Dublin to Belfast

Departing from Dublin, your journey heads north with a short stop at Stephentown Pond Nature Park for a comfort break, before continuing into Northern Ireland and arriving in Belfast.

Arrive in Belfast

Arriving in Belfast you begin a short city tour which covers the capital's triumphs, tragedies and soul. Your first destination is the globally recognised Falls Road. This historically significant area offers a glimpse into Northern Ireland's complex past, particularly during the period known as The Troubles. As a center of expression, the Falls Road is renowned for its vivid murals, which depict key events, figures, and political messages from this turbulent era. It's a compelling stop for anyone interested in understanding the region's history and the experiences of its people.

The Titanic Quarter and Ballycastle

Next, you’ll arrive in the famous Titanic Quarter, a vibrant regenerated hub where the legendary liner was built and launched in 1911. You’ll have time here for lunch, with plenty of ways to spend your visit - whether exploring the Titanic Experience, joining a hop-on hop-off city bus tour, or stepping aboard one of the decommissioned navy ships docked nearby. Your guide will be on hand to help you choose the option that best suits your interests. Afterwards, you’ll continue to Ballycastle for a quick tea break before making your way to Giant’s Causeway.

The Giant's Causeway, free evening in Portrush

Made up of 40,000 or so hexagonal-shaped steppingstones created during a volcanic age almost 60 million years ago. Or is that what they want us to think? Legend has it that the Causeway was once a bridge linking Ireland to the Isle of Staffa in Scotland, created by two dueling giants and split during one particularly tumultuous battle. We'll let you decide which to believe!

Your last stop is where you will lay your head for the night. You arrive in Portrush ready for your evening meal and to explore this charming fishing village.

Depart for Derry

You leave Portrush behind, charmed by this small village but ready to explore the bustle of Northern Ireland’s second biggest city, Derry.

Free time in Derry

Welcome to the historic walled city of Derry, home to the much-loved TV series ‘Derry Girls'. Here, you'll have ample time to immerse yourself in all that this energetic city has to offer. Choose from walking tours or city bus tours to make the most of your visit and explore as many sites as possible. Alternatively, you can delve deeper into the city's offerings by visiting its fascinating museums, iconic landmarks, or the striking murals scattered throughout. Enjoy the time however you choose before we set off again for a hilltop fort that will take your imagination on a journey through the ancient past…

Grianan of Aileach, Glenveagh National Park, exploring County Donegal

From here, you continue into County Donegal, with your first stop at the jaw-dropping hilltop fort of Grianán of Aileach. Believed to be the site of St. Patrick’s baptism, this ancient stone fort dates back to around 200 BC. An impressive feat of engineering, it still stands today, showcasing the ingenuity and skill of our ancestors.

Next, you’ll journey into Glenveagh National Park, passing the soaring peak of Mount Errigal. Here, you’ll enjoy a well-deserved lunch in stunning surroundings before traveling onward through traditional fishing villages. Along the way, there will be plenty of opportunities for beach walks, photos, and soaking up the rich culture of County Donegal.

Free evening in Donegal

After a few photo stops on the way taking in ruined churches, beaches and glens, we arrive in Donegal in the early evening. Your driver guide will give you a short tour of the town to help you get your bearings before you’re free to explore and find a place for an evening meal.

Depart Donegal

Today, get ready for a day exploring some of the oldest relics in Ireland and the ancient past they reveal. In the morning, you travel south along the coast near Donegal and into County Sligo. This area is home to dramatic views of the gorgeous mountain, Benbulben. There will be a few surprise stops and a comfort break scheduled into this part of your day.

The Megalithic Tombs of Carrowmore

Outside Sligo Town lies Carrowmore, where you can visit the largest collection of megalithic tombs in Ireland, some of which date back over 6,000 years. The scale and significance of this site may leave you awestruck, but hopefully your appetite remains intact, as we next head to the quaint village of Crossmolina for your lunch break.

Crossmolina village for lunch and Achill Island

At Crossmolina, you'll have time for lunch and to ponder over the landscapes, monuments and stories of the morning.

