Experience Ireland + Top Attractions Upgrade
Feel the inspiration of Ireland!
Discover the rhythm of the Hidden Heartlands as you navigate Ireland's Ancient East, the serene countryside, and the Wild Atlantic Way. Find the place where relaxation and restoration can be found in abundance. Begin in the culture-packed town of Kilkenny, then wind your way through Ireland's bustling attractions and raw beauty before your trip comes to an end in Dublin. Create your perfect vacation with a customizable itinerary and the freedom to roam.
What's Included
- Round-trip Economy Airfare into Dublin
- Standard Manual Economy Car for the duration of your trip
- 1 night in Kilkenny at Hoban Hotel or similar
- 2 nights in Clare at Hotel Woodstock or similar
- 1 night in Roscommon at the Abbey Hotel or similar
- 2 nights in Dublin at Maldron Hotel Newlands Cross or similar
- Medieval Mile Museum in Kilkenny
- GPO - Witness History in Dublin
- Aillwee Caves in Clare
- EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum 2 for 1 Admission Voucher
- Kildare Village 10% Discount Voucher
Plus!
- Smithwick's Experience Kilkenny Tour
- Cliffs of Moher
- Bunratty Castle & Folk Park Admission
- Athlone Castle Visitor Center
- Pearse Lyons Distillery Dublin
- Glasnevin Cemetery Museum Admission & Tour
- Christ Church Cathedral (self-guided tour)
Great Ways to Explore
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Travel from charming towns to the scenic Irish countryside.
Explore well-preserved churches and monasteries dating back to the 13th century in Kilkenny.
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Indulge in homemade specialties at Cork's historic English Market, which has been in operation since 1788.
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Treat yourself to a drink at Dublin's oldest bar, The Brazen Head, which has been pouring pints since 1198.
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Create your dream vacation by tailoring your itinerary to suit your interests.
Sublime countryside, history bursting at the seams, and something to see at every turn...this is the Ireland you've been dreaming of. On this vacation, you'll experience it all with ease!
Once you've landed in Dublin, you'll pick up your rental car and head to Killkenny - a history-filled town in Ireland's Ancient East. Go back to the Dark Ages with a visit to the Medieval Mile Museum. Peruse 800 years of legends and artifacts before moving on to your next destination.
County Clare is ideally nestled between the River Shannon, the Atlantic Ocean, and the sparkling Galway Bay. Take in the marvelous beauty of the Wild Atlantic Way during your stay. You can set sail from the rugged coastline to whale watch, visit the 15th-century Bunratty Castle, or head to the heart of the Burren for an unforgettable look at the Aillwee Caves.
Next, hit the Hidden Heartlands with a visit to Roscommon. Spend some time in the great outdoors as you take advantage of the county's abundant offerings of walking trails, waterways, and festivals.
Finally, your trip will come to an end in Dublin. Don't be fooled - Dublin is much more than beer brewing and statues. Use your included admission to explore and engage the interactive galleries at EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum. Hit the Phoenix Park Visitor Center to enjoy one of the largest city parks in Europe. No matter where your interests may land, Dublin has something for everyone!
Please note that some recommendations in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check What's Included above for full details on inclusions.
- Round-trip Economy Airfare into Dublin
- Standard Manual Economy Car for the duration of your trip
- 1 night in Kilkenny at Hoban Hotel or similar
- 2 nights in Clare at Hotel Woodstock or similar
- 1 night in Roscommon at the Abbey Hotel or similar
- 2 nights in Dublin at Maldron Hotel Newlands Cross or similar
- Medieval Mile Museum in Kilkenny
- GPO - Witness History in Dublin
- Aillwee Caves in Clare
- EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum 2 for 1 Admission Voucher
- Kildare Village 10% Discount Voucher
Plus!
