Ultimate Ireland 12 Day Experience Tour

What's Included

Meeting and pickup

Itinerary

Day 1
Céad Míle Fáilte – An Introduction to Monks, Music, and the Magic of Galway
2 stops
1
Begin your journey at Dublin Airport, where our welcoming team greets you at the Bus Park, Zone 16, ensuring a smooth start to your Irish adventure. Settle in as you travel west through ever-changing countryside, passing rolling farmland and timeless rural landscapes en route to Clonmacnoise Monastery. Founded in the 6th century on the tranquil banks of the River Shannon, Clonmacnoise is one of Ireland’s most significant early Christian sites. Wander among its remarkable round towers, cathedral ruins, and intricately carved Celtic high crosses, each telling stories of faith, learning, and resilience. The serene atmosphere offers a powerful glimpse into Ireland’s spiritual and scholarly heritage, where history and devotion linger in every stone.
2 hours • Admission ticket included
2
Galway
Continue onward to the vibrant City of Tribes—Galway—renowned for its artistic soul and lively Atlantic energy. Upon arrival, enjoy a guided walking tour that brings the city’s character to life. Stroll through Eyre Square, admire the historic Spanish Arch, and weave through narrow medieval streets alive with color, creativity, and centuries of stories. From street performers to traditional shopfronts, Galway captures the heart of Ireland’s west coast like nowhere else. The evening is yours to enjoy at leisure. Walk along the Salthill Promenade as the sun sets over Galway Bay, browse independent boutiques and craft shops, or immerse yourself in the sounds of traditional Irish music spilling from cozy pubs. After a memorable evening, unwind during a comfortable overnight stay in Galway, refreshed and ready for the adventures ahead.
4 minutes • Admission ticket free
Day 2
Connemara’s Wild Beauty and Sligo’s Poetic Charm
2 stops
3
Kylemore Abbey & Victorian Walled Garden
Leaving Galway we journey into the wild raw beauty of Connemara's misty mountains, shimmering lakes, and winding rivers, with rugged peaks of the Twelve Bens rising on the horizon. Nestled beside a tranquil lake and framed by it's mist-draped hills we arrive at the iconic Kylemore Abbey. Originally built as a romantic 19th-century castle, the estate later became a Benedictine monastery, adding layers of spiritual and cultural significance. Explore the beautifully restored rooms, each revealing insights into its fascinating past, and admire the graceful architecture mirrored in the still waters below. Wander through the Victorian walled gardens, where vibrant flowerbeds, glasshouses, and quiet pathways create a haven of calm and contemplation. The surroundings invite reflection, making Kylemore one of Ireland’s most moving and memorable landmarks.
3 hours • Admission ticket included
4
Continuing north, the scenery grows even more dramatic. Rolling hills, rugged stone walls, sparkling lakes, and timeless villages stretch along your route, each bend in the road offering a new, postcard-perfect view. By early evening, arrive in Sligo, a town of myth, legend, and literary greatness. Known as the inspiration for W.B. Yeats—Nobel Prize winner and widely regarded as one of the most remarkable poets of the 20th century—Sligo’s wild Atlantic coastline and striking mountain landscapes left an indelible mark on his work. Walking in Yeats’ footsteps, you feel the same sense of drama and mystery that shaped his poetry, where windswept beaches, rugged hills, and shimmering lakes become vessels for imagination, reflection, and artistic brilliance. Settle in and unwind, allowing the spirit of Sligo and its poetic legacy to linger as you prepare for the adventures ahead.
