Explore the Best of Ireland

‘Best of Ireland & Northern Ireland’ 15-Day Heritage Tour!

From
$9,850 AUD

Trip length:
15 Days

Trip starts: Dublin
Trip ends: Dublin

Depart
1st - 15th July 2027
17th - 26th August 2027 (10 Days)
2nd -16th September 2027

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Inclusions & Exclusions
Tour Highlights
Itinerary
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Tour Summary

Embark on a 15-day journey through Ireland and Northern Ireland, exploring rich history, Celtic heritage, local culture, and breathtaking landscapes. Begin in Dublin before travelling through Kilkenny, Cork and Cobh, then experience the beauty of Killarney, Adare, Bunratty and the Wild Atlantic Way.

Discover the spectacular Cliffs of Moher and The Burren, experience the vibrant culture of Galway, and visit Cong and Ashford Castle before travelling through Connemara and Kylemore Abbey to Westport. Continue north through Sligo and Donegal before exploring Belfast, Downpatrick and Armagh, with memorable cultural and heritage experiences along the way.

Inclusions & Exclusions

  • Meals: 14 breakfasts, 1 lunch and 7 Dinners

  • Transportation: All transportation throughout the tour

  • Accommodation: 14 nights in 3-4 star Hotels

  • Tour Guides: Tour Director and locally based expert tour guides

  • Entry fees and experiences: All included on the itinerary

Inclusions

  • Flights: International Flights

  • Single Supplement Fees (applies to solo travellers opting for their own room)

  • Airport Transfers at the start and end of the tour

  • Pre- or Post-Tour Accommodation, unless otherwise specified

Exclusions

Daily Itinerary

  • Morning

    Arrive in Dublin and settle into your accommodation. Take some time to relax before beginning your first taste of Ireland’s vibrant capital.

    Activities:

    • 4:00 PM — Dublin Walking Tour: Enjoy a guided walking tour through the heart of Dublin, passing Trinity College and discovering the history and atmosphere of the city.

    • Grafton Street: Explore Dublin’s famous pedestrian shopping street, known for its lively atmosphere, street performers and musical character.

    • St Stephen’s Green: Visit this elegant Victorian park in the heart of the city.

    • Enjoy some free time to explore Dublin independently, browse the shops, enjoy a coffee or soak up the atmosphere.

    Dinner

    6:30 PM — Welcome Dinner: Enjoy dinner at an iconic traditional Irish pub, accompanied by traditional Irish music and dancing.

    Hotel

    Dublin

  • Morning

    After breakfast at the hotel, depart Dublin at approximately 9:00 AM and travel south through the Irish countryside towards Kilkenny.

    Distance: Approximately 125 km
    Travel time: Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes

    Activities:

    • Kilkenny — Ireland’s Medieval Gem: Explore one of Ireland’s most atmospheric historic towns, known for its medieval architecture, winding streets and lively arts scene.

    • Guided Kilkenny Walking Tour: Discover the town’s medieval lanes, historic churches and important landmarks.

    • Kilkenny Castle: Enjoy free time to explore this historic castle and its surrounding parkland.

    • Browse local artisan stalls and the Makers Market for Irish crafts, artwork and locally produced goods.

    • Lunch: At leisure.

  • Morning

    Explore Cork’s famous English Market and discover its selection of local produce, fresh foods and Irish culinary specialities.

    Activities:

    • The English Market: Take time to explore one of Ireland’s best-known food markets.

    • Lunch: At leisure.

    • Cobh — Ireland’s Maritime Gateway: Explore the colourful harbour town and learn about its deep connection with Irish emigration and maritime history.

    • Discover Cobh’s connection to the Titanic, which made its final port of call here before crossing the Atlantic.

    • Cobh Heritage Centre & Migration Museum: Learn about generations of Irish emigrants and their journeys overseas.

    • Optional Private Genealogy Session: Available for guests particularly interested in tracing their family history.

    • Optional Titanic Experience: Discover more about Cobh’s connection with the famous ship.

