Transportation around Ireland

We have a trip planned for 8 people next May. Is there a transportation/ car service that provides group transportation from Dublin to Killarney, Killarny to Ashford Castle, Ashford to Galway, and back to Dublin? We have read enough to be scared about renting cars. There are plenty of day tours providing Ring of Kerry, etc. How about getting from one area to another? Busses, trains, van service?

Hi John! 

It's lovely you'll be travelling around with 8 people in May next year! How long will you be staying with us? 

There are definitely lots of other forms of transport to choose from, and I have collected a few threads for you below with helpful information. 

- Personal driver
- Private driver
- Planning a trip with a large family
- Public transport VS car hire
- Public transport (Eire and Northern Ireland)

On this page, you can find an overview of recommended private drivers and chauffeurs, and if you reach out to them directly they would gladly tell you more about availability and options. For a handy overview of how to travel via public transport on the island, take a look here.

I'd also be more than happy to help figure out how to get from A to B by bus or train. Where would you like to travel to? 

For more inspiration, take a look at these recommended itineraries as well. :)

Hi John,
How exciting that you are planning a trip to Ireland soon. I can completely appreciate why you would feel a little nervous about driving here in Ireland.  We are a tour operator providing transport for small and large groups and designing customized itineraries for Ireland! Your route sounds really nice and we'd be delighted to help you organise your trip.  

One option would be to have a private driver-guide throughout your trip (starting in Dublin travelling to Killarney, Ashford, Galway and ending in Dublin).  You could see places like the Ring of Kerry, Cliffs of Moher and Connemara with your own local expert. Having a private driver-guide also lets you veer off the beaten path and see little hidden gems. I'm attaching a sample itinerary to give you an impression of what we do:
https://www.special-ireland.com/packages/irish-castle-and-manor-vacation/
Just to let you know that our online itineraries usually include accommodation in the pricing but if you've already booked accommodation, we also do transport only itineraries.
Another option would be to have a mix of rail and private driver-guide, as this is more economical and could be fun! We have a sample itinerary which can be tailored around your preferences:   https://www.special-ireland.com/packages/irish-explorer/

I hope you find this useful and if you have any questions just send us a message :)
Thanks and all the best,
Deirdre-Specialized Travel Services