4 Day Tour from Galway to Kerry in Southwestern Ireland

Visiting Ireland is an incredible experience – but doing it right takes a bit of know-how. With its vibrant cities and stunningly beautiful countryside, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by the sheer abundance of things to do. If you’re planning a 4-day trip to southwestern Ireland, this guide will help you make the most of your time and make sure you have the best possible Ireland experience!

Southern Ireland is best explored by car, so if you’re coming from Galway, hiring a car and driving south is the way to go. On your drive south, you’ll pass through some gorgeous countryside and you’ll get an authentic view of Irish rural life. Here are the top stops on your 4-day adventure from Galway to Kerry in Southwestern Ireland.

Day 1 – Explore Galway City

Your tour of the wilds of southern Ireland should start in Galway City, located on the west coast of Ireland. This medieval city is a great introduction to Irish culture, which has been left largely unscathed by modernity. When you arrive in Galway, you can use the city as a base for taking day trips to the surrounding countryside.

Galway City is known for its vibrant culture, with plenty of pubs and restaurants making it a great destination for a social life. Among its many attractions are Eyre Square, St Nicholas Collegiate Church, Menlo Castle and the stunning coastal drives of the Salthill Promenade. For music lovers, Galway also has a rich musical history with lots of local music venues – shown in its recent inauguration as the European Capital of Culture for 2020!

Day 2 – Cliffs of Moher & The Burren

On the second day of your tour, you’ll head south from Galway towards the Cliffs of Moher and Burren National Park. The Cliffs of Moher soar 700 feet above the wild Atlantic Coast and offer breathtaking views of Ireland’s rugged west coast. The Burren National Park has limestone terraces as far as the eye can see, and is home to some rare species of flowers and birds. Make sure to stop at Aillwee Cave and Craggaunowen Castle on your way back to Galway – you won’t regret it!

Day 3 – Killarney & Ring of Kerry

On your third day, you’ll head to Killarney Town and explore one of Ireland’s most popular destinations – the incredible Ring of Kerry. As you drive around the Ring of Kerry, you’ll come across villages, historic castles, hidden waterfalls, and perhaps even a few friendly locals.

If you want to experience something truly unique, head to Conor Pass – Ireland’s highest mountain pass – where you can witness stunning views of the surrounding green-covered hills that go all the way up to Dingle Bay in the distance.

After exploring Killarney and the Ring of Kerry, take a detour towards Muckross House, Ireland’s most impressive stately home.

Day 4 – Blarney Castle & Cork

On your final day in southwestern Ireland, why not visit Blarney Castle and Cork? Blarney Castle is an iconic castle that’s best known for the legendary Blarney Stone. This is believed to possess power to bestow “The gift of the gab” to those who kiss it! After kissing the Blarney Stone, take time to wander around this picturesque castle and its babbling streams, towers and turrets.

When you’re done with Blarney Castle, head to Cork for something a little more cosmopolitan. Cork is a great destination for art lovers, offering everything from galleries and museums to Bohemian cafes and chic boutiques. It’s also home to Cork University College (home of James Clarence Mangan) and the University of Limerick (home to some great programs in Sustainable Energy).

Once you’ve had your fill of culture in Cork city, it’s time to jump in your car and head back north to Galway with an unforgettable 4-day tour through southwestern Ireland tucked away in your memory!

Planning your own 4-day tour through southwestern Ireland is an exciting adventure that will leave you with some unforgettable memories! Make sure to explore all that this part of Ireland has to offer – from the majestic Cliffs of Moher and Burren National Park to iconic Blarney Castle and bustling Cork City. And don’t forget to book activities like a guided day tour or chartered boat ride using a reliable booking service GetYourGuide for extra convenience and unbeatable prices!

Insider’s Guide to Galway, Ireland

Galway is a charming city located on the west coast of Ireland. It’s known for its traditional music, beautiful landscapes, and friendly locals. If you are planning a trip to Galway, here’s an insider’s guide to the best local attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions.

Local Attractions

Galway has numerous attractions that attract tourists from around the world. While the main attractions like the Cliffs of Moher and the Aran Islands are worth visiting, there are plenty of hidden gems in and around the city that only locals would know. Start by exploring the Galway City Museum, which houses a vast collection of archeological and historical artifacts. Visit the Lynch’s Castle, a 16th-century building, and marvel at its fantastic Gothic architecture. Take a stroll to Quay Street, where you can find fantastic street performers, local musicians, and countless pubs.

For a unique experience, head to Connemara, a beautiful region just outside Galway City similar to the Scottish Highlands. Here you can visit Kylemore Abbey, a stunning Gothic structure, and walk the beautiful Connemara National Park.

Dining Spots

Galway is known for its excellent seafood, and you’ll find numerous restaurants where you can enjoy fish and chips, oysters, and other local delicacies. The seafood chowder at Moran’s Oyster Cottage, located in nearby Kilcolgan, is a must-try. Galway also has an excellent café culture, and you can find plenty of cozy cafés and bakeries that serve delicious pastries and cakes. For Irish pub food, you can head to the famous Kings Head, where you can try the traditional Irish stew.

Fun fact: Irish coffee was invented at Foynes Flying Boat and Maritime Museum in Limerick, Ireland. The museum offers a tour of the history of aviation with an opportunity to try the first-ever Irish coffee.

Cultural Experiences

Galway is a hub for traditional Irish music, and you can find several spots where you can enjoy live music. The city hosts various festivals throughout the year, like the Galway Arts Festival, Galway Oyster Festival, and Galway Races. Be sure to experience the Irish language at the city’s largest Irish-speaking area, An Ghaeltacht.

Local History

Galway has a rich and fascinating history that dates back over a thousand years. One of the most interesting historical sites in the city is the Lynch’s Window, located on Market Street. It marks the site where the Mayor of Galway famously hanged his own son in the 16th century. Another interesting historical spot is the Spanish Arch, built in 1584 as a gateway to the city’s quayside.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

If you’re looking for something unique and exciting, consider taking an archeological tour of the local cemetery, the Galway City Graveyard. The cemetery houses the gravesites of some notable figures from Galway’s past. You can also visit the beautiful Terryland Forest Park, where you can go cycling, hiking, or have a picnic.

Takeaway

Galway is a beautiful city that offers a perfect mix of tradition and modernity. From hidden gems to cultural experiences, Galway has something for everyone. Incorporating these insider tips will enhance your visit to Galway and leave you with unforgettable memories.