2027 Irish Classic Self-Drive - 13 Days/12 Nights

Begin your trip with a day of sightseeing in Dublin, Take a Hop On Hop Off bus tour, and see all the city's highlights with the freedom to stop off to explore as you please. Plus, you will have a voucher to admit you to one of Dublin’s top attractions

This scenic region is one of the locations for “Game of Thrones.” Stop for photos at the ruins of Dunluce Castle, perched dramatically on a cliff. You might want to discover the Giant’s Causeway, enormous hexagonal columns formed by volcanic activity 60 million years ago – though legend says they were built by local giant Finn MacCool. In historic Derry, explore the town. Check out the medieval defensive walls that encircle the compact old city, and cross the Peace Bridge, built to unite two communities that were long in conflict. You might stop at the Derry Visitor Information Centre to discover their resources; perhaps consider the Visit Derry Pass, which covers 10 city center attractions. (B)

You may choose to visit Triona Design in Ardara or Donegal Town, a CIE Tours preferred shopping partner, and perhaps you might even catch a handweaving demonstration. Continue toward County Mayo. Your hotel is in Westport, a heritage town with riverside walks, tree-lined promenades, and lovely stone bridges; the design for the town was laid out in 1780 in the Georgian architectural style. This evening, after dinner in your hotel, there are plenty of charming pubs to explore, some with live music. (B, D)

Or visit Achill Island and be charmed by its dramatic scenery, long a source of inspiration to writers and painters. See the haunting Deserted Village, the remains of stone cottages abandoned in 1845. Achill is easily accessible via a scenic bridge. Along the way, enjoy views of the pilgrimage mountain of Croagh Patrick; near the base of the mountain sits the National Famine Monument, commemorating the suffering of the Famine and emigration of the 19th century. Back in Westport, you might be interested in a guided tour of Westport House, an 18th-century home complete with its original contents, including portraits, furniture, silver, and portraits. Spend the evening exploring Westport’s pubs and restaurants. (B)

You might stop in Galway and spend some time soaking in the energy of this bustling, creative city. Check out its medieval streetscape, its charming shops, and many cafes and restaurants. Continue south and you may choose to visit the majestic Cliffs of Moher, which soar 700 feet above the Atlantic. Walk along the cliffs to see stunning views and the miles of cliffside. Check into your hotel in Limerick. (B)

Travel to the rugged mountainous landscapes for a scenic drive to Slea Head on the Dingle Peninsula, described by National Geographic as “the most beautiful place on earth.” Many people speak Irish in this stronghold of traditional culture. Be sure to check out Dingle Town, a charming port town of old-fashioned shops. Head to the friendly town of Killarney, where you’ll dine in your hotel this evening. (B, D)

Travel along part of the Ring of Kerry, Ireland’s most famous scenic drive, to see spectacular mountain scenery at Moll’s Gap and at Ladies View. Return to Killarney where you might enjoy a visit to a local pub with live music. (B)

You might choose to visit Blarney Castle, built nearly 600 years ago by one of Ireland’s greatest chieftains. Climb the winding stairs to kiss the famed Blarney Stone; legend says if you do, you’ll be given the gift of eloquence. Explore the castle’s extensive gardens, set on 60 acres of parkland. Proceed on to historic Waterford – Ireland’s oldest city. First settled by Vikings, Waterford reached peak prosperity in the 18th century, when it enjoyed a brisk trade with Newfoundland. Explore this beautiful port city before dining in your hotel. (B, D)

Kennedy and perhaps visit the Dunbrody Famine Ship there to learn about the bravery and fortitude of emigrants who left Ireland during the Great Hunger of the 1840s. Drive to Dublin for the evening, where you’ll enjoy dinner and a show at Taylors Three Rock. (B, D)

You might choose to shop or listen to the buskers on pedestrianized Grafton Street, or visit one of the National Museums, where admission is free. (If you saved a voucher from the first day of your trip, you can use it today.) (B)