7-Nights Ireland Luxury Castle Tour with Private Driver/Guide — CALL
CIE Tours
OFFER ID 1633725
Experience Ireland your way with our most personalized style of travel for up to 9 guests. Enjoy your own private car with a driver who knows the local history and has plenty of insider stories to share. Perfect for heritage seekers, multi-generational families, and milestone celebrations.
7 nights | Call for pricing
Itinerary Details
Dublin Arrival
Flight Arrival & Meet Guide
Welcome to Ireland! After landing, complete customs and immigration formalities before meeting your CIE Tours driver/guide, who will be waiting in the Arrivals Hall. Enjoy your comfortable ride with your knowledgeable driver who will guide you through the popular and hidden gems of Ireland.
Dublin Panoramic
Take an orientation drive around Dublin city center. Dublin is one of the liveliest capitals in Europe but there are plenty of historical places also. See the main thoroughfares of O'Connell Street and Nassau Street, the shopping streets and some lovely public parks.
Travel to Belfast
Titanic Belfast
In the Titanic Quarter, visit Titanic Belfast to embark on a journey through the life of the Titanic, from her conception in Belfast to her tragic end.
Overnight: Merchant Hotel, Belfast
This grand Victorian hotel was once the headquarters of the Ulster Bank in the 19th century. Renovated into a luxurious hotel, the Merchant Hotel is located in the heart of the Cathedral Quarter and surrounded by the best bars and restaurants in Belfast.
Nine Glens of Antrim & Giant's Causeway
Nine Glens of Antrim
Drive along the coast to experience one of Ireland's popular scenic routes. Here, you'll see the "Nine Glens of Antrim", which are nine wooded river valleys carved into a 54 mile stretch along the coast of Northern Ireland. The scenic offers awe inspiring views of mountains, forests, valleys, and shoreline.
Giant's Causeway
Stop to visit the Giant's Causeway, an impressive area of hexagonal columns formed over 60 million years ago by cooling lava which has given rise to many legends. The story goes that Irish giant Fionn mac Cumhaill was challenged to a fight by the Scottish giant Benandonner, and the causeway was built as a meeting point for the two. In one version, Fionn defeats Benandonner, while in another, he is disguised as a baby and tricks Benandonner into thinking that he is the largest giant based on the size of his “child”. In this version, Benandonner flees across the North Channel destroying the causeway in his path.
Donegal at Leisure
Enjoy some time at leisure in the busy shopping town of Donegal. You may like to walk through the Diamond, the central pedestrianized plaza. You may wish to visit the Daniel O'Donnell Museum or the ruins of the Abbey of the Four Masters. You could also visit the ruins of Donegal Castle, which incorporates the gabled tower of a 15th century house built by the O'Donnell family.
2-Night Stay: Lough Eske Castle, Donegal
This beautifully restored 17th century castle is set on 43 acres of woodland, a few miles from Donegal town. The hotel offers a blend of Irish country charm and modern comforts for a perfect retreat together with elegant dining and spa facilities.
Slieve League & Glenveagh National Park
Slieve League
Visit Slieve League Sea Cliffs, where the highest point reaches 1,972 feet making them the highest in Europe. The cliffs drop straight down to the wild Atlantic waves below and you will see marvelous vistas.
Glenveagh National Park
Visit Glenveagh National Park where high walls and conifers provide shelter for an amazing collection of exotic plants from all over the world.
County Sligo Drive & Ashford Castle Falconry
County Sligo Drive
Take an awe-inspiring drive through County Sligo, passing Ben Bulben, a large rock formation that has a table top appearance, and Mullaghmore, a village located on a peninsula. There, stop and see Classiebawn Castle, an imposing country house that sits between the ocean and Ben Bulben.
Ashford Castle Falconry
Learn all about falconry at Ashford Castle! After being introduced to the hawks, you will set out into the castle’s woodlands to fly your hawks under your instructor’s supervision. Your instructor will teach you all about hawks and their eyesight, speed, and agility as they fly in the woods. At the end, the hawk will swoop down and return to your gloved hand.
2-Night Stay: Ashford Castle, Cong
This renowned castle, set on the shores of Lough Corrib, is one of Ireland's most luxurious retreats. Accommodations, restaurants and bars are of the highest standards, as would be expected in a world-class hotel. Enjoy golfing, horse riding, spa treatments and many more activities.
Connemara Sightseeing & Kylemore Abbey
Connemara Sightseeing
Travel through Connemara Region to admire the sweeping views of boglands and misty mountains. As you drive along you will see many sheep that graze freely and also tracts of bogland where some people hand-cut peat for home heating. Follow the scenic Sky Road to the attractive village of Clifden.
Kylemore Abbey
Stop at Kylemore Abbey for a tour of the elegant mansion and church, set beside a tranquil lake. Learn of the tales of tragedy, romance and royal visits. Also walk through the magical Victorian walled garden.
Lough Corrib Cruise
Embark on a cruise on Lough Corrib, which is the largest lake in the Republic of Ireland. Measuring 68 square miles and with 365 islands, this lake is one of the cleanest in all of Europe. Lough Corrib contains many islands with historic ruins and a wealth of wildlife.
Cliffs of Moher & Tea at Dromoland Castle
Cliffs of Moher Visitor Experience
Drive along the scenic coast of County Clare to visit the Cliffs of Moher, one of Ireland's most beloved, natural landmarks. See magical vistas, overlooking the shimmering Atlantic Ocean along with Ireland's Western coastline.
Afternoon Tea at Dromoland Castle
Experience traditional afternoon tea in one of Ireland's most historic hotels, Dromoland Castle. Take your time to savour every delicious moment. Enjoy the prettiest selection of treats: scrumptious finger sandwiches, warm scones with clotted cream and homemade jams, delicate pastries, a signature tea brack and the sweetest confections. Drink specially selected loose leaf teas from around the world, served in sparkling silver teapots, alongside beautiful china. An unmissable five-star indulgence you will love!
Overnight: Dromoland Castle, Newmarket-on-Fergus
With more than 400 acres to explore, this luxury castle hotel overlooks its own Championship Golf Course and a glistening lake. Guests can relax and enjoy an exquisite selection of gourmet fine dining or they can unwind the luxurious Health Spa. Dromoland Castle is also within easy reach of the wonderful Wild Atlantic Way, the Cliffs of Moher, and the Burren.
Rock of Cashel & Guinness Storehouse
Travel to Dublin
Rock of Cashel
Travel into County Tipperary and visit the Rock of Cashel. While here, see majestic church ruins that are clustered high on a limestone outcrop overlooking the surrounding countryside. It is allegedly the location of the conversion of Aenghus the King of Munster by St. Patrick, and was also the seat of the High Kings of Munster before the Norman invasion.
Guinness Storehouse
Tour Guinness Storehouse to see exhibits on how this world famous stout was first created and why it is so popular today. Finish your visit in the roof-top bar, where you can sample a draft of Guinness.
Overnight: Shelbourne Hotel, Dublin
Built in 1824 on St. Stephen's Green, right in the heart of the city. This iconic hotel has been magnificently restored while keeping its historic charm. Spacious guest rooms, elegant restaurants and bars create a luxurious experience. Afternoon tea in the Lord Mayor's Lounge is a specialty.
Private Driver Services Conclude
Your private driver services will conclude at the end of the day. Ask your driver to reconfirm your return airport transfer, if applicable, before parting ways.
Dublin Departure
Private Transfer to Dublin Airport
Your vacation ends after breakfast with a private transfer to Dublin Airport. We hope you had a fantastic time and wish you a safe and pleasant journey home.
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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
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
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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