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Britain and Ireland Panorama

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Britain and Ireland Panorama

19 Day Tour of England, Scotland, Ireland

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AARP Members Save on select departures
SAVE UP TO $588
From $5,288
WAS $5,875
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Lake and blue sky in Loch Lomond, Scotland
19 Days
4 Countries

England, Scotland, Wales, Ireland

28 Cities

London, Stratford-upon-Avon, York, Jedburgh, Edinburgh, St. Andrews, Pitlochry, Scottish Highlands, Isle of Skye, Glasgow, Liverpool, Chester, Holyhead, Dublin, Galway, Limerick, Ring of Kerry, Cork, Blarney, Cobh, Waterford, Wexford, Cardiff, Bath, Glastonbury, Plymouth, Polperro, Stonehenge

24 Meals

18 Breakfasts, 1 Welcome Reception, 4 Dinners, 1 Lunch

Active

Faster paced with mix of 1 and 2-night stays in each destination. Requires walking to participate in top sites.

Average group size average 40-45
Tour brand Trafalgar
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Trafalgar

If you like hassle free travel with everything handled for you – looking to meet great people, eat great food, enjoy great sightseeing, and have immersive experiences, Trafalgar is for you.  From the iconic not-to-be-missed to one-of-a-kind local experiences, including Be-my-Guest dining and stays with stories, you’ll connect deeper to your destination, and every tour has at least one MAKE TRAVEL MATTER immersive impact experience included advancing one or more of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), offering you the chance to take a deep dive into culture and community. As the world’s leading tour company and trusted by more than 5 million guests, Trafalgar tours are simply the best value for your vacation dollar.

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Edinburgh Military Tattoo

Edinburgh Military Tattoo Tours

Enjoy included tickets to Scotland's prestigious Edinburgh Military Tattoo on select August departures. Military bands from around the world travel to Edinburgh Castle Experience the breathtaking spectacle of music, dance, and precision performances at the iconic Edinburgh Castle.

View all Edinburgh Military Tattoo Tours

Dive right into history, culture and spectacular scenery on this immersive England, Scotland, Wales and Ireland trip. Step in the shoes of Highland warriors, 12th-century monks and welcoming, warm Irish locals who’ll share the beauty and stories of their islands just for you.

When do you want to travel?

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Average group size
average 40-45
Tour brand
Trafalgar
Travel style
Edinburgh Military Tattoo
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Day-by-day itinerary
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Day 1

Arrive London

Welcome to the multicultural melting pot that is London – its culture and heritage shaped by the nations that once contributed to its great empire are found around every turn. Spend your day easing into the energy of a cosmopolitan city that effortlessly blends old and new and is the perfect springboard to a grand adventure through Britain and Ireland. 

London Eye in London, England
Accommodation Park Plaza London Riverbank

Day 2

Discover Historic London

Join your Local Specialist today to see the iconic sights, including Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament. Spend the rest of the day at leisure, meandering through the picturesque Royal Parks, shopping for the best of British wares on Carnaby Street or delving into natural history and royal heritage at one of the many fascinating museums.

Buckingham Palace in London, England
Accommodation Park Plaza London Riverbank
Included Meals Breakfast

Day 3

Journey to Stratford-upon-Avon and on to York

Meet your Travel Director this morning and travel to Stratford-upon-Avon. Venture through the lush green countryside of Warwickshire to Stratford-upon-Avon to delve into the lyrical legacy of one of the world's favourite writers. Visit Shakespeare's Birthplace and Visitor Centre and see Anne Hathaway's cottage, before arriving in York. Wander along its cobbled Shambles and ancient city walls, and see the magnificent York Minster, one of the greatest cathedrals in the world. This evening, we join our Travel Director and travel companions for a delicious Yorkshire dinner in our hotel.

