Glimpses of Green – Highlights of Ireland

Upon arrival in Dublin Ireland’s vibrant capital, we clear customs and then meet our coach driver. A local guide joins us for an introduction to Dublin including a visit to Trinity College, Ireland's oldest college founded in 1592 by England's Queen Elizabeth I. We walk through the Long Room and Gaia in the Old Library and embark on an immersive digital journey which highlights the famous Book of Kells, the ancient Latin manuscript of the four gospels dating back to the year 800. We also visit St. Patrick's Cathedral, home of Ireland's largest and most beautiful organ as well as the burial site of Jonathan Swift. Then we check into our hotel and have time to relax before dinner. Hampton by Hilton Dublin City Centre or similar

This morning, we begin with a visit to Kilmainham Gaol, a historic former prison. Then we proceed to the Guinness Storehouse for an interactive experience about Ireland’s famous beer. We have free time this afternoon. Possibilities include a stroll through Phoenix Park, visiting the National Museum, or exploring more of Dublin’s vibrant neighborhoods. Tonight, we enjoy a traditional Irish music and dinner at a local pub. Hampton by Hilton Dublin City Centre or similar

After breakfast, we depart for Kilkenny. Upon arrival we explore Kilkenny Castle with a local guide. We explore this medieval fortress and its beautiful gardens. We walk through St. Canice's Cathedral and admire its Gothic interior, the high crosses in the cemetery and the Round Tower with its magnificent view of the countryside building in Ireland. Our afternoon is free to wander around Kilkenny’s old town, with its narrow streets, shops, and pubs. Hotel Kilkenny or similar

Another great day awaits as we drive to Cork, stopping at the Rock of Cashel, a stunning historic site with ancient ruins on a hilltop. Towering over the town from its perch on a 200-foot-high outcrop of limestone, the Rock was once the seat of the Kings of Munster. It was visited by St. Patrick in 450 and Brian Boru, the last great High King of Ireland. Our guided tour includes impressive stone walls that enclose a round tower, the cathedral, a 12th-century Romanesque chapel, and a historical cemetery. We continue to Cork to visit the English Market, and Blarney Castle (and of course kiss the Blarney Stone for luck!), and explore the vibrant streets. Foley's Townhouse or similar

Today we set out on one of Ireland’s most famous scenic drives as we explore the Ring of Kerry, known for its coastal cliffs, mountains, and charming villages. We seeLadies View, McGillycuddy’s Reeks, Waterville and Cahersiveen. We end the day with an Irish storyteller this evening. Foley's Townhouse or similar

Now we head into the heart of the Killarney National Park. Our destination is Muckross House, a 19th-century Elizabethan home with spectacular gardens and a folklore and farming museum. After the self-guided tour, there is time for lunch and browsing some of the small shops. Afterwards, we take a jaunting car ride and have the chance to view the area’s lush woodlands, deep blue lakes and varied wildlife. We return to Killarney where we have plenty of time for shopping or relaxing in one of the city’s many cafés or pubs. Foley's Townhouse or similar

We depart this morning for Bunratty Castle and Folk Park, which is a great place to learn about Ireland’s rural past. The castle contains furniture and paintings from the 15th and 16th centuries, the park consists of 25 acres of reconstructed farmhouses, cottages and shops from the 19th century. There is even a tiny village with a blacksmith, pub and post office. After free time for lunch and shopping, we continue to the west coast and see the Cliffs of Moher, a stunning natural landmark with breathtaking views. The shale and limestone cliffs stretch for five miles on Ireland’s western coast and tower over 600 feet above the ocean. We visit the Atlantic Edge exhibition where we learn the story of the cliffs and the seabirds they protect. We overnight in nearby Ennis. Old Ground Hotel or similar

Today we continue north to Galway where we explore the vibrant streets of Galway known for its artsy vibe. We visit Eyre Square, Spanish Arch, and the Galway Cathedral. Our afternoon is free to explore on our own. Leonardo Hotel Galway or similar

After breakfast, we head back to Dublin and make a couple fun stops along the way. In the small town of Birr, we visit Birr Castle and its beautiful gardens. Birr Castle is home to the Great Telescope, once the largest telescope in the world. It is also home to Ireland’s tallest tree house. Next, we stop at the Tullamore Distillery for a quick look around (with or without tasting as you prefer). We have time to explore the town of Tullamore itself and enjoy its quaint atmosphere and historic sites. Then we continue to Dublin for a farewell dinner this evening. Radisson Blu Dublin Airport or similar

Regretfully, it's time to say Slán agat! (Goodbye!) and transfer to Dublin Airport. We return to the USA, however, with memories of lovely landscapes, verdant fields, historic castles, cozy pubs, enchanting music and friendly people. Erin go braugh! (Ireland Forever!)