Sample Day-by-Day Itinerary:

Day 1, Mon, Sep 12: Depart for Dublin
Depart from your hometown for your overnight flight(s) to Ireland. Meals will be served on board.

Day 2: Tuesday 13th September 2016 – Welcome to Ireland
Upon arrival at Dublin Airport you will be greeted by your modern motor coach with driver and English speaking guide or driver/guide and you will depart for the city centre. Enjoy a Panoramic City Tour of Dublin. The tour will introduce you to the principal sites, which you may then revisit at your leisure. You will visit the elegant Georgian squares, famous for its architecture and of course its famous –doors. Highlights of the tour will be a visit to Trinity College and a stop at St Patrick’s Cathedral. Built in 1192, it is one of Ireland’s largest Cathedrals made famous by its former dean Jonathan Swift, author of “Gulliver’s Travels.” Pass by ChristChurch, built by the Anglo-Norman’s in 1172 to replace an earlier Church built by the Vikings in 1038, on your way to the Phoenix Park with its many monuments including the Papal cross. Return to the city centre via the Quays, passing by the Guinness brewery, and Collins Barrack, now part of the national museum, before arriving back into O’Connell Street and the city centre. Continue to Trinity College. Thomas Burgh built the Old Library building in the 18th century. Today it houses one of Ireland’s most illustrious books, the 9th century “Book of Kells”. Before viewing the famous book visitors pass through an excellent exhibition based on the Book of Kells and other important books written in monasteries around Ireland from the 9th century. After viewing the Book of Kells visitors are invited to visit the Long Room built in 1745. Once the principal library of the University, it now contains over two hundred thousand books and manuscripts of the Trinity’s oldest volumes. Brian Boru’s harp said to be the “ oldest harp in Ireland” and a copy of the 1916 proclamation, one of the most important documents relating to Irish history are also on display in the Long Room. In the afternoon visit St. Patrick’s Cathedral. Built in honour of Ireland’s patron saint, Saint Patrick’s Cathedral stands adjacent to the famous well where tradition has it Saint Patrick baptized converts on his visit to Dublin. The parish Church of Saint Patrick on this site was granted collegiate status in 1191, and raised to Cathedral status in 1224. The present building dates from 1220. The Cathedral is today the National Cathedral of the Church of Ireland (a Church of the Anglican Communion). St Patrick’s is Gothic in style and its splendid interior is adorned with funeral monuments, such as The Boyle Family Memorial and the grave of Dean Jonathan Swift (author of Gulliver’s Travels). Swift was dean here until his death in 1745. The Chancel has ornate stained-glass windows, and spectacular choir stalls, once used by the knights of St Patrick, adjoin the Altar. The massive west towers, houses a large peal of bells whose ringing tones are so much part of the character of Dublin. Tonight enjoy a welcome dinner at your hotel. Overnight, dinner, bed and breakfast at your hotel in Dublin.

Day 3: Wednesday 14th September 2016 – Dublin to Tipperary
After your full Irish breakfast depart in southern direction for Tipperary. Travel through Wicklow. South of Dublin is County Wicklow. Known as “the Garden of Ireland” it is home to Powerscourt, Mount Usher and Russborough, to name a few of its many houses and gardens. This region features all the various types of scenery that makes Ireland so beautiful. The coastline is bordered by charming sea resorts such as Bray or Greystones. In the heart of its gentle and rounded hills are nestled Enniskerry and Avoca, both very picturesque villages. Discover its romantic and quiet beauty, the deserted mounts where nothing but heather grows, the small forests and the lush prairies illuminated by yellow gorse in spring. Enjoy a visit to Glendalough. This early Christian monastic site was founded by St. Kevin in the 6th century. Set in a glaciated valley with two lakes, the monastic remains include a superb round tower, stone Churches and decorated crosses. The Visitor Centre has an interesting exhibition on Glendalough detailing the history, archaeology and wildlife of this area of Wicklow and includes an audio-visual show. French, Italian and Spanish guided tours are available all year by advance booking. While the visitor centre is fully accessible for visitors with disabilities, access to the actual monastic site is very difficult for wheelchair users. Continue via Baltinglass Abbey and Castledermot Abbey to your hotel in Tipperary where you will enjoy dinner. Overnight, dinner, bed and breakfast at your hotel in Tipperary.