Moving westwards, you enter County Mayo, an area that was tragically ravaged by the Great Potato Famine. Winding roads curve through the picturesque farmlands, bogs and open moors, offering views of distant hills and the Atlantic coast, where you'll visit the dramatic Achill Island. Here you have time to savour the rugged sea and peaceful beauty of Keel Beach and the atmospheric deserted village of Slievemore with its 5000-year-old history. The landscape here is more than just beautiful - it’s alive with history, solitude, and soul.

Free evening in Westport

From here, it’s a short drive to Westport, your base for the next two nights, where your guide will provide a quick orientation tour and drop you off at your accommodation.

Westport to Kylemore Abbey

You depart from Westport and have a short drive of just over an hour to your first stop of the day, Kylemore Abbey.

Kylemore Abbey and Connemara National Park

The beautiful monastery at Kylemore Abbey is truly something to behold. Picture grand buildings and magnificent Victorian gardens that jumped off the pages of a storybook. A treat for both the eyes and soul. Next, explore the Connemara National Park's verdant marshes and incredible historical sites before a well-earned lunch stop.

Go off the beaten track

Roam Clifden, site of the first transatlantic flight landing, and home to a delightful castle, while you pick one of their charming lunch spots to enjoy. The afternoon itinerary is flexible, and your guide will ensure you take the route that best suits the weather and the interests of the group while ensuring you get a real off the beaten track adventure. You might want to include the legendary Twelve Bens, a famous jagged mountain range of Connemara, or be enchanted by the seemingly infinite blend of earth and sky at sunset on the Sky Road.

Free evening in Westport

You arrive back in Westport for the evening, why not consider sampling some of their delicious local seafood in the town's top-notch restaurants.

The Village of Cong

Travel inland past Lough Mask to the village of Cong, in the heart of Ireland’s Lake District. Rows and rows of traditional stone homes provided the setting for John Wayne film classic, The Quiet Man. You're free here to visit the local museum devoted to the movie or discover the magnificently restored 12th-century Cong Abbey.

Heading to Galway

Your route then weaves through the Maam Valley, a stunning pass lined with gorgeous mountains. Exiting the valley, you head to Galway City, a vibrant harbour city that combines traditional market life with high quality restaurants and pubs. It's time to discover for yourself why Galway has inspired so many hearts, songs and stories.

Free afternoon in Galway

Picturesque views, excellent food, and cosy pubs await you in this lively town, where charm and energy blend seamlessly. Your driver-guide will drop you off at your accommodation and then you are free to explore for the rest of the day. Immerse yourself in the city's vibrant spirit, discover everything Galway has to offer at your own pace. Known as the cultural and artistic heart of Ireland, this welcoming, colourful city is sure to captivate you with its unique flair.

**This is the end of the first leg of your tour, so you leave your group and explore Galway on your own until the end of today. You will join the second leg of the tour on day 6. **

Free evening in Galway

Evenings in Galway promise unforgettable fun and great crack (good times). Whether you're savouring fresh local seafood, wandering the vibrant, colourful streets of the Latin Quarter lined with cosy pubs, or tapping your foot to the lively rhythm of an Irish jig, the city comes alive after dark. With its warm, welcoming atmosphere and the sounds of traditional Irish music filling the air, you're bound to create lasting memories and experience a night you'll treasure for years to come.

Joining second part of the tour and travel to the Burren

You start the day by joining your new driver-guide and fellow intrepid travellers on the second leg of your journey. Once you're on the bus with your new group, the day starts with a short drive along the coast from Galway City to the Burren, one of Ireland's national treasures, which you'll be keen to explore.

Dunguaire Castle, Corcomroe Abbey and the Burren

The first stop is the charming village of Kinvara, where you’ll have the chance to take in the dramatic Dunguaire Castle and discover its remarkable historical legacy. Next, we head to the Burren, one of Ireland's most arresting landscapes: a patchwork of glacial limestone pavements, rare flora and ancient stone monuments. The Burren was also home to one of the earliest Christian settlements in Ireland. Here, you’ll visit Corcomroe Abbey, a 13th-century ruined monastery that sits against a backdrop of the Burren Mountains.

