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Irish Experience

Operated by: Trafalgar

11 Days from $2,486 per person
APR - OCT 2023
Ireland Adarae Thatched Cottages Shops And Restaurants

Countries Visited

Ireland, Northern Ireland ...more Ireland, Northern Ireland

Locations Visited

Dublin, Belfast, Giant's Causeway, Londonderry, Belleek, Galway, Connemara, Cliffs of Moher, Lahinch, Killarney, Ring of Kerry, Blarney, Waterford, Kilkenny, New Ross ...more Dublin, Belfast, Giant's Causeway, Londonderry, Belleek, Galway, Connemara, Cliffs of Moher, Lahinch, Killarney, Ring of Kerry, Blarney, Waterford, Kilkenny, New Ross
  1. Day 1 Welcome to Ireland

    Embrace your playful side and discover the allure of the lively Irish capital - a small city with a lot of heart and yours to explore before meeting your Travel Director and fellow travellers this afternoon for a sightseeing tour with your Local Specialist. See the stately Georgian Squares and Trinity College before enjoying a Whiskey Tasting at a local distillery. The excitement will build this evening over drinks, good food and great company as your Travel Director gives you a taste of what’s to come.

    meals Welcome Reception
    hotel Mespil
  2. Day 2 Journey to Colourful Belfast

    Leaving the cosmopolitan streets of Dublin behind, we travel to Northern Ireland and the bustling city of Belfast, where you will have some free time to enjoy a spud for lunch or perhaps an Irish stew. Later, we meet our Local Specialist 'Cabbie' for an insider view of the city’s living history during a journey through its vibrant streets in a real taxi. We spend the rest of the afternoon at leisure, or perhaps join an Optional Experience.

    meals Breakfast
    hotel AC by Marriott
  3. Day 3 Venture to the Giant’s Causeway and on to Londonderry Dive Into Culture Make Travel Matter

    Dive Into Culture during a visit to the award-winning Titanic Belfast Experience. Gain insights into the tragic story of the Titanic and its passengers who lost their lives in the icy Atlantic. We leave the city behind us, travelling along to the Giant's Causeway for a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience as we walk in the footsteps of Finn MacCool. Our visit will help to conserve this iconic natural landmark. Take some time to admire the natural spectacle of 40,000 interlocking basalt columns before continuing to Londonderry, our home for the next two nights. Dine at your hotel this evening.

    meals Breakfast, Dinner
    hotel City
  4. Day 4 Discover Londonderry’s Past

    Join your Local Specialist for a walk along the 17th-century city walls and see the formerly turbulent Bogside neighbourhood, with its street murals depicting the history of the 'Troubles'. Spend a free afternoon walking along the pretty Foyle River or consider joining an Optional Experience to Inishowen Peninsula, with its rich history.

    meals Breakfast
    hotel City
  5. Day 5 Onwards to Scenic Galway Dive Into Culture

    We journey through the lush countryside to Belleek, where we'll Dive Into Culture and witness talented pottery craftsmen create the exquisite collectables that have graced homes since the mid-19th century. Arrive in Galway later, where we will stay for the next two nights.

    meals Breakfast, Dinner
    hotel Maldron Oranmore, Maldron Sandy Road
  6. Day 6 Connemara Excursion

    The rugged beauty of Connemara was captured in the film 'The Quiet Man' with John Wayne and Maureen O'Hara. Its loughs and mountains are yours to explore today during a scenic drive. We arrive at Kylemore Abbey later to visit the country's most romantic castle and ramble through the hidden nooks of its Victorian walled garden. Returning to Galway, we enjoy some free time to explore its imposing stone Cathedral or stroll through Eyre Square, which John F. Kennedy visited in 1963.

    meals Breakfast
    hotel Maldron Oranmore
  7. Day 7 Explore the Cliffs of Moher and Killarney Connect with Locals

