Best of Ireland & Scotland
16 Days from $3,575 per person
Pretty pink heather hues and a perfect emerald green landscape define the rugged beauty of Scotland and Ireland – home to enduring myths and legends, grand castles, bloody battles and the perfect swing. Visit their charismatic capitals of Dublin, Belfast, Glasgow and Edinburgh, trace the history of the Jacobites in the Scottish Highlands and follow the footsteps of a giant.
Overview
Pretty pink heather hues and a perfect emerald green landscape define the rugged beauty of Scotland and Ireland – home to enduring myths and legends, grand castles, bloody battles and the perfect swing. Visit their charismatic capitals of Dublin, Belfast, Glasgow and Edinburgh, trace the history of the Jacobites in the Scottish Highlands and follow the footsteps of a giant.
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Day 1: USA - Europe
Board your overnight flight to Europe (not included). -
Day 2: Arrive Dublin (2 Nights)
On arrival at Dublin Airport transfers will operate at 8.30 am, 11 am and 1 pm. Guests arriving later should make their own way to the hotel. Explore Celtic heritage and hospitality delving into the charm and whimsy of the Irish capital, before joining your fellow travelers and Travel Director for a Welcome Reception at a traditional Irish pub.
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Day 3: Dublin Sightseeing
Drive through the quaint streets of Dublin, joining your Local Specialist on a sightseeing tour past the stately Georgian Square and St. Patrick's Cathedral. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure soaking up the charm of this vibrant city. Consider joining an Optional Experience this evening to tap your feet to the lively sounds of Irish music at an Irish cabaret. -
Day 4: Dublin – Kildare – Waterford
Ireland's strong tradition of breeding world-class thoroughbreds is explored this morning during a Cultural Insight at the Irish National Stud Farm. We travel to the House of Waterford Crystal this afternoon for a Cultural Insight into this delicate craft where we'll see talented master craftsmen at work in their workshop. -
Day 5: Waterford – Blarney – Killarney (2 Nights)
Bend over backwards and kiss the Blarney Stone to acquire the 'gift of the gab' before crossing the Kerry Mountains to the lakeside town of Killarney. We journey to 1930s Ireland this evening, visiting the working farms of Muckross where we'll enjoy a traditional Be My Guest dinner in the Quilles Farmhouse. -
Day 6: Ring of Kerry Excursion
The astounding beauty of Iveragh Peninsula accompanies us on this breathtaking coastal drive around the ‘Ring of Kerry'. See Daniel O'Connell's Cahirciveen, the fishing village of Waterville, the Black Valley and Moll's Gap. -
Day 7: Killarney – Galway – Enniscrone
Drive through quaint Adare, one of Ireland's prettiest villages, known for its picturesque thatched cottages. The imposing stone Cathedral built on the site of an old prison and Eyre Square take center stage on our next stop in Galway before continuing our journey northward. This evening we dine in our hotel.
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Day 8: Enniscrone – Donegal – Londonderry/Derry
Head north to the quaint town of Donegal with its ‘Diamond' center before traveling to Londonderry to stroll along its 17th-century walls with a Local Specialist. See the “Troubles” neighborhood of Bogside.
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Day 9: Londonderry/Derry – Giant’s Causeway – Belfast
Tread in the footsteps of Finn Mac Cool and along the other-worldly Giant's Causeway ‘steps' that descend into the sea. We arrive in Belfast later and visit the Titanic Belfast Visitor Center for a Cultural Insight into the tragic story of the famous ship that met its end in the Atlantic. -
Day 10: Belfast – Glasgow (2 Nights)
Join your Local Specialist this morning for an included city tour which will take us to Queen's University and City Hall. We board our ferry at Larne and cross to Cairnryan in Scotland, driving through the picturesque Ayrshire countryside en route to Glasgow. -
Day 11: Glasgow Orientation
Embrace fascinating Scottish culture in its cultural capital, Glasgow, meander through the Toon to admire views of George Square and the River Clyde. We head to whisky country next, visiting the beautiful Glengoyne whisky distillery for a Cultural Insight into making whisky and a chance to sample a wee dram.
