Dublin and Belfast feature in this Country Explorer trip that journeys through the North and South of Ireland.
Explore the Emerald Isle on this most in-depth of Irish experience trips, filled with tales of mythical creatures and the troubled history of an island split in two. Beyond soul-stirring landscapes, there's time with a local 'Cabbie' who'll guide you through Belfast.
Embrace your playful side and discover the allure of the lively Irish capital - a small city with a lot of heart and yours to explore before meeting your Travel Director and fellow travellers this afternoon for a sightseeing tour with your 'Local Specialist'. See St. Patrick's Cathedral, the stately Georgian Squares and Trinity College. We enjoy a Welcome Reception this evening, joining a 'Local Specialist' at the Glasnevin Cemetery to hear about the brave characters from Ireland's recent history and hear how our visit 'Makes A Difference' to its efforts to preserve Irish history.
Leaving the cosmopolitan streets of Dublin behind, we travel to Northern Ireland and the bustling city of Belfast, where you will have some free time to enjoy a spud for lunch or perhaps an Irish stew. Later, we meet our 'Local Specialist' 'Cabbie' for an insider view of the city's living history during a journey through its vibrant streets in a real taxi. We spend the rest of the afternoon at leisure, or perhaps join an Optional Experience.
Trip Summary Accomodation IconHotel - Park Inn/Maldron City
Trip Summary Meals IconIncluded Meals - Breakfast
Optional Experience
Belfast Walk with Fish and Chips
What better way to soak up the atmosphere of this lively city than to join a Local Specialist for a stroll through its hidden side streets? We'll have an included drink in a historic pub and continue to a local restaurant for a quintessentially traditional meal; fish and chips.
Adult Price: £41.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
'Dive Into Culture' during a visit to the award-winning Titanic Belfast Visitor Centre and gain insights into the tragic story of the Titanic and its passengers who lost their lives in the icy Atlantic. We leave the city behind us, travelling along the beautiful Antrim coast road to the Giant's Causeway and walk in the footsteps of Finn MacCool. 'Make A Difference' by helping to conserve this iconic natural landmark. Take some time to admire the natural spectacle of 40,000 interlocking basalt columns before continuing to Londonderry, our home for the next two nights.
Join us and the the rest of the group for a cosy and relaxing evening of dinner and a drink in a locally-loved restaurant.
Adult Price: £42.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Day 4
Londonderry Sightseeing and Free Time
Join your 'Local Specialist' for a walk along the 17th-century city walls and see the formerly turbulent Bogside neighbourhood, with its street murals depicting the history of the 'Troubles'. Spend a free afternoon walking along the pretty Foyle River or consider joining an Optional Experience to Inishowen Peninsula, with its rich history. This evening we dine at our hotel.
Enjoy a guided visit to the Inishowen Peninsula. This spectacular circuit will take you on a journey to the most north-western tip of Ireland. Here you'll visit Grianan Aileach, a circle stone fort which was the royal seat of the O'Neill clan, situated amongst spectacular views.
Adult Price: £19.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Day 5
Londonderry – Belleek – County Galway (2 Nights)
We journey through the lush countryside to Belleek, where we'll 'Dive Into Culture' and witness talented pottery craftsmen create the exquisite collectables that have graced homes since the mid-19th century. Arrive in County Galway later, where we will stay for the next two nights.
Join us on a drive to Galway Castle where you'll begin your evening of medieval entertainment. This will be accompanied by a delicious dinner where wine will flow, and you’ll be treated to songs and the marvellous Irish art of story-telling.
Adult Price: €69.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Optional Experience
Trad on the Prom
The best in Irish dancing from the most-awarded performers in Ireland. Combined with some of Ireland's best musical talent, this show is truly "can’t miss".
Adult Price: €37.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Day 6
Connemara Excursion
The rugged beauty of Connemara was captured in the film 'The Quiet Man' with John Wayne and Maureen O'Hara. Its loughs and mountains are yours to explore today during a scenic drive. We arrive at Kylemore Abbey later to visit the country's most romantic castle and ramble through the hidden nooks of its Victorian walled garden. Returning to Galway, we enjoy some free time to explore its imposing stone Cathedral or stroll through Eyre Square, which John F. Kennedy visited in 1963.
