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Ireland

Signature Ireland: Splendors of the Emerald Isle

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13 days From $6,495 $6,295 per person
4.3 stars(7 reviews)
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Stay in luxurious hotels on a premium journey through Ireland, discovering the country’s most iconic sites from Dublin and Belfast to Galway and Cork

Travel among a group of like-minded travelers led by a professional tour manager
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Mobility Rating 3

2026 Tour code: IPJ26

About the tour

Experience first-class amenities, luxury accommodations, and the fantastic traditions of the Emerald Isle on this luxurious tour of Ireland.

Spend time uncovering the landmarks of Dublin and Belfast, visit the incredible Giant's Causeway, journey along the Wild Atlantic Way, and marvel at the Cliffs of Moher. Stay in castles, visit idyllic coastal towns and travel along scenic byways such as the Dingle Peninsula and Ring of Kerry.

On this comprehensive tour, learn about the country's culture, pour pints of Guinness, taste Irish whiskey and be enchanted by Ireland.

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Unforgettable Experiences

Stay in luxury Irish hotels
Stay in luxury Irish hotels
Experience luxury at its finest with a range of four- and five-star accommodations including Lough Eske, an authentic Irish castle in County Donegal, and Barberstown Castle near Dublin.
Learn about Irish folklore at Blarney Castle
Learn about Irish folklore at Blarney Castle
Explore the striking Blarney Castle and expansive grounds, stepping into the myths and legends of Ireland and take the opportunity to gain extra eloquence by kissing the Blarney Stone.
Admire the Cliffs of Moher on a boat trip
Admire the Cliffs of Moher on a boat trip
Take to the waters of the Atlantic Ocean to view the jaw-dropping Cliffs of Moher. Towering over the rugged coast of County Clare, these are Ireland’s most cherished natural wonders.
Sample Irish whiskey at Jameson’s Distillery
Sample Irish whiskey at Jameson’s Distillery
Visit the Old Midleton Distillery near Cork, where some of the most prestigious whiskies have been produced since the 1860s, and take part in a tasting.
Discover Dublin and visit the Guinness Storehouse
Discover Dublin and visit the Guinness Storehouse
Explore the sights of Ireland’s capital on a panoramic tour of Dublin and gain an insight into the popular beverage at the Guinness Storehouse, learning how to pull the perfect pint.
Visit the Irish National Stud & Gardens
Visit the Irish National Stud & Gardens
Dip your toes into the traditional world of horse racing during a VIP tour of the Irish National Stud & Gardens, uncovering the significance of the Irish thoroughbred.

What’s included

Itinerary

Day 1 - Arrival in Dublin

Your luxury Irish vacation begins as you arrive at Dublin airport and make your way to our five-star boutique hotel in the Grand Canal area.

The day is free to begin your explorations of Ireland's enchanting capital that blends culture with vibrancy. Our hotel is close to Baggot Street, which leads you to the famous St Stephen's Green. There are many museums, galleries and shopping streets near here for you to embrace Ireland's rich heritage.

Later, return to our hotel to meet the Tour Manager this evening, enjoying a welcome drink at the bar before dining together in the elegant Eddison Restaurant. Overnight Dublin.

Includes
  • Dinner
Day 2 - Exploring Dubin and the Guinness Storehouse

After breakfast, we set out to gain an overview on Dublin as we embark on a short panoramic city tour.

En route, we pass some of Dublin's most famous sights before arriving at the Guinness Storehouse. On a specially guided tour, we explore this immersive museum spread across multiple floors of the Guinness brewery, learning about this world-famous brand through the sights, sounds, tastes, and aromas of 'the black stuff'. This memorable experience concludes in the rooftop bar. While admiring 360° views of Dublin, we are taught how to pour the perfect pint.

The rest of the day is at leisure for you to discover Dublin as you wish. You could visit Trinity College to view the Book of Kells (booking in advance is advised) or delve into the lively Temple Bar area, where you will find the legendary pub of the same name. Dinner is on your own tonight, and near our hotel is Searson's pub, which specializes in whiskeys and food pairings. Overnight Dublin.

Includes
  • Breakfast
Day 3 - Guided tour of Belfast and the Titanic museum

Our time in Dublin concludes after breakfast today as we are transferred by coach to Connolly train station.

