Celtic Roots & Coastal Roads

Wonders of the Emerald Isle

  • Date

    May 20-30, 2026 | Wed / Sat – 11 Days

  • Location

    Dublin | Athlone | Galway | Cliffs of Moher | Killarney | Ring of Kerry | Cahir | Kilkenny

Overview

Step into the heart of Ireland, where rich culture and captivating history weave together in every stone and story. Begin and end in vibrant Dublin, a city brimming with timeless charm, and a welcoming spirit. Discover enchanting villages and hidden treasures—mist-shrouded castles, glistening lakes and rolling moors steeped in myth. Visit the towering Cliffs of Moher and wander the sacred ruins of Clonmacnoise, echoing with whispers of the past. Kiss the iconic Blarney Stone and claim your “gift of the gab,” then explore the medieval splendor of Bunratty and Kilkenny castles. Let the dramatic beauty of the 111-mile Ring of Kerry take your breath away—from rugged coastline and golden beaches to ancient landmarks and natural marvels. Finally, witness the wonder of the Book of Kells, a masterpiece of medieval art, standing the test of time. This unforgettable adventure promises more than just a trip, offering moments of magic and memories to last a lifetime. 

HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE

  • Guided tours of Dublin, Galway, Limerick & the Ring of Kerry 
  • Clonmacnoise Monastic Site
  • The Cliffs of Moher
  • Bunratty Castle & Folk Park
  • Tour the Ring of Kerry 
  • Blarney, Cahir & Kilkenny Castles 
  • Trinity College & Book of Kells
  • St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Dublin
  • Pearse Lyons Distillery tasting & tour 
  • Dingle Peninsula optional excursion

PACKAGE INCLUDES

  • Roundtrip commercial air from Indianapolis to Dublin, Ireland 
  • Escorted 
  • 9 nights accommodations
  • Breakfast daily 
  • 3 lunches, 5 dinners
  • Sightseeing and admissions per itinerary 
  • Ground transportation 
  • Hotel baggage handling

NOTE:

A passport is required to travel to this destination and must be valid for at least six months after your return.

This itinerary includes activities where moderate walking, possibly on uneven terrain, is required. 

Wed, May 20: Depart Indianapolis on a non-stop overnight flight to Dublin, Ireland. 

Thu, May 21: Arrive in Dublin, Ireland’s largest city and a UNESCO city of literature. Dublin is known for its vibrant music scene, literary culture, and Guiness, of course! Start out with a visit to EPIC, The Irish Emigration Museum, to explore Irish culture through the lens of emigration and discover what it really means to be Irish. From the celebrated to the unsung, the stories you’ll learn speak of a shared character; of creativity and strength, audacity and ingenuity, resilience and brilliance, and offer a unique lens through which this nation can be fully understood. Check into your hotel for an overnight stay. Later, celebrate your first night in Ireland with a Welcome Dinner and entertainment at a local pub. (Meals: Dinner)

Fri, May 22: After breakfast at the hotel, depart for the seaside city of Galway, renowned for its rich art history, thriving traditional Irish music scene, and vibrant festivals. Make a stop at the Clonmacnoise Monastic Site. Founded by St. Ciarán in the 6th century, the monastery became one of the greatest of its time, attracting scholars from all over Europe. The site includes ruins of a cathedral, nine churches, many carved stone crosses, and the timeworn headstones of hundreds of early Christians. Next, stop in Athlone, where you’ll have free time for lunch. Arrive in Galway and check into the hotel for the next two nights before meeting your local guide for a short walking tour around the historic city center. Enjoy the evening free for dinner. (B) 

Sat, May 23: After breakfast, depart for the Cliffs of Moher, a spectacular wall of sandstone towering almost 700 feet above the Atlantic Ocean. On the West Clare coast, the cliffs offer breathtaking views and are home to several of the country’s nesting sea bird species. After time at the cliffs, enjoy an included lunch at a local restaurant. Return to Galway in the evening for an included dinner. (B,L,D) 

Sun, May 24: Depart the hotel for Killarney, a picturesque town known for its rich history, captivating natural beauty, and vibrant cultural scene. Tour Bunratty Castle—constructed in the 15th century—and have time to explore on your own. Dine with the group for lunch at a local restaurant. Then, head to the city of Limerick, where your local guide will share the city’s history and highlight top sights. Depart for Killarney, where you’ll be staying for three nights. (B,D) 

