Emerald Isle
Fully Escorted Tour
Escape to amazing Ireland, where sheep roam green hills and tiny villages sit calmly on the coast. On this incredible 9-night adventure, you'll experience the vibrant cities of Galway and Dublin, as well as the breathtaking landscapes of the Ring of Kerry, the Cliffs of Moher, and the Aran Islands. Get the full Irish experience on this stress-free guided tour around the Emerald Isle.
Escorted tours offer expert guides who provide deep local insights and worry-free planned itineraries. Enjoy the company of like-minded travelers, visit hidden gems not found on typical tours, and enjoy peace of mind with a travel support system.
What's Included
- Round-trip economy class airfare to Dublin (DUB)
- Round-trip airport transfers
- Accommodations in hotels listed, or similar:
- 1 night in Dublin at The Gibson
- 1 night in Ballina at the Ballina Manor Hotel
- 2 nights in Galway at the Galmont Hotel & Spa
- 1 night in Limerick at the Limerick Strand Hotel
- 2 nights in Tralee at The Rose Hotel
- 1 night in Waterford at the Granville Hotel
- 1 night in Dublin at Hilton Dublin Kilmainham
- Guided sightseeing as described in the itinerary, including the following:
- Visit to the Irish National Stud
- Guided tour of the Strokestown House & Famine Museum
- Visit to Kylemore Abbey
- Excursion to the Aran Islands
- Visit to Cliffs of Moher
- Guided tour of the Foynes Flying Boat Museum
- Scenic drives around the Dingle Peninsula & Ring of Kerry
- Visit to the House of Waterford Crystal & Glendalough monastic site
- Full Irish breakfast daily, 1 lunch, and 5 dinners
- Services of a Professional Travel Director
- Headsets throughout the tour
- Transportation by private, first-class, air-conditioned motorcoach (with complimentary Wi-Fi)
- Round-trip ferry to the Aran Islands
- Hotel tips, taxes, porterage and service charges
*Note: Transfers are included if your flight arrives and departs Dublin between 6:00 am and 1:00 pm
**Note: Children must be 8 years or older at time of travel.
Great Ways to Explore
-
You'll be swept away by the postcard beauty in Dublin, Galway, Waterford and more.
- Don't miss a beat with this guided getaway. You'll cover all of the highlights of Ireland!
-
Immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring landscapes of the Wild Atlantic Way with a scenic drive around the Dingle Peninsula and the Ring of Kerry.
-
Start each day right with a full Irish Breakfast!
-
Spot herds of sheep as you drive through the hilly green Irish countryside.
Get ready for the vacation of a lifetime! Enjoy an incredible journey through Ireland’s bustling cities, quaint towns, and lush countryside. Begin in Dublin with an overnight and an overview that includes O’Connell Street, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, and Trinity College. Heading west, you'll stop in Kildare at the Irish National Stud, then north to Longford’s Strokestown House for a tour of the mansion and an insight into the Great Irish Famine of the 1840s.
Drive along the beautiful western coastline, and enjoy a visit to Kylemore Abbey before your stay in beautiful Ballina. Next stop: Galway! This colorful city is jam-packed with spirited culture. From the port city of Galway, you'll set sail on an excursion to the breathtaking Aran Islands, famous for their linguistic and cultural heritage.
Also on the agenda: a genuine Irish farm experience with morning coffee and fresh scones, the majestic Cliffs of Moher, King John’s castle in Limerick, and the Foynes Flying Boat museum, where you can explore the only Boeing B314 “Clipper” full-size replica in the world!
Enjoy a spectacular 100-mile panoramic drive around the Ring of Kerry, then a horse-drawn jaunting car ride in Killarney. Blarney, the House of Waterford Crystal, Avoca handweaving mill, and St. Kevin’s Centre of Irish Christianity at Glendalough are the final highlights before you return to Dublin for your last overnight on the Emerald Isle!
Please note that some recommendations in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check What's Included above for full details on inclusions.
