Overview
Introduction to Ireland
Like a classic Irish coffee made with hot java, Irish whiskey, brown sugar, and fresh whipped cream, this introductory tour of Ireland blends the most stimulating sights, soothing scenery, and sweet accents of the Emerald Isle. Journeying on a loop from Dublin to the west coast and back, first-time visitors will be awakened by the revelry of the lively capital city, jolted by the dramatic scenery along the storied coast, and calmed by the verdant rolling hills throughout the lush green countryside. Don’t be surprised if you’re suddenly inspired to craft limericks as you try your hand at baking scones on an Irish sheep farm in Galway. With authentic local experiences and visits to the sights you’ve always dreamed of—including the stunning Cliffs of Moher, the spectacular Ring of Kerry, and the famous House of Waterford Crystal—this tour of Ireland is the perfect break from the daily grind. PLUS, your tour includes your choice of excursions in Waterford so you can plan your day your way.
Highlights of Introduction to Ireland
City Highlights
Price Details US
Travelers Notes
Special Features Included in this Tour:• Orientation drive in Dublin• Visit to the Irish National Stud in Kildare• Orientation drive in Limerick• Visit to the Cliffs of Moher• Rathbaun Farm visit with scone baking, coffee and sheep herding demonstration• Ferry across the Shannon Estuary• Panoramic drive around the Ring of Kerry • Irish Coffee in a local bar• Globus Choice excursions in Waterford − included in your tour with your choice of a visit to the House of Waterford Crystal or a guided walking tour of Waterford• Visit to Blarney village
Transportation
Private Touring
6 guests in a party: $2185*18 guests in a party: $436*
Meals
6 Breakfasts, 3 Dinners
Itineraries
Day 1
ARRIVE IN DUBLIN, IRELAND Céad mile fáilte—a hundred-thousand welcomes! Irish eyes will be smiling at 3 pm as you meet your Tour Director and travel companions for an afternoon orientation drive through statue-lined O’Connell Street, elegant Georgian squares, and past St. Patrick’s Cathedral and Oscar Wilde’s Trinity College. Tonight, enjoy a welcome dinner at your hotel. (D)TOUR HIGHLIGHTCITY SIGHTS “In Dublin’s fair city where girls are so pretty,” you’ll also find great personality and charm. The charisma of Dubliners and the bounty of pubs here is matched only by the gorgeous Georgian Squares, 12th-century St. Patrick’s Cathedral, and Trinity College.
Day 2
DUBLIN–KILDARE–CASHEL–LIMERICK–ENNIS Stallions, Saints & Stones Hit your stride this morning with a trip to Ireland’s horse-racing country! Drive across the Curragh to visit the Irish National Stud at Kildare. There’s still lots more to see, including the Rock of Cashel, where St. Patrick preached; and Limerick, where an orientation sightseeing drive features St. Mary’s Cathedral, King John’s Castle, and the stone where the Treaty of Limerick was signed in 1691. (B) 165 mi / 266 kmTOUR HIGHLIGHTCULTURE & TRADITION The Irish National Stud is home to the long tradition of Ireland’s love of horses. This horse-breeding facility in County Kildare, considered the beating heart of Ireland's thoroughbred industry, continues to inspire all who visit. Hear about some of the world’s most magnificent champion stallions that have made racing history since the turn of the 20th century.
Day 3
ENNIS. EXCURSION TO WEST COAST Sheep, Scones & Sea Cliffs Embark on an exhilarating excursion along Ireland’s spectacular Atlantic coastline begins with a drive to the 668-foot Cliffs of Moher, where you take in the breathtaking panorama of the Clare coast. A scenic route across the limestone plateau of The Burren takes you to Galway, a popular seaside destination and a buzzing cosmopolitan center with colorful shops and a busy café and bar culture. This afternoon, a special treat at Rathbaun Farm [LF] to enjoy coffee and your own home-made scones. (B)135 mi / 217 km LOCAL FAVORITELOCAL TASTES Someone’s in the kitchen in Rathbaun Farm, just outside of Galway. You can don an apron and whip up your own delicious home-made scones, served with fresh preserves and whipped cream. Learn about the long-time tradition of sheep farming in this beautiful Irish landscape.
