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Best of Ireland & Scotland (Small Group)

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Best of Ireland & Scotland (Small Group)

No Reviews No Booking FeesDedicated Travel Advisor
Our Price From 7,663 Per Person
Exclusive Savings 387 Per Person
 Trip Length
14 Days
 Trip Starts
Dublin
 Trip Finishes
Edinburgh
14 Day Best of Ireland & Scotland (Small Group) Itinerary (Insight Vacations)
Countries Explored: Ireland, Northern Ireland, Scotland
Our Price From 7,663 Per Person
Exclusive Savings 387 Per Person
 Trip Length
14 Days
 Trip Starts
Dublin
 Trip Finishes
Edinburgh
14 Day Best of Ireland & Scotland (Small Group) Itinerary (Insight Vacations)
Countries Explored: Ireland, Northern Ireland, Scotland
Trip Style
Country Roads
Departures
Accommodation
4 - 4.5 Star
Max. Group Size
24
Guide Level
Fully Guided
Trip Code
SB935
Trip Style
Country Roads
Departures
Accommodation
4 - 4.5 Star
Max. Group Size
24
Guide Level
Fully Guided
Trip Code
SB935

Overview

Book online and enjoy exclusive savings on Insight Vacations 14 Day Best of Ireland & Scotland (Small Group). Dublin impresses with the cobbled courtyards of Trinity College and the millennia old Book of Kells. Experience centuries of rich Gaelic history as you take High-Tea at the Ardgowan Estate near Glasgow and see the Palace of Holyroodhouse in Edinburgh. Glencoe offers a glimpse of Britain’s highest mountain Ben Nevis ahead of a cruise on Loch Ness and the chance to seek out Scotland’s most infamous bonnie monster. Up in the highlands, a whisky tasting at a distillery, to uncork tales of smugglers...read more before the vacation embarks on a grand tour of the Scottish capital. Edinburgh doesn’t disappoint with the Royal Mile, home to Edinburgh Castle, Scotland’s Crown Jewels and the Scottish Parliament.
Book online and enjoy exclusive savings on Insight Vacations 14 Day Best of Ireland & Scotland (Small Group). This unforgettable Ireland and Scotland guided tour offers travellers a deep dive into the heart of Gaelic culture and history. Dublin impresses with the cobbled courtyards of Trinity College and the millennia old Book of Kells. Experience centuries of rich Gaelic history as you take High-Tea at the Ardgowan Estate near Glasgow and see the Palace of Holyroodhouse in Edinburgh. Glencoe offers a glimpse of Britain’s highest mountain Ben Nevis ahead of a cruise on Loch Ness and the chance...read more to seek out Scotland’s most infamous bonnie monster. Up in the highlands, enjoy a whiskey tasting at a distillery, to uncork tales of smugglers before the vacation embarks on a grand tour of the Scottish capital. Edinburgh doesn’t disappoint with the Royal Mile, home to Edinburgh Castle, Scotland’s Crown Jewels and the Scottish Parliament.

Itinerary

Relax at your hotel before joining your Travel Director for a warm and friendly dinner, an opportunity to get to know your fellow travellers. (D) Stay: Clayton Charlemont, Dublin

An orientation with your Local Expert will take you past the Custom House and travel along the River Liffey. See the Guinness Storehouse, Christchurch Cathedral and St. Patrick's Cathedral. Enjoy entrance to the 9th century Book of Kells and a walk through the cobbled courtyards of Trinity College to gain insight into the establishment's impressive history. (B)

Witness life behind the scenes of the National Stud Farm, where many legendary racehorses are bred. Then see the finest Japanese gardens in Europe, where the gardens portray the symbolism of life and trace the journey of a soul, designed by master horticulturists, Tassa and Minoru Eida. Continue on to Cork, Ireland's second most populous city, built on the River Lee. Travel along Grand Parade to see Cork's City Hall and Opera House. (B) Stay: The Kingsley, Cork, Maldron South Mall, Cork

Visit the ruined 15th century Blarney Castle, home of the famous Stone of Eloquence - once kissed, never forgotten! Or enjoy a sensory walk in the extensive and varied estate gardens. The rest of the afternoon is at leisure. (B/D) Stay: Killarney Plaza Hotel and Spa

Explore Killarney with Insight Choice. Choose a memorable ride on a horse-drawn jaunting car with the local jarveys. Alternatively, join a gentle hike with a Local Expert along the lake shore and past the grounds of Ross Castle, admiring the incredible scenery of the National Park. While there aren't any mountains to climb, walkers should be fit, have good walking shoes or boots, sunscreen and rain gear. Tour the superb seascapes, towering cliffs and spectacular mountains of the Ring of Kerry.

