☘️EXPLORE IRELAND -12 DAY ESCORTED TOUR OF IRELAND

More on DAY 1 -WELCOME TO IRELAND

Welcome to Dublin!

Upon Arrival in Ireland, make your own way to your city centre hotel. The remainder of the day is free to relax and settle into the fair city of Dublin.

Dublin is a city with a soul. Founded in 841 by the Vikings, it is a city with an interesting past. Its many monuments tell of its history. Today, Dublin is the Cosmopolitan capital of the Irish Republic and a city of over one million people. Despite the many changes the city has witnessed during the last decade, it still remains a city ready to welcome all who wish to visit.

The Guinness Storehouse

You may wish to visit the world famous Guinness Storehouse. The Guinness Brewery in Dublin is Europe’s largest stout producing brewery and home to the Guinness Storehouse. Opened in 1904, the Storehouse was an operational plant for fermenting and storing Guinness.

Today it houses a very fine exhibition dedicated to the Guinness story. Visitors on the Tour will discover what goes into the making a pint of Guinness – the ingredients, the brewing process, the time, the craft and the passion.
The exhibition shows how the brew has been marketed and how it is today sold in over 150 countries. Once a tour has finished the group is invited to the Gravity Bar to enjoy a pint of Guinness. Regular demonstrations on the art of pulling a pint of Guinness also take place in the Storehouse.

Launched on the fifth floor in 2011, “Five” at Guinness Storehouse, includes a small replica authentic Irish Bar, an 18th Century inspired Brewers Dining Hall, and a restaurant named Gilroy’s where guests enjoy a Guinness gastronomical experience driven entirely by the Irish tradition of wholesome local produce. Menus include local foods such as Ardsallagh goat’s cheese, Irish mussels from Carlingford and the Waterford Blaas bread supplied by MD Bakery in Waterford.

This area will host from time to time live cooking demonstrations using Guinness in the recipe and it includes an interactive recipe sharing bank that allows visitors to take Guinness recipe cards home.

Old Jameson Distillery

Or you may want to visit the Old Jameson Distillery in Smithfield Village, located in the heart of Old Dublin. This old barley storehouse, once the centre of Distilling in Dublin, was renovated in 1998 and converted into a museum where all the secrets of Irish whiskey’s distillation will be revealed. An audio-visual show will introduce the history of this spirit and it is followed by a guided visit which will take a visitor through the various stages of whiskey distilling from grain intake to malting, mashing, fermentation, distillation, maturation and finally bottling.

The visit culminates in the Jameson bar with an opportunity for all to taste the signature Jameson drink. During the visit a number of volunteers are selected to take part in a tasting session to compare a Jameson whiskey with a Scottish Whisky and American bourbon. Participants will receive a Diploma for their achievement.

If time allows, you may wish to visit some of the other memorable sites listed below.

Christchurch Cathedral

King Sitric Silkenbeard, the 1st Christian Viking King of Dublin, built the city’s first church on this site in 1038.The current building was built in 1172 by the Anglo-Norman Richard de Clare (Strongbow).

Similar to St Patrick’s Cathedral, it is adorned with funeral monuments, including the reputed tomb of Strongbow. Unlike St. Patrick’s however, Christchurch posses a crypt which stretches nearly its entire length & much of the Cathedrals memorabilia is displayed here. Attached to the Cathedral is Dublinia, an excellent exhibition of medieval Dublin.

EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum.

This is a state-of-the-art interactive experience located in the beautiful vaults of the 1820 Custom House Quarter building in Dublin’s Docklands, the original departure point for so many of Ireland’s emigrants.
It will inspire and guide you on a journey to discover the stories of Irish emigration around the world, from early times to the modern day.

Explore Ireland’s Capital City discovering the north and south side of the River Liffey. Wandering around the Heart of Historic Dublin—the Liberties.

This area offers great striking monuments such as the GPO (General Post Office) on the city main thoroughfare, O’Connell Street, or the Custom House along the quays, as well as the Phoenix Park, the largest public park in Europe.

The south side appears more sophisticated with its vast Georgian squares, such as Merrion Square, where Oscar Wilde’s House can still be found (today owned by an American College), its colourful doors, along with Grafton Street and its quality shops.

