2022 Irish Odyssey with Driver - 12 Days/11 Nights

Duration: 12 Days

Price: Starts from $0 USD

Itineraries

Day 1: Dublin Sightseeing
After your transfer from the airport to your hotel, you’ll have vouchers to tour Dublin on a Hop-On, Hop-Off bus tour. See all the sights of this vibrant city, including its Georgian squares, Christchurch cathedral, Grafton Street shops, the River Liffey, stopping off when and as often as you wish.

Day 2: Dublin Sightseeing | Taylors Three Rock Pub
Today you will be totally free to explore the city as you wish, continuing to use your Hop-On, Hop-Off bus ticket. You will also have a voucher you can use to visit your choice of one of these top attractions: the Guinness Storehouse, a seven-story attraction telling the story of Dublin's iconic beverage, complete with a pint at the Gravity Bar on the top floor; Teeling Distillery, the first new whiskey distillery to open in Dublin in 125 years; EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum, telling the story of the people who left Ireland and how they shaped the world (and winner of Europe’s Leading Tourist Attraction 2019); or the GPO Museum, innovatively detailing the fascinating story of the 1916 Rising, the pivotal event that led to Ireland’s independence. In the evening, head to Taylor’s Three Rock for dinner and entertainment.
(B, D)


Day 3: House of Waterford Crystal | Cork
Meet your dedicated driver/guide at your hotel and begin your adventure outside of Dublin, heading south. At the House of Waterford Crystal, a CIE Tours preferred shopping partner, experience a tour of the factory and watch skilled artisans cut crystal into sparkling masterpieces. Continue along the coast to Cork city, Ireland’s second-largest city, where you will dine in your riverside hotel.
(B, D)


Day 4: Blarney Castle | Kenmare | Killarney
Perhaps stroll through the English Market, where vendors have been selling local and artisanal foods since 1788. Take a short drive to visit Blarney Castle, where you can climb the winding stairs to kiss its famed stone, or stroll the gardens. Head to Kenmare, a tranquil country town of art galleries, craft shops, and gourmet eateries. Continue on to Killarney, stopping at Moll’s gap to enjoy the splendid views. Dine in your hotel this evening.
(B, D)


Day 5: Jaunting Car Ride | Dingle Peninsula
Take a traditional horse-drawn jaunting car ride to Ross Castle and Kenmare Estate and see Lough Leane, the largest of Killarney’s lakes. You might choose to visit Moriarty’s family-owned gift store, a CIE Tours preferred shopping partner, in the beautiful Gap of Dunloe. Travel to the scenic Dingle Peninsula for views of heathery mountains, sandy stretches of beach, and rocky headlands. You might choose to drive the Slea Head loop to enjoy more spectacular scenery, or spend some time in charming Dingle Town. Alternatively, you might opt for the beauty of the Ring of Kerry, Ireland’s best-known scenic drive. Dine independently today.
(B)


Day 6: Cliffs of Moher | Galway
(B, D)

Day 7: Connemara Drive | Kylemore Abbey | Lough Corrib Cruise
Take a drive through Connemara for sweeping views of misty mountains and shimmering lakes. Stop at Kylemore Abbey for a walk through this elegant mansion, set beside a tranquil lake. Return to Galway to take a scenic cruise on Lough Corrib and sip some creamy Irish coffee (seasonal). Spend the rest of the day enjoying Galway as you wish, and dining independently. The city is known for its many great restaurants and pubs, and your driver can recommend where to find traditional music.
(B)


Day 8: Belleek Pottery | Derry
Visit Belleek Pottery for a tour of the factory that creates this distinctive fine china beloved by collectors worldwide. Follow the Atlantic Shore to Donegal town, where you might visit CIE Tours preferred shopping partner Triona Design. Continue on through the majestic Barnesmore Gap to Derry, a city known for its turbulent history but now home to a thriving arts scene. Dine in your hotel this evening.
(B, D)


Day 9: Giant's Causeway | Walled City Brewery
Explore the Giant’s Causeway, huge hexagonal columns formed over 60 million years ago. Local lore says legendary giant Finn McCool built the causeway as his path to battle a Scottish enemy. Back in Derry, take a walk across the Peace Bridge, which unites two areas historically divided by identity. Dine at the Walled City Brewery Restaurant, a family-owned gastropub in a historic former army barracks; enjoy a drink with your dinner and a flight of 4 of the brewery’s beers to taste.
(B, D)


Day 10: Belfast | Titanic Belfast
Head to Belfast and visit Titanic Belfast to learn the story of the ill-fated ocean liner, in the city where it was built. The rest of the day is free to explore and dine as you please in this exciting, historic city.
(B)


Day 11: Cabra Castle Hotel
Travel to Kingscourt and your castle hotel, built in 1760 and situated on 100 acres of gardens and parklands. You might want to arrive in the afternoon to have time to enjoy this luxurious property. Dine in the Court restaurant this evening.
(B, D)


Day 12: Tour Ends in Kingscourt
After breakfast, you will be transferred from your hotel to the airport.
(B)


B: Breakfast; L: Lunch; D: Dinner

Highlights

Irish Odyssey with Driver - 12 Days/11 Nights

Authentic Local Experiences:

  • Enjoy a flight of locally-brewed craft beers with your dinner at the Walled City Brewery, a family-owned establishment located in a former army barracks in the heart of Derry city.

