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 Hilton Garden Inn Dublin City Centre
- 1 night in Castlebar at the The Ellison Hotel
- 2 nights in Galway at the Galmont Hotel & Spa
- 1 night in Limerick at the Limerick Strand Hotel
- 2 nights in Killarney at the Brehon Hotel
- 1 night in Waterford at the Granville Hotel
- 1 night in Dublin at Hilton Garden Inn Dublin City Centre
- Guided sightseeing as described in the itinerary, including the following:
- Orientation driving tour of Dublin
- Visit to the Irish National Stud
- Guided tour of the Strokestown House & Famine Museum
- Visit to Kylemore Abbey
- Excursion to the Aran Islands with tour of Inishmore
- Visit to Rathbaun Farm with scone baking and a sheep herding demonstration
- Tour of the Cliffs of Moher
- Guided tour of the Foynes Flying Boat Museum with Irish Coffee demonstration & tasting
- Excursions to the Dingle Peninsula & Ring of Kerry
- Horse-drawn Jaunting Car Ride in Killarney National Park
- Guided tour of the House of Waterford Crystal
- Free time in Galway, Limerick, Blarney and Kilkenny
- Full Irish breakfast daily, 1 lunch, and 4 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 Castlebar. 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, 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, and a guided tour of the House of Waterford Crystal 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 Hilton Garden Inn Dublin City Centre
- 1 night in Castlebar at the The Ellison Hotel
- 2 nights in Galway at the Galmont Hotel & Spa
- 1 night in Limerick at the Limerick Strand Hotel
- 2 nights in Killarney at the Brehon Hotel
- 1 night in Waterford at the Granville Hotel
- 1 night in Dublin at Hilton Garden Inn Dublin City Centre
- Guided sightseeing as described in the itinerary, including the following:
- Orientation driving tour of Dublin
- Visit to the Irish National Stud
- Guided tour of the Strokestown House & Famine Museum
- Visit to Kylemore Abbey
- Excursion to the Aran Islands with tour of Inishmore
- Visit to Rathbaun Farm with scone baking and a sheep herding demonstration
- Tour of the Cliffs of Moher
- Guided tour of the Foynes Flying Boat Museum with Irish Coffee demonstration & tasting
- Excursions to the Dingle Peninsula & Ring of Kerry
- Horse-drawn Jaunting Car Ride in Killarney National Park
- Guided tour of the House of Waterford Crystal
- Free time in Galway, Limerick, Blarney and Kilkenny
- Full Irish breakfast daily, 1 lunch, and 4 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 Castlebar. 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, 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, and a guided tour of the House of Waterford Crystal 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.
Prices From:
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Day 1. Welcome to Dublin!
"Céad Míle 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! Tonight, enjoy a delightful welcome dinner at your hotel.
Transfer to Dublin hotel
Enjoy picturesque Dublin mountain and River Liffey views
during your relaxing stay at the Hilton Garden Inn Dublin City Centre. Located
just 10 minutes from the city center, this family-friendly hotel is the perfect
base for exploring Ireland's capital city! Start your days off with a stroll
alongside the river, a workout in the fully equipped fitness center, or an
energizing breakfast from the on-site restaurant. Once you’re ready to explore
the city, train and bus stops are just blocks away! If you’re in the mood to
shop, the luck of the Irish is already with you, because the shopping district
is just a short five minute walk away.
After an exciting day of sightseeing in Dublin, unwind in a
contemporary, spacious room that will make you feel right at home. Large,
comfortable beds and mini-refrigerators will create a relaxing retreat, while
40-inch HDTVs and complimentary Wi-Fi will keep you up to date. If work finds
you when you are away, be productive in this hotel’s 24-hour business center,
where you can find complimentary printing services, fax machines, photo copy
machines, and, of course, Wi-Fi. When
you work up an appetite, be sure to dine at Oly’s Bar & Restaurant, which
serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and while you’re there, grab a pint of
beer at the bar. Don’t worry about finding something the kids might like –
there is a special kid’s menu just for them! And if you forget something, run
out of toothpaste, or you just crave a midnight snack, not to worry; the 24-hour
Pavilion Pantry convenience store will be there to save you.
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.
The ultra-comfortable and modern Samuel Hotel is one of the newest hotels situated in the heart of Dublin. Conveniently located 10 minutes away from all major forms of public transportation, guests are also a short distance (17 minutes) from the Dublin Airport! The Samuel Hotel is within walking distance of many eateries, tourist attractions, and shopping centers!
During a stay at The Samuel Hotel, guests have access to a fitness center, restaurant, and a bar to enjoy at any time. Within the rooms, visitors are provided an HDTV, Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, tea/coffee makers, and an in-room safe. Additionally, some rooms provide executive amenities including bathrobes, slippers, sofas, work areas, and pillow-top mattresses. Whether you're exploring the city or in town on a work trip, The Samuel Hotel is an excellent accommodation choice during your time in Dublin!
