Overview
Itinerary
Embrace the warm welcome of the 'Emerald Isle' – its ancient heritage, legends and lore are yours to explore as you travel the length and breadth of this island and its tale of two nations. The charismatic capital of Dublin is our first stop on this epic journey, which begins as you join your Travel Director and travel companions for a special Welcome Reception at a local pub. (D) Stay: Maldron Kevin Street
Belfast beckons today and we journey to Northern Ireland for some time at leisure in this vibrant city. Join a Local Specialist to view the historic murals splashed across the walls of the nationalist and loyalist areas, and see the City Hall. Dive Into Culture at the Titanic Belfast Experience and gain a new perspective into the world's most famous ship and the tragedy that befell it.
This evening, we dine in our hotel. (B/D) Stay: Radisson Blu
Visit the Giant's Causeway for a memorable MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience, which will help to conserve this iconic landmark. Tread in the footsteps of Finn MacCool – his geometric Giant's Causeway is more the stuff of legends than the result of ancient volcanic activity which left its mark on the northern Irish coast. Admire the 40,000 interlocking basalt columns that fade into the sea.
After a day of myths, legends and Hollywood blockbusters, consider tucking into an optional Fish and Chips dinner. (B)
Traversing Northern Ireland, we arrive at the old walled city of Londonderry on the Foyle River, where we join a Local Specialist who will take us to its most iconic sights. Delving into the former struggles of the region, we visit the People's Gallery in Bogside to view its poignant murals. We journey to County Donegal later, where we will spend the next two nights.
This evening, enjoy a tasty dinner in our hotel. (B/D) Stay: Kee's
Explore the town of Donegal located at the mouth of the River Eske and Donegal Bay. Consider visiting the ancient Donegal Castle, once the stronghold of the O'Donnell clan.
This afternoon, we visit Belleek where we'll Dive Into Culture and learn about the locally made Irish pottery for which the region is famous. (B)
Continuing to the pilgrimage town of Knock, we visit the beautiful Marian Shrine where the Virgin Mary, Saint Joseph, and John the Evangelist are said to have made an appearance to the townsfolk in 1879. We complete the day's journey in Galway. (B) Stay: Maldron Oranmore
The untamed landscapes of Connemara, set against rugged mountains and tranquil loughs, provide a soul-stirring backdrop for your scenic drive to Kylemore Abbey. This Benedictine monastery, built on the grounds of Kylemore Castle, features a magnificent Victorian Walled Garden, which we will have an opportunity to explore before returning to Galway.
This afternoon, spend your free time exploring Galway's vibrant Latin Quarter, striking stone Cathedral or the 18th-century Eyre Square.
This evening, enjoy dinner at your hotel. (B/D)
Our sightseeing trip across the rugged beauty of Ireland continues as we see the spectacular UNESCO-listed Cliffs of Moher plunging into the wild Atlantic over 200 meters below. At the 'Atlantic Edge' exhibition, you'll get an enchanting bird's eye view of the nooks and crannies where colonies of Atlantic Puffin find sanctuary and go beneath the surface to explore the ancient rocks. The inspiring views continue as we journey along the scenic coastal route, through County Clare bound for Killarney.
This evening is yours to spend as you wish, but perhaps we can tempt you with a bit of craic at a traditional Irish ceilidh to soak up the town's festive atmosphere. (B) Stay: International
Circle the mystical Ring of Kerry – among Ireland's most enchanting landscapes along which we'll have an opportunity to view the island's stunning scenery. Travel through Moll's Gap and take a moment to view the marvelous natural scenery at Ladies View.
