Best of Ireland & Scotland - Classic Group
Best of Ireland & Scotland - Classic Group
Best of Ireland & Scotland - Classic Group
14 Days Starting in Dublin, Ireland and ending in Edinburgh, Scotland
Visiting: Dublin, Cork, Killarney, Ring of Kerry, Cliffs of Moher, Galway, Londonderry, Glasgow, Inverness, Edinburgh
Tour operator:
Tour code:
B935N26
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Tour operated in:
EnglishInterests:
Cultural, Foodie and Wine Tours, Gardens & Nature Tours, History
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey through the enchanting landscapes of Ireland and Scotland with the "Best of Ireland & Scotland - Classic Group" tour. Begin in Dublin, exploring iconic sites like Trinity College and the Book of Kells, before venturing to the scenic beauty of Killarney National Park and the historic Blarney Castle. Experience the dramatic Cliffs of Moher, the mystical Giant's Causeway, and the serene shores of Sligo Bay. Cross into Scotland to discover the grandeur of Edinburgh Castle, the charm of St. Andrews, and the legendary Loch Ness. Enjoy local delicacies, traditional Scottish tea, and a celebratory dinner in Edinburgh, making memories to last a lifetime.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome To Dublin
Location: Dublin
Accommodation Name: Clayton Charlemont, Dublin
Meals Included: Dinner
Relax at your hotel before joining your Travel Director for a warm and friendly dinner, an opportunity to get to know your fellow travelers.
Day 2: In Dublin’S Fair City
Location: Dublin
Accommodation Name: Clayton Charlemont, Dublin
Meals Included: Breakfast
An orientation with your Local Expert will take you past the Custom House and travel along the River Liffey. See the Guinness Storehouse, Christchurch Cathedral and St. Patrick's Cathedral. Enjoy entrance to the 9th century Book of Kells and a walk through the cobbled courtyards of Trinity College to gain insight into the establishment's impressive history.
Day 3: Kildare And Cork
Location: Cork
Accommodation Name: The Kingsley, Cork, Maldron South Mall, Cork
Meals Included: Breakfast
Witness life behind the scenes of the National Stud Farm, where many legendary racehorses are bred. Then see the finest Japanese gardens in Europe, where the gardens portray the symbolism of life and trace the journey of a soul, designed by master horticulturists, Tassa and Minoru Eida. Continue on to Cork, Ireland's second most populous city, built on the River Lee. Travel along Grand Parade to see Cork's City Hall and Opera House.
Day 4: Blarney Castle And Killarney Relaxed Start
Location: Killarney
Accommodation Name: Killarney Plaza Hotel and Spa
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Visit the ruined 15th century Blarney Castle, home of the famous Stone of Eloquence - once kissed, never forgotten! Or enjoy a sensory walk in the extensive and varied estate gardens. The rest of the afternoon is at leisure.
Day 5: Ring Of Kerry Experience Relaxed Start
Location: Ring of Kerry
Accommodation Name: Killarney Plaza Hotel and Spa
Meals Included: Breakfast
Explore Killarney with Insight Choice. Choose a memorable ride on a horse-drawn jaunting car with the local jarveys. Alternatively, join a gentle hike with a Local Expert along the lake shore and past the grounds of Ross Castle, admiring the incredible scenery of the National Park. While there aren't any mountains to climb, walkers should be fit, have good walking shoes or boots, sunscreen and rain gear. Tour the superb seascapes, towering cliffs and spectacular mountains of the Ring of Kerry. Journey past lush lakelands and through delightful villages like Sneem. Cross the peat bogs of the Black Valley to Moll's Gap and admire Queen Victoria's Ladies View. Upon returning in the mid-afternoon, the rest of the day is at leisure.
Day 6: The Cliffs Of Moher
Location: Cliffs of Moher
Accommodation Name: Connemara Coast, Galway
Meals Included: Breakfast
Begin the day with a short ferry ride across the Shannon estuary. Enjoy magnificent views of the Clare coast, as you journey to the Visitors' Center at the 700-foot Cliffs of Moher.Continue on to your hotel, located at the heart of the Wild Atlantic Way. Join your Travel Director in Galway to see the infamous Lynch Memorial and the Church of St. Nicholas, where Christopher Columbus reputedly prayed before his discovery of America. Also see the aged Spanish Arch and Eyre Square, dedicated to the late US President, John F. Kennedy.
Day 7: Glorious Galway To Sligo Bay Relaxed Start
Location: Galway
Accommodation Name: Clayton, Sligo
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Tour the wild Connemara region, a scenic wonderland of rivers, lakes and silent hills.Drive along the scenic shores of Sligo Bay.
