13-Nights The Best of Ireland - Land Journey from $8,390

Tauck

OFFER ID 1504528

The Best of Ireland

The Emerald Isle bids you a hundred thousand welcomes on Tauck's most popular Ireland tour. Splendid scenery, fascinating history, a vibrant culture and warm, hospitable people all contribute to the great charm of Ireland, north and south. Feast your eyes along the Yellow Roads from the Ring of Kerry to the Cliffs of Moher to the Giant's Causeway. Learn the story of three centuries of Irish emigrants building a new life in North America at the Ulster American Folk Park. Get a little taste of the artistic side of Ireland on visits to the Belleek Pottery factory and a literal taste of Irish whiskey at The Jameson Experience. Enjoy the sophistication of Dublin and Belfast and the peaceful ambiance of small villages. Have lunch with a family who run a working dairy farm. Experience the award-winning, magnificent Titanic Belfast interactive museum and savor a special 5-course tasting dinner inspired by the great ship's menu in the city where it was built, Belfast. And find out what it's like to stay in country estates, lakeside resorts and a historic city-center hotel... all on an Ireland journey not to be missed.

13 nights from $8,390 per person

Itinerary

Tauck World Discovery: The Best of Ireland

Day 1 Dublin, Ireland
Arrive Dublin

Tour begins: 6:00 PM, The Fitzwilliam Hotel. A transfer is included from Dublin Airport to The Fitzwilliam Hotel on Stephens Green in the heart of the city – famed Grafton Street is steps away. We invite you to join us this evening for a welcome reception and dinner at your hotel.

Meals: D

Day 2 Dublin, Ireland
Sights of Dublin

Sightseeing today in Ireland's capital city, accompanied by a local guide, introduces you to landmark sites such as O'Connell Street and a view of the Lord Mayor's residence as well as a visit to Dublin Castle. Originally the site of a Viking settlement and the stronghold of British power in Ireland for more than 700 years, Dublin Castle today is home to a complex of buildings housing government offices and historic ceremonial halls; explore the site's Viking past and include the State Apartments, the 18th-century Treasury, the ornate Chapel Royal, and impressive Bedford Tower – the former repository for the Irish Crown Jewels, which were stolen in 1907 and have yet to be recovered.The afternoon is free for you to explore Dublin as you please.

Meals: B

Day 3 Belfast, Northern Ireland
Belfast & Titanic history

Head to Northern Ireland and the vibrant capital of Belfast for a day that begins with a visit to the Titanic Quarter to experience TitanicBelfast, an award-winning interactive museum, followed by a guided city tour. This evening, a special treat – a five-course Titanic tasting menu dinner in the sumptuous Great Room of The Merchant Hotel, honoring the ship's grand style.

Meals: B, L, D

Day 4 Belfast, Northern Ireland
Glens of Antrim & Giant's Causeway

Depart Belfast and travel the spectacular Antrim Coast Road, one of the world's most scenic drives, through the haunting Glens of Antrim. Arrive in the town of Bushmills; lunch is served up with a warm welcome and a "fire that is always lit," a tradition at the Bushmills Inn whose origins date back to 1608. Explore the Giant's Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site; over 40,000 symmetrical basalt columns lead from coastal cliffs to the sea; return to Belfast for an evening at leisure.

Meals: B, L

Day 5 Enniskillen, Northern Ireland
Peaceful Derry & a Living Folk Park

Explore Derry on a walking tour with a local guide. In nearby Omagh, visit the Ulster American Folk Park, where you will hear the stories of three centuries of Irish emigrants who left the Emerald Isle to build new lives in North America. Spend two nights at a lakeside resort.

Meals: B, L, D

Day 6 Enniskillen, Northern Ireland
Belleek & a Visit to Medieval Midday

You have a choice today – spend the day in the magnificent Fermanagh Lakelands or, if you wish, join us for a visit to the market town of Belleek for a tour of the famed porcelain factory where you'll meet craftspeople using techniques handed down from generations past. Midday, visit a town renowned for its medieval heritage, and return to your resort in the afternoon; dine at your leisure this evening.

Meals: B, D

Day 7 Galway City, Ireland
Drumcliffe, an Abbey and Galway

Depart Northern Ireland for the Republic of Ireland and the foothills of Benbulben Mountain, "Yeats Country." Stop in the village of Drumcliffe to see the final resting place of poet W. B. Yeats, then on to the lakeside Kylemore Abbey; built in the late 19th century as a private residence, the impressive estate is now home to a prestigious boarding school for girls, a Gothic church and Victorian gardens. After lunch at Kylemore Abbey, travel through the beautiful, wild scenery of Connemara to Glenlo Abbey Hotel Galway, a luxury lakeside estate hotel.

