Irish Experience
Irish Experience
Irish Experience
11 Days Starting and ending in Dublin, Ireland
Visiting: Dublin, Belfast, Giant's Causeway, Londonderry, Galway, Connemara, Cliffs of Moher, Ring of Kerry, Kilkenny
Tour operator:
Tour code:
IREXZN19
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
25 - 45
Age range:
6-99
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on the "Irish Experience" tour, a captivating journey through the heart of Ireland and Northern Ireland. Begin in Dublin, exploring its Georgian squares and Trinity College, before venturing to Belfast for a unique Black Cab tour and the Titanic Belfast Experience. Discover the natural wonder of the Giant's Causeway and the historic city of Londonderry. Delight in the scenic beauty of Connemara and the Cliffs of Moher, and enjoy a foraging experience in Lahinch. Traverse the iconic Ring of Kerry, kiss the Blarney Stone, and witness the craftsmanship at Waterford Crystal. Conclude your adventure in Dublin, enriched by the lush landscapes of County Wicklow. With expert guidance, luxury accommodations, and immersive cultural experiences, this tour promises an unforgettable exploration of Ireland's rich heritage and breathtaking landscapes.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome To Ireland
Location: Dublin
Accommodation: Clayton Ballsbridge
Accommodation Name: Clayton Hotel Ballsbridge
Meals Included: Dinner
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 travelers this afternoon for a sightseeing tour with your Local Specialist. See the stately Georgian Squares and Trinity College before enjoying a Whiskey Tasting at a local distillery.The excitement will build this evening over drinks, good food and great company as your Travel Director gives you a taste of what’s to come.
Day 2: Journey To Colorful Belfast
Location: Belfast
Accommodation: AC by Marriott, Stormont
Accommodation Name: AC by Marriott , Stormont Hotel Belfast
Meals Included: Breakfast
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.
Day 3: Venture To The Giant’S Causeway And On To Londonderry
Location: Giant's Causeway
Accommodation: City Hotel Derry
Accommodation Name: City Hotel Derry
Meals Included: Breakfast
Dive Into Culture during a visit to the award-winning Titanic Belfast Experience. 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, traveling along to the Giant's Causeway for a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience as we walk in the footsteps of Finn MacCool. Our visit will help 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. Dine at your hotel this evening.
Day 4: Discover Londonderry’S Past
Location: Londonderry
Accommodation: City Hotel Derry
Accommodation Name: City Hotel Derry
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Join your Local Specialist for a walk along the 17th-century city walls and see the formerly turbulent Bogside neighborhood, 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.
Day 5: Onwards To Scenic Galway
Location: Galway
Accommodation: Maldron Oranmore
Accommodation Name: Maldron Hotel Oranmore Galway
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
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 Galway later, where we will stay for the next two nights.
Day 6: Connemara Excursion
Location: Connemara
Accommodation: Maldron Oranmore
Accommodation Name: Maldron Hotel Oranmore Galway
Meals Included: Breakfast
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.
Day 7: Explore The Cliffs Of Moher And Killarney
Location: Cliffs of Moher
Accommodation: Killarney Towers
Accommodation Name: Killarney Towers Hotel & Leisure Center
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
See the imposing UNESCO-listed Cliffs of Moher rising over 650 feet (200 m) above the pounding Atlantic and scan the horizon all the way to the Aran Islands to get the full view of the irresistible beauty of this special place. You’ll have an opportunity to visit the ‘Atlantic Edge’ exhibition which will bring to life this extraordinary natural phenomenon in a way that only the wildlife of the area get to see. Enchanted by the wild landscapes, you’ll continue along the Wild Atlantic Way to Connect With Locals and meet local horticulturalist, Oonagh, who’ll teach you how to forage before our Be My Guest visit to the Barrtra Seafood restaurant. Oonagh will reveal the importance of sustainable food experiences and you’ll learn how everything on your plate has been bought locally, perhaps inspired to buy local produce when you return home. The spectacular views of this dramatic coastline continue before you board a ferry across the tranquil Shannon Estuary river. Then, continue through County Kerry to your hotel in Killarney, where you'll have an evening at leisure or join in the craic at an optional Irish ceilidh.