    • Enjoy the evening in Cobh.

    Dinner

    6:30 PM — Dinner at leisure

  • Morning

    After breakfast, depart Cobh and travel west towards Killarney and the spectacular landscapes of County Kerry.

    Activities:

    • Muckross House & Killarney National Park: Enjoy lunch at Muckross House before exploring the historic estate, gardens and surrounding national park.

    • Discover the magnificent nineteenth-century Muckross House and Ireland’s country-house heritage.

    • Torc Waterfall: Visit one of Killarney National Park’s best-known natural attractions, surrounded by lush woodland.

    • Optional Jaunting Cart Ride: Take a traditional jaunting cart ride towards Muckross Abbey.

    • Killarney: Enjoy free time to explore the town’s welcoming pubs, cafés, restaurants and shops.

    Dinner

  • Morning

    After breakfast, depart Tralee at approximately 9:00 AM and travel towards the Dingle Peninsula, enjoying scenic viewpoints along the way.

    Activities:

    • Explore the spectacular landscapes and viewpoints of the Dingle Peninsula.

    • Spend time in the seaside town of Dingle.

    • 12:30 PM — Lunch at Dirty Nelly’s: Enjoy lunch near Bunratty Castle.

    • Bunratty Castle & Folk Park: Explore the impressive medieval castle and discover Ireland’s rural past through traditional buildings, cottages, farms and village scenes.

    • Continue to Ennis, County Clare, and settle into your accommodation.

    Dinner

    6:30 PM — Town Hall Bistro

  • Morning

    Begin the day at Ennis Library before travelling towards Ireland’s spectacular Atlantic coastline.

    Activities:

    • Ennis Library — Family History & Archives: Meet Executive Librarian Michael Talty and explore historical archives and Ireland’s documentary heritage.

    • Wild Atlantic Way: Depart Ennis at approximately 9:00 AM and travel through the dramatic landscapes of the Atlantic coast.

    • Cliffs of Moher: Experience one of Ireland’s great natural landmarks and enjoy spectacular views over the Atlantic Ocean.

    • The Burren: Enjoy lunch at the Burren Heritage Centre before exploring its extraordinary limestone landscape.

    • Poulnabrone Dolmen: Visit one of Ireland’s most recognisable prehistoric monuments.

    • Doolin: Discover this small coastal village renowned for traditional Irish music.

    Dinner

    6:30 PM — Traditional Irish Music Dinner: Enjoy dinner in a welcoming Doolin pub accompanied by traditional Irish music.

  • Morning

    Begin the day with a visit to Galway Cathedral, followed by morning tea or coffee at the historic Hardiman Hotel.

    Activities:

    • Galway Cathedral: Visit one of the city’s most recognisable landmarks.

    • The Hardiman Hotel: Enjoy morning tea or coffee overlooking Galway’s main square.

    • Guided Galway City Tour: Explore Galway’s historic centre, colourful streets and strong connection to Irish culture.

    • Enjoy free time to browse local heritage shops, visit the Galway City Museum or wander through the city.

    • Optional Tig Cóilí Visit: Experience a live traditional Irish music session at one of Galway’s best-known traditional pubs.

    Dinner

    6:30 PM — Dinner in Galway, with the option to continue the evening with live Irish music.

  • Morning

    After breakfast, depart Galway at approximately 9:00 AM and travel towards the picturesque village of Cong.

    Distance: Approximately 40 km
    Travel time: Approximately 40 minutes

    Activities:

    • Cong — The Quiet Man: Explore the village famous as a filming location for the classic film The Quiet Man.

    • Cong Abbey: Discover the remarkable medieval ruins and their fascinating history.

    • Enjoy lunch at Pat Cohan’s Pub, associated with The Quiet Man.

    • Ashford Castle & Lough Corrib: Continue to the magnificent surroundings of Ashford Castle.

    • Lough Corrib Boat Cruise: Enjoy a peaceful two-hour boat cruise from Ashford Castle to Inchagoill Island.

    • Explore Inchagoill Island and discover its rich monastic history.

    • Return to Ashford Castle and enjoy time to relax.

    • Optional Mrs T’s Tearoom: Enjoy scones with jam and cream, subject to availability and timing.

    Dinner

    6:30 PM — Dinner

  • Morning

    Travel into Connemara, one of Ireland’s most evocative landscapes, surrounded by mountains, lakes, rugged stone walls and open countryside.

    Activities:

    • Scenic Drive Through Connemara: Experience the region’s dramatic scenery and changing landscapes.

    • Kylemore Abbey: Visit one of Ireland’s most romantic and recognisable landmarks.

    • Explore the historic Victorian house and Gothic church.

    • Wander through the beautifully restored Victorian Walled Gardens.

    • Enjoy the woodland trails and surrounding scenery, with the possibility of seeing Connemara ponies.

    • Lunch: At leisure on site.

    • Westport: Spend the afternoon exploring this welcoming town, known for its colourful streets, Georgian architecture, independent shops and community atmosphere.

    Dinner

    6:30 PM — Dinner in Westport

  • Morning

    Enjoy a local walking tour around Westport and free time for lunch in town.

    Activities:

    • Westport Walking Tour: Discover the town and its local character on foot.

    • Lunch: At leisure in Westport.

    • Country Life Museum: Visit the museum in the afternoon and discover aspects of Ireland’s rural heritage.

    • Visit an ancient round tower and church.

    • Continue north towards Letterkenny, the gateway to County Donegal.

    • Enjoy the changing landscapes as the journey moves into Ireland’s northwest.

    Dinner

    6:30 PM — Dinner at the hotel

  • Morning

    Begin the day travelling through Donegal, exploring ancient Ireland, living history and local hospitality.

    Activities:

    • Grianán of Aileach: Visit the ancient stone ring fort positioned on the summit of Greenan Mountain.

    • Take in panoramic views across Lough Swilly, Lough Foyle and the Donegal countryside.

    • Doagh Famine Village: Explore this open-air museum and learn about rural Irish life, the Great Famine and the resilience of local communities.

    • Tea & Lunch in a Private Local Home: Spend time with local people over tea and homemade food while hearing stories about the area, family traditions and life in Donegal.

    • Continue onwards towards Belfast.

    Dinner

    6:30 PM — Dinner in town

  • Morning

    Explore Belfast and discover both the complex history and hopeful future of Northern Ireland.

    Activities:

    • Belfast Peace Walls Tour: Explore the history of Belfast’s divided communities and the period known as the Troubles.

    • See murals, memorials and the Peace Walls while hearing stories of those who experienced these events firsthand.

    • Learn about the peace process and the themes of reconciliation and hope shaping Belfast today.

    • Belfast City Hall: Visit one of the city’s most recognisable landmarks and admire its architecture, stained-glass windows and historic interiors.

    • Optional Titanic Belfast: Discover Belfast’s shipbuilding heritage and the story of the RMS Titanic.

    • Or — Afternoon Tea at Titanic Hotel: Enjoy afternoon tea within the historic former offices of Harland & Wolff.

    Dinner

    6:30 PM — Dinner in Belfast

  • Morning

    Set out on a day trip exploring the incredible coastline of Northern Ireland, travelling from Bushmills to Ballycastle.

    Activities:

    • Giant’s Causeway: Explore one of Northern Ireland’s most famous natural landmarks.

    • Travel along the spectacular northern coastline from Bushmills to Ballycastle.

    • Lunch at Bushmills Inn.

    • Bushmills Whiskey Distillery: Visit the famous distillery.

    • Enjoy scenic stops along the coastline before returning to Belfast.

    Dinner

    Dinner in Belfast

    Hotel

    Dunadry, Belfast

  • Morning

    Enjoy a slow start before departing at approximately 10:00 AM.

    Activities:

    • St George’s Market: Explore the market and enjoy lunch while tasting one of Belfast’s famous Belfast baps.

    • Spend the afternoon exploring Belfast.

    • Irish Set Dancing Class: Watch or join in an Irish set dancing class.

    Dinner

    Dinner at Dunadry

  • Morning

    Enjoy your final morning in Belfast as your 15-day Ireland & Northern Ireland journey comes to an end.

    Activities:

    • Enjoy breakfast and prepare for your onward journey.

    • Say farewell to your fellow travellers and reflect on the wonderful experiences shared throughout Ireland and Northern Ireland.

    • Guests finishing the 15-Day Ireland & Northern Ireland Tour will depart for their onward travel or flight home.

    Dinner

    Hotel

*Itineraries subject to change

Highlights

    • Trinity College and Dublin’s historic city centre

    • Kilkenny Castle and guided medieval walking tour

    • Cobh Heritage Centre & Migration Museum – exploring Ireland’s emigration story

    • Titanic heritage in Cobh, the ship’s final port of call

    • Optional private genealogy session in Cobh

    • Muckross House – discovering Ireland’s nineteenth-century country-house heritage

    • Bunratty Castle & Folk Park – immersive medieval and rural Irish history

    • Ennis Library – family history and historical archives

    • Poulnabrone Dolmen – one of Ireland’s most recognisable prehistoric monuments

    • Galway Cathedral and guided Galway city tour

    • Cong Abbey – medieval history in the village of Cong

    • Kylemore Abbey, Gothic Church & Victorian Walled Gardens

    • Grianán of Aileach – ancient stone ring fort overlooking the Donegal countryside

    • Doagh Famine Village – exploring Ireland’s social history and the story of the Great Famine

    • Belfast Peace Walls Tour – stories of the Troubles, peace and reconciliation

    • Belfast City Hall

    • Optional Titanic Belfast experience

    • Bushmills Whiskey Distillery

    • St George’s Market, Belfast

    • Explore Ireland’s rich history of migration and family heritage

    • Discover the stories of Irish emigrants at the Cobh Heritage Centre & Migration Museum

    • Optional private genealogy session in Cobh

    • Explore family-history resources and historical archives at Ennis Library

    • Hear from Executive Librarian Michael Talty and discover Ireland’s documentary heritage

    • Experience local stories, traditions and hospitality during a private home visit in Donegal

    • Learn about generations of rural Irish life at Doagh Famine Village

    • Connect with Ireland’s culture through historic towns, local communities, traditional music and storytelling

    • Killarney National Park – mountains, lakes, woodland and historic estates

    • Torc Waterfall – one of Killarney National Park’s best-known natural attractions

    • Scenic journey through the Dingle Peninsula

    • Wild Atlantic Way – dramatic Atlantic coastline and countryside

    • Cliffs of Moher – spectacular views over the Atlantic Ocean

    • The Burren – Ireland’s extraordinary limestone landscape

    • Lough Corrib – two-hour boat cruise from Ashford Castle to Inchagoill Island

    • Inchagoill Island – peaceful island scenery and monastic heritage

    • Connemara – mountains, lakes, stone walls and open countryside

    • Kylemore Abbey and its surrounding woodland and mountain scenery

    • Grianán of Aileach – panoramic views across Lough Swilly, Lough Foyle and Donegal

    • Giant’s Causeway and Northern Ireland’s spectacular northern coastline

    • Scenic coastal journey from Bushmills to Ballycastle

    • Welcome dinner at an iconic traditional Dublin pub

    • Lunch at Muckross House

    • Lunch at Dirty Nelly’s beside Bunratty Castle

    • Dinner at Town Hall Bistro in Ennis

    • Lunch at the Burren Heritage Centre

    • Traditional Irish music dinner in a welcoming Doolin pub

    • Morning tea or coffee at the historic Hardiman Hotel in Galway

    • Lunch at Pat Cohan’s Pub in Cong

    • Optional scones with jam and cream at Mrs T’s Tearoom at Ashford Castle

    • Tea and homemade food in a private local home in Donegal

    • Optional Afternoon Tea at the historic Titanic Hotel

    • Lunch at the Bushmills Inn

    • Belfast bap at St George’s Market

    • Traditional Irish music and dancing during the welcome evening in Dublin

    • Experience Doolin, renowned for its traditional Irish music culture

    • Traditional Irish music accompanying dinner in Doolin

    • Optional live traditional music session at Tig Cóilí in Galway

    • Explore Galway’s strong connection to Irish music and culture

    • Hear local stories and traditions during a private home visit in Donegal

    • Irish set dancing class in Belfast – watch or join in

    • Dublin – Ireland’s capital and the starting point of the journey

    • Kilkenny – Historic medieval town known for its castle, arts and culture

    • Cork – Southern city home to the historic English Market

    • Cobh – Colourful harbour town with deep connections to Irish emigration and the Titanic

    • Killarney – Gateway to the spectacular landscapes of County Kerry

    • Dingle – Colourful seaside town on the Dingle Peninsula

    • Ennis – Historic County Clare town with important family-history archives

    • Galway – Artistic west-coast city known for its culture, music and colourful streets

    • Westport – Welcoming Georgian town in County Mayo

    • Letterkenny – Gateway to County Donegal

    • Belfast – Northern Ireland’s capital, rich in history, maritime heritage and culture

    • Cobh – Harbour town and the Titanic’s final port of call

    • Dingle – Picturesque seaside town surrounded by dramatic peninsula scenery

    • Doolin – Coastal village famous for traditional Irish music

    • Cong – Charming village and filming location of The Quiet Man

    • Buncrana – Seaside town in County Donegal

    • Bushmills – Historic village known for its famous whiskey distillery

    • Ballycastle – Coastal town along Northern Ireland’s spectacular northern coastline

    • Killarney National Park – Lakes, woodland, mountains and historic estates

    • Torc Waterfall – Beautiful woodland waterfall near Killarney

    • Dingle Peninsula – Dramatic coastal scenery and Atlantic viewpoints

    • Wild Atlantic Way – Ireland’s spectacular western coastal route

    • Cliffs of Moher – Towering sea cliffs overlooking the Atlantic

    • The Burren – Distinctive limestone landscape in County Clare

    • Poulnabrone Dolmen – Ancient portal tomb within The Burren

    • Lough Corrib – Scenic lake explored by boat from Ashford Castle

    • Inchagoill Island – Historic island with rich monastic heritage

    • Connemara – Wild landscape of mountains, lakes and rugged stone walls

    • Kylemore – Home to Kylemore Abbey and its Victorian Walled Gardens

    • Grianán of Aileach – Ancient hilltop ring fort with sweeping views across Donegal

    • Giant’s Causeway – One of Northern Ireland’s most famous natural landmarks

    • Northern Ireland Coastline – Scenic coastal journey through Bushmills and Ballycastle

Brochure

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Testimonials

"Stephanie is a master of building community and her tours bring you fully into the fold. Every activity she facilitated on my last adventure with her was engaging, connecting, and authentic. I jumped at the chance to participate in her tours with The Celtic Way to Ireland & the UK, and would encourage those interested in making meaningful connections in a new land to do the same.”

Theresa Cashman

“Travelling with Steph Woollard on one of her organised tours is educational, informative, authentic and loads of fun. I would highly recommend her tours to anyone who is interested. She ensures there is a blend of various local experiences, access to subject matter experts and enough ‘down’ time so that one does not feel rushed. You will be taken care of and feel like part of the community rather than a tourist.”

Mikaela Stafrace

“I have travelled overseas with Stephanie Woollard on a guided and organise tour. I found it to be very professional, very interesting and the activities struck a lovely balance between informative and challenging as well as fun and locally interesting. I left the country feeling like my life was enriched from having had the experience. We also met some incredible people and came back inspired.”

Prof Simon Stafrace

  • “Health symptoms + condition” / “senior-friendly travel” / “travel for seniors”

    For seniors concerned about physical demands on tours:

    • The Celtic Way tours are designed for seniors, retirees, and older Australians with minimum fitness requirements.

    • There is no heavy exercise, making it a perfect gentle walking tour and senior-friendly holiday.

    • Tours are at your leisure, with short walks through towns, easy sightseeing, and comfortable coach transfers.

    • • Ideal for those searching for stress-free holidays for older adults, relaxed travel itineraries, or leisurely Ireland tours for seniors.

  • “Irish ancestry Australia” / “Irish genealogy” / “family history Ireland” / “heritage travel Ireland”

    For those interested in Irish ancestry, family history, and heritage:

    • Family history and genealogy are a major focus of The Celtic Way tours.

    • Tours are accompanied by a professional genealogist, providing genealogy support for seniors and assistance tracing Irish ancestry.

    • You’ll visit heritage centres and museums including:

      • Titanic Museum, Belfast – exploring maritime history and Irish connections.

      • Cobh Heritage Centre, Cork – learn about emigration and ancestors’ journeys.

      • EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum, Dublin – discover the broader Irish diaspora.

    • Opportunities to meet one-on-one with a genealogist ensure you can trace Irish family roots effectively.

    • Each county’s history and heritage will be highlighted, enriching your heritage travel experience in Ireland.

    • Keywords incorporated naturally for searches like “heritage tours for seniors”, “Irish ancestry travel”, and “genealogy tours Australia to Ireland”.

  • “Ireland weather” / “best time to visit Ireland” / “Ireland climate for seniors”

    For planning the best months to travel:

    • April – early spring, mild temperatures, fewer crowds, ideal for gentle sightseeing and cultural tours.

    • July – peak summer, warm weather, long daylight hours, perfect for senior-friendly sightseeing tours.

    • September – late summer, mild climate, fewer tourists, excellent for heritage and ancestry trips.

    • The tour schedule is designed so weather won’t impede enjoyment, with comfortable transport and easy walking tours throughout Ireland.

    • Keywords included for “senior travel to Ireland in summer”, “best time for older adults to visit Ireland”, “Ireland spring tours for seniors”.

FAQ’s

  • “senior travel deals” / “flights to Ireland” / “Irish tours for seniors” / “Ireland holiday packages”

    For seniors planning flights and travel logistics:

    • The Celtic Way team can help book flights, extra nights’ accommodation, and airport transfers.

    • Optional extra nights are available for those wishing to arrive early or extend their stay.

    • Transfers and luggage assistance make tours easy and stress-free.

    • Designed for comfortable, convenient travel for older adults, ideal for senior holiday packages, Ireland coach tours for seniors, and heritage-focused holidays.

    • Keywords included for “easy travel for seniors”, “stress-free Ireland tours”, and “Ireland tours with comfortable travel”.

  • “visa Ireland Australia” / “ETA Ireland” / “senior travel requirements” / “travel insurance for seniors”

    For travel requirements and entry into Ireland:

    • Australians require a valid passport to enter Ireland.

    • Visa-exempt for short-term tourist visits (generally up to 90 days), but ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) may be required.

    • The Celtic Way team provides up-to-date ETA and visa guidance, helping you plan hassle-free travel to Ireland.

    • Keywords included for “Ireland visa for Australian seniors”, “travel requirements Ireland for older adults”, “ETA Ireland 2026”, and “senior-friendly travel advice”.

  • Absolutely! The Celtic Way tours are carefully curated for both solo travellers and couples, ensuring everyone feels welcome and comfortable.

    For solo travellers, our tours provide a friendly, social environment, making it easy to meet like-minded participants who share an interest in Irish heritage, genealogy, and cultural travel. You can participate in group meals, excursions, and heritage site visits, or enjoy independent exploration at your own pace.

    We also offer single occupancy rooms for those who prefer private accommodation, giving you the flexibility and comfort you need while travelling alone.

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Join us for a Zoom Call

We have regular info calls with our tour guides for them to get to know you and you to get to know them! Please let us know by filling in your details that you are interested to join one of our upcoming calls and we will send you the invite with dates and times.

If you have any questions feel free to call on +61 0401 288 056