Overview
Itinerary
Embrace the warm welcome of the 'Emerald Isle' – its ancient heritage, legends and lore are yours to explore as you travel the length and breadth of this island and its tale of two nations. The charismatic capital of Dublin is your first stop on this epic journey, which begins as you join your Travel Director and travel companions for dinner. (D) Stay: Maldron Kevin Street
Belfast beckons today and you'll journey to Northern Ireland for some time at leisure in this vibrant city. Join a Local Specialist to view the historic murals splashed across the walls of the nationalist and loyalist areas, and see the City Hall. Dive Into Culture at the Titanic Belfast Experience and gain a new perspective into the world's most famous ship and the tragedy that befell it. This evening, dine at your hotel. (B/D) Stay: Leonardo
Enjoy free time in Belfast to explore its bold spirit, Victorian architecture and vibrant neighbourhoods. Or join an Optional Experience to Glenshane Farm, a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience set in the rolling hills of Northern Ireland. Meet a local farmer, Jamese, and his energetic border collies as they demonstrate traditional sheep herding techniques passed down through generations.
Later in the afternoon, you can learn even more about Belfast's local sites and stories with an Optional Experience guided walking tour. Join a Local Specialist on a stroll through the city centre before enjoying fish and chips in a classic Northern Irish setting. (B)
Visit the Giant's Causeway, a UNESCO-listed site where volcanic activity formed thousands of basalt columns along the Antrim coast. Travel to the walled city of Derry/Londonderry, located on the River Foyle. Join a Local Specialist to see key landmarks and learn about the city's history, including the People's Gallery in Bogside, known for its large-scale murals depicting the region's recent past. Continue into County Donegal, where the landscape shifts to rugged coastline and quiet villages. Settle in for your stay and enjoy dinner at your hotel. (B/D) Stay: Kee's
Explore the town of Donegal located at the mouth of the River Eske and Donegal Bay. Consider visiting the ancient Donegal Castle, once the stronghold of the O'Donnell clan. This afternoon, visit Belleek where you'll Dive Into Culture and learn about the locally made Irish pottery for which the region is famous. (B)
Continue to the pilgrimage town of Knock to visit the beautiful Marian Shrine where the Virgin Mary, Saint Joseph, and John the Evangelist are said to have made an appearance to the townsfolk in 1879. Complete the day's journey in Galway. (B) Stay: Maldron Oranmore
The untamed landscapes of Connemara, set against rugged mountains and tranquil loughs, provide a soul-stirring backdrop for your scenic drive to Kylemore Abbey. This Benedictine monastery, built on the grounds of Kylemore Castle, features a magnificent Victorian Walled Garden, which you will have an opportunity to explore before returning to Galway.
This afternoon, spend your free time exploring Galway's vibrant Latin Quarter, striking stone Cathedral or the 18th-century Eyre Square. This evening, enjoy dinner at your hotel. (B/D)
Your journey through Ireland's west brings you to the dramatic Cliffs of Moher, where the land meets the Atlantic Ocean. These UNESCO-listed cliffs soar over 200 m (650 ft) high, and with your Local Specialist on this MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience, you'll gain a true sense of their scale and significance. Visit the ‘Atlantic Edge' exhibition to learn how the cliffs were formed over 300 million years and see the habitats where seabirds like Atlantic puffins nest. Travel onwards along the scenic coast and through the hills of County Clare, before arriving in Killarney.
This evening, you're free to explore or opt into a lively Irish ceilidh, complete with traditional music, dance and plenty of local charm. (B) Stay: International
Circle the mystical Ring of Kerry – among Ireland's most enchanting landscapes along which you'll have an opportunity to view the island's stunning scenery. Travel through Moll's Gap and take a moment to view the marvellous natural scenery at Ladies View. This evening is at leisure. (B)
Your 'gift of the gab' secured after kissing the Blarney Stone this morning, you'll then venture to Cork to spend some time exploring the cosmopolitan city that rivals Dublin in its energy and charisma. Spend some free time visiting the famous food market or perhaps relax at one of the city's tearooms, indulging in fresh scones and tea. Your final stop today is in medieval Waterford where you'll spend the next two nights. (B) Stay: Waterford Marina
A leisurely start to your morning could see you amble along Meagher's Quay, before you visit the House of Waterford, where you'll Dive Into Culture and witness the art of creating the exquisite crystal. Travel to the medieval city of Kilkenny, home to the world's fastest field game. The ancient Celtic sport of hurling is over 3,000 years old and Ireland's national sport. Meet an experienced player who will share his passion, as you test your skills during a lesson. Spend the rest of the afternoon on your own in Waterford. (B)
Traverse beautiful County Wexford to the John F. Kennedy Arboretum – a peaceful retreat in New Ross with over 4,500 species of plants across 252 hectares dedicated to the former American president. Leave the enchanting outdoors behind and take a step back in time to the 1800s as you visit the three-masted Dunbrody Famine Ship. Dive Into Culture, gaining insight into the tragic plight of the Irish emigrants, who were compelled to leave their home during the potato famine and endured even harsher conditions than at home in the 'coffin ships' that took them to new lands.