Day 2. Dublin - Kildare - Strokestown - Castlebar
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.
As your day comes to a close, you will head to Castlebar, where you will stay overnight. Known for its warm welcome and vibrant arts scene, Castlebar blends rich heritage with lively music, scenic walks, and a gateway to the wild beauty of County Mayo.
Check-in - The Ellison Hotel
Guided tour of the Irish National Stud in Kildare
Situated in the heart of County Kildare — renowned for its rich equestrian heritage — the Irish National Stud & Gardens stands as a remarkable symbol of Ireland’s thoroughbred legacy. As one of the few elite breeding farms open to the public, it offers visitors a rare opportunity to explore the fascinating world of horse racing amidst beautifully landscaped gardens and an inspiring blend of history, tradition, and natural beauty.
Guided tour of the Strokestown House & Famine Museum
Relive history at Strokestown Park House, a stunning Georgian Palladian Mansion, with its original furnishings, and stroll the walled gardens in this historic site. Get a glimpse into the lives of generations of people who lived and worked here over the centuries, each adding their own chapter to the story and leaving their mark. Witness the history of the Great Irish Famine with a visit to the National Famine Museum to learn about the most devastating and tragic event in Irish history.
Day 3. Castlebar - 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.
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.
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.
The Salthill Hotel is located on the Promenade in Salthill, Galway. Salthill Hotel is renowned as one of Galway’s premier venues, providing the perfect hotel for Leisure Breaks, Conference and Events, and priding itself on being a preferred Galway City Wedding venue. The world famous Salthill Promenade provides a spectacular backdrop to this hotel, with Stunning Sea views available throughout the hotel. Discover your Galway, and stay at Salthill Hotel. The hotel’s prime location provides easy access to all the sights and sounds of Galway city and beyond.
Visit to Kylemore Abbey
Nestled between the woodlands and lakeshore near Galway City, Kylemore Abbey is home to the Benedictine Sisters who have been in residence since 1920 in a life of prayer, work, and community. The history of this stunning abbey reaches back to the 1800s as the estate of Irish patriot Mitchell Henry. Visit the abbey where handmade chocolates, wild Irish honey and traditional fuchsia pottery are sold. Stroll the lovely grounds of Ireland’s largest walled garden in the heart of the Connemara countryside.
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 Inishmore.
Later, board your ferry back to the mainland.
Excursion to the Aran Islands with tour of Inishmore
Ferry crossing to Inishmore, the largest of the Aran Islands. Stop in Inishmore for a light lunch at Globus Local Favorite Joe Watty’s pub and hear from a local who shares stories about life on Inishmore Island. A minibus tour of the island with a local guide-driver includes a visit to the prehistoric clifftop fort of Dun Aengus.
Day 5. Galway - Cliffs of Moher - Limerick
This morning, enjoy an authentic Irish farm experience at Rathbaun Farm.
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!
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!
Check-in - The Limerick Strand Hotel
Visit to Rathbaun Farm with scone baking and a sheep herding demonstration
Visit Rathbaun Farm and try your hand at scone baking, learn about sheep herding, and enjoy coffee and scones.You can don an apron and whip up your own delicious home-made scones, served with fresh preserves and whipped cream. Learn about the longtime tradition of sheep farming in this beautiful Irish landscape.
Tour of the Cliffs of Moher
Day 6. Limerick - Foynes - Dingle Peninsula - Killarney
Say "later" to Limerick and make your way to Foynes, where you will enjoy a guided tour of the Flying Boat Museum.
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 Killarney, where you will spend the night.
The Brehon Hotel and Spa offers a luxurious experience of grace and elegance in the stunning surroundings of Killarney near Killarney National Park.
The luxurious Angana Spa offers a range of spa services including Thai-style treatments, massages, and spa baths. Dine at the Brehon Bar or Danú restaurant for delightful culinary experiences ranging from vibrant small plates to hearty mains, all created with local, market-fresh ingredients.
Every guestroom and suite is designed with a modern aesthetic that combines beauty, style, and ample space. Rooms offer bathrobes, slippers, baths, walk-in showers, satellite TV, and complimentary mineral water.
Regarded as one of the finest hotels in Kerry, Dingle Skellig Hotel prides itself on its peerless service, highly rated hospitality, and excellent location. Spend a few nights at this hotel and take in the beautiful sights and attractions of Kerry.
The hotel offers a variety of room types, including connecting rooms for families. Relax after a day of sightseeing with a cocktail at the bar or take in the views at the Coastguard Restaurant. Explore the spa packages to pamper yourself on your trip. Peruse a selection of events and activities available to guests, such as one of Dingle's many festivals or shows.
Guided tour of the Foynes Flying Boat Museum, with Irish Coffee demonstration & tasting
Experience the era of transatlantic passenger flights, and the maritime legends of the River Shannon with a visit to the fantastic Flying Boat & Maritime Museum in Foynes, home to the world's only full-size replica of a B314 flying boat, commemorating this Irish town’s role in early passenger flights across the Atlantic and the legendary flying boats that carried celebrities, royals, and refugees alike. Learn about the daring history and folklore of Ireland’s longest river, followed by Irish coffee demonstration and tasting.
