Enchanting Ireland

Overview

Itinerary at a Glance

• 1 Depart USA
• 2 Arrive Dublin
• 3 Dublin
• 4 County Kerry
• Optional Excursion: Celtic Steps The Show, $70
• 5 County Kerry
• 6 County Clare
• 7 Galway
• 8 Connemara National Park, Galway
• 9 Clonmacnoise, Dublin
• 10 Dublin/USA

Northern Ireland Extension

• 10 Derry, Northern Ireland
• 11 Giant’s Causeway, Belfast
• 12 Belfast
• 13 Belfast, Dublin
• 14 Dublin/USA

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1 Depart USA

• Depart the USA on your overnight flight to Dublin, Ireland

Day 2 Arrive Dublin

• Upon arrival, meet our representative and transfer to your hotel
• Participate in a Panoramic Tour of Dublin
• Visit Trinity College to view the Book of Kells
• Meet your fellow travelers for a welcome dinner at a local restaurant

The Address Connolly or similar Dinner

Full Day Itinerary

Fáilte (welcome) to Ireland. Upon arrival in Dublin, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. Most flights will arrive early in the morning, but the hotel will allow you to safely store your luggage while you explore Dublin. 

By early afternoon, meet your guide and depart for a brief panoramic tour of Dublin. Located on the east coast of the island, it is a vibrant, modern city with a rich cultural heritage and has been an important center for art, literature, education, and politics since the 11th century. 

Visit Trinity College, the oldest University in Ireland, founded in 1592 by Elizabeth I. Explore the Long Room Library, where the 9th-century Book of Kells is housed, and view its intricately illustrated pages up close. Wander the stunning college grounds, with its beautiful architecture and gardens. Afterward, spend time in the Old Library Exhibition, where you can learn more about the history of the Book of Kells and other Irish manuscripts.

This evening, join your fellow travelers for dinner.

Day 3 Dublin

• Visit the Kilmainham Jail and Museum
• Enjoy the Guinness Storehouse and Gravity Bar
• Tour Dublin, including St Audoen's Church and Christchurch Cathedral

The Address Connolly or similar Breakfast

Full Day Itinerary

After breakfast, start the day with a visit to Kilmainham Jail and Museum. The museum offers visitors an insight into the history of Irish political movements and incarcerated prisoners between 1796 and 1924. Explore the jail's cells, courtyards, chapel, and hospital wing to understand better what life was like inside the prison during this period. The museum also provides educational programs focusing on Irish history, human rights, and social justice. 

Next, stop at the Guinness Storehouse and Gravity Bar to taste Ireland's history through its world-famous beer, Guinness. Learn about the 250-year-old history of this iconic beverage as you are guided through seven floors dedicated to the brew's origins, how it's made, and its impact on Irish culture. Then, head up to the top floor for a visit to the Gravity Bar. This bar boasts stunning 360-degree views over Dublin city and is the perfect place to enjoy a pint while admiring the view!

Later, head to St. Audoen's Medieval Church--one of the city's oldest churches. Constructed in 1190 by the Anglo-Normans, the church is an example of early Gothic architecture in the city. St. Audoen's features a Romanesque arch leading to its tower and a series of smaller arches around its main entrance. Inside, there are several stained glass windows and a large stone altar. The crypt beneath the church also houses some of the oldest remains in Dublin. 

Finish today's tour with a visit to the nearby Christchurch Cathedral, which was founded under the Viking king Siclkenbeard and dates back to 1030 AD, making it one of the city's oldest buildings. Located in the former heart of medieval Dublin, its spire reaches a height of over 100 meters. Inside, you can explore the crypt and marvel at the beautiful stained glass windows.

Enjoy the remainder of the day and evening at leisure.

Day 4 County Kerry

• Admire the medieval Rock of Cashel
• Visit Blarney Castle and kiss the Blarney Stone

Arbutus Hotel, The Ross, Killarney Plaza or similar Breakfast & lunch

Full Day Itinerary

This morning, depart for Kerry, home to some of Ireland's most stunning natural scenery, including the majestic Macgillycuddy's Reeks mountain range and the Ring of Kerry along the Wild Atlantic Way. Stop along the way to visit the Rock of Cashel. This 12th-century historic site features a large round tower, an impressive Gothic cathedral, high crosses, and other structures that make it an iconic symbol of Irish heritage. The site was once the seat of the kings of Munster and has been associated with numerous mythological tales throughout its history.