    See the imposing UNESCO-listed Cliffs of Moher rising over 650 feet (200 m) above the pounding Atlantic and scan the horizon all the way to the Aran Islands to get the full view of the irresistible beauty of this special place. You’ll have an opportunity to visit the ‘Atlantic Edge’ exhibition which will bring to life this extraordinary natural phenomenon in a way that only the wildlife of the area get to see. Enchanted by the wild landscapes, you’ll continue along the Wild Atlantic Way to Connect With Locals and meet local horticulturalist, Oonagh, who’ll teach you how to forage before our Be My Guest visit to the Barrtra Seafood restaurant. Oonagh will reveal the importance of sustainable food experiences and you’ll learn how everything on your plate has been bought locally, perhaps inspired to buy local produce when you return home. The spectacular views of this dramatic coastline continue before you board a ferry across the tranquil Shannon Estuary river. Then, continue through County Kerry to your hotel in Killarney, where you'll have an evening at leisure or join in the craic at an optional Irish ceilidh.

    meals Breakfast, Be My Guest
    hotel Killarney Towers
  8. Day 8 A Day on the Ring of Kerry

    The soul-stirring landscapes of Iveragh Peninsula provide a mesmerising backdrop for our scenic coastal drive around the Ring of Kerry – an unimaginably beautiful natural setting. En route we will see Killorglin, famous for its annual 'Puck Fair', as well as Daniel O'Connell's Cahirciveen, the fishing village of Waterville, the Black Valley and Moll's Gap.

    meals Breakfast, Dinner
    hotel Killarney Towers
  9. Day 9 Off to Blarney, Waterford and Kilkenny Dive Into Culture

    Today you might acquire the 'gift of the gab', bending over backwards to kiss the Blarney Stone before we travel to Waterford. Admire the delicate creations of fine crystal during a visit to the House of Waterford Crystal where we will Dive Into Culture and witness a demonstration by master craftsmen. This evening, we arrive in Kilkenny with its imposing 12th-century castle, once the seat of the Butlers of Ormonde.

    meals Breakfast
    hotel Kilkenny
  10. Day 10 Through County Wicklow’s Countryside to Dublin Dive Into Culture

    After a morning exploration of Kilkenny, we depart for New Ross where we'll see the monument to John F. Kennedy, who visited his ancestral family hometown in 1963. Dive Into Culture and gain insights into the tragic plight of Irish emigrants during the potato famine of the 1800s on our visit to the nearby three-masted Dunbrody Famine Ship. Journey through the lush Irish countryside of County Wicklow, the 'Garden of Ireland', and back to Dublin where you’ll spend your final evening with travel companions sharing stories of your memorable journey through Ireland at a Farewell Dinner.

    meals Breakfast, Farewell Dinner
    hotel Sandymount Hotel, Clayton Cardiff Lane
  11. Day 11 Farewell Dublin

    It’s time to say a fond farewell to Ireland and newfound friends as you prepare to end your wonderful Irish experience. Find out more about your free airport transfer at trafalgar.com/freetransfers.

    meals Breakfast
Irish Experience Guided Tour Map
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 across the Shannon estuary
  • Optional Experiences and free time

Dining Summary

  • 1 Welcome Reception (WR)
  • 10 Breakfast (B)
  • 3 Dinner (D)
  • 1 Be My Guest (BMG)
  • 1 Farewell Dinner (FD)

Be My Guest

  • Lahinch: Go foraging with Oonagh and enjoy a delightful Be My Guest lunch at the O'Brien's homely Barrtra Seafood restaurant overlooking beautiful Liscannor Bay.

Dive Into Culture

  • Belfast: Experience Belfast from the comfort of your dedicated Black Cab with expert 'Cabbie' commentary.
  • Belfast: Discover the full story of the Titanic at the Titanic Belfast visitor attraction and monument in Belfast.
  • Belleek: See traditional craftsmen at work at the Belleek Pottery Visitor Centre, one of the oldest working potteries in the world.
  • Waterford: Learn how crystal is crafted at the House of Waterford Crystal during a workshop tour.
  • New Ross: Explore the tragic history of Ireland's famine emigration at the Dunbrody Famine Ship Experience, a replica of one of the original ships used in the 1800s.

Iconic Experience

  • Dublin: A Local Specialist will show you Dublin's elegant Georgian squares, O'Connell Street and the Custom House.
  • Londonderry: With a Local Specialist explore inside the city walls. See the Gothic Guildhall and the Georgian houses of Shipquay Street.
  • 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.
  • Galway: Explore the historic heart of Galway. See landmarks such as the Spanish Arch and the cathedral, or perhaps admire the distinctive Claddagh rings.
  • Cliffs of Moher: Stop by the Exhibition Centre and look out over the Wild Atlantic Way from these majestic cliffs.
  • Blarney: 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! Visit Blarney Castle and see the famous Stone of Eloquence.
  • New Ross: Visit the port town of New Ross. On the quayside, perhaps see the Dunbrody replica famine ship and statue of John F. Kennedy.

