From Dublin: 5-Day Tour of Irelands South-East

Set out on a captivating 5-day tour that’ll take you from Dublin to Ireland’s stunning South-East. You’ll explore iconic castles, abbeys, and megalithic sites, dive into famine history, and enjoy the charm of coastal towns. With visits to scenic gardens and monastic ruins, this journey offers a rich tapestry of Ireland’s cultural heritage and natural beauty. Get ready to uncover the secrets of this captivating region.

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Key Points

Explore the rich cultural heritage and stunning natural landscapes of Ireland’s south-east, including visits to castles, abbeys, and a charming fishing village.
Discover scenic wonders and ancient megalithic sites along the Wild Atlantic Way, including the Drombeg Stone Circle and Mizen Head.
Immerse in military history, Irish whiskey production, and coastal exploration, with stops at Charles Fort, Midleton Distillery, and Cobh.
Experience the blend of modernity and medieval charm in Kilkenny, and learn about the region’s brewing history at the Smithwick’s Experience.
Explore famine history, visit the serene monastic site of Glendalough, and marvel at the magnificent Powerscourt House and Gardens.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Day 1: Castles, Abbeys, and a Charming Fishing Village

Your 5-day tour of Ireland’s south-east begins with a visit to the Rock of Dunamase, a Celtic fort with captivating early Christian and Viking history.

Next, you’ll explore the iconic limestone structures and Hore Abbey at the Rock of Cashel.

The iconic limestone structures and Hore Abbey await at the Rock of Cashel, a captivating historical site.

Then, you’ll have the opportunity to kiss the famous Blarney Stone at Blarney Castle.

The day concludes in Kinsale, a charming fishing village known for its colorful houses and lively pubs.

Throughout the day, you’ll learn about Ireland’s rich cultural heritage and stunning natural landscapes.

Looking for more options in Kilkenny? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Day 2: Scenic Wonders and Ancient Megalithic Sites

What scenic wonders and ancient megalithic sites await on the second day of the tour?

Travelers will journey along the Wild Atlantic Way, stopping at:

The Old Head of Kinsale for a scenic photo opportunity
The Drombeg Stone Circle, an ancient megalithic site
Mizen Head, the southwestern point of the Wild Atlantic Way
Bantry Town, a charming harbor setting with shops and Bantry House & Gardens

Along the way, you will marvel at the rugged coastal beauty and learn about Ireland’s rich history and culture from the expert guide.

Day 3: Military Fortifications, Whiskey, and Coastal Exploration

After marveling at the rugged coastal beauty and ancient sites on the previous day, the tour continues with a focus on military fortifications, Irish whiskey, and coastal exploration. The first stop is the historical Charles Fort, a star-shaped military installation. Next, the group visits the renowned Midleton Distillery for an interactive tour of Irish whiskey production. In the afternoon, the tour travels to the charming town of Cobh for free time to explore, followed by a scenic coastal drive to Waterford with flexible photo stops along the way.

| Highlights | Location | Description |

| — | — | — |

| Charles Fort | Kinsale | Historical military installation |

| Midleton Distillery | Midleton | Tour of Irish whiskey production |

| Cobh | Cobh | Free time for exploration |

| Waterford | Waterford | Scenic coastal route with flexible photo stops |

| Kells Priory | Kells | Medieval military site |

Day 4: Monastic Ruins, Medieval Charm, and Brewing History

As the tour transits to the fourth day, travelers explore the monastic ruins of Jerpoint Abbey, enjoy the medieval charm of Kilkenny, and discover the interactive history of Smithwick’s brewing experience.

The itinerary includes:

Tour the Cistercian architectural wonders of Jerpoint Abbey
Stroll through the city of Kilkenny, blending modernity and medieval character
Embark on an interactive brewery tour at the Smithwick’s Experience
Visit the medieval military site of Kells Priory

Travelers continue to uncover Ireland’s rich history and culture as they make their way through the South-East region.

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Day 5: Famine History, Monastic Retreat, and Magnificent Gardens

The final day of the tour begins with a visit to the Dunbrody Famine Ship museum in New Ross, which provides a poignant look into Ireland’s history of hardship and resilience during the Great Famine.

