Scotland & Ireland | Classic | Summer | 2026

Scotland & Ireland | Classic | Summer | 2026

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13 Days From

$3289

$2631

Scotland & Ireland | Classic | Summer | 2026

13 Days Starting in Edinburgh, United Kingdom and ending in Dublin, Ireland

Visiting: Edinburgh, Scottish Highlands, Glasgow, Dublin, Kilkenny, Clonmel, Blarney, Cliffs of Moher, Galway, Derry/Londonderry, Belfast

Tour operator:

Contiki

Tour code:

BBEDMA26

Specialist Group:

18-30 Somethings

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Physical rating:

Medium

Age range:

18-35

Special diets catered:

Vegetarians

Tour operated in:

English
From: $3289 $2631 Operator discount: -$658 -20%

NB: Prices correct on 05-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Embark on an unforgettable journey through the enchanting landscapes of Scotland and Ireland on this classic summer tour in 2026. Begin your adventure in Edinburgh, exploring the historic Royal Mile and the iconic Edinburgh Castle. Traverse the breathtaking Scottish Highlands, cruise the legendary Loch Ness, and visit the birthplace of golf, St. Andrews. Experience the vibrant culture of Glasgow before crossing into Ireland, where Dublin's lively streets await. Discover the medieval charm of Kilkenny, the majestic Cliffs of Moher, and the mystical Giant's Causeway. With comfortable accommodations and seamless transportation, including scenic coach rides and ferry crossings, this tour offers a perfect blend of history, nature, and local culture. Enjoy guided tours in Belfast and Derry/Londonderry, and savor 12 breakfasts and 4 dinners as you create lasting memories in these captivating lands.

Highlights

  • Explore the historic streets of Edinburgh, including the Royal Mile and Edinburgh Castle.

  • Cruise on the legendary Loch Ness, keeping an eye out for the mythical Nessie.

  • Visit the birthplace of golf, St. Andrews, and explore Scotland's oldest university town.

  • Discover the stunning natural wonder of the Giant's Causeway in Northern Ireland.

  • Experience the vibrant culture and live music of Galway, Ireland.

  • Marvel at the breathtaking Cliffs of Moher, featured in many films.

  • Kiss the Blarney Stone at Blarney Castle to gain the 'gift of the gab'.

  • Explore the medieval charm of Kilkenny and the historic walled city of Derry/Londonderry.

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Start Edinburgh

Location: Edinburgh

Accommodation Name: Holiday Inn Express Edinburgh City West (or similar)

Royal mile, old Castle, home of the brave, Edinburgh is going to turn it on from start to end. With days of adventure up ahead, go out in search of haggis, a whisky bar and join the jolly locals before meeting up with the crew tonight, in anticipation of the good times that are yet to come.

Day 2: Edinburgh

Location: Edinburgh

Accommodation Name: Ibis Edinburgh Centre South Bridge (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today is yours to roam free - but if you want to get the low down on the history of this city why not join our local guide for an optional tour of Edinburgh Castle (which is resting on an extinct volcano!!) to kickstart your love affair with this city. Or maybe you'll do a spot of tartan shopping on Princes Street or indulge in some whisky tasting.

Day 3: Edinburgh To Scottish Highlands

Location: Scottish Highlands

Accommodation Name: Loch Ness Lodge Hotel Drumnadrochit (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

It's time to blaze a trail out of Edinburgh & head for the Scottish Highlands. On the way to the main affair of the day we'll stop by St. Andrews, the birthplace of golf, would you believe? As well as Scotland’s oldest university town. Already blown away by the beauty of the rugged mountain scenery en route, we'll arrive in the Scottish Highlands amped up for mystical tales.

Day 4: Scottish Highlands To Glasgow Via Loch Ness

Location: Glasgow

Accommodation Name: Ibis Budget Glasgow (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

We might be coming down from a high (geographically speaking) this morning, but as we seek out the stunning Loch Ness, the mood will only be rising. We'll stop to see lovely Loch Ness and hop on board for a cruise of the most voluminous lake in the UK - containing more water than all the lakes of England and Wales combined! It's also rumoured to contain something else, something far more legendary which you're sure to have heard of... We'll arrive into Glasgow tonight, grab a bite to eat and then hit the hay ready for some more exploration in the am!

