Classic Ireland

12 Days from $8,290 USD / person

Explore the historical and natural gems of Ireland over the course of 12 memorable days. Spectacular views await you at the world-famous Cliffs of Moher and the Connemara coastline. If you are feeling adventurous, indulge in some kayaking in the pristine blue waters of the Killary fjord.

You will also get to visit several majestic castles such as Kilkenny Castle, Ross Castle and Blarney Castle, which houses the famous Blarney Stone. Keep an eye out for dolphin pods as you cruise on the Shannon River. You will also get to visit Smithwick’s brewery and learn how Ireland’s most popular ale is made.

Luxury Travel. Your Way.

This itinerary will be customized for you. Please reach out and our experts will work with you to create a journey so unique, it could only be yours.

Ideal For

Adventure & Outdoors

Heritage & Culture

Nature & Landscapes

Sample Itinerary

Day

Place

Hotel Opts

1 – 4

Dublin
Highlights: History & Architecture, Guinness Storehouse, Pubs & Nightlife

The Alex Hotel
Dylan Hotel

4 – 5

County Galway
Highlights: Connemara National Park

Ross Lake House Hotel
Abbeyglen Castle Hotel

5 – 7

County Clare
Highlights: Gateway to Western Ireland, The Burren & Cliffs of Moher, Irish Countryside Villages

Old Ground Hotel Ennis
Dromoland Castle

7 – 9

Killarney
Highlights: Ring of Kerry, Hiking & Nature

Cahernane House Hotel
Killarney Park Hotel

9 – 11

Kilkenny
Highlights: Medieval Mile, Living Irish Culture, Blarney Castle

Pembroke Kilkenny
Manor House at Mount Juliet Estate

11 – 12

Dublin
Highlights: History & Architecture, Guinness Storehouse, Pubs & Nightlife

The Wilder Townhouse
The K Club Hotel & Resort

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Classic Ireland

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Sample Itinerary

Day 1 – 4

3 Nights

Dublin

Dublin is a bustling cosmopolitan capital, straddling River Liffey on Ireland’s eastern coast. While Dublin’s cultural quarter is replete with historic walking trails, medieval castles, and cathedrals, the modern Docklands neighborhood is a testament to the city’s burgeoning tech hub. As the Spire of Dublin looms over the town, explore the sprawling urban greens, 19th-century English markets, Georgian architecture, plus myriad entertainment options that include wakeboarding on the river. Savor the legendary ‘black stuff’ at the Guinness Storehouse, a seven-story interactive museum experience, and the rooftop bar that offers impressive vistas of the cityscape and the Wicklow Mountains beyond. Step into contemporary galleries, admire street art, or cheer buskers as music fills the air. Trinity College offers campus tours to witness the Book of Kells exhibit at The Long Hall library, a haven for literature enthusiasts. Between fresh seafood, whiskey tastings, and Irish Coffees enjoy Dublin’s eclectic food scene. Whatever the season though, carry an umbrella!

Included activities

Dublin Highlights on Foot

Explore the cultural and historical attractions of Dublin through an walking tour. Your friendly local guide will pick you up at your hotel and will be only too happy to tailor the itinerary according to your preferences and interests. Stroll past the majestic Dublin Castle dating back to the 13th century or the imposing St Patrick’s Cathedral that goes back by another two centuries. Explore the scenic landscapes of St Stephen’s Green or the Georgian aesthetics of Merrion Square. Take in the grandeur of the City Hall and the magnificence of Trinity College, founded by Queen Elizabeth I in 1592. Learn more from your guide about the fractious history of the former Houses of Parliament and then savor the hip vibes of Temple Bar, Dublin’s eclectic riverside neighborhood. Take in interesting stories of famous Dubliners who are as much a part of the cultural landscape of the city as its iconic buildings. (Half Day; Duration: 3 hrs; Private Activity; Transfer not required; No Admissions Included; Fitness level: Moderate; Please wear comfortable walking shoes).

