ireland travel tours

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• England, Ireland and Scotland Tours
• Ireland Castle Tours
• Tour for max. 8 guests
• Tours for Solos
• Adults Only Tours
• Wild Atlantic Way
• Ireland's Ancient East
• Ireland Tours from Dublin
• Wild Atlantic Way Tours
• Ireland's Ancient East Tours

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• Example Itineraries
• Genealogy Tours & Family Tree
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2024 Tour Packages:

• All Ireland Tours & Vacations
• Iconic Britain & Ireland Tour 18 Days | From €4390 | 2024 | Max 26 ppl.
• Iconic Britain Tour 10 Days | From €2490 | 2024 | Max 26 ppl.
• Iconic Ireland & Scotland Tour 14 Days | €3690 | 2024 | Max 26 ppl.
• 14-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland 14 Days | From €2890 | 2024 | Max 26 ppl.
• 10-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland 10 Days | From €1690 | 2024 | Max 26 ppl.
• 8-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland 8 Days | From €1590 | 2024 | Max 26 ppl.
• 6-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland 6 Days | From €990 | 2024 | Max 26 ppl.
• Deluxe Irish Castles Tour 10 Days | From €2790 | 2024 | Max 26 ppl.
• Historic Irish Castle Tour 7 Days | From €1790 | 2024 | Max 26 ppl.
• Ancient Ireland & Scotland Tour 13 Days | From €5390 | 2024 | Max 8 ppl.
• Ancient Ireland Tour 8 Days | From €3390 | 2024 | Max 8 ppl.
• Discover Northern Ireland 6 Days | From €995 | 2024 | Max 26 ppl.

2025 Tour Packages:

• Iconic Britain & Ireland Tour 18 Days | From €4590 | 2025 | Max 26 ppl.
• Iconic Ireland & Scotland Tour 14 Days | €3990 | 2025 | Max 26 ppl.
• Highlights of Ireland & Scotland Tour 9 Days | €2490 | 2025 | Max 26 ppl.
• 14-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland 14 Days | From €2990 | 2025 | Max 26 ppl.
• 10-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland 10 Days | From €1990 | 2025 | Max 26 ppl.
• 8-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland 8 Days | From €1690 | 2025 | Max 26 ppl.
• Deluxe Irish Castles Tour 10 Days | From €2890 | 2025 | Max 26 ppl.
• Ancient Ireland & Scotland Tour 13 Days | From €5690 | 2025 | Max 8 ppl.
• Ancient Ireland Tour 8 Days | From €3290 | 2025 | Max 8 ppl.
• Discover Northern Ireland 6 Days | From €1090 | 2025 | Max 26 ppl.
• Tour Guides / Drivers
• Reviews of our Tours

Further Information

• Frequently Asked Questions
• Travelguide

About tour packages

• Choosing a Tour
• The Tour Hotels
• The Tour Buses

About private tours

• Arranging a Tour
• Private Tour Accommodation
• Private Tour Vehicles

Ireland Tours 2024 & 2025

Looking to customize a bespoke vacation? Check out our Private Tours

We are still Ireland's best-reviewed tour operator, with 97.3% five-star reviews.

Our UK & Ireland Tour Packages

Scroll through our Britain and Ireland tour packages for 2024 & 2025. Alternatively, you can also see what's available on your preferred dates .

Iconic Britain & Ireland Tour

• 34 attractions
• Max. 26 ppl

Experience a once-in-a-lifetime 18-day adventure as you behold the most famous and captivating attractions that Ireland, Northern Ireland, Scotland, and England have to offer.

Iconic Britain Tour

• 14 attractions

Embark on a unique and unforgettable 10-day journey as you explore the most renowned and captivating attractions that England and Scotland have to offer.

6-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland Tour

• 13 attractions

Experience the true essence of Ireland in under a week. Ireland's unmissable destinations and the Wild Atlantic Way in one unforgettable hub-and-spoke tour.

Deluxe Castle Tour

• 22 attractions

Live like royalty for 10 days across Ireland, staying in real Irish castles and country manors. Enjoy the finest all-inclusive tour Ireland has to offer.

Historic Irish Castle Tour

• 15 attractions

A truly unique tour of Ireland. Visit the must-see attractions whilst discovering unique experiences beyond the tourist trail. All woven together by Ireland's historic castles.

14-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland Tour

• 25 attractions

Discover the Island of Ireland, North and South with this unforgettable 14-day tour. Spend 4 days in Ulster, and 10 more in Eire.

Iconic Ireland & Scotland Tour

Discover the best of Ireland and Scotland with this unforgettable 14-day tour. Compare the cultures of these historic Gaelic nations during a magical fortnight.

10-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland Tour

Experience all that is Ireland in this 10-day adventure. Ireland's best-loved attractions and its best-kept secrets, including the Wild Atlantic Way.

8-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland Tour

• 17 attractions

Take in the essence of captivating Ireland as you embark on an unforgettable 8-day adventure, immersing yourself in the Emerald Isle's beauty and charm.

Highlights of Ireland & Scotland Tour

Explore the wonders of Ireland and Scotland on this remarkable 9-day tour. Immerse yourself in the rich cultures of these historic Gaelic nations as you embark on a captivating journey.

Discover Northern Ireland Tour

• 8 attractions

Northern Ireland's natural beauty awaits on this six-day fully-inclusive tour of Ulster. Picturesque towns, untamed coastlines and friendly locals await.

Ancient Ireland Tour

• 19 attractions

An exclusive tour capped at max. 8 guests, travelling through the idyllic scenes of The Wild Atlantic Way. Including an overnight stay in an Irish castle.

Ancient Ireland & Scotland Tour

• 24 attractions

Embark on a unique and intimate journey through the Celtic heartlands of Ireland and Scotland on this exclusive tour designed for a maximum of 8 guests.

Hello from everyone here at My Ireland Tour

Welcome! We are thrilled that you are interested in visiting our country. We're proud to say that we're still an independent family-run business, based right here in Cork. We offer a range of Britain and Ireland vacation packages , as well as our bespoke private customised tours . We're looking forward to chatting with you and showing you what makes Ireland such a magical place.

Eric O'Gorman, Founder & Director

What are you looking for?

We offer various types of tour to suit all ages, interests and group sizes. What kind of vacation suits you best?

All our Ireland Tours

Ireland's best-loved destinations and its best-kept secrets, all on one magical tour.

Private Custom Tours

Custom private tours, crafted uniquely for you. All group sizes from two people to 100.

Castle Tours

Live like royalty, staying in real Irish castles steeped in history and tradition.

UK & Ireland

Tour Ireland and Britain at the same time with a tour that shows you the best of England, Ireland and Scotland.

Scotland & Ireland

Two great celtic nations, one unforgettable experience. Visit Scotland and Ireland in one trip.

Three unique tour collections

It's now even easier to find your perfect vacation. We have grouped most of our tour packages into three unique collections. Whatever your interests, whatever your budget, we have the perfect range of Irish tours for you and your group. We also offer our popular Discover Northern Ireland Tour (6 days). Alternatively, you can even customize your own bespoke private tour , just for you and your group.

Iconic Scenes Tours

Discover Ireland's best-loved attractions and its best-kept secrets. All with unbeatable value, while staying in some of Ireland's best four-star hotels.

• Compare all Iconic Scenes Tours
• 18-Day Tour (Ireland, England & Scotland)
• 14-Day Tour (Scotland & Ireland version)
• 14-Day Tour (Ireland-only version)
• 10-Day Tour (England & Scotland)
• 10-Day Tour
• 9-Day Tour (Scotland & Ireland version)

Ancient Luxury Tours

Get closer to the action on a tour which is limited to max. eight guests. On these luxury tours, you will be staying in four- and five-star hotels and castles.

• Compare our Ancient Luxury Tours
• 13-Day Tour (Ireland & Scotland)

Luxury Castle Tours

Live like royalty on a tour that is steeped in the rich history and traditions of the Emerald Isle. Stay in Ireland's best four- and five-star hotels and castles.

• Compare our Castles Tours
• 7-Day Historic Irish Castle Tour
• 10-Day Deluxe Irish Castles Tour

Made in Ireland, by us

We are not a reseller or an agent. We only sell our own tours, designed with care in our family office here in Cork, Ireland.

No Middleman

You will not find our tours on any other website. And with no middleman, we can provide unrivalled value with a much more personal experience.

We're here for you

On the phone, you can chat to Eric, Kristel, Shannon, Shauni, Keith or Catriona. We will be delighted to help with any questions you may have.

Britain & Ireland Tours

Why not add England and Scotland to your Irish tour experience? A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to compare and contrast these unique but interconnected cultures. Experience a rich and overlapping history, told from three singular perspectives. Three distinct outlooks, three separate national identities — one friendly welcome. Compare the royalty and pageantry of London with the very different majesty you will find in the rolling glens, lochs and highlands of Scotland. Of course, we think that Ireland holds the crown, with a landscape, a culture and a heritage that puts the Emerald Isle among the jewels of all European travel.

Customize your own tour

Looking for something truly unique? Why not arrange a bespoke private tour exclusively for you and your group? Our private tours can be customized to suit any group size, from two guests to a party of 100 or more. We will work with you to create the perfect tour itinerary for your group, taking away all the stress and leaving you with an unforgettable vacation experience that works for everyone. Certain destinations you want to visit? We can make it happen. Want to stay in a castle or on a working farm? Just say the word.

Stay in real castles

Experience the rich history of Ireland first-hand when you stay in some of the Emerald Isle's most enchanting castles and stately manors. That's right — with our Irish castle tours, you not only visit real Irish castles, you get to stay overnight in them, too. Choose from four castle tour vacation packages , crafted for you by our Irish-born team of tour experts. Whichever tour you choose, you can expect to live like nobility for the duration of your time with us here in Ireland.

Our small groups guarantee Never more than 26 guests per tour

We always keep our tour group sizes small. That's because we want every guest to get the comfort, space and service they deserve. Although many other companies squeeze in groups of up to 50, even the largest of our tour packages are strictly limited to just 26 guests. That leaves empty seats on the coaches. So why do we limit our tours to such small group sizes? Here are six reasons.

Superior Service

Guests consistently list our small group sizes as a top reason why they would book with us again. See our reviews...

More focus on you

With a smaller group, our tour guides have more time to get to know you and your interests.

We deliberately leave empty seats on our coaches, so you can relax and spread out.

Experience each attraction up-close and personal, with more time to ask questions and see what interests you.

Speedier Check-Ins

Compared with many of our rivals, our smaller group sizes make checking in and out of the hotels a breeze.

More Relaxed Pace

Experience Ireland at your own pace. No rushing to keep up and no waiting around for large groups to assemble.

You might also be interested in...

• Sample Itineraries
• Transport Options
• Genealogy Tours

2024 Tour Packages

• Iconic Britain and Ireland (18 Days)
• Iconic Britain Tour (10 Days)
• Iconic Ireland and Scotland Tour (14 Days)
• 14-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland (14 Days)
• 10-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland (10 Days)
• 8-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland (8 Days)
• 6-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland (6 Days)
• Deluxe Irish Castles Tour (10 Days)
• Historic Irish Castle Tour (7 Days)
• Ancient Ireland & Scotland Tour (13 Days)
• Ancient Ireland Tour (8 Days)
• Discover Northern Ireland (6 Days)

2025 Tour Packages

• Iconic Ireland & Scotland Tour (14 Days)
• Highlights of Ireland and Scotland Tour (9 Days)

Adare Village and Thatched Cottages

About Adare Village and Thatched Cottages

Adare is a small town in Co. Limerick, known for its quaint and colourful thatched cottages. Adare is considered to be one of Ireland's most beautiful towns so stop and take in the view. Don't forget your camera today - the perfect chance to capture the essence of old Ireland.

Explore Adare Village along the Wild Atlantic Way .

Black Taxi Tour Belfast

About Black Taxi Tour Belfast

Take a journey through this once troubled city. See the murals of the Loyalist Shankill Road & Nationalist Falls Road. The Troubles took their toll on the economic life of Belfast, but the past ten years of peace have returned much prosperity while the genuine friendliness of the city never left.

• Blarney Woollen Mills

About Blarney Woollen Mills

Originally built in 1823, Blarney Woollen Mills was mainly used for the spinning and weaving of wool. After it closed in 1973, it reopened in 1975 — as an Irish heritage shop.

Visit their website...

Culloden Battlefield

About Culloden Battlefield

The Culloden Battlefield Visitor Centre commemorates the last pitched battle fought on British soil, in April 1746. Learn more about the Jacobite intent to overthrow the House of Hanover and return the House of Stuart to the British throne.

Glenveagh Castle

About Glenveagh Castle

Located within Glenveagh National Park, Glenveagh Castle was built by Captain John George Adair between 1870 and 1873. Having made his fortune through land speculation in America, Adair return to Ireland and began large amounts of land in County Donegal. The castle was built in the Scottish Baronial style and is surrounded by a garden and commands stunning views of the nearby mountains, lakes, woodlands and valleys.

Highland Folk Museum

About Highland Folk Museum

About Highland Folk Museum is a museum and open-air attraction located in the Scottish Highlands. It is designed to showcase the domestic and working lives of the early highland people.

King John's Castle

About King John's Castle

Located alongside the River Shannon in County Limerick, on King's Island. Dating back to 922, to a time when Vikings were the inhabitants of the island (Thormodr Helgason, the Viking sea-king, built the first settlement here. The castle itself was built in 1200, under the instruction of King John of England.

About Moriarty's

Located close to the Killarney National Park, Moriarty's is an Authentic Irish Gift Store and Restaurant. Hand crafted Irish jewellery, Waterford Crystal and classic and modern tweed fashions and furnishings are all on offer at the gift store. The restaurant is an 85 seater offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Mount Congreve Gardens

About Mount Congreve Gardens

Mount Congreve Gardens. Located in Kilmeaden, County Waterford, Mount Congreve Gardens is an 18th century Georgian estate and mansion. It was designed by the same architect that created both of Waterford's cathedrals, John Roberts.

Mount Stewart House & Gardens

About Mount Stewart House & Gardens

Recently recognised as being one of the top 10 gardens in the world, Mount Stewart is a rich tapestry of planting plant life and stunning walking trails. The house dates back to the 19th century, and was the Irish seat of the Vane-Tempest-Stewart family.

Muckross House

About Muckross House

Located on the grounds of the expansive and idyllic Killarney National Park. Muckross House, and its 11,000-acre grounds, was donated to the Irish state in 1932.

Muckross House Traditional Farms

About Muckross House Traditional Farms

Located on the grounds of the picturesque Muckross House and its impeccable gardens. Take a step back in time and see the Irish farming lifestyle of the 1930s and '40s. A time when the horse was responsible for much of the labour and the weather was the be all and end all in terms of production.

The Quiet Man Museum

About The Quiet Man Museum

The Quiet Man Museum. A reproduction of the quaint thatched cottage from the John Wayne starring, John Ford directed movie of the same name. all costumes, artefacts and furnishings have been recreated in precise detail, to reflect the setting of the 1952 classic. Located in the picturesque village of Cong, County Mayo.

