Grand Tour of Ireland

Independent Holiday - Self-Drive 14 Days ex Dublin Departs: Daily Notes: Flexible itinerary with the option to add extra nights throughout your journey Option to upgrade accommodation throughout the itinerary, from carefully selected standard properties to premium and luxury hotels or castle stays. Dublin (2) | Cork (1) | Kerry (2) | Clare or Limerick (1) | Galway (2) | Sligo or Donegal (2) | Derry (1) | Antrim (1) | Dublin (1) Ireland is a land of dramatic coastlines, ancient monuments, vibrant cities and rich cultural traditions. This comprehensive 14-day self-drive journey showcases the very best of the Emerald Isle, from Dublin's historic streets and medieval castles to the spectacular landscapes of the Wild Atlantic Way and the legendary Causeway Coast. Travel through charming villages, bustling market towns and some of Europe's most breathtaking scenery as you explore iconic destinations including the Ring of Kerry, Dingle Peninsula, Cliffs of Moher, Connemara, Donegal and the Giant's Causeway. Along the way, discover Ireland's fascinating history through ancient passage tombs, prehistoric monuments, Titanic heritage and centuries-old whiskey traditions. Combining included sightseeing, comfortable accommodation and the freedom of your own rental car, this itinerary offers an immersive introduction to Ireland's landscapes, culture, history and warm hospitality. Highlights: 24/7 service and full local backup throughout Ireland Discover Dublin's rich heritage with visits to Trinity College, the Guinness Storehouse and EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum Visit Cobh, the Titanic's final port of call, and experience the fascinating Titanic Experience Visit the towering Slieve League Cliffs, among the highest sea cliffs in Europe Travel the world-famous Ring of Kerry, one of Ireland's most spectacular scenic touring routes Experience the rugged beauty and Gaelic traditions of the Dingle Peninsula Stand atop the dramatic Cliffs of Moher overlooking the Atlantic Ocean Follow the stunning Causeway Coastal Route and visit the UNESCO-listed Giant's Causeway Tour the historic Old Bushmills Distillery, one of the world's oldest licensed whiskey distilleries Explore the ancient monuments of the Boyne Valley, including Newgrange, older than the pyramids of Egypt Itinerary Accommodation Day 1: Dublin Welcome to Dublin, Ireland's vibrant capital city. Upon arrival at Dublin Airport, collect your rental car and make your way to your hotel. Depending on your arrival time, explore the historic grounds of Trinity College Dublin, Ireland's oldest university and home to the beautifully illustrated Book of Kells. Stroll through the cobbled streets of the city centre and soak up Dublin's unique blend of history, culture and lively atmosphere. Day 2: Dublin (B) This morning, visit the world-renowned Guinness Storehouse and discover the story behind Ireland's most famous stout. Journey through the interactive exhibits before taking in panoramic views across Dublin from the Gravity Bar. Later, continue to EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum, an award-winning interactive museum that brings to life the remarkable stories of Irish emigrants who helped shape communities around the world. Through immersive displays and engaging exhibits, discover the influence of Irish culture far beyond the shores of Ireland. Day 3: Kilkenny - Cork (B) Travel south through Ireland's heartland, stopping in the medieval city of Kilkenny. Explore the magnificent Kilkenny Castle, wander the cobbled streets and visit St. Canice's Cathedral before continuing to County Cork. Day 4: Cork - Kerry (B) Visit the famous English Market, one of Ireland's oldest covered food markets, before travelling to the historic harbour town of Cobh, the Titanic's final port of call. Optional (supplement applies): Visit the Titanic Experience, located in the original White Star Line ticket office, and discover the stories of the passengers who boarded the ill-fated ship in 1912. Continue west into County Kerry, renowned for its stunning scenery, colourful towns and rich cultural heritage. Day 5: Ring of Kerry (B) Spend the day exploring one of Ireland's most celebrated scenic drives. The Ring of Kerry winds through coastal villages, mountain passes and dramatic Atlantic landscapes, revealing ancient stone forts, early Christian sites and panoramic viewpoints at every turn. Day 6: Kerry - Dingle Peninsula - Limerick (B) Discover the captivating Dingle Peninsula, where rugged coastlines, sandy beaches and Gaelic traditions combine to create one of Ireland's most distinctive regions. Continue through the picturesque village of Adare before travelling to County Clare or Limerick. Day 7: Limerick - Cliffs of Moher - Galway (B) Journey through the unique limestone landscape of the Burren before arriving at the awe-inspiring Cliffs of Moher, rising dramatically above the Atlantic Ocean. Continue to Galway, known for its lively atmosphere, colourful streets and thriving arts scene. Day 8: Connemara (B) Explore the wild beauty of Connemara, a region of mountains, lakes, peat bogs and secluded valleys. Visit Kylemore Abbey, one of Ireland's most romantic castles, and discover the natural beauty of Connemara National Park. Day 9: Galway - Donegal (B) Travel north through Ireland's northwest, visiting the remarkable Carrowmore Megalithic Cemetery, one of Europe's oldest and most important prehistoric landscapes. Dating back more than 5,000 years, the site contains a remarkable collection of Neolithic tombs set amidst the scenic countryside of County Sligo. A guided visit offers fascinating insights into Ireland's earliest inhabitants and ancient burial traditions. Continue to the rugged landscapes of County Donegal. Day 10: Donegal (B) Discover the dramatic Slieve League Cliffs, among the highest sea cliffs in Europe. Continue to Glenveagh National Park, where mountains, lakes and native woodland create one of Ireland's most spectacular wilderness areas. Day 11: Donegal - Derry (B) Travel to Derry, one of Ireland's most historic and culturally significant cities. Walk the famous city walls, admire the beautifully preserved old town and learn about the city's fascinating and complex past. Day 12: Derry - Causeway Coast - Belfast area (B) Follow the stunning Causeway Coastal Route to the UNESCO-listed Giant's Causeway. Continue to the renowned Old Bushmills Distillery, where centuries of whiskey-making tradition come to life. Travel onward to County Antrim. Day 13: Belfast area - Boyne Valley - Dublin (B) Visit Belfast and the Titanic Museum, one of Irelands most visited attractions. Journey south through the historic Boyne Valley, home to some of Ireland's most important archaeological treasures at Newgrange, including ancient passage tombs older than the pyramids of Egypt. Continue to Dublin for your final evening. Day 14: Dublin (B) Drive to Dublin Airport and return your rental vehicle before your onward flight. TOUR INCLUSIONS: 24/7 local operator support in Ireland 13 nights hotel & guesthouse accommodation Breakfast Daily EPIC Museum Guiness Storehouse & tasting Kilkenny Castle Cliffs of Moher Kylemore Abbey Carrowmore Megalithic Cemetery Slieve League Cliffs Giants causeway Old Bushmills Distillery Titanic Museum in Belfast Newgrange 14-day car rental automatic compact Ford Focus or similar – unlimited KM’s and basic insurance Ireland Travel Notes - issued by Innovative Travel TOUR EXCLUSIONS: International airfares Optional tours and excursions Meals other than specified Drinks Porterage Tipping/Gratuities (please refer to tour notes for a recommended guideline) Personal Expenses Hotel charges for minibar or any extra charges Visas (unless specified) Travel Insurance (compulsory) Any other services not clearly mentioned in the inclusions above Accommodation based on the following (or similar): Dublin Tourist Class: The Plaza Hotel Cork B&B Kerry Tourist Class: River Island Hotel Clare or Limerick B&B Galway Tourist Class: Shearwater Hotel Sligo or Donegal B&B Derry Tourist Class: The Waterfoot Hotel Antrim Tourist Class: Adair Arms Hotel Enquire About This Itinerary Trip prices and dates are correct at the time of the website going live, however all offers are subject to reconfirmation at the time of booking. All featured tour itineraries and offers may be subject to change due to seasonal variations without notice, or due to local conditions or other conditions. Please confirm all details at time of booking. Travel insurance is mandatory for all Innovative Travel bookings. All passports must be valid for 6 months prior to your return to your home country. Visas are the responsibility of the traveller. Special VIP meet and assist offers are available in some destinations for New Zealand passport holders, for other nationalities please check at the time of booking. For full terms and conditions, please refer to our Booking Conditions page.