From CAD 4,515
Guarantee
Small Group
Light
Rating
(20 reviews)
Experience Overview
The northern nooks and the regal Republic – see it all on a nine-day adventure on both sides of the Irish border. Travel through green pastures, vast lakes, striking cliff faces and, in the evening, head straight to the pub for a Guinness (or two). Visit medieval castles and ancient sites filled with folklore and marvel at the views of Ireland's rugged coastline, including the Ring of Kerry, Cliffs of Moher and the Giant's Causeway. While exploring Belfast, Dublin, Derry and Galway, don't forget to gather your travel crew for some pub grub and live music to cap off a trip that hits all the hotspots of Ireland.
Highlights
- Explore Ireland’s natural wonder, the Ring of Kerry, and witness farmers in action with a sheep farm visit and herding demonstration.
- Scramble around the clustered pillars of Giant's Causeway and decide for yourself if it’s a natural phenomenon or the work of giants, as legends say.
- Roam the rugged coastline of the Aran Islands, with time to visit ruins and remains from the Bronze and Iron Age with your local leader.
- Learn about The Troubles from those who were directly affected by it on a history tour in Derry.
- Enjoy Dublin's energetic nightlife, where it’ll feel like there’s a pub on every corner. Check out its creative neighbourhoods, brimming with hip bars and trendy eateries.
Trip Details
Product Code: 1636
Tour Type: Small Group
Accommodation: Moderate
Transport: Train,Public bus,Private vehicle,Ferry
Guide Language: English
Supplier Code: BMSA
Starts: Belfast, Ireland
Finishes: Dublin, Ireland
Duration: 9 days
Departures: Guaranteed
Physical rating:
Light
Includes
Meals: Breakfasts (8),Accommodation: Hotel (6 nights),Hostel (2 nights)
Price
Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD 4515 (CAD 502 /day)
Itinerary
Welcome to Belfast and the Emerald Isle! Your Irish adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm. If you arrive early, take some time to wander the streets of the bohemian Cathedral Quarter, explore the leafy suburbs of South Belfast or visit the stately City Hall in Donegal Square. Consider stopping at the revitalised waterfront area, home to the Titanic Belfast monument on the site of the former Harland & Wolff shipyard, where the legendary RMS Titanic was built. The monument tells the story of the ship's ill-fated maiden voyage in 1912.
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Today is a free day in Belfast to explore at your own pace. Perhaps start with a Black Cab Tour, where your driver will provide a comprehensive overview of Northern Ireland’s political history as you cruise around the city. Then, you can visit The Ulster Museum to meet Takabuti, an Ancient Egyptian mummy, before taking a stroll through the nearby Botanical Gardens. Feel free to ask your local leader for restaurant recommendations for dinner.
Optional Activities:
- Belfast - SS Nomadic Museum (7 GBP)
- Belfast - Botanical Gardens - Free
- Belfast - Ulster Museum - Free
- Belfast - Titanic Museum (25 GBP)
- Belfast - Black Cab Tour (50 GBP)
- Belfast - History of Terror Guided Tour (20 GBP)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Travel along the scenic wild coast north of Belfast in a private transfer to the Giant's Causeway, home to roughly 40,000 basalt columns that have inspired artists and storytellers for centuries. Depending on your school of thought, these formations are either the result of an ancient volcanic eruption or a legendary conflict between rival giants. After, head to Derry – home of the critically acclaimed sitcom Derry Girls – and get your bearings with a Bogside History Tour, giving you a unique insight into The Troubles.
Included Activities:
- Giant's Causeway - Day Trip
- Derry - Bogside History Tour
Accommodation:
- Hostel (Number of Nights: 1)
This morning, travel by private vechicle to the harbour city of Galway – capital of the county of the same name. You will be crossing the border from Northern Ireland to the Republic of Ireland, so you may need to switch your Pounds for some Euros at this point. While you're in Galway, you could visit the impressive Galway Cathedral. Its full name, the Catholic Cathedral of Our Lady Assumed into Heaven and St Nicholas, is far more elaborate than the simplicity of its building.