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Day 12: Glasgow – Glencoe – Isle of Skye
Journey along the famous bonnie banks of Loch Lomond to the tragic site of the 1692 massacre of the MacDonalds at the ‘Glen of Weeping' before continuing to Fort William, at the foot of Britain's highest mountain, Ben Nevis. At Glenfinnan, we see the viaduct and monument to the final Jacobite Rising. Cross by ferry to the breathtaking Isle of Skye where we'll spend this evening dining in our hotel. -
Day 13: Isle of Skye – Loch Ness – Culloden – Scottish Highlands
We leave the rugged beauty of Skye behind and venture past Eilean Donan Castle before traveling along the banks of Loch Ness. The bloody battlefield of Culloden is our next stop where we witness the site of the brief but brutal battle between the Redcoats and Bonnie Prince Charlie's Jacobites. This evening we dine at our hotel in the Scottish Highlands. -
Day 14: Scottish Highlands – Pitlochry – St. Andrews – Edinburgh (2 Nights)
Meandering through the dramatic landscapes of the Scottish Highlands, we pass the picturesque village of Pitlochry before arriving in the historic town of St. Andrews and its famous golf course. We cross the scenic Firth of Forth to enchanting Edinburgh, our home for the next two nights. During the month of August, certain departures include tickets to the spectacular Edinburgh Tattoo. -
Day 15: Edinburgh Sightseeing
Spend the morning exploring this charming cityscape. Join your Local Specialist for a guided sightseeing tour including a visit to Edinburgh Castle. See the Royal Mile and the elegant Palace of Holyrood in the shadow of Arthur's Seat, and the new Scottish Parliament building. As our memorable vacation comes to an end, we meet our Travel Director and fellow travelers for a Farewell Dinner to reminisce over shared experiences.
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Day 16: Depart Edinburgh
For now it's time to say a fond farewell to Scotland and our newfound friends, at the end of an unforgettable Celtic sojourn. Return transfers will arrive at Edinburgh Airport at 7 am and 9 am. Conditions apply.
Request a Quote
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30 Day Refund Guarantee
We promise you’ll enjoy a stress-free travel experience from the minute you start your vacation planning or we’ll refund your deposit. Make your reservation with a $350 deposit. If you change your mind for any reason within 30 days of booking, we’ll offer you a full refund.
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Add air to your reservation
Let our Air Specialists handle your air reservations. We have direct access to the most current airfare routes and prices, so you’ll get the best value available when we book your flights. We never charge a booking fee and you’ll enjoy the flexibility to pay for air 60-90 days prior to departure.
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Definite Departure
| Depart Date | Return Date | Price | Discount | Availability | Price | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 31 Aug 18 | 15 Sep 18 |
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$3,625pp | Call 1-877-622-9109 | |||
| 31 Aug 18 | 15 Sep 18 |
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$3,625pp | Call 1-877-622-9109 | |||
| 28 Sep 18 | 13 Oct 18 |
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$3,575pp | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 5 Oct 18 | 20 Oct 18 |
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$3,575pp | Request Quote Book Now |
Price is per person and is based on two people sharing a twin bedded room. Single rooms are available at a supplement.
Single Room Supplement: $730 p.p.
Triple Discount: $10 p.p.
Gratuities: Option to pre-pay gratuities for Travel Director and Driver $146 per person.
Airport transfers: On arrival at Dublin Airport transfers will operate at 8:30 am, 11:00 am and 1:00 pm. Guests arriving later should make their own way to the hotel. Return transfers on the last travel day will arrive at Edinburgh Airport at 7:00 am and 9:00 am.
AARP Members are entitled to an exclusive Member Benefit Discount on all Grand European Travel vacations. Plus receive a free travel gift! Call Toll Free: 1-866-847-3858 for details.
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Professional Travel Director
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Sightseeing with Local Experts
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VIP Access
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WIFI on Coach and in Hotels
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Expertly Selected Hotels
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Cultural Enrichment
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Hotel Tips
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Most Meals
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Personal Flight Options
Meal Summary
14 nights, 14 full breakfasts, 6 dinners.