Traditional Irish Dinner With Live Entertainment

Enjoy an evening of fun and food at The Merry Ploughboy Pub in Dublin. Relish a hearty three course dinner with a choice of options including traditional Irish staples such as brown bread and apple pie. After your meal, relax and sit back to watch the entertaining live performance by The Merry Ploughboys, who also own the pub. Derive pleasure from the best of Irish music and dance in the show, which also has the performers engaging in a lively interaction with the audience. This show is the longest running in the country, having featured the same performers for more than a quarter of a century! Midway through the show, get to watch a special segment with performances by all-Ireland and World champion Irish dancers from the city and beyond. (Half Day; Times: 1900; Duration: 3 hrs; Meal Included: Dinner; Shared Activity; Transfer not Included; Fitness Level: Easy.)

Guinness Storehouse Tasting Tour

Gain valuable knowledge about what goes into the making of each refreshing pint of Guinness in this interesting brewery tour. Start your exploration at what might be the world’s largest pint glass, situated in the heart of the building! Accompany your knowledgeable guide over seven floors of the structure that was once an old fermentation plant. The iconic beer brand has a history that dates back 250 years. Listen to the dramatic story of how the brand has grown to its current stature over the decades. Conclude your tour of the country’s premier attraction with a halt at Gravity Bar on the top floor. Settle in to enjoy a well-deserved complimentary pint along with stunning 360 degrees views of the city skyline. (Times: 1230/1630; Duration: 1.5 hrs; Private Activity Tour with Admission and Tastings; Transfer not Included; Fitness Level: Easy.)

Hotel options

The Alex Hotel – Opt 1

Room Executive Room

Meals Breakfast

Style Boutique

Dylan Hotel – Opt 2

Room Deluxe Queen Room

Meals Breakfast

Style International

Day 4 – 5

1 Night

County Galway

County Galway, in western Ireland, boasts a mosaic of experiences. Between the picturesque Atlantic coastline and the rocky Connemara National Park, explore the Twelve Bens mountain range, several pristine lakes, picture-postcard farmlands, the Carraroe coral beach, and Clifden’s Sky Road. From cliffside castle ruins and fishermen cottages, to the romantic Kylemore Abbey, Galway offers a wealth of attractions. Be part of celebrations galore, as a bunch of medieval towns host Irish festivities throughout the year, and the Claddagh ring still symbolizes love! The city of Galway along River Corrib, lies midway on the famous Wild Atlantic Way. An ideal base for excursions around, its traditional music and cosmopolitan lifestyle entertain people of all ages. Galway’s vibrant student population keeps the nightlife going all year round, along with artisanal cafes, quaint pubs, and the busking scene. Off shore, the Aran Islands afford stunning natural beauty, thanks to unique geographical formations. Various heritage sites, including the Dún Aonghasa, and the distinct Gaelic culture, make for interesting discoveries.

Included activities

Killary Kayaking Thrills

Explore the fun side of the Connemara coastline with this morning or afternoon activity. Choose from Sea Kayaks, Sit on Tops and Single Cockpit Playboats to get splashing in Killary fjord. Safely in your lifejackets, paddle forth to admire the timeless beauty of fjord’s deep blue waters and the mighty mountains that stand silent sentinel on the horizon. Enjoy the chilled spray on your face and feel the exhilaration of gliding through water in the wild outdoors. (Shared Activity; Group size: 4-15 ppl; Duration: 3 hrs; Times: 10:00 or 12:00 hrs; Chauffeur Transfer Included; Life jackets are provided. Please wear appropriate shoes. Children below 8 yrs are not permitted.)

