14-Nights Best of Ireland and Scotland from $4,545

Brendan Vacations

OFFER ID 1666471

Best Of Ireland And Scotland
Travel to see the very Best of Ireland and Scotland, from delicate Waterford Crystal to the golfing greats of St. Andrews. Kiss the Blarney Stone and you’ll be sharing tales from Giant’s Causeway, the Ring of Kerry and the Scottish Highlands for years to come.

Dining Summary

6 Dinner (D)
14 Breakfast (B)

Be My Guest

Killarney: Visit the working farms of Muckross, taking you back to a time of traditional farming. Learn how to churn butter and dine in the Quilles Farmhouse, set against the scenic backdrop of the lakes of Killarney.

Brendan Experiences

Kildare: Admire Ireland's finest thoroughbreds at the Irish National Stud Farm.
Londonderry: With a Local Specialist explore inside the city walls. See the Gothic Guildhall and the Georgian houses of Shipquay Street.

Dive into Culture

Waterford: Learn how crystal is crafted at the House of Waterford Crystal during a workshop tour.
Belfast: Discover the full story of the Titanic at the Titanic Belfast visitor attraction in Belfast.
Glasgow: Visit Clydeside Distillery for a tour and a tasting of their whisky as you learn of their long history.

Iconic Experience

Dublin: A Local Specialist will show you Dublin’s elegant Georgian squares, O’Connell Street and the Custom House.
Blarney: It is said that those who kiss the Blarney Stone, the famous stone of eloquence, are bestowed with the power to persuade, flatter and coax. Take your turn at giving it a peck knowing that the stone was sourced from 330-million-year-old limestone.
Galway: Explore the historic heart of Galway. See landmarks such as the Spanish Arch and the cathedral or perhaps admire the distinctive Claddagh rings.
Donegal: Stop in Donegal and see The Diamond, a hub for music and cultural gatherings in the town.
Bushmills: In Northern Ireland you'll discover the legend of the Giant's Causeway as you explore and learn about this iconic natural landmark.
Fort William: Near the foothills of Ben Nevis, stop in Fort William for a stroll along the charming High Street.
Scottish Highlands: Take in the beauty of the Highlands on a scenic drive past glens, lochs and dramatic peaks. Watch the landscape shift as you travel deeper into one of Scotland’s most striking regions.
Edinburgh: Explore the city with your Local Specialist as you travel along Princes Street to see the Scott Memorial, the neoclassical Adam facades of New Town and the official Scottish residence of the King, Palace of Holyroodhouse.

Must-see Highlights

Explore Dublin, Londonderry, Belfast and Edinburgh with a Local Specialist
Discover Waterford, Adare, Galway and Glasgow
Visit the Irish National Stud in Kildare, the Waterford Crystal Showroom, Blarney Castle, Giant's Causeway, Titanic Experience in Belfast, a whisky distillery and Edinburgh Castle
View Glencoe, Eilean Donan Castle, the battlefield of Culloden and the 18th green at St. Andrews
See St. Patrick's Cathedral in Dublin, Galway Cathedral and Loch Lomond
Scenic Drive the Ring of Kerry
Tickets for the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo are included on departures that coincide with performance dates

Top Rated Highlights

Adare: Experience a village walk through the main street lined with thatched cottages.
Belfast: Join a Local Specialist to hear about the history of the city and learn of its progress and current prosperity. See the murals in different locations indicating the political sentiments of local residents.
Glencoe: Drive through this Highland village on Loch Leven.
Eilean Donan: See one of Scotland’s most iconic castles, set where three lochs meet. Framed by rugged mountains and often shrouded in mist, it’s a favorite film location and one of the country’s most photographed landmarks.
Inverness: Visit the site of the final Jacobite Rising, where Bonnie Prince Charlie’s forces were defeated in 1746. Walk the battlefield and learn how this short but brutal conflict changed the course of Scottish history.
St. Andrews: Visit the university town where the famous beach scene from 'Chariots of Fire' was filmed and see the golf course where the sport was created.

