County Kerry Travel Guide

Colorful Towns & Coastal Drives
Kerry blends wild Atlantic scenery with winding coastal roads, bright villages, and dramatic landscapes. Whether you’re hiking through the Gap of Dunloe, circling the Ring, or lingering over music and pints in Dingle, it’s a county worthy of a few days’ exploration.

Kerry Top 5 Accommodations Tours in Kerry More County Kerry Tips
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Top 5 Things to Do in County Kerry

Ring of Kerry

Iconic for a reason
The scenic Iveragh Peninsula loop delivers dramatic coastlines, quiet beaches, heritage sites, and charming villages. Whether you drive it yourself or take a guided tour, it’s a full day of unforgettable views and photo-worthy experiences.
TIP: Escape the bus traffic and catch Skellig views on the smaller Skellig Ring.

Kilmalkedar Churchyard on the Dingle Peninsula, County Kerry, Ireland. Ireland travel tips | Ireland vacation | IrelandFamilyVacations.com

The Dingle Peninsula

Smaller but no less stunning
Wild coastal cliffs, archaeological sites, and some of the best live music in Ireland make this a popular spot for day trips and overnight stays.
Be sure to add in a boat tour to check out the sea life.
Tip: The vibe completely changes after the tour buses leave!

Jaunting car in Irish mountain pass - Gap of Dunloe near Killarney

The Gap of Dunloe

Scenic mountain pass
This narrow, winding pass between the MacGillycuddy Reeks and Purple Mountain offers stunning scenery by foot, bike, or jaunting car. Begin, or end, with a visit to Kate Kearney’s Cottage, for a sip of the ‘Mountain Dew’.
Tip: Take a day trip that includes a return across the Lakes of Killarney.

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Killarney National Park

Ireland’s first National Park Located at the edge of the bustling town of Killarney, this 25,000-acre parkland is home to forest trails, waterfalls, lake views, a grand manor, and a 15th century castle.
Tip: A jaunting car ride from Killarney to Ross Castle is a terrific way to learn a bit of history – and maybe a little blarney.

Ruins of Ballybunion Castle, County Kerry. Ireland travel tips | Ireland vacation | IrelandFamilyVacations.com

Ballybunion

Kerry’s Seaside Resort
Often overlooked by guidebooks, Ballybunion is a classic holiday haven with rugged cliff walks, long stretches of golden sand, and a laid-back local vibe. It’s the perfect place to slow down, explore sea caves, or soak in a seaweed bath.
Tip: Ballybunion is a favorite for golfers, home to two world-class links courses.

Top County Kerry Tips

Arrival Tips

  • Kerry Airport is midway between Tralee and Killarney
    • Direct flights from Dublin & London
  • Traveling from Dublin Airport? You’ll find direct buses to Killarney.
  • Irish Rail has stations in Killarney, Tralee, Rathmore, and Farranfore (for Kerry Airport)

Transportation In County Kerry

  • If you don’t have a car you will need to hire a taxi, private driver, or use the local bus

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horse-drawn jaunting cars lined up in Killarney, Ireland

Best County Kerry Tours

Explore County Kerry with a guide or fun activity – these tours are top-rated and easy to fit into your itinerary.

Deros Coach Tours – Guided tours of the Ring of Kerry & Dingle Peninsula

Gap of Dunloe Tours – bus, boat & jaunting car toursthrough the stunning mountain pass

Killarney Bike Rental ​- perfect for exploring the national park

​Dingle Boat Tours​ – harbour cruises, fishing excursions, Eco tours, and more

Slea Head Tour from Dingle – 3-hour group tour

Horseback Riding in Dingle ​- mountain views for beginner/novice and beach rides for intermediate/ advanced riders

​Kenmare Food Tour​ – meet the producers and taste the flavors of Kenmare’s thriving food scene

Killarney Food Tour – a tasty stroll through this lively town

Afternoon Tea – in the Victorian Drawing Room at the Great Southern Killarney

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Accommodations

Ballyseede Castle

County Kerry’s only castle hotel, located between Tralee and Killarney.
Good location for touring the Ring of Kerry and Dingle Peninsula.

front view of The Ross hotel in Killarney, Ireland

The Ross

Family-owned boutique hotel, steps from Killarney National Park and the town’s tops spots.
Terrific for couples.

Dingle Skellig

Wonderful waterfront location on the Dingle Peninsula within an easy walk from the harbour and village.
Perfect for families and groups.

Royal Valentia

A terrific option on the Ring of Kerry.
Perfect for before or after your Skellig Island tour.
Relaxed ‘off the tourist trail’ spot.