Journey past lush lakelands and through delightful villages like Sneem. Cross the peat bogs of the Black Valley to Moll's Gap and admire Queen Victoria's Ladies View. Upon returning in the mid-afternoon, the rest of the day is at leisure. (B)

Begin the day with a short ferry ride across the Shannon estuary. Enjoy magnificent views of the Clare coast, as you journey to the Visitors' Centre at the 700-foot Cliffs of Moher.

Continue on to your hotel, located at the heart of the Wild Atlantic Way. Join your Travel Director in Galway to see the infamous Lynch Memorial and the Church of St. Nicholas, where Christopher Columbus reputedly prayed before his discovery of America. Also see the aged Spanish Arch and Eyre Square, dedicated to the late US President, John F. Kennedy. (B) Stay: Connemara Coast, Galway

Tour the wild Connemara region, a scenic wonderland of rivers, lakes and silent hills. Drive along the scenic shores of Sligo Bay. (B/D) Stay: Clayton, Sligo

Cross into Northern Ireland to visit Londonderry. What better way to experience sightseeing than with one of Northern Ireland's best storytellers, Ronan, as he walks with you inside the city walls, still topped with cannons. Walk down Shipquay Street, with its elegant Georgian houses, to the Gothic Guildhall.

Journey to the iconic Giant's Causeway for a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience. This geological masterpiece was created by the cooling of lava which burst through the earth's crust millions of years ago. Learn how the National Trust is enabling farming and biodiversity to work together, supporting both wildlife and quality food production.

Next, take a spectacular drive along the Antrim Coast to your hotel, overlooking the sea at the head of Ballygally Bay. (B/D) Stay: Ballygally Castle, Co. Antrim

Cross the Irish Sea by ferry and journey to Ardgowan. Sir Ludovic Shaw Stewart welcomes you to his family castle, set on a 10,000-acre coastal estate. Explore the history of the area and learn the Shaw Stewart family's conservation efforts to protect the land on this MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience, followed by delightful traditional Scottish tea and scones. Continue to Glasgow where your Travel Director will show you the city's grand public buildings, including George Square and St. Mungo's Cathedral. (B/AT) Stay: Radisson Blu, Glasgow

A scenic drive takes you along the Bonnie Banks of Loch Lomond. Absorb the dramatic landscape of Glencoe, still echoing with the cries of massacred clansmen. Pause at the Commando Memorial for a view of Britain's highest mountain, Ben Nevis before reaching the Great Glen.

Continue on to Loch Ness and embark on a cruise to soak up the scenery, historic monuments and intriguing tales of Nessie in the heart of Scotland's great glen. (B/D) Stay: Kingsmills, Inverness

In the morning, see the sights of Inverness, before travelling to the Culloden Moor Visitor Centre, where Bonnie Prince Charlie's Jacobite army was finally defeated. Then have a 'wee dram' during a visit to a local distillery, hear stories of the whisky smugglers as you delve into the fascinating world of the single malt. (B/D)

A scenic drive takes you through the Grampian Mountains past the Duke of Atholl's Blair Castle. Drive down and cross the Tay to visit St. Andrews. As you arrive, pass the Old Course, the home of golf since its invention in the 15th century. Enjoy free time to explore. Why not wander to St. Andrews University where the love story of Kate Middleton and Prince William began? Alternately, stroll to West Sands Beach where the famous 'Chariots of Fire' scene was filmed. Continue across the majestic Forth Road Bridge to the Scottish capital, Edinburgh.

In the evening, select departures attend The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo. (B) Stay: Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa, Edinburgh

In the morning, join a Local Expert to see the highlights of the city. Drive along Princes Street to the ornate Scott Memorial, then see the 18th century New Town with its neoclassical Georgian facades. In the Old Town see the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the official Scottish residence of the King. Venture up the Royal Mile to visit Edinburgh Castle, home of Mons Meg and Scotland's Crown Jewels, the Honours of Scotland.