What's Included

An expert Travel Director and professional Driver
Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted
All porterage and restaurant gratuities
All hotel tips, charges and local taxes
Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals
Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras
Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing
Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)
Ferry from Northern Ireland to Scotland
Optional Experiences and free time
On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilized.

14 nights from $4,545 per person

Itinerary

Click here for Full Itinerary Details

Itinerary Details

Brendan Vacations: Best of Ireland and Scotland

Day 1 - Welcome to Dublin
Explore the Celtic heritage and hospitality of Ireland and Scotland on this grand adventure through beautiful landscapes and enchanting cities. Your first day sees you delve into the Irish capital, before joining your fellow travelers and Travel Director for dinner.
Accommodations: Clayton Ballsbridge, Dublin, Maldron Croke Park, Dublin
Meals: Dinner

Day 2 - Discover Diverse Dublin
Drive through the streets of Dublin, joining your Local Specialist for a sightseeing tour past the stately Georgian Squares and St. Patrick's Cathedral, the tallest church in Ireland. Enjoy a leisurely day exploring the city. Stop for a pint of 'the Black Stuff' in Temple Bar, admire the colorful performers on Grafton Street or consider joining an Optional Experience this evening to tap your feet to the lively sounds of Irish music at an Irish cabaret.
Accommodations: Clayton Ballsbridge, Dublin, Maldron Croke Park, Dublin
Meals: Breakfast

Day 3 - Journey to Waterford
Dive Into Culture and gain insights into Ireland’s strong tradition of breeding world-class thoroughbreds at the Irish National Stud in Kildare. Enjoy a guided walk admiring the powerful steeds that have made racing history and stroll around the tranquil Japanese gardens. Travel to the House of Waterford Crystal this afternoon and Dive Into Culture yet again to witness this delicate craft, watching talented master crafters at work in their workshop.
Accommodations: The Fitzwilton Hotel, Waterford
Meals: Breakfast

Day 4 - Onwards to Blarney and Killarney
Bend over backwards and kiss the Blarney Stone and acquire the 'gift of the gab' before crossing the Kerry Mountains to Killarney. Tonight, why not join an Optional Experience for some lively entertainment.
Accommodations: Hotel Killarney
Meals: Breakfast

Day 5 - A Day on the Ring of Kerry
The astounding beauty of the Iveragh Peninsula accompanies you on this soul-stirring coastal journey around the Ring of Kerry – a dramatic landscape of mountains, loughs and lakes which have inspired writers and poets for centuries. See Daniel O'Connell's Cahirciveen, the fishing village of Waterville, the Black Valley and Moll's Gap with the Macgillycuddy's Reeks peaks in the distance. Journey to 1930s Ireland this evening for an unforgettable experience, visiting the working farms of Muckross, where you'll learn about traditional farming and meet the families who ply the land. Your visit will help to preserve the heritage of rural Ireland and you’ll Connect With Locals, savoring delicious local flavors during your Be My Guest experience, visiting the Quilles Farmhouse against the scenic backdrop of the lakes of Killarney.
Accommodations: Hotel Killarney
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 6 - Continue to Galway and Ballina
Drive to Adare, one of Ireland's prettiest villages, known for its thatched cottages. See the imposing stone cathedral, built on the site of an old prison and Eyre Square on your next stop in Galway, where you'll enjoy some free time to explore the city before continuing your journey northward. This evening, dine in your hotel.
Accommodations: Great National Hotel Ballina
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 7 - Off to Donegal and on to Derry/Londonderry
Head north to Donegal with its 'Diamond' center before joining a Local Specialist in Derry/Londonderry to stroll along its 17th-century walls. See the neighborhood of the Bogside, known for its murals that depict events of the 'Troubles' like the Battle of the Bogside, which sparked the conflict.
Accommodations: City Hotel Derry
Meals: Breakfast

