Compare Explore Ireland & Scotland by Great Value Vacations vs Undiscovered Ireland - Small Group Small Group by Insight Vacations
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| Trip |
4 | Great
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5 | Excellent
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| Duration | 11 days | 13 days |
| Price From | $ 2,286 | $ 4,695 |
| Price Per Day | $ 208 | $ 361 |
| Highlights |
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| Trip Style | Self-guided tour | Small group tour |
| Lodging Level | Standard | Standard |
| Physical Level |
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| Travel Themes |
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| Flights & Transport | NA | Airfare included |
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| Meals Included | N/A | N/A |
| Description |
Kick off your 10-night vacation in Ireland! Stay one night in a hotel near Dublin before making your way to the bed and breakfasts of your choosing. Head west to the colorful coastal city of Galway, stand in awe at the Cliffs of Moher and drive the rugged Dingle Peninsula. Feast on tasty eats in Cork, Ireland's foodie destination, before heading to Dublin. Cap of your Irish stay with a pint of Guinness at its birthplace. From Dublin, fly into Edinburgh and perhaps drive over to St. Andrews on the northeast coast, famed as the birthplace of golf. Then head up to Inverness, known as the capital of the Scottish Highlands. Tour Scotland's scenic wonders like the Isle of Skye and Loch Ness, explore cultural Glasgow, then finish up your trip in Edinburgh. You get to create your own itinerary in both Ireland and Scotland, and the options are endless! |
Setting out from Shannon, this all new itinerary charts the road less travelled in Ireland with a chance to experience the country’s favorite sport—hurling, the breathtaking views of the Clare shoreline from the 700-feet tall Cliffs of Moher and an all Irish trip to a local Pub, where you’ll be serenaded by the musicians of Kilkenny. From here it is a short way to Tipperary and Blarney Castle—home of the kissing stone, before journeying onwards to the port of Cobh, the Titanic’s final port of call before it set sail for New York. Spanning two immersive weeks, this exploration includes a stay at the Carton House, Queen Victoria’s favorite retreat in Dublin. |
Day 1 Welcome to Ireland!
Welcome to Dublin! Upon arrival, pick up your luggage and pick up your rental car, then head to your hotel. Spend the rest of your day at leisure.
Day 2 Dublin area - Ireland Bed & Breakfast
Today you'll head toward your first B&B. Get settled, and start exploring the area! Your B&B hosts can provide great recommendations on local restaurants, experiences and more!
Day 3 Ireland Bed & Breakfast
If you're staying in the area, consider driving down the Wild Atlantic Way to County Clare's most-visited natural attraction: the Cliffs of Moher! Rising 700 feet above sea level, these rugged cliffs are truly a wondrous sight to behold. For the more adventurous spirit, walk along the Cliff Walk for amazing views.
Day 4 Ireland Bed & Breakfast
If you happen to be in this region, perhaps explore the famous Dingle Peninsula on the westernmost tip of Ireland (and Europe!) Begin in Dingle Town, arguably one of Ireland's most charming towns. Stroll up and down Green Street as you pass cozy pubs and eclectic shops. Head west of Dingle and drive along the stunning coastline, stopping at interesting points along the way. Go for a walk on the locals-only Beál Bán beach, then explore Gallarus Oratory, a 1,300-year-old stone church.
Day 5 Ireland Bed & Breakfast
Today, if you're staying near Dublin, explore the city's historical and spiritual highlights, from the Christ Church Cathedral (also Dublin's oldest building) to the imposing St. Patrick's Cathedral. You could also take a deep dive into Dublin's drinking culture; pay a visit to the Guinness Storehouse or the Teeling Whiskey Distillery and discover the magic behind brewing your favorite Irish sips and spirits.
Day 6 Ireland Bed & Breakfast - Edinburgh, Scotland
Say goodbye to Ireland today as you fly from Dublin to Edinburgh. Upon arrival, pick up your second rental car and make your way to your first Scottish bed and breakfast!
Day 7 Scotland Bed & Breakfast
Depending on where you're staying, perhaps travel north today and explore the vast beauty of Inverness. Along the way, break up the drive and stop in cultural Perth or Dundee. Once you get up to Inverness, check out the River Ness, Fort George, and the many castles, museums, and galleries in the area. If only for a day, it might be fun to give in to the myth of "Nessie," the famous monster of Loch Ness. Visit the most famous of all Scottish Lochs - explore and let your imagination run wild!
Day 8 Scotland Bed & Breakfast
If your location permits, make your way westward to the picturesque Isle of Skye, where you'll find rugged landscapes, picturesque fishing villages, and medieval castles. Take a photo at the haunting Old Man of Storr or go hiking in the lush Faeire Glen.
Day 9 Scotland Bed & Breakfast
You might want to keep your urban spirit going and head to the hip city of Glasgow, Scotland's largest city. The many hot spots there include Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, Pollok Country Park, Buchanan Street, and the Necropolis. Glasgow is renowned for its shopping, music, artistic culture, and friendliness.
Day 10 Scotland Bed & Breakfast
What better place to cap off an incredible vacation than Edinburgh? In Scotland's capital city, be amazed by historic architecture, a hilltop castle and plenty of pubs. Start the day with a visit to Edinburgh Castle, a 12th-century fortress that makes an indelible mark on the skyline. Imagine yourself as part of a fairytale as you wander the grounds of this former royal residence. In the evening, venture to one of Edinburgh's theaters to experience a play, musical or performance. This is an art-lover's town!
Day 11 Depart Scotland
Your Irish and Scottish B&B adventure ends today. At the appropriate time, head to Edinburgh airport, drop off your rental car and head for your departure gate.
