Focus on Ireland (Classic, 7 Days)
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on a captivating seven-day journey through the heart of Ireland, where history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes await. This multi-day tour offers an immersive experience, starting in the vibrant city of Dublin and weaving through the charming streets of Galway, the scenic beauty of Killarney, and the historic allure of Cork. Discover iconic landmarks such as the Cliffs of Moher, Blarney Castle, and the Ring of Kerry, while indulging in authentic Irish cuisine and warm hospitality. With expertly guided tours, comfortable accommodations, and unforgettable experiences, this adventure promises to leave you with cherished memories of the Emerald Isle.
Included
2 nights in twin-share rooms at the Clayton Hotel Burlington Road, Dublin.
1 night in a twin-share room at the Harbour Hotel Galway.
2 nights in twin-share rooms at the Killarney Plaza Hotel and Spa.
1 night in a twin-share room at the Maldron Hotel South Mall, Cork.
Please be aware that all accommodations are subject to change until 4-6 weeks before the departure date. Final accommodation details will be provided to you with your finalised travel documents.
4 Dinner (D)
6 Breakfast (B)
Dublin: Join your Travel Director for a warm and friendly dinner, an opportunity to get to know each other over a meal.
Cork: Join in the 'craic' over dinner with fabulous local flavours in a city famed for its food.
vegetarian
Choose between two carefully selected activities
Killarney: Explore the scenery of Killarney National Park on a horse-drawn jaunting car with the local jarveys.
Killarney: Join a gentle hike with a nature guide in Killarney National Park and admire stunning mountains, lakes, woods and waterfalls. Stroll along the lake shore and past the impressive 15th Century Ross Castle and the famous Muckross Estate, a charming 19th Century mansion and grounds. Alternatively, enjoy a memorable ride on a horse-drawn jaunting car with the local jarveys.
Personal radio headsets give you the freedom to wander during visits to famous highlights, without missing any of your Local Expert's fascinating commentary.
Hotel and restaurant tips are included - you'll never have to worry about how much to give, nor search for foreign currency. We also include all taxes and porterage charges at hotels.
We carry your bags for you and promptly deliver them to your hotel door.
Dublin: A stunning combination of cobblestone walkways, emerald-green lawns and 18th-century architectural gems, Trinity College is one of Europe’s elite universities and counts poet Oscar Wilde among its alumni. See the enchanting college campus and discover insights into its impressive history. Enjoy access to view the famous Book of Kells, an exquisite manuscript of the four gospels of the Christian New Testament, renowned for the intricacy, detail and majesty of the illustrations.
Blarney: It is said that those who kiss the Blarney Stone, the famous stone of eloquence, are bestowed with the power to persuade, flatter and coax. Take your turn at giving it a peck knowing that the stone was sourced from 330-million-year-old limestone.
Dublin: See Custom House and travel along the River Liffey. See the Guinness Storehouse, Christchurch Cathedral and St. Patrick's Cathedral.
Galway: Fascinating stories and interesting locals take centre stage on your orientation of the historic heart of Galway. Visit the Lynch Memorial Window. Then make your way to the Church of St. Nicholas - the largest medieval parish church in Ireland in continuous use, Spanish Arch and Eyre Square.
Adare: Experience a village walk through the main street lined with thatched cottages.
Killarney: Enjoy hearing of the history of Killarney during your city orientation.
Ring of Kerry: Venture into a world of towering cliffs, lush lakelands, beaches, fields dotted with sheep, rocky coastline, remote villages and historical sites, as you journey the magical Ring of Kerry. This 111-mile circular route is the best place to admire Ireland's scenic beauty and truly one of the most beautiful drives in the world.
Cobh: The Queenstown Story at Cobh retraces the steps of Irish emigration from the famine of 1845 to the great ocean liner era of the 1950s. This is a must for those with Irish ancestors who crossed the Atlantic during this time.
Kilkenny: Take in the sights of the medieval city of Kilkenny with its majestic castle and river walk.
Hand sanitizer is freely available on board for you to use throughout the day.
From time to time, your Travel Director will delight you with an Insight Flourish, which is a local specialty representing the destination.
Cliffs of Moher: Towering cliffs and the dramatic sea, the Cliffs of Moher has inspired countless travellers. Visit the Exhibition Centre and look out over the Wild Atlantic Way from these majestic cliffs that rise over 700 feet high. Gain insights from your Travel Director into the cliffs’ geology, history and the species that find sanctuary in its nooks and crannies.
Cork: Ireland's second city - "Rebel Cork" dates back to the 7th century. Your Travel Director will show you the Grand Parade and South Mall, along with City Hall and the Opera House on an insightful orientation tour encompassing the development of the religious settlement of St. Finbarr, to Viking raiding and settlement, to the creation of the Norman city and Merchant Princes. You’ll love learning the tales and history of this port city and enjoy hearing the lilt of the Cork accent.
