An Irish Christmas
Self Drive Tour or Luxury Chauffeured Tour
Christmas is pure magic in Ireland. Imagine spending a completely stress-free festive season, pampered in the best country houses and castles of Ireland, tucked up by a roaring fire, or exploring the cultural and scenic treasures of the Emerald Isle.
“A masterful job in creating and arranging such a phenomenal trip…”
– P.J. Fitzgerald
Call 800.832.1848 or 212.757.5797 to talk to one of our destination experts or email us and start planning the perfect trip today.
Price: Call for pricing
Highlights
Experience an Irish Christmas with its welcoming warmth, and festive traditions, as well as the cozy comfort of the finest country houses and castles. On this independent or privately chauffeured tour, you will have the opportunity to rest, feast and explore from the festive vibrancy of Dublin, to the peaceful beauty of rural Ireland, to the sheer luxury of five star accommodation and gourmet cuisine, you will be sure to celebrate a special and unforgettable Christmas.
To customize this itinerary, talk to one of our destination experts on 800.832.1848 or 212.757.5797.
- Dublin City
- Kilkenny
- Cork
- Killarney
- Dingle Peninsula
- Adare and Limerick
- The Cliffs of Moher
Included in This Tour
- Private airport car transfers upon arrival and departure in Ireland
- 8-Nights Luxury hotel, Manor House & Castle accommodations with full breakfast daily.
- Self-Drive rental vehicle with unlimited mileage and CDW insurance. Or, upgrade to the services of a Professional Driver Guide – to include all driver expenses.
- Touring Map of Ireland & List of recommended pubs, restaurants and places of interest.
- Deluxe portfolio of travel Documents & Personalized Itinerary.
- 24/7 Concierge service in Ireland while travelling.
- Discount admissions booklet for area attractions.
Not Included: Airfare, tips, travel insurance, and items of a personal nature.
Flight Information
- Arrive: Dublin (DUB)
- Depart: Shannon (SNN)
Take the hassle out of booking flights. Ask about our best available Economy Fares as well as our Preferred Business and First Class Offers. Our air department experts can help with competitive rates. Just let us know your preferred dates and U.S. Departure City. We will do the rest.
Meals
- Breakfast Daily
December 22:
Enjoy a Private Car transfer to your centrally located Dublin City hotel. Relax after your journey. Afterwards why not take a horse and carriage ride through some of Dublin’s historic Georgian Squares or you can walk through the Temple Bar area, which is fast becoming Dublin’s Left Bank. Immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere at St. Stephen’s Green Christmas Market featuring fine crafts, food, and Carol singing. Partake in a pint of Guinness at the Guinness Brewery. Embrace the Christmas atmosphere in Dublin city while you stay in The Westbury Hotel for 2-nights.
December 23:
Today you have more opportunities to explore Dublin City. Highlights include Trinity College and Dublin Castle’s Christmas Market. Stroll down Grafton Street, Dublin’s premier shopping area, and look at the Christmas decorations. Warm up with a hot chocolate in Butler’s Irish Chocolate Café, and savor lunch in Davy Byrne’s Gastro Pub. The sparkling lights and the sound of caroling in the air on Grafton Street will be sure to put you in the festive mood. Tonight, maybe you would enjoy a Christmas concert at the National Concert Hall, or a show at the famed Gate Theatre?
December 24:
This Christmas Eve morning meet your Driver Guide or pick up your rental vehicle. Depart Dublin and visit Kilkenny, Ireland’s finest example of a medieval town, and beautifully situated on the River Nore, which forms the moat of Kilkenny’s restored castle. Tour the castle and explore the town. Continue on to County Cork where you will stay 2-nights over Christmas in the five star luxury of Hayfield Manor. Let the festive ambience of this beautiful manor house envelop you upon your arrival. As you sip warmed mulled wine, and savor a mince pie, listen to Christmas carols sung by the local choir.
