Essence of the Emerald Isle

Essence of the Emerald Isle

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Essence of the Emerald Isle

8 Days Starting and ending in UK/Ireland

Visiting: Dublin, Galway, Connemara National Park, Killarney, County Cork

Tour operator:

Exoticca

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

1 - 30

Physical rating:

Low

Age range:

2-99

Special diets catered:

Please advise requests

Tour operated in:

English

Activities:

Sightseeing, Walking

This tour is no longer available

Tour Overview

Embark on a captivating journey through the heart of Ireland with the "Essence of the Emerald Isle" tour. This enchanting adventure begins in the vibrant city of Dublin, where history and modernity blend seamlessly. Explore the city's iconic landmarks, including the historic Temple Bar and the majestic Trinity College, home to the legendary Book of Kells. Journey through the picturesque landscapes of Kilkenny, Killarney National Park, and the awe-inspiring Cliffs of Moher, each offering a unique glimpse into Ireland's natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Experience the charm of Galway and the scenic Ring of Kerry, immersing yourself in the country's stunning scenery and traditions. With highlights that cater to lovers of gardens, nature, history, photography, and walking, this tour promises a comprehensive and unforgettable exploration of Ireland's most treasured sights.

Highlights

  • Cliffs of Moher

  • Dublin

  • Galway

  • Kilkenny

  • Killarney National Park

  • Ring of Kerry

Places You'll See

Ring Of Kerry

Trinity College, Dublin

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1 : Uk - Dublin

Location: Dublin

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Staycity Aparthotels - Tivoli

Arrive at your UK departure airport ready to board a flight to Dublin.* Arrive at Dublin airport, meet your driver and transfer to the hotel. Once settled, spend the rest of the day exploring the Irish capital at your leisure. Why not take a stroll along the banks of the River Liffey to admire the city's diverse architecture or head straight to the vibrant Temple Bar area to enjoy the cosy atmosphere of Dublin's best pubs and eateries. A number of venues in the area hold regular live music performances so be sure to catch one of these for an unforgettable start to your journey through Ireland. Overnight stay in Dublin. *If either your outbound or inbound flights depart in the early hours (before 4:00 a.m.) you must arrive at the airport the night before the indicated departure day.

Day 2 : Dublin

Location: Dublin

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Staycity Aparthotels - Tivoli

Meals Included: Breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel. Today, enjoy a walking tour of Dublin. Explore the most emblematic sights and get to know the history of this wonderful capital. Pass by famous Trinity College, the oldest university in Ireland and whose library is home to the legendary Book of Kells. Continue to the Temple Bar area, the cultural center of Dublin and home to colorful pubs which host live Irish music and dance performances. Learn the legend of the Ha’Penny Bridge over the River Liffey and stroll past Dublin Castle, the seat of British Rule in Ireland for over 700 years. Continue past Christchurch Cathedral and St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Ireland's largest church and named after the beloved patron Saint of Ireland. The remainder of the day is free to enjoy your last moments in Dublin at your leisure. Why not pay a visit to the Jameson Whiskey Distillery, or the famous Guinness Storehouse to learn all about the "black stuff". For dinner and a show, you can join our optional Irish evening*. Overnight stay in Dublin. *Optional Irish evening with dance show and dinner: Enjoy a 3-course dinner and an evening filled with traditional Irish song and dance.

Day 3 : Dublin - Athlone - Galway

Location: Galway

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Nox Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel. Leave the capital behind today as you travel to the town of Athlone, which sits on the River Shannon in the center of the county. Take a panoramic tour of Athlone to see its impressive 13th-century castle and historic streets. After some time at your leisure, continue to Galway a port city on Ireland’s west coast, where the River Corrib meets the Atlantic Ocean. Visit the city center, learn about its history and explore Eyre Square, a popular meeting spot surrounded by shops and traditional pubs, many of which still offer traditional Irish folk music shows. Overnight stay in Galway.

Day 4 : Galway - Connemara - Galway

Location: Connemara National Park

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Nox Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel. Depart towards Connemara National Park, a beautiful cultural region, situated in County Galway. Connemara is known for its strong connection to traditional Irish culture and immaculate landscapes. Admire the rolling countryside, home to wild Connemara ponies. After a day of exploring the rich landscapes of rural Ireland, return to your hotel in Galway and enjoy the evening at your leisure. Overnight stay in Galway.

Day 5 : Galway - Cliffs Of Moher - Killarney

Location: Killarney

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Torc Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel. Discover one of the most iconic landscapes in Ireland: the stunning Cliffs of Moher! Stretching along the coastline for around 14-kilometers, these dramatic sea cliffs overlook the wild waters of the Atlantic. Set off towards Country Kerry, stopping along the way in Limerick, one of the oldest and most important cities in Ireland, dating back to the 12th-century. Afterwards, continue to the southwest of Ireland and into County Kerry, home to the beautiful scenery of the Killarney National Park. Transfer to the hotel and overnight stay in Kerry.

