Irish Explorer

Welcome to the beginning of your tour of Ireland! Meet your tour leader and fellow travellers at the hotel this morning as you get ready to discover the charms of Dublin. Join your tour leader on an orientation tour of Ireland’s capital city to discover its many highlights. The afternoon offers free time to explore on your own or to join the Discover Dublin excursion for an immersive experience of Irish culture which showcases some of the city's best attractions. Please note this optional excursion must be booked before the start of the tour. Conclude the day with a group welcome dinner.

This morning, journey into Northern Ireland. Today this is a peaceful area, however, the north of Ireland has a turbulent past. Your tour leader will provide insights on pivotal events such as the Rising, the Civil War, the Fight for Independence, and The Troubles. Make a stop in the Northern Irish capital of Belfast and see the city on a driving and walking tour. Continue on to the iconic Giant’s Causeway. According to legend, an Irish giant named Finn McCool built the causeway in order to challenge his Scottish rival Benandonner to a battle. The final destination for the day, and where the tour will spend the night, is the riverside city of Derry.

Departing from Derry, journey to Galway via the picturesque Wild Atlantic Way, renowned as the world's longest coastal drive. After a comfort stop in Sligo along the way, reach Galway in the early afternoon. Take advantage of free time in this buzzing student city, which boasts a vibrant, artistic atmosphere. Be sure to listen out for some live music! After, an exciting optional excursion offers the opportunity to get behind the bar of a local pub and learn all about the many tales of Galway!

Start the day with a visit to the renowned Cliffs of Moher, a natural marvel towering over 200 metres above the restless sea. Following this, proceed to Bunratty Castle which you can choose to explore on the optional excursion. Adjacent to the castle, admire the meticulously reconstructed traditional Irish village of Folk Park. Next, pause to capture the scenery in Limerick, home to an impressive castle, an art museum, local pubs and many charming cafés. Then, explore the charming Adare, known as 'Ireland's prettiest village', where traditional thatched cottages offer a glimpse into the past. Finally, head to Killarney and settle into the accommodation for the night.

Make the most of a free day in the Kerry region! Today offers the opportunity to join the Ring of Kerry optional excursion which features a spectacularly scenic drive and stops along this iconic route. Winding along the Iveragh Peninsula, discover delightful attractions including the charming Kerry Bog Village museum and views of the spectacular Beenarouke. Unwind at the end of the excursion by embarking on a jaunting (carriage) ride through Killarney National Park. It’s sure to be an experience to remember!

Bid farewell to the Wild Atlantic Way as you head back to Dublin. En route, visit Blarney Castle and kiss the renowned Blarney Stone, believed to bestow the 'gift of the gab.' Afterwards, proceed to the medieval town of Kilkenny and embark on an orientation tour of the historic town centre, also known as the 'Medieval Mile,' with your tour leader. Upon arriving back in Dublin, make the last night of your tour memorable with an optional Irish music evening, which includes traditional Irish food, drinks, music and dancing!

It's time to say slán as the tour comes to an end after breakfast this morning. Remember to exchange contact information with your fellow travellers. We trust you've relished the history, natural wonders and culture of this remarkable region and hope to see you on tour with us again soon!