Kilkenny, Wicklow & Glendalough Day Tour

Name: Kilkenny, Wicklow Mountains, Glendalough Day Tour From Dublin. (Includes Sheep Dog Trials)
Brand: Wild Rover Tours
Price: 35 EUR
Availability: InStock
Rating: 4.8 (1259 reviews)

Temporary schedule update: This tour is not running until March 2nd 2026. We resume normal service after this period.

Explore Ireland’s diverse landscapes and the heritage of Ireland’s Ancient East on a full-day tour from Dublin.

Visit Kilkenny City, the Wicklow Mountains, and the serene monastic valley of Glendalough, including a traditional sheepdog demonstration.
Enjoy optional guided walks amid castles, lakes, and ancient ruins.

From €40 | Lowest price GUARANTEED on this site

Temporary schedule:

Please note this tour is not running until 2 March. We resume normal service after this period.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

Kilkenny

Spend 2.5 hours exploring Ireland’s medieval capital with its cobbled streets, castle gardens, and lively charm.

Wicklow Mountains Drive

Enjoy a stunning drive through rolling green hills, dramatic valleys, and untouched wilderness in the heart of County Wicklow.

Glendalough

Enjoy 2.5 hours at this serene monastic site nestled in a glacial valley, with time to explore its round tower, ruins, and twin lakes.

Sheep Farm & Dog Trials

Visit a working sheep farm and watch an impressive demonstration of traditional sheep herding by skilled dogs and their handler (30-minute stop).

Optional Walking Tours

Join your guide for optional walking tours in both Kilkenny and Glendalough, included as part of your experience.

Amazing Photo Opportunities

From lush green mountains to historic villages, enjoy picture-perfect moments all day long.

TOUR OVERVIEW

Book two or more tours for great discounts!

Unlock great savings by booking multiple tours: get 10% off when you choose 2 tours, and 12.5% off when you book 3. More tours, more adventure, more value!

20% Off Dublin Bus Tours

Book 2 Tour Package Book 3 Tour Package

Temporary schedule update: This tour is not running until March 2nd 2026. We resume normal service after this period.

Itinerary

This journey through Ireland’s Ancient East blends rich history, stunning landscapes, and charming villages together in one day. After leaving Dublin, your first stop is Kilkenny, a vibrant medieval city known for its beautiful castle gardens and lively streets. Then, enjoy a scenic drive through the Wicklow Mountains, famous for rolling hills and peaceful lakes. Next, visit the tranquil monastic settlement of Glendalough, set in a breath taking glacial valley. Along the way, experience a traditional sheep farm with a live sheepdog demonstration, offering a true taste of rural Irish life.

Dublin city centre pick up

8:10 AM Outside Hotel Riu Plaza The Gresham, 23 Upper O'Connell Street, Dublin D01 C3W7
8:20 AM at Bus Stop at 33 College Green, Dublin 2, D02 DD76 (next to Hawksmoor Restaurant)
8:30 AM Outside Leonardo Hotel Dublin, Christchurch Place, D08 REK7 (formerly Jurys Inn)
To ensure a smooth experience, please arrive at least 10 minutes before the scheduled time.

Kilkenny

Our tour departs Dublin early in the morning, arriving in Kilkenny around 10 AM. You'll enjoy a short guided walking tour introducing the city’s medieval charm, history, and highlights. During this time, your guide will also share helpful restaurant recommendations for brunch/lunch and places to explore. After the walking tour, you'll have free time to wander Kilkenny at your own pace—whether visiting the castle (gardens), browsing shops, or relaxing in a café. Kilkenny’s compact layout makes it easy to discover its treasures on foot.

Wicklow Mountains

Leaving Kilkenny at 12:30 PM, we enjoy a scenic drive through the stunning Wicklow Mountains, often called the “Garden of Ireland.” This peaceful route winds through rolling hills and lush countryside, giving you a chance to relax and take in the natural beauty. Along the way, we'll stop at the Wicklow Gap—one of the highest mountain passes in the region at 475 meters—offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape (weather permitting).

Glendalough

Arriving at Glendalough around 2:15 PM, you'll have 2 hours and 15 minutes to explore this stunning early medieval monastic settlement founded in the 6th century by St. Kevin. Take advantage of an optional guided walking tour to learn about the rich history of the site and its iconic 30-meter-high round tower, built as a bell tower and place of refuge. Afterwards, enjoy free time to wander around the lakes, take in the peaceful surroundings, and capture memorable photos.

Sheep Dog Trials

6:15 pm: Drop-off is on Westmoreland Street, Dublin 2, D02 PW96. The location is within easy walking distance of O'Connell Street and Temple Bar and is well served by public transport.

Return times may vary due to weather, traffic, or other delays throughout the day.

