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Enchanting Ireland - Small Group

8 Day Ireland Tour of Dublin & Galway

Enchanting Ireland
8 Days
1 Country

Ireland

10 Cities

Dublin, Strokestown, Sligo, Westport, Galway, Cliffs of Moher, Killarney, Ring of Kerry, Blarney, Kilkenny

11 Meals

7 Breakfasts, 4 Dinners

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 20

Insight - Small Groups

If you prefer to travel with a smaller group of curious fellow travelers passionate about diving into incredible experiences, Insight Vacations Small Group tours are the perfect choice. With all the premium features of Insight Vacations including 4 and 5-star hotels, one-of-a-kind inclusions, immersive local cultural experiences and superior dining, small group departures have a maximum of just 24 guests allowing for a more intimate, premium touring experience. Every tour includes at least one MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience. These immersive impact experiences are not only a positive force for change in the destinations you visit, by advancing one or more of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), but also offer you the chance to take a deep dive into culture and community.

View all Insight Small Groups Tours

Let the luck of the Irish be with you on this guided tour celebrating Ireland’s nature and history. Dine inside Dublin’s Irish Emigration Museum, indulge your curiosities at Kylemore Abbey and stand atop the towering Cliffs of Moher. A MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience seaweed foraging walk reveals a landscape that has inspired artists and writers while visits to iconic Blarney Castle and Kilkenny Castle gets you up close and personal with Ireland’s history.

Reviews
7
Average group size
average 20
Tour brand
Insight - Small Groups
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Day-by-day itinerary

Day 1

Hello Dublin

A modern multi-cultural city that embraces its past and exudes an enduring sense of fun, the 'Emerald Isle' has lured the most curious of travelers for centuries. Your Local Expert reveals the best of the city on a guided tour past the Georgian Squares and St. Patrick's Cathedral. Delicious cuisine and history merge this evening over drinks and canapes at EPIC - The Irish Emigration Museum where you’ll discover the stories of Irish emigrants who became scientists, politicians, poets, artists and even outlaws all over the world.

Ha'penny bridge on a bright day in Dublin, Ireland
Arrival Transfer Depart the airport at 08:30, 11:00, 13:00
Welcome Meet your Travel Director at 14:00
Camden Court Hotel View Hotel Details

Camden Court Hotel

About the Hotel

Dublin, Ireland

This 4-star hotel, officially rated by Fáilte Ireland (The National Tourism Development Authority), is conveniently located in the bustling City Center Dublin on the lively Camden Street, a mere 5-minute stroll from the tranquil St. Stephen's Green public park and Grafton Street, the primary shopping destination in the southern part of Dublin. The hotel offers a wealth of amenities designed to enhance your stay. For those seeking relaxation, the hotel boasts a health club, an indoor pool, and a spa tub. 

Hotel Amenities

  • Room Service
  • Pool
  • Spa
  • Laundry
  • Bar
  • Restaurant
  • Concierge
  • Foreign Currency Exchange

Style

  • Hotel
Top Rated Highlights
EPIC - The Irish Emigration Museum

Embark on an interactive discovery of the 70 million people who claim Irish ancestry at EPIC - The Irish Emigration Museum. Throughout 20 rooms div...

See More
Included in Trip

Top Rated Highlights

Top Rated Highlights The Custom House in Dublin, Ireland
Dublin City Tour

See Dublin's elegant Georgian squares, O'Connell Street and the Custom House with a Local Expert

Included in Trip

Top Rated Highlights

Day 2

Experience Irish history and on to Sligo

The beauty of an Irish country house springs to life at Strokestown Park House and Gardens. After soaking in its beauty, go from grand homes to history visiting the onsite Irish Famine Museum to delve into the stories of the 1840s famine. Learn the history behind the Irish Potato Famine, the most catastrophic event in Ireland and one of the worst famines in history. View rare 19th-century photographs, witness accounts, sketches, newspapers and maps before continuing to Sligo. In the evening, consider an optional cruise on the River Shannon and admire the rolling countryside of the emerald isle.