Not so far from St. Stephen’s Green, in Kildare St., you will see the house of Bram Stoker, the author of Dracula. This part of the city is also dominated by the students of Trinity College, where the famous Book of Kells is permanently exhibited in its library. The university is facing the medieval district where Dublin Castle and the two Anglican Cathedrals can be found.

Trinity College

Trinity was founded in 1592 by Queen Elizabeth 1st on grounds confiscated from an Augustinian priory and is the oldest University in Ireland. The Campanile, erected in 1852, was built on what is believed to be the centre of the monastery. Built to further the education of the ruling Anglo-Irish families, restrictions were imposed to prevent Catholic from attending courses. These restrictions were not fully lifted until the 1970’s. Trinity however admitted women in 1902, earlier than most British universities.
Most of the main buildings off the main square were built during the Georgian period, some of which replaced older buildings. Within its walls, you will be able to admire Parliament Square and its 18th Century edifices.

Trinity College has had many famous students such as Jonathan Swift and Samuel Beckett who later became a lecturer in French at the university. The Inter-denominational Church is very much worth a visit, should it be open during our visit.

This evening meet your fellow tour participants at your Hotel, for a welcome drink.

Overnight: Dublin (Bed & Breakfast)

More on DAY 2 -DUBLIN TO BELFAST

Meet your driver and guide at the hotel’s reception and depart towards Belfast.
On route, you will travel through the Boyne Valley and the 5,000- year-old Hill of Tara, the seat of the ancient High Kings of Ireland.

Stop at the Glyde Inn for a unique VR experience! You won’t just learn about being a Viking; you will become one.

Continue to Hillsborough Castle, the official Royal Palace for Northern Ireland, for a visit. Discover stories of celebration, entertainment, diplomacy, and negotiation as you explore Hillsborough Castle’s fascinating history and stunning State Rooms.

Overnight: Belfast (Bed & Breakfast)

More on DAY 3 -BELFAST CITY

Belfast City

Splendidly situated at the head of Belfast Lough, Belfast City is a modern and vibrant city which is proud of its heritage and history. Enjoy a panoramic tour of the city center during which your guide will explain how Belfast developed from a small market town to an industrial giant.

Pass by landmarks like City Hall and Queen’s University before visiting Titanic Belfast, an iconic landmark building where the story of Titanic is told.
Enjoy the afternoon at leisure in Belfast.

Optional:

Glenshane Country Farm Sheepdog Demo.

A family-owned sheep farm based deep in the beautiful ancient landscape of the Sperrin Mountains. Meet James McCloy, a fourth-generation shepherd who wants to introduce people to sheep farming, particularly his highly trained team of working sheepdogs. Join Moss, Tess & Jess, on this immersive experience, ‘Sheepdogs at Work’.

Overnight: Belfast (Bed & Breakfast)

More on DAY 4 -GIANTS CAUSEWAY & DERRY

Check out of your hotel this morning and travel along the spectacular North Antrim Coastline & experience the highlight of any trip to Northern Ireland

The Giant’s Causeway

An official UNESCO World Heritage Site, here, some 40,000 hexagonal columns blanket the landscape and peter out into the ocean. According to science, intense volcanic activity millennia ago created this whimsical landscape. But we much prefer the local version that tells of warring giants and heroic acts resulting in the Causeway. The Giant’s Causeway Visitor Centre elaborates on both the scientific and mythic explanations. After your visit, continue to Derry, Ireland’s only fully intact walled city.

Derry City

Your tour concludes with a walk along Derry’s walls, which has witnessed centuries of drama.
As you approach, don’t be alarmed by the cannons on top of the huge city walls; they’re purely decorative. Inside, a warren of side streets, main streets, pubs, shops, theatres, restaurants and attractions of all sorts make Derry one of Ireland’s most compelling cultural cities. So ends your coastal odyssey along the Causeway Coastal Route.

Overnight: Donegal (Dinner, bed & breakfast)

More on DAY 5 -DONEGAL TO GALWAY

Beleek Pottery

Our first stop today is at Belleek Pottery which has been in business since 1857. See first-hand how this world-renowned pottery is created.

Belleek Pottery, established in 1857, is one of Ireland’s oldest and most iconic potteries, renowned for its delicate, handcrafted porcelain. Visitors can tour the facility to see skilled artisans at work and learn about the intricate processes behind creating Belleek’s world-famous ceramics.

