Brendan Vacations
With over 55 years of expertise, Brendan Vacations invites you to explore Ireland and Scotland on our expertly guided journeys. Led by passionate Celtic Experts, each itinerary blends iconic sights with authentic local moments — all delivered with Brendan's signature Céad Míle Fáilte, a hundred thousand welcomes.
With over 55 years of expertise, Brendan Vacations invites you to explore Ireland and Scotland on our expertly guided journeys. Led by passionate Celtic Experts, each itinerary blends iconic sights with authentic local moments — all delivered with Brendan's signature Céad Míle Fáilte, a hundred thousand welcomes.
Trip Styles:
Note: Unfortunately Brendan Vacations do not sell their trips in the Australian region.
The Brendan Vacations Experience
Choose to travel with Brendan Vacations on your next adventure!
The Celtic Experts No one knows Ireland and Scotland like Brendan Vacations. For over 55 years, we’ve rolled out the green carpet to our guests, crafting immersive journeys that celebrate the people, places and traditions of the Celtic Isles. Our expertly guided tours and intimate small group experiences reveal the heart of these storied lands, from lively local encounters to stays in handpicked accommodations rich in character.
Every journey is personally delivered by our passionate team of Celtic Experts, whose storytelling and insight bring every destination to life. With thoughtful planning, exclusive experiences, and a touch of Irish and Scottish warmth, we make it effortless to discover the Celtic Isles in style and create memories as unforgettable as the homelands themselves.
No one knows Ireland and Scotland like Brendan Vacations. For over 55 years, we’ve rolled out the green carpet to our guests, crafting immersive journeys that celebrate the people, places and traditions of the Celtic Isles. Our expertly guided tours and intimate small group experiences reveal the heart of these storied lands, from lively local encounters to stays in handpicked accommodations rich in character.
Every journey is personally delivered by our passionate team of Celtic Experts, whose storytelling and insight bring every destination to life. With thoughtful planning, exclusive experiences, and a touch of Irish and Scottish warmth, we make it effortless to discover the Celtic Isles in style and create memories as unforgettable as the homelands themselves.
Carefully Crafted Authentic Experiences Take the guesswork out of travel and make more room for magic and memories. Brendan Vacations’ Guided and Small Group Tours are led by passionate Travel Directors who bring Ireland and Scotland to life through stories, sights, and genuine connections. Journey in comfort aboard luxury coaches, savor authentic Celtic flavors, and uncover the heart of each destination through experiences designed to inspire and enrich.
Discover top-rated highlights with exclusive access to must-see landmarks, explore vibrant towns alongside Local Specialists, and enjoy immersive Be My Guest moments - from family farm visits to memorable meals shared in local homes. Each tour is thoughtfully paced, with the perfect balance of sightseeing and relaxation, complemented by distinctive stays in manors, estates, and castles steeped in tradition.
Whether traveling as part of a guided coach journey or an intimate small group, every detail is curated with care, so you can simply enjoy the ease of expertly planned travel and the unforgettable warmth of Celtic hospitality.
Take the guesswork out of travel and make more room for magic and memories. Brendan Vacations’ Guided and Small Group Tours are led by passionate Travel Directors who bring Ireland and Scotland to life through stories, sights, and genuine connections. Journey in comfort aboard luxury coaches, savor authentic Celtic flavors, and uncover the heart of each destination through experiences designed to inspire and enrich.
Discover top-rated highlights with exclusive access to must-see landmarks, explore vibrant towns alongside Local Specialists, and enjoy immersive Be My Guest moments - from family farm visits to memorable meals shared in local homes. Each tour is thoughtfully paced, with the perfect balance of sightseeing and relaxation, complemented by distinctive stays in manors, estates, and castles steeped in tradition.
Whether traveling as part of a guided coach journey or an intimate small group, every detail is curated with care, so you can simply enjoy the ease of expertly planned travel and the unforgettable warmth of Celtic hospitality.
FAQs
What is and isn’t included in the price shown online for my trip?
The prices you see are per person, based on two guests sharing a room. We also show solo pricing (if you're traveling alone and want your own room) and on selected trips the option for solo-share is available where Brendan Vacations will accommodate you with a fellow guest of the same gender on a twin-bed basis
- All hotels
- Breakfast daily and some meals as described in the trip itinerary
- Sightseeing and admission as shown in the trip itinerary
- Transportation by luxury coach
- Services of a professional Travel Director
- All porterage and restaurant gratuities
- Luggage handling, porterage and restaurant gratuities
- All hotel tips, charges and local taxes
- Airport transfers depend on your destination, please see the Trip Highlights section of your selected itinerary online for more details
Can I book extra hotel nights before or after my trip?