Join the Fulvio family and Connect With Locals over dinner at a Be My Guest experience featuring Irish fare with an Italian twist, served at their Ballyknocken Farmhouse near Dublin. (B/D) Stay: Maldron Kevin Street
Wander through Dublin this morning, joining a Local Specialist for a superb sightseeing tour that will see you view Trinity College and the magnificent Georgian Squares. Spend the rest of the day exploring the city on your terms. Indulge in a pint of the 'Black Stuff' at one of its many quaint pubs, admire the colourful performances on Grafton Street, or delve into its centuries-old history.
This evening, let the rousing sounds of a traditional Irish cabaret tempt you for an Optional Experience that will have you dancing your way through the Dublin streets. (B)
Your memorable journey through Ireland is at its end. All that's left to say is slán abhaile to newfound friends as you prepare to depart for home. (B)
Embrace the warm welcome of the 'Emerald Isle' – its ancient heritage, legends and lore are yours to explore as you travel the length and breadth of this island and its tale of two nations. The charismatic capital of Dublin is your first stop on this epic journey, which begins as you join your Travel Director and travel companions for dinner. (D) Stay: Maldron Kevin Street
Belfast beckons today and you'll journey to Northern Ireland for some time at leisure in this vibrant city. Join a Local Specialist to view the historic murals splashed across the walls of the nationalist and loyalist areas, and see the City Hall. Dive Into Culture at the Titanic Belfast Experience and gain a new perspective into the world's most famous ship and the tragedy that befell it. This evening, dine at your hotel. (B/D) Stay: Leonardo
Enjoy free time in Belfast to explore its bold spirit, Victorian architecture and vibrant neighbourhoods. Or join an Optional Experience to Glenshane Farm, a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience set in the rolling hills of Northern Ireland. Meet a local farmer, Jamese, and his energetic border collies as they demonstrate traditional sheep herding techniques passed down through generations.
Later in the afternoon, you can learn even more about Belfast's local sites and stories with an Optional Experience guided walking tour. Join a Local Specialist on a stroll through the city centre before enjoying fish and chips in a classic Northern Irish setting. (B)
Visit the Giant's Causeway, a UNESCO-listed site where volcanic activity formed thousands of basalt columns along the Antrim coast. Travel to the walled city of Derry/Londonderry, located on the River Foyle. Join a Local Specialist to see key landmarks and learn about the city's history, including the People's Gallery in Bogside, known for its large-scale murals depicting the region's recent past. Continue into County Donegal, where the landscape shifts to rugged coastline and quiet villages. Settle in for your stay and enjoy dinner at your hotel. (B/D) Stay: Kee's
Explore the town of Donegal located at the mouth of the River Eske and Donegal Bay. Consider visiting the ancient Donegal Castle, once the stronghold of the O'Donnell clan. This afternoon, visit Belleek where you'll Dive Into Culture and learn about the locally made Irish pottery for which the region is famous. (B)
Continue to the pilgrimage town of Knock to visit the beautiful Marian Shrine where the Virgin Mary, Saint Joseph, and John the Evangelist are said to have made an appearance to the townsfolk in 1879. Complete the day's journey in Galway. (B) Stay: Maldron Oranmore
The untamed landscapes of Connemara, set against rugged mountains and tranquil loughs, provide a soul-stirring backdrop for your scenic drive to Kylemore Abbey. This Benedictine monastery, built on the grounds of Kylemore Castle, features a magnificent Victorian Walled Garden, which you will have an opportunity to explore before returning to Galway.