- Round-trip economy class airfare to Dublin (DUB)
- Round-trip airport transfers
- Accommodations in hotels listed, or similar:
- 1 night in Dublin at The Gibson
- 1 night in Ballina at the Ballina Manor Hotel
- 2 nights in Galway at the Galmont Hotel & Spa
- 1 night in Limerick at the Limerick Strand Hotel
- 2 nights in Tralee at The Rose Hotel
- 1 night in Waterford at the Granville Hotel
- 1 night in Dublin at Hilton Dublin Kilmainham
- Guided sightseeing as described in the itinerary, including the following:
- Visit to the Irish National Stud
- Guided tour of the Strokestown House & Famine Museum
- Visit to Kylemore Abbey
- Excursion to the Aran Islands
- Visit to Cliffs of Moher
- Guided tour of the Foynes Flying Boat Museum
- Scenic drives around the Dingle Peninsula & Ring of Kerry
- Visit to the House of Waterford Crystal & Glendalough monastic site
- Full Irish breakfast daily, 1 lunch, and 5 dinners
- Services of a Professional Travel Director
- Headsets throughout the tour
- Transportation by private, first-class, air-conditioned motorcoach (with complimentary Wi-Fi)
- Round-trip ferry to the Aran Islands
- Hotel tips, taxes, porterage and service charges
*Note: Transfers are included if your flight arrives and departs Dublin between 6:00 am and 1:00 pm
**Note: Children must be 8 years or older at time of travel.
-
You'll be swept away by the postcard beauty in Dublin, Galway, Waterford and more.
- Don't miss a beat with this guided getaway. You'll cover all of the highlights of Ireland!
-
Immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring landscapes of the Wild Atlantic Way with a scenic drive around the Dingle Peninsula and the Ring of Kerry.
-
Start each day right with a full Irish Breakfast!
-
Spot herds of sheep as you drive through the hilly green Irish countryside.
Get ready for the vacation of a lifetime! Enjoy an incredible journey through Ireland’s bustling cities, quaint towns, and lush countryside. Begin in Dublin with an overnight and an overview that includes O’Connell Street, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, and Trinity College. Heading west, you'll stop in Kildare at the Irish National Stud, then north to Longford’s Strokestown House for a tour of the mansion and an insight into the Great Irish Famine of the 1840s.
Drive along the beautiful western coastline, and enjoy a visit to Kylemore Abbey before your stay in beautiful Ballina. Next stop: Galway! This colorful city is jam-packed with spirited culture. From the port city of Galway, you'll set sail on an excursion to the breathtaking Aran Islands, famous for their linguistic and cultural heritage.
Also on the agenda: a genuine Irish farm experience with morning coffee and fresh scones, the majestic Cliffs of Moher, King John’s castle in Limerick, and the Foynes Flying Boat museum, where you can explore the only Boeing B314 “Clipper” full-size replica in the world!
Enjoy a spectacular 100-mile panoramic drive around the Ring of Kerry, then a horse-drawn jaunting car ride in Killarney. Blarney, the House of Waterford Crystal, Avoca handweaving mill, and St. Kevin’s Centre of Irish Christianity at Glendalough are the final highlights before you return to Dublin for your last overnight on the Emerald Isle!
Please note that some recommendations in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check What's Included above for full details on inclusions.
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Day 1. Welcome to Dublin!
"Céad MÃle Fáilte" is Gaelic for "one hundred-thousand welcomes!" Upon arrival in Dublin, enjoy a comfortable transfer to your first hotel. Once you're all settled, meet your tour director and traveling companions for an afternoon orientation drive! Whiz by statue-lined O'Connell Street, elegant Georgian squares, and past St. Patrick's Cathedral and Oscar Wilde's Trinity College. Tonight, enjoy a delightful welcome dinner at your hotel.
Transfer to Dublin hotel
Check-in - The Gibson Hotel
The spacious rooms are beautifully designed with a modern, light and airy decor and floor-to-ceiling windows. The air conditioned rooms feature flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi and some have private balconies with city views. Coda Eatery offers stylish yet informal dining with simple, good food made with locally sourced ingredients. The Wine Wall offers a wide range of wines from around the world. There is a fabulous bar terrace, where guests can enjoy a drink and stunning views, and also a modern grounds space for guests to relax in.
