☘️YOUR IRISH ADVENTURE STARTS HERE -12 DAY-ESCORTED TOUR

More on DAY 1 -DUBLIN TO WESTPORT

Upon arrival in Dublin Airport, meet your driver/guide and you will head west towards the Westport area. The drive from Dublin to Westport is a fantastic journey across the heart of Ireland, taking you from the vibrant capital to the beautiful west coast.

Westport

Westport sits on the shores of Clew Bay, famous for its “365 islands”.
You will fall in love with Westport when you first step foot into town and make your way along the Carrowbeg River, lined with colourful flowers and traditional shop fronts.
Westport is known for its colorful Georgian streets, vibrant culture, and breathtaking views of the majestic, pyramid-like, Croagh Patrick Mountain.

Where cobbled streets meet coastal charm, stroll leisurely around Westport Town making your way to the historic Westport House. Learn about the house’s captivating history on a guided tour and relax in the manicured classical gardens. Along the Wild Atlantic Way (WWW), Westport is one of Ireland’s most beloved towns.
A must will be to call into Matt Molloy’s Pub for the best in Irish Traditional Music!

Overnight B&B in your Westport Hotel

More on DAY 2 -WESTPORT & ACHILL ISLAND

Visit Achill Island

Achill Island, located off the coast of County Mayo on Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way, has been inhabited for over 5,000 years. Evidence of Neolithic settlements, such as megalithic tombs and ancient forts, points to its deep-rooted human history.

In early Christian times, the island saw the rise of monastic settlements. One of the most notable historical figures associated with Achill is St. Colmán, who founded a monastery at Inishbiggle, a nearby smaller island.

During the 19th century, Achill became closely tied to the tragic events of the Great Famine (1845–1852). The island suffered greatly, with mass emigration and widespread poverty. A poignant reminder of this era is the Deserted Village at Slievemore—abandoned stone cottages that once housed over 100 families, left behind during and after the famine.

Achill also has a maritime and political legacy. In the early 20th century, the island was a site of nationalistic activism. Grainne Uaile (Grace O’Malley), the legendary 16th-century pirate queen, also has ties to the area—though more prominently associated with nearby Clare Island, she sailed these waters and left her mark on Achill’s folklore.

Today, Achill Island is known for its stark beauty—dramatic sea cliffs, windswept boglands, and Blue Flag beaches like Keem Bay.
Its history is preserved not only in its ruins and stories but in the spirit of its community, which continues to celebrate Irish language, music, and culture.

Return to Westport for an evening of traditional Irish Music.

Overnight B&B in your Westport Hotel

More on DAY 3 -WESTPORT TO GALWAY VIA CONNEMARA

The Connemara Region including the coastal route of the Sky Road & into Galway

This morning you will explore the Connemara region. Connemara is a land of lakes and rivers, bogs and mountains. A land of small villages where Gaelic is still the spoken language and where little has changed little since the beginning of time. It is without a doubt the wildest and the most romantic part of Ireland.
Connemara is a vast peninsula bordered by the arid and rocky coastline of Galway Bay in the south ~ a land characteristic for its stone walls and thatched cottages.
On its northern shore the land is harsher and more secret, with spectacular views of the Ocean and the beautiful fjord of Killary Harbour, as well as the steep mountains overlooking numerous lakes and large bog areas.
Connemara is a real paradise for Nature lovers and those in search of strong emotions.

Kylemore Abbey

Kylemore Abbey is located in the Kylemore Pass in Connemara. A Mitchell Henry built the House in 1868, after having spent his honeymoon in the area.
The architecture is best described as neo-gothic and the house still displays all the characteristics of that period. One of Kylemore Abbey’s most famous features is its miniature cathedral, built in 1870 and known locally as the Gothic church.
Today, the abbey is home to the Irish order of Benedictine nuns. They bought the house in 1920, having fled their convent in war-torn Belgium in 1914.
They established a private school for young girls, which today is the renowned Kylemore Abbey International School for young girls. Facilities at Kylemore include a visitor center, an exhibition housed in the main reception rooms of the house and a video which takes the visitor through the history of the house and its occupants.