Day 6 : Killarney - Ring Of Kerry - County Cork

Location: County Cork

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Carrigaline Court Hotel & Leisure Centre

Meals Included: Breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel. Explore the Ring of Kerry today, an area of immense natural beauty, glistening lakes and dramatic coastlines, home to incredible beaches and charming seaside villages. In the afternoon, head towards Cork, known as the culinary capital of Ireland and famed for its fantastic food market. It's also home to brilliant museums and art galleries and the legendary Shandon Bells. Overnight stay in County Cork.

Day 7 : Cork - Kilkenny - Dublin

Location: Dublin

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Staycity Aparthotels - Tivoli

Meals Included: Breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel. Begin the journey back to Dublin, stopping along the way at the medieval town of Kilkenny with its cobblestoned streets and imposing St. Canices Cathedral. After some time at your leisure, continue towards the capital. Arrive in Dublin and enjoy the evening at your leisure, hitting the bars or revisiting your favorite sights. Overnight stay in Dublin.

Day 8 : Dublin - Uk

Location: Dublin

Meals Included: Breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel. At the indicated time, transfer to the airport for a flight back to the UK. Arrive in the UK and end your trip.

What's Included

  • Departures from main UK airports.

  • International flights: UK - Dublin - UK.

  • 7 nights accommodation in Charm and Superior category hotels.*

  • 7 breakfasts.

  • Transfers in air-conditioned vehicles.

  • Visits and entrance fees as is indicated in the itinerary.**

  • All air taxes and fuel surcharge.

  • ATOL Protection.

  • English speaking guide.

What's Not Included

  • Travel Insurance

    Travel insurance is not included and is recommended for all travelers.

  • Meals not mentioned

    Any meals not mentioned in the itinerary are excluded.

  • Personal Expenses

    All personal expenses, such as souvenirs, laundry, and beverages, are excluded.

  • Optional Tours

    Optional tours and activities not mentioned in the itinerary are excluded.

  • Tips and Gratuities

    Tips and gratuities for guides and drivers are not included.

Mode of Transport

Travelers will be transported in air-conditioned vehicles, ensuring comfort during transfers and excursions. International flights from main UK airports to Dublin, along with all air taxes and fuel surcharges, are included.

Accommodation

Guests will enjoy a comfortable stay in Charm and Superior category hotels, offering a blend of modern amenities and traditional hospitality, ensuring a restful night's sleep throughout the journey.

Meals Included

7 breakfasts.

Check out our Q&As

  • What countries does the Essence of the Emerald Isle tour visit?

    The Essence of the Emerald Isle tour visits Ireland.

  • What are the highlights of the tour?

    The highlights of the tour include Dublin, Kilkenny, Killarney National Park, Cliffs of Moher, Galway, and the Ring of Kerry.

  • What type of activities does the tour include?

    The tour includes activities such as Gardens & Nature Tours, History, Photography, Sightseeing, and Walking.

  • What is the primary focus of the tour?

    The primary focus of the tour is Cultural.

  • What inclusions does the tour offer?

    The tour offers inclusions such as departures from main UK airports, international flights: UK - Dublin - UK, 7 nights accommodation in Charm and Superior category hotels, 7 breakfasts, transfers in air-conditioned vehicles, visits and entrance fees as indicated in the itinerary, all air taxes and fuel surcharge, ATOL Protection, and an English speaking guide.

  • What are the exclusions?

    Exclusions include travel insurance, meals not mentioned, personal expenses, optional tours, and tips and gratuities for guides and drivers.

  • How long is the tour?

    The specific duration of the tour is not mentioned in the provided information.

  • Is there a minimum age requirement for the tour?

    The specific minimum age requirement for the tour is not mentioned in the provided information.

  • What type of accommodation is provided?

    The tour provides accommodation in Charm and Superior category hotels, with specific mentions of Staycity Aparthotels - Tivoli in Dublin, Nox Hotel in Galway, Torc Hotel in Kerry, and Carrigaline Court Hotel & Leisure Centre in County Cork.

  • Where can I check the latest Travel Restrictions?

    It is the traveler's responsibility to verify and comply with the passport, visa, and travel requirements applicable to your itinerary. It is also the responsibility of the traveler to verify and comply with the health requirements, proof of testing, and vaccination applicable to your itinerary both at the destinations and for, if applicable, countries where you have a connecting flight. Requirements change quickly and you should check the updated guidance well in advance of departure as well as shortly before departure. You should check the requirements for your own specific circumstances with the corresponding government embassies and/or consulates as appropriate.

  • What recommendations should I follow before traveling?