Meals: B, L, D

Day 8 Galway City, Ireland
The Harbor City of Galway

Your day begins with a guilded walking tour of charming Galway City. The remainder of the day is free to explore the city as you wish; culturally rich, you'll find the pubs, markets, restaurants, antique and craft shops tell the stories of medieval times to the present.

Meals: B, D

Day 9 Ennis, Ireland
Cliffs of Moher & Ennis

The dramatic Cliffs of Moher soar up to 702 ft. above the ocean along Ireland's "Wild Atlantic Way" – and they are your first visit today. Spend time in the town of Ennis, then it's on to the 18th-century Old Ground Hotel, built as a private mansion.

Meals: B, D

Day 10 Killarney, Ireland
A Dairy Farm & Lakes of Killarney

Get a taste of life at the family-run Molanna Dairy Farm, including lunch; meet the owners, our longtime travel partners, who share insights into the importance of farming in Ireland. Mid-afternoon arrive in Killarney; first up, an opportunity to explore by jaunting cart – horse-drawn carriages; they are a charming and traditional mode of transport offering a unique way to explore. Continue on to your hotel overlooking the Lakes of Killarney.

Meals: B, L, D

Day 11 Killarney, Ireland
The Photogenic Ring of Kerry

Today is devoted to the natural beauty of the Iveragh Peninsula, known as the Ring of Kerry. On a drive 'round the Ring, drink in the scenes of sandy beaches, mountains, lakes and cliffs, old oak forests and bogs. The country's highest peak, Corrán Tuathail, reigns over Killarney National Park, at the peninsula's heart. Along the way, history waxes and wanes in the ruins of ancient monasteries, castles and forts – and small villages, like seaside Waterville, where quiet and warmth are a way of life, bringing the scenery's dramatic scale down to earth. Enjoy legendary Irish hospitality tonight when you dine at the charming, one-of-a kind Rozzer's Restaurant.

Meals: B, L, D

Day 12 Kilkenny, Ireland
History and tasting at The Jameson Experience

The Jameson Experience in County Cork is a journey through Irish whiskey making, past and present – complete with a tasting!Following a visit to Cahir for lunch at a local pub and a visit to Cahir Castle, continue on to Cashel Palace Hotel in the heart of Cashel. Your two-night stay at this beautifully restored 18th-century manor is special; overlooking the iconic Rock of Cashel, it was once a private 18th-century baronial mansion. Today, it maintains traditions preserved throughout the centuries.

Meals: B, L, D

Day 13 Kilkenny, Ireland
Rock of Cashel, horses and a farewell

This morning, walk to The Rock of Cashel, where medieval buildings include a round tower, high cross, and Gothic cathedral. Perched on a limestone hill, it offers stunning views and a glimpse into Ireland's rich history. Horses have been integral to Ireland's cultural heritage for over 2,000 years; the country is internationally renowned for its exceptional thoroughbred industry. The Magnier Family, owners of Cashel Palace, have been central to Ireland's storied thoroughbred racing and breeding legacy for generations; visit their world-renowned Coolmore Stud Farm, not far from the hotel. Enjoy some free time to explore Cashel, then join us for a farewell reception and dinner at your elegant hotel.

Meals: B, D

Day 14 Dublin, Ireland
Journey home

Tour ends: Kilkenny. Fly home anytime. A transfer is included from Mount Juliet Hotel & Spa to Dublin Airport. Allow at least three hours for flight check-in.

Meals: B

Featured Destinations

Galway

Galway is a city, a county, and an experience to be savoured and remembered. The historic city of the tribes dances to a beat uniquely it's own. There is a certain chemistry and vibrancy to this friendly university city, which many delight in, and few forget. Music, festivals, horse racing, pubs, restaurants, shops, theatres and most of all -Galway people, combine to create this atmospheric medieval city of culture. From this pulsating heart the rest of the county flows.

Galway Bay, immortalised in song, its beauty unchanging. Scenic Gaeltacht areas including the Aran Islands. Connemara, with the picturesque town of Clifden as its capital. Mountains, castles and stone walls, banks of turf, long sandy beaches, clear lakes, joyful leaping streams and flowing rivers. The mighty Shannon, delightful countryside punctuated by pretty villages, traditional pubs.

Photo used with permission
from Joe Desbonnet, www.galway.net

Excursions

Inishmore, Aran Islands - 8 hours Full Day

On the very edge of Europe, is an Island rich in the language, culture and heritage of Ireland, unique in its geology and archaeology and in its long tradition of gentle hospitality. Here is a place to sense the spirit of Gaelic Ireland, to touch the past, but with all the comforts and facilities of the present. Aran will take you back to an Ireland of Celts and Early Christians. This is an island of great peace and tranquility, but it is also an island of great fun and activity. A timeless land in an endless sea, weathered monuments on awesome cliffs, great labyrinths of limestone, meandering walls, patchwork fields, quiet beaches and a welcoming island people.