This evening is at leisure. (B)
Your 'gift of the gab' secured after kissing the Blarney Stone this morning, we then venture to Cork where we spend some time exploring the cosmopolitan city that rivals Dublin in its energy and charisma. Spend some free time visiting the famous food market or perhaps relax at one of the city's tearooms, indulging in fresh scones and tea. Our final stop today is in medieval Waterford where we'll spend the next two nights. (B) Stay: Marina
A leisurely start to your morning could see you amble along Meagher's Quay, before you visit the House of Waterford, where you'll Dive Into Culture and witness the art of creating the exquisite crystal. Travel to the medieval city of Kilkenny, home to the world's fastest field game. The ancient Celtic sport of hurling is over 3,000 years old and Ireland's national sport. Meet an experienced player who will share his passion, as you test your skills during a lesson. We spend the rest of the afternoon on our own in Waterford. (B)
Traverse beautiful County Wexford to the John F. Kennedy Arboretum – a peaceful retreat in New Ross with over 4,500 species of plants across 252 hectares dedicated to the former American president. We leave the enchanting outdoors behind and take a step back in time to the 1800s as we visit the three-masted Dunbrody Famine Ship.
We'll Dive Into Culture, gaining insight into the tragic plight of the Irish emigrants, who were compelled to leave their home during the potato famine and endured even harsher conditions than at home in the 'coffin ships' that took them to new lands. We join the Fulvio family and Connect With Locals over dinner at a Be My Guest experience featuring Irish fare with an Italian twist, served at their Ballyknocken Farmhouse near Dublin. (B/D) Stay: Maldron Kevin Street
We wander through Dublin this morning, joining a Local Specialist for a superb sightseeing tour that will see us view Trinity College and the magnificent Georgian Squares. Spend the rest of the day exploring the city on your terms. Indulge in a pint of the 'Black Stuff' at one of its many quaint pubs, admire the colorful performances on Grafton Street, or delve into its centuries-old history.
This evening, let the rousing sounds of a traditional Irish cabaret tempt you for an Optional Experience that will have you dancing your way through the Dublin streets. (B)
Our memorable journey through Ireland is at its end. All that's left to say is slán abhaile to newfound friends as you prepare to depart for home. (B)
Embrace the warm welcome of the 'Emerald Isle' – its ancient heritage, legends and lore are yours to explore as you travel the length and breadth of this island and its tale of two nations. The charismatic capital of Dublin is our first stop on this epic journey, which begins as you join your Travel Director and travel companions for a special Welcome Reception at a local pub. (D) Stay: Maldron Kevin Street
Belfast beckons today and we journey to Northern Ireland for some time at leisure in this vibrant city. Join a Local Specialist to view the historic murals splashed across the walls of the nationalist and loyalist areas, and see the City Hall. Dive Into Culture at the Titanic Belfast Experience and gain a new perspective into the world's most famous ship and the tragedy that befell it.
This evening, we dine in our hotel. (B/D) Stay: Radisson Blu
Visit the Giant's Causeway for a memorable MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience, which will help to conserve this iconic landmark. Tread in the footsteps of Finn MacCool – his geometric Giant's Causeway is more the stuff of legends than the result of ancient volcanic activity which left its mark on the northern Irish coast. Admire the 40,000 interlocking basalt columns that fade into the sea.
After a day of myths, legends and Hollywood blockbusters, consider tucking into an optional Fish and Chips dinner. (B)
Traversing Northern Ireland, we arrive at the old walled city of Londonderry on the Foyle River, where we join a Local Specialist who will take us to its most iconic sights. Delving into the former struggles of the region, we visit the People's Gallery in Bogside to view its poignant murals. We journey to County Donegal later, where we will spend the next two nights.
This evening, enjoy a tasty dinner in our hotel. (B/D) Stay: Kee's
Explore the town of Donegal located at the mouth of the River Eske and Donegal Bay. Consider visiting the ancient Donegal Castle, once the stronghold of the O'Donnell clan.
This afternoon, we visit Belleek where we'll Dive Into Culture and learn about the locally made Irish pottery for which the region is famous. (B)
Continuing to the pilgrimage town of Knock, we visit the beautiful Marian Shrine where the Virgin Mary, Saint Joseph, and John the Evangelist are said to have made an appearance to the townsfolk in 1879. We complete the day's journey in Galway. (B) Stay: Maldron Oranmore
The untamed landscapes of Connemara, set against rugged mountains and tranquil loughs, provide a soul-stirring backdrop for your scenic drive to Kylemore Abbey. This Benedictine monastery, built on the grounds of Kylemore Castle, features a magnificent Victorian Walled Garden, which we will have an opportunity to explore before returning to Galway.
