Best of Ireland
Best of Ireland
$3425
Tour Overview
Embark on the "Best of Ireland" tour, a captivating journey through the Emerald Isle's most iconic landscapes and cultural treasures. Begin in Dublin, exploring its vibrant streets and the EPIC Irish Emigration Museum. Traverse the scenic County Wicklow to Waterford, where you'll witness master crafters at the House of Waterford Crystal. Experience the magic of Blarney Castle, the breathtaking Ring of Kerry, and the historic Bunratty Castle. Marvel at the Cliffs of Moher and delve into the art of sustainable salmon smoking in Lisdoonvarna. Discover the wild beauty of Connemara and the romantic Kylemore Abbey. Enjoy a traditional High Tea at Westport House and visit the Marian Shrine in Knock. Conclude your adventure back in Dublin, enriched by Ireland's rich history and stunning vistas. With expert guides, luxury transport, and handpicked accommodations, this tour promises an unforgettable Irish experience. ...more ...less
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome to Ireland
Location: Dublin
Accommodation: Clayton Ballsbridge
Accommodation Name: Clayton Ballsbridge, Sandymount
Write your own lively tale of legends and iconic landscapes during this epic encounter with Ireland's treasures. Begin your journey in the capital of Dublin, joining a Local Specialist to see the sights. This evening sees you visiting EPIC - The Irish Emigration Museum, for some drinks and canapes.
Day 2: Through the Scenic County Wicklow and Waterford to Kilkenny Dive Into Culture
Location: County Wicklow, New Ross, Waterford, House of Waterford Crystal, Kilkenny
Accommodation: Hotel Kilkenny
Accommodation Name: Kilkenny
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Journey through the scenic countryside of County Wicklow, 'The Garden of Ireland', and on to New Ross – the ancestral home town of John F. Kennedy. Dive Into Culture and gain insights into the plight of the starving Irish emigrants who boarded the Dunbrody Famine Ship to flee the potato famine. Continue to Waterford. This afternoon, celebrate the centuries-old craft of flint glass creations, as you Dive Into Culture at the House of Waterford Crystal and witness talented master crafters at work. Arrive in Kilkenny where you will stay for the night.
Day 3: Journey to Blarney and on to Killarney
Location: Blarney Castle, Killarney
Accommodation: Hotel Killarney
Accommodation Name: Killarney, Killarney Towers
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Today, pursue the 'gift of the gab' at Blarney Castle, where you'll have a chance to kiss the famous stone. Consider joining an Optional Experience for a traditional pony and trap ride through the beautiful Bourn-Vincent National Park. During your journey, your Local Specialist will share fascinating anecdotes about the area and Ireland. Arrive in Killarney for a two-night stay. In the evening perhaps join an optional Gaelic Roots show. Using traditional instruments, Irish dance and time-honored folk songs, this energetic show will have you tapping your feet and singing along in no time.
Day 4: A Day on the Ring of Kerry
Location: Ring of Kerry, Cahirciveen, Waterville, Moll's Gap, Black Valley
Accommodation: Hotel Killarney
Accommodation Name: Killarney, Killarney Towers
Meals Included: Breakfast
Ireland's soul-stirring Ring of Kerry takes center stage today as you embark on a scenic drive past its mountains, lakes and lush green countryside – unquestionably one of the most scenic routes in Ireland. See Daniel O'Connell's Cahirciveen, the fishing village of Waterville, Moll's Gap and the Black Valley, whose remoteness saw it become the last area in Ireland to receive electricity.
Day 5: Onwards to Lively Limerick
Location: Adare, Limerick, St. Mary's Cathedral, Treaty Stone, King John's Castle, Bunratty Castle and Folk Park
Accommodation: Greenhills Hotel Conference and Leisure Center
Accommodation Name: The Inn at Dromoland, Greenhills
Meals Included: Breakfast
Continue through the windswept countryside, arriving in Adare, one of the prettiest villages in Ireland. On arrival in Limerick, you will enjoy views of St. Mary's Cathedral, the Treaty Stone and the 13th-century King John's Castle during an orientation tour. Delve into an Ireland of old, as you discover the day-to-day life of the Irish during the 18th and 19th centuries on your included visit to Bunratty Castle and Folk Park this afternoon.
