follows. For more details, see our terms and conditions .

Up to 60 days before the start of tour:

The Deposit is non-refundable. However, before 60 days you can make unlimited changes for free, including changing your tour dates (including transferring to a tour in 2026), changing your tour and changing tour participants.

59 to 40 days before start of tour:

25% of total price is forfeited on cancellation

39 to 14 days before start of tour:

50% of total price is forfeited on cancellation

Less than 14 days before start of tour:

100% of total price is forfeited on cancellation

The Deposit for the Deluxe Irish Castle Tour 2025 is €650 per person.

Single Occupancy Supplement

For guests who are travelling alone and are therefore not sharing a room, the single occupancy supplement for the Deluxe Irish Castle Tour 2025 is €1,100.

Balance Payments:

The full balance is due 60 days before your tour.

All payments are in Euros.

Credit Cards & Fees:

We do not charge any fees for paying by credit card. We accept Visa, Mastercard and American Express.

Children's Rate:

Children ages 8 yrs - 17 yrs inclusive receive a 10% discount on the prices. Children must share a room with a least 1 adult. Our tours do not cater for children 7 yrs or younger. You must be 18 or over to travel on our adults-only tours.

Participant Cancellation:

Once a partial or full payment has been made, cancellations will only be accepted in writing (either by email or standard mail) to My Ireland Tour. Cancellation terms will be applied based on the date that the written cancellation is received and based on the following dates prior to tour commencement. Cancellation fees apply as indicated above. All cancellation fees include the initial deposit.

About your Tour Guide

45% of our reviews mention their tour guide by name

Perhaps the most vital ingredient of any tour is your tour guide. Acting not only as your guide but also as your driver, their knowledge and experience, passion and personality form the foundation on which any successful tour is built.

That's why we only work with the very best guides in Ireland. As our past guests know, our tour guides are a big reason why we're Ireland's best-rated tour operator, with 1560 five-star reviews out of a possible 1604.

Irish born and bred

All of our driver-guides were born in Ireland and have lived here all their lives. What's more, they are passionate about our country, its culture and its heritage.

Qualified and experienced

Our driver-guides are qualified, experienced professionals who are committed to impeccable customer care and making your vacation memorable for all the right reasons.

Experts in Irish history & culture

Our driver-guides are true experts in their field. Their knowledge of Irish history, culture (and where to get the best pint of Guinness) is second to none.

Committed to your safety and care

Your safety and comfort are paramount to us and to all our driver-guides. All our guides are experienced coach drivers with impeccable safety records.

Tour accommodation

The Deluxe Irish Castles Tour welcomes you to a different class of accommodation. On the journey of a lifetime, you will be staying in some of Ireland's finest castles and manor houses. We are very proud of the range of luxury accommodation we have put together for this exclusive journey. Many of these castle hotels and manors are family-owned, just like ourselves, and we have a long-standing relationship with them all.

Tour Vehicles

On a tour vacation, the journey can be just as important as the destination. That's why our tour buses are all of the highest standards, both in terms of luxury and reliability.

We choose our tour vehicles carefully. All our tour buses offer plenty of space to spread out, tinted windows, air conditioning and on-board fridges. It's what you should expect.

We deliberately leave some seats empty. In fact, we use 34-seater coaches, but limit the number of participants to 26. That's because we want all of our guests to be able to spread out, relax and enjoy the journey. This smaller group size is a core principle in our tours.

Please note: the bus shown in the gallery is one of the 34-seater coaches used on our tours for max. 26 guests. For any reason, should one of these become unavailable for your tour, we will endeavour to provide an equally luxurious and comfortable touring bus.

What's included in my vacation?

Tour attractions.

• Ring of Kerry

Hospitality

• 9 nights accommodation
• 9 Evening Meals
• 9 Full Irish Breakfasts
• 1 Pub Lunch
• Irish Tour Guide / Driver (one person)
• Airport Arrival Transfers
• All local taxes
• Porterage of one suitcase per person
• Luxury Air-Conditioned Coach
• Airport Departure Transfers

Not Included

• Airfares to & from Ireland
• Gratuity for your Tour Guide
• Travel Insurance (required)
• Blind Piper Pub Lunch on Day 7
• Beverages except Tea / Coffee with Breakfast & Evening Dinner
• Room Service
• Telephone Charges
• Golf Green Fees/Spa Treatments at The K Club

• Sample Itineraries
• Transport Options
• Genealogy Tours

2024 Tour Packages

• Iconic Britain and Ireland (18 Days)
• Iconic Britain Tour (10 Days)
• Iconic Ireland and Scotland Tour (14 Days)
• 14-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland (14 Days)
• 10-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland (10 Days)
• 8-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland (8 Days)
• 6-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland (6 Days)
• Deluxe Irish Castles Tour (10 Days)
• Historic Irish Castle Tour (7 Days)
• Ancient Ireland & Scotland Tour (13 Days)
• Ancient Ireland Tour (8 Days)
• Discover Northern Ireland (6 Days)

Other 2025 Tour Packages

• Iconic Ireland & Scotland Tour (14 Days)
• Highlights of Ireland and Scotland Tour (9 Days)

Adare Village and Thatched Cottages

About Adare Village and Thatched Cottages

Adare is a small town in Co. Limerick, known for its quaint and colourful thatched cottages. Adare is considered to be one of Ireland's most beautiful towns so stop and take in the view. Don't forget your camera today - the perfect chance to capture the essence of old Ireland.

Explore Adare Village along the Wild Atlantic Way .

About Belleek Pottery

Travelling along the shores of Lough Erne Upper and Lough Erne Lower, you will reach Belleek Pottery, one of the oldest potteries in the world dating from 1857. Today, the visitor centre still displays pieces which date from those early samples over 150 years ago.

Belleek Pottery can be found just off the trail of the Wild Atlantic Way

Visit their website...

About Ben Bulben

Known as the "Table Mountain" and part of the Dartry Mountains of County Sligo, Ben Bulben is a flat-topped mountain formed by glaciers during the ice age.

Black Taxi Tour Belfast

About Black Taxi Tour Belfast

Take a journey through this once troubled city. See the murals of the Loyalist Shankill Road & Nationalist Falls Road. The Troubles took their toll on the economic life of Belfast, but the past ten years of peace have returned much prosperity while the genuine friendliness of the city never left.

Blarney Castle and The Blarney Stone

About Blarney Castle and The Blarney Stone

Situated five miles north-west of Cork city, Blarney Castle is a solid fixture on almost any tour of Ireland. It is best known for the famous "Blarney Stone" of which visitors are encouraged to kiss, in accordance with a tradition that spans centuries.

About Blarney Woollen Mills

Originally built in 1823, Blarney Woollen Mills was mainly used for the spinning and weaving of wool. After it closed in 1973, it reopened in 1975 — as an Irish heritage shop.

About The Burren

A limestone plateau covering 250 square kilometres, The Burren takes its name quite aptly from the Gaelic for "rocky land" or "great rock". While in one sense very fitting, the name does not do justice to what experts have more justly termed " one of the world's most stunningly unique natural heritage regions ".

The Burren runs alongside the Wild Atlantic Way .

About Christ Church Cathedral

Christ Church Cathedral, founded by the Viking King Sitric almost 1000 years ago in 1034. The cathedral crypt is one of the largest in the UK and Ireland, dating back to the 12th Century. Here in the crypt, you can see the Mummified remains of the Cat and the Rat which were found in the cathedral organ, and a rare 14th century copy of the Magna Carta.

About The Cliffs of Moher

One of the most popular and most eagerly anticipated attractions on any vacation in Ireland , and the views will not disappoint. They rise to a height of 702ft (214m) and 9 miles (14km) long, these sheer vertical cliffs hold a steady, undulating line against the tireless advance of the Atlantic below. A better view of the sea and setting sun you will not find.

The Cliffs of Moher are a Signature Discovery Point on the Wild Atlantic Way. For more information click here .

About Connemara

Connemara, in western County Galway, is a rugged and scenic landscape. Once described as a place of "savage beauty" by Oscar Wilde, Connemara is an expanse of bogs, mountains and lakes.

Connemara is also home to two Wild Atlantic Way's Signature Discovery Points in Derrigimlagh Bog and Killary Harbour .

Culloden Battlefield

About Culloden Battlefield

The Culloden Battlefield Visitor Centre commemorates the last pitched battle fought on British soil, in April 1746. Learn more about the Jacobite intent to overthrow the House of Hanover and return the House of Stuart to the British throne.

Derry / Londonderry City

About Derry / Londonderry City

Although Derry's recent transformation is perhaps less dramatic than that of Belfast, visitors who come to Derry expecting a city still darkened by the long shadows of The Troubles will almost certainly be pleasantly surprised. In anticipation of the city's status as UK City of Culture 2013, Derry received considerable investment and underwent a rejuvenating makeover. The famous city walls are up to 8 metres in height and, in places, are 9 metres wide. They were completed in 1618 and were never breached.

Find out more

About Drumcliffe

Visit Drumcliffe Cemetery in County Sligo where you can read the epitaph on the grave of W.B. Yeats. Found nestled between Ben Bulben mountain and Drumcliffe bay.

Explore Drumcliffe along the Wild Atlantic Way .

Dublin City

About Dublin City

Dublin is Ireland's capital city. It is known as being a friendly and vibrant place to visit — with an endless list of activities and destinations available to explore and world-famous nightlife.

About EPIC: The Irish Emigration Museum

EPIC: The Irish Emigration Museum, tracks the harrowing history of the 10 million Irish people left the island, for a variety of reasons, over the past 300 years.

About Galway City

Galway City is seen as the cultural and artistic hub of Ireland. Take time to enjoy the artisanal food and relaxed, Bohemian vibes of this unique city.

Galway City and Salthill Promenade form part of the Wild Atlantic Way. The county of Galway also includes the Wild Atlantic Way Discovery Points of Killary Harbour, Cleggan Harbour and Sky Road. For more information click here .

Glenveagh Castle

About Glenveagh Castle

Located within Glenveagh National Park, Glenveagh Castle was built by Captain John George Adair between 1870 and 1873. Having made his fortune through land speculation in America, Adair return to Ireland and began large amounts of land in County Donegal. The castle was built in the Scottish Baronial style and is surrounded by a garden and commands stunning views of the nearby mountains, lakes, woodlands and valleys.

About The Guinness Storehouse

Guinness is more than just a brand, indeed, more than just a beer. And that's not just for the Irish, but for the many millions of Guinness-drinkers worldwide. The site of the brewery itself is massive, at a staggering 26 hectares, but it will be the old grain storehouse that you visit. Shaped like a giant pint of the black stuff, this most popular of Dublin attractions towers over the surrounding neighbourhoods, with the top-floor Gravity Bar offering a delightful panorama across the Dublin cityscape which can only be enhanced by a well-earned pint to cap-off your visit.

Highland Folk Museum

About Highland Folk Museum

About Highland Folk Museum is a museum and open-air attraction located in the Scottish Highlands. It is designed to showcase the domestic and working lives of the early highland people.

What is Ireland's Ancient East?

Ireland's Ancient East is a touring region featuring some of the Emerald Isle's best-loved attractions. Running from Co. Monaghan in the north to Co. Cork in the south, it was created by Fáilte Ireland to showcase the top tourist destinations from its broad sweep of 17 eastern counties.

View our tours that feature Ireland's Ancient East...

• Killarney National Park

About Killarney National Park

Killarney National Park is Ireland's first national park. It was donated to the Irish Free State in 1932, along with the entire Muckross Estate. The park is famous for its rugged landscape and abundance of wild animals.

Killarney National Parks & Lakes

About Killarney National Parks & Lakes

Muckross Estate, in the town of Killarney, County Kerry was donated to the Irish Free State in 1932. Its grounds became Ireland's first national park and, over time, it has expanded to encompass nearly 25,500 acres. The jewel in the crown of the park is its majestic lakes, Lough Leane (the lower lake), Muckross Lake (the middle lake), and the Upper Lake. These lakes make up a quarter of the park's area and continue to draw admirers in huge numbers ever since the park first opened.

Killarney National Parks & Lakes are located a short distance from the town of Kenmare on the Wild Atlantic Way .

Killarney Town

About Killarney Town

Though perhaps offering fewer historical and cultural attractions than its west-coast counterparts, Killarney more than makes up for this with the welcoming bustle of the town itself and the staggering natural beauty of its neighbouring namesake, the Killarney National Park just five-minutes' drive away.

King John's Castle

About King John's Castle

Located alongside the River Shannon in County Limerick, on King's Island. Dating back to 922, to a time when Vikings were the inhabitants of the island (Thormodr Helgason, the Viking sea-king, built the first settlement here. The castle itself was built in 1200, under the instruction of King John of England.

About Kylemore Abbey

Kylemore Abbey is not only one of Ireland's most attractive buildings; since 1920, it has also been home to the Sisters of the Benedictine Order in Ireland. Even today, Kylemore continues to operate as a working Abbey: here, the sisters live, work and pray, as well as welcome visitors from across the globe. Kylemore Abbey's greatest attraction is its location. Nestled at the base of Duchruach Mountain on the northern shore of Lough Pollacappul, in the heart of the Connemara Mountains, it is regarded as one of Ireland's most romantic locations.

Kylemore Abbey can be viewed along the Wild Atlantic Way.

About Moriarty's

Located close to the Killarney National Park, Moriarty's is an Authentic Irish Gift Store and Restaurant. Hand crafted Irish jewellery, Waterford Crystal and classic and modern tweed fashions and furnishings are all on offer at the gift store. The restaurant is an 85 seater offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Mount Congreve Gardens

About Mount Congreve Gardens

Mount Congreve Gardens. Located in Kilmeaden, County Waterford, Mount Congreve Gardens is an 18th century Georgian estate and mansion. It was designed by the same architect that created both of Waterford's cathedrals, John Roberts.

Mount Stewart House & Gardens

About Mount Stewart House & Gardens

Recently recognised as being one of the top 10 gardens in the world, Mount Stewart is a rich tapestry of planting plant life and stunning walking trails. The house dates back to the 19th century, and was the Irish seat of the Vane-Tempest-Stewart family.

Muckross House

About Muckross House

Located on the grounds of the expansive and idyllic Killarney National Park. Muckross House, and its 11,000-acre grounds, was donated to the Irish state in 1932.

Muckross House Traditional Farms

About Muckross House Traditional Farms

Located on the grounds of the picturesque Muckross House and its impeccable gardens. Take a step back in time and see the Irish farming lifestyle of the 1930s and '40s. A time when the horse was responsible for much of the labour and the weather was the be all and end all in terms of production.

About a Traditional Pub Lunch

While the Pub Lunch is a relatively new phenomenon in the Irish food service industry, the tradition of serving food in an Irish pub has been around for centuries. It usually consisted of the household, connected to the pub, cooking up a huge batch of stew and serving it to its patrons. As the market changed, so too did the menu. For decades, all you could expect for an Irish pub lunch was a toasted cheese sandwich and/or a bowl of soup. Today, most pubs in Ireland will serve an extensive selection of international dishes as well as traditional Irish favourites such as lamb stew and bacon & cabbage.

About Ring Of Kerry

The Ring of Kerry is located on the Iveragh Peninsula of southwest County Kerry. It is a circular driving route that takes in a number of seaside villages and picturesque coastal landscapes.

The Ring of Kerry towns of Kilorglin, Glenbeigh, Cahersiveen, Waterville, Caherdaniel, Sneem and Kenmare also feature on the Wild Atlantic Way . You can also visit the Wild Atlantic Way Signature Discovery Point of Skellig Michael , an abandoned 7th century Christian island monastery, from the town of Portmagee during the warmer months of the year.

About The Rock of Cashel

Ireland has more than its fair share of outstanding archaeological sites, but the Rock of Cashel is arguably the most impressive. The 'rock' from which it takes its name is, in fact, a limestone hill, covered in luscious green, rising from the plain which characterises the surrounding area. The word 'cashel', by contrast, is derived from the Irish Gaelic word caiseal , meaning stone fortress. It was the seat of kings and medieval bishops for 900 years and flourished until the early 17th century. Brian Ború was crowned King of Munster here in 977 and he became the High King of Ireland in 1002.

• Blind Piper Pub

About Blind Piper Pub

A family pub that has become something of a 'must-visit' for anyone travelling through the Ring of Kerry in recent years. Set in the idyllic village of Ballycarnahan, and serving some of the best quality pub food in the country.

The Quiet Man Museum

About The Quiet Man Museum

The Quiet Man Museum. A reproduction of the quaint thatched cottage from the John Wayne starring, John Ford directed movie of the same name. all costumes, artefacts and furnishings have been recreated in precise detail, to reflect the setting of the 1952 classic. Located in the picturesque village of Cong, County Mayo.

Irish Pubs and Traditional Music Sessions

About Irish Pubs and Traditional Music Sessions

Pubs (public houses) play a huge part in the culture of Ireland and have done throughout the ages. Sometimes busy, often noisy, but always friendly and welcoming places to meet the locals. In a pub, you will see a full cross-section of Irish society — its a place where people from all classes, ages, interests and backgrounds can mix.

About Trim Castle

Located in County Meath, Trim Castle is the largest Anglo-Norman castle in Ireland. Hugh de Lacy and his son Walter built it over a 30 year period, finished in 1206.

What is the Wild Atlantic Way?

The Wild Atlantic Way is a long-distance touring route , the first of its kind in Ireland. It runs the length of Ireland's western coast, facing the Atlantic Ocean, from County Donegal in the northwest to County Cork in the southwest. The initial aim of the Wild Atlantic Way was to give greater visibility to Ireland's west coast in overseas markets. The Wild Atlantic Way is 2,500 km (1,553 miles) long and passes through 3 provinces of Ireland (Ulster, Connacht and Munster). It has given a huge boost to the tourism industry of the region since its launch in February 2014.

View our tours that feature the Wild Atlantic Way...

About Cahernane House Hotel

Cahernane House Hotel is an upscale hotel located in a stunning mansion that dates back to the 1870s. Based just 2 km from both Killarney town centre and Killareny National Park.

About Dunboyne Castle Hotel

The grand estate of Dunboyne, dating back to 1764, is the unique setting for one of Ireland's most in-demand hotels. Dunboyne Castle Hotel features contemporary rooms and suites, world-class spa facilities and high-end food service, all in a fairytale setting.

About Glenlo Abbey Hotel & Estate

A truly luxurious hotel and estate curled up on the edge of the stunning landscape of Connemara. The list of on-site activities is worth the visit alone, not to mention the immaculate service and stunning grounds. Located just two miles from the vibrant and colourful Galway City.

About Lough Eske Castle

The Lough Eske Castle, as we see it today, was built in 1861. Before that, it was a building entwined in the history of Donegal. In the 14th century, it was the seat of the powerful O'Donnell clan. At the beginning of the 20th century, it was a base for Edwardian royalty to showcase the glamour and decadence of the day. Today, it is home to an award-winning and prestigious five-star hotel.

About The K Club

Since its opening in 1991, The K Club has established itself as one of Ireland's most prestigious luxury five-star hotels. Built in 1832 and modelled on a French Château which, to this day, still contains many of the original architectural features, artwork and antiques. Expect to find the highest levels of quality and service as well as a state of the art Golf Course, designed by Arnold Palmer and host to the 2006 Ryder Cup, and a world-famous spa facility (The K Spa).

18-Day Iconic Britain & Ireland Tour

• 34 attractions
• Max. 26 ppl

Experience a once-in-a-lifetime 18-day adventure as you behold the most famous and captivating attractions that Ireland, Northern Ireland, Scotland, and England have to offer.