3 hours • Admission ticket free
Day 3
The Land of Chieftains, Castles, and Dramatic Cliffs
4 stops
5
Donegal Castle
Depart Sligo and travel north into the dramatic landscapes of County Donegal, one of Ireland’s most remote and unspoiled regions. Step back in time at Donegal Castle, a striking 15th-century stronghold that once served as the seat of the mighty O’Donnell chieftains of the North, rulers renowned for their power, courage, and influence across Ulster. Its walls and towers bear witness to centuries of political intrigue, fierce battles, and Gaelic resilience, standing as a testament to a turbulent era when clan loyalties and dynastic rivalries shaped the destiny of the region. Wander through the castle’s restored rooms and ramparts, imagining the lives of lords and ladies, strategists and warriors, whose decisions here once echoed across the north of Ireland. Every stone tells a story of strength, ambition, and survival—a living monument to the legacy of Ireland’s most formidable chieftains.
2 hours • Admission ticket included
6
Step into the world of Triona Design in Donegal Town, a living celebration of the county’s rich weaving heritage. Here, you’ll witness a weaving demonstration, seeing skilled artisans transform local Donegal wool into exquisite fabrics that have long defined this region. Weaving has been synonymous with Donegal for centuries, with fabrics once exported as far afield as Bellona and Florence in the 11th century, a testament to the enduring quality and global reputation of Irish craftsmanship. Triona Design continues this tradition today, creating contemporary clothing and accessories that blend heritage with modern style. Their designs have attracted a discerning international clientele, including the likes of Sarah Jessica Parker and other fashion icons, making each piece a unique story of culture, craft, and style.
1 hour • Admission ticket included
7
Sliabh Liag Cliff Experience & Visitor Centre
Continue along the spectacular Wild Atlantic Way, one of the world’s most breathtaking coastal routes, as the scenery grows increasingly rugged and dramatic. Passing through the bustling fishing town of Killybegs, Ireland’s largest port, watch the colorful boats bobbing in the harbor and breathe in the salty, pure Atlantic air. The journey reaches its awe-inspiring climax at Sliabh Liag, home to Europe’s highest accessible sea cliffs. Here, sheer rock faces drop dramatically into the roaring Atlantic, sending spray and wind across the cliffs in a sensory spectacle. Stand on the edge and feel the raw power of the ocean, the wind whipping your hair, as waves thunder below and seabirds wheel overhead. It’s a place of sublime beauty and primal energy on the edge of the world —a breathtaking meeting of land, sea, and sky that leaves an unforgettable impression and embodies the wild, untamed spirit of Donegal.
2 hours • Admission ticket included
8
Travel onward into Gweedore, a vibrant Gaeltacht region where Irish is spoken daily and cultural traditions thrive. Surrounded by rugged mountains and open ocean, this area represents the heart of Ireland’s cultural identity. Settle in for an evening enriched by a special dining experience at the renowned Leo’s Tavern, a true icon of Irish music and the legendary birthplace of Clannad and Enya. From this humble Donegal setting emerged pioneers of Celtic and ambient music whose recordings have sold tens of millions of albums worldwide, influencing generations of artists and bringing the sound of Ireland to a global audience. Within these walls, traditional roots met innovation, shaping a musical legacy that redefined Irish music on the world stage. As you dine, soak in an atmosphere where music, heritage, and storytelling still resonate—an unforgettable evening in a place where modern Irish musical history was born.
3 minutes • Admission ticket free
Day 4
A Curated Journey of Wild Nature, Complete With Mountain Dew
3 stops
9
Glenveagh National Park
Begin the day immersed in the splendor of Glenveagh National Park, a vast wilderness where rolling mountains, glassy lakes, and wide-open skies stretch endlessly. At the heart of the park stands Glenveagh Castle, a romantic 19th-century retreat set against a dramatic mountain backdrop. Stroll through its lush gardens, where vibrant plantings soften the rugged terrain, creating a peaceful sanctuary. Together, castle and countryside capture the raw yet refined beauty that defines Ireland’s wild spirit.