Day 7. Killarney - Ring of Kerry Excursion - Killarney
Join the famed Ring of Kerry for a 100-mile panoramic drive around the island's southwestern tip! Stop in the popular resort town of Killarney for a special treat: a fun-filled horse-drawn jaunting car ride through the national park.
Tonight, return to Killarney for your overnight. Spend the evening relaxing in your room or unwinding at a local pub!
Horse-drawn Jaunting Car Ride in Killarney National Park
County Kerry is home to the exquisite natural beauty of a rugged and mountainous expanse in Killarney National Park. A horse-drawn jaunting car ride is a great way to experience this natural wonderland, including the 3,300-foot MacGillycuddy’s Reeks, the highest mountain range in Ireland. Nestled at the foot of these mountains, the Lakes of Killarney’s shores and woodlands share this magical place with waterfalls and dramatic skies above Ross Castle.
Day 8. Killarney - 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.
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.
The Tower Hotel is located across from Reginals Tower on the Mall, 300 feet from the House of Waterford Crystal and Waterford Museum of Treasures. The hotel is also just a short walk from stores and other local attractions. The Waterford Tower Hotel & Leisure Center is just a little over a 45-minute drive from Dublin and Rosslare Harbor. The hotel is close to some of the nicest golf courses in region, as well as the charming fishing villages of Dunmore East, Passage East and Cheekpoint.
In the heart of Waterford, with wonderful views of the Suir River, the hotel offers free Wi-Fi and parking, two restaurants, a riverside bar and swimming pool. The health and fitness center has a well-equipped gym, and a pool which has a separate kiddie's pool. It also boasts a sauna, jacuzzi, steam room and plunge pool. The beauty rooms offer a range of relaxing spa and beauty treatments.
Guided Tour of the House of Waterford Crystal
This tour allows you to witness master craftspeople blowing, hand-marking, cutting, sculpting, and engraving crystal, showcasing the intricate and precise techniques that give Waterford crystal its distinctive sparkle and brilliance. The House also features the world's largest collection of Waterford crystal in its opulent retail store.
Day 9. Waterford - Kilkenny - Dublin
It may be your last full day in Ireland, but the fun is nowhere near over! Start by exploring the city of Kilkenny, referred to as the "Marble City" because of the widespread use of local black limestone to construct many local buildings. The "Medieval Mile" is the city's main thoroughfare and is lined with medieval landmarks, quaint shops and charming pubs. Today Kilkenny is renowned for its active arts and crafts scene.
Finish off your last full day in the Emerald Isle with extra free time in the afternoon to explore Dublin again.
Enjoy picturesque Dublin mountain and River Liffey views
during your relaxing stay at the Hilton Garden Inn Dublin City Centre. Located
just 10 minutes from the city center, this family-friendly hotel is the perfect
base for exploring Ireland's capital city! Start your days off with a stroll
alongside the river, a workout in the fully equipped fitness center, or an
energizing breakfast from the on-site restaurant. Once you’re ready to explore
the city, train and bus stops are just blocks away! If you’re in the mood to
shop, the luck of the Irish is already with you, because the shopping district
is just a short five minute walk away.
After an exciting day of sightseeing in Dublin, unwind in a
contemporary, spacious room that will make you feel right at home. Large,
comfortable beds and mini-refrigerators will create a relaxing retreat, while
40-inch HDTVs and complimentary Wi-Fi will keep you up to date. If work finds
you when you are away, be productive in this hotel’s 24-hour business center,
where you can find complimentary printing services, fax machines, photo copy
machines, and, of course, Wi-Fi. When
you work up an appetite, be sure to dine at Oly’s Bar & Restaurant, which
serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and while you’re there, grab a pint of
beer at the bar. Don’t worry about finding something the kids might like –
there is a special kid’s menu just for them! And if you forget something, run
out of toothpaste, or you just crave a midnight snack, not to worry; the 24-hour
Pavilion Pantry convenience store will be there to save you.
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.
The ultra-comfortable and modern Samuel Hotel is one of the newest hotels situated in the heart of Dublin. Conveniently located 10 minutes away from all major forms of public transportation, guests are also a short distance (17 minutes) from the Dublin Airport! The Samuel Hotel is within walking distance of many eateries, tourist attractions, and shopping centers!
During a stay at The Samuel Hotel, guests have access to a fitness center, restaurant, and a bar to enjoy at any time. Within the rooms, visitors are provided an HDTV, Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, tea/coffee makers, and an in-room safe. Additionally, some rooms provide executive amenities including bathrobes, slippers, sofas, work areas, and pillow-top mattresses. Whether you're exploring the city or in town on a work trip, The Samuel Hotel is an excellent accommodation choice during your time in Dublin!
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!