• Free time in London
• Shakespeare's Birthplace
• Manchester River Cruise
• Tour of York City
• York Minster
• Jedburgh Abbey
• Tour of Edinburgh City
• Holyrood Palace
• Tour of Glasgow City
• Tour of Belfast City
• Titanic Belfast
• Giant's Causeway
• Irish Emigration Museum
• Departure flight home

10-Day Iconic Britain Tour

• 14 attractions

Embark on a unique and unforgettable 10-day journey as you explore the most renowned and captivating attractions that England and Scotland have to offer.

• Roman Baths
• Broadway to Cheltenham Railway
• Afternoon Tea at Broadway Hotel
• Chatsworth House
• Edinburgh Castle
• Stirling Castle
• Loch Lomond Cruise
• Glasgow City

14-Day Iconic Ireland & Scotland Tour

• 25 attractions

Discover the best of Ireland and Scotland with this unforgettable 14-day tour. Compare the cultures of these historic Gaelic nations during a magical fortnight.

• Arrival at Edinburgh Airport
• St. Andrews Golf Club
• Kingsbarns Distillery Tour
• Loch Ness cruise
• Glasgow Cathedral
• Sheepdog Demo
• Rock of Cashel

14-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland

Discover the Island of Ireland, North and South with this unforgettable 14-day tour. Spend 4 days in Ulster, and 10 more in Eire.

• Belfast City
• Belfast Murals
• Hillsborough Castle & Gardens
• Bushmills Distillery
• Derry City Walls
• Lough Erne Cruise
• Devenish Island
• Jameson Distillery Midleton

• 22 attractions

Experience all that is Ireland in this 10-day adventure. Ireland's best-loved attractions and its best-kept secrets, including the Wild Atlantic Way.

• Dublin Airport
• Clonmacnoise
• Free time in Galway City
• Killary Fjord
• Free time in Cork City
• Charles Fort
• Irish National Stud
• Traditional Farm Lunch

8-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland

• 17 attractions

Take in the essence of captivating Ireland as you embark on an unforgettable 8-day adventure, immersing yourself in the Emerald Isle's beauty and charm.

• Mikey Ryan's Bar
• Hazel Mountain Chocolate Factory
• Free time in Dublin City
• St Patrick's Cathedral

6-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland

• 11 attractions

Experience the true essence of Ireland in under a week. Ireland's unmissable destinations and the Wild Atlantic Way in one unforgettable tour.

• Glendalough Monastic Site

• Clonmacnoise Monastic Site
• Cork City Gaol
• Midleton Distillery Experience
• Kilkenny Castle

• 19 attractions

An exclusive tour capped at max. 8 guests, travelling through the idyllic scenes of The Wild Atlantic Way. Including an overnight stay in an Irish castle.

• Dublin Airport arrival
• Waterford Crystal

Ancient Ireland & Scotland Tour

• 24 attractions

Embark on a unique and intimate journey through the Celtic heartlands of Ireland and Scotland on this exclusive tour designed for a maximum of 8 guests.

• Arrival in Edinburgh Airport
• Edinburgh City tour
• Dalwhinnie Distillery
• Eilean Donan Castle
• Isle of Skye
• Glasgow City tour
• Belfast City tour
• Derry City tour
• Dublin City tour

Deluxe Castle Tour

Live like royalty for 10 days across Ireland, staying in real Irish castles and country manors. Enjoy the finest all-inclusive tour Ireland has to offer.

• Derry City Tour
• Free time in Derry City

Historic Irish Castle Tour

• 15 attractions

A truly unique tour of Ireland. Visit the must-see attractions whilst discovering unique experiences beyond the tourist trail. All woven together by Ireland's historic castles.

• Pearse Lyons Distillery
• Traditional Music Night

Discover Northern Ireland Tour

• 8 attractions

Northern Ireland's natural beauty awaits on this six-day fully-inclusive tour of Ulster. Picturesque towns, untamed coastlines and friendly locals await.

• Derry City walking tour
• Ulster American Folk Park

9-Day Highlights of Ireland & Scotland Tour

Explore the wonders of Ireland and Scotland on this remarkable 9-day tour. Immerse yourself in the rich cultures of these historic Gaelic nations as you embark on a captivating journey.

• Cruise Loch Lomond
• Clydeside Distillery Tour
• Glasgow City Tour
• Ferry to Belfast
• Belfast City Tour
• Glenshane Country Farm
• Giants Causeway
• Hillsborough Castle
• Carlingford Lough Ferry
• Farewell dinner and show

My Ireland Tour:

My Ireland Tour is a family business based right here in County Cork. Thanks for visiting our website: we're thrilled that you're interested in visiting the country we call home. As an independent Irish business, we're proud that we can give each guest the kind of service that has made us Ireland's top-rated tour operator. We hope to offer you a real Irish welcome soon. Our family business (My Ireland Tour Limited) is registered in Ireland, Company Number 547775.

Contact Us:

• 5 Church Hill  Carrigaline  Co. Cork  P43 X376  Ireland

Useful Links:

• My Ireland Tour Home
• Ireland Tours
• Ireland & Scotland Tours
• Singles Tours of Ireland
• Ireland Travel Guide
• Terms and Conditions
• Aer Lingus Flight Information
• Sustainability Policy
• Book a Tour

7 Day Ireland Castle Tour

Welcome to our 7 day castles & kingdoms tour.

Experience ancient castles, quaint towns, beautiful islands and historic kingdoms on a 7 day tour of western and southern Ireland.

Get ready to fall in love! You'll tour the Ring of Kerry, stay in an Irish castle hotel, cruise around the Skellig Islands and gaze in wonder at the 700ft Cliffs of Moher.

Fully guided by a local Irish culture expert, this 7 day castle tour of Ireland is perfect for kings, queens, jesters or anyone seeking true authenticity in their Ireland vacation.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "I went on the Driftwood 7 Day Ireland Castles Tour and it exceeded my expectations for a small group tour! Andrew was our wonderful guide and he shared so much about Ireland. He patiently answered questions and always had us laughing." Guest Review  APRIL 2024

September 2024

October 2024, august 2025, september 2025, october 2025.

*Price displayed is the discounted price for Mar, Apr and Oct.

If the date you want is full please contact us  and we will do our best to accomodate you.

A €250 deposit per person is all we need to secure your tour online. All our departure dates are guaranteed .

**All tours are charged in EURO. Exchange rates quoted are online rates and may differ to the rate our payment partner Flywire and banks offer.

Single Supplements apply to Single Room Occupancy.

Genuine Guest Reviews

7 Day Castles & Kingdoms Tour

I went on the Driftwood 7 Day Irish Castles & Kingdoms Tour and it exceeded my expectations for a small group tour!

The ride was comfortable and clean. We learned and saw so much of Ireland. I

highly recommend this tour especially since we never competed with crowds and large tour buses. Ireland hands down is the friendliest place I’ve visited!

We took the 7-day Castles & Kingdoms Tour in May 2024. It was terrific, and I highly recommend Vagabond.

This is a company that does things the right way. Vagabond is environmentally conscious and really puts some thought into how they themselves impact the world.

If you are searching for an excellent small-group tour of Ireland, look no further. You will not regret booking a tour with Vagabond.

Vagabond Tours provided a flawless experience. Their small group tours are the way to go if you want a personalized experience where you actually get to know your travelling mates! We had a particularly nice group and that made the trip even more special! If you are seeking a geniune Irish experience, this company delivers! Thank you to all the Vagabond staff who made this once in a lifetime adventure possible!

Find answers to questions about the 7 Day Driftwood Irish Castles & Kingdoms Tour itinerary.

What Small Group Tours of Ireland Visit The Skellig Islands?

Only guests on the 12 Day Vagabond Giant Irish Adventure Tour get to land on Skellig Michael.

The following Vagabond & Driftwood tour itineraries can take a boat trip around both Skellig Islands:

When & Where Do Vagabond/Driftwood Tours Depart From?

All of our tours leave from our pick-up/drop-off point at the Grand Canal Hotel in Dublin .

Our pick-up times from the Grand Canal Hotel vary by tour:

Who Guides The Tours?

All of our tours are fully guided by our team of expert driver guides.

We call them VagaGuides .

What Activities Have Weight Limits?

We always put guest safety first on Vagabond Cultural Adventures.

For this reason, when engaging in kayaking and horseback-riding activities, the following personal weight limits apply:

🐴 Horseback-Riding

Male weight limit: 238lbs / 17 stone / 108kg

Female weight limit: 225lbs / 16 stone / 102kg

Per person Double Kayak weight limit: 110kg / 17.5 stone / 245lbs

Total Double Kayak weight limit for 2 guests: 190kg / 30 stone / 420lbs

Per person Single Kayak weight limit: 92kg / 14.5 stone / 200lbs.

Are There Any Luggage Restrictions?

Owing to the compact nature of our small-group tour vehicles , we operate a strict limit of one piece of luggage per person.

Your single piece of luggage should measure no longer than 30” (75cm) along its longest side. This 30” (75cm) includes any wheels that may protrude from the luggage.

What Activities Are Seasonal?

Our regular touring season in 2024 runs from March 10th until October 22nd.

Some activities and attractions do not operate year-round. March and October departures are particularly affected. Where possible, we will offer a suitable replacement activity.

What Day Do Tours Return To Dublin?

To help you plan your return flights, here are the days and times that our tours return to Dublin.

The return point for all tours is Dublin's Grand Canal Hotel

Where Can I Do Laundry On Tour?

Serviced laundry facilities are available on tours that stay 2 nights in the following towns:

• 🧺 Dingle - Check which tours visit Dingle

Do All Hotels Provide Separate Bathrooms?

Yes, all hotel rooms on Vagabond and Driftwood Tours of Ireland are ensuite.

Expect your own separate bathroom with toilet, sink and shower and/or bath.

Can I Access My Bag While On Tour?

It's difficult to access your main luggage or suitcase while on tour. Luggage is securely packed in our tour vehicles. As a result, it's not easy for your driver guide to access individual items of baggage during the day.

However, you can easily access your luggage at each hotel. So that you have your travel essentials close at hand, we recommend bringing a daypack, or backpack, that you can keep beside you in the tour vehicle.

Which Small Group Tours Stay At Irish Castle Hotels?

Dreaming of a night in a romantic Irish castle?

The following Driftwood Journeys of Discovery spend at least one night in a castle hotel:

Which Small Group Tours Visit The Wild Atlantic Way?

The Wild Atlantic Way is one of our favourite routes to tour.

Here are all of the small-group tour itineraries that explore the Wild Atlantic Way.

Which Small Group Tours of Ireland Visit Kinsale?

Kinsale is a quaint harbour town located in Cork, Ireland.

The following small group tours of Ireland explore Kinsale:

• 👑 7 Day Driftwood Castles & Kingdoms Tour
• ☘️ 6 Day Driftwood Great Southern Tour

A hot shower after a woodland stroll. A real fire. A pint. We assure you that wherever you stay with us, you’ll love it.

We put great effort into selecting accommodation on Driftwood tours. Your tour will overnight in locally-owned establishments (in some cases for generations). Receive a heartfelt welcome, often from the hoteliers themselves. No hotel chains here!

The Armada Hotel

Get ready for a beautiful sunset and a memorable stay.

The Armada Hotel is beautifully located on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean.

Dine in full view of Spanish Point beach. The menu at Aileen's Restauarnt features local food, artisan food producers and dishes with herbs and vegetables from the Armada Farm.

After dinner, kick back in front of a roaring fire at Johnny Burke's, the traditionally-themed pub.

Ballyseede Castle Hotel

Enjoy the high life at Ballyseede Castle Hotel.

With a history dating back centuries, Kerry's only castle hotel will make you feel like royalty.

Step into a realm of elegance and heritage, with delicious dining, well-appointed rooms and an oak-lined bar area to relax and recharge your batteries.

You may even bump into Molly the wolfhound, a friendly giant often found standing guard at the ornate entrance hall.

Coachman's Townhouse

You just can’t beat Irish hospitality!

The Jones family have been welcoming guests to The Coachmans Townhouse since 1969.

The Coachmans is located at the heart of the small town of Kenmare. When you stay here with Vagabond & Driftwood Tours, speciality shops, music venues and great restaurants are only a few footsteps away.

Music-lovers, take note that the pub in the Coachmans frequently hosts live performances by traditional musicians. Not to be missed!

Gougane Barra Hotel

Gougane Barra Hotel is a family-run establishment, spectacularly located in Cork, on the edge of a lake.

Rob discovered this magical place on the very first Vagabond tour, way back in 2002!

Neil and Katy Lucey's hotel has been delighting our tour guests ever since.

Many of our Vagabond and Driftwood Tours visit Gougane Barra when passing through the southwest.

Macroom Castle Hotel

Expect a warm Irish welcome at the Castle Hotel in Cork.

This comfortable hotel has been managed by the Buckley family for 3 generations.

It's a great place to unwind after a full day of adventures on Vagabond & Driftwood tours.

Actons Hotel Kinsale

Over the years, Actons Hotel has established a reputation for personalised guest care.

This matches our own high standards at Vagabond & Driftwood Tours.

Allied with breathtaking maritime views over Kinsale Harbour, Actons Hotel offers the perfect base to explore the famous county of Cork.

Savour the luxurious spa, relax in your modern, comfortable room or grab a bite to eat in the outdoor garden dining area.

All Driftwood tours are flexible. Your 7 Day Irish Castles & Kingdoms Tour is no different.

Unmissable activities and full days on tour are included. Where there are great options, we’ve left the final decision up to you. Feel free to choose your evening meals and lunches. All additional tour options are marked clearly below.

• A journey of discovery in a super-comfy, slick Mercedes mini-coach
• The services of a highly-trained and professional VagaGuide tour guide
• 7 full days on tour
• 6 nights' accommodation including one night at Ballyseede Castle Hotel
• 6 delicious and filling hot Irish breakfasts
• Most daily activities and essential attractions
• Entrance into Blarney Castle & Gardens, Skibbereen Heritage Centre, Bantry House and Cahir Castle
• A guided farm tour and sheepdog demo
• Shannon ferry tickets

All details of prices and suppliers listed here are correct at time of publication. Our suppliers occasionally increase prices for optional tour activities during the touring season. This is a rare occurence. In the unlikely event of a major price increase, we will do our utmost to update you.

** Cash is required for this activity. No card payment available.

• Scattery Island Tour €23.00 Boat to Scattery Island and guided tour. Weather dependent. Seasonal.
• Skellig Islands Cruise €50.00 Cruise around Skellig Michael and Little Skellig. 2hr 30 mins.
• Skellig Experience €5.00 Learn the story of Ireland's island treasures at this visitor centre.
• Derrynane House €5.00 Self-guided tour of Daniel O'Connell's historic home.
• Horse-Drawn Carriage Ride** €20.00 Horse-drawn carriage ride in Killarney National Park. Cash required.
• Walking Food Tour of Kinsale €80.00 Exclusive tastings at restaurants around the gourmet capital of Ireland.
• Kinsale Walking History Tour** €5.00 Explore the heritage buildings and incredible events of Kinsale's past. Cash required.
• Kinsale Harbour Cruise €14.00 Take a guided boat trip around beautiful Kinsale Harbour.

7 Day Driftwood Castles & Kingdoms Tour Intro & Highlights

• Get royal treatment as you overnight in an historic Irish castle hotel .
• Feel the magic while exploring ‘The Kingdom’ of Kerry and the world famous Ring of Kerry touring route
• Cross the moat into Cahir Castle , one of Ireland’s most awesome medieval fortresses
• Take an ocean boat trip around the Skellig Islands , one of only three World Heritage Sites in Ireland
• Gaze out on an ethereal ocean vista at the Cliffs of Moher , a highlight of the Wild Atlantic Way
• Visit a working Irish sheep farm for a guided farm tour and sheepdog demo
• Take a horse-drawn ‘jaunting’ carriage around beautiful Killarney National Park
• Kiss the Blarney Stone and wander through the magical Blarney Castle & Gardens
• Embark on a boat tip to Scattery Island for a guided tour of historic ruins dating back 1600 years.
• Enjoy 2 nights in lreland's gourmet paradise ; the quaint maritime town of Kinsale
• Experience the genuine friendliness  of local people and memorable nightlife in Irish pubs

Day 1: Cliffs Of Moher, Galway & The Burren

Your journey of discovery through Ireland departs Dublin , heading west for Clare via Galway .

• First stop: the bustling city of Galway .
• See traditional sailing boats and castle towers in picturesque Kinvara .
• See ancient monuments in the Burren National Par k.
• Visit the world famous, 700ft high Cliffs of Moher (Fee Included).

Accommodation tonight is at The Armada Hotel.

The average driving time today is 5 hours.

Day 2: Castle Hotel Stay & Boat Trip

Today we're headed south, exploring the delights of Clare and Kerry .

• Tour spectacular Loop Head . This peninsula tapers to a sharp point in the Atlantic Ocean.
• Alternatively, take a boat to Scattery Island  followed by guided tour (Optional Extra). This activity is weather dependent and seasonal (Mid-May to Mid-Sept).
• Take a ferry across the mouth of the River Shannon followed by a sheepdog demo  (Fee Included).

Accommodation tonight is at The Ballyseede Castle Hotel.

The average driving time today is 4 hours.

Day 3: Skellig Island Boat Trip

Today we're touring the scenic Ring of Kerry route, circuiting the Iveragh peninsula from Tralee to Kenmare.

• Explore 1400 years of history on a boat trip around the Skellig Islands (Optional Extra). Seasonal departures: May to September.
• Get a taste for local Irish culture, history and — if you behave — ice cream, on Valentia Island .
• Discover Derrynane , historic home (Optional Extra) and golden sand beach.

Accommodation tonight is at The Coachman's Townhouse.

Day 4: Horse Carriage Ride In National Park

Today we'll sojourn from Kenmare to West Cork .

• Take a horse-drawn ‘jaunting car’ carriage around beautiful Killarney National Park (Optional Extra).
• Cross the frontier between counties Cork and Kerry  as we drive through the scenic Shehy mountains .

Accommodation tonight is at The Gougane Barra Hotel or The Castle Hotel Macroom.

The average driving time today is 2 hours 30 minutes.

Day 5: Historic House Tour

A relaxing day exploring West Cork , finishing in Kinsale .

• Visit stately Bantry House , owned by the same family since the 18th century (Fee Included).
• Learn about local history, wildllife and nature at the Skibbereen Heritage Centre (Fee Included).
• Visit the riverside medieval ruins of Timoleague Franciscan Friary .

Accommodation tonight is at Actons Hotel.

The average driving time today is 3 hours.

Day 6: Free Time in Kinsale

Unwind in Ireland’s gourmet capital with free time to soak up the crafts and culture of Kinsale .

• Join a walking history tour of this heritage town (Optional Extra).
• Take a boat cruise around the amazing natural harbour in Kinsale (Optional Extra).
• Savour a guided food tour of Kinsale (Optional Extra). Exclusive tastings of locally-sourced dishes.

Day 7: Blarney Stone & Cahir Castle

Time to say slán with some amazing sights on your final day exploring from Kinsale to Dublin .

• Follow the River Lee through picture postcard Irish countryside.
• Kiss the Blarney Stone to gain 'the gift of the gab' and then wander the gardens around Blarney Castle (Fee Included).
• Guided tour in and around Cahir Castle , one of Ireland’s largest medieval fortresses (Fee Included).

The average driving time today is 4 hours 30 minutes.

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❄️💰 PRICE FREEZE:  Book your 2025 active Vagabond Tour and benefit from our Price Lock Guarantee .