Stone Bridge over the river Shannon in Carrick-On-Shannon, Ireland
Sligo Park Hotel, Sligo View Hotel Details
Included Meals Breakfast, Dinner

Sligo Park Hotel, Sligo

About the Hotel

Sligo, Ireland

Hotel Amenities

  • Restaurant
  • Pool
  • Concierge
  • Room Service

Style

  • Hotel
Top Rated Highlights
Visit Strokestown Park House

This Palladian mansion of Strokestown Park House will inspire the mind of any curious traveler. This time capsule reveals an atmosphere of grandeur...

See More
Included in Trip

Top Rated Highlights

Optional Experiences River cruise in Shannon, Ireland

The longest river in the British Isles, the River Shannon is immortalized in songs and legends. Cruise this majestic river through the beautiful ro...

See More
Additional Cost Applies

Optional Experiences

Day 3

Journey to Westport and Galway

The seaside town of Westport on Ireland’s west coast will charm any traveler. Your Local Expert leads you on a walk to learn about the town's heritage – from its settlement 5,000 years ago to today. Continue to indulge your curiosity at Kylemore Abbey, a treasure trove of picture-perfect scenery and the oldest of the Irish Benedictine Abbeys. You could enhance your day with an Optional Experience, a Galway Walking Tour featuring the Lynch Memorial Window, Church of St. Nicholas, Spanish Arch and Eyre Square, dedicated to the late US President, John F. Kennedy. You’ll love hearing intriguing stories of this bustling medieval port followed by a traditional Irish pub dinner.

Choice Westport, Ireland
Connemara Coast Hotel View Hotel Details
Included Meals Breakfast

Connemara Coast Hotel

About the Hotel

Galway, Ireland

Set on the coast, the Connemara Coast Hotel offers spectacular views of Connemara and continues a tradition in hospitality dating back to 1839.

Hotel Amenities

  • Restaurant
  • Bar
  • Concierge
  • Room Service
  • Pool
  • Gym
  • Spa
  • 24-hour Front Desk

Style

  • Traditional
Top Rated Highlights Westport bridge in Westport, Ireland
Westport Orientation

Embark on an exploration of the town of Westport in a remote area of Ireland full of rugged beauty. Highlights of your walk may include Westport Ho...

See More
Included in Trip

Top Rated Highlights

Top Rated Highlights Kylemore Abbey, Galway, Ireland
Visit Kylemore Abbey

With a striking Victorian Walled Garden and turreted church, Neo-Gothic Kylemore Abbey is a sight to behold. Dig into the Abbey’s history, discover...

See More
Included in Trip

Top Rated Highlights

Optional Experiences Walking tour and dinner in Galway, Ireland
Galway Walking Tour with Pub Supper

Fascinating stories and interesting locals take center stage on your orientation of the historic heart of Galway. Visit the Lynch Memorial Window. ...

See More
Additional Cost Applies

Optional Experiences

Day 4

The Iconic Cliffs of Moher and Onwards to Killarney

Embark on an up close and personal encounter with Ireland's nature at the towering Cliffs of Moher. Perched at 700-feet, take in views of the Clare Coast and the pounding Atlantic. Gain insights into the cliffs’ geology and history before crossing the Shannon Estuary by ferry from Killimer to Tarbet. Head to Killarney where you’ll relive the highlights of the day over a Dine-Around evening of local cuisine. You also have your pick of Optional Experiences including a Celtic Steps performance or a Gaelic Roots show of song and dance.

Cliffs of Moher in Clare, Ireland
Great Southern Killarney View Hotel Details
Included Meals Breakfast, Dinner

Great Southern Killarney

About the Hotel

Killarney, Ireland

Stay at Killarney's Premier Historic hotel, Great Southern Killarney. Enjoy this Deluxe Victorian hotel, welcoming visitors since 1854, located in the Killarney town center on its own private gardens of six acres.

Hotel Amenities

  • Restaurant
  • Bar
  • Concierge

Style

  • Traditional
Top Rated Highlights View of the Cliffs of Moher, Bunratty, Ireland
See the Cliffs of Moher

Towering cliffs and the dramatic sea, the Cliffs of Moher has inspired countless travelers. Visit the Exhibition Center and look out over the Wild ...

See More
Included in Trip

Top Rated Highlights

Top Rated Highlights A lock on the Shannon river estuary of Limerick, Ireland
Shannon Estuary Ferry Crossing

Cross the Shannon Estuary by ferry. This large estuary is where the River Shannon flows into the Atlantic Ocean. 