Included Highlights
Be My Guest
- It's 1930s Ireland revisited. Visit the working farms of Muckross taking you back to a time of traditional farming where you'll meet the families, learn how to churn butter and dine in the Quilles Farmhouse against the backdrop of the lakes of Killarney
Cultural Insight
- Admire Ireland's finest thoroughbreds at the Irish National Stud Farm. Discover the full story of the Titanic at the Titanic Belfast visitor attraction and monument in Belfast. Learn how Irish crystal is crafted at the House of Waterford Crystal during a workshop tour. And visit Glengoyne, known as Scotland's most beautiful whisky distillery, for a tour and a tasting of their unique Highland single malt whisky
Local Specialist
- For included sightseeing in Dublin, Londonderry/Derry, Belfast and Edinburgh
Sightseeing Highlights
- City tour in Dublin, Londonderry/Derry, Belfast, Edinburgh
- Orientation of Waterford, Galway, Glasgow
- Visit the Irish National Stud the Waterford Crystal showroom, Blarney Castle, the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Giant's Causeway, Titanic Museum, Pitlochry, Edinburgh Castle
- View Galway Cathedral, Eilean Donan Castle, the battlefield of Culloden, the 18th green at St. Andrews
- See St. Patrick's Cathedral in Dublin, Loch Lomond
- Scenic drive around the Ring of Kerry
Request a Quote
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30 Day Refund Guarantee
We promise you’ll enjoy a stress-free travel experience from the minute you start your vacation planning or we’ll refund your deposit. Make your reservation with a $350 deposit. If you change your mind for any reason within 30 days of booking, we’ll offer you a full refund.
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Add air to your reservation
Let our Air Specialists handle your air reservations. We have direct access to the most current airfare routes and prices, so you’ll get the best value available when we book your flights. We never charge a booking fee and you’ll enjoy the flexibility to pay for air 60-90 days prior to departure.
Reviews
Request a Quote
-
30 Day Refund Guarantee
We promise you’ll enjoy a stress-free travel experience from the minute you start your vacation planning or we’ll refund your deposit. Make your reservation with a $350 deposit. If you change your mind for any reason within 30 days of booking, we’ll offer you a full refund.
-
Add air to your reservation
Let our Air Specialists handle your air reservations. We have direct access to the most current airfare routes and prices, so you’ll get the best value available when we book your flights. We never charge a booking fee and you’ll enjoy the flexibility to pay for air 60-90 days prior to departure.
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Passports and Visas
U.S. citizens traveling to Ireland and Scotland must have a current passport that is valid for six months beyond the conclusion of their trip. You can find information on how to apply for a passport here, and how to renew a passport here. No visa is required for U.S. citizens entering either country.
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Currency
The currency in the Republic of Ireland is the Euro (€). Northern Ireland and Scotland use the Pound (£). While it’s a good idea to bring some cash with you, you’ll usually find a better exchange rate when you arrive at your destination. The most convenient way to obtain cash is to use your ATM card at local banks. We recommend you also bring a valid credit card for purchases while you are traveling. It is important that you inform your financial institutions of your travel plans before you leave home so they don’t flag your purchases as potentially fraudulent charges.
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Cuisine
One of the most enjoyable parts of traveling is sampling the local cuisine. Culinary experiences to try in Ireland include a full Irish breakfast, a visit to a chip shop, and hearty lunch at a good local pub. And be sure to sample Irish national specialties including Irish stew, coddle, potato bread, corned beef and whiskey cake.
Scottish cuisine goes beyond traditional haggis, porridge, and whiskey. Other specialties s to try include kippers, fish and chips, Scotch broth, smoked salmon, sausages, shortbread, and Dundee cake. For a meal that’s inexpensive and authentic, try a local pub meal with a pint of Scottish ale.
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Packing
The weather in Ireland and Scotland is mild,damp, and quickly changeable. We suggest packing a variety of lightweight clothing items that can be layered to save space in your suitcase and give you more options for how to dress. Important items to bring include sturdy walking shoes and a waterproof jacket with a hood. For more helpful information please refer to our Packing Tips & Packing List.