Anne Hathaway's Cottage in Stratford-upon-Avon, England
Accommodation Leonardo Hotel Leeds
Included Meals Breakfast, Welcome Reception
Iconic Experience Shakespeares Birthplace in Stratford-upon-Avon, England
Visit Shakespeare's Birthplace in Stratford-upon-Avon Learn more

Visit Shakespeare's Birthplace in Stratford-upon-Avon

Iconic Experience The Shambles, York, England
York Orientation Learn more

York Orientation

Day 4

Continue through Northumberland to Edinburgh

Journeying through Northumberland National Park’s dramatic landscapes, we arrive at the remarkably intact ruins of the 12th-century Jedburgh Abbey en route to the enchanting Scottish capital, Edinburgh. Tickets to see the spectacular Edinburgh Tattoo are included on departures that coincide with performance dates.

Hadrians Wall in Carlisle, England
Accommodation Holiday Inn
Included Meals Breakfast
Iconic Experience Old Ruins at Jedburgh Abbey, Scotland
See Jedburgh Abbey Learn more

See Jedburgh Abbey

Day 5

Discover Enchanting Edinburgh

Join your Local Specialist this morning for a sightseeing tour through Auld Reekie's elegant New Town, Princes Street and the Royal Mile, enjoying views of the exquisite Palace of Holyroodhouse and Arthur's Seat. Embark on a guided visit of Edinburgh Castle, perched atop Castle Rock. Later, consider a traditional Scottish night out this evening, savouring up the flavours of haggis and exhilarating sounds of bagpipes which fill the air.

Edinburgh Castle, Edinburgh, Scotland
Accommodation Holiday Inn
Included Meals Breakfast
Iconic Experience View of Edinburgh, Scotland
Edinburgh City Tour Learn more

Edinburgh City Tour

Day 6

Venture into the Scottish Highlands

Today, we travel across the Firth of Forth to St. Andrews to view its celebrated ancient university and explore centuries of golf heritage. Our next stop is Pitlochry on the banks of the Tummel River. You could choose to join an Optional Experience to visit Blair Castle, the ancestral home to the Dukes of Atholl. We continue to the Scottish Highlands, our home for two nights.

Firth Of Forth Rail Bridge in Edinburgh, Scotland
Accommodation Laggan Hotel Cairngorms
Included Meals Breakfast, Dinner
Iconic Experience Golf Course of St. Andrews, Scotland
Visit the University Town of St. Andrews Learn more

Visit the University Town of St. Andrews

Iconic Experience View of Pitlochry Church in Pitlochry, Scotland
Visit Pitlochry Learn more

Visit Pitlochry

Day 7

Explore the Isle of Skye

Drive to the rugged coast of Scotland this morning, passing scenic Eilean Donan Castle. We cross to the Isle of Skye, admire the spectacular scenery before enjoying free time for lunch. A Local Specialist will take us on a journey to admire the remarkable Cuillin Mountain. Cross back to the mainland and continue past the lochs and glens of the Scottish Highlands.

Mountain and Landscape in Scottish Highlands, Scotland
Accommodation Laggan Hotel Cairngorms
Included Meals Breakfast, Dinner
Iconic Experience Eilean Donan Castle in Dornie, Scotland
See Eilean Donan Castle Learn more

See Eilean Donan Castle

Iconic Experience Scenic drive in The Isle of Skye, Scotland
Isle of Skye Tour Learn more

Isle of Skye Tour

Day 8

Onwards to Loch Lomond and Glasgow’s Rich Legacy

Our first stop today is the World War II Commando Memorial, near Fort William, for views of Britain's highest mountain, Ben Nevis. Continue south through the 'Glen of Weeping', paying tribute to the MacDonald clansmen who were massacred for failing to pledge allegiance to Scotland's new monarchs. Arriving in Glasgow, we enjoy an orientation tour including views of the Cathedral and magnificent George Square. We'll also visit the Necropolis where we’ll Dive Into Culture and gain insights into one of Europe's most important 19th-century burial grounds.

Park District in Glasgow, Scotland
Accommodation Crowne Plaza Glasgow
Included Meals Breakfast
Dive Into Culture Visit The Necropolis in Glasgow
Discover one of Europe's most significant burial grounds at the Necropolis Learn more

Discover one of Europe's most significant burial grounds at the Necropolis

Iconic Experience The Commando Memorial, Fort William, Scotland
Fort William World War II Commando Memorial Learn more

Fort William World War II Commando Memorial

Iconic Experience Glasgow City Chambers and George Square in Glasgow, Scotland
Glasgow Orientation Learn more

Glasgow Orientation

Day 9

Through the Lake District to Liverpool

Cross the border into England and Connect With Locals, joining Christine on her Cumbrian working farm for a Be My Guest experience. Learn about traditional farming methods and enjoy lunch before continuing your journey through the beautiful Lake District and its landscapes that have inspired poets and painters for centuries. See Lake Windermere, England's largest lake, before travelling to Liverpool, the haunt of Britain's ‘Fab Four'.