Hotel options

Ross Lake House Hotel – Opt 1

Room Superior Room

Meals Breakfast

Style Heritage

Abbeyglen Castle Hotel – Opt 2

Room Superior Room

Meals Breakfast

Style Heritage

Day 5 – 7

2 Nights

County Clare

County Clare in western Ireland is known for its natural beauty and culture, from the showstopper Cliffs of Moher that features crashing Atlantic swells, to the lively Irish culture that reels you into intimate gatherings. This rugged and spectacular Atlantic coastline is an adventurer’s paradise. The Wild Atlantic Way offers scenic drives to the Loop Head peninsula, the karst plains of Burren provide fantastic hiking trails, and the quaint seaside towns make for delightful surfing days. Adding experiences at the dramatic caves and chasms of Aillwee, and the tranquil loughs, there’s plenty going on outdoors in County Clare. Explore the historic castles at Knappogue, lavish medieval banquets at Bunratty, and Doonbeg’s golfing haven. Groove to traditional Irish music and dance entertainment at Doolin, or walk the atmospheric streets of Ennis, and treat yourselves to a bevy of local gourmet foods across the county. You can also expect to find a partner at the world-famous Lisdoonvarna Matchmaking Festival!

Included activities

Dolphin Spotting on River Shannon

Set off for the pier next to the castle in Carrigaholt as you embark on an exciting river adventure. Settle into the comfortable boat as it cuts through the water and heads to the mouth of the River Shannon. Listen to the skipper talk about the dolphins and their habitat, as well as the geology and history of the region. Enjoy stunning views of the rugged cliffs and historic landmarks that dot the shoreline. Watch out for dolphins moving in pods as your boat enters the special conservation area. With two zoologists on board, soak in lesser known details about the dolphins and seabirds, such as peregrine falcons and gannets, that are found in the region. Return to shore with lasting memories of your trip to the spot with the largest group of resident bottlenose dolphins in Europe. (Half Day; Duration: 3 hrs; Shared Activity; Chauffeur Transfer Included; Fitness Level: Easy; Please note that tours are not conducted at fixed times but depend on tide and sea conditions as well as passenger demands.)

Leisurely Tour of Burren and Cliffs of Moher

Set out for the Burren Center to get a glimpse into the events that brought on the formation of this unique landscape. Watch an audio-visual presentation about this natural wonder before strolling into the airy crafts shop. Browse through the selection of largely handmade traditional crafts before ambling to the tea rooms with their relaxing ambiance and traditional cuisine. Step out onto the sprawling limestone terrain, which is home to more than 80 tombs that date from the Mesolithic era through the Iron Age. Head along the wild Atlantic Way to the gorgeous Cliffs of Moher, considered the country’s top tourist attraction. For more than 350 million years, these rugged cliffs have towered majestically over the Atlantic Ocean with the waves lapping against them, making for a breathtaking spectacle. Step up to the highest point on the cliffs to savor panoramic views of the vast ocean, which will stay with you for a lifetime. (Full Day; Duration: 8 hrs; Private Activity, Admissions Included; Chauffeur Transfer Included; No Guide at Cliffs of Moher; Fitness Level: Easy.)

Hotel options

Old Ground Hotel Ennis – Opt 1

Room Deluxe Room

Meals Breakfast

Style Heritage

Dromoland Castle – Opt 2

Room Queen Anne Room

Meals Breakfast

Style Heritage

Day 7 – 9

2 Nights

Killarney

Discover Killarney, a vibrant town on the fringes of its namesake national park surrounded by heather-clad highlands in southwestern Ireland. Whether it’s hiking the woodland tracks to the country’s highest mountain Carrauntoohil, plunging into hidden waterfall pools, or kayaking on one of the three pristine lakes, Killarney is a delight for outdoor enthusiasts. Killarney’s location also provides an ideal base to explore the trails of Kerry Way and the scenic Ring of Kerry route nearby. Another popular experience is to cycle through the Gap of Dunloe, a low mountain pass while soaking in the panoramic mountain vistas around. Expect to spot herds of native red deer while hopping between the town’s historical attractions on local jaunting-car rides. Witness traditional Irish farming lifestyle at the stately Muckross House and Farms, and admire the 15th century Ross Castle overlooking Lough Leane. Killarney’s world-class spas let you unwind with a view after golfing, horse racing, and fly fishing sessions.

