Irish Highlights

Irish Highlights

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7 Days From

$1925

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Tour Overview

Embark on the "Irish Highlights" tour, a captivating journey through the heart of Ireland. Begin in Dublin, exploring its rich literary history and iconic landmarks like Trinity College and St. Patrick's Cathedral. Discover the vibrant cities of Galway, Limerick, and Waterford, each offering unique cultural experiences. Marvel at the breathtaking Cliffs of Moher and enjoy a scenic drive along the Ring of Kerry. Visit historic sites such as Bunratty Castle and Blarney Castle, where you can kiss the famous stone. Dive into Ireland's cultural heritage with a visit to the House of Waterford Crystal and the Dunbrody Famine Ship. Enjoy traditional Irish hospitality with a special dinner at Glenealy House in Wicklow. With expert guides, comfortable accommodations, and a luxury coach, this tour promises an unforgettable exploration of Ireland's natural beauty and rich history. ...more ...less

Highlights

  • Explore Dublin and view St. Patrick's Cathedral.

  • Discover Galway, Limerick, and Waterford.

  • Visit Bunratty Folk Park and the Cliffs of Moher.

  • Kiss the Blarney Stone in Blarney.

  • Scenic drive of the Ring of Kerry.

  • Experience the House of Waterford Crystal.

  • Visit the famine ship in New Ross.

Itinerary

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Day 1: Welcome to the Emerald Isle

Location: Dublin

Accommodation: Clayton Ballsbridge, Hampton by Hilton Dublin City Center.

Accommodation Name: Clayton Ballsbridge, Hampton by Hilton Dublin City Center

Meals Included: Dinner

Tread in the footsteps of James Joyce and Oscar Wilde, through the lyrical streets of Dublin – your launch pad to a memorable encounter with Ireland's iconic highlights. After a leisurely morning, meet a Local Specialist for a sightseeing tour with views of Trinity College, St. Patrick's Cathedral and the stately Georgian Squares. Indulge in a little Irish craic this evening, joining your Travel Director and fellow travellers for dinner.
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Day 2: Onwards to Limerick

Location: Limerick

Accommodation: Greenhills Hotel Conference and Leisure Centre

Accommodation Name: The Inn at Dromoland, Greenhills

Meals Included: Breakfast

Journey to Galway, the 'City of Tribes', where you'll see its stone cathedral on the banks of the Corrib and spend some free time exploring its stone façades. Irish traditions and heritage are explored next, during a visit to Bunratty Castle and its Folk Park, a living history museum that reveals insights into life in Ireland during the 18th and 19th centuries. Continue to Limerick, for an orientation tour and view the 13th-century King John's Castle overlooking the Shannon.

Day 3: Experience the Iconic Cliffs of Moher and on to Killarney

Location: Cliffs of Moher

Accommodation: International, Hotel Killarney

Accommodation Name: International, Killarney

Meals Included: Breakfast

Leave Limerick and stop at the spectacular Cliffs of Moher on the famous ‘Wild Atlantic Way'. Join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience with your Local Specialist to truly appreciate this breath-taking landscape. You’ll feel like you’ve gone back to an ancient time as you gaze across the water, all the way to the Aran Islands if the weather is good. Visit the interactive visitor centre where this incredible UNESCO-listed natural phenomenon comes to life in a way you would not get to see with your own eyes. Go beneath the surface to see how the sediment has stacked up over 300 million years to create this towering backdrop. Inspired by the irresistible beauty of this special place, you’ll continue to your hotel in Killarney with a scenic drive to the ferry departure point and journey across the Shannon Estuary. Your home for the next two nights is the colourful little town of Killarney.