3 hours • Admission ticket included
10
Wild Atlantic Way
Leaving Glenveagh, we travel along the Wild Atlantic Way, passing the coastal villages of Creeslough, Dunfanaghy, Falcarragh, Gortahork, and Magheroarty. Along the route, encounter the Mass Rock, remnants of the old railway line and viaduct, and the stark reminder of the former workhouse. Rugged boglands stretch to the horizon, opening onto dramatic Atlantic views, with Tory Island amongst others visible offshore—a journey through wild landscapes, rich history, and the raw beauty of Donegal’s coast.
2 hours • Admission ticket free
11
Crolly Distillery, Visitors' Experience
We then visit Crolly Distillery, a hidden gem nestled in the foothills of Errigal Mountain. This boutique distillery uses the traditional direct flame method of distillation, a rare and labour-intensive process producing richer, more characterful spirits. Set in a restored historic building, it draws on pure mountain water and generations of craftsmanship. Crolly Distillery also celebrates the origins of uisce beatha, first distilled in Western Europe by Coptic monks associated with St Colmcille in the 6th century. Today, it blends ancient tradition with modern skill, creating spirits deeply rooted in Donegal’s landscape and heritage.
2 hours • Admission ticket included
Day 5
Walk the Walls In the Footstep of Giants
3 stops
12
Today we bid farewell to Donegal, one of Ireland’s most spectacular counties, and journey to Derry, a city where past and present intertwine on every street and stone. Step onto the remarkably preserved city walls, encircling the city like a fortress frozen in time, and enjoy sweeping views of the River Foyle and the streets below. Walking these ancient ramparts, you feel the weight of centuries—each weathered stone whispering stories of resilience, conflict and triumph. Below, Derry’s vibrant streets burst with color and life, from lively markets and a thriving arts scene to the familiar locations made famous by the hit television series Derry Girls, which brought the city’s sharp wit, warmth, and unmistakable spirit to a global audience. As you stroll through the city, you’ll see how history, humour, and creativity have shaped not only Derry’s identity, but the resilient and welcoming spirit of its people.
1 hour • Admission ticket included
13
Dunluce Castle
Travel along the breathtaking Antrim coastline, where rugged cliffs meet the Atlantic. Perched dramatically above the crashing waves, Dunluce Castle emerges for a memorable photostop, its weathered ruins standing as a testament to centuries of romance, intrigue, and fierce battles. The castle’s dramatic setting also caught the eye of modern storytellers, featuring in Game of Thrones, where its wild, windswept presence helped bring fantasy to life. With the ocean roaring below, Dunluce is haunting, majestic, and unforgettable—a place where history, legend, and cinematic drama collide.
2 hours • Admission ticket free
14
Giant's Causeway
Continue through the quaint village of Bushmills, home to the world’s oldest licensed whiskey distillery, before arriving at the Giants Causeway. This UNESCO World Heritage Site stretches thousands of interlocking basalt columns into the sea, formed by volcanic activity millions of years ago and steeped in legend—said to have been built by the giant Finn McCool. Walk among these natural marvels, feel the power of the earth, and hear whispers of ancient tales carried on the wind. Conclude the day with an evening in Belfast.
2 hours • Admission ticket included
Day 6
Titanic Memories and the Dublin Farewell
3 stops
15
Titanic Belfast
After breakfast, we visit Titanic Belfast, an awe-inspiring monument to ambition, innovation, and human spirit. Rising from the historic docklands, its striking architecture evokes the hulls of the very ships built here. Inside, interactive galleries, evocative exhibitions, and immersive storytelling bring the Titanic’s story to life—from her conception in Belfast’s shipyards to her tragic maiden voyage and enduring legacy. Feel the pulse of innovation, hear the voices of those who built her, and step onto recreated decks where dreams and determination once set sail. Titanic Belfast is more than a museum; it is a journey through history, engineering, and emotion, leaving every visitor inspired.
1 hour 30 minutes • Admission ticket included
16
We then embark on a guided political tour, delving into Belfast’s complex and moving history. Visit the Falls Road and Shankill neighborhoods, adorned with vivid murals that tell stories of struggle, resilience, hope, and community. Learn how ordinary people shaped the city’s narrative, and gain insight into the social, political, and cultural forces that continue to mold Belfast’s vibrant present and hopeful future.
