14 Night Chauffeur Driven Itinerary of Ireland

This is a sample 14 Night Chauffeur Driven Tour of Ireland. This suggested itinerary has been constructed to generate ideas for you, our valued clients which may inspire you on your upcoming trip to Ireland. In addition to chauffeur driven tours of Ireland, why not explore our upcoming group tours.

Click on the below sections to learn about each day on this suggested chauffeur drive itinerary.

Cead Mile Failte! One hundred thousand welcomes! Dublin, although modern and cosmopolitan, retains the grace and atmosphere of the 18th Century reflected through Georgian squares and terraces. Some famous landmarks highlighted along your way to the hotel are; Trinity College, St Patrick’s Cathedral and Dublin Castle. Before check-in, why not explore some iconic sites or pay a visit to the world-famous Grafton Street. After check-in at the hotel, you may wish to explore the city more. Afterwards, enjoy a lovely meal in the hotel restaurant or at one of the many local pubs in Dublin. Overnight – Ashling Hotel, Dublin

Following a leisurely breakfast, why not take a relaxed panoramic tour of Dublin on one of the city bus tours. You can enjoy some of the many famous sights and fine architectural buildings and Cathedrals the city offers. Explore the city at your leisure and at your own pace and visit the sights you want to see. You may choose to shop on Grafton or Henry Street. Enjoy a pint or two at one of the famous pubs of Dublin.

Suggested visits:

  • Dublin Castle
  • Kilmainham Gaol
  • Jameson Distillery
  • St Patrick’s Cathedral
  • Trinity College
  • Guinness Store House

In the evening revel in one of the many restaurants to experience a casual meal. Or, visit a traditional Dublin pub for some “Ceol agus Craic”

Overnight – Ashling Hotel, Dublin

After breakfast, you will be met by your driver at hotel reception area at 10.00 am. This will begin your private chauffeur driven tour. Travel southwards to Youghal via the medieval city of Kilkenny.

Kilkenny and Waterford Cities

Kilkenny in Irish is Cill Chainnigh, meaning “church of Cainnech”. A  city located in the south-east part of Ireland and the county town of the eponymous County Kilkenny. Why not pay a visit to the Medieval Kilkenny Castle? Learn more about the history of this once magnificent medieval city both before and after the Norman invasion. After spending some time walking the historic streets of Kilkenny, we leave for Waterford City. This city is famously known for its Waterford Crystal. You may wish to pay a visit to the Waterford Crystal Visitor Centre. Where you can discover how the crystal was founded and made. There is also an opportunity which allows you to buy some lovely pieces from the gift shop.

Youghal

Following this, your driver guide will now take you to the beautiful town of Youghal in Co Cork. Here you will be staying for the next few nights. After check-in at the hotel you are free to explore this picturesque town. Or possibly enjoy dinner in Ahernes Townhouse which is one of Youghal’s unique treasures.
Overnight – Ahernes Townhouse, Youghal

This morning after a hearty breakfast it is time to explore the unique and iconic locations that Co.Cork offers. Your driver guide is at your disposal and will bring you to where your heart desires. We suggest a visit to the fishing village of Cobh, visiting the Cobh Heritage Center. This tells the story of the RMS Titanic’s final stop before her voyage to America. For those intrigued by how an Irish Distillery operates, why not pay a visit to Middleton Whiskey Distillery. Here you can experience the process of the creation of Jameson Whiskey. Alternatively, you could travel a little further to visit the unique and very popular gourmet Capital of Ireland, Kinsale. Here you can take a guided walking of this beautiful fishing town. Suggested Visits:

  • Cobh Heritage Centre
  • Jameson Distillery at Middleton
  • Kinsale (with optional walking tour)

Overnight – Ahernes Townhouse, Youghal

Bid farewell to Youghal and travel to Dingle via Cork City, Blarney & Killarney. Your driver guide may take you on a short panoramic tour of Cork City. Built on a marsh, the city is inter-laced with a winding canal and river giving it a distinctly European air.

Blarney Village & Killarney

Blarney Castle is home to the world-famous Blarney Stone. Which is said that whoever kisses this stone will receive the gift of eloquence. After spending some time at the Blarney woollen Mills, continue to the Kingdom of Kerry, stopping of in Killarney. Here you will have the opportunity for a lunch and maybe enjoy a jaunting car ride through Killarney National Park before continuing on our way to Dingle.