County Galway – Cliffs of Moher – Killarney (2 Nights)
See the imposing sheer Cliffs of Moher rising over 200 metres above the pounding sea below and learn about the history of these natural phenomena during a visit to the 'Atlantic Edge' exhibition. We 'Connect With Locals' and join Oonagh to forage before our 'Be My Guest' lunch at the Barrtra Seafood restaurant along the world famous Wild Atlantic Way. Enjoy spectacular views of the dramatic coastline before boarding a ferry across the tranquil Shannon River estuary. Then, continue through County Kerry to your hotel in Killarney, where we'll have an evening at leisure or join in the craic at an optional Irish ceilidh.
Trip Summary Meals IconIncluded Meals - Breakfast, Be My Guest
Optional Experience
Irish Ceilidh Evening
The Irish Ceilidh epitomises how music and dance were enjoyed in rural Ireland, especially on festive occasions. The craic - welcoming, jolly, fun and informal - is accompanied with plenty of food and drink. There's no more enjoyable way to understand Irish culture.
Adult Price: €67.00
Day 8
Ring of Kerry Excursion
The soul-stirring landscapes of Iveragh Peninsula provide a mesmerising backdrop for our scenic coastal drive around the Ring of Kerry - an unimaginably beautiful natural setting. En route we will see Killorglin, famous for its annual 'Puck Fair', as well as Daniel O'Connell's Cahirciveen, the fishing village of Waterville, the Black Valley and Moll's Gap.
Enjoy a traditional pony and trap ride through the beautiful Bourn-Vincent National Park. During your journey, your Local Specialist will share fascinating anecdotes about the area and Ireland.
Adult Price: €22.00
Optional Experience
Visit Muckross House and its Gardens
Come with us to Muckross House and its beautiful gardens. With a backdrop of oak-clad mountains, enjoy taking in the towering azaleas and rhododendrons as you meander along the shores of the lakes. The 18th century house contains some wonderful examples of furniture and paintings, including a portrait of King James VI, for whom Shakespeare wrote Macbeth.
Adult Price: €21.00
Optional Experience
Kerry Farm Experience
Step back into the past, on a traditional Kerry Farm of the 1930's. We'll meet a local farmer who will show us around the farm yard and tell of times gone by. Enjoy mountain views of the Ring of Kerry as he demonstrates his skills at herding sheep with border collies.
Adult Price: €22.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Day 9
Killarney – Blarney – Waterford – Kilkenny
Today we acquire the 'gift of the gab', bending over backwards to kiss the Blarney Stone before we travel to Waterford via Youghal. Admire the delicate creations of fine crystal during a visit to the House of Waterford Crystal where we will 'Dive Into Culture' and witness a demonstration by master craftsmen. This evening, we arrive in Kilkenny with its imposing 12th-century castle, once the seat of the Butlers of Ormonde.
Trip Summary Accomodation IconHotel - Kilkenny
Trip Summary Meals IconIncluded Meals - Breakfast
Optional Experience
An Afternoon of Irish Fun and Music (Craic agus Ceol)
Take advantage of this opportunity to learn about the ancient sport of hurling at a local pub. Moving outside, you’ll enjoy a live demonstration by village locals and even have a chance to try your hand at this game, said to be the oldest and fastest field sport in the world. Later, live music and a drink will greet you on returning to the pub.
Adult Price: €29.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Day 10
Kilkenny – New Ross – Co. Wicklow – Dublin
After a morning exploration of Kilkenny, we depart for New Ross where we'll see the monument to John F. Kennedy, who visited his ancestral family hometown in 1963. 'Dive Into Culture' and gain insights into the tragic plight of Irish emigrants during the potato famine of the 1800s on our visit to the nearby three-masted Famine Ship Dunbrody. Journey through the lush Irish countryside of County Wicklow, the Garden of Ireland, and back to Dublin where you'll spend your final evening with travel companions sharing stories of your memorable journey through Ireland at a Farewell Dinner.