Yes, your Global Journeys Travel Advisor can orgnaise these for you directly with Brendan Vacations.
Are airport transfers included?
Brendan Vacations offers complimentary airport transfers for many guided vacations but inclusion depends on your destination. Check with your Global Journeys Travel Advisor for details on your selected vacation. We’ll be happy to arrange airport transfers for your booking.
Where can I find solo pricing?
The default prices displayed on our trip pages are per person, when sharing a twin room, however we also show solo pricing if you select the button shown above the departures and prices list.
What is the Solo Room Share option?
If you’d rather not incur the additional single room supplement, consider Brendan Vacatiuon' solo room share option. They’ll accommodate you with a fellow guest of the same gender on a twin-bed basis on selected trips. This wil show as an option above the departures and prices list.
How much is the deposit and when is full payment due?
Our trip deposit is $200 per person and is due at time of booking and are covered by Brendan Vacvations' Deposit Protection program, where you’ll receive a credit to use toward a future booking within 5 years.
Do I need travel insurance?
We highly recommend guests purchase travel insurance prior to your trip. Your insurance should cover trip interruption, personal injury, medical expenses and evacuation and repatriation coverage including during pandemic events.
If I need to cancel my booking, will my deposit be protected?
Yes, we know plans change so your deposit is fully flexible. If you need to cancel your booking before your final payment is due, you’ll receive a credit of your initial deposit up to $200 per person as a travel credit to use toward a future booking within 5 years.
What is a Definite Departure and when will my trip become definite?
When viewing the Dates & Prices in a trip page, you’ll see some departure dates shown as “Definite Departure”. A Definite Departure has reached the required minimum number of guests to operate and therefore will run barring any extraordinary circumstances.
Dates are regularly updated to show as Definite Departure throughout the year. Even if a date is not marked as a Definite Departure yet, you can still make a booking. If the departure fails to meet the minimum number of guests, you will be offered the best alternative dates or a full refund of any payment made towards your Brendan Vacation.
Dates are regularly updated to show as Definite Departure throughout the year. Even if a date is not marked as a Definite Departure yet, you can still make a booking. If the departure fails to meet the minimum number of guests, you will be offered the best alternative dates or a full refund of any payment made towards your Brendan Vacation.
Are there any age restrictions when traveling with Brendan Vacations and what is classified as a child?
Travelers must be at least 5 years of age. To receive a Young Travel Discount, the child must be between 5 to 17 years old at time of travel.
Can I change my date and/or trip at any time?
Brendan guests can book with confidence knowing you’re free to change your travel plans up until your final payment is due. With our Deposit Protection program, you will receive a travel credit up to $200 per person to be used toward a future booking within 5 years.
If you are within the cancellation penalty period, charges will apply. All changes are subject to differences in rates and availability. This policy only applies to your Brendan trip, airlines will have different policies and change fees/costs. Please note: additional amendment fees may be incurred.
If you are within the cancellation penalty period, charges will apply. All changes are subject to differences in rates and availability. This policy only applies to your Brendan trip, airlines will have different policies and change fees/costs. Please note: additional amendment fees may be incurred.
Can I book a trip for a group of people?
We offer enticing discounts when you travel with Brendan in a group. Secure a trip for nine or more people on a set guided vacation departure and enjoy great benefits.
When will I receive my Travel Documents?
Once you’ve pre-registered for your trip and made final payment on your booking, your Global Journeys Travel Advisor will send your Travel Documents to you electronically approximately three weeks prior to your departure. These documents will also be available to download on the MyBrendan portal (details wil lbe provided).
How much luggage can I bring?
Brendan guests can each travel with one suitcase not exceeding 50lbs in weight, with the dimensions of 30” x 18” x 10”. Carry-on/hand luggage is restricted to one piece per person, not exceeding 12”x11”x6” to fit under your coach seat or in the small overhead compartment.
So your driver and the hotel porters can safely lift and transport your suitcase throughout your vacation, we strongly recommend that you test the weight of your baggage prior to travel. You should be able to lift and comfortably transport it for short distances.