Day 4: A Scenic Day on the Ring of Kerry

Location: Ring of Kerry

Accommodation: International, Hotel Killarney

Accommodation Name: International, Killarney

Meals Included: Breakfast

Circle the spectacular Ring of Kerry – its emerald green hills, centuries-old stone villages and vivid blue seascapes provide a soul-stirring backdrop. See Daniel O'Connell's Cahirciveen, Moll's Gap and the Black Valley, renowned for being the last place in Ireland to get electricity and telephone networks. Consider joining an Optional Experience 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.

Day 5: Explore Blarney and Journey to Waterford

Location: Waterford

Accommodation: Fitzwilton

Accommodation Name: Fitzwilton

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Cross the rugged Kerry Mountains and travel to Blarney Castle to kiss the stone and acquire the 'gift of the gab'. In the afternoon, arrive Waterford, where you can immerse yourself in the vibrant culture with an optional folk experience, enjoying traditional Irish music and warm hospitality. You'll then return to the hotel for a delightful group dinner.

Day 6: Through County Wicklow’s Countryside to Dublin Dive Into Culture Connect with Locals

Location: Dublin

Accommodation: Radisson Blu Hotel Dublin Airport

Accommodation Name: Radisson Blu Hotel Dublin Airport

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Dive Into Culture and witness the centuries-old tradition of crafting fine glass at the House of Waterford Crystal. Here you will watch the talented master crafters in their workshop creating exquisite pieces. Your next stop is in the town of New Ross, where you'll see the monument to John F. Kennedy who travelled to his ancestral family hometown in 1963. You'll visit the three-masted famine ship Dunbrody and Dive Into Culture yet again, gaining insights into the tragic plight of the Irish emigrants who fled the potato famine during the 1800s. Continuing through County Wexford and the lush countryside of County Wicklow, for a stop at Glenealy Farmhouse to meet the Fulvio family over dinner at your Be My Guest experience before continuing to Dublin.

Day 7: Farewell Ireland

Location: Dublin

Meals Included: Breakfast

For now, it’s time to say a fond slán abhaile to your fellow travellers as you close the curtain on an unforgettable journey through the 'Emerald Isle'.

What's Included

  • An expert Travel Director and professional Driver

    The tour includes the services of an expert Travel Director and a professional Driver.

  • Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted

    Accommodation is provided in carefully selected hotels that are tried and trusted.

  • All porterage and restaurant gratuities

    Porterage and restaurant gratuities are included in the tour package.

  • All hotel tips, charges and local taxes

    Hotel tips, charges, and local taxes are covered in the tour.

  • Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals

    The tour includes daily breakfast and up to half of your evening meals.

  • Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras

    The tour features must-see sightseeing opportunities and surprise extras.

  • Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing

    Audio headsets are provided for flexible sightseeing experiences.

  • Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)

    Transportation is provided in a luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries, or alternative transportation such as rail journeys.

  • Ferry across the Shannon estuary

    The tour includes a ferry crossing across the Shannon estuary.

  • Optional Experiences and free time

    Optional experiences and free time are part of the tour itinerary.

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What's Not Included

  • Personal expenses

    Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included.

  • Travel insurance

    Travel insurance is not included and should be arranged separately.

  • Flights

    Flights to and from the tour start and end locations are not included.

  • Visa fees

    Visa fees, if applicable, are not included in the tour package.

Dining Summary

  • 3 Dinner (D)
  • 6 Breakfast (B)

Dive Into Culture

  • 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.

Mode of Transport

Travel in luxury with an air-conditioned coach equipped with Wi-Fi, and enjoy a scenic ferry ride across the Shannon estuary, providing a comfortable and seamless travel experience across Ireland.

Accommodation

Stay in carefully selected hotels such as Clayton Ballsbridge, Hampton by Hilton Dublin City Center, The Inn at Dromoland, Greenhills, International, Hotel Killarney, and Fitzwilton, ensuring comfort and convenience throughout your journey in Ireland.