Next, the group travels to Glendalough, a monastic site with serene lakes and ancient ruins.

The tour concludes at Powerscourt House and Gardens, where guests can explore the landscaped gardens and ornamental lakes.

With a diverse range of experiences, the 5-day tour of Ireland’s south-east offers a comprehensive exploration of the region’s rich history, culture, and natural beauty.

There's plenty more to explore in Kilkenny

Accommodation and Transportation

This 5-day tour includes 4 nights of en-suite bed and breakfast or guesthouse accommodation with breakfast.

Transportation is provided by a 16-seat Mercedes mini-coach, with a driver guide to lead the way.

The tour has a maximum group size of 16 participants, ensuring a more intimate and personalized experience.

The luggage allowance is up to 20kg (44lbs) per person, plus a small personal item.

Guests should be aware that accommodations may be 20-30 minutes walk from local facilities, and inform the tour provider if stairs are a concern.

4 nights en-suite B+B/guesthouse accommodation with breakfast
Transportation by 16-seat Mercedes mini-coach
Maximum group size of 16 participants
Luggage allowance: 20kg (44lbs) per person plus small personal item

Luggage and Age Considerations

Travelers on this 5-day tour of Ireland’s South-East are allowed a maximum luggage allowance of 20kg (44lbs) per person, plus a small personal item.

The luggage restrictions are similar to airline carry-on dimensions, around 55cm x 45cm x 25cm (22in x 17in x 10in).

The luggage allowance is similar to airline carry-on dimensions, measuring around 55cm x 45cm x 25cm (22in x 17in x 10in).

It’s important to note that the accommodations may be a 20-30 minute walk from local facilities, so pack accordingly.

This tour welcomes participants aged 5 and up, making it suitable for families.

Just be mindful of the potential distance to walk between the accommodations and nearby amenities.

Meeting Point and Arrival

Your Rabbies guide will meet you opposite the Kilkenny Shop on Nassau Street in Dublin.

From there, you’ll depart for your 5-day tour of Ireland’s South-East. Be sure to arrive on time, as the tour itinerary is tightly scheduled.

Here’s what you can expect:

Prompt departure at 8:30am sharp
Introductions to your fellow travelers and tour guide
Review of the full itinerary and logistics
Instructions on luggage handling and boarding the 16-seat mini-coach

Once you’ve settled in, get ready for an immersive journey through Ireland’s stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Tours Suitable for People With Limited Mobility?

Tours may not be well-suited for those with limited mobility. The tour includes walking, stairs, and accommodation that may be located a distance from local facilities. Travelers with mobility concerns should inform the provider in advance.

How Much Free Time Is Allotted for Personal Exploration?

The tour provides ample free time for personal exploration, with flexible photo stops and dedicated time in towns like Kinsale, Cobh, and Kilkenny. Guests can freely explore the charming streets, shops, and pubs during their free time.

Can Dietary Restrictions Be Accommodated During the Tour?

Dietary restrictions can be accommodated during the tour. Travellers should inform the tour operator of any dietary needs when booking so arrangements can be made with the bed and breakfasts and other suppliers.

Is It Possible to Purchase Additional Optional Activities?

Yes, additional optional activities can be purchased during the tour. Guests can speak with the tour guide to inquire about and arrange any optional excursions or experiences they’re interested in beyond the included itinerary.

How Early Should Participants Arrive at the Meeting Point?

Participants should arrive at the meeting point 15 minutes early. This allows time to check-in, get acquainted with the tour guide, and ensure a punctual departure. Being on time is essential for the smooth operation of the tour.

The Sum Up

This captivating 5-day tour from Dublin takes you on a journey through Ireland’s South-East, where you’ll explore iconic sites, discover the country’s cultural heritage, and learn about the natural beauty of the region. From castles and abbeys to monastic ruins and magnificent gardens, this tour offers a rich tapestry of experiences that will leave you with lasting memories of Ireland’s stunning landscapes and rich history.