Day 8 - Admire the Giant’s Causeway and on to Belfast
Tread in the footsteps of Finn McCool along the otherworldly Giant's Causeway 'steps' that descend into the sea. Later, arrive in Belfast later and visit the Titanic Belfast Experience where you’ll Dive into Culture and gain insights into the tragic story of the famous ship that met its end in the Atlantic. The rest of the evening is yours to enjoy the vibrant nightlife of the capital of Northern Ireland.
Accommodations: AC by Marriott, Belfast, Stormont Hotel Belfast
Meals: Breakfast

Day 9 - Cross the Irish Sea to Glasgow
Join your Local Specialist in Belfast this morning for an included city tour of the Big Fish at Donegall Quay, the Titanic Quarter, the Samson and Goliath cranes and City Hall. Board your ferry in Belfast and cross to Cairnryan in Scotland, driving through the Ayrshire countryside bound for Glasgow, your home for the next two nights.
Accommodations: Hilton Garden Inn Glasgow City Center, Maldron Hotel Glasgow City
Meals: Breakfast

Day 10 - Discover Glasgow’s Rich Legacy
Delve into Scotland’s intriguing cultural capital and stroll through the town to admire views of George Square and the River Clyde, once the heart of Scotland's shipbuilding industry. You'll head to a whisky distillery next where you’ll Dive Into Culture and learn how to make Scotland's favorite honey-colored drink with a chance to sample a wee dram. You'll then have some free time to explore the city.
Accommodations: Hilton Garden Inn Glasgow City Center, Maldron Hotel Glasgow City
Meals: Breakfast

Day 11 - Continue Over the Sea to Skye
Journey along the famous bonnie banks of Loch Lomond to the tragic site of the 1692 massacre of the MacDonalds at the 'Glen of Weeping'. Continue to Fort William at the foot of Britain's highest mountain, Ben Nevis. Then, cross to the Isle of Skye, where you'll spend this evening dining in your hotel.
Accommodations: The Dunollie Hotel, Broadford
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 12 - Venture to Loch Ness and Culloden in the Scottish Highlands
Leave the rugged beauty of Skye behind and venture to the site where three lochs meet. View Eilean Donan Castle before traveling along the banks of Loch Ness in search of the elusive monster that bears its name. The bloody battlefield of Culloden is your next stop, where you'll spend a poignant moment reflecting on the many men who lost their lives in the brief but brutal battle between the Redcoats and Bonnie Prince Charlie's Jacobites. This evening you spend the evening dining at your hotel in the Scottish Highlands.
Accommodations: The Highlander
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 13 - Journey to Enchanting Edinburgh
Traversing the dramatic landscapes of the Scottish Highlands, you'll pass Pitlochry before arriving in St. Andrews to see its famous golf course on which golfing greats have clamoured to play for centuries. Cross the scenic Firth of Forth to enchanting Edinburgh, your home for the next two nights. Tickets to The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo are included on departures that align with performance dates.
Accommodations: Novotel Edinburgh Center, Delta by Marriott.
Meals: Breakfast

Day 14 - Uncover Edinburgh’s Treasures
Join your Local Specialist for a guided sightseeing tour which includes a visit to Edinburgh Castle, surveying the city from the imposing Castle Rock. See the Royal Mile, the elegant Palace of Holyrood in the shadow of Arthur's Seat and the new Scottish Parliament building. As your memorable holiday comes to an end, join your Travel Director and fellow travelers for dinner to reminisce over shared experiences.
Accommodations: Novotel Edinburgh Center, Delta by Marriott.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 15 - Farewell Edinburgh
For now it’s time to say a fond farewell to Scotland and your newfound friends, after your unforgettable Celtic sojourn.
Meals: Breakfast

Featured Destinations

Scottish Highlands

Broadford

Ballina

Edinburgh

Dominated by the ramparts of Edinburgh Castle, this picturesque city offers shopping on Princes Street, the grandeur of the Royal Mile, St. Giles Cathedral and historic Palace of Holyrood House, where Queen Mary lived and many Scottish kings were wed. Or venture across the moors to marvel at the scenic Highlands.

Excursions

Edinburgh: Royal Edinburgh - 8 hours

With Scotland's most famous castle dominating the city, Edinburgh provides a fantastic introduction to this magical country. This morning you will receive a warm welcome by your local guide as you disembark your cruise for your full day sightseeing tour (8 hours) by private vehicle.

