The Island of Ireland in 14 days
Self Drive Tour or Luxury Chauffeured Tour
Discover the unique culture, rich heritage and stunning scenery of the island of Ireland. Encounter island life on the far edge of Western Europe and fall in love with the lyrical landscape and the warmth of the Irish people.
“To say our group had an awesome time on our trip would be the understatement of the century.”
– John C. Granzow, CIMA
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: $1,699
Highlights
This 360-degree tour of Ireland is full of hidden treasures for your family or group: quaint fishing villages, beautiful beaches, cities of culture, historic sites, and stunning coastline. Take part in outdoor activities galore, and experience genuine Irish hospitality. This tour begins in Dublin and then heads north for several days before meandering south along the West Coast to Ennis, Killarney, and Cork and looping back through Birr to Dublin. See the very best Ireland has to offer with this rich itinerary of heritage, culture and dramatic scenery.
To customize this itinerary, talk to one of our destination experts on 800.832.1848 or 212.757.5797.
- Arrive in Dublin
- Explore Dublin City, see Trinity College and The Book of Kells, Temple Bar and St. Stephen’s Green
- Drive to County Antrim
- Visit Belfast and the Titanic Museum or see The Giant’s Causeway
- Tour the beautiful Inishowen Peninsula and Malin Head
- Explore the city of Derry
- Discover County Mayo and visit Westport and Achill Island
- Drive the west coast of Ireland to County Clare
- See the stunning Cliffs of Moher & the lunar – like Burren
- Take a ferry to the Aran Islands
- Tour the Ring of Kerry & stay in Killarney
- Discover West Cork and stay in the seaside town of Kinsale
- Visit the city of Cork
- Stay in Kinnitty Castle in County Offaly
- Return home from Dublin
Included in This Tour
- Private Car transfer to your hotel on arrival.
- 13 Nights deluxe hotel accommodations in Ireland
- Self-Drive rental vehicle with unlimited mileage and CDW insurance. OR upgrade to the services of a Professional Driver Guide.
- 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.
Flight Information
- Arrive: Dublin (DUB)
- Depart: Dublin (DUB)
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
Day 1: Arrive in Dublin Ireland! Stay 2 nights in Dublin
Arriving in Dublin Airport, enjoy your private transfer to Buswells Hotel for a 2 night stay. Dublin is a dynamic capital city, with a proud colorful past and a thriving present. Settle in and explore your vibrant surroundings. Perhaps you’ll have a delicious dinner of oysters and Guinness tonight in Davy Byrnes gastro pub, just a stone’s throw from your hotel.
Day 2: Explore Dublin City
Explore Trinity College and the Book of Kells, an exquisite illuminated manuscript, created by monks ca. 800. Check out the Dublin Writers Museum, Dublin Castle, The Guinness Storehouse, trendy Grafton Street, and the youthful scene at Temple Bar. Dublin city never sleeps. In the evening, enjoy traditional live music and dinner in one of the many fine pubs. We’ll give you an insider’s list of our favorite places!
Day 3: Drive to County Antrim
Pick up your rental car in Dublin City this morning and enjoy the scenic countryside as you drive north to County Antrim. Stay 1 night at the Bayview Hotel, overlooking the Atlantic Ocean in the harbor village of Portballintrae. Sightseeing options include: The Giant’s Causeway, one of the great natural wonders of Europe, Old Bushmills Whiskey Distillery, and the ruins of Dunluce Castle. Or visit Belfast and explore the history of the Titanic and learn about the Irishmen who built it.
Day 4: County Derry
Visit the beautiful Inishowen Peninsula and Malin Head, the northernmost headland of Ireland. Walk the glorious beach at Castlerock, or head to the Ulster American Folk Park, an open-air museum dedicated to the story of emigration from Ulster to America. Stay 2 nights at the Beech Hill Country House in County Derry.
Day 5: Explore Derry
Take a fascinating historical tour of the City Walls of Derry, the only completely walled city in Ireland. Visit The Tower Museum, an award-winning museum, housed in a replica 16th-century tower house. Or you can visit the Bloody Sunday Memorial, commemorating the 14 civilians who were shot by the British Army on 30 January 1972.
