Highlights of Ireland and Scotland
Highlights of Ireland and Scotland
$4175
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey through the enchanting landscapes of Ireland and Scotland with the "Highlights of Ireland and Scotland" tour. Begin your adventure in Dublin, exploring its vibrant culture before heading to the charming city of Galway. Discover the rugged beauty of Connemara and the historic village of Cong, where you'll enjoy a traditional tea at Glen Keen Farm. Experience the awe-inspiring Giant's Causeway and the Titanic Belfast Experience in Northern Ireland. Cross the Irish Sea to Scotland, where you'll explore the dynamic city of Glasgow, the mystical Loch Ness, and the breathtaking Scottish Highlands. Conclude your journey in Edinburgh, with its rich history and stunning architecture. This tour offers a perfect blend of cultural immersion, iconic landmarks, and local experiences, ensuring a memorable exploration of these captivating regions. Enjoy the comfort of cherry-picked hotels, expert guidance, and the convenience of luxury transportation throughout your adventure. ...more ...less
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Hello Dublin
Location: Dublin, EPIC - The Irish Emigration Museum, Temple Bar
Accommodation: Hampton by Hilton Dublin City Center.
Accommodation Name: Hampton by Hilton Dublin City Center
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 sees you visiting EPIC - The Irish Emigration Museum, for some drinks and canapes. Resist the urge to retire early and head to the Temple Bar to soak up the craic in one of the many colorful pubs for which Dublin is justifiably famous.
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Day 2: Journey to Harborside Galway
Location: Dublin, Galway
Accommodation: Maldron Sandy Road
Accommodation Name: Maldron Sandy Road
Meals Included: Breakfast
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 Dublin’s tumultuous history and see some iconic sights including Guinness Storehouse and St Patrick's Cathedral. Then, leave the capital behind bound for the harbor city of Galway, known as the 'City of Tribes'.
Day 3: Admire Stunning Connemara Dive Into Culture
Location: Connemara, Kylemore Abbey
Accommodation: Maldron Sandy Road
Accommodation Name: Maldron Sandy Road
Meals Included: Breakfast
Connemara’s 'savage beauty' takes center 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
Location: Cong, Glen Keen Farm, Donegal
Accommodation: Central, The Abbey Hotel
Accommodation Name: The Abbey Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
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'. Meet the 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 Derry/Londonderry and Belfast Make Travel Matter
Location: Londonderry, Giant's Causeway, Belfast
Accommodation: AC by Marriott
Accommodation Name: AC by Marriott
Meals Included: Breakfast
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. 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 Colorful Belfast Dive Into Culture
Location: Belfast, Titanic Belfast
Accommodation: AC by Marriott
Accommodation Name: AC by Marriott
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today, join a Local Specialist for a sightseeing tour of Northern Ireland’s trendy capital. Visit 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. Then, at the Titantic Distillery enjoy a whiskey tasting and learn how Ireland's golden goodness is made. Take the rest of the afternoon to explore at your leisure, perhaps enjoying a pint in Belfast’s oldest traditional pub or visit Victoria Square 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
Location: Belfast, Ailsa Craig, Glasgow, George Square, Glasgow, Glasgow Cathedral, Glasgow, Clyde River, Glasgow
Accommodation: Maldron
Accommodation Name: Maldron
Meals Included: Breakfast
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 cozy 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
Location: Glasgow, Loch Lomond, Glencoe, Fort William, Loch Ness
Accommodation: Highlander
Accommodation Name: Highlander
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
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
Location: St. Andrews, Edinburgh
Accommodation: Novotel Edinburgh Park
Accommodation Name: Novotel Edinburgh Park
Meals Included: Breakfast
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 The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo are included on departures that align with performance dates.
Day 10: Explore Edinburgh
Location: Edinburgh, Palace of Holyroodhouse, Royal Mile, Edinburgh Castle
Accommodation: Novotel Edinburgh Park
Accommodation Name: Novotel Edinburgh Park
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Surrender to the charms of Edinburgh, one of the world’s most enchanting cities. Your Local Specialist will guide your sightseeing tour through the New Town and its elegant Georgian façades to the medieval Old Town where you'll see the Palace of Holyroodhouse and the Royal Mile. Afterwards, enjoy the day to explore on your own or get stuck into some last-minute souvenir shopping before visiting Edinburgh Castle, perched atop Castle Rock. This evening joining your travel companions for a rousing dinner to toast your memorable journey together.