Dublin City Centre (drop off)

Experience authentic rural Ireland with a 30-minute visit to our traditional sheep farm in Laragh, nestled in the heart of the Wicklow countryside. Watch skilled shepherds demonstrate impressive sheepdog trials, showcasing the incredible bond between handler and dog. You might also have the chance to hold and cuddle adorable little lambs, making this stop a truly memorable and hands-on experience.

Tour Information

payments

Pricing

Student / Adult: €40.

We apologise, but this tour is not suitable for children under the age of 3

Availability

This tour runs seven days a week, except on March 17th and December 24th, 25th, and 26th.
Temporary schedule: Please note this tour will resume operating from March 2nd.

add_location_alt

Itinerary

Please note: All times listed in the itinerary are approximate and may vary on the day due to unforeseen circumstances such as traffic, weather, or road conditions. However, we will always ensure that the time allocated at key attractions such as Kilkenny and Glendalough remains unaffected and is not shortened.

schedule

Important Schedule Notification

Schedule Adjustment: Please note that on Sundays and during the winter months (November to February), the itinerary changes: we start with Glendalough and the Wicklow Mountains; then visit Kilkenny in the afternoon, arriving around 2:15 PM.

timer

Duration

Approximately 10 hours total.

flag

Pick-Up and Arrival

The tour pick up and arrival points are in Dublin city centre. Details in the itinerary

check_circle

What's Included

Transport, guides and all admissions, including walking tours.
We are the only operator to employ a separate driver and guide on all tours.

cancel

Not Included

Meals are not included, but you’ll have plenty of chances to enjoy delicious traditional cuisine during stops.

directions_bus

The Vehicle

Luxury air conditioned coaches with on board WiFi. UBS chargers are available for use on most coaches. We do not have any bathrooms on board (comfort breaks are included in the schedule). Smoking is not allowed on board.

Why Choose this Tour

check

Reviewed the number 1 tour company in Ireland every year between 2014 and 2023 with multi-year awards every year across Europe and rest of the world.

check

We are the only day tour operator to employ a separate driver to ensure safety and a separate guide to entertain.

check

Our guides are experts in Irish history, folklore and culture. Entertainment is guaranteed as we travel to Ireland’s top attractions.

check

Guided tour of Kilkenny City and Glendalough’s Monastic City included. Purely optional to participate in.

check

We guarantee the maximum time at featured attractions. For example, 2 hours and 30 mins in Kilkenny and 2 hours plus at Glendalough.

check

We do not accept 'soft commission' ensuring no time-wasting or low-interest stops for our customers.

check

Comfort breaks are built into the itinerary of the day.

check

Wild Rover Tours has the newest fleet of vehicles with unlimited 4G wifi on board.

check

We guarantee you the very best of customer service at all times. Once our customer you are always our valued customer.

FAQ

Everything you need to know before joining our Kilkenny, Wicklow Mountains & Glendalough Day Tour. Full, detailed itineraries are available on the individual tour page on our website.

What attractions are included?

Transport, guides and all admissions.
Stops at Kilkenny, Glendalough and the Wicklow Gap if weather permits.
We are the only operator to employ a separate driver and guide on all tours.

Is lunch included?

Lunch is not included, but there are several café and restaurant options available during the day. You’ll also have time to enjoy a meal during our stops oor bring your own packed lunch.

How long do we spend at each stop?

Cliffs of Moher: 1h45m
Ennis Town: 1h15m (includes short walking tour)
Bunratty Castle & Folk Park: 1h45m

Departure times and locations:

8:10 AM – Riu Plaza The Gresham, O’Connell St.
8:20 AM – 33 College Green (next to Hawksmoor)
8:30 AM – Leonardo Hotel, Christchurch Place
Arrive 10 minutes early for boarding.

What is the return time and location?

6:15 pm: Drop-off is on Westmoreland Street, Dublin 2, D02 PW96. The location is within easy walking distance of O’Connell Street and Temple Bar and is well served by public transport. Return times may vary due to weather, traffic, or other delays throughout the day.

Are guided walking tours included?

Yes. Complimentary guided walking tours are available in both Kilkenny and Glendalough, though participation is optional. You can explore on your own or join our guide’s short tours at no extra cost.

Do you include a visit to Kilkenny Castle?

A guided visit inside is not included, but you can explore the grounds and gardens for free during your free time.

Are admission fees included?

Yes, all listed activities (including two walking tours) are included.

Do we visit Wicklow Mountains National Park?

Yes, the drive crosses Wicklow Mountains National Park with a photo stop at Wicklow Gap (weather permitting).

Do we see Glendalough Monastic Site and Round Tower?

Yes, with optional guided tour and free exploration time.

Are the activities seasonal?

All major stops operate year-round. Winter itineraries may reverse the order to make best use of daylight.

Do we pass any film locations from Braveheart or P.S. I Love You?

This tour doesn’t include specific filming locations, but your guide will share stories about famous movies filmed in the Wicklow Mountains region.

