A Guide to Exploring the Ring of Kerry Without a Car
Are you ready to explore one of the most iconic road trips in Ireland — the Ring of Kerry? Luckily, you don’t need to rent or drive a vehicle to experience these stunning sites, although there are optional opportunities for rental cars if you wish. Planning your exploration around this scenic route doesn’t have to be difficult with our guide full of transportation tips, information about local attractions, and more! Keep reading for all the details on how best to navigate through the Ring of Kerry without a car.
Is It Easy to Get Around Ireland Without a Car?
One of the great things about Ireland is that it’s actually quite easy to get around without a car. While renting one certainly has its advantages, exploring Ireland without a car can be quite a fun and simple adventure! I lived in Ireland for months without a car and it never stopped me from being able to see and do plenty around Dublin and the whole of the country.
Most Irish cities are very walkable, although you may want to consider using a bike or electric scooter to make navigation even easier. If distances are too far for walking, public transportation such as trains and buses run regularly throughout and between the major cities such as Dublin, Galway, Cork, and Belfast. Or, you can always take a taxi.
However, these modes of transport might not be available for thoroughly exploring some of the smaller towns and natural attractions dotted about in the countryside; for that kind of adventure, you may need to think about relying on guided tours or local drivers.
Can You Do the Ring of Kerry Without a Car?
Yes, you will be able to explore the Ring of Kerry without a car. To see the popular sights you can take either a group or private tour, otherwise, there are some options for taking public transportation or taxis through parts of the Ring of Kerry. You can also walk or bike as well, though it’s quite strenuous and time-consuming – but quite the adventure!
HOW Do You Get Around the Ring of Kerry Without a Car?
The best way to explore the Ring of Kerry without a car is to take a tour. If you have the means, a private tour will be the best option as there are so many sites and stops along the route that you will want to customize your tour to your tastes and interests. Otherwise, group tours of the Ring of Kerry are also top-notch and are a great way to see the highlights without breaking the bank or needing to rent a car.
I thoroughly enjoyed all of the tours I took throughout my time exploring Ireland. Tours provide insight and educational value from locals and are an easy, stress-free way to plan your days. Especially if you have limited time to visit the Ring of Kerry, tours are the way to go.
☘️ Best Tours of the Ring of Kerry ☘️
Best Overall Tour:
Ring of Kerry Day Trip including Killarney Lakes + National Park
This guided full-day (6.5 hours) tour is the BEST overall Ring of Kerry tour from Killarney in terms of how much you will see and do for an affordable price. You will make all of the stops that are an essential part of any visit.
This tour comes HIGHLY rated and is perfect for those looking for a solid, comprehensive tour of the Ring of Kerry that won’t break the bank.
Stop at a photo opportunity of the gorgeous Dingle Bay then on to the Kerry Bog Village Museum – the only one of its kind in Europe and one of Kerry’s top tourist attractions. Here, you will take a step back in time for a unique view of Ireland’s rural history, heritage, and lifestyle.
Next, you will pass by a handful of sites such as important churches and picturesque Irish towns all while learning more Irish history and stories from your guide. You will have views of Kenmare Bay, stunning beaches, and glorious mountains (including a view of Ireland’s highest mountain, Carrauntoohill).
A few of the better-known stops include Moll’s Gap, Ladies’ View, and the Muckross House. A drive through Killarney National Park and past the lakes of Killarney will end your tour on a high note.
✔️ CLICK HERE to learn more and book
BEST OVERALL RING OF KERRY TOUR
Best Private Tour:
Ring of Kerry + Kerry Cliffs
The beauty of a private tour is that you will be able to stop wherever and whenever you’d like. If you’re going to take a private tour at any point during your visit to Ireland, I very highly recommend it be a private tour of the Ring of Kerry.
There are so many sites, scenery, and places of interest to stop at along the Ring of Kerry, you will want to customize your tour and make sure you can check off all the important sites that are relevant and of interest to YOU.
The typical route of the tour (though it’s customizable) is to stop at the Torc Waterfall, Ladies’ View, the adorable town of Kenmare, the stunning Kerry Cliffs, Ballycarbery Castle, and much more.
The tour will often allow you to hike around the Iveragh Peninsula, or get out on the water with the Valentia Island Car Ferry.
✔️ CLICK HERE to learn more and book
BEST PRIVATE RING OF KERRY TOUR
For more information on popular sights in the Ring of Kerry, FAQs, plus a few more tour options…
CLICK HERE to continue reading.
Other Ways to Visit the Ring of Kerry Without a Car
You can always take a taxi from Killarney to some of the closer sites. And while you could hire a taxi or private car for the day, at that point your cost will likely be just as much as if you took a private tour that includes information and knowledge from your guide.
Walking the Ring of Kerry
You CAN walk the entirety of the Ring of Kerry – it just takes a long time and some serious commitment! The Kerry Way walking route is 215 km (133.6 mi) with 6 km (19,573 ft) of elevation gain and takes ~58 hours (about 6 to 8 days) to complete.
The Kerry Way is a loop trail that starts in Killarney and is perfect for the most committed adventurers. The trail is marked by yellow arrows on a black background and contains a huge mix of conditions from wooded to boggy farmland to paved roads. You can free camp along the way or stay in the local towns scattered throughout the loop.