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8 Day Castles & Coasts Experience Tour

An Unforgettable Historical & Sightseeing Tour of Ireland

Experience Ireland at your own pace with our relaxed, small-group tours from Dublin…

Embrace the joy of slow travel, allowing you to unwind and immerse yourself in the surroundings. We spend two nights in each of the three charming towns where we stop, pausing to capture perfect sunsets and exploring hidden gems along the way.

Experience the Breathtaking Beauty of Coastal Ireland with This Leisurely Tour

Get an authentic taste of Ireland with visits to ancient castles where Celtic legends have been passed down through the centuries — you might even spend a night in one! Stroll along the rugged coastline of the Wild Atlantic Way and stand atop the breathtaking Cliffs of Moher.

This tour provides a genuine Irish experience: A winning blend of culture, history, and leisurely outdoor exploration. Continue reading to discover the tour’s highlights, or browse our other Small Group Tours of Ireland .

Ireland Castle Vacation Highlights:

• Travel in a small, intimate group from Dublin.
• Witness a sheepdog demonstration on a traditional Irish sheep farm.
• Optional stay in a majestic Irish castle hotel.
• Experience the vibrant, colorful streets of Galway city.
• Discover the mystical Ring of Kerry with its stunning vistas.
• Visit the iconic Cliffs of Moher and the picturesque Dunguarie Castle.
• Enjoy the crafts, music, and friendly “craic” in Dingle, a harbor town known for its character and cozy pubs.
• Wander through the ancient woodlands of Killarney National Park.
• Explore the historic Blarney Castle & Gardens.
• Unwind on a scenic train ride back to Dublin.
• Enjoy live Irish music and meet welcoming locals.

Join us for a memorable journey through Ireland, where the pace is easy and the memories are lasting.

Click to download a brochure containing all the important information about this tour

7 Overnights

Tour Includes

• 8 Full days on our Irish castles experience
• Overnights: Clifden x 2, Dingle x 2, Killarney x 1, Westport x 1, Doolin x 1
• Overnight in a historic Irish castle hotel***
• Services of a highly-trained and professional Irish Experience tour guide
• 7 delicious and hot filling Irish breakfasts
• 8 Full days in a luxury touring vehicle
• Guided tour of Killarney National Park
• Experience traditional Irish music sessions in local cozy pubs
• Sheep Dog demonstration in a locally run family farm
• Entrance fee to Westport House, Kylemore Abbey, Dunguaire Castle, Blarney Castle, and Cliffs of Moher
• Ferry journey across the River Shannon
• Leisure time to pursue independent interests
• Easygoing walks or activities for all levels of fitness (optional)
• All relevant taxes

*** When you book hotel accommodation only

Tour Exclusions

• Lunch and dinner
• Food and Drinks
• Gratuities (optional)
• Travel Insurance (Can be booked via Nomads HERE )
• Dublin Accommodation pre or post tour
• Any flexible and optional activities named below

Leave the capital and enjoy the scenic journey to Ireland’s most beautiful region of Westport, in the West of Ireland.

This morning as we drive 3 .5 hours across Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands, your driver will keep you entertained by easing you into a gentle exploration of some of the country’s untouched terrain. Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands encompass a region full of rich history, diverse culture, and stunning natural beauty.

After arriving in Westport and checking -in, spend the rest of the day wandering the town’s colorful streets, visiting friendly pubs, cafes, and craft shops.

Or opt to do the following;

• Although you will be visiting Westport House the next day, you can still head for a ramble around the grounds and gardens. Its riverside location sits amid manicured gardens and offers incredible views overlooking Clew Bay and up towards Croagh Patrick – Ireland’s Holy Mountain.
• Opt to take a 90 mins cruise, and explore the World Famous Clew Bay; its 365 islands, seal colony, and Inishgort Lighthouse, the holy mountain of Croagh Patrick & John Lennon’s Island.
• Rent a bike and discover the amazing Great Western Greenway from Achill Island to Westport – 45km – (can also be made much shorter)
• Discover the Old Railway Line Loop Walk – a 5km loop walk starting at the center of town, out towards Westport quay via the old railway line, and back to the town via Westport Huse & Gardens.
• There’s an endless number of pubs in Westport. From tourist favorites, like Matt Molloy’s, to often-missed spots, like Toby’s, there’s a pub to tickle every fancy.

The next morning, after a full Irish breakfast, you will be brought on a wonderful tour of one of Ireland’s most scenic regions – Connemara. Overnight in Westport Drive average time today is 3hrs 30mins

After a hearty breakfast, it’s time to meet your guide and head out for a tour of the Westport/Connemara Region

• Enjoy a guided tour of Westport house. Explore historic Westport House one of County Mayo’s best-loved attractions with beautiful parklands, lakes, and a fascinating history of Westport House that goes back to the 1500s when the famous Pirate Queen of Connaught, Grace O’Malley, built one of her castles here.
• Visit the ruins of 16th-century Murrisk Abbey and the National Famine Memorial. Tip your hat and acknowledge Ireland’s most famous Saint, St Patrick at the foot of Croagh Patrick (Irelands Holy Mountian).
• From there you will drive through the breathtaking Doolough Valley and learn of its tragic and haunting past.
• From there it’s through the scenic Delphi Valley to the shores of Killary Harbour, Ireland’s only fjord, and the village of Leenane.
• The village was the setting for the film “The Field” with Richard Harris. For lunch, you can opt to eat fresh Connemara mussels straight from the Fjord. Continue our journey to Clifden via Sky Road arguably the most beautiful corner of the Connemara region, with some of the most rugged and varied scenery in the county.
• Listen to toe-tapping Irish music in local iconic bars with Irish music playing seven nights a week in season.

Overnight in Clifden The average drive time is 2 hours

We spend another day and night in the wilderness of  Connemara , so you don’t need to repack your suitcase. Just relax and enjoy.

After breakfast is yours to design. Meet your guide and head out for a tour of the Connemara Region

• Visit Kylemore Abbey , one of Ireland’s most beautiful buildings, and wander  Kylemore’s wonderful landscaped gardens. (3-hour visit)
• Discover the picture-postcard beauty of the  Inagh Valley.
• Arrive back in Clifden by the late afternoon to soak up this quaint town’s colorful atmosphere in the heart of Connemara.
• Opt to walk to visit Clifden Castle. The romantic Gothic castle is now a historical ruin and is a great place to visit in Clifden, about 2km from the town.
• Or you can relax and unwind in a hot bath of Atlantic Seawater infused with hand-harvested seaweed located in the center of town.
• Accommodation tonight is once again in Clifden

The average driving time today is 2 hours.

Travel along the Wild Atlantic Way with your driver/guide via  Galway Bay & The Burren Region

• From Clifden, we continue our journey through the lush rolling hills as we traverse the famous Lakelands of the Connemara Region towards Galway City.
• For several hours you can soak up the famous colorful atmosphere around the tribal city of Galway – the busker music, the cobblestone lanes, the contemporary flair that blends well with its medieval past, and of course, the oysters.
• After lunch, it’s time to explore the lunar landscape of the Burren and travel along the Wild Atlantic Way .
• Your first visit is at the 16th Century Dunguaire Castle  on the outskirts of Kinvara. One of the most photographed castles in the whole of Ireland.
• Then it’s on through the  glacial-karst landscape of the Burren  and past Corcomroe Abbey.
• You will follow the  Coast Road with views of Galway Bay and the Aran Islands , making a short stop to walk on the lunar-like landscape of the Burren
• Arrive in  Doolin village  in the late afternoon with plenty of time to visit the local craft shops, colorful cafes, and lively pubs.

Overnight in Doolin or Lahinch 

*At an extra expense, it’s also possible to spend a whole day on the Gaelic-speaking island of Inis Mor. You’ll be dropped off at Rossaveal in County Galway to catch a 40 min boat trip to the island (€40 return). On the island, you can choose to explore the island by bus with a local guide or by bike. (€20 to €25). You will return on a 60 min boat trip to Doolin in County Clare, where you’ll be met at the pier by your driver/guide.

From the mighty cliffs to the magical kingdom as we move from  Clare  to  Kerry .

• Don’t look down, It’s the 700ft high  Cliffs of Moher .
• Watch out for dolphins as we take a ferry across the mighty mouth of the  Shannon  – the longest river in Ireland or Britain!
• Enjoy a spectacular  sheepdog demonstration  on a locally run farm .
• Drive over Ireland’s highest mountain road,  The Conor Pass
• Roll into  bustling Dingle  just in time for a creamy pint of Guinness.
• Overnight in Dingle

The average driving time today is 3 hours 30 minutes.

This morning you will meet up with your professional driver/guide, where jaw -dropping scenery  and knife-edge drops are guaranteed on a leisurely drive around  Slea Head .

After lunch is yours to design. Relax with downtime in Dingle . Or partake of the following options:

•  By boat discover the historic Dingle Bay (Tour Option – €15-20 per person).
• Take a guided craft tour  of a working Irish crystal studio
• Sample  craft Irish whiskey  and gin at Dingle Distillery (Tour Option – €15 per person).
• Stroll Dingle’s streets for a quirky mix of craft studios, lively pubs, fantastic food, and traditional Irish music.

The average driving time today is 1 hour 30 minutes.

Today we’re touring the scenic  Ring of Kerry  route, circuiting the  Iveragh peninsula from Killorglin to Killarney.  Situated in the South Westerly corner of Ireland, The Iveragh Peninsula is home to The Ring of Kerry – Ireland’s most spectacular mountain road. Your day tour starts from Dingle and covers 180km of rolling rugged countryside and truly stunning panoramic coastline views.

Our experienced guides will be delighted to show you the unrivaled beauty County Kerry has to offer. Whether you’re looking for an insight into Irish history, a sample of our famous local wit or simply a great photo opportunity, the Ring of Kerry Tour is exactly what you require.

Explore  Killarney National Park with your driver/guide

• See the magical 1,000-year-old yew tree growing at the heart of the ruined Muckross Abbey .
• Scenic photo stop at  Torc Waterfall
• Admire charming  19th-century Muckross House Gardens .

Rise early this morning (or sleep in!!!) and explore Killarney park and the town at your leisure

• Opt to take a visit to Ross Castle on the edge of Lough Leane. Built by an Irish chieftain in the fifteenth century. (Tour Option – €5 per person)
• Opt to take a scenic horse-drawn carriage ride around Killarney National Park  (Tour Option – €15 per person).
• Meet your guide at an arranged time at your accommodation and depart for the rebel County of Cork.

Expect country roads and superb scenery today as you journey from Killarney to Cork.

• Dare to kiss the Blarney Stone and receive the gift of the gab – the Irish ability to flatter and speak with great eloquence.
• Blarney Castle (included)

Return to Dublin via a scenic train journey from Kent Station Cork, to Heuston Station Dublin.

Please note, on occasion for operational reasons, we may operate this tour in reverse. 

We prioritize family-run, locally-owned accommodations for an authentic Irish experience.

Our small group sizes allow us to select high-quality establishments in untouched locations, ensuring a diverse and enjoyable stay.

Regardless of the chosen accommodation package, each place is carefully selected to provide a unique and loved experience.

CLASSIC B&B/HOTEL

PREMIUM IRISH HOTEL

Relaxing Stays

From charming locally-run guesthouses to 4 star hotel stays, we handle everything to match your budget and fulfill your bucket list. Enjoy the freedom to stay wherever you desire with our tailored private tours.

Central Locations

Our selected accommodations are strategically located, placing you right in the heart of the action. Follow the sounds and sights to discover the vibrant atmosphere in the towns and villages we explore.

Embrace Local Living

Immerse yourself in the authentic spirit of Ireland with stays at locally-run establishments carefully selected to deliver a genuine Irish experience. Revel in a heartfelt Irish welcome at quaint, locally owned bed and breakfasts, as well as comfortable, classically charming hotels.

Personal Space

Solo travelers on our tours will have their exclusive private room, subject to a mandatory single supplement charge. Whether arriving alone, with friends, or partners, you'll forge lasting connections and friendships by the end of day 1 on our small group tours, providing a hassle-free way to explore Ireland.

Private Rooms & Breakfast

Select from a range of room options with private bathrooms, including twin, double, single, and family rooms. Start each morning with a diverse breakfast, from cooked Irish to classic continental, tailored to accommodate various dietary preferences, including vegetarian and vegan choices.

Connect with WIFI

Enjoy standard WIFI at our overnight stays, keeping you connected throughout your journey. Share highlights with friends, and conveniently access the internet on your WiFi-enabled device at cafes, pubs, and other stops along the route.

Enquire About A Stay

• I'd prefer a callback

Please find below the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about our guided Ireland vacations. If you can’t find the answer you’re looking for or if you need more information, please do not hesitate to contact us.

We do not book flights on behalf of our guests.

This gives you complete flexibility over your flight departure and arrival dates, your chosen airports and preferred airlines, not to mention the opportunity to take advantage of sales, promotions and frequent flyer programmes.

Please email us at [email protected] with any questions about your tour.

Some of the only non-flexible elements of our tours are the departure location, departure day and departure time. The most important information to know is that all of our tours depart from Dublin’s The Point A Hotel on either Sundays, Tuesdays or Thursdays Here is the full list of scheduled departure days and times for our Small Group Tours of Ireland

Sundays at 8.30 am

7-Day Ultimate Irish Adventure

8 Day Castles & Coasts Experience

10-Day Wild Irish Experience

Tuesdays at 8.30 am

11-Day Ultimate Irish Experience

7-Day Atlantic Way Experience

Thursdays at 8.30 am

13-Day Full Irish Experience

5 Day Giant Irish Experience  Booking Suitable Flight Times We strongly advise that you book your flights to arrive at least the night before your scheduled tour departure. We aim to have you back in Dublin between 4-5 pm on the final day of your tour. If you’re planning to fly out on the last night of your tour, please do not book a flight that departs Dublin Airport before 10 pm.

Airport transfers are not included in our tour prices.

AIRPORT TRANSFERS

Please see our detailed PDF  with full details for many alternative options for Dublin Airport transfers. 

Upon arrival, we recommend booking a Meet & Greet taxi for your transfer from Dublin Airport to your city center hotel. 

For this service, we recommend  Irish Taxi Tours   for this Meet & Greet option.

Meet & Greet Option – €80 total  1-8 people max  

How it works:

Contact them via their email/contact form HERE – you can include you are booked on an Irish Experience Tour and would like to reserve a meet & greet transfer. 

After giving them your details and brief arrival times/dates they will then send a payment link

Once paid you will receive a form to include exact arrival flight details and your Dublin city centre destination. 

Will be met at the arrivals hall (your name on signage) at Dublin Airport by your driver, who’ll help you with your luggage to one of their vehicles and brought directly to your Dublin city center hotel. 

Please note that Dublin serves as the entry point for all our small-group tours of Ireland. Therefore, we recommend flying directly to Dublin (DUB) for the best experience.

Flying directly from the USA or Canada to Ireland has never been more convenient.

In the USA, 18 cities and in Canada, 4 cities offer direct flight connections to Ireland.

Among North American cities, Toronto and Chicago feature the highest number of airlines vying for direct routes to Ireland.

Here’s a comprehensive list of airlines offering direct flights to Ireland:

🗽Direct Flights To Dublin from USA:

• Chicago (ORD) – Aer Lingus*, United, Ethiopian, American
• Washington (IAD) – Aer Lingus*, United*, Ethiopian
• New York (JFK) – Delta*, Aer Lingus*
• Newark (EWR) – United*, Aer Lingus*
• Boston (BOS) – Delta*, Aer Lingus*
• Philadelphia (PHL) – American*, Aer Lingus (Route ends January 2024)
• Minneapolis (MSP) – Aer Lingus, Delta
• Los Angeles (LAX) – Aer Lingus*
• Atlanta (ATL) – Delta, Ethiopian
• Orlando (MCO) – Aer Lingus*
• San Francisco (SFO) – Aer Lingus*
• Seattle/Tacoma (SEA) – Aer Lingus*
• Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) – American*
• Cleveland (CLE) – Aer Lingus*
• Miami (MIA) – Aer Lingus (Route ends March 2024)
• Charlotte (CTL) – American
• Hartford (BDL) – Aer Lingus (Route ends January 2024)
• Denver (DEN) – Aer Lingus (May to September)

🏒 Direct Flights To Dublin from Canada:

• Toronto (YYZ) – Air Canada*, Aer Lingus*, Ethiopian, Air Transat (May to October)
• Montreal (YUL) – Air Canada
• Calgary (YYC) – Westjet (April to October)
• Vancouver (YVR) – Air Canada (June to September)

🦅Direct Flights To Shannon from USA:

• Chicago (ORD) – United (May to September)
• New York (JFK) – Aer Lingus*, Delta (May to September)
• Newark (EWR) – United (April to October)
• Boston (BOS) – Aer Lingus*

🤔Which Airport Should I Choose In Ireland?

• Dublin (DUB) is Ireland’s primary airport, providing access to the capital city and the entire island.
• Shannon (SNN) serves as an alternative, particularly if your itinerary focuses on the west coast of Ireland.  – Can be used for private tours only

Departure & Return Points

All tours depart from  The Point A Hotel  on Parnell Street at 8.30 am sharp – please arrive 15 minutes before tour departure time. 

This is a great tour departure point as there are many accommodation options in and around this area. We all know Dublin can be very expensive, so we hope this location allows everyone to book accommodations that suit their budget. 

If you are booking the Point A Hotel for pre-tour accommodation please use this Promo code for a 15% discount  Promo code: 17IRIS. 

To view alternative accommodations around this area Click on this   The Point A Hotel  link and then follow the  ‘Nearby Hotels’ tab you will see all accommodations in and around the area. 

All of our tours arrive at the   Ashling Hotel, 10 – 13 Parkgate St, Stoneybatter, Dublin 8

Our drop-off times at the Ashling Hotel are between 4.30 pm and  5.00 pm approx.

GOOD NEWS:  As a result of rising costs in Dublin Hotel prices, we have now decided for 2024 to include the  Point A Hotel  as a second end-point to all tours (except for train transfers – see below). 

What this means is that you can book any accommodation along or nearby this route from End Point 1: The Ashling Hotel to End Point 2: The Point A Hotel and our drivers will drop you off ON THIS ROUTE ONLY.     See route details here

ENDPOINT TRAIN TRANSFER INFORMATION- 

(8-Day Castles & Coasts Experience & 7-Day Ultimate Atlantic Adventure)

If you have booked a tour with a train transfer included on the last day, your tour end point is   Dublin Heuston, Heuston Station, St John’s Rd W, Dublin

Our arrival times at the train station are 6.00 pm. (You can choose an earlier arrival time by train if you wish) Please note Heuston Station is located directly across the road from The Ashling Hotel. There are plenty of transport serving the city center from Hueston station such as  LUAS RED LINE ,  DUBLIN BUS , and many taxi services. 

Please see our detailed PDF attached with full details for many alternative options for Dublin Airport transfers. 

About the group

The minimum number for our tours is two people.

Your departure is 100% guaranteed once you’ve booked your tour (as long as there is one other person booked). We’ve never canceled a tour.

The maximum group size is 16 on our small group tours and a maximum of 8 on our mini group tours.

For Private tours for friends and families we can cater up to 30+

Yes of course! Many of our travellers arrive alone, others are with friends or partners. It doesn’t matter because by the end of day 1 you have already made a great group of friends on the bus!

You will meet like-minded people who have an appreciation for the great outdoors. Our guests are usually people from Australia, the UK, Canada and the United States, and come from a wide range of backgrounds and experiences. On average, we have a 50/50 split between men and women, with several single travelers on each trip as well as couples and friends traveling together.