This afternoon, spend your free time exploring Galway's vibrant Latin Quarter, striking stone Cathedral or the 18th-century Eyre Square. This evening, enjoy dinner at your hotel. (B/D)
Your journey through Ireland's west brings you to the dramatic Cliffs of Moher, where the land meets the Atlantic Ocean. These UNESCO-listed cliffs soar over 200 m (650 ft) high, and with your Local Specialist on this MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience, you'll gain a true sense of their scale and significance. Visit the ‘Atlantic Edge' exhibition to learn how the cliffs were formed over 300 million years and see the habitats where seabirds like Atlantic puffins nest. Travel onwards along the scenic coast and through the hills of County Clare, before arriving in Killarney.
This evening, you're free to explore or opt into a lively Irish ceilidh, complete with traditional music, dance and plenty of local charm. (B) Stay: International
Circle the mystical Ring of Kerry – among Ireland's most enchanting landscapes along which you'll have an opportunity to view the island's stunning scenery. Travel through Moll's Gap and take a moment to view the marvellous natural scenery at Ladies View. This evening is at leisure. (B)
Your 'gift of the gab' secured after kissing the Blarney Stone this morning, you'll then venture to Cork to spend some time exploring the cosmopolitan city that rivals Dublin in its energy and charisma. Spend some free time visiting the famous food market or perhaps relax at one of the city's tearooms, indulging in fresh scones and tea. Your final stop today is in medieval Waterford where you'll spend the next two nights. (B) Stay: Waterford Marina
A leisurely start to your morning could see you amble along Meagher's Quay, before you visit the House of Waterford, where you'll Dive Into Culture and witness the art of creating the exquisite crystal. Travel to the medieval city of Kilkenny, home to the world's fastest field game. The ancient Celtic sport of hurling is over 3,000 years old and Ireland's national sport. Meet an experienced player who will share his passion, as you test your skills during a lesson. Spend the rest of the afternoon on your own in Waterford. (B)
Traverse beautiful County Wexford to the John F. Kennedy Arboretum – a peaceful retreat in New Ross with over 4,500 species of plants across 252 hectares dedicated to the former American president. Leave the enchanting outdoors behind and take a step back in time to the 1800s as you visit the three-masted Dunbrody Famine Ship. Dive Into Culture, gaining insight into the tragic plight of the Irish emigrants, who were compelled to leave their home during the potato famine and endured even harsher conditions than at home in the 'coffin ships' that took them to new lands.
Join the Fulvio family and Connect With Locals over dinner at a Be My Guest experience featuring Irish fare with an Italian twist, served at their Ballyknocken Farmhouse near Dublin. (B/D) Stay: Maldron Kevin Street
Wander through Dublin this morning, joining a Local Specialist for a superb sightseeing tour that will see you view Trinity College and the magnificent Georgian Squares. Spend the rest of the day exploring the city on your terms. Indulge in a pint of the 'Black Stuff' at one of its many quaint pubs, admire the colourful performances on Grafton Street, or delve into its centuries-old history.
This evening, let the rousing sounds of a traditional Irish cabaret tempt you for an Optional Experience that will have you dancing your way through the Dublin streets. (B)
Your memorable journey through Ireland is at its end. All that's left to say is slán abhaile to newfound friends as you prepare to depart for home. (B)
Trip Inclusions
- Explore Belfast, Derry/Londonderry and Dublin
- Discover Donegal, Galway, Cork and Waterford
- Visit the Titanic Experience in Belfast, the Giant's Causeway, Belleek's Pottery Visitor Centre, Kylemore Abbey, Connemara, Cliffs of Moher, Blarney Castle, the Waterford Crystal showroon and the John F. Kennedy Arboretum and the Dunbrody Famine Ship in New Ross
- View the Antrim Coast and the Marian Shrine in Knock
- See City Hall in Belfast, the Cathedral of Galway, Trinity College and the Georgian Squares in Dublin
- Scenic drive the Ring of Kerry
Be My Guest
- Wicklow: Traditional Irish fare with an Italian twist is served up at Glenealy House near Dublin with your host Catherine Fulvio who is one of Ireland's top culinary stars, and her family on hand to share their story.
Dive Into Culture
- Belfast: Discover the full story of the Titanic at the Titanic Belfast visitor attraction in Belfast.
- Belleek: See traditional craftsmen at work at the Belleek Pottery Visitor Centre, one of the oldest working potteries in the world.
- Waterford: Learn how crystal is crafted at the House of Waterford Crystal during a workshop tour.
