Northern & Southern Ireland

Welcome to Belfast and the Emerald Isle! Your Irish adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm. If you arrive early, take some time to wander the streets of the bohemian Cathedral Quarter, explore the leafy suburbs of South Belfast or visit the stately City Hall in Donegal Square. Consider stopping at the revitalised waterfront area, home to the Titanic Belfast monument on the site of the former Harland & Wolff shipyard, where the legendary RMS Titanic was built. The monument tells the story of the ship's ill-fated maiden voyage in 1912.

Today is a free day in Belfast to explore at your own pace. Perhaps start with a Black Cab Tour, where your driver will provide a comprehensive overview of Northern Ireland’s political history as you cruise around the city. Then, you can visit The Ulster Museum to meet Takabuti, an Ancient Egyptian mummy, before taking a stroll through the nearby Botanical Gardens. Feel free to ask your local leader for restaurant recommendations for dinner. (B)

Travel along the scenic wild coast north of Belfast in a private transfer to the Giant's Causeway, home to roughly 40,000 basalt columns that have inspired artists and storytellers for centuries. Depending on your school of thought, these formations are either the result of an ancient volcanic eruption or a legendary conflict between rival giants. After, head to Derry – home to countless historical site and critically acclaimed sitcom Derry Girls – and get your bearings with a Bogside History Tour, giving you a unique insight into The Troubles. (B)

This morning, travel by private vehicle to the harbor city of Galway – capital of the county of the same name. You will be crossing the border from Northern Ireland to the Republic of Ireland, so you may need to switch your Pounds for some Euros at this point. Galway is thriving, bohemian, cultural city on the western coast of Ireland. Along with being a popular seaside destination with beautiful beaches and long winding promenade, it also has a buzzing cosmopolitan city center. The city is a joy to explore with its labyrinthine cobbled streets, colorful shop facades and busy café and bar culture. (B)

Today you’ll head out on a daytrip by ferry to the Aran islands, which have been crafted by centuries of wild winds and smashing waves. The islands are one of the few places where the Irish language is still used in everyday life (i. e. a Gaeltacht). With a population of under 2,000 people, the islands feel like a respite from real life. You’ll travel by minibus and on foot to explore the native flora and fauna, and the ruins of a church and a lighthouse. There are also some remains from Bronze and Iron Age fortresses to be found. If you're lucky, you may even spot a seal lounging on the rocky shore! Return to Galway for a free evening and more exploration (or a Guinness). (B)

The Cliffs of Moher will leave you in awe with their views over the Irish coastline. From April to late July, adventurous souls can walk to the edge and watch puffins nesting along the cliff face. Learn about the history of this famous site and its feathered inhabitants at the Cliffs Exhibition. Next, stop in the village of Adare, colloquially known as Ireland’s prettiest village, before arriving in Killarney. Locals affectionately refer to Kerry as ‘God’s Own County’ because of its natural beauty. Ask your leader for bar recommendations if you’d like to soak up more of the Irish pub culture tonight. Maybe try some classic pub fare like Irish stew, chowder and fish and chips, or sample less familiar dishes, like coddle (potato and sausage stew), boxty (potato pancake) or champ (mashed potato and scallions). (B)

This morning brings green hills and salty coastal air as you travel along the Iveragh Peninsula, better known as the Ring of Kerry. You'll pass through bucolic villages with views across some of Ireland's greatest beaches, lakes and rivers. Make stops at numerous outlooks along the way for photos. After, visit a sheep farm to see a sheep herding demonstration, where skilled border collie dogs round up the sheep under the farmer’s command. Return to Killarney in the evening and take some rest before heading out for an optional dinner. (B)

This morning, grab a last coffee in Killarney before boarding a train, this time bound for Dublin. Once checked in, your tour leader will show you around and afterwards you are free to explore on your own. Must see is a St Patrick Cathedral founded in 1191, currently the national cathedral of the Church of Ireland. Must do, however is to unwind with a pint and some lively conversation on the pedestrianised streets in The Creative Quarter. In the evening, perhaps get your group together for the final evening. (B)

Say goodbye to your group over one last breakfast. For those who wish to stay in Dublin, reach out to your booking agent ahead of time to organise additional accommodation. (B)