Accommodations

All of our tours depart from  Point A Hotel, Parnell Street Dublin

Our pick-up times from the Hotel are at 8.30 am.

• All of our tours arrive at the  Ashling Hotel, 10 – 13 Parkgate St, Stoneybatter, Dublin 8

Our drop-off times at the Hotel are at 5.00 pm approx.

• Except if you book a tour with a train transfer included on the last day, to Dublin Heuston, Heuston Station, St John’s Rd W, Dublin

Our arrival times at the train station are 6.00 pm. (You can choose an earlier arrival time by train if you wish) Please note Heuston Station is located directly across the road from The Ashling Hotel

Hotel/B&Bs near pick-up point:

Point A Hotel, Leonardos Hotel, Academy Plaza Hotel, Holiday Inn Express City Centre, Castle Hotel, The Maldron Hotel (Parnell Square)The Wynns Hotel, Tom, Dick & Harriet’s Acc, The Kingfisher Townhouse, The Charles Stewert B&B, Cassidys Hotel,  The Gate Hotel, Castle Hotel, The Belvedere Hotel, Temple House North Great apartments and Halfpenny Bridge Holiday Homes.

Hotel/B&Bs near the drop-off point:

Ashling Hotel, Phoenix Park Hotel, Maldron Hotel Smithfield, McGettigans Townhouse, Generator High-Quality Hostel, Hilton Hotel Kilmainham, The Hendrick Smithfield

FOR 2024 We are not including the Point A Hotel as a 2nd drop-off point  

For your pre/post-Dublin city tour – we recommend DoDublin Hop, On Hop Off

Yes of course!

Many of our travelers arrive alone, others are with friends or partners. It doesn’t matter because by the end of day 1 you have already made a great group of friends on the bus! Take one of our small group tours for a hassle-free way to explore Ireland and meet new friends.

B&B Single Supplement – mandatory for solo travelers

Enjoy the comfort and privacy of your own room.

A vital component of Irish Experience is the effort we put into finding our tours accommodation that is just right. Instead or large impersonal hotels, we overnight in locally-owned establishments (in some cases for generations) where the welcome really is genuine.

Plus, our small group sizes allow us to choose from a wider variety of high-quality establishments in some of the most untouched places in the country.

A hot shower, a pint, a fire in the evening or heading down to the pub; what we can assure you is that wherever you stay, you’ll love it.

All room types are available – twin room, double room, single room and family rooms

A twin room is a room with 2 single beds, whilst a double room has 1 large bed suited for two people. Both rooms are designed for double occupancy. A single room is a single bed, designed for single occupancy.

Depending on which accommodation package you choose; You will stay in a variety of accommodations all carefully selected to ensure that each place offers a new experience.

B&B/Guesthouse Accommodation

B&Bs in the Republic of Ireland are rated on a 2-5 scale, and all meet the Fáilte Ireland minimum standards. B&Bs in Northern Ireland are not rated under a star system but are inspected by the Northern Ireland Tourist Board, and so are of a satisfactory level of comfort and service. Guesthouses on the island of Ireland are rated on a 1-4 scale. We only use 3 to 4 star.

You’ll find here 3 types of accommodation that we use:

The choice of townhouse B&Bs runs from detached, and semi-detached to large period houses in a city, town, or village. Many are in an ideal location for city visits and shopping, they are often close to train and bus services.

Country home

Country homes are those in a rural setting. They offer a wide selection of premises such as Georgian residences, modern bungalows, and traditional Irish homes. All with modern amenities, facilities and adequate garden and green surrounds

Historic houses

Historic houses are private houses of significant historical and architectural merit and character.

They are based in towns and rural settings.

Most guest accommodation includes a private bathroom with a bath and/or shower. TV with remote control and tea/coffee facilities.

Hotel classification

Hotels on the island of Ireland are rated on a 1-5 star scale. We only use 3 to 4 star

This ranges from small family-run hotels to larger city hotels. Every guest room will have a private bathroom. 3-star restaurants prepare food to high standards in a relaxed atmosphere.

This includes contemporary hotels and period houses to the highest standards with all modern comforts. Accommodation is luxurious, with suites available. These hotels also house restaurants that dish out excellent food and service.

Food and Dietary

It’s easier than ever for travellers with specialised dietary requirements to visit Ireland.

Our advice is to let us know in advance of your tour. And feel free to tell your server upon arrival at a hotel or restaurant. We will always do our best to accommodate you!

That varies from tour to tour depending on what the group wishes to do. Usually, the guide will discuss this with the group and should they all want to dine together, group reservations can be made

We’re confident that you’ll love Irish food everywhere we take you.

When your tour overnights in a town or city, there tends to be great dining options to choose from.

Packing & Luggage Size

Clothing: Don’t bring too much clothing. You can get away with light shower-proof hiking pants that zip down to shorts if needed. And they can be washed and dried very quickly with today’s modern materials.

A Hat: To keep the sun from burning and drying out your head (especially for bald men), the sun does shine here in Ireland hence all the red faces.

Casual hiking or sportswear: Perfect….. You will also find laundry facilities en route which will also help to reduce the size of your bag.

Layers: Pack layers, including a waterproof and windproof outer layer. This helps you adjust to changing temperatures

Rain Jacket: We advise a good light waterproof jacket, a heavy jacket will be on and off you and get in your way in our very changeable weather.

Casual footwear: Essential and most of the time sneakers/runners/tennis shoes will be fine. If you plan to do a moderate to strenuous hike, trail shoes with a grip would be perfect but not huge hiking boots as they take up lots of space in your bag.

Small Backpack: Useful for day trips to carry essentials and any items you pick up along the way

Rucksack or suitcase? Leave plenty of space for shopping, ie; sweaters take up a lot of space. Rucksacks have plenty of straps and handles for you to carry them. A small suitcase will fit in the overhead luggage compartment saving you both time and money and less dragging around too. Lots of the accommodations are B&Bs that have lots of stairs.

We ask that you bring only one large backpack/suitcase (25kg) and a day pack. If you are going to be traveling with a lot more than 25kg, then please let us know.

General travel information

Unless you’re travelling from the UK, you will need an adapter to use your electric appliances in Ireland.

We use a three pin plug in Ireland, with square pins.

Yes. We make regular stops along the tour route where you can avail of bathroom facilities.

If you’re from the USA, Canada, Australia or New Zealand, travelling for the sole purpose of tourism and staying less than 3 months in Ireland, you do not need a visa.

From a different country?  Check the visa requirements on the official Irish government website.

If in doubt, please contact the  Irish Immigration Service . Alternatively, contact the Irish embassy or consulate in your home country.

Laundry facilities can be accessed during the two night stays in Westport, Killarney, Dingle and Clifden.

Your guide will advise you on where best to access laundry facilities.

There are two currencies on the island of Ireland. Euro is the main currency you’ll need. If your tour visits Northern Ireland, you’ll also need Pound Sterling (£). 

We advise not bringing too much cash to Ireland. On tour, you can withdraw cash from cash machines/ATMs as you need it. You’ll find ATMs in most towns and gas/service stations on tour. Just ask your tour guide for advice on when and where is best to withdraw cash.

All overnight stops offer WiFi.

You’ll also be able to access the internet on your WiFi-enabled device at cafés, pubs and other stops along the route.

There is no travel insurance cover included on our tours. We strongly recommend that you take insurance to cover you for cancellation, medical expenses, personal accident, personal baggage, money and public liability. We do not take responsibility for any personal possessions under any circumstances.

• Drivers/tour guides are usually tipped at the end of a trip, sometimes with a communal tip collected from all of their guests.
• The amount is up to you. It will depend on the length of the tour and the quality of the service.
• The industry standard in Ireland is approximately €10-15 per person, per day. But this is, of course, at your discretion.

Your guide will be one of our hand-picked, passionate Irish drivers with a wide array of life experiences. From spotting native wildlife to bringing the past alive with stories from the land. The connections you make with your guides will last a lot longer than the duration of this tour. Your driver/guide will be at your service throughout the day, meaning that everyone can go at their own pace and there is always flexibility within the itinerary to do more or less depending on your mood that day.

Optional Activities & Hikes

In the vast majority of cases, you don’t have to decide on tour activities until you join your tour.

That’s because you’ll pay for the optional excursions on our itineraries locally, direct to the suppliers themselves.

Your tour guide will discuss the options available on Day 1. They will gauge interest from the group for each excursion, keeping you informed as you travel around Ireland.

Ireland Activity List

Island of ireland, every irish experience tour offers flexibility, all of our tours are packed with great scenery, local irish culture and loads of laughs..

We’ve curated a list of unmissable activities for you, and in places where fantastic choices abound, we’ve entrusted the ultimate decision to you.

Any additional tour options are highlighted here for your consideration. Please note the towns you are staying in correspond with the activities. 

All details of prices and suppliers listed here are correct at the time of publication.

Our suppliers occasionally increase prices for optional tour activities during the touring season.

This is a rare occurrence. In the unlikely event of a major price increase, we will do our utmost to update you.

All hikes are optional and are very much easy to moderate. Most of the people that join our trips have questions about how fit they need to be and the answer is that as long as you enjoy being out and about in the outdoors you will enjoy yourself – Some of our trips are designed for active people but you don’t need to be an athlete, meaning that everyone can go at their own pace and there is always flexibility within the itinerary to do more or less depending on your mood that day. Our guests are regular people who enjoy getting outside and exploring new places and our trips are designed for people of all ages and abilities. With our small groups of no more than 16 people, we offer you plenty of options and flexibility. We always have easier or more challenging options available so that you can choose how much or little activity you enjoy each day.

You certainly don’t need any technical outdoor experience to enjoy your Irish Experience trip. If you enjoy being out and about in the outdoors and are a generally active person who enjoys hobbies like walking, cycling, golf, tennis, or dancing then you will have no problems at all with the walks and activities on your trip.  Remember all walks and activities are optional. 

If your trip has kayaking as an option on it there’s no need for you to have ever been kayaking before. The kayaking is suitable for beginners and you will be in double sea kayaks, which are very stable. A specialist kayak guide will teach you everything you need to know before you head out and will be with you out on the water.

If your trip has biking on it you will need some biking experience to complete the bike ride on your trip. The trails we bike on are undulating gravel tracks that are rated as “easy” trail rides but you’ll need to have done some biking before to comfortably and safely take part in the bike rides. The activities on our trips are very flexible and many of our guests opt to walk instead of bike. The trails we bike on are shared walking/biking trails so you’ll be able to enjoy a walk with your guide if you prefer.

The same goes for horse riding as an option on your trip. Beginner or advanced rider, fast-paced jaunt or relaxing leisure trek, there’s something to suit you. There’s no pressure to go fast. Relax and take in the scenic locations. More experienced riders may be offered the chance to canter or even gallop. All of our horseback riding experiences are fully guided and safety-approved. Our trusted suppliers are local, family-operated businesses. They have the utmost concern for animal welfare

Transport and Transfers

 All of our tours arrive at the   Ashling Hotel, 10 – 13 Parkgate St, Stoneybatter, Dublin 8

Except if you book a tour with a train transfer included on the last day, to  Dublin Heuston, Heuston Station, St John’s Rd W, Dublin

On your trip you will generally travel in a  late-model Mercedes Benz minibus or an Iveco Turas 700 .  The size of the vehicle will depend on the exact size of the group, but you will have space to stretch out and enjoy each journey.

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DUBLIN AIRPORT TO CITY CENTRE

Yes. All of our tours depart from Point A Hotel on Parnell Street Dublin on either Sundays, Tuesdays, or Thursdays

SUNDAYS:  10-DAY WILD IRISH EXPERIENCE, 8-DAY CASTLES & COASTS, 7-DAY ULTIMATE IRISH ADVENTURE

TUESDAYS:  11-DAY ULTIMATE IRISH EXPERIENCE, 7-DAY ATLANTIC WAY EXPERIENCE

THURSDAYS:  13-DAY FULL IRISH EXPERIENCE, 5-DAY GIANT IRISH EXPERIENCE

Trip Activity Levels

Our mini coaches are not wheelchair accessible. In order to enjoy our tours, you must be able to get on and off our tour vehicles unaided; or have someone come along on tour to help you.

A lightweight foldable wheelchair can sometimes be stowed in the luggage compartment. Our tours are not suitable for larger wheelchairs or mobility scooters

Our trips are open to people of all ages and levels of fitness who want to experience Irelands outdoors in an easygoing environment. And perfect for a group of varying levels, or who simply want the opportunity to set their own pace each day.

On all our tours you are free to travel at your own pace – whether this means challenging yourself by zooming up the hills, discovering historical sites at a relaxing pace, or anything in between.

If you’re not sure which trip is right for you,  contact  our expert trip designers who will help match your fitness levels, interests and preferences to the perfect trip. 

All hikes are optional and are very much easy to moderate. Most of the people that join our trips have questions about how fit they need to be and the answer is that as long as you enjoy being out and about in the outdoors you will enjoy yourself – Some of our trips are designed for active people but you don’t need to be an athlete, meaning that everyone can go at their own pace and there is always flexibility within the itinerary to do more or less depending on your mood that day. Our guests are regular people who enjoy getting outside and exploring new places and our trips are designed for people of all ages and abilities. With our small groups of no more than 16 people, we offer you plenty of options and flexibility. We always have easier or more challenging options available so that you can choose how much or little activity you enjoy each day

Need more information? Please do not hesitate to contact us.

• Social media
• Review site
• Friends and Family
• Tourist board
• None of the above

Full Island of Ireland Activity List

Our small-group tours redefine exploring the island of Ireland, blending the freedom of independent travel with the convenience of choosing your optional activities. 

Every Irish Experience tour offers flexibility and you also have the freedom to select your evening meals and lunches.

Any additional tour options are highlighted for your consideration.

Wish to travel in a private group tour?

Whether you’re traveling with friends, family, or colleagues, our Private Trips are a great way to see the island of Ireland.

You get the same amazing Irish Experience itineraries—that are continually being refined and improved for you to enjoy with traveling companions of your choosing.

Your group will be supported by a team of creators who work closely with local activity & accommodation providers, to ensure you have a seamless experience.

Tailor-Made Tours

This style of travel allows us to organise your dream holiday on your terms. We love the opportunity to use our knowledge, expertise and experience to design and deliver the perfect and unique holiday experience for you. We make your planning and travel easy and handcraft the details that make a special, personalised experience exclusively yours.

Private Departures

Choose the dates that suit you and the trip that you love, then Make it Private. Any of our Adventure Holidays can be turned into a private departure, exclusively for your group of friends and family. You get to travel at your own pace and our knowledge and skill ensure your tour runs seamlessly and we can work in personal touches for special occasions.

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We create and operate tours that let travellers experience the country from a local and authentic perspective by connecting them with our place and our people. 

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There is nothing more authentic than residing at some of Irelands great castles

Our expert driver guides will escort you through the Irish countryside. Our itineraries are just a sample of what is ahead on this Luxury Irish private tour and of course there are many hidden gems along the way.

Grandeur, elegance, history and fantastic service are some of the many benefits of reserving a Luxury Castle tour with Luxury Irish Tour’s. We can tailor any Castle tour to meet your requirements. Our expert driver guides will escort you through the Irish countryside. Our itineraries are just a sample of what is ahead on this Luxury Irish private tour and of course there are many hidden gems along the way. There is nothing more authentic than residing at some of Irelands great castles. View the itinerary below:

Arrival-Donegal

Chauffeur transfer to Donegal. Light refreshments are provided while you sit back and relax and enjoy your journey. Check into one of Donegal’s finest hotels such as the beautiful 5 star Lough Eske Castle for 2 nights. Nestled amid all this majestic scenery, the 5 star Lough Eske Castle is a place of true Donegal welcome with every aspect of the hotel knitted into the fabric of the people and the area. It is the perfect location for Donegal getaways and Donegal vacations. This castle hotel in Ireland has been meticulously restored to recreate the glamour, style and elegance it had once known combined with all the modern amenities expected of a 5 star Donegal luxury hotel. Spend the evening exploring some of Donegal’s most spectacular coastal drives including Killybegs fishing port and the cliffs at Slieve League.

While in Donegal a must see is Malin head, the most northerly point of Ireland. Malin Head lies on the Inishowen Peninsula in County Donegal, at the most northerly tip of the island of Ireland. It is the start (or end, depending on your point of view) of the Wild Atlantic Way and has long been renowned for its epic coastal scenery, thriving birdlife and historical curiosities. More recently, Malin Head so captured the imagination of Star Wars location scouts that they cast it in Star Wars: The Last Jedi. Locals and visitors alike were thrilled by the sights that unfolded over the course of the shoot. Now, when you visit Malin Head, you'll just see the unspoiled beauty of the place. Return to Lough Eske Castle for the night.

Donegal -Mayo

Depart Donegal and travel south to Mayo On route On route visit the spectacular Glencar waterfall, view the Bulben mountains before exploring the amazing beach at Rosses point and strandhill in Co. Sligo Check into 5 star Ashford Castle for 2 nights. Situated in a spectacular 350 acre estate, discover sumptuous rooms and suites, splendid interiors brimming with antique furniture, fine fabrics and unique features at every turn. Relax and enjoy the beautiful surroundings for the evening.

Connemara and Cong

Day 4 Connemara and Cong Chauffeur drive of Connemara Galway, situated at the very edge of Europe, on the west coast of Ireland and is one of the most beautiful, unspoilt places. Today Explore Connemara. Visit Kylemore Abbey is a Benedictine monastery founded in 1920 on the grounds of Kylemore Castle, in Connemara, County Galway, Ireland. The abbey was founded for Benedictine Nuns who fled Belgium in World War I. Explore the 6 acre Victorian Walled Garden with its delightfully restored garden buildings. Drive the Renvyle Peninsula, Dominated by Tully Mountain, the Renvyle Peninsula offers panoramic sea views and a slice of the old Irish way of life. There are stunning views across Ballynakill Bay and, on a clear day, you can see the conical holy mountain of Croagh Patrick, County Mayo. Visit Cliften town, the hub of Connemara followed by a drive on Sky road. Justifiably famous for the views it affords, the Sky Road route takes you up among the hills overlooking Clifden Bay and its offshore islands, Inishturk and Turbot. Visit Cong, home to the film set of the 'the Quiet Man' and now has a museum . Return back to Ashford Castle that evening.

Today travel to Galway city and explore the local attraction's such as Galway Cathedral, Galway city museum, Sallthill and the promenade and the spannish arch. Travel through the Burren in Co. Clare. Areas of interest are the Burren Chocolate shop, the Burren perfumery and Poulnabourne Dolmen. Take the scenic Ballybaughan to Doolin route with the limestone on your right and the Atlantic ocean on your left. Travel to the Cliffs of Moher and explore the 8th wonder of the world. Step on to the edge of the world and into an awe-inspiring view that dreams are made of, at the Cliffs of Moher you will encounter nature in its wildest, purest form – see the rugged cliffs facing the mighty ocean, taste the salt air, hear the birds cry, feel the ancient rocks beneath your feet, smell the wind. Travel to Bunratty for a quick photo stop at Bunratty Castle and Folkpark. Travel to Dromoland castle, and check in x 1 night Ensuite rooms date back to the 16th century, and are decorated in a fine blend of old worlde and contemporary décor. They have flatscreen TV, Nespresso machine, toiletries, slippers and bathrobe and free Wi-Fi. Some have minibars, and lake or courtyard views.