Day 5: Glasgow

Location: Glasgow

Accommodation Name: Ibis Budget Glasgow (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

Wakey wakey everyone. We're up bright and early this morning. Next stop, Stirling! We make a stop in Stirling, known for its famous Castle nestled right on a hill, and the town where William Wallace took on the English and yelled "Freeeedom!" Get involved with everything great about Glasgow. Live music on every corner, a gothic cathedral & plenty of quirky characters make this city unique.

Day 6: Glasgow To Dublin

Location: Dublin

Accommodation Name: Travelodge Plus Dublin City Centre (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Scotland, you've been unreal. If Ireland puts on half the show you did, we have many happy days ahead of us. We arrive in the port town of Larne, your first steps on Northern Irish soil, but not for long... So much more than the capital city, Dublin is a place of heritage, character, and more cute pubs than you could crawl in a week.  End the day with a lively night of festivities at the cobbled lanes of Temple Bar.

Day 7: Dublin To Clonmel

Location: Dublin, Kilkenny, Clonmel

Accommodation Name: Talbot Hotel Clonmel (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

That's us done with Dublin…for now. But fear not Dub-lovers, we'll get another taste of this fine place before our trip comes to an end. Break up your coach hangs with some bicycle time in a city sure to leave you wanting Irish in your blood. Explore the castle, a cathedral and take in all of the medieval charm that Kilkenny has to offer before we hit the road again. Welcome to Clonmel! But not before the chance to sample some of Ireland's famous whiskey at the Jameson's Distillery in Midleton. After we arrive in the evening, we'll tuck into an included dinner and then head off into town together to explore.

Day 8: Clonmel To Galway

Location: Clonmel, Blarney, Cliffs of Moher, Galway

Accommodation Name: Travelodge Galway City Hotel (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

Clonmel, it's been fun, but we have to leave you now. Next up, we're off to an Irish city that was propelled into the pop culture stratosphere by none other than Ed Sheeran. Anyone wanna guess where? Irish folklore tells us there's a chunk of limestone built into a castle that grants its kissers the gift of the gab. Pucker up kids, we're paying her a visit! Whether heights are your cup of Irish Breakfast or not, these impressive cliff faces are not to be missed! From the moment we arrive in Galway, you'll understand why 2 nights were needed here. Everything you've dreamed Ireland to be is tucked into this small, atmospheric city. Step into a local pub and down Irish stew over live music and chats with locals. Outside will be just as lively, with buskers & colourful buildings lining the streets.

Day 9: Galway

Location: Galway

Accommodation Name: Travelodge Galway City Hotel (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Try your tongue at some Gaelic and carry on exploring gorgeous Galway. Head up to Dún Aonghasa (the ruins of a prehistoric fortress) - make sure you take photos, this area is not for the faint-hearted! Irish life, you so sweet.

Day 10: Galway To Derry/Londonderry

Location: Derry/Londonderry

Accommodation Name: Holiday Inn Express Derry (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

Goodbye Galway, hello more Irish eye-candy. Here the 17th century walls stand at 8 metres high speaking of times gone by when this area was in battle. Times may have changed, but we're still keen to soak up the history and learn a thing or two from our wise Local Guide.

Day 11: Derry/Londonderry To Belfast

Location: Belfast

Accommodation Name: Ramada by Wyndham Belfast City Centre (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today we've got a one way ticket to Belfast and a whole lot more exploration to do. UNESCO World Heritage site of the Giant’s Causeway - also known as those giant rock columns you've probably drooled over on Pinterest, needs to be seen to be believed. Get those hashtags ready, a snap with the group is essential on the mind-blowing natural formation. Next up - we'll arrive in Belfast. Concluding the day will be a driving tour and a trip to the Titanic museum where the world's most famous ship was built.

Day 12: Belfast To Dublin

Location: Belfast

Accommodation Name: Travelodge Plus Dublin City Centre (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

With one night left in Ireland and on tour, we're on the fast track to Dublin where our Irish fairytale first began. A promise is a promise. Here we are back in the city that started our Ireland infatuations. Use this second stint to do your missed critical activities such as visiting the Guinness Storehouse where you can learn how to pull a pint the Irish way. Tonight you can choose to end your week in Ireland at a Free Time Add-On farewell dinner.

Day 13: End Dublin

Location: Dublin

Meals Included: Breakfast

We leave Ireland today with leprechauns in our hearts and memories in our souls. Say goodbye at breakfast as it will be the last bite our crew has together.

