Already Booked
Manage My Booking
-
AARP Members Save $100 AARP SAVE $100 on select vacations booked with us on select vacationsLearn More
Highlights of Ireland and Scotland
Already Booked
Manage My Booking
Highlights of Ireland and Scotland
Operated by: Trafalgar
11 Days from $3,105 per person
Locations Visited
Dublin, Galway, Connemara, Donegal, Londonderry, Belfast, Glasgow, Glencoe, Fort William, Scottish Highlands, Pitlochry, St. Andrews, Edinburgh ...more Dublin, Galway, Connemara, Donegal, Londonderry, Belfast, Glasgow, Glencoe, Fort William, Scottish Highlands, Pitlochry, St. Andrews, EdinburghBOOK WITH CONFIDENCE
BOOK WITH CONFIDENCE
✓ Lock in this trip with $250 deposit
✓ Refund Guarantee within 30 days of booking
✓ Flexible changes up to 60 days before your tour departs
✓ Lock in this trip with $250 deposit
✓ Refund Guarantee within 30 days of booking
✓ Flexible changes up to 60 days before your tour departs
-
Day 1
Hello Dublin
You’re in for a lyrical love affair with Ireland’s whimsical capital, your launch pad to an enchanting encounter with the 'Emerald Isle' and Scotland. On arrival, transfer to your hotel then spend the rest of the day exploring the city’s effervescence on your own. This evening, you’ll join your Travel Director and fellow travellers for a Welcome Reception. Resist the urge to retire early and head to the Temple Bar to soak up the craic and a pint or two of the ‘Black Stuff’ in one of the many colourful pubs for which Dublin is justifiably famous.
-
Day 2
Journey to Harbourside Galway
Poetry and politics, music and literature – Dublin is famous for all this and more as you’ll come to discover when you join a Local Specialist to delve into the city’s iconic sights, tumultuous history and even a few hidden gems. Tread in the footsteps of Arthur Guinness, James Joyce and Bono as you pound the cobbled pavements in search of Dublin’s many stories. Then, leave the capital behind bound for the harbour city of Galway, known as the 'City of the Tribes'.
-
Day 3
Admire Stunning Connemara Dive Into Culture
Connemara’s 'savage beauty' takes centre stage today on your full-day excursion through the endless shades of green which once captured the heart of Oscar Wilde. Visit Kylemore Abbey, a magnificent castellated structure built as a family home and now inhabited by a group of Benedictine nuns. Later, we visit the Connemara Celtic Crystal Factory where you'll Dive Into Culture and witness first-hand how their famous crystal designs are made.
-
Day 4
Onwards to Donegal Connect with Locals
Explore the quintessential Irish village of Cong and see firsthand why its rugged beauty was chosen as the backdrop of John Wayne's award winning 'The Quiet Man'. Connect With Locals at Ireland’s largest sheep farm, Glen Keen Farm, for a heart-warming Be My Guest experience with your hosts, Catherine, Jim and their son James. You’ll watch in deep admiration as the energetic collies herd sheep and enjoy a traditional tea of scones, freshly whipped cream and jam, gaining a deep appreciation for the family’s efforts to preserve Irish heritage and traditions. Then, continue to Donegal, the gateway to the Wild Atlantic Way.
-
Day 5
Venture to Londonderry and Belfast Make Travel Matter
Start your day with a visit to Londonderry where a Local Specialist will take you on a stroll along the ancient walls that surround the Renaissance-style old city. Follow the scenic Causeway Coastal Route through rolling countryside and past rugged cliffs to the Giant’s Causeway for a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience. Your visit will help to conserve this iconic landmark. You’ll have some free time to tiptoe in the giant geometric steps of Finn McCool and enjoy lunch before continuing to Belfast, your home for the next two nights.
-
Day 6
Discover Colourful Belfast Dive Into Culture
Explore Northern Ireland’s trendy capital today, starting with a visit to the Titanic Belfast Experience, where you’ll Dive Into Culture and gain insights into the tragic story of the famous ship that met its end in the Atlantic. Your Local Specialist will join you for a sightseeing tour through the city with views of the Belfast City Hall, Castle and Botanic Gardens. Take the rest of the afternoon to explore at your leisure, perhaps enjoying a pint in Belfast’s oldest traditional pub or visit St. George’s Market for some shopping or consider joining a Local Specialist 'Cabbie' who will take you on a journey through the recent history of Belfast in their taxi.