Day 8: A Day On The Ring Of Kerry
Location: Ring of Kerry
Accommodation: Killarney Towers
Accommodation Name: Killarney Towers Hotel & Leisure Center
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
The soul-stirring landscapes of Iveragh Peninsula provide a mesmerizing 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.
Day 9: Off To Blarney, Waterford And Kilkenny
Location: Kilkenny
Accommodation: Hotel Kilkenny
Accommodation Name: Kilkenny
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today you might acquire the 'gift of the gab', bending over backwards to kiss the Blarney Stone before we travel to Waterford. 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 crafters. This evening, we arrive in Kilkenny with its imposing 12th-century castle, once the seat of the Butlers of Ormonde.
Day 10: Through County Wicklow’S Countryside To Dublin
Location: Dublin
Accommodation: Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel., Sandymount Hotel
Accommodation Name: Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel., Sandymount Hotel Dublin
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
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 Dunbrody Famine Ship. 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.
Day 11: Farewell Dublin
Location: Dublin
Meals Included: Breakfast
It’s time to say a fond farewell to Ireland and newfound friends as you prepare to end your wonderful Irish experience.
What's Included
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Meals
Enjoy 10 breakfasts, 5 dinners, and 1 lunch during the tour.
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Local Experiences
Participate in unique local experiences such as foraging with Oonagh, exploring Belfast in a Black Cab, and visiting the Titanic Belfast visitor attraction.
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Guided Tours
Explore Dublin, Belfast, and Londonderry with a Local Specialist.
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Cultural Visits
Visit iconic sites such as the Giant's Causeway, Kylemore Abbey, Cliffs of Moher, and Blarney Castle.
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Accommodation
Stay in cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted.
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Transportation
Travel in a luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation such as rail journeys.
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Porterage and Gratuities
All porterage and restaurant gratuities are included.
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Hotel Tips and Taxes
All hotel tips, charges, and local taxes are covered.
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Sightseeing
Enjoy must-see sightseeing and surprise extras with audio headsets for flexible sightseeing.
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Ferry Ride
Experience a ferry ride across the Shannon estuary.
What's Not Included
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Insurance
Travel insurance is not included in the tour package.
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International Travel
International flights to and from the tour starting point are not included.
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Optional Experiences
Optional experiences and free time activities are not included in the tour price.
Mode of Transport
Travel in luxury with an air-conditioned coach equipped with Wi-Fi, ensuring a comfortable journey across Ireland and Northern Ireland. Enjoy scenic drives, ferry crossings, and the flexibility of audio headsets for sightseeing, with the option for rail journeys as alternative transportation.
Accommodation
Stay in cherry-picked hotels like the Clayton Hotel Ballsbridge in Dublin, AC by Marriott in Belfast, and City Hotel Derry in Londonderry, ensuring comfort and convenience throughout your journey. Enjoy trusted accommodations such as Maldron Hotel Oranmore Galway and Killarney Towers Hotel & Leisure Center, with all porterage and local taxes included.
Check out our Q&As
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What unique experience can I expect in Belfast during the tour?
In Belfast, you will have the opportunity to experience the city from the comfort of a dedicated Black Cab with expert 'Cabbie' commentary, providing an insider view of the city's living history.
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What cultural experiences are included in the tour?
The tour includes several cultural experiences such as a visit to the Titanic Belfast Experience, witnessing traditional craftsmen at work at the Belleek Pottery Visitor Center, and learning how crystal is crafted at the House of Waterford Crystal.
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Will there be any opportunities to learn about local history during the tour?
Yes, the tour includes visits to historical sites such as the Dunbrody Famine Ship Experience in New Ross, the 17th-century city walls of Londonderry, and the murals of the Bogside neighborhood depicting the history of the 'Troubles'.