1 hour • Admission ticket free
17
Dublin
In the afternoon, we journey south to Dublin, where we stay overnight. Attractions in Dublin does not feature on this tour as visitors usually have a few days to spare in the capital and have the opportunity to explore places of interest in their own time which is served by public transport.
4 hours • Admission ticket free
Day 7
Masterful Crafts and Maritime Wonders
4 stops
18
After breakfast we continue on a scenic drive south into the rolling green landscapes of Wexford. Let the countryside sweep past your window as anticipation builds for the stories, history, and experiences ahead. Step back in time at the National Heritage Centre, where meticulously reconstructed settlements allow you to wander through 9,000 years of Irish history. Explore ancient homes, bustling streets, and interactive displays that bring past generations vividly to life. From Neolithic life to medieval craft, every corner reveals the ingenuity, resilience, and spirit of the Irish people across the millennia.
2 hours • Admission ticket included
19
Next, experience the hauntingly powerful Dunbrody Famine Ship, a living memorial to those who endured unimaginable hardship. Through immersive exhibits and moving performances by actors, witness the courage and determination of the men, women, and children who braved the Atlantic in search of hope and a new life. The combination of history, storytelling, and the raw emotion of the voyage offers a profound connection to Ireland’s past, leaving a lasting impression that resonates long after you leave.
2 hours • Admission ticket included
20
Journey west to Waterford, Ireland’s oldest city, a place celebrated around the world for its legendary crystal and centuries of unparalleled craftsmanship. Step into the vibrant workshops where master glasscutters transform molten fire into dazzling works of art, each piece shimmering with life and precision. Witness the meticulous techniques passed down through generations, where patience, skill, and artistry converge to create creations that have adorned royal tables, international palaces, and iconic global landmarks. From sparkling chandeliers in grand ballrooms to intricate goblets that catch the light like liquid diamonds, Waterford Crystal is more than a product—it is a symbol of Irish ingenuity, elegance, and enduring beauty. As you watch the artisans at work, feel the thrill of seeing centuries of heritage come alive in every glittering masterpiece.
2 hours • Admission ticket included
21
To finish the first day, we continue along the scenic coast to the harbour town of Dungarvan, a hidden gem along Ireland’s famed Copper Coast. Wander along the seaside promenade as the sun reflects on calm waters, or lose yourself in the character of narrow streets lined with local shops and cafés. Savor the freshest local seafood, enjoy a relaxed meal in a welcoming seaside restaurant, or soak up the atmosphere in a cosy pub with a perfectly poured pint. Let the gentle rhythm of the ocean and the charm of the town prepare you for the adventures that await tomorrow, as you rest overnight in comfort and style.
2 hours • Admission ticket free
Day 8
A Curated Journey of Craft, Legend, and Liquid Gold
3 stops
22
Midleton Distillery Experience
Begin the day with a visit to the iconic Jameson Distillery in Midleton, a place where history and craftsmanship combine to create one of Ireland’s most celebrated spirits. Step inside and let your senses come alive—inhale the rich aroma of oak casks, watch the gleaming amber liquid swirl in copper stills, and savor the warmth of expertly crafted whiskey known throughout the world. Knowledgeable guides share stories of generations of master distillers, revealing the patience, skill, and dedication behind every bottle. It’s more than a tasting—it’s an immersive journey into Ireland’s living tradition of craft and heritage.
2 hours • Admission ticket included
23
Blarney Castle & Gardens
Next, enter the fairytale world of Blarney Castle, where history, legend, and natural beauty intertwine. Ascend its spiraling staircases, where every turn reveals stone battlements, hidden passages, and breathtaking views across lush countryside. Wander through mystical gardens alive with centuries-old flora, serene water features, and secret nooks perfect for reflection. And if you dare, lean backward to kiss the legendary Blarney Stone, claiming the famed “gift of the gab” while becoming part of a centuries-old tradition that draws visitors from around the globe.