So your driver and the hotel porters can safely lift and transport your suitcase throughout your vacation, we strongly recommend that you test the weight of your baggage prior to travel. You should be able to lift and comfortably transport it for short distances.
Can I bring my small rolling suitcase as a carry-on?
For safety reasons, small rolling suitcases that are permitted to bring on airplanes are not permitted inside the coach on Guided Vacations. As our coaches have large, panoramic windows, there is minimal space to store them securely overhead or under the seat. We suggest bringing a carry-on that is soft-sided similar to a backpack, tote bag, etc.
What should I pack for my Brendan vacation?
The weather in Ireland and Scotland varies depending on the time of year you visit. We would suggest that you pack clothing to layer, a waterproof jacket (there’s a reason our islands are so green!) and a comfortable pair of shoes/sneakers.
Other useful items we suggest you pack include:
Other useful items we suggest you pack include:
- Phone charger
- Adaptor/converter plug
- Medication
- Travel iron
- Carry/day bag
- Reusable water bottle
- Travel pillow
- Photocopies of your passport, hotel list, travel document and luggage contents for reference
How much travel money should I plan to bring?
When planning how much money to bring, we suggest you consider things such as money for meals that are not included (i.e. lunches, beverages, etc.), Optional Experiences on guided vacations that you may wish to purchase, shopping, gratuities for your Travel Directo and any incidentals like laundry, dry cleaning and so on.
While most major credit cards are generally accepted by shops and hotels worldwide, you may find that there is a minimum charge for using them. It is also becoming more common for identification to be requested when making payments by credit card, so remember to carry your passport or driver’s license with you. Visa, American Express and MasterCard are widely accepted.
While most major credit cards are generally accepted by shops and hotels worldwide, you may find that there is a minimum charge for using them. It is also becoming more common for identification to be requested when making payments by credit card, so remember to carry your passport or driver’s license with you. Visa, American Express and MasterCard are widely accepted.
Do I have to pre-pay for gratuities prior to my vacation?
No. Pre-paying for your gratuities is not required. We offer this option because many guests like to budget for all elements of their vacation ahead of time. Gratuities can be pre-paid during the booking process.
Will I need to bring electrical adaptors?
Electrical plus and outlets differ and we recommend bringing a universal travel adaptor that’s suitable for the countries you are traveling to.
How can I add dietary requirements to the booking?
We can accommodate vegetarian guests and can assist with diabetic, gluten-free and other medically-recommended diets. Please advise us at time of booking or by adding your dietary request by logging into your MyBrendan profile and selecting ‘Personalize Your Trip’ on the right-hand side. Login details will be provided by your Global Journeys Travel Advisor.
What facilities can I expect on the Brendan coach?
We pride ourselves on having the finest fleet of fuel-efficient, fully air-conditioned coaches for our Guided Vacations – all with reclining seats and on-board restrooms. We also have onboard Wi-Fi.
What can I bring on the coach with me?
In addition to your suitcase, which gets stored separately on the coach, you can bring one piece of carry-on luggage onto the coach with you for your Guided Vacation. The carry-on must be small enough to fit under your seat or in a small overhead compartment. The dimensions are 12” x 11” x6”. Please note that for safety reasons, small rolling suitcases are not permitted inside the coach. There are a number of things you may wish to bring on the coach with you, including a travel pillow, something to read, sunglasses, your phone, headphones if you’d like to listen to music, etc.
What do I need to know about tipping and gratuities?
Tipping etiquette varies by country and is a gesture that shows appreciation for the quality of service that you received. When traveling with Brendan Vacations you can choose to pre-pay for tips and gratuities for your Travel Director and Driver.
What are Optional Experiences?
Brendan’s Guided Vacations include plenty of free time for you to explore destinations in your own way. Optional Experiences are a great way to make the most of your time and tailor your trip to your interests. Available Optional Experiences are listed on the trip itinerary. No need to book or prepay, you can do this with your Travel Director on trip and payment can be made by credit card or cash.
Can I pre-book Optional Experiences?
To enable you to personalize your Brendan Guided Vacation experience, you will find a number of Optional Experiences designed to complement the itinerary. These are offer a deeper insight into the culture and character of the areas to be visited and provide some wonderful highlights to your travels. The optional program is designed to let you experience more of what interests you and to get the most from your vacation without replacing or overlapping with anything included in an itinerary.