Optional Activities:
- Galway - Cathedral - Free
Accommodation:
- Hostel (Number of Nights: 1)
Today you’ll head out on a daytrip by ferry to the Aran islands, which have been crafted by centuries of wild winds and smashing waves. The islands are one of the few places where the Irish language is still used in everyday life (i.e. a Gaeltacht). With a population of under 2,000 people, the islands feel like a respite from real life. You’ll travel by minibus and on foot to explore the native flora and fauna, and the ruins of a church and a lighthouse. There are also some remains from Bronze and Iron Age fortresses to be found. If you're lucky, you may even spot a seal lounging on the rocky shore! Return to Galway for a free evening and more exploration (or a Guinness).
Included Activities:
- Aran Islands - Guided Day Trip by Ferry
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
The Cliffs of Moher will leave you in awe with their views over the Irish coastline. From April to late July, adventurous souls can walk to the edge and watch puffins nesting along the cliff face. Learn about the history of this famous site and its feathered inhabitants at the Cliffs Exhibition. Next, stop in the village of Adare, colloquially known as Ireland’s prettiest village, before arriving in Killarney. Locals affectionately refer to Kerry as ‘God’s Own County’ because of its natural beauty. Ask your leader for bar recommendations if you’d like to soak up more of the Irish pub culture tonight. Maybe try some classic pub fare like Irish stew, chowder and fish and chips, or sample less familiar dishes, like coddle (potato and sausage stew), boxty (potato pancake) or champ (mashed potato and scallions).
Included Activities:
- Cliffs of Moher
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
This morning brings green hills and salty coastal air as you travel along the Iveragh Peninsula, better known as the Ring of Kerry. You'll pass through bucolic villages with views across some of Ireland's greatest beaches, lakes and rivers. Make stops at numerous outlooks along the way for photos. After, visit a sheep farm to see a sheep herding demonstration, where skilled border collie dogs round up the sheep under the farmer’s command. Return to Killarney in the early afternoon. If time allows, perhaps head out to Ross Castle on the shores of Lough Leane.
Included Activities:
- Killarney - Ring of Kerry Day Trip
- Killarney - Sheep Dog Trials (seasonal)
Optional Activities:
- Killarney - Ross Castle (5 EUR)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
This morning, grab a last coffee in Killarney before boarding a train, this time bound for Dublin. Once checked in, your tour leader will show you around and afterwards you are free to explore on your own. Must see is a St Patrick Cathedral founded in 1191, currently the national cathedral of the Church of Ireland. Must do, however is to unwind with a pint and some lively conversation on the pedestrianised streets in The Creative Quarter. In the evening, perhaps get your group together for the final evening.
Optional Activities:
- Dublin - St Patrick Cathedral (9 EUR)
- Dublin - Guinness Storehouse (25 EUR)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Say goodbye to your group over one last breakfast. For those who wish to stay in Dublin, reach out to your booking agent ahead of time to organise additional accommodation.
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Tour Operator
Intrepid Travel
Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.
In Business Since 1989
Reviews
Roel - Traveled, September 2023
The trip is truly enjoyable! Though short as it was, we managed to see the highlights of Ireland. The Aran Islands is not to be missed! If anyone is thinking of travelling in small groups, go for Intrepid!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/23/2023
Kerrie - Traveled, September 2023
Our fast-paced tour of Northern and Southern Ireland offered experience of a variety of places from small towns to cities and the journey in between. Live music, amazing people and scenery were among my trip highlights. Our leader Shane's knowledge, care and flexibility in a small group made this experience a memorable one!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/21/2023
Keith - Traveled, September 2023
Our tour of Ireland was really great! Our tour leader Steph was fantastic, very knowledgeable, organized and fun! This Intrepid trip was honestly better than I was expecting. Definite recommend
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/17/2023
Anita - Traveled, August 2023
Very well organized, busy trip. We got to see so much more than is listed and learned a lot about Irish history. Nick was a great leader and so much fun!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/04/2023
Christopher - Traveled, August 2023
This trip was very enjoyable primarily due to our tour guide and the people we met along the way. This tour is good for those looking for physical activity (a lot of walking, inclines and steps). If you're looking for a turnkey trip, this isn't for you.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/20/2023
Martin - Traveled, June 2023
I have done around 10 trips with Intrepid and have never been disappointed. The safety of the group is a great consideration and have experienced no issues within the differing make up and age of the members. I highly recommend to anyone wanting to see the world from a local perspective to travel with Intrepid.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/20/2023
Sarah - Traveled, January 2023
