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Rail Escape

Best of Ireland Tour

Nine-day rail and coach journey from Dublin through Killarney to Galway

Illustration of Best of Ireland Tour

Rail Escape's Best of Ireland Tour is a 9-day journey that combines rail, coach, and boat travel across Ireland's emerald landscapes and cultural heartland. Beginning in Dublin, you spend two days exploring the city's literary treasures, Trinity College, and traditional music in Temple Bar before boarding the train south through countryside to Killarney. There you spend three nights enjoying Killarney National Park by jaunting car and embarking on the famous Ring of Kerry scenic drive. The tour continues north by coach to the dramatic Cliffs of Moher, then to Galway for a boat excursion to the windswept Aran Islands and their ancient stone fort. You return to Dublin by train on day eight for final explorations before departure. With first-class rail travel, 4-star-plus hotels, and daily breakfast included, this trip suits first-time rail travelers, history enthusiasts, and couples seeking a balance of guided comfort and independent exploration of castles, rugged coastlines, and Irish hospitality.

What to know before you look closer

  • Rail Escape notes that some regional trains may offer second-class seating only, not first-class; confirm the class of service on each rail segment before departing.
  • Excursions, activities, and entrance fees are not included; costs for the jaunting car in Killarney, boat trips to the Aran Islands, and entry to attractions like Trinity College and the Guinness Storehouse are extra.
  • The Ring of Kerry and Cliffs of Moher visits are by coach, not train; only three of the nine days involve rail travel.
  • Meals beyond breakfast, local transportation within cities, and gratuities are not included.

Day by day

  1. Day 1overnight: Dublin

    Arrive in Dublin

    Welcome to Ireland! Upon arrival at Dublin Airport, make your way to your hotel in the heart of the city for a three-night stay. Get oriented with an evening stroll through Temple Bar, Dublin's cultural quarter, where traditional music spills from cozy pubs and street performers entertain crowds. [Night in Dublin]

  2. Day 2overnight: Dublin

    Explore Dublin

    Dedicate today to discovering Dublin's literary and historical treasures. Begin at Trinity College to see the magnificent Book of Kells and the stunning Long Room Library. Wander through the cobbled courtyards before exploring Dublin Castle and the Guinness Storehouse. Stroll along the River Liffey and cross the famous Ha'penny Bridge. End your evening in Temple Bar with live traditional music and perhaps a perfectly poured pint. [Night in Dublin]

  3. Day 3railovernight: Killarney

    Train to Killarney via Rock of Cashel

    After breakfast, board the train for your journey south through Ireland's lush countryside. Stop at the spectacular Rock of Cashel, where medieval buildings crown a limestone outcrop - once the seat of the Kings of Munster. Explore the round tower, Cormac's Chapel, and the Gothic cathedral before continuing to charming Killarney. Check into your hotel for a three-night stay. [Night in Killarney]

  4. Day 4overnight: Killarney

    Discover Killarney National Park

    Today, explore the natural wonders of Killarney National Park, Ireland's first national park. Take a traditional jaunting car (horse and carriage) ride through the park, passing by the Lakes of Killarney and stopping at Ross Castle, a 15th-century tower house on the lake shore. Visit Muckross House and Gardens, then perhaps hike to Torc Waterfall for spectacular views over the lakes. The evening is yours to enjoy Killarney's lively town center. [Night in Killarney]

  5. Day 5overnight: Killarney

    Scenic Drive: Ring of Kerry

    Embark on one of the world's most scenic coastal drives - the famous Ring of Kerry. This 179-kilometer circular route offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean, rugged cliffs, pristine beaches, and mountain passes. Stop at viewpoints like Ladies View, visit the colorful village of Sneem, and perhaps spot the Skellig Islands offshore (where Star Wars scenes were filmed). Return to Killarney in the evening, filled with memories of spectacular landscapes. [Night in Killarney]

  6. Day 6overnight: Galway

    Journey to Galway via Cliffs of Moher

    Depart Killarney after breakfast for a scenic journey to Galway. En route, stop at the magnificent Cliffs of Moher, Ireland's most visited natural attraction. These dramatic cliffs rise 214 meters above the Atlantic Ocean and stretch for 8 kilometers along the coast. On clear days, you can see the Aran Islands, Galway Bay, and the mountains of Connemara. Continue to vibrant Galway, known for its arts scene and traditional Irish culture. Check into your hotel for a two-night stay. [Night in Galway]

  7. Day 7overnight: Galway

    Boat Trip to Aran Islands

    Take a memorable boat journey across Galway Bay to the Aran Islands, where Irish traditions and language are preserved. Explore Inishmore, the largest island, with its ancient stone fort of Dún Aonghasa perched on 100-meter high cliffs. See traditional stone walls dividing tiny fields, thatched cottages, and perhaps rent a bike to explore at your own pace. The boat journey also offers a unique perspective of the Cliffs of Moher from sea level. Return to Galway for an evening enjoying the city's famous music scene. [Night in Galway]