Included activities

Whip up a Dash of Culinary Magic

Add some flavor to your life with this popular cookery class, ‘Our Taste of Ireland’. Visit the purpose-built cookery school ‘Just Cooking’, founded by Mark and Bernie Doe, food and hospitality industry professionals with over 20 years of experience. Learn how to use the best local produce in a relaxed and fun setting to create some culinary goodness. A few of the dishes that you might create include the traditional brown soda bread, smoked salmon on a potato pancake or Rack of Kerry lamb and vegetables. You might also be trying your hand at crafting delicious Baileys bread and butter pudding with butterscotch sauce! (Private Activity; Chauffeur Transfer Included; Duration: 3 hrs; Please note that the meeting point in Killahane, Firies, Killarney; Children will be allowed into the class only if they are above 12 years of age.)

Ring of Kerry Delights and Hiking

Experience the myriad joys and offerings of the famous Ring of Kerry by car and foot! This untouched part of Ireland, which is a part of the Wild Atlantic Way, has long attracted travelers from around the world. After a peaceful one hour drive, amble through a range of territories, ranging from rugged islands and white sand beaches to dramatic mountain passes. Get a closer view of this wild nature by hiking within. Keep your eyes peeled for white-tailed sea eagles as they fly over Killarney National park. Full Day, Duration: 8 hrs; Private Activity, Chauffeur Transfer Included; Fitness Level: Medium)

Hotel options

Cahernane House Hotel – Opt 1

Room Superior Room

Meals Breakfast

Style Heritage

Killarney Park Hotel – Opt 2

Room Classic Room

Meals Breakfast

Style Heritage

Day 9 – 11

2 Nights

Kilkenny

Keep up with Kilkenny, a well-preserved and lively medieval city nestled amid stud farms and sprawling fields along the Nore river in southeastern Ireland. As the national creative hub, pottery, blown glass, and jewelry highlight Kilkenny’s thriving arts and crafts scene. In keeping with the region’s rich heritage, Gaelic era hurling matches make for some sports entertainment, while the famed local dark beer at Smithwick’s Experience and Michelin-starred restaurants elevate the dining culture of the city. Walking Kilkenny’s winding maze of narrow cobblestone alleyways, especially The Medieval Mile and the Butterslip thoroughfare, is worth the hype. Admire contemporary art in the former kitchens of the brilliantly restored Anglo-Norman Kilkenny Castle and witness remnants of monastic settlements near the magnificent 13th century St Canice’s Cathedral. Off the high street, the merchant townhouse of Rothe House delights with its Tudor-style gardens, and The Black Abbey, a Dominican church showcases excellent stain glass interiors.

Included activities

En Route: Medieval Wanderings at Blarney Castle

Make a visit to one of Ireland’s remarkable medieval treasures on your way from Killarney to Kilkenny! Blarney Castle, near Cork and the River Martin, was built almost 600 years ago by one of Ireland’s greatest chieftains, Cormac MacCarthy. Located close to lush gardens, dungeons and caves, expect to find a lot to explore in the area! Visit The Blarney Stone that has drawn movie stars, literary giants, world statesmen and millions of pilgrims alike, who have kissed the stone, hoping to receive the gift of eloquence. Another incredible archaeological site you will visit is the Rock of Cashel, also known as St. Patrick’s Rock, which is just 500 meters from the center of Cashel Town, County Tipperary. Enter through a spectacular 15th century castle and the Hall of the Vicars, where the museum housing the original Cross of St. Patrick is located. Stroll through this magnificent set of ecclesiastical buildings set on a limestone outcrop in the Golden Vale, which includes a variety of splendid historical structures. Spend time admiring this Romanesque chapel, one of the earliest and most impressive churches built in this style. Head to the cultural region of West Cork, the towns teeming with rural beauty and bustling with activity. Visit Kinsale, a gorgeous seafront town bright with colorful shop fronts, flowerbeds and stunning harbor views. Don’t forget to sample the delicious food it is famous for! Stop by at Glandore village, centered around a 19th century pier, where you can take in the sights of the ocean and see people sailing. (En route Activity; Full Day; Duration: 8 hrs; Private Activity; Chauffeur Transfer Included; Blarney Castle Admission Included; Rock of Cashel Admission not Included; No Guide inside of Attractions; Fitness Level: Easy)

