Amazing Ireland
Amazing Ireland
Amazing Ireland
14 Days Starting and ending in Dublin, Ireland
Visiting: Dublin, Belfast, Giant's Causeway, Londonderry, Belleek, County Donegal, Knock, Galway, Connemara, Cliffs of Moher, Killarney, Blarney, Cork, Waterford, Kilkenny, New Ross
Tour operator:
Tour code:
IRMZZM20
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Cultural, Gardens & Nature Tours, History, Religion and Spiritual
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on the "Amazing Ireland" tour, a captivating journey through Northern Ireland's most iconic destinations. Begin your adventure in Dublin, exploring its vibrant culture before heading to Belfast to dive into the Titanic Experience. Discover the natural wonder of the Giant's Causeway and the historic city of Londonderry. Traverse the scenic landscapes of Donegal, Galway, and the Cliffs of Moher, and experience the mystical Ring of Kerry. Visit the renowned Blarney Castle, the Waterford Crystal showroom, and the John F. Kennedy Arboretum. Enjoy traditional Irish hospitality with a unique culinary experience at Glenealy House. Travel in comfort aboard a luxury air-conditioned coach, staying in cherry-picked hotels, and savoring daily breakfasts and select evening meals. This tour offers a perfect blend of cultural immersion, breathtaking scenery, and unforgettable experiences, making it an ideal choice for those seeking to explore the rich heritage and natural beauty of Ireland.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome To The Emerald Isle
Location: Dublin
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Maldron Kevin Street
Meals Included: Dinner
Embrace the warm welcome of the 'Emerald Isle' – its ancient heritage, legends and lore are yours to explore as you travel the length and breadth of this island and its tale of two nations. The charismatic capital of Dublin is your first stop on this epic journey, which begins as you join your Travel Director and travel companions for dinner.
Day 2: Onwards To Beautiful Belfast Dive Into Culture
Location: Belfast
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: DoubleTree by Hilton Belfast Templepatrick
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Belfast beckons today and you'll journey to Northern Ireland for some time at leisure in this vibrant city. Join a Local Specialist to view the historic murals splashed across the walls of the nationalist and loyalist areas, and see the City Hall. Dive Into Culture at the Titanic Belfast Experience and gain a new perspective into the world's most famous ship and the tragedy that befell it. This evening, dine at your hotel.
Day 3: A Day At The Giant’S Causeway Make Travel Matter
Location: Giant's Causeway
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: DoubleTree by Hilton Belfast Templepatrick
Meals Included: Breakfast
Visit the Giant’s Causeway for a memorable MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience, which will help to conserve this iconic landmark. Tread in the footsteps of Finn MacCool – his geometric Giant's Causeway is more the stuff of legends than the result of ancient volcanic activity which left its mark on the northern Irish coast. Admire the 40,000 interlocking basalt columns that fade into the sea. After a day of myths, legends and Hollywood blockbusters, consider tucking into an optional Fish and Chips dinner.
Day 4: Journey To Derry/Londonderry And County Donegal
Location: Londonderry
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Kee's
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Traversing Northern Ireland, arrive at the old walled city of Londonderry on the Foyle River, where you'll join a Local Specialist who will take you to its most iconic sights. Delving into the former struggles of the region, you'll visit the People's Gallery in Bogside to view its poignant murals. Journey to County Donegal later, where you will spend the next two nights. This evening, enjoy a tasty dinner in your hotel.
Day 5: Admire Belleek’S Famous Pottery Dive Into Culture
Location: Belleek
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Kee's
Meals Included: Breakfast
Explore the town of Donegal located at the mouth of the River Eske and Donegal Bay. Consider visiting the ancient Donegal Castle, once the stronghold of the O'Donnell clan. This afternoon, visit Belleek where you'll Dive Into Culture and learn about the locally made Irish pottery for which the region is famous.
Day 6: Pilgrimage To Knock And On To Galway
Location: County Donegal, Knock, Galway
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Maldron Oranmore
Meals Included: Breakfast
Continue to the pilgrimage town of Knock to visit the beautiful Marian Shrine where the Virgin Mary, Saint Joseph, and John the Evangelist are said to have made an appearance to the townsfolk in 1879. Complete the day's journey in Galway.
