10 Historical & Heritage Tours in Western Ireland That You Shouldn't Miss

September 16, 2021 Rebbecca Marino

Discover the best top things to do in Western Ireland, Ireland including Self Guided Electric Bike Tour of Historical Sites in the Burren Co Clare, 10-Day Ultimate Small-Group Tour of Ireland from Dublin, 6-Day All Ireland Rail Tour from Dublin , 5-Day Magical Southern Explorer Small Group Tour , Caherconnell Fort & Sheepdog Demonstrations, Aran Islands and Cliffs of Moher Cruise, Cliffs of Moher, Wild Atlantic Way and Galway tour from Dublin, Connemara, Kylemore Abbey or Connemara National Park day tour from Galway-Guided, Cliffs of Moher Tour Including Wild Atlantic Way and Galway City from Dublin, Cliffs of Moher Day Trip from Dublin.
Restaurants in Western Ireland

1. Self Guided Electric Bike Tour of Historical Sites in the Burren Co Clare

Kilfenora, stop 350471, Maryville, Co. Clare, Ireland E-Whizz Electric Bike Tours
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5.0 based on 4 reviews

The Burren is one of Ireland’s most spectacular landscapes and the best way to explore it is by electric bike. Beat the hills and the headwinds, and pedal your way through this amazing region steeped in history on a self-guided tour; the electric bike will do most of the work while you enjoy spectacular views of the lunar landscape and the many historical sites; stop at Poulnabrone Dolmen, ancient ring forts and archaeological gems.

Inclusions: Top of the range Kalkhoff Electric Bike, Helmet, Hi viz jacket, Lock, Maps, Detailed route instructions, Pannier bag

Exclusions: Food and drinks, Pick up from other locations can be arranged on request

Reviewed By Csal98

A group of five of us did this tour. The bikes were excellent and very comfortable. The itinerary was a perfect length. Janet our guide was phenomenal. She was so knowledgable and had such expertise on the historical and geographical aspects of the area. We saw so much that we would have otherwise missed had Janet not pointed it out. Overall we thoroughly enjoyed it!

2. 10-Day Ultimate Small-Group Tour of Ireland from Dublin

7 Aston Quay, Temple Bar, Dublin, Ireland Overland Ireland
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5.0 based on 11 reviews

Your Irish Experience begins here. The Ultimate 10 day small group tour (max 15 people) of Ireland covers the length and breadth, north and south of our magical Emerald Isle. Spoil yourself on this ten day tour with unrivaled scenery, a feast of tradition, history, culture, castles and the great outdoors. You will have an unforgettable experience on your tour exploring everything from kayaking with dolphins in Dingle Bay to the magnificent sights on the Ring of Kerry. Prepare to be awestruck by Ireland’s most famous landmark – The Cliffs of Moher, fall in love with the bustling bohemian Galway City and the Aran Islands. Cross the border to Northern Ireland and lose yourself at the Giants Causeway and be blown away at the Titanic Belfast. This is a trip of a lifetime.

Inclusions: Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, 9 nights local boutique hotel and guesthouse accommodation, carefully selected by our team, Great breakfast (daily) suitable for meet lovers, vegetarians, vegans, gluten free and other needs,, Professional qualified Irish tour guide other local tour guides for the great Irish experience, Transport to all locations by air-conditioned by class leading Mercedes Sprinter busses , Kayak excursion in Dingle Bay, Distillery tour, Rock of Cashel, Kiss The Blarney Stone, Cycling tours (Galway and Aran Islands), Cliffs of Moher, Walking Tour London Derry, Titanic Experience

Exclusions: Lunch and dinner, Food and drinks, unless specified, Gratuities, Black Cab Tour Belfast

Reviewed By russ2jen

Sadly, in these uncertain days of Coronavirus, I had to cancel my upcoming tour. The team at Overland Ireland were compassionate and understanding in working out the details so as to minimize losses all around. Flexible reschedule options into next year were offered as well. This is the kind of small company to support.

3. 6-Day All Ireland Rail Tour from Dublin

Heuston Station, St John's Rd W, Saint James' (part of Phoenix Park), Dublin, Ireland Railtours Ireland First Class - Day Tours
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5.0 based on 3 reviews

This tour covers a large part of the Wild Atlantic Way and Causeway coast. We head South to visit Cork, Blarney Castle & the Ring of Kerry, West to the Cliffs of Moher, Connemara, the Aran Islands in Galway Bay and North to the Giants Causeway.