Day 4: Thursday 15th September 2016 – Tipperary to Kerry
This morning travel to Kerry. En route visit the Rock of Cashel. Possibly the most photographed site in Ireland, the Rock of Cashel towers over the town of Cashel from its perch on a 200-foot high outcrop of limestone. Once the seat of the Kings of Munster. St. Patrick visited the rock in 450, while Brian Boru was crowned the first high King of Ireland here in the tenth century. Granted to the Church in the twelfth century, by the O'Brien clan, today the impressive stone walls enclose a round tower, a Cathedral, a twelfth century Romanesque Chapel and high crosses. The Vicars Choral has been recently restored and its basement houses a small museum of artefacts found on the site. One of the leading visitor attractions in Ireland, in 2011 it was visited by Queen Elizabeth II on her historic first visit to the Republic of Ireland. Next, you will visit Blarney Castle. Attracting visitors from all over the world, Blarney Castle is situated in Blarney village, 8 km from Cork city. An ancient stronghold of the McCarthy's, Lords of Muskerry, it is one of Ireland's oldest and most historic castles, and indeed one of the strongest fortresses in Munster. Built in 1446, Blarney Castle is famous for its Blarney stone, the Stone of Eloquence, which is traditionally believed to have the power to bestow the gift of eloquence on all those who kiss it. Many legends tell the story of the Stone, but why not kiss it and find out the truth behind the legend. The Castle gardens covering 60 acres of land are under constant change and over the past few years, a water garden, fern garden and poison garden have been developed and are all open to visitors. Continue to Kerry for dinner at your hotel. Overnight, dinner, bed and breakfast at your hotel in Kerry.

Day 5: Friday 16th September 2016 – Dingle Peninsula
After your full Irish breakfast you will depart to West Kerry for a full day touring the Dingle Peninsula. This peninsula is famous for its Celtic, pre-Christian monuments and Christian Churches. It is also a ‘Gaeltacht' (Irish speaking) area, where the Irish language and traditional ways of life are preserved. The road around the Peninsula is truly spectacular. It passes through a chain of Mountains, called Slieve Mish. From Inch, a long beach bordered by dunes and made famous by David Lean’s movie “Ryan’s daughter,” admire the Iveragh Peninsula and Rossbeigh Beach. From Dingle, drive around the coast to Slea Head. Here the blue of the marine landscape surrounds the Blaskets Islands, deserted since 1953. In the distance are the two rocky Skellig islands, where the ruins of an early Christian Monastery can be found. The Dingle Peninsula will charm you with its villages painted in bright colours and will bewitch you with the dramatic beauty of its landscapes. Enjoy a visit to Gallarus Oratory.Gallarus Oratory is the most impressive early Christian monument on the Dingle peninsula. It has withstood the passage of time for over 1200 years. Built in the shape of an upturned boat, the oratory formed part of a larger monastic site and was used as a place of prayer and reflection. With its small entrance doorway and round-headed east-facing window, it is an excellent example of dry stone construction. Gallarus Oratory visitor centre offers visitors the opportunity to explore Gallarus Oratory and also see a Audio Visual presentation on the surrounding area. There is a shop offering souvenirs and some refreshments located in the main centre. In the afternoon visit Kilmalkedar Church. Kilmalkedar is a spectacular early-Christian and medieval ecclesiastical site found about 8km from Dingle. The ruins are spread across an area of 10 acres. Among them, visitors will enjoy examining the fine 12th-century Hiberno-Romanesque Church and several fascinating artefacts, such as an alphabet stone, holed Ogham stone, sundial and large stone cross. Return to your hotel and enjoy dinner. Overnight, dinner, bed and breakfast at your hotel in Kerry.

