Scotland & Ireland | Summer | 2025

Scotland & Ireland | Summer | 2025

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13 Days From

$3869

$2708

Scotland & Ireland | Summer | 2025

13 Days Starting in Edinburgh and ending in Dublin

Visiting: Edinburgh, St. Andrews, Scottish Highlands, Loch Ness, Glenfinnan Viaduct, Glasgow, Stirling, Larne, Dublin, Kilkenny, Clonmel, Blarney, Cliffs of Moher, Galway, Derry/Londonderry, Giant's Causeway, Belfast

Tour operator:

Contiki

Tour code:

BBEDAMA20

Specialist Group:

18-30 Somethings

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

0 - 50

Age range:

18-35

Special diets catered:

Vegetarians

Tour operated in:

English
From: $3869 $2708 Operator discount: -$1161 -30%

NB: Prices correct on 28-Jun-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 Scotland and Ireland in the summer of 2025. This cultural tour kicks off in Edinburgh, where you'll explore historic sites and indulge in local delicacies. Traverse the breathtaking Scottish Highlands, visit the iconic Loch Ness, and marvel at the Glenfinnan Viaduct. In Glasgow, immerse yourself in the city's vibrant music scene and rich history. Cross over to Ireland, starting in Dublin, and experience the medieval charm of Kilkenny, the legendary Blarney Castle, and the stunning Cliffs of Moher. Discover the lively streets of Galway, the historic walls of Derry/Londonderry, and the awe-inspiring Giant's Causeway. Conclude your adventure back in Dublin, enriched with memories and new friendships.

Highlights

  • 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.

  • Fort William: Heads up ‘Potterheads’. Keep your eyes peeled for the Hogwarts Express.

  • 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’.

  • 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.

Places You'll See

Cliffs Of Moher

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Start Edinburgh

Location: Edinburgh

Accommodation: Hotel

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

Meals Included: None

Royal mile, old Castle, home of the brave, Edinburgh is going to turn it on from start to end. With days of good times 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: Hotel

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: Edinburgh, St. Andrews, Scottish Highlands

Accommodation: Hotel

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 Glenfinnan Viaduct

Location: Scottish Highlands, Loch Ness, Glenfinnan Viaduct, Glasgow

Accommodation: Hostel

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 and Glenfinnan Viaduct, 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...
Feast your eyes on the railway viaduct – once a calling stop for the magical Hogwarts Express in the Harry Potter films and the breathtaking waters of Loch Shiel, which seems to stretch on endlessly.
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, Stirling, Glasgow

Accommodation: Hotel

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: Glasgow, Larne, Dublin

Accommodation: Hotel

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: Hotel

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

Ethan

Location: Clonmel, Blarney, Cliffs of Moher, Galway

Accommodation: Hotel

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: Hotel

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: Galway, Derry/Londonderry

Accommodation: Hotel

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: Derry/Londonderry, Giant's Causeway, Belfast

Accommodation: Hotel

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, Dublin

Accommodation: Hotel

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.

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

  • 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, and Holiday Inn Express Derry.

  • Meals

    Meals are included on various days, typically breakfast and some dinners.

  • Local Guides

    Local guides are provided for tours in cities like Belfast and Derry/Londonderry.

  • Transportation

    Transportation between locations is included, covering travel from Edinburgh to Dublin.

  • Cruise

    A cruise on Loch Ness is included.

  • Entry Fees

    Entry fees to certain attractions such as the Titanic Museum in Belfast are included.

What's Not Included

  • Optional Tours

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

  • Personal Expenses

    Personal expenses such as souvenirs, 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

Mode of Transport

Transportation between locations is included, covering travel from Edinburgh to Dublin, with a cruise on Loch Ness also part of the journey.

Check out our Q&As

  • Are visa fees included in the tour package?

    No, visa fees and other travel documentation costs are not included.

  • Are entry fees to attractions included?

    Yes, entry fees to certain attractions such as the Titanic Museum in Belfast are included.

  • Are meals included in the tour?

    Yes, meals are included on various days, typically breakfast and some dinners.

  • Is transportation between locations included?

    Yes, transportation between locations is included, covering travel from Edinburgh to Dublin.

  • What is included in the visit to Loch Ness?

    The visit to Loch Ness includes a cruise on the loch, which is the most voluminous lake in the UK and is rumored to contain the legendary Nessie.

  • Are flights included in the tour package?

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

  • What is planned for the visit to Derry/Londonderry?

    In Derry/Londonderry, you will explore the 17th-century walls and learn about the history of the area from a local guide.

  • Is there a cruise included in the tour?

    Yes, a cruise on Loch Ness is included.

  • What can I expect in Clonmel?

    In Clonmel, you will have the chance to sample some of Ireland’s famous whiskey at the Jameson’s Distillery in Midleton, enjoy an included dinner, and explore the town.

  • What is special about the visit to St. Andrews?

    St. Andrews is known as the birthplace of golf and is also Scotland’s oldest university town.

  • What can I expect in Galway?

    In Galway, you can enjoy live music, Irish stew, and the lively atmosphere of the city with buskers and colorful buildings lining the streets.

  • What is included in the visit to Belfast?

    In Belfast, you will have a driving tour and visit the Titanic Museum where the world’s most famous ship was built.

  • What kind of accommodation is provided during the tour?

    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, and Holiday Inn Express Derry.

  • What can I expect in Glasgow?

    In Glasgow, you can enjoy live music, visit a gothic cathedral, and explore the city’s unique character and quirky characters.

  • What can I expect at the Giant’s Causeway?

    At the Giant’s Causeway, you will see the UNESCO World Heritage site with its giant rock columns, which is a mind-blowing natural formation.

  • What activities are planned in Dublin?

    In Dublin, you can explore the city’s heritage, character, and pubs, and enjoy a lively night at the cobbled lanes of Temple Bar.

  • Are personal expenses covered in the tour package?

    No, personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included.

  • Will there be local guides during the tour?

    Yes, local guides are provided for tours in cities like Belfast and Derry/Londonderry.

  • What is planned for the visit to Stirling?

    In Stirling, you will visit the famous Stirling Castle and learn about the town where William Wallace took on the English.

  • What is special about the visit to Kilkenny?

    In Kilkenny, you can explore the castle, a cathedral, and take in the medieval charm of the city.

  • What is special about the visit to Blarney Castle?

    At Blarney Castle, you can kiss the Blarney Stone, which is said to grant the gift of the gab.

  • What can I do during the second visit to Dublin?

    During the second visit to Dublin, you can visit the Guinness Storehouse and learn how to pull a pint the Irish way.

  • Is travel insurance included in the tour package?

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

  • What can I do on the second day in Edinburgh?

    On the second day in Edinburgh, you have the option to join a local guide for a tour of Edinburgh Castle, go tartan shopping on Princes Street, or indulge in some whisky tasting.

  • What will we see at the Glenfinnan Viaduct?

    At the Glenfinnan Viaduct, you will see the railway viaduct featured in the Harry Potter films and the breathtaking waters of Loch Shiel.

  • What activities are planned for the first day in Edinburgh?

    On the first day in Edinburgh, you can explore the Royal Mile, the old Castle, and enjoy local activities such as searching for haggis, visiting a whisky bar, and mingling with the locals.

  • Are optional tours included in the tour package?

    No, optional tours such as the Edinburgh Castle tour are not included.

  • 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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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.