Irish Discovery

Irish Discovery

46K Views
9 Days From

$1847

$1588

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Breathtaking, lush landscapes combined with vibrant cities and historic attractions—all of this and more await you on this guided Ireland tour, including Northern Ireland. Starting and ending in Dublin, explore Ireland in depth and hear exciting stories of its rich history, legends, and myths. On an Ireland tour, you expect to see amazing scenery, and this tour does not disappoint. See the 668-foot Cliffs of Moher on Ireland’s west coast, offering breathtaking views of rugged cliffs dropping into the ocean. Join the Ring of Kerry, a 100-mile drive with sparkling seascapes and mountains dotted with brightly painted farmhouses. In Northern Ireland, visit awe-inspiring Giant’s Causeway, basalt columns formed millions of years ago by volcanic eruptions. On the amazingly green Dingle Peninsula—perched on Ireland’s westernmost tip and dominated by the range of mountains—enjoy one of Europe’s most dramatic drives passing seaside villages, ancient monuments, and views of the Blasket Islands. On this tour of Ireland, you’ll also visit some of its vibrant cities—including Dublin, Belfast, and Galway—and charming towns, including Killarney. Stop in Adare, founded in medieval times and known today as one of Ireland’s friendliest and prettiest villages and in Waterford, enjoy a guided tour of the House of Waterford Crystal, where you’ll see the highly skilled artisans at work in the production of this famous crystal. Visit Kilkenny, famous for its medieval architecture and Norman castle. In Northern Ireland, visit Derry, one of Ireland’s best-preserved fortified cities, and Downpatrick, burial place of Ireland’s Patron Saint. This value-minded tour through Ireland is a dream vacation! ...more ...less

Highlights

  • Breathtaking lush landscapes combined with vibrant cities and historic attractions in Ireland and Northern Ireland

  • Visit to the awe-inspiring Giant’s Causeway formed millions of years ago by volcanic eruptions

  • Exploration of vibrant cities including Dublin Belfast and Galway and charming towns like Killarney

  • Visit to Derry one of Ireland’s best-preserved fortified cities

  • Exploration of Downpatrick burial place of Ireland’s Patron Saint

  • Scenic drives through the Ring of Kerry for coastal panoramic views

  • Visit to the Cliffs of Moher offering spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean

  • Guided tour of the House of Waterford Crystal

Places You'll See

The Bonnington Dublin Hotel

The Bonnington Dublin Hotel

Leonardo Hotel Belfast

Leonardo Hotel Belfast

Southern Hotel Sligo

Southern Hotel Sligo

Greenhills Hotel

Greenhills Hotel

The Parkavon Hotel

The Parkavon Hotel

Killarney Court Hotel

Killarney Court Hotel

Majestic Hotel

Majestic Hotel

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Arrive In Dublin,Ireland

Location: Dublin

Check into your hotel. At 3 pm, meet your Tour Director and travel companions for an afternoon orientation drive through statue-lined O’Connell Street and elegant Georgian squares to St. Patrick’s Cathedral and Trinity College. Raise a glass this evening with an optional excursion to learn about the history, traditions, and brewing techniques behind one of the world's most popular beers on this fascinating tour, tasting and dinner at Dublin's legendary Guinness Storehouse. ...more ...less

Day 2: Dublin,Downpatrick,Northern Ireland,Belfast

Location: Dublin, Downpatrick, Belfast

Meals Included: Breakfast

On your northbound route today, pass Drogheda, scene of the Battle of the Boyne in 1690, then through the fertile landscape of the Boyne Valley, known for its prehistoric passage graves. Cross the border into Northern Ireland, and drive past the Mountains of Mourne to Downpatrick, the burial place of Patrick, Ireland’s Patron Saint, and on to the vibrant city of Belfast, where the Titanic was built. Later, why not join a Local Guide on a “living history” tour, including a visit to the fascinating Titanic Belfast Experience? Get to know the real Belfast with a Local Guide on a “living history” tour that ends at the award-winning Titanic Belfast Experience. Today’s Distance: 125 mi/ 202 km

Day 3: Belfast,Giant’S Causeway,Derry,Donegal,Ireland,Sligo

Location: Giant's Causeway, Derry, Donegal, Sligo

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

First stop this morning is awe-inspiring Giant’s Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Then, let the province’s story unfold as you head for the city of Derry before returning to the Republic to visit Donegal, the ancient town founded by Danish Vikings and home of the O’Donnell Clan. Drive along Donegal Bay with its small fishing ports and hidden beaches before arriving in Sligo.Today’s Distance: 197 mi/ 316 km