    Passport validity: It is the traveler's responsibility to verify and comply with the passport, visa, and travel requirements applicable to your itinerary. You should check the requirements for your own specific circumstances with the corresponding embassies and/or consulates as appropriate. Requirements change so please check the up-to-date requirements in advance of your departure date. In many cases, countries now require that passports are valid for at least 6 months from the date of departure from their borders.

  • How can I upgrade my flight?

    If you would like to make an upgrade to your flight or ask for a quotation, please contact us with all the information. Our customer success agents will answer your request as soon as possible.

  • What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

    Changes of flights and related services are not permitted after the booking is confirmed. If you wish to make any significant amendment affecting the flights, you will need to cancel it as per the terms & conditions applicable to your booking and make a new booking. If you require more information about your cancellations policy please go to the relevant Terms and Conditions for your booking (See Cancellation Policy section). If you would like to proceed with the cancellation or require assistance please contact us.

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    The COVID-19 pandemic not only created an unparalleled impact on health and economy globally, but it has also changed fundamental behaviors with regards to traveling. In response to such changes, Exoticca provides extra peace of mind for all reservations made from 18th January, 2022 onwards by including Covid 19 Protection. Testing positive for COVID-19: If you or anyone else traveling with you on your booking cannot travel due to testing positive for COVID-19 you will be given the option to reschedule your trip or receive 100% of the trip value in Exoticca travel credit. **Proof of infection must be provided in the form of an official COVID-19 positive test result. For more information on the details of the Covid 19 Protection Policy, please go to the relevant Terms and Conditions for your booking (See Cancellation Policy section).

  • Travelling to the USA or Canada?

    Traveling to the United States: Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) ESTA stands for Electronic System for Travel Authorization. ESTA is an online application system, developed by the United States government to pre-screen travelers before authorizing them to board a plane or ship bound for the United States. Starting on the 12th of January 2009, any person entering the United States under the Visa Waiver Program must have an approved ESTA travel authorization. This includes travelers who travel to the United States to catch a connecting flight. An ESTA does not guarantee entry to the United States. U.S. Customs and Border Protection officials determine the admissibility of travelers upon arrival. For more information click here. If a traveler is found to have visited a country designated as a State Sponsor of Terrorism (09.11.2022, Countries: Cuba, North Korea, Iran, Syria), the traveler is no longer eligible to participate in the Visa Wavier Program and must apply for a visa to enter the United States. Traveling to Canada: Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) An Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) is an entry requirement for citizens of visa-exempt countries traveling to Canada by air. This includes travelers who travel to Canada to catch a connecting flight. An eTA is linked electronically to the traveler's passport and is valid for a maximum of five years or until the passport expires, depending on which of these two scenarios occurs first. If you get a new passport, you need to get a new eTA. An eTA does not guarantee entry to Canada. When you arrive in Canada, a border services officer will ask to see your passport and other documents to determine whether you are admissible to enter Canada. For more information click here. Traveling to a Schengen member country (Europe): Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) The ETIAS travel authorization will be needed to enter a Schengen member country by air, land, or sea. From November 2023, visitors that do not need a visa to enter Europe will be able to register with ETIAS. ETIAS will become a mandatory entry requirement. The ETIAS for Europe will grant travelers authorization to visit the ETIAS countries that are all members that compose the Schengen zone. The ETIAS visa waiver has been designed for short-term stays of up to 90 days. For more information click here.

  • COVID-19 vaccination recommendations and other vaccines?

    It is the responsibility of the traveler to verify and comply with the health requirements, proof of testing, and vaccination applicable to your itinerary both at the destinations and for, if applicable, countries where you have a connecting flight. Requirements change quickly and you should check the updated guidance well in advance of departure as well as shortly before departure. Check with the migration and health authorities for the country of origin, destination, and stopover to learn more about vaccination requirements.

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    Once your purchase is complete, you will receive confirmation by email and all your travel documents will be uploaded on to your booking and the Exoticca customer account (which you'll be provided details of). These will include: transport details, hotels, itinerary, important notes, and insurance policy (if applicable).

Reviews of this operator

Nigel Curtis (Google Reviewer)  

This is the first time...

26-Mar-2023

This is the first time that we have used Exoticca and we were not disappointed. The holiday was well planned and we felt looked after at every stage of our South American adventure. The guides were knowledgeable, cheerful and friendly. They were able to answer all our questions with ease and good humour. The hotels were of a high standard and offered excellent food and comfort. Our travel group was well matched and we always had plenty of room in the vehicles selected for each stage of our journey. We will no hesitation in booking with Exoticca again in the future.