- New Ross: Explore the tragic history of Ireland's famine emigration with a Local Specialist at the Dunbrody Famine Ship Experience, a replica of one of the original ships used in the 1800s.
Iconic Experience
- Belfast: Join a Local Specialist to hear about the history of the city and learn of its progress and current prosperity. See the murals in different locations indicating the political sentiments of local residents.
- Londonderry: With a Local Specialist explore inside the city walls. See the Gothic Guildhall and the Georgian houses of Shipquay Street.
- Bushmills: In Northern Ireland you'll discover the legend of the Giant's Causeway as you explore this iconic natural landmark.
- Knock: In the pilgrimage town of Knock, visit the beautiful Marian Shrine, where the Virgin Mary, Saint Joseph and John the Evangelist are said to have appeared to the townsfolk in 1879.
- Kylemore Abbey & Victorian Walled Garden: Visit the turreted Neo-Gothic Kylemore Abbey. This monastery was founded in 1920 for Benedictine Nuns who fled Belgium in World War I.
- Blarney: It is said that those who kiss the Blarney Stone are bestowed with the power to persuade, flatter and coax. But to do so, you must dangle from the ramparts! Visit Blarney Castle and see the famous Stone of Eloquence.
- Cork: Your Travel Director will show you the Grand Parade and South Mall, along with City Hall and the Opera House.
- Kilkenny: Meet an experienced hurling player for a fun session to learn about and try for yourself this 3,000-year-old discipline and proud legacy of Ireland's heritage.
- New Ross: Dedicated to the memory of John F. Kennedy, whose great-grandfather was born nearby, this arboretum contains a plant collection of presidential proportions - explored with a Local Specialist
- Dublin: A Local Specialist will show you Dublin's elegant Georgian squares, O'Connell Street and the Custom House.
Make Travel Matter®
- Lahinch: Gain a deeper understanding of the Cliffs of Moher on a guided walk with a Local Specialist in conservation. Learn how wildflowers support rare bird species like the red-billed chough and explore the cultural ties between the land and local communities. Your visit directly supports United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 15: Life on Land.
- An expert Travel Director and professional Driver
- Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted
- All porterage and restaurant gratuities
- All hotel tips, charges and local taxes
- Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals
- Must-see sightseeing
- Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing
- Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)
- Ferry across the Shannon estuary
- Optional Experiences (Additional Cost) and free time
- On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilised
- 5 Dinners (D)
- 13 Breakfasts (B)
- Itinerary and inclusions are subject to change
- Price is for land, cruise and internal flights as specified. Flights not specified are not included
- Explore Belfast, Derry/Londonderry and Dublin
- Discover Donegal, Galway, Cork and Waterford
- Visit the Titanic Experience in Belfast, the Giant's Causeway, Belleek's Pottery Visitor Centre, Kylemore Abbey, Connemara, Cliffs of Moher, Blarney Castle, the Waterford Crystal showroon and the John F. Kennedy Arboretum and the Dunbrody Famine Ship in New Ross
- View the Antrim Coast and the Marian Shrine in Knock
- See City Hall in Belfast, the Cathedral of Galway, Trinity College and the Georgian Squares in Dublin
- Scenic drive the Ring of Kerry
Be My Guest
- Wicklow: Traditional Irish fare with an Italian twist is served up at Glenealy House near Dublin with your host Catherine Fulvio who is one of Ireland's top culinary stars, and her family on hand to share their story.
Dive Into Culture
- Belfast: Discover the full story of the Titanic at the Titanic Belfast visitor attraction in Belfast.
- Belleek: See traditional craftsmen at work at the Belleek Pottery Visitor Centre, one of the oldest working potteries in the world.
- Waterford: Learn how crystal is crafted at the House of Waterford Crystal during a workshop tour.
- New Ross: Explore the tragic history of Ireland's famine emigration with a Local Specialist at the Dunbrody Famine Ship Experience, a replica of one of the original ships used in the 1800s.
Iconic Experience
- Belfast: Join a Local Specialist to hear about the history of the city and learn of its progress and current prosperity. See the murals in different locations indicating the political sentiments of local residents.
- Londonderry: With a Local Specialist explore inside the city walls. See the Gothic Guildhall and the Georgian houses of Shipquay Street.
- Bushmills: In Northern Ireland you'll discover the legend of the Giant's Causeway as you explore this iconic natural landmark.