View All FAQs

Wild Rover Tours

Unit 3, Drury Hall, Stephen Street Lower, Dublin

Cathy Fiorentinos ★★★★★ 2 months ago
Highly recommend Wild Rover Tours! We did two tours, our first tour was to Wickelow and Kilkenny, amazing day even though it was pouring and cold. The sheep farm was an absolute highlight as well as Kilkenny, our guide Dave was so much more than just a guide, he is a gem, he even sings traditional Irish songs :) Our driver Lisa was super safe and courteous. Tour was amazing!
On day two we went to the … More Cliffs of Moher and Galway. It is quite a drive, especially in the morning but our guide David and our driver Stephen were absolutely great! David shared a lot of Ireland’s history with us, he is a lot fun and really funny too. He kept us entertained. We are very happy we chose Wild Rover for our tours. 1000% satisfied 🙂
Angi Sosa ★★★★★ a month ago
My mom and I did the bundle with three trips. Our first trip to Cliffs of Moher and Galway was with Dave & John, our second and third trips (Kilkenny/Glendalough and Belfast) were with David & Krishna.
We had a really great time exploring with both of our guides; they were really fun & outgoing and definitely made our first trip to Ireland worthwhile.
The trips themselves were also great! … More Of course, doing three trips three days in a row was heavy, especially on my mom, so if I would change anything, I would just space them out a bit more. There was always something to do in each of our stops. We are big fans of more self-guided tours, but we took a chance on the Black Taxi tour in Belfast and I'm so glad we did. Ireland has such a rich history so being able to hear about such a significant part of it through someone who experienced the troubles made so much of an impact.
Overall, I'm really glad we found this tour company! The coaches were well taken care of and we felt safe through all of our journeys. Additionally, our guides were very well-informed and made great suggestions for places to hit up in Dublin and in the cities we visited!
Michael Bernazzani ★★★★★ 2 months ago
I had an amazing experience on the Cliffs of Moher and Galway tour today with Niamh as our guide and Paolo as our driver. Niamh was absolutely fantastic — she shared so many great nuggets of history, culture, and local stories throughout the day, and her energy made the trip even more enjoyable. Paolo was an excellent driver, keeping everything smooth and safe the whole way.
The tour was well-paced, … More informative, and genuinely fun. My only recommendation for future travelers: if you’re planning to visit Galway anyway, consider doing this tour as a one-way trip and letting them know ahead of time, so you can spend extra time exploring Galway and take the train back another day. It’s a great way to make the most of the experience.
Highly recommend this tour, especially with Niamh and Paolo!
Robin Gazzara ★★★★★ a month ago
Kevin and Joe were great! We don’t often do bus tours but chose this one and absolutely loved it. Cliffs of moher was beautiful and we were there the perfect amount of time to do everything. Kevin shared a ton of interesting facts and kept us all very engaged during the drives. Galway was also wonderful. Highly recommend!
Karen Sebesta ★★★★★ 2 months ago
Did the Belfast, Giants Causeway tour today and it was jam packed! Fabulous scenery all along the coast. The Titanic museum was spectacular. Maurice, our guide was full of great Irish information, stories and jokes. Paulo, our driver was excellent in the coastal wind storm…it is December after all. Lovely pub lunch at Giant’s Causeway. Great value for the money…but a super long day that started at … More 7am and ended at 8pm.
Jocelyne Hebert ★★★★★ 3 weeks ago
We had such an amazing experience with Wild River, our tour guide Una was absolutely fantastic. And of course our driver Pete! They made the day such a fun and memorable experience. Everyone should do the trip to the City of Belfast. Dunluce Castle and The Giants Causeway. Spectacular 🙌
Kennedy Shelton ★★★★★ 3 weeks ago
Book this tour now, seriously. I had such a blast traveling from the Cliffs of Moher to the streets of Galway. Sarah, our driver, was fantastic and made sure we stayed safe and on time while navigating those windy roads like a pro.
Dave, our guide, was equally amazing. He shared fascinating historical insights and somehow connected them to the many different cultures and backgrounds of people on the … More tour, which made everything feel even more engaging and personal. And honestly? I’d do this tour again mostly just for the jokes Dave is hilarious. 😂
A time was definitely had.
ERNESTO HIDALGO ★★★★★ a month ago
WRT gave us an awesome Cliffs of Moher experience. They were super punctual with pickups, stops, and drop-offs.
Julie was amazing with all the history facts, and her voice was so soothing and calm. Her personality totally rocked! Billy's driving skills were top-notch; the bus ride was so smooth and quiet.
Thanks for such a great time!
Totally recommend them! 👌 👍 👏 💯
Aurelia Hosta ★★★★★ a month ago
It was an unforgettable day! Huge heartfelt thanks to John and Pete for being with us—I’ll definitely go with them again next time I’m in Dublin! I was on the tour Kilkenny, Wicklow Mountains, Glendalough, and despite the cold weather, the day was magical. Special thanks to guide John for the magical energy of this day! Definitely 100/100!!!