What's Included

  • Meals

    12 Breakfasts and 4 Dinners are included.

  • Accommodation

    Accommodation is provided at various hotels including Holiday Inn Express Edinburgh City West, Ibis Edinburgh Centre South Bridge, Loch Ness Lodge Hotel Drumnadrochit, Ibis Budget Glasgow, Travelodge Plus Dublin City Centre, Talbot Hotel Clonmel, Travelodge Galway City Hotel, Holiday Inn Express Derry, Ramada by Wyndham Belfast City Centre.

  • Local Guides

    Local guides are available for tours in Belfast and Derry/Londonderry.

  • Transportation

    Transportation between locations including a cruise on Loch Ness.

  • Visits to Attractions

    Visits to various attractions including St. Andrews, Loch Ness, Stirling, Giant's Causeway, Blarney Castle, Cliffs of Moher, and more.

What's Not Included

  • Optional Tours

    Optional tours such as the Edinburgh Castle tour are not included.

  • Personal Expenses

    Personal expenses such as shopping, additional meals, and drinks are not included.

  • Travel Insurance

    Travel insurance is not included and must be purchased separately.

  • Flights

    Flights to and from the starting and ending locations are not included.

  • Visa Fees

    Visa fees and other travel documentation costs are not included.

Dining Summary

  • 12 Breakfast (B)
  • 4 Dinner (D)

Included Experience

  • St. Andrews: If you like golf, you’ll love St Andrews. But if you think it spoils a nice walk in the park, there’s also Swilcan Bridge.
  • Stirling: Explore the sights of Stirling and get a selfie with the memorial to the iconic Scottish knight.
  • Giant's Causeway: Sure, rock formations may sound a bit dull on paper, but this quirky natural wonder has to be seen to be believed.
  • Belfast: Hang with a local guide to see all the landmarks and learn about the city’s checkered history.
  • Blarney Castle: Your chance to kiss the Blarney Stone and get the ‘gift of the gab’. And to visit the medieval Irish castle.
  • Cliffs of Moher: These rugged, photogenic cliffs have been the star of many films, including a Harry Potter one.
  • Galway: Tread the cobbles of this well-loved Irish city with your new Contiki crew. See Lynch’s Castle, Eyre Square and all the best pubs.
  • Derry/Londonderry: One for the history fans. Take a look around Ireland’s only walled city, built in the 17th Century.
  • Loch Ness: Sit back, relax and cruise along the loch with your Contiki crew. But keep your eyes peeled and camera ready for mythical ‘Nessie’.
  • Scottish Highlands: Ever wondered how native animal species - like the Scottish Red Squirrel, Lynx and Beavers - are reintroduced into the wild? Come learn about it all from an expert (who'll also tell you how the Caledonian pine forest is being reforested too!). Every penny you spend here will directly support Trees for Life, a TreadRight supported project.

Check out our Q&As

  • What kind of transportation is included in the tour?

    The tour includes scenic coach rides and ferry crossings, with all transportation arranged for a seamless journey. Highlights include a cruise on Loch Ness.

  • Are meals included in the tour package?

    Yes, the tour package includes 12 breakfasts and 4 dinners.

  • Will there be local guides during the tour?

    Yes, local guides are available for tours in Belfast and Derry/Londonderry.

  • What kind of accommodations can I expect during the tour?

    You will stay in comfortable accommodations including the Holiday Inn Express Edinburgh City West, Ibis Edinburgh Centre South Bridge, Loch Ness Lodge Hotel Drumnadrochit, Ibis Budget Glasgow, Travelodge Plus Dublin City Centre, Talbot Hotel Clonmel, Travelodge Galway City Hotel, Holiday Inn Express Derry, and Ramada by Wyndham Belfast City Centre.

  • Are there any optional tours available?

    Yes, optional tours such as the Edinburgh Castle tour are available but not included in the package.

  • What are some of the attractions visited during the tour?

    The tour includes visits to attractions such as St. Andrews, Loch Ness, Stirling, Giant's Causeway, Blarney Castle, Cliffs of Moher, and more.

  • Is travel insurance included in the tour package?

    No, travel insurance is not included and must be purchased separately.

  • Are flights included in the tour package?