Stay connected with friends and family with our complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi (where available).
If your arrival and/or departure flights are as per the itinerary start and end dates, then transfers are available at scheduled times. If your flights are outside these times, or you have booked additional nights accommodation with Insight Vacations, you may purchase transfers or make your own way from/to the airport.
Killarney: Meet passionate restaurant owners John and Freda at their beautiful guesthouse in Killarney, where you'll hear more about their Farm-to-Table concept, while enjoying a delicious meal made from fresh ingredients sourced within a five mile radius. John and Freda have a policy that all food is sourced locally from farms and the coach of the Emerald Isle. On the farm they also grow and harvest all their own fruit and veg. They educate their visitors about sustainable consumption and the benefits of eating fresh homegrown produce. This experience advances United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 12: Responsible Consumption & Production.
Enjoy the comfort of Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom and onboard washroom. Our customized luxury coaches are sanitized before the start of your tour and are maintained to very high standards. Physical distancing measures have been implemented on our customized luxury coaches.
Destinations
Map
Attractions
Daily Itinerary
Day 1 – Day 1: Dublin
- Dublin - Arrival day
- More
- The Book of Kells Experience
- Miners Village
- Christ Church Cathedral, Dublin
- St. Patrick's Cathedral Park
- More
Begin your Irish adventure in the vibrant city of Dublin. At 14:00, meet your Travel Director for an insightful orientation. Marvel at the architectural beauty of St. Patrick's Cathedral and Christchurch Cathedral as you pass by. Delve into history with a visit to the 9th-century Book of Kells and stroll through the historic courtyards of Trinity College. In the evening, enjoy a warm Welcome Dinner, complete with drinks, setting the stage for camaraderie and new friendships.
Day 2 – Day 2: Dublin to Galway
- Dublin
- Galway
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- Cliffs of Moher Walking Trail
- Eyre Square
- Salmon Weir Bridge
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Depart Dublin and journey through Ireland's lush landscapes, crossing the River Shannon to reach Galway, known as the City of the Tribes. Explore the vibrant streets filled with music and culture. Visit the Church of St. Nicholas, where Columbus is said to have prayed, and admire the Spanish Arch and Eyre Square. Enjoy the lively atmosphere of Galway, famous for its oysters and charming pubs.
Day 3 – Day 3: Galway to Killarney
- Galway
- Killarney
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- Cliffs of Moher
- Adare Town Park
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Travel through the unique limestone landscape of the Burren, stopping at the Cliffs of Moher for breathtaking views. Continue past Limerick and visit the picturesque village of Adare, known for its thatched cottages. Arrive in Killarney, a town renowned for its stunning natural beauty and as the gateway to the Ring of Kerry. Enjoy the lively atmosphere of this charming town, where you'll stay in the heart of the action.
Day 4 – Day 4: Killarney and the Ring of Kerry
- Killarney
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- Ross Castle
- Kingdom Falconry
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Choose between a horse-drawn jaunting car ride or a scenic hike past Ross Castle in Killarney National Park. Then, embark on a journey around the Ring of Kerry, with its stunning coastal and mountain views. Pass through charming towns like Killorglin and Cahersiveen, and visit the fishing town of Waterville. Admire the breathtaking scenery at Moll's Gap. In the evening, enjoy a Farm-to-Table dinner with local chef John Sheehan, experiencing authentic Irish cuisine.
Day 5 – Day 5: Killarney to Cork via Cobh
- Killarney
- Cobh
- Cork
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- Cobh Heritage Centre The Queenstown Story
- Blarney Stone
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Travel to Cobh, the historic port town that was the Titanic's last stop. Explore the Queenstown Story at the Heritage Centre, learning about Irish emigration. Visit the iconic Blarney Castle and kiss the Stone of Eloquence. Continue to Cork, where you'll see the Grand Parade and South Mall, and enjoy a lively dinner in the evening.
Day 6 – Day 6: Cork to Dublin via Kilkenny
- Cork
- Kilkenny
- Dublin
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- Kilkenny Castle
- St Mary’s Medieval Mile Museum
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Journey through Ireland's lush farmland to the medieval city of Kilkenny. Explore the majestic Kilkenny Castle and stroll along the Medieval Mile, a hub of arts and crafts. Return to Dublin for your final evening, with time to explore the city at your leisure.
Day 7 – Day 7: Departure from Dublin
- Dublin - Departure day
- More
As your unforgettable journey through Ireland comes to an end, take time to reflect on the memories made and the friendships forged. Depart from Dublin with a heart full of Irish charm and stories to share.
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