 

Included in Trip

Top Rated Highlights

Authentic Dining Choose from a selection of venues on your Dine-Around Evening in Killarney, Ireland
Dine-Around in Killarney

Choose from a fine selection of local restaurants on your Dine-Around evening.

Included in Trip

Authentic Dining

Optional Experiences Music and dance show in Killarney, Ireland
Gaelic Roots

The origins of Irish culture spring to life over a tour de force of traditional Irish song, music and dance at this Gaelic Roots show. Using tradit...

See More
Additional Cost Applies

Optional Experiences

Optional Experiences Celtic steps in Killarney, Ireland
Celtic Steps

Enjoy a spectacular evening of Irish music, song and dance performed by champion dancers and musicians and showcasing the music of Kerry and beyond...

See More
Additional Cost Applies

Optional Experiences

Day 5

A Day on the Ring of Kerry

Famous for its 'forty shades of green', the Irish nature at the Ring of Kerry has inspired writers and poets for centuries. Drink in the beauty of the coastal drive lined with beaches, colorful seaside villages and views of the Atlantic Ocean. On an insightful MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience, meet John, a seaweed advocate and educator for a seaweed foraging walk. Embrace the landscape that has inspired poets, artists and writers.

Wild Atlantic Way in County Kerry, Ireland
Great Southern Killarney View Hotel Details
Included Meals Breakfast

Great Southern Killarney

About the Hotel

Killarney, Ireland

Stay at Killarney's Premier Historic hotel, Great Southern Killarney. Enjoy this Deluxe Victorian hotel, welcoming visitors since 1854, located in the Killarney town center on its own private gardens of six acres.

Hotel Amenities

  • Restaurant
  • Bar
  • Concierge

Style

  • Traditional
Make Travel Matter Ring Of Kerry Seaweed Farm Killarney, Ireland
Seaweed Foraging Walk

Meet John, a seaweed advocate and educator for a seaweed foraging walk at Atlantic Irish Seaweed. Stroll along the shore learning about how they wo...

See More
Included in Trip

Make Travel Matter

Top Rated Highlights A couple enjoying the landscape view of Ring of Kerry, Killarney, Ireland
The Ring of Kerry Scenic Drive

Venture into a world of towering cliffs, lush lakelands, beaches, fields dotted with sheep, rocky coastline, remote villages and historical sites, ...

See More
Included in Trip

Top Rated Highlights

Day 6

Venture to Blarney and Medieval Kilkenny

With Insight Choice choose to explore one of the icons of Ireland, Blarney Castle, the Witch's Kitchen and Wishing Steps gardens and, of course, the infamous stone – said to bestow the 'gift of the gab' upon whoever kisses it. Or, don’t miss your chance to amble the 1,500-acre grounds including the raised board walk, surrounded by water loving plants and waterfalls. The Carnivorous Courtyard features plants that with colorful, fluid-filled leaves while the Fern Garden features trees brought from the other side of the world that are survivors of the Jurassic period.

Blarney Castle and gardens, Blarney, Ireland
Included Meals Breakfast, Dinner

Kilkenny

About the Hotel

Kilkenny, Ireland

The stylish Hotel Kilkenny is located a short walk from Kilkenny city center and is the ideal base to explore all this charming town has to offer.

Hotel Amenities

  • Pool
  • Spa
  • Bar
  • Restaurant
  • Concierge
  • Room Service
  • Laundry
  • Spa with pool
  • 24-hour Front Desk

Style

  • Traditional
Insight Choice A stone house in the gardens surrounding Blarney castle, Ireland
Grounds Tour with Gardener

Your up close and personal encounter with the lush gardens of the Blarney Castle estate is brought to life on a guided tour with a senior gardener....

See More
Included in Trip

Insight Choice

Insight Choice Blarney Castle in Cork, Ireland
Blarney

It is said that those who kiss the Blarney Stone, the famous stone of eloquence, are bestowed with the power to persuade, flatter and coax. Take yo...

See More
Included in Trip

Insight Choice

Day 7

Return to Lively Dublin

12th-century Kilkenny Castle is full of curiosities dating back to when it was the principal seat of the butlers, earls, marquesses and dukes of Ormond. On your exploration of its vast parkland, learn how the castle was remodelled in the Victorian style and restored and updated several times before being formally taken over by the Irish State in 1969. Return to Dublin and finish your incredible tour with a memorable dinner at a traditional Irish pub.