Marble Arch Caves

Continue to the Marble Arch Caves and explore a fascinating, natural underworld of rivers, winding passages and lofty chambers. The caves are named after the nearby Marble Arch, a natural limestone arch at the upstream end of Cladagh Glen under which the Cladagh River flows

The caves, in the heart of the UNESCO Global Geopark, were formed in limestone rock when water flowing through the rock slowly dissolved it to leave chambers, passages and systems you can explore during a guided tour.

Travel on to Galway

Galway City at the mouth of Galway Bay is both a picturesque and lively city with a wonderful avant-garde culture and a fascinating mixture of locally owned specialty shops, often featuring locally made crafts. Indeed, local handcrafts are a feature of the entire region including hand knits, pottery, glass, jewelry and woodwork.

The City is a delight with its narrow streets, old stone and wooden shop fronts, good restaurants, and busy pubs. Galway City has many relics of its medieval past which are worth taking time to explore. The city has attracted a bohemian crown of musicians and artists which add so much to its character.

We recommend to pop by the beautiful Cathedral, built in 1965, the Salmon Weir Bridge and along the trout stream to the Collegiate of St Nicholas of Myra, which was built in 1320. The Collegiate is close to Nora Barnacle’s house (Mrs. James Joyce) and to the famous Lynch window from which the English language receive the word to Lynch (hang).

Continue on along Shop Street to see the splendor of the rich merchants’ houses during the time that they controlled the commercial life of the City, Lynch’s house being an excellent example. Finally, pass by the Eyre Square, the accepted centre of Galway City. On the western side of the square is Browne’s doorway which is all that remains of a mid-17th century merchant’s house.

The square also has a statue to Padraig O’Conaire, a noted Irish writer and a curious rusted metal sculpture representing the famous Galway Hooker, a boat which is unique to Galway. This, the largest county in Connaught, is celebrated in song and story throughout the world and takes centre stage on Ireland’s western seaboard. A spectacularly beautiful county, it is a medley of contrasts – the wildest and remotest of countryside teamed with one of Europe’s most vibrant and popular cities.

It has changed considerably over the last number of years and features a fascinating juxtaposition of new and ancient architecture. The centre of the city is conveniently compact enough to ramble around comfortably. Anyone who knows the song ‘Galway Bay’ will be familiar with the Claddagh, previously a fishing village of thatched cottages, now an area just outside the city centre. Here is the birthplace of the world famous Claddagh ring, a souvenir many bring home, just to keep a little piece of Galway with them always

Galway Cathedral

The largest catholic church in Galway, the Cathedral is located on Nun’s Island, on the west bank of the River Corrib near Salmon Weir Bridge. It was the last large church in Ireland to be made from stone and features a huge octagonal dome that complements the skyline of the City of Galway. The cathedral combines many features from different styles and periods of architecture. There are many treasures of art inside and outside. Erected on the site of an old jail, the parking lot of the cathedral contains a white cross in the pavement. It marks the site of the prison graveyard.

Overnight: Galway (Dinner, bed & breakfast)

More on DAY 6 -THE BURREN & THE CLIFFS OF MOHER

This morning, travel into Co. Clare and the Burren Region.

The Burren

The Burren landscape covers over 150 square kilometres and is one of Ireland’s 6 National Parks. The region is visually similar to a moonscape, yet shelters a mixture of flora and
archaeological sites which have attracted visitors for centuries.
Man came here over 6000 years ago, cleared the forests and set in motion soil erosion. Centuries of weathering has produced a terrain of fissured limestone pavements, disappearing lakes, terraced mountains, and underground cave systems. For millennia man has left his mark, megalithic tombs and cooking sites litter the pavements, while medieval tower houses and churches guard the valleys.

Today man is absent from most of the upland, leaving behind ancient field systems, routeways and placenames. Visitors to the Burren will find Arctic, Alpine and Mediterranean plants growing together.

The Cliffs of Moher

Situated on the Atlantic Ocean and bordering the Burren region, the Cliffs of Moher are one of Ireland’s most spectacular sights. Standing 230 metres above the ground at their highest point and 8km long, the Cliffs boast one of the most amazing views in Ireland.

On a clear day, the Aran Islands are visible in Galway Bay as well as the valleys and hills of Connemara. The cliffs reach their highest point just north of O’ Brien’s Tower built by Cornelius O’ Brien, a descendant of Brian Boru, to entertain his lady friends. A visit of the
tower is also possible.