The majority of Optional Experiences will be offered to you by your Travel Director at the beginning of your trip. Our Optional Experiences cannot be pre-booked. Some may be subject to change, depending on the time you are traveling or local circumstances including weather and days of the week. Further information will be provided by your Travel Director.
The majority of Optional Experiences will be offered to you by your Travel Director at the beginning of your trip. Our Optional Experiences cannot be pre-booked. Some may be subject to change, depending on the time you are traveling or local circumstances including weather and days of the week. Further information will be provided by your Travel Director.
Will I have free time?
Each itinerary offers the perfect balance of downtime and discoveries. Brendan also give you the opportunity to tailor your trip with Optional Experiences. Some of our trips offer a more relaxed pace, with later starts and longer stays in each place.
If you would like to exclude yourself from an included experience, please ensure you speak with your Travel Director, so they are aware of your plans. They will make sure you are aware of any necessary times or meeting points. Please note, we cannot provide any compensation or refunds, if you decide to not take part in an included activity or meal.
If you would like to exclude yourself from an included experience, please ensure you speak with your Travel Director, so they are aware of your plans. They will make sure you are aware of any necessary times or meeting points. Please note, we cannot provide any compensation or refunds, if you decide to not take part in an included activity or meal.
How much walking is involved in your trips?
Brendan offer a well-balanced mix of walking and enjoying sites for the comfort of your coach. The activity level and amount of walking can vary, so it is important that you bring adequate footwear to ensure your comfort and safety. When walking there can be some uneven terrain, or times when more walking is required than others.
How long will we spend on the coach?
How much coach travel there is depends on the itinerary, but we rarely spend longer than a couple hours on the coach without a photo stop or visit.
Do coaches operate seat rotation?
To ensure fairness and to enhance your coach experience, Brendan Vacations operates a daily seat rotation system on our Guided Vacations. This enables guests to enjoy the panoramic views from a different seat and provides opportunities to get to know your fellow travelers and make new friends each day.
What can I expect from a Brendan Vacations hotel?
Brendan Vacations’ hotels are handpicked to ensure they meet our high standards. A few hotels may not have air conditioning due to the colder climate and historic buildings.
Will I be able to get laundry done?
Most hotels offer a laundry service; in some cities, laundromats are also available. However, it’s sensible to try and pack enough clothing to avoid having to do laundry, as it can sometimes be costly or inconvenient.
How can I stay connected on my trip?
Sharing your experiences with friends and family back home is an important part of your trip. If you choose to bring a smart phone with you, ensure you contact your service provider to find out how much it will cost you to use your phone internationally. You might consider disability data roaming or purchasing a prepaid service or SIM to keep control of costs. Be mindful of other guests if you take a cell phone call on the coach.
Complimentary Wi-Fi is usually available on our coaches and your hotel will also provide complimentary Wi-Fi access.
Complimentary Wi-Fi is usually available on our coaches and your hotel will also provide complimentary Wi-Fi access.
Do the hotels listed on the itinerary ever change?
Yes, hotels can change from those listed on the website or in your travel documents. This might be due to a variety of reasons and is often out of Brendan’s control. If this does happen, we will ensure the new hotel is in a similar location and meets our high standards.
What do I need to know about meals and beverages on my trip?
Food and drink is at the heart of every destination. Your trip itinerary contains information on included meals and your Travel Director, Private Chauffeur, Local Host or Local Specialist can provide recommendations for places to eat in each new place.
Who will support me on my trip?
All of our guests will have access to the personal service of a dedicated and knowledgeable Travel Director. They will be on hand to help guide and support you throughout your trip and are able to offer a true insider’s perspective of each destination.
Am I entitled to any perks or discounts as a Brendan Vacations past guest?
Absolutely. Once you’ve traveled with Brendan Vacations you automatically become a member of Global Tour Rewards and have access to member-only pricing on 1000+ worldwide vacations across our world-leading sister brands.
How do I use my Global Tour Rewards discount?
When making your booking, be sure to let your Travel Advisor know that you are a past guest of Brendan or one of their TTC sister brands. Your discount will be applied to your quote and invoice.
Terms & Conditions
All the boring small print. We recommend you read them, as no one likes surprises!
- Your trip is subject to Brendan Vacations Terms & Conditions
- Please also read Global Journeys' Terms & Conditions if you haven't already.