We then take a scenic detour to a truly special site, the Poulnabrone Dolmen, a mysterious portal tomb that has overlooked the Burren for thousands of years.

Kilfenora and Cliffs of Moher

After exploring ancient monuments, we continue to Kilfenora, the ‘Town of the Crosses,’ where you can visit its historic cathedral before enjoying lunch in a nearby charming village. From there, we journey to one of the world's most iconic coastlines - the Cliffs of Moher on the Wild Atlantic Way. Stand atop soaring sea cliffs that plunge into the Atlantic and admire breathtaking views that stretch as far as the eye can see. In one unforgettable moment, feel the power of nature, the whisper of ancient legends, and Ireland’s raw beauty. And as you stand there, you’ll understand why this place appeared in movies like The Princess Bride, Leap Year or Harry Potter.

Free evening in Killarney

Continuing south through County Clare, we hop on a ferry across the Shannon Estuary, and we continue our journey to Killarney. This energetic, charming area will be your base for the next three nights, so take your time sampling the superb collection of traditional pubs and live music.

Inch Beach

Today, your tour explores the fabulous Dingle Peninsula, renowned for its stunning scenery and vibrant Gaelic culture. Your first stop is Inch Beach, a vast expanse of golden sand stretching into the Atlantic and framed by rolling hills. It’s a perfect spot to take a leisurely walk, enjoy the sea breeze, or simply admire the sweeping coastal views. From here, you’ll venture along the narrow, winding roads of the Dingle Peninsula.

Slea Head and Beehive Huts

Your next stop is at the Fahan Beehive Huts, the distinctive shape of these stone houses will of course be familiar but the design of these early medieval celtic dwellings date back to 2000 BC. This remarkable example dates from 800 AD and still stand today in tribute to the skill of the islands stonemasons.

Your next stop is the Fahan Beehive Huts. While the distinctive shape of these stone dwellings may look familiar, their design dates back to 2000 BC. This remarkable example of early medieval Celtic dwellings built around 800 AD still stands today as a testament to the skill of the island’s stonemasons.

Then you continue towards Slea Head, an area loaded with ancient forts and prehistoric dwellings and some of the most incredible photo stops you will see on your tour.

Gallarus Oratory and Dingle

Take in the breathtaking views of the Blasket Islands, an ideal spot for panoramic photographs. Weather permitting, enjoy a stroll around Dunmore Headland, wandering its cliff tops to fully appreciate the dramatic scenery before pausing for lunch. Next, visit the Gallarus Oratory, a 1,000-year-old marvel and the best-preserved early Christian church of its kind. Standing within its ancient walls, you can only wonder at the lives of those who worshipped here centuries ago. Then you head to Dingle, where brightly coloured houses and a lively harbour welcome you. You can spend the remainder of the afternoon enjoying fresh seafood in this idyllic setting.

Free evening in Killarney

In the evening, you head back to Killarney, with time for a leisurely stroll in the National Park that surrounds the town. If you feel adventurous, you can follow the scenic trails to Ross Castle, a 15th-century fortress standing majestically on the edge of Lough Leane and admire its historic walls and picturesque setting. Alternatively, you can relax in one of the traditional pubs and enjoy live music with a pint of Guinness.

Depart Killarney for the Ring of Kerry

Today, you explore the Ring of Kerry, a breathtaking route through some of Ireland's most stunning landscapes. You set out in the morning, winding through valleys, towns, and villages, and passing the foothills of the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks, home to Ireland’s highest peak, Carrauntoohil. Along the way, you’ll have the option to stop and watch the Kells Bay Sheepdog Trails, which your driver can help arrange.

Cahersiveen Ring Forts

Next you join the scenic coast road through Glenbeigh on the way to Cahersiveen where you'll visit the impressive Cahergal Stone Fort, a ring fort outside Portmagee. You can explore and discover the local legends that surround the fort while gazing out over the Atlantic.

