Top Ireland Outdoor Activities

The Ring of Kerry and the Killarney National Park take pride of place on the Iveragh Peninsula, with some of Ireland’s finest coastal scenery—but the 110-mile (177-kilometer) journey makes sightseeing a challenge. This convenient full-day coach tour from Killarney makes it possible to complete the route in a day. Plus, take in traditional coastal villages such as Cahersiveen, Derrynane, and Glenbeigh. Visit the historic Bog Village with a guide, and discover top natural attractions including the Killarney Lakes, Rossbeigh Beach, and Macgillycuddy's Reeks.

Not everyone wants to spend their time at Cliffs of Moher—one of Ireland’s most stunning natural attractions—trailing behind a guide. Then again, renting a car can also be a hassle. Skip the fuss on this transport-only tour, which whisks you from Galway to the Cliffs of Moher and back by direct shuttle bus. Once there, enjoy free time to wander the clifftop trails on your own.

Get up close and personal with Killarney National Park's spectacular scenery on a horseback riding tour. Pick between morning and afternoon tour times, and make your own way to the stables near Killarney Town. Grab your helmet and boots, saddle up, and head into nature. You'll ride along Lough Lein, will admire soaring mountains and rolling hills, and can learn more about the highlights of Ireland's first national park.

Trek through Howth to see off-the-beaten-path sights that most travelers miss on this small-group hiking tour accompanied by a local guide and their dog. Listen to engaging commentary as you walk, illuminating the history of Howth and Ireland from as far back as 700 years ago. Highlights include St. Mary's Abbey, the Cliffs of Howth, a centuries-old castle, and others. Finish up in a village pub for an included pint and rest for your weary legs.

Explore Northern Ireland's biggest draws—Belfast, Giant’s Causeway, and Dunluce Castle—in just one day on this convenient, time-saving tour from Dublin. Instead of having to hire a car, travel via traditional black cab to explore Belfast's streets, including the Falls and Shankill neighborhoods. Then, board a coach and leave the city behind to experience one of Ireland's great geological marvels, the UNESCO World Heritage–listed Giant’s Causeway, as well as Dunluce Castle, a filming location for "Game of Thrones."

Journey 200 feet below ground during this small-group cave tour in Doolin. Meet your guide, don a hard hat, and go inside a cave below the Burren limestone landscape to explore an intricate system of passages. Learn about how the caves were formed and see one of Europe’s largest stalactites. Enjoy access to the Doolin Cave Eco Trail, a 1km looped walking path showcasing the surrounding landscape.

Explore Ireland beyond the hustle and bustle of Dublin's city center with a half-day bus trip along the coast to the fishing village of Howth. Admire views along the coast during the drive to Howth before setting out on a guided walk along the sea cliffs. Then relax with free time to explore the village at your leisure. Return transportation to Dublin is included for extra convenience.

Trade the big city for a day in nature on this full-day, small-group tour from Dublin. Your destination is the wild and beautiful Wicklow Mountains National Park, where you get up close and personal with the scenery when you embark on a horseback riding tour of the area. Following lunch in the quaint village of Enniskerry (own expense), see more of the area’s highlights and make your way to Glendalough: site of a 6th-century monastery.

Avoid the crowds and explore Irish history in peace on this Book of Kells and Dublin Castle exterior tour. Visit the Trinity College Library, home to the famous Book of Kells—widely considered among the most important of all Ireland’s ancient treasures. Listen as your guide brings medieval Ireland to life, shedding light on the Book of Kells’ profound historical significance. Afterward, enjoy a guided walking tour around Dublin Castle’s mighty exterior. Visit the gardens and yards, and learn of the castle’s role as court, fortress, treasury, and jail.

Explore the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of Ireland's Eye on this scenic cruise that combines wildlife watching with an island landing. While many trips to Dublin focus on its cosmopolitan city attractions, this boat tour from Howth Harbor offers a slower pace and a fresh perspective. Cruise past rugged cliffs, sea caves, and hidden beaches, close to seabird colonies and marine wildlife, including puffins, seals, gannets, and guillemots.

Don't waste precious vacation time trying to coordinate various activities across County Kerry. Book this hassle-free tour that includes a hike (or pony ride), scenic cruise, and transfers through Killarney National Park and beyond. Traverse the rugged Gap of Dunloe, discover five connected glacial lakes, cross the legendary Wishing Bridge, and cruise scenic waterways straight to historic Ross Castle.

