Best of Ireland & Scotland (Premium)
Despite the many regional variations, there is a natural affinity between these countries, that can be traced back to their Gaelic roots, not to mention being blessed with dramatic scenery and warm-hearted people.
Overview
Despite the many regional variations, there is a natural affinity between these countries, that can be traced back to their Gaelic roots, not to mention being blessed with dramatic scenery and warm-hearted people.
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Day 1: USA - Europe
Board your overnight flight to Europe (not included).
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Day 2: Welcome to Dublin.
On arrival at Dublin Airport, your airport transfer service leaves for your hotel at 08:30, 11:00 & 13:30. At night, join your Tour Director for a warm and friendly Welcome Reception with drinks and the opportunity to mingle and get to know each other over a pleasant evening of dinner and wine.
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Day 3: In Dublin’s Fair City.
An orientation with your Travel Director will take you past the Custom House and along O'Connell Street. Travel along the River Liffey to see the Guinness Storehouse and Dublin Castle before admiring the historic buildings of the Georgian section of the city. Enjoy your VIP priority entrance to the 9th century Book of Kells and a walk through the cobbled courtyards of Trinity College accompanied by a University insider, gaining their insight into modern life and the establishment's impressive history.
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Day 4: Waterford and Cork.
Kildare offers a look behind-the-scenes at one of the country's main racehorse breeding centers. You will also visit the finest Japanese Gardens in Europe, for a ‘journey through life' as you wander by the beautiful floral displays. Then head for Waterford to see Reginald's Tower, the ruined city walls and for a guided visit of the House of Waterford Crystal to meet a master craftsman. Continue on to Cork, Ireland's second most populous city, built on the River Lee.
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Day 5: Travel to Blarney Castle and Killarney.
In the morning, travel along the Grand Parade and see Cork's City Hall and Opera House. Continue to the ruined 15th century Blarney Castle, home of the famous Stone of Eloquence - once kissed, never forgotten! Then, onto Killarney where you join a local Jarvey aboard a traditional horse drawn jaunting car. The rest of the afternoon is at leisure.
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Day 6: Ring of Kerry Experience.
Tour the superb seascapes, towering cliffs and spectacular mountains of the Ring of Kerry. Journey past lush lake lands and through delightful villages like Sneem. Cross the peat bogs of the Black Mountains to Moll's Gap and admire Queen Victoria's Ladies View. Upon returning in the mid-afternoon, the rest of the day is at leisure.
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Day 7: The Cliffs of Moher and Dromoland
Begin the day with a delightful ferry ride across the Shannon Estuary. Journey to the Visitors' Center at the 700-foot Cliffs of Moher. Enjoy magnificent views of the Clare Coast before continuing to your hotel located at the gateway to the Wild Atlantic Way near the Dromoland Castle Estate.
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Day 8: Glorious Galway to Sligo Bay.
Join your Tour Director in Galway to see the infamous Lynch Memorial and the Church of St. Nicholas, where Christopher Columbus reputedly prayed before his discovery of America. Also see the aged Spanish Arch and Eyre Square, dedicated to the late US President, John F Kennedy. Tour the wild Connemara region, a scenic wonderland of rivers, lakes and silent hills. In the evening, your perfect country retreat is set on the scenic shores of Sligo Bay.
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Day 9: Walk in the Giant’s Steps on the way to Ballygally.
The day begins in Drumcliffe, with a visit to the final resting place of Ireland's famous poet, William Butler Yeats. Cross into Northern Ireland to visit Derry. What better way to experience sightseeing than with one of Northern Ireland's best storytellers, Ronan, as he takes you on a tour inside the city walls, still topped with cannons. Walk down steep Shipquay Street, with its elegant Georgian houses, to the Gothic Guildhall. Continue around the coast to the amazing Giant's Causeway, then take a spectacular drive along the Antrim coast road to your hotel, that overlooks the sea at the head of Ballygally Bay.
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Day 10: High Tea at Ardgowan Estate
Cross the Irish Sea by ferry and journey to Ardgowan, set on a stunning 10,000-acre coastal estate. Meet Sir Ludovic Shaw Stewart for a tour of the expansive house and learn the history of the area, family, estate and its contents - you may even hear about the ghost! Delight in freshly-made, traditional Scottish Tea and Scones. Continue to Glasgow where your Travel Director will show you the city's grand public buildings, including George Square and St. Mungo's Cathedral.
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Day 11: Journey through Glencoe and Loch Ness to Inverness.