- Smithwick's Experience Kilkenny Tour
- Cliffs of Moher
- Bunratty Castle & Folk Park Admission
- Athlone Castle Visitor Center
- Pearse Lyons Distillery Dublin
- Glasnevin Cemetery Museum Admission & Tour
- Christ Church Cathedral (self-guided tour)
-
Travel from charming towns to the scenic Irish countryside.
Explore well-preserved churches and monasteries dating back to the 13th century in Kilkenny.
-
Indulge in homemade specialties at Cork's historic English Market, which has been in operation since 1788.
-
Treat yourself to a drink at Dublin's oldest bar, The Brazen Head, which has been pouring pints since 1198.
-
Create your dream vacation by tailoring your itinerary to suit your interests.
Sublime countryside, history bursting at the seams, and something to see at every turn...this is the Ireland you've been dreaming of. On this vacation, you'll experience it all with ease!
Once you've landed in Dublin, you'll pick up your rental car and head to Killkenny - a history-filled town in Ireland's Ancient East. Go back to the Dark Ages with a visit to the Medieval Mile Museum. Peruse 800 years of legends and artifacts before moving on to your next destination.
County Clare is ideally nestled between the River Shannon, the Atlantic Ocean, and the sparkling Galway Bay. Take in the marvelous beauty of the Wild Atlantic Way during your stay. You can set sail from the rugged coastline to whale watch, visit the 15th-century Bunratty Castle, or head to the heart of the Burren for an unforgettable look at the Aillwee Caves.
Next, hit the Hidden Heartlands with a visit to Roscommon. Spend some time in the great outdoors as you take advantage of the county's abundant offerings of walking trails, waterways, and festivals.
Finally, your trip will come to an end in Dublin. Don't be fooled - Dublin is much more than beer brewing and statues. Use your included admission to explore and engage the interactive galleries at EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum. Hit the Phoenix Park Visitor Center to enjoy one of the largest city parks in Europe. No matter where your interests may land, Dublin has something for everyone!
Please note that some recommendations in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check What's Included above for full details on inclusions.
Day 1. Welcome to Dublin!
Arrive in Dublin Airport (DUB) and pick up your rental car from the rental area. Make your way to your first accommodation in Kilkenny, a medieval city with deep religious roots. Here you can explore well-preserved churches and monasteries. Take a walk down the city's "Medieval Mile," where you'll encounter breathtaking sites from the 13th-Century St. Canice's Cathedral to the Black Abbey Priory.
Celebrate your first night by treating yourself to an authentic Irish meal and some Irish craic (fun)!
The Kilkenny Ormonde Hotel is an exceptionally beautiful hotel with 118 spacious guestrooms all complete with free Wi-Fi, comfortable accommodations and stunning views of the city. Although you will be within walking distance of a variety of restaurants and pubs in Kilkenny, the hotel also offers its guests the option to dine on site. Try out the Ormonde Lounge for a comfortable yet sumptuous bite to eat paired with a cocktail. There is also O'Reilly's Restaurant for a more vibrant atmosphere and a more extensive menu, or Savour where you can browse a creative dinner menu incorporating the best local produce. Enjoy the hotel's many other amenities including the KO Spa, fitness center and more!
Escape to the contemporary Viking Hotel, located less than three miles from Waterford's bustling city center! Experience luxurious rooms, traditional comfort, and extraordinary hospitality at this perfect home away from home. After checking-in, walk through the hotel's bright lobby and head to up to your relaxing retreat. Open the door to your spacious room and notice rich colors, flat-screen TVs, luxurious bath amenities, and much more. Sprawl out on your large cozy bed and use the hotel's complimentary WiFi to say hello to family and friends.
After exploring the historic city of Waterford, head back to the Viking Hotel and relax in the trendy Asgard Bar. Unwind with a cocktail, then savor the hearty flavors of one of the best carveries in Waterford. After a restful night's sleep, indulge in some fresh scones and coffee in the morning.