Overnight – Benners Hotel, Dingle

Today, we set out for our tour of the beautifully rugged, scenic Dingle Peninsula and Blasket Islands. This group of Islands to the west of Slea Head was inhabited until 1953.

Blasket Islands

Many of Ireland’s great Gaelic literary figures were born and raised on the great Blasket Island. Why not take the opportunity to visit the Blasket Visitor Centre to learn more about these unique and scenic islands. In the afternoon, you will have the chance to explore the famous town of Dingle and experience the hospitality that awaits you. As a market town and fishing port, Dingle has long been well supplied with pubs. In recent years the number has hovered around 52, and the variety is almost as great as the number. You will have many options for dinner tonight in Dingle, at one of the many pubs or restaurants.

Overnight – Benners Hotel, Dingle

We bid farewell to Kerry this morning, and after breakfast head northwards to Co Clare. Our journey today is via Adare village in Co Limerick.

Adare & Bunratty Villages

Adare is widely regarded as being Ireland’s prettiest and most picturesque village. Snuggled in a wooded and lush countryside setting. Adare dates back to at least the 13th century. It is one of the most picturesque towns in Ireland because of its thatched roof houses. Continue to Bunratty Village & Folk Park. Step back in time and enjoy the sights, sounds, tastes and scents of this enchanting place as you stroll from house to house around the charming village.

You also have a great opportunity to shop for some Irish treasures and souvenirs. You may choose to enjoy a refreshing pint at the famous Durty Nelly’s pub before travelling on to Ennis.

Ennis

Ennis which is taken from the Irish word, “Inis” meaning Island, and is the county town of County Clare. Situated on the River Fergus just north of where it flows into the Shannon Estuary. During the 12th century the O’Brien’s, Kings of Thomond, left their seat of power in Limerick. They then built a royal residence at Clonroad on the then island. During 1240, King Donnchadh O’Brien ordered the construction of extensive church grounds. Later, he donated to the recently formatted followers of St. Francis.

You are free to explore Ennis after check-in at the hotel and also to dine in one of the many pubs or restaurants found in the town centre.

Overnight – Old Ground Hotel, Ennis

Today travel through the villages of Spanish Point and Liscannor to arrive at the awesome Cliffs of Moher.

Cliffs of Moher

One of the most outstanding features of County Clare. Rising sheer above the sea to nearly 700 feet and extending along the coast for nearly five miles. These cliffs form one of the grandest stretches of Cliffs in Ireland, standing 214m (702 feet) at their highest point. They stretch for 8 kilometers (5 miles) along the Atlantic coast of County Clare in the west of Ireland. From the Cliffs of Moher on a clear day one can see the Aran Islands and Galway Bay, as well as the Twelve Pins and the Maum Turk mountains in Connemara. O’Brien’s Tower stands near the highest point, serving as a viewing point for visitors for hundreds of years.

Burren Region

Before returning to Ennis your driver guide will take you around the Burren Region. This fine area is spread among North County Clare and parts of South County Galway. It covers an area of 160km2, and is like no other place in Ireland. There are no bogs and very few pastures. Instead there are huge pavements of limestone called ‘clints’ with vertical fissures called ‘grikes’. In the summer months Limestone-loving plants such as foxgloves and rock roses grow out of these beautiful formations.

Overnight – Old Ground Hotel, Ennis

This morning after breakfast you will travel to Renvyle in Connemara. Along the way you have the opportunity to stop of in Galway City. Galway is also known as the “City of Tribes”. The name refers to 14 important Anglo-Norman merchant families. These families lived here and dominated the life and trade of the city during the Middle Ages. Galway has had a long tradition of trade with Spain. There are many Spanish influences in the city, most notably the Spanish Arch, a gateway in the old city walls and Spanish Parade.

Renvyle Peninsula

At the far western edge of Ireland you arrive at the serene and tranquil Renvyle Peninsula. Far from the pressure of city life, it is a place in which to relax. You can enjoy the fresh sea air, the peace, tranquility and closeness of nature. Amidst this alluring landscape, you will find Derryinver Quay and Ballinakill Harbour. One of the most captivating, natural and well-protected harbors in the world. You arrive at the Renvyle House Hotel in the late afternoon. Before dining in the hotel restaurant, you will have some time to freshen up.