Next, head to Blarney Castle. Dating back to 1446, it was built by Cormac MacCarthy, King of Munster. It is famous for its "Blarney Stone," which legend says bestows the gift of eloquence on anyone who kisses it. The castle also features gardens, waterfalls, and a tower with spectacular views of the surrounding countryside. 

Continue through Ireland's Midlands to your hotel in the Kerry region.

The evening is free to enjoy exploring excellent local bars specializing in Irish traditional music, or join an optional tour to experience "Celtic Steps The Show."

 

 

Optional Excursion: Celtic Steps The Show, $70

Today’s optional evening music experience will bring you on a journey through Ireland’s colorful past and history to the present day through music, song, and dance. Celtic Steps blends popular Irish dance with the authenticity of traditional Irish music, providing a magical evening for all. This spectacular show combines the talents of some of Ireland’s leading Irish Dancers with over 17 World Champion dance titles and Kerry’s finest musicians to showcase the origins of Irish music and dance, as well as the influences of the genre over the years.

NOTE: We recommend you enjoy an early dinner on own and be prepared to depart for the show by 7:30PM. Seats are on a first come, first serve basis we suggest you arrive between 7:45 to 8:00PM.

Note: This is a shared tour and requires a minimum of 2 passengers to operate.

 

Day 5 County Kerry

• Visit the Ring of Kerry, enjoying stops at Ladies View and Torc Waterfall
• Discover the art of Irish cold-smoked salmon
• Experience a Jaunting Car Ride through Killarney National Park

Arbutus Hotel, The Ross or similar Breakfast

Full Day Itinerary

This morning, drive to the Ring of Kerry. This circular route in County Kerry encompasses some of the country's most beautiful and rugged scenery. Stop at Torc Waterfall for breathtaking views of the nearly 100 ft. waterfall, surrounded by lush greenery, and take in the gorgeous panoramas of the MacGillycuddy Reeks mountain range from The Ladies' View, named after Queen Victoria's ladies-in-waiting who visited this spot during her visit in 1861.

Next, head to the Irish Salmon Ummera Smokehouse! This award-winning smokehouse uses traditional cold-smoking methods, using only premium Irish salmon that is carefully selected and hand-filleted. Learn from the experts of this family-run shop and sample savory smoked meats paired with delicious, locally made hard ciders. 

Take a Jaunting Car Ride through Killarney National Park by pony and trap, also known as a jaunting car, to discover areas of the park that you might not otherwise visit by foot. The rolling hills and lush greenery of the park provide beautiful views and a relaxing atmosphere while your trusty steed takes you on an adventure through the countryside. Along the way, your guide will share stories and facts about the park's history and wildlife, making it an educational and fun trip.

This evening, enjoy dinner on your own in one of the many restaurants or pubs in Killarney town.

Note: September 5, 2023 departure will stay at The Ross, all other departures will stay at Arbutus Hotel. 

Day 6 County Clare

• Take a short ferry ride across the mouth of the River Shannon
• Witness the dramatic, breathtaking Cliffs of Moher
• Experience the underworld at Aillwee Cave
• Marvel at the Poulnaprone Dolmen
• Enjoy a medieval-style banquet dinner at Bunratty Castle

Limerick Strand Hotel or similar Breakfast & dinner

Full Day Itinerary

Travel northward to Tarbert and take a short ferry ride across the river of Shannon, landing on Clare's shore at Killimer. Drive along the coast to reach the Cliffs of Moher, rising 700 feet above the Atlantic Ocean and extending over nine miles. One of Ireland's most visited tourist attractions, the cliffs offer spectacular views of the Aran Islands, Galway Bay, and the Maumturks and Twelve Pins mountain ranges. On a clear day, it is possible to see the coasts of Connemara and Kerry. The area also features an array of wildlife, including puffins, guillemots, razorbills, kittiwakes, fulmars, and gulls.

This afternoon, journey through the Burren Loop to see more of Ireland's unique geography. An area of limestone rock that glaciers and erosion have shaped over millions of years, the Burren is a hauntingly-beautiful, almost lunar-like landscape with large cracks and fissures, caves, and jagged rocks. Its name comes from the Gaelic word "Boireann," meaning "stony place." 

Enjoy the scenery of the underworld as you tour the Aillwee Cave, followed by a visit to the historic Poulnaprone Dolmen, the most popular dolmen in Ireland. This particular portal tomb (dolmen) dates back to the Neolithic period, and it is made from three standing portal stones and a heavy horizontal capstone.