Kilkenny Castle in Ireland
Camden Court Hotel View Hotel Details
Included Meals Breakfast, Dinner

Camden Court Hotel

About the Hotel

Dublin, Ireland

This 4-star hotel, officially rated by Fáilte Ireland (The National Tourism Development Authority), is conveniently located in the bustling City Center Dublin on the lively Camden Street, a mere 5-minute stroll from the tranquil St. Stephen's Green public park and Grafton Street, the primary shopping destination in the southern part of Dublin. The hotel offers a wealth of amenities designed to enhance your stay. For those seeking relaxation, the hotel boasts a health club, an indoor pool, and a spa tub. 

Hotel Amenities

  • Room Service
  • Pool
  • Spa
  • Laundry
  • Bar
  • Restaurant
  • Concierge
  • Foreign Currency Exchange

Style

  • Hotel
Insight Experiences Kilkenny Castle in Kilkenny-Ireland
Visit the Majestic Kilkenny Castle

Visit Kilkenny Castle with a Local Expert. On a guided tour, learn the history of this magnificent castle and that of the powerful family that came...

See More
Included in Trip

Insight Experiences

Authentic Dining Guests enjoying a Celebration Dinner
Dublin Dinner

Cross the River Liffey and venture to a local restaurant to toast your unforgettable travels over dinner. Sláinte!

Included in Trip

Authentic Dining

Day 8

Farewell Ireland

It’s time to close the chapter on an unforgettable tour of the Emerald Isle. We bid our newfound friends and Travel Director a fond farewell.

 

Belfast viewed across the Laggan Weir, Northern Ireland
Departure Transfer Arrive at the airport at  07:00, 09:00, 10:30
Included Meals Breakfast

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Special Departure

Special Departure

Included Highlights

Top rated highlights

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

Top Rated Highlights
EPIC - The Irish Emigration Museum

Embark on an interactive discovery of the 70 million people who claim Irish ancestry at EPIC - The Irish Emigration Museum. Throughout 20 rooms div...

See More
Included in Trip
Top Rated Highlights
Dublin City Tour

See Dublin's elegant Georgian squares, O'Connell Street and the Custom House with a Local Expert

Included in Trip
Top Rated Highlights
Visit Strokestown Park House

This Palladian mansion of Strokestown Park House will inspire the mind of any curious traveler. This time capsule reveals an atmosphere of grandeur...

See More
Included in Trip
Top Rated Highlights
Westport Orientation

Embark on an exploration of the town of Westport in a remote area of Ireland full of rugged beauty. Highlights of your walk may include Westport Ho...

See More
Included in Trip
Top Rated Highlights
Visit Kylemore Abbey

With a striking Victorian Walled Garden and turreted church, Neo-Gothic Kylemore Abbey is a sight to behold. Dig into the Abbey’s history, discover...

See More
Included in Trip
Top Rated Highlights
See the Cliffs of Moher

Towering cliffs and the dramatic sea, the Cliffs of Moher has inspired countless travelers. Visit the Exhibition Center and look out over the Wild ...

See More
Included in Trip
Top Rated Highlights
Shannon Estuary Ferry Crossing

Cross the Shannon Estuary by ferry. This large estuary is where the River Shannon flows into the Atlantic Ocean. 

 

Included in Trip
Make Travel Matter
Seaweed Foraging Walk

Meet John, a seaweed advocate and educator for a seaweed foraging walk at Atlantic Irish Seaweed. Stroll along the shore learning about how they wo...

See More
Included in Trip
Top Rated Highlights
The Ring of Kerry Scenic Drive

Venture into a world of towering cliffs, lush lakelands, beaches, fields dotted with sheep, rocky coastline, remote villages and historical sites, ...

See More
Included in Trip
Insight Choice
Grounds Tour with Gardener

Your up close and personal encounter with the lush gardens of the Blarney Castle estate is brought to life on a guided tour with a senior gardener....

See More
Included in Trip
Insight Choice
Blarney

It is said that those who kiss the Blarney Stone, the famous stone of eloquence, are bestowed with the power to persuade, flatter and coax. Take yo...

See More
Included in Trip
Insight Experiences
Visit the Majestic Kilkenny Castle

Visit Kilkenny Castle with a Local Expert. On a guided tour, learn the history of this magnificent castle and that of the powerful family that came...

