Travel Notices

Best of Ireland

Explore Ireland in depth: historic Dublin, the scenic Ring of Kerry, Killarney, cultural Limerick, the dramatic Cliffs of Moher, bohemian Galway & more

Overview

from$4749Tour + Flights from$4049Tour Only 10days
price per person, double occupancy,* based on Oct 31, 2024 departure from NYC
$600 Instant Savings. Expires May 30, 2024.*   All prices reflect savings.
Piggy bank
$199 deposit. Lock in your spot for less.††
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Carefree Booking. Change your travel plans with no penalties. See details & restrictions.
Traveling with friends or family? Claim a departure as a private trip for you and your crew (minimum 10 travelers). Call us to learn more.
Style Small Group TourTravel with a small, intimate group of no more than 16 likeminded travelers (and often much fewer), escorted by an English speaking guide and/or tour manager for some or all of your journey. (Some exceptions, including special promotional packages, may accommodate up to 30.) More of these packages
Dedicated tour escorts & guides throughout
Departures September 2024 – November 2025 Group Size 16 travelers max
Themes History & CultureBucket ListNature & Wildlife
Activity Level Moderate
What to Expect This moderately-paced, escorted tour includes a reasonable amount of walking or hiking and requires an average level of physical fitness. Travel safely and confidently with our new health & safety protocols.
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Embark on a journey through Ireland's enchanting landscapes and rich heritage on this captivating tour. Beginning in the bustling capital of Dublin, immerse yourself in the city's vibrant culture and history, from the iconic Guinness Storehouse to the historic EPIC, The Irish Emigration Museum. Traverse the rugged coastline of the Wild Atlantic Way, marveling at the majestic Cliffs of Moher and the serene beauty of the Ring of Kerry. Dive into the country's natural beauty as you wander Killarney and Connemara National Parks. Explore charming villages steeped in tradition, where lively pubs resonate with traditional Irish music and warm welcomes await. Visit ancient castles and monastic ruins, each bearing witness to Ireland's storied past, including the iconic Blarney and Bunratty Castles. Along the way, encounter the genuine hospitality of the Irish people, whose warmth and wit will make you feel right at home. From the bustling cities to the tranquil countryside, this tour promises an unforgettable journey through the heart and soul of the Emerald Isle.

Package includes

  • Flights
  • Coach
  • Transfers
  • Hotel
  • Meals
  • Guides
  • Round-trip flights from New York (JFK) or Newark (EWR) on scheduled carriers, including taxes & fees
  • All ground transportation and transfers
  • 8 nights accommodations in First Class and Superior hotels
  • 13 meals: 8 breakfasts, 1 lunch and 4 dinners
  • Comprehensive tour program including entrance fees
  • Professional, English-speaking tour director and local guides

Optional add-ons

  • Flights from other cities are available. Request pricing when making your reservations.
  • Optional Jaunting Car Ride through Killarney National Park

Why you'll love it

  • Explore Dublin's iconic landmarks and famous streets on a guided tour.
  • Experience the state-of-the-art interactive EPIC, The Irish Emigration Museum.
  • Taste your way through Ireland's history at the Guinness Storehouse and Gravity Bar.
  • Ascend Blarney Castle and kiss the famous Blarney Stone.
  • Discover the Ring of Kerry and admire the surrounding beauty of the villages, mountains, lakes, and beaches.
  • Enjoy the stunning scenery of Killarney National Park, Ireland’s first national park.
  • Explore the rooms and chambers of Bunratty Castle and indulge in a medieval banquet in the Great Hall.
  • Marvel at the Cliffs of Moher, towering 700 feet over the Atlantic Ocean.
  • Journey through the beautiful Connemara region, a land of lakes, rivers, bogs, and mountains
  • Wander through Kylemore Abbey and admire the neo-Gothic architecture of the monastery, including the famous miniature cathedral, the Gothic church.
  • Visit a sheep farm to experience a sheepdog demonstration.
  • Enjoy a farewell dinner paired with a lively Celtic Nights show.

