Exploring Ireland’s southern gems has never been easier. This guided tour from Dublin takes travelers on a captivating journey to the iconic Rock of Cashel, vibrant Cork City, and the historic Blarney Castle. With all admission fees covered and live commentary, it’s an opportunity to witness breathtaking scenery, wander through medieval ruins, and indulge in tax-free shopping. But the real highlight? Kissing the legendary Blarney Stone and uncovering the secrets it holds.
Key Points
- A full-day guided tour from Dublin that visits the Rock of Cashel, Cork City, and Blarney Castle, covering Ireland’s southern region highlights.
- Includes admission fees, air-conditioned transportation, and live commentary from the driver/guide, with onboard amenities like WiFi and USB ports.
- Provides opportunities to kiss the Blarney Stone, explore medieval ruins, and engage in tax-free shopping in Cork City.
- Offers scenic views of the Galtee Mountains and County Tipperary along the route, with a comprehensive experience of over 2,000 reviews.
- Caters to various traveler needs, such as infant seats, stroller accessibility, and service animals, but is not wheelchair accessible.
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Tour Overview and Highlights
This full-day guided tour takes visitors from Dublin to the picturesque Rock of Cashel, historic Cork City, and the iconic Blarney Castle.
Highlights include kissing the Blarney Stone for the gift of gab, exploring the Rock of Cashel’s medieval ruins, and enjoying free time in Cork for tax-free shopping.
Along the way, travelers will take in scenic views of the Galtee Mountains and County Tipperary.
With over 2,000 reviews, this tour offers a comprehensive experience of Ireland’s southern region.
Admission fees and transportation by air-conditioned vehicle are included, making for a seamless and enjoyable day.
Inclusions and Itinerary
The tour package includes all taxes, fees, and handling charges.
A live commentary from the driver/guide and air-conditioned transportation are provided. Admission fees to the Rock of Cashel (€8) and Blarney Castle & Gardens (€22) are covered.
WiFi and USB ports are available on board. However, food, drinks, and gratuities aren’t included.
The itinerary allots 1 hour at the Rock of Cashel, 1.5 hours in Cork, and 2 hours at Blarney Castle & Gardens.
The tour departs at 8:00 am from the meeting point outside 5 Beresford Place and Gardiner Street Lower, and returns to the same location.
Meeting and Pickup Details
The meeting point for the tour is 5 Beresford Pl, Mountjoy, Dublin 1, D01 V2V4, Ireland.
The bus collects passengers outside 5 Beresford Place and Gardiner Street Lower. The tour ends back at the original meeting point.
Departure time is 8:00 am. Confirmation is received at booking, and infant seats are available.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but strollers are allowed. Service animals are permitted, and the tour operates in all weather.
Collapsible wheelchairs can be stored, but passengers are responsible for them.
Traveler Information and Accessibility
Confirmation is received at booking for the Dublin to Rock of Cashel Guided Tour.
Infant seats are available. The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but it’s stroller accessible. Service animals are allowed, and it’s near public transportation.
Children must be accompanied by an adult, and the tour operates in all weather. Collapsible wheelchairs can be stored, but passengers are responsible for them.
This full-day tour lasts around 12 hours, so visitors should mentally prepare for a long day.
Rock of Cashel: Exploring the Medieval Jewel
Although the Rock of Cashel is one of Ireland’s most iconic medieval sites, its rich history and architectural grandeur often captivate visitors.
As the traditional seat of the kings of Munster, the Rock boasts an impressive 12th-century round tower, cathedral, and the finest Romanesque chapel in Ireland.
Visitors can:
- Climb the round tower for panoramic views of the surrounding countryside
- Marvel at the ornate carvings and high crosses adorning the historic buildings
- Explore the remains of the royal castle, once home to the powerful O’Brien clan
The Rock of Cashel offers a window into Ireland’s medieval past.
Cork City: Charming Coastal Hub
After exploring the historic Rock of Cashel, the guided tour makes its way to the vibrant city of Cork.
Located on the River Lee, Cork is known for its charming streets, lively pubs, and bustling local markets. Visitors can wander through the English Market, a covered food hall dating back to the 18th century.
The city also offers opportunities for tax-free shopping at the Shandon Woollen Mills. With its coastal location, Cork provides a scenic respite before the tour heads to the famous Blarney Castle.
Guests have about 1.5 hours to explore the city’s charms on their own.
Blarney Castle: Kissing the Legendary Stone
Visitors eagerly anticipate the highlight of the tour – kissing the legendary Blarney Stone at Blarney Castle.
Located just north of Cork City, the historic castle and its enchanted gardens draw visitors from around the world. To kiss the stone, travelers must bend over backwards while supported by staff to reach the opening in the castle’s battlements. The ritual is said to bestow the "gift of gab" – the ability to speak eloquently for seven years.
Key highlights of the experience include:
- Exploring the castle’s 15th-century architecture
- Wandering the picturesque castle grounds
- Claiming the legendary gift of eloquence
Tour Reviews and Recommendations
What do travelers say about the Dublin to Rock of Cashel Guided Tour? With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars based on over 2,000 reviews, this tour receives high praise from visitors. Key highlights include the knowledgeable guides, scenic countryside, and iconic sites like the Rock of Cashel and Blarney Castle. While some suggest clearer meeting point signage and more time in Cork, the overall experience earns positive feedback. Prepare for a long, full-day tour, but reviews indicate it’s worth the effort to kiss the Blarney Stone and explore Ireland’s rich history and natural beauty.
| Positives | Negatives |
|---|---|
| Knowledgeable guides | Unclear meeting point |
| Scenic countryside | Limited time in Cork |
| Iconic attractions | Safety concerns at attractions |
| Overall experience | Long tour duration |
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Ask Away
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
No, food and drinks are not included on the tour. Passengers are responsible for providing their own meals and refreshments. However, the tour bus does have WiFi and USB ports available for use during the journey.
How Much Free Time Is There for Exploring on My Own?
The tour provides 1 hour and 30 minutes of free time in Cork for independent exploration and shopping. This allows travelers to experience the city on their own before rejoining the group.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?
There’s no option to extend the standard tour duration, which is about 12 hours. The itinerary allows for some free time in Cork, but the tour overall has a fixed schedule to cover the key highlights.
Do I Need to Wear Specific Clothing or Footwear?
Wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy walking shoes. The tour involves extensive walking, both indoors and outdoors. Layers are recommended, as the weather can be unpredictable. Avoid extremely formal or delicate attire.
Can I Book Private Transportation Instead of the Group Tour?
Yes, you can book private transportation instead of the group tour. Private vehicles can be arranged, allowing for a more personalized experience and flexible schedule at an additional cost.
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Final Words
This guided tour offers an immersive experience exploring Ireland’s southern highlights. With admission fees, transportation, and live commentary included, travelers can effortlessly discover the Rock of Cashel’s medieval wonders, Cork City’s vibrant charm, and the legendary Blarney Castle. Breathtaking scenery, tax-free shopping, and the chance to kiss the Blarney Stone make this a must-do day trip from Dublin.