Journeys: Iconic Ireland - 9 Days

Itinerary

• Days 1-0: DublinArrival Day

  Arrive at any time. We recommend arriving a day or two early to fully explore this lively city. There are no planned activities until an evening welcome meeting.

• Days 2-1: Dublin

  In the morning, set out on an orientation walk led by your Expedition Leader around Dublin, then enjoy some free time to explore the city's Medieval Quarter, visit St. Patrick's Cathedral, set foot in Dublin Castle, or tour a whiskey distillery. Later, explore Trinity College Dublin, founded in 1592. Visit its famed library and view the Book of Kells, an illuminated manuscript dating to the ninth century. In the evening, dine on Irish fare, accompanied by storytelling and traditional music, in a traditional Irish pub.

• Days 3-2: Cork

  Travel to the charming city of Cork and set out on an orientation walk; then spend the rest of the day exploring the city on your own. Choose to visit the Cork County Gaol—a former prison—or learn about the voyage of the Titanic in the original ticket office of the White Star Line. Wander the stalls at the historic English Market or settle into a pub for a locally brewed pint of Murphy’s Irish Stout. Cork is known for its many universities, theatres, art schools and general diversity and culture. With many immigrants settling in this inviting city, it's easy to find different types of foods, shops and cafés lining the streets.

• Days 4-3: Blarney/Killarney

  Begin the day with a visit to Blarney Castle, built nearly 600 years ago and now one of the most iconic sights in Ireland. Climb a flight of steps to kiss the legendary Blarney Stone, a ritual said to grant the gift of the gab. Continue to Killarney for an afternoon spent tasting whiskey and chocolate with a local expert. In the evening, opt to enjoy a traditional Celtic dance performance. The lovely town of Killarney bristles with history, culture and stunning natural beauty. Located on the shores of Lough Leane, adjacent to Killarney National Park, it is surrounded by rolling green hills, lakes and forests.

• Days 5-4: Killarney

  Set out on a full-day excursion around the famed Ring of Kerry, considered one of Ireland’s most scenic drives. Take in stunning views of the Iveragh Peninsula’s windswept coast and lush, wild forests. View historic castles, churches, and seaside villages before returning to Killarney for a night at leisure.

• Days 6-5: Galway

  This morning, head to the stunning Cliffs of Moher and board a boat for a coastal cruise. Enjoy exceptional views of one of Ireland’s most well-known natural wonders from water level, In the months of May to early July, you might spot puffins along the cliffs. After the cruise, explore the Cliffs' visitor centre before continuing to Galway, a historic harbor city on Ireland's west coast. As the gateway to the Galway Gaeltacht, one of the country's last Irish-speaking regions, Galway offers a unique blend of culture and history.

• Days 7-6: Cliffs of Moher/Galway

  Set on a guided walking tour of Galway, delving into the history of conquest that has shaped Irish culture, and getting a taste of the city’s reputation as a hub for art and music. Enjoy a free afternoon exploring the local arts scene or wandering historic streets.

• Days 8-7: Dublin

  Return to Dublin this morning and enjoy a free afternoon to explore Ireland's dynamic capital. Stroll among the colorful gardens of St. Stephen's Green, pop into historic pubs in Temple Bar, or view the famed bog bodies housed in the National Museum of Ireland. Opt to visit the Guinness Storehouse for insights into the history of beer and a taste of their famed stout, then gather for an optional farewell dinner with your group at a local restaurant.

• Days 9-8: Dublin

  Depart at any time.