In the morning, head north for a scenic drive along the bonnie banks of Loch Lomond. Absorb the dramatic landscape of Glencoe, still echoing with the cries of massacred clansmen, before reaching Fort William. Pause at the Commando Memorial for a view of Britain's highest mountain, Ben Nevis. Continue on to Loch Ness cruise to soak up the scenery, historic monuments and intriguing tales of 'Nessie' in the heart of Scotland's great glen.
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Day 12: A Highlands Experience.
In the morning, see the sights of Inverness before travelling to the Culloden Moor Visitor Centre, where Bonnie Prince Charlie's Jacobite army was finally defeated. Not much more than a cannon shot away lies the prehistoric Clava burial cairns, dating back to around 2,000 B.C. Then have a 'wee dram' during a visit to the Glen Ord Distillery, hear stories of the whisky smugglers as you delve into the fascinating world of the single malt.
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Day 13: St. Andrews and Edinburgh.
A scenic drive takes you through the Grampian Mountains past the Duke of Atholl's Blair Castle. Drive down and cross the Tay to visit St. Andrews. As you arrive, pass the Old Course, the home of golf since its invention in the 15th century. Enjoy free time to explore. Why not wander to St. Andrews University where the love story of Kate Middleton and Prince William began? Alternately, stroll to West Sands Beach where the famous 'Chariots of Fire' scene was filmed. Continue across the majestic Forth Road Bridge to the Scottish capital, Edinburgh. In the evening, select departures attend the spectacular Edinburgh Military Tattoo.
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Day 14: Edinburgh, Scotland’s Capital of Culture.
In the morning, join your Local Expert for a visit to Edinburgh Castle, housing the Honors of Scotland, its Crown Jewels. See the Stone of Destiny and Mons Meg. At the bottom of the Royal Mile stands the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the official Scottish residence of Her Majesty, the Queen. Turn onto Princes Street, past the Scott Memorial to see Edinburgh's famous Georgian New Town, with its Adam facades. In the afternoon, you are at leisure to continue exploring as you wish, or perhaps go shopping. Join your friends at a stylish restaurant for a grand finale Celebration Dinner with wine.
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Day 15: Farewell Edinburgh.
Transfers arrive at Edinburgh Airport at 06:15 & 09:00.
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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.
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: from $840 p.p.
Triple Room Supplement: from $50 p.p.
Gratuities: Option to pre-pay gratuities for Travel Director and Driver $162 per person.
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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Sightseeing with Local Experts
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Professional Travel Director
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VIP Access
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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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WIFI on Coach and in Hotels
INCLUDED QUALITY DINING
13 Buffet Breakfasts (FB), 1 Afternoon Tea (AT), 5 Dinners (D) and 2 Dinners with Wine (DW) all with tea and coffee.
Signature Experiences
Dublin:
- VIP priority entrance to the Book of Kells and a guided walk though Trinity College with a University insider.
Kildare:
- Join an equine professional for a behind-the-scenes look at the Irish National Stud and visit the Japanese Gardens.
Londonderry:
- What better way to experience sightseeing than with one of Northern Ireland's best storytellers, Ronan, as he walks with you inside the city walls.
Waterford:
- Meet a master craftsman and see the showroom on your guided tour of the House of Waterford.
Blarney Castle:
- 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!
Killarney:
- A local 'Jarvey' informs you of the history, legend and folklore of Killarney aboard a famous jaunting car ride.
- Venture into a world of towering cliffs, lush lakelands and villages, as you tour the magical Ring of Kerry.
Cliffs of Moher:
- Look out over the Wild Atlantic Way from these majestic cliffs.
Giant's Causeway:
- Steeped in legend, the awe-inspiring coastal scenery is a spectacle to behold.
Loch Ness:
- Soak up the scenery and hear intriguing tales of 'Nessie' during a cruise.
Fort William:
- Enjoy an excellent view of Ben Nevis from the World War II Commando Memorial.
Highlands:
- During your exploration of the Highlands, find out why the Battle of Culloden changed the Highland way of life forever at the Culloden Moor Visitor Center. You will also visit the prehistoric burial Cairns of Clava.
Edinburgh:
- A hush descends and eyes turn to the castle. The skirl of the pipes rises and drums crack the night air as a tide of tunics and tartan flood from the drawbridge. For a limited time in August, witness the incredible spectacle of the Edinburgh Military Tattoo.
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.