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.

Highlights:

Privately guided tour of Edinburgh Castle
Visit Holyrood Palace (Subject to Royal Visit)
Discover the history of the Royal Yacht Britannia

Tour Duration: 8 Hours

Tour Can Operate: Morning/ Afternoon

Wheelchair Accessible: Please enquire for more information

Physical Activity Level: Light

Inclusions:

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

Exclusions:

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

Glasgow

Belfast

Belfast is popular with travelers who come to discover the city’s physical beauty and renewed tranquility. Enjoy performances at the Grand Opera House, shopping along trendy Donegall Place and visiting numerous pubs along The Golden Mile. St. Anne’s Cathedral, also known as Belfast Cathedral, is the principal church of the Anglican Church of Ireland and contains stones from every county in Ireland. Located next to Europa Hotel, the Grand Opera House boasts an impressive mix of large productions of opera, ballet, musicals and drama. Known as the Big Ben of Belfast, the Albert Memorial Clock Tower was built in 1869 to commemorate the Prince Consort. Built in 1849 as one of Queen Victoria’s colleges, Queens University is one of the foremost universities in the British Isles. The classical-style building of Stormont, erected in 1928-32 to house the Parliament of Northern Ireland, stands 3.5 miles outside the city. The Prince of Wales Avenue is exactly one mile long and is bordered by rose beds containing 600 of the famous Korona roses noted for their scarlet blooms.

Excursions

Belfast - Tour of Antrim Coast - Full Day Tour

Belfast: Cultural Belfast - 8 hours

Belfast: Highlights of Belfast - 6 hours

Londonderry (Derry)

Killarney

Waterford

Nestled in southeast Ireland, Waterford combines low farmland and sandy coastlines with rugged landscape typical of County Cork. The town is an ancient Viking settlement whose roots go back to the 8th century. Even today there is a medieval feel about Waterford with its ancient fortifications, 18th century cathedrals, and fine Georgian houses, particularly around The Mall, George's Street and O'Connell Street. While the town is charming, it regained world recognition with the re-opening of the crystal factory offering once again the famous, exquisite glassware of the town's name. Take a walking tour of Historic Waterford to get an understanding of Waterford's complex history. The 70-foot Reginald's Tower was built in the 11th century. Climb the stone spiral staircase for a great view of the city. The ruins of French Church are part of a Dominican monastery built in 1240 AD given to Huguenot refugees in the 17th century. The Theater Royal and City Hall are considered architectural masterpieces by John Roberts.

Excursions

Waterford Shore Excursion- Waterford and Kilkenny Tour - Full Day Tour

Waterford’s Fine Houses – full day tour

Leaving Waterford this morning we travel through the rich pastures of County Waterford and head for Lismore to visit Lismore Castle Gardens. The castle, which was originally built in 1185 is now the Irish home of the Duke of Devonshire. While Lismore Castle itself is not open to the public, the beautiful and lovingly maintained public gardens are, as is the west wing of the Castle which houses a wonderful contemporary art gallery. The gardens are said to be the oldest continually cultivated gardens in Ireland and they offer spectacular views of both Lismore Castle and the surrounding countryside of the Blackwater valley.

Leaving Lismore we visit nearby Cappoquin House, which is an eighteenth century mansion built on the site of an old Fitzgerald Castle overlooking the River Blackwater. It was designed by the Cork architect, Abraham Hargreave. The Keane family have lived here for the last 300 years. It is little changed from the handsome building completed in 1779. In the house are many reminders of the Afghan war of 1839 in which General Sir John Keane later created Lord Keane of Ghuznee and Cappoquin played an important role. The garden is on a south facing slope crowned with two huge arboretum rhododendrons and planted with unusual trees and flowering shrubs.