Itinerary at a Glance

Best of Ireland map

Dates & Prices

Dates & Prices

Instant Savings: Get $600 off if you book by May 30, 2024!
Dates & Prices, with flights
per person, double occupancy*, including Instant Savings discounts
2024 DEPARTURES
Dates Regular
Price
Instant
Savings
Your
Price
Departs U.S.: Wed, Sep 25, 2024
Finishes: Fri, Oct 4, 2024
Book by Thu, May 30, 2024 (midnight ET) to get the Instant Savings!
Sep 25 – Oct 4
$5949 –$600 $5349 Select
Departs U.S.: Thu, Oct 31, 2024
Finishes: Sat, Nov 9, 2024
Book by Thu, May 30, 2024 (midnight ET) to get the Instant Savings!
Oct 31 – Nov 9
$5349 –$600 $4749 Select
2025 DEPARTURES
Dates Regular
Price
Instant
Savings
Your
Price
Departs U.S.: Thu, Apr 24, 2025
Finishes: Sat, May 3, 2025
Book by Thu, May 30, 2024 (midnight ET) to get the Instant Savings!
Apr 24 – May 3
$6599 –$600 $5999 Select
Departs U.S.: Thu, May 22, 2025
Finishes: Sat, May 31, 2025
Book by Thu, May 30, 2024 (midnight ET) to get the Instant Savings!
May 22 – May 31
$6599 –$600 $5999 Select
Departs U.S.: Thu, Jun 19, 2025
Finishes: Sat, Jun 28, 2025
Book by Thu, May 30, 2024 (midnight ET) to get the Instant Savings!
Jun 19 – Jun 28
$6799 –$600 $6199 Select
Departs U.S.: Thu, Jul 24, 2025
Finishes: Sat, Aug 2, 2025
Book by Thu, May 30, 2024 (midnight ET) to get the Instant Savings!
Jul 24 – Aug 2
$6799 –$600 $6199 Select
Departs U.S.: Thu, Aug 21, 2025
Finishes: Sat, Aug 30, 2025
Book by Thu, May 30, 2024 (midnight ET) to get the Instant Savings!
Aug 21 – Aug 30
$6799 –$600 $6199 Select
Departs U.S.: Thu, Sep 25, 2025
Finishes: Sat, Oct 4, 2025
Book by Thu, May 30, 2024 (midnight ET) to get the Instant Savings!
Sep 25 – Oct 4
$6699 –$600 $6099 Select
Departs U.S.: Fri, Oct 24, 2025
Finishes: Sun, Nov 2, 2025
Book by Thu, May 30, 2024 (midnight ET) to get the Instant Savings!
Oct 24 – Nov 2
$6049 –$600 $5449 Select
Departs U.S.: Thu, Nov 6, 2025
Finishes: Sat, Nov 15, 2025
Book by Thu, May 30, 2024 (midnight ET) to get the Instant Savings!
Nov 6 – Nov 15
$5999 –$600 $5399 Select
Dates & Prices, tour only
per person, double occupancy*, including Instant Savings discounts
2024 DEPARTURES
Dates Regular
Price
Instant
Savings
Your
Price
Starts: Thu, Sep 26, 2024
Finishes: Fri, Oct 4, 2024
Book by Thu, May 30, 2024 (midnight ET) to get the Instant Savings!
Sep 26 – Oct 4
$5249 –$600 $4649 Select
Starts: Fri, Nov 1, 2024
Finishes: Sat, Nov 9, 2024
Book by Thu, May 30, 2024 (midnight ET) to get the Instant Savings!
Nov 1 – Nov 9
$4649 –$600 $4049 Select
2025 DEPARTURES
Dates Regular
Price
Instant
Savings
Your
Price
Starts: Fri, Apr 25, 2025
Finishes: Sat, May 3, 2025
Book by Thu, May 30, 2024 (midnight ET) to get the Instant Savings!
Apr 25 – May 3
$5899 –$600 $5299 Select
Starts: Fri, May 23, 2025
Finishes: Sat, May 31, 2025
Book by Thu, May 30, 2024 (midnight ET) to get the Instant Savings!
May 23 – May 31
$5899 –$600 $5299 Select
Starts: Fri, Jun 20, 2025
Finishes: Sat, Jun 28, 2025
Book by Thu, May 30, 2024 (midnight ET) to get the Instant Savings!
Jun 20 – Jun 28
$6099 –$600 $5499 Select
Starts: Fri, Jul 25, 2025
Finishes: Sat, Aug 2, 2025
Book by Thu, May 30, 2024 (midnight ET) to get the Instant Savings!
Jul 25 – Aug 2
$6099 –$600 $5499 Select
Starts: Fri, Aug 22, 2025
Finishes: Sat, Aug 30, 2025
Book by Thu, May 30, 2024 (midnight ET) to get the Instant Savings!
Aug 22 – Aug 30
$6099 –$600 $5499 Select
Starts: Fri, Sep 26, 2025
Finishes: Sat, Oct 4, 2025
Book by Thu, May 30, 2024 (midnight ET) to get the Instant Savings!
Sep 26 – Oct 4
$5999 –$600 $5399 Select
Starts: Sat, Oct 25, 2025
Finishes: Sun, Nov 2, 2025
Book by Thu, May 30, 2024 (midnight ET) to get the Instant Savings!
Oct 25 – Nov 2
$5349 –$600 $4749 Select
Starts: Fri, Nov 7, 2025
Finishes: Sat, Nov 15, 2025
Book by Thu, May 30, 2024 (midnight ET) to get the Instant Savings!
Nov 7 – Nov 15
$5299 –$600 $4699 Select