Later check into your hotel, followed by a four-course Medieval banquet in the Great Hall of Bunratty Castle. Eat well and be entertained by the world-famous Bunratty Castle Singers. 

Day 7 Galway

• Witness the glory of Dunguaire Castle
• Embark the Corrib Princess and cruise the River Corrib
• Experience an Irish coffee demonstration

Galway Bay Hotel, Clybaun Hotel Galway or similar Breakfast

Full Day Itinerary

After breakfast, as you head north to Galway, stop to view Dunguaire Castle, built by the Hynes Clan in 1520 on the picturesque shores of Galway Bay. The castle has three stories and an entrance gatehouse. Inside the walls are two courtyards, one with a well and the other with a banqueting hall. The castle also features a unique hexagonal structure that houses six large fireplaces to keep the hall warm during cold winter nights.

Next, embark on the Corrib Princess and cruise the majestic River Corrib. The journey offers beautiful views of the historic monuments and scenery, making this one of Ireland's most spectacular waterways. Later, participate in an Irish coffee demonstration sampling this classic beverage.

Finally, arrive in Galway. Known for its vibrant culture, lively nightlife, beautiful scenery, and friendly locals, Galway offers plenty of shopping, music, dining, lively pubs, and more! Enjoy the evening at leisure.

Note: September 5, 2023 departure will stay at Clybaun Hotel Galway, all other departures will stay at Galway Bay Hotel. 

Day 8 Connemara National Park, Galway

• Travel to the Connemara area
• Visit to Kylemore Abbey, Garden Diamond Hill, and Connemara National Park
• Take part in a coastal walk and seaweed foraging and tasting

Galway Bay Hotel, Clybaun Hotel Galway or similar Breakfast

Full Day Itinerary

Today, journey through the beautiful Connemara Region, a land of lakes, rivers, bogs, and mountains. Gaelic is still the spoken language in this area of small villages, and little has changed since the beginning of time. Connemara is a vast peninsula bordered by the arid and rocky coastline of Galway Bay in the south, a land known for its stone walls and thatched cottages. The fjord of Killary Harbour and the steep mountains overlooking numerous lakes and large bog areas on its northern shore, with spectacular ocean views.

Continue to Kylemore Abbey in the Kylemore Pass. Mitchell Henry built the house in 1868 after spending 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 notable features is its miniature cathedral, built in 1870 and known locally as the Gothic church. 

Enjoy a guided visit to Connemara National Park, which encompasses 11 square miles from Letterfrack in the west to the peaks of the Twelve Bens Mountains. This natural reserve was established in 1980 to preserve a wide range of habitats, including heaths, bogs, grasslands, woodlands, and lakes, and is home to many species of animals, birds, and plants, including rare species of fauna and flora. 

Later, explore the region's fantastic ecosystem during an interactive foraging tour along the coast of Galway Bay. Discover the wild, natural bounty of seaweeds and other marine plants that are found in the intertidal zone, as well as some of their culinary applications. Learn about sustainable harvesting and get tips on using your finds in the kitchen, then taste some of the freshest seaweed and abalone in its wild and jagged environment. 

Spend the balance of the evening at leisure.

Note: September 5, 2023 departure will stay at Clybaun Hotel Galway, all other departures will stay at Galway Bay Hotel

Day 9 Clonmacnoise, Dublin

• Visit the Clonmacnoise Monastic Settlement
• Tour the EPIC Irish Emigration Museum
• Explore Grafton Street
• Enjoy a lively farewell dinner and show at the Merry Ploughboy

The Address Connolly or similar Breakfast & dinner

Full Day Itinerary

Begin the day with a visit to the earliest Irish monastic city, the Clonmacnoise Monastic Settlement. Founded by St. Ciarán in the mid-6th century on the banks of the River Shannon, this early Christian site includes ruins with churches, a cathedral, two towers, and three high crosses. 
 
Visit EPIC, The Irish Emigration Museum. This is a state-of-the-art interactive experience in the beautiful vaults of the 1820 Custom House Quarter building in Dublin's Docklands, the original departure point for 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.

