Ireland to Scotland Vacation

Upon arrival at Dublin Airport (airport code DUB), make your way to the Dublin City Centre and check into your hotel. Take a stroll through Dublin as your hotel is just off O'Connell Street, with all the attractions of the city right at our doorstep, and a short walk away from Temple Bar and great shopping districts like Henry Street and Grafton Street.

Hotel - Academy Plaza Hotel

After a full Irish Breakfast at the hotel, receive your Dublin Pass and Hop-on Hop off tour bus tickets. With over 30 attractions included free with our Pass there is no need to carry cash or rummage for money - so keep your wallet in your pocket, save money and discover Dublin! Explore Dublin’s rich history and vibrant culture with our full-day city tour. Highlights include: Trinity College: Visit Ireland’s oldest university and see the Book of Kells. Guinness Storehouse: Learn about the famous stout and enjoy a pint with city views. Dublin Castle: Tour the historic castle and its State Apartments. St. Patrick's Cathedral: Discover the largest cathedral in Ireland with stunning Gothic architecture. Kilmainham Gaol: Explore the former prison and learn about its role in Irish history. Old Jameson Distillery: Enjoy a guided tour and whiskey tasting. Walk to the Church Restaurant for Welcome dinner. Enjoy dinner and Irish Folk Show at the Church Restaurant.

After enjoying a hearty full Irish breakfast at the hotel, you'll meet your driver and begin the journey towards Galway. The first stop of the day is the historic Kilbeggan Distillery, where you'll have the opportunity to learn about the traditional methods of Irish whiskey production and perhaps sample some of their finest spirits. After this enriching visit, you'll continue traveling to the vibrant city of Galway. Upon arrival, you'll take part in an orientation tour with ESG, which will provide you with a comprehensive overview of the city's key attractions and cultural landmarks. The day will conclude with checking into your hotel in Galway, where you can relax and prepare for the adventures ahead.

After breakfast, embark on an unforgettable Connemara tour with an experienced step-on guide. Begin your journey with a visit to the enchanting Kylemore Abbey, where you can explore its stunning Victorian walled gardens and serene lakeside setting. Kylemore Abbey (Irish: Mainistir na Coille Móire) is a Benedictine Monastery founded in 1920 on the grounds of Kylemore Castle, in Connemara, County Galway, Ireland. The Abbey was founded for Benedictine nuns who fled Belgium in World War 1. Today, Kylemore Abbey, under The Kylemore Trust, continues its mission as a Benedictine monastery, holding Kylemore and its spiritual mission, natural and built heritage in trust for the Irish nation. Kylemore Abbey also operates as one of Ireland's leading visitor attractions. Continue your adventure with more touring through the rugged and breathtaking landscapes of Connemara, known for its picturesque mountains, bogs, and coastline. Conclude the day by returning to your hotel, filled with the day's rich experiences and scenic beauty.

After enjoying a delightful breakfast at the hotel, embark on a scenic journey to the Burren and the iconic Cliffs of Moher. Burren Region, a strange and unique region in Europe. “Burren” means “larges stones” – in fact its name describes this impressive scenery perfectly well. The Burren is a High-Plateau of porous limestone. No trees grow here, no land is covering the stone. But the Burren is not as deserted as we believe. You will also discover the testimonies of its rich history such as countless castles and monastic ruins. The most majestic cliffs in Ireland and rise from the Atlantic Ocean at 705 feet and extend for over 2300 feet long. From this height, you can admire the Aran Islands, the Connemara Mountains and listen to the many sea birds that colonize this place from springtime on. The Cliffs of Moher are sea cliffs located at the southwestern edge of the Burren region in County Clare, Ireland. They run for about 14 kilometres. Marvel at the breathtaking views and rugged beauty of the cliffs, one of Ireland's most famous natural attractions. After the tour, proceed to the Dublin suburbs for a comfortable transfer. The day's adventure concludes with a relaxing arrival at your hotel, ready to unwind and reflect on the day's spectacular sights.

Start your day with a hearty Full Irish Breakfast at the hotel before departing for Belfast. Upon arrival, embark on a comprehensive city tour that showcases the rich history and culture of Belfast. Explore Shankill Road, The Shankill Road is one of the main roads leading through West Belfast, in Northern Ireland. It runs through the working-class, predominantly loyalist, area known as the Shankill. The road stretches westwards for about 1.5 mi from central Belfast and is lined, to an extent, by shops. a significant site with deep historical roots, and see the iconic Peace Wall that stands as a symbol of the city's tumultuous past and hopeful future. The locations of the Belfast peace walls are areas often refered to as 'interface areas', these areas are where working class Catholics and Protestants live in close proximity. The purpose of the peace lines is to deter violence between these two communities. Continue to Belfast City Hall, an architectural marvel and central landmark. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the lush Botanic Gardens, a serene escape in the heart of the city. The tour concludes with a visit to the Titanic Centre, where you can immerse yourself in the story of the ill-fated ship and its enduring legacy. Return to your hotel to relax and reflect on the day's experiences.