Day 11: Journey Home
Location: Edinburgh
Meals Included: Breakfast
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.
What's Included
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Expert Travel Director and Professional Driver
An expert Travel Director and professional Driver are included in the tour.
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Cherry-picked Hotels
Stay in cherry-picked hotels that are all tried and trusted.
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Porterage and Gratuities
All porterage and restaurant gratuities are included.
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Hotel Tips and Taxes
All hotel tips, charges, and local taxes are covered.
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Sightseeing and Extras
Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras are part of the tour.
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Audio Headsets
Audio headsets are provided for flexible sightseeing.
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Luxury Coach
Travel in a luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation such as rail journeys.
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Ferry from Northern Ireland to Scotland
The ferry from Northern Ireland to Scotland is included.
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Optional Experiences and Free Time
Optional experiences and free time are part of the itinerary.
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Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo Tickets
Tickets for the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo are included on departures that coincide with performance dates.
What's Not Included
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs and additional activities not listed in the itinerary are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended for all travelers.
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Flights
International and domestic flights to and from the tour start and end locations are not included.
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Meals Not Specified
Meals not specified in the itinerary are not included.
Mode of Transport
Travel in style with a luxury air-conditioned coach equipped with Wi-Fi, and enjoy a scenic ferry ride from Northern Ireland to Scotland, ensuring a comfortable and connected journey throughout your adventure.
Accommodation
Enjoy your stay at cherry-picked hotels such as Hampton by Hilton Dublin City Center, Maldron Sandy Road, The Abbey Hotel, AC by Marriott, and Novotel Edinburgh Park, all tried and trusted for comfort and convenience.
Dining Summary
- 10 Breakfast (B)
- 1 Lunch (L)
- 2 Dinner (D)
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.
- Belfast: Warm your heart with a little Irish whiskey at a the Titanic Distillery.
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.
- Scottish Highlands: Admire picturesque lochs and glens as you travel through the Scottish Highlands.
- Glencoe: Drive through 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.
Check out our Q&As
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What unique experiences are included in the tour?
The tour includes a visit to the EPIC - The Irish Emigration Museum in Dublin, a full-day excursion through Connemara, a visit to the Connemara Celtic Crystal Factory, and a Be My Guest experience at Glen Keen Farm in Cong. Additionally, there is a visit to the Titanic Belfast Experience and a whiskey tasting at the Titanic Distillery in Belfast. ...more ...less
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What cultural activities are part of the itinerary?
Cultural activities include exploring Dublin with a Local Specialist, visiting Kylemore Abbey, and experiencing the Titanic Belfast visitor attraction. The tour also includes a visit to the Connemara Celtic Crystal Factory to see master craftsmen at work, and a whiskey tasting at the Titanic Distillery. ...more ...less
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Are there any special events included in the tour?
Tickets for The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo are included on departures that coincide with performance dates.
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What kind of local interactions can I expect on this tour?
You will have a Be My Guest experience at Glen Keen Farm in Cong, where you can meet the locals, watch collies herding sheep, and enjoy a traditional tea. Additionally, there are opportunities to interact with Local Specialists in Dublin, Londonderry, and Belfast.
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What are some of the scenic highlights of the tour?
Scenic highlights include the Causeway Coastal Route, the Giant’s Causeway, the Scottish Highlands, Loch Lomond, Glencoe, and Loch Ness. You will also see the famous 18th hole at St. Andrews and the picturesque lochs and glens of the Scottish Highlands.
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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
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Book with Confidence
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Low Deposit
Trafalgar requires a minimum deposit of 350 USD 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 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.
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Terms and Conditions
Highlights of Ireland and Scotland
11 Days Starting in Dublin, Ireland and ending in Edinburgh, United Kingdom
Visiting: Dublin, EPIC - The Irish Emigration Museum, Temple Bar, Galway, Connemara, Kylemore Abbey, Cong, Glen Keen Farm, Donegal, Londonderry, Giant's Causeway, Belfast, Titanic Belfast, Ailsa Craig, Glasgow, George Square, Glasgow, Glasgow Cathedral, Glasgow, Clyde River, Glasgow, Loch Lomond, Glencoe, Fort William, Loch Ness, St. Andrews, Edinburgh, Palace of Holyroodhouse, Royal Mile, Edinburgh Castle ...more ...less
Tour operator:
Tour code:
BHISZN20
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