Day 7: Admire Stunning Connemara
Location: Galway, Connemara, Galway
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Maldron Oranmore
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
The untamed landscapes of Connemara, set against rugged mountains and tranquil loughs, provide a soul-stirring backdrop for your scenic drive to Kylemore Abbey. This Benedictine monastery, built on the grounds of Kylemore Castle, features a magnificent Victorian Walled Garden, which you will have an opportunity to explore before returning to Galway. This afternoon, spend your free time exploring Galway's vibrant Latin Quarter, striking stone Cathedral or the 18th-century Eyre Square. This evening, enjoy dinner at your hotel.
Day 8: Explore The Cliffs Of Moher And Killarney
Location: Galway, Cliffs of Moher, Killarney
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: International
Meals Included: Breakfast
Your sightseeing trip across the rugged beauty of Ireland continues as we see the spectacular UNESCO-listed Cliffs of Moher plunging into the wild Atlantic over 200 metres below. At the 'Atlantic Edge' exhibition, you’ll get an enchanting bird’s eye view of the nooks and crannies where colonies of Atlantic Puffin find sanctuary and go beneath the surface to explore the ancient rocks. The inspiring views continue as we journey along the scenic coastal route, through County Clare bound for Killarney. This evening is yours to spend as you wish, but perhaps we can tempt you with a bit of craic at a traditional Irish ceilidh to soak up the town's festive atmosphere.
Day 9: A Day On The Ring Of Kerry
Location: Killarney
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: International
Meals Included: Breakfast
Circle the mystical Ring of Kerry – among Ireland’s most enchanting landscapes along which you’ll have an opportunity to view the island’s stunning scenery. Travel through Moll’s Gap and take a moment to view the marvellous natural scenery at Ladies View. This evening is at leisure.
Day 10: See The Sights In Blarney, Cork And Waterford
Location: Killarney, Blarney, Cork, Waterford
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Waterford Marina
Meals Included: Breakfast
Your 'gift of the gab' secured after kissing the Blarney Stone this morning, you'll then venture to Cork to spend some time exploring the cosmopolitan city that rivals Dublin in its energy and charisma. Spend some free time visiting the famous food market or perhaps relax at one of the city's tearooms, indulging in fresh scones and tea. Your final stop today is in medieval Waterford where you'll spend the next two nights.
Day 11: Uncover The Treasures Of Kilkenny Dive Into Culture
Location: Waterford, Kilkenny, Waterford
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Waterford Marina
Meals Included: Breakfast
A leisurely start to your morning could see you amble along Meagher's Quay, before you visit the House of Waterford, where you’ll Dive Into Culture and witness the art of creating the exquisite crystal. Travel to the medieval city of Kilkenny, home to the world's fastest field game. The ancient Celtic sport of hurling is over 3,000 years old and Ireland's national sport. Meet an experienced player who will share his passion, as you test your skills during a lesson. Spend the rest of the afternoon on your own in Waterford.
Day 12: Venture To Wexford And Return To Dublin Dive Into Culture Connect With Locals
Location: Waterford, New Ross, Dublin
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Maldron Kevin Street
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Traverse beautiful County Wexford to the John F. Kennedy Arboretum – a peaceful retreat in New Ross with over 4,500 species of plants across 252 hectares dedicated to the former American president. Leave the enchanting outdoors behind and take a step back in time to the 1800s as you visit the three-masted Dunbrody Famine Ship. Dive Into Culture, gaining insight into the tragic plight of the Irish emigrants, who were compelled to leave their home during the potato famine and endured even harsher conditions than at home in the 'coffin ships' that took them to new lands. Join the Fulvio family and Connect With Locals over dinner at a Be My Guest experience featuring Irish fare with an Italian twist, served at their Ballyknocken Farmhouse near Dublin.
