Dublin City and Southern Ireland
Escorted Tour
Explore Dublin and the treasures of Southern Ireland on our intimate escorted group tour. Take the stress out of traveling and experience the rich heritage and stunning scenery of Southern Ireland on our escorted tour.
“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
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: $2,229
Highlights
On our intimate escorted tour of Southern Ireland we will take you places the big tour buses cannot go! On this award winning tour, you will travel in a Deluxe Coach with no more than 16 fellow travelers, along with an expert Driver Guide ensuring a highly personalized experience. You will be taken off the beaten path, and discover the hidden treasures of Ireland. This intimate professionally guided tour encompasses Dublin City, The Cliffs of Moher, The Dingle Peninsula, Cobh Heritage Center, Kilkenny, Waterford, Wicklow and much more.
To customize this itinerary, talk to one of our destination experts on 800.832.1848 or 212.757.5797.
- Arrive in the city of Dublin and explore independently
- Visit St. Stephen’s Green, Temple Bar, and Trinity College to view the Book of Kells
- Enjoy a 7-day small deluxe coach tour of Southern Ireland
- Visit Galway City
- Tour the wilderness of the Burren & the stunning Cliffs of Moher
- Tour the Dingle Peninsula
- Tour the Ring of Kerry
- Drive through West Cork and visit Blarney Castle
- Stay in the fishing village of Kinsale
- Visit the historic port of Cobh
- Visit Waterford and Kilkenny with its castle, and National Craft Centre
- Visit the 6th century monastic ruins in Glendalough and the Wicklow Mountains
- Return to Dublin
Included in This Tour
- Private Car transfer to your hotel upon arrival.
- 9 nights deluxe hotel accommodations with full breakfast daily.
- 7 day professionally guided tour – Deluxe mini coach with no more than 16 passengers.
- Touring Map of Ireland & List of recommended pubs, restaurants and places of interest.
- Private Car transfer to the Airport upon departure.
- 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
- Irish Breakfast Daily
Day 1:
Depart the US on your overnight flight to Dublin, Ireland!
Day 2: Dublin
Upon arrival, enjoy a private transfer to your Dublin hotel. Relax after your journey. Maybe you would like to enjoy a carriage ride through some of Dublin’s historic Georgian Squares. There are many wonderful pubs and restaurants within steps of your hotel as well as world class shopping. We will give you a list of our favorite restaurants and pubs! Stay 2-nights in Buswells Hotel.
Day 3: Dublin
Today explore Dublin City. We recommend taking a ‘Hop on, Hop off’ double-decker bus tour, a great way to see all the best sights in the city! Highlights include Trinity College, Dublin Castle and St. Patrick’s Cathedral. Stroll along Grafton Street, Dublin’s premier shopping area. Visit the Guinness Brewery at St. James’ Gate. Explore the Temple Bar area of the city, and take in some traditional Irish music.
Day 4: Kildare, Offaly & Galway
After breakfast this morning you will join your 7 day small deluxe coach tour of Ireland. This award winning tour features a deluxe coach with no more than 16 passengers, and a professional Driver Guide; ensuring you will get to explore all the off the beaten path treasures Ireland has to offer! Departing Dublin you head west through the farmland and peat bogs of counties Kildare and Offaly. Our first stop is Locke’s Distillery – reputedly the oldest legal distillery in the world. Sample the local whiskey and discover the true spirit of Ireland! Further west you will reach the mighty Shannon River and the early Christian site of Clonmacnoise, with its collection of churches, stone crosses and round towers.
After an afternoon stop in a traditional pub in one of the little villages, travel into Galway City for a 1-night stay at the House Hotel, in the heart of the city.
Day 5: Clare & Kerry
From Galway City it is only a short drive along the coast to the Burren, one of Ireland’s great natural treasures. This is a land of limestone pavements, barren hillsides, rare flora, early Christian settlements and ancient stone monuments. We will travel on to Kilfenora, the “town of the crosses”, for a visit to the old cathedral and lunch in the village. After lunch, you will visit the stunning Cliffs of Moher, which drop almost 700 feet straight into the crashing Atlantic waves. From here you travel south to County Kerry to the beautiful lakeside town of Killarney. Stay 3-nights at the Earls Court House Hotel.
Day 6: Dingle Peninsula
Today your tour takes you to the stunning Dingle Peninsula, one of the most dramatic seascapes in Ireland, and a heartland of Gaelic culture and tradition. The views here are breath-taking with the nearby Blasket Islands rising dramatically from the sea and the mountains of the Ring of Kerry to the south. The circuit of Slea Head leads back to the town of Dingle with its brightly coloured buildings and busy harbour. You spend the rest of the afternoon here before returning to Killarney. If the weather is good you could take an evening walk in the Killarney National Park, just on the edge of town.
