12-Night Wonders of Ireland

Day 2

Accommodation

Quiet Central City Hotel - Belfast, County Antrim

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 3:00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 11.00am.

Free parking is available on site.

Daily Itinerary

Belfast & The Titanic Museum

After breakfast, we’ll make tracks to the fascinating Battle of the Boyne Visitor Centre. Then, a visit to the Titanic Museum to discover the personal stories surrounding the infamous ship’s fateful journey. After a history-filled day (a taste of what’s to come), the evening will be yours to explore Belfast at your leisure. Breakfast included.

Overnight Location

Belfast, County Antrim

On The Map: Belfast, the capital of Northern Ireland, is located in the northeastern corner of the country in County Antrim. Belfast is well served by a network of good roads, including the M1 motorway from Dublin City.

Approximately one third of the population of Northern Ireland - about half a million people - live in Belfast. It's setting is very attractive, nestling in a semicircle of hills, where the River Langan enters Belfast Lough. The city got it's name from Beile Feirst  "the mouth of the sandy ford" - and was founded in 1177 when the Anglo-Normans built a castle here. It began to really expand in the 17th century with the development of the local linen and shipbuilding industries (the Titanic was built here).  Sights to see in Belfast City, the Belfast City Hall, built of Portland stone in Classical Renaissance style, dominates the city center.  The Linen Hall Library, founded in 1788 is an absolute delight, a cultural centre with exhibitions, a Theater & Performing Arts Archive and a Genealogy and Heraldry collection. Away from the city center you have the Ulster Museum in the Botanic Gardens, near Queens University which has miles of galleries and exhibitions. This lively and friendly city, with historic buildings standing side-by-side with modern creations is a delight not to be missed.

Day 3

Accommodation

Stylish Waterfront Hotel - Moville, County Donegal

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 3.00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 11.00am

Daily Itinerary

Legendary Giant's Causeway

You don’t have to delve deep into Northern Ireland’s past to see its influences on contemporary culture – and this morning’s Black Cab tour of Belfast’s street art and political murals will serve as proof. After an included lunch, it’s time to explore Ireland’s natural geological wonder – the Giant’s Causeway, before arriving in Londonderry for the night. Breakfast and lunch included. 

Overnight Location

Moville, County Donegal

On the map: Moville is a coastal town located on the Inishowen Peninsula of County Donegal, Ireland, close to the northern tip of the island of Ireland. It is the first coastal town of the Wild Atlantic Way when starting on the northern end.

The name Moville has two possible Gaelic origins, translated from Bun a Phobail, meaning ‘Foot of the Parish’ or Magh Bhile, meaning ‘Plain of the Ancient Tree’. Until the mid 18th century the area consisted of undeveloped agricultural land with the exception of a number of ancient earthworks. Cooley Cross and Skull House are remnants of an early Christian monastic settlement on the outskirts of Moville, attributed to St. Finian. The cross is a simple undecorated stone high cross located in Cooley graveyard. The Skull House, a small stone constructed building at the rear of the graveyard, is believed to have been used as an oratory and a mortuary.

Today Moville retains a small fishing harbour. It holds an annual regatta in August and remains a popular town for visitors. The town was designated a Heritage Town in 2000.

Day 4

Accommodation

Stylish Waterfront Hotel - Moville, County Donegal

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 3.00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 11.00am

Daily Itinerary

North Irish Coast

After a morning spent exploring Londonderry’s old city walls with a local guide, we’ll board the mini-coach and head to the North Irish Coast for the day. At the Isle of Doagh, we’ll pay a visit to the Famine Village and Visitor Centre to gain an insight into Irish life during the time of the Great Famine. We’ll round off the day with some free time to relax back in Londonderry. Breakfast included.

Overnight Location

Derry, County Derry

On the Map: Derry City is located close to the northern coast in Northern Ireland. Derry is accessed via the N15/N13 from Donegal (to the southwest) and the A6 from Belfast (to the southeast).

The story of Derry is a long and tumultuous one. Set on a hill on the banks of the Foyle estuary, strategically close to the open sea, it came under siege and attack for over a thousand years. You can walk along the great 17th-century walls, about a mile round and 18 feet thick, which withstood several sieges and even today are unbroken and complete, with old cannon still pointing their black noses over the ramparts. The great siege lasted for 105 days. Today, there’s an atmosphere of optimism in Derry and the city buzzes with life. It’s an artistic city, with theatres, galleries and other cultural centres and a number of annual festivals. Its people, with their gentle accent, are very welcoming.