Day 13: Discover Diverse Dublin
Location: Dublin
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Maldron Kevin Street
Meals Included: Breakfast
Wander through Dublin this morning, joining a Local Specialist for a superb sightseeing tour that will see you view Trinity College and the magnificent Georgian Squares. Spend the rest of the day exploring the city on your terms. Indulge in a pint of the 'Black Stuff' at one of its many quaint pubs, admire the colourful performances on Grafton Street, or delve into its centuries-old history. This evening, let the rousing sounds of a traditional Irish cabaret tempt you for an Optional Experience that will have you dancing your way through the Dublin streets.
Day 14: Farewell Ireland
Location: Dublin
Meals Included: Breakfast
Your memorable journey through Ireland is at its end. All that’s left to say is slán abhaile to newfound friends as you prepare to depart for home.
What's Included
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An expert Travel Director and professional Driver
An expert Travel Director and professional Driver are included to guide and assist you throughout the tour.
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Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted
Accommodation in cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted, is included.
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All porterage and restaurant gratuities
All porterage and restaurant gratuities are included in the tour package.
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All hotel tips, charges and local taxes
All hotel tips, charges, and local taxes are covered in the tour.
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Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals
Daily breakfast and up to half of your evening meals are included.
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Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras
The tour includes must-see sightseeing and surprise extras.
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Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing
Audio headsets are provided for flexible sightseeing.
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Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)
Travel in a luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi or alternative transportation such as rail journeys.
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Ferry across the Shannon estuary
A ferry crossing across the Shannon estuary is included.
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Optional Experiences and free time
The tour includes optional experiences and free time for personal exploration.
What's Not Included
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International airfare
International airfare to and from your destination is not included.
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Travel insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended.
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Optional experiences
Costs for optional experiences that you might choose to participate in are not included.
Dining Summary
- 5 Dinner (D)
- 13 Breakfast (B)
Dive Into Culture
- 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.
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of transportation is provided during the Amazing Ireland tour?
The tour provides luxury air-conditioned coach transportation with Wi-Fi in most countries, and may include alternative transportation such as rail journeys. There is also a ferry crossing across the Shannon estuary.
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What type of accommodation can I expect on the Amazing Ireland tour?
The tour includes stays at cherry-picked hotels that are tried and trusted, ensuring a comfortable experience throughout your journey.
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Are meals included in the Amazing Ireland tour package?
Yes, breakfast is provided daily and up to half of your evening meals are included in the tour package.
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What cultural experiences are included in the Amazing Ireland tour?
The tour includes several cultural experiences such as visiting the Titanic Belfast Experience, exploring Belleek Pottery Visitor Centre, learning about crystal crafting at the House of Waterford Crystal, and understanding the history of Ireland's famine emigration at the Dunbrody Famine Ship Experience.
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Is there any special dining experience included in the tour?
Yes, there is a 'Be My Guest' experience where you will enjoy traditional Irish fare with an Italian twist at Glenealy House near Dublin, hosted by Catherine Fulvio and her family.
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What is the MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience on this tour?
The MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience involves visiting the Giant's Causeway, where your visit supports United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities.
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What optional experiences are available during the tour?
The tour offers optional experiences such as a Fish and Chips dinner after visiting the Giant's Causeway and a traditional Irish ceilidh in Killarney. Costs for these optional experiences are not included in the tour package.
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
The beauty of taking a guided holiday with us is that you’ll have the opportunity to meet and travel with people from all over the globe.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Vaccination against Covid-19 is not mandatory to travel with Trafalgar. However, we strongly recommend that guests are vaccinated before travelling. Please note that airlines and/or other authorities may have different requirements. It is the guest's responsibility to comply with these requirements at all times.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1947
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Trafalgar is a founding partner of the TreadRight Foundation, a not-for-profit organisation established in 2008. So far, the charity has donated more than US$2 million to help underprivileged communities and support sustainable tourism around the world.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
Reviews of this operator
Book with Confidence
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Transfer as credit to Future Tours
Trafalgar allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform trafalgar, 90 days before departure.
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Low Deposit
Trafalgar requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of trafalgar charges.
Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.