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, Belfast and Londonderry with a Local Specialist
  • : Discover Galway and Waterford
  • : Visit St. Patrick's Cathedral in Dublin, the Titanic Experience in Belfast, the UNESCO World Heritage site at the Giant's Causeway, Belleek to see how the famous pottery is made, Kylemore Abbey, the Cliffs of Moher, Blarney Castle to kiss the stone and gain the 'gift of the gab', the Crystal Showroom at Waterford and the Dunbrody Famine Ship in New Ross
  • : View the City Walls and Murals of Londonderry
  • : See Galway Cathedral
  • : Scenic Cruise across the Shannon Estuary
  • : Scenic Drive through Connemara and along the Ring of Kerry

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 across the Shannon estuary
  • : 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

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April 2023
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August 2023
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Aug 6 Sun
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Guaranteed Departure This departure is guaranteed
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$3,025
AARP Members Save up to $100
Aug 20 Sun
Aug 30 Wed
AARP Members Save up to $100
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$3,025 $2,571 Save $454
LIMITED TIME OFFER
September 2023
AARP Members Save up to $100
Sep 3 Sun
Sep 13 Wed
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Guaranteed Departure This departure is guaranteed
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$3,025
October 2023
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Oct 8 Sun
Oct 18 Wed
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Guaranteed Departure This departure is guaranteed
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LIMITED TIME OFFER
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.

Belfast

Available on Day 2

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

Londonderry

Available on Day 3

Dinner and Drinks in Londonderry

Join us and the the rest of the group for a cosy and relaxing evening of dinner and a drink in a locally-loved restaurant.
Adult Price: £ 47

Available on Day 4

Experience the Inishowen Peninsula

Enjoy a guided visit to the Inishowen Peninsula. This spectacular circuit will take you on a journey to the most north-western tip of Ireland. Here you'll visit Grianan Aileach, a circle stone fort which was the royal seat of the O'Neill clan, situated amongst spectacular views.
Adult Price: £ 21

Galway

Available on Day 5

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.
Adult Price: € 72

Available on Day 5

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

Killarney

Available on Day 7

Irish Ceilidh Evening

The Irish Ceilidh epitomises how music and dance were enjoyed in rural Ireland, especially on festive occasions. The craic - welcoming, jolly, fun and informal - is accompanied with plenty of food and drink. There's no more enjoyable way to understand Irish culture.
Adult Price: € 67

Available on Day 8

Experience a Jaunting Cart Ride

Enjoy a traditional pony and trap ride through the beautiful Bourn-Vincent National Park. During your journey, your Local Specialist will share fascinating anecdotes about the area and Ireland.
Adult Price: € 23

Available on Day 8

Kerry Farm Experience

Step back into the past, on a traditional Kerry Farm of the 1930's. We'll meet a local farmer who will show us around the farm yard and tell of times gone by. Enjoy mountain views of the Ring of Kerry as he demonstrates his skills at herding sheep with border collies.
Adult Price: € 22

Available on Day 8

Visit Muckross House and its Gardens

Come with us to Muckross House and its beautiful gardens. With a backdrop of oak-clad mountains, enjoy taking in the towering azaleas and rhododendrons, alongside the shores of the lake. The 19th-century house contains some wonderful examples of furniture and paintings, including a portrait of King James VI, for whom Shakespeare wrote Macbeth.
Adult Price: € 21

Kilkenny

Available on Day 9

An Afternoon of Irish Fun and Music (Craic agus Ceol)

Take advantage of this opportunity to learn about the ancient sport of hurling at a local pub. Moving outside, you’ll enjoy a live demonstration by village locals and even have a chance to try your hand at this game, said to be the oldest and fastest field sport in the world. Later, live music and a drink will greet you on returning to the pub.
Adult Price: € 29

