Take this unforgettable journey through the breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage of Ireland. The tour takes you through the bustling city of Dublin, the serene beauty of Wicklow and Powerscourt, the historic wonders of Glendalough and Cashel, the picturesque scenery of Cork, Kerry, and Connemara, and the stunning Cliffs of Moher in Galway.
Itinerary Highlights
Learn about the rich history of Irish Cities
Explore the Wicklow Mountains
Kiss the Blarney Stone
Drive one of the worlds iconic coastal roads
Witness the wonders of the Cliffs of Moher
What’s included
Private tours for most included activities
Meet & greet airport service
Luxury or boutique accommodation at your chosen level
Expert guides in each destination
flexibility
This is an example itinerary. It is fully flexible; you can add or detract days and include hotels at your chosen budget. It departs daily.
08
Nights
Price Guide
$POA
Our quotes are bespoke for your customised trip. The prices displayed are indicative only, read more
Day 1
Fly to Dublin
Day 2
Dublin Sightseeing Tour
This morning join an expert Dublin city guide for a panoramic tour of the Irish capital. On the tour, see Leinster House where the Irish government is based, the Presidential Palace in Phoenix Park, Dublin Castle, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, grandiose O’Connell Street, and the elegant Georgian squares that are so symbolic of the city. Visit Trinity College, founded in 1592 by Queen Elizabeth I on the site of an Augustinian monastery. Originally a Protestant college, it was not until the 1970s that Catholics started to attend the university. Among the many famous alumni are the playwrights Oliver Goldsmith and Samuel Beckett, Oscar Wilde, Bram Stoker (author of the novel Dracula), Jonathan Swift and political writer Edmund Burke. Trinity’s lawns and cobbled quads provide a pleasant haven in the heart of the city and the Book of Kells is housed in the Old Library, with its superb barrel vaulted ceiling. The most richly decorated of Ireland’s medieval illuminated manuscripts, the Book of Kells may have been the work of monks from Iona, who fled to Kells in 806 AD after a Viking raid. The book, which was moved to its current location in the 17th century, contains the four gospels in Latin. The scribes who copied the texts also embellished their calligraphy with intricate interlacing spirals, as well as human figures and animals. Some of the dyes used were imported from as far as the Middle East.
Day 3
The Wicklow Mountains
Meet your driver-guide to enjoy a full-day excursion into the Wicklow Mountains that lie to the south of Dublin. Your first stop is the magnificent Powerscourt House. The avenue leading to the Palladian house echoes the magnificence of the whole estate, stretching out over a mile long and lined by over 2,000 beech trees. In addition, the 47 acres of gardens are remarkable for their grandeur of scale whilst combining great delicacy and refinement of detail. The charming walled garden, the striking terraces, fine statuary, and varied trees are linked by carefully designed walks and set in the beautiful surroundings of the Wicklow Mountains. An exhibition brings to life the rich history of the estate, which is now home to the best of Irish design in gifts, clothes, and furniture in the Avoca Stores and the interiors gallery.
From Powerscourt, continue on to Glendalough, known as the Valley of the Two Lakes. Glendalough is one of Ireland’s national monuments for scenic, religious, historic and archaeological reasons. Travelling through the Wicklow Gap is like entering an Irish Shangri-La, so shrouded is it in beauty, mystery, and tranquillity. In the distance, the Wicklow Mountains fold gracefully into one another. The pine and spruce mountain forests are reflected in the clear waters of the two lakes that give the valley its name.
Glendalough was a place of religious pilgrimage for centuries following its establishment as a monastic centre by St. Kevin in the 6th century and an important diocese by the 12th century. However, Viking raids took their toll and, after a great fire in 1398, it began a long period of decline. The tour takes you through the remains of the main monastic complex, through the remarkably well-preserved St. Kevin’s Church and the imposing 100ft high Round Tower.
Day 4
Dublin – Rock of Cashel – County Kerry
Enjoy a full day of touring with your driver-guide as you travel through rich pasturelands. The inland countryside route passes into County Tipperary, home to the Rock of Cashel that dramatically overshadows the town below. The ruined 13th-century cathedral and the Round Tower perch dramatically on top of this outcrop. Blarney Castle is a small, ruined tower house that dates back to the 15th century and has become a national icon as the home of the Blarney Stone. This stone, rumoured to have been brought to Ireland in the time of the Crusades, is embedded in the parapet of the castle, and is said to bestow the ‘gift of the gab’ on all those who kiss it. The castle is situated in beautiful grounds which are adjacent to the Blarney Woollen Mills complex, one of the largest retail outlets in Ireland where fine local goods can be purchased.
