8-Nights Irish Supreme from $6,945
CIE Tours
OFFER ID 1691242
Our most marvelous tour of the Emerald Isle: Experience Irish hospitality at its finest as you explore the splendor of Ireland's iconic attractions and savor local culinary delights. Luxuriate in overnight stays in five-star modern hotels, gracious manor houses and a majestic castle, complete with fine dining and relaxing spas.
Authentic Local Experiences:
- Stay in some of Ireland’s most lavish and storied castle and manor house accommodations.
- Master the art of baking fluffy, golden scones in a baking lesson at Ballyknocken Cookery School, owned by celebrity chef Catherine Fulvio.
- Interact with powerful birds of prey under expert guidance at Russborough House, meeting eagles, owls, hawks, and falcons.
Dining Experiences:
- 8 breakfasts (B), 2 lunches (L) and 6 dinners (D)
Trip Highlights:
- Ballyknocken Cookery School, House & Farm
- Cahir Castle
- Cliffs of Moher
- Irish National Stud
- Jameson Bow Street Distillery
- Jaunting Car Ride in Killarney
- Kilkenny Castle
- Kinsale Walking Tour
- Little Museum of Dublin
- Russborough House and Falconry
- Sheepdog Demonstration
Hotels:
- The Shelbourne Dublin or Fitzwilliam Hotel, Dublin (2)
- Lyrath Estate Hotel & Spa, Kilkenny (1)
- Hayfield Manor Hotel, Cork (1)
- The Europe Hotel & Resort, Killarney (2)
- Dromoland Castle Hotel, Newmarket- on-Fergus (1)
- The College Green Hotel, Dublin (1)
8 nights from $6,945 per person
Itinerary Details
Day 1: Walking Tour, Little Museum of Dublin, and The Shelbourne
Your tour departs from your luxury hotel on St Stephen’s Green in the heart of Dublin at 2:00 PM. You’ll stay at the Shelbourne, a focal point of Dublin’s political and social life for centuries. Meet your tour director and take a walking tour of Dublin with a local guide, seeing its grand architecture, historic pubs, and bustling streets. Finish at the Little Museum of Dublin. Located in an elegant Georgian townhouse, this award-winning, ‘people’s museum’ tells the fascinating story of the city’s history with humor and hospitality. Return to your hotel mere steps away for a welcome drink with your group before dining independently.
Hotel: Shelbourne Hotel
Day 2: Jameson Bow St. Distillery & Roly's Bistro
Visit the Jameson Bow St. Distillery in the historic Smithfield area of Dublin. Choose from a selection of Jameson signature serves and hear stories about the company since its founding in 1780. Savor a tasting of three whiskeys from the Jameson portfolio, then visit their maturation warehouse for a tasting straight from a barrel. For lunch you’ll visit one of Dublin’s most popular restaurants, Roly’s Bistro, which has been serving traditional European cuisine in its upscale Ballsbridge neighborhood since 1992. The afternoon is free to explore as you wish.
Hotel: Shelbourne Hotel
Meals: (B, L)
Day 3: Ballyknocken Cookery School, Russborough House, Birds of Prey & Lyrath Estate
Take part in a heartwarming baking experience at Ballyknocken Cookery School, located on a scenic farm in County Wicklow owned by celebrity chef Catherine Fulvio. You’ll master the art of traditional Irish scone-making. Next, tour Russborough House, one of Ireland’s most beautiful Georgian homes. See its collection of precious art ranging from the Renaissance to the 20th century, and then an exhilarating encounter awaits: a falconry demonstration, where you can interact with powerful birds of prey under expert guidance. You’ll dine this evening at Lyrath Estate Hotel & Spa in the small city of Kilkenny, known as the medieval heart of Ireland. This enchanting hotel features a 17th-century manor house and a modern extension in a wonderful blend of old and new.
Hotel: Lyrath Estate Hotel & Spa
Meals: (B, D)
Day 4: Kilkenny Castle, Mikey Ryan's Bar, Cahir Castle & Hayfield Manor
Tour the beautifully restored Kilkenny Castle and discover glorious 17th-century tapestries, family portraits, and sumptuous furnishings that reflect the lifestyle of the powerful Butler family who once resided there. Continue to lunch at Mikey Ryan’s Bar at Cashel Palace Hotel, enjoying local flavors and seasonal produce at this welcoming, historic pub. In the afternoon, explore the impressive Cahir Castle, one of Ireland’s largest and best-preserved castles, renowned for its strategic location and fascinating history. Dine this evening at Hayfield Manor, your welcoming and luxurious manor-house hotel steps from the heart of Cork City.