Here, we take our seats in the First Class car of the Enterprise train to travel direct to Belfast. Our journey takes us north, clipping the coast near Balbriggan, as we pass through Drogheda and Dundalk before entering Northern Ireland. Arriving in Belfast, we are met by a local guide who takes us on his award-winning Hidden Belfast Walking Tour. Exploring some of the city's most famous sights, we uncover the culture, history, and people of this fascinating and friendly city.

Later this afternoon, we visit Titanic Belfast. Located in the place the RMS Titanic was designed and built, we learn the story of the iconic ship, from its construction to its maiden voyage and its legacy. Dinner this evening is together in the Seahorse Restaurant in our hotel. Overnight Belfast.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Dinner
Day 4 - Giant’s Causeway and Derry

This morning, we leave Belfast by motorcoach on the Causeway Coastal Route. Passing shubbery-clad moorlands, we make our way to Glenariff National Park. It's along this rugged coastline that we stop at a scenic coffee shop, where there is time to enjoy a drink as we pick up our picnic lunches.

Continuing along the coast, we make our way to the UNESCO-listed Giant's Causeway. This otherworldly ancient rock formation comprises of more than 40,000 interlocking columns. According to legend, they form the remains of a causeway built by the giant Finn MacCool so he could fight his Scottish counterpart Benandonner. There's time to marvel at these remarkable columns - some measuring up to 40 feet high - as we enjoy our picnic lunches on the stones.

Afterward, our coach journey takes us past the ruins of Dunluce Castle and on to Derry City, where we view the famous murals in the Bogside. Our destination tonight is Lough Eske Castle in County Donegal. After checking in to our luxurious hotel, we gather for dinner in the restaurant. Overnight Lough Eske.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5 - Wild Atlantic Way to Galway

A scenic route showcasing the best of western Ireland, the Wild Atlantic Way guides us after breakfast at our castle hotel this morning.

Heading down the coast, we pass Mullaghmore Head before turning inland to Parkes Castle, set on the shores of Lough Gill. This 17th-century fortress was once owned by English planter, Robert Parke. During a guided tour, we hear about the history of the castle and its residents. We make our way to our next destination aboard the Rose of Innisfree boat. This modern vessel glides past the lake isle of Innisfree, made famous in a poem by WB Yeats. Sailing into Sligo, there's time for independent sightseeing or stopping for lunch in this foodie haven. Sligo is renowned for its medieval abbey ruins as well as its literary heritage. You could visit the Sligo County Museum to learn more about Yeats, who spent many of his formative vacations in this area.

Back on our coach, we continue south to Galway, where we check in to our Salthill hotel and have dinner together. Overnight Galway.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Dinner
Day 6 - Kylemore Abbey and Connemara Railway

Our day begins after breakfast with a visit to Kylemore Abbey. This spectacular Benedictine nunnery was originally built in 1867 and has been home to an order of nuns since 1920. The 1,000-acre estate set within the Connemara countryside looks out on to a lough and is backdropped by dramatic mountains.

After exploring the abbey, we travel to Maam Cross and board the Connemara Railway. This heritage railroad takes us on a scenic 10-mile round trip through the picturesque landscapes of western Ireland. During the nostalgic journey, we pass by wonderful countryside, rolling hills and tranquil lakes. Once the train stops, we head to the dining car to indulge in tea and scones.

The rest of your day is at leisure in Galway. You could stroll along the promenade of Salthill, experience the bustling Latin Quarter, or explore the Galway City Museum. Galway is a vibrant city, and there are plenty of traditional pubs and award-winning restaurants for you to try this evening - many providing traditional entertainment. Overnight Galway.

Includes
  • Breakfast
Day 7 - Burren Smokehouse and Cliffs of Moher

Driving through the fascinating landscapes of the Burren after breakfast, we make our way to Lisdoonvarna in County Clare. Each September, this small village hosts one of Europe's largest matchmaking events, but it is also the site of the Burren Smokehouse. We enjoy a guided tour of this family-run business as we learn about the art of salmon smoking - followed by a tasting of the produce.

