Glendalough Day Tour from Dublin: Including Kilkenny City

Thinking about taking a day trip from Dublin that combines the country’s natural beauty with its storied towns? This full-day tour to Glendalough and Kilkenny might just hit the spot. It’s a popular choice for those wanting to step outside the city, enjoy some breathtaking landscapes, and soak up a bit of Ireland’s history—all without the hassle of planning every detail.

What we like about this tour is how well it balances scenic drives, historical stops, and free time to explore. The Wicklow Mountains are famously beautiful, and the chance to wander around Glendalough’s monastic ruins offers a peaceful, almost mystical vibe. Plus, Kilkenny’s cobblestone streets and castle are charming. One thing to keep in mind: the tour is quick, so you’ll see a lot but may not have hours to linger at each stop. Still, it’s a great option for first-time visitors or anyone short on time who wants a taste of Ireland’s highlights.

This tour suits anyone looking for a full, guided day out with comfortable transportation and a knowledgeable guide. It’s especially handy if you’re after an efficient way to cover some of Ireland’s most iconic sights without the stress of navigating yourself. If you’re into picturesque landscapes, historical ruins, and lively towns, this trip offers a solid intro—just keep expectations in check about the amount of time you’ll have at each location.

Key Points

• Convenient and Well-Organized: All logistics are handled, including pick-up and drop-off in Dublin.
• Beautiful Scenic Drives: Pass through Wicklow Mountains, with views of Sugar Loaf, Wicklow Gap, and Turlogh waterfall.
• Rich Heritage: Explore the ancient monastic site of Glendalough, renowned for its ruins and stunning lakes.
• Flexible Free Time: Enjoy about 2 hours to explore Kilkenny, its castle, and local spots at your own pace.
• Comfortable Transportation: Travel in air-conditioned vehicles with WiFi and USB ports at every seat.
• Value for Money: At around $46, it offers a comprehensive day trip with a professional guide.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Departure from Dublin and Scenic Drive

Your adventure begins early around 8:00 am from 34 O’Connell Street. The journey southwards is smooth and scenic, thanks to the comfortable bus with amenities like WiFi and USB ports, making the roughly 9-hour trip manageable and enjoyable. The driver is also your guide, providing commentary about Ireland’s landscape and history along the way.

The first leg takes you through the lush Irish countryside, where you’ll see traditional Irish bogs—these are more than just scenery; they’re part of Ireland’s energy history. The highlight here is the drive through the Wicklow Mountains, which are often called the “Garden of Ireland” for their verdant beauty.

Glendalough Monastic Settlement

Your first major stop is Glendalough, a site that captures the imagination with its ancient ruins and natural beauty. It’s famous for its 6th-century monastic site, including St. Kevin’s Cross and a round tower dating back to the 10th century. As you walk among the stone ruins, you’ll get a sense of Ireland’s spiritual past.

The landscape here is serene—rivers, waterfalls, and lakes create a picture-perfect setting. Many visitors, including those reviewed, find the scenery “incredibly picturesque,” and it’s a fantastic place to snap some photos. The site has been featured in Hollywood movies like “Braveheart” and “P.S. I Love You,” adding a bit of cinematic flair to your visit.

The 1.5-hour chunk here allows for a leisurely exploration. You can stroll along the riverbanks, wander through the ruins, or sit and soak in the tranquility. Several reviews mention how worthwhile the ruins are, with one traveler noting, “Glendalough was amazing… worth spending a day,” which, while not always possible in this tour’s time frame, speaks to its impact.

Wicklow Mountains and Turlogh Waterfall

Next, the tour takes you over the Wicklow Gap—a mountain pass offering breathtaking panoramic views. It’s the kind of scenery that makes you reach for your camera. Here, you’ll see Irish bogs and, if you’re lucky, some wildlife. The route also passes by Turlogh waterfall, notable as one of Ireland’s tallest and most dramatic waterfalls. The views here are often described as “spectacular” and “amazing,” especially when the weather cooperates.

Kilkenny: Medieval Charm and Historic Sights

Arriving in Kilkenny, you’ll step into a town that feels straight out of history. From the Norman castle to cobblestone streets, Kilkenny exudes old-world charm. Many travelers mention how Kilkenny Castle is a highlight—built in the 1100s, it’s a prime example of medieval architecture. While entry isn’t included in the ticket, the castle grounds are accessible, and a small fee can open up more of the interior.