18-Day Iconic Britain & Ireland Tour

• Free time in London
• Shakespeare's Birthplace
• Manchester River Cruise
• Tour of York City
• York Minster
• Jedburgh Abbey
• Tour of Edinburgh City
• Holyrood Palace
• Tour of Glasgow City
• Tour of Belfast City
• Titanic Belfast
• Giant's Causeway
• Kylemore Abbey
• Cliffs of Moher
• Ring Of Kerry
• Blarney Castle
• Irish Emigration Museum
• Christ Church Cathedral
• Guinness Storehouse
• Departure flight home

10-Day Iconic Britain Tour

• Roman Baths
• Broadway to Cheltenham Railway
• Afternoon Tea at Broadway Hotel
• Chatsworth House
• Edinburgh Castle
• Stirling Castle
• Loch Lomond Cruise
• Glasgow City

14-Day Iconic Ireland & Scotland Tour

• Arrival at Edinburgh Airport
• St. Andrews Golf Club
• Kingsbarns Distillery Tour
• Loch Ness cruise
• Glasgow Cathedral
• Belleek Pottery
• Sheepdog Demo
• Blind Piper Pub
• Rock of Cashel

14-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland

• Trim Castle
• Belfast City
• Belfast Murals
• Hillsborough Castle & Gardens
• Bushmills Distillery
• Derry City Walls
• Lough Erne Cruise
• Devenish Island
• Jameson Distillery Midleton

10-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland

• Dublin Airport
• Clonmacnoise
• Free time in Galway City
• Killary Fjord
• Free time in Cork City
• Charles Fort
• Irish National Stud
• Traditional Farm Lunch

8-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland

• Mikey Ryan's Bar
• Killarney National Park
• Hazel Mountain Chocolate Factory
• Galway City
• Free time in Dublin City
• St Patrick's Cathedral

6-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland

• Glendalough Monastic Site
• Ring of Kerry

• Dublin Airport arrival
• Waterford Crystal
• Kilkenny Castle

• Arrival in Edinburgh Airport
• Edinburgh City tour
• Dalwhinnie Distillery
• Eilean Donan Castle
• Isle of Skye
• Glasgow City tour
• Belfast City tour
• Derry City tour
• Dublin City tour

• Lough Eske Castle
• Derry City Tour
• Free time in Derry City

• Pearse Lyons Distillery
• Traditional Music Night

• Derry City walking tour
• Ulster American Folk Park

9-Day Highlights of Ireland & Scotland Tour

• Cruise Loch Lomond
• Clydeside Distillery Tour
• Glasgow City Tour
• Ferry to Belfast
• Belfast City Tour
• Glenshane Country Farm
• Giants Causeway
• Hillsborough Castle
• Carlingford Lough Ferry
• Farewell dinner and show

My Ireland Tour:

My Ireland Tour is a family business based right here in County Cork. Thanks for visiting our website: we're thrilled that you're interested in visiting the country we call home. As an independent Irish business, we're proud that we can give each guest the kind of service that has made us Ireland's top-rated tour operator. We hope to offer you a real Irish welcome soon. Our family business (My Ireland Tour Limited) is registered in Ireland, Company Number 547775.

Contact Us:

• 5 Church Hill  Carrigaline  Co. Cork  P43 X376  Ireland

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19 best ireland tours: dublin, giant's causeway & more.

Make the most of the stunning scenery in Ireland and Northern Ireland with the help of knowledgeable locals.

19 Best Ireland Tours

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Whatever attracts you to Ireland – the verdant landscape, the ancient castles and cathedrals or some of its famous manufactured goods – these tours will help you make the most of your time here. With the help of expert and traveler input, U.S. News determined that these tours in Ireland (and a few in Northern Ireland) are the best on offer. While the tours take differing approaches, ranging from boats and buses to horse-drawn carriages, they all have guides well-versed in local history and lore. Indeed, the guides' storytelling skills are often cited as highlights of these outings, which may last as little as an hour or as long as an entire day.

Lally Tours – Galway to Connemara and Kylemore Abbey Full Day Tour

Price: Adults from 50 euros (about $54); kids from 40 euros (about $43) Duration: 7.5 hours

Explore the west coast of Ireland, where the Irish language (Irish Gaelic) remains prevalent, on this daylong bus trip. In addition to learning about the various sights, you may acquire a few words of the local lingo from the onboard guides, whom tour-takers find enthusiastic, knowledgeable and entertaining. The route on this excursion winds through the photogenic Twelve Bens mountain range. Among the stops are a scenic mountainside village and the extravagant Kylemore Abbey, a 19th-century abbey featuring a Victorian walled garden and a neo-Gothic church.

The fee includes admission to Kylemore Abbey & Victorian Walled Garden, but does not include lunch. Outings depart Galway daily at 10 a.m. Hotel pickup is available for no additional charge. Lally Tours also offers full-day excursions to the Cliffs of Moher, among other destinations.

Check prices & availability on:

Irish Day Tours – Blarney Castle Day Tour From Dublin

Price: Adults from 85 euros (about $92); kids from 42.50 euros (about $46) Duration: 12 hours

Blarney Castle, which dates back to the 1400s, ranks as one of the most popular attractions in Ireland. The medieval stronghold, which stands approximately 5 miles west of Cork, houses the legendary Blarney Stone – purported to bestow the gift of eloquence on those who kiss it. In addition to visiting the famed castle, this tour stops at another highly popular destination, the Rock of Cashel and its cluster of medieval buildings, including Cormac's Chapel (which contains Romanesque frescoes) and the Hall of Vicars. The trip also includes a visit to Cahir Castle, a 13th-century defensive structure constructed on an island on the River Suir. Those who've taken the tour report enjoying the impressive castles, as well as the guides' amusing commentary. Many reviewers said this was a long day, but worth it to see and hear more about Irish history.

Tours depart daily from Dublin at 6:50 a.m. and return to central Dublin around 7:30 p.m. Irish Day Tours offers a variety of day trips, including excursions to Wicklow, Connemara and more.

Deros Tours – Ring of Kerry Coach Tour

Price: Adults from 38 euros (around $41); kids from 23 euros (about $25) Duration: 6 hours

Observe the unique landscape of the Iveragh Peninsula, including Ireland's highest mountain, on this half-day bus tour. Stops include the villages of Glenbeigh, Waterville and Sneem. From March to October, coaches also stop for a demonstration of how dogs are trained to herd sheep. A high point – literally – is a visit to Moll's Gap, which affords views of MacGillycuddy's Reeks, including its tallest peak, Carrantuohill, which stands more than 3,400 feet high. Another highlight is the Ladies View (named in honor of Queen Victoria and her retinue) at the Killarney Lakes. Tour-takers sing the praises of the witty, attentive guides and the many photo stops. Others were pleased they opted for tour instead of trying to drive the Ring of Kerry themselves.

Buses leave from Killarney at 10:30 a.m. daily and return around 4:30 p.m. Deros Tours also operates tours of the Gap of Dunloe as well as the Dingle Peninsula, among others.

Midleton Distillery Experience

Price: From 26 euros (about $28) Duration: 75 minutes

See how world-renowned Jameson Irish Whiskey is produced on this tour of the original Midleton distillery, which is located about 15 miles east of Cork. Along the tour, your guide will show you several of the distillery's buildings, where you'll have the opportunity to observe the distilling process. The tour ends with a tasting flight of three whiskeys. Travelers offer high marks for the engaging, well-informed guides. Reviewers also appreciate the whiskey samples and say this is a fun activity even if you're not a whiskey fan thanks to the incredible history and architecture on display.

There are also guided tours of the Jameson Bow St. Distillery in Dublin.

Game of Thrones Tours – Iron Islands & Giant's Causeway from Belfast

Price: From 49 euros (about $53) Duration: 10 hours

"Games of Thrones" fans can visit some of the spots where pivotal scenes of the series were filmed on this full-day excursion to the Glens of Antrim. Highlights include the Giant's Causeway, the Cushendun Caves (where Melisandre births a dark spirit), a beach that served as Dragonstone and the Dark Hedges, an avenue of beech trees where Arya Stark made her escape. Guides, who served as extras on the show, share information about the various sights as well as some behind-the-scenes scoop from the set. Reviewers report finding the passionate guides' commentary insightful and appreciate the small group size. Others took advantage of the costumes and props to snap some memorable photos.

Tours depart from Belfast, Northern Ireland, on Wednesday and Saturday at 7:30 a.m. year-round; additional Sunday departures are available in select months. Be aware that this tour involves some walking on uneven ground and that children younger than 12 are not permitted due to the adult content featured in the tour. The company also offers tours that depart from Dublin, among other locales.

Yellow Umbrella Tours – Traditional Pub Tour

Price: From 42 euros (about $45) Duration: 3 hours

If you've come to Ireland hoping to experience its lively pub culture, then this Dublin tour is for you. With a local leading the way, you'll visit three pubs on the north side of the river, away from the tourist crowds. Samples of Irish beer, whiskey and gin are included, and you'll have the option to purchase traditional Irish dishes, if you're feeling peckish. After visiting the pubs, you'll end the tour listening to live music. Reviewers say guides are friendly, entertaining and share lots of history about the drinks and Dublin. Participants also said the pubs featured on the tour are interesting and fun.

Tours are generally offered daily at 6 p.m.; they meet at The Spire on O'Connell Street. If you're traveling with kids and looking for a more family-friendly experience, consider the company's two-hour Dublin history walking tour.

Irish Day Tours – Cliffs of Moher

Price: Adults from 80 euros (about $87); kids from 40 euros (about $44) Duration: 13 hours

Travel west from Dublin to marvel at the Cliffs of Moher and enjoy panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean on this full-day bus trip. In addition to the nearly 400-foot cliffs, this tour visits the village of Doolin for lunch and the flower-filled Burren National Park, as well as the city of Galway before returning to Dublin. Tour-takers typically appreciate both the remarkable scenery and the astute and entertaining guides. Many reviewers said this is the best thing you can do while visiting Dublin.

Trips depart from the statue of Molly Malone on Suffolk Street daily at 6:50 a.m. and return to the city center around 7:30 p.m. Note: Fees do not include the cost of lunch. Be sure to bring headphones if you want to listen to the commentary on Irish Day Tours' multilingual mobile app. The company also offers tours to the Giant's Causeway, Blarney Castle and more.

Belfastology Walking Tours – Eclectic Belfast Walking Tour

Price: Adults from 20 pounds (about $25); kids from 12 pounds (about $15) Duration: 2.5 hours

Admire Belfast's architecture and hear about the city's history on this jaunt around town. Highlights include City Hall, the Cathedral Quarter, Waterfront Hall and the Albert Memorial Clock – one of Belfast's top landmarks. Reviewers applaud the enthusiastic guides' well-informed commentary; they also appreciate that the tour can be tailored to suit groups' particular interests.

Tours are typically offered multiple times a day starting at 10:30 a.m. Belfastology Walking Tours also offers themed tours, such as political murals and street art and music.

Galway Tour Company – The Aran Islands & the Cliffs Cruise

Price: Adults from 70 euros (about $76); kids from 65 euros (about $71) Duration: 10.5 hours

Experience both the Aran Islands and the Cliffs of Moher on this daylong outing. Buses leave Galway at 9 a.m. and travel along the Wild Atlantic Way south to the fishing village of Doolin. From there, tour-takers ride an express ferry to the smallest of the three Aran Islands, Inisheer, where – for at least two hours – they can explore cafes, castles, churches, lighthouses, shipwrecks, pubs and other attractions. After lunch, the journey continues by coach to the incredible cliffs. Travelers praise the guides' amusing and educational commentary and call the views phenomenal.

Buses typically return to Galway around 7:30 p.m. Tickets include admission to the Cliffs of Moher, but not lunch or any optional activities on Inisheer. Note: This tour is available daily from the beginning of March to the end of October. Galway Tour Company also take visitors to Connemara and the Kylemore Abbey, among other popular destinations.

Wild Atlantic Way Day Tours – Connemara and Connemara National Park Day Tour from Galway

Price: Adults from 45 euros (about $49); kids from $43 Duration: 9 hours

Take in the sights of Connemara on this day trip from Galway. Traveling both the Wild Atlantic Way and the Sky Road, this bus ride passes through the picturesque villages like Barna, Furbo and Spiddal, and makes stops at locales like Pines Island and the town of Clifden. The excursion also includes a three-hour visit to Connemara National Park or Kylemore Abbey (you get to choose). The views along the drive are often deemed a high point, and guides win kudos for their knowledgeable narration and skilled driving of the narrow roads. The route winds through the Maumturks and Twelve Bens mountains on the way back to Galway, where the trip usually ends around 6:30 or 7 p.m.

Tours depart from the Kinlay Hostel on Merchants Road at 9:30 a.m.; they are offered daily year-round. Fees do not include lunch, but do include the entry fee for Connemara National Park. The company also offers tours that depart from Limerick and Ennis.

Wild Rover Tours – Kilkenny, Wicklow Mountains, Glendalough Day Tour from Dublin

Price: From 43 euros (about $47) Duration: 10 hours

Spend a day learning about the history and folklore of eastern Ireland on this combination walking and coach tour. Take a guided stroll through the cobblestone streets of Kilkenny and then explore the city on your own, possibly opting to visit Kilkenny Castle, which dates to the 12th century. Then, traverse the photogenic Wicklow Mountains, where scenes from movies – including "Braveheart" – were filmed. The outing's visit to Glendalough, known for its glacial valleys and lakes, includes a guided tour of its monastic city, which was built circa A.D. 600. The trip also features a stop at a working sheep farm. Both the scenery and the guides' expert commentary and recomendations consistently win praise from travelers.

Tours are available daily all year, but the order in which you visit attractions varies seasonally. Pickups from a trio of Dublin locales occur between 8:10 and 8:30 a.m.; tours conclude back in the city around 6:20 p.m. Note: Prices do not include lunch or any attractions in Kilkenny. Wild Rover Tours also offer "Game of Thrones"-themed outings, as well as day trips to the Cliffs of Moher.

LetzGo City Tours – Skip the Line: Guinness Storehouse & Jameson Irish Whiskey Experience Tour

Price: From 112 euros (about $122) Duration: 4 hours

If you're hoping to visit the Jameson Distillery and the Guinness Storehouse on your trip to Dublin, consider this half-day tour, which includes skip-the-line access to both attractions, as well as expert commentary from a local guide. You'll start at the Jameson Distillery Bow St. to learn about and, of course, sample some celebrated whiskey. Then head over to the Guinness Storehouse, a seven-story monument to Ireland's renowned stout, and ascend to its Gravity Bar, a rooftop bar boasting unrivaled views of Phoenix Park, the Wellington Monument, the Wicklow Mountains and more. Along the way, hear about the city's brewing and distilling history from guides. Reviewers typically find the guides' stories entertaining, as well as educational. They also enjoyed the photo stop outside the oldest pub in Ireland, which dates back to the 11th century.

Skip-the-line tours are generally offered several times daily starting at 10:45 a.m. The company also hosts pub and city tours, as well as skip-the-line access to the Book of Kells and Dublin Castle.

McComb's Coach Travel – Giant's Causeway Tour

Price: From 35 euros (about $38) Duration: 10 hours

Take a scenic drive to Northern Ireland's famed Giant's Causeway, the sole UNESCO World Heritage Site in Northern Ireland, on this daylong tour. Along with its World Heritage Site status, Giant's Causeway is also a site of geological significance comprising approximately 40,000 hexagonal basalt columns. Other stops along the Causeway Coastal Route include Carrickfergus Castle, the Dark Hedges and Dunluce Castle, as well as a pub for lunch. Tour-takers generally appreciate the good humor and insights of the drivers/guides.

Coaches depart Belfast daily at 8:30 a.m. and return around 6 p.m. Note: This outing involves some walking on uneven surfaces. McComb's Coach Travel offers a variety of other tours, including a "Game of Thrones" tour.

House of Waterford Crystal – Factory Tour

Price: Adults from 17.50 euros (around $19); kids from 9.50 euros (about $10) Duration: 1 hour

Get a behind-the-scenes look at how world-famous Waterford Crystal is made on this tour, which visits the factory's blowing, mold-making, cutting, sculpting, engraving and inspection rooms. Visitors consistently find the crystal-making process fascinating and the guides informative and friendly. If you're in the Waterford area, many reviewers called this the No. 1 thing to do.