-
Day 7
Cross the Irish Sea to Glasgow
Bid Ireland farewell as you board your ferry to Scotland. Follow the rugged Ayrshire coast past Ailsa Craig, then continue to Glasgow, where you’ll enjoy an orientation of a city that exudes edginess. Take to the streets on your own exploration and see George Square, Glasgow Cathedral and the Clyde River before finding a cosy pub to warm your heart with a little local whisky and a night on the toon.
-
Day 8
Uncover Loch Ness and the Scottish Highlands
Sensational scenery follows your journey through the Scottish Highlands from Glasgow to Newtonmore. Loch Lomond sets the tone with views over the water to craggy Ben Lomond. Continue to Glencoe where the tragic 17th-century massacre of the MacDonalds turned the wild beauty of this valley into a 'Glen of Weeping'. Then, on to Fort William, the self-proclaimed ‘Outdoor Capital of the UK’ before arriving in Loch Ness, where you’ll keep a keen eye out for the beloved monster that lurks beneath its surface. Tonight, you’ll enjoy dinner at your hotel.
-
Day 9
Continue to Elegant Edinburgh Dive Into Culture
It’s never too early for a wee dram when you travel the wilds of Scotland. Your day begins with a visit to Pitlochry and to a whisky distillery where you’ll Dive Into Culture and learn how Scotland’s golden goodness is made. Continue to the home of golfing gods, St. Andrews. You’ll view its famous 18th hole before continuing to Edinburgh, your home for the next two nights. Tickets to see the spectacular Edinburgh Tattoo are included on departures that coincide with performance dates.
-
Day 10
Explore Edinburgh
Surrender to the charms of Edinburgh, one of the world’s most enchanting cities. Your Local Specialist will guide your sightseeing tour through its medieval Old Town to the elegant Georgian façades. See the Royal Mile and the Palace of Holyroodhouse before visiting Edinburgh Castle, perched atop Castle Rock. This afternoon, you’ll have some free time to explore on your own or get stuck into some last-minute souvenir shopping before joining your travel companions for a rousing Farewell Dinner to toast your memorable journey together.
-
Day 11
Journey Home
Imbued with Gaelic spirit, your holiday has come to an end. Bid your new friends a fond farewell as you prepare for your return journey home. Find out more about your free airport transfer at trafalgar.com/freetransfers.
Price Includes
Whats Included
- An expert Travel Director and professional Driver
- Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted
- All porterage and restaurant gratuities
- All hotel tips, charges and local taxes
- Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals
- Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras
- Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing
- Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)
- Ferry from Northern Ireland to Scotland
- Optional Experiences and free time
Dining Summary
- 1 Welcome Reception (WR)
- 10 Breakfast (B)
- 1 Be My Guest (BMG)
- 1 Dinner (D)
- 1 Farewell Dinner (FD)
Be My Guest
- : Uncover centuries of Irish heritage as you explore Catherine and Jim Power’s Glen Keen Farm, marvel at collies herding sheep and enjoy a traditional scone tea.
Dive Into Culture
- Connemara: Visit the Connemara Celtic Crystal Factory and witness master craftsmen bring these intricate crystal designs to life.
- Belfast: Discover the full story of the Titanic at the Titanic Belfast visitor attraction and monument in Belfast.
- Pitlochry: Warm your heart with a little Scottish whisky at a traditional distillery in the Scottish Highlands.
Iconic Experience
- Dublin: A Local Specialist will show you Dublin's elegant Georgian squares, O'Connell Street and the Custom House.
- Kylemore Abbey & Victorian Walled Garden: Visit the turreted Neo-Gothic Kylemore Abbey. This monastery was founded in 1920 for Benedictine Nuns who fled Belgium in World War I.
- Cong: Enjoy time as you wish to explore this delightful, quintessential Irish village, used as the location for 1952 film, 'The Quiet Man.' See the statue of the lead characters played by John Wayne and Maureen O'Hara, and the ruins of the Medieval Cong Abbey.
- Londonderry: With a Local Specialist explore inside the city walls. See the Gothic Guildhall and the Georgian houses of Shipquay Street.