The Black Abbey and Cathedral of Saint Canice are walking-distance gems, with the latter boasting a round tower that’s well worth climbing for views over the town. You’ll have roughly two hours here, plenty of time to wander, grab a local lunch, and maybe try a pint of Kilkenny beer—an experience many reviews praise.

One traveler summed it up: “Kilkenny City was a nice little town with lots to explore,” and others have appreciated the relaxed pace, giving ample freedom to enjoy the city’s cafes and shops.

Return Journey and Evening in Dublin

The trip back takes you through County Kildare, with the bus arriving back in Dublin around 6 pm. The return journey can be a little warm, especially on hot days, but the aesthetics of the Irish countryside make up for it. Some reviews mention the comfort of the ride, while others note minor frustrations like broken air conditioning, but overall, the experience remains positive.

Extras and Practicalities

The tour includes everything from taxes to live commentary, which enhances the experience without hidden fees. WiFi and USB ports keep you connected, making the journey feel less like a bus ride and more like part of the adventure. Food, drinks, and entrance fees to Kilkenny Castle are not included, so budget accordingly if you want to explore more extensively.

What the Reviews Say

Overall, reviews are quite positive, with many travelers complimenting their guides for being engaging and knowledgeable. Highlights include the beautiful scenery, especially in Glendalough and the Wicklow Mountains, and Kilkenny’s charming streets and castle. Travelers often mention how well-organized the trip is, with plenty of time to explore.

However, some reviews point out that the time at each stop is limited—a common issue with day trips. A few travelers felt the guides were only providing brief overviews rather than deep historical insights, so if you’re after a detailed guided experience, this might not fully satisfy that craving.

One review that stands out warns about being put on the wrong tour and the lack of in-depth commentary at Glendalough, so it’s worth managing expectations and understanding that this is more of a scenic and cultural overview rather than an educational deep dive.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

If you’re looking for a cost-effective way to see some of Ireland’s most iconic sights without the hassle of planning, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially suitable for first-timers or those short on time, eager to get a taste of Ireland’s nature and history in a single, organized package.

The scenery is stunning, and the stops offer enough time to explore and take photos. The guides seem friendly and knowledgeable, which helps make the long day more engaging. The price point—around $46—also offers good value considering transportation, guide, and entry to some sites.

However, if you’re a history buff or someone who wants extensive time at each site, you might find the itinerary a little rushed. The tour is best viewed as an introduction rather than an in-depth exploration.

In the end, this trip is perfect if you want a well-organized, scenic, and enjoyable day out of Dublin, with enough flexibility to make the most of Kilkenny and Glendalough’s highlights.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
It’s approximately 9 hours, including travel time and stops, so expect an early start and return by early evening.

What is included in the price?
All taxes, fees, and handling charges are included, along with live commentary, a professional guide, WiFi, and USB ports on the bus.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so plan to bring snacks or buy lunch in Kilkenny.

Can I visit Kilkenny Castle?
Entrance to Kilkenny Castle is not included in the tour, but you can buy a ticket if you wish to explore inside.

Is this tour suitable for families?
While not specifically marketed as a family tour, the stops are generally suitable for all ages. Consider the walking involved at Glendalough and Kilkenny.

What should I wear?
Dress appropriately for the weather, as Ireland’s conditions can change quickly. Comfortable shoes are recommended for walking around ruins and towns.

How much free time do I get in Kilkenny?
You will have about 2 hours to explore the city, visit landmarks, or grab lunch.

Will I have enough time at Glendalough?
Yes, approximately 1.5 hours is allocated, enough for a walk around the ruins and enjoy the scenery.

What are the main highlights?
The scenic drive, Glendalough monastic ruins, Wicklow Mountains, Wicklow Gap, Turlogh waterfall, and Kilkenny’s historic streets and castle.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, it operates in all weather conditions, so dress accordingly.

If you’re craving a day of Irish scenery, history, and charming towns, this tour offers a straightforward, enjoyable way to get a good overview. Just keep in mind the time constraints and plan your Kilkenny exploration accordingly.