Day 5
Ring of Kerry
Today tour one of the best-loved coastal drives in Europe with your driver-guide on a full-day excursion (8 hours) around the Ring of Kerry. The road follows the shoreline of the Iveragh Peninsula, passing some of the most beautiful mountain and moorland scenery in the whole of Ireland. Between the mountains and coast, this route passes by many land and seascapes and you enjoy fabulous views over the bays to the neighbouring Dingle and Beara peninsulas. En- route pass Derrynane House, the home of Daniel O’Connell, the ‘Great Liberator’ of Ireland. In the midst of Killarney National Park stands Muckross House, set in the shadow of Macgillycuddy’s Reeks. You can explore its lovely gardens and traditional farms which recreate farming methods that were used back in the 1930s. Between April and July, the gardens are even more attractive as they are beautifully embellished with red and pink rhododendrons. Return to your hotel from here.
Day 6
County Kerry – County Clare – Cong
Depart Kerry with your driver-guide for a full day excursion. Reach the towering Cliffs of Moher, Ireland’s highest at over 600 feet. They are exposed to the fiercest of Atlantic storms, and large colonies of cliff-nesting seabirds can be spotted here. Views stretch as far as the Aran Islands and Galway Bay from the cliffs. Continuing from the cliffs, drive through the Burren, an area of limestone rock covering the majestic mountains and tranquil valleys with gently meandering streams. The coast road then takes you around Galway Bay, famed for its oysters
Day 7
Connemara
Enjoy a full day with your driver-guide to explore the windswept landscape of Connemara, where barren mountains surround small lakes. Jutting out into the Atlantic, the Connemara coast is wrapped around the Twelve Pins and makes for a landscape of wild, rocky bog land and ragged coastline, coloured with the autumnal shades of seaweed and pine trees on tiny pincushion islands mirrored in the Loughs. On the shores of one such lake sits Kylemore Abbey, still home to a living community of nuns. The walled garden in the grounds of the abbey has been faithfully restored to its former glory. Drive north past Killary Harbour, Ireland’s only fjord, into County Mayo, where you pass the holy mountain of Croagh Patrick, to which there locals hold a pilgrimage each year. Return to your hotel from here.
Day 8
West Connaught – Strokestown – Dublin
Your driver-guide will take you back to Dublin for your final full day of touring. Visit Galway City and either Castletown House or Strokestown House. In Galway, you can have time at leisure to explore the quaint city perched on the edge of the bay.
Day 9
Depart Dublin
A note on price
The prices outlined above are a rough guide to give you an idea of costs and enable you to budget for your trip.
Guide prices are generally for private arrangements based on twin share, in well located, good quality accommodation (excluding international flights).
Please note costs are indicative and may vary due to a number of factors such as; travel date, hotel choice, room category, number of people travelling and prevailing exchange rates.
Price Guide $POA
When to travel
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The weather in Ireland is generally mild and rainy throughout the year, with temperatures ranging from 5°C to 20°C. The best time to travel to Ireland is during the summer months of June to August when temperatures are warmer, and the days are longer. This is also the peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds and higher prices. If you prefer a quieter and more affordable trip, consider traveling during the shoulder seasons of April to May or September to October when the weather is still pleasant, and there are fewer crowds.
In Ireland, January is one of the coldest months of the year, with temperatures ranging from 2°C to 8°C. The weather during this time is typically wet and windy, with occasional snowfall in some parts of the country. If you plan on traveling to Ireland in January, be sure to pack warm clothing and waterproof gear to stay comfortable in the chilly and damp conditions. Despite the colder weather, January can still be a great time to visit if you're looking for a quieter and more peaceful experience without the high tourist crowds.
In February, Ireland's weather remains chilly and wet, with average temperatures ranging from 3°C to 8°C. Similar to January, the country experiences windy and rainy conditions, with occasional snowfall in some regions. If you're planning on traveling to Ireland in February, be sure to bring warm clothing and waterproof gear to stay comfortable and dry during your trip. While some tourist attractions may be closed during this time of year, it can still be a great time to visit if you're looking for a quieter and more budget-friendly trip.
March in Ireland marks the beginning of spring, and temperatures start to rise slightly, ranging from 4°C to 10°C on average. The weather remains wet and windy, with occasional bursts of sunshine. While the weather can be unpredictable during this time of year, it is still a beautiful time to visit Ireland, with the countryside awash in vibrant greens. If you're planning on traveling to Ireland in March, be sure to pack warm clothing and waterproof gear, as well as some lighter layers for the occasional sunny spells. March is also a great time to experience St. Patrick's Day celebrations, which take place on March 17th, in Dublin and other cities across the country.
April in Ireland sees an improvement in weather conditions, with temperatures ranging from 6°C to 12°C on average. While rain is still a possibility, it tends to be less frequent than in the winter months. April is a great time to visit Ireland if you're looking to experience the countryside at its best, with lush green fields and blooming flowers. If you're planning on traveling to Ireland in April, be sure to pack layers, as temperatures can still be chilly, especially in the evenings. April can also be a great time to attend the many cultural and music festivals that take place across the country.