Easy Walking Tour of Kilkenny With Medieval Mile

Unravel the deepest secrets of this medieval city in this fascinating private tour. Learn about the origin of the phrase ‘stinking rich’ and unveil the reason people of Kilkenny are known as cats! Learn about how a 12 inch needle was used to expose witches in a different era. Laugh your way across the quaint city streets as your guide regales you with humorous anecdotes and blends magic with history for a unique experience. Walk down the Medieval Mile trail, an iconic path that runs by prominent historical landmarks of the city, from the 13th century Saint Canice’s Cathedral to the imposing Kilkenny Castle. (Duration: 1.5 hrs; Private Activity; Chauffeur Transfer Included; Fitness Level: Easy.)

Sample the True Taste of Ireland

Get a taste of Ireland’s most popular ale on this guided tour through Smithwick’s brewery and discover brewing innovations by an establishment that has over 300 years of experience in the field. Find out more about how the ale is harvested from the land, right at the heart of Kilkenny. Listen closely to the local staff as they explain what makes the ale so unique. This tour is truly a treat for your senses; take the opportunity to mill the malt, stir the mash and smell the hops firsthand. Most importantly, don’t forget to enjoy yourself on this delightful tour! (Duration: 1 hr; Shared Activity; Chauffeur Transfer Included; Please note that children between 0-5 years of age can enter for free, while children between 6-17 years of age receive child rates and a soft drink during the tour.)

Hotel options

Pembroke Kilkenny – Opt 1

Room Superior Room

Meals Breakfast

Style Boutique

Manor House at Mount Juliet Estate – Opt 2

Room Executive King Room

Meals Breakfast

Style Heritage

Day 11 – 12

1 Night

Dublin

Dublin is a bustling cosmopolitan capital, straddling River Liffey on Ireland’s eastern coast. While Dublin’s cultural quarter is replete with historic walking trails, medieval castles, and cathedrals, the modern Docklands neighborhood is a testament to the city’s burgeoning tech hub. As the Spire of Dublin looms over the town, explore the sprawling urban greens, 19th-century English markets, Georgian architecture, plus myriad entertainment options that include wakeboarding on the river. Savor the legendary ‘black stuff’ at the Guinness Storehouse, a seven-story interactive museum experience, and the rooftop bar that offers impressive vistas of the cityscape and the Wicklow Mountains beyond. Step into contemporary galleries, admire street art, or cheer buskers as music fills the air. Trinity College offers campus tours to witness the Book of Kells exhibit at The Long Hall library, a haven for literature enthusiasts. Between fresh seafood, whiskey tastings, and Irish Coffees enjoy Dublin’s eclectic food scene. Whatever the season though, carry an umbrella!

Included activities

En Route: Leisurely Exploration of County Wicklow Attractions

Set out on the drive to Dublin, halting en route to appreciate the exquisite beauty of County Wicklow attractions. Soak in the picturesque beauty of the Glendalough glacial valley that is tucked into the majestic Wicklow Mountains. Situated within the Wicklow Mountains National Park, the valley is dotted with walking trails and picnic spots and is home to numerous wildlife species. Listen to your guide outline the historical significance of the sixth century monastic settlement, founded by Saint Kevin, as you walk around its ruins. Make your way to elegant Powerscourt House and Gardens set at the foot of the mountains. This 13th century mansion was renovated in 1996 and is surrounded by spectacular gardens. Amble across the beautiful lawns at your own pace, as you pause by ornamental lakes and uncover secret hollows. Resume your onward journey after attempting to identify as many as possible of the 200 species of shrubs and trees on the property! (En route Activity; Full Day; Duration: 8hrs; Private Activity; Chauffeur Transfer Included; Admission Included; No Guide inside of Gardens; Fitness Level: Easy.)

