Ireland
Green landscapes, rolling hills, romantic castles, waves crashing against rocky cliffs, energetic dancing, and pubs packed with people come to mind when you think of Ireland. It’s truly a magical country, from folklore to fiddle music to ancient stone castles on a hilltop. No matter how much or little time you have, you’ll be able to get a taste of the Gaelic experience. Wander down quaint cobblestone streets in Galway, and peruse the shops that line either side. Enjoy scenic drives through the countryside, and view the Celtic crosses, beehive huts, and sheep grazing in the fields. Visit St. Patrick Cathedral in Dublin, and admire its Gothic architecture, massive spire, beautiful stained-glass windows, and ornate paintings adorning the walls. This enchanting country has something to delight every traveler!
Tours & Packages
- Destinations: Ireland
- including closed packages
Trip Reviews & Photos
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Highlights
- Cliffs of Moher
The majestic Cliffs of Moher are a natural wonder that should be on everyone’s bucket list during your trip to the Emerald Isle. Located in the Burren Region, they’re part of the Wild Atlantic Way’s Cliff Coast, standing 702 feet tall and stretching 8 miles long. Feel the power of waves crashing onto the cliffs, their mist rising and sprinkling you with water as you look to the sea beneath you. Admire the panoramic views from O’Brien’s Tower, the highest point of the cliffs. Traverse stone paths on the Coastal Trail, which spans the entire length of the cliffs. If you don’t feel like climbing the cliffs or fighting the wind, head to the Cliffs of Moher Visitor Experience, where you can experience the beauty and sounds from inside.
- Castles
There is certainly no shortage of fairy-tale-like castles scattered throughout Ireland that hold plenty of secrets, stories, and tales waiting to be discovered. Visit the Blarney Castle, most notably famous for its "Blarney Stone," which legend says bestows the gift of eloquence on anyone who places a kiss upon its surface. Then, experience a window into Ireland's past and explore the acclaimed 15th-century Bunratty Castle, complete with a Medieval banquet in the castle's Great Hall. Finally, as you head north to Galway, stop to view Dunguaire Castle, set on the picturesque shores of Galway Bay. This three-storied castle is known for its bountiful banquets and storied history and is also known to be the most photographed castle in Ireland!
- Galway
Comprised of villages, islets, and rugged coastline, the waterfront city of Galway is breathtaking raw, natural beauty at its finest. Walk along the waterfront and be greeted by a crisp, sea breeze. Meander down cobblestone streets flanked with shops on either side. Venture from the city center to Kylemore Abbey, located in Connemara, County Galway. On its pristine grounds you will find a Castle, a Gothic-style church, and a tiny mausoleum in memory of its first residents. With tours and festivals year-round, there is always something to do in this stunning city!
- Dublin
Ireland’s riverfront capital exudes quintessential Irish charm that attracts travelers from around the world. It’s easy to get from one place to another, so you’ll never have to worry about finding your way to the nearest site. Whether you choose to take the scenic route walking through the city’s squares and parks, or ride the hop-on-hop-off bus, adventure awaits you around every corner. Discover Ireland from the inside out through inspiring stories of Irish emigrants at the EPIC Irish Emigration Museum. Experience the Irish pub scene at Temple Bar, or head to the Guinness Storehouse for a tour and sample of its famous stout.
- Ring of Kerry
This circular route in County Kerry encompasses the country's most beautiful and rugged scenery, from rolling green hills and jaw-dropping cliffs to sheep and cows grazing in fields. This scene-stealing route around the Iveragh Peninsula, beginning and ending in Killarney National Park, has countless views worth stopping for. Stop at Torc Waterfall for breathtaking views of the nearly 100 ft. waterfall, surrounded by lush greenery, and take in the gorgeous panoramas of the MacGillycuddy Reeks mountain range from The Ladies' View, named after Queen Victoria's ladies-in-waiting who visited this spot during her visit in 1861.
- Jaunting Car ride in Killarney National Park
Step back in time as you experience Ireland’s most traditional mode of transportation with a Jaunting Car ride through Killarney National Park. Journey through the park’s most beautiful spots by pony and trap, also known as a jaunting car, a two-wheeled carriage for a single horse, and discover elusive spots you may not otherwise visit by foot. Killarney National Park is home to a spectacular combination of mountains, lakes, waterfalls, and woodlands, all surrounded by a relaxing atmosphere. As your trust steed takes you on an adventure through the stunning countryside, your expert guide will tell stories and facts about the park’s history and wildlife, creating a fun and educational trip for all.