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Tipping
Tipping in Ireland and Scotland is less common than in the U.S. When dining in a restaurant, it’s appropriate to leave a tip of up to 5-10 percent of the bill.
At the end of your guided vacation, it’s customary to offer your motor coach driver and Travel Director a gratuity. We recommend €3.00 per person/per day for your driver and €5.00 per person/per day for your Travel Director. Recommended gratuity for a Local Host and Local Specialist is 1-2 euros per person, paid at the conclusion of each guided visit. A convenient option is to prepay your tips before your departure.
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Baggage
Baggage on our trips is restricted to one large suitcase per person with dimensions not exceeding 30x19x10 inches and a maximum weight of 50 pounds. You are also permitted one piece of hand luggage, which should be small enough to fit under your coach seat or on the small overhead shelf compartment. Please note that luggage with an adjustable handle and wheels will not fit in the overhead compartment of the coach. Hotel porterage is included in your vacation.
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Health and Fitness
You will need to be comfortable on your feet, walking and standing for up to three hours in various weather conditions. All of our vacations involve walking, often on cobblestone and uneven surfaces in historic city centers. In order to get the most out of your vacation you need to be able to comfortably walk 1-3 miles unassisted in one day, be in good condition and be able to keep pace with the group.
If you need any medications, it is important that you bring enough to last you the whole trip and keep them in your carry-on bag while you travel.
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Insurance
We highly recommend our optional Travel Protection Plan, which allows you to cancel for any reason up to 24 hours before departure. The plan also includes trip interruption, baggage loss or delay, and medical and emergency assistance. Click here for a summary of coverage details, terms and conditions.
Request a Quote
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30 Day Refund Guarantee
We promise you’ll enjoy a stress-free travel experience from the minute you start your vacation planning or we’ll refund your deposit. Make your reservation with a $350 deposit. If you change your mind for any reason within 30 days of booking, we’ll offer you a full refund.
-
Add air to your reservation
Let our Air Specialists handle your air reservations. We have direct access to the most current airfare routes and prices, so you’ll get the best value available when we book your flights. We never charge a booking fee and you’ll enjoy the flexibility to pay for air 60-90 days prior to departure.
Optional Experiences are subject to change. Your Travel Director will supply you with a final list of Optional Experiences available on your trip. Optional Experiences cannot be booked online; they can be purchased during your trip through your Travel Director.
Dublin
Dublin Dinner and Cabaret
Adult Price: €71.00
Enjoy an evening of fine food and non-stop fun as Ireland’s history unfolds in a cabaret of comedy, song and dance. The cast will have you tapping your toes and joining in the show, all in the spirit of Irish humor. And you’ll even be served an Irish coffee to round off your dinner.
Experience the Ancient Monastic Site of Glendalough
Adult Price: €24.00
Enjoy a visit to one of the most important monastic sites in Europe, which dates back to the 6th century. Your Local Specialist will tell tales and show you around this sacred area, famous for its tranquil beauty amidst the rolling countryside of County Wicklow, the garden of Ireland.
Waterford
Irish Folk Fun
Adult Price: €27.00
During this evening of entertainment, you'll get the chance to experience Irish hospitality in the best folk tradition. Enjoy a drink while locals sing and play music for you.
Killarney
Experience a Jaunting Cart Ride
Adult Price: €21.00
Enjoy 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.
Gaelic Roots
Adult Price: €33.00
A tour de force of traditional Irish song, music and dance, Gaelic roots showcases Ireland at its best. Using traditional instruments, Irish dance and time-honoured folk songs, this energetic show will have you tapping your feet and singing along in no time.
Visit Muckross House and its Gardens
Adult Price: €21.00
Come with us to Muckross House and its beautiful gardens. With a backdrop of oak-clad mountains, enjoy taking in the towering azaleas and rhododendrons as you meander along the shores of the lakes. The 18th century house contains some wonderful examples of furniture and paintings, including a portrait of King James VI, for whom Shakespeare wrote Macbeth.