Day 6: Admire the Cliffs of Moher and Onwards to Galway
Location: Cliffs of Moher, Galway
Accommodation: Connacht
Accommodation Name: Connacht
Meals Included: Breakfast
The Cliffs of Moher are a must-see along the Wild Atlantic Way. The towering cliffs plunge into the Atlantic, offering endless ocean views and perfect spots for taking photos. Explore the interactive visitor center, where you can see the cliffs through the eyes of the wildlife that call this UNESCO site home, bringing the whole experience to life. Later, you’ll meet Brigitta at her family-run Irish smokehouse for a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience. Discover the secrets of their organic salmon, learn how the kiln and smokebox work, and savor the distinctive flavors of their award-winning smoked salmon. Arriving in Galway, enjoy time at leisure to admire its beautiful stone Cathedral or wander through vibrant Eyre Square–it’s yours to explore at your own pace.
Day 7: A Day Exploring Stunning Connemara
Location: Connemara, Kylemore Abbey
Accommodation: Connacht
Accommodation Name: Connacht
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Connemara's 'savage beauty' is yours to explore today as you tread in the footsteps of Oscar Wilde who described its 'wild and mountainous splendor' as magnificent. Admire the views on the scenic drive to Kylemore Abbey, now a Benedictine monastery, where you will embark on an included visit to the country's most romantic castle and walk through its exquisite Victorian Walled Garden.
Day 8: A Pilgrimage to Knock and on to Sligo Connect with Locals
Location: Westport, Knock, Sligo
Accommodation: Clayton
Accommodation Name: Clayton
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Your journey takes you to Westport House to indulge in a memorable Be My Guest experience with tales of the Pirate Queen, and enjoy Banoffee and Baileys flavors in the Drawing Room of this stately 18th-century home. Heading north, stop in the pilgrimage town of Knock to view the Marian Shrine where villagers witnessed an apparition of Our Lady in 1879. Arrive in Sligo this evening, your home for the night.
Day 9: Return to Lively Dublin
Location: Sligo, Dublin
Accommodation: Radisson Blu Hotel Dublin Airport
Accommodation Name: Clayton Dublin Airport
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Continue south to Dublin. Here you’ll enjoy some free time to take a walk down Grafton Street or stroll along the Liffey. This evening, close the chapter on an epic journey through Ireland, joining your fellow travelers for a memorable dinner.
Day 10: Farewell Ireland
Location: Dublin
Meals Included: Breakfast
After a hearty Irish breakfast, bid your Travel Director and fellow travelers a fond farewell as your Irish holiday comes to an end.
What's Included
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Expert Travel Director and Professional Driver
An expert Travel Director and professional Driver are included in the tour.
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Cherry-picked Hotels
Stay in cherry-picked hotels that are tried and trusted.
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Porterage and Restaurant Gratuities
All porterage and restaurant gratuities are included.
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Hotel Tips, Charges, and Local Taxes
All hotel tips, charges, and local taxes are covered.
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Must-see Sightseeing and Surprise Extras
The tour includes must-see sightseeing and surprise extras.
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Audio Headsets
Audio headsets are provided for flexible sightseeing.
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Luxury Air-conditioned Coach
Travel in a luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation such as rail journeys.
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Optional Experiences and Free Time
Optional experiences and free time are part of the tour.
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Hotel Substitutions
On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilized.
What's Not Included
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs and additional activities not listed in the itinerary are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended to be purchased separately.
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Flights
International and domestic flights are not included in the tour package.
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Visa Fees
Visa fees and any related travel documentation are not included.
Mode of Transport
Travel in luxury with an air-conditioned coach equipped with Wi-Fi, or alternative transportation such as rail journeys. Benefit from the expertise of a professional driver and enjoy flexible sightseeing with audio headsets.
Accommodation
Stay in cherry-picked hotels throughout Ireland, including the Clayton Ballsbridge in Dublin, Kilkenny, Killarney Towers, The Inn at Dromoland, Connacht, and Clayton in Sligo. Enjoy trusted accommodations with all hotel tips, charges, and local taxes included.
Dining Summary
- 9 Breakfast (B)
- 4 Dinner (D)
- 1 Lunch (L)
Dive Into Culture
- New Ross: Explore the tragic history of Ireland's famine emigration at the Dunbrody Famine Ship Experience, a replica of one of the original ships used in the 1800s.
- Waterford: Learn how crystal is crafted at the House of Waterford Crystal during a workshop tour.
Dive into Culture
- New Ross: Explore the tragic history of Ireland's famine emigration at the Dunbrody Famine Ship Experience, a replica of one of the original ships used in the 1800s.
- Waterford: Learn how crystal is crafted at the House of Waterford Crystal during a workshop tour.
Iconic Experience
- Dublin: A Local Specialist will show you Dublin's elegant Georgian squares, O'Connell Street and the Custom House.