Day 4: Sligo,Galway,Cliffs Of Moher,Limerick

Location: Sligo, Galway, Cliffs of Moher, Limerick

Meals Included: Breakfast

Travel farther south to Galway, a popular seaside destination and a buzzing cosmopolitan district with vibrant shops, and a busy café and bar culture. Cross the limestone plateau of The Burren to visit the spectacular 668-foot Cliffs of Moher. Go medieval with an optional outing in an original Irish castle to enjoy a medieval banquet. Enjoy a 4-course feast with wine, then relax as your medieval hosts dazzle you with unforgettable music and storytelling.Today’s Distance: 181 mi/ 290 km

Day 5: Limerick,Adare,Dingle Peninsula,Killarney

Location: Adare, Dingle Peninsula, Killarney

Meals Included: Breakfast

Start your day with a stroll through Adare, a village known for its prize-winning thatched cottages. Then, take in the breathtaking scenery of the Dingle Peninsula, where the 32-mile Slea Head drive affords magnificent vistas of the Atlantic Ocean. See the Blasket Islands and hear about the way of life and unique literary achievements of its inhabitants prior to their evacuation in 1953. The next two nights are spent in the popular resort of Killarney. Today’s Distance: 156 mi/ 253 km

Day 6: Killarney. Ring Of Kerry Excursion

Location: Killarney

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

At Killorglin, join the Ring of Kerry for a 100-mile coastal panoramic drive featuring sparkling seascapes, mountains dotted with brightly painted farmhouses, winding lanes bordered with subtropical vegetation, and spectacular views of the Lakes of Killarney from Ladies View. Back in Killarney, climb aboard a delightful horse-drawn jaunting car ride for an optional through Killarney National Park to legendary Ross Castle on the shores of Lough Leane.Today’s Distance: 100 mi/ 160 km

Day 7: Killarney,Blarney,Waterford,Tramore

Location: Killarney, Blarney, Waterford, Tramore

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

More scenic beauty as you head over the Kerry Mountains into County Cork. Stop in Blarney, famous for its Stone of Eloquence, with time at your leisure to see the castle and shop for Irish crafts and handmade crystal. After lunch, drive past Cork, the country’s second-largest city on the way to Waterford, where a guided tour of the House of Waterford Crystal is included. Spend the night at the nearby seaside resort of Tramore. Enjoy a bit of craic (conversation) with an early evening optional of authentic Irish local favor. Take a scenic drive to a traditional pub with a local musician ready to entertain you and give you wonderful memories of this beautiful country. Two drinks of your choice are included.Today’s Distance: 142 mi/ 229 km

Day 8: Tramore,Kilkenny,Dublin

Location: Tramore, Kilkenny, Dublin

Meals Included: Breakfast

On the last leg of your journey on the way to Dublin, visit Kilkenny to wander the Medieval Mile and learn about its Norman heritage. An optional Irish cabaret evening, including dinner, dance, song, and laughter would be an exciting finale to your vacation. Toast your last night in Ireland at the legendary Taylors Irish Cabaret, featuring a delicious dinner, drinks, and outstanding Irish music, dance, and comedy.Today’s Distance: 120 mi/ 193 km

Day 9: Dublin

Location: Dublin

Meals Included: Breakfast

Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning.

What's Included

  • Accommodation

  • Fully Guided

    Cosmos Tour Director.

  • Meals

    As detailed in the itinerary

  • Guided Sightseeing

    As detailed in the itinerary

  • Transport

    Private, first-class, air-conditioned motorcoach with free Wi-Fi

What's Not Included

  • Airport Transfers at Destination

  • International Travel

    Flights/travel to/from the UK for start & end of tour

  • Optional

    Any sightseeing noted as being an optional excursion

  • TIpping & Gratuities

Meals

Full Irish breakfast daily; 3 three-course dinners with choice of menus

UNESCO Sites

Giant?s Causeway and Causeway Coast

Accommodation

Dublin:The Bonnington Dublin Hotel
Belfast:Leonardo Hotel Belfast
Sligo:Southern Hotel Sligo
Limerick:Greenhills Hotel
Killarney:The Parkavon Hotel
Killarney:Killarney Court Hotel
Tramore:Majestic Hotel

Check out our Q&As

  • What is the maximum group size?

    Usually max 43 people

  • Will there be an escort accompanying this tour?

    Yes

  • Are children permitted to take part in the tour?

    Yes, 5 years or above

  • Are the local guides on the tour English speaking?

    Yes

  • Is there a limit to luggage that can be brought on the tour?

    Due to limited coach capacity, we only allow one suitcase per person. Your bag should have dimensions not exceeding 30"x21"x11" (62" linear dimensions) or weight exceeding 50 lbs. Carry-on bags should not exceed the dimensions of 12"x11"x6

  • What is the fitness level required to do this tour?

    Low

  • Are airport transfers included in this tour?

    No

  • Is there any free time to explore places during the tour?

    As detailed in the itinerary

  • Will I know the names and details of all the accommodation before I depart?