    No, flights to and from the starting and ending locations are not included in the tour package.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    In 1961, a guy called John Anderson founded Contiki in New Zealand. Whilst later bought by The Travel Corporation, the tour company had already been using the name ‘Contiki’ since its inception.

  • Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?

    Contiki trips are designed & operated exclusively for those aged 18-35 years. Your travelling companions will be like-minded adventurers within that age range. The age range is adhered to strictly.

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® is our commitment to protect people, wildlife and the incredible planet we all share. Powered by The TreadRight Foundation, a non-profit organisation and Contiki’s guiding hand when it comes to making travel matter.

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    All documentation will be sent via email around 21 days prior to your trip departure. You can also access information on your trip by signing up to My Contiki via the top right icon of the homepage.

Reviews of this operator

Trusted Customer  

Northern Choice plus Kaikoura

16-Jan-2023

The trip ran so smoothly and was well organised! The extra add ons were amazing and all the services were spot on. Food places were reasonable. I'm definitely booking my next contiki trip again soon!

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Sophie  

Exceptional customer service

14-Jan-2023

Contiki were exceptional in providing customer service. They provided me with lots of information and were quick in responding to all my questions. I found that they were super helpful.

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Trusted Customer  

First time traveling with Contiki. Highly recommend! You’ll have a blast

17-Jan-2023

First time traveling internationally since Covid and glad I spent the trip with Contiki. The travel, lodging, meals, activities everything was planned effortlessly. Going to Greece in may with contiki. Highly recommend

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Trusted Customer  

Amazing trip. Made great friends and memories. Can’t wait for my next trip

15-Jan-2023

I had 24 people on my contiki and I think it was the perfect number, we all got to know each other well and got along great. Our tour guide was fun and knowledgeable, the hotels were nice and in great locations.

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Tanner Stokes  

My amazing trip to Africa

13-Jan-2023

Sherif was an excellent tour guide. He was extremely knowledgeable about every single small detail at each site that we visited. In addition to his great service, he has a glowing spirit that made me feel like I had family with me the entire trip. Anything that I was concerned about, he always had an answer and was there to help. I truly enjoyed my experience and will purchase a tour with him in the future