This afternoon, spend your free time exploring Galway's vibrant Latin Quarter, striking stone Cathedral or the 18th-century Eyre Square.
This evening, enjoy dinner at your hotel. (B/D)
Our sightseeing trip across the rugged beauty of Ireland continues as we see the spectacular UNESCO-listed Cliffs of Moher plunging into the wild Atlantic over 200 meters below. At the 'Atlantic Edge' exhibition, you'll get an enchanting bird's eye view of the nooks and crannies where colonies of Atlantic Puffin find sanctuary and go beneath the surface to explore the ancient rocks. The inspiring views continue as we journey along the scenic coastal route, through County Clare bound for Killarney.
This evening is yours to spend as you wish, but perhaps we can tempt you with a bit of craic at a traditional Irish ceilidh to soak up the town's festive atmosphere. (B) Stay: International
Circle the mystical Ring of Kerry – among Ireland's most enchanting landscapes along which we'll have an opportunity to view the island's stunning scenery. Travel through Moll's Gap and take a moment to view the marvelous natural scenery at Ladies View.
This evening is at leisure. (B)
Your 'gift of the gab' secured after kissing the Blarney Stone this morning, we then venture to Cork where we spend some time exploring the cosmopolitan city that rivals Dublin in its energy and charisma. Spend some free time visiting the famous food market or perhaps relax at one of the city's tearooms, indulging in fresh scones and tea. Our final stop today is in medieval Waterford where we'll spend the next two nights. (B) Stay: Marina
A leisurely start to your morning could see you amble along Meagher's Quay, before you visit the House of Waterford, where you'll Dive Into Culture and witness the art of creating the exquisite crystal. Travel to the medieval city of Kilkenny, home to the world's fastest field game. The ancient Celtic sport of hurling is over 3,000 years old and Ireland's national sport. Meet an experienced player who will share his passion, as you test your skills during a lesson. We spend the rest of the afternoon on our own in Waterford. (B)
Traverse beautiful County Wexford to the John F. Kennedy Arboretum – a peaceful retreat in New Ross with over 4,500 species of plants across 252 hectares dedicated to the former American president. We leave the enchanting outdoors behind and take a step back in time to the 1800s as we visit the three-masted Dunbrody Famine Ship.
We'll Dive Into Culture, gaining insight into the tragic plight of the Irish emigrants, who were compelled to leave their home during the potato famine and endured even harsher conditions than at home in the 'coffin ships' that took them to new lands. We join the Fulvio family and Connect With Locals over dinner at a Be My Guest experience featuring Irish fare with an Italian twist, served at their Ballyknocken Farmhouse near Dublin. (B/D) Stay: Maldron Kevin Street
We wander through Dublin this morning, joining a Local Specialist for a superb sightseeing tour that will see us view Trinity College and the magnificent Georgian Squares. Spend the rest of the day exploring the city on your terms. Indulge in a pint of the 'Black Stuff' at one of its many quaint pubs, admire the colorful performances on Grafton Street, or delve into its centuries-old history.
This evening, let the rousing sounds of a traditional Irish cabaret tempt you for an Optional Experience that will have you dancing your way through the Dublin streets. (B)
Our memorable journey through Ireland is at its end. All that's left to say is slán abhaile to newfound friends as you prepare to depart for home. (B)
Trip Inclusions
- Explore Belfast, Londonderry and Dublin with a Local Specialist
- Discover Donegal, Galway, Cork and Waterford
- Visit the Titanic Experience in Belfast, the Giant's Causeway, Belleek Pottery Visitor Centre, Kylemore Abbey, Connemara, Cliffs of Moher, Blarney Castle, the John F. Kennedy Arboretum and the Dunbrody Famine Ship in New Ross and Waterford Crystal
- View the Antrim Coast and the Marian Shrine in Knock
- See City Hall in Belfast, the Cathedral of Galway and Trinity College and the Georgian Squares in Dublin
- Scenic cruise across the Shannon Estuary
- Scenic drive of the Ring of Kerry
Be My Guest
- Wicklow: Traditional Irish fare with an Italian twist is served up at Glenealy House near Dublin with the charming Fulvio family on hand to share their story.