Day 5

Accommodation

Enchanting Elegant 4-Star Hotel - Roscommon, County Roscommon

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 3:00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 12:00noon.

Daily Itinerary

Belleek Pottery & Ulster Folk Park

More fascinating history is on the cards today! Kick things off with a visit to the Ulster American Folk Park, where we’ll learn why two million Irish people sailed away to start a life in the New World. A visit to the Belleek Pottery Centre (the home of Ireland’s oldest working fine china pottery) is on this afternoon’s agenda, before moving on to Roscommon, where we’ll regroup for dinner. Breakfast and dinner included.

Overnight Location

Roscommon, County Roscommon

The name Roscommon is derived from Coman mac Faelchon who built a monastery there in the 5th century. The woods near the monastery became known as Saint Coman's Wood (Ros Comáin). This was later anglicised to Roscommon. The town is the location of a notable archaeological find in 1945 when a lunula, a gold necklace, and two discs were discovered. Both items are dated to the period 2,300 and 1,800 BC. The impressive ruins of Roscommon castle are located on a hillside just outside the town. It was the homeland of The Connachta dynasty, and included such kingdoms as Uí Maine, Delbhna Nuadat, Síol Muirdeach, and Moylurg. In addition, it contained areas known as Trícha cét's, Túath and is the homeland of surnames such as Ó Conchobhair (O'Connor), Mac Diarmada (McDermott), Ó Ceallaigh (Kelly), Ó Birn (Beirne, Byrne, Burns), Mac Donnchadha (McDonough) and Brennan (Mac Branáin and Ó Branáin).

Day 6

Accommodation

Modern Boutique Hotel - Galway, County Galway

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 3.00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 12.00pm.

Daily Itinerary

Dan O'Hara Homestead

After breakfast, we’ll pay a visit to the homestead of Dan O’Hara (he of the famous ballad), where we’ll gain a unique insight into prefamine life and culture. Then, it’s time to turn our attention to the harbour city of Galway where we’ll enjoy an evening of leisure. Breakfast included. 

Overnight Location

Galway, County Galway

On the Map: Galway is a coastal city, located in County Galway in the west of Ireland. Galway is well-served by a good network of roads - the M6/N6 from Dublin (to the east) and M18/N18 from Limerick & Cork (to the south).

In a recent nationwide survey the people of Galway were found to be Ireland's happiest! And visiting Galway City, the capital of their county it is not hard to see why. It is a lively university city of narrow streets, quaint shopfronts, bustling pubs and stunning surrounding scenery. It has always attracted a bohemian mix of musicians, artists and intellectuals and that attitude is palpable as you walk the streets. Galway has been commercially important since the 11th century when it was a centre for trade with Spain and Portugal. In 1477 Christopher Columbus paid a visit. Galway earned the title “City of the Tribes” around that time, when it was ruled by 14 wealthy merchant families. Today it is lively, with loads of things to do, and is so popular that it can get very crowded in summer, especially during the annual Galway Races. The annual Arts Festival also attracts thousands, especially for its street parade, organized by the multi-award winning production company, Macnas. Its famous Druid Theatre produces and stages plays and has toured internationally, winning awards, including Tonys on Broadway.

Day 7

Accommodation

Modern Boutique Hotel - Galway, County Galway

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 3.00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 12.00pm.

Daily Itinerary

The Charms of Galway

Today we’ll see the likes of the Spanish Arch, Galway Cathedral and Eyre Square on an orientation tour of the city. Then: the afternoon will be yours to spend exploring brightly coloured pubs, tasting local seafood and listening to the ever-present assembly of tuneful street performers. Buzzing, bohemian and utterly charismatic, you’re sure to fall for Galway’s many charms. Breakfast included.

Overnight Location

Galway, County Galway

On the Map: Galway is a coastal city, located in County Galway in the west of Ireland. Galway is well-served by a good network of roads - the M6/N6 from Dublin (to the east) and M18/N18 from Limerick & Cork (to the south).