Swans in Lake Windermere, Lake District, England
Accommodation Mercure Liverpool Atlantic Tower Hotel
Included Meals Breakfast, Lunch
Be My Guest Meet Christine on her Cumbrian farm
Enjoy a Lunch with Christine at her Cumbrian Farm Learn more

Enjoy a Lunch with Christine at her Cumbrian Farm

Iconic Experience Lake Windermere in Cumbria, England
Scenic Drive Through the Lake District Learn more

Scenic Drive Through the Lake District

Day 10

Across the Irish Sea to Dublin

The half-timbered Tudor Rows in Chester are our first stop today as we travel to Holyhead in North Wales to catch our ferry across the Irish Sea to Dublin.

Chester Walls Clock, Chester, England
Accommodation Clayton Hotel Ballsbridge
Included Meals Breakfast, Dinner
Iconic Experience Tudor houses in Chester, England
Chester Orientation Learn more

Chester Orientation

Day 11

Admire Dublin’s Iconic Sights

Dive Into Culture and visit the Guinness Storehouse to learn about Ireland's famous brew, before delving into Dublin’s iconic sights with a Local Specialist. See Trinity College, St. Patrick's Cathedral and the stately Georgian Squares. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure or consider a trip to Glendalough. This evening you could choose to join an Optional Experience at an Irish Cabaret.

The Guinness Storehouse Dublin, Ireland
Accommodation Clayton Hotel Ballsbridge
Included Meals Breakfast
Dive Into Culture Visit the Guinness Storehouse to see how the stout is created and enjoy a chilled pint of Guinness
Discover how the world's most famous stout is created at the Guinness Storehouse in Dublin Learn more

Discover how the world's most famous stout is created at the Guinness Storehouse in Dublin

Iconic Experience The Hapenny Bridge in Dublin, Ireland
Dublin City Tour Learn more

Dublin City Tour

Day 12

On to Galway and Limerick

Journey to the West Coast and the vibrant cultural centre of Galway, where you will have an opportunity to see Galway Cathedral and Eyre Square, with its tribute to former US president John F. Kennedy, before travelling to Limerick.

Galway Cathedral, Galway, Ireland
Accommodation Greenhills Hotel Limerick
Included Meals Breakfast
Iconic Experience Skyline of Galway with Galway cathedral, Ireland
Stroll Through Galway Learn more

Stroll Through Galway

Day 13

Circle the Ring of Kerry and on to Cork

Admire Ireland's enduring scenic beauty on one of the most beautiful drives in the world, circling the spectacular Ring of Kerry. Later, we check into our Stays With Stories hotel, the historic Maldron Shandon. Originally Cork’s first general hospital opened in 1720, the building has a colourful history that has seen it survive wars, political upheaval, fire and calls for it to be demolished before it opened its doors as a grand hotel.

Ring of Kerry in Co. Kerry, Ireland
Accommodation Vienna Woods Hotel
Included Meals Breakfast
Iconic Experience Ring of Kerry landscape with Muckross lake and mountains, Killarney, Ireland
See the Ring of Kerry Learn more

See the Ring of Kerry

Day 14

The Sights of Blarney, Waterford and Wexford

In the pursuit of acquiring the 'gift of the gab', we visit Blarney Castle where you might kiss the famous Blarney Stone, before stopping in Cobh for a walking tour with a Local Specialist. This seaside city was the final port of call for the tragic Titanic on its fateful voyage. This afternoon, we Dive Into Culture during a visit to the House of Waterford Crystal and witness talented master craftsmen at work.