The sweeping view across the Atlantic has recently been ranked the best ‘cliff-view’ on the planet by Conde Nast Traveler. The respected travel publication has voted the world-famous landmark at the top of a new chart of ‘ Nine Gorgeous Cliff Views
That Rival The Grand Canyon’.

At this spot, is the “Atlantic Edge”, the exciting new interpretive centre at the Cliffs of Moher, which is built into the natural landscape. The centre is a huge domed cave that contains images, exhibits, displays & experiences exploring different elements of the mighty Cliffs of Moher: Ocean, Rock, Nature and Man.

The visitor centre has a restaurant and shop facilities. A spectacular upgraded 13 km of scenic coastal pathway along the Cliffs of Moher links Doolin to Hags Head.

Return to Galway to enjoy some time at leisure in the city.

Overnight: Galway (Bed & breakfast)

More on DAY 7 -GALWAY TO CORK

Travel south towards Cork. En route, you will pass Limerick City, founded in the 9th century by Vikings.
In the afternoon arrive in Blarney where you will visit Blarney Castle.

Blarney Castle & Gardens

An ancient stronghold of the McCarthy’s, Lords of Muskerry, Blarney Castle is situated in Blarney village ( ‘An Bhlarna’, meaning ‘the little field’), 8km from Cork City.  it is one of Ireland’s oldest and most historic castles, and one of the strongest fortresses in Munster.

Built in 1446, Blarney Castle is famous for its Blarney stone, the Stone of Eloquence, which is traditionally believed to have the power to bestow the gift of eloquence on all those who kiss it, with many legends telling the story of the Stone. The Castle gardens cover 60 acres of land with a network of paths that lead through various gardens, arboretums, and avenues, including a water garden, fern garden and poison garden.

Blarney Castle has a very strong history with Equestrian. Visitors love to see the many Horses And Donkeys that are on site. The old stables can be seen at the Coach House Café but now the stables are located on the avenue as you walk towards the lake. Historically the estate was a venue for International Horse Trials. The estate also boasts an impressive range of native wildlife.

Overnight: Cork (Bed & breakfast)

More on DAY 8 -KERRY HIGHLIGHTS

Today discover the highlights of the Ring of Kerry.
Take in the spectacular scenery of Molls Gap and Ladies’ View.

Moll’s Gap

Moll’s Gap is a scenic mountain pass in County Kerry, along the Ring of Kerry route, offering stunning views of the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks and the Black Valley. Named after a woman who ran an illegal shebeen (pub) during the 1820s, it’s now a popular stop for travelers seeking breathtaking landscapes and photo opportunities.

Ladies View

Ladies View is a famous scenic viewpoint along the Ring of Kerry in County Kerry, Ireland, offering panoramic views of the Lakes of Killarney and the surrounding mountains. It was named after Queen Victoria’s ladies-in-waiting, who were enchanted by the vista during the royal visit in 1861.

Jaunting Car Ride in Killarney National Park

Finish the day with a relaxing Jaunting Car Ride in Killarney National Park!
A Jaunting Car Ride in Killarney National Park offers a traditional and relaxing way to explore the park’s stunning scenery, including lakes, woodlands, and historic landmarks like Ross Castle. Driven by local “jarveys” (drivers) and drawn by horse, this charming experience provides insight into local culture and history while enjoying the natural beauty of one of Ireland’s most beloved parks.

Overnight: Cork (Bed & Breakfast)

More on DAY 9 -MIDLETON & WATERFORD

The Midleton Distillery

The Midleton Distillery, located in County Cork, Ireland, is the birthplace of Jameson Irish Whiskey and serves as the production hub for several renowned brands, including Redbreast, Powers, and Midleton Very Rare.

Established in 1825 and now part of Pernod Ricard, the distillery is renowned for housing the world’s largest pot still and offers visitors a comprehensive, immersive experience into the art and history of Irish whiskey-making. Finish the visit with a tasting of this famous Irish whiskey.

Continue towards Waterford, where you will visit the House of Waterford in the city’s Viking Triangle.

Waterford Chrystal

Waterford Crystal is a renowned Irish manufacturer of luxury crystal glassware, established in 1783 by brothers George and William Penrose in Waterford City.
The company is celebrated for its exquisite craftsmanship, particularly its iconic Lismore pattern, designed in 1952 by Miroslav Havel, which draws inspiration from the leaded windows and turrets of Lismore Castle .