Later, head to the Temple Bar and Grafton Street to visit its quality shops. Two of the most famous streets in Dublin are located at the heart of the city and are known for their bustling atmosphere, lively pubs, and diverse shops. Temple Bar is especially well-known for its nightlife, with many traditional Irish pubs lining the street. Grafton Street is home to some of Ireland's iconic stores like Brown Thomas, Bewley's Cafe, and Arnotts. Both streets offer an array of restaurants, cafes, and bars to explore.

This evening, there will be a farewell dinner and a show at the Merry Ploughboy. Enjoy music, dancing, and food at this popular pub that has been operating since the late 19th century. It is known for its traditional Irish atmosphere with live music, hearty food, and friendly service.

Day 10 Dublin/USA

• Transfer to the airport for your return flight to the USA

Breakfast

Full Day Itinerary

Transfer to the airport for your return flight to the USA

Northern Ireland Extension

Day 10 Derry, Northern Ireland

• Experience a sheepdog demonstration at a local farm
• Visit the Tower Museum on Lough Foyle

The Waterfoot Hotel, Derry, Bishop's Gate Hotel or similar Breakfast

Full Day Itinerary

After breakfast this morning, drive to Londonderry in Northern Ireland. 

Visit a sheep farm to experience a sheepdog demonstration. This visit will start with an overview of the different breeds of sheep, followed by an introduction to the farmer's most essential tools, his border collies. Next, witness the superb demonstration of sheep herding as the farmer, with his dogs, demonstrates how, by working together, they can take a flock of sheep from the mountaintop to the sheep pen close to the farmyard.

After lunch, continue to Derry (Londonderry). Visit the Tower Museum on Lough Foyle and learn about the local history of Derry and enjoys views of the city and the River Foyle below.

After check in at your hotel, spend the balance of the evening at leisure.

Note: September 5, 2023 departure will stay at Bishops Gate Hotel, all other departures will stay at Waterfoot Hotel. 

Day 11 Giant’s Causeway, Belfast

• Enjoy a walking tour of Bogside & City Walls
• Drive along the breathtaking Antrim Coast
• Visit the Giant’s Causeway
• Admire the famed Dark Hedges
• Panoramic tour of Belfast
• Journey back in time at the Titanic Distillery

Europa Hotel or similar Breakfast

Full Day Itinerary

Derry (or Londonderry) is the second-largest city and port of Northern Ireland. Enjoy a walking tour of the walled city founded in the 6th century by St. Columba. Selected as a major plantation project in 1613 and organized by the London Livery companies, it acquired the prefix London. In the same year, the walls of Derry were built to protect the town from the Gaelic chieftains in Donegal. A walk on the walls is a must on any visit to Derry, as they are among the best-preserved fortifications in Europe. They are nearly 30 feet thick in some areas and rise to a height of 25 feet. Today, these walls separate two communities, the Bogside, a Catholic ghetto (is this the correct description of the Catholic area?) with famous murals, and the Waterside, a Protestant enclave.

Drive through the Antrim coast and view Dunluce Castle, one of Ireland's most picturesque and romantic castles. Located on the edge of a basalt outcropping accessible via a bridge, this ruined medieval castle once served as the seat of the MacDonnell Clan.

Continue to the Giant's Causeway, which was formed more than 60 million years ago when red-hot lava erupted onto the earth's surface. It was quickly cooled by the sea, which crystallized and developed into the 40,000 basalt polygonal columns that today form the Giant's Causeway. However, Irish tradition tells a different story about how the mythical giant, Finn McCool, built this unique place to avoid getting his feet wet.

Proceed to the Dark Hedges, a beautiful avenue of beech trees, planted in the eighteenth century by the Stuart family who wanted to create a compelling landscape feature to impress visitors as they approached the entrance to their Georgian mansion, Gracehill House. Two centuries later, the trees remain a magnificent sight and have become one of the most photographed natural phenomena in Northern Ireland. In addition, the iconic trees have been used as a filming location in HBO's epic series, Game of Thrones, representing the Kingsroad.

On arrival in Belfast, take a panoramic tour of the city including the Peace Wall, which separates Belfast's Catholic and Protestant communities and whose murals describe the period known as "the troubles."

In the heart of Belfast, take a guided tour of a Titanic Distillery, located within the historic Pumphouse. Journey back in time and explore how the building, which was once famed for its feat of engineering, has now become a distillery. Journey through the distillation process then enjoy tasting award-winning Irish spirits.

The evening is at leisure.