Hotel: Hayfield Manor Hotel
Meals: (B, L, D)
Day 5: Kinsale Tour, Killarney Jaunting Car Ride, Rozzers Restaurant & Europe Hotel
Explore the colorful coastal town of Kinsale, famed as Ireland’s gourmet capital and a haven for art lovers. Discover the port’s pivotal role in Irish history with a local guide and hear how it was once the scene of a battle with the Spanish Armada. Travel on to the friendly town of Killarney for a classic jaunting car ride through Killarney National Park to the scenic ruins of Ross Castle. The Europe Hotel & Resort, sublimely set amid the panoramic vistas of this area of legendary beauty, is your home for the next two nights. Dine at the award-winning Rozzers Restaurant in the Killeen House Hotel.
Hotel: The Europe Hotel & Resort
Meals: (B, D)
Day 6: Ring of Kerry Highlights, Kenmare & Sheepdog Demonstration
Enjoy a leisurely morning before going on a drive to see highlights of Ireland’s most popular coastal drive, the Ring of Kerry. Take in rugged ocean views and serene mountain vistas, stopping in the friendly village of Kenmare with time for exploration and an independent lunch. Next, visit a sheep farm to watch expert dogs demonstrate their skills as they cooperate with the farmer to mind their flock. Back at your hotel, your evening will begin with a demonstration of the art of cocktail-making. Savor your choice of cocktails before dining with your group.
Hotel: The Europe Hotel & Resort
Meals: (B, D)
Day 7: Cliffs of Moher & Dromoland Castle
Drive north to cross the Shannon River on a ferry to visit the spectacular beauty of the Cliffs of Moher, soaring 700 feet above the Atlantic surf. Behold the breathtaking panoramic views and stroll along the cliff-top walk. Travel on to the majestic Dromoland Castle Hotel. This fairytale castle was the ancestral home of the O’Briens, whose lineage traces back to Brian Boru, one of Ireland’s last High Kings. Relax in the elegant surroundings and then sip a drink before a delicious dinner of award-winning cuisine in the oak-paneled dining room.
Hotel: Dromoland Castle Hotel
Meals: (B, D)
Day 8: Irish National Stud & Gardens, Merry Ploughboy & College Green Hotel
Make your way back to Dublin for your farewell evening. Along the way, your first stop will be the home of equine royalty, The Irish National Stud in County Kildare. Here you’ll see impeccably bred stallions alongside protective mares, frolicking foals, and athletic yearlings‚ and get an up-close experience with them. Stroll around the delightful grounds to explore St Fiachra’s Garden and the Japanese Gardens. In the evening, dine on Irish specialties at the Merry Ploughboy Gastro Pub while enjoying a lively show of traditional Irish songs and step-dancing. Spend your last night at the College Green Hotel in the heart of Dublin. This luxurious modern hotel is housed in architectural gems that once housed the headquarters of three separate banks.
Hotel: The College Green Hotel
Meals: (B, D)
Day 9: Tour Ends in Dublin
Your tour ends after breakfast.
Meals: (B)
Meal Abbreviations: B: Breakfast, L: Lunch, D: Dinner
The city s characterised by many beautifully restored buildings and winding slipways - it is small and compact enough to explore on foot, yet full of fascinating historical buildings and contemporary shops, design galleries and restaurants.
The ancient city of Kilkenny was named after a 6th century monk St Canice.His memory lives on in the beautifully restored St Canices Cathedral built overlooking the city in the thirtheenth century. The Normans arrived in the 12th century and their legacy remains in the beautifully restored Kilkenny Castle
Excursions
Cork's Fabulous Food Trail - Half Day Tour
Cork's Fabulous Food Trail - Half Day Tour
Meet with your driver and enjoy the short scenic drive along the banks of the River Lee to the Food Capital of Ireland, Cork City where your Fabulous Food Trail begins.
On arrival meet your local food guide and embark on a gentle 2.5 hour culinary walk of the best this city has to offer. During your tour you will enjoy frequent stops and lots of generous tastings of local cheeses, pastries and savoury delights. In this particular corner of Ireland, no self-respecting foodie would begin a culinary trail without first visiting the iconic English Market in the heart of Cork city. This Victorian gem has been faithfully serving food to the people of Cork for more than a century.
