From Dublin to London

Check into your hotel. In the afternoon, there's time to rest or discover the vibrant Irish capital, and this evening, raise a glass with an optional excursion to learn about the history, traditions, and brewing techniques behind one of the world's most popular beers on this fascinating tour, tasting and dinner at Dublin's legendary Guinness Storehouse.

Meet your Tour Director and traveling companions to start your day in the “Fair City” with an orientation drive along statue-lined O'Connell Street; elegant Georgian squares with their tall red brick townhouses, multi-hued doors, and wrought-iron decorated windows; Oscar Wilde's Trinity College; and St. Patrick's Cathedral. Everyone's Irish on a popular optional outing to the legendary Taylors Irish Cabaret, featuring a delicious dinner, drinks, and outstanding Irish music, dance, and comedy. (B)

Head for dairy-farm country in the heart of the “Emerald Isle.” Stop in Galway, a popular seaside destination and a buzzing cosmopolitan district with vibrant shops and a busy café and bar culture. Then, cross the glacial-era limestone plateau of The Burren to visit the spectacular 668-foot Cliffs of Moher and enjoy amazing vistas of the Clare coast.

Tonight, step back in time at an original Irish castle medieval banquet optional. Enjoy a 4-course feast with wine, then relax as your medieval hosts dazzle you with unforgettable music and storytelling. Today's Distance: 218 mi/ 351 km (B)

Stop for photos in Adare, one of Ireland's prettiest villages, beautifully set in woods along the Maigue River, with thatched cottages lining its wide main street. In County Kerry, join the road known as the Ring of Kerry for a 100-mile coastal panoramic drive. Focus your camera on sparkling seascapes, mountains dotted with brightly painted farmhouses, winding lanes bordered with subtropical vegetation, and views of the Lakes of Killarney from Ladies View.

Later, discover Killarney, a town full of history, heritage, and world-class hospitality. Climb aboard a delightful optional horse-drawn jaunting car ride through Killarney National Park to legendary Ross Castle on the shores of Lough Leane. Today's Distance: 185 mi/ 297 km (B/D)

Move on across the Kerry Mountains and through County Cork to Blarney, famous for its magical Stone of Eloquence. You will have time to shop for traditional Irish handicrafts and handmade crystal or perhaps walk up to the castle.

Drive past Cork, the country's second-largest city, and via Dungarvan to Tramore, a charming seaside resort. Enjoy a bit of craic (conversation) with an early evening optional of authentic Irish local flavor. Take a scenic drive to a traditional pub with a local musician ready to entertain you and give you wonderful memories of this beautiful country. Two drinks of your choice are included. Today's Distance: 132 mi/ 212 km (B/D)

An early start for the short drive to Rosslare. In just under four hours, you cross St. George's Channel by ferry to South Wales. Continue through rich dairy farmland to Cardiff, where an orientation drive introduces you to the capital's major attractions: Cardiff Castle, Cathays Park, Millennium Stadium, and the stately civic buildings. Today's Distance: 152 mi/ 245 km (B)

Your day begins with a drive across the spectacular Severn Bridge into England. Stop in the elegant Georgian city of Bath, famous for its Roman relics, before visiting Stonehenge, one of the wonders of the world and the best-known prehistoric monument in Europe. Explore the visitor center with its imaginative exhibitions, then discover the ancient landscape on foot.

After arriving in London around 3:30 pm, how about celebrating the success of your tour with a night on the town? Curtain's up with an optional escorted evening in London's theater district, starting with a delicious dinner, followed by excellent seats at your chosen show. Today's Distance: 174 mi/ 280 km (B)

Today is for exploring on your own or enjoying our exciting program of optional activities. You may choose to join a Local Guide for an optional morning sightseeing tour of the city's famous landmarks: the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, Whitehall's mounted horseguards and the Prime Minister's Downing Street residence, Piccadilly Circus, and Buckingham Palace.

This afternoon, maybe visit Windsor Castle or the Tower of London with its spectacular Crown Jewels. Tonight, we recommend a traditional dining experience followed by a guided nighttime cruise along the Thames River to see some of the capital's most beautiful, illuminated sights. (B)

Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. (B)