December 25:
Merry Christmas! Christmas Day begins with Hayfield Manor’s famous Irish breakfast. Afterwards relax in your luxury bedroom or a cosy corner by the fire in one of the resident’s lounges. The highlight of the day is the Traditional Christmas Lunch, a gourmet spectacle prepared by Hayfield Manor’s head chef, and preceded by a champagne toast. Indulge in your most magical and memorable Christmas experience at Hayfield Manor.
December 26:
Depart Cork City and visit the picturesque fishing town of Kinsale, Ireland’s cuisine capital. Let yourself be captivated by Kinsale’s long waterfront, narrow streets, and slate-clad houses. This afternoon continue west to Killarney. Enjoy touring the stunning Gap of Dunloe, and discover the beauty of the National Park. Enjoy a 2-night stay at the Killarney Royal Hotel.
December 27:
Tour the Dingle Peninsula today. As you experience some of Ireland’s most spectacular coastal scenery it is no surprise to learn that National Geographic once declared the Dingle Peninsula “the most beautiful place on earth”. The colorful town of Dingle is well known for fishing, hiking, sailing, lively pubs, restaurants, and a traditional music scene. From the Connor Pass to Slea Head, the peninsula’s magnificent coastal scenery and rugged terrain is a photographer’s dream. Enjoy a delicious dinner in a local pub, with a pint of Guinness and some traditional Irish music.
December 28:
Drive north through the villages of Adare and Limerick, stop for lunch and take a tour of King John’s Castle. Continue on to discover Bunratty Castle and its Folk Park. Let yourself be charmed as you visit its farmhouses and cottages, and learn about the lifestyle of Irish rural families. Watch the baking of griddle bread next to the fire, and taste it hot with fresh creamery butter. This evening you will arrive at the magnificent 5-star Dromoland Castle in County Clare to enjoy a luxurious 2-night stay.
December 29:
Today, experience the majestic beauty of the Cliffs of Moher. Soaring 700 feet above the Atlantic Ocean, the cliffs will literally take your breath away. Continue into County Clare to explore the barren limestone landscape known as the Burren, featuring unique flora and fauna and Stone Age Druidic altars. This afternoon, enjoy some time at leisure on the castle estate. Set on 450 acres of parkland, deer, pheasant and other wildlife roam the grounds. The Castle overlooks Lough Dromoland, perfect for trout fishing. Other activities at the castle, include falconry, archery, boating, clay pigeon shooting, tennis, walking, mountain biking and golf. If you prefer to stay inside the sixteenth century castle walls, there is a luxurious spa, providing a haven of tranquillity.
December 30:
End your luxury trip with a Private Transfer to Shannon Airport to prepare for your return flight home. Slan abhaile!
To customize this itinerary, talk to one of our destination experts on 800.832.1848 or 212.757.5797.
Hotels
Dromoland Castle, Co. Clare
This luxury 5 Star Castle Hotel has an extraordinary history stretching back to the 5th Century, Dromoland Castle was originally the ancestral home of one of the few families of Gaelic Royalty; direct descendants of Brian Boru, the High King of Ireland. Seamlessly blending Old-World elegance with contemporary luxuries, Dromoland's tradition of delivering impeccable, unobtrusive service is never compromised. Unwind slowly in the Castle's 5 Star luxury Health Spa and indoor heated pool; or enjoy a good book beside a crackling evening fire. Dromoland Castle is the perfect location from which to explore all the west of Ireland has to offer.
Hayfield Manor, Cork
Hayfield Manor, an Experience beyond the Best. At the 5 Star Hayfield Manor Hotel Cork, a family owned boutique luxury hotel, a visit is an experience in itself. Winner of the Conde Nast Traveler 2012 Reader's Choice Awards, the hotel is discreetly nestled within beautiful walled gardens, a tranquil oasis in the vibrant city of Cork South West Ireland.
The Killarney Royal Hotel, County Kerry
Kerry the ‘Kingdom’ is calling, and deep in her heart lies Killarney Town and our own little welcoming haven, the Killarney Royal Hotel. It has been our privilege to welcome a century of travelers from around the world to our doorstep. Offering a warm and cozy respite our boutique 4 star hotel, awarded IGTOA Boutique Hotel of the Year 2012, and is centrally located in the heart of Killarney Town, with all the majestic beauty of Killarney and Kerry outside our door.