Day 6: Drive to Westport Co. Mayo
Drive south-west to County Mayo. Westport is a popular holiday destination on Ireland’s west coast. Visit Achill Island, and be as active as you like, with choices of hiking, fishing, golfing, surfing, or horse-back riding. Or take it easy with a coffee or a pint and view the spectacular mountains, cliffs, and pristine Blue Flag beaches. Follow in the footsteps of thousands of pilgrims and hike to the summit of Croagh Patrick, where St. Patrick reportedly banished the snakes from Ireland. Stay for 1 night at the Westport Coast Hotel.
Day 7: Drive to County Clare
Drive to County Clare today. On the way visit Galway City and the magnificent Cliffs of Moher. Don’t miss the opportunity to walk in the Burren, with its lunar landscape, druidic altars, and exotic plant life. Explore Ailwee Caves & Birds of Prey Centre, home to birds from around the globe. Or visit Kylemore Abbey, and enjoy its pottery studio, tea room, romantic castle, and vast Victorian gardens. Stay 2 nights at The Old Ground Hotel in Ennis Co. Clare.
Day 8: Explore County Clare
Weather permitting, take a ferry to the Aran Islands, where Ireland’s native Gaelic is still spoken. Traditional music sessions both organized and impromptu are held in the pubs on the islands. Enjoy lunch, culture, and genuine local hospitality as you explore the islands today.
Day 9: Drive to Kerry
On the way to Killarney, in County Kerry, visit Kenmare, “little nest” in Irish, nestled between high mountains and the sea. Visit a nearby sheepdog farm for a live sheepdog herding demonstration, a wonderful example of the traditional way of life in rural Ireland. From Kenmare, travel the winding route of the Ring of Kerry through the Iveragh Peninsula. Enjoy dramatic coastal panoramas, majestic mountains, ancient sites, and quaint towns along this popular route. Stay 2 nights at the Earls Court House Hotel in Killarney, Co. Kerry.
Day 10: Tour Killarney
Walk or take a horse-drawn carriage through the breath-taking Gap of Dunloe, in the highest mountain range in Ireland. Visit Kate Kearney’s cottage, a cosy pub and restaurant. Visit the stunning Dingle Peninsula, once called “the most beautiful place on earth” by The National Geographic. Explore and enjoy all that Killarney has to offer.
Days 11 & 12: Stay in Kinsale County Cork for 2 nights
Drive through West Cork on the way to Kinsale, where you will stay 2 nights at The Trident Hotel. Be captivated by Kinsale and its beautiful setting, with its long waterfront, narrow winding streets, colourful shops, galleries and cafes, and its picturesque, bustling harbor. Visit the Cobh Heritage Centre, the port from which the Titanic set sail on her final voyage, and where 6 million Irish left their shores between 1848 & 1850 in search of a better life.
Day 13: Stay 1 night in Birr, Co. Offaly
Visit Midleton Distillery or Cork City today before you head inland to Birr, County Offaly, for your final night stay at Kinnitty Castle. Set against the backdrop of the Slieve Bloom Mountains, Kinnitty Castle – a Gothic revival castle – sits center stage in an impressive 650 acres of rural parkland. Visit the Rock of Cashel, a spectacular group of medieval buildings set on an outcrop of limestone in the Golden Vale. Perhaps you’ll also visit Leap Castle, Ireland’s most haunted castle!
Day 14: Drive to Dublin Airport for your return flight home
This morning, after a hearty Irish breakfast, drive to Dublin airport. Return your rental car and prepare for your return flight home.
To customize this itinerary, talk to one of our destination experts on 800.832.1848 or 212.757.5797.
Hotels
Bayview Hotel, Cork
Welcome to the 4 Star Bayview at Ballycotton East Cork Hotel, a Manor House Hotel nestled Cliffside in the beautiful village of Ballycotton, in the south of Ireland. Regarded as one of the finest hotels in East Cork, the Bayview Hotel romantically overlooks miles of spectacular coastline, in the center of the small unspoiled fishing village of Ballycotton.