Day 4
ENNIS–RING OF KERRY–KILLARNEY Beauties of Counties Kerry & Clare The breathtaking beauty of Ireland awaits with a short drive via Clonderlaw Bay to Killimer, where you’ll cross the Shannon estuary by ferry. Join the road known as the Ring of Kerry for a spectacular drive around Ireland’s southwestern peninsula. Enjoy an [LF] Irish coffee in a local bar before arriving at the popular resort of Killarney. (B,D) 174 mi / 281 kmLOCAL FAVORITELOCAL TASTES It’s clear why we get a warm feeling with traditional Irish Coffee – as much a warm welcome now as it was for stranded travelers in 1943. It was a wintry night in Limerick when Foynes Port chef Joe Sheridan concocted this soothing elixir of hot coffee, Irish whiskey, sugar, and whipped cream to make their cancelled flight a little more palatable. Raise a toddy glass of Caife Gaelach with a hearty “slainte!”
Day 5
KILLARNEY–BLARNEY–WATERFORD Spend your day your way in Waterford Your Irish luck continues across the Kerry Mountains and through County Cork to Blarney, renowned for its magical Kissing Stone. Take the opportunity to walk up to the castle, and to shop for traditional Irish handicrafts. In the afternoon, continue to Waterford, a stronghold founded by the Danish Vikings. Explore more of Waterford with your choice of included Globus Choice excursions before enjoying dinner at your hotel. (B,D)131 mi / 210 km
Day 6
WATERFORD–KILKENNY–DUBLIN Medieval & Modern Irish Capitals Head to the “Marble City” of Kilkenny to enjoy one of Ireland’s most quaint towns, or consider a visit to its 800-year-old castle. Return to Dublin, Ireland’s capital city, and enjoy some free time. (B) 111 mi / 179 kmTOUR HIGHLIGHTHISTORIC SPOT Explore the city of Kilkenny, referred to as the "Marble City" because of the widespread use of local black limestone to construct many local buildings. The "Medieval Mile" is the city's main thoroughfare and is lined with medieval landmarks, quaint shops, and charming pubs. Today Kilkenny is renowned for its active arts and crafts scene.
Day 7
DUBLIN Safe travels until we meet again! Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. (B)
Departures
Hotels
| # | Name | Description | City | Address | Rating |
| 1 | Hilton Dublin Kilmainham | Towering elegantly over one of Dublin's oldest addresses, the 4 Star Hilton Dublin Kilmainham Hotel is perfectly positioned on the most accessible edge of the city center: close enough to be there within minutes - yet peacefully removed. | Dublin 8 | Inchicore Road | Superior First-Class |
| 2 | Temple Gate Hotel | This Ennis Hotel rests on the site of a 19th century Convent of Mercy with a fascinating and eventful history. Prior to its conversion to a convent, the original houses, Row House and Lifford House was the property of Charles O'Connell, cousin of Daniel O'Connell. He was a frequent visitor to the area particularly in the years 1827 - 1829 when planning his election campaign. The Sisters of Mercy moved from the Ennis Convent in 1995 to new premises nearby. | Ennis-Co.Clare | The Square | First-Class |
| 3 | Killarney Towers Hotel | Killarney Towers Hotel offers spacious and bright rooms, designed, furnished and decorated with comfort and convenience in mind. The hotel boasts restaurants, bars, a concierge service and on-site fitness facilities. | Killarney | College Square | Superior First-Class |
| 4 | Granville Hotel | The Granville, a boutique hotel in the center of Waterford's historic and shopping district, overlooking the marina. Dating back to the early 1700's, The Granville is one of Ireland's most historic hotels. Stained glass, tapestries, and wood panelling lend to the charm of it. There are standard modern amenities in all bedrooms such as flat screen TVs, 24 hour room service, hairdryer and tea and coffee making facilities. There is an AA Rosette awarded Bianconi Restaurant to sample delicious local food. | Waterford | The Quay | Superior First-Class |
| 5 | The Gibson | The Gibson does sleeping, dining, imbibing, and relaxing really well. The chic restaurant and bar offers pan-Asian cuisine; or choose the sleek outdoor terrace lined with bamboo to enjoy wicked cocktails and a great choice of beers and wines. The gym and a relaxation area with outdoor baths invite you to relax after a day out in town. | Dublin | Point Village | Superior First-Class |