The Westbury Hotel, Dublin
One of the Leading Hotels of the World, The Westbury Hotel is renowned worldwide when it comes to luxury Dublin city hotels. Simply no other Dublin City hotel connects you with Dublin in the way that The Westbury Hotel does. Relax in the magnificent setting of The Gallery, where you'll have a street side view of the real-life city playing out right before your eyes. Its unbeatable location just off Dublin's Grafton Street, half-way between historic Trinity College and the landmark that is Stephen's Green puts The Westbury Hotel at the very heart of Dublin's premier retail and cultural quarter. Great shopping, atmospheric pubs& restaurants, and excellent theatres & nightlife are literally on your doorstep.
Travel Tips & FAQs
Ireland
Passports & Visas
To enter the Republic or Northern Ireland, you need a valid passport. While e-passports are commonly used now, they are not a necessity to enter Ireland. UK citizens do not require a passport to enter Ireland, but carriers by air or sea require some form of identification with a photograph (usually either a passport or driving license with photo).
Citizens of the EEA member states (the 27 countries of the European Union EU, together with Iceland, Norway and Liechtenstein) and many other countries including USA, Australia, Canada and New Zealand do not require visas to gain entry to Republic or Northern Ireland.
What to Pack
Bring a sweater, even in summer; waterproofs to accompany all outdoor activities; sunglasses; comfortable walking shoes and an umbrella. The weather is changeable so go for layers that you can put on or take off as the temperature changes.
Weather
February to April: Highest temperatures range from 46 to 54°F
May to July: Highest temperatures are between 64 and 68°F
August to October: Highest temperatures hit between 64 and 57°F.
Winter air temperatures inland normally reach 46°F, while the coldest months are January and February.
April & September are considered the most pleasant and temperate months.
Currency
In the Republic of Ireland, the official currency is the euro (€). One euro consists of 100 cent. In Northern Ireland, pound sterling is the local currency (£). One pound sterling consists of 100 pence.
Gratuities
Gratuities and tips are discretionary and are not usually included in a bill. The general custom is to give 10% to serving staff in restaurants. Cafes might have a collection box at the till and bar staff are not tipped but you are free to offer “have one for yourself”.
Emergency Services
Police, Fire, Ambulance:
Republic of Ireland, Telephone: 112 or 999
Northern Ireland, Telephone: 999
Gadgets
Plugs in Ireland are three-pronged, the same as in the UK and the electricity supply is also 230v. Adapters are widely available, and it’s a good idea to bring a couple for your various gadgets.
Public Transportation
National Coaches
Republic of Ireland: Bus Eireann
Northern Ireland: Translink
Dublin Buses
Leap Visitor Card is a prepaid pass that allows you to travel on all Dublin Bus, Airlink 747 buses as well as the Luas Light Railway Tram and DART (Dublin Area Rapid Transit) for up to 3 days.
Railways
Republic of Ireland: Irish Rail
Northern Ireland: Northern Ireland Railways
The Dart (Dublin Area Rapid Transit) covers Dublin’s coast and city area from Howth and Malahide in north County Dublin via Dun Laoghaire in south County Dublin to Greystones in County Wicklow.
Luas light rail/tram service travels across the south and west of Dublin city including the city center areas.
Time Zone
Ireland functions on Greenwich Mean Time (GMT). During the summer it becomes GMT+1, that’s Irish Standard Time (IST) in the Republic and British Summer Time (BST) in Northern Ireland.
For example, New York is Irish Time -5 hours & Los Angeles is Irish Time -8 hours.
Language
English is commonly used throughout Ireland although Irish is the official language and there are Irish speaking areas called the Gaeltacht where it is the predominant language.