In the center of Waterford, Dooley's is a family-run hotel offering spacious rooms and full Irish breakfasts. Guests can enjoy weekend live music, and Christchurch Cathedral is just a 10-minute walk away. Rooms at Dooley's Hotel are brightly furnished and all feature a private bathroom with a hairdryer. Each room provides a TV, free tea and coffee, and ironing facilities. The New Ship Restaurant serves creative Irish cuisine and desserts. The bar offers a range of dishes, including light snacks, cooked breakfasts, and lunch, afternoon, and evening menus.
Medieval Mile Museum
The former St Mary’s Church has been converted into a modern museum and will also be a venue for select events and exhibitions. Designed to enrich the cultural life of the city and provide a new international standard attraction for visitors the museum has several functions: as the starting point for understanding Kilkenny’s medieval history, to display Kilkenny’s Civic Treasures and replicas of some of Ossory High Crosses and to provide a space for temporary exhibitions and cultural events.
The 13th century St Mary’s Church and graveyard is the finest example of a medieval church in Ireland. As the starting point of the Medieval Mile trail, it brings to life Kilkenny’s history as Ireland’s premier medieval city. Displays of Kilkenny’s civic treasures and replicas of some of the High Crosses of Ossory illustrate the local Gaelic monastic heritage and the ancient city’s historic role in Ireland.
Kildare Village Discount Voucher
Nestled within landscaped grounds and presented in an authentic village environment, Kildare Village is the perfect luxury shopping destination! You will find it difficult to resist temptation with over 90 brands such as Louise Kennedy, Gucci, Armani, Brooks Brothers, Anya Hindmarch and Hugo Boss offering up to 60% off all year around.
After a long day of shopping, unwind at one of the upscale eateries, such as L'Officina, Dunne & Crescenzi’s, an ultra-modern Italian restaurant offering breakfast, mid-morning snacks, lunch, and wonderful wines.
The Village is located at exit 13 off the M7 less than an hour's drive from Dublin Airport and Dublin city center.
Smithwick's Experience Kilkenny
Smithwick’s Experience Kilkenny is a new multi-sensory and interactive experience that will take visitors on a journey through the medieval origins of brewing on the site of the St. Francis Abbey Brewery, to the arrival of John Smithwick in the 1700’s, and right up to the present day.
Visitors will be fully immersed in the history of Smithwick’s, Ireland’s oldest beer brand, the amazing heritage of the Smithwick’s family and its place in Kilkenny, a city steeped in history and brewing.
The tour includes a giant 7-foot-high hologram monk welcoming you to the brewery. When you start the tour it will be in a monastery-like cavern, just as it was when the monks came there all those centuries ago, and it will be lit by candlelight - making it even more atmospheric.
During the tour, the Smithwick’s brewing process will be brought to life with visitors having the opportunity to experience the smells, tastes, and textures of the raw materials involved in creating the perfect pint of ale.
Day 2. Kilkenny - Clare
Today you'll head to Clare. Make sure your camera is charged and ready to go! On the drive from Kilkenny, you might enjoy a stop at Bunratty Castle & Folk Park for a fun-filled morning!
After, visit the prehistoric Burren to explore one of the oldest caves in Ireland. Aillwee Cave offers a look at its breathtaking caverns, curious formations, and mighty waterfall.
In the evening, consider heading to Doolin Village, known as Ireland's home of traditional Irish music.
Situated on the Wild Atlantic Way, Hotel Woodstock is the ideal base to explore many of Ireland’s natural attractions. Situated at the edge of the beautiful medieval market town of Ennis, County Clare yet surrounded by the lush West coast countryside, Hotel Woodstock offers you the best of both worlds. Located within short driving distance of Limerick, Galway and the surfers’ paradise that is Lahinch. Shannon Airport and Lahinch are only a 30-minute drive away. The Cliffs of Moher are less than 30 miles from the hotel.