Day 12 Belfast

• Visit the Titanic Museum
• Join in a street food tour in Belfast

Europa Hotel or similar Breakfast & dinner

Full Day Itinerary

After breakfast, visit the Titanic Experience recreates the story of the world's most famous ship in an iconic, six-story building beside the historic site of the original ship's construction. The journey starts at the building's giant atrium, where you are surrounded by the four massive walls which house the Titanic Experience. Continue through the nine extensive galleries of the interactive exhibition, and uncover the true story of the Titanic, from her conception in Belfast in the early 1900s, through her construction and launch, to her infamous maiden voyage.

Later, enjoy an invigorating street food tour of Belfast, taste the tradition of Northern Ireland as you sample treats such as Irish Soda bread with sausage, fresh oysters, Irish stew, Guinness, craft cider, sticky toffee pudding, and Bailey's coffee.  

This evening, head into the Cathedral Quarter with its multitude of bars, Duke of York, and Kelly's, to name two of many. Join your fellow travelers at dinner at the iconic Lantern restaurant. 

Day 13 Belfast, Dublin

• Visit the Newgrange Passage Tombs en route to Dublin

The Address Connolly or similar Breakfast

Full Day Itinerary

After breakfast, depart for Dublin. En route, take a guided tour of Newgrange Passage Tombs, built in the Neolithic Period and predating the pyramids in Egypt and Stonehenge. This sizeable circular mound is one of three significant tombs with Neolithic graphic art carved into the stones. Continue to Dublin, where you will have the opportunity to explore on your own. 

Day 14 Dublin/USA

• Transfer to the airport for your return flight to the USA

Breakfast

Full Day Itinerary

Transfer to the airport for your return flight to the USA 

Hotels

The Address Connolly

First Class

The Address Hotel is centrally located in the city of Dublin. Within a short walk to Dublin's business district, shopping streets, the Bord Gais Theatre, and plenty of transportation options nearby.

More information

Arbutus Hotel

First Class

Arbutus Hotel is conveniently located in the middle of Killarney town center, within walking distance of the train station. This family-run hotel is in the heart of the shopping and restaurant area, with various attractions nearby, only a 10-minute drive from Killarney National Park. 

More information

The Ross

First Class

The Ross is a family-owned boutique hotel conveniently located in central Killarney. There are several popular landmarks nearby, including Killarney National Park, Ross Castle, and Muckross Farm.

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Galway Bay Hotel

First Class

Galway Bay Hotel overlooks Galway Bay on the shores of the Atlantic Ocean. The hotel is ideally located on Galway's Blue Flag beach. Enjoy the scenery and talk a stroll along the Promenade.

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Clybaun Hotel Galway

First Class

Clybaun Hotel is located in Knocknacarra, a quaint suburb of Galway not far from Connemara National Park, Wild Atlantic Way, Galway Cathedral and the relaxing seaside resort town of Salthill.

More information

Bishop's Gate Hotel

Deluxe

The Bishop's Gate Hotel sits within the historic city walls of Derry City's Cathedral, with remarkable Edwardian architecture located in the heart of Londonderry. 

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Europa Hotel

Superior First Class

The Europa Hotel is built on the site of the old Great Northern Railway Station. It is conveniently located in the middle of Belfast’s “Golden Mile”, in the heart of the city. The Grand Opera House, historic Crown Bar, and the National Trust’s only public house property are just across the road. Several shops and award-winning restaurants, high-end entertainment and the business district are all within walking distance.

More information

In the unlikely event that a particular hotel is not available, a similar or better hotel may be substituted.

Reviews & Photos

Trip Details

• What should I know before I go? We've compiled a comprehensive checklist, including information on how to pay your balance due, flights & transfers, packing & luggage, and more.
• Do I need a visa or other documents? Are there any entry requirements? Please review the visa & entry requirements.
• Can I make changes to my trip? Want to upgrade your seats? Depart from another city? Stay a few extra days? Something else? Just ask!
• Can I bring my kids? Are there any age restrictions? To book this package, you must be 18 or older. Your traveling companions must be 8 or older at time of travel.
• Should I purchase travel insurance? Yes! We recommend you purchase travel insurance to help protect you and your travel investment against the unexpected. For your convenience, we offer a plan provided by Travelex Insurance Services.
• What's the fine print? Review the terms & conditions for this package.
• What should I know about Ireland? Check out our guide for practical travel tips, the best time to go, videos, and more.
• What should I know about Northern Ireland? Check out our guide for practical travel tips, the best time to go, videos, and more.