- The Burren
An area of limestone rock that glaciers and erosion have shaped over millions of years, the Burren is a hauntingly-beautiful, moon-like rocky paradise that contrasts with Ireland's iconic green landscapes, whose name comes from the Gaelic word "Boireann," meaning "stony place." Cool grey rock imprinted with cracks tumbles its way down to the Atlantic Ocean, resulting in a vast rocky pavement punctuated with caves, fossils, and even a variety of blooming flowers. Enjoy the underworld scenery as you discover the Ailwee Cave, perched high on its Burren terraced mountainside, followed by a visit to the historic Poulnabrone Dolmen, the most popular dolmen in Ireland dating back to the Neolithic period.
- Clonmacnoise Monastic Settlement
The earliest Irish monastic city, Clonmacnoise Monastic Settlement, was founded by St. Ciarán in the mid-6th century on the banks of the River Shannon. This early Christian site includes ruins with churches, over 700 early Christian grave slabs, a cathedral, two towers, and three high crosses: The North Cross, The South Cross, and the Cross of the Scriptures. Clonmacnoise is the burial place for many of the high kings, including Rory O'Connor, the last high king of Ireland. This historical site allows travelers to experience a significant hub of religion, learning, trade, craftsmanship, and art at the island’s heart.
- Newgrange Passage Tombs
Just 26 miles outside Dublin, a remarkable site constructed around 3200 B.C. sits steeped in mystery and wonder. The Newgrange Passage Tombs were built in the Neolithic Period, making it at least 600 years older than the pyramids in Egypt and 1,000 years older than Stonehedge! One of the best examples in Western Europe of the type of monument known as passage-grave, this sizeable circular mound is one of three significant tombs with Neolithic graphic art carved into the stones. On the winter solstice, the sun shines into the tomb and illuminates the ancient burial chamber, making Newgrange the world’s oldest solar observatory. It’s no wonder this is Ireland's most visited archaeological monument!
The majestic Cliffs of Moher are a natural wonder that should be on everyone’s bucket list during your trip to the Emerald Isle. Located in the Burren Region, they’re part of the Wild Atlantic Way’s Cliff Coast, standing 702 feet tall and stretching 8 miles long. Feel the power of waves crashing onto the cliffs, their mist rising and sprinkling you with water as you look to the sea beneath you. Admire the panoramic views from O’Brien’s Tower, the highest point of the cliffs. Traverse stone paths on the Coastal Trail, which spans the entire length of the cliffs. If you don’t feel like climbing the cliffs or fighting the wind, head to the Cliffs of Moher Visitor Experience, where you can experience the beauty and sounds from inside.
Comprised of villages, islets, and rugged coastline, the waterfront city of Galway is breathtaking raw, natural beauty at its finest. Walk along the waterfront and be greeted by a crisp, sea breeze. Meander down cobblestone streets flanked with shops on either side. Venture from the city center to Kylemore Abbey, located in Connemara, County Galway. On its pristine grounds you will find a Castle, a Gothic-style church, and a tiny mausoleum in memory of its first residents. With tours and festivals year-round, there is always something to do in this stunning city! 
Ireland’s riverfront capital exudes quintessential Irish charm that attracts travelers from around the world. It’s easy to get from one place to another, so you’ll never have to worry about finding your way to the nearest site. Whether you choose to take the scenic route walking through the city’s squares and parks, or ride the hop-on-hop-off bus, adventure awaits you around every corner. Discover Ireland from the inside out through inspiring stories of Irish emigrants at the EPIC Irish Emigration Museum. Experience the Irish pub scene at Temple Bar, or head to the Guinness Storehouse for a tour and sample of its famous stout.
This circular route in County Kerry encompasses the country's most beautiful and rugged scenery, from rolling green hills and jaw-dropping cliffs to sheep and cows grazing in fields. This scene-stealing route around the Iveragh Peninsula, beginning and ending in Killarney National Park, has countless views worth stopping for. Stop at Torc Waterfall for breathtaking views of the nearly 100 ft. waterfall, surrounded by lush greenery, and take in the gorgeous panoramas of the MacGillycuddy Reeks mountain range from The Ladies' View, named after Queen Victoria's ladies-in-waiting who visited this spot during her visit in 1861. 
Step back in time as you experience Ireland’s most traditional mode of transportation with a Jaunting Car ride through Killarney National Park. Journey through the park’s most beautiful spots by pony and trap, also known as a jaunting car, a two-wheeled carriage for a single horse, and discover elusive spots you may not otherwise visit by foot. Killarney National Park is home to a spectacular combination of mountains, lakes, waterfalls, and woodlands, all surrounded by a relaxing atmosphere. As your trust steed takes you on an adventure through the stunning countryside, your expert guide will tell stories and facts about the park’s history and wildlife, creating a fun and educational trip for all.