Jane S  

South America with Exoticca

04-Jun-2023

Most of the time we were travelling as a couple although we kept bumping into others in a simialr situation. Wherever we went there was someone there to welcome us and take us to our hotel, tell us about arrangements for the next few days and to generally look after us. Guides always turned up as expected and were all of a very high standard. We never felt concerned about what was due to happen the next day - it always did! Tours were always of interest. Accommodation which was charm class was perfectly acceptable and if not in the centre of town, taxis were always easy to use and safe whether a white pick up van in the Galapagos or a tuk tuk in Peru. I had a slight accident while there and I have to say that Exoticca guides etc could not have been more helpful. I would not hesitate to recommend Exoticca to anyone thinking of using them. We had an amazing experience in Peru, Ecuador and the Galapagos.

https://uk.trustpilot.com/reviews/647e07eb706f837cb1f86880
Diana Gwynn  

Imperial Cities and Desert

20-May-2023

Really excellent way to see Morocco. Our first experience of Exoticca and we were impressed with all the arrangements and attention to detail. The local guides were excellent and our driver Ayoub the absolute best - helpful, kind, knowledgeable and funny. What an outstanding young man! We are definitely recommending Exoticca to our friends and are interested in exploring other countries with you. Many thanks!

https://uk.trustpilot.com/reviews/647ccf3f81ea8608ae6d5e06
sky unidentifiedstorm (Google Reviewer)  

I booked a two week...

21-Mar-2023

I booked a two week trip with Exoticca in February 2023 to Morocco and Egypt. I went solo, had a great time traveling and site seeing to planned excursions and some extra excursions as well. Stayed at several hotels from 5star to 3star standards. All where safe and comfortable. Bus tours where comfortable and I always felt safe wherever we went. Tour guides, bus operators and guards where friendly and respectful. All the sites we visited had me in awe. At one point we got stuck in the mountains due to snow and rain. The roads where cut off. We where set up in hotels for the night and the following day we where back on the road in once a road was cleared. My tickets to Cairo where reschedule and so was my excursions do to the delay. All was taken care with Exoticca I didn't have to do anything, which I greatly appreciated. Exoticca does hire tour agencies in the country you visit. I really like the agencies that where hired. There are usually one or two stops a day to go to a specific craft seller for certain goods, like rugs, paintings, ceramics etc. throughout the tours.

S A (Google Reviewer)  

Exoticca was a great experience....

11-Apr-2024

Exoticca was a great experience. Very well planned itinerary and our tour driver Leo was excellent. We were lucky to get good weather for the most parts and were given good guidance about local attractions. The hotels were well located and of a good quality. Overall a very pleasant experience. We will travel with Exoticca again.

Kimberly Penna (Google Reviewer)  

I very much enjoyed my...

10-Apr-2024

I very much enjoyed my trip to Portugal with Exoticca. I love that you're able to book the flight at the same time as the vacation booking because you won't get stuck with a bunch of layovers like other tour companies spring on you at the last minute. I felt like the trip was very organized and well-planned. I also like that I was back in my hotel room everyday prior to 6:00 p.m. so I had the whole night to myself to do whatever I wanted rather than being stuck on a bus for hours. I will definitely be booking with Exoticca again.

P Holly (Google Reviewer)  

The staff and food was...

10-Apr-2024

The staff and food was impeccable at the 3 country clubs (Amboseli, Lake Naivasha, Maasai Mara) where we stayed. Our guide was very informative and timely. The only issue is we wished we could've stayed longer at each country club to enjoy the amenities. If there is a next time, we would plan for that.

Dale Foster (Google Reviewer)  

We had a great time...

29-Mar-2024

We had a great time and great experience on our recent trip to South Africa through Exoticca. Very good value with the pricing and very organized and good communication from them. It was a busy trip with so much to see and someday I would like to go back to Capetown and spend a month or so. The safari in Kruger National Park was awesome and we saw every animal there was including the Big 5. And because of traveling to and from Kruger and the safari, we made some lifelong friends. Looking forward to traveling through Exoticca again as I have had my eye on other trips they offer.

JB  

Saw most of what was on the itinerary…

04-Jun-2023

Saw most of what was on the itinerary… Saw most of what was on the itinerary but not the best guide (our Exoticca guide in Ecuador was great but ones since then less so). More free time would have been good ( we didn't even get the free time listed on the itinerary) especially at lunchtimes. Beautiful scenery ranging from the sand dunes to the snow capped mountains. Date of experien

https://uk.trustpilot.com/users/642ae4e995d55f0014af4543
XQ Tong (Google Reviewer)  

The tour of 'Essence of...

12-Apr-2024

The tour of 'Essence of Patagonia & Cultural Capitals - Argentina & Chile' was a great experience and good value for the money. It gave us plenty of free time at most locations to explore on our own. The full day guided tours in Patagonia on both Argentina and Chile sides were great.

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  • Transfer as credit to Future Tours

    Exoticca allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform exoticca, 0 days before departure.

  • Low Deposit

    Exoticca requires a minimum deposit of 60% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of exoticca charges.

    At 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 60% of booking price.

    At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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