It's time to say a fond farewell to Ireland and newfound friends as you prepare to end your wonderful Irish experience. Transfers are available. Conditions apply.
Trip Summary Meals IconIncluded Meals - Breakfast
All optional experiences for this trip
Book with your travel director when you travel
Available on day 2
Belfast Walk with Fish and Chips
What better way to soak up the atmosphere of this lively city than to join a Local Specialist for a stroll through its hidden side streets? We'll have an included drink in a historic pub and continue to a local restaurant for a quintessentially traditional meal; fish and chips.
Adult Price: £41.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Available on day 3
Dinner and Drinks in Londonderry
Join us and the the rest of the group for a cosy and relaxing evening of dinner and a drink in a locally-loved restaurant.
Adult Price: £42.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Available on day 4
Experience the Inishowen Peninsula
Enjoy a guided visit to the Inishowen Peninsula. This spectacular circuit will take you on a journey to the most north-western tip of Ireland. Here you'll visit Grianan Aileach, a circle stone fort which was the royal seat of the O'Neill clan, situated amongst spectacular views.
Adult Price: £19.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Available on day 5
Galway Castle Banquet
Join us on a drive to Galway Castle where you'll begin your evening of medieval entertainment. This will be accompanied by a delicious dinner where wine will flow, and you’ll be treated to songs and the marvellous Irish art of story-telling.
Adult Price: €69.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Available on day 5
Trad on the Prom
The best in Irish dancing from the most-awarded performers in Ireland. Combined with some of Ireland's best musical talent, this show is truly "can’t miss".
Adult Price: €37.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Available on day 7
Irish Ceilidh Evening
The Irish Ceilidh epitomises how music and dance were enjoyed in rural Ireland, especially on festive occasions. The craic - welcoming, jolly, fun and informal - is accompanied with plenty of food and drink. There's no more enjoyable way to understand Irish culture.
Adult Price: €67.00
Available on day 8
Experience a Jaunting Cart Ride
Enjoy a traditional pony and trap ride through the beautiful Bourn-Vincent National Park. During your journey, your Local Specialist will share fascinating anecdotes about the area and Ireland.
Adult Price: €22.00
Available on day 8
Visit Muckross House and its Gardens
Come with us to Muckross House and its beautiful gardens. With a backdrop of oak-clad mountains, enjoy taking in the towering azaleas and rhododendrons as you meander along the shores of the lakes. The 18th century house contains some wonderful examples of furniture and paintings, including a portrait of King James VI, for whom Shakespeare wrote Macbeth.
Adult Price: €21.00
Available on day 8
Kerry Farm Experience
Step back into the past, on a traditional Kerry Farm of the 1930's. We'll meet a local farmer who will show us around the farm yard and tell of times gone by. Enjoy mountain views of the Ring of Kerry as he demonstrates his skills at herding sheep with border collies.
Adult Price: €22.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Available on day 9
An Afternoon of Irish Fun and Music (Craic agus Ceol)
Take advantage of this opportunity to learn about the ancient sport of hurling at a local pub. Moving outside, you’ll enjoy a live demonstration by village locals and even have a chance to try your hand at this game, said to be the oldest and fastest field sport in the world. Later, live music and a drink will greet you on returning to the pub.