Colourful Houses in Cobh, Ireland
Accommodation Maldron Hotel Wexford
Included Meals Breakfast
Dive Into Culture Learn how crystal is crafted at the House of Waterford Crystal, Waterford
Tour the House of Waterford Crystal Workshop Learn more

Tour the House of Waterford Crystal Workshop

Iconic Experience Blarney Castle and gardens, Blarney, Ireland
Visit Blarney Castle Learn more

Visit Blarney Castle

Iconic Experience St. Colman's Cathedral and the port town of Cobh, Ireland
Guided Walking Tour through Cobh Learn more

Guided Walking Tour through Cobh

Day 15

Ferry across to Cardiff

We cross the Irish Sea to Wales and its capital, Cardiff, where we will see the Principality Stadium and view the Millennium Centre, National Assembly and Cardiff Castle.

Wales millennium centre in Cardiff, Wales
Accommodation Clayton Hotel Cardiff
Included Meals Breakfast
Iconic Experience Cardiff Bay, Cardiff, Wales
Cardiff Orientation Learn more

Cardiff Orientation

Day 16

Enjoy Bath, Glastonbury and Plymouth

Cross the Severn Estuary to Bath, so named for the ancient Roman Baths that have made the city a popular retreat for centuries. Admire the elegant Georgian façades and visit the Roman Baths, before some free time to explore on your own. We wind our way to mystical Glastonbury to visit the 7th-century Abbey where King Arthur is believed to be buried. Later, we arrive in the city of Plymouth, our home for two nights.

Roman Baths in Bath, England
Accommodation Copthorne Hotel Plymouth
Included Meals Breakfast
Iconic Experience Roman Baths in Bath, England
Bath Orientation Learn more

Bath Orientation

Iconic Experience Glastonbury Abbey in England
Glastonbury Abbey Visit Learn more

Glastonbury Abbey Visit

MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Roman Baths in Bath, England
Visit the Roman Baths Learn more

Visit the Roman Baths

Day 17

A Day Exploring Coastal Villages

The springboard to a 'New World' takes centre stage as we start our day with an orientation of Plymouth. View the Mayflower Steps, where brave pilgrims embarked on their epic voyage to America, and see the Royal Citadel overlooking Plymouth Sound. Visit the fishing village of Polperro with its narrow streets and picturesque harbour, before enjoying a scenic drive through the brooding landscapes of Dartmoor, keeping a keen eye out for the area’s wild ponies. Our epic adventure through Britain and Ireland almost at its end, we join our travel companions and Travel Director for a memorable Farewell Dinner.

Fishermans Cottage in Polperro, Cornwall, England
Accommodation Copthorne Hotel Plymouth
Included Meals Breakfast, Dinner
Iconic Experience Sutton Harbour in Plymouth, England
Plymouth Orientation Learn more

Plymouth Orientation

Iconic Experience Visit the picturesque harbour of Polperro, England
Visit Polperro Learn more

Visit Polperro

Day 18

Journey to Prehistoric Stonehenge and return to London

Meander across the Salisbury Plain and visit the mystical ancient monoliths of Stonehenge, whose myths have yet to be fully revealed. We journey back to London this afternoon where we spend our final evening at leisure.

Stonehenge in England
Accommodation Park Plaza London Riverbank
Included Meals Breakfast
Iconic Experience Stonehenge in England
Visit Stonehenge Learn more

Visit Stonehenge

Day 19

Cheerio London

Say a fond farewell to Britain and Ireland as you prepare to return home with treasured memories of your trip.

St. James Park in London, England
Included Meals Breakfast

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Included Highlights

Top rated highlights

Learn more about the landmarks, history and culture that makes your destination special.