The Sky Road

Sky Road is one of the most scenic drives in Ireland, offering breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean, coastal cliffs, islands, and rolling green hills. It’s located just outside Clifden, in County Galway, along the famous Wild Atlantic Way.

Clifden

Called the “Capital of Connemara,”, Clifden is a gem on Ireland’s west coast and a perfect destination for travelers seeking natural beauty, culture, and authentic Irish charm. Surrounded by some of Ireland’s most stunning landscapes—rolling hills, rugged coastlines, boglands, and the majestic Twelve Bens mountain range.
With colorful shopfronts, friendly locals, artisan stores, and a relaxed pace, Clifden is an excellent place to unwind with a perfect blend of natural wonders, history, music, food, and friendly culture!

Roundstone

Overlooking the Atlantic Ocean and framed by the majestic Errisbeg Mountains, Roundstone was established in the 1820s by Scottish engineer Alexander Nimmo.
The village’s name, derived from the Irish “Cloch na Rón” meaning “Rock of the Seals,” reflects its maritime heritage and is nestled in the heart of Connemara, County Galway.
A picturesque fishing village renowned for its natural beauty, artistic heritage, and vibrant local culture.
Nearby historical sites include the ruins of a 15th-century Dominican Priory.

An Spidéal, Spiddle West, Co. Galway

Offering visitors an authentic experience of Ireland’s rich heritage…An Spidéal (Spiddal) is a charming seaside village in County Galway, nestled along Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way.
As part of the Gaeltacht area, it’s a vibrant hub for Irish language and culture.
Traditional Irish music thrives in An Spidéal, with local pubs hosting regular live sessions.

Galway

Galway, a delight with its narrow streets, old stone and wooden shop fronts, good restaurants, and busy pubs.
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.

Pass by the Eyre Square, the accepted center 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.
Galway, the largest county in Connaught, is celebrated in song and story throughout the world and takes center 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. Drawn as if by a magnet, visitors come again and again, captivated by this most special of Irish counties.
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 has many relics of its medieval past and is worth taking time to explore. It has changed considerably over the last number of years and features a fascinating juxtaposition of new and ancient architecture.
The center 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 center. 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.

Enjoy an evening of traditional music and craic in this vibrant city!

Overnight B&B in your Galway Hotel

More on DAY 4 -GALWAY TO THE CLIFFS OF MOHER THE ARAN ISLAND

**Meeting Time: Your pick-up time will be between 9:00 AM to 9:15 AM (Arrive at the pick up point 15 minutes prior to tour pick up time-8:45am)
**Meeting Point: Your Galway City Hotel (pick up outside front door of Hotel)

Today you will embark on a Premium Small Group Tour in a Luxury Mini-Coach with Driver and Guide. The tour includes the spectacular cruise under the Cliffs of Moher, a visit to Inis Oírr and a lovely return trip on the scenic coastal route along South Connemara to Rossaveal Harbour.

Along with your trip to Aran Islands and Cliffs of Moher Cruise, some of the major attractions you’ll pass by include Salthill, Rossaveal, Doolin, Ballyvaughan, the Wild Atlantic Way, Coastal Road, Blackhead Lighthouse, and Dunguaire Castle.
The route circles all of Galway Bay, hence the nickname for the tour – “Galway Bay In A Day”.

When spending the afternoon discovering everything the quaint Inish Orr has to offer, you can visit the 15th-century O’Brien Castle. Or you may choose to simply stroll along the golden beaches on Inis Oirr and be awed by the Plassey Shipwreck. Or you may be interested in a bike rental or even a horse and cart, to explore Inish Orr. (Cost of rentals not included)
You will encounter native birds and wildlife and even hear the Irish language being spoken in the Gaeltacht region of Inis Oirr. You will have plenty of time on the island of Inis Oirr to have some lunch. Some of the finest and freshest seafood is available on the island, so be sure not to miss out if that’s your thing!
(Cost of Lunch is not included in ticket price)
This is an action packed tour that shows the best spots and hidden gems in the west of Ireland in just a few hours.