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 in Ireland. 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
Irish Countryside & Glendalough
Adult Price: € 24.00
An afternoon drive takes you through the rural countryside of County Wicklow - the garden of Ireland. With our Local Expert, we'll pass through the pretty Wicklow Mountains to the picturesque setting of St. Kevin’s great 6th Century monastic site at Glendalough. Afterwards, we'll explore the monastic remains before returning to Dublin via the Great Sugar Loaf Mountain.
Dublin
Dinner & Irish Cabaret
Adult Price: € 71.00
Over an excellent dinner of quality Irish food, enjoy a nonstop show of comedy, dance, song and music. Ireland’s musical history unfolds in a cabaret that will delight you long after the night has ended. The cast will have you tapping your toes and joining in the fun, and it’s all wrapped up in the spirit of Irish humour. At the end of your meal, cap off one of Ireland’s best nights out with an Irish Coffee.
Cork
Port Of Cobh Excursion
Adult Price: € 22.00
Drive to the pretty riverside village of Cobh (pronounced "Cove") which was the last port of call for the Titanic. Explore the Heritage Centre and relive the story of the emigration of Irish people and the life of this once great passenger port.
Cork
Cork Dinner
Adult Price: € 45.00
Lively and fun loving, Cork city is justly celebrated for fine local produce and great restaurants. Tonight, take the opportunity to dine out and enjoy the great atmosphere and vibrant heart of Ireland's 'rebel' city. Three course dinner with a drink.
Killarney
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.
Limerick
Shannon Castle Banquet
Adult Price: € 69.00
Calling all Lords and Ladies! Please be seated for a delicious banquet in the great hall of the castle. In the splendour of a bygone age, entertainment is provided by the court jester, castle musicians and attendants of the medieval court. It won’t be long before you're making merry with the fine music, singing, dancing, good food and laughter. You'll be sure to take home warm memories of this delightful evening.
Glasgow
Glasgow Dinner
Adult Price: £37.00
In recent years, Glasgow has developed a fearsome culinary reputation. With its elegant and chic atmosphere, this restaurant is very much at the forefront. In the hub of Glasgow's vibrant cosmopolitan capital, enjoy an evening of Scottish fayre and experience the unique atmosphere of the city at night.This meal may be offered as a lunch.
Loch Lomond
Doune Castle and the Trossachs Drive
Adult Price: £26.00
We enjoy a drive through the beautiful Trossachs to visit Doune Castle, overlooking the beautiful village of Doune. Famous for its association with Monty Python, Doune Castle is now used as a film location for Game of Thrones. Doune is also the main Castle in the new hit show, Outlander.
Inverness
An Evening with Nessie
Adult Price: £20.00
Join us at the only pub on the shores of Loch Ness, overlooking Dores beach. Enjoy a drink whislt listening to the tales of Steve, a man who has devoted over twenty-five years of his life to hunting for the elusive Loch Ness Monster. A unique evening, following the journey of the ultimate "Nessie Hunter"!
Edinburgh
Scottish Dinner & Cabaret
Adult Price: £60.00
Join us for a lively and memorable evening of traditional Scottish song, dance, tartan and bagpipes. In addition to wine and dinner, your kilted hosts will lead you through some of the best-loved Scottish music and songs. You'll learn a Highland dance or two and sample Scotland’s national dish - haggis. An exceptional Scottish experience!
Scottish Highlands
Blair Castle
Adult Price: £20.00
Journey into the fascinating past with a visit to the ancestral home of the Dukes of Atholl. Brimming with treasures inside and out, magnificent Blair Castle is set in its own grounds against a backdrop of glorious scenery. During your informative tour, see how the castle has been transformed through the ages and learn how Queen Victoria's famous stay led to the creation of Europe's only private army.
Edinburgh
Edinburgh's Most Haunted
Adult Price: £27.00
Join our Ghouls and Ghosts to embark upon a scary and mirth-filled tour of Edinburgh's old town as never seen before! We'll enjoy a drink afterwards to calm our nerves before returning to the land of the living.
Edinburgh
Royal Yacht Britannia
Adult Price: £23.00
This magnificent ship has hosted some of the most famous people in the world. But, above all, Britannia was home to Her Majesty The Queen and the Royal Family. For four royal couples, Britannia was to provide a honeymoon sanctuary before the onset of married life in the world's most photographed family. Now berthed in Leith, you are welcomed on board to discover the heart and soul of this most special of Royal residences.
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.
