Day trip

Explore 3 iconic Irish sites on a day tour from Dublin. Journey to the Blarney Castle to kiss the famous stone, visit Cahir Castle, and explore the Rock of Cashel.

About this activity

Free cancellation: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
Reserve now & pay later: Keep your travel plans flexible — book your spot and pay nothing today.
Duration 12 hours: Check availability to see starting times.
Live tour guide: English

Highlighted reviews from other travelers

Ines – Montenegro

The trip was great. If you are on a tight schedule and have only a few days in Ireland I highly recommend you do this one. Good and comfortable mini bus and a great guide.

Stephanie – United States

Phil was an amazing guide for us with Elegant Ireland Tours. He was incredibly knowledgeable and answered my dozens of questions. He has a great sense of humor and has had an interesting life. He really made the tour extra exciting and fun. The tour itself is fantastic. I loved seeing the various castles, walking thru ancient and preserved royal quarters that whisper of life long ago. Looking out on the city at Rock of Cashel was so postcard perfect it was hard to believe my eyes. The preservation of Cahir was cool, I loved that they pointed out the cannon ball that is still in the side of the castle wall. And don't even get me started on Blarney Castle, my favorite of all! I think I could spend a whole day there alone exploring the grounds and walking thru the cave, gardens, shops, stables, etc. What a magical place! If you go, be sure to kiss the Blarney rock, it was exhilarating.

Itinerary

Starting location:
Molly Malone Statue
Bus/coach
(2.5 hours)
Rock of Cashel
Photo stop, Visit, Guided tour (1 hour)
Blarney Castle
Photo stop, Visit, Lunch, Self-guided tour (2 hours)
Cahir Castle
Photo stop, Visit, Guided tour (1 hour)
Bus/coach
(2.33 hours)
Arrive back at:
Molly Malone Statue

Main stop

For reference only. Itineraries are subject to change.

Highlights

Discover some major Irish landmarks and cultural sites in a single day
Gain a greater understanding of Ireland's history and culture with your guides
Take a break from the capital and discover spectacular rural Ireland
Relax onboard comfortable bus as you travel between destinations
Enjoy ample site time for thorough exploration and discovery

Full description

Take an air-conditioned bus ride and observe the transformation of Dublin's metropolitan environment into the verdant hills of the Irish countryside. Travel through a number of interesting locations, such as the Irish National Stud's home, the Curragh in County Kildare, and the Galtee Mountains.

Discover the fabled Rock of Cashel, a recognisable representation of Ireland's historical significance, as you delve into its past. A remarkable collection of mediaeval structures can be seen at this location, such as a high cross, round tower, abbey, Romanesque chapel, Gothic cathedral, and 15th-century tower house.

Reach Blarney Castle, which is well-known around the world for the Blarney Stone. Put your lips on the stone to obtain the "gift of gab." Discover enchanted gardens with mystical waterfalls and ancient ferns. This location, rich in mystery and history, promises an amazing experience. Climb the Wishing Steps to see the charming Rock Close. In Blarney Castle, there is a range of restaurants to pick from.

Discover the magnificent Cahir Castle, one of Ireland's largest and best-preserved, as your day's last destination. It is perched atop a rocky island in the River Suir. Constructed by the Butler family in the thirteenth century, this storied castle has seen many fabled sieges and conflicts. Its impressively maintained defensive architecture provides an intriguing look at the inventiveness of the Middle Ages. Experience its fascinating past with a guided tour and audiovisual presentations.

After that, go back to Dublin's city centre to round out your tour.

*Please arrive at the meeting point at least 10 minutes before the scheduled departure time*

Includes

Transportation by air-conditioned vehicle with USB ports
Driver/guide
Rock of Cashel admission
Blarney Castle & Gardens admission
Cahir Castle admission

Lunch

Not suitable for

Wheelchair users

Meeting point

The tour departs from the Molly Malone statue outside the old stone church on Suffolk Street, Dublin 2.

Open in Google Maps

Important information

What to bring

Comfortable shoes
Umbrella
Snacks
Rain gear
Charged Smartphone

Know before you go

There are steep steps at Blarney Castle, this part of the tour may not be suitable for people with limited mobility

From Dublin: Blarney, Rock of Cashel and Cahir Castles Tour