Portmagee and Derrynane

You stop for lunch in the quaint fishing village of Portmagee. Alternatively, you can have a quick snack and continue to the island of Valentia to visit the Skellig Experience and learn about the ancient community of monks who lived on the rocky island. Later, there’s a photo stop in Charlie Chaplin’s ‘home away from home’ at Waterville, followed by breathtaking views from the top of Coomakista Pass. Descending from the peaks, you head to Derrynane House, home of the O’Connell family. Daniel O’Connell, ‘The Liberator of Ireland,’ had a deep connection with this place. Here, you can enjoy a stroll through the scenic gardens, walk along the beach, or explore the main house.

Torc Waterfall and return to Killarney

Continuing along the Ring, you stop at Moll's Gap and the Ladies View. Stroll a short way from here to the Torc Waterfall before heading back to Killarney.

The road to Blarney Castle

Today, you’ll journey from the charming streets of Killarney toward the legendary Blarney Castle, winding through the rolling hills, verdant valleys, and patchwork fields of County Kerry and Cork. Along the way, catch glimpses of quaint villages, sparkling rivers, and the ever-changing Irish skies.

Free time in Blarney Castle

Driving through the stunning Cork countryside, you arrive in Blarney, home to the magnificent 600-year-old Blarney Castle. Nestled in lush green gardens, the castle feels like a scene from a fairy tale, complete with chilling dungeons to explore. Climb to the battlements for stunning views and imagine the approach of a medieval siege on the horizon. While the castle itself is impressive, its true claim to fame is the Blarney Stone. Legend has it, kissing the stone bestows the "Gift of the Gab," granting eloquence. Over the years, writers, Hollywood stars, and world leaders have joined the ranks of those eager to enhance their conversational prowess. Will you be next?

Lunch and free afternoon in Kinsale

Hopefully, as eloquent as you’ve ever dreamed, you stop for lunch in the historic port town of Kinsale. This charming town bursts with vibrant colours and a welcoming atmosphere. Your driver-guide will drop you at your accommodation, leaving the afternoon free to explore its colourful cafés and seafood restaurants. Perhaps you’ll stroll along the scenic Scilly Walk to the haunted Charles Fort, or take a harbour cruise to spot wildlife and hear tales of hidden Spanish gold along the coast.

**This is the end of the second leg of your tour, so you leave your group and explore Kinsale on your own until the end of today. You will join the second leg of the tour on day 10. **

Free evening in Kinsale

As night falls, wander Kinsale’s winding streets, admire the colourful houses, and soak up the irresistible seaside buzz before another adventurous day tomorrow.

Joining third part of the tour and journey to Old Head of Kinsale

You start the day by joining the new driver-guide and other intrepid fellow travellers on the third leg of your journey. Once you're on the bus with your new group, the day starts with a stop for a photo at the Old Head of Kinsale, a headland view that will whack you wide awake.

Drombeg Stone Circle and Altar

What's a visit to a country like Ireland without seeing some of the country’s incredibly preserved stone circles? That's why our next stop is the eerie Drombeg Stone Circle, known locally as the Druid's Altar. Back when it was excavated, a burial urn was found in the centre of these 17 standing stones. But whose, we wonder? The next site we take you to is the kind to make you stop and ask, “What on Earth?!” before you whip out your camera. How is perhaps our question. This megalithic tomb has been around since the end of the Stone Age and the finding of bones at the site suggests Altar Wedge Tomb was a sacred site for those in the area.

Mizen Head, the Wild Atlantic Way, and Bantry

Now it's time to visit Ireland's most southwesterly point on the Wild Atlantic Way, Mizen Head. Feel the power and the raw beauty of the wild Atlantic Ocean crashing up against the rocks below. Cross the bridge to the rugged headland to get that iconic cliff view and even visit the Signal Station. And after absorbing all those vistas, enjoy a bite to eat at the visitor center. Our final stop of the day is the beautiful harbour setting of Bantry Town. Take time here to wander the streets, meet the welcoming locals, or perhaps even stop in for a visit at Bantry House & Gardens, modelled after the ‘palazzos' seen by the second Earl of Bantry on his travels on the continent.

Return to Kinsale

After a full day of exploring, it's back to Kinsale for the evening reminiscing about your day over dinner.

