Day 1:Thursday, May 1, 2025 • Departure
Our tour begins as we board our flights to Dublin, Ireland.
Day 2: Friday, May 2, 2025 • Dublin
Dublin is the capital of the Republic of Ireland. Our tour manager meets us at the airport and guides us to our coach. We tour some of the city’s highlights including Trinity College and the Book of Kells, along with the Guiness Storehouse. We see the traditional buildings along the River Liffey from our tour boat ride. We have lunch at a traditional pub. Dinner and the evening are at leisure to enjoy the city. (L)
Day 3: Saturday, May 3, 2025 • Dublin
We explore more of Dublin after a hearty breakfast at the hotel. We tour Dublin Castle, walk through the historic district, and learn about the rich history of the city from a local guide. We visit EPIC – the Irish Emigration Museum to learn about Ireland’s most valuable export, her people. We have the afternoon free to explore our own interests further, whether that is shopping the boutiques, visiting more of Dublin’s museums and traditional sites, or cheering on the local team at an Irish pub. We meet up for dinner as a group. (B, D)
Day 4: Sunday, May 4, 2025 • Limerick
We see many of the shades of green for which Ireland is famous as we travel through the countryside to the ancient
Hill of Tara
site of the Hill of Tara. The Stone age site rose to prominence in the Iron Age when it became the seat of high Kings of Ireland. We also tour nearby Trim Castle, the largest Anglo-Norman fortification in Ireland. We have lunch and tour the distillery at Kilbeggan. This afternoon, we visit the National Stud and Gardens with a local guide. We check into our hotel in Limerick with the evening free to enjoy dinner at a local establishment. (B, L)
Day 5: Monday, May 5, 2025 • Killarney
Adare is a government designated Heritage City. We start our day among her thatched roof homes, pretty cottage gardens and quaint pubs. Then, we let our driver navigate the roads as we enjoy views of the Atlantic coastline and the Cliffs of Moher. Bundle up for a short walk along the cliffs. We also visit Bunratty Castle and learn a wee bit about the lifestyle of 19th century rural Ireland at the Folk Village. We stop for a falconry demonstration before ending with a group dinner and our overnight in Killarney. (B, D)
Day 6: Tuesday, May 6, 2025 • Killarney
Ireland’s landscapes never disappoint. Keep an eye out for rainbows as we drive the Ring of Kerry. Rocky coastlines are dotted by small fishing villages out one side of the coach, while lush fields are dotted by fluffy white sheep out the other. After a stop for lunch and to stretch our legs a bit, we continue with a visit to Killarney National Park. We ride the horse-drawn jaunting cars to Muckross House, gardens and traditional farm. We have dinner on our own in Killarney. (B)
Day 7: Wednesday, May 7, 2025 • Cork
Kissing the Blarney Stone is a “must do” for many when in Ireland. We have the opportunity when we stop at Blarney Castle on our way to Cork. All our senses are engaged at our first stop at the English Market. Fresh fruit and vegetables, meat and fish, flowers, spices and more are all offered. Put together a little picnic or grab a seat at a restaurant. This afternoon, a local guide shows us James Fort, Cork Goal and more. We have dinner as a group at a local restaurant. (B, D)
Day 8: Thursday, May 8, 2025 • Cork
Staying in Cork, we explore the coastal villages of Cobh and Kinsdale. Cobh was the last port of call for the Titanic, and we visit the Titanic Experience to learn more about the fateful voyage. We do our best to spot whales, dolphins, seals and other marine animals on our Atlantic cruise. We have dinner as a group. (B, D)
Day 9: Friday, May 9, 2025 • Kilkenny
Our last day in Ireland is filled with more history, great landscapes and charming encounters. Our first stop is the Rock of Cashel, where we find an impressive cluster of Medieval buildings. Continuing to Kilkenny, we have a walking tour of the “Medieval Mile”. This evening, we gather for a lively farewell dinner in a memorable, local establishment. (B, D)
Day 10: Saturday, May 10, 2025 • Return
We leave the hotel early for our flights back home. Pre- clearing US Customs at Dublin Airport makes for a smooth arrival in the United States. (B)
Abbreviations for Meals B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner
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