- Belfast: Join a Local Specialist to hear about the history of the city and learn of its progress and current prosperity. See the murals in different locations indicating the political sentiments of local residents.
- Glasgow: See the grand public buildings of Glasgow, including George Square and St. Mungo's Cathedral.
- Scottish Highlands: Admire picturesque lochs and glens as you travel through the Scottish Highlands.
- Glencoe: Visit this Highland village on Loch Leven.
- Fort William: Near the foothills of Ben Nevis, stop in Fort William for a stroll along the charming High Street.
- St. Andrews: Visit the university town where the famous beach scene from 'Chariots of Fire' was filmed and see the golf course where the sport was created.
- Edinburgh: Explore the city with your Local Specialist as you travel along Princes Street to see the Scott Memorial, the neoclassical Adam facades of New Town and the official Scottish residence of the King, Palace of Holyroodhouse.
MAKE TRAVEL MATTER®
- Bushmills: In Northern Ireland you'll discover the legend of the Giant's Causeway as you explore with an expert, who'll explain how your visit helps conserve this iconic natural landmark.
Must-see Highlights
- : Explore Dublin, Londonderry, Belfast and Edinburgh with a Local Specialist
- : Discover Galway and Glasgow
- : Visit Connemara Celtic Crystal Factory, Kylemore Abbey, Westport, Donegal, Giant's Causeway, Titanic Experience in Belfast, Loch Lomond, Glencoe, Fort William, Loch Ness, a whisky distillery and Edinburgh Castle
- : View the 18th hole at St. Andrews
- : See Ailsa Craig
- : Tickets for the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo are included on departures that coincide with performance dates
Whats Included
- : An expert Travel Director and professional Driver
- : Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted
- : All porterage and restaurant gratuities
- : All hotel tips, charges and local taxes
- : Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals
- : Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras
- : Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing
- : Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)
- : Ferry from Northern Ireland to Scotland
- : Optional Experiences and free time
Dates & Prices
Prices shown are per person based on two people sharing a twin room. To request a personalized travel quote, click "Request Quote" and a Travel Specialist will send your custom quote including airfare if requested.
Online Booking Process
Financing from $/month
Optional Add-Ons
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.
Galway
Available on Day 2
Trad on the Prom
The best in Irish dancing from the most-awarded performers in Ireland. Combined with some of Ireland's best musical talent, this show is truly "can’t miss".
Adult Price: € 37
Available on Day 3
Galway Castle Banquet
Join us on a drive to Galway Castle where you'll begin your evening of medieval entertainment. This will be accompanied by a delicious dinner where wine will flow, and you’ll be treated to songs and the marvellous Irish art of story-telling. Please Note: this Optional Experience may operate on an alternative day, depending on availability. Dinner At Dunguaire Castle
Wine and dine in style at Dunguaire Castle on the banks of the picturesque Galway Bay. Enjoy an enchanting evening of light-hearted poetry and song, with extracts from Synge, Yeats and Gogarty.
Adult Price: € 72
Available on Day 3
Dinner and Drive
Watch the sun go down on Galway Bay (made famous in song by Bing Crosby), as we take a scenic drive to an established landmark village restaurant. In this quaint setting, a delicious three-course, locally sourced, dinner with a glass of wine or beer awaits us.
Adult Price: € 56
Donegal
Available on Day 4
Evening at a Locally-Acclaimed Restaurant
Travel through the lovely Finn Valley to the award winning village of Glenties, where we’ll dine at a village tavern with Irish fare and craft beer. While dining on locally-produced dishes, we’ll also enjoy music and storytelling.
Adult Price: € 55
Belfast
Available on Day 5
Belfast Walk with Fish and Chips
What better way to soak up the atmosphere of this lively city than to join a Local Specialist for a stroll through its hidden side streets? We'll have an included drink in a historic pub and continue to a local restaurant for a quintessentially traditional meal; fish and chips.
Adult Price: £ 41
Available on Day 6
Enjoy Dinner and Drinks in Belfast
Join us for an evening of drinks, good food and true Irish hospitality at one of our favourite local restaurants. One drink included.
Adult Price: £ 42
Available on Day 6
Local Taxi Tour of Belfast
A unique 2-hour tour experience with a local Taxi Driver who will share their personal story on what it’s like to grow up in Belfast, and the struggles and troubles that made this a divided city. See the neighbourhoods and murals that you wouldn’t normally see on a traditional Sightseeing Tour.
Adult Price: £ 25
Glasgow
Available on Day 7
Glasgow City Evening
You'll enjoy a chance to experience a night out in the city of Glasgow. Your Travel Director will take you for an evening of good food, drinks, and undoubtedly interesting conversation. Glasgow City Evening
Discover the vibrant character and joy of Glasgow as the city transforms at night, heading out on the town with your Travel Director for an evening of good food, drinks and unique experiences. Home to cosy bars, a famous live music scene and historic Victorian architecture; Glasgow offers a delightful mix of venues for travellers to explore.
Adult Price: £ 45
Loch Lomond
Available on Day 8
Loch Lomond Boat Trip
Discover the wild beauty of the 'Bonnie Banks of Loch Lomond'. As we cruise across the loch, the skipper will share stories of the area and point out Rob Roy's cave as you relax and savour the stunning scenery. Loch Lomond Boat Trip
Discover the wild beauty of the 'Bonnie Banks of Loch Lomond' as we set sail on one of Scotland's most impressive destinations. As we cruise along the loch, the skipper will share mystical stories of the area and point to landmarks, such as Rob Roy's Cave, as you relax and savour the stunning scenery. Lake Cruise
Enjoy a relaxing cruise around picturesque Loch Lomond - the largest stretch of inland water to be found in the British Isles. Settle with a complimentary cup of tea or coffee and enjoy the flawless natural beauty, while all the history and legend is brought to life by on-board commentary.
Adult Price: £ 17
Edinburgh
Available on Day 9
Scottish Show with Dinner
Tonight is your chance to put on that tartan and join us for an evening of singing, dancing and bagpipe playing. You’ll enjoy Scottish food and wine, join in the singing and watch a Highland dance or two. There's even a chance to sample Scotland’s national dish – haggis. Scottish Show with Dinner
Make your Scottish travel dreams a reality and join us for an evening of singing, dancing and bagpipe playing. You'll enjoy delicious food and wine, join in with singing, and watch a Highland dance or two. There's even a chance to tick an iconic experience off your bucket list as you sample Scotland's national dish, haggis. Scottish Dinner & Cabaret
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!
Adult Price: £ 72
Available on Day 10
Rosslyn Chapel
We’ll drive out of Edinburgh to the tiny village of Rosslyn, where we’ll hear the inside story of the famous Rosslyn Chapel from a Local Specialist. One of Scotland's most unusual 15th-century buildings, Rossyln is famed for its associations with the Knights Templar, the Masonic movement, and now 'The Da Vinci Code'. Rosslyn Chapel
We’ll drive out of Edinburgh to the tiny village of Rosslyn, where we’ll hear the inside story of the famous Rosslyn Chapel from a Local Specialist. One of Scotland's most unusual 15th-century buildings, Rossyln is famed for its associations with the Knights Templar, the Masonic movement, and now 'The Da Vinci Code'. Rosslyn Chapel
We’ll drive out of Edinburgh to the tiny village of Rosslyn, where we’ll hear the inside story of the famous Rosslyn Chapel from a Local Specialist. One of Scotland's most unusual 15th-century buildings, Rossyln is famed for its associations with the Knights Templar, the Masonic movement, and now 'The Da Vinci Code'.
Adult Price: £ 22
Available on Day 10
Royal Yacht Britannia
You’ll explore this magnificent ship, which has played host to some of the most famous people in the world. Now berthed in Leith, you’ll be welcomed on board to discover the heart and soul of this most special of royal residences – the former honeymoon sanctuary for four royal couples. Royal Yacht Britannia
Join us as we explore this magnificent ship, which has played host to some of the most famous people in the world. Now berthed in Leith, you’ll be welcomed on board to discover the heart and soul of this most special of royal residences – the former honeymoon sanctuary for four royal couples, including Prince Charles and Princess Diana. Royal Yacht Britannia
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.
Adult Price: £ 23
Reviews
Terms & Conditions
Click here to view Terms and Conditions for this guided vacation
Free Brochure
Order Your Free Brochure
Sign up to order your FREE travel brochure subscription and get exclusive offers only available to our subscribers
Request a Quote