If you want a few extra days to explore on your own, we may be able to arrange for you to stay later than the scheduled dates, including extra hotel nights and separate airport transfers, for an additional charge. Ask us about prices and availability when (or after) you book. More information Want to extend your trip?

Options & Fees

Best of Ireland
Rooming Selection
Double Occupancy included
Single Occupancy
Oct 31, 2024 $1329
Oct 24, 2025;  Nov 6, 2025 $1529
Sep 25, 2024 $1719
All other dates $1969
Optional Excursions
Jaunting Car Ride through Killarney National Park1 $29

1. Price based on a minimum of three passengers.

TRANSFERS FOR PASSENGERS BOOKING TOUR ONLY
OPTIONAL AIRPORT TRANSFERS1
Arrival transfer: Dublin airport to hotel $95
Departure transfer: Dublin hotel to airport
Sep 25, 2024;  Oct 31, 2024 $80
All other dates $85

1. Price based on a minimum of two passengers.

So that we can offer you the best deals, our packages are, like most hotels and cruises, priced based on double occupancy rooms or cabins. We charge solo travelers an extra fee to cover the extra costs of single occupancy rooms or cabins. (Consider: if you booked a $200/night hotel room solo, you would pay the $200 yourself; but if a couple booked the same room, each one would pay only $100.) But you only pay extra for the rooms or cabins, nothing else, including meals, sightseeing, tips, etc. Why are single rooms more?

Flights & Departure Cities

Departure Airports
New York City (NYC)1 included

1. NYC departures will be from either JFK or EWR based upon availability.

This package includes round-trip flights from the city listed above.

Want to fly from another city? We can arrange flights from most major cities. Ask us for a quote for flights from your preferred city when (or after) you book, and we'll get back to you with the price and availability within 3 business days. Of course, you can also book your own flights. More information

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1 Depart USA

  • Depart the USA on your overnight flight to Dublin, Ireland

Day 2 Arrive Dublin

  • Upon arrival, meet our representative and transfer to your hotel
  • See Dublin's highlights during a walking tour
  • Meet your fellow travelers for a welcome dinner in a traditional Irish pub

Davenport Hotel Dinner

Full Day Itinerary
River Liffey, Dublin

Fáilte (welcome) to Ireland! Upon arrival in Dublin, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. Most flights arrive early in the morning, but the hotel will allow you to safely store your luggage while you explore the city.

By early afternoon, meet your guide and depart for a walking tour of Dublin. Located on the island's east coast, this vibrant and modern city has a rich cultural heritage and has been an essential center for art, literature, education, and politics since the 11th century. Learn about Dublin's history as you admire some of the city's iconic landmarks, including City Hall, Millennium Bridge over River Liffey, Christ Church Cathedral, Dublin Castle, and Trinity College.