Public Transportation Through the Ring of Kerry
Another way to see the Ring of Kerry without a car is by taking the bus. Unfortunately, it’s not a very direct or efficient method for seeing many of the sites, but it is a budget-conscious option to at least get a taste.
For the most part, you will want to take a taxi from Killarney to sites such as the Muckross House, Gap of Dunloe, Ladies’ View, etc. from Killarney. However, you can reach towns such as Kenmare, Sneem, or Derrynane by bus.
Is Driving the Ring of Kerry Worth It?
If you decide to rent a car… driving through the Ring of Kerry is definitely worth it! Having your own car will give you the flexibility to stop at any point along the way to take in the views or visit some of the attractions.
There are a number of different routes you can take, but the most popular is the 179-km Iveragh Peninsula Drive, which takes you through all of the highlights of the region. Along the way, you’ll pass by towering mountains, rolling hills, pristine lakes, and quaint villages.
Keep in mind, the roads can be narrow and a bit treacherous and if you’re not used to driving a manual car on the left side of the road, it might still be worth looking into private tour options to stay safe.
If you DO rent a car – check out DiscoverCars. It’s by far the best car rental company for comparing prices and finding the lowest rates and best deals. I use it for myself and my clients and once even saved a family over $1,400 on their rental car!
How Long Does It Take to Drive the Ring of Kerry Without Stopping?
The Ring of Kerry takes around 3.5 hours to drive through, before making any stops.
🏨 Where to Stay For Easy Access to the Ring of Kerry Without a Car
You will want to stay in Killarney, it’s the usual starting and stopping point when doing the full loop route. Killarney is also the biggest and closest town to a large majority of the top Ring of Kerry sights, making it easier for those who wish to walk or take public transportation/taxis.
Killarney is a quaint Irish town with plenty of history, great Irish food and pubs, and friendly hospitality. There are quite a few nice hotels and BnBs in Killarney to make your stay comfortable and memorable.
Scenic Location: The Lake House Killarney
This gorgeous 4-star property can’t be beaten for the stunning scenery and location right on the gorgeous Killarney Lake. It’s within walking distance of Killarney National Park and Muckross Abbey and has a spa onsite as well as the Castlelough Restaurant, which is open for breakfast and dinner.
The staff is helpful and friendly and the onsite bar, fitness center, library, and gardens are other highlights of this upscale hotel.
>>> CLICK HERE TO CHECK AVAILABILITY + SEE PHOTOS
Budget Options: The Black Sheep Hostel
This is a great option to save a little money during your trip to see the Ring of Kerry. With private rooms and dorms available, it’s great for solo travelers and group travelers alike.
The Black Sheep is recently renovated and set in a 19th-century townhouse. It’s been voted the best hostel (in 2019) and has an excellent, hearty breakfast included.
>>> CLICK HERE TO CHECK AVAILABILITY + SEE PHOTOS
CONCLUSION: Ring of Kerry Without a Car
If you’re planning a trip to Ireland and want to see the Ring of Kerry without renting a car, there are plenty of options for doing so. You can join a tour group, take the bus, or even bike or hike your way around the loop. Whichever method you choose, you’re sure to have a memorable experience taking in the stunning scenery that County Kerry has to offer!
Related Posts:
21 Top-Rated Day Trips from Killarney
Best Things to Do in Cork at Night
Where to Stay in Dingle, Ireland
☘️ Ireland FAQs ☘️
✈️ Where Can You Find the BEST Flight Deals to Ireland?
1. Scott’s Cheap Flights – FREE flight deals alert, works best if you can be flexible
2. Skyscanner – FREE search engine, great for budget flights + deal
❗Is Travel Insurance Required in Ireland?
No, it’s not.
However, it’s always recommended to have travel insurance any time you travel in case of injury, accident, lost luggage, missed flight, etc. The best and most affordable travel/expat insurance is Safety Wing.
>>>CLICK HERE FOR INFO
☔️ When Is the Best Time to Visit Ireland?
Summer (June-August) – is the warmest and rains the least but you will have the most crowds.
Spring (March-May) or Fall (September-November) – are cooler and have more rain but you will beat the crowds and see some incredible wildflowers (spring)/greenery (fall).
🏠 Where Should You Stay in Ireland?
Hotels, hostels, vacation rentals, and house sitting are all available in Ireland for accommodation. My top recommendations for each are:
• Booking.com
• Hostelworld
• Vrbo (usually better options than Airbnb in Ireland)
• Trusted Housesitters (watch a home/pets in return for a FREE place to stay)
☘️ Where Can You Find Tours?
I found incredible tours in Ireland >>>HERE for private and guided group tours of both the most popular attractions and ones that fit your specific interests.
🚘 Should You Rent a Car in Ireland?
I always tell my friends and family to rent a car in Ireland so that they don’t miss out on the gorgeous scenery and wonderful things to do in between the big cities! However, if you plan to stay only in the cities, then you should be fine getting by with buses and walking.
>>> What to know about driving in Ireland
>>> The best car rental in Ireland
🍻 Make sure to try out the pubs! Even if you don’t drink, the atmosphere, live music, and friendly people are very uniquely Irish.