In the afternoon, you are at leisure to continue exploring as you wish, or perhaps go shopping. Join your friends in the heart of Edinburgh at a Celebration Dinner of modern Scottish cuisine served with wine. (B/D)

Your journey comes to an end after breakfast with transfers arriving at Edinburgh airport. (B)

Relax at your hotel before joining your Travel Director for a warm and friendly dinner, an opportunity to get to know your fellow travellers. (D) Stay: Clayton Charlemont, Dublin

An orientation with your Local Expert will take you past the Custom House and travel along the River Liffey. See the Guinness Storehouse, Christchurch Cathedral and St. Patrick's Cathedral. Enjoy entrance to the 9th-century Book of Kells and a walk through the cobbled courtyards of Trinity College to gain insight into the establishment's impressive history. (B)

Witness life behind the scenes of the National Stud Farm, where many legendary racehorses are bred. Then see the finest Japanese gardens in Europe, where the gardens portray the symbolism of life and trace the journey of a soul, designed by master horticulturists, Tassa and Minoru Eida. Continue on to Cork, Ireland's second most populous city, built on the River Lee. Travel along Grand Parade to see Cork's City Hall and Opera House. (B) Stay: The Kingsley, Cork, Maldron South Mall, Cork

Today's Insight Choice invites you to experience one of Ireland's most iconic sites. Opt to explore Blarney Castle, climbing its medieval tower to kiss the famous Blarney Stone, long said to grant the ‘gift of the gab.' Alternatively, skip the climb and take time to roam the castle's 1,500-acre estate, discovering the Wishing Steps, Witch's Kitchen and a series of imaginative themed gardens, from the tranquil Water Garden to the tropical Fern Garden. (B/D) Stay: Skellig Hotel, Dingle.

Enjoy a Relaxed Start before setting out along the Dingle Peninsula, a region rich in Gaelic culture and striking Atlantic views. Drive the Slea Head route, one of Ireland's most scenic stretches, passing rugged cliffs, ancient stone huts and panoramic lookouts across the Blasket Islands. Along the way, gain insight into Ireland's early Christian heritage and the daily life of this remote, Irish-speaking region. (B)

Begin the day with a short ferry ride across the Shannon Estuary. Enjoy magnificent views of the Clare coast, as you journey to the Visitors' Centre at the 214 m (702 ft) Cliffs of Moher.

Continue on to your hotel, located at the heart of the Wild Atlantic Way. Join your Travel Director in Galway to see the infamous Lynch Memorial and the Church of St. Nicholas, where Christopher Columbus reputedly prayed before his discovery of America. Also see the aged Spanish Arch and Eyre Square, dedicated to the late U.S. President, John F. Kennedy. (B) Stay: Connemara Coast, Galway

Tour the wild Connemara region, a scenic wonderland of rivers, lakes and silent hills. Drive along the scenic shores of Sligo Bay. (B/D) Stay: Clayton, Sligo

Cross into Northern Ireland and arrive in Londonderry for a walking tour with Ronan, one of the region's leading storytellers. Follow the original 17th-century city walls, complete with cannons, and make your way down Shipquay Street, lined with Georgian townhouses. Pause outside the red sandstone Guildhall, a prominent example of neo-Gothic architecture.

Later, visit the UNESCO-listed Giant's Causeway, where over 40,000 basalt columns were formed by ancient volcanic activity. Continue along the scenic Antrim Coast to your hotel overlooking Ballygally Bay. (B/D) Stay: Ballygally Castle, Co. Antrim

Cross the Irish Sea by ferry and journey to Ardgowan. Sir Ludovic Shaw Stewart welcomes you to his family castle, set on a 10,000-acre coastal estate. Explore the history of the area and learn the Shaw Stewart family's conservation efforts to protect the land on this MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience, followed by traditional Scottish tea and scones. Continue to Glasgow where your Travel Director will show you the city's grand public buildings, including George Square and St. Mungo's Cathedral. (B/AT) Stay: Radisson Blu, Glasgow

A scenic drive takes you along the Bonnie Banks of Loch Lomond. Absorb the dramatic landscape of Glencoe, still echoing with the cries of massacred clansmen. Pause at the Commando Memorial for a view of Britain's highest mountain, Ben Nevis before reaching the Great Glen.