2 hours • Admission ticket included
24
Cork
Conclude the day in Cork, Ireland’s “Rebel City,” a place brimming with colour, creativity, and culinary delights. Stroll through bustling markets, admire riverside walks, and explore lively streets where history meets modern life. From street performers to artisan cafés, Cork pulses with energy and charm, offering countless opportunities to taste, see, and feel the city’s vibrant spirit. As evening falls, enjoy Cork’s lively nightlife, sampling local food, music, and hospitality before settling in for an overnight stay, fully immersed in the heart of southern Ireland.
3 hours • Admission ticket free
Day 9
From Rugged Peaks to Regal Halls: Exploring Killarney
2 stops
25
Killarney National Park
Leaving Cork behind we travel west into Kerry, a region where nature’s grandeur is on full display. Towering peaks rise dramatically above sparkling lakes, while winding roads reveal charming villages and emerald valleys at every turn. Here we explore the splendour of Killarney National Park, a haven of natural beauty and historical elegance. Wander through sprawling gardens and along tranquil lakes, where reflections of mountains shimmer in the water. Explore the grandeur of Muckross House, a Victorian mansion steeped in history, with rooms that tell stories of aristocratic life and centuries of heritage. Venture along leafy trails to Torc Waterfall, where foaming cascades tumble into emerald forests, creating a scene that feels both wild and magical. Every step through the park reveals the harmony of Ireland’s nature and culture, a place where history and landscape intertwine.
3 hours • Admission ticket free
26
Killarney
The afternoon is yours to explore the charm and character of Killarney at your own pace. Wander through streets alive with color, stories, and local life, where traditional pubs spill the sounds of lively Irish music, and cafés invite you to soak in the friendly atmosphere. Catch glimpses of horses trotting through the town or along the lakeshore, adding to the city’s timeless charm. As evening falls, Killarney truly comes alive—its vibrant streets buzzing with laughter, music, and conversation, while hearty local dishes and warm hospitality make every moment feel special. Lose yourself in the rhythm, character, and energy of this enchanting town, a perfect introduction to the spirit and soul of Kerry, before retiring for a restful overnight stay.
4 hours • Admission ticket free
Day 10
Ireland’s Legendary Landscapes: The Ring of Kerry
3 stops
27
After a hearty breakfast, ascend to the Aghadoe Viewpoint, perched high above Killarney. From this stunning vantage, the Lakes of Killarney shimmer like mirrors, reflecting the sky, while the rugged peaks of the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks rise dramatically in the distance. The scene unfolds like a natural masterpiece, with every hill, valley, and glistening lake perfectly framed, offering a moment to breathe in the majesty of Ireland’s southwest and capture memories that will last a lifetime.
1 hour • Admission ticket free
28
Kerry Bog Village Museum
Step back in time at the Bog Village, a living history exhibit that brings rural Ireland vividly to life. Wander among quaint thatched cottages, inhale the scent of turf fires, and see the simple tools and crafts that shaped daily life for generations. Hear the stories of families who eked out a living from the land and bogs, and experience firsthand the resilience, ingenuity, and spirit of Ireland’s rural past. Every corner tells a story, making this stop a moving glimpse into a world that has all but vanished, yet still pulses with cultural memory.
1 hour • Admission ticket included
29
Ring Of Kerry
Set off on the epic Ring of Kerry, one of the world’s most breathtaking drives, where legend, history, and jaw-dropping scenery greet you at every turn. Winding coastal roads reveal dramatic cliffs plunging into the Atlantic, shimmering bays, and golden beaches that invite reflection. Picturesque villages like Sneem and Waterville showcase timeless charm, local hospitality, and the area’s cinematic connections—Waterville famously captured the heart of Charlie Chaplin, who spent holidays here enchanted by the scenery. Each stop along the route reveals a new layer of Ireland: lush mountains, rolling green valleys, hidden coves, and panoramic viewpoints that leave you breathless. The Ring of Kerry isn’t just a drive—it’s a journey through Ireland’s soul, full of stories, legends, and unforgettable vistas. In late afternoon we return to stay overnight in vibrant Killarney to soak up even more of it's charm and character.