After enjoying a delightful breakfast at the hotel, we will depart and transfer to Belfast City Port. Upon arrival at the port, we will board a ferry bound for Scotland, marking the beginning of our journey across the picturesque waters to explore new destinations. Overnight on Bed&Breakfast basis in Adagio Aparthotel 4* Set near pubs and restaurants in the Old Town, this polished apartment hotel in a stately stone building is a 10-minute walk from Waverley train station, and a mile from the 11th-century Edinburgh Castle. Evening free to explore the Old Town of Edinburgh.

After breakfast we visit Edinburgh Castle, which dominates the city-centre skyline. Visit the room where Mary, Queen of Scots gave birth to King James VI, admire Mons Meg-a giant 15th century siege gun and learn about the famous One O’Clock Gun. The most important exhibits are the Honours of Scotland – the magnificent Crowned Sceptre and the Sword of State which are the oldest Crown jewels in the British Isles and the Stone of Destiny, the enigmatic symbol of nationhood used to inaugurate monarchs of Scotland, England and the United Kingdom for more than 1000 years. Thereafter comes time for shopping and lunch along the Royal Mile before we join our 3 hour walking tour covering all the main sights of the Old City of Edinburgh. Starting on the famous Royal Mile, we will walk through the windy streets and up the hills to sites of executions, cloned sheep and the birthplace of Harry Potter.

Tonight we celebrate our final evening at Jamie’s Scottish Evening. Enjoy the finest of traditional Scottish music, song, and dance . Relish the entertainment, including Highland piper and dancers, and a four course Scottish banquet with a chance to sample the famous Haggis.

After enjoying a hearty breakfast at the hotel, embark on a full-day tour from Edinburgh to the breathtaking Trossachs National Park. Begin your adventure with a scenic drive through the rolling hills and lush landscapes that define this stunning region. Continue your journey to the tranquil shores of Loch Lomond, where the shimmering waters and surrounding mountains offer an idyllic setting for a leisurely stroll or a refreshing boat ride.  The highlight of the day awaits at Stirling Castle, a majestic fortress steeped in rich history and offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Explore the castle's grand halls, ancient battlements, and intricate tapestries, immersing yourself in Scotland's storied past. Stirling Castle is one of Scotland’s greatest stone castles – an icon integral to how we understand the nation’s story. The castle peaked in importance in the 1500s, but its volcanic crag has been fortified since ancient times. The Trossachs hold in store for you an amazing day out in Queen Elizabeth Forest Park and The Great Trossachs Forest, each part of two National Scenic Areas. There are walks to enjoy for everyone and fantastic wildlife to see. Before you embark into the world of trees however, the visit to Inchmahome Priory, reached by a passenger boat, starts your day off on a highlight. Loch Lomond is a lake in southern Scotland. It’s part of the Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park. The surrounding highlands area is home to red deer and oak woodlands. On the eastern shore, footpaths and cycle trails criss-cross craggy Ben Lomond mountain and the smaller Conic Hill. Across the loch, Luss Heritage Path winds through rolling countryside and ancient Luss village, with its stone cottages. This captivating tour promises a day filled with natural beauty, historical intrigue, and unforgettable memories.

After breakfast, enjoy a day at leisure in Edinburgh, where the city's rich history and vibrant culture await your discovery. Wander through the cobbled streets of the Old Town, exploring the historic Royal Mile and its many hidden closes and courtyards. Visit the majestic Edinburgh Castle, perched high on its rocky outcrop, offering breathtaking views of the city and a deep dive into Scotland's storied past. Take a stroll in the Princes Street Gardens, a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city, or venture to the dynamic New Town with its Georgian architecture and stylish boutiques. Savor a leisurely lunch at one of the city's many charming cafés or traditional pubs, and perhaps indulge in some shopping along Princes Street or the trendy boutiques of George Street. For art enthusiasts, the Scottish National Gallery houses an impressive collection of works, while the Edinburgh Museum offers insights into the local history and culture. This evening join us for our farewell dinner with a 3-course meal in The Scotsman Restaurant Inspired by the ‘Grand Cafes’ of Europe, the new North Bridge venue promises a welcoming, relaxed drinking and dining experience to suit all tastes and occasions, juxtaposing a menu of modern food and drink with the authentic charm of its interior which dates back to 1905.

3-course farewell dinner in The Scotsman Restaurant Inspired by the ‘Grand Cafes’ of Europe, the new North Bridge venue promises a welcoming, relaxed drinking and dining experience to suit all tastes and occasions, juxtaposing a menu of modern food and drink with the authentic charm of its interior which dates back to 1905.

After a final breakfast we have to say goodbye to Scotland and all our new single travel friends as we are transferred to the airport and our flights home.