Inclusions: Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Return Rail Tickets , Reserved Seats on the Train, Railtours Ireland Host Throughout, Visitor Attraction Admissions, Escorted Coach, Transfer to Inis Mor, Aran Island, Accommodation

Exclusions: Gratuities, Meals

Reviewed By JarveC

As a party of four we have just had an amazing 3 night 4 day experience on the Emerald Pullman First Class Train Trip. The journey took in many of Ireland's most scenic & spectacular locations including Waterford Crystal, Killarney, The Ring of Kerry , Cliffs of Moher & Galway Bay to name just a few .. We experienced first class service from the time we left Connolly Station. The whole experience was completely relaxing and hassle free as everything was organised for us every step of the way, from the lovely hotels we stayed in to the wonderful tours of our beautiful country. Would highly recommend Railtours Ireland if planning a staycation and a huge thanks & appreciation to Jim Deegan and his very professional team for a great holiday in Ireland.

4. 5-Day Magical Southern Explorer Small Group Tour

Victoria Hotel Galway, Victoria Pl, Galway, Ireland Overland Ireland
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5.0 based on 3 reviews

Sure, have you never heard of an Irish half hour? It can stretch out for days and 5 days is what you’ve got to experience this memorable, expertly guided road trip, over ever-changing landscape, along The Wild Atlantic Way. From shucking Clarinbridge oysters and downing creamy stout in Galway, to the jaw dropping sights of the Ring of Kerry, with only the Atlantic separating the 40 shades from the 50 U.S. states. Cool down with Fungie, Dingle’s resident dolphin who came for the fish in 1984 and stayed for the craic or feel like you’re at the edge of the world, at the dramatic Cliffs of Moher. And how about a spot of kissing at the Blarney Stone where you’ll come away with the gift of the ‘gab’ (talk); handy for ‘having the craic’ with your small tour group. And in between the heritage and culture, bohemian Galway and dinky Doolin, there’ll be ceol agus craic (music and boldness), seafood and banter and an epic road-trip you’ll never forget.

Inclusions: Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Air-conditioned vehicle, All Fees and Taxes

Exclusions: Lunches and Dinners, Optional activities

Reviewed By russ2jen

Sadly, in these uncertain days of Coronavirus, I had to cancel my upcoming tour. The team at Overland Ireland were compassionate and understanding in working out the details so as to minimize losses all around. Flexible reschedule options into next year were offered as well. This is the kind of small company to support.

5. Caherconnell Fort & Sheepdog Demonstrations

Caherconnell, Co. Clare, Ireland Caherconnell Stone Fort & Sheepdog Demonstrations
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4.9 based on 7 reviews

Present day culture and history come together beautifully at Caherconnell. Visitors can experience the history and archaeology of our past while also experiencing the farming culture that survives in the Burren today as it is passed down through generations.

Inclusions: Admission to Caherconnell Fort and Sheepdog Demos. Demos scheduled for 11.00 & 14.00 daily.

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Reviewed By 344deniso

The sheepdog trials can be seen in most weather conditions, Caherconnell have fantastic facilities to protect the guests. The sheepdog handler John was an excellent host with control over 4 dogs that you would be just left speechless with. I would recommend the sheepdog trials to every age group it was a day we wont forget

6. Aran Islands and Cliffs of Moher Cruise

Galway, Co. Galway, H91 CX90, Ireland Galway Tour Company
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4.9 based on 165 reviews

Schedule** (Tour runs from Early March to 30th of September) 09:00 – Depart Galway New Coach Station for Doolin and The Burren 11:00 – All aboard the Ferry to Inisheer* 13:45 – Depart the Island and begin Cliffs Cruise 15:30 – Lunch stop in Doolin 16:30 – Arrive at the top of the Cliffs of Moher and receive free admission! 17:30 – Depart cliffs for Galway via Wild Atlantic Way 19:30** – Return to Galway New Coach Station Please be aware: * Sailings are weather dependant. In the unlikely event of a cancellation you will receive a full refund/reschedule or you will have the option to take our 10:00am Cliffs of Moher & Burren Tour instead. ** All times are approximate, if you have connections to make please inform us in advance. Ferry tickets and admission to the Cliffs of Moher are FREE. Activities on the island and lunch are not included.

Inclusions: Cliffs of Moher Entrance Fee, Return Ferry to/from Island

Exclusions: Food and drinks, Lunch

Reviewed By aidomcdonnell

Not impressed with costs , id have prefered to ( after seing inside the abbey ) just miss that and be able to just walk around the beautiful grounds ! Bit of a rip off in my opinion

7. Cliffs of Moher, Wild Atlantic Way and Galway tour from Dublin

The Hugh Lane, Charlemont House, Parnell Square N, Rotunda, Dublin, D01 F2X9, Ireland Finn McCools Tours
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4.8 based on 1,307 reviews

Spend a day on our Cliffs of Moher Tour Including Wild Atlantic Way and Galway City from Dublin going from the east to the west of Ireland. Your unique Cliffs of Moher Tour will take you to Galway, the Wild Atlantic Way, The Burren, Cliffs of Moher, Kilmacduagh monastery, proper west of Ireland countryside and farms and much much more. All entrance fees included.