See More
Included in Trip

About this trip

Personal radio headsets give you the freedom to wander during visits to famous highlights, without missing any of your Local Expert's fascinating commentary.
Hotel and restaurant tips are included - you'll never have to worry about how much to give, nor search for foreign currency. We also include all taxes and porterage charges at hotels.
We carry your bags for you and promptly deliver them to your hotel door.
From time to time, your Travel Director will delight you with an Insight Flourish, which is a local specialty representing the destination.
Stay connected with friends and family with our complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi (where available).
If your arrival and/or departure flights are as per the itinerary start and end dates, then transfers are available at scheduled times. If your flights are outside these times, or you have booked additional nights accommodation with Insight Vacations, you may purchase transfers or make your own way from/to the airport.

Authentic Dining

7 Breakfasts, 4 Dinners

Dine-Around in Killarney

Choose from a fine selection of local restaurants on your Dine-Around evening.

Dublin Dinner

Cross the River Liffey and venture to a local restaurant to toast your unforgettable travels over dinner. Sláinte!

Hand-Picked Hotels

Stay at highly rated hotels in desirable locations offering superb service, superior rooms with comfy beds to rest in.

Connemara Coast Hotel

Optional Experiences

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

Optional Experience

The longest river in the British Isles, the River Shannon is immortalized in songs and legends. Cruise this majestic river through the beautiful ro...

See More
Additional Cost Applies
Optional Experience
Galway Walking Tour with Pub Supper

Fascinating stories and interesting locals take center stage on your orientation of the historic heart of Galway. Visit the Lynch Memorial Window. ...

See More
Additional Cost Applies
Optional Experience
Gaelic Roots

The origins of Irish culture spring to life over a tour de force of traditional Irish song, music and dance at this Gaelic Roots show. Using tradit...

See More
Additional Cost Applies
Optional Experience
Celtic Steps

Enjoy a spectacular evening of Irish music, song and dance performed by champion dancers and musicians and showcasing the music of Kerry and beyond...

See More
Additional Cost Applies

Ireland

  • 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.

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Reviews
Service
Vacation
Independent Reviews
Lynn Mitchell
Review date: Monday, April 22, 2019
Service
Had a wonderful time, went to all the places I wanted to see, had great weather, very interesting and informative talks while traveling from Barbara, our tour group. Hotels were clean and the meals were delicious. Missed our flight out to the tour, Barbara was very helpfull in advising how to meet up with the group the following day.
Response from Grand European Travel:
We are sorry you were delayed arriving into Ireland, but so pleased you enjoyed yourself once you did arrive. Thank you for taking the time to write.
Wednesday, April 24, 2019
Vacation
Had a great time, brought lots of memories home with me
Anneliese Augustine
Review date: Sunday, September 30, 2018
Service
Service was excellent. Everything went smoothly. Great trip
Vacation
Enjoyed the trip and all that was included.
Karen Erisman
Review date: Tuesday, September 11, 2018
Service
the hotels were great as was the pub experiences and the food. I would have liked staying in a town more than so far out of several towns but I know that it is more expensive. I really enjoyed the time we had in Kilarney.
Vacation
We looked at several trips and felt we got the best of what wewanted to see with the affordable price of this trip!.
Trusted Customer
Review date: Sunday, September 9, 2018
Service
Wonderful trip
Vacation
Side trips were very fun. Great group of people
John Berry
Review date: Tuesday, July 3, 2018
Service
I would recommend this tour. A couple of more days would be nice. Guess I’ll have to go back for more castle and pub dinners and entertainment. Our guide Mike and driver Tony where the best,
Response from Grand European Travel:
How great to hear you thought Ireland was "magical and enchanting"! It certainly is a beautiful place! We're here when you're ready to go back!
Tuesday, July 3, 2018
Vacation
Lots of bang for the buck.
William Monken
Review date: Sunday, July 1, 2018
Service
Trip was very organized and well planned. Wonderful accommodations! Michael McClure was an excellent tour guide and Tony a great drivet!!
Vacation
Well worth the money spent.
Trusted Customer
Review date: Sunday, July 1, 2018
Service
I liked that I was able to continue a diologue with rep (Tess) for odds and ends
Vacation
It was reasonably priced, comprehensive, and easy to navigate.
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