Sober Curious | Ireland in a Week | Summer | 2025
Sober Curious | Ireland in a Week | Summer | 2025
8 Days Starting and ending in Dublin, Ireland
Visiting: Dublin, Wexford, Kilkenny, Clonmel, Blarney, Cliffs of Moher, Galway, Derry/Londonderry, Giant's Causeway, Belfast
Tour operator:
Tour code:
BBIRS20
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Age range:
18-35
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on a unique journey through Ireland and Northern Ireland with the "Sober Curious | Ireland in a Week | Summer | 2025" tour. This limited edition adventure invites you to explore the rich heritage and stunning landscapes of the Emerald Isle without the hangover. Begin in Dublin, where a warm welcome dinner sets the tone for a week of discovery. From the medieval charm of Kilkenny to the breathtaking Cliffs of Moher, each day offers a new experience. Enjoy yoga in a historic barn, kiss the Blarney Stone, and marvel at the Giant's Causeway. With visits to Galway, Derry/Londonderry, and Belfast, you'll delve into local culture and history, all while savoring traditional Irish cuisine. Conclude your journey back in Dublin, enriched by the memories of this alcohol-free exploration.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Dublin
Location: Dublin
Accommodation Name: Travelodge Plus Dublin City Centre (or similar)
Meals Included: Dinner
Céad míle fáilte AKA one hundred thousand welcomes, is what you get in this city packed with heritage and character. We'll kick off with delicious welcome dinner together then head out for a stroll around town.
Day 2: Dublin To Clonmel Via County Wexford And Kilkenny
Location: Dublin, Wexford, Kilkenny, Clonmel
Accommodation Name: Talbot Hotel Clonmel (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
That's us done with Dublin…for now. But fear not Dub-lovers, we'll get another taste of this fine place before our trip comes to an end. It’s been a few days of city hustle & bustle. But now it’s time to relax. Join us for a gentle yoga class before we grab lunch at a beautiful folklorish barn (with fairy lights and all…). One bicycle ride in this city, and you’ll be wishing you had Irish blood! We’ll explore the castle, a cathedral and take in all of the medieval charm that Kilkenny has to offer before we hit the road again. Guess what? Dinner’s on us tonight. And later in the evening, we’ll head off into town together and explore the cute little town of Clonmel.
Day 3: Clonmel To Galway Via Blarney And Cliffs Of Moher
Location: Clonmel, Blarney, Cliffs of Moher, Galway
Accommodation Name: Travelodge Galway City Hotel (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Clonmel, it's been fun, but we have to leave you now. Tonight, we're off to an Irish city that was propelled into the pop culture stratosphere by none other than Ed Sheeran. Anyone wanna guess where? Irish folklore tells us there's a chunk of limestone built into a castle that grants its kissers the gift of the gab. Pucker up kids, we're paying her a visit! Whether heights are your cup of Irish Breakfast or not, these impressive cliff faces are not to be missed! From the moment we arrive in Galway, you'll understand why 2 nights were needed here. Everything you've dreamed Ireland to be is tucked into this small, atmospheric city. We'll wander through the streets of Galway, soaking up every bit of this magical city and even grab a bite to eat on the way.
Day 4: Galway
Location: Galway
Accommodation Name: Travelodge Galway City Hotel (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Try your tongue at some Gaelic and carry on exploring gorgeous Galway. Or, if you hear the call of the wild, you can sign yourself up to a ferry ride to Aran Islands in summer where you can dance around with horses and take a bike ride around the picturesque farms, or head up to Dún Aonghasa (the ruins of a prehistoric fortress) - make sure you take photos, this area is not for the faint-hearted! Irish life, you so sweet.
Day 5: Galway To Derry/Londonderry
Location: Galway, Derry/Londonderry
Accommodation Name: Holiday Inn Express Derry (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Goodbye Galway, hello more Irish eye-candy. Here the 17th century walls stand at 8 metres high speaking of times gone by when this area was in battle. Times may have changed, but we're still keen to soak up the history and learn a thing or two from our wise Local Guide. What next? You can choose to meet a 4th generation shepherd at his farm for a rural Irish experience. Or even choose to head out for a Bogside walking tour. This day is as Irish as it gets!
