Ireland's Hidden Gems
See the crown jewels of Ireland!
You've dreamed of driving the Ring of Kerry, kissing the Blarney Stone and pouring a pint at the Guinness Storehouse...so there's only one thing to do! On this self-drive Ireland vacation, experience lesser known Irish cities and start checking items off that bucket list!
What's Included
- Round-trip economy class airfare to Dublin (DUB)
- Manual economy car rental for duration of the trip - automatic available for upgrade
- 1 night in Kilkenny Aspect Hotel Kilkenny or similar, with breakfast
- 2 nights in Limerick at Absolute Hotel or similar, without breakfast
- 2 nights in Sligo at Ocean Sands Hotel or similar, without breakfast
- 2 nights in Belfast at Maldron Hotel Belfast City or similar, without breakfast
- 1 night in Dublin at Maldrons Newlands Cross Hotel or similar, without breakfast
Prefer a southern route through Cork? Click here!
Great Ways to Explore
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This journey takes you all over Ireland. With your own car, go from east to west and north to south!
- Kick off your stay in Kilkenny, known as the "Marble City."Â
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Pick up tasty treats at Limerick's Milk Market before exploring the vibrant city nestled along the mighty River Shannon.
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Breathe in the salty fresh air at Downpatrick Head in County Mayo.
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Say "sláinte" and clink glasses with the locals at a pub in Dublin!
Ireland presents an array of possibilities for visitors, whether it's medieval stone villages or empty country roads. On this 8-night vacation, go off the beaten path to discover the real Ireland.
Your trip begins in southeastern Kilkenny, known for its medieval churches and imposing Kilkenny Castle. Sip a Smithwick's ale before heading to Limerick City! Stroll the Georgian streets of Ireland's third largest city and make time to explore its surroundings like Lough Gur and Rock of Cashel. You'll then head up north to County Sligo, said to be where the first settlers arrived in Ireland.
Cross into Northern Ireland border on your way to its capital, Belfast. This city is quickly becoming one of the U.K.'s top destinations with sites like Titanic Belfast and St. George's Market. The final leg of your vacation brings you to Dublin, where a friendly local and a pub are never too far away.
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.
Enhance your vacation with:
For $99 per person, add the following to your vacation:
- Admission to Kilkenny Castle
- Admission to Cliffs of Moher
- Admission to Bunratty Castle & Folk Park
- Kilmainham Gaol in Dublin
- Guided Ring of Kerry Tour
- Kildare Village 10% Discount Voucher
- Waterford Crystal 2 for 1 Discount Voucher
- 10% Off Admission to Guinness Storehouse
- Round-trip economy class airfare to Dublin (DUB)
- Manual economy car rental for duration of the trip - automatic available for upgrade
- 1 night in Kilkenny Aspect Hotel Kilkenny or similar, with breakfast
- 2 nights in Limerick at Absolute Hotel or similar, without breakfast
- 2 nights in Sligo at Ocean Sands Hotel or similar, without breakfast
- 2 nights in Belfast at Maldron Hotel Belfast City or similar, without breakfast
- 1 night in Dublin at Maldrons Newlands Cross Hotel or similar, without breakfast
-
This journey takes you all over Ireland. With your own car, go from east to west and north to south!
- Kick off your stay in Kilkenny, known as the "Marble City."Â
-
Pick up tasty treats at Limerick's Milk Market before exploring the vibrant city nestled along the mighty River Shannon.
-
Breathe in the salty fresh air at Downpatrick Head in County Mayo.
-
Say "sláinte" and clink glasses with the locals at a pub in Dublin!
Ireland presents an array of possibilities for visitors, whether it's medieval stone villages or empty country roads. On this 8-night vacation, go off the beaten path to discover the real Ireland.
Your trip begins in southeastern Kilkenny, known for its medieval churches and imposing Kilkenny Castle. Sip a Smithwick's ale before heading to Limerick City! Stroll the Georgian streets of Ireland's third largest city and make time to explore its surroundings like Lough Gur and Rock of Cashel. You'll then head up north to County Sligo, said to be where the first settlers arrived in Ireland.