This morning we will depart from Galway and take a ferry to Inishmore, the largest of the three islands, the other islands being Inishmaan and Inisheer. The Islands are located off the West Coast of Galway about 18km out from Rossaveal Harbour in Connemara. Inishmore is approx. 13km long, and contains 3,092 ha. with a native population of about 900. Kilronan the chief center and port.
Landing in Kilronan on Inishmore, you are met by your driver in a horse drawn buggy for a guided tour of the Island and visiting one of its more impressive stone forts called Dun Aonghasa. It is semi-circular structure, resting on the edge of a perpendicular cliff rising 100 meters out of the ocean. The fort consists of an inner court 50 meters across surrounded by a wall six meters high and five meters thick at the base.

Visit the Aran Islands Interpretative Centre which highlights the unique history, spirit and landscapes of the Aran Islands. The center details the geology, history and present lifestyle of the islands. See how the legendary currachs, those open-topped, often tar-coated, boats that skim over the waves, are made. Also on display are details of the fish species off the islands and how the islanders have long used seaweed to create patches of soil that could be cultivated for crops, in between the dry stone walls that crisscross the islands and divide its tiny fields. The islands' other craft traditions, including weaving of the famous Aran sweaters, are also documented.

Duration: 8 hours

Included:
Enjoy a pub lunch on Inishmore

Departing the island by ferry you return to Galway City.
Note: it is also possible to fly to Inishmore.

Pricing: Please inquire

Enniskillen

Standing on an island between the Upper and Lower Lough Erne, Enniskillen is one of Northern Ireland's most tranquil towns. However it is famous for all the wrong reasons. The town was the scene of a tragedy in 1987 when 11 people died in an IRA bomb attack. As a result of this tragedy, the town has grown closer and both Republican and Loyalist communities work together for the benefit of the town.
This is demonstrated by the fact that Enniskillen is the 2000 winner of Ireland's Best Kept Town, an achievement not possible without the co-operation of the whole community. Enniskillen's dominating feature is Enniskillen Castle which dates back to the 15th century. Home to the Inniskilling Regimental Museum, the castle's most striking feature is the Watergate, a twin turreted tower, best viewed from the far side of the river.

One of the major attractions of Enniskillen lies in the surrounding countryside. The lakes to the north and south provide the perfect setting for watersports. The Marble Arch Caves can be found within the limestone hills, equalled only in Ireland by the Burren in County Clare. A tour is available through the caves but tours can be vulnerable to the weather so it is advisable to phone before-hand.

Castle Coole House is a National Trust property and the neo-classical home of the Earls of Belmore. This is an attractive venue for parkland walks and a summer picnic, should the weather stay fine. If not, the house can be viewed and guided tours are available.

For a sweeping view of the town of Enniskillen, it is well worth climbing Coles Monument which is dedicated to Sir Galbraith Lowry Cole. 108 steps lead to the peak from which the scene is impressive.

For visitors to the area who are interested in exploring the historical Devenish Island within Lower Lough Erne, there is a ferry which leaves Trory. The island was an ancient monastic settlement and 12th century historic remains in the form of a round tower, graveyard, church and Celtic Cross can still be seen there. Alternatively, it is possible to stop off at the island while cruising the beautiful expanse of Lough Erne on the MV Kestral Waterbus which departs from Enniskillen three times a day during the summer.

Londonderry

Kilkenny

Killarney

Ennis

Belfast

Belfast is popular with travelers who come to discover the city’s physical beauty and renewed tranquility. Enjoy performances at the Grand Opera House, shopping along trendy Donegall Place and visiting numerous pubs along The Golden Mile. St. Anne’s Cathedral, also known as Belfast Cathedral, is the principal church of the Anglican Church of Ireland and contains stones from every county in Ireland. Located next to Europa Hotel, the Grand Opera House boasts an impressive mix of large productions of opera, ballet, musicals and drama. Known as the Big Ben of Belfast, the Albert Memorial Clock Tower was built in 1869 to commemorate the Prince Consort. Built in 1849 as one of Queen Victoria’s colleges, Queens University is one of the foremost universities in the British Isles. The classical-style building of Stormont, erected in 1928-32 to house the Parliament of Northern Ireland, stands 3.5 miles outside the city. The Prince of Wales Avenue is exactly one mile long and is bordered by rose beds containing 600 of the famous Korona roses noted for their scarlet blooms.