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What natural landmarks will we visit on this tour?
You will visit several natural landmarks including the Giant's Causeway, the Cliffs of Moher, and the scenic landscapes of the Ring of Kerry.
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Are there any special dining experiences included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes a Be My Guest lunch at the Barrtra Seafood restaurant in Lahinch, where you will learn about sustainable food experiences and enjoy locally sourced dishes.
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What is the significance of the Blarney Stone, and will we visit it?
The Blarney Stone is said to bestow the power of eloquence on those who kiss it. You will have the opportunity to visit Blarney Castle and take your turn at kissing the stone.
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What kind of accommodation can I expect during the tour?
The tour includes stays at cherry-picked hotels that are tried and trusted, such as the Clayton Hotel Ballsbridge in Dublin and the Killarney Towers Hotel & Leisure Center in Killarney.
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Is there seat rotation on the coach?
Yes, your Travel Director will implement a seat rotation system, whereby all guests will rotate their seats on the coach daily. This allows for everyone to experience the spectacular views from different seats, and you’ll have a better opportunity to get to know your fellow travelers.
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Is luggage handling provided?
On Guided Vacations and Private Chauffeur Vacations, all luggage handling is provided at no extra charge. One suitcase per person will be brought to your hotel room.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes! Our hotels are personally selected by Managing Director Catherine Reilly and personally known for their quality, impeccable service and comfort, with the majority of them having air-conditioning. Note: A few hotels may not have air conditioning due to the colder climate.
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What are the coaches like?
We pride ourselves on having the finest fleet of fuel-efficient, fully air-conditioned coaches – all with reclining seats and on-board restrooms. The high vantage point from your coach’s window means you can take in all the glorious scenery, whether it’s a vast rural landscape or an urban city center. We also have on board WiFi.
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Am I contributing to any charity by booking the tour?
Brendan Vacations is an active supporter of the Treadright® Foundation, a not-for-profit organization established in 2008. So far, the charity has donated more than $2 million to help underprivileged communities and support sustainable tourism around the world.
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How many people will be on my trip?
You’ll find an average of 40 to 45 guests on trips throughout Europe.
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
The beauty of taking a guided vacation with us is you’ll have the opportunity to meet and travel with people from all over the globe.
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Will I have free time?
Each itinerary offers the perfect balance of downtime and discoveries. We also give you the opportunity to tailor your trip with Optional Experiences.
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Yes. If you are travelling solo but would be happy to share your rook with another traveller of the same gender, we offer 'Twin-share' pricing on our trips. However, if you prefer the privacy of your own room, you can opt for our single supplement. The cost will depend on your trip and can be found in the pricing section of the itinerary.
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How much luggage can I bring?
On Guided Vacations, you can bring one suitcase per person with the dimensions of 76cm x 46cm x 25cm (30" x 18" x 10") and weight not exceeding 23kg (50 lbs) due to the limited space on the coach. You can also bring one piece of hand luggage, provided it is small enough to take on the coach and does not have telescopic handles.
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What is a Travel Director?
Our Travel Directors come from a variety of backgrounds, but they all share a passion for travel and their homelands. These experienced professionals show you what the guidebooks can't - a true insider's perspective of Ireland and Scotland. Each Travel Director has been through a bespoke training program, and many have at least five years' experience under their belt.
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
Travel documents (important information, itinerary and any relevant vouchers) will be provided 7-10 days prior to your trip's departure.
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What if I have special dietary requirements?
We can accommodate guests who are vegetarian and can assist with diabetic, gluten-free and other medically-recommended diets. Please advise us at time of booking. Unfortunately, we're unable to supply meals in accordance with strict religious requirements. We cannot provide salt-free, Kosher, Halal, requests for specific dietary supplements such as soy milk, and high protein or low-carb meals.
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Low Deposit
Brendan Vacations requires a minimum deposit of 200 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of brendan vacations charges.
Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 80% of booking price.
At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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