CIE Tours: 2024 - 9 Day Irish Adventure
Day 1 Dublin City Tour | Teeling Whiskey Distillery
Your tour departs at 2:00 PM from your Dublin hotel. Set out on a panoramic tour of the city. Highlights include 18th-century Georgian houses with brightly painted doors, tranquil parks, and historic O’Connell Street. Visit the award-winning Teeling Whiskey Distillery in the heart of the historic Liberties; when it opened in 2015, it was Dublin's first new distillery in 125 years.
Day 2 Glendalough | Dunbrody Famine Ship | Waterford
Enjoy the delightful scenery of the Wicklow Mountains on the way to Glendalough. Explore the remains of one of the most important monastic sites in Ireland, founded by St. Kevin in the 6th century. Walk through the deep valley to view the picturesque ruins of a round tower, churches, and Celtic crosses. Head southeast to the Dunbrody Famine Ship, an authentic reproduction of an 1840’s vessel that brought desperate Irish emigrants fleeing famine to the New World. Continue on to Waterford and take a stroll around the streets of this historic city with a local guide before dinner. (B, D)
Day 3 Waterford Crystal | Cobh | Blarney Castle
See skilled artisans create crystal masterpieces at the House of Waterford Crystal, a CIE Tours preferred shopping partner. Travel to Cobh for a guided walking tour – this harbor town was the last port of call for the Titanic in 1912 and was also the main point of embarkation for Irish emigrants between 1848 and 1960. Proceed on to Blarney, to visit Blarney Castle and kiss the famous “Stone of Eloquence” or explore the tranquil gardens. Journey west through rugged countryside to your hotel in beautiful County Kerry. (B, D)
Day 4 Ring of Kerry | Killarney
Discover Ireland’s most popular scenic drive, the Ring of Kerry. In the beautiful Gap of Dunloe, find a keepsake at our CIE Tours preferred shopping partner, Moriarty’s. Along the way, stop for lunch, stroll around Sneem, and take in the panoramic views at Moll’s Gap. Enjoy a free evening in Killarney, with time for dining independently and perhaps a visit to one of the town’s many lively pubs. (B, L)
Day 5 Cliffs of Moher | Galway
Head to the Cliffs of Moher, stunning formations that soar 700 feet above the churning Atlantic and extend for 9 miles. On the way, take a ferry across the River Shannon and travel along the scenic coast of County Clare. Take in the spectacular views as you walk atop the cliffs. Travel on through the austere beauty of the Burren, a distinctive limestone landscape formed by glaciers, to Galway. Take a panoramic tour of this vibrant, artistic city before dinner at your hotel. (B, D)
Day 6 Sheepdog Demonstration | Donegal | Derry
Immerse yourself in traditional farm life during a visit to an authentic working farm, where you’ll watch trained dogs round up mountain sheep. Continue through the rugged mountainous landscape to Donegal town. Visit our CIE Tours preferred shopping partner, Triona Design, and then enjoy some free time. In Derry, a local guide will help you discover this ancient walled city, long known for its tumultuous history but now a thriving artistic hub. (B, D)
Day 7 Giant’s Causeway | Titanic Belfast | Glyde Inn
Explore the northern coastline and the Giant’s Causeway, enormous hexagonal columns formed by volcanic activity over 60 million years ago. Visit Titanic Belfast and learn about the ill-fated ship through state-of-the-art displays. See the docks where the famous liner was built just over a century ago. At the Glyde Inn, enjoy a farewell dinner with Irish specialties and entertainment featuring traditional Irish music and songs. (B, D)
Day 8 Independent Dublin Sightseeing
Explore Dublin independently on the Hop-On, Hop-Off bus. Use your voucher to visit one of Dublin’s top attractions: Guinness Storehouse, EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum, or GPO Museum. In the evening, dine independently at one of the many restaurants or pubs that Dublin has to offer. (B)
Day 9 Tour Ends in Dublin
9-day tour ends after breakfast. (B)>
Londonderry
Londonderry (Derry) is a city of contrasts, culture, and heartwarming hospitality. Protective walls erected in 1614 present a good image of what the town’s fortification looked like more than 350 years ago and offer a splendid view over the roofs and buildings. The city’s architectural legacy retains many elegant reminders of fortunes gleaned from trade. Discover the grandeur of Georgian terraces and the ornate facade of the building that once housed the shirt and collar industry. The city offers history and heritage. Major attractions are the 17th-century cathedral and the neo-Gothic guildhall. The town square has been known since the 17th century as the Diamond and lies at the junction of the four principal streets, still following the medieval plan. Derry provides a convenient base for exploring Donegal County, one of the country’s most scenic areas in glorious wilderness. Located outside Londonderry, Dunluce castle is famous as the former residence of the great O’Neills clan. The Grianan of Aileach - which dates back to 1700 B.C., was originally a temple of the sun.
