2-Day Southern Ireland Tour from Dublin:Including Blarney and Cliffs of Moher

When it comes to seeing Ireland’s stunning landscapes and historic sites in a short amount of time, this 2-day tour from Dublin offers a lot—especially if you’re after the big names like Blarney Castle and the Cliffs of Moher. While we haven’t personally taken this trip, we’ve looked into the details and reviews to give you an honest, friendly rundown of what you can expect and whether it’s worth your while.

One thing we really appreciate is how this tour packs round-trip transport, accommodation, and major tickets into a relatively affordable price. Plus, the chance to explore places like the Rock of Cashel and stroll through Cork’s markets makes it feel like a well-rounded experience. On the flip side, some reviews point out that the accommodations and organization might not always meet expectations, which is worth considering if comfort and seamless planning are priorities for you.

This tour could be a solid pick if you want to see a lot of Ireland without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. However, it’s best suited for travelers who are okay with busy days, a group setting, and some unpredictability. If you’re someone who values a relaxed pace or has specific accommodation needs, you might want to explore other options. Still, for those with limited time or a desire to check off major sights, this tour offers a lot in just two days.

Key Points

• Efficiently covers major highlights like Blarney Castle, Cliffs of Moher, and the Rock of Cashel in two days
• Includes transportation, tickets, and overnight stay, making it a good value for those wanting a hassle-free experience
• Tour guides are praised for their knowledge, humor, and storytelling
• Accommodations and food may be hit or miss, according to some travelers
• Group sizes tend to be large (up to 56 travelers), which can affect the intimacy of the experience
• Flexible options for room types and the need to book well in advance (average booking 61 days ahead)

The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect

Day 1: From Dublin to Cork and Blarney

The day kicks off early at 8:00 am, so be ready for a full day from the get-go. The drive takes you through the Midlands, past some scenic spots used in Hollywood’s Braveheart. A highlight here is the Rock of Cashel—a site that’s rich with medieval charm. It’s a place that feels like walking through Ireland’s history, with ruins, Celtic crosses, and round towers. Expect to spend about 45 minutes here, enough to snap some photos and appreciate the atmosphere. According to many, this site is considered one of the most evocative in Ireland, and fans of architecture and history will enjoy their visit.

Next, you’ll head to Cork, Ireland’s second city, for about an hour. Here, you get free time to explore the English Market—a lively spot famous for local produce, artisan meats, cheeses, and Irish fare. Several reviews mention that this is an ideal place for lunch, offering a taste of Irish food culture. If you’re a foodie—or just someone who enjoys browsing markets—you’ll probably love this stop.

In the afternoon, it’s Blarney Castle time. Spending around two hours here gives you plenty of opportunity to wander the gardens, explore the castle ruins, and, of course, kiss the Blarney Stone—which many believe grants you the gift of gab for seven years. The tour’s included ticket makes this a stress-free experience, and many guests enjoy the arts and crafts found in Blarney Woolen Mills, the town’s famous shopping spot.

The night’s stay in Cork is supposed to give travelers a chance to soak up local life—music, dance, and traditional eateries are common. However, some reviews note that accommodations vary in quality, and the hotel might be old or small. If comfort is a priority, you might want to research the specific B&B or hotel used.

Day 2: From Cork to the Cliffs of Moher via Limerick and Doolin

Day two starts with a scenic drive through the Golden Vale, known for its lush farmland. It’s a peaceful setting that contrasts nicely with the rugged coast ahead. A brief stop in Limerick City provides a chance to view the River Shannon and get a quick look at King John’s Castle—a favorite for capture-the-moment photos.

Then, the tour heads to the Wild Atlantic Way coastline—expect stunning views of beaches, golden sands, and maybe even some dolphins playing in the waves if the weather cooperates. The highlight here is definitely the Cliffs of Moher, Ireland’s most visited natural attraction. Rising over 700 feet, these cliffs are breathtaking and home to puffins, gannets, and other seabirds.

Visitors usually get about 1.5 hours at the Cliffs, which is enough time for a good walk along the edge and some serious photo ops. Many reviews praise the spectacular scenery, calling the Cliffs the “Irish crown jewels.” The visitor center provides insights into the geology and wildlife, adding an educational touch to the visit.