May is a beautiful time to visit Ireland, with temperatures starting to warm up and ranging from 8°C to 15°C on average. The country experiences longer days and more sunshine during this time, with less rainfall than in the earlier months. May is a great time to explore the stunning countryside, with wildflowers in bloom and rolling green hills. If you're planning on traveling to Ireland in May, be sure to pack some warmer layers for the cooler evenings and some light clothing for the warmer days. May is also a great time to attend some of the many outdoor festivals and events that take place across the country.
June is one of the warmest months in Ireland, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 18°C on average. The country experiences longer days, with up to 17 hours of daylight in some regions, and less rainfall than in the earlier months. June is a great time to explore the stunning countryside, with lush greenery and blooming wildflowers, and to enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking and cycling. If you're planning on traveling to Ireland in June, be sure to pack some light clothing for the warmer days, as well as some warmer layers for the cooler evenings. June is also a great time to attend some of the many outdoor festivals and events that take place across the country, including the Bloom Festival, which celebrates gardening, food, and family fun.
July is one of the warmest months in Ireland, with temperatures ranging from 12°C to 20°C on average. The country experiences long days, with up to 18 hours of daylight in some regions, and less rainfall than in the earlier months. July is a great time to enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and water sports, and to explore the stunning countryside, with lush greenery and blooming wildflowers. If you're planning on traveling to Ireland in July, be sure to pack some light clothing for the warmer days, as well as some warmer layers for the cooler evenings. July is also a great time to attend some of the many outdoor festivals and events that take place across the country, including the Galway International Arts Festival and the Cork Jazz Festival.
August is one of the warmest months in Ireland, with temperatures ranging from 12°C to 19°C on average. The country experiences long days, with up to 16 hours of daylight in some regions, and less rainfall than in the earlier months. August is a great time to enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and water sports, and to explore the stunning countryside, with lush greenery and blooming wildflowers. If you're planning on traveling to Ireland in August, be sure to pack some light clothing for the warmer days, as well as some warmer layers for the cooler evenings. August is also a great time to attend some of the many outdoor festivals and events that take place across the country, including the Puck Fair in Killorglin and the Rose of Tralee Festival.
September marks the beginning of autumn in Ireland, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 16°C on average. The country experiences shorter days and more rainfall during this time, but it is still a great time to visit if you're looking for a quieter and more affordable trip. September is also a great time to explore the stunning countryside, with trees changing color and beautiful autumnal landscapes. If you're planning on traveling to Ireland in September, be sure to pack some warmer clothing for the cooler days and evenings, as well as some waterproof gear for the occasional rain showers. September is also a great time to attend some of the many cultural and music festivals that take place across the country, including the Dublin Fringe Festival and the Lisdoonvarna Matchmaking Festival.
October is a beautiful time to visit Ireland, with temperatures ranging from 8°C to 13°C on average. The country experiences shorter days and more rainfall during this time, but it is still a great time to explore the stunning autumnal landscapes and colorful countryside. If you're planning on traveling to Ireland in October, be sure to pack some warm layers for the cooler days and evenings, as well as some waterproof gear for the occasional rain showers. October is also a great time to attend some of the many cultural and music festivals that take place across the country, including the Cork Folk Festival and the Wexford Festival Opera.
November marks the beginning of winter in Ireland, with temperatures ranging from 5°C to 10°C on average. The country experiences shorter days, and more rainfall during this time, with occasional bouts of strong winds. November is a great time to explore the countryside, with the autumnal colors still present, and fewer tourists around. If you're planning on traveling to Ireland in November, be sure to pack warm clothing for the cooler temperatures and waterproof gear for the frequent rain showers. November is also a great time to attend some of the many cultural and music festivals that take place across the country, including the Guinness Cork Jazz Festival and the Waterford Winterval Festival.
December is one of the coldest months of the year in Ireland, with temperatures ranging from 3°C to 8°C on average. The country experiences short days, with up to 7 hours of daylight, and more rainfall during this time. December is a great time to experience the festive season in Ireland, with Christmas markets and holiday events taking place across the country. If you're planning on traveling to Ireland in December, be sure to pack warm clothing for the chilly temperatures and waterproof gear for the frequent rain showers. December is also a great time to attend some of the many Christmas concerts and festivals that take place across the country, including the Dublin Christmas Flea Market and the Galway Christmas Market.
Add on’s
After exploring Ireland’s beautiful landscapes and rich history, consider extending your journey to the United Kingdom. With its mix of modern cities, stunning countryside, and historical sites, the UK offers travellers a diverse range of experiences. From the bustling streets of London to the tranquil scenery of the Scottish Highlands, each region has its unique charm and attractions to discover.
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