Londonderry
Dinner and Drinks in Derry
Adult Price: £42.00
Join us and the the rest of the group for a cosy and relaxing evening of dinner and a drink in a locally-loved restaurant.
Belfast
Belfast Walk with Fish and Chips
Adult Price: £39.00
What better way to soak up the atmosphere of this lively city than to join a local specialist for a stroll through its hidden side streets? We'll have an included drink in a historic pub and continue to a local restaurant for a quintessentially traditional meal; fish and chips.
Glasgow
A Stirling Evening
Adult Price: £44.00
See Stirling Castle and the Wallace Memorial by night. A truly local experience, you'll be piped in to your evening meal in the historic Scottish city and enjoy an evening of Scottish delights.
Loch Lomond
Loch Lomond Boat Trip
Adult Price: £15.00
Discover the wild beauty of the 'Bonnie Banks of Loch Lomond'. As we cruise across the loch, the skipper will share stories of the area and point out Rob Roy's cave as you relax and savour the stunning scenery.
Isle of Skye
Isle Of Skye Drive
Adult Price: £13.50
An opportunity to travel around the Isle of Skye with your Local Specialist. You’ll hear about the way of life on this remote inner Hebridean Island and discover its stories and legends.
Scottish Highlands
Highland Farm Experience
Adult Price: £14.00
Visit a real Highland sheep farm and meet Neil the Shepherd and his border collies. He’ll show you how he uses different whistles to command each dog to carry out different tasks. You’ll also have the opportunity to try your hand at sheep shearing, feeding the lambs and discover his training techniques. Weather permitting.
Pitlochry. Visit Of Blair Castle
Adult Price: £20.00
Set in its own grounds against a backdrop of glorious scenery, we'll discover the ancient home of the Dukes of Atholl, home to Europe's last remaining private army. Unique amongst Scottish castles, Blair has hosted royalty from Mary Queen of Scots to Queen Victoria.
Edinburgh
Scottish Show With Dinner
Adult Price: £60.00
Tonight is your chance to put on that tartan and join us for an evening of singing, dancing and bagpipe playing at an internationally famous venue. You’ll enjoy delicious food and wine, join in the singing and watch a Highland dance or two. There's even a chance to sample Scotland’s national dish – haggis.
Rosslyn Chapel
Adult Price: £18.00
We’ll drive out of Edinburgh to the tiny village of Rosslyn, where you’ll hear the inside story on the famous Rosslyn Chapel. One of Scotland's most unusual 15th-century buildings, Rossyln is famed for its associations with the Knights Templar, the Masonic movement, and now 'The Da Vinci Code'.
Request a Quote
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30 Day Refund Guarantee
We promise you’ll enjoy a stress-free travel experience from the minute you start your vacation planning or we’ll refund your deposit. Make your reservation with a $350 deposit. If you change your mind for any reason within 30 days of booking, we’ll offer you a full refund.
-
Add air to your reservation
Let our Air Specialists handle your air reservations. We have direct access to the most current airfare routes and prices, so you’ll get the best value available when we book your flights. We never charge a booking fee and you’ll enjoy the flexibility to pay for air 60-90 days prior to departure.
The Edinburgh Military Tattoo takes place every year in August.
The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, often referred to as "the most spectacular show on earth," is an exciting celebration showcasing the best of Scottish music, dance, and military pageantry. In 2018 it will take place in Edinburgh from August 3rd to August 25th, and is sure to draw entertainers and spectators from around the world.
Tickets and arrangements have been included on these select departures. Book early as they will sell out quickly!
Request a Quote
-
30 Day Refund Guarantee
We promise you’ll enjoy a stress-free travel experience from the minute you start your vacation planning or we’ll refund your deposit. Make your reservation with a $350 deposit. If you change your mind for any reason within 30 days of booking, we’ll offer you a full refund.
-
Add air to your reservation
Let our Air Specialists handle your air reservations. We have direct access to the most current airfare routes and prices, so you’ll get the best value available when we book your flights. We never charge a booking fee and you’ll enjoy the flexibility to pay for air 60-90 days prior to departure.