Inclusions: All other attractions can be seen without extra charges, Live commentary/guide on board, Air-conditioned vehicle, Entrance fee included to the Cliffs of Moher visitor center, The Burren, Kilmacduagh Monastery stop, Galway City, Wild Atlantic Way drive

Exclusions: Food and drinks, Hotel pickup and drop-off

Reviewed By 310pp

Our guide was Karina and we couldn't have asked for a better one! She was brilliant and went way over the alloted 90 minutes. Very knowledgeable and a good laugh too, which we were in need of, it made for a very entertaining morning for myself and my son. Loved the little anecdotes from Bruce Springsteen to The beatles, as well as all the history, both modern and old. The recommendation of a good Whiskey shop was spot on and I'll look out for her in The Commitments film next time I watch it!

8. Connemara, Kylemore Abbey or Connemara National Park day tour from Galway-Guided

Merchants Road, stop 524501, Galway, Co. Galway, Ireland Connemara Wild Escapes
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4.8 based on 6 reviews

Connemara is known for its wild and rugged landscape and awe-inspiring scenery of glistening lakes, tumbling streams, desolate blanket bogs and craggy mountains. Join this guided journey following the Atlantic Ocean coastline along the invigorating Wild Atlantic way route to this unspoilt treasure. Travel through some of the most storybook villages in Ireland, marked by thatched cottages, dry stone walls, blanket bogs and galloping Connemara horses. Spend time walking in majestic Connemara National Park or the romantic Kylemore Abbey & Victorian walled gardens.

Inclusions: Driver/guide, Live commentary on board, Transport by air-conditioned minivan, 3 hour visit to either Kylemore Abbey OR Connemara National Park

Exclusions: Food and drinks

Reviewed By Janine o

We loved it!! Highly recommend if you are around connemara. We will be back again. The fellas in charge were sound out.

9. Cliffs of Moher Tour Including Wild Atlantic Way and Galway City from Dublin

The Gresham Hotel, North City, Dublin 1, Co. Dublin, Ireland Wild Rover Tours
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4.8 based on 3,511 reviews

Day trip from Dublin to Ireland’s remote and rugged west coast to see the Cliffs of Moher, the Burren and Galway City. Enjoy the unique benefit of a dedicated Tour Guide and a separate Driver for the day. The Driver concentrates on your safety and the Guide on your comfort and entertainment. There is a rest stop on route to the Cliffs of Moher and upon arrival you receive a premium ticket to visit and enjoy every aspect of what the site has to offer. 2 hours visiting time. Then travel along part of the Wild Atlantic Way coast and enjoy a coastal stop in the Burren, a unique limestone landscape famous for its flourishing plant life. Upon arriving in Galway City your Guide will offer you a free guided tour of the city, it's optional to join or just enjoy free time to wander this charismatic, bohemian and artsy city yourself. On tour hear tales about Irish history, culture, stories some Irish music will be played with some guides playing their instruments on the coach. 2 hours visit.

Inclusions: Hotel pickup (select hotels only)., Professional guide, Guided walking tour Galway City, Entrance fees to all attractions. Free unlimited 4G wifi available on the coach.

Exclusions: Food and drinks, Hotel drop-off

Reviewed By RichMikeIrl

As a huge fan of Medieval history, I really enjoy my visits to Kilkenny and Glendalough. The Sheep Dog Trials make for an excellent escape from the city hustle.

10. Cliffs of Moher Day Trip from Dublin

Molly Malone Statue, Suffolk St, Dublin 2, D02 KX03, Ireland Irish Day Tours
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4.6 based on 1,586 reviews

Join us on our Cliffs of Moher tour as we discover some of the most dramatic cliffs in Ireland. We take an unforgettable journey to the Wild Atlantic Way where you are rewarded with dramatic and breathtaking views that are nothing short of amazing. Along with your fellow travellers, discover the best of Ireland’s dramatic coastline including the Burren and the bohemian city of Galway.

Inclusions: Air-conditioned vehicle, Driver/guide

Exclusions: Lunch

Reviewed By junior22016

I went to the office on 37 College Green in Dublin to buy a Hop/Hop off ticket. The attendant told me the ticket was 42 euro when the actual price was. I asked which one it was and she told me it was 22. I paid with a 50 euro bill.However, she ended charging me 42 euro. Since I was trying to make the bus, I did not realize she took my money until I was on the bus. At the end the route I told her what she did knowing she was going to pretend to be clueless. She played along and checked her register to tell me she did not have any extra money in there. The fact is, that money never made it to the register. That was extremely dishonest and you guys need to be careful with crooks like this.

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