Day 6: Saturday 17th September 2016 – Kerry to Galway
After breakfast depart for the Shannon Car Ferry.The main tourist routes of the West of Ireland's Shannon Region are linked via the Killimer-Tarbert car ferry. This pleasant, 20 minute journey travels across the Shannon Estuary which is almost 100km in length and 13km wide at its widest point. Ecologically, the Shannon estuary has a unique value with a group of bottle nosed dolphins resident in the estuary. As well as this, the estuary is an important habitat for migrating birds and wild fowl. The ferry can take car and coach vehicles. The ferry trip will save 85 miles (137 km) from ferry terminal to ferry terminal providing a staging point for the many attractions of Clare, Kerry and adjoining counties. Visit the Cliffs of Moher. Situated on the Atlantic Ocean and bordering the Burren Area, the Cliffs of Moher are one of Ireland's most spectacular sights. Standing 230 metres above the ground at their highest point and 8km long, the Cliffs boast one of the most amazing views in Ireland. On a clear day, the Aran Islands are visible in Galway Bay as well as the valleys and hills of Connemara. To the south of the cliffs is Hag's Head and was once the site of a castle. The cliffs reach their highest point just north of O' Brien's Tower. Cornelius O’ Brien, a descendant of Brian Boru (he who defeated the Vikings in battle), built a Tower at the cliffs in order to enjoy some tea with his lady friends. The Tower is adjacent to the sea stack, Breanan Mór, which stands over 70 metres above the foaming waves and is home to some of the Burren’s wildlife. Atlantic Edge is the exciting new interpretive centre at the Cliffs of Moher and is built into the natural landscape. The centre is a huge domed cave that contains images, exhibits, displays & experiences exploring different elements of the mighty Cliffs of Moher: Ocean, Rock, Nature and Man. Continue on through the Burren Region.The Burren, part of which forms the 100 square km Burren National Park, is a unique place. It is a Karst limestone region of approximately 300 sq. km, which lies in the North West corner of Co Clare. It is composed of limestone pavements, which have been eroded to a distinctive pattern. This pavement is crisscrossed by cracks known as grykes in which grow a myriad of wild flora and under which are huge caves and rivers which suddenly flood when it rains. The Burren contains dozens of megalithic tombs and Celtic crosses as well as a ruined Cistercian Abbey dating back to the 12th century. You will discover small villages abandoned during the famine period and green roads on which you can walk for miles without ever seeing a car. The flora on the Burren is a mixture Arctic and Mediterranean and rare flowers such as gentian, orchids and bloody cranesbill are the rule rather than the exception. The Burren is truly an exceptional part of Ireland. On arrival in Galway enjoy dinner at your hotel. Overnight, dinner, bed and breakfast at your hotel in Galway.

Day 7: Sunday 18th September 2016 – Lough Corrib & Clonmacnoise
This morning enjoy a Cruise on Lough Corrib. The Corrib Princess sails from Woodquay in the heart of Galway city, along the famous Steamers Line, which is the lakes traditional trade route. The journey takes passengers along the majestic River Corrib and onto the lake providing visitors with a guided commentary in a number of languages on the historic monuments and natural amenities on this waterway that leads to the largest lake in the Republic of Ireland. There is an abundance of wild life and the Corrib has a peace and tranquillity all of its own. The normal sightseeing tour is 90 minutes in duration with indoor seating for guests and tea/coffee plus traditional scones are included during the cruise. Enjoy a visit to Clonmacnoise. A wonderful early Christian site founded by St. Ciarán in the mid-6th century on the eastern bank of the River Shannon. In a stunning setting, the site includes the ruins of a Cathedral, seven Churches (10th -13th century), two round towers, three high crosses and the largest collection of early Christian graveslabs in Western Europe. The original high crosses and a selection of graveslabs are on display in the visitor centre. In 1979 Pope John Paul II celebrated mass at this site. Guided tours are provided and the long and varied history of Clonmacnoise is recounted in an audio-visual presentation shown in the visitor centre. There are also exhibitions that deal with the flora, fauna and landscape of the region. The centre includes a Café and ample coach and car parking is available. Overnight, dinner, bed and breakfast at your hotel in Galway.