Dive Into Culture
- Belfast: Discover the full story of the Titanic at the Titanic Belfast visitor attraction and monument in Belfast.
- Belleek: See traditional craftsmen at work at the Belleek Pottery Visitor Centre, one of the oldest working potteries in the world.
- Waterford: Learn how crystal is crafted at the House of Waterford Crystal during a workshop tour.
- New Ross: Explore the tragic history of Ireland's famine emigration at the Dunbrody Famine Ship Experience, a replica of one of the original ships used in the 1800s.
Iconic Experience
- Belfast: Join a Local Specialist to hear about the history of the city and learn of its progress and current prosperity. See the murals in different locations indicating the political sentiments of local residents.
- Londonderry: With a Local Specialist explore inside the city walls. See the Gothic Guildhall and the Georgian houses of Shipquay Street.
- Knock: In the pilgrimage town of Knock, visit the beautiful Marian Shrine, where the Virgin Mary, Saint Joseph and John the Evangelist are said to have appeared to the townsfolk in 1879.
- Kylemore Abbey & Victorian Walled Garden: Visit the turreted Neo-Gothic Kylemore Abbey. This monastery was founded in 1920 for Benedictine Nuns who fled Belgium in World War I.
- Cliffs of Moher: Stop by the Exhibition Centre and look out over the Wild Atlantic Way from these majestic cliffs.
- Blarney: It is said that those who kiss the Blarney Stone are bestowed with the power to persuade, flatter and coax. But to do so, you must dangle from the ramparts! Visit Blarney Castle and see the famous Stone of Eloquence.
- Cork: Your Travel Director will show you the Grand Parade and South Mall, along with City Hall and the Opera House.
- Kilkenny: Meet an experienced hurling player for a fun session to learn about and try for yourself this 3,000-year-old discipline and proud legacy of Ireland's heritage.
- New Ross: Dedicated to the memory of John F. Kennedy, whose great-grandfather was born nearby, this arboretum contains a plant collection of presidential proportions.
- Dublin: A Local Specialist will show you Dublin's elegant Georgian squares, O'Connell Street and the Custom House.
Make Travel Matter®
- Bushmills: In Northern Ireland you'll discover the legend of the Giant's Causeway as you explore with an expert, who'll explain how your visit helps conserve this iconic natural landmark.
- An expert Travel Director and professional Driver
- Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted
- All porterage and restaurant gratuities
- All hotel tips, charges and local taxes
- Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals
- Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras
- Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing
- Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)
- Ferry across the Shannon estuary
- Optional Experiences (Additional Cost) and free time
- On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilised.
- 5 Dinner (D)
- 13 Breakfast (B)
- Itinerary and inclusions are subject to change
- Price is for land, cruise and internal flights as specified. Flights not specified are not included
- Explore Belfast, Londonderry and Dublin with a Local Specialist
- Discover Donegal, Galway, Cork and Waterford
- Visit the Titanic Experience in Belfast, the Giant's Causeway, Belleek Pottery Visitor Centre, Kylemore Abbey, Connemara, Cliffs of Moher, Blarney Castle, the John F. Kennedy Arboretum and the Dunbrody Famine Ship in New Ross and Waterford Crystal
- View the Antrim Coast and the Marian Shrine in Knock
- See City Hall in Belfast, the Cathedral of Galway and Trinity College and the Georgian Squares in Dublin
- Scenic cruise across the Shannon Estuary
- Scenic drive of the Ring of Kerry
Be My Guest
- Wicklow: Traditional Irish fare with an Italian twist is served up at Glenealy House near Dublin with the charming Fulvio family on hand to share their story.
Dive Into Culture
- Belfast: Discover the full story of the Titanic at the Titanic Belfast visitor attraction and monument in Belfast.
- Belleek: See traditional craftsmen at work at the Belleek Pottery Visitor Centre, one of the oldest working potteries in the world.
- Waterford: Learn how crystal is crafted at the House of Waterford Crystal during a workshop tour.
- New Ross: Explore the tragic history of Ireland's famine emigration at the Dunbrody Famine Ship Experience, a replica of one of the original ships used in the 1800s.