Day 7: The Ring of Kerry
Today you tour one of the world’s classic routes, the Ring of Kerry, one hundred miles packed full of interest. There will be plenty of opportunities for photo stops along the way with great views across to the Dingle Peninsula. See the Cahersiveen ring fort before reaching the little fishing village of Portmagee. Here you can relax and sample local seafood for lunch. The tour continues on around the Ring with stops in Waterville, Moll’s Gap and the Ladies View. There will just be time for a short walk to the Torc Waterfall before arriving back into Killarney.
Day 8: West Cork, Blarney Castle & Kinsale
Today you head back east through the mountains of West Cork and the market town of Macroom then along the Lee Valley to Blarney Castle. Here you have time to visit the castle, explore the woodland walks and mystical Rock Close as well as visiting the village of Blarney itself, a good place for a bite of lunch and a bit of shopping.
At Blarney you will meet your new tour guide and transfer to your new coach for the final section of your trip.
In the afternoon you explore the spectacular coastline of West Cork with its historic villages, beautiful beaches, inlets and tiny coves. You end the day in the fishing village of Kinsale. The town is famous for its food and you will have a free evening to explore the narrow streets filled with lively traditional pubs and restaurants. Stay 1-night in Actons Hotel.
Day 9: Cobh, Waterford & Kilkenny
Today is spent exploring some of the highlights of the South East starting with the historic port of Cobh, the major departure point for Irish emigration through the 19th and 20th centuries as well as the last port of call for the Titanic on its ill-fated maiden voyage. From here you will continue east towards Waterford along what is known as the “Copper Coast”, an UNESCO Geopark with breath-taking scenery and a fascinating history. You make a stop in Tramore, a popular beach for surfing before arriving in Waterford, Ireland’s oldest city, founded by the Vikings in the 9th Century. From here, you continue north to Kilkenny, a bustling city with a fine castle and park, riverside walks, the National Craft Centre and plenty of pubs and restaurants. Stay 1-night in the Kilkenny Pembroke Hotel.
Day 10: Wicklow, Glendalough & Dublin
You have a couple of hours free to explore the city center before you depart Kilkenny for the Wicklow Mountains. This area contains some of Ireland’s highest peaks and most impressive valleys. One of the most bewitching areas is around Glendalough (“valley of the lakes”) where you have the choice of taking one of the beautiful walking trails or exploring the ruins of the 6th century monastery with its famous round tower. After a couple of hours here you continue on the last section of the tour travelling through the heart of the Wicklow Mountains National Park and crossing the famous Sally Gap before descending the short distance back to Dublin arriving around dinnertime. Say goodbye to your Driver Guide! Stay 1-night in Buswells Hotel.
Day 11: Depart Dublin
After breakfast, enjoy a private transfer to Dublin Airport and prepare for your return flight home to the United States.
To customize this itinerary, talk to one of our destination experts on 800.832.1848 or 212.757.5797.
Hotels
Actons Hotel, Kinsale
Actons of Kinsale is situated in heart of the colourful historic harbour town of Kinsale also referred to as the Gourmet Capital of Ireland. Actons is the oldest hotel in Kinsale originally established in 1946 by two sisters, Sidney and Shelia Acton and since then has become an integral part of Kinsale town. This hotel overlooks Kinsale Harbour and Yacht Club allowing you to wake up to the twinkling sound of yacht masts. This contemporary boutique style hotel comprises 74 en suite bedrooms including a bridal and family suites, Sidney’s Bar & Brasserie offer all day dinning, Fisher St Restaurant, Health & Leisure Club with fully equipped gym, swimming pool, sauna & steam room and treatment rooms.
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.
The House Hotel, Galway
This is a beautifully designed 4-star boutique hotel ideally located in the Latin Quarter of Galway City, within minutes of Quay Street, which is the street full of pubs, restaurants, shops, and street performers that is a magnet for visitors during the day and night. It is just 5 minutes from Eyre Square and Galway City Centre.
The Pembroke Hotel, Kilkenny
The Pembroke Hotel Kilkenny is a relaxing 4 star boutique hotel in the heart of the old city quarter. Kilkenny is a city rich with medieval heritage and alive with a vibrant arts culture. Surrounded by Kilkenny's most famous landmarks including Kilkenny Castle, Butler House and Gardens and the National Craft Gallery, it is fitting that the hotel takes its name from the Earl of Pembroke for whom Kilkenny Castle was built.
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 Dublin City and Southern Ireland
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.