Driving
You will need either a full valid national driving license or an international driving permit. Cars in Ireland drive on the left-hand side of the road and both driver and passengers are required to wear seat belts at all times by law. Signposts in Gaeltacht (Irish speaking) areas are written in Irish (Gaelic) so familiarise yourself with both English and Irish spellings before you set off for those parts. Northern Ireland uses miles per hour, while the Republic of Ireland uses kilometers for signage and speed limits.
Vaccinations
There are no vaccinations required to visit Ireland.
Testimonials
“Back from a great golf trip and thanks so much for your assistance. Hotels were outstanding and made for a wonderful relaxing trip.”
– Tim Dudich
“I wanted to let you know that our trip was one for the ages. We had more fun than I could have imagined.”
– Herb Bennett
“To say our group had an awesome time on our trip would be the understatement of the century.”
– John C. Granzow, CIMA
“I will have no hesitation in recommending your company for future use! I felt as if you and your company gave us top notch customer service and never batted an eye for what may have been odd questions – that type of service is hard to find. You really gave us personal service!”
– Leslie Wajda
“Trip was great – accommodations excellent.”
– Kathleen McCormack-Batterson
“This note is to praise Destinations Ireland and our driver, James Finn, who truly made our trip a pleasure!”
– Donna Long
“The trip was really great. You did a fabulous job of picking the properties. Scotland is beautiful! It was a great trip. You scored again! Can’t wait for our next adventure.”
– Libby McGriff
“I wanted to let you know that the accommodations were fabulous throughout our trip. We were completely blown away, what a magnificent find. The house is simply breathtaking. A word on the drivers. I could not have asked for more accommodating or entertaining gentleman to escort us around. They were full of information, great stories, and advice. Really, really just wonderful guys all around.”
– Susanne McNeill
“A masterful job in creating and arranging such a phenomenal trip…”
– P.J. Fitzgerald
“We had a “dream trip” and you/your organization were a large part it making it all happen. Everything went smoothly and was more than we ever imagined! We are already talking about a return trip in a few years! Have to save our money. 🙂 Thanks again for all you did for us.”
– Nancy Capocy
“I cannot express how much I appreciate you making all the arrangements with such short notice & I just wanted to say Thank you again for all your help.”
– Susan Sanford
“All I do is talk about the wonderful trip, sites and your company and how we couldn’t have been happier with all the arrangements and people who set this wonderful trip up. Again thank you!!!”
– Janet Jenrick
“We had a wonderful time in Ireland and I appreciate all the reservations you made and the guidance your gave us.”
– Monica Kobasic
“I wanted to thank you for arranging a great trip to Scotland. The Channings, Culloden House, and Roxburghe House were fantastic…the best of accommodations, food, and customer service”
– Trina Girimont
“I wanted to thank you and Destinations Ireland and Beyond. We had an amazing experience. We loved all the hotels that you set us up with. Thank you for being so insightful, quickly giving us a speed course of Ireland and helping us decide where to go and what to see. I would highly recommend Destinations Ireland and Beyond as the best travel agency!”
– Donna and Ira Spector
“A lot of beautiful memories. THANK YOU for all of your planning and attention to detail,”
– Kathy Ross
“I just wanted to send you a thank you for all you did to make our trip the best! It was beyond our expectations! We loved all of our accommodations. I can’t say that I have a favorite because it all was perfect. We were not ready to come home and all look forward to visiting Ireland again.”
– Peg Cozzolino
“I want to THANK ALL OF YOU FOR A WONDERFUL TRIP. Ronelle and I had a marvelous time.”
– P.J. “Paul” Nicholson
“Thank You! for all your help arranging a wonderful visit to Ireland.”
– Ron & Jennifer Spielman
“Tim and I had a wonderful trip to Ireland thanks to your wonderful suggestions and arrangements. Everything was just perfect. We truly had a wonderful trip and are grateful for your services.”
– Jenny Popp
“Thank you for the great job you did arranging our trip to Ireland. Everything went wonderfully and the accommodations were the best.”
– Elizabeth Zechman
Booking Enquiry for An Irish Christmas
You can use this form to contact us with your preferred date of travel, the number of people in your party and your requirements and we will get back to you with a quote.