Day 8: Walk In The Giant’S Steps
Location: Londonderry
Accommodation Name: Ballygally Castle, Co. Antrim
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Cross into Northern Ireland to visit Londonderry. What better way to experience sightseeing than with one of Northern Ireland's best storytellers, Ronan, as he walks with you inside the city walls, still topped with cannons. Walk down Shipquay Street, with its elegant Georgian houses, to the Gothic Guildhall. Journey to the iconic Giant's Causeway for a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience. This geological masterpiece was created by the cooling of lava which burst through the earth's crust millions of years ago. Learn how the National Trust is enabling farming and biodiversity to work together, supporting both wildlife and quality food production. Next, take a spectacular drive along the Antrim Coast to your hotel, overlooking the sea at the head of Ballygally Bay.
Day 9: High Tea At Ardgowan Estate Relaxed Start
Location: Glasgow
Accommodation Name: Radisson Blu, Glasgow
Meals Included: Breakfast
Cross the Irish Sea by ferry and journey to Ardgowan. Sir Ludovic Shaw Stewart welcomes you to his family castle, set on a 10,000-acre coastal estate. Explore the history of the area and learn the Shaw Stewart family's conservation efforts to protect the land on this MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience, followed by delightful traditional Scottish tea and scones. Continue to Glasgow where your Travel Director will show you the city's grand public buildings, including George Square and St. Mungo's Cathedral.
Day 10: Glencoe And Loch Ness Relaxed Start
Location: Inverness
Accommodation Name: Kingsmills, Inverness
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
A scenic drive takes you along the Bonnie Banks of Loch Lomond. Absorb the dramatic landscape of Glencoe, still echoing with the cries of massacred clansmen. Pause at the Commando Memorial for a view of Britain's highest mountain, Ben Nevis before reaching the Great Glen. Continue on to Loch Ness and embark on a cruise to soak up the scenery, historic monuments and intriguing tales of Nessie in the heart of Scotland's great glen.
Day 11: A Highlands Experience Relaxed Start
Location: Inverness
Accommodation Name: Kingsmills, Inverness
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
In the morning, see the sights of Inverness, before traveling to the Culloden Moor Visitor Center, where Bonnie Prince Charlie's Jacobite army was finally defeated. Then have a 'wee dram' during a visit to a local distillery, hear stories of the whisky smugglers as you delve into the fascinating world of the single malt.
Day 12: St. Andrews And Edinburgh
Location: Edinburgh
Accommodation Name: Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa, Edinburgh
Meals Included: Breakfast
A scenic drive takes you through the Grampian Mountains past the Duke of Atholl's Blair Castle. Drive down and cross the Tay to visit St. Andrews. As you arrive, pass the Old Course, the home of golf since its invention in the 15th century. Enjoy free time to explore. Why not wander to St. Andrews University where the love story of Kate Middleton and Prince William began? Alternately, stroll to West Sands Beach where the famous 'Chariots of Fire' scene was filmed. Continue across the majestic Forth Road Bridge to the Scottish capital, Edinburgh. In the evening, select departures attend The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo.
Day 13: Scotland’S Capital Of Culture
Location: Edinburgh
Accommodation Name: Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa, Edinburgh
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
In the morning, join a Local Expert to see the highlights of the city. Drive along Princes Street to the ornate Scott Memorial, then see the 18th century New Town with its neoclassical Georgian facades. In the Old Town see the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the official Scottish residence of the King. Venture up the Royal Mile to visit Edinburgh Castle, home of Mons Meg and Scotland’s Crown Jewels, the Honours of Scotland. In the afternoon, you are at leisure to continue exploring as you wish, or perhaps go shopping. Join your friends in the heart of Edinburgh at a Celebration Dinner of modern Scottish cuisine served with wine.
Day 14: Farewell Edinburgh
Location: Edinburgh
Meals Included: Breakfast
Your journey comes to an end after breakfast with transfers arriving at Edinburgh airport.
What's Included
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Meals
7 dinners, 13 breakfasts, and 1 afternoon tea are included.
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Activities
Choose between two carefully selected activities in Killarney: a horse-drawn jaunting car ride or a gentle hike with a nature guide.
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Guided Tours
Guided tours in various locations including Dublin, Killarney, Londonderry, and Edinburgh.
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Entrance Fees
Entrance to various attractions such as the Book of Kells, Blarney Castle, Cliffs of Moher, and Edinburgh Castle.
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Transportation
Transportation including a ferry ride across the Shannon estuary and the Irish Sea.
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Accommodation
Accommodation in various hotels including Clayton Charlemont in Dublin, The Kingsley in Cork, and Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa in Edinburgh.
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Local Experts
Local experts and guides for various tours and activities.