Galway
Galway is a city, a county, and an experience to be savoured and remembered. The historic city of the tribes dances to a beat uniquely it's own. There is a certain chemistry and vibrancy to this friendly university city, which many delight in, and few forget. Music, festivals, horse racing, pubs, restaurants, shops, theatres and most of all -Galway people, combine to create this atmospheric medieval city of culture. From this pulsating heart the rest of the county flows.
Galway Bay, immortalised in song, its beauty unchanging. Scenic Gaeltacht areas including the Aran Islands. Connemara, with the picturesque town of Clifden as its capital. Mountains, castles and stone walls, banks of turf, long sandy beaches, clear lakes, joyful leaping streams and flowing rivers. The mighty Shannon, delightful countryside punctuated by pretty villages, traditional pubs.
Photo used with permission
from Joe Desbonnet, www.galway.net
Excursions
Inishmore, Aran Islands - 8 hours Full Day
Inishmore, Aran Islands - 8 hours Full Day
On the very edge of Europe, is an Island rich in the language, culture and heritage of Ireland, unique in its geology and archaeology and in its long tradition of gentle hospitality. Here is a place to sense the spirit of Gaelic Ireland, to touch the past, but with all the comforts and facilities of the present. Aran will take you back to an Ireland of Celts and Early Christians. This is an island of great peace and tranquility, but it is also an island of great fun and activity. A timeless land in an endless sea, weathered monuments on awesome cliffs, great labyrinths of limestone, meandering walls, patchwork fields, quiet beaches and a welcoming island people.
This morning we will depart from Galway and take a ferry to Inishmore, the largest of the three islands, the other islands being Inishmaan and Inisheer. The Islands are located off the West Coast of Galway about 18km out from Rossaveal Harbour in Connemara. Inishmore is approx. 13km long, and contains 3,092 ha. with a native population of about 900. Kilronan the chief center and port.
Landing in Kilronan on Inishmore, you are met by your driver in a horse drawn buggy for a guided tour of the Island and visiting one of its more impressive stone forts called Dun Aonghasa. It is semi-circular structure, resting on the edge of a perpendicular cliff rising 100 meters out of the ocean. The fort consists of an inner court 50 meters across surrounded by a wall six meters high and five meters thick at the base.
Visit the Aran Islands Interpretative Centre which highlights the unique history, spirit and landscapes of the Aran Islands. The center details the geology, history and present lifestyle of the islands. See how the legendary currachs, those open-topped, often tar-coated, boats that skim over the waves, are made. Also on display are details of the fish species off the islands and how the islanders have long used seaweed to create patches of soil that could be cultivated for crops, in between the dry stone walls that crisscross the islands and divide its tiny fields. The islands' other craft traditions, including weaving of the famous Aran sweaters, are also documented.
Duration: 8 hours
Included:
Enjoy a pub lunch on Inishmore
Departing the island by ferry you return to Galway City.
Note: it is also possible to fly to Inishmore.
Pricing: Please inquire
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 Shore Excursion- Waterford and Kilkenny Tour - Full Day Tour
Meet with your driver/guide and depart the pier in Waterford. Travel through Waterford City. The parameters of the 10th century settlement can be clearly identified in The Viking Triangle which has the most historic urban medieval monument in Ireland, called Reginald’s Tower.
Travel to Kilkenny. Kilkenny City, situated along the banks of the River Nore, is considered the medieval capital of Ireland because of its remarkable collection of well-preserved castles, churches, public buildings, streets, and lanes Enjoy tea, coffee, scones on arrival. Visit Kilkenny
Castle which stands majestically beside the River Nore on the south side of the city.
Visit the Kilkenny Design Centre which is located directly across the road from the Castle and is the centre for many of Ireland’s most famous crafts people.Continue then on to the beautiful Mount Juliet Estate. Here you will enjoy wander around the Estate and lunch in golf club in Mount Juliet. Return to the pier in Waterford the afternoon.
Inclusions
- Private Driver Guide
- Tea, coffee, scones on arrival in Kilkenny
- Entrance to Kilkenny Castle
- Entrance to Kilkenny Design Centre
- Lunch in Mount Juliet Estate
Waterford’s Fine Houses – 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
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: 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 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 driver-guide for 4 hours
- Entrance fees to all sights and museums
- All taxes
Exclusions:
- All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs
- Gratuities
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
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