Iconic Experience
- Belfast: Join a Local Specialist to hear about the history of the city and learn of its progress and current prosperity. See the murals in different locations indicating the political sentiments of local residents.
- Londonderry: With a Local Specialist explore inside the city walls. See the Gothic Guildhall and the Georgian houses of Shipquay Street.
- Knock: In the pilgrimage town of Knock, visit the beautiful Marian Shrine, where the Virgin Mary, Saint Joseph and John the Evangelist are said to have appeared to the townsfolk in 1879.
- Kylemore Abbey & Victorian Walled Garden: Visit the turreted Neo-Gothic Kylemore Abbey. This monastery was founded in 1920 for Benedictine Nuns who fled Belgium in World War I.
- Cliffs of Moher: Stop by the Exhibition Centre and look out over the Wild Atlantic Way from these majestic cliffs.
- Blarney: It is said that those who kiss the Blarney Stone are bestowed with the power to persuade, flatter and coax. But to do so, you must dangle from the ramparts! Visit Blarney Castle and see the famous Stone of Eloquence.
- Cork: Your Travel Director will show you the Grand Parade and South Mall, along with City Hall and the Opera House.
- New Ross: Dedicated to the memory of John F. Kennedy, whose great-grandfather was born nearby, this arboretum contains a plant collection of presidential proportions.
- Dublin: A Local Specialist will show you Dublin's elegant Georgian squares, O'Connell Street and the Custom House.
Make Travel Matter®
- Bushmills: In Northern Ireland you'll discover the legend of the Giant's Causeway as you explore with an expert, who'll explain how your visit helps conserve this iconic natural landmark.
- An expert Travel Director and professional Driver
- Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted
- All porterage and restaurant gratuities
- All hotel tips, charges and local taxes
- Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals
- Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras
- Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing
- Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)
- Ferry across the Shannon estuary
- Optional Experiences (Additional Cost) and free time
- On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilised.
- 5 Dinner (D)
- 13 Breakfast (B)
- Itinerary and inclusions are subject to change
- Price is for land, cruise and internal flights as specified. Flights not specified are not included
Trip Reviews (4) Most Recent 'Amazing Ireland' Reviews
Ireland is a fascinating country to visit. The people are so friendly and welcoming. Everywhere we went we met locals who welcomed us with open arms. The social scene experienced at each of the Pubs we visited was nothing like what we see here in Australia. The history and scenery are both very interesting and well worth the effort to visit. The tour itself is a leisurely pace that allows enough time to relax and explore cities at an acceptable pace. I would definitely recommend this tour.
The included meals were usually good and the Be My Guest lunch/dinner was a highlight. My favourite town was Kilkenny which came towards the end of the tour but we did also very much enjoy all of the west coast. The biggest disappointment was the Giant's Causeway as it was so dangerous, especially for older people scrambling over rocks. There were quite a few optional excursions which we did not feel the need to participate in. However the dinner on our last evening was most entertaining.
Ireland doesn't really have seasons.... it just gets a couple of degrees colder in winter. In September it was between 10 and 17 degrees and short passing showers on most days.
We travelled 14 days mid June and were hardly affected by the weather, only at the Cliffs of Moher where it was misty. We had some rain, but each time we stopped, so did it, and we were able to enjoy the sights. We had a lovely group of people on our coach, American, Canadian, New Zealand and us Australians (5 of us). There were many highlights, but the Titanic experience was amazing and the final night dinner and cabaret topped the whole holiday off - an excellent optional extra. Would we travel with Trafalgar again, definitely. Thank you to Jemma from Global Journeys for her patience with our booking. We always use Global Journeys when planning a trip.
The itinerary was geared a bit to American interests ...read more and their Irish heritage (but I did realise this before booking), and boy did they love to shop! The weather in June was quite warm and most hotels did not have air-conditioning. It was sometimes a scramble at the front desk to get a fan. In one place they went out and bought some fans to keep everyone happy. I have travelled with Trafalgar before and it was fine, but this trip was not a favourite.
Brochure
Trafalgar UK & Ireland (2024-25)
Brochure
Trafalgar UK & Ireland (2024-25)
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Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Prices and trip information are correct at the time at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Trafalgar. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from Trafalgar. These should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.