TOUR ITINERARY:

Cliffs of Moher Cruise

You will take the scenic route underneath the Cliffs of Moher with an exceptional sightseeing cruise. This jaw-dropping experience truly puts the Cliffs of Moher into perspective. Prepare to feel tiny!
Length: 60 minutes

Inis Oírr

Upon arriving on Inis Oírr, you’ll be greeted by golden sandy beaches, turquoise water, and maybe even the island’s resident dolphin, Dusty! This tranquil collection of fishing villages is also home to a burial mound dating back to 1,500 BC, a medieval church ruin buried half in the sand, and a three-story tower built within a Stone Age fort.
Along the shore, you’ll encounter a shipwreck from 1960, breathtaking views of Connemara and the Burren, and one of Ireland’s most beautiful beaches. Whichever path you take on the island, you’ll be sure to stumble upon history, traditions, and a good cup of tea.
Length: approximately 2.5-3 hours

South Connemara

We will take the scenic coastal route along South Connemara to Rossaveal Harbour. This region is steeped in history and culture, and is one of the few areas in Ireland where the Irish Language is still used as a primary language.

*Please note that the ferry crossings and Cliffs Cruise are both weather dependent and as such the tour route is subject to change. On rare occasions, only once or twice a year, the advertised route and/or timings at stops may have to be altered without notice.*

Overnight B&B in your Galway Hotel

More on DAY 5 -GALWAY TO KILLARNEY VIA THE BURREN & THE CLIFFS OF MOHER

The Burren, Megalithic Tombs & Celtic Crosses

Today, you will explore the Burren region. The Burren, part of which forms the 100 square km Burren National Park, is a unique place. It is a Karst limestone region of approximately 300 sq. km, which lies in the North West corner of Co Clare.
It is composed of limestone pavements, which have been eroded to a distinctive pattern. This pavement is criss-crossed by cracks known as grykes in which grow a myriad of wild flora and under which are huge caves and rivers which suddenly flood when it rains.
The Burren contains dozens of megalithic tombs and Celtic crosses as well as a ruined Cistercian Abbey dating back to the 12th century. You will discover small villages abandoned during the famine period and green roads on which you can walk for miles without ever seeing a car.
The flora on the Burren is a mixture Arctic and Mediterranean and rare flowers such as gentian, orchids and bloody cranesbill are the rule rather than the exception.
The Burren is truly an exceptional part of Ireland.

The Cliffs of Moher & The Burren Region

Situated on the Atlantic Ocean and bordering the Burren Area, 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. To the south of the cliffs is Hag’s Head and was once the site of a castle.
The cliffs reach their highest point just north of O’ Brien’s Tower. Cornelius O’ Brien, a descendant of Brian Boru (he who defeated the Vikings in battle), built a Tower at the cliffs in order to enjoy some tea with his lady friends.
The Tower is adjacent to the sea stack, Breanan Mór, which stands over 70 metres above the foaming waves and is home to some of the Burren’s wildlife.

Doolin

Continue onto Doolin for a PINT!. Doolin is a charming small seaside village on the north-west coast of County Clare ~ set against the rugged Atlantic Ocean and surrounded by the spectacular bare limestone landscape of the Burren. Traditionally a fishing village, Doolin is now renowned world-wide as the traditional music capital of Ireland.

Continue to Killarney via Killimer – Tarbert Car/Coach Ferry.

The Ferry crosses the Shannon Estuary, connecting Tarbert in County Kerry with Killimer in County Clare.
The Shannon Estuary is unique in Ireland due to its deep waters and proximity to the open Atlantic, making it one of the most biodiverse areas on the Irish coast. Its nutrient-rich waters support a wide array of marine life.
It is home to Ireland’s only known resident population of bottlenose dolphins, comprising about 140 individuals. These playful and social creatures can be seen year-round.
The ferry crossing itself is a scenic experience and a great way to spot dolphins!

Overnight B&B in your Killarney Hotel

More on DAY6 -KILLARNEY & THE RING OF KERRY

The Magnificent Ring Of Kerry Tour

Today will bring you on an unforgettable adventure around the famous Ring of Kerry.
Depart Killarney heading towards Killorglin.