Beech Hill Country House, Co. Derry
Beech Hill Derry offers guests a wide choice of extremely comfortable, cozy and well-appointed rooms. Whether in the hotel’s atmospheric Georgian house in Londonderry or our more modern wing, rooms and suites are beautifully furnished and contain everything you would expect to find in a hotel of this high standard. Rejuvenate yourself in this traditionally luxurious setting.
Buswells Hotel, Dublin City Centre
Buswells Hotel is renowned for its friendly staff and great location. Situated in the heart of Dublin City Centre, Buswells Hotel provides a unique and relaxing atmosphere just a stone’s throw from St. Stephen’s Green, Trinity College, Temple Bar and many more visitor attractions. As one of the oldest hotels in the city, Buswells has been in operation since 1882 growing from 1 townhouse to its current size of 5 townhouses. Whilst maintaining some of the original features of the Georgian era, you will find your surroundings comfortable and relaxed. A friendly welcome (Cead Mile Fáilte), attentive customer service and lovely accommodations in the heart of the city brings guests back time and time again.
Earls Court House Hotel, Killarney
A very warm Irish welcome and a special experience awaits you at this 4 star Killarney Hotel. Set in its own grounds, in a great location, Earls Court Killarney is just a 7 minute gentle stroll to Killarney’s bustling town Centre, and near Killarney National Park and lakes. It is one of the few Killarney Hotels that is family run and owner managed. Earls Court Hotel is unique among Killarney Hotels for its splendid collection of antiques, period furniture, works of art and its many awards. We offer you old world tradition and a relaxed atmosphere.
Kinnitty Castle, Co. Offaly
Kinnitty Castle Hotel, located in the picturesque village of Kinnitty Co. Offaly, nestled in the foothills of the Slieve Bloom Mountains, offers the perfect setting for a romantic castle break in Ireland. Arrive up the winding avenue, opening into breathtaking views of the 13th century castle seated on 650 acres of parkland, inclusive of 60 acres of rolling lawns. Enter the lavish medieval revival castle, drenched in original features, heritage colors and regal atmospheres dating back to 1209. Wander through the fine settings of the Library Bar, The Sli Dala Restaurant and the Drawing Room all with magnificent character. Relax beside our unique open fires, enjoy the best of local cuisine prepared by our Executive Chef, Anthony Holland.
The Old Ground Hotel. Ennis, Co. Clare
A truly magical residence, that blends the warmth of a country home with the style of a contemporary luxury Irish hotel, The Old Ground Hotel is one of the leading 4 star hotels in Ennis, Couty Clare. Inside, the warmth of the blazing fire, is matched by the warmth of the welcome. Outside, the pretty winding streets of Ennis, and beyond, the rugged beauty of County Clare and the West of Ireland. Visit The Old Ground Hotel and soak up the atmosphere.
The Westport Coast Hotel. Westport, County Mayo
Welcome to the Westport Coast Hotel, where true beauty lies within. Be part of the Westport Experience, which few forget and most return for. This hotel has been carefully restored from an 18th century mill and embodies the best that Irish traditional hospitality and service has to offer. The Carlton Atlantic Coast Hotel is conveniently located in the relaxed surroundings of Westport Harbor, overlooking Clew Bay and just a short walk from the bustling, cosmopolitan town Centre.
Trident Hotel. Kinsale, Co. Cork
The Trident Hotel boasts an enviable location right on the waterfront in beautiful Kinsale County Cork. Situated just a 5 minute stroll from many shops, cafes, galleries, and restaurants, The Trident Hotel is the ideal base from which to discover the fascinating history of Kinsale. Admire stunning views over Kinsale Harbor, explore the rugged landscapes and unspoiled coastlines of the wider West Cork Region, or simply relax and unwind in four star luxuries at The Trident Hotel.
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 The Island of Ireland in 14 days
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.