This evening, join your fellow travelers for dinner at a traditional Irish pub. 

Day 3 Dublin

  • Tour the EPIC Emigration Museum
  • Taste Ireland's history at the Guinness Storehouse and Gravity Bar

Davenport Hotel Breakfast

Full Day Itinerary
EPIC exhibit

After breakfast, visit EPIC, The Irish Emigration Museum. This state-of-the-art interactive experience sits in the beautiful vaults of the 1820 Custom House Quarter building in Dublin's Docklands, the original departure point for many of Ireland's emigrants. Let this experience inspire and guide you on a journey to discover the stories of Irish emigration worldwide, from early times to the modern day.

Next, stop at the Guinness Storehouse and Gravity Bar to taste Ireland's history through its world-famous beer, Guinness. Learn about the 250-year-old history of this iconic beverage as you wander through seven floors dedicated to the brew's origins, production, and impact on Irish culture. Then, head up to the top floor for a visit to the Gravity Bar. This bar boasts stunning 360-degree views of Dublin and is the perfect place to enjoy a pint while admiring the view!

Day 4 County Cork

  • Visit the Blarney Castle and kiss the Blarney Stone
  • Experience a behind-the-scenes tour of the Jameson Distillery

Great Southern Killarney Hotel Breakfast

Full Day Itinerary
Blarney Castle © Tourism Ireland

This morning, head to Blarney Castle. Dating back to 1446, the castle was built by Cormac MacCarthy, King of Munster. The iconic site is famous for its "Blarney Stone," which legend says bestows the gift of eloquence on anyone who kisses it. The castle also features gardens, waterfalls, and a tower with spectacular views of the surrounding countryside. 

Later, have the opportunity to expand your knowledge of Irish whiskey with an extended tour through the Jameson Distillery. Watch a short film on the more profound history of the critical distillery buildings, including a tasting of premium whiskeys throughout the tour.

In the evening, travel to Killarney to check into your hotel.

Day 5 County Kerry

  • Tour of the Ring of Kerry, enjoying stops at the Ladies' View and Torc Waterfall
  • Ride through the countryside of Killarney National Park

Great Southern Killarney Hotel Breakfast

Full Day Itinerary
Torc Waterfall

This morning, drive to the Ring of Kerry. This circular route in County Kerry encompasses some of the country's most beautiful and rugged scenery. Stop at Torc Waterfall for breathtaking views of the nearly 100-foot waterfall surrounded by lush greenery. Then, admire the gorgeous panoramas of the MacGillycuddy's Reeks mountain range from Ladies' View, named after Queen Victoria's ladies-in-waiting who visited this spot during her visit in 1861.

Next, visit the Killarney National Park, one of Ireland's first national parks. The park's rolling hills and lush greenery provide beautiful views and a relaxing atmosphere as you soak in the gorgeous countryside. Along the way, your guide will share stories and facts about the park's history and wildlife, making it an educational and fun trip.

Afterward, head back to the hotel for an evening spent at leisure.

Day 6 Killarney, Limerick & Cashel

  • Spend the morning at leisure in Killarney
  • Enjoy a tour of the Iveragh Peninsula
  • Visit the Bunratty Castle and Folk Park
  • Experience a medieval-style banquet dinner at Bunratty Castle

Cashel Palace Breakfast & dinner

Full Day Itinerary
Bunratty Castle

After breakfast, enjoy a quiet morning at leisure relishing the sights of Killarney, a town on the shores of Lough Leane in County Kerry. Then, enjoy a superb tour of the Iveragh Peninsula, admiring the brightly painted houses and the charming towns and villages. Next, make a stop in the town of Limerick where you will be able to enjoy a walk around town and refreshments.

In the afternoon, visit the Bunratty Castle, originally a Viking trading camp in 970. Experience the past of rural Irish life as you explore the various rooms and chambers, learning more about the castle's value in Irish history and medieval living. The castle is accompanied by the Bunratty Folk Park, situated on 26 acres of countryside.

