Ring of Kerry: Day Trips and Tours from Killarney

See the best of the Iveragh Peninsula on a scenic drive along the Ring of Kerry. With its captivating scenery and intriguing history, a drive along this iconic circular route encapsulates the essence of Ireland’s County Kerry.

A day trip to the Ring of Kerry from Killarney is one of Ireland’s most popular tourist activities, and the area is enjoyed by both local and foreign visitors throughout the year. Rolling green hills, patchwork fields, sparkling lakes, dramatic cliffs, and golden beaches combine to create this unforgettable corner of the country.

Here's all you need to know about the Ring of Kerry, one of the most exciting day trips from Killarney.

How to get to the Ring of Kerry from Killarney?

The Ring of Kerry is a 179 kilometer-long ring route located on the Iveragh peninsula in south-western Ireland. While a journey along the route can essentially begin or end at any point along the circular route, Killarney is the most popular starting point.

From Killarney to Ring of Kerry by car

You can travel along the Ring of Kerry in a clockwise or anti-clockwise direction. A non-stop drive along the route will take roughly 3.5 hours. If traveling in an anti-clockwise direction, you will leave Killarney along the N71, while on a clockwise trip, you head in a south-easterly direction along the N22 and then turn southwards onto the R569 at Clonkeen.

Guided tour to Ring of Kerry from Killarney

The Ring of Kerry route can easily be traveled independently, but for a smoother and stress-free experience, join a guided tour. Coach tours typically follow the route in an anti-clockwise direction, due to the narrow roads, with specific stops en-route.

You can also book a private Ring of Kerry tour with your own guide and vehicle, and customize the itinerary to suit your interests.  Coach and private tours are normally 7 to 9-hour experiences, but an overnight excursion is also an option.

What is the typical itinerary?

Coach and private Ring of Kerry tours start between 8 AM and 10 AM in Killarney. A private tour may include a pickup from your local hotel, otherwise you will be asked to meet at a central point in the town. Along the way, your amiable and knowledgeable guide will enchant you with details of the region’s history, myths and natural splendor.

Depending on the weather and itinerary, you will stop at various landmarks and attractions along the way. Lunch is not usually included in the tour price, but there will be an opportunity for you to buy a light meal and refreshments. The tour concludes back in Killarney where you will return to the start point, or be dropped back at your hotel.

What kinds of tours are available to go to the Ring of Kerry?

The main differentiator between tours of the Ring of Kerry is group size and mode of transport. Here are the most common types of day trips to Ring of Kerry from Killarney:

Guided coach tours to Ring of Kerry from Killarney

Guided coach tours are a convenient and budget-friendly way of seeing the Ring of Kerry and its many sights. On a coach or bus tour, you and your group can admire the scenery from the raised vantage point of your comfortable coach seats. A guide accompanies each tour and will provide you with commentary as you travel along the route. Guided coach tours are structured activities and operate to a specific itinerary and timeline.

Private Ring of Kerry tour from Killarney

On a private Ring of Kerry tour, you have the luxury of your own vehicle and guide, and the benefit of being able to customize your tour to suit your pace and interests. An added bonus of a private tour is that because you will be traveling in a smaller vehicle, you can visit parts of Killarney National Park that are normally inaccessible to coaches.

How much does a day trip to Ring of Kerry from Killarney cost?

Guided coach tours to Ring of Kerry from Killarney start from €30 per person. Students and children aged 4 to 12 years may qualify for a discount, and a child under the age of 4 years can travel for free if sitting on the lap of an adult.

Private Ring of Kerry tours from Killarney cost from €500 per group for a full-day excursion. The maximum group size depends on the vehicle, but it is typically 3 to 4 people. Photography focused private tours cost around €800 for groups of up to 8 people.

What will you see and do?

The Ring of Kerry is touted as one of Ireland’s premier sightseeing destinations and it is easy to see why. There are so many places worth stopping at and exploring that it is impossible to provide a complete list of things to see and do. Here are some of the top landmarks and attractions that may be included on your tour:

Killarney National Park

The route travels through the Killarney National Park, where you will see Ross Castle on the edge of Lough Leane and the 100-meter long Torc Waterfall. Muckrock House and Lake are also situated in the park, with the mountains creating a postcard-perfect scenic landscape.

Kenmare

Kenmare is a charming seaside town along the route. It is nestled in a mountain pass, with the Caha Mountains to the east and the Macgillycuddy Reeks to the north.

Caherdaniel

The village of Caherdaniel overlooks the Derrynane Harbor and pristine Derrynane Beach. Weather permitting, your excursion may include a visit to the beach, and nearby Derrynane House and Abbey.

Kells

Kells Bay is one of Ireland’s only Blue Flag beaches and from the shore, you can see all the way across Dingle Peninsula. At the Kells Bay Gardens, you will find one of Europe’s best collections of subtropical Southern Hemisphere plants.

Cahergal Stone Fort

The Cahergal Stone Fort dates back to the 7th-century and is a national monument. It is worth a visit if you are a history buff or simply want a glimpse into the past.

Skellig Rocks

The Skellig Islands are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Although currently uninhabited, the islands were once home to a Christian monastery which was continuously occupied for between 400 and 600 years.

When is the best time to visit the Ring of Kerry?

The best time for a day trip to the Ring of Kerry from Killarney is during the late spring to early autumn, specifically May to September. These months offer milder weather, longer daylight hours, and vibrant landscapes. Though summer provides warmer days, it's also the peak tourist season, so consider weekdays for a less crowder experience.

Are there any tours to the Ring of Kerry from other cities in Ireland?

Yes, there are tours departing from other cities in Ireland:

• Day trips to the Ring of Kerry from Dublin
• Day trips to the Ring of Kerry from Cork

Travel tips

• The Ring of Kerry covers a vast area with numerous attractions. An early start gives you ample time to explore without feeling rushed.
• The weather can be unpredictable, so layers will allow you to adapt to changing conditions. A rain jacket is a must.
• There are many spots to walk and explore. Comfortable walking shoes are essential.
• While there are towns and villages with eateries, having snacks and water on hand keeps you fueled, especially in more remote sections.