Day 6: Derry/Londonderry To Belfast
Location: Derry/Londonderry, Giant's Causeway, Belfast
Accommodation Name: Ramada by Wyndham Belfast City Centre (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today we've got a one way ticket to Belfast and a whole lot more exploration to do. UNESCO World Heritage site of the Giant’s Causeway - also known as those giant rock columns you've probably drooled over on Pinterest, needs to be seen to be believed. Get those hashtags ready, a snap with the group is essential on the mind-blowing natural formation. Next up - we'll arrive in Belfast. Concluding the day will be a driving tour and an optional trip to the Titanic museum where the world's most famous ship was built.
Day 7: Belfast To Dublin
Location: Belfast, Dublin
Accommodation Name: Travelodge Plus Dublin City Centre (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
With one night left in Ireland and on tour, we're on the fast track to Dublin where our Irish fairytale first began. A promise is a promise. Here we are back in the city that started our Ireland infatuations. You’ve got a free afternoon to explore every nook & cranny of this cosy, cosy city. And if you wanna finish off with a bang, there’s a traditional Irish dinner waiting just waiting to be devoured.
Day 8: End Dublin
Location: Dublin
Meals Included: Breakfast
We leave Ireland today with leprechauns in our hearts and memories in our souls. Say goodbye at breakfast as it will be the last bite our crew has together.
What's Included
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Dublin Stroll
Join your Trip Manager for a stroll around Dublin's folklorish streets that lead you to castles, cathedrals, and museums.
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Yoga Session in Wexford
Relax and recharge with a gentle yoga session at a 250-year-old, family-owned barn.
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Blarney Castle Visit
Visit the medieval Irish castle and have the chance to kiss the Blarney Stone to get the 'gift of the gab'.
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Cliffs of Moher
Visit the rugged, photogenic Cliffs of Moher, famous for being featured in many films.
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Galway Exploration
Explore the cobbled streets of Galway, including Lynch's Castle and Eyre Square, with your Contiki crew.
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Derry/Londonderry Tour
Take a look around Ireland's only walled city, built in the 17th Century.
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Giant's Causeway
Visit the quirky natural wonder of Giant's Causeway, known for its unique rock formations.
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Belfast Tour
Explore Belfast with a local guide to see all the landmarks and learn about the city's history.
What's Not Included
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Electronic Travel Authorization
An Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) is required for entering or transiting through the United Kingdom and Northern Ireland from January 8, 2025.
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Alcoholic Activities
This trip does not include activities that revolve around alcohol, as it is a sober curious travel experience.
Mode of Transport
Travel through the scenic landscapes of Ireland and Northern Ireland with ease, as the tour provides seamless transportation between iconic destinations such as Dublin, Clonmel, Galway, Derry/Londonderry, and Belfast, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable journey.
Accommodation
Stay in comfort at the Travelodge Plus Dublin City Centre, Talbot Hotel Clonmel, Travelodge Galway City Hotel, Holiday Inn Express Derry, and Ramada by Wyndham Belfast City Centre, or similar accommodations, offering a cozy and welcoming atmosphere throughout your journey.
Dining Summary
- 3 Dinner (D)
- 7 Breakfast (B)
- 1 Lunch (L)
FAQs
- London: Travelling to (and through) the UK & Northern Ireland? You’ll need Essential Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA)From?January 8, 2025, UK law means that if you’re entering/transiting through border control in the United Kingdom (UK) and Northern Ireland you’ll need an?Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA)?before you travel. Confused? Don’t be – just read on here.
- London: What does a modular trip mean? A modular trip means fellow travellers will join and leave at various locations. There’ll be some goodbyes, sure, but there’ll also be plenty of hellos with new like-minded travellers.
- London: What does sober curious mean? Sober curious travel means you’re interested in trialling a trip that doesn’t involve alcohol. (AKA travel without the hangover). Instead of spending evenings drinking in the pub, you’ll take part in whole range of other activities with your crew.
- London: Do I have to be completely sober to join this trip? Nope, this trip is for people who are interested in drinking less alcohol & want to travel with like-minded people. You don’t have to live a completely sober lifestyle to join in.
- London: How will we fill our time? This trip offers most of the same Included Activities and Free Time Add-ons as our classic trips to Great Britain and Ireland - but you’ll swap those that revolve around alcohol for some extra special experiences (exclusive to our Sober Curious trips!) - all without stepping foot in a bar.
- Dublin: What currency is used in Ireland? When you’re in the Republic of Ireland (or just Ireland), the currency used is Euros. In Northern Ireland, you’ll have to use the British Pound.