Reviews
Service
Vacation
Independent Reviews
Patrick Thomas
Friday, October 28, 2022
Service
the tour director: Allan - and the bus driver: John were both first class people ! loved both of them
Response from Grand European Travel:
We are so excited to hear you enjoyed your trip to Ireland. Thank you for taking the time to write a review. We appreciate your feedback. Take care!
Wednesday, November 2, 2022
Vacation
tour director (Allan) was an Irish native and knew both the history and culture of Ireland - and the music too !
Shirley Shean
Thursday, June 16, 2022
Service
Outstanding experience
Response from Grand European Travel:
Well, it sounds like you had an awesome time on your Irish Experience tour. That's fabulous! Thank you for leaving a review. We appreciate it!
Wednesday, June 22, 2022
Vacation
Travel director was very knowledgeable and loved all her stories
Trusted Customer
Friday, September 24, 2021
Service
Booking was an easy process but I was booking with a friend and sometimes only one of us would get an email about our booking and then at times both of us would receive the information.
Vacation
The Irish Experience was a trip that gave me a great feeling for the country of Ireland and their history. Especially enjoyed the time spent in the North of Ireland. Shane was a great leader and Mickey did a great job of driving and getting us from place to place. It was a small group because of COVID but I would recommend this trip to anyone interested in seeing Ireland.
Trusted Customer
Wednesday, September 18, 2019
Service
They were very responsive, even at the last minute with an impending strike at Heathrow. They took action and rebooked our tickets that afternoon. Kaitlin Fitzpatrick was terrific and extremely helpful and patient with me.
Response from Grand European Travel:
That is just one of the benefits of booking your flights through us along with your tour. We will always be there to take care of any unforeseen issues. We're so glad the strike at Heathrow did not impact your trip. Thank you for sharing your feedback!
Friday, September 20, 2019
Vacation
We saw things we would never have seen on our own. Especially every "local leader optional" portion. It was well worth it. And every place we went to, even pit stops, were ready for us to arrive. Very impressive. Our leader, Bernard, was EXTRAORDINARY. My only surprise was 1) how very structured the tour was..I thought we would have a few hours a day on our own to explore 2) that the bus only had a "emergency" WC...that was challenging. It was actually much less expensive than I thought it would be.
Nancy Fifield
Wednesday, September 11, 2019
Service
The agent with whom I spoke was very helpful, available when I had questions.
Vacation
It covered a great deal of Ireland with very enjoyable extra excursions. The leader was very knowledgeable about everything and a very good group.
Kathleen Hoskins
Wednesday, June 5, 2019
Service
Answered all questions cheerfully and completely.
Vacation
I doubt that we will ever travel to northern Europe again in April. It was quite cold and windy in northern Ireland.
Larry Van Horn
Wednesday, October 10, 2018
Service
Excellent! I called several times with questions and got a pleasant helpful agent who answered all of my questions.
Vacation
Good value, but there are a lot good values out there.
Pamela Jorgensen
Wednesday, October 3, 2018
Service
Our guide was very informative, the downside to the trip were the hotels. All hotels were located out of the cities with two hotels not even in the city we thought we were staying in. A couple of hotels were shabby and run down, we were told they were 4 star, they were lucky to be one star. Due to the hotels it is unlikely we will book again
Response from Grand European Travel:
We are sorry to hear about your disappointment. Trafalgar does strike to provide convenient, clean and comfortable rooms for all their trips and it's important to know when those expectations are not met. We will share this with their quality control team right away and appreciate you bringing it to our attention.
Thursday, October 4, 2018
Vacation
i will not recommend get due to their hotel selection
Kim Bessler
Monday, August 20, 2018
Service
Trafalgar was great. We felt safe, had wonderful tours (much learning about Ireland!!), and great meals. A perfect vacation memory with my daughter!
Response from Grand European Travel:
We love making those perfect vacation memories! Thank you for sharing.
Tuesday, August 21, 2018
Vacation
Wonderful vacation with my daughter. Great food, tours, places to see, places to rest.
Maureen Holy
Thursday, July 12, 2018
Service
Our tour guide Allie was one of the best I have had on a trip. She was easy going, knowledgeable and she made sure we had fun. We thoroughly enjoyed our time in Ireland. Our driver, Mick, was also one of the best. He got us every where on time and with no worries!
Vacation
The trip was well worth the price paid.
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