Depart Dromoand at leisure for Tralee. From here take the Conor pass, A winding mountain pass, the views are magnificent, the scenery so unspoilt Drive around Dingle and enjoy the scenic drive around Slea head of the Dingle peninsula. Slea Head Drive is a circular route that starts and finishes in Dingle town. You’re truly getting away from it all here. Secluded golden beaches, fascinating archaeological sites and weather-beaten landscape is everywhere. All as nature intended. Visiting Gallarus Oratory, the beehive huts, famine cottages and the Blasket centre. There is plenty of local seafood on offer here for lunch. Lots of photo opportunities along this beautiful scenic drive. Travel on to Killarney and check into the 5 star Killarney Park hotel x 2 nights. One of the finest five-star hotels that Ireland has to offer. The hotel is on the doorstep of Killarney’s town centre and is situated adjacent to the 25,000 acre Killarney National Park. One of the last few Family Owned and run five-star hotels in Ireland, The Killarney Park is set on its own mature grounds and guests can enjoy the privacy of dining in the secluded garden space.

Today explore Killarney and the beautiful surrounding attractions. Drive the Ring of Kerry visiting Killorglin. It’s known for one of the best sandy Atlantic beaches on our small island. A great spot to kick your shoes off, if you fancy. Dingle Bay is a fabulous place. What with towering cliffs and crashing waves falling onto endless sandy beaches. Cahirciveen is along the route. It’s the birthplace of Daniel O’Connell, Ireland’s Great Liberator. The route winds round to Valentia Island, from where you’ll catch sight of Skellig Island – one for Star Wars fans (it was a key filming location). You’ll then travel through Sneem village and on to Molls Gap. Drive onto Killarney National Park and visit Muckrose House and Gardens, Ross Castle and Torc Waterfall. If you’d like to experience some Irish music and dancing, your driver-guide can take you to an Irish night with dinner. You’ll soak up a lively night with traditional food, costumed dancers and warm hospitality.

Depart Killarney and travel to Cork Visit Blarney Castle and Gardens. Built nearly six hundred years ago by one of Ireland's greatest chieftans, Cormac MacCarthy, and has been attracting attention 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 our tower. Kiss it and you'll never again be lost for words. Travel to Cobh and explore the Titanic Experience and Queenstown Story tour at the Cobh Heritage centre . This titanic experience is located in casement square in the heart of Cobh town, the original white star line ticket office. Steeped in history and the departure point for thousands of passengers the titanic experience in Cobh is an unforgettable one. Learn about Irish Emigration story, trace your ancestors, hear about the ill-fated Titanic and the Lusitania, and immerse yourself in Irish naval and military history at Cobh Heritage Centre. Check into the 5 star Castlemartyr Hotel for 1 night. Nestled amid Cork's woodlands, Castlemartyr (Baile na Martra) is a destination richly steeped in Emerald Isle history and tradition. The castle from which the village of Castlemartyr takes its name was first built in 1210 by The Knights Templar, who were one of the most famous of the Christian military orders under the leadership of Richard Earl de Clare, more commonly known as Strongbow.

Cork-Dublin

Depart cork and travel to Dublin city Visit the Book of Kells Exhibition, it is a must see on the itinerary of all visitors to Dublin. Located in the heart of Dublin City, a walk through the cobbled stones of Trinity College Dublin will bring visitors back to the 18th century, when the magnificent Old Library building was constructed and which displays the Book of Kells. The Book of Kells is Ireland's greatest cultural treasure and the world's most famous medieval manuscript. The 9th century book is a richly decorated copy of the four Gospels of the life of Jesus Christ. Visit the Guinness Storehouse, Ireland’s most popular tourist attraction. It’s the home of the Black Stuff, the heart of Dublin and an unforgettable start to your Irish adventure. You will get to taste the Black stuff that’s remounted all over the world. Check into the 5 star Luttrellstown Castle Resort Only a short distance from the centre of one of the most popular and vibrant cities in the world, lies an estate that’s worlds away from any hustle and bustle. Situated on 567 acres of lush private parkland

Travel to Dublin airport for departing flight.

Luxury Irish Tours

Your key to the magical island of Ireland

Executive Premier Travel as All-Ireland All-Star Luxury Coach Hire Company 2023, and their fourth Business All-Star in a row.

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We are delighted to announce that we have been awarded Luxury Coach Hire Company of the Year 2023  We would like to thank minister Simon Coveney, deputy Ciaran Cannon for spending time with us and learning more about the business. Many thanks also to the All-Ireland Business Foundation for the valued accreditation.  #businessallstars  #tourism  #business #luxurytravel […]

Executive Premier Travel Retains Its All-Ireland All-Star Coach Hire Company Accreditation For 2022

Executive Premier Travel Retains Its All-Ireland All-Star Coach Hire Company Accreditation For 2022 This certificate verifies that executive premier travel (luxury irish tours) has achieved all-ireland all-star coach hire company 2022 accreditation.The accreditation is in recognition of the company’s continuing contribution to quality and standards in the coach hire industry. Luxury irish tours is located […]

All-Ireland All-Star Coach Hire Company 2021

Delighted to received the All-Ireland All-Star Coach Hire Company 2021. Our team has been very busy over the last 8 weeks working with the All-Ireland Business Foundation to achieve our Business All-Star Accreditation Certificate. As it is our second time going through the rigorous process, we knew the standards we needed to upkeep to be […]

He knew where to go, what to avoid, and made accommodations for the weather when required. His personality is great and his professionalism is unmatched, he made our vacation one of the best we have ever had. I HIGHLY recommend this company and Joe. They both made our trip one to remember for a lifetime !

Click to read our great reviews!

We could not have had a better driver. He was charming and totally accommodating, and he added hugely to the enjoyment of our tour. The mimi bus was perfect. The office staff was great and made the hiring process simple.

We ventured off to so many sites that were true perfection. this company goes above and beyond. there is no way we would have had a true, stress-free irish experience if we toured on our own. we saw and learned so much. thank you, couldn't have asked for more. wi-fi, usb chargers, leather reclining spacious seats and a second to none service. russ was an excellent driver and host, kept perfect time and communicated very well. couldn't recommend the fleet and service high enough. will be using again., cian connolly, wonderful trip from dublin to waterford. our driver jim was very professional, on time and shared several stories along our trip about the countryside and history of ireland. he made the trip even more enjoyable i would recommend this company to anyone, i cannot recommend luxury irish tours highly enough the service keith provided from start to finish was fantastic the minibus was luxurious, warm & very comfortable. keith was highly professional & friendly. i will definitely use luxury irish tours again.

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Welcome to our

Castles & classics

5 Star Luxury Tour

7 Day Essential Ireland Tour

Our Famous VIP Tour

LUXURY CASTLES OF IRELAND

Experience the majesty of Ireland's Castles, stately homes and historic houses. A Tour high on culture, history and luxury with overnight stays you’ll remember forever

Win a once in a lifetime tour of Ireland

Visit our Facebook or Instagram page to enter the competition. All you have to do is like, share and leave a comment as to what you'd most like to see on your visit to Ireland. Enter before February 1st to be in with a chance of winning a place on our April 2019 Wild Atlantic Tour.

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OUR GALLERY

One of the unique features of Essential Ireland Tours is that we bring our own in-house professional travel-photographer and videographer with us on all tours.

Stephen McPhilemy and Patrick Wade are the co-founders of Essential Ireland Tours. One Irish and one Irish-American, they met 20 years ago while Patrick was backpacking through Ireland and Stephen was his tour-guide. Two decades later they (and their Irish Wolfhounds) are experienced and respected figures in the Irish tour and hospitality scene with a passion for providing high quality tours. Authentic Irish experiences for unbeatable value.

Founded by Stephen McPhilemy and Patrick Wade. Essential Ireland's mission is to introduce its guests to wonderful Irish experiences in small groups that allow them to see the real Ireland.

Wade McPhilemy Teo, company reg # 535035, registered in Ireland

Milltown House, Dingle, County Kerry, V92DP93

[email protected]

(+353) 83 1477 363

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9 Spellbinding Ireland Castle Tours

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my links, at no extra cost to you. Please read  full disclosure  for more information.

Did you know there are more than 30,000 castles and castle ruins throughout Ireland? If you want to see the best of them, you need to know about these Ireland castle tours.

With so many castles to choose from, it might feel overwhelming when you don’t know which ones are worth visiting. Taking castle tours in Ireland is a great way to discover the best castles and learn more about Irish history.

I took many guided tours, and I know they can be hit-and-miss. Therefore, I hand-picked the 9 best Ireland castle tours that deserve to be on your Ireland itinerary!

If you’re ready, let’s jump right in!

Table of Contents

Editor’s Pick: The Best Ireland Castle Tour

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Cliffs of Moher Tour Including Wild Atlantic Way and Galway City from Dublin

Best castle tours in ireland, cliffs of moher tour including wild atlantic way and galway city from dublin.

⭐️ Rating : 5 out of 5 Stars ( 7,301 reviews ) | ⏳ Tour length : 13 hours | ✅ Includes: Professional guide, walking tour of Galway City, entrance fees to attractions, wifi on transportation | 🏰 Book now

This full-day tour is one of the most comprehensive Ireland castle tours you can take from Dublin .

Save a whole day for this tour, as it lasts approximately 13h! Time will fly by as you’ll get to see two stunning Irish castles, walk along the majestic Cliffs of Moher, admire the Burren National Park, and spend time in the charming city of Galway.

The tour picks you up in the city center of Dublin at 7 am, and you drive through the Irish countryside in a luxury coach.

You will pass by Bunratty Castle and Folk Park on your way to Cliffs of Moher, where you’ll spend 2 hours learning more about these stunning rock formations.

“Loved the tour! Stops at the Cliffs of Moher and Gallway with two rest stops between travels. Owen and Suzanne were delightful, funny, and held all the interesting facts about Ireland that kept the tour interesting throughout! The views we passed by were also breathtaking! Great tour, worth the experience, and delightful hosts :)” Theodore C ( see more reviews )

The next stop is Burren National Park, where you’ll get to explore the unique  Lunar Landscape. You’ll pass by the 16th-century Dungaire Castle on your way to Galway city. Discover Galway with a walking tour and see iconic spots like Spanish Arch and Lynch’s Castle.

Tour guides can make or break a tour, and this tour has guides that will transport you in time with stories of Irish history, play you traditional music, and share the love and knowledge they have for this incredible country.

Connemara Day Trip from Galway: Cong and the Kylemore Abbey

⭐️ Rating : 4.5 out of 5 Stars ( 566 reviews ) | ⏳ Tour length : 8 hours | ✅ Includes: Professional guide, transportation | 🏰 Book now

If you’re staying in Galway, this is the best historic Irish castle tour you can take!

On this 8h full-day tour, you’ll discover the county of Connemara and see one of the most fairytale-like castles in Ireland. 

The tour departs at 10 am, and you drive through the scenic mountain region to your first stop Kylemore Abbey, also known as the Connemara castle. It was built in the late 19th century, and today it is home to the Benedictine Nuns. You can also visit the Victorian Walled Garden at your expense, as the ticket is not included in the tour price.

“Driving through the Connemara mountains was just amazing! The scenery is just beautiful and mesmerizing!” Hanri S ( see more reviews )

You’ll get a chance to admire Ireland’s largest lake Lough Corrib and Ireland’s only true fjord Killary Fjord. The tour ends with a visit to Cong village and its 12th-century Augustinian Abbey.

Its unique itinerary, combining a visit to a castle and some of the most important natural sites in Ireland, makes it a clear choice for everyone staying in Galway!

Game of Thrones – Winterfell Trek from Dublin

⭐️ Rating : 5 out of 5 Stars ( 602 reviews ) | ⏳ Tour length : 11 hours | ✅ Includes: Ponchos, swords/cloaks/shields/banners, behind-the-scenes clips | 🏰 Book now

If you are a Game of Thrones fan, look no further than this trekking tour through Winterfell filming locations in Ireland !

This 11h, full-day tour takes you on a trip of life as you get a chance to represent the house of Stark and roam the grounds of Winterfell. This is an immersive tour, so best believe you’ll get a chance to wear authentic GoT outfits for your photos.

“The tour was very immersive. Our guide Lar was fantastic, very friendly and humorous. Would highly recommend.” Larry G ( see more reviews )

You’ll start your day with a 2-mile trek through Tollymore Forest Park, followed by lunch in Strangford Lough. Next, you’ll visit Old Castle Ward, which served as Winterfell in the first two seasons. An afternoon walking tour includes stops like Robb Stark’s Camp and Inch Abbey.

Even if you’re not a fan of the show, this tour takes you to some incredible locations with knowledgeable and entertaining guides. Remember, this is a trekking tour, so wear comfortable shoes as you will be walking a lot!

Fast-track Easy Access Book of Kells Tour with Dublin Castle

⭐️ Rating : 4.5 out of 5 Stars ( 1,167 reviews ) | ⏳ Tour length : 2.5 hours | ✅ Includes: Local guide, entrance fee, exterior tour of Dublin Castle | 🏰 Book now

If you’re short on time, this 2.5h castle tour in Dublin is the one for you!

This tour is an excellent introduction to Dublin’s history, as your tour guide will teach you everything you need to know about it as he shows you around the Trinity College Library and Dublin Castle. 

The tour includes early access to Trinity College Library, so you can see the Book of Kells without the crowds. You’ll get to see Oldest Vaulted Library in Europe, College Treasury, stroll the 16th-century Trinity College campus, and the “Turning Darkness into Light” Exhibition.

“Our guide made it awesome, with stories, context and little quips of culture. Beat tour we’ve done. Excellent speaker, lots of fun information and very well spoken.” Andrew A ( see more reviews )

Time will fly by as the tour continues to show you the exterior of Dublin Castle, and learn about all the important historical events that took place in this 13th-century masterpiece.

Blarney Castle Day Trip from Dublin

⭐️ Rating : 4.5 out of 5 Stars ( 1,548 reviews ) | ⏳ Tour length : 12 hours | ✅ Includes: Transportation, guide, entrance fees | 🏰 Book now

This tour is perfect for those who want to see the top three Ireland attractions in one day!

Blarney Castle Day Trip is a full-day tour. In 12 hours you’ll get to see three castles that marked Irish history. 

The tour starts with a visit to the stunning Rock of Cashel, dramatically set on the top of a hill. Next, you’ll visit Blarney Castle and get a chance to kiss Blarney Stone to gain the gift of eloquence – let us know how that works out!

“This was my first trip to Ireland and it was amazing our guide Noel was outstanding. The view , the castles was nothing short of amazing. What a great memorable experience.” Adrienne H ( see more reviews )

You’ll end your day with a visit to Cahir Castle, one of Ireland’s largest and best-preserved castles.

This tour includes admission tickets to all sites, and you’ll be led by a knowledgeable and funny guide who will bring the sites to life with stories of events that took place all those years ago.

Northern Ireland Highlights Day Trip Including Giant’s Causeway from Dublin

⭐️ Rating : 5 out of 5 Stars ( 3,259 reviews ) | ⏳ Tour length : 13.5 hours | ✅ Includes: Transportation, guide | 🏰 Book now

If you’re looking for Northern Ireland castle tours from Dublin, this full-day Northern Ireland Highlights day trip is the best choice.

This 13h tour starts at 7 am and ends at 8 pm, with a jammed packed schedule you won’t even feel the time passing!

The first stop on your itinerary is Belfast. But you’re not coming for a regular walking tour, you’ll get to explore the city in a traditional black cab! That is because Belfast is also known as home to the world’s biggest outdoor gallery. You’ll get to see amazing murals and learn about the tragic recent history of this region. 

“I travel to Dublin for work regularly and try to do a day trip each time. This was my favorite of them all. Learned so much in the black cab and the Giant Causeway was phenomenal. Rory our guide was the best! Making the trip more enjoyable!” Randi Hogan ( see more reviews )

After Belfast, you’ll get back on the road to visit Dunluce Castle, one of the most charming and romantic castles in Ireland, featured in many movies and series.

Finally, you will explore Giant’s Causeway, a unique and picturesque landscape created 60 million years ago by a series of volcanic eruptions.

From Galway: Castles of Connemara Full-Day Tour

⭐️ Rating : 4.7 out of 5 Stars ( 14 reviews ) | ⏳ Tour length : 9 hours | ✅ Includes: Guided tour, transportation, entrance fees | 🏰 Book now

This full-day tour takes you from Gallaway to the backcountry of the Connemara district, visiting four castles and charming villages along the way.

You’ll start with a visit to Aughnanure Castle, and explore this unusually well-preserved 16th-century castle. Next up is Kylemore Abbey, a picturesque castle situated on the side of the lake, before making your way to Clifden castle and Ballynahinch Castle.

“Thanks again Tony for all that stories and your kindness. We’ll bring photographs and memories with us.” Jason ( see more reviews )

This tour covers more castles than most, and you’ll have a lot of free time to discover each of them along with some quaint villages to explore.

From Dublin: Boyne Valley, Newgrange Celts and Castles Tour

⭐️ Rating : 4.6 out of 5 Stars ( 180 reviews ) | ⏳ Tour length : 8 hours | ✅ Includes: Entrance fees and skip the queue into Newgrange and Bru Na Boinne, guides, transportation | 🏰 Book now

If you’re looking for Ireland castle tours from Dublin that also cover the UNESCO site Boyne Valley, look no further.

This 8h castle tour will take you through Irish history and iconic historical spots. The tour starts with a visit to Boyne Valley, home to Ireland’s ancient capital and its most sacred landscape. 

“Great day out! Our driver/guide got us to the Newgrange site pretty much before anyone else so we easily got admission. Newgrange was very impressive and the newgrange guide very informative and conversational. We ended up having a group philosophy sesh inside at the end of the official guided tour with the tour guide which was great food for thought. Entertaining and insightful commentary on the road trip by our driver/guide between sites. He went out of his way to ensure we had a fantastic experience. Ticked off all the major Boyne Valley attractions and made some great friends too!” Olivia ( see more reviews )

You’ll get to discover Newgrange Monument and Bru Na Boinne, this tour includes a “skip the queue” ticket, so you won’t have to wait in line. Explore the area and learn about 5000 years of the region’s history.

Next up is a visit to the Trim Castle, the largest Norman Castle in Europe, before exploring the Hill of Tara, the ancient seat of Irish Kings.

From Galway: Aran Islands & Cliffs of Moher including Cliffs of Moher cruise.

⭐️ Rating : 5 out of 5 Stars ( 1,531 reviews ) | ⏳ Tour length : 10 hours | ✅ Includes: Ferry ride, commentary, local driver/guide, transportation, entry to Cliffs of Moher Visitor Center | 🏰 Book now

If bus tours are not your thing, how about a ferry tour and seeing Ireland’s top natural attractions from a different perspective?

This 10-tour takes you through the picturesque villages of Ballindereen, Clarenbridge, and Kilcolgan before boarding the ferry to Inisheer Island. You get to explore this smallest of Aran islands group on your own for 2h.

“Great tour! The tour guide was hilarious. Makes seeing these sights easy and accessible. Cliffs of Moher were beautiful. Aran islands are a can’t miss.” Elizabeth C ( see more reviews )

After having lunch on the island, you’ll hop back on the ferry to explore the Cliffs of Moher from the water. Sit on the right side of the boat for the best view! You’ll get to walk around the cliffs and admire them from the top as well!

All admission tickets and ferry rides are included in the tour price.

Summary: 9 Spellbinding Ireland Castle Tours

That concludes this list of Ireland castle tours that should be on your Ireland itinerary.

Whether you stay in Dublin or Galway, with over 30 000 castles throughout the country, you’ll be spoilt for choice with Irish castle tours to consider. 