- Knock: In the pilgrimage town of Knock, visit the beautiful Marian Shrine, where the Virgin Mary, Saint Joseph and John the Evangelist are said to have appeared to the townsfolk in 1879.
- Kylemore Abbey & Victorian Walled Garden: Visit the turreted Neo-Gothic Kylemore Abbey. This monastery was founded in 1920 for Benedictine Nuns who fled Belgium in World War I.
- Blarney: It is said that those who kiss the Blarney Stone are bestowed with the power to persuade, flatter and coax. But to do so, you must dangle from the ramparts! Visit Blarney Castle and see the famous Stone of Eloquence.
- Cork: Your Travel Director will show you the Grand Parade and South Mall, along with City Hall and the Opera House.
- Kilkenny: Meet an experienced hurling player for a fun session to learn about and try for yourself this 3,000-year-old discipline and proud legacy of Ireland's heritage.
- New Ross: Dedicated to the memory of John F. Kennedy, whose great-grandfather was born nearby, this arboretum contains a plant collection of presidential proportions - explored with a Local Specialist
- Dublin: A Local Specialist will show you Dublin's elegant Georgian squares, O'Connell Street and the Custom House.
Make Travel Matter®
- Lahinch: Gain a deeper understanding of the Cliffs of Moher on a guided walk with a Local Specialist in conservation. Learn how wildflowers support rare bird species like the red-billed chough and explore the cultural ties between the land and local communities. Your visit directly supports United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 15: Life on Land.
- An expert Travel Director and professional Driver
- Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted
- All porterage and restaurant gratuities
- All hotel tips, charges and local taxes
- Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals
- Must-see sightseeing
- Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing
- Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)
- Ferry across the Shannon estuary
- Optional Experiences (Additional Cost) and free time
- On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilised
- 5 Dinners (D)
- 13 Breakfasts (B)
- Itinerary and inclusions are subject to change
- Price is for land, cruise and internal flights as specified. Flights not specified are not included
You’ll enjoy the icons and hidden gems with a Local Specialist by your side. Read more
With one on every itinerary, Be My Guest ensures your journey is truly one-of-a-kind, wherever it takes you. Read more
Find yourself overnighting in accommodations with stories as rich as the destinations you’re exploring. Read more
You’ll enjoy the icons and hidden gems with a Local Specialist by your side. Read more
With one on every itinerary, Be My Guest ensures your journey is truly one-of-a-kind, wherever it takes you. Read more
Find yourself overnighting in accommodations with stories as rich as the destinations you’re exploring. Read more
Trip Reviews (5) Most Recent 'Amazing Ireland' Reviews
Ireland is a fascinating country to visit. The people are so friendly and welcoming. Everywhere we went we met locals who welcomed us with open arms. The social scene experienced at each of the Pubs we visited was nothing like what we see here in Australia. The history and scenery are both very interesting and well worth the effort to visit. The tour itself is a leisurely pace that allows enough time to relax and explore cities at an acceptable pace. I would definitely recommend this tour.
The included meals were usually good and the Be My Guest lunch/dinner was a highlight. My favourite town was Kilkenny which came towards the end of the tour but we did also very much enjoy all of the west coast. The biggest disappointment was the Giant's Causeway as it was so dangerous, especially for older people scrambling over rocks. There were quite a few optional excursions which we did not feel the need to participate in. However the dinner on our last evening was most entertaining.
Ireland doesn't really have seasons.... it just gets a couple of degrees colder in winter. In September it was between 10 and 17 degrees and short passing showers on most days.
We travelled 14 days mid June and were hardly affected by the weather, only at the Cliffs of Moher where it was misty. We had some rain, but each time we stopped, so did it, and we were able to enjoy the sights. We had a lovely group of people on our coach, American, Canadian, New Zealand and us Australians (5 of us). There were many highlights, but the Titanic experience was amazing and the final night dinner and cabaret topped the whole holiday off - an excellent optional extra. Would we travel with Trafalgar again, definitely. Thank you to Jemma from Global Journeys for her patience with our booking. We always use Global Journeys when planning a trip.
The itinerary was geared a bit to American interests read more and their Irish heritage (but I did realise this before booking), and boy did they love to shop! The weather in June was quite warm and most hotels did not have air-conditioning. It was sometimes a scramble at the front desk to get a fan. In one place they went out and bought some fans to keep everyone happy. I have travelled with Trafalgar before and it was fine, but this trip was not a favourite.
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