Day 2. Dublin - Kildare - Strokestown - Ballina
Recharge with a delicious Irish breakfast! Horse-racing country awaits! Drive across the Curragh to the Irish National Stud at Kildare, whose thoroughbreds command respect on the racecourses of the world. Then, head north to Longford and enjoy a guided tour of Strokestown House, a 1740s mansion with stunning flower gardens. In the afternoon, you will gain insight into the circumstances of the Great Irish Famine of the 1840s at the Famine Museum.Â
As your day comes to a close, you will head to Ballina, where you will stay overnight. Famous for its hospitality and internationally renowned for its exceptional salmon fishing in the Moy River, this pretty riverside town is packed with Irish culture.Â
Check-in - Ballina Manor Hotel
Situated on River Moy, Ballina Manor Hotel is in a great location for those wishing to stop off as they explore the Wild Atlantic Way. Local activities include golfing, cycling, and salmon fishing. All rooms are equipped with free WiFi and a private bathroom with a hair dryer. The Ridgepool Restaurant offers a fine dining experience with floor-to-ceiling windows, while the more casual Shambles Bar offers a cozy spot to unwind. Afternoon Tea for two is served with fresh scones. The Bentley Bar is an excellent choice for a pre-dinner signature cocktail. The Ballina Train Station is a five minute walk away, with the town's shopping district close by as well.
Day 3. Ballina - Kylemore - Galway
Via Westport, head for the unspoiled region of Connemara, an area known for its hardy breed of ponies. Visit Kylemore Abbey, a massive yet graceful castle acquired by Benedictine nuns as a precious heirloom for Ireland. At Moycullen, visit the Joyce family at their marble workshop before arriving in the port city of Galway.
Spend your night getting to know the vibrant city of Galway! Take a pub crawl down High Street and treat yourself to some local oysters.Â
Check-in - Galmont Hotel
Located just a three-minute walk from Eyre Square, The Galmont is a luxurious hotel in the heart of Galway. This four-star hotel has rooms of varying sizes, including family rooms and accessible rooms. All rooms come equipped with free WiFi, premium bedding, television, and complimentary coffee, tea, and water. The hotel offers multiple dining options, including Marina's Restaurant for a more formal experience set against Lough Atalia bay, or Coopers Bar and Lounge for afternoon tea or cocktails. The Galmont boasts luxurious spa and fitness facilities, perfect for some pleasurable pampering.
Day 4. Galway - Excursion to The Aran Islands - Galway
Enjoy breakfast, then grab your camera and get ready for a day of coastal beauty! Near Connemara, you'll board a comfortable ferry for the 45-minute crossing to Kilronan on Inishmore, the largest of the Aran Islands and where Gaelic is the first language of the islanders. Your fascinating day continues with a presentation on life on Inishmore by an island historian.
After a light lunch at Ti Joe Watty's pub, you'll board a minibus to enjoy an entertaining driving tour of the island, ending with a visit to clifftop Dun Aengus, one of the most spectacular and dramatic prehistoric stone forts in Europe! Back in Kilronan, you'll board your ferry back to the mainland.Â
Enjoy one last night in Galway! Check out Eyre Square and the Spanish Arch, then treat yourself to dinner at one of the countless restaurants in the city.
Day 5. Galway - Cliffs of Moher - Limerick
This morning, enjoy an authentic Irish farm experience at Rathbaun Farm. Try your hand at scone baking, and learn from the farmer about sheep shearing and dog whistling! Afterwards, enjoy a warm cup of coffee and your scones, fresh from the oven.
Take the scenic route across the desolate limestone plateau known as The Burren, and stop for photos of prehistoric Poulnabrone Dolmen. Now, the moment you've been waiting for... the Cliffs of Moher! Rising 668 feet above the Atlantic Ocean, savor the breathtaking panorama of these stunning cliffs on the sparkling Clare coast.Â
After an amazing day, head to the vibrant city of Limerick for a relaxing overnight. Stroll through the city's pub-lined streets and do some souvenir shopping! Looking for some more fun? Tonight, you can take part in an optional dinner excursion to Bunratty Folk Park with your guide.Â
Check-in - The Limerick Strand Hotel
Day 6. Limerick - Foynes - Dingle Peninsula - Tralee
Say "later" to Limerick and make your way to Foynes, where you will enjoy a guided tour of the Flying Boat Museum. Board and explore the world's only full-size replica of a Boeing B314 "Clipper." Then, climb into the flight simulator and re-enact the thrilling experience of crossing the Atlantic in a 1930s long-range flying boat! Perk up with an included Irish coffee demonstration, complete with a sample of the classic drink.
In the afternoon, enjoy postcard-worthy views on the Slea Head drive as you explore the Dingle Peninsula! Stroll through this quaint coastal town and enjoy dinner at a local pub on the peninsula. After a day filled with Irish culture, head to the colorful town of Tralee, where you will spend the night.