In the evening, enjoy a four-course medieval banquet in the Great Hall of Bunratty Castle. Eat well and be entertained by the world-famous Bunratty Castle Singers.

Optional Excursion: Experience a Jaunting Car Ride through Killarney National Park, $29
Jaunting Car Ride, Killarney National Park © Tourism Ireland

Take a ride through Killarney National Park by pony and trap, also known as a jaunting car, to discover areas of the park that you might not otherwise visit by foot. The rolling hills and lush greenery of the park provide beautiful views and a relaxing atmosphere while your trusty steed takes you on an adventure through the countryside. Along the way, your guide will share stories and facts about the park's history and wildlife, making it an educational and fun trip.

Day 7 Cashel & Cong

  • Admire the medieval Rock of Cashel
  • Witness the dramatic, breathtaking Cliffs of Moher
  • Experience a traditional Irish evening with a 3-course meal

The Lodge at Ashford Castle Breakfast & dinner

Full Day Itinerary
Cliffs of Moher

This morning, depart for Galway to see the city's bustling streets and stunning landscapes. First, stop along the way to visit the Rock of Cashel. This 12th-century historic site features a large round tower, an impressive Gothic cathedral, high crosses, and other structures that make it an iconic symbol of Irish heritage. The site was once the seat of the kings of Munster and has been associated with numerous mythological tales throughout history.

Next, drive along the coast to reach the Cliffs of Moher, rising 700 feet above the Atlantic Ocean and extending over nine miles. One of Ireland's most visited tourist attractions, the cliffs offer spectacular views of the Aran Islands, Galway Bay, and the Maumturks and Twelve Pins mountain ranges. On a clear day, you can see the coasts of Connemara and Kerry. The area also features an array of wildlife, including puffins, guillemots, razorbills, kittiwakes, fulmars, and gulls.

End the day in Cong, where you will check into your hotel. Tonight, experience a traditional Irish evening complete with a three-course meal. 

Day 8 Connemara National Park, Galway & Cong

  • Travel through stunning Connemara National Park
  • Indulge your tastebuds in a private Galway craft food tour
  • Visit Kylemore Abbey
  • Experience a sheepdog demonstration at a local farm

The Lodge at Ashford Castle Breakfast & lunch

Full Day Itinerary
Kylemore Abbey

Today, journey through the beautiful Connemara Region, a land of lakes, rivers, bogs, and mountains. Gaelic is still the spoken language in this area of small villages, and little has changed since the beginning of time. Connemara is a vast peninsula bordered by the arid and rocky coastline of Galway Bay in the south, a land known for its stone walls and thatched cottages. Admire the fjord of Killary Harbour and the steep mountains overlooking numerous lakes and large bog areas on its northern shore, accompanied by spectacular ocean views.

For lunch, enjoy a variety of craft foods during a private walking tour in one of Galway's most iconic restaurant areas. Experience the city's community in a fun environment for a two-course lunch with wine. Then, head to the Westend of Galway to Sarah Jenkins atelier to gain insight into the craft of weaving and learn how to make the ancestral St. Brigid's Cross, which is commonly hung in the homes of Irish folk to protect their space.

Continue to Kylemore Abbey in the Kylemore Pass. Mitchell Henry built the house in 1868 after spending his honeymoon there. The architecture is best described as neo-Gothic, and the house still displays all the characteristics of that period. One of Kylemore Abbey's most notable features is its miniature cathedral, built in 1870 and known locally as the Gothic church. 

Lastly, visit a sheep farm to experience a sheepdog demonstration. Learn about the different breeds of sheep, followed by an introduction to the farmer's most essential tools, his border collies. Next, witness how to take a flock of sheep from the mountaintop to the sheep pen during a superb herding demonstration by the farmer and his dogs.

Day 9 Dublin

  • In the morning, travel Ireland's West Coast back to Dublin
  • Enjoy a lively farewell dinner and a Celtic Nights show

Davenport Hotel Breakfast & dinner

Full Day Itinerary
Celtic Nights show

In the morning, travel to the West Coast of Ireland, heading back to Dublin. On the way, admire the stunning landscapes and the beautiful towns and villages of the Irish countryside. During this panoramic drive, you will discover more of the history and heritage of Ireland with leisure stops along the way, from medieval center of Athlone to various beautiful country parks. Return to Dublin in the late afternoon.