Continuing by coach, we arrive in the pretty village of Doolin. Here, we experience a boat trip into the wild Atlantic Ocean to see the mighty Cliffs of Moher from below - the best views. Stretching for five miles and rising up to 700 feet, these craggy cliffs are Ireland's most iconic natural attraction. Part of the Burren and Cliffs of Moher UNESCO Global Geopark, the area is also renowned for its seabirds. Keep an eye out for gannets, guillemots and charming puffins.

Afterward, a ferry takes us across River Shannon into the Kingdom of Kerry, where we check in to our hotel on the edge of Killarney in time for dinner. Overnight Killarney.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Dinner
Day 8 - Ross Castle and the Ring of Kerry

A delightful morning ride on a traditional mode of transport awaits after breakfast. Jaunting Cars are open horse-drawn carriages popular in the 19th century. Keep an eye out for deer as our journey takes us through the beautiful Demesne parkland to Ross Castle. This historic fortress has an idyllic location right on the shores of gleaming Lough Leane, and we view its stone keep and picturesque surroundings

Later, we soak in the dramatic beauty of Kerry, the 'Kingdom County' on one of Ireland's most scenic drives, the Ring of Kerry - an area of tumultuous sea, windswept cliffs and imposing mountains. Along the way, we see the natural wonder of Torc Waterfall, the breathtaking Moll's Gap and Ladies View - a vantage point with amazing views. We also stop to visit a working sheep farm to learn about how these charming animals have been farmed over the years.

For dinner this evening, we head to Muckross House for an Irish Night in Quills farmhouse with traditional food and entertainment. Overnight Killarney.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Dinner
Day 9 - Dingle Peninsula

A stunning journey on the Wild Atlantic Way awaits after breakfast today.

Heading onto the Dingle Peninsula, we view verdant Irish countryside, never far from the Atlantic Ocean. Keep your eyes peeled for the expansive golden sands of Inch Beach, one of Ireland's best surfing locations. Our journey takes us to Slea Head, a spellbinding route of rugged cliffs and winding roads. Passing Dunquin Harbor, we can admire fantastic views of the Blasket Islands. In the small but popular fishing port of Dingle, there's some time to explore at leisure. You could head to the bustling harbor area to indulge in fresh seafood, or visit one of the town's characterful pubs. These traditional taverns often also acted as stores, and some remain - including a place where you can browse the hardware store, while sipping a beer.

Later, we return to Killarney for an evening at leisure. Killarney has a vibrant center with many authentic pubs serving local cuisine, and you may even hear a folk group performing in a corner. Overnight Killarney.

Includes
  • Breakfast
Day 10 - Blarney Castle and Cork

Leaving the ocean behind, we head inland to the Rebel County itself, County Cork. Making our way over the Cork and Kerry Mountains by motorcoach, we arrive at Blarney Castle.

Delving into the rich folklore and mythical charm of Ireland, Blarney Castle is one of Ireland's greatest and most well-known treasures. This impressive castle was built in 1446, and we are free to explore and uncover its history. As well as its historic importance, the castle is also world famous for being the site of the Blarney Stone. There's the opportunity to be blessed with the gift of eloquence by kissing it, before time at leisure to wander its wonderful gardens.

On arrival in Cork this afternoon, we're introduced to the Republic of Ireland's second city as we visit its old jail on a guided tour. Part of the city's heritage, this magnificent building looks like a castle and was used to house 19th-century prisoners. Afterward, we check in to our hotel and enjoy dinner. Overnight Cork.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Dinner
Day 11 - Titanic Experience and Old Midleton Distillery

A short distance from Cork is the Victorian port of Cobh. After breakfast, we visit this historic village - known as Queenstown until 1920 - and uncover its links to the RMS Titanic.

We have seen where this ill-fated ship was built and now we visit its final port of call on April 11th, 1912. To learn more about it, we enter the Titanic Experience, located in the former White Star Line ticket office. On entrance, we are given a replica ticket with the name of an actual passenger from the voyage and discover their fate at the end, after viewing exhibits relating to the Titanic.

This afternoon, we head to Midleton for a highlight of the vacation, a tour of the historic Jameson whiskey distillery. After learning about the production of whiskey in Ireland, we sample some of the whiskies. Returning to Cork, the evening is free to explore and dine independently. You could peruse the fresh produce at the historic English Market or sample some fine Irish dishes at a traditional pub or an award-winning restaurant. Overnight Cork.