Excursions

Belfast: Cultural Belfast - 8 hours

Belfast: Highlights of Belfast - 6 hours

Belfast - Tour of Antrim Coast - Full Day Tour

Dublin

Dublin enjoys one of the loveliest natural settings in Europe. Dublin attracts visitors from around the world with its old world charm and friendly atmosphere. Most of the architecture dates from the 18th century, when Dublin enjoyed great prominence and prosperity. Also of interest are stately Georgian houses which front Merrion Square. O'Connell Street is considered the commercial center of Dublin. Perhaps the most memorable feature of Dublin is the traditional pub, where visitors can enjoy conversation over fine Irish brew. The city also offers many fine parks, including St. Stephen's Green and Phoenix Park. National Gallery's renowned collection includes works by such famous masters as Rembrandt and Monet. Trinity College's Old Library is home to the most cherished treasure, the Book of Kells, a manuscript of the Gospels. Admire Christ Church Cathedral and St. Patrick's Cathedral. Enjoy the exhibits in impressive National Museum. Self-guided walking tours include Old City Trail, Georgian Heritage Trail and the Cultural Trail.

Excursions

Dublin: Highlights of Dublin City - 8 hours

Ireland, known affectionately as the “the Emerald Isle” is renowned for its excellent hospitality and you can be assured of a warm welcome by your guide and driver, who will meet you at the port. Discover the history, literary heritage and culture that lies behind Dublin’s elegant Georgian architecture and famous landmarks, during your full-day tour.

Founded in the 16th-century, Trinity College is Ireland's oldest university and holds the Book of Kells, a greatly treasured example of early Irish manuscript illumination. History lovers may opt to visit the nearby Treasury of the National Museum or EPIC - the interactive museum commemorating the emigration of 10 million Irish. For those interested in art, the National Gallery houses a superb collection.

Afterwards make a lunchtime pit stop at the Guinness Storehouse, where you learn how a pint of the world-famous Guinness is created. The heart of the building is modelled on a giant pint glass, which would hold approximately 14 million pints of Guinness beer if filled! Enjoy a complimentary pint of Guinness in the Gravity Bar, which boast 360-degree views of the capital.

Complete your touring this afternoon, with a visit to St. Patrick's Cathedral, the largest church in Ireland and final resting place of Jonathan Swift, author of Gulliver's Travels. Here, take a guided tour of the impressive staterooms which are a longtime symbol of British rule in Ireland, before being transferred back to your ship.

Highlights:

Admire the grandeur of St Patrick's Cathedral, the largest church in Ireland and final resting place of Jonathan Swift, author of Gulliver's Travels
Pour yourself a pint of Ireland’s finest at the Guinness Storehouse to discover the country’s most famous export

Tour Duration: 8 hours

Wheelchair Accessible: Please enquire for more information

Physical Activity Level: Light

Inclusions:

Private transport by Mercedes E-class or similar for 1 and 2 passengers, VW Caravelle (7 passenger seats) or similar for 3 and 4 passengers and 12-seater or similar for 5 and 6 passengers.
Expert local guide for 8 hours of sightseeing in Dublin
Entrance fees to all sights and museums
All taxes

Exclusions

All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs
Gratuities
Supplement for public holidays
Anything not specifically mentioned in the "inclusions" list above

Dublin: An Introduction to Dublin - 4 hours

Dublin - Dublin City & Powerscourt - Full Day Tour

Vacation Details

Valid Date Ranges

09/21/2024 - 10/04/2024

from $8,390 per person

09/28/2024 - 10/11/2024

from $8,390 per person

* This departure has been designated a guaranteed departure by the operator, meaning that the minimum number of guests has been met, although still subject to weather and other conditions.

Prices Start At

from $8,390 per person

Length

13 Nights

Air City

Call for airfares from your city.

Vacation Rating

Deluxe
Fine dining, on-site bars or lounges and room service with extended hours are characteristic of deluxe establishments. Guest services usually include valet parking, concierge services, baggage assistance and laundry services. Other on-site facilities often include shops and boutiques, full service spas, full fitness facilities with pools and tennis courts. Business amenities may include available up-to-date technology and support staffs available for services. Attention to detail is apparent in the guestrooms which typically have stylish furnishings, quality bedding and bath products and often provide an evening turn down service.

Remarks

Prices are per person, based on double occupancy, and subject to availability and change without notice. Prices reflect land only accommodations, airfare is additional. Blackout dates/seasonal supplements may apply. Itinerary and map subject to change. Offer subject to availability and change without notice. Some restrictions may apply. Please click here for a description of the travel style options provided by Tauck.

All fares are quoted in US Dollars.

OFFER ID

1504528

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