Tours are available year-round multiple times on most days, though there are none on Saturday and Sunday from November through February. Start times are determined upon your arrival at the plant in its namesake city, so be sure to check hours of operation, which vary by season. If you like what you see being crafted and want some crystal to take home, you can stop at the factory's retail store after the tour.

DC Tours – A History of Terror

Price: From 22 pounds (about $28) Duration: 2.5 hours

Learn about some of the most contentious moments in Northern Ireland's decades-long ethno-nationalist conflict (known as the Troubles) on this walking tour of Belfast. Tours start outside Belfast City Hall daily (barring some holidays) at 10:30 a.m. and conclude on the banks of the River Lagan. Stops along the way include Donegall Place, site of a 1972 bombing; Cathedral Quarter, the city's cultural district; and the Spirit of Belfast, a sculpture often called "The Onion Rings." History buffs generally find the passionate and engaging guides' commentary both informative and entertaining. Reviewers also say you don't need to know much about the Troubles to enjoy this tour.

This tour entails walking for about a mile and a half and is not recommended for children younger than 12. If you're looking for more of an overview of the city, DC Tours also conducts a three-hour "Best of Belfast" tour, among other experiences.

Taste & Tour – Belfast Food Tour

Price: From 67 pounds (about $85) Duration: 4 hours

Sample the Belfast dining scene on this four-hour stroll in the center of the city. After starting in St George's Market, the tour proceeds to various area bars and shops, as well as a restaurant in the Cathedral Quarter. Food and drinks sampled along the way should be sufficient for both breakfast and lunch, according to Taste & Tour. Foodies enjoy the ample food and beverage offerings as well as the friendly guides' culinary wisdom.

Tours typically depart from St. George's Market at 10:15 a.m. on Fridays and 10 and 10:45 a.m. on Saturdays. The company also offers tours that explore the city's cocktail and craft beer scene.

DoDublin – Hop-On Hop-Off

Price: Adults from 30 euros (about $33); kids from 10 euros (about $11) Duration: 2 hours

Explore multiple Dublin attractions at your own pace on this hop-on, hop-off bus tour – or stay on board and see the sights. The tour's route includes EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum, the Guinness Storehouse, the Little Museum of Dublin, St. Patrick's Cathedral and much more. Drivers provide running commentary about the city's sights (and recorded narration in nine languages is available). Tourgoers applaud the drivers' witty remarks and recommend taking this tour at the start of your Dublin visit to familiarize yourself with the city.

Bus tours operate daily and depart every 20 to 30 minutes (depending on the day), with the first departing 59 Upper O'Connell St. at 9 a.m. and the last at 5 p.m. DoDublin offers both single- and two-day tickets for its hop-on, hop-off tours. For each adult ticket purchased – regardless of duration – a child younger than 15 can ride for free. Moreover, the fees include admission to the Little Museum. In addition to its hop-on, hop-off tours, DoDublin also operates a nightly ghost bus tour.

Killarney Jaunting Cars – From Park to Castle Tour

Price: Adults from 65 euros (about $70); kids from 10 euros (around $11) Duration: 1 hour

On this hourlong horse-and-carriage ride, you'll travel to both Killarney National Park and Ross Castle, passing sights like St. Mary's Cathedral and MacGillycuddy's Reeks along the way. Why a carriage ride? This mode of transportation allows visitors to see parts of the park where motor vehicles are not allowed. Travelers consistently describe the guides as humorous and well-versed in area culture and history. Reviewers also say the ride is relaxing; many called the tour the highlight of their trip.

Carriages depart from the Great Southern Killarney hotel several times daily, with the first usually heading out at 9:30 a.m. and the last at 5:15 p.m. Killarney Jaunting Cars also offers a variety of combo tours, in addition to a five-hour tour to the Gap of Dunloe.

Killarney Lake Tours – Killarney Water Bus Tour

Price: Adults from 15 euros (about $16); kids from 8 euros (about $9) Duration: 1 hour

See the sights of Killarney from Lough Leane, the area's largest lake, on this hourlong boat ride. Water buses launch from and return to Ross Castle and pass attractions, such as Innisfallen Island's monastic ruins and O'Sullivan's Cascade; cruisers also get an eyeful of the nearby mountains. Tour-takers say this activity is reasonably priced and enjoy the guides' anecdotes and historical observations. They also rave about the views.

Trips are available multiple times daily with standard departure times of 11 a.m. and 12:30, 2:30 and 4 p.m.; additional times may be added in the summer. Water bus tours can also be combined with a horse-drawn carriage (aka jaunting car) ride around Killarney.

You may also be interested in:

• The Best Dublin Tours
• The Best Places to Visit in Ireland
• The Best Travel Insurance for Europe

Tags: Tours , Travel , Ireland , Vacations , United Kingdom , Europe , Europe Vacations , United Kingdom Vacations

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

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Ireland Tours & Vacations

The Emerald Isle: where the rhythm is slower, the people are warmer, the spirit is fuller, and the earth is richer.

Irish hospitality may be a cliché – right up there with leprechauns and kissing the Blarney Stone – but when you take a  tour in Ireland  (whether that's in Galway or down   South ) you realize that this enchanting republic revels in its old-school approach to life. Connemara really is as brooding and lonely as we’ve been led to believe. The Dublin of James Joyce still lingers on in odd pockets of the city. The Guinness really is that good. If you want to enjoy your holiday, it’s best to leave your cynicism at the door and grab Ireland with both hands: learn the folklore of Roscommon and Donegal,   road trip your way along the south's coastline , go searching for faeries in Knocknerea Mountain, moan about the inclement weather and (above all) embrace the craic.

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Ireland tour reviews

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Northern & Southern Ireland

England or Ireland? Where to go on your next trip

Scotland or Ireland: which country should you travel to next?

Ireland at a glance

Capital city.

Dublin (population 500,000)

4.7 million

English, Gaelic

(GMT) Greenwich Mean Time : Dublin, Edinburgh, Lisbon, London

CALLING CODE

Electricity.

Type D (Old British 3-pin) Type G (Irish/British 3-pin) Type M (see D)

Learn more about Ireland

Best time to visit ireland.

Don’t forget your umbrella! Although the wettest time of year is from October to April, rain is pretty much a guarantee year round. Summer, June to August, promises better weather, and the long days are welcome even if the sun isn’t shining. May, June and September are great months to holiday in Ireland, as there are fewer tourists, more daylight and it’s usually relatively warm for Irish standards). July and August are the country’s busier months, but the festivals, events and good craic that take over the country more than make up for the increase in tourists.

Read more about the best time to visit Ireland

History and government

Early history.

Tumultuous is a good word to describe Ireland’s often troubled and sorrowful history, which is filled with invasion, repression, deadly conflict, religious discrimination and emigration. Ireland’s history dates back to 8000 BC, and progressed from a hunter-gatherer society to an agricultural one. Christianity came to the island in the 5th century, replacing the old tribal and Druid societies, though many of the Celtic traditions were preserved. In the 800s, the Vikings started invading and regularly raided and plundered the island for upwards of two centuries. They set up settlements (most notably Dublin), but were eventually pushed out of Ireland by the Irish king Muirecán. (Ireland was then made up of many small kingdoms, who fought each other for dominance of other counties and the entire island.) Then came the Normans. When an exiled Irish king sought help from (English) King Henry II, he sent Norman forces to (successfully) recapture the Irish King’s counties. This event established Norman lords in Ireland, who soon ruled big tracts of Iand. This worried Henry II so much he invaded in person in 1172. Now it was not only Irish lords that were battling for control of the country, but Norman and English ones as well. 

Fast forward to 1536 and Henry VIII, who tried to conquer Ireland and extend English law over the country. This was met with fierce resistance, especially when he tried to convert the Irish Catholics to Protestants. This opened up a brutal few centuries, where the endeavor for Protestant rule over Ireland led to many atrocities and battles. In the 1600s, land was confiscated from Catholics and given to Protestant settlers (known as the Plantations), triggering the first wave of mass Irish emigration. Remaining Catholics were subject to persecution, with their rights becoming less and less as time went on.

The Irish Rebellion of 1798, led by the republican United Irishmen (who wanted to overthrow British rule and have a non-sectarian republic) was brutally quelled and Irish self-government was abolished. From 1845 - 49, Ireland suffered the Great Famine, which saw over a million people die from starvation and disease, and a million or more emigrate. Understandably, relations between the Irish people and the British got worse, as the government had many means to stop the severity of the famine. Another tragedy was that this period (along with other factors) contributed to English largely replacing the Irish language. From this time until 1912, there were many attempts at reinstating home rule (Irish self-government) and a number of rebellions were instigated but failed. It was also when two distinct groups emerged: the Irish nationalists (who wanted Ireland to be independent and governed by the Irish) and Irish unionists (who considered themselves British and wanted to remain in the union).

Recent history

In 1922, after the Irish War of Independence and many years of fighting, the Anglo-Irish Treaty was signed and Ireland was divided into Northern Ireland (six counties) and Southern Ireland (26 counties), known as the Irish Free State. This lead to the Irish Civil War, fought between those who wanted a unified Ireland and those who wanted to keep Northern Ireland under British rule. The Irish Republican Army (IRA) lost, and Northern Ireland remained ruled by Britain.

The Irish Free State was a predominantly Catholic state and the Roman Catholic church had a massive impact on the formation of the country, as it had over much of Irish history. In 1949, the Republic of Ireland was established and left the British Commonwealth. Up until the late 1990s, the economy of Ireland struggled and emigration was an ongoing problem. Unfortunately the economic boom of the 90s and 2000s has faltered, and economic troubles have once again returned. That said, the conservatism of the Catholic church has lost its grip over society, with many social reforms that would have once been unthinkable being implemented in the 90s.

After the division of the counties in 1922, Northern Ireland became a predominantly Protestant state. Years of violence between pro-British Unionists and pro-Irish Republicans have marked its history, which is a complicated and bloody beast woven with political, ethnic and religious differences. It is as fascinating as it is heartbreaking, and worth reading about in a sphere that can do it justice. See our list of recommended books for books detailing this period.

Top 5 Irish mythical creatures

1. leprechauns.

They are Ireland’s most well known mythical characters. They are male faeries who take the form of an old shoemaker and are depicted with mischief in their eyes. Leprechauns are the source of practical jokes, have the ability to grant wishes and have untold riches buried away.

A banshee is a female faerie who is said to emit an other-worldly wail when someone is about to die. While usually heard rather than seen, reports of sightings range from the sight of a beautiful woman who utters a low, pleasant singing to a crone who emits a soul-chilling shriek.

They are creatures that are seals in the water but are human once they shed their skin on land. They are often linked with tales of ill-fated romance, where either a human has stolen the selkie’s skin so they can’t return to the water (and must marry the human) or a human is taken to the depths of the ocean to be their spouse.

4. Dullahan

A dullahan carries its head under its arm and rides a black stallion – and sometimes drives a wagon made out of skeletons! Its mission is to claim souls, stopping only to call out the name of the person who will die. Those who try to watch him will endure a bucket of blood thrown at them or a whip made out of a spinal cord. Only gold can scare it.

A merrow is the Gaelic version of a mermaid/merman – a half-human, half-fish creature with an amiable and benevolent nature. They are known to lure handsome men to live under the sea, but are also capable of living with humans and marrying them. They have a special hat called a cohuleen druith, and can’t return to the water if they lose it.

Top places to visit in Ireland

1. cliffs of moher.

Take your Irish holiday to a level that’s as high as the Cliffs of Moher themselves as you peer over the brink of these monolithic edges. Both vertical and abrupt in stature, these cliff faces provide monumental views over Galway Bay and out to the Aran Islands. Listen to the powerful waves crash against the sandstone far, far below and let the salty smell of the sea breeze calm your mind and lift your soul.

Trip: Northern & Southern Ireland

2. Aran Islands

Just when you thought Ireland couldn’t get any more spellbinding, the Aran Islands with their staggering cliffs, Celtic churches, and World Heritage Listed sites, peak out above the waters of Galway Bay to prove you wrong. Follow your local leader as you explore, not only the rugged coastline but also the ruins and remains of both the Bronze and Iron Ages for a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience.

3. Ring of Kerry

From the tranquil sound of Torc Waterfall to the imposing monument that is Staigue Fort, the Ring of Kerry only adds to Ireland’s collection of unspoiled natural wonders. Stop in at bucolic villages such as Killarney, Beaufort, and Kenmare on the 179km circular journey and continue to adventure through ‘the Ring’ by private vehicle to see some shepherds in action on a local farm visit.

 To be sure you get the full Irish experience you can’t go past ordering a pint of Guinness at a local pub in the republic’s capital of Dublin. Wandering through the cobbled streets of this electric city is thirsty work and you only need to stop in at one of the many refreshment-ready establishments to get your liquid fill. With a bitter, roasted taste and a texture that goes down (a little too) smooth, you’ll be ordering another round in no time.

5. The Wicklow Way

Known as the oldest, long-distance trail in Ireland, the Wicklow Way offers a whole heap of scenic experiences from passing through open moorland and forested heaths to walking beside fast-flowing mountain streams. If those views aren’t enough to convince you of Ireland’s beauty, then exploring Glendalough Valley’s monastic settlements and peering into deep, sapphire-colored lakes ought to do the trick.

Trip: Walk the Wicklow Way

6. Ballysaggartmore Towers

If you’re wondering what your next stop is on your journey to find some of Ireland’s most magical places, then let us introduce you to the Ballysaggartmore Towers. Created in a gothic style, these towers are both imposing and idyllic, situated in a fairytale-like wooded area that’s perfect for picnics. Join your tour on a walk of the grounds and imagine what it would have been like to roam the ornate stone halls.

Trip: Ireland: Kilkenny & Surrounds

7. Killarney National Park

While the small and charming town of Killarney is well worth a visit in its own right, it’s the dramatic and rugged mountain range that sits alongside it that elevates this scenic spot to the top of any ‘must-see’ list. Featuring the highest peak in Ireland in McGillycuddy’s Reeks and some of the world’s most recognizable lakes and waterfalls, this national park deserves to be explored. And admired. And loved.

Similar destinations

Figuring out which country to travel to can be hard, especially when there are countries right next to each other that seem so similar! So you don't have to roll the dice or pick your next destination out of a hat, we've put together a comparative guide on all things culture, cuisine, and cities (among things) to make your decision a bit easier.

Scotland or Ireland?

England or Ireland?

Further reading

Ireland travel faqs, do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travelers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travelers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

How to get to Ireland

Getting to Ireland is super easy with two popular options: flying or catching the ferry. Flying is the quickest way to get to Ireland but it can be quite expensive depending on where you're travelling from. If you're travelling from a country like Australia or the United States then flying is your only option. If you live in the UK, you have the option of driving to Liverpool and catching the ferry to Dublin so that you can easily get around once you're in Ireland.

Is tipping customary in Ireland?

Tipping of 10-15% in restaurants is common. Some restaurants add a service charge to the bill, so check for this. It’s common to round up fare in taxis or leave around 10% if they’ve been particularly helpful.

What is the internet access like in Ireland?

Internet access is good in Ireland, with internet cafes and Wi-Fi hotspots easily found in most cities and major towns.

Can I use my cell phone while in Ireland?

Cell phone coverage is generally very good in most parts of Ireland. Ensure global roaming is activated before you arrive.

What are the toilets like in Ireland?

Modern, flushable toilets are the standard in Ireland.

What will it cost for a...?

Pint of Guinness = 4.50 Euro City public transport ride = 2.5 Euro Simple cafe lunch = 15 Euro  Nice meal in a restaurant = 40 Euro

Can I drink the water in Ireland?

