Day 1 : Welcome to Ireland
Welcome to Ireland and Dublin Airport. Make your own way to your city centre hotel.
The remainder of the day is free to enjoy all that Dublin’s city has to offer.
Your hotel will be within walking distance of the city centre.
Overnight : Dublin (Dinner, bed & breakfast)
Day 2 : Blarney Castle And Kerry
Today meet with your driver and English-speaking tour guide and depart to County Kerry.
En route, visit Blarney Castle and Estate. Blarney Castle is set in over 60 acres of stunning parkland, filled with rare and unusual plants and trees and steeped in history. Visitors, too, can possess the gift of the gab by kissing the mythical Blarney Stone (or stone of eloquence).
Enjoy some time shopping at Blarney Woollen Mills. The presence of the Woollen Mills during the famine shielded the village of Blarney from the worst effects of the famine due to its employment of local workers. In 1976, a mill worker, Chris Kelleher bought the old mill property, transforming the mill into perhaps the largest quality craft shop in Ireland.
Overnight : Kerry (Bed & breakfast)
Day 3 : Ring of Kerry
Today you can enjoy a superb tour of the Iveragh Peninsula, where you will discover the Ring of Kerry while taking in the spectacular scenery such as mountains, peat, bogs, lakes and magnificent views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Depart Killarney and drive through Killorglin, famous for its Puck Fair, then on to Glenbeigh where the cliff road affords panoramic views of the Dingle Peninsula and Dingle Bay.
Continue through the landscape of peat bogs before arriving at the seaside town of Waterville and then on to Sneem, famous for its brightly coloured houses, before arriving back in Killarney.
Along the Ring of Kerry stop at a local farm for a sheepdog demonstration. Your visit starts with an overview of the different breeds of sheep, followed by an introduction to the farmer’s most important tools, his border collies.
Next you will see a superb demonstration of sheep herding as the farmer and his dogs demonstrate how, by working together, they can take a flock of sheep from the mountaintop to the sheep pen close to the farmyard.
Optional : Jaunting Car Ride in Killarney National Park – Supplement of € 14.00 p.p.
- Enjoy transportation of a different kind! A pony and trap (also known as a Jaunting Car) to discover areas of Killarney National Park that you might not otherwise visit.
- Today enjoy dinner on your own in one of the many restaurants or pubs in Killarney town.
Overnight : Kerry (Bed & breakfast)
Day 4 : Burren & Cliffs of Moher
Check out of your hotel, travel northwards to Tarbert, and take a short boat ride across the mouth of the River Shannon to Killimer in County Clare.
Travel along the coast to the Cliffs of Moher, the most majestic cliffs in Ireland, which rise from the Atlantic Ocean and extend for over 7km. You can admire the Aran Islands and Connemara Mountains on a clear day.
Enjoy a tour of the Burren Region. The Burren is a strange and unique region in Europe; it is a high plateau of porous limestone situated in Northern Clare.
Optional : Medieval Banquet at Bunratty Castle – Supplement of € 72.00 p.p.
Bunratty Castle was built in the 15th century by the Earl of Thomond and stands on the banks of the Raite River in County Clare. The Earl was known for his generosity and his lavish entertainment and banquets. The superb Bunratty Singers provide today's entertainment and is a fitting compliment to the lively mead reception, a four-course meal and good wine.
Overnight : Limerick (Bed & breakfast)
Day 5 : Galway City & Cruise
Today, travel to Galway City, renowned for its vibrant lifestyle and numerous festivals, celebrations, and events. Stroll down Shop Street – a charming pedestrianised street which is the cultural heartbeat of Galway City. The main squares in the city are Eyre Square (containing John F. Kennedy Park) and Spanish Parade next to the Spanish Arch. Visit Galway Cathedral, one of the largest and most impressive buildings in Galway built between 1958 and 1965.
Later, enjoy a cruise along Lough Corrib, including scones and an Irish coffee. This journey on the Corrib Princess takes passengers along the majestic Lough Corrib and onto the lake. Visitors will see unsurpassed views of the historic monuments and natural amenities that make this one of the most spectacular waterways in Ireland.
Overnight : Galway (Dinner, bed & breakfast)
Day 6 : Connemara
Today visit Connemara, a land of lakes and rivers, bogs and mountains. A land of small villages where Gaelic is still the spoken language, and little has changed since the beginning of time. It is undoubtedly the wildest and the most romantic part of Ireland.
Visit Kylemore Abbey, built in 1868 by Mitchell Henry, and see its most famous feature, the miniature Cathedral. It has been home to the Irish order of Benedictine nuns since 1920.
Next, you will visit Dan O'Hara s homestead. The Centre offers a unique insight into the history and heritage of this most beautiful part of Connemara and the West of Ireland. Here you will enjoy tea and scones.
Overnight : Galway (Bed & breakfast)
Day 7 : Dublin’s Fair City
This morning, depart Galway for Dublin City. On arrival, you will first explore the city's north side, which offers striking monuments such as the GPO (General Post Office) on O’Connell Street and Phoenix Park, Europe's largest city-based public park. The city’s south side appears more sophisticated with its vast Georgian squares and is home to Trinity College, Dublin Castle and two Anglican Cathedrals.
Visit EPIC, The Irish Emigration Museum. Over the centuries, over 10 million people emigrated from Ireland – at EPIC you can find out why they left, where they went and how they shaped the world. As you uncover the stories of our emigrants, you’ll realise that emigration is not about what people leave behind but what they bring with them.
Optional : Evening Entertainment at Taylor’s Three Rock or similar – Supplement of € 72.00 p.p.
- Visit this lively pub in Rathfarnham for an excellent night of music and dance.