Before wrapping up, the group will stop in Doolin, a charming village famed for Irish music. It’s a good spot for lunch, with options for traditional dishes. The relaxed atmosphere here is a nice transition before heading back to Dublin, with the drive ending in the evening.

What’s Included and What Costs Extra

The tour’s price, around $236.44 per person, covers transportation, tickets to major sites, breakfast, and one overnight stay. The included tickets to Blarney Castle and the Cliffs of Moher Visitor Centre add value, especially for travelers wanting a straightforward experience. Wi-Fi on the bus is a nice touch, helping you stay connected or share photos on the go.

However, food and drinks outside of breakfast are not included, so you’ll want to budget for meals. Some reviews mention that the accommodations might not always meet expectations—one traveler called the hotel “very old, small, smelly,” so it’s worth checking what specific place you’ll stay if comfort is key.

The tour operates in all weather, so dress accordingly. Keep in mind that it’s a big group (up to 56), which can sometimes impact the intimacy or flexibility of the experience.

Balancing the Pros and Cons

The majority of positive reviews highlight knowledgeable guides who share stories, humor, and local insights that make the trip engaging. Many travelers appreciated the spectacular views and the chance to see Ireland’s most famous sights without the hassle of organizing logistics themselves.

On the downside, some travelers experienced disorganization, especially around accommodations and timings. A few reviews report delays, confusing pickups, and inconsistent service, which can make the experience feel rushed or chaotic. The large group size also means you might not get the personalized attention or quiet moments some travelers seek.

From a value perspective, the tour offers a lot—transport, site tickets, and lodging—at a price that many find reasonable. But if you’re picky about hotel quality or detailed itineraries, or if you prefer flexible, smaller-group experiences, you might want to consider alternatives.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal if you’re on a tight schedule but still want to see Ireland’s key sights. It’s suitable for travelers who enjoy guided trips with included tickets and accommodations and don’t mind sharing space with a larger group. It’s a good choice if you’re interested in history, scenic landscapes, and Irish culture, but don’t want the hassle of planning every detail.

That said, if you’re a traveler who values seamless organization, quiet time, or luxury accommodations, you might find some aspects of this tour lacking. It’s best for those who are flexible and open to some unpredictability, and who want a comprehensive snapshot of Southern Ireland in just two days.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
While the tour doesn’t explicitly mention family-friendliness, the stops like Blarney Castle and Cliffs of Moher are generally enjoyed by all ages. Keep in mind the long bus rides and the walking involved, so consider your children’s stamina.

Are meals included?
Breakfast is included, but other meals are at your own expense. Many travelers pick up food at stops like Cork’s English Market or Doolin.

How big are the groups?
The tour can have up to 56 travelers, so it’s quite a large group. This means a more social atmosphere, but less privacy.

What’s the quality of accommodations?
Reviews vary, with some travelers mentioning that their hotel was old or small. It’s a good idea to check what specific place you’ll stay if comfort is a priority.

Are tickets to sites included?
Yes, tickets for Blarney Castle, the Rock of Cashel, and the Cliffs of Moher Visitor Centre are included in the tour price.

What is the duration of free time at key stops?
You’ll have about an hour at Cork for exploring the market, roughly two hours at Blarney Castle, and about 1.5 hours at the Cliffs of Moher.

Is Wi-Fi available on the bus?
Yes, Wi-Fi is provided during the journey, which is handy for sharing your trip or catching up on messages.

Final Thoughts

This 2-day Southern Ireland tour from Dublin offers a solid way to tick off major sights in a short time. It’s perfect for travelers who want a structured, guided experience without the stress of planning logistics. You’ll visit iconic landmarks, hear engaging stories from knowledgeable guides, and enjoy the convenience of included tickets and overnight stays.

However, it’s also clear that some aspects like accommodations and organization could be smoother. If you’re someone who values luxury, quiet, or personalized service, you might want to weigh that against the value and convenience this tour provides.

Overall, it’s a good option for adventurers eager to see Ireland’s highlights quickly and don’t mind a bus full of fellow travelers. Just keep in mind the potential for busy days and variable accommodations, so pack accordingly and stay flexible.

Happy planning, and may your Irish adventure be filled with stunning views and good laughs!