Ireland at Leisure

Begin in Dublin with a guided tour led by your Local Specialist, exploring key landmarks that reflect the city’s layered history — from its medieval origins to its Georgian architecture and political milestones. Visit St. Patrick’s Cathedral, built in 1191 and still one of the most important places of worship in Ireland. Learn about its connection to Jonathan Swift and its role in Dublin’s religious and civic life. In the evening, meet your group over dinner and get to know the people you’ll be traveling with over the next eight days.

After breakfast, travel west across Ireland’s central plains, passing farmland, peatlands and market towns en route to Galway. Known as the “City of the Tribes”, Galway has long been a hub of trade, culture and independent spirit. En route, visit Ahascragh Distillery — Ireland’s first zero energy emissions distillery. Housed in a restored 19th-century mill, the site blends heritage with innovation. Learn about sustainable distilling methods and trace the production process of whiskey and gin from raw ingredients to final pour.

Travel through Connemara, a region known for its rugged coastline, bogland and Irish-speaking communities that preserve Gaelic language and traditions. Stop at Kylemore Abbey, built in the 1860s as a private estate and later home to a Benedictine order who established a boarding school and maintained the site for over a century. Visit the restored chapel, explore the Victorian walled garden and learn how the abbey has evolved into a center for heritage and craft. Return to Galway in the afternoon, with time to explore the city at your own pace. You may choose to walk along the River Corrib before dinner at your hotel.

Head into County Clare and visit the must-see Cliffs of Moher towering over 700 feet above the Atlantic. Today on a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience, join energetic Local Specialist Ollie for a hike through coastal trails from the nearby town of Doolin to the Cliffs of Moher Visitor Center. Take in panoramic views and learn about the natural history of the area on your walk. After, travel onwards to Killarney and discover the National Park on a jaunting car ride – a traditional horse drawn carriage. This evening, enjoy a traditional Irish dinner with live music and dancing at Kate Kearney’s Cottage, a historic venue near the Gap of Dunloe.

Travel the Ring of Kerry, one of Ireland’s most scenic routes. Learn about the history, geology and stories connected to this winding coastal drive as you pass rugged cliffs, sandy coves and remote villages. Stop at key viewpoints along the way, with time to take in the changing landscapes. Return to Killarney in the late afternoon, where you might choose to explore the town center, visit Muckross Abbey or take a short lakeside walk in the National Park.

Explore Kilkenny, one of Ireland’s best-preserved historic cities. Join your Local Specialist for a walking tour through its medieval streets and laneways, where stories of merchants, bishops and builders reveal how the city evolved from Norman stronghold to trading center. Visit Rothe House and Gardens, built by a wealthy merchant family in the early 1600s. Walk through the house and the reconstructed Tudor garden, which reflects the layout and planting of the period. End the day with dinner at the Pembroke Hotel, located in the heart of the city. From here, you’re well placed to enjoy views of Kilkenny Castle or take a short evening stroll through the historic quarter.

Return to Dublin for a final experience at the Guinness Storehouse, Ireland’s most visited attraction. Step inside the historic St. James’s Gate site and follow the story of Guinness through immersive exhibits spanning over 250 years of brewing. Learn about its ingredients, discover the art of pouring the perfect pint and take in panoramic views of the city from the Gravity Bar. Afterwards, gather at a local pub for a farewell lunch — a final moment to reflect on your journey across Ireland. The rest of the afternoon is free to explore more of the city before settling in for your final night in Dublin.VIP tickets to the St Patrick's Day Parade including lunch are included on our March departure.

Time to bid farewell to your newfound friends as your trip comes to an end.