Dive into Culture

  • 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.
  • Galway: Explore the historic heart of Galway. See landmarks such as the Spanish Arch and the cathedral, or perhaps admire the distinctive Claddagh rings.
  • Bunratty: Visit the impeccably-preserved Bunratty Castle and Folk Park.
  • Limerick: See Limerick's iconic landmarks during an orientation with your Travel Director.
  • Cliffs of Moher: Stop by the Exhibition Centre and look out over the Wild Atlantic Way from these majestic cliffs.
  • Ring of Kerry: Admire Ireland's enduring scenic beauty on one of the most beautiful drives in the world.
  • 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.

Check out our Q&As

  • What unique experience does the tour offer at the Cliffs of Moher?

    At the Cliffs of Moher, the tour offers a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience with a Local Specialist who provides insights into the environmental issues and conservation initiatives related to this breathtaking landscape. This visit supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities. ...more ...less

  • What cultural experiences are included in the tour?

    The tour includes a visit to the House of Waterford Crystal to learn about crystal crafting and a visit to the Dunbrody Famine Ship in New Ross to explore the history of Ireland's famine emigration. Additionally, there is a Be My Guest experience at Glenealy House near Dublin, where traditional Irish fare with an Italian twist is served by host Catherine Fulvio and her family. ...more ...less

  • What is the Be My Guest experience on this tour?

    The Be My Guest experience takes place at Glenealy House near Dublin, where guests enjoy traditional Irish fare with an Italian twist, hosted by Catherine Fulvio, one of Ireland’s top culinary stars, and her family.

  • What is the significance of visiting Blarney Castle during the tour?

    Visiting Blarney Castle allows guests to kiss the famous Blarney Stone, which is said to grant the 'gift of the gab,' or eloquence, to those who kiss it.

  • What kind of transportation is provided during the tour?

    The tour provides transportation in a luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi available in most countries, and includes a ferry crossing the Shannon estuary.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Since 1947

  • 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.

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

Reviews of this operator

Renato Arrieta  

Best tour I joined so far

14-Jan-2023

My first time with Trafalgar and I see no reason why I should not join them again.

Feefo Trusted Reviews
King Ng, Lafayette, California  

Very well planned trip with timely breaks during the coach ride..

08-Nov-2021

It was a well organized tour group and we hit lots of interesting and beautiful scenes. Like our previous trips with Trafalgar, tourists were treated with well manner and professional tour guide/director, making our trip very enjoyable and delightful!

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Trusted Customer  

Best of Egypt

14-Jan-2023

We really did see the best of Egypt and beyond. Our tour guide, Mohammad, guided us through the rich history and the urban and rural life of such a unique and delightful country. We felt very safe and pampered.

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Marshal Daguio  

Wonderful Best Of Turkey

06-Nov-2021

It was my first time with Trafalgar Tour and I had a wonderful trip from day 1 till the last day. The Tour Director, Yocel Atik is very knowledgeable and Excellent. The health director and coach driver are helpful and supportive as well. The hotels selected were comfortable especially Rixos Hotel and Movenpick Hotel. The Best of Turkey is better than I expected. ...more ...less

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Barbara, Canada  

Irish Experience

09-Nov-2021

I am single and travel alone. I always feel secure and well-looked after when I travel with Trafalgar

Feefo Trusted Reviews

1 Select your preferred date

Sunday - Saturday

Nov 09, 2025 - Nov 15, 2025
$1925 (USD)

Sunday - Saturday

Nov 23, 2025 - Nov 29, 2025
$1925 (USD)

Book with Confidence

  • 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.

  • 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.

Irish Highlights

7 Days Starting and ending in Dublin, Ireland

Visiting: Dublin, Limerick, Cliffs of Moher, Ring of Kerry, Waterford

Tour operator:

Trafalgar

Tour code:

IRIHAZM20

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Physical rating:

Low

Tour operated in:

English

Trip Styles:

Small Group

Activities:

Sightseeing

From: $1925 (USD)

NB: Prices correct on 03-Apr-2025 but subject to change.

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