Iconic Experience
Visit Shakespeare's Birthplace in Stratford-upon-Avon Learn more
Iconic Experience
York Orientation Learn more
Iconic Experience
See Jedburgh Abbey Learn more
Iconic Experience
Edinburgh City Tour Learn more
Iconic Experience
Visit the University Town of St. Andrews Learn more
Iconic Experience
Visit Pitlochry Learn more
Iconic Experience
See Eilean Donan Castle Learn more
Iconic Experience
Isle of Skye Tour Learn more
Dive Into Culture
Discover one of Europe's most significant burial grounds at the Necropolis Learn more
Iconic Experience
Fort William World War II Commando Memorial Learn more
Iconic Experience
Glasgow Orientation Learn more
Be My Guest
Enjoy a Lunch with Christine at her Cumbrian Farm Learn more
Iconic Experience
Scenic Drive Through the Lake District Learn more
Iconic Experience
Chester Orientation Learn more
Dive Into Culture
Discover how the world's most famous stout is created at the Guinness Storehouse in Dublin Learn more
Iconic Experience
Dublin City Tour Learn more
Iconic Experience
Stroll Through Galway Learn more
Iconic Experience
See the Ring of Kerry Learn more
Dive Into Culture
Tour the House of Waterford Crystal Workshop Learn more
Iconic Experience
Visit Blarney Castle Learn more
Iconic Experience
Guided Walking Tour through Cobh Learn more
Iconic Experience
Cardiff Orientation Learn more
Iconic Experience
Bath Orientation Learn more
Iconic Experience
Glastonbury Abbey Visit Learn more
MAKE TRAVEL MATTER®
Visit the Roman Baths Learn more
Iconic Experience
Plymouth Orientation Learn more
Iconic Experience
Visit Polperro Learn more
Iconic Experience
Visit Stonehenge Learn more

Optional Experiences

Sign up on tour for additional experiences that have been curated by your Travel Director from their own in-depth local knowledge.

Johnnie Walker’s ‘Journey of Flavour’ Tour & Dinner on the Royal Mile
£74.00
Learn more

Johnnie Walker’s ‘Journey of Flavour’ Tour & Dinner on the Royal Mile

Rosslyn Chapel
£27.00
Learn more

Rosslyn Chapel

Dinner and Drive to Historic Torphichen
£69.00
Learn more

Dinner and Drive to Historic Torphichen

Ceilidh Evening and Dinner at Ghillie Dhu
£79.00
Learn more

Ceilidh Evening and Dinner at Ghillie Dhu

Pitlochry, Visit of Blair Castle
£28.00
Learn more

Pitlochry, Visit of Blair Castle

Highland Farm Experience
£22.00
Learn more

Highland Farm Experience

Loch Lomond Boat Trip
£20.00
Learn more

Loch Lomond Boat Trip

Music City Tour and Meal
£70.00
Learn more

Music City Tour and Meal

Experience the Ancient Monastic Site of Glendalough
€33.00
Learn more

Experience the Ancient Monastic Site of Glendalough

Dublin Dinner and Cabaret
€88.00
Learn more

Dublin Dinner and Cabaret

Bunratty Castle And Folk Park
€27.00
Learn more

Bunratty Castle And Folk Park

Irish Ceilidh Evening
€72.00
Learn more

Irish Ceilidh Evening

Cardiff Castle Tour
£24.00
Learn more

Cardiff Castle Tour

Traditional Welsh Evening And Dinner
£58.00
Learn more

Traditional Welsh Evening And Dinner

Welsh Evening
£78.00
Learn more

Welsh Evening

Dartmoor Excursion And Dinner
£60.00
Learn more

Dartmoor Excursion And Dinner

Devonshire Village And Dinner
£43.00
Learn more

Devonshire Village And Dinner

Plymouth Harbour Cruise
£20.00
Learn more

Plymouth Harbour Cruise

Plymouth Harbour Extended Cruise
£22.00
Learn more

Plymouth Harbour Extended Cruise

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Frequently Asked Questions

  • The Republic of Ireland, also known simply as Ireland, is a sovereign nation located in the northwestern part of Europe. It occupies most of the island of Ireland and is an independent country separate from the United Kingdom, with its own government, institutions, and culture.
  • When referring to the two distinct regions on the island of Ireland, "Northern Ireland" is used to describe the region that is part of the United Kingdom (England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland). This term specifically denotes the six counties in the northeastern part of the island.
  • Language of Ireland: Irish is the official language of the Republic of Ireland, and you'll hear it spoken in Northern Ireland as well.
  • Currencies used in Ireland: Euro (€) is used in the Republic of Ireland, the British Pound Sterling (£) is used in Northern Ireland
  • Capital Cities: Dublin (Rep. Ireland), Belfast (Northern Ireland)
  • Time Zone(s) in Ireland: Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) and Greenwich Mean Time +1 (GMT+1) during daylight saving time

Ireland passport, visa, and entry requirement information for US citizens.

