Embrace the warm welcome of the 'Emerald Isle' – its ancient heritage, legends and lore are yours to explore as you travel the length and breadth of this island and its tale of two nations. The charismatic capital of Dublin is your first stop on this epic journey, which begins as you join your Travel Director and travel companions for dinner.
Belfast beckons today and you'll journey to Northern Ireland for some time at leisure in this vibrant city. Join a Local Specialist to view the historic murals splashed across the walls of the nationalist and loyalist areas, and see the City Hall. Dive Into Culture at the Titanic Belfast Experience and gain a new perspective into the world's most famous ship and the tragedy that befell it. This evening, dine at your hotel.
Enjoy free time in Belfast to explore its bold spirit, Victorian architecture and vibrant neighborhoods. Or join an Optional Experience to Glenshane Farm, a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience set in the rolling hills of Northern Ireland. Meet a local farmer, Jamese, and his energetic border collies as they demonstrate traditional sheep herding techniques passed down through generations. Later in the afternoon, you can learn even more about Belfast’s local sites and stories with an Optional Experience guided walking tour. Join a Local Specialist on a stroll through the city center before enjoying fish and chips in a classic Northern Irish setting.
Visit the Giant’s Causeway, a UNESCO-listed site where volcanic activity formed thousands of basalt columns along the Antrim coast. Travel to the walled city of Derry/Londonderry, located on the River Foyle. Join a Local Specialist to see key landmarks and learn about the city's history, including the People’s Gallery in Bogside, known for its large-scale murals depicting the region’s recent past. Continue into County Donegal, where the landscape shifts to rugged coastline and quiet villages. Settle in for your stay and enjoy dinner at your hotel.
Explore the town of Donegal located at the mouth of the River Eske and Donegal Bay. Consider visiting the ancient Donegal Castle, once the stronghold of the O'Donnell clan. This afternoon, visit Belleek where you'll Dive Into Culture and learn about the locally made Irish pottery for which the region is famous.
Continue to the pilgrimage town of Knock to visit the beautiful Marian Shrine where the Virgin Mary, Saint Joseph, and John the Evangelist are said to have made an appearance to the townsfolk in 1879. Complete the day's journey in Galway.
The untamed landscapes of Connemara, set against rugged mountains and tranquil loughs, provide a soul-stirring backdrop for your scenic drive to Kylemore Abbey. This Benedictine monastery, built on the grounds of Kylemore Castle, features a magnificent Victorian Walled Garden, which you will have an opportunity to explore before returning to Galway. This afternoon, spend your free time exploring Galway's vibrant Latin Quarter, striking stone Cathedral or the 18th-century Eyre Square. This evening, enjoy dinner at your hotel.
Your journey through Ireland’s west brings you to the dramatic Cliffs of Moher, where the land meets the Atlantic Ocean. These UNESCO-listed cliffs soar over 200 m (650 ft) high, and with your Local Specialist on this MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience, you’ll gain a true sense of their scale and significance. Visit the ‘Atlantic Edge’ exhibition to learn how the cliffs were formed over 300 million years and see the habitats where seabirds like Atlantic puffins nest. Travel onwards along the scenic coast and through the hills of County Clare, before arriving in Killarney. This evening, you’re free to explore or opt into a lively Irish ceilidh, complete with traditional music, dance and plenty of local charm.
Circle the mystical Ring of Kerry – among Ireland’s most enchanting landscapes along which you’ll have an opportunity to view the island’s stunning scenery. Travel through Moll’s Gap and take a moment to view the marvelous natural scenery at Ladies View. This evening is at leisure.
Your 'gift of the gab' secured after kissing the Blarney Stone this morning, you'll then venture to Cork to spend some time exploring the cosmopolitan city that rivals Dublin in its energy and charisma. Spend some free time visiting the famous food market or perhaps relax at one of the city's tearooms, indulging in fresh scones and tea. Your final stop today is in medieval Waterford where you'll spend the next two nights.
A leisurely start to your morning could see you amble along Meagher's Quay, before you visit the House of Waterford, where you’ll Dive Into Culture and witness the art of creating the exquisite crystal. Travel to the medieval city of Kilkenny, home to the world's fastest field game. The ancient Celtic sport of hurling is over 3,000 years old and Ireland's national sport. Meet an experienced player who will share his passion, as you test your skills during a lesson. Spend the rest of the afternoon on your own in Waterford.
Traverse beautiful County Wexford to the John F. Kennedy Arboretum – a peaceful retreat in New Ross with over 4,500 species of plants across 252 hectares dedicated to the former American president. Leave the enchanting outdoors behind and take a step back in time to the 1800s as you visit the three-masted Dunbrody Famine Ship. Dive Into Culture, gaining insight into the tragic plight of the Irish emigrants, who were compelled to leave their home during the potato famine and endured even harsher conditions than at home in the 'coffin ships' that took them to new lands. Join the Fulvio family and Connect With Locals over dinner at a Be My Guest experience featuring Irish fare with an Italian twist, served at their Ballyknocken Farmhouse near Dublin.
Wander through Dublin this morning, joining a Local Specialist for a superb sightseeing tour that will see you view Trinity College and the magnificent Georgian Squares. Spend the rest of the day exploring the city on your terms. Indulge in a pint of the 'Black Stuff' at one of its many quaint pubs, admire the colorful performances on Grafton Street, or delve into its centuries-old history. This evening, let the rousing sounds of a traditional Irish cabaret tempt you for an Optional Experience that will have you dancing your way through the Dublin streets.
Your memorable journey through Ireland is at its end. All that’s left to say is slán abhaile to newfound friends as you prepare to depart for home.
