12 Day Shades Of Ireland

Set out on an amazing Irish adventure that tells the complete story of the Emerald Isle. Get a taste of old Dublin. Tonight, you and your fellow travellers revel in a traditional Irish evening, including regional cuisine.

Today, it’s your choice! Choose to ride with a local guide to see St. Patrick’s Cathedral, O’Connell Street, the General Post Office, and the historic Phoenix Park -OR- choose a walking tour of the city’s historic centre, exploring St. Stephen’s Green, Grafton Street, and the River Liffey. Either way, what follows is an afternoon to discover Dublin’s charms on your own.

Step back in time and begin the day in the medieval splendour of 12th century Kilkenny on the River Nore. Then, in Waterford, embark on a leisurely paced walking tour of Ireland’s oldest city. It’s your choice! Tour the Waterford Crystal factory and learn how exquisite crystal has been made for centuries -OR- visit the Medieval Museum for a guided tour and glass of wine in the 15th-century Mayor’s Wine Vault.

Live the legend. The story goes that those who kiss the Blarney Stone gain the gift of eloquence. This morning, give it a shot at historic Blarney Castle. Cross into County Kerry and continue on to charming Killarney, where you will board a traditional boat* and sail through breathtaking lakes in the company of an expert boatman. This evening, enjoy dinner on the town.

Take in the rugged coastline as you loop your way around the picturesque Ring of Kerry, past pristine beaches, quaint villages and majestic landscapes. At the Gap of Dunloe, shop for local artisan-made crafts. End your day with a traditional jaunting car ride* through one of Ireland’s best kept secrets - Killarney National Park.

Bid Killarney farewell and travel across the lovely Shannon River into County Clare. Visit the Cliffs of Moher, one of Ireland’s most iconic sites. Walk along the rambling edge, soaking up unparalleled views and snapping incredible photos. Complete your day at the historic Old Ground Hotel and experience the finest in Irish hospitality.

Experience the daily life of a traditional Irish family during a memorable farm visit. Then continue on to Galway for a brief tour that showcases “The City of Tribes.” Your day ends in the northwest reaches of Eire.

Take in the rugged, natural beauty of County Donegal. Stop in Donegal Town and stroll the town square, enjoying its quaint craft and woollen shops. Next, travel to Derry, known for its turbulent political history. This afternoon, a local guide leads a walk through the old city, including the Craft Village, a charming 19th century Georgian square in the heart of the walled city. Tonight, it’s Diner’s Choice…choose your included dinner from a "menu" of Derry’s great restaurants.

This morning, journey to the Inishowen Peninsula and Malin Head. Take in breathtaking scenery as you explore Ireland's northernmost point. Return to Derry, and enjoy an afternoon at leisure.

See the most famous natural site in Northern Ireland as you visit the magnificent Giant’s Causeway. Formed by volcanic activity millions of years ago, the causeway resembles a cobble road leading into the sea. Then lose yourself in the natural beauty of Northern Ireland as you explore the scenic back roads of the Glens of Antrim to Belfast.

Begin the day with a guided tour of Belfast, the capital of Northern Ireland, and hear of the struggles in this great city’s history as you pass through the different neighborhoods. See “Samson” and “Goliath,” the cranes at the shipyard that built the Titanic, before touring the “Titanic Experience,” Northern Ireland’s most visited attraction. Top your day off with a traditional Irish ceili; an experience that takes you back to the cobblestoned streets and Irish fare in 20th-century Ulster. Enjoy rousing music and dance as your Irish adventure comes to a close.

Your tour ends in Belfast.