Feefo Trusted Reviews

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Monday - Saturday

Mar 24, 2025 - Apr 05, 2025
$3289 $2631

Operator discount: -$658

Scotland & Ireland | Classic | Summer | 2025

Monday - Saturday

Apr 07, 2025 - Apr 19, 2025
$3289 $2631

Operator discount: -$658

Scotland & Ireland | Classic | Summer | 2025

Monday - Saturday

Apr 21, 2025 - May 03, 2025
$3289 $2631

Operator discount: -$658

Scotland & Ireland | Classic | Summer | 2025

Monday - Saturday

Apr 28, 2025 - May 10, 2025
$3289 $2631

Operator discount: -$658

Scotland & Ireland | Classic | Summer | 2025

Monday - Saturday

May 05, 2025 - May 17, 2025
$3355 $2684

Operator discount: -$671

Scotland & Ireland | Classic | Summer | 2025

Monday - Saturday

May 19, 2025 - May 31, 2025
$3355 $2684

Operator discount: -$671

Scotland & Ireland | Classic | Summer | 2025

Monday - Saturday

May 26, 2025 - Jun 07, 2025
$3355 $2684

Operator discount: -$671

Scotland & Ireland | Classic | Summer | 2025

Monday - Saturday

Jun 09, 2025 - Jun 21, 2025
$3355 $2684

Operator discount: -$671

Scotland & Ireland | Classic | Summer | 2025

Monday - Saturday

Jun 16, 2025 - Jun 28, 2025
$3425 $2740

Operator discount: -$685

Scotland & Ireland | Classic | Summer | 2025

Friday - Wednesday

Jun 20, 2025 - Jul 02, 2025
$3425 $2740

Operator discount: -$685

Scotland & Ireland | Classic | Summer | 2025

Monday - Saturday

Jun 23, 2025 - Jul 05, 2025
$3425 $2740

Operator discount: -$685

Scotland & Ireland | Classic | Summer | 2025

Monday - Saturday

Jun 30, 2025 - Jul 12, 2025
$3425 $2740

Operator discount: -$685

Scotland & Ireland | Classic | Summer | 2025

Monday - Saturday

Jul 07, 2025 - Jul 19, 2025
$3425 $2740

Operator discount: -$685

Scotland & Ireland | Classic | Summer | 2025

Monday - Saturday

Jul 14, 2025 - Jul 26, 2025
$3425 $2740

Operator discount: -$685

Scotland & Ireland | Classic | Summer | 2025

Monday - Saturday

Jul 21, 2025 - Aug 02, 2025
$3425 $2740

Operator discount: -$685

Scotland & Ireland | Classic | Summer | 2025

Friday - Wednesday

Aug 01, 2025 - Aug 13, 2025
$3425 $2740

Operator discount: -$685

Scotland & Ireland | Classic | Summer | 2025

Friday - Wednesday

Aug 08, 2025 - Aug 20, 2025
$3425 $2911

Operator discount: -$514

Scotland & Ireland | Classic | Summer | 2025

Monday - Saturday

Aug 18, 2025 - Aug 30, 2025
$3355 $2684

Operator discount: -$671

Scotland & Ireland | Classic | Summer | 2025

Friday - Wednesday

Aug 22, 2025 - Sep 03, 2025
$3355 $2684

Operator discount: -$671

Scotland & Ireland | Classic | Summer | 2025

Monday - Saturday

Sep 01, 2025 - Sep 13, 2025
$3355 $2684

Operator discount: -$671

Scotland & Ireland | Classic | Summer | 2025

Friday - Wednesday

Sep 12, 2025 - Sep 24, 2025
$3355 $2684

Operator discount: -$671

Scotland & Ireland | Classic | Summer | 2025

Friday - Wednesday

Sep 19, 2025 - Oct 01, 2025
$3355 $2684

Operator discount: -$671

Scotland & Ireland | Classic | Summer | 2025

Monday - Saturday

Sep 29, 2025 - Oct 11, 2025
$3355 $2684

Operator discount: -$671

Scotland & Ireland | Classic | Summer | 2025

Monday - Saturday

Oct 06, 2025 - Oct 18, 2025
$3355 $2684

Operator discount: -$671

Scotland & Ireland | Classic | Summer | 2025

Monday - Saturday

Mar 30, 2026 - Apr 11, 2026
$3389 $2711

Operator discount: -$678

Monday - Saturday

Apr 13, 2026 - Apr 25, 2026
$3389 $2711

Operator discount: -$678

Monday - Saturday

Apr 27, 2026 - May 09, 2026
$3389 $2711

Operator discount: -$678

Monday - Saturday

May 11, 2026 - May 23, 2026
$3459 $2767

Operator discount: -$692

Monday - Saturday

May 25, 2026 - Jun 06, 2026
$3459 $2767

Operator discount: -$692

Monday - Saturday

Jun 08, 2026 - Jun 20, 2026
$3459 $2767

Operator discount: -$692

Friday - Wednesday

Jun 19, 2026 - Jul 01, 2026
$3529 $2823

Operator discount: -$706

Monday - Saturday

Jun 29, 2026 - Jul 11, 2026
$3529 $2823

Operator discount: -$706

Monday - Saturday

Jul 06, 2026 - Jul 18, 2026
$3529 $2823

Operator discount: -$706

Monday - Saturday

Jul 13, 2026 - Jul 25, 2026
$3529 $2823

Operator discount: -$706

Monday - Saturday

Jul 27, 2026 - Aug 08, 2026
$3529 $2823

Operator discount: -$706

Monday - Saturday

Aug 03, 2026 - Aug 15, 2026
$3529 $2823

Operator discount: -$706

Monday - Saturday

Aug 17, 2026 - Aug 29, 2026
$3459 $2767

Operator discount: -$692

Monday - Saturday

Aug 31, 2026 - Sep 12, 2026
$3459 $2767

Operator discount: -$692

Monday - Saturday

Sep 14, 2026 - Sep 26, 2026
$3459 $2767

Operator discount: -$692

Monday - Saturday

Sep 28, 2026 - Oct 10, 2026
$3459 $2767

Operator discount: -$692

Monday - Saturday

Oct 05, 2026 - Oct 17, 2026
$3459 $2767

Operator discount: -$692

Book with Confidence

  • Transfer as credit to Future Tours

    Contiki allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform contiki, 60 days before departure.

  • Low Deposit

    Contiki requires a minimum deposit of 200 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of contiki charges.

    Up to 61 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 25% of booking price.

    At 21 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 7 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.

    At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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