Includes
  • Breakfast
Day 12 - Irish National Stud & Gardens

After breakfast, the coach takes us to Cork Kent Station. Here, we take the train through the heart of the country, passing an endless patchwork of rolling green pastures on our way to Portlaoise.

From Portlaoise, we continue by coach to Kildare, the center of Irish horse racing. At the Irish National Stud & Gardens, we enjoy a VIP visit to uncover the history and significance of the Irish thoroughbred in horse racing. Using interactive technology, we also experience what it is like to buy, train and race our horse at a simulated race meet. The stud is also home to beautiful Japanese Gardens where lunch is available.

We then continue across the Curragh Plains - the location of Ireland's most famous racecourse - to the village of Straffan. It's here that we find our impressive hotel, Barberstown Castle. This fortress was built in 1288 was once owned by guitarist Eric Clapton. In these elegant surroundings, we enjoy pre-dinner drinks followed by a private dinner in the Barton Room, as we celebrate the final night of your vacation. Overnight Kildare.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Dinner
Day 13 - Homeward bound

With stays in iconic cities like Belfast, guided explorations of historic sites like Blarney Castle and tours at the Guinness Storehouse and Old Midleton Distillery - Ireland has been a culture-packed experience. Visits to natural wonders like the Giant's Causeway and Cliffs of Moher, scenic drives along the Wild Atlantic Way and Dingle Peninsula, and a VIP experience at the Irish National Stud & Gardens have also made it a beautiful vacation.

After breakfast, take a group transfer to the airport with your Tour Manager and make your way home with these memories.

** Please note: group transfers are available for flights arranged after 11am. Private transfers/taxis can be arranged directly with the hotel for different times.

Includes
  • Breakfast

Hotels

Grand Central Hotel Belfast, Belfast

Grand Central Hotel Belfast, Belfast

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The Montenotte Hotel, Cork

The Montenotte Hotel, Cork

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Lough Eske Castle

Lough Eske Castle, Donegal

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The Dylan Hotel, Dublin

The Dylan Hotel, Dublin

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Salthill Hotel, Galway Bay

Salthill Hotel, Galway Bay

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Brehon Hotel & Spa, Killarney

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Barberstown Castle, Straffan

Barberstown Castle, Straffan

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Trains

Irish Railways
The Connemara Railway

Reviews

4.3 stars4.3 / 5 · 7 reviews

  1. 5 stars
    (4)
  2. 4 stars
    (1)
  3. 3 stars
    (2)
  4. 2 stars
    (0)
  5. 1 star
    (0)

Jeffrey Wisniewski

5 stars

Submitted 25 Sep 2024

Excellent!!!

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Joseph Calloway

5 stars

Submitted 24 Sep 2024

Fantastic trip.

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Barbro

5 stars

Submitted 13 Jul 2024

Great trip. Awesome guide, Nigel, and bus driver, Randal.

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Michelle Debruyn

5 stars

Submitted 25 May 2024

Trip was well-planned and engaging! Plenty of long walks to explore mixed in with other site-seeing. Nigel was an excellent guide! Hotels were fabulous and meals were delicious. One of the main excursions was cancelled at the last minute due to no fault of the tour, but our guide did a great job finding alternative activities for that day, which were just as memorable. We had a great time!

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customer

4 stars

Submitted 25 May 2024

Tour guide and driver were great, as was food and activities , and sights visited. Especially appreciated full size coach for the 16 in our group. Review would be five stars all around if all hotels/castles had at least fans, if not air conditioning. Hardiman Hotel, though in good location and “historic “ I considered a fire trap with no sprinklers, as it would be in US. Afraid it would be an inferno if fire ever started. Surprised that Ireland didn’t have stronger fire protection standards. All together though , a great tour!!

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Thomas Mclaughlin

3 stars

Submitted 21 Sep 2024

Why is it called vacations by rail when we were on a bus 11 of the days. Plus not being able to tour cities like Belfast. Just taken to the peace wall and not inside. Not sure if I will use you in the future.Why end a tour not in a departure city. Had to take a hour long bus ride to Dublin.

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