Day 8: Monday 19th September 2016 – Galway to Knock
After you have enjoyed breakfast depart Galway. Today you will visit Knock Shrine, situated in the plains of East Mayo. It is one of the world’s leading Marian Shrines. On August 21, 1879 fifteen women, men and children, witnessed an Apparition of Mary at the south gable of Knock Parish Church. Knock is a very popular pilgrimage destination, and in 1979 Pope John Paul II visited this holy place. Mother Teresa of Calcutta visited the Shrine in June of 1993. One and a half million pilgrims visit the Shrine annually. Spend the balance of your day in Knock at leisure and enjoy celebrating Mass. Overnight, dinner, bed and breakfast at your hotel in Knock.

Day 9: Tuesday 20th September 2016 – Knock to Dublin
This morning depart for Dublin. On arrival visit the National Museum of Ireland. The National Museum houses artefacts which date from 7,000 BC to the 20th century. The Kildare Street site is home to artefacts from Viking times displayed alongside Celtic masterpieces and it houses one of the largest collections of Bronze Age gold in the world. The centrepiece of the collection is the Ardagh Chalice, which dates back to 800 AD. The museum also includes an exhibition dealing with Ireland's struggle for independence from 1916-1922. The Museum has many excellent displays. Of particular note are the Broighter Hoard, Tara Brooch, Ardagh Chalice and the Derrynaflan Hoard. Spend the balance of your day at leisure. We recommend a stroll down Grafton Street where you can enjoy the best in street entertainment. The shopping is also great in this area of the city! Tonight enjoy a farewell dinner at your hotel. Overnight, dinner, bed and breakfast at your hotel in Dublin.

Day 10: Wednesday 21st September 2016 – Farewell
After a final breakfast transfer to Dublin Airport for your return flight home.

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What to Know Before You Go to Ireland

Any questions? Contact Yaritza: 800-206-TOUR (8687) or [email protected]

For general Information: Contact Elizabeth Celenza: 520-749-0633 or [email protected]

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Optional Post Tour to London:

Day 10, Wed, Sep 21: Dublin - London
This morning we will transfer to Dublin Airport for our short flight to London. Arrive London airport where your tour escort will greet you and assist your transfer to the hotel. This afternoon you will enjoy one way cruise from London Eye to Tower Pier.The London Eye is one of the world's tallest observation wheels, with views over London from more than 442 feet (135 meters) in the air. Situated on the banks of the River Thames, it offers unrivalled panoramic vistas over London. The best way to see the sights and splendor of this great city is from the deck of a boat. Aboard the sightseeing cruise, you'll travel in comfort and style past London's world-famous landmarks. The boats have open upper decks for great sightseeing and comfortable lower saloons. Relax and enjoy the views, onboard commentary, light refreshments and full bar service as London's famous sights glide by. Continue to St Etheldreda’s Church for Mass before dinner and restful overnight in London.

Day 11, Thu, Sep 22: London
Following breakfast we will begin our full day sightseeing tour of London and visit the Houses of Parliament and the Tower of London with its amazing crown jewels exhibit. Also tour Westminster Cathedral and Hall, the great St. Paul’s Cathedral (Cathedral floor, Crypt and Galleries) and see the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace. Lunch will be at your own leisure, and then we will celebrate Mass at the Westminster Abbey. On our panoramic tour see the major sights such as Tower Bridge and London Bridge, Big Ben, Piccadilly Square, West End Theater section and Trafalgar Square. Return to Hotel for dinner and overnight.

Day 12, Fri, Sep 23: London – USA
After breakfast we will transfer to Heathrow airport for our return flight home with lifetime memories.

Galway Cathedral, Ireland

Knock, Ireland