Cross into Northern Ireland border on your way to its capital, Belfast. This city is quickly becoming one of the U.K.'s top destinations with sites like Titanic Belfast and St. George's Market. The final leg of your vacation brings you to Dublin, where a friendly local and a pub are never too far away.
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.
Enhance your vacation with:
For $99 per person, add the following to your vacation:
- Admission to Kilkenny Castle
- Admission to Cliffs of Moher
- Admission to Bunratty Castle & Folk Park
- Kilmainham Gaol in Dublin
- Guided Ring of Kerry Tour
- Kildare Village 10% Discount Voucher
- Waterford Crystal 2 for 1 Discount Voucher
- 10% Off Admission to Guinness Storehouse
Day 1. Welcome to Dublin!
Welcome to Ireland! Pick up your rental car from the airport, then drive approximately two hours to your first accommodation in Kilkenny. After settling in, start exploring the "Marble City," which gets its name from the black limestone found throughout the city.
Stroll through its picturesque streets and enjoy your first Irish meal, with a pint of Guinness of course.
Situated on Kilkenny’s most exclusive street, the Pembroke Hotel is right in the center of action. Just a 4-minute walk from Kilkenny Castle, you'll be able to walk to all of the city's top attractions with ease. The hotel offers luxury 4-star accommodation with 74 quiet, spacious guest rooms all featuring air conditioning and complimentary Wi-Fi. Statham’s Restaurant combines traditional hospitality with delicious local Kilkenny produce. Statham's Bar, with its easygoing and relaxed atmosphere, is a great place to meet, drink and dine in Kilkenny city center. From brunch to lunch, from afternoon tea, to all day dining specials, they offer something for everyone throughout the day and evening.
The Kilkenny Ormonde Hotel is an exceptionally beautiful hotel with 118 spacious guestrooms all complete with free Wi-Fi, comfortable accommodations and stunning views of the city. Although you will be within walking distance of a variety of restaurants and pubs in Kilkenny, the hotel also offers its guests the option to dine on site. Try out the Ormonde Lounge for a comfortable yet sumptuous bite to eat paired with a cocktail. There is also O'Reilly's Restaurant for a more vibrant atmosphere and a more extensive menu, or Savour where you can browse a creative dinner menu incorporating the best local produce. Enjoy the hotel's many other amenities including the KO Spa, fitness center and more!
Day 2. Kilkenny - Limerick
Say too-da-loo to Kilkenny today as you drive approximately two hours west to the city of Limerick. Situated on the banks of the River Shannon, Limerick is notable for its beautiful Georgian architecture and cultural institutions.
After checking into your hotel, head to the Milk Market on Cornmarket Row, a food market dating back to 1852. Here you'll discover Limerick's cultural heart and stomach! Consider visiting one of Limerick's esteemed museums next, like Hunt Museum or the Limerick City Gallery of Art.
This stunning hotel features 99 contemporary guestrooms with space, style and sophistication. The Absolute Bar & Grill includes an outdoor terrace overlooking the Abbey River and serves fresh and modern international cuisine in relaxed, informal surroundings. The luxurious spa offers a range of relaxing body and beauty treatments, including a salt grotto, tropical showers and a crystal steam room.
Limerick City Hotel is located in the heart of Limerick on Lower Mallow Street, just off Henry Street and on the Shannon Bridge Roundabout at the end of the Dock Road-easily accessible from Shannon, Cork & Kerry.
This hotel is within walking distance from Limerick Colbert Train & Bus Station and near a host of Irish heritage sites including picturesque towns of Adare, Grange and Louch Gur, You can also explore Clare's Burren district, Cliffs of Moher and Ailwee Caves, all just a short 40-minute drive from the Hotel.