Tap water is considered safe to drink unless otherwise marked.

Are credit cards accepted widely in Ireland?

Major credit cards are widely accepted by stores and hotels in Ireland. Smaller cafes and shops may not accept credit cards, so ensure you carry enough cash to cover small purchases.

What is ATM access like in Ireland?

ATMs are very common in Ireland, so finding one won't be a problem in most towns and cities.

What to pack for Ireland

As Ireland is known to be quite rainy all year round, packing wet weather clothing is important.

Items like a waterproof jacket or raincoat, quick-dry clothing such as pants and tops, beanies, scarves, thick socks, and gloves will all come in handy. 

You should also consider packing a collapsible, travel-sized umbrella to minimize the likelihood of getting wet when it's raining. 

Remember to pack a camera, a backpack, a reusable drink bottle, and a portable charger as well.

Things to eat in Ireland

Irish food is undoubtedly one of the main reasons why this breathtaking country is so popular among travelers. From hearty stews full of vegetables to salty bread you'll get addicted to, traditional Irish food has a focus on fresh produce served up farm-to-table style.

Is Ireland LGBTQIA+ friendly?

While homosexuality was only decriminalized in Ireland in 1993, it has since become a welcoming and accepting country for LGBTQIA+ travelers within Ireland, and for travelers coming from elsewhere, with a range of gay-friendly venues, bars, and events located in all major cities.

What public holidays are celebrated in Ireland?

• 1 Jan New Year's Day
• 17 Mar St Patrick's Day
• 17 Apr Easter Monday
• 1 May May Day
• 5 Jun June Bank Holiday
• 7 Aug August Bank Holiday
• 30 Oct October Bank Holiday
• 25 Dec Christmas Day
• 26 Dec Saint Stephen's Day

See a current list of public holidays in Ireland .  

How do I stay safe and healthy while traveling?

From Australia?

Go to: Smart Traveller

From Canada?

Go to:  Canada Travel Information

From the UK?

Go to:  UK Foreign Travel Advice

From New Zealand?

Go to:  Safe Travel

From the US?

Go to:  US Department of State

The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before traveling?

Absolutely. All passengers traveling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

Does my trip support The Intrepid Foundation?

Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. Trips to this country directly support our global Intrepid Foundation partners, Eden Reforestation Projects and World Bicycle Relief. Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

Eden Reforestation Projects

Eden Reforestation Projects are helping to mitigate climate change by restoring forests worldwide; they also hire locally and create job opportunities within vulnerable communities. Donations from our trips support restoration across planting sites in 10 countries around the globe. Find out more or make a donation World Bicycle Relief

World Bicycle Relief provides people in low-income communities with bicycles to mobilize school kids, health workers, and farmers in far-out areas – giving them access to vital education, healthcare, and income. Donations help provide Buffalo Bicycles – specifically designed to withstand the rugged terrain and harsh environment of rural regions – to those who need them most. Find out more or make a donation

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Shades of Ireland

About this tour.

From history-filled Dublin to the rolling green hills and dramatic coast, experience Ireland’s charms on a journey through the Emerald Isle. Choose how you explore the city of Dublin. Kiss the Blarney Stone at historic Blarney Castle. See Killarney from an Irish jaunting car. Pick from a selection of the best restaurants with our Diner’s Choice program. Experience the world-famous beauty of the Ring of Kerry. See border collies in action during a traditional sheepdog demonstration. Stand in awe at the top of the stunning 700-foot Cliffs of Moher. Live like royalty during an overnight stay on the grounds of a castle. A vibrant blend of captivating culture and stunning nature, this is the Ireland you’ve always imagined.

Your Tour Includes

• 5 Handpicked Accommodations
• 4 Choice on Tour Options

Included Highlights

• Irish Evening
• Choices on Tour

Your Tour at a Glance

8 Breakfasts

2 - Moderate

Travel Style

Best time for travel, customize your tour.

Optional Excursions

Starting at $99.00

Activity Level

• Level This Tour

For specific details about this tour's activity level and other info to know before you book your trip, click here.

Extension Style

Best time for travel shades of ireland.

While just about any month is great to visit Ireland, there are a few prime times of the year for the Shades of Ireland tour. Here are some recommendations from our destination experts.

Spring: There is no better time to be in Ireland than March, for Saint Patrick’s Day! With spring weather, places like the Cliffs of Moher feel a bit warmer and have a clearer view for photographs.

Summer: Summer is a very busy time of year, but perfect for enjoying the buzz and excitement of Dublin. As the sun sets late in the evening, longer days mean having more time to explore, and you’ll see the Emerald Isle at its greenest.

Fall: After the summer months, major sites become much less crowded. Enjoy the changing colors and still-moderate temperatures of the rolling hillsides.

Travel Styles

Highlights and inclusions.

Must-See Inclusions:

• Jump into Ireland's vibrant capital city — Dublin.

Stand in awe of the stunning 700-foot-high Cliffs of Moher.

Kiss the famed Blarney Stone at Blarney Castle.

Cultural Experiences:

Overnight on the grounds of a regal castle.

• Experience the Ring of Kerry, one of the world's great coastal roads.

See Irish sheepdogs in action during a traditional demonstration.

Culinary Inclusions:

Enjoy a hearty dinner and night of traditional Irish entertainment.

• Taste the "water of life" during an Irish whiskey tasting.

Be treated to a farewell dinner at a castle.

• Blarney Castle
• Jaunting Car Ride
• Ring of Kerry
• Cliffs of Moher
• Castle Stay

Book with Confidence

* With Insurance Purchased

• *No Hassle Refunds
• Traveling Well Safety
• No booking fee, *no change fees
• Top Rated Travel Protection

Share This Tour

Looking to add your itinerary for friends and family? Share your Itinerary

Getting Prepared

Know before you go, travel tips, enhance your tour.

Pre and Post Tour Extensions

• Choice On Tour

Pre and Post Night Stay

Unique Experience

Cultural Experiences

Enhance Your Trip

• Tour Extensions

Today in Dublin, you have the choice between two activities. First you may choose to join a local expert and familiarize yourself with the “Fair City” of Dublin during a tour highlighting the top sights! Visit St. Patrick’s Cathedral, O’Connell Street, Grafton Street and Phoenix Park, and see the city's trademark – magnificent rows of stately Georgian town homes. Your other option is to join a local guide on an intimate walking tour of Dublin’s historic center. Explore O’Connell Street and the Grand Central Post Office, site of the 1916 Uprising. Walk along the River Liffey and learn about the important role this river played in Dublin’s history. Explore Grafton Street before discovering the rich history of St. Stephen’s Green.

Today in Waterford, you have the choice between two activities. First you may choose a behind the scenes tour reveals the century’s old tradition of Waterford Crystal making. Your guide will detail the step-by-step phases of creating this beautiful product, including sculpting, engraving and design inspiration. Meet high-end crystal makers. Visit the Waterford retail store, home to the largest collection of Waterford Crystal found anywhere in the world. Your other option is to enjoy a privately guided tour of Waterford’s Medieval Museum, the only museum of its kind in Ireland. Discover the story of Ireland’s oldest city through the middle Ages. Your tour will take you down into centuries old vaults, through the 13th century Choristers Hall, past the magnificent Cloth of Gold and High Mass Vestments, and culminate in the 15th century Mayor’s Wine Vault. Here, enjoy a glass of wine.

Extend your tour with 3 nights in the capital of Scotland – Edinburgh. This is a city where history is layered on top of history, and there is something to discover down every cobblestone street. Explore the Old Town and its charming architecture, the Royal Mile and its shopping, Edinburgh Castle and its history. If you’re feeling adventurous, there’s always the 18th century underground vault tours, or a hike up to Arthur’s Seat for incredible views of the sea and the city. You’ll have the perfect balance of free time and guided excursions to show you exactly what Edinburgh is all about. Your other option is to book a post stay?

• Kingscourt - Edinburgh, Scotland
• Fly* to Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland and a city steeped in history. Here, you’ll find charming pubs, quaint shops, and friendly faces all under the watchful gaze of Edinburgh Castle. Dig into Scottish cuisine with dinner at a local restaurant tonight.
• Delve into the heart of Edinburgh as you take a guided walking tour of the famous Royal Mile. Peruse the many shops, learn about the storied history of these streets, and make your way to the peak of the city – Edinburgh Castle. Inside the walls of Edinburgh Castle, you’ll be able to see medieval armor and the Scottish Crown Jewels. The rest of the day is at leisure.
• Today is yours to explore Edinburgh how you’d like. Take advantage of this day at leisure – maybe take a tour of Edinburgh’s infamous vaults, or stop by The King's Edinburgh residence, the Palace of Holyroodhouse.
• Edinburgh - Extension Ends
• Give a farewell pat to Greyfriars Bobby as you depart for home.

Hotel-Clayton Hotel Ballsbridge

Hotel-Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel

In a beautiful land of rolling green fields, ancient battlefields and medieval fortresses once inhabited by generations of clansmen, you can conjure up a world filled with lords and ladies, knights and damsels as you experience a true medieval banquet hosted in a real castle! The 15th century magically comes to life the moment you enter the castle. Sip honey-rich mead and admire the ornate tapestries and royal furnishings before sitting down for a sumptuous four-course meal and some fine wine suitable for toasting the royal court. Spirits run high with delightful song and dance performances reminiscent of this unique period.

This culinary and cultural adventure begins at the Guinness Storehouse, Ireland's top international visitor attraction. This self-guided tour allows you time to wander over 7 floors with your audio guide, learning about how Guinness is brewed, it's various advertising campaigns over the years, and of course you get to taste the iconic drink at its spectacular Gravity Bar. Enjoy a sweeping 360º view of Dublin as you savor a complimentary pint. Then, indulge in a quintessential Irish dinner at a contemporary restaurant that explores “New Irish Cuisine,” serving up cutting-edge dishes using the freshest, local ingredients.

Jump into Ireland's vibrant capital city — Dublin.

Experience the Ring of Kerry, one of the world's great coastal roads.

Taste the "water of life" during an Irish whiskey tasting.

Accommodations

Arrive earlier.

Pre Night: Clayton Hotel Ballsbridge From $140 per night

Hotel Riu Plaza The Gresham Dublin

Granville hotel, killarney avenue, absolute hotel, cabra castle, stay longer.

Post Night: Fitzpatrick Castle From $120 per night

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World Class Small-Group Tours of Ireland*

Breathtaking scenery. Inspiring people and hospitality. Legendary history and culture.

Vagabond have been THE leaders in small-group tours of Ireland since 2002.

That's 22 years of magic memories, locally-owned hotels, passionate driver guides, exceptional tour vehicles, delicious food and unmissable local Irish experiences.

What's more, we are the only Irish tour company named in Travel + Leisure's World's Best Awards 2023 and the first tour operator in Ireland to become a certified B Corp .

🎶 NEW MUSIC TOUR:  Hit the high notes on our brand new Irish music itinerary, the 8 Day Jigs & Reels Ireland Music Tour

💚 Our Guests Love Us!

Vagabond/Driftwood tours are the absolute BEST.

We had a most memorable time. Couldn’t have asked for better accommodations or a better experience. Highly recommend, for the experience of a lifetime.

Andrew was a wonderful guide, with the small group we could go places the larger bus could not.

The hotels for the kingdoms tour were excellent. cannot say enough about what a nice time we had. They even have plan b sites to visit based on weather.

This was my first international trip and my first trip going solo - it exceeded my expectations!

Our tour guide Denise was SO knowledgeable. Everything was perfect! The van was comfortable, spacious, and every seat had a good view.

Vagabond Tours Are..

Ireland's original small-group tours.

In 2002, Rob led his first ever small-group tour of Ireland. Twenty-two years later, we are still listening, learning and improving every season. Every Vagabond & Driftwood itinerary distils decades of experience into one amazing adventure!

Family-Owned With Local Guides

Based in Ireland, Vagabond & Driftwood has always been family-owned and operated. We recruit and train our driver guides locally. Our network of independent hotels and activity suppliers helps our tours contribute directly to the local economy.

An Award Winning Irish Tour Company

Exceptional quality runs right through Vagabond & Driftwood. Our standards have been recognised internationally. Most recently, we were the first B Corp from the Irish travel industry and the only tour operator awarded in the Travel + Leisure World's Best Awards 2023.

Choose Your Tour Style x

Driftwood - relaxed pace.

Relax on a Driftwood small-group tour of Ireland featuring quality time to explore Ireland's scenery, history & culture.

• ✔️ Maximum 14 Other Guests
• ✔️ Comfortable Mercedes Tour Vehicles
• ✔️ Explore Castles, Gardens & Scenery
• ✔️ Guaranteed Scheduled Departures
• ✔️ Relaxed Tour Pace

Vagabond - Active Adventure

Get active on a small-group tour of Ireland featuring adventure, history, culture and wild destinations.

• ✔️ Maximum 12 Other Guests
• ✔️ Chunky 4×4 Mercedes Tour Vehicles
• ✔️ Hiking, Biking, Horseback-Riding & Kayaking
• ✔️ Upbeat Tour Pace

Vagabond - Active Small-Group Tours of Ireland

Driftwood - Easy-Paced Small-Group Tours of Ireland

Our Ireland Tours Care For Community and Planet

Like you, we want our children and grandchildren to be able to enjoy authentic travel experiences into the future.

We aim to bring long-term benefits to both community and planet as part of our responsible tourism mission.

That's why we're a certified B Corp .

Rob & Amy Rankin + the Vagabond Team

FLEXIBLE BOOKING TERMS

Reserve your seat for 7 days for free. Book your tour for €250 per person.

Learn more about the flexibility built into Vagabond & Driftwood Tours.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

We've answered a few questions about Ireland since 2002...

Dive into our FAQs  to learn more.

Where We Tour In Ireland

Our expert VagaGuides know every last corner of Ireland!

We tour Northern Ireland , the Wild Atlantic Way  and Ireland's Ancient East .

Highlights include the Ring of Kerry , Dingle, Giants Causeway, the Cliffs of Moher, Connemara, the Burren, Kilkenny Castle and the Blarney Stone.

The counties we visit include Belfast, Derry/Londonderry, Donegal, Galway, Waterford, Sligo, Clare, Cork and Tipperary. For convenience, all of our small-group tours depart from Dublin .

Expect Excellence On Your Ireland Tour

We were ranked #12 in the Travel + Leisure   World’s Best Awards 2023 — one of the travel industry's most prestigious international accolades.

Can more than 1,000 5-Star Reviewers on TripAdvisor be wrong? Our small-group tours of Ireland are rated 5/5 and were awarded a 2023 Travellers Choice Award .

Our amazing tours of Ireland were awarded Feefo's 2023 Gold Trusted Service Award based on verified guest reviews. Thank you for sharing the love!

Our tours of Ireland are a force for good in the community. We are immensely proud to have become Ireland's first B Corp certified travel and tourism company.

Our 8 Day Vagabond Wild Irish Rover Tour was the only tour of Ireland selected by National Geographic Traveler Magazine's 50 Tours of a Lifetime

We care about the impacts of our Ireland tours. To back this commitment up and strive for improvement, we are active members of Sustainable Travel Network

Our 6 Day Driftwood Ancient Ireland Tour took home the 2019 award for Best Ireland’s Ancient East Tourism Experience

We were delighted when our small-group tours of Ireland were awarded the Green Tourism & Entertainment Award at the Green Awards 2018

Frequently Asked Questions

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Read Ireland Tour Tips On Our Blog

7 Reasons Guided Tours Go Beyond Self-Drive

Best Places To Go Biking in Ireland

☘️ Worry-Free Bookings. ONLY €250.00 DEPOSIT PER PERSON. See Our Flexible Terms

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Irish Classic

Starting from $3,795

• The Experience
• 12 Days In 2024
• 13 Days In 2024
• 12 Days In 2025
• 13 Days In 2025
• 13 Days in 2024 - Self-Drive
• 13 Days in 2025 - Self-Drive

Circle around the Emerald Isle's breathtaking coasts 

Trip details.