Fitting Ireland’s historic towns and rural traditions into one day can be difficult without a car or local insight, but this guided tour from Dublin makes it seamless. Travel by luxury to visit Kilkenny and the grounds of its castle, then continue to the 6th-century monastic settlement of Glendalough in Wicklow Mountains National Park. Finally, enjoy a stop at a working sheep farm to watch border collies in action. With transport, timing, and commentary handled for you, the tour offers a well-paced way to experience a varied side of Ireland in a single day.

Explore beyond the city of Galway with a full-day tour to Connemara National Park. Board a coach and set out on a scenic tour into the Irish countryside that includes popular landmarks like Killary Harbor and the charming village of Spiddal. Explore the hiking trails of Connemara National Park independently and at your own pace. Learn about local culture, music, history, and language during the drive.

Explore Ireland on this full-day Cliffs of Moher and Galway tour from Dublin. Travel into rural Ireland by air-conditioned coach with your guide and enjoy panoramic views over the Emerald Isle’s spectacular countryside. Journey along the Wild Atlantic Way to the Cliffs of Moher where you can explore for a couple of hours. After a brief stop at Burren National Park, visit Galway to explore the cobblestoned streets and immerse yourself in the local culture.

Discover the unrivaled natural splendor of Northern Ireland on a full-day trip from Dublin. From the panoramic vantage point of a luxury coach, marvel at the dramatic coastal scenery as you make your way to the UNESCO-listed Giant's Causeway and the Dark Hedges. Next, make your way to the vibrant city of Belfast, where you can explore at your own pace. Visit the iconic City Hall and wander through its lively streets.

Explore the coastline of County Clare with a small-group walking tour. Meet your guide at the starting point in the village of Doolin and set out on a countryside stroll. See several top area landmarks including the Cliffs of Moher and O’Brien’s Tower. Go off-the-beaten-path and find scenic Instagram spots during the walking tour.

Explore Dublin at your own pace with a hop-on, hop-off bus tour offering access to 25 major stops, including the Guinness Storehouse, Trinity College, and St. Stephen’s Green. Choose from 24-, 48-, or 72-hour passes, with live or audio commentary to enrich your experience. Enjoy added perks like a walking tour and a panoramic night tour with select ticket options.

Save your precious vacation (and drinking) time with his tour that includes skip-the-line admission to Dublin's Guinness Storehouse and Jameson Distillery. Listen as your guide explains the ingredients used and learn of the complex brewing and distilling processes then enjoy tastings of two of Ireland's most-loved drinks.

Enrich your knowledge of Ireland’s diaspora and its history of emigration with this admission ticket to the EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum in Dublin. Save time by pre-booking your entrance and embark self-guided tour of the museum's galleries, which utilise cutting-edge technology for an immersive experience and deep dive into Ireland’s emigration history. Learn about why people left Ireland, the struggles they had along the way, where they went, and how they've changed the world.

Explore Dublin by bike with a small group and knowledgeable guide, who leads you to both major city sights and off-the-beaten-path locations. Choose from a standard or electric bike, which means you don’t have to worry about getting tired from pedaling—just enjoy the fresh air, soak up views of this beautiful city and learn about its history and modern-day culture from the experienced guide.

Explore the natural wonders and historic monuments of Connemara on this full-day tour from Galway. Visit the Sky Road, Pearse’s Cottage, and Derrygimlagh Bog along the Wild Atlantic Way; go hiking or visit Kylemore Abbey in the Connemara National Park; and enjoy views of Twelve Bens, Galway Bay, and Bothar na Scragoige.

Explore the Burren and the Cliffs of Moher on this County Clare day tour from Galway. Travel along the Wild Atlantic Way to the Burren, focusing on the sights as someone else takes care of driving. Take in top local landmarks, including Dunguaire Castle and Corcomroe Abbey. Pass pretty towns and villages such as Ballyvaughan, Doolin, and Lisdoonvarna on route to the majestic Cliffs of Moher, widely considered among Ireland’s most impressive sights.

Explore Ireland's natural beauty on this tour, visiting Inisheer and the Cliffs of Moher. Enjoy free time on Inisheer Island, take a boat ride beneath the Cliffs of Moher, and visit the Cliffs of Moher Visitor Centre. See stunning landscapes, including The Burren and Dunguaire Castle, all in one unforgettable day.

There are many activities you can do to get to know the real Ireland, but none quite like this Leenaun Killary Sheep Farm Tour with Sheepdog Demonstration. This tour takes you through the farmland with the farmer himself as you learn about the practices of the farm and watch a sheepdog demonstration. Plus, hear a great deal about the inner workings of a sheep farm, too.