Compare Ireland's Top Sights 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 | 8 days | 13 days |
| Price From | $ 1,140 | $ 4,695 |
| Price Per Day | $ 143 | $ 361 |
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| Trip Style | Self-guided tour | Small group tour |
| Lodging Level | Standard | Standard |
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| Flights & Transport | NA | Airfare included |
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| Meals Included | N/A | N/A |
| Description |
Sublime countryside, history bursting at the seams, and a pub on every corner...this is the Ireland you've always dreamed of. On this vacation, you'll experience it all with ease! Arrive in Dublin and spend a couple days exploring Kilkenny and Waterford, two highlights of Ireland's Ancient East. Enjoy admission to the beautiful Kilkenny Castle, right in the center of town. From there, drive to Tralee and explore everything County Kerry has to offer. See the sights of the Ring of Kerry from a comfortable motorcoach, then cozy up with a pint in a traditional pub. You'll also make a quick stop in County Cork to see the famous Blarney Stone! You'll then continue your journey to County Clare, home of Ireland's most well-known natural attraction, the Cliffs of Moher. Don't leave without taking a selfie with these ruggedly beautiful cliffs as the backdrop. Your trip ends in - where else? - Dublin. Learn the fascinating history behind the EPIC Irish Emigration Museum. |
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 Dublin!
Arrive at Dublin's airport, grab your car and make your way to your first destination: Kilkenny. This medieval city has deep religious roots; here you can explore well-preserved churches and monasteries. Start with a trip to Kilkenny Castle, then perhaps you'd like to visit the 13th century St. Canice's Cathedral or the Black Abbey Priory.
Day 2 Kilkenny - Waterford
Make the short drive today to your next destination - Waterford! As Ireland's oldest city, Waterford bursts with over 1,000 years of history, from the Vikings to the Normans. Climb to the top of Reginald's Tower, a massive stone fortress, and wander through the Medieval Museum. You may also want to check out the Waterford Crystal factory and peruse the incredible glass creations.
Day 3 Waterford - Tralee
Say goodbye to Waterford as you make your way to Blarney Castle, home to the famous stone that bears the same name. You'll then head to Tralee, home to one of Ireland's most breathtaking regions: County Kerry. Pay a visit to the 200-year-old Blennerville windmill or soak up some culture at the County Kerry Museum.
Day 4 Tralee
Embark on a full-day tour discovering some of Ireland's most majestic natural wonders on your Ring of Kerry tour.
Day 5 Tralee - Clare
Today you'll head to Clare, home to Ireland's most famous end-of-the-world cliffs: the Cliffs of Moher. Make sure your camera is charged and ready to go! You can also visit Bunratty Castle & Folk Park if you wish or the prehistoric Burren area nearby. In the evening, consider heading to Doolin Village, known as Ireland's home of "traditional Irish music."
Day 6 Clare - Dublin
Head to your final destination today: the vibrant city of Dublin! Make stops along the way or head straight there and unwind at your accommodation. Celebrate your first night in Ireland's capital by treating yourself to a drink at Ireland's pub: the Brazen Head.
Day 7 Dublin
Explore the highlights of Dublin today! Start the day with a stroll over to Dublin Castle, the perhaps unwind at the picturesque grounds. Additionally, you can take advantage of your included EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum Admission!
Day 8 Depart Ireland
Hop in the car and make your way back to Dublin airport for your flight home. Be sure to leave extra time to return your car to the rental area.
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.