Fitzgerald's Woodlands House Hotel is a beautiful 4-star property set in 44 wooded acres amidst the rich, quiet farmlands of the Golden Vale. The hotel is conveniently located only 30 minutes from Shannon Airport. The charming Adare town is only 1.6 km with its streets lined with enchanting thatched cottages, selling crafts, clothes and antiques.
Fitzgerald's Woodlands House Hotel offers 94 comfortable and stylish guest rooms, first-class service and excellent facilities including the award-winning Brennan Room Restaurant and a leisure club featuring a swimming pool. The state-of-the-art Health & Leisure Centre boasts a spacious cardiovascular gym and weight training area with variety of fitness classes, a 65-foot swimming pool, sauna, steam room, Jacuzzi, children's pool and play room, as well as the Failte Ireland Award-winning Revas Spa.
Day 3. Limerick
Explore the sites around Limerick city today. Consider heading first to Lough Gur, a horseshoe-shaped lake boasting the largest stone circle in Ireland! Pop into the visitor's center to learn more about this mythical site, then stroll around the beautiful lake.Â
You can also drive to nearby County Tipperary to see the Rock of Cashel, also known as St. Patrick's Rock. Overlooking rolling green countryside, this historic site was once the seat of the High Kings of Munster.Â
Day 4. Limerick - Sligo
Say goodbye to Limerick as you drive approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes north to County Sligo. It is said the first settlers in Ireland arrived on the north-west coast in present day County Sligo!
One of the most enchanting spots is Classiebawn Castle, an imposing manor house on the Mullaghmore peninsula.Â
Enjoy a quiet escape on the Atlantic coast at the Ocean Sands Hotel Sligo. Ideally situated to provide stunning views of Enniscrone Beach and Killala Bay, the hotel oozes coastal charm and Irish hospitality. Equipped with modern comforts and amenities, the property offers fantastic cuisine and unbeatable coastal views. Enjoy high-quality food and live entertainment at the hotel restaurant, as well as close proximity to Enniscrone's championship golf links.Â
Set on beautiful grounds and within walking distance from the bustling town of Sligo, Clayton Hotel Sligo is the perfect retreat in western Ireland. Set in a historic building dating back to 1848, the hotel also boasts two churches on site, Canis Major and Canis Minor. Providing a range of luxurious accommodations, guests can enjoy the utmost comfort from over 162 rooms varying from superior rooms to suites. Enjoy meals and drinks at the two restaurants and lounge, a swimming pool, spa, gym and plenty of family friendly activities.Â
Day 5. Sligo
From your base in County Sligo, you'll be situated along Ireland's famous Wild Atlantic Way, so take time today to explore points on this coastal route. Embark on a thrilling walk along Downpatrick Head, home to stunning stacked sea cliffs and the ruins of a church founded by none other than Saint Patrick.Â
Before returning to your hotel, enjoy a stroll and a meal in the charming town of Westport nestled along Clew Bay.
Day 6. Sligo - Belfast
From Sligo, it's an approximately 3 hour and 30 minute drive cross country into Belfast, the capital of Northern Ireland. Entering into Northern Ireland, you'll notice the kilometers turn into miles - this is part of Great Britain, after all.Â
After checking into your accommodation, meander over to Belfast Castle and explore its stunning exterior and vast territory. Thanks to its position 400 feet above sea level, you'll also be treated to panoramic views of the city!Â
Located ideally on Brunswick Street in Belfast's city center, the Maldron Hotel Belfast City makes for a wonderful and convenient stay. Along with easy access to all of the city's public transfer services, including Belfast's Great Victoria Railway Station, guests can enjoy on-site dining, a bar, a daily breakfast buffet, a 24-hour front desk, free Wi-Fi, room service, and concierge services.Â
Rooms are pleasant and include sitting areas, a flat-screen TV, air conditioning, ironing facilities, a safe, a hairdryer, and a private bathroom. The hotel is just 2,650 feet from the Belfast Empire Music hall, St. Georges Market is a 9-minute walk away, and the Waterfront Hall is only 10 minutes away. An 18-minute walk will bring you into the Odyssey Arena, and the Titanic Belfast i just under 2 miles away. George Best Belfast City Airport is a little over 3 miles away.