Trip Highlights:

  • Belleek Pottery
  • Giant’s Causeway
  • Kylemore Abbey
  • Titanic Belfast
  • Walled City Brewery
  • Taylor’s Three Rock Pub
  • Walled City Brewery

Dining Experiences:

  • 11 Breakfasts (B) and 7 Dinners (D)

Hotels:

  • Herbert Park Hotel | Dublin (2)
  • The River Lee Hotel | Cork (1)
  • Killarney Plaza Hotel | Killarney (2)
  • The Galmont Hotel & Spa | Galway (2)
  • City Hotel | Derry (2)
  • Grand Central Hotel | Belfast (1)
  • Cabra Castle Hotel | Kingscourt (1)

Not included

Hotels

Irish Odyssey with Driver -12 days/11 Nights land tour
SupplierNameSupplierRating DescriptionImage
SupplierName Herbert Park HotelSupplierRating **** This modern, bright property offers guests style and comfort with modern amenities. The bright, contemporary guest rooms feature king or twin beds, air conditioning and high-speed internet. The Pavilion Restaurant serves a superior quality breakfast buffet, with traditional full Irish breakfast as well as other choices. Located in the upmarket suburb of Ballsbridge, the Herbert Park is a 30-minute walk to the city center and is adjacent to the peaceful Herbert Park, U.S. Embassy and RDS Showgrounds.
SupplierName The River Lee HotelSupplierRating **** This hotel offers modern design combined with warmth, charm and great facilities. The spacious lobby, bar and dining areas are enhanced by river views. Guest bedrooms soothe the senses with muted colors, simple lines and superb amenities. Dine in the chic Bistro, pamper yourself in the luxurious day spa or work out at the leisure center. Located on the banks of the River Lee near the city center. 10 minutes’ walk to the historic English Market and Patrick Street with its shops, restaurants and pubs. Hotel parking.
SupplierName Killarney Plaza HotelSupplierRating **** Overlooking Killarney National Park, this classic hotel is within 5 minute walk from the town center. Along with 3 restaurants, this hotel has a full-service spa and an indoor pool. Stylish, spacious and fully air conditioned, each room offers an unique style with comfortable accommodations.
SupplierName Killarney Plaza HotelSupplierRating **** Overlooking Killarney National Park, this classic hotel is within 5 minute walk from the town center. Along with 3 restaurants, this hotel has a full-service spa and an indoor pool. Stylish, spacious and fully air conditioned, each room offers an unique style with comfortable accommodations.
SupplierName The Galmont Hotel & SpaSupplierRating **** Established in 2001 in Galway City Centre, The Galmont is one of Ireland's FINEST 4 star hotels. Just a three-minute walk from the central Eyre Square and overlooking Galway Bay, The Galmont (formerly the Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa, Galway) stands in the heart of the city. With a range of guest rooms to choose from, the hotel is home to the award-winning spirit one spa and the best events facilities in the west of Ireland. Whether you're in Galway for a weekend getaway, a family trip or on business, this hotel's central location, helpful team and excellent facilities will make your stay one to remember.
SupplierName The Galmont Hotel & SpaSupplierRating **** Established in 2001 in Galway City Centre, The Galmont is one of Ireland's FINEST 4 star hotels. Just a three-minute walk from the central Eyre Square and overlooking Galway Bay, The Galmont (formerly the Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa, Galway) stands in the heart of the city. With a range of guest rooms to choose from, the hotel is home to the award-winning spirit one spa and the best events facilities in the west of Ireland. Whether you're in Galway for a weekend getaway, a family trip or on business, this hotel's central location, helpful team and excellent facilities will make your stay one to remember.
SupplierName City Hotel, DerrySupplierRating **** This modern hotel features an open-plan lobby opening out to Thompson’s Restaurant and Coppins Bar. All 146 guest rooms have been designed to the most exacting standards of contemporary styling. The health and fitness club features a swimming pool and gym. Located in downtown Derry, within easy walking distance of Derry's famous medieval walls and the city's shops and pubs.
SupplierName City Hotel, DerrySupplierRating **** This modern hotel features an open-plan lobby opening out to Thompson’s Restaurant and Coppins Bar. All 146 guest rooms have been designed to the most exacting standards of contemporary styling. The health and fitness club features a swimming pool and gym. Located in downtown Derry, within easy walking distance of Derry's famous medieval walls and the city's shops and pubs.
SupplierName Grand Central Hotel BelfastSupplierRating **** Grand Central Hotel is a modern upscale hotel that is the tallest building in Belfast. The 300 contemporary guest rooms are all equipped with a flat-screen TV and all rooms include a private bathroom, air conditioning, tea and coffee making facilities, a full-sized work desk, free Wi-Fi and spectacular city views. Restaurant options include the vibrant Grand Café and the elegant art deco Seahorse Restaurant. The chic 23rd story Observatory is Ireland’s tallest cocktail lounge with sweeping views of Belfast and beyond. Centrally located in the City Centre, the hotel is a short walk to Belfast City Hall, the Grand Opera House and St. George’s Market. Also nearby and walkable are Titanic Belfast, Crumlin Road Jail, and the Belfast Botanical Gardens.
SupplierName Cabra Castle HotelSupplierRating **** Located in Kingscourt outside of Dublin, the Cabra Castle Hotel was built in 1760 and has high ceilings, grand staircases and historic hallways. Some of its 105 rooms are in Cabra Castle and some are in the converted 17th-century courtyard buildings, but each one has a unique individual style that mixes original period features and furnishings with modern comforts. All rooms have private bathrooms, telephones, tea/coffee-making facilities, satellite TV and complimentary Wi-Fi. Upgraded rooms add fireplaces, private balconies and 4-poster or canopy beds. Onsite there is an elegant restaurant serving fresh local food and also a traditional bar. The hotel's patios and terraces have expansive views of the surrounding 100 acres of gardens and countryside.