A land of ancient legends, epic folktales, and grand traditions, Ireland is a destination that will truly transport you back in time. Uncover Celtic culture and admire medieval architecture across the stunning countryside, and delve into historic Dublin and the "rebel city" of Cork. Eat, dance, and sing with locals—even kiss the Blarney Stone—as you follow the roots of Irish culture to its core and come home with some Irish ballads of your own.
Travel Style
National Geographic Journeys
Service Level
Upgraded
Physical Grading
2 - Light
What's Included
Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Dinner and a Tale or Two, Dublin
Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Whiskey and Chocolate Tasting, Killarney
Your Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment - Meet Your Expedition Leader and Group
Your Discover Moment: Dublin. Visit to Trinity College Dublin. Blarney Castle visit. Ring of Kerry guided day excursion. Galway City walking tour. Cliffs of Moher cruise and guided tour. Cork orientation walk. All transport between destinations and to/from included activities
What are the main highlights of this trip?
Spend an evening with food, storytelling and music at a traditional Irish pub, Enjoy a private tasting of whiskey and chocolate in Killarney, Marvel at the awe-inspiring Cliffs of Moher, Drive along the famed Ring of Kerry
How large will the group be?
Max 16, avg 12
What meals are included in this trip?
8 breakfasts, 1 dinner
What are the modes of transportation on my trip?
Private vehicle, boat, walking.
Is there an extra cost for travelling solo?
We believe single travellers should not have to pay more to travel so our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travellers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip. Some of our Independent trips are designed differently and single travellers on these itineraries must pay the single trip price.
Where will we stay during the trip?
Hotels/guesthouses – 8 nts.
Itinerary
Dublin
Arrive at any time. We recommend arriving a day or two early to fully explore this lively city. There are no planned activities until an evening welcome meeting.
Dublin
In the morning, set out on an orientation walk led by your Expedition Leader around Dublin, then enjoy some free time to explore the city's Medieval Quarter, visit St. Patrick's Cathedral, set foot in Dublin Castle, or tour a whiskey distillery. Later, explore Trinity College Dublin, founded in 1592. Visit its famed library and view the Book of Kells, an illuminated manuscript dating to the ninth century. In the evening, dine on Irish fare, accompanied by storytelling and traditional music, in a traditional Irish pub.
Cork
Travel to the charming city of Cork and set out on an orientation walk; then spend the rest of the day exploring the city on your own. Choose to visit the Cork County Gaol—a former prison—or learn about the voyage of the Titanic in the original ticket office of the White Star Line. Wander the stalls at the historic English Market or settle into a pub for a locally brewed pint of Murphy’s Irish Stout. Cork is known for its many universities, theatres, art schools and general diversity and culture. With many immigrants settling in this inviting city, it's easy to find different types of foods, shops and cafés lining the streets.
Blarney/Killarney
Begin the day with a visit to Blarney Castle, built nearly 600 years ago and now one of the most iconic sights in Ireland. Climb a flight of steps to kiss the legendary Blarney Stone, a ritual said to grant the gift of the gab. Continue to Killarney for an afternoon spent tasting whiskey and chocolate with a local expert. In the evening, opt to enjoy a traditional Celtic dance performance. The lovely town of Killarney bristles with history, culture and stunning natural beauty. Located on the shores of Lough Leane, adjacent to Killarney National Park, it is surrounded by rolling green hills, lakes and forests.
Killarney
Set out on a full-day excursion around the famed Ring of Kerry, considered one of Ireland’s most scenic drives. Take in stunning views of the Iveragh Peninsula’s windswept coast and lush, wild forests. View historic castles, churches, and seaside villages before returning to Killarney for a night at leisure.
Galway
This morning, head to the stunning Cliffs of Moher and board a boat for a coastal cruise. Enjoy exceptional views of one of Ireland’s most well-known natural wonders from water level, In the months of May to early July, you might spot puffins along the cliffs. After the cruise, explore the Cliffs' visitor centre before continuing to Galway, a historic harbor city on Ireland's west coast. As the gateway to the Galway Gaeltacht, one of the country's last Irish-speaking regions, Galway offers a unique blend of culture and history.
Cliffs of Moher/Galway
Set on a guided walking tour of Galway, delving into the history of conquest that has shaped Irish culture, and getting a taste of the city’s reputation as a hub for art and music. Enjoy a free afternoon exploring the local arts scene or wandering historic streets.
Dublin
Return to Dublin this morning and enjoy a free afternoon to explore Ireland's dynamic capital. Stroll among the colorful gardens of St. Stephen's Green, pop into historic pubs in Temple Bar, or view the famed bog bodies housed in the National Museum of Ireland. Opt to visit the Guinness Storehouse for insights into the history of beer and a taste of their famed stout, then gather for an optional farewell dinner with your group at a local restaurant.
Dublin
Depart at any time.
Is travel insurance required for my trip?
Travel Insurance: Travel insurance is compulsory in order to participate on any of our trips. When travelling on a group trip, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance has been sighted by your Expedition Leader, who will take note of your insurance details. When selecting a travel insurance policy please bear in mind that all clients must have medical coverage and that we require a minimum coverage of USD 200,000 for repatriation and emergency rescue. We strongly recommend that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects. If you have credit card insurance we require proof of purchase of the trip (a receipt of credit card statement) with a credit card in your name. Contact your bank for details of their participating insurer, the level of coverage and emergency contact telephone number.
Terms, conditions and restrictions apply; pricing, availability, and other details subject to change and/ or apply to US or Canadian residents. Please confirm details and booking information with your travel advisor.