Tour start Dublin

Tour end Dublin

Available Promotions for this tour

Booking window

01 Apr 2024 - 31 May 2024

Cliffs of Moher

Visit this essential Ireland landmark—sandstone and shale cliffs that rise 700 feet above the ocean below, with incredible views of the Aran Islands and the Twelve Pins Mountains.

John B. Keane's Pub

Enjoy tea and scones in the pub where the playwright and novelist crafted his greatest works—and see if you're inspired as well.

Visit this 1,500-year-old walled city and enjoy its thriving arts scene while exploring its history.

Nine Glens of Antrim

Explore this area of natural beauty, which was once the home of St. Patrick. In modern times, these valleys have served as the backdrop for the show "Game of Thrones."

St. Patricks' Grave

On the grounds of 800-year-old Down Cathedral, you'll find the final resting place of St. Patrick.

Giant's Causeway

See the gorgeous stone columns volcanoes built millions of years ago.

Ring of Kerry

Take in one of Ireland's most breathtaking drives, with grand views of the scenery at Moll's Gap and Ladies View.

Blarney Castle

Climb the steep, winding staircase to kiss the famous Stone of Eloquence and see if the legend is true – will it really give you the gift of the gab?

Down Cathedral

Visit the historic burial site of St. Patrick, marked by a huge boulder. Immerse yourself in his work and life at the St Patrick Centre.

Walled City Brewery – CIE Tours Exclusive

Visit this award-winning brewery and enjoy their craft beers.

Westport House

Take a guided tour of Westport House, an elegant 18th-century home complete with its original contents, including portraits, furniture, silver, and porcelain.

Crumlin Road Gaol

Get an unusual glimpse of 150 years of history as you learn about the lives of the 25,000 men, women, and children once imprisoned in this Victorian-era institution.

Dunbrody Famine Ship

Explore a replica of the vessel used during the 1840s famine to transport emigrants to North America.

Marine Bar – CIE Tours Exclusive

Enjoy a drink with some traditional music in this centuries-old, family-run pub.

Titanic Belfast

Get an in-depth look at how the ship was built in Belfast's shipyards — and the inside story of its fateful maiden voyage.

Day 1 Dublin City Tour | Pearse Lyons Distillery

Day 2 down cathedral | the st patrick centre, crumlin road gaol | belfast, day 3 titanic belfast | belfast walking tour, day 4 giant’s causeway |derry walking tour | walled city brewery, day 5 westport | westport walking tour, day 6 sheepdog demonstration | westport house, day 7 galway, cliffs of moher | medieval castle banquet, day 8 john b. keane’s pub | dingle peninsula, day 9 ring of kerry highlights | kenmare | jaunting car ride | killarney, day 10 blarney castle | marine bar | waterford walking tour, day 11 house of waterford crystal | dunbrody famine ship | taylors three rock, day 12 hop-on, hop-off bus tour | dublin, day 13 tour ends in dublin, where you’ll stay.

Hyatt Centric The Liberties Dublin, Ireland

Boasting a garden, a fitness centre as well as a bar, Hyatt Centric The Liberties Dublin is set in...

Hilton Belfast Hotel Belfast, Northern Ireland

Relax at the Hilton Belfast with an idyllic location on the banks of the Lagan River, only a two-...

Ebrington Hotel

Wyatt Hotel Westport, Ireland

In the heart of Westport, this hotel on the famous Octagon offers lively...

Limerick Strand Hotel Limerick, Ireland

The 4-star Limerick Strand Hotel is the ideal riverside base when exploring the Wild Atlantic Way...

Killarney Plaza Hotel Killarney, Ireland

The 4-star Killarney Plaza Hotel & Spa offers elegance in the heart of Killarney Town. Home to...

Granville Hotel Waterford, Ireland

The Granville Hotel in Waterford overlooks the River Suir and is a 5 minute...

Aloft Dublin City Hotel Dublin, Ireland

Set 1,300 feet from St Patrick's Cathedral, Aloft Dublin City is located in Dublin and offers a...

Inclusive package with no hidden extras

What's included?

• Full daily breakfast and many meals*
• An evening of Irish entertainment  
• Transportation (Buses, shuttles & ferries)
• Welcome drinks with your group
• Free Wi-Fi on luxury coaches
• All entrance fees to attractions
• Comprehensive travel itinerary

*Breakfast is not included on Day 1

Our welcome gift to you

• A travel backpack
• Travel adapter
• Rain poncho
• Luggage strap and tags
• Documents wallet

From our travelers

Wonderfully planned and executed trip. Our tour director was a gem and looked after us as if we were in her own family. Lots of good, first hand info, including her native experiences growing up and raising her family. She did poetry readings, wonderful Irish stories and sang a song or two, all seemingly by memory.

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Hyatt Centric The Liberties, Dublin

Boasting a garden, a fitness centre as well as a bar, Hyatt Centric The Liberties Dublin is set in the Dublin City Centre of Dublin, 650 feet from St Patrick's Cathedral. Among the facilities of this property are a restaurant, a 24-hour front desk and room service, along with free Wi-Fi. All guest rooms come with air conditioning, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a coffee machine, a shower, a hairdryer and a wardrobe. At the hotel all rooms are fitted with a private bathroom.

• 24-hour Front Desk
• Business Center
• Disabled Facilities
• Dry Cleaning
• Fitness Center
• Wifi in Public Areas (Complimentary)
• Air Conditioned
• Cable/Satellite Television
• Coffee & Tea-making Facilities in Room
• Daily Maid Service
• In-Room Wifi (Complimentary)
• Iron/Ironing Board
• Private Bathroom
• Room Service

Hilton Belfast Hotel, Belfast

Relax at the Hilton Belfast with an idyllic location on the banks of the Lagan River, only a two-minute walk to the city center. Amenities and convenience make this Belfast hotel a favorite for visitors. Take in the river view and dine on Irish and British cuisine at the hotel's Sonoma Restaurant.

Hilton Belfast

• Coffee Shop
• Laundry Facilities
• 24-hour Room Service
• Luggage Racks
• Work Desk & Lamp

King Hilton Guest Room

Ebrington Hotel,

Wyatt hotel, westport.

In the heart of Westport, this hotel on the famous Octagon offers lively entertainment each night and a fine location for enjoying the friendly townand County Mayo. All rooms in the hotel are tastefully decorated, and the delightful bistro-style Wyatt restaurant and JW’s brasserie are perfect for an enjoyable meal. Cobblers Bar & Courtyard allows you to enjoy a Westport welcome over a relaxing drink.

Wyatt Hotel

Limerick Strand Hotel, Limerick

The 4-star Limerick Strand Hotel is the ideal riverside base when exploring the Wild Atlantic Way offering stunning panoramic views overlooking some of Limericks most historical landmarks. The multi-awarding winning hotel offers 184 newly refurbished bedrooms in a purpose-built state-of-the-art facility with complimentary 200mb Wi-Fi as well as 13 meeting rooms, onsite parking, Energize leisure centre & award-winning dining from Executive Chef, Tom Flavin (Fáilte Ireland Food Champion).

Limerick Strand Hotel

• Complimentary Bottled Water

Killarney Plaza Hotel, Killarney

The 4-star Killarney Plaza Hotel & Spa offers elegance in the heart of Killarney Town. Home to an award-winning Spa, a vibrant Cafe Bar, the Tan Yard Restaurant, and designated conference and events spaces, all within beautiful surroundings overlooking Killarney National Park. Take in the graceful, contemporary décor, delivered with an attentive personal hotel service in this luxury hotel in the magical Kingdom of Kerry and at the gateway to the Ring of Kerry & Wild Atlantic Way.

Killarney Plaza Hotel

Granville Hotel, Waterford

The Granville Hotel in Waterford overlooks the River Suir and is a 5 minute walk from St Patrick’s Cathedral. It offers air-conditioned rooms with free internet access, and an award-winning restaurant. Rooms at the Hotel Granville include bathrooms with baths, showers and heated towel racks. They also have safes and there is a 24-hour room service menu. The Bianconi Restaurant overlooks the quayside and serves traditional Irish and international cuisine. 

Granville Hotel

Aloft Dublin City Hotel, Dublin

Set 1,300 feet from St Patrick's Cathedral, Aloft Dublin City is located in Dublin and offers a rooftop bar, restaurant and panoramic views of the city. The property is set 0.7 mi from Guinness Storehouse and 0.6 mi from St. Stephen's Green. Each of the spacious guest rooms feature a 49-inch LCD TV, a walk-in shower and complimentary Bliss toiletries. Free high-speed Wi-Fi is provided throughout the hotel.

Aloft Dublin City Hotel

See what people are saying about this trip

Louise burns.

The tour was great- there was plenty of time for ourselves balanced with the tour itself. The driver and moderator were fantastic. I loved every minute.

Gary William Johnson

It was a trip of a lifetime

CIE Tours Customer

Great irish tour.

Loved the Titanic museum, the Killarney National Park jaunting car ride through the park, local guides who lived through the "troubles" and able to give a personal sense of Ireland's tragedy, Waterford factory tour, the Sleah Head tour and Dingle, the sheep dog demonstration and the weaving demonstration.

I would highly recommend this tour to anyone interested in a fast paced, comprehensive tour of the coast of Ireland.

Absolutely fantastic tour! A must tour for first time visitors to Ireland

It was a very well organized tour! Our tour guide was a wealth of information.

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Where to go

One amazing island. Six unique regions

Soaring cliffs, buzzing little towns and a way of life forever inspired by the sea, that's what you'll find on the world’s longest defined coastal touring route.

Amazing cliff-walks, Game of Thrones® adventures, Titanic attractions – let Northern Ireland stir your soul.

A UNESCO City of Literature, a historic powerhouse and a super-cool capital that’s been named Europe’s friendliest city twice by TripAdvisor.

Did you know that there are over 5,000 years of history hidden amidst these lush landscapes, winding rivers and glorious gardens?

Cutting-edge food, traditional pubs and incredible Titanic history take Belfast to the next level – welcome to one of Ireland's most exciting cities.

With charming riverside towns and villages, majestic forests and sparkling waterways, Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands is slow-travel perfection.

Amazing places to see

Don't miss these iconic sights and hidden gems around the island

Cliffs of Moher

Discover historic Dunluce Castle

Destination

Skellig Islands

The Skellig Islands-Na Scealga

Giant's Causeway

Blarney Castle and the Blarney Stone

Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge

Guinness Storehouse

Titanic Belfast

Powerscourt Estate

Explore the Marble Arch Caves

Enniskillen

Brú na Bóinne

Rock of Cashel

The Book of Kells and Trinity College

Explore the Cuilcagh Boardwalk

Glendalough

Top things to do.

Plan your Ireland trip

Causeway Coastal Route

6 days 92 miles

The Causeway Coastal Route is one of Northern Ireland's greatest adventures.

From Belfast To Derry~Londonderry

• #NorthernIrelandEmbraceAGiantSpirit

48 hours in Derry~Londonderry and the Causeway Coast

2 days 84 miles

Explore the very best of Northern Ireland from the heart of the Walled City!

From Causeway Coast To Derry~Londonderry

• #FillYourHeartWithIreland
• #CityBreaks

Donegal's northern headlands

4 days 267 miles

Take a journey to the edge of the world...

From Inishowen To Killibegs

• #WildAtlanticWay

Surfers' paradise

2 days 99 miles

Sea and land combine to create a vista of pure poetry on the Wild Atlantic Way.

From Donegal To Mayo

Great Western Greenway

4 days 78 miles

Uncover the west of Ireland's most dramatic sights.

From Westport To Achill Island

Cliffs and coves

4 days 198 miles

Be wowed with panoramic views from atop the Wild Atlantic Way's most dramatic cliff edges.

From Galway To Limerick

• #WalkingandHiking

A trip around the Ring of Kerry

2 days 114 miles

Experience Ireland at its wildest.

From Killarney To Killarney National Park

Cycling the Waterford Greenway

2 days 50 miles

Grab your bike and take in the sites of this stunning cycling trail.

From Waterford city To Dungarvan

• #IrelandsAncientEast

Ireland's Ancient East from County Wexford

4 days 213 miles

Explore gorgeous landscapes and dramatic histories around Ireland's Ancient East.

From Rosslare To Kilkenny city

Explore Ireland's Ancient East on Dublin's doorstep

3 days 248 miles

Cinematic – that's the only word to describe what lies on Dublin's doorstep.

From Wicklow To Meath

Ireland's Hidden Heartlands

5 days 301 miles

Five days. 11 counties. One big adventure...

From Cavan Burren Park To Mitchelstown Caves

• #IrelandsHiddenHeartlands

Let Ireland inspire you!

Dublin city: top attractions

First time in Dublin? Here are some uniquely Dublin attractions you shouldn’t miss.

Dublin City

10 top Northern Ireland experiences

Fantastic food tours, Titanic trails and even walking on water!

5 ways to tour the Wild Atlantic Way

Get your feet wet or hit the tarmac: how to explore the Wild Atlantic Way.

Charming towns of the Causeway Coastal Route

Get set for a glorious adventure amongst picturesque towns and scenic fishing villages.

Take our fun St Patrick's quiz

Do you have the luck of the Irish? Test your St Patrick knowledge with our quirky quiz.

Belfast: top 9 attractions

Explore Belfast’s world-class museums, rich history, varied art scene and parkland

Hidden gems of Ireland’s Ancient East

Wherever you go in Ireland’s Ancient East, you’ll find unbelievable experiences.

Camper van holidays in Ireland

Here's everything you need to know about camper van hire, road rules and more.

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Derry Girls

Love the hit comedy series, Derry Girls? Here's how you can have your own adventure.

Derry-Londonderry

Ireland's 9 most haunted tales

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7 gorgeous spots for wild swimming

Take a dip in the crystal clear lakes and rivers on the island of Ireland.

Irish genealogy resources

Tracing your Irish roots? Here are some useful resources that can help you join the dots.

Ireland: need to know

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Ireland: frequently asked questions

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Sustainable Ireland

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The Best of Ireland

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Uniquely Tauck

EXPERIENCE WITH TAUCK

Visit Belfast's award-winning Titanic Belfast interactive museum & enjoy a sumptuous 9-course Titanic tasting dinner at The Merchant Hotel

TAUCK'S YELLOW ROADS – Journey through the Irish wilds of Connemara & along the spectacular coastal scenery of Northern Ireland's Antrim Coast Road

TAUCK VALUE INCLUDES

Accommodations at country estates, lakeside resorts and a historic city-center hotel

Learning – at an Irish farm, the Belleek Pottery factory & the Ulster American Folk Park

Learn the secrets of making Irish whiskey during a tour at the Jameson Distillery where centuries of history are chronicled in every sip

Visits to castles, abbeys, walled cities & a graveyard with stories to tell, history to reveal

SEE WHAT YOUR JOURNEY INCLUDES

Guests should be able to easily walk one to two miles, which may include climbing one or two flights of stairs and walking over uneven pavement, groomed hiking trails or cobblestones. Standing up to one hour or more may be required.

Often robust – may include long days, active sightseeing, early starts, evening activities, significant travel times.

Along Europe's Scenic "Yellow Roads"

The Emerald Isle bids you a hundred thousand welcomes on Tauck's most popular Ireland tour. Splendid scenery, fascinating history, a vibrant culture and warm, hospitable people all contribute to the great charm of Ireland, north and south.