- Dublin: What should I pack? Weather in Ireland varies between the seasons, and can be somewhat unpredictable. The Irish like to say that you can expect 4 seasons in one day! In summer we recommend packing comfortable shoes for walking, a light waterproof jacket and UV protection such as a hat and sunscreen. In winter, we recommend warmer clothes; comfortable shoes for walking, a thick waterproof jacket, beanie, scarf, gloves, and an umbrella as backup.
- Dublin: What will the weather be like? Depending on the time of year you decide to travel to Ireland, the weather can vary quite a bit. In summer you will typically find the driest and warmest days, with temperatures ranging from 13 degrees to 24 degrees, and longer daylight hours. Winter visitors can expect much colder conditions, with temperatures ranging from 2 degrees to 10 degrees, shorter daylight hours and higher likelihood of wind and rain. A common saying in Ireland is ‘If you don’t like the weather just wait five minutes’ as the conditions can change throughout the day.
Included Experience
- Dublin: Join your Trip Manager for a stroll around the Dublin's folklorish streets that'll lead you to castles, cathedrals and museums.
- Wexford: Relax & recharge with a gentle yoga session at this 250-year-old, family-owned barn. We'll finish off with a light lunch too!
- Blarney Castle: Your chance to kiss the Blarney Stone and get the ‘gift of the gab’. And to visit the medieval Irish castle.
- Cliffs of Moher: These rugged, photogenic cliffs have been the star of many films, including a Harry Potter one.
- Galway: Tread the cobbles of this well-loved Irish city with your new Contiki crew. You'll see Lynch’s Castle, Eyre Square and enjoy the vibes of this vibrant town.
- Derry/Londonderry: One for the history fans. Take a look around Ireland’s only walled city, built in the 17th Century.
- Giant's Causeway: Sure, rock formations may sound a bit dull on paper, but this quirky natural wonder has to be seen to be believed.
- Belfast: Hang with a local guide to see all the landmarks and learn about the city’s checkered history.
Check out our Q&As
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What does 'sober curious' mean in the context of this tour?
Sober curious travel means you're interested in trying a trip that doesn't involve alcohol. Instead of spending evenings drinking in the pub, you'll participate in a range of other activities with your group.
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Do I have to be completely sober to join this trip?
No, you don't have to live a completely sober lifestyle to join this trip. It's for people who are interested in drinking less alcohol and want to travel with like-minded people.
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What kind of activities can I expect on this tour instead of visiting bars?
This trip offers most of the same included activities and free time add-ons as classic trips to Great Britain and Ireland, but you'll swap those that revolve around alcohol for some extra special experiences exclusive to the Sober Curious trips.
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What currency should I use during the tour?
In the Republic of Ireland, the currency used is Euros. In Northern Ireland, you'll need to use the British Pound.
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What should I pack for the tour in terms of clothing?
In summer, it's recommended to pack comfortable shoes for walking, a light waterproof jacket, and UV protection such as a hat and sunscreen. In winter, warmer clothes, comfortable shoes for walking, a thick waterproof jacket, beanie, scarf, gloves, and an umbrella are advisable.
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What will the weather be like during the tour?
In summer, you can expect the driest and warmest days with temperatures ranging from 13 to 24 degrees Celsius and longer daylight hours. In winter, expect colder conditions with temperatures ranging from 2 to 10 degrees Celsius, shorter daylight hours, and a higher likelihood of wind and rain.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
In 1961, a guy called John Anderson founded Contiki in New Zealand. Whilst later bought by The Travel Corporation, the tour company had already been using the name ‘Contiki’ since its inception.
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
Contiki trips are designed & operated exclusively for those aged 18-35 years. Your travelling companions will be like-minded adventurers within that age range. The age range is adhered to strictly.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® is our commitment to protect people, wildlife and the incredible planet we all share. Powered by The TreadRight Foundation, a non-profit organisation and Contiki’s guiding hand when it comes to making travel matter.
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
All documentation will be sent via email around 21 days prior to your trip departure. You can also access information on your trip by signing up to My Contiki via the top right icon of the homepage.
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Saturday - Saturday
Aug 30, 2025 - Sep 06, 2025Book with Confidence
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Transfer as credit to Future Tours
Contiki allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform contiki, 60 days before departure.
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Low Deposit
Contiki requires a minimum deposit of 200 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of contiki charges.
Up to 61 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 25% of booking price.
At 21 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 7 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.
At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions