Introduction to Ireland

When you think of a holiday to Ireland, what comes to mind? Witnessing the lush, green landscape? Visiting historical and religious sights, and seeing remains from medieval times? Perhaps it is visiting farms or savouring authentic Irish food. If so, all of this and more are offered on this amazing Ireland tour—with overnights in Dublin, Ballina, Galway, Limerick, Tralee, and Waterford. As you’d expect on an Ireland tour, you will have the opportunity to see spectacular scenery. The 668-foot Cliffs of Moher on Ireland’s west coast offer breathtaking views of rugged cliffs dropping into the ocean. You’ll also witness sparkling seascapes, mountains dotted with brightly coloured farmhouses, and a breathtaking panorama of the Lakes of Killarney from Ladies View as you drive the Ring of Kerry, a 100-mile panoramic drive. The Aran Islands offer limestone rock, rugged cliffs, and a variety of wildflowers. On the largest Aran Island, Inishmore, you’ll visit Dun Aengus, one of Europe’s most spectacular and dramatic prehistoric stone forts on a truly unique and unforgettable day. Other historical sights you’ll see on this Ireland tour include Kylemore Abbey, a massive castle acquired by the Benedictine nuns, and Glendalough, the Christian monastic site founded by St. Kevin. You’ll also learn about Irish history on your visit to the Strokestown House, a restored 1740s mansion with its original furnishings and fabrics, splendid gardens, and Famine Museum. You’ll also get a taste of Irish life when you visit a sheep farm, where you’ll learn to make scones and then eat them. Then, sample a classic Irish Coffee at the very place where the first one was served in the 1940s after a group of Americans stepped off Pan Am Flying Boat in Foynes. Or how about lunch at one of the Aran Islands’ oldest and most traditional pubs or a dinner at a local pub on Dingle peninsula? All of these are special treats offered by Globus to bring authentic experiences to your Ireland holiday. So grab your camera and get ready for an amazing tour through Ireland!

Breathtaking, lush landscapes combined with vibrant cities and historical attractions await you on this Scenic Ireland guided tour, which includes Northern Ireland. You’ll visit some of the most famous cities as well as some of the smaller towns. Along the way, you’ll learn about the Irish way of life, see breathtaking scenery, hear about Ireland’s tumultuous history, and visit some of its historical sights.  Take in the Irish way of life at a typical Irish farm to see a farmer at work with his dogs and you’ll learn how to make scones to enjoy with coffee. Globus has also arranged an Irish Coffee demonstration in Waterford. Visit the Blasket Islands Centre, which tells the story of life on the remote Blasket Islands evacuated by the last inhabitants in 1953. Learn about life in Northern Ireland on guided tours with Local Guides in Derry and Belfast.  Spectacular scenery also awaits you on your escorted tour of Ireland. See the 668-foot Cliffs of Moher on Ireland’s west coast, offering breathtaking views of rugged cliffs dropping into the ocean. You’ll visit beautiful Garinish Island, home to a lush garden, and you’ll join part of the Ring of Kerry, a 100-mile drive with sparkling seascapes and mountains dotted with brightly coloured farmhouses. In Northern Ireland, you’ll visit awe-inspiring Giant’s Causeway, basalt columns formed millions of years ago by volcanic eruptions.  You’ll also hear about Ireland’s history and visit some of its historical and religious sites, including a guided tour of Hillsborough Castle, the official residence of the Royal Family in Northern Ireland, followed by morning coffee, and visit Belfast’s Titanic Experience where you’ll learn about the building of the Titanic and its ill-fated maiden voyage. These are just some of the many highlights offered on this scenic guided tour of Ireland.

Discover the best of both worlds on your Ireland and Britain escorted vacation for an escape from the high-season crowds, without the high-season prices. Your guided tour of Ireland and Britain begins in the legendary capital city of Dublin. Enjoy seeing the “Fair City,” including statue-lined O’Connell Street, Trinity College, and St. Patrick’s Cathedral. Drive across the Boyne River to Belfast in Northern Ireland to take in the fascinating Titanic Experience and then, via ferry across the North Channel, travel to the Scottish capital of Edinburgh. See Edinburgh Castle and the beautiful views of the city. You’ll marvel at the scenic beauty of the North Sea coast as you travel to York to tour its maze of quaint streets. You’ll continue your guided vacation in England with a visit to Shakespeare’s birthplace in Stratford- upon-Avon, and a 2-night stay in vibrant London. Your Local Guide will show you the famous sights, including the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, Downing Street, Piccadilly Circus, and Buckingham Palace. You’ll visit iconic St. Paul’s Cathedral, and have free time to explore the city on your own. Your guided tour of Ireland and Britain is a welcome escape with fewer crowds and lower costs than high-season tours. You’ll savor the time and leisurely pace of exploring historic Ireland, scenic Scotland, and both rural and cosmopolitan England on your Globus Escape escorted vacation.