    Yes.

  • Is the tour coach air conditioned?

    Yes.

  • Are flights included in this tour?

    Intra-vacation flights & Taxes

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Since 1961

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    Cosmos is committed to minimizing our impact on the environment and to reducing dependence on non-renewable resources. In this endeavor, we have implemented policies to support this mission and are working carefully to enhance our products with this mission and our values combined. We are committed to complying with all relevant legislation and/or regulations.

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    Travel documents, including any air tickets, itineraries, and other information, are available approximately two to three weeks prior to departure provided full payment has been received.

  • What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

    All guests are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 for travel through February, 2023. Beginning March 1, 2023, while we highly recommend vaccination, we will no longer require it. We ask all guests to comply with airline and destination requirements, which still may apply. To check your destination requirements for your travel dates, view the Latest Travel & Health Restrictions for Travel.

Reviews of this operator

Mrs Susan Hyland  

We have just returned from a Cosmos…

28-Sep-2022

We have just returned from a Cosmos tour- Gourmet Tuscany. We stayed in Montecatini Terme and traveled from there to many wonderful places, in towns and the fabulous Tuscan countryside. We visit Vineyards for wine tastings, farms for cooking lessons and lunches and dinners in authentic Italian restaurants. All assisted by a friendly, informative tour director. First class holiday ...more ...less

Trustpilot
Rick  

Excellent in every respect

08-Dec-2022

I recently did a 2-week "best of Italy" tour with this company. Our guide, Daniella, was fantastic, the itinerary was excellent and they catered for my rather difficult dietary requirements really well. Really happy and will certainly book with them again ...more ...less

Trustpilot
John Lomanno  

A wonderrful experience

09-Nov-2022

WE saw so much. The tour director Mladin was very knowledgeable and made the experience so enjoyable. The bus driver Paul was so nice and helpful. A couple of the hotels had no refrigerators to keep the water cold. We had to carry our own luggage to and from the rooms. There should have been porters to help us. Over all we had a great time. ...more ...less

Trustpilot
Bruce  

Old South &Florida tour

27-Oct-2022

Great organisation, tour guide(Kris) and driver(Tony) who went extra mile and good group of people from all over world. The hotels were excellent in New Orleans and Nashville and very good in other cities. The itinerary was well thought out with visits to Gracelands and Grande ole Oprey topping the bill. We added 3extra nights in New Orleans (giving us 6nights) which was absolutely fab and would advise anyone doing this tour that they consider some extra nights to see and do as much as you can ...more ...less

Trustpilot
Francine Ramos  

The tour director expertise and…

18-Dec-2022

The tour director expertise and personality made the trip all the more pleasant. No stress. The local guides as well added to the beauty of this trip. They were knowledgeable and personable. I also have to mention the travelers (the group of 21). The people were friendly an accommodating. This is my third trip with this tour company and I will continue to travel with this company due to excellent planning and customer service. Thank you ...more ...less

Trustpilot

1 Select your preferred date

Thursday - Friday

Oct 01, 2026 - Oct 09, 2026
$2234 $1976 (USD)

Operator discount: -$258 (USD)

Sunday - Monday

Oct 04, 2026 - Oct 12, 2026
$2131 $1873 (USD)

Operator discount: -$258 (USD)

Thursday - Friday

Oct 08, 2026 - Oct 16, 2026
$2234 $1976 (USD)

Operator discount: -$258 (USD)

Sunday - Monday

Oct 11, 2026 - Oct 19, 2026
$2041 $1782 (USD)

Operator discount: -$258 (USD)

Thursday - Friday

Oct 15, 2026 - Oct 23, 2026
$2234 $1976 (USD)

Operator discount: -$258 (USD)

Sunday - Monday

Oct 18, 2026 - Oct 26, 2026
$1937 $1679 (USD)

Operator discount: -$258 (USD)

Sunday - Monday

Oct 25, 2026 - Nov 02, 2026
$1847 $1588 (USD)

Operator discount: -$258 (USD)

Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    Cosmos 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.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of cosmos charges.

    Up to 91 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 90 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 80% of booking price.

    At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

Irish Discovery

9 Days Starting and ending in Dublin, Ireland

Visiting: Dublin, Downpatrick, Belfast, Giant's Causeway, Derry, Donegal, Sligo, Galway, Cliffs of Moher, Limerick, Adare, Dingle Peninsula, Killarney, Blarney, Waterford, Tramore, Kilkenny ...more ...less

Tour operator:

Cosmos

Tour code:

9200-2025

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Physical rating:

Low

Special diets catered:

Vegetarians

Tour operated in:

English

Activities:

Sightseeing

From: $1847 $1588 (USD) Operator discount: -$258 -14%

NB: Prices correct on 27-Mar-2025 but subject to change.