Glendalough Day Tour from Dublin: Including Kilkenny City

Experience the best of Ireland’s natural beauty and historic towns on this full-day tour from Dublin, priced at $46 and lasting about 9 hours. You’ll visit the 6th-century monastic ruins of Glendalough, admire sweeping views of the Wicklow Mountains, and stroll through the lively streets of Kilkenny City. This tour is a fantastic way to escape Dublin’s urban pulse and learn about Ireland’s scenic and historic wonders.

What makes this experience especially appealing are the spectacular views over the Sugar Loaf Mountains and Wicklow Gap, combined with the chance to explore authentic Irish towns like Kilkenny, famous for its castle and medieval atmosphere. The comfortable coach with WiFi and USB ports adds to the ease of the journey, and having a knowledgeable guide ensures you’ll get enriching stories along the way.

A potential consideration is the limited time at each stop—though you get two hours in Kilkenny and 1.5 hours at Glendalough, some travelers might wish for more to truly explore each site at their own pace. Still, this tour strikes a good balance between sightseeing and manageable travel time for those with only a day to spare.

This trip is ideal for first-time visitors eager to see Ireland’s countryside without the hassle of self-driving, and for anyone looking for a well-organized, value-packed day full of diverse sights—from ancient ruins to lively towns.

Key Points

• Comprehensive day trip covering Glendalough and Kilkenny, with scenic mountain vistas
• Expert commentary from guides who keep the journey informative and engaging
• Good value for the price, including transportation, guide, and entrance to highlights
• Flexible itinerary with free time to explore towns and natural sites at your pace
• Comfortable transportation with WiFi and USB ports for a relaxed trip
• Authentic Irish experience with visits to historic sites and charming towns

Discover Ireland’s Scenic Countryside and Historic Towns

Joining this tour from Dublin offers a rewarding glimpse into Ireland’s countryside, medieval past, and lively small towns—all in one manageable day. For travelers eager to see some of Ireland’s most iconic sights without the stress of planning or driving, this trip provides a practical, enriching experience.

The route begins with a scenic drive through County Wicklow, often called the “Garden of Ireland,” famous for its lush landscapes and rugged mountains. As you leave Dublin behind, you’ll quickly notice how the landscape transforms from urban to breathtaking rural scenery. Your guides, like the highly praised Alex or Kevin, will share stories and fun facts, making the drive itself an enjoyable part of the adventure.

The first major stop is Glendalough, a site that captures many visitors’ hearts. Here, you’ll explore the monastic ruins that date back to the 6th century, including the round tower and St. Kevin’s Cross. The scenery at Glendalough is truly picturesque, with lakes, waterfalls, and dense woods that look like they belong in a fairy tale. One reviewer notes, “Our guide/driver JJ was great! He gave an informative and funny tour. Kilkenny was a great city and Glendalough was incredibly picturesque.” Expect about 1.5 hours here, which is enough to walk leisurely along the river, soak in the views, and snap plenty of photos.

Next, you’ll ascend through the Wicklow Gap, a highlight for many. This mountain pass offers panoramic views stretching for miles, with traditional Irish bogs and the dramatic Turlogh waterfall along the way. It’s a real treat for landscape lovers and a perfect spot for photos. Travelers often comment on the spectacular scenery, with one noting, “The Nature was gorgeous, though it was a rainy day. I highly recommend the trip.” Even if the weather isn’t perfect, the views and fresh mountain air make it worthwhile.

Exploring Kilkenny: A Medieval Gem

After winding through the mountains, your journey takes you to Kilkenny, a city famed for its medieval charm and lively streets. As the former medieval capital of Ireland, Kilkenny’s cobblestones and narrow alleys give travelers a true sense of stepping back in time. Your 2-hour stop allows for flexible exploration, with options to visit Kilkenny Castle, the Black Abbey, or the Cathedral of Saint Canice.

Many reviews highlight Kilkenny as a personal favorite. One says, “Kilkenny City was a great city and Glendalough was incredibly picturesque,” emphasizing its appeal. The castle, built in the 1100s, is a centerpiece, and you can opt for a small additional fee to tour its elegant rooms. Meanwhile, the Black Abbey and Saint Canice’s Round Tower offer more historical insights and photo opportunities.