Returning to Waterford, we visit Curraghmore House, which is owned by the Marquis of Waterford and has been home to his ancestors since 1170. Some 2,500 acres of formal gardens, woodland and grazing fields make this the largest private demesne in Ireland and one of the finest places to visit in Ireland. The interior has exceptionally fine plasterwork and a guided tour of the main reception rooms of Curraghmore House can be arranged by prior appointment. This tour takes in some of the finest neo-classical rooms in Ireland which feature the magnificent plaster work of James Wyatt and grisaille panels by Peter de Gree. The superbly landscaped gardens beside Curraghmore House, incorporate a shell house, the interior of which was designed by Catherine, Countess of Tyrone, in 1754. May and June are the best months to appreciate azaleas, rhododendrons, through exceptionally fine trees may be enjoyed at any time.

Your driver with then transfer you back to your ship.

Dublin

Dublin enjoys one of the loveliest natural settings in Europe. Dublin attracts visitors from around the world with its old world charm and friendly atmosphere. Most of the architecture dates from the 18th century, when Dublin enjoyed great prominence and prosperity. Also of interest are stately Georgian houses which front Merrion Square. O'Connell Street is considered the commercial center of Dublin. Perhaps the most memorable feature of Dublin is the traditional pub, where visitors can enjoy conversation over fine Irish brew. The city also offers many fine parks, including St. Stephen's Green and Phoenix Park. National Gallery's renowned collection includes works by such famous masters as Rembrandt and Monet. Trinity College's Old Library is home to the most cherished treasure, the Book of Kells, a manuscript of the Gospels. Admire Christ Church Cathedral and St. Patrick's Cathedral. Enjoy the exhibits in impressive National Museum. Self-guided walking tours include Old City Trail, Georgian Heritage Trail and the Cultural Trail.

Excursions

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

Exclusions

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: An Introduction to Dublin - 4 hours

Vacation Details

Valid Date Ranges

04/04/2026 - 04/18/2026

from $4,545 per person

04/13/2026 - 04/27/2026

from $4,905 per person

04/18/2026 - 04/20/2026

from $5,450 per person

04/27/2026 - 05/11/2026

from $4,973 per person

05/02/2026 - 05/16/2026

from $5,875 per person

05/04/2026 - 05/18/2026

from $5,288 per person

05/09/2026 - 05/18/2026

from $5,875 per person

05/23/2026 - 05/30/2026

from $5,333 per person

06/01/2026 - 06/15/2026

from $5,333 per person

06/06/2026 - 06/20/2026

from $5,333 per person

06/08/2026 - 06/22/2026

from $5,925 per person

06/20/2026 - 07/04/2026

from $5,333 per person

06/22/2026 - 06/27/2026

from $5,333 per person

06/29/2026 - 07/13/2026

from $5,925 per person

07/04/2026 - 07/18/2026

from $5,333 per person

07/11/2026 - 07/13/2026

from $5,423 per person

07/25/2026 - 08/08/2026

from $5,693 per person

07/27/2026 - 08/10/2026

from $5,756 per person

08/01/2026 - 08/08/2026

from $6,395 per person

08/17/2026 - 08/31/2026

from $5,756 per person

08/22/2026 - 09/05/2026

from $5,378 per person

08/29/2026 - 09/07/2026

from $5,333 per person

09/14/2026 - 09/19/2026

from $5,288 per person

09/21/2026 - 10/05/2026

from $5,216 per person

09/26/2026 - 10/10/2026

from $5,795 per person

09/28/2026 - 10/17/2026

from $5,175 per person

* 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.

Prices Start At

from $4,545 per person

Length

14 Nights

Air City

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Vacation Rating

Deluxe

Remarks

Trip prices are per person, land only, based on double occupancy and reflect applicable discounts. Trip prices and discounts are subject to change. Airfare is additional. Tour prices, dates and itineraries are correct at the time of the website going live, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking. Other restrictions may apply. Trip prices are per person, land only, based on double occupancy and reflect applicable discounts. Trip prices and discounts are subject to change. Airfare is additional. Tour prices, dates and itineraries are correct at the time of the website going live, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking. Other restrictions may apply.

All fares are quoted in US Dollars.

OFFER ID

1666471

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