From the unique Game of Thrones Winterfell trek to the tour of stunning castles of Northern Ireland, there is something for every type of traveler!

More IRELAND posts

If you’re planning a trip to Ireland, you’re in luck! I studied abroad there and have tons of Ireland posts. Explore them below!

• Day Trip From Dublin to Kerry With Paddywagon Tours!
• How to Take a Day Trip to Howth from Dublin!
• 13 Prettiest Towns in Ireland
• 28 Best Fairytale Castles in Europe That Will Enchant You
• How to Take a Day Trip From Dublin to Bray, Ireland
• Complete Guide to Studying Abroad in Dublin, Ireland
• 11 Best Free Things to Do in Dublin, Ireland
• 8 Incredible Cliffs of Moher Tours from Dublin, Ireland
• 6 Best Day Trips from Galway, Ireland
• Ultimate Guide to the Guinness Storehouse in Dublin, Ireland
• Finn Mccools Tours Review: Cliffs of Moher from Dublin
• Top 5 Cheap Eats in Dublin, Ireland

KP is the head blogger and founder behind Volumes & Voyages. After studying abroad in Dublin for a semester, KP got bitten by the travel bug. Now, she writes articles to help other travelers in between trips where she chases her wanderlust. KP has lived in many different places, including Boston MA, Denver CO, Las Vegas NV, southern VT, and Dublin IE.

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13 Castle Tours in Ireland That You Absolutely Should Not Miss

This post may contain affiliate links, meaning if you buy or book through one of these links, I may earn a small commission .

Ireland is the land of fairies and folklore, so it makes sense that this famously green country would have its share of castles too. Upwards of 30,000 in fact! To properly explore Ireland’s heritage, there should be at least a couple castle tours on every Ireland itinerary.

Obviously, no human on earth could visit 30,000 castles, or even 1% of that, in one go. Therefore, this post narrows the list down to the very best castle tours to prioritize during your Ireland trip.

To help me compile this list, I’ve reached out to my fellow travel bloggers for their favorite castle tours throughout the Emerald Isle. I’ve contributed my own favorites too, and you should leave this post ready to seek your own magic. Shall we begin?

13 Must-Do Castle Tours in Ireland

The below list of castle tours in Ireland is organized by region. Additionally, as Ireland is a great road trip destination, I’ve mapped a sample route below for visiting these castles in a giant loop.

Castles Near Dublin

1. trim castle.

A drive into the Boyne Valley to visit Trim Castle takes you to story book land.  Trim Castle, in medieval Trim village, is Ireland’s largest Anglo-Norman castle, and features one of the best castle tours in Ireland.  The structure sits along the Boyne River, and is a forty-five minute drive northwest from Dublin. 

Hugh De Lacy first built the castle as a wooden structure in 1172.  However, in 1174, the Gaelic Irish, led by Rory O’Connor, attacked and destroyed it.  Shortly after this, construction began on a new, more imposing stone fortification, much of which still stands today.  

Visitors can either wander the castle grounds for free, or pay €5 for a guided tour of the Keep.  Over one hour, your guide will take you through all three levels of the structure while explaining the castle’s history.  If you are afraid of heights, know that the walkway on the third story could be a bit dizzying.

Finally, the tour leads you to the roof of the castle for sweeping 360-degree views over Boyne Valley.  Experiencing this magical landscape might seem cinematic. After all, Trim Castle was a set in the movie Braveheart!

Trim is an easy day trip from Dublin, and also makes a great detour en route from Belfast to Dublin.  This colorful village is perfect for a short stroll or picnic lunch beside the Boyne River.  For overnight stays, consider the Trim Castle Hotel just steps away from the castle itself.

2. Tyrrellspass Castle

Recommended by Paulina from ukeveryday

Tyrrellspass Castle is easy to find due to its location on Main Street in Ballykilmore. It takes only one hour to reach from Dublin, and is the perfect stop when traveling between Dublin and Galway.

The castle was built in 1411 and is situated in the heart of the island. This positioning strategically controlled the only route through the surrounding bog. As a result, the Tyrrell family was able to grow wealthy by charging tolls to any traveler wishing to pass.

Today, Tyrrellspass Castle is a restaurant where you can try tasty Irish food. This medieval building offers an amazing experience, where you can learn not only about the history but also see some traditions of Ireland. Why not join the medieval banquet in Tyrrellspass Castle, which is one of the top things to do?

One of the best hotels to stay nearby is New Forest Estate & Golf Club for those who love golf and historic buildings. Plus, it is only a few minute’s drive from the castle. This is the last example of the Tyrrells’ castle that you can find, so don’t miss out on the opportunity to visit this magical place.

3. Malahide Castle & Gardens

Recommended by Adam of Where in Dublin

Malahide Castle & Gardens is one of Dublin’s most popular castles. It’s located in the leafy suburb of Malahide, which is only a half-hour drive from the city center and is seen as one of the  best places to walk in Dublin.

Originally, what is now a castle built from stone was once built with wood. It’s known that the grounds were owned and controlled by the Talbot Family between the years 1185 and the 1970’s.

For a brief period, Cromwellian soldiers took over the castle in 1649, but the Talbots managed to retain it in 1660. The last man standing was Lord Milo Talbot, who eventually passed away and left the castle to his sister Rose. She then sold it on to the Irish state in 1975. 

To tour the castle, visitors can expect to pay €8 for an adult and €5.50 for a child. The park’s grounds are free to enter for anybody.

Those looking to spend the night nearby should definitely check out The Grand Hotel Malahide . It’s one of the most sought after hotels in the whole of Dublin because of its stunning coastal views.

4. Dublin Castle

Recommended by Janelle from Make the Trip Matter

Spending some time in the capital city of Dublin is usually a must for most visitors to Ireland! While in Dublin, one of the most popular attractions is to tour the Dublin Castle.

Built in the early 13 th  century, the castle was the headquarters of the English administration in Ireland until 1922 when Ireland gained independence. The exterior is unique because it showcases the evolution of architecture in Ireland. The interior is quite magnificent as well with a Throne Room decorated in gold and the spectacular Record Tower that dates to 1226.

A tour of the castle includes the treasury building, Bedford Tower, army barracks, Chapel Royal, Chester Beatty Library (home to treasures such as manuscripts and paintings), and a museum with permanent and rotating exhibitions that will teach you some of Dublin’s turbulent political history. The Dublin Castle Gardens are especially beautiful to take a stroll through as well.

Dublin Castle is extremely easy to get to, located in the heart of Dublin near other top attractions, including the Book of Kells and popular  Dublin pubs .

Self-guided tickets  are €8 for adults, €6 for seniors and students, and €4 for children 12-17. The tour lasts about 30 minutes to 1 hour.

Tours in the South

5. kilkenny castle.

Recommended by Nicole from Go Far Grow Close

Kilkenny Castle is located in the center of Kilkenny, one hour and twenty minutes south of Dublin. It is a beautiful castle with a long history. It begins in 1172, when Strongbow, the Anglo-Norman conqueror of Ireland, built a simple wooden tower. Shortly thereafter, his son-in-law built a stone castle with four towers, three of which remain today. In 1391, the Butler family purchased the castle, and it remained in their family until 1935. In 1967, the City of Kilkenny bought it for £50.

Today, two wings of Kilkenny Castle are restored to their 19th century splendor. They include a library, drawing room and the famous “Long Gallery”. 

The castle sits on over fifty acres (or twenty-seven hectares) of beautiful gardens, with walking and running paths, a spectacular rose garden, ornamental lake and playground for all to enjoy. 

You can take a self-guided tour for €8 or a guided 45 minute tour for €12. The castle gardens are not included in either tour, but you are free to enjoy them whether you tour the castle or not.

Kilkenny Castle is an easy walk from fantastic restaurants and lots of hotels. Pembroke Kilkenny is a great hotel with large rooms, and only a five-minute walk from the castle. For amazing Italian food, try Rinuccini Restaurant just across the street.

6. Rock of Cashel

Although the Rock of Cashel is not technically a castle, the site was once the seat of the High Kings of Munster.  In fact, it is known as Cashel of the Kings, and is one of the most intact and historically significant medieval structures in Ireland. 

Legend has it that this location is where St. Patrick converted King Aenghus to Christianity in the 5 th century AD.  In 1101, the Rock of Cashel site was granted to the church, after which the medieval complex you see today was built.  These 12 th and 13 th century structures include a chapel, cathedral, abbey, and tower house.

The Rock of Cashel costs €8 a person for a self-guided tour, which typically takes 45 minutes to 1.5 hours.  If you have more time, consider taking a little stroll downhill to the lonely, neighboring monastery ruins of Hore Abbey.  It is essentially a pile of rocks, but free to roam.

The Rock of Cashel takes about 2 hours to reach from Dublin, and is technically doable as a daytrip.  For an overnight stay as part of a road trip, I recommend basing 50 minutes away in the lively medieval town of Kilkenny (mentioned above) for more sights and a fun local spirit. 

7. Blarney Castle

Recommended by Pamela from The Directionally Challenged Traveler

Blarney Castle is one of the most famous castle tours in Ireland, and more than just a beautiful photo opportunity. The 600-year-old fortress is home to wonderful gardens and interesting rock formations known as Rock Close’. 

The biggest reason people visit Blarney Castle is because of the Stone of Eloquence. Nicknamed the Blarney Stone, legend states that if you kiss the stone you will never be at a loss for words (otherwise known as the gift of gab). 

Kissing the Blarney Stone  isn’t as easy as it looks! You must hang upside down over a sheer cliff, then kiss the stone while balancing yourself on a narrow ledge. Don’t worry, there are people to help you down, and they disinfect the stone between each person!

Admission to the castle and grounds is €18 for an adult, €14 for seniors and students, €8 for children between 8-16, and €45 for a family (2 adults and 2 children). Admission does not include a tour of the grounds, so that would have to be booked separately. However, most tours include admission in their price. You can easily spend a few hours seeing everything this impressive castle has to offer. 

There’s more to see in Blarney, so if you’re able to spend a night in town, the Muskerry Arms Bar and B&B is a great option.

8. Muckross House

Recommended by Mary from Be Right Back by Mary

Muckross House is not quite a castle, but rather a gorgeous 19th century Victorian mansion that is literally fit for a queen. It sits on stunning grounds comprising of well-maintained gardens and beautiful Muckross Lake. These grounds are one of the  best visits for couples on a budget  in Ireland, as the views and atmosphere are very romantic.

Muckross House was owned by the Herbert family and built by William Burn, a Scottish architect, in 1843. It famously welcomed Queen Victoria for a visit in 1861.

As Muckross House is furnished, it’s easy for any visitor to imagine life at the mansion. In addition to visiting the mansion itself, visitors can wander the gardens and navigate on the lake to immerse themselves in the life of the Herbert family. The tour of the house is captivating, with staff available to answer any questions.

Muckross House is located in County Kerry in the South-West of Ireland, on the grounds of beautiful Killarney National Park. Reaching Muckross House requires about an hour drive from the Dingle Peninsula, and a four hour drive from Dublin. The easiest way to access Muckross House is by renting a car, although some bus tours also stop here. 

Admission to the mansion costs €7 per adult, while there is no charge to access the gardens, lake and Killarney National Park. The tour takes about an hour to complete, depending on your pace. The closest place to stay is Killarney, which offers a good selection of hotels and restaurants. 

9. Bunratty Castle

Recommended by Nicola from All About RosaLilla

Bunratty Castle is a large 15th-century tower house in County Clare, Ireland. It is located in the center of Bunratty village, by the N18 road between Limerick and Ennis, and it is very close to Shannon Airport in Ireland. It is the most complete and authentic castle in Ireland and was in its origin a Viking trading camp in 970.

Visitors can tour the iconic fortress or join a medieval banquet to envision how the lords and ladies of this castle lived. The tour describes stories of battles that occurred here and provides stunning views across the idyllic Clare countryside.

Set on 26 acres, Bunratty folk park consists of over thirty buildings that resemble a “living” village. It really feels like you have stepped back in time to rural Ireland with a selection of traditional farmhouses, a school, a pub where you can enjoy a pint, village shops and streets decorated as they would have appeared at that time to help you experience life in 19th century Ireland.

Tickets cost €15.25 for adults and €11.50 for children over 3. If you opt to stay for a medieval banquet, it will set you back €63 per adult and €35 per child. While in the area, you simply must  explore County Clare , the Wild Atlantic Way and Kilkee Cliffs.

Castle Tours in Western Ireland

10. dunguaire castle.

Recommended by Emily from Emily Embarks

Situated on the outskirts of Galway City, Dunguaire Castle is one of the best castle tours in Ireland for people of all ages. Its secluded location overlooking Galway Bay enhances its natural beauty and medieval appearance. Offering spectacular panoramic views of the Irish countryside, Dunguaire Castle is a must-visit on your next trip to Ireland!

When coming from Galway, the castle is a quick 35-minute drive along the scenic N67 route to the  Dingle Peninsula . To enter, children will be charged a fee of €5 and adults will be charged €7.50. Discounts are available for students, seniors, and possibly for larger groups (this will need to be confirmed prior to arrival). 

People seeking a more intimate look at the castle can book a Medieval Banquet Tour inclusive of a full meal and entertainment! Prices for these meals average around €63 per adult. These tours are particularly special since they allow visitors to experience the history behind Dunguaire Castle. 

Once the home of Mayor Richard Martyn in the early 1600s, the castle was originally constructed nearly 100 years earlier by the O’Hynes clan of Ireland. With centuries of history to explore, visitors will feel like they’ve been transported back to the early years of Ireland!

If you plan on spending at least a couple of hours at Dunguaire Castle, the best accommodation choices are in nearby Kinvarra, due to its coastal charm and hospitable locals.

11. Belleek Castle

Recommended by Kate from Our Escape Clause

In County Mayo, just a short drive north from the village of Ballina, you’ll find one of the most unique castle tours in Ireland at Belleek Castle .

The building has its roots in a 13th century castle by the same name. However, Belleek Castle as we know it today was built in the 19th century, giving it a bit of a castle-combined-with-manor-house vibe.

The Belleek Castle Tour does not focus solely on the structure (the bar itself is particularly remarkable, and partially built with wood from Spanish ships). It also covers the impressive collection of artifacts compiled by Marshall Doran, who was responsible for the majority of the castle’s restoration.

From the bed of Grace O’Malley to 10,000-year-old fossils, to lots and lots of medieval weapons (including swords that you’re allowed to hold!), you never know what you’ll find next.

The tour costs €10 per person and is an absolute delight. The castle is also a hotel –so when you finish up your tour, you can check in for the night! Be sure to also explore the surrounding Belleek Woods during your time in the area.

There are two restaurants on-site, the Jack Fenn Cafe and the award-winning Library Restaurant (though it has quite limited hours). Consider making a reservation to enjoy a bite to eat before or after your tour.

Castle Tours in the North

12. donegal castle.

Donegal Castle is one of the top sights in Ireland’s County Donegal, which is the northernmost county in the Republic of Ireland.  While it may seem a little out of the way to visit, Donegal Castle is actually the perfect midway stop on a drive from Galway to Northern Ireland.

Red Hugh O’Donnell first built Donegal Castle along the River Eske during the 15 th century.  After the English won the Battle of Kinsale, O’Donnell fled to Spain, having destroyed Donegal Castle to keep it out of British hands.  However, it didn’t stop English captain Sir Basil Brooke from taking ownership of the property.

Brooke made notable improvements to the castle, including an adjacent manor house and a show-stopping fireplace, complete with coat of arms.  After Brooke’s death in 1633, the castle changed hands a few times, and ultimately fell to ruin until the 1990’s.  However, subsequent restoration efforts have brought back this castle’s magic.

Today, visitors can pay €5 to take a self-guided tour of Donegal Castle.  Over 30-45 minutes, an information sheet provided upon entry tells the history of the castle’s various spaces and details.  Be sure to wear warm enough clothing, as some parts of the castle are virtually outdoors.

Visitors to Donegal Castle can simply wander Donegal Town for a variety of local eateries to grab lunch before heading onward.  For an overnight stay, consider one of Donegal’s quaint lodging options, like The Gateway Lodge .

13. Dunluce Castle

Dunluce Castle, located on Northern Ireland’s Antrim Coast , sits dramatically on a cliff by the sea.  This Northern Ireland gem is a must-visit, and you simply won’t find other castle tours situated quite like this one.

Cliffside is certainly a precarious positioning for a castle; legend has it that a portion of the kitchen collapsed into the Atlantic in 1639. However, for tourist purposes, the positioning is great. Being visible from the road and close to the Giant’s Causeway, Dunluce Castle is quite easy to find.

The current structure at Dunluce Castle was built during the 16 th and 17 th centuries, and inhabited by two rival clans: McQuillan and MacDonnell.  During the early 17 th century, Randall MacDonnell built the town of Dunluce next to the castle.  However, the town was destroyed in 1641, and subsequently lost until it was excavated in 2011.

Today, visitors can tour Dunluce Castle for £6 each (pounds is the currency because Northern Ireland is within the United Kingdom ).  The tour is self-guided, and only takes about 45-60 minutes to explore the castle and read the placards that give information about each space.  The sight also has a small museum, where you can see artifacts found during excavations of the castle grounds.

Dunluce Castle is a 10 minute drive to the city of Portrush, which has many dining choices, like Neptune and Prawn for seafood.  There are also many lodging options available, like The Port Hotel .

There you have it – thirteen amazing castle tours that you shouldn’t miss while visiting Ireland. As you can see, no two castles are the same, and they’re all rich with history and folklore. While you may not be able to tour them all, visiting any of these castles will add some magic to your Ireland trip.

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• 7 Night Irish Castles and Manors Platinum Tour

Stay in some of the very best Irish Castles and Manors on this 9 day platinum vacation to Ireland complete with ferry trip to Inishmore, the largest of the Aran Islands and home to the spectacular pre-Christian Dun Aonghus Fort.

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This tour has everything!! Stay in the most luxurious of our Irish Castles and Manor Hotels on this 7 night Platinum vacation to Ireland complete with ferry trip to Inishmore, the largest of theˇAran Islandsˇand home to the spectacular pre-Christian Dun Aonghus Fort. ˇAdd in Gourmet meals in some of Ireland?s best restaurants, a private falconry experience and so much more and you have the vacation of a lifetime. While this tour includes many of Ireland?s most iconic locations, because all of our travel consultants live in Ireland, they also have an intimate knowledge of Ireland?s hidden gems. All of our tours are designed in-house and as well having your own dedicated travel consultant, you will also receive a comprehensive and unparalleled daily sightseeing guide that is unmatched in the industry. 

While this is a self-drive vacation, a chauffeured version is also available.

Additional highlights of the Platinum Tour

As well as the upgrades to 5 star hotels in all locations, additional highlights of the PLATINUM TOUR while in Ireland will be 2 nights in the wonderful Dromoland Castle, attending the Bunratty Castle Banquet, afternoon tea in Dublins Deluxe Merrion Hotel, a Falconry session in Dromoland Castle plus so much more.

To top it off, your tour price includes 2 gourmet dining experiences in 2 of Irelands premier restaurants, The Michelin Star restaurant of Patrick Guilbauds in The Merrion and The Earl of Thomond restaurant in Dromoland Castle.

Don't Forget! All elements of this vacation package can be customized to suit your needs. If you have a location or special ?MUST SEE? place, make sure to mention this to your travel consultant.