- Dublin: Embark on an interactive discovery of the 70 million people who claim Irish ancestry at EPIC - The Irish Emigration Museum. Throughout 20 rooms divided per topic, learn about the Irish experience and the timeline of Ireland’s history told through the personal stories of emigrants. The sights and insights range from learning a special Irish dance to reading the letters of past emigrants, to tracing your family name going back generations.
- Blarney: It is said that those who kiss the Blarney Stone are bestowed with the power to persuade, flatter and coax. But to do so, you must dangle from the ramparts! Visit Blarney Castle and see the famous Stone of Eloquence.
- Adare: Experience a village walk through the main street lined with thatched cottages.
- Limerick: See Limerick's iconic landmarks during an orientation with your Travel Director.
- Bunratty: Visit the impeccably-preserved Bunratty Castle and Folk Park.
- Kylemore Abbey & Victorian Walled Garden: Visit the turreted Neo-Gothic Kylemore Abbey. This monastery was founded in 1920 for Benedictine Nuns who fled Belgium in World War I.
- Knock: In the pilgrimage town of Knock, visit the beautiful Marian Shrine, where the Virgin Mary, Saint Joseph and John the Evangelist are said to have appeared to the townsfolk in 1879.
Check out our Q&As
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What unique cultural experiences are included in the Best of Ireland tour?
The tour includes a visit to the Dunbrody Famine Ship in New Ross to explore Ireland's famine emigration history, a workshop tour at the House of Waterford Crystal to learn about crystal crafting, and a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience at the Burren Smokehouse in Lisdoonvarna to discover traditional salmon smoking. ...more ...less
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What is the MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience in Lisdoonvarna?
In Lisdoonvarna, you will visit the Burren Smokehouse, where you will learn about traditional, sustainable salmon smoking. Guided by Brigitta, you'll uncover the secrets behind their award-winning organic smoked salmon and explore the interactive visitor center.
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What can I expect during the Be My Guest experience in Westport?
During the Be My Guest experience in Westport, you will enjoy a traditional High Tea with the Hughes family in the drawing room of their historic home, Westport House. You will savor traditional banoffee and Baileys flavors while listening to stories about the house's history and tales of the Pirate Queen. ...more ...less
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What are some of the scenic highlights of the Ring of Kerry drive?
The Ring of Kerry drive offers stunning views of mountains, lakes, and lush green countryside. You will see Daniel O'Connell's Cahirciveen, the fishing village of Waterville, Moll's Gap, and the Black Valley.
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What is special about the visit to the Cliffs of Moher?
At the Cliffs of Moher, you will enjoy breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and explore the interactive visitor center, which offers insights into the wildlife that inhabits this UNESCO site.
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What historical sites will be visited in Limerick?
In Limerick, you will view St. Mary's Cathedral, the Treaty Stone, and King John's Castle during an orientation tour. You will also visit Bunratty Castle and Folk Park to learn about Irish life in the 18th and 19th centuries.
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What is the significance of the Marian Shrine in Knock?
The Marian Shrine in Knock is a pilgrimage site where villagers witnessed an apparition of Our Lady, Saint Joseph, and John the Evangelist in 1879. It is a significant religious site in Ireland.
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
The beauty of taking a guided holiday with us is that you’ll have the opportunity to meet and travel with people from all over the globe.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Vaccination against Covid-19 is not mandatory to travel with Trafalgar. However, we strongly recommend that guests are vaccinated before travelling. Please note that airlines and/or other authorities may have different requirements. It is the guest's responsibility to comply with these requirements at all times.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1947
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Trafalgar is a founding partner of the TreadRight Foundation, a not-for-profit organisation established in 2008. So far, the charity has donated more than US$2 million to help underprivileged communities and support sustainable tourism around the world.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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Low Deposit
Trafalgar requires a minimum deposit of 350 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of trafalgar charges.
Up to 91 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 90 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 80% of booking price.
At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions
Best of Ireland
10 Days Starting and ending in Dublin, Ireland
Visiting: Dublin, County Wicklow, New Ross, Waterford, House of Waterford Crystal, Kilkenny, Blarney Castle, Killarney, Ring of Kerry, Cahirciveen, Waterville, Moll's Gap, Black Valley, Adare, Limerick, St. Mary's Cathedral, Treaty Stone, King John's Castle, Bunratty Castle and Folk Park, Cliffs of Moher, Galway, Connemara, Kylemore Abbey, Westport, Knock, Sligo ...more ...less
Tour operator:
Tour code:
IRBOZN20
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Tour operated in:
EnglishInterests:
Cultural, Eco Conscious, Gardens & Nature Tours, History, Religion and Spiritual