In a recent nationwide survey the people of Galway were found to be Ireland's happiest! And visiting Galway City, the capital of their county it is not hard to see why. It is a lively university city of narrow streets, quaint shopfronts, bustling pubs and stunning surrounding scenery. It has always attracted a bohemian mix of musicians, artists and intellectuals and that attitude is palpable as you walk the streets. Galway has been commercially important since the 11th century when it was a centre for trade with Spain and Portugal. In 1477 Christopher Columbus paid a visit. Galway earned the title “City of the Tribes” around that time, when it was ruled by 14 wealthy merchant families. Today it is lively, with loads of things to do, and is so popular that it can get very crowded in summer, especially during the annual Galway Races. The annual Arts Festival also attracts thousands, especially for its street parade, organized by the multi-award winning production company, Macnas. Its famous Druid Theatre produces and stages plays and has toured internationally, winning awards, including Tonys on Broadway.

Day 8

Accommodation

Beautiful Boutique Inn - Dingle, County Kerry

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 4:00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 12.00 noon.

Daily Itinerary

The Famous Cliffs of Moher

Out of Galway and onwards to the karst landscapes of the Burren. Before we reach our accommodation in the Dingle Peninsula, we’ll round off the day with a visit to the magnificent Cliffs of Moher – an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty that is bound to take your breath away. Tonight, share stories with your travel companions over dinner. Breakfast and dinner included. 

Overnight Location

Dingle, County Kerry

On the Map: Dingle is located in County Kerry on the beautiful southwest coast of Ireland. The town is most easily accessible via the N86 road from Tralee, a major town 50 minutes/ 50km to the east.

Dingle is located in County Kerry on the lush southwest coast of Ireland. The residents of Dingle, or AnDaingeanas as they are officially known, are the envy of many. Their lovely fishing village is in what, some believe, is the most beautiful part of the Emerald Isle. The village is filled with charm, color, and quirky characters. There are numerous pubs on every block. All offer up lively traditional music and steaming bowls of fresh chowder.

The Dingle Peninsula has many archeological sites, including ancient stone forts and beehive huts. Feel free to wander among them. Every turn of the coastal road reveals beauty that tugs at your heart. One of the highlights is Slea Head Loop. If you’re a climber, the views from Mount Brandon are stunning.

Day 9

Accommodation

Beautiful Boutique Inn - Dingle, County Kerry

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 4:00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 12.00 noon.

Daily Itinerary

Dingle Peninsula

Today will begin at one of the Dingle Peninsula’s most famous landmarks: the Gallarus Oratory, a unique stone chapel that resembles an upturned boat. After that, there’s one more stop in store – the fascinating Blasket Centre, which celebrates the history of the beautiful Great Blasket Island. Upon our return to Dingle, we’ll have plenty of free time to explore the quaint fishing port and dine at one of the many local restaurants at our leisure. Breakfast included.

Overnight Location

Dingle, County Kerry

On the Map: Dingle is located in County Kerry on the beautiful southwest coast of Ireland. The town is most easily accessible via the N86 road from Tralee, a major town 50 minutes/ 50km to the east.

Dingle is located in County Kerry on the lush southwest coast of Ireland. The residents of Dingle, or AnDaingeanas as they are officially known, are the envy of many. Their lovely fishing village is in what, some believe, is the most beautiful part of the Emerald Isle. The village is filled with charm, color, and quirky characters. There are numerous pubs on every block. All offer up lively traditional music and steaming bowls of fresh chowder.

The Dingle Peninsula has many archeological sites, including ancient stone forts and beehive huts. Feel free to wander among them. Every turn of the coastal road reveals beauty that tugs at your heart. One of the highlights is Slea Head Loop. If you’re a climber, the views from Mount Brandon are stunning.

Day 10

Accommodation

Luxury Country Hotel - Cork, County Cork

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 4:00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out before 12:00 noon.

Daily Itinerary

Killarney Lakes & Iconic Blarney Stone

Peaks and lakes are on the menu today! First, we’ll take in the views across the stunning Lakes of Killarney as we travel to pretty Kenmare, the ‘head of the sea’. Then, we have an appointment to keep with a true Irish icon: Blarney Castle. Legend has it that you’ll be blessed with the ‘gift of the gab’ if you kiss the famous Blarney Stone – a block of limestone built into the castle’s battlements. Tonight, we’ll make the most of our new-found eloquence over dinner in Cork. Breakfast and dinner included.