  • Passport: Your passport should have at least two blank pages for entry stamps. Your passport is valid for at least six months beyond the conclusion of your trip
  • Visa Requirement: A visa is not required to enter Ireland
  • Entry Requirements: You can see the most up-to-date entry requirements for the destination(s) you’ll visit on tour by going to getours.com/travel-requirements-restrictions.

The weather in Ireland is heavily influenced by its maritime location, resulting in mild, temperate conditions. The climate is characterized by frequent rainfall and changeable weather patterns throughout the year. Winters are generally mild, with average temperatures ranging from 4°C to 8°C (39°F to 46°F), while summer temperatures average between 14°C to 20°C (57°F to 68°F) in coastal areas. Rainfall is frequent throughout the year, with the western and northwestern coastal regions experiencing higher precipitation levels. The weather is often changeable, with a mix of sunny spells, rain showers, and cloud cover. The Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf Stream influence Ireland's climate, helping to moderate temperatures.

On-Tour Luggage & Carry-On Bag Size Limits

Luggage: Each guest traveling may bring one suitcase no larger than 30” x 18” x 10" and weighing no more than 50 lb

Carry-On Bag: *Restricted to one piece per person, not to exceed 12” x 11” x 6”

  • *Please note: A "carry-on bag" on a tour coach is not the same as a "carry-on" for a flight. Because our coaches have large windows to enjoy the view, there is minimal space to store large items securely overhead or under the seats. A "carry-on bag" may be a soft-sided daypack, purse, backpack, tote bag, or the like. Because we value our guests' safety, small rolling suitcases or bags with telescopic handles are not permitted. In order to guarantee a smooth trip, guests are not permitted to store an additional "carry-on" bag beneath the coach with the luggage. 

So your driver and any hotel porters can safely lift and transport your suitcase throughout your vacation, we strongly recommend that you test the weight of your baggage prior to travel. You should be able to lift and comfortably transport it for short distances. 

Baggage allowances vary from airline to airline, and you should check with your chosen carrier for details prior to travel.

Packing Tips for Your Tour

Packing for a guided tour will vary depending on the duration of the trip, the time of year, and the activities planned. Here is a general packing list to help you get started:

Passport and Travel Documents: Ensure you have your passport, travel insurance, and any necessary travel documents.

Clothing:

  • Comfortable walking shoes: Cobblestone streets and uneven terrain require comfortable footwear.
  • Lightweight, breathable clothing: Pack clothes suitable for the season. Bring a mix of short-sleeved tops, lightweight pants or skirts, and a few long-sleeved options for cooler evenings for the summer months, and long-sleeved and heavier layers for early Spring, Fall, and Winter.
  • Layers: It's advisable to bring a light jacket or sweater and a scarf for layering, especially in Spring or Fall.
  • Nice evening wear: You may wish to wear a dressier outfit if you plan on dining in an elegant restaurant, for example. Smart-casual clothes are usually acceptable for all included daytime and evening activities throughout your tour.
  • Rain Gear: Depending on the season and the countries you're visiting, it's a good idea to pack a compact rain jacket or umbrella.

Sun Protection:

  • Hat, sunglasses, UV-protective clothing.
  • Sunscreen with high SPF. If you're visiting any coastal areas, bring reef-safe sunscreen formulated without harmful chemicals known to be damaging to coral reefs and marine life. Traditional sunscreens often contain ingredients like oxybenzone and octinoxate, which have been found to contribute to coral bleaching and negatively impact marine ecosystems. Look for sunscreens with certifications such as "Reef Safe," "Coral Safe," or "Ocean-Friendly" to ensure they are environmentally friendly.

Medications and First Aid:

  • Any prescription medications you need. (See more below under Health & Wellness)
  • Basic first aid kit with adhesive bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, etc.

Toiletries:

  • Travel-sized toiletries, including shampoo, conditioner, soap, and toothpaste.
  • Travel towel (quick-drying and compact).
  • Hand sanitizer and wet wipes.
  • A washcloth and carry bag (often not available in hotels abroad).