Visitors can explore the artistry behind Waterford Crystal at the House of Waterford Crystal in Waterford City, where they can witness skilled artisans at work and view the world’s largest collection of Waterford Crystal. The facility offers guided tours, a retail store, and an Afternoon Tea experience, making it a must-visit destination for those interested in fine craftsmanship and Irish heritage .

On the tour, you will witness how Waterford Crystal masterpieces are crafted, from initial design to final engraving.

Overnight: Kilkenny (Bed & Breakfast)

More on DAY 10 -KILKENNY & DUNBRODY

The Bunbrody Famine Ship

Visit the Dunbrody Famine Ship, a full-scale replica of the original ship built in 1845 for the Graves family of New Ross and which carried thousands of emigrants from Ireland to North America over thirty years.

The Dunbrody Famine Ship in New Ross, County Wexford, is a meticulously recreated 19th-century emigrant vessel that offers a poignant glimpse into the hardships faced by Irish emigrants during the Great Famine.

Visitors embark on an immersive journey, guided by costumed interpreters, to experience the conditions aboard the ship and learn about the courageous individuals who sought new lives across the Atlantic.

The experience includes a tour of the ship, exhibitions detailing the Irish emigration story, and the Irish America Hall of Fame, which honors the contributions of Irish Americans. The Captain’s Table Restaurant provides a scenic riverside dining option, and the on-site shop offers a variety of Irish heritage products.

Afternoon at leisure in Kilkenny to discover this picturesque medieval city.

Kilkenny City

Kilkenny, known as Ireland’s “Marble City,” is a charming blend of medieval heritage and vibrant modern culture. Just 90 minutes from Dublin, it’s renowned for its cobbled streets, historic sites, and lively arts scene.

Top Attractions:

Kilkenny Castle

Built in 1260, this iconic castle offers guided tours through its beautifully restored rooms and expansive gardens.

St. Canice’s Cathedral & Round Tower

Dating back to the 13th century, this cathedral features stunning stained glass windows and a 100-foot round tower with panoramic views of the city.

Rothe House & Garden

A 16th-century merchant’s townhouse complex showcasing Kilkenny’s rich history and featuring a reconstructed 17th-century garden.

Smithwick’s Experience

Explore the history of Ireland’s oldest ale at this brewery-turned-tourist attraction, located on the site of a former Franciscan monastery.

Optional:

Entrance & self-guided tour to Kilkenny Castle.
Kilkenny Castle has been an important site since the Anglo-Normans built it in the 12th century. Learn about life in the castle over the many centuries of its existence.

Overnight: Kilkenny (Bed & Breakfast)

More on DAY 11 -KILKENNY TO DUBLIN

Depart Kilkenny for your journey to Dublin for your final night

EPIC – The Irish Emigration Museum

In Dublin visit the EPIC Museum and find out why over 10 million people emigrated from Ireland.
As you uncover the stories of our emigrants, you’ll realize that emigration is not about what people leave behind but what they bring with them.

The EPIC – Irish Emigration Museum in Dublin’s historic CHQ vaults is a cutting-edge, fully digital experience tracing over 1,500 years of Irish emigration across 20 interactive galleries. Voted Europe’s Leading Tourist Attraction multiple times, it uses immersive technology—from motion-sensor quizzes and apps to “passports” stamped at each gallery—to vividly showcase the global impact of the Irish diaspora and even offers on‑site genealogy support for those tracing their family roots
Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.

Optional:
Evening Entertainment at Taylor’s Three Rock or similar. Visit this lively pub in Rathfarnham for an excellent night with Dinner Music and Dance.

Taylor’s Tree Rock – Irish Night & Dinner

Immerse yourself in the lively and enchanting world of cabaret shows and Irish nights at Taylors Three Rock. Get ready for an unforgettable evening of thrilling performances, where traditional Irish song and dance take centre stage, accompanied by a delectable selection of authentic Irish cuisine.

Let our talented resident band and mesmerising Irish dancers captivate you with their breathtaking artistry, ensuring an entertainment experience like no other. Whether you’re a local or a visitor to Dublin, Taylors Three Rock guarantees a night of pure Irish magic that will leave you wanting more.

Overnight: Dublin (Bed & breakfast)

More on DAY 12 -FAREWELL

FAREWELL

After a final Irish breakfast, transfer to Dublin Airport for your departure flight home under own arrangements.