An area of limestone rock that glaciers and erosion have shaped over millions of years, the Burren is a hauntingly-beautiful, moon-like rocky paradise that contrasts with Ireland's iconic green landscapes, whose name comes from the Gaelic word "Boireann," meaning "stony place." Cool grey rock imprinted with cracks tumbles its way down to the Atlantic Ocean, resulting in a vast rocky pavement punctuated with caves, fossils, and even a variety of blooming flowers. Enjoy the underworld scenery as you discover the Ailwee Cave, perched high on its Burren terraced mountainside, followed by a visit to the historic Poulnabrone Dolmen, the most popular dolmen in Ireland dating back to the Neolithic period.
The earliest Irish monastic city, Clonmacnoise Monastic Settlement, was founded by St. Ciarán in the mid-6th century on the banks of the River Shannon. This early Christian site includes ruins with churches, over 700 early Christian grave slabs, a cathedral, two towers, and three high crosses: The North Cross, The South Cross, and the Cross of the Scriptures. Clonmacnoise is the burial place for many of the high kings, including Rory O'Connor, the last high king of Ireland. This historical site allows travelers to experience a significant hub of religion, learning, trade, craftsmanship, and art at the island’s heart.
Just 26 miles outside Dublin, a remarkable site constructed around 3200 B.C. sits steeped in mystery and wonder. The Newgrange Passage Tombs were built in the Neolithic Period, making it at least 600 years older than the pyramids in Egypt and 1,000 years older than Stonehedge! One of the best examples in Western Europe of the type of monument known as passage-grave, this sizeable circular mound is one of three significant tombs with Neolithic graphic art carved into the stones. On the winter solstice, the sun shines into the tomb and illuminates the ancient burial chamber, making Newgrange the world’s oldest solar observatory. It’s no wonder this is Ireland's most visited archaeological monument!Fast Facts
Already booked on one of our packages to Ireland? See everything you need to know before you go.
| Overview | Capital: Dublin |
| Entry requirements | Please see our Entry Requirements page. |
| Staying Healthy | There are no health precautions or requirements to enter Ireland. Food and tap water are safe to consume. |
| Weather | Overall, Ireland has a mild but mercurial oceanic climate with few extremes. In Ireland, you may indeed experience 'four seasons in one day', so pack accordingly and keep up-to-date with the latest weather forecast. No matter the weather, expect it to be a topic of conversation amongst the locals. You may notice slight differences in temperature between the north and south of the country, and more rain in the west compared with the east. |
| What to wear | Regardless of when you visit Ireland, even in the middle of the summer, you will more than likely experience rain, so if you intend being outdoors, a waterproof coat is recommended. However, since weather can be unpredictable and to be sure you are comfortable during your trip and prepared for all types of weather possibilities, we suggest that you carry a small folding umbrella and take with you a light jacket or sweater. If you have two pairs of comfortable (broken in, not brand new) walking shoes, by all means, take both pairs. Packing to dress in layers is another way to prepare for a variety of weather conditions. Finally, remember that comfort and convenience should dictate your wardrobe for the tour, and casual clothes are in order for most every occasion as you travel. |
| Money & Credit Cards | The local currency in Ireland is the Euro, and in Northern Ireland it is the pound sterling. Credit cards are the most convenient way to pay for items you purchase as you travel. Be sure to call your credit card providers to let them know you will be traveling abroad, the places you’ll be visiting and the dates of your trip. This is important for your own protection. Your hotel will be able to exchange your cash for local currency. You may also use the ATM machines to get cash in local currency. Traveler’s checks are no longer widely accepted. If you intend to use traveler’s checks, please verify that they are accepted in the countries visited on this tour. Always notify your bank prior to departure to avoid any problems using your credit or debit card while traveling. |
| Shopping | Some of the most popular items sold in Ireland are Waterford Crystal, Irish Whiskey, Butler's Candies, traditional Irish music, Celtic crafts & artwork. |
| Electricity & Power Adapters | 230 volts. You will need a voltage converter and plug adapter in order to use U.S. appliances. We recommend getting a universal adapter and converter kit. Learn more about electrical standards around the world. |
| Cell Phones & Internet | Want to take your cell phone, tablet or laptop, but not sure how to get cell service or wifi? Read up on using your cell phone abroad and the top 5 ways to get Internet abroad. |
| Photography | Cameras and video recorders are permitted. Memory cards for digital cameras will be available in major cities. Bring an extra battery for your camera, as not every type of camera battery is always available as you travel. |
| Did you know? |
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