| Day 1 | DEPART USA FOR IRELAND - Depart this evening on a comfortable transatlantic journey to Dublin. |
|
| Day 2 | DUBLIN - Your Driver Guide is waiting to welcome you upon arrival at the Dublin Airport. Morning sightseeing in the Irish capital shows you statue-filled O'Connell Street - the Post Office, scene of the Easter Rising in 1916, St. Patrick's Cathedral, built in 1190 and Trinity College, home of the world-famous Book of Kells, dating back to the 8th century. Produced by the monks of Iona, the Book of Kells is a lavishly decorated manuscript of the four gospels. After checking in to the hotel, the remainder of the day is free to explore Dublin. Enjoy dinner on your own at one of the many restaurants. |
|
| Day 3 | DUBLIN - CORK - Depart Dublin, we visit the city of Kilkenny. Kilkenny is undoubtedly Ireland’s loveliest inland city. It rose to prominence in the 13th century and became the medieval capital of Ireland. Next we visit Kilkenny Castle. Set in a commanding position overlooking the River Nore, this Norman fortress is one of Ireland's most famous castles. After touring the castle we depart for Cork. This evening, check-in to the hotel and relax. Dinner is served at the hotel. (B,D)
|
|
| Day 4 | CORK - KILLARNEY - The morning, depart for Cobh and the Cobh Heritage Center, where many of the Irish began their journey to the New World. Continue on to Blarney with a visit to the famous castle to gain the gift of gab by kissing the Blarney Stone! Visit the Blarney Woolen Mills, a shoppers dream! Continue on through the town of Macroom and over the scenic Kerry Mountains as we arrive for our stay in Killarney. Enjoy dinner this evening served at the hotel. (B,D) |
|
| Day 5 | KILLARNEY SIGHTSEEING - Today we visit Muckross House, a fully furnished 19th century mansion. Learn about the history of the owners, some of whom were from the U.S. Continue on to the Ring of Kerry, Ireland's most popular scenic drive. Travel these 100 miles of breathtaking scenery between the mountains and the Atlantic shoreline of the Iveragh Peninsula. Drive through Cahirciveen and across the bridge to Valencia Island, one of the most westerly points of Europe. Travel through Waterville and colorful Sneem, situated on the estuary of the Ardsheelaun River. Continue on to Killarney via Moll’s Gap and Ladies View, with breathtaking views of the spectacular Lakes of Killarney. After a pleasant day of sightseeing, relax and enjoy dinner at your hotel. After dinner, enjoy an evening of traditional Irish entertainment. (B,D) |
|
| Day 6 | KILLARNEY - GALWAY - Experience a scenic drive through the Irish countryside to Galway, named "The City of the Tribes" after the fourteen families who originally settled the area. Enroute, visit the old world village of Adare. Next, drive to the coast to view the Cliffs of Moher, a five-mile wall of limestone rising 700 feet above the Atlantic Ocean. Continue on to the Burrens, a vast limestone plateau with lunar-like features. Upon arrival at our Galway hotel, relax and enjoy a delicious dinner this evening. (B,D) |
|
| Day 7 | GALWAY - CONNEMARA SIGHT-SEEING - This morning we travel through the Connemara region, renowned for its open landscape and rugged beauty. The constantly changing skies and colors leave most visitors speechless. Continue to Maam Cross, the crossroads of Connemara and site of the replica cottage used in the classic movie “The Quiet Man.” Next, travel to the western coast and Clifden, capital of Connemara, a beautiful bustling town with colorful houses. Then visit Kylemore Abbey, a 19th century mansion, now a girls’ school run by Benedictine nuns. After a day of touring, return to Galway and enjoy dinner at the hotel. (B,D)
|
|
| Day 8 | SHANNON - HOME - This morning, travel to Shannon Airport for your homeward flight to the USA! (B)
Please Note: This is only a sample itinerary! Events are subject to change and are based upon availability at time of booking! |
|