Lunch options are ample—some might choose to enjoy a pint of Kilkenny beer or a relaxed meal in one of the many cafes, soaking in the lively atmosphere. Kilkenny’s charming streets, boutique shops, and historic sites make for a memorable stroll.

The Return Journey and Additional Details

After a leisurely exploration of Kilkenny, the bus heads back through County Kildare, offering a comfortable ride with WiFi and USB ports, which many travelers find convenient. The return to Dublin is usually around 6 pm, giving you time to unwind after a full day.

The tour’s price of $46 offers solid value, considering transportation, a guide, and entry to key sites. However, note that entrance to Kilkenny Castle isn’t included, so if you want to go inside, be prepared for a small extra fee. The included live commentary and small group sizes (up to 58 travelers) contribute to a more engaging experience, with many reviewers praising their guides’ enthusiasm and knowledge.

Some travelers mention the limited time at stops, which can be a downside if you prefer to thoroughly explore each site. Nonetheless, the guided structure helps ensure you see the main highlights without feeling rushed.

Authentic and Scenic Experiences

What truly sets this tour apart is its combination of stunning landscapes and historic towns. You’ll love the views of the Wicklow Mountains, especially if you’re a fan of natural beauty. Many reviews highlight how the guide’s commentary enhances the experience—sharing stories, local knowledge, and even humor. “Our guide/driver JJ was great! He gave an informative and funny tour,” one reviewful notes.

The scenery at Glendalough is often described as “incredible,” with some travelers mentioning the walk along the riverbanks and waterfalls as highlights. If you’re a photographer or just love soaking in natural beauty, this is a perfect spot.

Meanwhile, Kilkenny’s medieval architecture and vibrant street life provide a stark contrast—offering a taste of Ireland’s historic past and lively present. It’s a city that invites wandering and discovering hidden corners, making it a delightful stop.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is especially well-suited for first-time visitors who want a rundown of Ireland’s scenic and historic treasures, without the stress of self-driving. It’s also perfect for small groups who value guides with a sense of humor and good storytelling. Budget-conscious travelers will appreciate the competitive price, given the included transportation and access to key sites.

Those who value authentic experiences, like wandering through medieval streets or enjoying panoramic mountain views, will find this tour offers plenty of those moments. However, if you’re particularly eager to spend more time inside castles or detailed exploration, you might want to consider other options or extend your visit independently.

The Sum Up

For anyone looking to step outside Dublin for a day filled with stunning landscapes, historic charm, and lively town atmospheres, this tour hits the mark. The guides’ insights, the breathtaking scenery, and authentic Irish towns make it a memorable experience. The inclusion of WiFi and USB ports on the coach also adds a modern touch, keeping you connected during long drives.

While the time at each site is somewhat limited, the overall value and quality are hard to beat for a day trip. It’s a great way to get a taste of Ireland’s countryside without the hassle of planning, especially if you’re first-time visitors or traveling with a group.

If you’re after a well-organized, scenic, and culturally rich day—and don’t mind a packed schedule—this tour delivers on expectations and more.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 9 hours, starting at 8 am and returning around 6 pm.

What’s included in the price?
Transportation on an air-conditioned vehicle, live guide commentary, WiFi and USB ports onboard, and pick-up/drop-off in Dublin are included. Entrance to Kilkenny Castle is not.

Do I have free time at each stop?
Yes, you get about 1.5 hours at Glendalough and 2 hours in Kilkenny for exploration and lunch.

Is food included?
No, food and drinks are not included, but there are plenty of options in Kilkenny.

What if I want to go inside Kilkenny Castle?
You can pay a small fee directly at the castle if you wish to explore its interior.

Are guides knowledgeable?
Yes, many reviewers praise guides like Alex and JJ for their engaging stories and local insights.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour operates in all weather conditions; dress appropriately for rain or shine.

Is this suitable for children?
Yes, children must be accompanied by an adult, and the trip is generally suitable for families.

How do I book or cancel?
Bookings are through Viator, which offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

What’s the best time of year for this tour?
While the tour runs year-round, fall offers particularly stunning autumn foliage, as noted by some travelers.

This tour offers a true taste of Ireland’s natural and historic sights, delivered in a convenient, well-organized package. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or just seeking a scenic escape, it’s a day worth setting aside.