Check-in - The Rose Hotel
The Rose Hotel in Tralee is a modern hotel with a 4-star rating and a warming atmosphere. The hotel is located just under a mile from the popular Tralee town center as well as a handful of other exciting adventures-- including but not limited to cycling, horse riding, amusement parks, and more. You'll also be happy to know that this hotel is just about 15 minutes driving distance away from Kerry Airport.
Included in every room is a private bath, a large window with a gorgeous view, flat screen TV, Wi-Fi access, and a handful of other amenities. As a guest at the Rose Hotel, you'll also be able to use the on-site laundry facility and enjoy easily-accessible room service.
Wake up to breakfast in bed (or at the café) from the hotel's very own kitchen serving traditional Irish cuisine. There's also a bar and lounge, as well as a luxurious spa on-site. The Rose Hotel also features an on-site gym and several lounging areas to help you feel all the more welcome. Nearby attractions include the Kerry County Museum, Tralee Bay Wetlands Center & Nature Reserve, the Aquadome, Kerry’s Wild Atlantic Way, and so much more.
Day 7. Tralee - Ring of Kerry Excursion - Tralee
Join the famed Ring of Kerry for a 100-mile panoramic drive around the island's southwestern tip! Plenty to focus your camera on here: sparkling seascapes, mountains dotted with brightly colored farmhouses, winding lanes bordered with subtropical vegetation, and the breathtaking panorama of the Lakes of Killarney from Ladies View. Stop in the popular resort town of Killarney for a special treat: a fun-filled horse-drawn jaunting car ride through the national park with glorious vistas of the Lakes of Killarney and ancient Ross Castle!
Tonight, return to Tralee for your overnight. Spend the evening relaxing in your room or unwinding at a local pub!
Day 8. Tralee - Blarney - Waterford
Across the Kerry Mountains, drive into County Cork for a visit to Blarney, which is renowned for its castle and powerful kissing stone. Enjoy some free time for lunch, to walk up to the castle, and to shop for traditional Irish handicrafts!
In the afternoon, proceed via Cork, Youghal, and Dungarvan to Waterford, a stronghold founded by the Danish Vikings in 853. Here, enjoy a visit to the House of Waterford Crystal! Spend your evening getting to know this historic seaport city, then cozy up for the night.
Check-in - Granville Hotel
Steeped in the history of the city. The Granville Hotel provides its guests with a warm Irish welcome and all the comforts of home. Serving visitors since the late 70s, owners Liam and Anne Cusack delight in the Granville's heritage (the building dates back to the 1700s!), and vigorously pursue the hotel's long tradition of hospitality, friendliness and comfort. From the moment you walk through the doors of the Granville Hotel in Waterford city center you will experience the professionalism & hospitality that is the essence of the hotel. A dedicated team of management and staff are on hand to ensure that your stay in Waterford is pleasant and memorable.
Day 9. Waterford - Avoca - Glendalough - Dublin
It may be your last full day in Ireland, but the fun is nowhere near over! Today's agenda: Enniscorthy, site of the final battle of the Great Rebellion of 1798; Ireland's oldest handweaving mill at Avoca; and Glendalough, the early Christian monastic site founded by St. Kevin in the 6th century. See the engaging audiovisual Ireland of the Monasteries, then let your Local Guide show you the remains of this ecclesiastical settlement.
In the afternoon, you'll travel back to Dublin, where your journey will come full-circle. Treat yourself to a pint in the Temple Bar area, visit the Guinness Storehouse, or admire the city's amazing architectural masterpieces!Â
Check-in - Hilton Dublin Kilmainham
Ten minutes from Dublin city center and Heuston Intercity Rail Station, Hilton Dublin Kilmainham is your key to the city. The hotel's excellent location is a five-minute walk from Phoenix Park, which is home to the Dublin Zoo, and close to attractions such as the Guinness Storehouse and Kilmainham Gaol. A stay at this hotel will provide you with clean, spacious accommodations and access to hotel amenities and facilities such as the fitness room, hydrotherapy pool, steam room, and more. You can grab a bite at Broyage Bar & Bistro, or ask for advice on local favorites at the front desk.Â
Day 10. Depart Dublin
Wave goodbye to beautiful Ireland. Pack up your souvenirs and enjoy a comfortable transfer to the airport. Spend your flight home replaying warm memories and dreaming about your next adventure!