Surrounded by a stunning parkland championship golf course, the hotel in Ennis is situated in 155 acres of beautiful countryside in Ennis. From the moment you step into the wide, airy foyer to be greeted by a sumptuous lounge, roaring log fire and friendly management, you’ll feel the love this family-run hotel. The 4-star Woodstock Hotel offers you a range of spacious bedrooms, decorated in light modern colors, many offering you beautiful views over Woodstock Golf Course. Dining options include the relaxed intimate atmosphere of the Hotel Woodstock Bar, or the family-friendly spacious restaurant. The hotel features impressive facilities – including the newly refurbished deck-level pool, Jacuzzi, refitted sauna and brand new steam room.
Located in the beautiful County Clare countryside, The Inn at Dromoland commands panoramic views across the Clare Hills and Shannon Estuary - and is ideally situated just eight miles from Shannon Airport, a 15-minute drive from Ennis and a 20-minute drive from Limerick.
The Inn at Dromoland features 181 guestrooms, each individually designed and decorated with guests' comfort and relaxation in mind. Its health and leisure club boasts a large swimming pool and children's pool, sauna, steam room, Jacuzzi and plunge pool, plus fully equipped fitness center. The hotel is renowned for its seasonal and fully supervised Blue Dolphin Kids Club, as well as other family friendly activities.
Limerick City Hotel is located in the heart of Limerick on Lower Mallow Street, just off Henry Street and on the Shannon Bridge Roundabout at the end of the Dock Road-easily accessible from Shannon, Cork & Kerry.
This hotel is within walking distance from Limerick Colbert Train & Bus Station and near a host of Irish heritage sites including picturesque towns of Adare, Grange and Louch Gur, You can also explore Clare's Burren district, Cliffs of Moher and Ailwee Caves, all just a short 40-minute drive from the Hotel.
Aillwee Caves Admission
In the heart of County Clare's prehistoric Burren exists one of Ireland's oldest caves, waiting to be discovered and explored. Embark on an adventure through the dramatic underworld of the area, accompanied by an expert guide.
The tour consists of a 30-minute stroll through the beautiful caverns – over bridged chasms, under weird formations and alongside the thunderous waterfall which sometimes gently sprays the unsuspecting visitor!
Bunratty Castle & Folk Park Admission
Be transported to farm life in 19th century Ireland during your visit to Bunratty Folk Park! You will be charmed as you visit the farm houses and cottages and watch the tasks of rural Irish families. Set on 26 acres, this folk park is an uncanny recreation of an old Irish village, down to the furnishing in the shops and homes.
Costumed characters bring the village to life as you watch bakers, policemen, and schoolteachers go about their days. Explore a school, a pub, a grocery story, a hardware store, a post office, and more! For a fun treat, see the baking of the griddle bread next to the fire and be sure to taste it hot with fresh creamery butter.
Also on site is Bunratty Castle, the most complete and authentic medieval fortress in Ireland. Built in 1425 it was restored in 1954 to its former medieval splendor and now contains mainly 15th and 16th century furnishings, tapestries, and works of art which capture the mood of those times. See the best examples of medieval furniture, stroll through walled gardens, and pay close attention to the historical detail that fills the castle.
Day 3. Clare
Take advantage of a full day in Clare! We recommend a trip out to the Loop Head Peninsula. Take the scenic drive to the western edge of Clare to soak up the flower-speckled countryside and visit the lighthouse. You can climb to the top of the 300-foot tower to find unforgettable views of your surroundings. Pay close attention to the water - you might catch a glimpse of a few dolphins who live in the Shannon Estuary!
Cliffs Of Moher Admission
See Ireland's most visited sea cliffs; these dramatic cliffs rise over 700 ft above sea level and offer some of the most breathtaking coastal views.
On a clear day, see as far as the Aran Islands! Take a leisurely stroll along the guided path, climb the castle at the top of the hill, or see how many different species of birds you can spot - you may even see a puffin or two!
