Irish Gold

Your tour begins at 2:00 PM at your hotel in Dún Laoghaire, a charming seaside suburb. Head out for a panoramic tour of Dublin, seeing historic O’Connell Street, Georgian buildings and squares, and St Stephen’s Green. Visit Trinity College to view one of Ireland’s greatest treasures: the Book of Kells, an illuminated manuscript crafted by monks in the 9th century. Return to your hotel for a welcome drink with your fellow guests, and then enjoy an independent evening of dining and exploring as you wish.

Head to the vibrant, artistic city of Galway. Along the way, enjoy a drink at Sean’s Bar in Athlone, a CIE Tours Exclusive venue. The oldest pub in Europe, Sean’s Bar has been quenching thirsts since 900 AD. Join a local guide for a walking tour through Galway and discover this thriving city of medieval winding lanes and buzzing street life. Enjoy some free time to explore Galway on your own, then join your fellow travelers for dinner at your hotel. (B, D)

Explore scenic Connemara to admire how constantly changing cloud formations give granite hills, sparkling lakes and peat bogs an added dimension. Take a short catamaran cruise of Killary Harbour, a 9-mile fjord (seasonal). Head to Kylemore Abbey set beside a tranquil lake, and see its elegant rooms, the charming church and the Victorian Walled Gardens. Return to Galway where the evening is free to explore the city (B)

Travel south around Galway Bay and through the stark beauty of the Burren, a distinctive limestone landscape. Immerse yourself in farm life as you watch trained sheepdogs herd their flock. Visit the Cliffs of Moher, rising 700 feet above the pounding Atlantic surf. Head to the friendly town of Killarney, taking a ferry across the River Shannon Estuary. In Killarney, take in an evening of traditional Irish entertainment, with a lively show of music and dance as you dine. (B)

Take a traditional horse-drawn jaunting car through Killarney National Park to scenic Ross Castle, set on the shores of Lough Leane. See the highlights of Ireland’s most popular scenic drive, the Ring of Kerry. The stunning coastal and mountain landscapes will provide plenty of photo opportunities. Stop in the Gap of Dunloe to visit Moriarty’s, a CIE Tours preferred shopping partner. Visit the colorful village of Kenmare and enjoy free time to explore its charming craft shops, art galleries and cafes. When you return to Killarney your evening is free to explore as you wish. (B)

Drive through the mountains into rich farming country on the way to Blarney Castle. Kiss the famous “Stone of Eloquence” or explore the tranquil gardens. Travel along the coast to the Marine Bar in Dungarvan, a CIE Tours Exclusive Venue, for some traditional music. Continue to Waterford, where you’ll watch skilled artisans create sparkling masterpieces during your visit to the House of Waterford Crystal, a CIE Tours preferred shopping partner. (B, D)

Join a local guide for a walking tour through the narrow streets of Waterford, discovering its fascinating past. Head to Kilkenny for free time to discover the medieval city center. Tour the beautifully restored Kilkenny Castle to see glorious 17th-century tapestries, family portraits, and sumptuous furnishings reflecting the lifestyle of the Butler family who once resided there. Travel on to Dublin, where you’ll dine with a glass of wine at the popular Cleaver East restaurant. (B, D)

Your program ends after breakfast. (B) B: Breakfast; L: Lunch; D: Dinner >