A morning at the English Market immerses you in the unique cadence of life in Cork and caters for just about all culinary tastes and eating occasions. Amongst its many appetizing edible delights are chocolates and cakes, cheeses and pastas. There is time to chat with locals and food producers alike as Cork people have a wonderful sense of humour and simply love to chat!.
As you stroll through the city your guide will point out Cork’s more interesting architectural features and recount some of it’s history.
After your walk there is some free time to explore this wonderful city on your own before meeting with your driver for transfer back to your ship.
Inclusions
- Private Driver Guide
Cork - Blarney & Kinsale - Full Day Tour
Cork - Blarney & Kinsale - Full Day Tour
Today you will have the opportunity to visit the world famous Blarney Castle, Charles Fort, as well as Ireland’s Gourmet Restaurants Capital, the town of Kinsale.
After your whistle-stop tour of Cork City, visit Blarney Castle (situated just north of Cork City). This castle was completed in 1446 by Cormac Mc Carthy, and is famous the world over for the Blarney Stone, which upon kissing, bestows the eternal gift of eloquence on those lucky enough to do so.
About Kinsale:
Kinsale in County Cork is one of the most picturesque, popular and fashionable resorts of the south-west coast of Ireland and famous for its beautiful yachting, sea angling, gourmet restaurants and golf. Art galleries in Kinsale can easily claim its place amongst Ireland's most historic locations for this has been a centre of population, commerce, trade and fishing far beyond memory and record.
In its earliest days the estuary of the Bandon River gave Kinsale great importance as the river is tidal and water transport was dominant until the 18th Century. The estuary also provided excellent anchorage for ancient shipping which went in peril of the vagaries of the weather. The Town nestles between the hills and the shoreline, it is a maze of narrow streets and is never far from the water - little has changed in many hundreds of years. Amongst buildings of later periods are those of another age with historical links to the French, Spanish, British and Americans.
Charles Fort, Kinsale
Perhaps the best-known historical attraction in Kinsale, Charles Fort, is on the road just beyond Summercove. It is open all year, and regular guided tours are available. Charles Fort is one of the finest surviving examples of a 17th Century star-shaped fort, and much of the construction begun in 1678 remains. The fort has two enormous bastions overlooking the estuary, and three facing inland. Within its walls were all the barracks and ancillary facilities to support the fort’s garrison. The fort continued in military use until 1922.
Lunch included at Blarney Woollen Mills or Kinsale
Inclusions
- Private Driver Guide
- Entrance to Blarney Castle
- Entrance to Charles Fort Kinsale
- Lunch
Cork - Guided Sightseeing Tour (4 hours) (Provided by Moloney & Kelly)
Cork - Guided Sightseeing Tour (4 hours) (Provided by Moloney & Kelly)
Guided Sightseeing Option: Please see below for details on this option.
Enjoy a private chauffeur driven luxury sedan for “Guided Sightseeing” touring.
Cork
Meet your expert local driver/guide for the drive to Cork.
Your first stop of the day is a visit to the Cobh Heritage Centre a dramatic exhibition of the origins, history and legacy of Cobh. Known previously as Queenstown this was the main port for Irish emigrants to Canada and the United States. The famine resulted as a consequence of widespread potato crop failure. In 1846, the potato crop failed completely and in the years 1847-1849, escape was seen by many as the only chance for survival - between 1845 and 1851 over 1,500,000 people emigrated from Ireland.
On April 11, 1912, the newly built Titanic called to the port of Queenstown (now known as Cobh) on her maiden voyage. Titanic had set out from Southampton and called to Cherbourg before her final call to Queenstown (Cobh). The story of the Titanic and the White Star line is also told at the Cobh Heritage Centre.
Leaving Cobh behind drive to Midleton. Visit The Jameson Old Midleton Distillery which is a wonderful, worthwhile excursion. Tour the distillery and learn how the world famous Irish whiskey is made. Here you will have the opportunity to taste the sample some of Ireland’s finest whiskies.
Return to the ship.
Included:
- Private Luxury Sedan with English-Speaking driver/guide for 4 hours
- Entrance fees for listed sights
- Bottled water in the vehicle
- Gratuities to driver/guide*
Excluded:
- Cost of meals and refreshments other than bottled water
- Items of personal nature
*Gratuities have been prepaid. Additional gratuities are at guest’s discretion.
Cork - Guided Sightseeing Tour - 4 Hours (Provided by Moloney & Kelly)
Cork - Guided Sightseeing Tour - 4 Hours (Provided by Moloney & Kelly)
Guided Sightseeing Option: Please see below for details on this option.