Killorglin

Pass through Killorglin, the home of the ancient Celtic festival Puck Fair. Dating back to 1613., this is one of the oldest festivals in the world where a goat is crowned king of the village and placed on a pedestal for 3 day in August each year. People come from far and wide to pay homage to the king goat and enjoy the festivities of street stalls, music, and much more.
This section of the tour takes you along part of the famous “Ring of Kerry” driving route.

Dingle Bay

Enjoy a scenic drive along some parts of the famous Dingle Peninsula. And stop for photos en route with amazing views of Dingle Bay, Skellig rocks, Inch beach.
This ideal setting is perfect for panoramic photographs admits the Wild Atlantic Way.

Waterville

Picturesque little village overlooking Ballinskelligs Bay with its own beautiful beach, famed by the Skellig Rocks with their early Christian monastery.
A regular visitor, Charlie Chaplin loved Waterville and hence the statue in his honor, unveiled in 1998. It is also home to one of Ireland’s finest golf clubs and most famed footballer Mick O’Dwyer and Mick O’Connell.

Sneem

Take a stop in the charming village of Sneem. This is one of Ireland’s most colorful and charming villages. With two squares and a beautiful bridge in the middle of the village, this is where the River Sneem meets the currents of Kenmare Bay. It was also the regular holiday choice or Charles de Gaulle.

Killarney National Park

One of the most beautiful and admired national parks in the world, Killarney National Park was the first of its kind established in Ireland in 1932.
With magnificent views of the Lakes of Killarney and Black Valley, the park gives you an opportunity to enjoy a walk in this amazing landscape and spend time strolling along the lakes.

Torc Waterfall

Torc Waterfall is a 18m high waterfall which cascades through the wooded Friers Glenn. This is a magnificent natural site of beauty. Enjoy a short walk , and maybe even see the red deer which are well known inhabitants of the Killarney national park . The waterfall has a public hiking path that stretches to the top of Torc Mountain.

Return to Killarney for an evening filled with music and, possibly visit a few warm and friendly Pubs!

Overnight B&B in your Killarney Hotel

More on DAY 7 -KILLARNEY TO DINGLE

Today take a journey from Killarney to Dingle, heading out onto the Dingle Peninsula with its amazing mountain scenery and unusual antiquities.

Inch Beach

A stop at Inch Beach is a must! This is one of the most famous beaches in Ireland, and stretches for 3 miles facing the Atlantic ocean and is renowned as a surfing and fishing location.
Its golden sands became well known on the big screen as it has featured in many movies, most notably Ryan’s Daughter and Playboy of Western World which was entirely filmed along its shoreline.

Slea-Head

Slea Head drive, most westerly drive in Europe, is considered by many photographic magazines as the most beautiful peninsula in the world, and was recently voted the number one area for dramatic shots.
Marvel at the Atlantic Coast as you travel on this spectacular road which hugs the western shoreline. Enjoy great views of the Blasket Islands and maybe even see the “Sleeping Giant Island.”
The road winds around through Gaelic speaking Corca Dhuibhne beginning at Ventry beach passing by the 4000 year old beehive huts and onwards to Dunquin with amazing views of the great Blasket Island and the Sleeping Giant.
The peninsula has fabulous beaches in Coumeenoole and Clogherhead where the film Far and Away was shot.
Next visit will be the beautiful village of Ballyferriter and then on to Dingle.

Dingle Village

Dingle is a charming Gaelic speaking fishing village famed in many films like Far and Away and Ryan’s Daughter, Dingle is also celebrated for having the most pubs in Ireland for a town of its size, 52 pubs and 2000 people! And of course you will find some of the best Sessions in the country in this small village!
Dingle town is the heart and soul of the Peninsula. Today is attracts visitors, including artists and musicians, from all over the world.

Overnight, B&B in your Dingle Hotel

More on DAY 8 -DINGLE

Free Day in Dingle.