Overnight Location

Cork, County Cork

On the Map: Cork City is located off the southern coast of Ireland. As Ireland's second city, it is well served by good roads - The M8 northeast to Dublin, the N20 north to Limerick & the N25 east to Waterford.

In the bustling city of Cork (often referred to as 'Ireland's Second Capital'), stroll the river walk at the University and pop into the Glucksman Gallery.  Relax in a café, and hit Shandon Street, just a short walk from the main shopping district.  Climb the 120 foot steeple, and ring the bells of Shandon.  Soak up the city views as they fade into the countryside. Award-winning restaurants line the streets, and nightlife choices include Irish Traditional, classy nightclubs, theater, opera, plays, and dance.  (Take the haunted night tour of the city jail—it’s a great way to start your evening with a bang.) Of course, there’s the Jameson Old Middleton Distillery in east Cork.  Learn how Irish whiskey is made, and finish with a tasting. 

Day 11

Accommodation

Luxury Country Hotel - Cork, County Cork

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 4:00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out before 12:00 noon.

Daily Itinerary

Kinsale & Jameson Distillery

After boarding the mini-coach in Cork, the port town of Kinsale will be our first stop of the day where we’ll have some time to soak up fishing town’s laid-back atmosphere. Then, it’s time to turn our attention toward the world-renowned Jameson Distillery. After an afternoon tour and whiskey tasting, we’ll return to Cork to enjoy the evening at our leisure. Breakfast included.

Overnight Location

Cork, County Cork

On the Map: Cork City is located off the southern coast of Ireland. As Ireland's second city, it is well served by good roads - The M8 northeast to Dublin, the N20 north to Limerick & the N25 east to Waterford.

In the bustling city of Cork (often referred to as 'Ireland's Second Capital'), stroll the river walk at the University and pop into the Glucksman Gallery.  Relax in a café, and hit Shandon Street, just a short walk from the main shopping district.  Climb the 120 foot steeple, and ring the bells of Shandon.  Soak up the city views as they fade into the countryside. Award-winning restaurants line the streets, and nightlife choices include Irish Traditional, classy nightclubs, theater, opera, plays, and dance.  (Take the haunted night tour of the city jail—it’s a great way to start your evening with a bang.) Of course, there’s the Jameson Old Middleton Distillery in east Cork.  Learn how Irish whiskey is made, and finish with a tasting. 

Day 12

Accommodation

Boutique City Center Hotel - Kilkenny, County Kilkenny

Check in policies:

Hotel Tel: 056 777 1888. Check-in time is after 3:00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 12.00 noon.

Daily Itinerary

Kilkenny: "Most Perfect" Medieval City

As we approach the final few chapters of the tour, we’ll stop in to admire the delicate detailing of a traditional cottage orné. After that, it’s time to spend the afternoon acquainting ourselves with Kilkenny – Ireland’s ‘most perfect’ medieval city. Our Tour Leader will take us for a leisurely walk around town before we come together for our last hurrah: a delicious farewell dinner. What an adventure it’s been! Breakfast and dinner included.

Overnight Location

Kilkenny, County Kilkenny

On the Map: Kilkenny City is located in County Kilkenny, in the southeast midlands of Ireland. Kilkenny is well-served by a good network of roads - the M9/N10 from Dublin (to the northeast) and N9/N10 from Waterford City (to the south). Kilkenny, or the Marble City as it is known, is one of Ireland's oldest towns, and proud of it. Its array of ancient buildings is unrivalled. It is renowned for being a vibrant cultural center, devoted to the musical and visual arts. Its two most impressive landmarks are Kilkenny Castle, founded in 1172 and privately owned until 1967, and St. Canice's Cathedral. The current structure of the cathedral dates from the 13th century, though this is nowhere near the beginning of its story, which is rich in folklore and legend. There is no shortage of pubs to explore and enjoy in Kilkenny and during the summer the city is always full of life. The summer also sees the city host an Arts Festival and a very highly regarded Comedy Festival called the Cat Laughs.

Day 13

Daily Itinerary

Return to Dublin

After breakfast, we’ll return to cosmopolitan Dublin – where our tour will come to a close. Breakfast included.

You'll be arriving early afternoon into Dublin so you may want to add an extra night stay in Dublin, depending on your flight's departure time. Please ask your Authentic Expert if you would like facilitating this.