Visit the belleek pottery factory, explore the market town of belleek, and meet the craftspeople of its famed porcelain factory.

Promoting over 160 years of craftsmanship, Belleek Pottery – set within a neo-Georgian building in the quaint village of Belleek in County Fermanagh on the banks of the River Erne – is home to Ireland's oldest working fine china pottery. Since 1857, Belleek Pottery has held a very special place in Ireland's cultural and commercial heritage for creating delicate, hand-painted, iridescent porcelain art now famous around the world. Get an inside look at the process and the artisans that produce more than 100,000 pieces of pottery annually – passing through 16 pairs of hands – on your tour of the Belleek factory and museum.

Belfast's Titanic exhibit and a Titanic dinner

Belfast's award-winning titanic museum... followed by a 9-course titanic tasting dinner.

Learn insider stories behind Titanic, designed to be one of the finest ships ever to grace the seas, on your visit to Titanic Belfast, built on the site of the former Queen's Island shipyards that produced the ill-fated liner. J. Bruce Ismay, Chairman of the White Star Line, asked Lord Pirrie of shipbuilders Harland & Wolff to construct "a stable ship that will not disturb the sediment in the fine wines" they were drinking together at a planning meeting. And while Titanic was, according to her builders, "as nearly as perfect as human brains can make her," she proved no match for nature. Discover more in modern-day galleries that bring the legendary ship back to life... and enjoy a 9-course Titanic tasting dinner in the Great Room of The Merchant Hotel.

Aghadoe Heights Hotel & Spa

Nights 10 and 11

In the heart of the kingdom

One of the distinguishing features of Aghadoe Heights Hotel & Spa – occupying a mystical setting near the Paps Mountains, steeped in ancient Celtic history – is its unsurpassed level of personal service, combining the luxury of contemporary comfort with the warmth of Irish hospitality. Its heritage is a love of life, and its focus is sharing it. Welcome to the heart of the kingdom.

I think gaining a deeper understanding of the history of Ireland, both ancient and modern, is what will stay with me longest.

Tauck Traveler Review

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Where you stay is an important part of your journey – with Tauck, accommodations have been handpicked and carefully selected for their location and ambiance, enhancing the destinations you explore. Download accommodation details and your travel plans begin!

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Overnight Accommodations

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Arrive Early

The fitzwilliam hotel.

Dublin, Ireland

The Merchant Hotel

Belfast, Ireland

Lough Erne Resort

Enniskillen, Ireland

Glenlo Abbey Hotel

Galway, Ireland

Old Ground Hotel

Ennis, Ireland

Nights 10-11

Aghadoe Heights Hotel & Spa

Killarney, Ireland

Nights 12-13

Mount Juliet Hotel & Spa

Thomastown, Ireland

Your Journey

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About Booking This Tour

Travel Documents

If you are a U.S. citizen traveling internationally, you will need a passport valid for six months beyond the completion of your Tauck journey for entry into Ireland; however, you do not need a visa for the short duration of this tour.

If you are a citizen of another country traveling internationally, you should contact an embassy or consulate of Ireland to determine what travel documentation is required.

Please note that longer stays abroad for any purpose may require additional travel documentation.

We recommend that you make at least two photocopies of all the travel documents that you bring with you. Include copies of the photo page of your passport that contains the date of issuance, the date of expiration and your citizenship. Secure one set of copies in the safe in your room while traveling and leave one set behind with someone at home who will assist you in the event your documents are misplaced, lost or stolen.

To facilitate Travel Requirements, destinations are increasingly utilizing online forms that require digital proof that you've successfully completed your submission (via an email, QR code, etc.) To ensure smooth travels and peace of mind, we strongly recommend all guests carry a personal smart phone and sign up for international data plans before traveling overseas.

TRAVELING WITH CHILDREN AS A GUARDIAN: If you are traveling as the guardian of a child/children, we strongly suggest that you carry a letter from both parents of the child authorizing emergency treatment in the event of illness or accident. For travel abroad, many foreign countries have specific entry requirements for children under 21 who are traveling internationally without BOTH parents. (These requirements are in response to the increased incidence of children being abducted and taken abroad.) PLEASE NOTE THAT TAUCK IS NOT RESPONSIBLE for the disruption of travel caused by improper documentation for children traveling without both parents.

How to Book a Tour

See your travel advisor, or call Tauck at 800-468-2825 to make a reservation.

At the time of booking, please have the following information ready for all members of your party:

• Tour Name and Departure Date
• Traveler's Name: First and last names as they appear on your passport or driver's license
• Traveler's Address(es)
• Email Address*
• Traveler's Phone Number(s)*
• Emergency Contact Information: Please provide the name and phone number  of a relative or friend (not travelling with you) whom we could contact during the tour in the unlikely event of an emergency
• Interest in purchasing a travel protection plan (US and Canada)
• Interest in extending your trip by staying in a Tauck recommended hotel before your trip begins or after it ends
• Interest in our specially negotiated airfares

* Required Fields

Deposits & Final Payment

Deposits and fees for the optional Protection Plan or Cancel Fee Waiver [CFW] coverage are due at time of booking.

The deposit amount is $600 per person

Final Payments:

Final Payment is due to Tauck  60  days before departure for lands trips, and  120  days before departure for cruises and rail journeys. If your deposit was made by credit card, final payment will be automatic unless you opted out at time of booking. Bookings without full payment at this time may be subject to cancellation without notice. Failure to make payment will be a considered a cancellation by the guest and all applicable cancellation fees will apply.

Travel Protection Plan

Effective for plans purchased as of July 1, 2021:

Tauck's Guest Protection

Tauck's Guest Protection provides you with cancellation protection before your journey begins as well as insurance benefits while you are traveling. Guest Protection includes the following:

Cancellation Waiver – Provided by Tauck:

Under Tauck's Cancellation Fee Waiver you can cancel your tour for ANY REASON up to the day before departure and receive a money-back refund (except in Extreme Circumstances*) on the land tour cost, based on your original method of payment.

*Extreme Circumstances:  In the event of an act of God, war (whether declared or undeclared), terrorism, accident, natural disaster, outbreak of disease, or other event or circumstance beyond our control that contributes to or results in cancellation rates above our historical cancellation rates in the absence of such event or occurrence, Tauck reserves the right to issue a credit to you in lieu of a money-back refund, applicable to a future Tauck journey.

Travel Insurance Benefits – Underwritten by United States Fire Insurance Company.

• Trip Cancellation –  If you must cancel your tour due to a covered reason, the plan provides coverage for the amount you paid for your travel arrangements. Since the non-insurance cancellation waiver takes care of the land package cancellation fees already, this benefit reimburses the airfare cancellation charges up to the value of your original airfare purchase.
• Trip Interruption –  If you have to interrupt your tour for covered reasons, the plan provides reimbursement to catch up to your tour or return home.
• Travel Delay –  Provides reimbursement for missed, prepaid travel arrangements if you are delayed by a common carrier, natural disaster, unannounced strike, or other reasons as cited in the plan.
• Medical Expense –  Reimburses covered medical expenses incurred in the event you become injured or sick during your trip. 
• Baggage / Personal Effects Protection –  Provides reimbursement in the event your luggage or personal effects are, lost, stolen, damaged or delayed during your trip.
• Worldwide Emergency Assistance Services –  Provided by Carefree Travel Assistance; 24-hour emergency telephone assistance hotline for medical and travel related problems.

The cost of Tauck's Guest Protection is: $559  per person

This protection provides insurance coverage that applies only during the covered trip. You may have coverage from other sources that provides you with similar benefits but may be subject to different restrictions depending upon your other coverages. You may wish to compare the terms of this policy with your existing life, health, home and automobile policies. If you have any questions about your current coverage, call your insurer, insurance agent or broker.

This optional Guest Protection must be requested at time of booking and fee must be included with initial payment. Fees are based on costs as of July 1, 2021, and are subject to change. Details will be provided with written confirmation of your tour reservation. Guest Protection does not protect travel agent commissions. Reimbursements will be made according to original method of payment. The amount of any refund shall be reduced by any recoveries obtained by you from any third parties.

The Guest Protection plan waives cancellation fees outlined below, provided we are notified of cancellation before your tour departs. Tour cancellation fees are waived regardless of reason, without written notice, and Tauck will refund land tour cost.

To obtain your state-specific Certificate of Insurance that contains the complete terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions of the certificate, visit  affinitytravelcert.com/docs/TACGPPINTL .

If You Have To Cancel

If you cancel within 10 days of initial deposit Within the first 10 days after you place your initial deposit, you may cancel your reservation for any reason with no cancellation fees. If you cancel more than 10 days after initial deposit Regardless of reason, cancellations result in costly charges from our travel and hotel providers covering penalties and fees incurred by canceling confirmed bookings. These fees vary from tour to tour. Therefore, the following fees apply.

Cancellation Fees with Tauck's Guest Protection Plan:

Loss of Guest Protection fee, per person 

Cancellation Fees without Tauck's Guest Protection Plan :

60 days or more before departure = $600 per person

59-8 days before departure = $900 per person

7-1 days before departure = $1500 per person

Time of cancellation will be when notice is received in our Wilton Woods, CT office.

In the event of an unforeseen circumstance beyond our control, Tauck reserves the right to amend the cancellation terms outlined herein.

Note:  All Guests, regardless of residency, who book a Tauck journey have the option of purchasing the Cancellation Waiver provided by Tauck in the event they need to cancel their trip after making their reservations. Tauck's Guest Protection, which includes both the Cancellation Fee Waiver and the Travel Insurance Benefits and Assistance Services described above, is not available to residents of Puerto Rico.

Travel Terms and Conditions

Click here  to find Tauck's Travel Terms & Conditions.

Travel Requirements For This Tour

Air Information and Luggage Restrictions

AIRFARE: Airfare to and from this destination is not included in the journey cost. If purchasing your air elsewhere, it is very important to provide us with your confirmed arriving and departing flight information no later than 3 weeks before your arrival date. Flight information can be submitted to Tauck (or verified, if you've already provided it) in the My Account section of Tauck.com.

TAUCK AIRPORT TRANSFERS are included at the start and end of the journey between the airport and the Tauck hotel. Airport transfers are available for any pre tour or post tour hotel stays immediately consecutive to the tour, providing flight information is received in the Tauck office no later than three weeks in advance. Details on locating your transfer upon arrival to the tour start city will be included in your final documents.

AIRLINES and CHECKED LUGGAGE: Due to space limitations during your Tauck journey, we ask that you please limit your checked luggage to one average-size suitcase per person. Besides complying with the Tauck restriction noted above, you should also be sure to research and comply with all airline baggage restrictions relating to your flights to and from your Tauck journey. Airlines have become much more strict in enforcing size and weight limits in recent years, and are free to revise luggage policies without notice. Researching and complying with airline luggage restrictions is the responsibility of the guest, and Tauck cannot be held responsible for any costs or disruptions to travel caused by the failure to research and comply with airline policies. PLEASE NOTE that if you are booked on a tour that includes on-tour flights, the checked luggage weight restrictions for these flights may be lower than the weight restrictions for your international flights.

Checked Luggage – General

Due to space restrictions, we ask that you please limit your checked luggage to one suitcase per person weighing no more than 50 pounds (23 kg) and with overall dimensions (length + width + height) not exceeding 62 inches (158 cm).

Besides complying with the Tauck restriction noted above, you should also be sure to research and comply with all airline baggage restrictions relating to your flights to and from your Tauck journey. Airlines have become much more strict in enforcing size and weight limits in recent years, and luggage exceeding airline standards for size or weight may result in expensive overage fees or other consequences.

Airlines are free to revise luggage policies without notice, and certain airlines have different baggage allowances for different classes of service. Researching and complying with airline luggage restrictions is the responsibility of the guest, and Tauck cannot be held responsible for any costs or disruptions to travel caused by the failure to research and comply with airline policies.

Tauck luggage tags will be provided by your Tauck Director on Day 1 of your itinerary. Please do not attach a Tauck luggage tag to any carry-on items, as the Tauck tags designate luggage that is to be handled and transferred by ground operators and hotel staff during your journey.

Carry-on Luggage - General

Although oversize bags and wheeled, carry-on luggage are popular for airline travel, they are often not convenient or appropriate for motor coach travel or for many on-tour flights. Most modern sightseeing motor coaches offer limited space for numerous or larger items. Space under seats or in the overhead rack is typically small, and designed to accommodate items like coats, hats, purses, and small camera bags, etc.

For your day-to-day travel while on tour, we recommend that you limit your hand luggage to a small, soft-sided carry-on piece, and that you bring only those items you need handy during the day such as make-up, medications, cameras, film, etc. Items too large to fit under the motor coach seat or on the overhead rack must be stored in the luggage bays beneath the motor coach, and may be inaccessible during daytime travel.

Health, Safety and Mobility

HEALTH CONSIDERATIONS

While drinking water is generally safe at all our hotels, bottled water will be available wherever the local water is not fit to drink. We also provide bottled water on the motor coaches.

If you are interested in sporting activities, many opportunities await you on this particular journey. Golfing is available at Mount Juliet Hotel & Spa, Aghadoe Heights Hotel & Spa, and Lough Erne Resort. You may rent clubs and purchase golf balls but you will have to bring your own footwear. Experience has taught us that the earlier you book your tee time the better – even ahead of your departure! If you decide you would like to play once you have arrived, your Tauck Director will endeavor to honor your request. Tennis facilities are available at several hotels including Mount Juliet Hotel & Spa and Aghadoe Heights Hotel. Fishing is possible at Mount Juliet Hotel & Spa. Horseback riding is available at Mount Juliet Hotel & Spa and Aghadoe Heights Hotel & Spa. You will have the opportunity to swim in the pool at several of the hotels used on this tour. Any expenses incurred in conjunction with these optional activities are at your own expense.

Ireland has introduced a ban on smoking in all enclosed places of work in Ireland. This includes all bars, night clubs, restaurants and hotels. Although the public spaces within the hotel are non-smoking, you may request a smoking guest room at your hotel.

Please check with your health insurance provider to determine whether you are covered while traveling. If you will not be covered under your current policy, we strongly suggest that you arrange for adequate coverage while on tour.

If you have a medical condition which might limit your participation in activities, please consult your physician for pre-departure health advice and notify us as soon as possible, if you have not already done so. We will advise your Tauck Director accordingly.

VACCINATIONS  

If you are a resident of the U.S., no vaccinations are currently required for travel to Ireland. For complete vaccination and inoculation information please contact your physician, the public health service in your area, or the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) to obtain information regarding vaccinations that may be required for your journey. The Travelers' Health Section of the CDC operates a 24-hour "Travelers' Health Hotline" at 800-232-4636 (toll-free in the U.S.). You may also log on to the CDC website by clicking here.

If you are a resident of another country, please contact an embassy or consulate of Ireland to determine what vaccination(s) may be required for your travel.

SPECIAL DIETARY REQUESTS

The restaurants, hotels, caterers and numerous other partners we work with all do their best to accommodate special dietary requests from Tauck guests. However, given the diverse nature of those food providers (from small wineries to grand hotels to world-famous restaurants in more than 70 countries worldwide), some of our partners are better able than others to accommodate such requests. We therefore cannot guarantee that all dietary requests can be accommodated at every meal. Also, please note that where dietary requests can be accommodated, choices will frequently be limited.

The Best of Ireland involves a considerable amount of walking. To enjoy this tour, you should be in good health and able to walk reasonable distances, often over unpaved and uneven surfaces. Some of the most memorable sightseeing can only be accomplished on foot. The amount of walking you do, however, is at your discretion. The visits to the Cliffs of Moher, Kylemore Abbey and Giant's Causeway are challenging due to the steep climbs and long walks involved in the sightseeing.