Day 7. Belfast
Explore the highlights of Northern Ireland's capital city! Pay a visit to the award-winning Titanic Belfast, the most popular tourist attraction in Northern Ireland! You'll have the chance to explore nine galleries telling the story of the Titanic, from its creation in Belfast in the early 1900s, to its famous maiden voyage and tragic end.
Time willing, consider paying a visit to the Botanical Gardens, an important part of Belfast's Victorian history. Visit the picturesque rose garden or stroll through the tropical palm house. Within the property of the gardens you'll also find the Ulster Museum, home to a massive collection of works from painted masterpieces to important archaeological finds.
Day 8. Belfast - Dublin
Say goodbye to Belfast as you drive approximately two hours south to Dublin. Upon arrival, drop your luggage and explore the literary gems of the city. A must-see is Trinity College's iconic Long Room, which has served as inspiration for many film sets.
Head to the courtyard of Dublin Castle, where you'll find the Chester Beatty Library - a museum dedicated to the art of the written words with permanent and rotating collections sure to satisfy any bibliophile.Â
Located just outside Dublin's city center, you'll have easy access to Ireland's vibrant capital by either local bus or taxi. Enjoy close smooth access to the M50 for day trips, sightseeing, and self-guided tours. Start each morning with the hotel's Vitality Breakfast, which offers a wide selection of cooked foods, cereals, pastries, fruit, and more. An on-site bar and lounge, as well as restaurant Grain & Grill, are also open daily for lunch and dinner. 297 spacious guestroom are brightly decorated and are soundproofed to ensure the best night's sleep possible.Â
Experience true elegance at the luxurious Citywest Hotel, combining the old world charm of a country house hotel with state-of-the-art amenities and a full array of special services. Walk the lush grounds of this beautiful hotel that boasts 774 well-appointed guestrooms, free parking, WiFi access, and an 18-hole Christy O'Connor Jr.-designed Championship golf course.
After you settle into your stylish, spacious room, head down to the 65-foot heated indoor pool. Take a refreshing dip in the sparkling water or lounge away the rest of your jet lag. Work all your stresses away in the fitness center or pamper yourself with a tranquil treatment in the serene spa. When it's time to eat, enjoy delicious dishes at any of the hotel's several dining options. Indulge in mouthwatering Asian, Mediterranean, or traditional Irish cuisine!
Compliment your trip to Ireland with a stay at Roganstown Hotel & Country Club. Idyllic from top to bottom, the hotel is 10 minutes from the Dublin airport and a short drive from the M50, M1, and M2 motorways. The romantic estate offers 52 inviting guestrooms, including family rooms and master suites. Nestled in the countryside, an 18 hole golf course stretches over 300 acres of meticulous lawns and Japanese gardens. The Roganstown Leisure Centre boasts a gym, heated pool, Jacuzzi, steam room, sauna, fitness classes, and more. Pamper yourself with treatments at Sakura Spa or Roganstown Hair Salon during your stay. Spend an afternoon on the links, then discover the fine dining at McLoughlin's Restaurant or kick back at O'Callaghan's Bar with your favorite bar food and a fresh pint.
Day 9. Depart Ireland
Your Ireland vacation ends today. At the appropriate time, drive to Dublin airport, drop off your rental car, and head to your departure gate.Â
Fly home!
Where available, the Flexible Change Plan allows you to change your travel date for ANY reason (between 30 days and 14 days before planned departure). You will receive a Future Travel Credit for the entire amount you paid. Please note that prepaid instant purchase airfares and group airfare are not eligible for the Flexible Change Plan and are subject to airline-imposed change or cancellation fees based on airline rules at the time that the change is requested. You must rebook using the original air carrier at least 14 days prior to your originally scheduled departure and complete travel at least 1 year from original booking date. Additional fees may apply. Future travel credit is non-transferable, non-refundable, and may not be redeemed for cash.