Ireland Itinerary

Kilkenny Castle is the focal point of the once medieval capital of Ireland. The castle has witnessed everything from sieges to restorations in its 800-plus years of history. Self-guided tours are available and include access to the fabulous Long Gallery. Orienteering courses in the extensive parklands are free.

Sports fans can get to grips with ‘The Kilkenny Way’ of hurling with a taster session. Kilkenny’s Cats (the local hurling team) are the all-time champions of the national sport, one of the oldest field sports in the world.

Cork is an excellent place to get involved in local Irish life. Ring the Bells of Shandon at St. Anne’s Church, stock up at the much loved old City Market, and share a pint of Murphy’s (Irish Stout is the drink of choice here).

Take a trip northwest to the enchanting Blarney Castle. Tell your friends you kissed the Blarney Stone. This gives you the ‘gift of the gab’ – eloquence and persuasiveness, so the legend has it. Add to the mystical experience with a walk through the castle’s Rock Close, where witches and fairies abide.

Irish nature at its best. At the foot of the MacGillycuddy's Reeks, Ireland’s tallest mountain range, Killarney is blessed with the beautiful Killarney National Park, Lough Leane, and Muchross and Upper Lakes.

From Killarney you can trek the Ring of Kerry, a 112-mile-long (179 kilometer) scenic route along the coastline of the Iveragh Peninsula. Expect to see picturesque seaside villages, ancient island monasteries, and plenty of sheep surrounded by every shade of green.

Soak up the charm of lively Galway. Mingle in Eyre Square and the JFK Memorial Park. Stroll along the River Corrib, where anglers fish for salmon and chatter in Irish, up to Galway’s Cathedral and University. Back near the docks, admission into the Fisheries Watchtower and City Museum is free.

Don’t miss out on the welcoming atmosphere at one of the city’s authentic Irish pubs. Get in amongst the traditional music sessions at Tig Cóilí or The Crane. Or be amazed by the hodgepodge of articles that cram every corner of O’Connors Famous Pub.