Most hotels do not have special handicap access rooms. Mount Juliet Hotel & Spa does not have an elevator but there are guest rooms at ground level.

PLEASE NOTE: We regret that this Tauck itinerary cannot accommodate wheelchairs or motorized scooters. Likewise, we regret that we're unable to provide individual assistance to guests with walking difficulties or other personal needs. The responsibility of the Tauck Director who accompanies your trip is to ensure that the larger group enjoys a relaxing and informative journey, and he or she cannot be relied upon to provide ongoing individual assistance to any one guest. Guests requiring such individualized assistance must be accompanied by an able-bodied companion who can provide it.

Reading List

We have compiled a reading list of recommended books to give you more information about the destinations you will be traveling to on your upcoming journey!

You can view the reading list  here.

The weather in Ireland can be variable, alternating between wet and cool days, and sunny and mild days. The climate is generally moderate throughout the country, tempered by the Atlantic Ocean Gulf Stream. Average high temperatures from April through October range from 55 to 65˚F (13 to 18˚C) and the average low temperatures range from 40 to 55˚F (4 to 13˚C). Ireland, like other European countries, has experienced unusually warm spells in recent summers. Ireland's greenery owes its notoriety to the frequent rainfall.

To read about current weather conditions, we suggest you log on to the Internet website by clicking here.

What To Pack

Bringing the right clothing for your trip is important – we've partnered with New Headings who provide an "easy-to-use, one-stop shop" for your Tauck travel needs, specifically selected for this trip. Click here to visit their site .

The weather in Ireland is moderate. Your journey is designed with leisure in mind. Dress for comfort and convenience with a wardrobe that is adaptable and allows for layering. Generally, during the day, casual, comfortable, cotton clothing is recommended. Cool weather at higher elevations or at night will require warmer, layered clothing. The Emerald Isle owes its name to its precipitation, so rain is to be expected anytime.

In Europe, especially in finer restaurants, it is generally customary to dress somewhat formally. Slacks or a dress for women and a jacket and tie for men are acceptable dining attire, although it is not required. It is advisable to avoid wearing jeans, sneakers or shorts for dinner. You may also wish to dress up a bit for the welcome reception and the farewell dinner, but by all means be comfortable.

You will find a hair dryer located in your hotel guest room. Irons and ironing boards are available upon request. Valet laundry and dry cleaning services are also available for a fee.

We recommend that you pack an adequate supply of your prescription medication in its original container to last through your entire journey, together with a copy of your doctor's prescription or a letter from your health-care provider on office stationery explaining that the medication has been prescribed for you, a list of the generic names of your medication, your travel documents and a change of clothing in your carry-on bag to avoid any inconvenience in the event that your flight or luggage is delayed.

Following is a list of recommended items to pack for your trip to Ireland:

• Casual daytime wear – shorts, slacks, long and short-sleeved shirts
• An optional jacket and tie for men
• Casually elegant evening wear for ladies
• Sunglasses, sunscreen, hat
• A light sweater or jacket for higher elevations or a breezy night
• Binoculars (7x50 preferably)
• Insect repellent
• Camera, lenses, batteries, memory cards and chargers
• Lightweight, comfortable, sturdy walking shoes that have already been broken-in
• Travel alarm clock/cell phone with alarm functions (many hotels do not have clocks in the rooms)
• Rain poncho and collapsible umbrella
• Reusable zipper-lock bags or other waterproof bags
• Daypack for camera equipment
• Sundries and toiletries that may be difficult to find en route
• Copies of your travel documents that should be secured in the safe in your hotel room while traveling

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Join us on this spooktacular special event tour!

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Love Irish Tours is a leading Irish tour company specializing in customized tours of Ireland. We offer self-drive tours , private escorted tours and bus tours throughout Ireland. All our tours are fully customizable. We provide a wide range of tours to suit any budget. We will not be beaten on price. Book with us and we will ensure you have the most memorable vacation! We put our passion into making your trip the dream vacation you have been planning for years.

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We are a young vibrant company based in County Meath in the heart of Ireland. County Meath is one of the most historic parts of Ireland and was the seat of power of the ancient High Kings of Ireland who ruled Ireland from the famous Hill of Tara. Newgrange, the UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a passage tomb that is older than the Pyramids of Egypt and is on our doorstep. Only a stone’s throw away from us is the famous Trim Castle, site of filming of Mel Gibson’s Braveheart. With all this history local to us, it is little wonder we became inspired to showcase all of what Ireland has to offer to the world!

We believe Ireland will be your most memorable vacation. Through us you will experience everything that Ireland has to offer. We genuinely believe you will have the experience of a lifetime and that once you arrive you won’t want to leave. At Love Irish Tours we believe we have everything you need to make your dream Irish trip a reality. We believe our model of doing business will ensure you have the best possible trip to Ireland. We build a personal relationship with all our customers and we have often been told that it is our personal touch that makes Love Irish Tours the success it has become.

We have over ten years experience in the tourism industry. We have extensive experience in the Irish tours business. We have created thousands of customised tours of Ireland over the years and our knowledge of Irish tourism is second to none. We have worked with group sizes ranging from one to 180 people and we have catered for every type of budget. We have travelled the length and breadth of Ireland and we have experienced everything for ourselves so that we know that our customers will have the best experience possible.

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Self drive tours.

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Our private escorted tours allow you to explore Ireland with your own personal driver/guide. You will be collected upon arrival at your chosen airport by your driver/guide who will remain with you throughout your tour.

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Our coach tours allow you to be part of a group with your driver/guide to tour throughout Ireland. A great way to discover Ireland! Not only will you see Ireland’s main attractions but you will discover Ireland’s hidden gems.

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Ireland - The Trip of a Lifetime

Back Roads & Small Groups - The Best Way to Experience Ireland

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Stay in Small Towns in Local Guest Houses

Hello Traveler Welcome to the best small group, back roads tours of Ireland

*2024 marks our 18th season of showing guests the best of Ireland,  venturing off the beaten track for a fun and authentic trip.

*  With an average group size of 14 people ,   you get an up close and personal tour. Traveling Ireland in a comfortable mini-bus, you'll enjoy a relaxed pace and flexible itinerary.

* One-week tours...Choose your path: Go South, Go West, or Go North. Can't decide on one? Combine tours for two or three weeks of Irish adventure!

* Stay in small towns in local guesthouses, B&Bs, and boutique hotels where a chance to mingle with the Irish is just steps away.

Ireland is calling you. Space is limited so book now to ensure your amazing Ireland getaway.

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Go South Tour

See colorful southern peninsulas by back roads & small towns for the best of Ireland!

7 Days / 8 Nights

*Explore a fantastic medieval Irish Castle, an 800 year-old Norman Abbey, & an ancient Stone Circle 

*Discover intricately-carved Celtic Crosses, a Round Tower, and an ancient Monastery

*Hop aboard a privately chartered cruise on the leisurely River Shannon and into Lough Derg

*Unwind for two nights in Dingle town with its colorful pubs, traditional Irish music, & serene beauty

*View Ireland’s thrilling southern Atlantic coastline at spectacular Mizen Head Signal Station 

*Be amazed by the Beara Peninsula’s mountain passes and lakes in Kerry’s Killarney National Park

*Marvel at the colossal 700 foot high Cliffs of Moher along Ireland’s western Atlantic coast

*Step across Ireland’s unique karst landscapes and bogs forged by centuries of geology

Go West Tour

Remote islands, ancient landscapes & dancing to music, you’ll journey to the Ireland of old!

* Stay 2 nights & explore remote Inishbofin island, its easy pace, fabulous coastal walks, massive ocean blowholes, & lively Irish music sessions

* Escape to West Galway and marvel at Connemara's serene valleys, lakes, and grand peaks and the secrets of County Sligo

* Visit legendary hilltop caves, a Medieval Franciscan Friary,  & the mysterious 2,000 year old Corlea Trackway

*Be captivated by a sheep dog demo as spirited border collies show their skill for herding sheep

*Discover the stunning coastline views of Lough Corrib

*Roam a 600 year old Franciscan Friary & climb to an incredible Stone Age tomb with a solar alignment to an ancient star chart

* Explore the Wild Atlantic Way and wonderful western Ireland!

Go North Tour

With epic geology, larger than life legends, and amazing vistas, this is Ireland's spirited highlands!

* Explore Antrim's gorgeous forested glens and scenic coast road. Stride the Giant's Causeway and where 6 sided stone columns descend into the sea

* Enjoy a tour of Belfast including a behind-the-scenes look at Belfast's storied past and huge wall murals

* Beam at Glenveagh's fairytale castle and pristine gardens

* Be captivated by Ireland's most northerly point on Malin Head

* Climb the fabulous Fanad lighthouse and unwinding charming Ardara, famed for its traditional tweeds, woolens, and traditional Irish music

* Tour Glencolmcille's ornate standing stones, its secluded landscape, and Donegal's stunning, untouched beaches and waterfalls

* Discover the Cooley Mountains, its ancient tombs, and medieval Carlingford town set alongside an oyster filled fjord

Explore Ireland in pictures!

Tour Pricing

Three tours to choose from, Go South, Go North or Go West, each with stunning sights filled with history and culture! ☘️ 

• Go South Tour - 2024 Price US$3395 
• Go West Tour  -  2024 Price US$3410 
• Go North Tour -  2024 Price US$3420 

With the small group size of 14 - 16 people, tours can sell out quickly. Reserve your amazing 2024 Irish vacation today on our  secure  Reservations page

Traveling in a small group on Ireland's back roads, exploring unique sites, and staying in small towns in locally owned guest houses connects you with the locals and the real Ireland.

Three amazing one-week tours to choose from:  Go South ,  Go West , and  Go North , available between May and early October - the best time of year to visit Ireland!

• All prices are in USD and based on double occupancy. For solo travelers, there is a single supplement of US$615.

Combination Discounts 

Would you like to travel for 2 or 3 weeks in Ireland? Link 2 tours and save US$200 (promo code  COMBO2 ). Link 3 tours and save US$300 (promo code  COMBO3 ). Promo codes must be entered ALLCAPS!

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10 Day Ireland Tour of Dublin, Ring of Kerry and Galway

10 days, 1 country and 15 cities

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9 Breakfasts, 1 Welcome Reception, 1 Lunch, 4 Dinners

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An in-depth encounter with the Best of Ireland awaits, from spectacular sights like the Cliffs of Moher and Ring of Kerry to the past and present showcased in Dublin, Galway and pretty Adare. You’ll learn all about Irish famine history, former kings and how to embrace the craic.

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10 days itinerary trip from Dublin to Dublin visiting 1 country and 15 cities

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About this trip

Sightseeing highlights.

Explore Dublin with a Local Specialist

Discover Waterford, Killarney, Limerick and Galway

Visit  the Dunbrody Famine Ship in New Ross, the crystal showroom at Waterford, Blarney Castle to kiss the stone and gain the 'gift of the gab', Adare, Bunratty Folk Park, Cliffs of Moher, Connemara and Kylemore Abbey

View King John's Castle in Limerick and the Marian Shrine in Knock

See  St. Mary's Cathedral in Limerick and Galway Cathedral

Scenic Drive of the Ring of Kerry

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Specific transfer information can be found here:

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Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted

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Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals

Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras

Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing

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

Optional Experiences and free time

On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilized.

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Every one of our tours includes at least one conscious travel experience that supports one or more of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGS). Look out for yours within the day-by-day trip itinerary.

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Travel knowing our 4-point climate action plan will ensure net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

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Your tour directly supports local communities by visiting family-run businesses, UNESCO sites and places of cultural significance.

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Every part of our business, from trip design to how we run our offices, aligns to our 5-year sustainability strategy which ensures a positive impact on people, the planet and wildlife.

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Our not-for-profit, the TreadRight Foundation, invests in nature-based solutions to address climate change.

You’ll make a positive impact to people, planet and wildlife on this tour

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Ireland Tour Companies

Looking for an unforgettable Ireland tour? Book a fully-organized trip with the best tour companies in Ireland and let the tour operator take care of everything for you. Check out the tour details and read 165077 reviews from our customers to help you choose the perfect tour for you.

List of Ireland travel companies & tour operators with 165077 reviews

Overland Ireland - Small Gr…

• Excellent - 469 reviews for Ireland tours

fiendly , excellent and knowledgeable guide who drove us to see beautiful scenery.

Really good guide, accommodations, and planning. We saw and learned a lot, but did not feel rushed. Everything a holiday should be

Anthro Tours

• This operator has no Ireland reviews

• Excellent - 1,892 reviews for Ireland tours

The entire trip was wonderful, very well organized, and satisfying. Peter Flood was an excellent tour guide. He was as knowledgeable as could be, funny, and helpful; and really seems to love what he does.

This was my first time in Ireland. I absolutely loved everything about this trip. Tour guide and bus driver were amazing. Totally worth every penny. Would go back in a heartbeat

• Excellent - 5,434 reviews for Ireland tours

Really wish they spelled out that the Ireland trip is just a portion of a larger trip - most of the people have already travelled together for two weeks, so that was kinda awkward. Great trip for 18-24 year old Australians.

Had an amazing trip!! Was far better than I could have possibly imagined and I would definitely book with Contiki again!!

Wild N' Happy

• Excellent - 180 reviews for Ireland tours

This tour was so good! We experienced more of Ireland than the itinerary indicated (because of stops we made along our journey, which I loved!), but never felt rushed. Our guide Diarmuid is such a professional - he provided us with interesting information about the places we stopped and Ireland in general, kept us on schedule with a relaxed demeanor, and is genuinely a very nice person. I've never traveled with a tour group before and this one couldn't have been any better. The Emerald Isle is so beautiful and everyone is so friendly that, even when there was a bit of rain, it was still fun. Many thanks to Mick and Diarmuid (the best!!) for making this a most memorable trip. PS the accommodations were fantastic - especially the breakfasts!

Incredible trip. Very well planned. Helpful and accommodations where spectacular. Don't worry about luggage!

Irish Experience Tours

• Excellent - 259 reviews for Ireland tours

The itenary was paced very well. It gave us the opportunity to see many sites without feeling overwhelming or rushed. The guide was extremely knowledgeable and friendly. I appreciated that Anthony listened to the groups' interests, expectations, and limitations. He created a very comfortable group setting.

We enjoyed our trip very much even though the weather was challenging at times. Anthony was professional at all times and good fun to be with. The Irish Experience team gave us great support when our flight was cancelled. Lots of thanks to you all.

• Excellent - 74,885 reviews for Ireland tours

Loved that I was able to see so much.

Our tour guide, Poll, and driver, Sean made the tour so enjoyable. Their wit and wisdom was truly invaluable.

