Killarney Tours: Discover the Adventure Capital of Ireland

Located in southwestern Ireland’s County Kerry, Killarney is frequently described as the adventure capital of the country. It presents a wide array of tours and activities year-round, catering to diverse interests.

Killarney has recently been recognized as the cleanest and most litter-free town in Ireland. The area is renowned for its lush urban and national parks, a chain of picturesque lakes, stunning waterfalls, and significant historical landmarks.

Numerous tours are available, including bus and boat excursions, while recreational activities encompass hiking, biking, horseback riding, and fishing.

Below are 15 of the finest tours in Killarney.

1. Full-Day Dingle and Slea Head Tour

Situated just west of Killarney, Dingle and Slea Head are acclaimed attractions featuring long stretches of beach and some of the most rugged coastline in the region.

This full-day guided tour allows participants to experience several notable local sights.

The peninsula is celebrated for its magnificent sea views, charming fishing villages, and stunning islands.

Tour participants will have the opportunity to engage with the local culture and practice the language while immersing themselves in the area’s scenic beauty.

2. 1-Hour Killarney Horse and Carriage Tour

In Killarney, the numerous horse-drawn carriages are referred to as jaunting cars, providing a popular mode of transportation for those wishing to explore the historic town in an exciting new way.

This one-hour excursion includes an overview of the city’s layout, history, culture, and folklore, offering first-time visitors an insightful introduction to Killarney.

Highlights of the tour include Ross Castle, St. Mary’s Cathedral, and breathtaking views of Lough Leane.

3. Ring of Kerry Lakes of Killarney Scenic Coach Tour

This immersive Ring of Kerry Lakes of Killarney coach tour encompasses sheepdog demonstrations, historical bog villages, national parks, and breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean.

This six-hour journey, which departs from Killarney mid-morning, is suitable for late risers seeking to maximize their sightseeing experience.

Main attractions include Killarney National Park, Dingle Bay, and the scenic Iveragh Peninsula.

4. Multi-Day Dingle and Killarney National Park Walking Tour

The Dingle Peninsula boasts rugged hills, windswept beaches, and dramatic cliffs descending to the sea.

When weather conditions permit, visitors can catch glimpses of the Blasket Islands from Slea Head, the westernmost point of the continent.

This area is steeped in history and is a stronghold of the Irish language, providing unique cultural experiences that surpass those typically found in other tours.

This extended tour spans an additional few hours into the next day, including visits to local copper mines and Ross Castle.

5. Killarney Kayaking and Innisfallen Island Tour

For outdoor enthusiasts seeking an exhilarating experience, Killarney offers a diverse range of adventurous options, including this exciting kayaking tour of Innisfallen Island.

Innisfallen is a lake island, guaranteeing relatively calm waters and showcasing some of the area’s stunning attractions, including a 6th-century abbey and various wildlife.

6. Jaunting Car Tour with Craft Brewery Visit

This three-hour tour offers an authentic Irish experience, combining jaunting car rides, brewery visits, and sampling of the Emerald Isle’s finest beers.

The journey commences at the Great Southern Hotel and ventures quickly to Killarney National Park and St. Mary’s Cathedral along with stunning mountain views.

After exploring the sights, participants will enjoy tastings of exceptional craft beers at Killarney Brewery before returning to the town.

7. Jaunting Car and Lake Cruise Combo Tour

Killarney offers no shortage of attractions, including copper mines dating back 4,000 years, diverse wildlife, and a 6th-century monastery.

This two-hour tour includes both a jaunting car ride and a lake cruise, making it a budget-friendly way to experience the area, with multiple departures daily.

The expert guide ensures guests learn about the historical context of the sites while traveling through this stunning landscape.

8. Ring of Kerry Mountain Road Full-Day Bus Tour from Killarney

This full-day bus tour incorporates cultural, historical, and geographical stories that bring the Iveragh Peninsula’s beauty to life.

Regarded as one of the most scenic byways in Ireland, the Ring of Kerry Road follows the winding shores of the River Laune toward the coast and mountains beyond.

Throughout the day, there will be ample opportunity to stop at various attractions, enjoy refreshments, and capture stunning photographs.

9. 2-Hour Kayaking and Ross Castle Tour

Prior to this two-hour kayaking excursion, participants are provided with necessary equipment and receive instructions on paddling techniques.

The tour begins with a gentle introduction for guests to familiarize themselves with the activities before proceeding to Ross Island.

From the water, guests will admire numerous islands, caves, and the impressive peaks of the McGillicuddy Reeks, Ireland’s highest mountains.

10. 1-Hour Lakes of Killarney: Boat Cruise

While the views from the shoreline of Killarney’s lakes are remarkable, experiencing the area from the water is truly special.

This calm, one-hour cruise on Lough Leane, the largest lake, offers travelers the comfort of an enclosed glass cabin, providing panoramic views while keeping guests protected from the elements.

11. Gap of Dunloe and Lakes of Killarney Boat Tour

This flexible combo tour allows guests to choose from a variety of options, including jaunting car rides through Six Mile Pass or guided hiking excursions for those seeking a more energetic experience.

A popular boat tour also provides close-up views of the national park and Ross Castle.

12. Ring of Kerry Full-Day Tour from Killarney

This guided tour departs from Killarney and traverses the scenic Ring of Kerry, recognized for its rich cultural, historical, and natural significance.

The excursion features impressive mountains, ancient stone forts, beautiful coastal landscapes, and spectacular views across islands, bays, and the Atlantic Ocean.

13. Gap of Dunloe Guided Boat, Jaunting Car, and Bus Tour

This extensive five-hour tour utilizes various modes of transportation—boats, jaunting cars, and buses—to maximize exploration of the stunning Gap of Dunloe.

Key highlights include iconic sites such as Kate Kearney’s cottage, the Gap of Dunloe, and Ross Castle, all in close proximity to Killarney.

14. Carrauntoohil Guided Hike

Killarney’s stunning landscape is beautifully explored on foot, making guided hiking tours an excellent option for newcomers to the area.

Nestled close to Killarney, the McGillycuddy Reeks Mountains provide a breathtaking backdrop for an eight-and-a-half-hour hiking adventure.

The tour includes a three-hour hike to Carrauntoohil Cross, the highest point in Ireland, where participants can capture stunning photographs before descending to the café for refreshments.

15. South Western Ireland: 4 Days from Galway to Kerry

If you have four days available for exploration and wish to discover Ireland comprehensively, this four-day journey from Galway to Kerry may be ideal.

Although the itinerary does not begin or end in Killarney, the third day allows guests to explore the town, Slea Head, and the Gaelic fishing village of Dingle.

Additional highlights include Dublin, Connemara, and Galway, making this excursion a well-rounded experience.

Participants will spend one night in Killarney, providing opportunities for delightful music, drinks, and traditional singing and dancing.