Adult Price: €29.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
All Optional Experiences
The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Go foraging with Oonagh and enjoy delightful 'Be My Guest' lunch at the O'Brien's homely Barrtra Seafood restaurant overlooking beautiful Liscannor Bay. (Day 7)
Dive into Culture
Discover the full story of the Titanic at the Titanic Belfast visitor centre in Belfast. (Day 3) See traditional craftsmen at work at the Belleek Pottery Visitor Centre, one of the oldest working potteries in the world. (Day 5) Learn how Irish crystal is crafted at the House of Waterford Crystal during a demonstration. (Day 9) Explore the tragic history of Ireland's famine emigration at the Dunbrody Famine Ship Experience, a replica of one of the original ships used in the 1800s. (Day 10)
Make A Difference
At the Glasnevin Cemetery Museum in Dublin, you'll learn about the cemetery's importance to Irish history and how your visit helps to fund the cemetery's preservation. (Day 1)
Local Specialists
For included sightseeing in Dublin, Belfast and Londonderry
Sightseeing highlights
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ORIENTATION of Galway and Waterford
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VISIT the Glasnevin Trust in Dublin, the Titanic Museum, the UNESCO World Heritage site at the Giant's Causeway, Belleek to see how the famous pottery is made, Kylemore Abbey, the Cliffs of Moher, Blarney to kiss the stone and gain the 'gift of the gab', the Crystal Showroom at Waterford and the Famine Ship in New Ross
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VIEW the City Walls and Murals of Londonderry and Connemara
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SEE St. Patrick's Cathedral in Dublin and Galway Cathedral
Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)
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Ferry across the Shannon estuary
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Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted
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Optional Experiences and free time
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All porterage and restaurant gratuities
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Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras
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An expert Travel Director and professional Driver
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All hotel tips, charges and local taxes
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Handcrafted Highlights
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VIP entry to many sights
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Marie Towell in Ottawa, ON, CanadaMy Account Icon
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Simply the Very Best!
Trip Rating
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5
A whole lot to see and do in both Irelands. A great first time to Ireland trip. In fact I would do it again with Trafalgar.
There was never a dull moment. So much did we see and do with our tour director ********** and driver Pat Ling. This trip was so well coordinated that I felt like I was travelling with family and close friends. I enjoyed everything about it. I do hope to come back soon for more of Ireland.
They are 100% committed to their travelers. The tour director was a joy, and a wealth of information and insight. Trafalgar provides real opportunity to get a glimpse of what makes a country and its people "tick". Especially appreciated are times with the local specialists, ie The Black Cab boys of Belfast, and Bill and Seattle Slew in Kilarney!
I highly recommend this tour of Ireland. We saw the highlights and couldn't have done any more. Our guide, Emma, and driver, Pat, were the absolute best.
A great sightseeing overview of Ireland with limited time to experience all aspects of individual venues Including walking the paths and grounds, eating lunch, viewing the inside of buildings, visiting the gift shop, taking photographs. I would love to return to Ireland fo explore further.
Excellent in the following: our guide Emma, our coach driver Pat, the accommodation, the food, the optional excursions, the comaraderie among fellow travelers, great suggestion by Emma to change bus seats on a daily basis. A very good sightseeing itinerary and overview of Ireland. Enjoyed Emma’s knowledge of history, folklore, sense of humour. Both Emma and Pat were pleasant, approachable, accommodating, Due to limited time schedule, I would like to return to Ireland to explore certain areas in more depth.
We recommend the tour of Ireland to everyone. It is a truly magic place with great people and stunning scenery and places to visit. Emma our tour director was fantastic and Pat our driver was exceptional. Food and accommodation were tops. We hope very much to return and it will be with Trafalgar. We would like to give more stars.
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Trip Notes
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Drinking Water: Tap water is safe to drink in all of the destinations on this trip. Please remember to bring a water bottle.
Unless otherwise stated, trip prices are per person, land only, based on double occupancy and reflect applicable discount. Discounts are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice.
Trip prices are correct at the time of the products going live, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking. All trip information is correct at time of trips going live, however are subject to change - please confirm all details at time of booking.
Twin-share option not available for trips to South America, Costa Rica, Mexico, Alaska, Hawaii, South Africa, Kenya & Tanzania, Botswana, Zambia or for any holiday & cruise combination, or in Asia and Eastern Mediterranean except Highlights of Turkey (without cruise) & Best of Turkey. It's also not available on Small Group trips. Guided Vacations included in this restriction are Newfoundland and Labrador (DNLA) as well as Panama, the Canal & Beyond (LPAN).
For trips that are part of our Guaranteed Room Share, please note that there is a no smoking policy in all shared rooms. Solo travel is not accepted on guided Family Experiences holidays unless travelling as part of a family group.
Your selected dates have an enhanced itinerary.
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You’ll be travelling in Autumn, Winter or Spring, and this itinerary has been enhanced for you to enjoy the unique experiences these seasons offer.