Electronics:

  • A camera: You’re traveling to see extraordinary scenery and sites. So that you don't miss a single moment, bring a trustworthy camera. Check out our travel photography tips for capturing the best photos of your trips. If you feel comfortable, you can also try the camera on your phone. However, if you want to zoom in or capture moving objects, a camera might be your best bet.
  • Mobile phone.
  • Chargers for each electronic you bring.
  • Travel adapter and/or voltage converter
  • Portable power bank for charging devices on the go.
  • Small travel hair dryer (make sure you have the correct converter and adapter).

Miscellaneous:

  • A travel-friendly daypack or bag to carry your essentials during excursions.
  • Insect repellent.
  • Reusable water bottle. At GET, we’re all about caring for our planet, and with that in mind, we always recommend that you pack a reusable water bottle for your trip. Bringing your own reusable water bottle or asking for tap water at restaurants means you can make a difference by reducing your vacation plastic waste.
  • A small travel alarm.
  • A travel iron if you like your clothes to be pressed.
  • A travel pillow.

Optional:

  • Scarf or shawl for visiting religious sites or to cover up in conservative areas.
  • Light sleepwear.
  • A new, blank journal to document your trip. Don't know your travel journal style? Find out here!
  • Ziplock bags (storing snacks, toiletries, and keeping things organized).

Remember to pack light and versatile items that can be mixed and matched for different outfits. Laundry facilities are often available, or you can have your clothes laundered at hotels during your trip. It's also a good idea to pack a small bag or backpack to bring on the coach for day trips and excursions, leaving your larger luggage at the hotel.

Electricity

  • American appliances run on 110-120 volts at 60 Hz, while the United Kingdom and the Republic of Ireland run on 220-230 volts at 50 Hz.
  • Type G outlets are used throughout the United Kingdom and Ireland.
    Adapters are used to change the plug style from American-style plugs with two flat prongs to fit into these outlets, which take three rectangular prongs.
  • You will need a plug adapter and voltage converter to use your appliances in the United Kingdom and the Republic of Ireland.
  • We recommend purchasing an adapter with a voltage converter so you can pack less. Also, pick up any necessary adapters or converters for your electronic devices before departing on your guided tour and bringing them.

Hair Dryers in Your Hotel

Hair dryers are standard accessories in hotels. Should you want to bring your own, though, you will need to bring an adapter and voltage converter or make sure it is dual voltage by checking the label for INPUT AC 120V - 240V or a switch that can be set to 125V or 250V. Many devices have this feature, so it's worth checking before you travel. If you need a hair dryer during your trip but can't find one in your hotel room, you can inquire with the hotel staff. Many hotels will be able to provide a hair dryer upon request, either at the front desk or through housekeeping.

Air Conditioning

  • Air conditioning is commonly available in European and United Kingdom hotels, restaurants, and public spaces, especially in major cities and tourist areas, but it is worth noting that the settings will differ from what you are used to in the USA.
  • However, it's important to note that not all accommodations or historic buildings may have air conditioning, particularly in more traditional or rural settings.
  • Most hotels in Europe or the UK can provide a portable fan for additional room cooling if requested. Your Travel Director will be on hand to assist you throughout your trip.

Traveling by coach

Our modern air-conditioned coaches have been selected with your comfort in mind. Your Travel Director will familiarize you with all the onboard features, including a washroom fitted for your convenience and comfort. Regular stops are made to stretch your legs, take refreshments, fill up your water bottles, and use the facilities.

Airport transfers

Airport Transfers for Europe flights not arriving to or departing from London
Airport transfers to and from the airport on the first and last days of your tour are complimentary only if:

  • You are traveling on a tour operated by Trafalgar, Insight Vacations, or Luxury Gold 
  • Your flight times coincide with the shuttle-coach transfer timings

Airport Transfers for Europe flights arriving to or departing from London
Airport transfers to and from the airport on the first and last days are complimentary only if:

  • You are traveling on a tour operated by Trafalgar, Insight Vacations, or Luxury Gold
  • You booked your land tour and flights as a land/air package through GET. If you book your flights independently via London Heathrow, you can *purchase a transfer through us.