Day 1: Welcome to Ireland
Transfers to your hotel depart from Shannon airport at 07:00 and 13:00. Relax and settle into your hotel or perhaps head for the nearby Bunratty Castle & Folk Park. At 17:30, join your Travel Director for a Welcome Dinner at a local restaurant with the opportunity to get to know your fellow travellers.
Day 2: Cliffs and Delights of Galway
Journey to the incredible West Coast and the Cliffs of Moher Visitor Centre where you can enjoy breath-taking views of the Clare shoreline and the Atlantic Ocean. Your next stop is Galway, the City of Tribes. See the St Nicholas Cathedral, the Spanish Arch and Eyre Square on your orientation, before indulging in a delicious lunch at a local restaurant. Arrive in quaint and colourful Westport in Co. Mayo, on the Clew Bay.
Day 3: Explore Westport
Explore Westport with Insight Choice. Choose to join a Local Expert on a culinary walk through the town, sampling the best artisan dishes, craft beers and spirits. Alternatively, travel to Ballycroy National Park for a nature walk through lush countryside, with panoramic views of Achill Island and the Nephin Beg mountain range.
Day 4: Co. Donegal and the Wild Atlantic Way Relaxed Start
Visit the historic Lissadell Estate, childhood home of Irish revolutionary Constance Markievicz, who went on to becoming the first Irish Cabinet Minister. Meet the owners who have lovingly restored the house and gardens to its former glory and listen to their story as you enjoy tea and scones. Follow the Wild Atlantic Way to Donegal, then head inland for the market town of Letterkenny in the heart of the Northwest. Tonight, enjoy hearty Irish fare as your dine in the home of a local family.
Day 5: Wilderness of the Northwest
Experience the beauty and tranquillity of Ireland's northernmost wilderness as you travel through Glenveagh National Park, along the shores of Lough Veagh. Visit Glenveagh Castle, originally built as a romantic highland retreat, with a Local Expert. Spend time in the tartan-and-antler-encrusted music room and the blue room, where guests Greta Garbo and Ella Fitzgerald once stayed. Learn how the estate has played a central role in the conservation efforts of the National Park.Continue through Creeslough across the true wilds of Donegal. See Doe Castle, historical stronghold of Clan Sweeney, then on to the Atlantic Drive. Part of the Wild Atlantic Way, it is one of Ireland’s best kept secrets, offering pristine and unspoilt scenery. Continue back to Letterkenny via Mulroy Bay and Milford, and return to your hotel for an evening at leisure.
Day 6: Dublin, the capital
Journey across the Emerald Isle to Dublin, see the Custom House, St Patrick’s Cathedral, and travel along River Liffey on your orientation with your Travel Director. Explore Dublin with Insight Choice. Choose to visit the world-famous Guinness Storehouse Brewery and learn how to pour the perfect pint. Alternatively, join a Local Expert to visit Trinity College and see the Book of Kells. Arrive at the historic Carton House Hotel, a favourite retreat of Queen Victoria, newly renovated. Tonight, enjoy a cooking demonstration and savour a delicious dinner at the hotel’s gastropub.
Day 7: A Day at Leisure Relaxed Start
Today take advantage of the activities available at your hotel. Stop on the estate grounds and look out for rare birds. Take your chance at fishing, play a round of golf or pamper yourself at the spa. Transfers are also available for guests wishing to further explore Dublin.
Day 8: Gardens of Ireland
Your first stop this morning is at the Powerscourt House, in the foothills of the Wicklow Mountains, where you join a gardener for a walk through one of the world’s greatest estates. Your next stop is at Glendalough where a Local Expert takes you on a walk in the ‘valley of the two lakes’. This evening, arrive in Kilkenny, where your Travel Director shows you the medieval city, with its majestic castle and river walk. The evening is at your leisure.
Day 9: Active Kilkenny Relaxed Start
Kilkenny holds a long history for Ireland’s national sport – hurling. Meet an experienced player to gain an exciting insight into this unique Irish cultural experience, and have a go for yourself on the pitch. Tonight, enjoy a pub dinner where local musicians entertain you in true Irish tradition.
Day 10: Castles on the way to Cork
Cross County Tipperary as you travel to 15th-century Blarney Castle, home of the famous Stone of Eloquence ! In Cobh, visit the Queenstown Story exhibition, offering a glimpse into the hardships of the early emigrants to British overseas colonies. The ill-fated Titanic also called to the port on its voyage to New York, and the ocean liner Lusitania was struck by a torpedo just off the shore of the town.
Day 11: Walks in Nature
Explore Kinsale, one of the most picturesque towns on the southwest coast of Ireland. Visit Charles Fort, one of the finest surviving examples of a 17th-century star-shaped fort. Overlooking the town and the mouth of the Bandon River, it provides breath-taking views of the county. An easy and peaceful walk takes you to the Old Head of Kinsale, to see the memorial to the crew of RMS Lusitania and the ruins of Downmacpatrick Castle.Enjoy the freshest seafood this evening on your Sea-to-Table dinner.
Day 12: County Tipperary and Adare
Travel across County Tipperary to Brookfield Farm and join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience. Meet Ailbhe Gerrard, a passionate farmer and beekeeper, who shares her secrets to crafting the most delicious honey of the island, crafted sustainably, vital for the preservation of biodiversity in the region.Continue to Adare, Ireland’s prettiest village, for a walk among thatched cottages.Tonight, toast to your travels and memories made at your Celebration Dinner.
Day 13: Farewell Ireland
Your journey comes to an end after breakfast. Departure transfers arrive at Shannon airport at 05:30 and 09:00.