What's included

• Meet and Greet at Dublin Airport
• Car rental (Automatic) for 6 days. Private chauffeur option available on request - including our special comfort pack complete with GPS, additional driver and super cover for peace of mind driving
• 7 nights luxury accommodation with private bath and full Irish Breakfast daily
• 2 Gourmet evening dining experiences at Irelands best restaurants
• Luxurious pampering Spa Treatment/Massage at the Lyrath Hotel on Day 1
• Tickets for the Smithwicks Brewery Tour Experience in Kilkenny
• Complimentary short horse riding session on Austrian Halflinger ponies within the grounds of The Europe Hotel in Killarney
• Ferry tickets to the Aran Islands
• Private Falconry session at Dromoland Castle
• Tickets for the Bunratty Castle Banquet
• Afternoon Tea at the Merrion Hotel in Dublin
• 2 day Hop on Hop off Bus Tour tickets for Dublin City
• Private Transfer to Dublin Airport
• Our renowned customized sightseeing guide
• Services of experienced Irish based travel planner
• 24/7 support while on tour

Tour highlights

Bunratty castle & folk park, christ church cathedral, cliffs of moher, dingle peninsula, dublin castle.

• Gap of Dunloe
• Guinness Storehouse
• Kilmainham Gaol
• Ring of Kerry
• Trinity College & Book of Kells
• Blasket Centre
• James Joyce Centre
• Cahir Castle
• Kilkenny Castle
• Muckross House, Gardens & Traditional Farms
• Rock of Cashel

Overnights for this tour

• Lyrath Estate in Kilkenny for 1 Night
• The Europe Hotel in Killarney, County Kerry for 2 Nights
• Dromoland Castle in Clare for 2 Nights
• The Merrion Hotel in Dublin City centre for 2 Nights

Accommodation options

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• Luxury Accommodation & Service in our 4 & 5 Star Hotels
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Tour itinerary

Day 1 - dublin airport to kilkenny.

You will be met at Dublin Airport and taken to the Hertz Car Rental Desk. Upon collecting your rental car it is time to start your Castle's and Manor Tour of Ireland. Taking into account your long overnight flight, your first day?s drive is a short one, bringing you southeast of Dublin to Kilkenny. Your first stop is the National Stud and Japanese Gardens where a Horse Museum tracing the history of the horse in Ireland. In fact the winner of the 2003 Californian Breeders Cup Mile race is a National Stud horse, the 3rd in the last 9 years. The Japanese Gardens are situated in the grounds of the Stud Farm and were created between 1906 and 1910. They are planned to symbolise the 'Life of Man' from the cradle to the grave.  On to Kilkenny - Long renowned as Ireland's Medieval Capital, the city's origins date back more than 1,500 years. Kilkenny Castle is a 12th century castle remodelled in Victorian times and set in extensive parklands. Also in Kilkenny is Saint Canice's Cathedral, built on the site of an earlier church, the major work was carried out in the 13th Century. As part of your tour, tickets for the Smithwicks Experience are included. This famous Irish Ale was first secretly produced in Kilkenny by monks in 1231 and this atmospheric tour culminates with a pint of this now world renowned Ale. After your check-in it is time for your Spa Treatment/Massage which will be most welcome after your flight and long first day. Your travel advisor has a comprehensive list of treatments available.

Day 2 - Kilkenny to Killarney, County Kerry

This morning, you will be travelling from Kilkenny to the Kingdom of Kerry in Irelands spectacular South West. Your first stop today is the Rock of Cashel in County Tipperary. Cashel was once the seat of the Kings of Munster and capital of this southern province. Kings of Ireland as well as Munster came to this spot and St. Patrick is known to have preached on the rock and converted the local King, Aenghus, here in the 5th Century. Just 10 miles further on stop is Cahir Castle. Once an important stronghold of the powerful Butler family, it is one of Ireland's largest and best-preserved castles. On to Killarney. With its three famous lakes and majestic mountain ranges, Killarney has been the inspiration of poets and painters over many centuries. The Killarney National Park is internationally renowned both for its scenic beauty and scientific interest. There are many walks and trails around Killarney including a 2-hour tourist trail around the town itself. You will also have a chance to visit Ross Castle, the Gap of Dunloe with the Black Valley. Travel to the Europe Hotel stunningly situated on the shores of Loch Lein. If you arrive in time, why not take a complimentary short riding session on the hotels Austrian Halflinger ponies around the hotel grounds.

Day 3 - Ring of Kerry/Dingle Peninsula

Today you may choose to simply relax in your hotel and the nearby town of Killarney or take on a days touring of either the Ring of Kerry or Dingle Peninsula to the west. While the Dingle Peninsula is the shorter drive and is graced with more interesting antiquities, historic sites and varied mountain scenery than any other part of Ireland, the Ring of Kerry includes the stunning views over the Lakes of Killarney from Moll's Gap as well as numerous colourful villages on this route. Not for the faint-hearted, you will remember this mountain pass drive forever. The Dingle route includes visits to the lovely fishing town of Dingle and beyond to Dunbeag Promontory Fort, an archaeological site on the from the late Bronze Age, 800 BC. Continue on to Slea Head and here you will see Dun An Oir (Fort of Gold). Here in 1580, after three days siege, over 600 Irish and Spanish soldiers surrendered to Lord Grey only to be massacred by his troops. Nearby is the Gallarus Oratory, one of the best preserved early Christian church buildings in Ireland.

Day 4 - To Dromoland Castle in County Clare

First stop will be the Village of Adare in County Limerick. Adare is regarded by many a seasoned traveller as Ireland's prettiest village with its charming thatched cottages, manicured public park and ancient church. From Adare continue towards Limerick City of 'Angela's Ashes' fame and home to King Johns Castle. Shortly after this, you arrive at Bunratty Castle. Built in 1425, this majestic castle was restored in 1954 to its former medieval splendour. Within the grounds of the Castle is Bunratty Folk Park where 19th century Irish life is vividly recreated. Just north of Bunratty lies the majestic Dromoland Castle. Enjoy the castle grounds on arrival and following a private falconry session, enjoy a sumptuous meal in the Earl of Thomand restaurant.

Day 5 - To the Cliffs of Moher and Burren Region of County Clare

This morning travel to the magnificent 'Cliffs of Moher'. The majestic Cliffs of Moher are without doubt one of Ireland's most spectacular sights and overlook the Atlantic Ocean and the Aran Islands on the coast of West Clare. Just north of the cliffs is the village of Doolin. Doolin is world-famous for its wealth of Irish folk music and in recent years has been attracting crowds to spontaneous sessions in any one of its excellent pubs. You then have the lunar like Burren region and the ancient Poulnabrone Dolmen Tombs nearby. An alternative to walking the cliffs and Burren region is to see them from the sea. With an early start, you may take the ferry to the Aran Islands from Doolin Pier. Aran will take you back to an Ireland of Celts and Early Christians. Take a pony and trap, or a guided tour from the pier up the island to the stone fort of Dun Aonghus. The fort is located on top of a 300ft high sea cliff and is one of the finest prehistoric monuments in Western Europe. This evening, attend the Bunratty Castle Medieval banquet just 10 minutes from Dromoland.

Day 6 - To Historic Meath and Dublin

Todays journey brings you east to our capital city of Dublin. A slight detour will also allow you a visit to the megalithic tombs of Newgrange. One of the great wonders of the ancient world, Newgrange is older than Stonehenge, Mycenae or even the Pyramids of Egypt and is foremost among the passage-tombs of Europe. Also in this area are the Hill of Tara (seat of Ireland's ancient High Kings) and Trim castle, featured in the Mel Gibson movie 'Braveheart'. Then it's off to the luxurious Merrion Hotel in the city centre where, depending on whether you took any detours earlier, you may have time to shop or sightsee. Close to your hotel are many of the city's most historic attractions including Trinity College, Dublin Castle and the National History Museum. This evening, enjoy your gourmet dining experience at Patrick Guilbuad's Michelin star restaurant.

Day 7 - Dublin/Belfast or North Antrim Coast

Using the Hop-on Hop-off Bus ticket we provide, you will be able to visit many of Dublin's most renowned and historical locations. Amongst other sites, you may see the Guinness Storehouse, the National Museum of Art and the historic Kilmainham Gaol where all of the leaders of the 1916 Easter Rising were executed. For a more light hearted experience, maybe a visit to the Irish Leprechaun Museum would be worth taking in. Perhaps spend some time shopping either before or after your afternoon tea experience at The Merrion. In the evening, there are many great Irish plays on in Dublin if that is to your taste. Of course, the authentic Dublin pub is an experience in itself and Dublin pub or literary tours are also freely available.

Day 8 - Homeward Bound

Regrettably, this morning it is time for your private transfer to Dublin Airport unless of course you are one of the lucky ones who has planned post night stays in Dublin City. 

Tour attractions

Bunratty Castle is now a very popular tourist attraction. The interior has been furnished by Lord Gort with tapestries & artifacts from various eras in the history

The Burren is a unique karst-landscape region in northwest County Clare, in Ireland and one of the largest Karst landscapes in Europe.

Christ Church Cathedral in Dublin is the elder of the city's two mediæval cathedrals, the other being St. Patrick's Cathedral. It is officially claimed as the seat of both the Ch...

The Cliffs of Moher boast one of Ireland's most spectacular views On a clear day the Aran Islands are visible in Galway Bay as are the valleys and hills of Connemara.

The Conor Pass is the highest mountain pass in Ireland. It is situated on the Dingle Peninsula in County Kerry, on the road that crosses the peninsula between Dingle Town and the...

There are so many things to see, to do, to explore, to experience on the Dingle Peninsula . . . from almost 2,000 archaeological sites, to more walking than you could fit into a ...

Doolin is small fishing village on a sandy bay world-famous for its wealth of Irish music & has been attracting crowds to spontaneous sessions and festivals. Overlooked by Doonag...

Dublin is both the largest city and capital of Ireland. It is located near the midpoint of Ireland's east coast, at the mouth of the River Liffey and at the centre of the Dublin ...

Dublin Castle fulfilled number of roles through history Originally built as a defensive fortification for Norman city it later evolved into a royal residence. Dublin Castle was f...

Dublinia Museum in Ireland is a heritage center located in the heart of the medieval city of Dublin, Irelands capital city. There are three exciting exhibitions in Dublinia and a...

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33 Of The Best Castles In Ireland (With Map)

By Author Keith O'Hara

Posted on Last updated: March 22, 2024

The best castles in Ireland are those with a fine tale behind them and an impressive facade.

Luckily, when it comes to castles Ireland has many  – in fact, it’s believed that there are around 30,000 castles dotted around the ‘Emerald Isle’ .

Some, like Dublin Castle and Kilkenny Castle are in magnificent condition while others, like Dunluce and Kinbane, are in ruin, yet still very impressive .

In this guide, I’ll show you what  I  think are the finest Irish castles to add to your to-see list for 2024.

Table of Contents

The best castles in Ireland

Click for a high res version

Although there are plenty of things to do in Ireland , many visitors to the island have the various Irish castles at the top of their bucket lists.

Many of the most famous castles in Ireland tend to hold plenty of secrets, stories and tales. You’ll find the most interesting ones below.

1. The Rock of Cashel

Photos via Shutterstock

The Rock of Cashel in County Tipperary has graced the cover of a million postcards. Often referred to as ‘Saint Patrick’s Rock’, it’s believed that it was here that Ireland’s Patron Saint converted King Aenghus in the 5th century.

The Rock of Cashel, which was once the seat of the High Kings of Munster, can be admired from afar when you’re just entering the town, and you can also explore it on a guided tour.

Although many of the buildings that remain in place today date back to the 12th and 13th century, the history of the site upon which it stands stretches back much further.

2. Blarney Castle

Arguably one of the most famous castles in Ireland, Blarney tends to attract tourists from far and wide.

Blarney Castle tends to often be referred to as a ‘tourist trap’, but that couldn’t be further from the case. OK, if you’re only visiting the castle to see the Blarney Stone , then you may be disappointed.

However, Blarney has much more to offer than a stone that gives the gift of the gab. The extensive grounds and the many unique features of Blarney make it a joy to visit.

Those that saunter around Blarney can visit the Witch’s kitchen, the magic steps, one of the only poison gardens in Ireland and plenty more.

3. Dunluce Castle

You’ll find the romantic ruins of Dunluce Castle perched on dramatic cliffs along County Antrim’s craggy coastline, not far from the Giant’s Causeway .

A source of wanderlust for travellers the world over, Irish castles don’t come much more unique than this.

According to legend, on a particularly stormy night in 1639, part of the castle’s kitchen next to the cliff face collapsed into the icy waters below.

The castle’s striking appearance and quirky legend have seen it receive enormous attention online in recent years. It’s best visited while driving the Antrim Coastal Route .

4. Bunratty Castle

Bunratty Castle is a tourist favourite, thanks to its close proximity to Shannon Airport, which makes it the first stop for many tourists flying into that corner of Ireland.

As you walk around Bunratty Castle and gaze up at its vast walls, it’s hard to not be knocked a little with the knowledge that the ground you’re walking on was once frequented by Vikings in 970.

The current Bunratty Castle was built in 1425 and it’s said to be one of the most complete castles of Ireland that remains standing today.

5. McDermott’s Castle

Antother of the best castles in Ireland if you’re fond of ones with glorious locations is McDermott’s Castle .

You’ll find the very magical looking McDermott’s Castle in County Roscommon on the waters of Lough Key.

Lough Key is home to over 30 islands but none compare to one known as ‘Castle Island’. It’s on Castle Island that the ruins of McDermott’s Castle can be found.

If you read our guide to McDermott’s Castle , you’ll learn about the tragic incident that took place here many years ago between a young couple along with how you can visit during your trip to Ireland.

6. Dublin Castle

You’ll find Dublin Castle on Dame Street in Dublin City Centre on the site of a Viking Fortress.

Work on the first castle here kicked off in 1204 while Dublin was under Norman rule following the invasion of 1169.

It was built on what was previously a Viking settlement and construction was completed in 1230.

However, the only section of this original fortress that remains to this day is the Record Tower. Many of the current features were added  during the 19th century.

Related reads: Visiting Dublin? See our guides to the best castles in Dublin (and the finest castles near Dublin )

7. King John’s Castle

You’ll find King Johns Castle on King’s Island in the heart of Limerick City where it overlooks the River Shannon.

Similar to Dublin Castle, King John’s is also situated on a site that was home to a Viking settlement.

The construction of the castle was ordered by King John during 1200 and it is now widely regarded as one of Europe’s best-preserved Norman castles.

You’ll catch brilliant views from high up on the actual battlements themselves. Those who make the short climb will be treated to a 360 panorama of the city and the River Shannon.

8. Trim Castle (Meath)

Trim Castle , in my opinion, is the best castle in Ireland. I live an hour drive from this place and, no matter how many times I visit, the sight of it never fails to amaze.

You’ll find Trim Castle on the shores of the ancient River Boyne, where it has been since 1176. Once the largest of the many Irish castles, Trim occupies a 30,000 m² site in County Meath.

If you’ve ever watched the movie Braveheart with Mel Gibson, you may recognise Trim Castle as one of the castles used in the film. You can take a tour of the castle grounds and of one of the towers, also!

9. Glenveagh Castle (Donegal)

There are few castles in Ireland with a location that’s as mighty as Glenveagh Castle in Donegal. Built between 1867 and 1873, Glenveagh Castle is finely placed on the shores of Lough Veagh.

The castle’s location was inspired by the Victorian idyll of a romantic highland retreat and you’ll find it surrounded by mountains in Glenveagh National Park .

The construction of Glenveagh was ordered by a man from Laois named John George Adair.

Adair married his wife, an American by the name of Cornelia, and construction of what is now one of the finest Irish castles began in 1867.

10. Classiebawn Castle

You’ll find another of our favourite Irish castles in the village of Mullaghmore in County Sligo where it looks like something that’s been plucked straight from a fairytale.

Classiebawn Castle was built by Viscount Palmerston, who was once Prime Minister of the UK. Construction of the castle finished in 1874 and it was built primarily from stone from Donegal.

The castle passed through a number of hands over the years. One of my biggest issues with Classiebawn is that, as it’s on private land, it’s very hard to get a good look at it.

Most of the photos that you see have been taken through a long photo lens.

11. Kilkenny Castle

Kilkenny Castle is a place that tends to make it onto the itineraries of many of those visiting Ireland, with hundreds of thousands of tourists and locals visiting its grounds each year.

The castle here was built in 1195 in order to ensure the protection of a point of the nearby River Nore that was shallow enough for potential enemies to walk through.

The castle was given to the people of Kilkenny in 1967 for the fine sum of £50 and it’s now a major tourist attraction that boasts some finely-manicured grounds that are perfect for a ramble around.

This is widely regarded as one of the best castles in Ireland for good reason.

12. Belfast Castle (Antrim)

The fairytale-like Belfast Castle can be found on the lower slope of Cave Hill country park in Belfast City.

Those that visit Belfast Castle can admire views of the city below while also checking out a variety of plant and wildlife, from long-eared owls and sparrowhawks to Belfast’s rarest plant, the Town Hall Clockto.

Although there have been a number of castles in the city, the current structure on Cave Hill was only constructed in 1862 and it boasts a Scottish Baronial architectural style.

This is arguably one of the best castles in Ireland if you’re looking for a castle that’s still mostly in its original state.

13. Ross Castle

Ross Castle in Killarney is up there as one of the best castles Ireland has to offer, thanks to its location in the stunning Killarney National Park .

This 15th century structure can be found perched on the edge of a lake, a stones-throw from Muckross Abbey. It was built by O’Donoghue Mór and, according to legend, his spirit lies in slumber beneath the nearby lake.

It’s said that on the first morning of May every 7 years, his spirit circles the lake on a white horse. You can easily visit Ross Castle while driving the Ring of Kerry .

14. Cahir Castle

The incredible 13th-15th century Cahir Castle, which was once the stronghold of the Butler family, is widely regarded as one of the best-preserved castles in Ireland. It can be found on a rocky island on the River Suir in Tipperary.

The castle was skilfully designed to be a state-of-the-art defensive castle and, over the course of many years, it was rebuilt and extended. It wasn’t until 1599 that the castle reached its current state.

A visit to Cahir Castle will immerse you in the eventful history of the castle, from when it was built from 1142 by Conor O’Brien right the way up to when it was declared a national monument.

15. Athlone Castle (Westmeath)

Top right photo: Ros Kavanagh via Failte Ireland. Others: Shutterstock

Athlone Castle in County Westmeath is located at the heart of Athlone Town, a short walk from Sean’s Bar – the oldest pub in Ireland.

Like many Irish castles, Athlone Castle is perched at the side of a river – in this case, it’s the powerful River Shannon.

Athlone Castle dates back to the 13th century and it played a pivotal role in protecting the busy Athlone River crossing.

16. Clough Oughter Castle

Clough Oughter Castle is like something from a fairytale. It’s unique, surrounded by natural beauty and it has an interesting story attached to it.

You’ll find the castle in County Cavan, next to the picturesque Killykeen Forest Park. Over the years, Clough Oughter fell under the control of many different clans. It also fell under the control of the rebels.

In 1641, the castle was seized during the Irish Rebellion and it was turned into an island fortification. Interestingly enough, at one point, it was also used as a prison.

17. Malahide Castle

Malahide Castle in County Dublin is one of the best castles in Ireland if you go off online reviews.

It’s the castle that I’d visit the most in this guide as it’s a shortish spin from where I live and, like many of the Irish castles in this guide that I’ve visited numerous times, it never fails to impress.

Malahide Castle was built on the orders of the Norman knight, Sir Richard de Talbot, after he was awarded the land in 1174 by King Henry II.

Although I’ve never done the tour, the grounds here are beautifully maintained and a ramble around Malahide Castle and gardens is one of the more popular things to do in Dublin .