There is so much to do in town! You can take the day leisurely visiting the local shops, restaurants, or make a point of seeing just how many of the towns 52 Pubs you can visit in one day! But, don’t wear yourself out as you will not want to miss the evening craic at the local Sessions!

About Dingle

Sitting on the west coast between the emerald green folds of Slievanea mountain and the flinty-blue waters of the Atlantic Ocean, Dingle is a place that feels both wild and warm-hearted, far-flung and friendly.

It’s spectacular natural beauty is ripe for exploring, but it’s the town’s quiet moments that often stay longest in the memory: chats with locals about the mercurial weather, traditional pubs warmed by open fires and plates of super-fresh seafood served outside in the tang of the sea air.

“The quality of life in Dingle is very good,” says Bec Hoban of Outwest clothing store. “Things are nice and slow, the madness and the rushing you get in big cities isn’t really a thing here! People say hello to you in the street and wish you well.”

Since the 1960s, Dingle has drawn people from all over the world: adventurers, artists, musicians, drop-outs and curious travellers. Some stay and make their homes here. Some leave but feel compelled to return.

But this mix of global influences, Irish language speaking traditions, farmers, fishermen and locals make Dingle feel simultaneously up-to-the-minute and gloriously down-to-earth.

There are hip coffeeshops, local brewhouses, artisan ice cream emporiums and even a surf store, but they meld perfectly with a raft of jolly-coloured houses, old-style hardware store pubs, fishing boats, music shops, knitwear stores and Irish craft galleries.

“Even though Dingle will never lose its history, it puts its own twist on things – it’s innovative,” says Micheál Flannery of The Fish Box, “there’s amazing food and amazing cafés here – it really has it all.”

Connections to the sea

In Dingle itself, there’s lots to keep you occupied for a day or two. Try the Dingle Boat Tours for a quick one-hour tour around Dingle Harbour.

You’ll get to see what the guides describe as “the only Irish-speaking all-girls boarding school in the world”, but you’ll also hear about the history of Dingle itself, as well as tales of the much-missed dolphin, Funghie – a long-time resident of Dingle Harbour.

For a more substantial experience at sea, book in for a Catch and Cook food experience with the Dingle Cookery School, or the fast-paced, uber-exhilarating Dingle Sea Safari.

The town itself is a gorgeous place to wander with its brightly coloured buildings, friendly locals and hilly streets. “One of the best things you can do in Dingle is just grab a coffee in the morning and have a walk around,” says Micheál Flannery.

Lovely little art and craft galleries abound, but make sure to pop into An Díseart, where a set of glorious Harry Clarke stained windows can be viewed for a small donation in the chapel.

The best pubs in the world?

It’s hard to find a bad pub in Dingle. And on a rainy day, there are few things nicer than pulling up a stool beside the fire and waiting for the music to start.

A good place to kick off? Make it Dick Mack’s – it’s got a young, lively crowd and is usually packed to the rafters, but on a quiet day you can really appreciate the beauty of the 19th century front bar with its polished wood and long counter. The brewhouse here also runs brewery tours, with samplings of their latest beer.

Over on Main Street, Foxy John’s is equally popular with a half-pub, half-hardware feel and live music. There’s a definite change of pace at Curran’s pub across the road – which dates back to 1871. Sitting here with the afternoon light spilling onto the flagstones while the locals chat around you is a moment to cherish.

Overnight, B&B in your Dingle Hotel

More on DAY 9 -

Today you will travel from Dingle to Kinsale via West Cork.

Moll’s Gap

On the route you will take a stop in Moll’s Gap, one of Ireland’s most scenic mountain passes. Soak in the stunning panoramic views of the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks and the Black Valley.
Travel through Kenmare (An Neidín in Irish, meaning “The Little Nest”), is known for its colorful shopfronts, traditional pubs, shops, and relaxed, friendly atmosphere.

Traveling in West Cork you will visit Glengarriff, where West Cork’s mountains meet the sea to create a luxurious, sheltered haven on Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way.
Nestled beneath the grandeur of West Cork’s Caha mountains, and just moments from the islands in Bantry Bay.

