9 Day Classic Ireland Tour from $1,049

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DAY 1,  – Depart for Ireland
Depart for Ireland

DAY 2, – Arrive in Dublin
Arrive in Dublin, the energetic capital of Ireland. Most flights arrive in the early morning and your room may not be ready for you. In this case, leave your luggage with the concierge and your Tour Manager will provide suggestions for you to begin to explore the city on your own. Tonight, a Welcome Drink with your fellow travelers and Tour Manager at approximately 5 pm, followed by an orientation meeting on the upcoming journey through Ireland
Overnight: Dublin

DAY 3, – Dublin City Tour
The exploration of Dublin, immortalized by James Joyce, begins with a panoramic drive through statue-lined O’Connell Street and past Phoenix Park, the largest enclosed city park in Europe, home to the official residence of the President. Continue to view St. Patrick’s Cathedral, the largest church in Ireland, dedicated to Ireland’s patron saint. Next, on to Oscar Wilde’s Trinity College where you see the magnificent 8th century Book of Kells*, a superb example of early Irish manuscript illumination on display in the Old Library. Evening on your own to discover Dublin’s fabulous restaurants, nightlife and the friendly pubs on every corner
*For Nov-March departures, the Book of Kells will be unavailable for viewing due to restoration. The Old Library will remain open, and a replica will be on display
Overnight: Dublin
Meals: Breakfast

DAY 4, – Travel to Kilkenny
Departing Dublin, travel through scenic County Wicklow past the Blessington Lakes on your way to Kilkenny, located on the banks of the River Nore. Journey through the 12th century Kilkenny Castle and view the splendid medieval cathedral. Spend the balance of the afternoon at leisure. Later tonight, enjoy dinner together at the hotel
Overnight: Kilkenny
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

DAY 5, – Waterford, Blarney Castle En Route to Killarney
Today, discover Waterford, known as Ireland’s oldest city, a place that can trace its beginnings back to the arrival of the Vikings. Embark on a walking tour of the city of Waterford with its world-renowned crystal showroom. Then, drive through the scenic south of Ireland into enchanting County Cork for a visit to storied 15th century Blarney Castle, where you’ll have an opportunity to kiss the legendary Blarney Stone, promising you the “gift of gab”. Free time for shopping for traditional Irish crafts at the Blarney Woollen Mills before driving to Killarney, in County Kerry, with its soaring mountain ranges, beautiful valleys, crystal lakes and spectacular rugged coastline along the Atlantic Ocean. This evening, enjoy dinner at the hotel
Overnight: Killarney
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

DAY 6, – Killarney National Park, Ring of Kerry
A breathtaking day of magnificent vistas as you drive through Killarney National Park and the world-famous “Ring of Kerry” around the island’s southwestern tip. Keep your cameras ready for the sparkling seascapes, mountains dotted with brightly colored farmhouses, the remote villages of Cahirciveen and Sneem, winding lanes bordered with subtropical vegetation, and the breathtaking panorama of the Lakes of Killarney. Later, join the optional ride in a Jaunting Car (pony & open carriage) in the peaceful green countryside. Return to Killarney in the late afternoon
Optional: Jaunting Cars (PM)
Overnight: Killarney
Meals: Breakfast

DAY 7, – Bunratty Castle and the Folk Park, Cliffs of Moher
Travel north through the picturesque village of Adare, with its pastel-hued storefronts and thatched roof houses, known as the “prettiest village” in Ireland. Visit Bunratty Castle, the most complete and authentic medieval fortress in Ireland restored to its former splendor with original furnishings, tapestries and works of art. On to the delightful Folk Park, dedicated to life in Ireland during the 19th century. Experience the sights and sounds of this enchanting place as you stroll from house to house or around the charming village street complete with school, post office, doctor’s house, hardware shop, and, of course, McNamara’s pub! Later, view some of Ireland’s most spectacular scenery as you drive to the mighty Cliffs of Moher, a wall of rock that rises some 700 feet above the ocean. Continue north through the desolate limestone plateau known as the Burren to overnight in lively Galway, the original home of the famous Claddagh ring, and now one of the fastest growing cities in Europe
Overnight: Galway
Meals: Breakfast

DAY 8,  – Galway City Tour, Return to Dublin
Begin the day with a relaxed morning in Galway where you might shop for souvenirs or take a stroll around Eyre Square. Later, enjoy a tour of the colorful town, including a stop at the grand Galway Cathedral on the banks of the River Corrib. Then, continue on your drive back to Dublin. Tonight, enjoy a Farewell Dinner with lively traditional entertainment and say goodbye to your Tour Manager and newfound friends
Overnight: Dublin
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

DAY 9,- Depart Ireland
Bid a fond farewell to Ireland. After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your departure flight
Meals: Breakfast