Day 4. Clare - Roscommon
Your next stop is Roscommon! Once settled, head out for some adventure! You may enjoy kicking off your stay in Roscommon by treating yourself to a Moon River Pleasure Cruise on the Shannon. Get to know the area's points of interest and hear some local stories and folklore!
Or, you could take in the rustic beauty of Clonalis House. The property sprawls over pasture and woodland and is regarded as one of the most important historic properties in Ireland. The property is full of gems to see such as O'Conor family heirlooms, the harp of Turlough O'Carolan, and a magnificent library holding over 7,000 volumes.
Situated in Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands, in the beautiful countryside town of Roscommon, is where you will find the 4* Abbey Hotel, a multi-award winning and charming family-run, 18th-century Castle Manor setting owned and run by the Grealy family since 1963. Enjoy free WiFi, television, and coffee/tea making facilities in every guest room. Dine onsite at the restaurant for lunch or dinner, or sip a cocktail at the Abbey Hotel Bar. The Abbey Hotel takes it's name from the 12th Century Dominican Abbey, located beside the hotel with views of the ruins visible from our award winning Restaurant and Bedrooms.
Day 5. Roscommon - Dublin
Head to Dublin today, and see what makes Ireland's capital city so special! You can visit the spiritual highlights, from the imposing St. Patrick's Cathedral to stunning Christ Church Cathedral, or explore the historical staples from Dublin Castle to the cryptic Kilmainham Gaol prison.
Located just outside Dublin's city center, you'll have easy access to Ireland's vibrant capital by either local bus or taxi. Enjoy close smooth access to the M50 for day trips, sightseeing, and self-guided tours. Start each morning with the hotel's Vitality Breakfast, which offers a wide selection of cooked foods, cereals, pastries, fruit, and more. An on-site bar and lounge, as well as restaurant Grain & Grill, are also open daily for lunch and dinner. 297 spacious guestroom are brightly decorated and are soundproofed to ensure the best night's sleep possible.
The Address Connolly is ideally located in the heart of Dublin City Centre, just a short walk from all of Dublin’s most popular venues, shopping streets, entertainment districts, and tourist attractions. This design-driven hotel offers an eclectic mix of luxe interiors and traditional design pieces all sourced from and crafted in Ireland.
The Address Connolly promises the ultimate 4-star hotel experience full of special touches that surprise and delight. The Address Connolly boasts newly refurbished guestrooms, its own fitness center, and Scandinavian saunas, plus the independently branded bar and restaurant within the hotel, McGettigans Cookhouse. The Cookhouse provides a casual, diverse, and relaxed dining environment serving international cuisine with an extensive cocktail list, craft beers, and specially selected wines. The food curation focuses on sustainability, seasonality, and locality for its inspiration and is open for both lunch and dinner.
GPO Witness History
GPO Witness History is a permanent visitor attraction in the iconic GPO (General Post Office) building on O’Connell Street, Dublin. This highly immersive and engaging exhibition puts you right inside the GPO during Easter Week in 1916. History will come to life as you experience events from both sides of the conflict and through the eyes of bystanders caught in the crossfire through electronic touch screens, video, audio visual booths, sound and authentic artefacts – many previously unseen. You’ll be immersed in the action as you compose newspaper reports, examine the original copy of the Proclamation and send Morse Code to declare the Irish Republic by radio..
EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum 2 for 1 Admission
Irish history should never be a long list of names and dates, it should be an experience. Get hands on with Irish culture and its past with our fully interactive museum – swipe through video galleries, dance through motion sensor quizzes, listen to remastered audio from 100 years ago and watch videos that bring Irish history to life.
At EPIC, you’ll discover the far reaching influence of Irish history, and the impact the 10 million Irish men and women who left Ireland had on the world. This Special Offer will allow the visitor to obtain 2 for 2 general admission when presenting a printed copy of their voucher to the customer service desk. Admission rate to be paid directly by visitor on the spot.