Skibbereen (An Sciobirín in Irish)

Skibbereen in West Cork is the most southerly town in Ireland. Situated on the Ilen river, the town has a troubled past. Founded by English settlers after nearby Baltimore was sacked by Algerian Pirates in 1631. In the 19th century the town was one of the hardest hit by the Irish potato famine.
Today, Skibbereen’s fortunes have taken a turn for the better, and is host to numerous shops and many restaurants serving wholesome country food.

Kinsale

Kinsale, a colorful harbor town in County Cork, and is one of Ireland’s most beloved destinations—one of the country’s most picturesque and historic towns—known for its colorful streets, vibrant culture, rich maritime heritage, gourmet food scene, and relaxed seaside charm.

Overnight, B&B in your Kinsale Hotel

More on DAY 10 -KINSALE TO DUBLIN VIA THE ROCK OF CASHEL

Today, depart Kinsale for Dublin via the Rock Of Cashel

The Rock Of Cashel

The Rock of Cashel, also known as Cashel of the Kings and St. Patrick’s Rock, is a historical site located dramatically above a plain at Cashel, County Tipperary.
According to local legends, the Rock of Cashel originated in the Devil’s Bit, a mountain 20 miles north of Cashel when St. Patrick banished Satan from a cave, resulting in the Rock’s landing in Cashel.

The Rock of Cashel is a multi-period monastic site, which was a fortress before it became the seat of the bishop of the diocese of Cashel and is iconic in its historic significance, possessing the most impressive cluster of medieval buildings in Ireland.

Including its round tower, a 15th century Tower House, a high cross, a Romanesque chapel, a Gothic Cathedral, the Hall of the Vicars Choral and an Abbey. Cormack’s Chapel, consecrated in 1134, with one of Ireland’s best preserved Irish frescoes and Romanesque architecture.

Cormack’s Chapel

Visit Cormack’s Chapel, consecrated in 1134, with one of Ireland’s best preserved Irish frescoes and Romanesque architecture. One of Cormac’s Chapel’s most overlooked features, and one of its most interesting, is the collection of strange beasts carved throughout the Chapel.
Here one finds a collection of strange creatures known as grotesques or chimeras. Mythical beasts, some with human features or hybrid animal creatures.
Found all across Europe, the grotesques found in Cormac’s Chapel represent an early example of Gothic architecture, as the Chapel was built in the early 12th century between 1127 and 1134.

Grotesques grew out of the tradition of the gargoyle which are similar in nature, often displaying fantastical creatures, but always around the termination of a waterspout. Cormac’s Chapel does, in fact, have one gargoyle on its outer wall, but the rest of the carvings are grotesques.

Inside the nave of the Chapel, several creatures can be seen including a a dragon-type creature with a human head clasped between its teeth, a horned lion, possibly a bat-like creature. The damaged face of a bug-eyed grotesque can still be seen in the chancel arch.

The Hall of the Vicars Choral was built in the 15th century. The Vicars Choral were laymen, sometimes minor canons, appointed to assist in chanting the cathedral services. At Cashel there were originally eight Vicars Choral with their own seal.

Continue on to Dublin and Upon Arrival in Dublin, you will check into your city center hotel. The remainder of the day is free to relax and settle into the fair city of Dublin.

Overnight B& B in your Dublin Hotel

More on Day 11 -DUBLIN'S FAIR CITY

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.

You will have an option this morning for a visit to Guinness Storehouse, leaving you lots of time during the remainder of the afternoon to explore the city at your leisure.

Guinness Storehouse.

(Optional Extra – per person entrance fee will apply). 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.

Your afternoon of leisure may have you visiting one of the stops below:

Old Jameson Distillery

Old Jameson Distillery in Smithfield Village, located in the heart of Old Dublin. This old barley storehouse, once the center 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 colorful doors, along with Grafton Street and its quality shops.

Bram Stoker, the author of Dracula

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 center 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.
Enjoy a final evening of music and local culture in this exciting city!

Overnight B&B in your Dublin Hotel

More on DAY 12 -FAREWELL

Farewell

After a final Irish Breakfast, transfer under your own arrangements, to Dublin Airport for your Flight home.