Dinner & Overnight – Renvyle House Hotel, Connemara.

Today why not journey to and explore the rugged yet serene Connemara area. The location where John Wayne and Maureen O’Hara were made famous in the classic, “A Quiet Man”. This rocky land of broad-backed mountains and pearl-like lakes is the largest Irish speaking section of the country. The old traditions and way of life are as much a part of Connemara’s attractions as is the scenery.

Kylemore Abbey

We drive along the shores of Lough Corrib and westward through Maam Cross to Leenane and Kylemore. Here you can visit Kylemore Abbey, the only Irish home of the Benedictine Nuns. Built originally as a Castle, it is one of the best examples of Irish neo-gothic architecture. The estate features include a Victorian Walled Garden, restored Abbey reception rooms, Gothic Church, tranquil walks, craft shop, pottery, and restaurant.

Overnight – Renvyle House Hotel, Connemara

This morning after a hearty Irish breakfast, say goodbye to Co. Galway and travel to Westport which will be your first stop of the day. Alight at Croagh Patrick for a photo shot, five miles from the picturesque town of Westport. The mountain’s conical shape soars majestically above the surrounding countryside. Afterwards, explore the vibrant town of Westport, walking its beautiful streets. Continue  to Sligo, the home of the famous, W.B Yeats.

Drumcliff, Co. Sligo

Your drive today takes you through Drumcliff, Co Sligo, set at the foothills of Ben Bulben Mountain. Here you may stop off at the burial place of W.B Yeats, one of Irelands finest poets. Travel northwards and arrive in Donegal Town where you can enjoy a great platform from which to explore all Donegal has to offer.

Overnight – Solis Lough Eske Castle, Donegal

Today you can explore the beautiful county of Donegal, firstly visiting Donegal Town. Donegal means “Fort of the Foreigners”, after the Vikings who built a garrison here. The restored Donegal Castle in the town center incorporates the gabled tower of a fortified house. This was built by the O’Donnell family in the 15th century. Then take the coast road to Killybegs, one of Irelands biggest fishing ports. You will have some time to explore Killybegs and a chance to get some lunch from any of fine restaurants and cafes within the town.

Slieve League Cliffs

From here drive along Slieve League to take in some of Ireland’s beautiful coastline and also bear witness to some of the highest cliffs in Ireland. Slieve league is almost three times higher than the Cliffs of Moher although they are not as famous. You will return to Donegal Town in the late afternoon allowing for free time to independently explore at your leisure.
Overnight – Solis Lough Eske Castle, Donegal

This morning travel to Co Antrim via Letterkenny & Derry. Letterkenny in Irish is Leitir Ceanainn which means “Hillside of the O’Cannons”. It is the largest and most populous town in county Donegal.

Derry City

Following here, travel on to Derry City and enjoy a panoramic tour on arrival. Derry has experienced so much, especially since the Troubles of Northern Ireland, lasting over 30 years. The murals (street art) expressed by the community are personal memories. They depict recent and past events in the city’s political and social history. While in Derry why not take a walking tour? Join Ronan McNamara, a man with a story in every corner. He has a tale to tell for each drop of history that you see. And, knows every secret etched on the walls of Derry City. *Needs to be pre-booked if required*. It’s time to depart this wonderful city of culture and head to your last destination which is Bushmills in Co.Antrim.

Overnight – Bushmills Inn, Antrim[/

Following breakfast at the very unique award-winning hotel, enjoy a drive along the beautiful Antrim coastline. Here, you can visit the Carrick-A-Rede Rope Bridge and Giant’s Causeway.

Giant’s Causeway

The Giant’s Causeway is Northern Ireland’s top tourist attraction, and only world heritage site. A dramatic coastal landscape steeped in local mythology. It consists of around 40,000 polygonal basalt columns, jutting out into the sea amid a spectacular coastal landscape. You may want to visit The Bushmills Distillery, home to the famous Bushmills whiskey. You can enjoy a private tour of the distillery, while also enjoying a taste of any of the Bushmills Whiskeys at the very end.

Overnight – Bushmills Inn, Antrim