Explore the World with Olde World Travel

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 DAY 1, Thursday, September 24th- Depart for Ireland
Depart for Ireland (travelers are leaving from various destinations across the US).

DAY 2, Friday, September 25th- Dublin’s Landmarks & History
Welcome to the Emerald Isle! Your journey begins with your private transfer from Dublin Airport to your charming, boutique hotel. After settling in, meet your Tour Manager, Jen, who will provide  suggestions for you to begin to explore the city outskirts on your own, or perhaps refresh yourself with a nap prior to our Welcome Reception.
 

Your official tour will begin with an orientation meeting with your Tour Manager at approximately 5:30 PM. Followed by our amazing “Welcome Reception” from 6-8 p.m. with beer, wine, and appetizers. Get to know the other travelers with our legendary Welcome Reception. Tonight, dinner with the group (self-pay) in the heart of the city center.
Accommodations: Dublin

DAY 3, Saturday, September 26th- The Spirit of Dublin

Immerse yourself in the history and literature of Dublin, a city immortalized by the legendary James Joyce. Our day begins with a guided panoramic drive through O’Connell Street, famous for its historic statues and monuments, on our way to Phoenix Park. As the largest enclosed city park in Europe, it serves as the prestigious home to the President of Ireland.

Historic Landmarks:

• St. Patrick’s Cathedral: Stand in awe of the largest church in Ireland, built in honor of the nation’s patron saint.
• Christ Church Cathedral: Step back nearly 1,000 years in time as we visit this architectural marvel in the heart of medieval Dublin.

Morning- Experience Dublin through the eyes of a local, alongside a tight-knit group of curious explorers. We move through the city as one, taking the time to truly see the sights—from the spire of St. Patrick’s Cathedral to the tucked-away haunts of Temple Bar. Because we keep our groups small, we don’t just 'see' the city; we connect with it together. 

The Afternoon is at your leisure or consider joining our Optional Excursion: Spend the afternoon exploring the city (at your own pace) or join our featured optional tour: EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum & The Jeanie Johnston Ship.

• Discover the powerful global impact of the Irish diaspora through high-tech      multimedia exhibits.
• Board the Jeanie Johnston, a faithful reproduction of a 19th-century "famine ship," to experience the harrowing yet hopeful journey of emigrants past.
• Optional excursion includes lunch.

Evening Celebration: Tonight, join the group for an unforgettable evening at a local tavern. Experience the heart of Irish culture with lively traditional entertainment and great company (dinner is self-pay).

• Accommodations: Dublin
• Meals Included: Breakfast

*Optional Excursion: EPIC Ireland & Jeanie Johnston with lunch

DAY 4, Sunday, September 27th- Scenic Wicklow & Medieval Kilkenny

We bid farewell to Dublin and head south through the breathtaking landscapes of County Wicklow. Our route takes us past the tranquil Blessington Lakes, offering some of the most scenic views in the "Garden of Ireland" as we make our way to the historic city of Kilkenny.

Exploring the "Marble City":

• Kilkenny Castle: Experience the grandeur of the 12th century with a tour of this majestic fortress, which has stood on the banks of the River Nore for over 800 years.
• Medieval Heritage: Visit the city’s splendid medieval cathedral and discover why Kilkenny is renowned as Ireland's most beautiful inland city.

Afternoon & Evening: Enjoy the balance of the afternoon at your leisure. You might choose to wander the "Medieval Mile," a narrow trail of ancient streets and laneways lined with craft shops and historic pubs.

Later tonight, enjoy dinner with our small group taking in the local culinary scene at a restaurant close to our hotel (self-pay).

Accommodations: Kilkenny
Meals: Breakfast

Perhaps you'll choose to join our Optional Excursion at 8:00 p.m.- from 20 Euros Per Person-  

The Kilkenny Ghost Tours- For a spine-tingling addition to your evening, join the Kilkenny Ghost Tour with our own Tour Guide. This hour-long walking tour weaves through the city’s narrow medieval "slips" and cobbled lanes, bringing Kilkenny’s dark history to life. You’ll hear bone-chilling, fact-based accounts of the 1324 witch trials of Dame Alice Kyteler, the tragic 1763 John’s Bridge collapse, and the eerie legends of the Black Death, all led by costumed guides who masterfully blend horror with local folklore. It’s a perfectly atmospheric way to experience the "Marble City" after the sun goes down.

DAY 5, Monday, September 28th- Viking Heritage & The Gift of Gab

Our adventure continues south into the heart of Ireland’s ancient past and legendary folklore.

Exploring Ireland’s Oldest City:

• Waterford Walking Tour: Discover the Viking origins of Waterford, a city founded over a thousand years ago. We’ll explore its historic streets and maritime heritage.
• Waterford Crystal: During your free time, you may choose to visit the world-renowned Waterford Crystal showroom to see master craftsmen at work.

Legends of County Cork:

• Blarney Castle: We journey to the storied 15th-century Blarney Castle. Here, you can climb the battlements to kiss the legendary Blarney Stone, an act said to bestow the "gift of gab" upon all who dare.
• Blarney Woollen Mills: Enjoy time to browse this iconic store for traditional Irish knitwear, crystal, and unique local crafts.

Arrival in Killarney: We conclude the day by driving into County Kerry, arriving in the vibrant town of Killarney. You'll be greeted by a landscape of soaring mountain ranges, shimmering lakes, and the rugged Atlantic coastline. Tonight, join the group for dinner at a local establishment (self-pay).