18. Birr Castle

There has been a fortress on the site of the mighty Birr Castle since 1170. Interestingly enough, the castle is still inhabited by the same family that bought it in 1620.

So, although you can take a tour of Birr, the residential areas of the castle are not open to the public. One of the most unique features of Birr Castle is its giant telescope.

It was built in the 1840s and for many years it was the largest telescope in the world. Between 1845-1914, people from all over the world travelled to Birr Castle to use it.

19. Enniscorthy Castle

Photos courtesy Celtic Routes via Failte Ireland

Enniscorthy Castle in County Wexford is another of the more overlooked castles in Ireland.

The first castle to be built on this site was built in 1190 by Philip De Prendergast, a French Norman knight.

Prendergast’s descendants lasted here until 1370 when  Art MacMurrough Kavanagh attacked Enniscorthy Castle and reclaimed what was his ancestral land. 

Fast forward to the 1798 Rebellion and Enniscorthy Castle served as a prison for the United Irishmen.

It wasn’t until the 20th century that Enniscorthy Castle managed to get a bit of peace when it became the residence of the Roche family.

20. Carrickfergus Castle

Few Irish castles are as well known as Carrickfergus Castle . You’ll find it in the town of Carrickfergus in Antrim, on the shores of Belfast Lough.

The castle was built in 1177 by John de Courcy and, over the years, it saw plenty of action. In 1210, Carrickfergus was seized by King John. In 1689 it was involved in the week-long ‘Siege of Carrickfergus’.

Later, in 1760, it was looted by the French. Then, in 1797, it was used to contain prisoners of war. Visitors can take a ramble around the castle and explore what was once a medieval stronghold.

21. Doonagore Castle

I’ve visited Doolin on many different occasions over the years, but it wasn’t until my most recent visit in late 2019 that I visited Doonagore Castle. The first castle here was built during the 14ht century on the site of a ring fort.

The castle that stands today dates to the mid-16th century and is what’s known as a tower house. Doonagore passed through many hands over the years. In 1588, a ship from the Spanish Armada crashed near the castle.

Although the 170 passengers survived, they were all hanged soon after. Discover more about the incident and the history of the building in our guide to Doonagore Castle .

22. Kinbane Castle

There seem to be endless castles in Northern Ireland sat in ruin at the side of cliffs!

You’ll find Kinbane Castle on a little rocky promontory that juts out into the sea known as Kinbane Head.

It was built around 1547 and, although it’s now in ruins, is well worth a visit if you’re driving along the Causeway Coastal Route.

The ruins are isolated, the castle tends to get only a handful of visitors and the scenery that engulfs you as you walk around the ruins is absolutely breath-taking.

23. Lismore Castle

Lismore Castle in County Waterford is another of the many Irish castles that tends to get overshadowed by the ‘big boys’, like Trim and Kilkenny.

Lismore was constructed in 1185 by Prince John to guard the nearby river crossing and it originally housed Lismore Abbey. The castle is now home to some magnificent gardens that stretch across 7 lush acres.

You can head for a ramble around the extensive gardens while soaking up some spectacular views of the castle and the surrounding countryside at the same time.

Interestingly enough, the castle is available to rent out exclusively… I can’t even begin to imagine how much that’d set you back, but it definitely wouldn’t be cheap!

24. Ashford Castle (Mayo)

If you read our guide to the best castle hotels in Ireland , you’ll have seen me bang on about the very swanky 800-year-old Ashford Castle .

Once a privately owned medieval castle, Ashford is now a luxury hotel and is part of the celebrated ‘Leading Hotels of the World’ group.

Now, you don’t have to stay here to visit – you can enter the grounds (for a fee) and head for a ramble.

Previously owned by the Guinness family, Ashford Castle featured heavily as a backdrop in the movie the Quiet Man, starring Maureen O’Hara and John Wayne, along with nearby Cong .

25. Leap Castle

Photos by Gareth McCormack/garethmccormack.com via Failte Ireland

Leap Castle is widely regarded as the most haunted castle in Ireland . Legend has it that a lady in red prowls the castle with a silver blade at night.

Another reason the castle is believed to be haunted is due to a discovery made in the early 1900s. A secret dungeon was found behind a wall in the chapel that contained hundreds of human skeletons.

Grim to say the least! Read more about one of the most haunted castles in Ireland in our guide to Leap Castle (not for the faint-hearted!).

26. Adare Castle

Another of the best castles in Ireland if you like to go off reviews is the impressive ruins of Adare Castle in Limerick.

Located on the edge of Adare Town , Adare Castle was built during the 12th-century on the site of an ancient ring fort.

The castle boasts a strategic position on the River Maigue’s banks and, like numerous Irish castles, it was constructed in the Norman style.

It’s position on the river allowed its rulers to keep control of the traffic that was zipping in and out of the Shannon Estuary.

27. Blackrock Castle

Blackrock Castle in County Cork is one that tends to get missed by many exploring the county. This impressive structure is a handy 2km from Cork City, where it’s sat right next to the River Lee.

This castle dates to the 16th century and it was originally built to protect upper Cork Harbour and port from intruders.

Fast forward a few hundred years later and the castle is now home to an international award-winning science centre that’s open to the public. There are heaps of permanent and visiting exhibitions that you can have a nosey at here.

28. Donegal Castle

And last but by no means least in our guide to the best castles in Ireland is the mighty Donegal Castle .

You’ll find it standing proudly in Donegal Town. This is one of my favourite Irish castles as it’s evidence of what can be achieved with careful restoration.

Donegal Castle was built in 1474 by the  O’Donnell’s . However, over the years it fell to ruin. In fact, it decayed for two centuries until it was restored in the 1990s – it’s now one of the most impressive  castles in Donegal .

Discover Ireland beyond its castles

If you’ve had your fill of Irish castles, or if you’d like to see what else Ireland has to offer, here are some guides to get stuck into (don’t forget, you’ll find the world’s largest collection of Irish Road Trip itineraries right here ):

• The Dingle Peninsula : A go-to on most Irish Road Trips for a reason
• The Causeway Coastal Route : An epic spin along the Antrim Coast
• The Beara Peninsula : A glorious scenic drive that straddles Cork and Kerry

Keith O’Hara has lived in Ireland for 35 years and has spent most of the last 10 creating what is now The Irish Road Trip guide. Over the years, the website has published thousands of meticulously researched Ireland travel guides, welcoming 30 million+ visitors along the way. In 2022, the Irish Road Trip team published the world’s largest collection of Irish Road Trip itineraries . Keith lives in Dublin with his dog Toby and finds writing in the 3rd person minus craic altogether.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Sunday 22nd of October 2023

Drimnagh castle in Dublin. Restored and the only castle with a water filled moat.

Kilkea castle in Castledermot Co Kildare. Magnificent.

Rosrea Castle. Co Tipperary

Sunday 12th of June 2022

Dunlough (the three castles) on Mizzen Head. The most magnificent setting for a castle, high on a cliff overlooking the ocean.

Wednesday 4th of May 2022

You missed Castle Roche ruins near Dundalk! They are free and it is stunning.

Friday 29th of April 2022

Johnstown castle is worth mentioning!

Irven R Rathburn

Friday 3rd of September 2021

IRELAND IS A WONDERFULL PLACE !!

• Call us Toll Free: 1-866-486-8772

Ireland Castle Vacation Tour

Ireland castle private/chauffeur* driven tour

Discover ireland's grandest castles, scenic landscapes and sleep in luxurious castle hotel rooms..

Nothing captures the romance, architecture and history of Europe like the castles of Ireland do. The Ireland Castle Tour offers a magical step into the past, with all the amenities you expect from a luxury tour with modern conveniences. Whether you are taking a trip on your own or coming to explore with a small group, our Ireland castle vacation gives you an Irish experience that is better than you could ever imagine.

This is a 7-day private castle tour of Ireland in which you explore the historic beauty of Irish castles.

Transportation, meals and of course nightly accommodations in the castles of Ireland are included. Special rates and dates for Ireland castle vacation packages

*Can also be taken as a self-driven tour.

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• Professional Blue Badged Certified Irish Driver Guide with Luxury Vehicle with leather seating from Day 3 until end of Day 5
• Newmarket – Dromoland Castle – 2 Nights
• Adare – Adare Manor – 3 Nights 
• Full Irish Breakfast Daily
• Fully escorted sightseeing as per itinerary
• All Driver’s Expenses
• Hotel taxes

Not Included:

• Any items of a personal nature.
• Dinners and suggested optional sightseeing that are not mentioned as included in itinerary

*Rates determined by number of passengers and dates of travel.

Low Season 2025

Mid season 2025, high season 2025, example private/chauffeur driven tour itinerary.

Shannon – Newmarket-on-Fergus Arrive at Shannon Airport where after clearing customs, move on to ground transportation. Make your way too nearby Dromoland via Taxi Today’s tour highlights include the Irish Cliffs of Moher, Lahinch, Bunratty Castle & Folk Park and Durty Nellie’s Pub. Then on to Dromoland Castle one of Europe’s most desired 5* star hotel and bed and breakfast destinations. This Ireland castle was constructed in the 16th century and is the ancestral seat of the O’Briens who are one of the few native Gaelic families of royal blood. There will be plenty of time to soak in this Five Star Deluxe property in all its Irish splendor. Activities at Dromoland Castle include cycling, horseback riding, fishing, and leisure walks through the romantic gardens. This evening enjoy a gourmet meal in the main dining room overlooking Lough Dromoland (optional). Spend the night you are in one of the 75 deluxe guest castle guest rooms at Dromoland Castle .

Dromoland – Galway – Connemara – Dromoland After breakfast at this spectacular Ireland castle, it’s time to enjoy the magnificent views of Ireland’s Connemara region. Meet your personal Driver Tour Guide in the lobby. On to Galway Town for a brief visit before continuing on to take in the magnificent views of Ireland’s Connemara region, to enjoy Ireland’s wild, natural beauty. Travelling due west from Galway City to Rossaveal, through Salthill and Bearna into the heart of the West’s Gaeltacht, where Gaelic is spoken as the first language by Ireland citizens. Continue on to Cashel, Ballynahinch and then Clifden, perched high above Clifden Bay with spectacular views of Ireland’s Twelve Ben Mountains. This is a good place to stop for some shopping and lunch and then continue on to Kylemore Abbey and Garden dating back to the 1600’s and the Ireland monastic home of the Benedictine Nuns. Return to Ireland’s beautiful County Clare for another luxurious overnight stay at Dromoland Castle .

Dromoland – Adare After enjoying another gourmet breakfast at Dromoland Castle, the Ireland Castle tour continues to Adare. Meet your personal Driver Tour Guide in the lobby. Today you explore the city of Limerick, home of Pulitzer Prize winning author, Frank McCourt. See King John’s Castle, the Bishop’s Palace, and the Hunt Museum or take the Angela’s Ashes walking tour of this bustling Irish town. This Ireland town offers art galleries, museums, and restaurants. Take time to enjoy all that Limerick has to offer today before arriving at your final destination, the majestic Adare Manor for another overnight stay amidst luxurious castle accommodations.

The Dingle Peninsula. After breakfast, experience the true beauty of Ireland on this full day tour to the breathtaking Dingle Peninsula. Traveling via Tralee and The Slieve Mish Mountains we will stop in the sleeping fishing village of Dingle before heading out to see Slea Head and the ominous views of The Blasket Islands With its 12th century Beehive Huts, its ominous views of the Blasket Island originally home to Irish Monks, we have been told by many travelers that the awe-inspiring beauty of this particular area has left them with a truly spiritual feeling. Suggested lunch stop in Dingle is Maria DeBraae, right on the main street, Dingle. We depart Dingle and travel via Tralee where every August the famous Rose of Tralee Festival is held. Tonight, enjoy many of the local restaurants Killarney has to offer. Overnight Adare Manor.

Adare. After enjoying a breakfast fit for a king or queen at the Adare Manor, this 6th day of your Ireland Castle Tour is spent exploring the little Irish town of Adare with its thatched roof cottages which offer quite a contrast to the grand castles of Ireland you have enjoyed on this tour. Marvel at the River Maigue and explore the ruins in town as well as on the property of the Manor. A “must see” is the Augustinian Abbey or the Franciscan Friary, both just steps from the Manor. Take the afternoon to enjoy the amenities of this deluxe property. Perhaps you will play golf at Adare Manor, home of the 2008 Irish Open. Overnight at Adare Manor.

Adare – Shannon Airport. Morning departure on own for Shannon Airport where upon arrival we return your rental car (if self-drive) before boarding your flight home.

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• Select Dates for Enchanted Intimate Ireland Tour March 29-April 12, 2025 May 3-17, 2025 June 7-21, 2025 July 6 – July 20, 2025 August 9-23, 2025 September 7-21, 2025 October 4-18, 2025
• Select Dates for Northern Intimate Ireland Tour March 29-April 6, 2025 May 3-11, 2025 June 7-15, 2025 July 6-July 14, 2025 August 9-17, 2025 September 7-September 15, 2025 October 4-12, 2025
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• Select Dates for Breath of Elegance Tour February 8-22, 2020 March 7-21, 2020 April 4-18, 2020 May 2-16, 2020 June 13-27, 2020 July 4-18, 2020 August 8-22, 2020 September 5-19, 2020 October 10-24, 2020
• Select Dates for Northern Elegance Tour February 8-16, 2020 March 7-15, 2020 April 4-12, 2020 May 2-10, 2020 June 13-21, 2020 July 4-12, 2020 August 8-16, 2020 September 5-13, 2020 October 10-18, 2020
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Iconic Ireland and Ashford Castle

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10 Day Ireland Tour of Dublin, Ring of Kerry and Galway

10 days, 1 country and 10 cities

Accommodation

9 Breakfasts, 5 Dinners

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Explore iconic Ireland and Ashford Castle, the former famous home of earls, princes and the famous Guinness family. See Connemara’s wild and windswept beauty, let the wind whip you up at the Cliffs of Moher and admire 40 shades of green circling the Ring of Kerry.

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10 days itinerary trip from Dublin to Dublin visiting 1 country and 10 cities

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About this trip

Sightseeing highlights.

Explore Dublin, Killarney National Park and Lough Corrib with a Local Specialist

Discover Killarney and Galway

Visit Powerscourt Gardens, St. Patrick's Cathedral and Trinity College in Dublin, Blarney Castle, Torc Waterfall, the Cliffs of Moher, Connemara Celtic Crystal Factory and Kylemore Abbey

See Dublin's Georgian Squares and Galway Cathedral

Scenic Drive of the Ring of Kerry

Travel highlights

Specific transfer information can be found here:

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An expert Travel Director and professional Driver

Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted

All porterage and restaurant gratuities

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Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals

Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras

Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing

Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)

Ferry across the Shannon estuary

Optional Experiences and free time

On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilized.

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Every one of our tours includes at least one conscious travel experience that supports one or more of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGS). Look out for yours within the day-by-day trip itinerary.

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Travel knowing our 4-point climate action plan will ensure net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

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Your tour directly supports local communities by visiting family-run businesses, UNESCO sites and places of cultural significance.

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Our not-for-profit, the TreadRight Foundation, invests in nature-based solutions to address climate change.

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Where the Love for Ireland Begins

Private escorted 8 day luxury castle tour, day 1: dublin.

Highlights:

Trinity College Dublin The Book of Kells Temple Bar Guinness Storehouse Old Jameson Distillery National Museum Christchurch Cathedral Kilmainham Jail

Trinity College Dublin, Ireland

Begin your luxury castle tour of Ireland in Dublin as you travel the capital city to see incredible historic buildings, such as Trinity College. You’ll also get to visit the Guinness Storehouse to not only see how the deliciously creamy black stuff is made, but also pull your own pint and drink it as you take in the views of Dublin City from the panoramic roof bar. It’s time to visit Dublin Castle now, which today plays a leading role in European Union activities. Clontarf Castle is where you’ll spend your evening, which is a stunning site, which was the scene of the famous Battle of Clontarf which took place more than a millennium ago.

Day 2: Waterford

Kilkenny City Smithwick’s Brewery Kilkenny Castle House of Waterford Crystal Waterford Treasures Medieval Museum

Waterford Treasures Medieval Museum, Waterford, Ireland

Day 2 starts off by travelling from Dublin to Waterford, which is Ireland’s oldest city. The city dates back to the 9 th century when it was founded by Viking raiders. Previously, Waterford has seen invasions and famine, whereas it is now a thriving community which is the home to the fabulous Waterford Crystal, which you are more than welcome to visit as you will get the opportunity the see extremely skilled craftspeople turn molten glass into true works of art. You could also head along to the Waterford Treasures Medieval Museum. Check in to your hotel in the evening, which is the incredible Waterford Castle Hotel and Golf Resort.

Day 3 : Cork

Ardmore Round Tower Blarney Castle Blarney Woollen Mills Cobh Heritage Centre Cork City Old Midleton Whiskey Distillery

Blarney Woollen Mills, Cork, Ireland

Continue your journey throughout Ireland as you travel to Cork from Waterford, where your first stop will be in Ardmore so that you can see the Round Tower dating back over 1,000 years ago. Your next stop is the exciting Midleton Whiskey Distillery where even if you are not a fan of whiskey, will find the process fascinating. You’ll also get to enjoy a sample or two of this incredible Irish whiskey. You’ll continue your travels as you head towards Cobh, which is where the famous Titanic departed from. Before heading back to spend the night in Cork city we have one more stop, it’s time to kiss The Blarney Stone, along with visiting the Blarney Woollen Mills where you can find exquisite Irish-made goods.

Day 4 & 5: Kerry

The Ring of Kerry Staigue Fort Killarney National Park Muckross House & Gardens Killarney’s Traditional Music Pubs Dingle Tom Crean’s Pub

The Ring of Kerry, Kerry, Ireland

After an adventure-packed day in Cork, it is time to travel to Kerry, where you’ll see some of the most stunning scenes that Ireland has to offer as you travel The Ring of Kerry. Take in the wonderful views of the beaches and cliffs as you drive along this incredible road. This route also includes one of the filming locations In Ireland that was used for the Star Wars franchise. Experience the life of a farmer in Ireland as you’ll be lucky enough to get several demonstrations such as sheep shearing and sheepdog herding flocks. The evening will come to an end by staying in the Ballyseede Castle, which itself is full of incredible history.

Day 6: Clare

Bunratty Castle & Folk Park Cliffs of Moher The Poulnabrone Dolmen Doolin Village The Burren Smokehouse

Dromoland Castle, Clare, Ireland

Your final full day on your luxury castle tour will be spent in the wonderous County Clare. We’ll begin by taking a ferry across the longest river of Ireland and the UK, the River Shannon, in order to travel to see the Cliffs of Moher, which are truly a sight to behold. You’ll visit Bunratty Castle and Folk Park and if you’d like, can even get an authentic Irish pint in a pub that dates back to the 1620 era. You’ll be staying at the wonderful Dromoland Castle for the evening, which for the O’Brien clan was an ancestral home for over 900 years.

Day 7: Dublin

The Burren Newgrange World Heritage Site Temple Bar

Newgrange World Heritage Site, Dublin, Ireland

You will travel from Clare back to Dublin for your last day taking in the Burren National Park, a unique karst landscape, along the way. From there you will travel along the midlands of Ireland to the ancient County of Meath where you will visit the world-famous UNESCO World Heritage Site at Newgrange, a monument older than the pyramids of Egypt. Stay in Clontarf Castle for your final night.

Depart from Dublin Airport

See also our Self Drive 8 Day Luxury Castle Tour

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7 Day – Luxury Castle Tour map

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