Meet your expert local guide for the drive to Cork.
Your first stop of the day is a visit to the Cobh Heritage Centre, a dramatic exhibition of the origins, history and legacy of Cobh. Known previously as Queenstown, this was the main port for Irish emigrants to Canada and the United States. In 1846, the potato crop failed completely and in the years 1847-1849, escape was seen by many as the only chance for survival - between 1845 and 1851 over 1,500,000 people emigrated from Ireland.
On the 11th April 1912, the newly built Titanic called to the port of Queenstown (now known as Cobh) on her maiden voyage. Titanic had set out from Southampton and called to Cherbourg before her final call to Queenstown (Cobh). The story of the Titanic and the White Star line is also told at the Cobh Heritage Centre.
Then, leaving Cobh behind, enjoy the drive to Midleton. Here, you will visit The Jameson Old Midleton Distillery. You will tour the distillery and learn how the world famous Irish whiskey is made. You will have the opportunity to sample some of Ireland’s finest whiskies.
Return to your ship.
Included:
- Private Luxury Sedan with English-Speaking driver-guide for 4 hours
- Entrance fees for listed sights
- Gratuities to driver-guide*
- Bottled water in the vehicle
Excluded:
- Cost of meals and refreshments other than bottled water
- Items of personal nature
Cork - Guided Sightseeing Tour - 8 Hours (Provided by Moloney & Kelly)
Cork - Guided Sightseeing Tour - 8 Hours (Provided by Moloney & Kelly)
Guided Sightseeing Option: Please see below for details on this option.
Meet your expert local guide for the drive to Cork.
Enjoy the drive through the attractive City of Cork which hosts some fine Georgian architecture, the imposing St Finbarr’s Cathedral, great shopping and many pubs. You will continue your journey into the Irish countryside to the pretty town of Blarney.
In Blarney, you will visit the 15th Century Blarney Castle, famous for its stone, which is traditionally believed to have the power to bestow eloquence on all those who kiss it. The stone itself is set in the wall below the battlements and to kiss it, one has to lean backwards (holding on to an iron railing) from the parapet walk.
Then, enjoy some free time in the Blarney Woollen Mills store that sells Irish gifts including Waterford Crystal, Beleek China, Lladro, Aran Sweaters, Irish Crystal, Irish Linen, Irish Jewelry, and Celtic Gifts.
You will have time for lunch on your own.
Following lunch, you will visit the Cork City Gaol. Here you can step back in time to see what 19th Century life was like in Cork – inside and outside prison walls. Amazingly life-like figures, furnished cells, sound effects, and fascinating exhibitions are to be seen.
Return to your ship.
Included:
- Private Luxury Sedan with English-Speaking driver-guide for 8 hours
- Entrance fees for listed sights
- Gratuities to driver-guide*
- Bottled water in the vehicle
Excluded:
- Cost of meals and refreshments other than bottled water
- Items of personal nature
Cork’s Culture and Heritage – full day tour
Cork’s Culture and Heritage – full day tour
This morning we visit to the Crawford Municipal Art Gallery, one of the most historic buildings in Cork, parts of which date back to the early eighteenth century. The gallery has an interesting frontage of red brick dressed with limestone and was built in 1724 as the Custom House. The permanent collection comprises over 2500 works, ranging from eighteenth century Irish and European painting and sculpture, through to contemporary video installations. At the heart of the collection is a collection of Greek and Roman sculpture casts, brought to Cork in 1818 from the Vatican Museum in Rome. We also visit Cork Museum, which houses very fine collections of Cork silver and glass as well as Youghal Needlepoint Lace.
Continuing on to Glanmire on the outskirts of Cork and visit Riverstown House, which was rebuilt in 1745 and is home to some fine plasterwork by the Francini brothers, of particular interest is the dining room ceiling which is adorned with allegorical figures and the Green Drawing Room which is notable for its exceptionally fine timber carved fireplace.
We conclude our Cork City tour with a visit to nearby Lakemount Gardens, a privately owned garden on acid soil overlooking Cork Harbour. It has many flourishing ericaceous plants, including the more tender rhododendrons. Retaining walls and raised beds built from local stone provide a home for rock plants, choice dwarf shrubs and a collection of primulas. Hydrangeas are particularly good in late summer, whilst the many Japanese acers throughout the garden produce brilliant autumn colour. Unusual climbers can be seen on the walls of the conservatory, which shelters exotic varieties.
Your driver with then transfer you back to your ship.
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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