Head to Charles Fort

Ready for another day of adventure? How often do you look at something and use the word ‘spectacular'...well, we're sure you'll use it today since your first stop is one of the largest military installations in Ireland, Charles Fort. This enormous star-shaped structure has played many vital roles in Irish history, so of course we need to take you here for a quick photo or two of its impressive exterior. We leave Charles Fort behind feeling a little parched but don't worry our next stop will wet one's whistle. We are heading to Midleton Distillery.

Midleton Distillery

It wouldn't be a trip to Ireland without a taste of some traditional Irish Whiskey would it? Midleton Distillery Experience, also known as Jameson, is our next step where you can learn about the history of this iconic spirit, and even have a dram as part of the signature tour. It's a great chance to grab a bottle to share with friends on your return home.

Cobh

You make your way to the historic port town of Cobh where you have free time for lunch and to explore at your leisure. This was the last port of call for the Titanic on its ill-fated maiden voyage in 1912. There is a chance for you to explore more about this heartbreaking history at the visitor experience. Alternatively, you can spend your time exploring the rows of colourful houses, or at the Cobh Heritage Centre, which also explores how Cobh became an embarkation point during Ireland's mass migrations to America, Canada and Australia to name a few. A must see for those exploring their own ancestry in Ireland.

Free evening in Waterford

Tonight, you'll be staying in the seaport town of Waterford. As we head towards Ireland's oldest city, we'll take the scenic coastal route and make a few photo stops along the way. Where, exactly? We like to keep it flexible.

Head to Jerpoint Abbey

As you explore Jerpoint Abbey, our first stop of the day, you wonder how come we don't make buildings like this anymore. This Cistercian abbey was founded back in the 12th century and, while now in ruins, you marvel at the remains of its Romanesque and Gothic architecture.

Smithwick's Experience Brewery

Up next is the city of Kilkenny, sitting snuggly along the banks of the River Nore, a fun mix of modern and medieval. This city's got a big personality, so we're giving you plenty of time here to get to know her. First up is an interactive tour at Smithwick's Experience, where you'll explore this 18th-century brewery and perhaps even indulge in some of their ale.

Kilkenny and Kells Priory

After that, how you spend your time in Kilkenny is up to you. With endless shops and restaurants, museums, and even a castle, there's plenty to do.

Our final stop of the day is to visit one of the largest medieval monuments in Ireland, Kells Priory. Ruins remain today of the priory's infirmary, workshop, kitchen, mill and more... but it's the medieval defenses that surround the priory that speak of its military involvement, inspiring the priory's local name, the ‘Seven Castles of Kells'.

Return to Waterford

It's back to Waterford tonight, where your time is yours to explore, eat, and be merry.

Visit to the Dunbrody Famine Ship

The last day blues are a real thing, we know. We experience it too. But not to worry, since there's still plenty of adventures to be had today. We head to the town of New Ross, located on the River Barrow, where we visit the Dunbrody Famine Ship. This authentic reproduction of an 1840s emigrant vessel gives visitors an insight into what it was like for those making the journey from Ireland to escape the devastating famine and setting sail for a new life.

The road to Glendalough

You head back out on the road toward Glendalough, with opportunities for a comfort break and for photos at any must-see spots recommended by your driver.

Glendalough Monastic Site and Powerscourt House

You follow the winding paths to Glendalough, site of an awe-inspiring 6th-century monastic city. Here, numerous churches, crosses and a well-preserved stone tower are nestled among hills and valleys shaped by Ice Age glaciers, waiting to be discovered. Founded by St Kevin, the site is steeped in legend - some say the saint banished a monster from the lake. Feel the serenity of this place as you enjoy refreshments in the visitor café. Now it's time for something beautiful - a visit to Powerscourt House and Gardens. The stunning views and landscaped grounds surrounding this country estate will keep your attention hooked, from secret hollows to ornamental lakes and statues.

Return to Dublin

As you leave the serene beauty of Glendalough behind, you begin the journey back to Dublin, winding through the rolling hills and patchwork fields of Wicklow.

You return to Dublin at approximately 6pm.