Mon, May 25: After breakfast, meet your guide and board the coach for a full day excursion around the Ring of Kerry—a 111-mile scenic drive known for its rugged coastal landscapes, charming seaside villages, and views of the Skellig Rocks. Along the way, you’ll see such sights as the Kerry Bog Village Museum and Kenmare and will drive the Skellig Ring to catch the breeze from the Wild Atlantic Way. Return to the hotel this evening. (B,L) 

Tue, May 26: Plan your day as you wish today! An optional tour will be offered to the Dingle Peninsula, stretching 30 miles into the Atlantic Ocean. With its sandy beaches and rugged cliffs, rolling hills and mountains, you’ll be captivated by the area’s beauty. Or spend the morning as you wish enjoying the delights of Killarney’s charm. Choose to take a jaunting car (carriage tour) into the National Park or simply enjoy your surroundings. If you take the optional excursion to Dingle, you’ll have the late afternoon and evening free to explore at your leisure. (B,D)

Wed, May 27: After breakfast, check out of the hotel and head to Blarney Castle, built six hundred years ago by one of Ireland’s fiercest chieftains, Cormac MacCarthy. Tour the castle and be sure to kiss the Blarney Stone if you want the “gift of the gab!” Then, head to Cahir for an included lunch and entrance into Cahir Castle—one of the largest and best-preserved castles in Ireland. Make a stop at the Nicholas Mosse Pottery Shop and Factory, where traditional Irish pottery is crafted. Transfer to Kilkenny for an overnight stay and enjoy dinner on your own. (B,L) 

Thu, May 28: This morning meet the local guide and head to Kilkenny Castle, once the principal residence of the Butler dynasty and now home to an extensive collection of portraits and artifacts. Continue to Dublin and check in for two nights at the Brooks Hotel in Dublin’s creative quarter—steps from famous Grafton Street, St. Stephens Green, and the Temple Bar. Spend the rest of the evening at leisure to enjoy the street performers, boutique shops and restaurants or find a local pub to savor a pint. (B)

Fri, May 29: Meet a local guide after breakfast for a tour around Dublin today. Visit the Book of Kells, Trinity College and St. Patrick’s Cathedral, as well as photo stops at Dublin Castle and Temple Bar. In the afternoon, have the option to enjoy more free time or head to Pearse Lyons Distillery for a tasting and tour. Cap off the final day at Farewell Dinner with the group. (B,D) 

Sat, May 30: Check out of the hotel after breakfast and transfer to the airport for your flights home. (B)

Hotel Rui Plaza The Gresham, Dublin. Located in a historic building on the famous O’Connell Street, this 4-star Irish hotel offers you modern facilities with historic charm. Highlights: in-room coffee/tea maker, refrigerator • complimentary WiFi Internet access • restaurant • bar.

Harbour Hotel, Galway. Situated in the heart of Galway, this 4-star hotel is conveniently located within walking distance of shops, restaurants, and local attractions. Highlights: in-room coffee/tea maker, refrigerator • complimentary WiFi Internet access • restaurant • bar.

Directions & Map | Scotts Hotel Killarney | Parking In Killarney

Scotts Hotel, Killarney. A traditional 4-star family-run hotel situated in the heart of Killarney’s adorable town center. Highlights: in-room coffee/tea maker, refrigerator • complimentary WiFi Internet access • restaurant • bar.

Kilkenny Hotels | Hotels in Kilkenny City | Kilkenny Ormonde Hotel

Kilkenny Ormonde Hotel, Kilkenny. Nestled in the heart of Kilkenny this 4-star hotel is just a stone’s throw from medieval Kilkenny Castle and other local attractions featuring spacious, contemporary rooms. Highlights: in-room coffee/tea maker • complimentary WiFi Internet access • 3 restaurants • bar • indoor pool, sauna, and jacuzzi • fitness center.

Brooks Hotel, Dublin. Conveniently located in the heart of Dublin’s Creative Quarter, this 4-star hotel is surrounded by an array of galleries, boutiques, cafés, bars, and restaurants, and is close-by to Grafton Street, St. Stephen’s Green, and Temple Bar. With newly refurbished rooms, a renovated lobby, and brand-new restaurant and bar, enjoy a luxurious stay in Ireland’s capital. Highlights: in-room coffee/tea maker, refrigerator • complimentary WiFi Internet access • restaurant • room service • bar.

PRICING

  • Package with Air*
  • Double P/P – $6,799
  • Single – $8,399
  • Land Only
  • Double P/P – $5,859
  • Single – $7,459

Triple occupancy may be available upon request. Call for pricing. 

*Subject to change due to increase in exchange rate or fuel surcharge.   

Documents Required: Valid Passport, visit travel.state.gov for specific requirements