This evening, enjoy dinner with your fellow travelers featuring a Celtic Nights show. 

Day 10 Return to USA

  • Transfer to the airport for your return flight to the USA

Breakfast

Hotels

Davenport Hotel
Davenport Hotel
First Class

The Davenport Hotel is ideally located beside Merrion Square Park within walking distance of Dublin's top Landmarks, including Trinity College and Grafton Street.

More information

Great Southern Killarney Hotel
First Class

Offering genuine hospitality for over 160 years, the Great Southern Killarney Hotel is situated on six acres of beautiful gardens, within walking distance of Killarney National Park and the Killarney Railway station. The property provides extraordinary amenities such as horseback riding, bicycling, a salon, and a spa.

More information

Cashel Palace
Cashel Palace
Deluxe

The Cashel Palace, nestled in the picturesque countryside of County Tipperary, stands as a beacon of elegance and heritage just a stone's throw away from the iconic Rock of Cashel. Built in 1732 by Sir Edward Lovett Pearce, this historic hotel offers guests a blend of luxury and tranquility with breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes.

More information

The Lodge at Ashford Castle
The Lodge at Ashford Castle
First Class

Nestled on the shores of Lough Corrib in County Mayo, The Lodge at Ashford Castle is an elegant retreat amidst stunning natural beauty. Situated adjacent to the renowned Ashford Castle, this boutique hotel provides guests with access to all the amenities and activities of its illustrious neighbor while maintaining an intimate and exclusive atmosphere. With its unique architecture, serene surroundings, and unparalleled service, The Lodge at Ashford Castle epitomizes luxury and sophistication in the heart of the Irish countryside.

More information

In the unlikely event that a particular hotel is not available, a similar or better hotel may be substituted.

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Trip Details

More Common Questions

* Advertised prices may include an "Instant Savings" discount and/or sale discount, available for a limited time. Prices reflect these discounts. Advertised prices are per person, based on double occupancy; single occupancy rooms may be available for an additional charge. Advertised prices are the best available based on the least expensive travel dates, departure city, and other options, and do not include optional excursions or other optional items. Your total price will vary based upon the dates, flights, and other options you select during the booking process. For packages including flights, prices include Airline Taxes, Fees & Sept. 11th Security Fee, but do not include excess baggage fees or advance seat reservations. Prices and availability subject to change. More about our prices.

† The Carefree Booking policy is not travel insurance and only applies to a new booking—defined as booking without the use of funds on file from a previous cancellation. With our Carefree Booking policy, if you book one of our scheduled departures and decide later not to travel for any reason, you can transfer all payments you've made excluding the cost of any issued flight tickets, towards another available departure date or package, with no change fees or penalties.

Alternately, you can choose to receive a future travel credit for all payments made, excluding the cost of any issued flight tickets; or you can choose to receive a refund for that same amount, minus the deposit, per person future travel credit.

You may use these credits anytime, however they must be used or transferred within 5 years of your booking.

The Carefree Booking policy only applies to your original booking—limiting rebookings to one. Subsequent bookings will be subject to standard cancellation penalties. Additionally, any coupon or discount (other than our Instant Savings) does not transfer from the cancelled booking and therefore will not be applied to the new booking.

Travel protection premiums may be credited to your new tour provided: no claim is filed; (no vendor penalties such as Air, sea or rail etc have been incurred); and your new trip departs within 1 year of the cancellation of your original tour.

Valid for bookings made on or after September 23, 2022 Offer may not be available on all packages, including private and custom group departures and Biblical Journeys. Changes or cancellations requested after final payment due date are subject to our regular change and cancellation fees & policies. For more information and some additional restrictions, see our terms & conditions.

†† $199 deposit available on select packages. Valid for new bookings only. Changes to your package, departure date, or flights may require an increased deposit. If you select our optional travel protection plan, the premium will be added to your deposit. See additional terms & conditions.

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