Hotel options

The Wilder Townhouse – Opt 1

Room Popular Double Room

Meals Breakfast

Style Boutique

The K Club Hotel & Resort – Opt 2

Room Deluxe Woodland View Room

Meals Breakfast

Style Farmhouse / Estancia

What Our Guests Say

“Our trip to Ireland was incredible and seamless thanks to Enchanting Travels! Every detail was perfectly planned, balancing culture, adventure, and relaxation. Highlights included a Dublin food tour, Cliffs of Moher cruise, and kayaking by Ross Castle. The accommodations were excellent and our private driver-guides were professional, warm, and flexible. Everything felt effortless and luxurious without being rigid. We highly recommend them to anyone planning a trip to Ireland!”

Courtney Sciabbarrasi, April 2026 Rating 5/5

“A three-week trip to various parts of the UK seemed too much for us to plan and execute, so I was glad when a friend told me about her magical UK trip. She had relied on the expertise of Cherisse Liptzin and ET. From the first meeting, we were impressed. Cherisse asked great questions to figure out our expectations, preferences, and wishes. She offered suggestions based on her time traveling throughout the UK. She was flexible when we made changes to our initial plan and when we added further edits and additional days. Her guidance was superb! Then, she handed us over to our trip coordinator, Namrata Gupta who worked with us before and throughout our time in the UK. Namrata, in her intro message, assured us that we wouldn’t need to worry about a thing – that she would take care of everything. That big promise was proven to be 100% genuine and true. We had several unforeseen issues arise, and she helped us resolve everything. We didn’t miss a bit of the fun and enjoyment of the trip thanks to this dear, responsive, smart trip coordinator who answered the call, going above and beyond every time we needed her help. ET has a process that ensures your travel will be enjoyable, safe, and easy. We give them our highest recommendation. In fact, we’re already planning our next journeys with their wise guidance and help. We’re thrilled to travel with ET!”

Gloria Thomas, May 2025 Rating 5/5

“Enchanting Travels made planning my trip to Ireland very easy and stress free. The experience with Enchanting Travels and finally getting to visit Ireland was a dream come true. I am so glad I did it! I had to go to Ireland by myself, but I didn’t feel like I was alone. My travel guide checked in with me everyday to make sure things were going well. I had my personal chauffeur/tour guide who was with me at least 8 hours a day so I wasn’t completely by myself. I felt very safe and well taken care of. Don’t hesitate to use Enchanting Travels for your next trip. They are the best!”

Donna Thomas, May 2025 Rating 5/5

“We recently returned from a 10-day trip to London and Paris, and Enchanting Travels made the entire experience seamless and unforgettable. Elizabeth handled all of our bookings and excursions with care and attention to detail. During our trip, Vipra was on call and incredibly helpful anytime we needed assistance. She even surprised us with a thoughtful gift and champagne to celebrate our anniversary, such a kind and personal touch! The Enchanting Travels app was also super user-friendly, which made it easy to keep track of our itinerary, confirmations, and documents all in one place. Everything ran smoothly from start to finish. We’ll definitely be booking with them again!”

Katie Ritchie, June 2025 Rating 5/5

“This was my second trip booked through Enchanting Travels and I will continue to use them for any future trips. The service they provide is amazing and best of all they make everything so easy. Lisa Fox and Divya were brilliant with everything they did for us. I cannot stress enough how much I enjoyed my trip and a lot of that is due to them and their help. 10/10 would recommend. ”

Alexis Marie North, October 2024 Rating 5/5

“Enchanting Travels is an amazing travel company. We have done two major trips of over two weeks with them. The UK and Ireland trips were our two favorites of all time. We have been traveling extensively for over ten years, and Enchanting Travels has delivered in a major way. We will certainly use them again in the future.”

Kim Nash Burdette, September 2024 Rating 5/5

What our Guests Say

Classic Ireland

Luxury Travel. Your Way.

Ideal For

Sample Itinerary

Thank You for Inquiring

Sample Itinerary

Day 1 – 4

Day 4 – 5

Day 5 – 7

Day 7 – 9

Day 9 – 11

Day 11 – 12

Dublin

County Galway

County Clare

Killarney

Kilkenny

Dublin

Price & Inclusions

Option 1

Option 2

Price Includes

Not Included

What Our Guests Say

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