Continue on to Loch Ness and embark on a cruise to soak up the scenery, historic monuments and intriguing tales of Nessie in the heart of Scotland's great glen. (B/D) Stay: Kingsmills, Inverness

In the morning, see the sights of Inverness before travelling to the Culloden Moor Visitor Centre, where Bonnie Prince Charlie's Jacobite army met its fateful end. Then, enjoy a 'wee dram' with a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience at Uile-bheist, a pioneering distillery blending age-old traditions with cutting-edge sustainability. Hear tales of whisky smugglers, explore the craft behind their signature single malts and beers, and uncover the legends that inspire their brews. (B/D)

A scenic drive takes you through the Grampian Mountains past the Duke of Atholl's Blair Castle. Drive down and cross the Tay to visit St. Andrews. As you arrive, pass the Old Course, the home of golf since its invention in the 15th-century. Enjoy free time to explore. Why not wander to St. Andrews University where the love story of Kate Middleton and Prince William began? Alternately, stroll to West Sands Beach where the famous 'Chariots of Fire' scene was filmed. Continue across the majestic Forth Road Bridge to the Scottish capital, Edinburgh.

In the evening, select departures attend The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo. (B) Stay: Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa, Edinburgh

In the morning, join a Local Expert to see the highlights of the city. Drive along Princes Street to the ornate Scott Memorial, then see the 18th century New Town with its neoclassical Georgian facades. In the Old Town see the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the official Scottish residence of the King. Venture up the Royal Mile to visit Edinburgh Castle, home of Mons Meg and Scotland's Crown Jewels, the Honours of Scotland.

In the afternoon, you are at leisure to continue exploring as you wish, or perhaps go shopping. Join your friends in the heart of Edinburgh at a Celebration Dinner of modern Scottish cuisine served with wine. (B/D)

Your 14 days in Ireland and Scotland come to an end after breakfast with transfers arriving at Edinburgh airport. (B)