To enable you to personalize your tour experience, you will find a number of Optional Experiences designed to complement the itinerary. These are designed to offer a deeper insight into the culture and character of the areas to be visited and provide some wonderful highlights to your travels. The optional program is designed to let you experience more of what interests you and to get the most from your vacation without replacing or overlapping with anything included in an itinerary.

The majority of Optional Experiences will be offered to you by your Travel Director at the beginning of your trip. Some may be subject to change, depending on the time you are traveling or local circumstances, including weather and days of the week. Your Travel Director will provide further information.

Usually, most Optional Experiences will be priced in the local currency, but please read through the details of individual optional experiences for specific information. Exact payment options will be advised locally by your Travel Director/Local Representative for each Optional Experience, but in many cases, cash, Visa, MasterCard, and American Express are all accepted.

It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses while abroad.

In order to ensure a healthy and enjoyable trip, we strongly suggest that you pack a plentiful supply of any medication you may need while on vacation. Here’s what you need to know about traveling with medications.

Prior to traveling, please notify GET of any disability requiring special assistance or any specific dietary needs that you may have, and we will strive to accommodate these.

It's essential to ensure that your routine vaccinations are up-to-date before traveling to any destination. Routine vaccinations may include vaccinations for measles, mumps, rubella, diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, and influenza.

When traveling with GET, baggage handling at hotels, service charges, and tips for hotel wait staff (for included meals) will all be taken care of by your Travel Director. There are, however, a few instances where individual tipping is welcome.

Local Specialists

It is customary to show appreciation for the insights, stories, and know-how shared with you by the Local Specialists, and we suggest a gratuity equivalent to $1.00-$2.00 USD per person per half day.

Your Coach Driver and Travel Director

The trip cost does not include gratuities for your Travel Director and Driver. At the end of your trip, you may express appreciation to your Travel Director and Driver for their excellent service and the personal attention you received. Gratuities are given at the discretion of each guest, and a suggested amount per person/per day is listed in your travel documents.

For your convenience and ease, there is an option to pre-pay gratuities for the Travel Director and Driver at the time of booking.

Hotel services

It is customary to tip hotel staff for room service delivery if the charge has not already been added to the bill. Where ice machines are not available, and you receive ice from the bar, a small tip to the bartender is always appreciated.

Reviews
Service
Vacation
Independent Reviews
Trusted Customer
Review date: Thursday, June 2, 2022
Service
Customer service and responses to needs was stellar. They booked airlines; changed our dates of travel due to covid three times (Yikes!) and took care of any other issues we had with great care and timely responses
Response from Grand European Travel:
We are so glad you were able to finally take your vacation to Britain & Ireland and thrilled we were able to help get you there! Thank you for taking the time to write a review. We hope you have many amazing memories of your trip!
Friday, June 3, 2022
Vacation
Guide and tour was excellent. Packed so much into the overall plan and we felt like we got just what we wanted. Hotels were not the best ever and we had to share a double bed a couple of times - that's not for us. Hotels really need a refresh at the very least. A couple were fine, but the others not so much. Excursions were really great, but we found that doing all of them was a bit too much, so had to cut back on a couple of the evening dinners as we really needed to rest.
Jeffrey Malnick
Review date: Saturday, May 28, 2022
Service
We had to reschedule multiple times due to Covid. GET people were friendly, patient and helpful each time. Excellent service!
Response from Grand European Travel:
We love our reservation agents too! They are the best!! We are so excited you enjoyed your panoramic trip to Britain and Ireland. Thank you for leaving a review. We appreciate your kind words.
Thursday, June 2, 2022
Vacation
Great overview of Britain and Ireland. Felt a bit rushed at times.
Trusted Customer
Review date: Tuesday, August 20, 2019
Service
Once we decided on the dates we wanted everything went well.
Vacation
We had a wonderful time with every day a new experience. Terry , our guide and our driver were great. Can't wait to go on another tour.
Evelyn Agee
Review date: Saturday, July 13, 2019
Service
This trip was awesome, just some days tiring. Saw beautiful sites and will tell friends.
Vacation
Trip was fun and will tell friends.
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