Europamundo

• Good - 2,998 reviews for Ireland tours

Guides were great and the tour was an excellent way to see lots of places in a short amount of time

My tour guide and driver were really good, knowledgeable and helpful. I thought she did a really good job disseminating information in Spanish and English, as it was a bilingual tour, and had great advice on places to go, places in town to eat etc.... I also thought she did a phenomenal job dealing with some issues that I have described below. I liked the itinerary and stops on the route, however, I feel like one less stop and maybe more time in some of the areas would be beneficial. For example, the people who took the castle tour in Alnwick missed out and exploring a really cool town. I guess I felt like I ran out of time just when I was figuring out the interesting parts and the people of the area we were in. The cities we went were very interesting, however, I also would have like time to walk around in the Highlands to experience their beauty, not just drive through them and try to take pictures at speed out the window. The three items that really detracted from the trip were 1) The busses, in particular the seats, were to small for myself and son who are both over 6 feet tall. At times I was miserable and cramped, knees were wedged in the seat in front and could feel the metal support bar through the seat. It detracted from the trip and since the bus was full, when the person in front of you reclined I felt like I barely had space to check the time on my phone or get something out of my pocket. After some days of 6 plus hours like that, I found myself just wanting the day to be over and honestly my hips still hurt 2 days later 2) The hotels were nice, clean and in mostly in good areas to find dining and things you needed. However, one night we waited forever to get our rooms to find out 8 of us were booked in a different hotel across town, by the time we figured out the issue and were checked in most of the local restaurants were closed or closing. The next night in Dublin the hotel was not prepared for our arrival and it took well over an hour/hour and a half of chaos to get us all into our rooms. 3rd Arrival first day- Our transfer driver was pretty good but i had to call the helpline to find him because he wasn't standing with all the other drivers in the airport, had my name on his phone instead of a placard and he was at the opposite end of the terminal from where we thought we were supposed to meet him, so if he was using his phone for personal reasons when I was looking for my name how was I supposed to find him. At the hotel they were great taking our bags but the signage for the next's days itinerary was not out. The front desk said to check later at check in as the guide wasn't there yet, we did and then three extra times, until finally it was out. After flying all night, being jet lagged, not knowing anything about the town etc... It would have been nice for someone to greet us at the hotel in the lobby, give us an itinerary for the next day and not try to find a small piece of paper in a crowed hotel lobby, where the front desk didn't even know where it was. Maybe an arrival email with places to go in the area while you wait to check in and emailing or texting the breakfast and departure times for the first day would be helpful and help to avoid questions and anxiety. Overall I really liked the trip, with some better communication, more room on the bus and maybe some slight alteration of the agenda I would have rated it good to excellent. I would like to say again the guides were great, personable and helpful. It was a very nice experience overall.

Royal Irish Tours

• Excellent - 18 reviews for Ireland tours

Our tour guide Robert was great! I wish we had more time in the day to do it all, but the time we had was well spent!

Adrian was a great driver, I felt he did a wonderful job navigating the treacherous roads. Gordon, our team guide, was a good sport and tried his best to keep us all on schedule. He was knowledgeable, interesting and entertaining. I am not sure that he liked the driver though. There seemed to be some tension between them. I thought the Dingle peninsula area was spectacular. I loved the sheep dog demo, the farm visits and nature visits throughout. The hotels were all comfortable and clean. The breakfasts were plentiful. The entertainment options were lovely.

Insight Vacations

• Excellent - 631 reviews for Ireland tours

What a wonderful way to experience my first tour. This 13 day highlight of the best that Britain an Ireland have to offer was full of amazing opportunities to taste the culture and meet locals that lovel and adore their country and the history that holds. Greg our tour guide was exceptionally in his organisation, knowledge and commitment to ensuring that we enjoyed our trip. His attention to details and the extras to make the group feel welcomed and special. My personal experience on my special day was made even more heart warming by Greg's kindness and effort in make sure that I felt loved and acknowledge with an celebration at the evening meal. Arthur our driver was amazing and his experience in driving showed in the professionalism he demonstrated in through the entire 13 days. Overall i would throughly recommend this trip to anyone especially if they are blessed with Greg and Arthur.

Greg was an enthusiastic snd knowledgeable tour guide. Arthur was an excellent driver. Together they made the tour a pleasure with their dedicated ,good humoured professionalism.

• Excellent - 23 reviews for Ireland tours

Bavaria Fernreisen

it was a very nice informative trip with good guidance and company

We can recommend everything 100 percent. Everything worked out wonderfully, tour guide Martina was absolutely top, bus driver Brian as well.

Indus Travels

• Excellent - 252 reviews for Ireland tours

The communication/paperwork could use a little fine tuning, but overall the value was definitely there. This tour brings you through absolutely spectacular areas of Ireland, with enough downtime to not feel too rushed. The hotels/food was nicer than we expected for the price.

Just finished this great tour of Ireland with Indus Travel. Eddie, the tour bus driver, and Marian, our tour guide, were amazing. Great info about the areas we traveled, history and local stories.

Rabbie’s Small Group Tours

• Excellent - 241 reviews for Ireland tours

This was our first tour with Rabbies and we had an excellent experience with the tour. Our tour guide, Dan was exceptional. Dan was not only kind, good humored and accommodating, but has an incredible wealth of knowledge. His thoroughness of the Irish Gaelic language and history helped bring Ireland’s beauty, people and history to life. He is a great professional but very, very pleasant as well. He ensured that his customers were well taken care and comfortable. He explained every site with great depth of knowledge and patience. My husband and I consider ourselves lucky to have Dan as our tour guide. It was not only our experience but the other members of the tour conveyed the same sentiments as well. I would definitely consider Rabbies for our future tours and would surely refer friends and family to Rabbies for their travel needs especially Dan as their tour guide in Ireland. We have booked two additional tours with Rabbies on our travel to Scotland. Thank you very much, Dan and Rabbies for making our trip to Ireland an enjoyable one.

Great tour, with special thanks to Marcus! We had an wonderfull 3 days.

G Adventures

• Excellent - 19,093 reviews for Ireland tours

We had to spend our own money to visit Ross castle and places. Which was inconvenient since there's no taxi available. Guide should have dropped and picked us up.

I checked all the boxes off for me going to Ireland, saw a lot of Ireland in a week. Guide was exceptional in his knowledge of Ireland. A 5 star experience for me seeing everything I wanted

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Taking the train in Ireland – what you need to know

Apr 19, 2024 • 11 min read

A train travels along the Rosslare, Wexford to Dublin line in Ireland © Irish Rail

Traveling by train is one of Ireland ’s great, if under-appreciated, pleasures.

It’s a small island and the rail network is limited, so no journey is especially long – but riding the rails across the country is one of the loveliest ways to enjoy the rolling countryside.

Compared to its European counterparts, Irish trains aren’t especially spectacular, but this is a country that doesn’t need high-speed or sleeper trains: you roll along at a maximum of 160km/h (99mph) and before you know it you’re on the other side of the island.

The particular nature of Irish demographics has shaped train travel in Ireland: with around a quarter of the population clustered in the greater Dublin region, it makes sense that most train journeys begin or end in the capital. In Northern Ireland the same is true of Belfast .

Irish trains might not be especially quick or super luxurious, but they’re an efficient and eco-friendly way of exploring the island – so long as your explorations are focused on the major cities and towns. Here is our essential guide to train travel in Ireland.

The lowdown on rail travel in Ireland

Irish trains are efficient, relatively frequent and usually on time.  Irish Rail/Iarnród Éireann operates the entire network of trains in the Republic, from intercity trains linking the major urban centers to the busy commuter network that services the greater Dublin region.

There are two main lines into the west and three into the south and southwest; spurs off the main lines connect to a host of smaller towns throughout the country. There’s also a line to Belfast, from where  Translink services connect the city with the Antrim Coast and Derry (Londonderry) .

Within the greater Dublin region, a network of commuter services connects the capital with a host of suburbs and dormitory towns in the surrounding counties. Dublin’s coastline between the northside suburbs of Howth and Malahide, and Greystones in County Wicklow is served by DART (Dublin Area Rapid Transport) trains.

There are some notable gaps in the country’s rail network, with no services in counties Donegal , Monaghan and Cavan , and no trains into West Cork . Some towns – like Buttevant in Cork or Annacotty in Limerick – are on the rail line but they’re bypassed as they have no functioning station.

Ireland’s bigger train stations – including Cork , Limerick , Galway , Sligo, Belfast and the two in Dublin – are all pretty well stocked when it comes to picking up supplies and other assorted sundries for your journey. Most other stations will have a small shop.

Train tickets are relatively good value

The good news about traveling by train in Ireland is that it is relatively inexpensive compared to train travel in some places, such as the UK, for example. If you buy it online, a standard one-way fare between Dublin Heuston and Kent Station in Cork costs €30–35, and around €55 in first class.

Online is the best place to buy your tickets for train travel in the Irish Republic. Not only do you get the best fares (with savings of up to 50% compared to buying the ticket at the station), but you can purchase your ticket up to 90 days in advance and reserve a seat when you do.

You have the option of collecting your bought ticket from a machine at the station as you’re boarding, or downloading a QR code at the point of purchase. If you wait to buy your ticket at the station, you’ll pay significantly more and have to get there early to queue up at the ticket kiosk.

For travel in Northern Ireland, you’re better off buying the ticket at the station as only a limited number of tickets are available online. Show up a short time before your intended departure time and just buy your ticket there.

Only a handful of services offer first class, but upgrading is relatively inexpensive. On average, expect to pay around €20–25 more to sit in first. There are three kinds of first class service on Irish trains. CityGold is on direct Dublin to Cork services, and includes an onboard host and a complimentary newspaper on selected early morning services. The Enterprise service between Dublin and Belfast offers the same, plus a fine breakfast. Premier Class is similar, but is only available on direct services between Dublin and Tralee and some Dublin to Cork trains.

Some discounts and offers apply

There are discounted fares for children and young adults aged between 19 and 25, as long as they have a valid discount card. Under fives and those aged 66 and over travel for free.

The commuter network in the Greater Dublin area has a fare cap of €6 for travel between the capital and a host of towns in the surrounding counties.

There are two rail passes aimed at visitors. The Trekker Four Day (€88) offers unlimited travel for adults on all Irish Rail services on four consecutive days from the date of issue. The Explorer (adult/child €128/64) provides five days of travel on all services in a 15-day window.

However, before investing in either, be sure that you plan on making the most out of it. The limited rail network means that connections are limited and traveling between some destinations involves backtracking: Cork and Waterford are both on the south coast, but to get from one to the other means travelling to Limerick, while Sligo and Westport are only 140km (87 miles) apart along the west coast, but to go between them by train you’ll have to travel through Dublin – which is on the other side of the country.

In Northern Ireland, the Sunday Fun Day Tracker ticket gives passengers unlimited train travel on a Sunday for £9 (£4.50 for children). Tickets are available from all ticket offices, the mLink ticketing app and from the conductor on the train.

These are the busiest times to travel by train

Unsurprisingly, peak times for train travel coincide with busy rush hour periods. Early morning services to Dublin from cities including Cork, Galway and Limerick can be busy, especially if the train is due to arrive in Dublin around the start of the working day. Friday evening trains departing Dublin can also be quite busy. However, as online bookings also include the option of booking a seat, you’ll never have to stand.

The commuter network is busiest on weekdays from 7am to 9am and from 4:30pm to 6:30pm as thousands of people travel in and out of work. You can’t prebook seats on these services, so plenty of people do end up standing. Keep an eye out on changing schedules, especially for weekend and holiday travel, as frequencies diminish.

The train network is limited, but it has some benefits over road travel

There are no rail links to any Irish airport, which means you’re relying on taxis, private cars or buses once you arrive in the country. Irish ferry ports are better connected to rail lines, however, and you can catch trains in Rosslare, Dublin and Larne; there is no rail link to Belfast Port.

If you want to reach the more remote corners of the island, then the Irish rail network is quite limited, and a car will give you the flexibility you need. However, rental fees can be very expensive and fuel is another considerable cost, with the price of unleaded and diesel hovering between €1.75 and €2 a liter. Parking is also pricey in all urban centers, especially Dublin.

Traveling by bus is the cheapest way to get around, but it can be a slow business, as most make lots of stops along the way. There are some direct express services, but they are at the mercy of traffic, which can also add considerable time to a journey compared to traveling by train. Plus, buses don’t have bathrooms, with those traveling longer distances relying entirely on rest stops.

On board facilities vary depending on the type of train

There are two kinds of Irish trains: InterCity and commuter. InterCity trains are all the same – relatively modern with comfortable seats in standard class and fancier recliners in first – and they travel at speeds of up to 160km/h (99mph). There’s no journey in Ireland that is longer than 2½ to 3 hours. Commuter trains are slightly older, with less comfortable seats; older trains are used on some small-distance spur lines in rural areas and are very basic (facilities include seats and a toilet).

While Ireland’s flagship service is the one between Dublin and Cork, the fanciest train is the Enterprise service between Dublin Connolly and Belfast Lanyon Place, which is a joint venture between Irish Rail and Translink. This train is on a par with most services you’ll find in mainland Europe and first class is the most luxurious of any in the country.

All InterCity trains have three-pin sockets at every row where you can plug in a charger or a laptop. Most commuter trains in the greater Dublin area also have sockets. All trains have toilets and there is a cross-network wi-fi service operated by Irish Rail, but it is patchy and inconsistent. Translink has its own wi-fi network, which is accessible on all bus and rail services in the north, but, like in the Republic, you’re at the mercy of signal strength and contention levels.

Food options are pretty limited. There is a trolley service on the Dublin to Cork service, while the Enterprise between Dublin and Belfast operates a full service menu in a dedicated dining car; first class passengers also get a pretty good breakfast as part of their ticket.

Some trains on the Dublin to Cork route have a “quiet carriage” (usually Carriage G, marked in purple when booking) where the use of phones is prohibited and passengers are encouraged to keep noise levels down.

You can bring a bike on any Irish Rail train for free, although there are some restrictions during busy periods (such as sporting fixtures and concerts). The Dublin to Cork line is the only one to have a dedicated bike storage area; all other InterCity trains have (very) limited bicycle spaces within the passenger compartment – it’s not unusual for only two bikes to be allowed into the compartment, so be sure to book in advance. Bikes are not allowed on commuter and DART services during peak hours – before 10am and from 3:30pm to 7pm Monday to Friday.

There are many scenic train routes: here are the best

No matter where you are in Ireland you’re going to find a beautiful landscape or two, but some journeys are worth keeping your eyes wide open for.

Dublin to Sligo

Once you’ve gone past the huge suburban sprawl of the greater Dublin area, the landscapes get quite gentle; beyond Mullingar the train skirts alongside the edge of beautiful Lough Owel. For the best views, sit on the left-hand side of the train.

Dublin to Belfast

The Enterprise service is the best in the country, with the most comfortable seats and the best food options – especially in first class. The train skirts alongside the Irish Sea between Malahide and Balbriggan, so be sure to sit on that side as you travel (on the right-hand side if you’re traveling to Belfast).

Derry (Londonderry) to Coleraine

The Translink service between Northern Ireland’s second city and Coleraine is a stunner, a 40-minute journey along the Causeway Coast that comes with beautiful beaches, huge cliffs and unimpeded views out over the North Sea.

Downpatrick to Inch Abbey

It’s only a 10-minute journey, but the trip from Downpatrick in County Down to the monastic ruins of Inch Abbey takes place in a vintage steam train (or a 1960s diesel train) that chugs its way along the line, over the River Quoile and past the drumlin-specked landscape.

Cork to Cobh

One of Ireland’s most scenic trips is the 25-minute trip from Cork City to the seaside town of Cobh , which takes you along the river (sit on the right for the best views), past marshy Harper’s Island and over the bridges on Lough Mahon and the Slatty Water. You can always stop off at Fota and visit the  wildlife park  there.

Book in advance for wheelchair access to trains

All InterCity services are nominally accessible, but if you do need assistance you will need to book it in advance so that suitable arrangements can be made. This usually means that a conductor will have a ramp ready for wheelchair access, but we have also heard plenty of anecdotal evidence of staff simply lifting a wheelchair onto a train, which depending on the individual can either be a help or an annoying hindrance. Whatever you do, make sure to communicate your requirements before you travel as assistance is not guaranteed otherwise.

For passengers with learning difficulties or any issue where there may be a challenge with communication (such as autism) Irish Rail staff are trained to recognize visual cue cards such as the  JAM card , which inform the interlocutor of the holder’s condition. JAM cards are available online or at mainline train stations in Dublin, Cork, Galway, Limerick, Waterford and Sligo.

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