Accommodations: Killarney
Meals: Breakfast

DAY 6, Tuesday, September 29th– The Grandeur of the Ring of Kerry

Prepare for a day of magnificent vistas as we journey around the world-famous Ring of Kerry. This iconic circuit follows the island’s southwestern tip, offering a continuous reel of Ireland’s most stunning natural beauty.

Coastal & Mountain Splendor:

• Sparkling Seascapes: Admire the rugged Atlantic coastline, where deep blue waters meet emerald cliffs.
• Picturesque Villages: Drive through the remote and colorful villages of Cahirciveen and Sneem, where brightly colored farmhouses dot the mountainsides.
• Lush Landscapes: Travel along winding lanes bordered by surprising subtropical vegetation, a result of the unique Gulf Stream climate.
• Lakes of Killarney: Take in the breathtaking panorama of the lakes from world-class vantage points within Killarney National Park.

Afternoon Activities:

• Optional Jaunting Car Ride: For a truly traditional experience, join an optional ride in a Jaunting Car (a pony and open carriage). It’s a peaceful way to enjoy the green countryside and fresh air.
• Leisure Time: We return to Killarney in the late afternoon, giving you time to explore the town’s vibrant shop-lined streets at your own leisure.
• Optional Excursion: The Meeting of the Waters: A Killarney Hidden Gem- from 25 Euros per person. 1.5 hours. Escape the crowds with an intimate boat journey departing from the historic stone pier at Ross Castle. Gliding across Lough Leane in a traditional open craft, you’ll navigate the narrow, tree-lined channels of Killarney National Park to reach the serene "Meeting of the Waters," where the park’s three lakes converge. This passage offers a unique, water-level perspective of the landscape—including the moss-covered arches of the Old Weir Bridge and the rugged MacGillycuddy’s Reeks—that is completely inaccessible by road.

Evening: Tonight, we will gather for a group dinner at a local favorite to share stories from our day on the Ring (dinner is self-pay).

Accommodations: Killarney
Meals: Breakfast
*Optional Excursion: Jaunting Cars & The Meeting of the Waters

DAY 7, Wednesday, September 30th- Castles, Culture & Coastal Wonders

Today, we journey north through some of Ireland’s most beloved landscapes, from "the prettiest village in Ireland" to the rugged edge of the Atlantic.

Medieval Splendor & Living History:

• The Village of Adare: Enjoy a drive through picturesque Adare, famous for its charming pastel storefronts and iconic thatched-roof cottages.
• Bunratty Castle: Explore Ireland’s most complete and authentic medieval fortress. Carefully restored to its former glory, the castle houses an incredible collection of original 15th- and 16th-century furnishings, tapestries, and art.
• The Folk Park: Step back into the 19th century in this delightful living museum. Stroll through a reconstructed village complete with a schoolhouse, post office, and hardware shop. Be sure to stop by McNamara’s Pub for a cold refreshment and a taste of old-world hospitality.

Nature’s Masterpieces:

• Cliffs of Moher: Stand in awe before one of Ireland’s most spectacular sights. This mighty wall of rock rises 700 feet above the crashing Atlantic waves, offering amazing views that stretch for miles.
• The Burren: We continue our journey through the Burren, a hauntingly beautiful limestone plateau known for its unique flora and desolate, moon-like terrain.

Arrival in Galway: We finish our day in vibrant Galway, the historic home of the world-famous Claddagh ring. Take the evening to soak in the atmosphere of the "City of Tribes." Dinner together at a local restaurant or on your own (self-pay).

Accommodations: Galway
Meals: Breakfast

DAY 8, Thursday, October 1st- The Charm of Galway

Start your day by exploring the vibrant and bohemian spirit of Galway, the "City of Tribes." We’ll wander through the heart of this coastal gem to discover its unique blend of medieval history and modern culture.

Galway Highlights:

• Medieval Heritage: Walk along the historic city walls and through the bustling, colorful streets that stretch between the River Corrib and Eyre Square.
• Galway Cathedral: Visit the grand Galway Cathedral, one of the most impressive buildings in the city. Located on the banks of the River Corrib, it is renowned for its stunning stone architecture and beautiful stained glass.

Afternoon & Evening: Spend the rest of the day enjoying the lively atmosphere of the Latin Quarter, perhaps listening to talented street performers or visiting a local workshop to learn about the history of the Claddagh ring.

Accommodations: Galway
Meals: Breakfast

DAY 9, Friday, October 2nd- Return to Dublin 

After a final morning in the vibrant city of Galway, we begin our scenic drive back across the heart of the island returning to Dublin. Enjoy the changing landscapes one last time as we return to where our journey began.

Afternoon to explore on your own or choose the *Optional Guinness Brewery Tour.

Evening Celebration: Tonight, we gather for a special farewell dinner (self pay) at our hotel. It’s a time to share favorite memories, exchange photos, share one final toast and say goodbye to your Tour Manager who has guided you through the magic of the Emerald Isle.

• Accommodations: Dublin
• Meals Included: Breakfast and Farewell Drinks
• Special Feature: Enjoy complimentary farewell drinks (beer or wine) during dinner, courtesy of Olde World Travel, as we raise a toast to our incredible journey and our next small group travel adventure!

*Optional Excursion- Guinness Brewery Tour.

DAY 10, Saturday, October 3rd- Homeward Bound

Enjoy a final Irish breakfast before your journey comes to a close. A shuttle (from the hotel) will take you to Dublin Airport for your departure flight(s) home. As you head to your gate, it’s the perfect time to start dreaming about your next travel adventure with Olde World Travel!
Meals: Breakfast