Athlone Castle Visitor Centre
Visit the 13th-century castle and experience history brought alive! Athlone Castle was first built to defend the crossing point on the River Shannon and evolved into a bold defensive structure over the centuries. Elements of the original castle can still be seen today. Your visit will tell the story of settlement in this part of Ireland’s Ancient East, from the Neolithic period through Viking, and Medieval ages to modern life in Athlone.
During your visit, you will discover tales of bitter battles fought, territories won and lost and hear stories of bravery. Prepare to walk in the steps of monks, kings, soldiers and generals. We will tell you their stories and the story of Athlone Castle through a series of modern exhibitions, authentic museum artifacts, interactive games and an intense 360º cinematic experience of the Great Siege of Athlone. Some stories will be sad, some treacherous, some heroic, and many will be bloody…
Tip: Athlone Castle is located in Co. Westmeath. If travelling from Dublin to Roscommon, consider visiting the Castle on your way. The Castle is approximately 90 minutes from Co. Clare and approximately 60 minutes from Galway.
Day 6. Dublin
Rise and shine! Today's a great day to visit EPIC, the Irish Emigration Museum! You can even book yourself a 90-minute private consultation with a genealogy expert and learn all about your very own Irish roots.
Spend the rest of the day exploring the spirited city of Dublin at leisure. After a fun day of sightseeing, treat yourself to a pint at a local pub! For an extra special experience, consider stopping at Guinness Storehouse or the Jameson Distillery Bow St.
Pearse Lyons Distillery @ St James - Trilogy Tasting Experience
Pearse Lyons Distillery at St. James is a new chapter for The Liberties, Dublin. Family history, a personal passion for brewing and distilling, and an entrepreneurial spirit has inspired the restoration of St. James’ Church. At Pearse Lyons Distillery, whiskey is only part of our story. Whether you are an intrepid whiskey enthusiast, culturally curious or just an inquisitive Dubliner, you are sure to enjoy a journey through 800 years of history at St. James with our local storytellers.
Our Distillery Tour gives an insight into the whiskey heritage and stories behind the iconic Dublin district known as The Liberties. Visitors can also touch, taste and smell every step of the distilling process, meet with our distillers and taste our signature Pearse Irish Whiskey. Our guided tours are hosted by our team of friendly storytellers, who will regale you with stories of Dublin's Liberties; otherwise known as The Golden Triangle.
Each tour includes: A guided tour of the history of St. James Cemetery, sensory experience- touch, taste and smell every step of the distilling process in the working distillery, and sample three of the signature Pearse Irish Whiskeys
Glasnevin Cemetery Museum Admission & Tour
Embark upon an intriguing journey through Ireland's past at Glasnevin Museum, the world's first cemetery museum. Visitors can explore the history and the lives of more than 1.5 million people that are buried there, greater than the population of Dublin.
The Museum is open to explore at your leisure, then after or before visiting the museum, join one of the famous guided tours. Led by a team of experienced guides, the historical tour gives a valuable insight into this unique Victorian burial place and into the final resting place of the men and women who have helped shape Ireland’s past and present including its founder Daniel O'Connell. Glasnevin is listed at number 1 on TripAdvisor and was awarded Best Cultural Experience in Ireland at the Irish Tourism Industry Awards.
Christ Church Cathedral (self-guided tour)
Enjoy a self-guided tour of Christ Church Cathedral (with free audio guide), including admission to the Crypt and Exhibition. The Cathedral (founded c.1028) is the spiritual heart of the city, and one of the top visitor attractions in Dublin!
The audio guide ill take you on a journey through 1,000 years of history from 3 different perspectives:
"Power and Politics", "Christ Church and The City" and "Music and Spirituality."
Visitors can choose to follow one theme throughout their tour, pick and mix at each stop, or take the "Highlights" tour which gives a taste of all three themes.
Day 7. Depart Ireland
Squeeze all your souvenirs into your luggage and head for the airport! Return your rental car and board your returning flight home. Until next time, Ireland!