Trip Inclusions

  • Dublin: See Custom House and travel along the River Liffey. See the Guinness Storehouse, Christchurch Cathedral and St. Patrick's Cathedral.
  • Cork: Ireland's second city - "Rebel Cork" dates back to the 7th century. Your Travel Director will show you the Grand Parade and South Mall, along with City Hall and the Opera House on an insightful orientation tour encompassing the development of the religious settlement of St. Finbarr, to Viking raiding and settlement, to the creation of the Norman city and Merchant Princes. You'll love learning the tales and history of this port city and enjoy hearing the lilt of the Cork accent.
  • Blarney: It is said that those who kiss the Blarney Stone, the famous stone of eloquence, are bestowed with the power to persuade, flatter and coax. Take your turn at giving it a peck knowing that the stone was sourced from 330-million-year-old limestone.
  • Killarney: Enjoy hearing of the history of Killarney during your city orientation.
  • Ring of Kerry: Venture into a world of towering cliffs, lush lakelands, beaches, fields dotted with sheep, rocky coastline, remote villages and historical sites, as you journey the magical Ring of Kerry. This 111-mile circular route is the best place to admire Ireland's scenic beauty and truly one of the most beautiful drives in the world.
  • Cliffs of Moher: Towering cliffs and the dramatic sea, the Cliffs of Moher has inspired countless travellers. Visit the Exhibition Centre and look out over the Wild Atlantic Way from these majestic cliffs that rise over 700 feet high. Gain insights from your Travel Director into the cliffs' geology, history and the species that find sanctuary in its nooks and crannies.
  • Galway: Fascinating stories and interesting locals take centre stage on your orientation of the historic heart of Galway. Visit the Lynch Memorial Window. Then make your way to the Church of St. Nicholas - the largest medieval parish church in Ireland in continuous use, Spanish Arch and Eyre Square.
  • Sligo Bay: The area surrounding the town of Sligo was home to one of Ireland's most famous literary figures, the poet William Butler Yeats. On your journey into town, you'll quickly see why Yeats was inspired by the scenic beauty of the area. Explore its rich medieval history as well as its shops on an orientation with your Travel Director.
  • Ballygally: Explore this seaside town with your Travel Director.
  • Larne: Board your ferry to cross the Irish Sea to Cairnryan.
  • Glasgow: See the grand public buildings, including George Square and St. Mungo's Cathedral.
  • Loch Ness: Soak up the scenery and hear intriguing tales of Nessie during a cruise on one of Scotland's most famous lakes.
  • Fort William: Enjoy an excellent view of Ben Nevis from the World War II Commando Memorial.
  • Inverness: See the River Ness, Inverness Castle and beautiful scenery as you explore the history of this Highland city.
  • Inverness: At the exciting Culloden Visitor Centre, discover why the Battle of Culloden lasted only an hour yet changed the Highland way of life forever.
  • St. Andrews: Visit the university town where the famous beach scene from 'Chariots of Fire' was filmed and see the golf course where the sport was created.
  • Edinburgh: A hush descends and eyes turn to the castle. The skirl of the pipes rises and drums crack the night air as a tide of tunics and tartan flood from the drawbridge. For a limited time in August, witness the incredible spectacle of the Edinburgh Military Tattoo.
  • Edinburgh: Visit Edinburgh Castle to view the Scottish Crown Jewels, Mons Meg and other artefacts with your Local Expert.
  • Edinburgh: Explore the city with your Local Expert as you travel along Princes Street to see the Scott Memorial, the neoclassical Adam facades of New Town and the official Scottish residence of the King, Palace of Holyroodhouse.
  • Dublin: A stunning combination of cobblestone walkways, emerald-green lawns and 18th-century architectural gems, Trinity College is one of Europe's elite universities and counts poet Oscar Wilde among its alumni. See the enchanting college campus and discover insights into its impressive history. Enjoy access to view the famous Book of Kells, an exquisite manuscript of the four gospels of the Christian New Testament, renowned for the intricacy, detail and majesty of the illustrations.
  • Kildare: Horse racing is key part of Irish culture; and you'll get a rare peek into it over your visit to the Irish National Stud. Set in Kildare at the breeding ground of champions and the birthplace of legends, explore the foaling unit, museum and the stallions that continue to make racing history. As the only stud farm in Ireland open to the public, learn the insights of horse-racing at a site whose former visitors include queens and presidents.
  • Londonderry: There's no better way to experience sightseeing than with one of Northern Ireland's best storytellers, Ronan, as he takes you on a tour inside the city walls. See the Gothic Guildhall and the Georgian houses of Shipquay Street.

Choose between two carefully selected activities

  • Killarney: Explore the scenery of Killarney National Park on a horse-drawn jaunting car with the local jarveys.
  • Killarney: Join a gentle hike with a nature guide in Killarney National Park and admire stunning mountains, lakes, woods and waterfalls. Stroll along the lake shore and past the impressive 15th Century Ross Castle and the famous Muckross Estate, a charming 19th Century mansion and grounds.

  • Giant's Causeway: Visit the legendary Giant's Causeway, site of wonders. At the visitor centre, learn about the efforts to protect biodiversity and ecosystems, participating in habitat restoration. The National Trust charity has been undertaking replanting activities in Innisfree Farm, adjacent to the Causeway. By sowing a field of Herbal Ley seed mixes containing up to 17 different species, they have prioritized biodiversity and quality food production leaving a low carbon footprint. Your visit directly supports United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 15: Life on Land.
  • Ardgowan House: Join Sir Ludovic for a tour of his family home, Ardgowan Estate, and savour a traditional Scottish tea made from local ingredients. Hear more about centuries of history on the beautiful grounds during the MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience. Your visit helps support the estate, helping keep Scottish history alive. The Estate educates its visitors and the local rural community about their sustainability initiatives, reducing food waste and sourcing all ingredients locally to support the local economy. Ardgowan Estate invests in renewable projects including a wood bio mass boiler, a gas plant and wind turbines, to create a greener, more sustainable future. Your visit directly supports United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 7 & 12: Affordable and Clean Energy & Responsible Consumption and Production.