  8. Day 8railovernight: Dublin

    Return to Dublin by Train

    Board the morning train from Galway back to Dublin, watching the Irish countryside roll by your window. Upon arrival in Dublin, you have the afternoon for last-minute shopping on Grafton Street, visiting any sights you missed, or simply enjoying a farewell meal in one of Dublin's excellent restaurants. Perhaps catch a show at the Abbey Theatre or enjoy one last evening of Irish music. [Night in Dublin]

  9. Day 9

    Departure from Dublin

    Enjoy a final Irish breakfast at your hotel before departing for Dublin Airport. As you leave, take with you memories of dramatic coastlines, warm Irish hospitality, ancient history, and the infectious rhythm of traditional music. Slán go fóill (goodbye for now) - Ireland will be waiting for your return!

The moments this trip is built around

  • Day 3Board the morning train from Dublin south through lush countryside, stopping at the Rock of Cashel to explore medieval buildings on a limestone outcrop, once the seat of the Kings of Munster.
  • Day 5Drive the Ring of Kerry, a 179-kilometer coastal route offering views of the Atlantic Ocean, mountain passes, and the Skellig Islands; stop at Ladies View and the colorful village of Sneem.
  • Day 6Visit the Cliffs of Moher, which rise 214 meters above the Atlantic and stretch 8 kilometers along the coast; on clear days see the Aran Islands and Connemara mountains.
  • Day 7Take a boat crossing Galway Bay to Inishmore on the Aran Islands, where you can visit the ancient stone fort of Dún Aonghasa perched on 100-meter cliffs and explore thatched cottages.

Included

  • Welcome Package: Receive a personalized welcome package upon arrival, including travel essentials and detailed itinerary information to ensure a seamless start to your journey.
  • First-Class Rail Travel: Experience the ultimate in comfort and style with first-class rail travel throughout your itinerary. Please note that some regional trains may only offer second-class seating.
  • 4-Star Plus Hotel Accommodation: Enjoy luxurious 4-star-plus accommodations in all cities, conveniently located near train stations for easy access and maximum convenience.
  • Daily Breakfast: Start each day with a delicious full breakfast, provided at all hotel accommodations, offering a variety of local and international options.
  • Airport Transfers: Enjoy hassle-free airport transfers upon arrival and departure, ensuring a smooth and stress-free travel experience.

Not included

  • International Airfare: Flights to and from Europe are not included in the package price. Rail Escape can offer an additional reservation of flights.
  • Excursions Activities and Entrance Fees: Any tours, excursions, or activities are not included and may incur additional costs.
  • Meals Beyond Breakfast: While a full breakfast is provided daily, lunch, dinner, and any additional meals or snacks are not included and are the guest’s responsibility.
  • Local taxes or fees: The packages do not include additional local taxes or fees, such as hotel tourism taxes.
  • Personal Expenses: Personal shopping, souvenirs, and additional hotel services (e.g., minibar, laundry, room service) are not covered.
  • Tips and Gratuities: Gratuities for hotel staff, guides, and drivers are not included and are at the guest’s discretion.
  • Local Transportation: Transportation within cities, such as taxis, buses, and subways, is not included.

Questions travellers ask

Is train travel included?
Yes. Rail Escape includes first-class rail travel on the Dublin-to-Killarney leg (stopping at the Rock of Cashel) and the Galway-to-Dublin return journey. Some regional trains may offer second-class seating only. Coach transport is used for the Ring of Kerry and the journey to the Cliffs of Moher.
What hotels are included?
The package includes 4-star-plus hotel accommodation: three nights in Dublin near the city center, three nights in Killarney, and one night in Galway, all conveniently located near train stations.
Is the tour escorted or independent?
The itinerary is structured with organized coach excursions (Ring of Kerry, Cliffs of Moher), a boat trip to the Aran Islands, and a jaunting car ride in Killarney National Park. Daily activities and meals beyond breakfast are largely independent.
What is the starting price?
The package starts at USD 3,899 per person and includes first-class rail, 4-star-plus hotels, daily breakfast, airport transfers, and a welcome package.
What meals are provided?
Only daily full breakfast at all hotels is included. Lunch, dinner, and other meals are not included and are your responsibility.
How much walking is involved?
Day 2 includes walking tours of Dublin's Trinity College, Dublin Castle, and Temple Bar. Day 4 offers a jaunting car ride and an optional hike to Torc Waterfall. Day 7 includes biking and walking on the Aran Islands. Expect moderate city walking and some outdoor exploration.

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