The tickling was definitely a standout experience.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/19/2023
Erin - Traveled, January 2023
The best bit about my trip was the tickling.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/19/2023
Maddy - Traveled, August 2022
It was a great week where you saw fantastic sights, wonderful live music and met great people!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/18/2022
Candice - Traveled, December 2023
Great trip with awesome features and guides/leaders. We were busy seeing all we could in a short amount of time but also had some down time. I recommend this trip!!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 12/20/2023
Amy - Traveled, September 2023
The tour through Ireland was a great introduction and crash course into the history of the country as well as a fast paced way to see the key attractions. Our guide was stupendous and the local drivers and guides incredibly friendly. For this trip, be prepared to walk about 5 mi. a day, frequent pubs with local fare, and have unpredictable weather - which is navigable with comfy shoes, a waterproof jacket, and a hearty interest in Irish food or ale. This was my first trip with intrepid and I look forward to more in the future.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/03/2023
Sarah - Traveled, July 2022
A short but wonderful trip that gives you an opportunity to take in the natural beauty of Ireland at a relaxed pace. Take lots of layers - even in summer - and be sure to check out as many pubs as you can. They’re the real cultural gems of this country.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/16/2022
Luken - Traveled, July 2022
The trip was all I dreamt it was going to be. Great local food, amazing sights, learning the history of Ireland and listening to locals experiences was amazing and I would love to go again!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/16/2022
Guylaine - Traveled, July 2022
Our trip leader, Theresa, was wonderful - friendly, organised, approachable, extremely knowledgeable, and went above and beyond for some members of our group when hiccups happened. The tour itself brings you to wonderful places. The Giant's Causeway was spectacular. It was the one time where we had the option of a hike that required physical fitness. The sheepdog demonstration was definitely a highlight! We all loved it. We saw charming little villages and learned a lot from Theresa and our local tour guides. We also had the opportunity to immerse ourselves in the local culture. The Irish are definitely a friendly lot! Only comment I have is that I don't feel like this should be a 2/5 physical rating. I went on the Western US National Parks Loop trip, which is (accurately) rated 2/5, but this N. Ireland and Ireland trip should be a 1/5.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/16/2022
Shelby - Traveled, June 2022
I was underwhelmed with this trip, to be honest. The country is stunning and the towns we went to were a perfect overview of the country. But unfortunately, Intrepid sent us a guide who had never been to Ireland. We didn't have the local perspective like I wish we would have. The price for what was included was also crazy high. If you do this trip, I recommend pairing it with the Kilkenny and Surrounds tour.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/07/2022
Elizabeth - Traveled, November 2022
This trip is a lot of fun. It's fast paced and so much is packed in! Great for people with limited vacation time who still want to see it all. I definitely recommend this trip :)
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/25/2022
Susan - Traveled, September 2022
This is an excellent trip as an Introduction to Ireland. As I'd traveled from North America I was very pleased to have booked 3 days in Belfast before the trip and 3 days in Dublin at the end.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/29/2022
Jules - Traveled, August 2022
This trip is very fast. You see a lot of stuff packed in and it was exhausting, but wonderful. If you want to see a lot of Ireland and get a feel for what Ireland is all about, this is a great trip to take!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/04/2022
Guylaine - Traveled, July 2022
Our trip leader, Theresa, was wonderful - friendly, organized, approachable, extremely knowledgeable, and went above and beyond for some members of our group when hiccups happened. The tour itself brings you to wonderful places. The Giant's Causeway was spectacular. It was the one time where we had the option of a hike that required physical fitness. The sheepdog demonstration was definitely a highlight! We all loved it. We saw charming little villages and learned a lot from Theresa and our local tour guides. We also had the opportunity to immerse ourselves in the local culture. The Irish are definitely a friendly lot! Only comment I have is that I don't feel like this should be a 2/5 physical rating. I went on the Western US National Parks Loop trip, which is (accurately) rated 2/5, but this N. Ireland and Ireland trip should be a 1/5.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/16/2022
Brenda - Traveled, May 2022
My first experience of green, green Ireland and its magnificent coastline, charming villages … from ancient history to contemporary urban culture in Dublin. Group leader Mathew (Matty) was terrific … his tips and timing were spot on, and his people skills and good humour a real bonus.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/31/2022
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