  • Dublin: Join your Travel Director for a warm and friendly dinner, an opportunity to get to know each other over a meal.
  • Scottish Highlands: Sample a 'wee dram' and learn the fascinating process of whisky production at a local distillery.
  • Edinburgh: An unforgettable Celebration Dinner sees you dining at the stylish Galvin Brasserie de Luxe, located in the heart of Edinburgh's West End. Your grand finale Celebration Dinner is a mouthwatering meal of modern-Scottish cuisine with a Parisian twist, and is of course served with wine.
  • Dining Summary: 7 Dinners (D), 13 Breakfasts (B), 1 Afternoon Tea (AT)

  • Itinerary and inclusions are subject to change
  • Price is for land, cruise and internal flights as specified. Flights not specified are not included

  • Dublin: See Custom House and travel along the River Liffey. See the Guinness Storehouse, Christchurch Cathedral and St. Patrick's Cathedral.
  • Cork: Ireland's second city - "Rebel Cork" dates back to the 7th century. Your Travel Director will show you the Grand Parade and South Mall, along with City Hall and the Opera House on an insightful orientation tour encompassing the development of the religious settlement of St. Finbarr, to Viking raiding and settlement, to the creation of the Norman city and Merchant Princes. You'll love learning the tales and history of this port city and enjoy hearing the lilt of the Cork accent.
  • Killarney: Enjoy hearing of the history of Killarney during your city orientation.
  • Killarney: Explore on a horse-drawn jaunting car with local jarveys.
  • Dingle Peninsula: Follow the Slea Head route, a dramatic coastal drive around the Dingle Peninsula, where sheer cliffs, secluded beaches, and ancient ruins reflect centuries of settlement. Pass prehistoric ring forts, beehive huts and Ogham stones, evidence of early Gaelic communities. Offshore, see the Blasket Islands, once home to a resilient Irish-speaking population who, facing isolation and hardship, relocated to the mainland in 1953.
  • Cliffs of Moher: Towering cliffs and the dramatic sea, the Cliffs of Moher has inspired countless travellers. Visit the Exhibition Centre and look out over the Wild Atlantic Way from these majestic cliffs that rise over 700 feet high. Gain insights from your Travel Director into the cliffs' geology, history and the species that find sanctuary in its nooks and crannies.
  • Galway: Fascinating stories and interesting locals take centre stage on your orientation of the historic heart of Galway. Visit the Lynch Memorial Window. Then make your way to the Church of St. Nicholas - the largest medieval parish church in Ireland in continuous use, Spanish Arch and Eyre Square.
  • Sligo Bay: The area surrounding the town of Sligo was home to one of Ireland's most famous literary figures, the poet William Butler Yeats. On your journey into town, you'll quickly see why Yeats was inspired by the scenic beauty of the area. Explore its rich medieval history as well as its shops on an orientation with your Travel Director.
  • Giant's Causeway: Visit Northern Ireland's only UNESCO World Heritage Site, formed by volcanic activity over 60 million years ago. Walk across thousands of interlocking basalt columns, shaped by nature and renowned for their striking geometric appearance.
  • Ballygally: Explore this seaside town with your Travel Director.
  • Larne: Board your ferry to cross the Irish Sea to Cairnryan.
  • Glasgow: See the grand public buildings, including George Square and St. Mungo's Cathedral.
  • Loch Ness: Board your cruise on a loch stretching 37 kilometres through the Great Glen Fault, created by tectonic shifts millions of years ago. Its deepest point reaches 230 m (754 ft) and visibility is near zero due to peat content, conditions that have long inspired tales of Nessie, the elusive Loch Ness Monster. Pass Aldourie Castle and hear how this natural trench fuels both hydroelectric power and global fascination.
  • Fort William: Enjoy an excellent view of Ben Nevis from the World War II Commando Memorial.
  • Inverness: See the River Ness, Inverness Castle and beautiful scenery as you explore the history of this Highland city.
  • Inverness: At the exciting Culloden Visitor Centre, discover why the Battle of Culloden lasted only an hour yet changed the Highland way of life forever.
  • St. Andrews: Visit the university town where the famous beach scene from 'Chariots of Fire' was filmed and see the golf course where the sport was created.
  • Edinburgh: A hush descends and eyes turn to the castle. The skirl of the pipes rises and drums crack the night air as a tide of tunics and tartan flood from the drawbridge. For a limited time in August, witness the incredible spectacle of The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo.
  • Edinburgh: Explore Edinburgh Castle with your Local Expert to see the Scottish Crown Jewels and the Mons Meg up close.
  • Edinburgh: Explore the city with your Local Expert as you travel along Princes Street to see the Scott Memorial, the neoclassical Adam facades of New Town and the official Scottish residence of the King, Palace of Holyroodhouse.
  • Dublin: A stunning combination of cobblestone walkways, emerald-green lawns and 18th-century architectural gems, Trinity College is one of Europe's elite universities and counts poet Oscar Wilde among its alumni. See the enchanting college campus and discover insights into its impressive history. Enjoy access to view the famous Book of Kells, an exquisite manuscript of the four gospels of the Christian New Testament, renowned for the intricacy, detail and majesty of the illustrations.
  • Kildare: Horse racing is key part of Irish culture; and you'll gain a rare insight into it on your visit to the Irish National Stud. Set in Kildare at the breeding ground of champions and the birthplace of legends, explore the foaling unit, museum and the stallions that continue to make racing history. As the only stud farm in Ireland open to the public, learn the insights of horse-racing at a site whose former visitors include queens and presidents.
  • Derry/Londonderry: There's no better way to experience sightseeing than with one of Northern Ireland's best storytellers, Ronan, as he takes you on a tour inside the city walls. See the Gothic Guildhall and the Georgian houses of Shipquay Street.

