Best of Ireland 6-Day Backpackers Economy Tour

Discover the Magic of Ireland in 6 Days with the Backpackers Economy Tour

If you’re dreaming of Ireland’s legendary scenery, lively towns, and timeless attractions but want to stick to a budget, this 6-day backpackers tour offers an engaging way to see the best of the island without breaking the bank. At $1,020 per person, it covers everything from Dublin’s vibrant streets to the rugged beauty of the Dingle Peninsula, with stops at iconic sights like the Cliffs of Moher, Blarney Castle, and the Giant’s Causeway.

We particularly love how this tour balances guided comfort with authentic experiences — like walking through castle ruins and riding through Killarney National Park on a horse-led carriage. The knowledgeable guide makes a difference, sharing stories that bring Ireland’s history and landscapes to life. Plus, the inclusion of entrance fees and some breakfasts helps keep the experience smooth and straightforward.

A possible consideration is the fast pace — with so many highlights packed into six days, you might find the schedule a bit tight, especially if you love lingering in a place or taking longer walks. This tour best suits travelers who enjoy seeing many sights in a limited time and don’t mind a lively, sometimes bustling group atmosphere.

If you’re seeking an affordable, comprehensive introduction to Ireland, enjoy scenic drives, and appreciate the camaraderie of fellow travelers, this tour could be an excellent choice. It’s especially suited for first-timers or those eager for a guided experience that covers major landmarks efficiently.

Key Points

• Affordable comprehensive experience: Great value for seeing Ireland’s highlights in just six days.
• Expert guides: Friendly, knowledgeable guides, like Cash, make the trip lively and informative.
• Iconic sights: Cliffs of Moher, Blarney Castle, Giant’s Causeway, and more.
• Balanced itinerary: Mixes cultural stops, scenic drives, and fun activities like horse-led carriage rides.
• Group dynamic: Friendly camaraderie and shared experiences with fellow travelers.
• Potential rush: The tight schedule may limit time at each stop for those who love to explore slowly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the 6-Day Irish Adventure

This tour is a whirlwind, but a thoughtfully curated one. It hits many of Ireland’s most celebrated spots with a focus on authentic scenery and engaging stories. Starting at Paddy’s Palace in Dublin, you’ll meet your English-speaking guide and set out early to maximize your time.

Day 1: Dublin to Belfast

Your adventure kicks off in Dublin, where you’ll meet your guide by 8:45 AM. From there, the journey takes you north to Belfast, home of the Titanic. Visitors rave about Titanic Belfast, a museum that offers a compelling look at the ship’s story, and the historic downtown. The fact that this tour includes transportation, guide, and an overnight stay in Belfast makes it a convenient way to start your Irish journey.

Day 2: Belfast to Derry via Antrim Coast

The second day is packed with stunning coastal scenery. You’ll visit Dunluce Castle, a dramatic ruined fortress perched on the cliffs, and the Giant’s Causeway, with its intriguing hexagonal basalt columns. As one reviewer points out, “Cash, our driver, made every single person on that bus feel special,” demonstrating how a good guide can elevate the experience. The day also includes a walk through Derry, a city with a compelling history, and photo stops at places like the Dark Hedges and Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge.

Day 3: From Derry to Galway via the Wild Atlantic Way

Today’s drive along the Wild Atlantic Way is a highlight in itself. Stopping at Strandhill, a surf hotspot, for lunch and beach walks, you’ll experience Ireland’s rugged coast firsthand. Galway, your destination for the night, is famed for its vibrant street life and friendly atmosphere. A free walking tour helps you get a taste of this lively city.

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Day 4: Galway to Dingle via Cliffs of Moher and the Burren

This day features one of Ireland’s most iconic sights: the Cliffs of Moher. The views here are spectacular, with dramatic cliffs plunging into the Atlantic, perfect for photos or just soaking in the raw beauty. The Burren region, with its unique limestone landscape, adds a geological twist. Traveling to Annascaul, on the Dingle Peninsula, you’ll stay in a small town that offers a taste of rural Ireland and its authentic charm.

Day 5: Dingle Peninsula and Killarney

The Dingle Peninsula is a must-see, with winding roads, ancient ruins, and seaside villages. One reviewer described it as “one of Europe’s most spectacular road trips,” which is no exaggeration. You’ll enjoy a full day exploring this rugged landscape, ending in Killarney, a vibrant town known for its national park and lively pubs.

Day 6: Killarney to Dublin, including Blarney Castle

On your final day, you’ll return to Dublin, stopping at Blarney Castle to kiss the famous Blarney Stone. This part of the trip combines nature and history and offers a chance to add some fun to your Irish experience. The tour wraps up back in Dublin by early evening, leaving you with a head full of memories and, hopefully, a few new friends.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

The guided nature of the tour and the expert commentary make a big difference. As one review mentions, “The guide was exceptional, helpful, and polite,” which can turn a busy schedule into a memorable journey. The transportation, included in the price, ensures you’re comfortable, freeing you from the stress of navigating Ireland’s sometimes winding roads.

The mix of famous sights and authentic experiences—like the horse-led carriage ride in Killarney—adds a layer of local flavor that many travelers appreciate. Plus, with entrance fees included, there are no surprises, helping you budget more accurately.

The Value of the Price

At just over a thousand dollars, this tour offers a cost-effective way to see Ireland’s highlights without the hassle of planning and booking each step yourself. The accommodations included are based on options you select, which allows some flexibility, and breakfasts are provided to start your days right.

Room for Improvement

The main critique from some travelers is the pace — with so many attractions packed into six days, you might find yourself rushing through some stops rather than lingering to soak in the atmosphere. Also, WiFi on the bus is not included, which could be a downside for travelers needing connectivity during transit.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re eager to see Ireland’s top sights in a short timeframe, enjoy a guided experience with friendly, knowledgeable guides, and don’t mind a busy schedule, this tour is ideal. It’s perfect for first-time visitors who want an overview of Ireland’s diverse landscapes and cities. The social atmosphere and chance to meet fellow travelers make it especially appealing for those traveling solo or in small groups.

On the other hand, if you prefer slow travel or want more time exploring each place at your own pace, this might feel a bit rushed. Still, for a cost-effective snapshot of Ireland, it packs a lot into six days.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
While geared toward backpackers and budget travelers, it’s generally suitable for most ages who are comfortable with a somewhat active schedule. However, it’s not ideal for wheelchair users, as the tour isn’t designed with accessibility in mind.

Are meals included?
Only breakfasts are included, so you’ll need to budget for lunches and dinners. The tour offers plenty of opportunities to try local pubs and eateries along the way.

How big is the group?
While the exact group size isn’t specified, reviews suggest a friendly, social atmosphere, with a comfortable bus environment. The focus is on creating camaraderie among travelers.

Can I customize the itinerary?
This is a guided tour with a fixed itinerary, so while some options may be available based on the package you choose, it’s primarily designed to give a structured overview of Ireland’s highlights.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are essential, as you’ll be walking at various stops. Weather can be unpredictable, so pack layers and rain gear just in case.

Is there free cancellation?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which offers some flexibility if your plans change.

To sum it up, the Best of Ireland 6-Day Backpackers Economy Tour offers a practical, lively, and well-rounded way to experience the diverse beauty of Ireland. It’s ideal for travelers who want a guided, cost-conscious overview of the country’s most famous sights, with enough authentic moments to make the trip memorable. Expect a fast-paced, fun-filled adventure that connects you with Ireland’s landscapes, history, and people — perfect if you’re eager to see a lot in a short time without fussing over details.

You can check availability for your dates here: