11-Nights Exploring Scotland & Ireland from $4,699
Collette
OFFER ID 1628177
Exploring Scotland & Ireland
Bask in the warm Celtic culture and majestic scenery of two remarkable lands. Come to know the regal city of Edinburgh on a panoramic tour by coach and by foot. Explore the castles that have shaped Scottish history. Enjoy a traditional evening of Scottish food and entertainment. Visit the Titanic Experience Museum in Belfast and remember the century-old tragedy that shook the world, or visit the Ulster Museum telling human stories through art and historical artifacts. Walk the Giant’s Causeway (UNESCO) and soak up incredible views of the Causeway Coast along the way. Visit Ireland’s bustling capital city of Dublin and tour historic St. Patrick’s Cathedral. From rugged natural beauty to vibrant and historic cities, the diverse charms of Scotland and Ireland await.
11 nights from $4,699 per person
Itinerary Details
Exploring Scotland & Ireland
Day 1 Overnight Flight
From rugged natural beauty to vibrant and historical cities, the diverse charms of Scotland and Ireland await.
Day 2 Edinburgh, Scotland
Hotel: Radisson Blu
Arrive in Edinburgh, Scotland’s capital city. With no planned activities today, you can take your time to unwind and soak in the atmosphere of this lively capital. Tonight, join your fellow travelers for dinner at a local restaurant.(D)
Day 3 Edinburgh
Hotel: Radisson Blu
This morning, visit Edinburgh Castle, home to the Scottish Crown Jewels, and enjoy a panoramic tour of Edinburgh’s new town and an insightful walking tour up the Royal Mile to the castle. This afternoon, enjoy free time to explore the city further at your leisure. Tonight, you might like to join the optional private tour and dinner at Rosslyn Chapel, one of Scotland’s most remarkable buildings, brought to life by The Da Vinci Code.(B)
Day 4 Edinburgh - St. Andrews - Inverness
Hotel: Best Western Inverness Palace Hotel
Depart Edinburgh and travel on to St. Andrews, the beautiful town in the Kingdom of Fife that gave the world the game of golf – see the Royal and Ancient Clubhouse and the famous Old Course. Continue on to Inverness, the capital of the Highlands.(B, D)
Day 5 Inverness
Hotel: Best Western Inverness Palace Hotel
This morning, take a walking tour with a local guide to discover how important Inverness is as the gateway to the Highlands. Then, take time to explore Inverness Castle, the majestic cliffside estate steeped in tales of the Jacobite Rebellion and Mary Queen of Scots. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy — explore the city, take a riverside walk, or simply relax. This evening, enjoy a Highland gathering (ceilidh) filled with storytelling, singing, and Scottish dancing.(B, D)
Day 6 Inverness - Glencoe - Glasgow
Hotel: Hilton
Depart Inverness and visit one of the oldest licensed whisky distilleries in Scotland. After a tour and a tasting, continue to the scenic valley of Glencoe, one of Scotland’s most historic and breathtaking glens. Your day ends in Glasgow.(B, D)
Day 7 Glasgow - Belfast, Northern Ireland
Hotel: Maldron Hotel
This morning, explore Glasgow with a local guide. Highlights include a visit to George Square; passing by Glasgow Cathedral and Provand’s Lordship, the oldest house in the city; and discovering the rich industrial heritage of the area. Travel to the scenic Ayrshire coast to your ferry. Cross the Irish Sea as you head for Northern Ireland’s capital city of Belfast.(B)
Day 8 Belfast
Hotel: Maldron Hotel
Enjoy a privately guided tour of Belfast, Northern Ireland’s largest city. Learn about the struggles in this great city’s history as you pass through its distinctive neighborhoods. Then, it’s your choice! Visit the award-winning Titanic Experience Museum -OR- visit Ulster Museum, Northern Ireland’s treasure house of the past and present. The afternoon is yours to further explore this fascinating city before joining your fellow travelers for dinner in a local restaurant.(B, D)
Day 9 Belfast - Glens of Antrim - Giant's Causeway - Derry
Hotel: City Hotel
Venture along the stunning Antrim Coastal Route, stopping at the Giant’s Causeway (UNESCO). Formed by volcanic activity millions of years ago, the causeway resembles an old, cobbled road leading mystically into the sea. Then embark on one of the world’s most beautiful railway* journeys along the Causeway Coast. Soak up the incredible scenery before arriving at the walled city of Derry. Set out on a walking tour featuring the medieval walls, St. Augustine's Cathedral, and the Guildhall. Perhaps you’ll discover why Derry is one of Ireland’s best-kept secrets during an optional evening at a pub serving traditional food and featuring a local singer playing Irish music.(B)
Day 10 Derry - Donegal Town - Derry
Hotel: City Hotel
Today’s journey showcases the rugged beauty of County Donegal. Start your day with a visit to Donegal Castle, a restored 15th-century castle with a unique history. Enjoy some free time to explore Donegal Town, a picturesque village at the mouth of the River Eske. Return to Derry, where tonight, it’s Diner’s Choice... choose the perfect spot from a “menu” of Derry’s great restaurants.(B, D)
Day 11 Derry - Dublin, Ireland
Hotel: Herbert Park Hotel
Depart on a journey through the scenic countryside of Northern Ireland, stopping at Glenshane Country Farm to meet the working dogs and see them in action. With lunch included at the farm, you can enjoy the relaxed and leisurely pace of the countryside. Then visit a family-run cider farm; meet the family and explore the orchards before sampling their award-winning Irish ciders. Continue on to the Republic of Ireland. Your day concludes in Dublin, Ireland’s vibrant capital city.(B, L)
Day 12 Dublin
Hotel: Herbert Park Hotel
A locally guided tour of Dublin highlights the world-renowned St. Patrick’s Cathedral, O’Connell Street, Phoenix Park, and the city’s magnificent rows of lovely Georgian town homes. You may choose to join an optional tour with lunch at a local pub, followed by a visit to the Guinness Storehouse Museum. Spend the rest of your day at leisure as you delve further into Dublin's cultural treasures. This evening, toast the end of an incredible adventure during a farewell dinner at one of the city’s most popular local restaurants.(B, D)
Day 13 Dublin - Tour Ends
Your tour comes to a close.(B)
Excursions
Dublin: Highlights of Dublin City - 8 hours
Dublin: Highlights of Dublin City - 8 hours
Ireland, known affectionately as the “the Emerald Isle” is renowned for its excellent hospitality and you can be assured of a warm welcome by your guide and driver, who will meet you at the port. Discover the history, literary heritage and culture that lies behind Dublin’s elegant Georgian architecture and famous landmarks, during your full-day tour.
Founded in the 16th-century, Trinity College is Ireland's oldest university and holds the Book of Kells, a greatly treasured example of early Irish manuscript illumination. History lovers may opt to visit the nearby Treasury of the National Museum or EPIC - the interactive museum commemorating the emigration of 10 million Irish. For those interested in art, the National Gallery houses a superb collection.
Afterwards make a lunchtime pit stop at the Guinness Storehouse, where you learn how a pint of the world-famous Guinness is created. The heart of the building is modelled on a giant pint glass, which would hold approximately 14 million pints of Guinness beer if filled! Enjoy a complimentary pint of Guinness in the Gravity Bar, which boast 360-degree views of the capital.
Complete your touring this afternoon, with a visit to St. Patrick's Cathedral, the largest church in Ireland and final resting place of Jonathan Swift, author of Gulliver's Travels. Here, take a guided tour of the impressive staterooms which are a longtime symbol of British rule in Ireland, before being transferred back to your ship.
Highlights:
- Admire the grandeur of St Patrick's Cathedral, the largest church in Ireland and final resting place of Jonathan Swift, author of Gulliver's Travels
- Pour yourself a pint of Ireland’s finest at the Guinness Storehouse to discover the country’s most famous export
Tour Duration: 8 hours
Wheelchair Accessible: Please enquire for more information
Physical Activity Level: Light
Inclusions:
- Private transport by Mercedes E-class or similar for 1 and 2 passengers, VW Caravelle (7 passenger seats) or similar for 3 and 4 passengers and 12-seater or similar for 5 and 6 passengers.
- Expert local guide for 8 hours of sightseeing in Dublin
- Entrance fees to all sights and museums
- All taxes
- All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs
- Gratuities
- Supplement for public holidays
- Anything not specifically mentioned in the "inclusions" list above
Dublin - Dublin City & Powerscourt - Full Day Tour
Dublin - Dublin City & Powerscourt - Full Day Tour
Upon arrival in Dublin Port, you will meet with your private driver/guide and transfer directly to Powerscourt House & Gardens in Co. Wicklow
This stunning 18th Century Stately home comprises 
extensive gardens, which are open to the public; as is the Main House. There is a lovely restaurant in the house, overlooking the gardens and Wicklow Mountains, which offers the finest in Irish artisan, home cooked cuisine. The 34,000 acres of this estate extend along both shores of the River Dargle . Powerscourt is one of the finest properties in Europe, designed and laid out by Daniel Robertson between 1745 and 1767. This property is filled with splendid Greek and Italian-inspired statuary, decorative ironwork, a petrified-moss grotto, lovely herbaceous borders, a Japanese garden, a circular pond and fountain with statues of winged horses, and an occasional herd of deer. Opportunity for shopping at Avoca Handweavers now located in Powerscourt House. Enjoy lunch here at Powerscourt or at a traditional Irish pub in the city centre.
Upon your return from Powerscourt Estate, your private driver guide will take you on your tour of Dublin City.
Whilst Dublin is a vibrant and bustling city, by European standards it is a small city with a population of just over 1 million people. Much of Dublin’s streetscapes are adorned with beautiful 18th century townhouses and a
number of city parks, such as St. Stephen’s Green and indeed Merrion Square. The highlights of any tour in Dublin may include a visit to Trinity College, the Guinness Storehouse… and –if time permits –St. Patrick’s Cathedral.
Following the city tour, your driver will return you to your ship.
Inclusions
- Private Driver Guide
- Entrance to Powerscourt House & Gardens
- Lunch
Dublin: An Introduction to Dublin - 4 hours
Dublin: An Introduction to Dublin - 4 hours
Disembark for a city adventure this morning accompanied by your expert guide and driver. Your tour of Dublin begins with the impressive Trinity College; Ireland's oldest university. Explore the Old Library, which houses 200,000 antiquarian texts and the oldest surviving harp in Ireland. Here you will see the world-famous Book of Kells; a fabulous example of early Irish manuscript illumination. Hand-crafted by monks, it contains the four gospels and has been resident at Trinity College since the 17th century. Continue to St. Patrick's Cathedral, the largest church in Ireland, where you have the opportunity to see a memorial to Jonathan Swift, the author of 'Gulliver's Travels', who became Dean of St. Patrick's in 1713. Afterwards you are transferred back to port.
Highlights:
- See the world-famous Book of Kells, a fabulous example of early Irish manuscript illumination
- Continue to St Patrick’s Cathedral, the largest church in Ireland and home of a memorial to the writer Jonathan Swift
Tour Can Operate: Morning/ Afternoon
Wheelchair Accessible: Please enquire for more information
Physical Activity Level: Light
Inclusions:
- Private transport by luxury car or minivan
- An expert local driver-guide for 4 hours
- Entrance fees to all sights and museums
- All taxes
- All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs
- Gratuities
Excursions
Belfast - Tour of Antrim Coast - Full Day Tour
Belfast - Tour of Antrim Coast - Full Day Tour
Arrive at The Giants Causeway Centre.
Enjoy a 2 Course lunch with tea/coffee in the wonderful Distillers Arms restaurant.
Following lunch you will travel along the Coast up to the fantastic Dunluce Castle. It is thought by some to be the most picturesque of all Irish castles. Situated in the most north-easterly tip of Ireland and first built by Richard de Burgh, Earl of Ulster in the 13th century, the ruins of the castle are a huge tourist attraction.
The castle is surrounded by terrifyingly steep drops at either side; these would have been essential features to the Vikings and early Christians, who were drawn to this magnificent place where an early Irish ring-fort once stood. It is situated on a 100 foot high basalt stack with a sea cave underneath. The earliest features of the castle, the two large drum towers, about nine metres in diameter, can still be seen on the eastern side.
Return to Belfast Port on the motorway which runs close to some scenic inland countryside.
Inclusions:
- Private Driver Guide
- Giants Causeway visitor Centre
- Entrance to Dunluce Castle
- Lunch Including Tea and Coffee
Belfast: Cultural Belfast - 8 hours
Belfast: Cultural Belfast - 8 hours
Belfast may be a small city, but it has a wealth of culture and excitement on offer for you to discover! Firstly, visit the purpose-built iconic ‘Titanic Belfast’. With over nine galleries, the Titanic story is brought to life for you with exhibitions, rides, full-scale reconstructions and lots
of interactive fun.
After a hearty Irish lunch (payable locally) head into Belfast city where your guide unravels stories related to “the troubles” of Northern Ireland. You cannot miss the murals across Belfast that offer a fascinating history in pictures. Although huge strides have been made in the fight to combat sectarianism in the city, the marks of the past can still be witnessed across the city, adorning the sides of buildings and walls. A tour of Belfast wouldn’t be complete without enjoying a pint of Guinness at the famous Crown Bar in the city centre. This 19th-century bar is an experience that is unique to Northern Ireland. You are privately transferred back to board your cruise after your tour.
Highlights:
- Explore the 'Titanic Belfast' and learn about the ship's fascinating history
- Learn about Belfast's turbulent past and visit the famous Crown Bar in the city centre
Tour Can Operate: Morning / Afternoon
Wheelchair Accessible: Please enquire for more information
Physical Activity Level: Light
Inclusions:
- Private transport by luxury car or minivan
- An expert local guide for 8 hours
- Entrance fees to all sights and museums
- All taxes
- All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs
- Gratuities
Belfast: Highlights of Belfast - 6 hours
Belfast: Highlights of Belfast - 6 hours
Today you are met by your expert local guide for a sightseeing in Belfast and the surrounding area. Spend the morning on a panoramic tour of the city centre, where you see the impressive City Hall in Donegall Square, St. Anne’s Cathedral and the buildings of Queen’s University. During this tour, your guide talks to you about the sectarian divisions that have been so prominent in Belfast in recent years. You also visit the Titanic Quarter, so-called as it was here that the ill-fated liner was being constructed a century ago. Your guide shows you where the ship was constructed and the Thomson Dock where it had its final fit-out.
Highlights:
- Take a panoramic tour of Belfast’s city centre to see the impressive City Hall and the buildings of Queen’s University
- Visit the Titanic Quarter where the ill-fated liner was constructed a century ago
Tour Can Operate: Morning / Afternoon
Wheelchair Accessible: Please enquire for more information
Physical Activity Level: Light
Inclusions:
- Private transport by luxury car or minivan
- An expert local guide for 6 hours
- Entrance fees to all sights and museums
- All taxes
- All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs
- Gratuities
Glasgow has been described as the finest surviving example of a great Victorian city. Of particular interest is George Square - lined by several buildings constructed in the Italian Renaissance style. Few buildings pre-date 18th century. The most prominent of these are Glasgow Cathedral, and Provand's Lordship, which is the city's oldest house (c. 1471) and now a museum. The cathedral, situated on high ground to the east of the city and dating in parts from 12th century, is an outstanding example of Gothic architecture. The city has numerous parks and ornamental open spaces, including the Botanic Garden and zoological gardens. Glasgow grew around a church built in the 6th century by St Kentigern, who converted Scots to Christianity. The commercial growth of the community dates from the union of Scotland and England in 1707 and the opening up of trade in the 18th century when Glasgow became a major port and shipbuilder.
Excursions
Inverness: The Scottish Highlands - 8 hours
Inverness: The Scottish Highlands - 8 hours
As you disembark your cruise you are welcomed to the Scottish Highlands by your local driver-guide, who is at your disposal for up to 8 hours today as you explore the lochs and mountains around Inverness.
Heading south discover Loch Ness, the famous loch long associated with ‘Nessie’, the mythical monster said to inhabit the depths. Try looking out for her as you wander through the ruins of Urquhart Castle, that dominate the central part of the loch. Loch Ness is drained in the north by the River Ness and the road follows this river to Inverness, the small but charming city considered the capital of the Highlands. One of the most important sites in Scotland’s history is located near Inverness – the battlefield of Culloden Moor, where Bonnie Prince Charlie was defeated in 1746 by government troops to mark the end of his attempt to regain the throne for the Stewart family. Time permitting, explore the battle fields and discover the events surrounding this battle that played such a pivotal role in the country’s history. After your tour, return to your cruise ship.
Highlights:
- Visit Loch Ness, which has long been associated with a mythical monster, and the ruins of Urquhart Castle
- Explore The Highlands around Inverness, including the battlefield of Culloden Moor
Tour Can Operate: Morning/ Afternoon
Wheelchair Accessible: Please enquire for more information
Physical Activity Level: Light
Inclusions:
- Private transport by luxury car or minivan
- An expert local driver-guide for 8 hours around Inverness
- Entrance fees to all sights and museums
- All taxes
- All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs
- Gratuities
Excursions
Edinburgh: Royal Edinburgh - 8 hours
Edinburgh: Royal Edinburgh - 8 hours
You will first head up to Edinburgh Castle, where you will see the 'Honours of Scotland', or the Scottish Crown Jewels, and have the opportunity to admire striking views across the city. Drive along the Royal Mile to the imposing Holyrood Palace*, the Queen's Official Residence in Scotland.
Continue the Royal theme this afternoon, with a visit to the Royal Yacht Britannia. Built in Scotland, and now permanently moored here, this famous ship hosted many official voyages during her working life. Your guide will bring the Royal Yacht Britannia’s intriguing history to life prior to the short transfer back to your cruise ship.
*You will tour the staterooms of the palace if no member of the Royal Family is staying here at the time.
- Privately guided tour of Edinburgh Castle
- Visit Holyrood Palace (Subject to Royal Visit)
- Discover the history of the Royal Yacht Britannia
Tour Can Operate: Morning/ Afternoon
Wheelchair Accessible: Please enquire for more information
Physical Activity Level: Light
- Private transport by BMW 7 Series or similar for 1 or 2 passengers or Viano (6 passenger seats) or similar for 3, 4, or 5 passengers or Sprinter for 6 passengers.
- Expert local guide for stated sightseeing 8 hours in Edinburgh
- Entrance fees to all sights and museums
- All taxes
- All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs
- Gratuities
- Supplement for public holidays
- Anything not specifically mentioned in the “Inclusions” list above.
Edinburgh: Introducing Edinburgh - 4 hours
Edinburgh: Introducing Edinburgh - 4 hours
The capital city of Scotland is undoubtedly one of the most dramatically-situated cities in Europe; this setting has had a profound effect on its historical development and today your expert local guide unravels these themes on a half-day sightseeing tour. The focal point of the city is Edinburgh Castle, a royal fortress that symbolises the Scottish nation and is home to the 'Honours of Scotland', the oldest set of Crown Jewels in the British Isles. From the impressive military installations there are stunning views of the city. The Royal Mile stretches down on from castle through the 'Old Town' of Edinburgh, at the heart of which is St. Giles Cathedral. This fascinating Gothic church is topped by a fine medieval spire in the shape of a crown. At the foot of the Royal Mile is Holyrood Palace, the Queen's Official Residence in Scotland*. The palace's neighbour is the much more recent Scottish Parliament Building; its striking contemporary designs are in eye-catching contrast to the classical style of the palace.
*Tour of palace staterooms is included if no member of the Royal Family is present at time of visit
Highlights:
- Take in the stunning views of the city from Edinburgh Castle, a royal fortress home to the oldest set of Crown Jewels in the British Isles
- At the foot of the Royal Mile see Holyrood Palace and the Scottish Parliament Building
Tour Duration: 4 hours
Tour Can Operate: Morning / Afternoon
Wheelchair Accessible: Please enquire for more information
Physical Activity Level: Light
Inclusions:
- Private transport by luxury car or minivan
- An expert local guide for 4 hours
- Entrance fees to all sights and museums
- All taxes
- All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs
- Gratuities
Vacation Details
* This departure has been designated a guaranteed departure by the operator, meaning that the minimum number of guests has been met, although still subject to weather and other conditions.
All fares are quoted in US Dollars.
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