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Special Experiences
Special experiences such as a visit to the Irish National Stud, a tour of Ardgowan Estate, and a whisky tasting at a local distillery.
What's Not Included
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Flights
International and domestic flights are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended to be purchased separately.
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included.
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Optional Activities
Optional activities not listed in the itinerary are not included.
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Gratuities
Gratuities for guides, drivers, and hotel staff are not included.
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Visas
Visa fees and arrangements are not included.
Mode of Transport
Travel in style with a mix of private coach, ferry rides across the Irish Sea, and scenic drives through the beautiful landscapes of Ireland and Scotland. Enjoy a cruise on Loch Ness and horse-drawn jaunting car rides in Killarney.
Accommodation
Stay in a variety of comfortable accommodations including the Clayton Charlemont in Dublin, The Kingsley in Cork, Killarney Plaza Hotel and Spa, Connemara Coast in Galway, Clayton in Sligo, Ballygally Castle in Co. Antrim, Radisson Blu in Glasgow, Kingsmills in Inverness, and Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa in Edinburgh.
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of activities can I choose from in Killarney National Park?
In Killarney National Park, you can choose between exploring the scenery on a horse-drawn jaunting car with the local jarveys or joining a gentle hike with a nature guide. The hike will take you past stunning mountains, lakes, woods, and waterfalls, including the 15th Century Ross Castle and the 19th Century Muckross Estate.
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What unique experience does the tour offer in the Scottish Highlands?
In the Scottish Highlands, you will have the opportunity to sample a 'wee dram' and learn about the fascinating process of whisky production at a local distillery.
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What can I expect during the visit to the Giant's Causeway?
At the Giant's Causeway, you will visit the legendary site and learn about the efforts to protect biodiversity and ecosystems. The National Trust charity has been undertaking replanting activities to prioritize biodiversity and quality food production, leaving a low carbon footprint. Your visit directly supports United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 15: Life on Land.
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What is included in the visit to Ardgowan Estate?
During the visit to Ardgowan Estate, you will join Sir Ludovic for a tour of his family home and savor a traditional Scottish tea made from local ingredients. The estate educates visitors and the local rural community about their sustainability initiatives, including reducing food waste and sourcing all ingredients locally. Your visit helps support the estate and contributes to United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 7 & 12: Affordable and Clean Energy & Responsible Consumption and Production.
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What historical insights will I gain in Dublin?
In Dublin, you will see Custom House, travel along the River Liffey, and visit landmarks such as the Guinness Storehouse, Christchurch Cathedral, and St. Patrick's Cathedral. You will also gain insights into the history of Trinity College and have access to view the famous Book of Kells.
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What is the significance of the Cliffs of Moher visit?
At the Cliffs of Moher, you will visit the Exhibition Center and look out over the Wild Atlantic Way from these majestic cliffs that rise over 700 feet high. You will gain insights from your Travel Director into the cliffs’ geology, history, and the species that find sanctuary in its nooks and crannies.
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What can I expect during the visit to the Culloden Visitor Center?
At the Culloden Visitor Center, you will discover why the Battle of Culloden lasted only an hour yet changed the Highland way of life forever. The visit provides a deep historical context and understanding of this significant event.
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What unique experience is offered in Londonderry?
In Londonderry, you will experience sightseeing with one of Northern Ireland's best storytellers, Ronan, who will take you on a tour inside the city walls. You will see the Gothic Guildhall and the Georgian houses of Shipquay Street.
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What is the highlight of the visit to St. Andrews?
In St. Andrews, you will visit the university town where the famous beach scene from 'Chariots of Fire' was filmed and see the golf course where the sport was created. You will also have free time to explore the town, including St. Andrews University and West Sands Beach.
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What special event can I attend in Edinburgh during August?
For a limited time in August, you can witness the incredible spectacle of the Edinburgh Military Tattoo, a grand event featuring a tide of tunics and tartan, pipes, and drums.
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Can I join the tour once it has departed?
We regret that no refunds can be made for absences from a tour, including experiences such as missed meals or sightseeing.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1978.
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Insight Vacations is a founding member of the TreadRight Foundation, a joint initiative created by the brands within The Travel Corporation (TTC) almost 15 years ago to ensure our impact through tourism is positive. Our ethos to #MakeTravelMatter guides our decision-making at every level of our business.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
You have two options as a solo traveller. Either choose to be matched with a same sex partner for a room share - at no extra cost. Or choose a room of your own with a reduced or even free private room upgrade on select tours.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies
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Low Deposit
Insight Vacations requires a minimum deposit of 350 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of insight vacations charges.
Up to 91 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 90 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 80% of booking price.
At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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