4 hours • Admission ticket free
Day 11
Across Land and Sea to the Iconic Cliffs of Moher
3 stops
30
Departing Killarney we make our way north, crossing the broad River Shannon by ferry at Tarbert. Though brief, this scenic voyage is memorable, offering views of the sparkling water and rolling green hills on either side, a perfect introduction to the wild landscapes of County Clare. The gentle sway of the ferry and the fresh river breeze set the tone for a day where land and sea merge in spectacular fashion.
2 hours • Admission ticket free
31
Cliffs of Moher
Arrive at the Cliffs of Moher, one of Ireland’s most awe-inspiring natural wonders. Rising 700 feet above the Atlantic, these rugged cliffs stretch for miles, their sheer faces carved by wind and waves over millennia. Pause at O’Brien’s Tower, a 19th-century viewing point built to celebrate the cliffs’ grandeur, and take in breathtaking panoramic views of the Aran Islands, the wild Atlantic, and the rolling Clare coastline. Watch puffins, guillemots, and kittiwakes wheel above the churning waters, and feel the raw power of nature in the spray, the roar of the ocean, and the endless horizon. It’s a place where sea, sky, and spirit collide, inviting reflection, wonder, and a profound connection to Ireland’s untamed beauty.
2 hours • Admission ticket included
32
Ennis
As evening falls, settle into County Clare for your overnight stay, surrounded by windswept hills, rugged coastlines, and the ever-present rhythm of the Wild Atlantic Way. Take some time to explore Ennis, a town that feels alive with its own heartbeat—narrow streets lined with colorful shopfronts, with locals and visitors spilling from cozy cafés, and the warm, soulful strains of traditional music drifting from pubs around every corner. Enjoy a relaxed dinner and soak in the genuine friendliness, charm, and spirit of Ireland’s west coast. It’s the kind of place that lingers in your memory, leaving you refreshed, inspired, and ready for the adventures that await on the final day.
2 hours • Admission ticket free
Day 12
Farewell Pints and Memories of an Epic Trip
2 stops
33
Sean's Bar
Begin your journey east toward Dublin, but en route pause in Athlone at Sean’s Bar, officially Ireland’s oldest pub and one of its most iconic. Step inside and feel the centuries etched into its walls—a place instantly recognisable from postcards, travel magazines, and guidebooks, and a must-see for visitors from around the world. The chatter of locals, the clink of glasses, and the echoes of traditional songs create a warm, timeless atmosphere that feels both historic and wonderfully alive. Sip a final pint and let the stories of generations wash over you, connecting you to the true heart of Irish hospitality. It’s a moment to slow down, take it all in, and experience a living symbol of Ireland—where tradition, community, and welcome have endured for centuries.
1 hour • Admission ticket free
34
Continue to Dun na Sí Heritage Park, a vibrant celebration of Irish culture where music, storytelling, folklore, and crafts come alive. Wander through this living village and experience firsthand the traditions that shaped Ireland’s communities, from ancient customs to modern expressions of heritage. As your journey draws to a close, arrive in Dublin with your heart full of memories—six days of breathtaking landscapes, rich history, lively towns, and enduring traditions woven together into an experience you’ll carry long after you say goodbye. Along the way, fellow travellers have become friends, bonds formed through shared moments, laughter, stories, and discoveries. It’s not just Ireland you leave with, but the connections made and memories shared—an adventure that stays with you long after the road ends.
2 hours • Admission ticket included

Additional info

• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• Not recommended for travelers who have mobility restrictions and cannot access stairs

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