Kerry and Cork together form Ireland’s most-visited region outside Dublin, and for good reason. The Ring of Kerry is Ireland’s most famous scenic drive, the Dingle Peninsula might be even better, and Cork city has the best food scene in the country.
Kerry
The Ring of Kerry is a 179km loop around the Iveragh Peninsula. Most tour buses go counter-clockwise, so driving clockwise gives you a slightly quieter experience. Budget a full day minimum.
The Dingle Peninsula is Kerry’s quieter alternative - and many locals (including me) prefer it. Slea Head Drive is breathtaking, Dingle town has character, and the whole peninsula feels more intimate than the Ring of Kerry.
Cork
Cork city is compact, walkable, and full of personality. The English Market is essential, the food scene is Ireland’s best, and the locals are famously proud of their city (they’ll tell you it’s the “real capital of Ireland”).
The coast around Kinsale, Cobh, and West Cork is gorgeous for driving, and less crowded than Kerry.