Choose between two carefully selected activities

  • Blarney: It is said that those who kiss the Blarney Stone, the famous stone of eloquence, are bestowed with the power to persuade, flatter and coax. Take your turn at giving it a peck knowing that the stone was sourced from 330-million-year-old limestone.
  • Blarney: Your up close and personal encounter with the lush gardens of the Blarney Castle estate is brought to life on a guided tour with a senior gardener. On your stroll enhanced by your expert's insights, learn about the arboretum's rare trees, mystical Druid rock formations and the Bog Garden boasting three 600-year-old yew trees.

  • Ardgowan House: Join Sir Ludovic for a tour of his family home, Ardgowan Estate, and savour a traditional Scottish tea made from local ingredients. Hear more about centuries of history on the beautiful grounds during the MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience. Your visit helps support the estate, helping keep Scottish history alive. The Estate educates its visitors and the local rural community about their sustainability initiatives, reducing food waste and sourcing all ingredients locally to support the local economy. Ardgowan Estate invests in renewable projects including a wood bio mass boiler, a gas plant and wind turbines, to create a greener, more sustainable future. Your visit directly supports United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 7 & 12: Affordable and Clean Energy & Responsible Consumption and Production.
  • Inverness: Step into the world of Uile-bheist, where age-old whisky and beer traditions meet modern craftsmanship. Discover how folklore inspires their brews, explore the art of distillation, and savour a tasting of their signature creations. Built with sustainability at its core, Uile-bheist is one of Scotland's lowest-carbon distilleries, aiming for net zero by 2030. Your visit supports the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goal 13: Climate Action.

  • Dublin: Join your Travel Director for a warm and friendly dinner, an opportunity to get to know your fellow travellers.
  • Edinburgh: Enjoy a memorable dinner, reflecting on your journey in the company of newfound friends.
  • Dining Summary: 7 Dinners (D), 13 Breakfasts (B), 1 Afternoon Tea (AT)

  • Itinerary and inclusions are subject to change
  • Price is for land, cruise and internal flights as specified. Flights not specified are not included
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Brochure

Insight Vacations Europe, Britain & the World (2025-26) Brochure

Insight Vacations Europe, Britain & the World (2025-26)

Discover the rich layers of the world and see things through a new lens. On tour, the curious mind will be satisfied with learnings through culture, history and experiences, all up close and personal. These carefully curated adventures await in every destination. We bring a world of wonder to reality.

Brochure

Insight Vacations Europe, Britain & the World (2025-26) Brochure

Insight Vacations Europe, Britain & the World (2025-26)

Discover the rich layers of the world and see things through a new lens. On tour, the curious mind will be satisfied with learnings through culture, history and experiences, all up close and personal. These carefully curated adventures await in every destination. We bring a world of wonder to reality.

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Thursday 11 Sep 2025
Wednesday 24 Sep 2025
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A definite departure means minimum numbers have been reached for this departure to operate. Your Global Journeys Travel Advisor will check the availability of your departure date when you enquire. Additional savings may apply. T&C’s apply.
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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. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Insight Vacations. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from Insight Vacations. 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.

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