Overnight : Dublin (Bed & breakfast)
Day 8 : Farewell
After a final Irish breakfast, transfer to Dublin Airport for your departure flight home under own arrangements.
End of our services.
Our services include :
- 7 nights accommodation with daily breakfast
- 2 Dinner at your hotel on days 1&5
- Visits include Blarney Castle, Sheep Dog Demonstration, Tarbart to Kilimer Ferry, Cliffs of Moher, Galway Cathedral, Lough Corrib Cruise, Kylemore Abbey, Dan O'Hara Homestead and EPIC Museum.
- Modern motor-coach for days 2-7
- English speaking guide for days 1-7
- Porterage x 1 piece of luggage p.p
Our services do not include :
- International flights
- Visa
- Insurance
- Activities and meals other than mentioned
- Personal expenses
Accommodation:
- Dublin : Academy Plaza, The Gresham or similar
- Kerry : Randles Hotel, Dromhall Hotel or similar
- Limerick : The George or similar
- Galway : Salthill Hotel, Clayton Hotel or similar
Ireland, often referred to as the "Emerald Isle," is a country known for its stunning landscapes, rich history, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality. Located in the North Atlantic, it is part of the British Isles and is divided into the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland, which is part of the United Kingdom. This guide will focus on the Republic of Ireland, offering insights into its major cities, attractions, cultural experiences, and practical travel tips.
Getting There:
Ireland is accessible via several international airports, the main ones being Dublin Airport (DUB), Shannon Airport (SNN), and Cork Airport (ORK). Direct flights are available from many major cities in Europe, North America, and beyond.
Where to Stay:
Ireland offers a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels and quaint bed-and-breakfasts to budget hostels and self-catering cottages. Popular areas to stay include:
Dublin: The capital city offers a range of accommodations from luxury hotels like The Shelbourne to budget-friendly options such as Generator Hostel.
Galway: Known for its lively arts scene, Galway offers charming guesthouses and hotels, including The Galmont Hotel & Spa.
Cork: The second-largest city in Ireland has a variety of accommodations, such as The River Lee Hotel and Kinlay House Cork.
Killarney: A gateway to the Ring of Kerry, it offers a mix of upscale and budget accommodations like The Killarney Park Hotel and Neptune’s Hostel.
Top Cities and Attractions:
Dublin:
Trinity College and the Book of Kells: Home to Ireland’s greatest cultural treasure, the Book of Kells.
Guinness Storehouse: Learn about the history of Ireland's famous beer and enjoy a pint with panoramic views of the city.
Temple Bar: A cultural quarter with cobbled streets, lively pubs, and street performers.
Dublin Castle: A historic site with gardens, museums, and guided tours.
Galway:
Eyre Square: A bustling public park in the heart of the city.
Galway Cathedral: A stunning example of modern architecture.
Salthill Promenade: A beautiful coastal walk offering scenic views of Galway Bay.
Galway Arts Festival: An annual event showcasing local and international artists.
Cork:
Blarney Castle: Home to the famous Blarney Stone, which is said to bestow the gift of eloquence.
English Market: A historic indoor market offering local produce, meats, and cheeses.
Fitzgerald Park: A picturesque park with a museum, sculptures, and playgrounds.
Killarney:
Killarney National Park: Explore the stunning landscapes, lakes, and waterfalls.
Muckross House and Gardens: A 19th-century mansion with beautiful gardens.
Ring of Kerry: A scenic drive offering breathtaking views of mountains, lakes, and coastal landscapes.
Limerick:
King John’s Castle: A medieval castle with interactive exhibitions.
The Hunt Museum: A collection of artifacts and artworks spanning several millennia.
St. Mary’s Cathedral: A beautiful and historic church in the city center.
Cultural Experiences:
Traditional Music and Dance:
Experience traditional Irish music and dance in pubs and cultural centers. The city of Galway is particularly renowned for its vibrant music scene.
Festivals:
St. Patrick’s Day: Celebrated on March 17th with parades, music, and festivities across the country.
Galway International Arts Festival: A major event featuring theater, music, visual arts, and street performances.
Literary Heritage:
Visit the homes and museums dedicated to Ireland’s famous writers, such as James Joyce, W.B. Yeats, and Oscar Wilde.
Irish Cuisine:
Sample traditional Irish dishes like Irish stew, soda bread, and seafood chowder. Don’t miss trying local specialties such as black pudding and boxty.
Practical Tips:
Currency: The Euro (€) is the official currency in the Republic of Ireland. Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s useful to carry some cash for smaller purchases.
Language: English is the main language, although Irish (Gaelic) is also spoken, particularly in rural areas.
Transportation: Ireland has a well-developed public transportation system, including trains, buses, and ferries. Renting a car is also a popular option for exploring the countryside.
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit is from April to September when the weather is milder and many festivals take place. However, Ireland’s scenery is beautiful year-round, and off-season travel can offer fewer crowds and lower prices.
Health and Safety: Ireland is a safe destination with good healthcare facilities. It’s advisable to have travel insurance for any unexpected medical expenses.
Ireland offers a rich tapestry of experiences, from its vibrant cities and cultural heritage to its stunning natural landscapes and welcoming people. Whether you’re exploring historic castles, enjoying traditional music in a cozy pub, or hiking through lush green valleys, Ireland promises a memorable and enchanting travel experience. Embrace the warmth of the Irish spirit and the beauty of the Emerald Isle on your next adventure.
UNFORGETTABLE IRELAND
Reference #: WTP0723
- Scenic Drive of the Ring of Kerry
- Explore Dublin, Connemara & The Burren
- Discover Galway & Lough Corrib