DAY 1, Tuesday - Depart for Ireland
Depart for Ireland

DAY 2, Wednesday - Arrive in Dublin
Arrive in Dublin, nestled on the banks of the Liffey River, and transfer to your hotel. Most flights arrive in early morning, and your room may not be ready for you. In this case, leave your luggage with the concierge and your Tour Manager will provide suggestions for you to begin to explore the city on your own. Your tour will begin with an orientation meeting with your Tour Manager at approximately 6 PM, followed by a reception
Overnight: Dublin

DAY 3, Thursday - Dublin City Tour, Travel to Galway & City Tour
This morning, take a city tour of Dublin. Begin with a panoramic tour of the city. View St. Stephen's Green, Phoenix Park, and St. Patrick's Cathedral. After time for lunch on your own, continue westward to Galway, a seafaring town steeped in tradition, and a cultural center for the west of Ireland. Arrive and check into your hotel. Afterward, embark on a tour of enchanting Galway. Stroll through the streets of the city's historic center, lined with colorful storefronts, and lively pubs. View the Spanish Arch, medieval city walls, and Eyre Square. Tonight, discover Galway's vibrant nightlife
Overnight: Galway
Meals: Breakfast

DAY 4, Friday - Cliffs of Moher, Aillwee Cave with Birds of Prey Show & Burren Tour
Your day of exploration begins with a scenic drive to the Cliffs of Moher, a wall of rock which rises dramatically from the Atlantic Ocean to heights of over 700 feet. Marvel at the sheer majesty of these towering sea cliffs. Then, continue to Aillwee Cave*, a cave system formed over millennia by the forces of nature. Explore the dramatic underground landscape, and admire the rock formations. Afterward, witness the Birds of Prey show. Observe the agility of raptors such as falcons, owls, eagles and hawks as they soar through the sky, showcasing their hunting techniques. Take time to discover the surrounding desolate limestone plateau known as The Burren. View the iconic Poulnabrone Dolmen, a Neolithic portal tomb dating back over 5,000 years, and gain insight into Ireland's prehistoric people and their remarkable architectural achievementsAillwee Cave will be unavailable Nov-Dec due to local events
Overnight: Galway
Meals: Breakfast

DAY 5, Saturday - Full Day in Galway, or Optional Galway Food Tour
Spend the day at leisure to discover the delights Galway has to offer. Perhaps, join the optional Galway Food Tour. Embark on a culinary adventure through Galway, and discover the flavors, and rich gastronomic heritage of Ireland's West Coast. Your guide will lead you on a journey through Galway's food scene, from local markets to hidden gems, and favorite eateries. Sample an array of local specialties, and learn about the city's mix of influences, from Celtic, and Viking heritage to contemporary international flavors
Optional: Galway Food Tour (PM)
Overnight: Galway
Meals: Breakfast

DAY 6, Sunday - Westport House Visit
Depart Galway, and travel north to Westport House, an elegant stately home nestled amidst picturesque parklands. Discover the lush gardens of the Westport House Estate, and admire the views overlooking Clew Bay. Wander through the opulent rooms, adorned with furnishings, and priceless artworks. Learn the story of the estate's owners, and connection to Grace O'Malley, the Pirate Queen of Connacht. On the way back to Galway, stop at a bistro pub in the village of Cong, known as the filming location of The Quiet Man, for freshly brewed tea, and scones
Overnight: Galway
Meals: Breakfast

DAY 7, Monday - Full Day in Galway, or Optional Aran Islands
On your last day at leisure, join the optional Aran Islands Tour with lunch*. Discover the fascinating Aran Islands, known for their ancient sites, and rugged beauty. Board a ferry, and sail across the waters of Galway Bay, admiring the breathtaking views of the Connemara coastline. Arrive at the largest of the three islands Inishmore, and experience its rich Irish culture, and heritage. Have lunch in Kildoran and later, head to the awe-inspiring Dun Aonghasa, a prehistoric stone fort on the edge of a seaside cliff, dating back over 3,000 years. Continue to the ancient ruins of the Seven Churches, one of the earliest Christian pilgrimage sites, and to Teampall Bheanáin (St. Benan's Church), a unique example of Celtic church construction. Free time to explore on you own, before taking the ferry back. This evening, have dinner at the hotel*This tour is only available weather permitting. Please be advised that you may encounter rough seas.
Optional: Full Day Aran Islands Tour with lunch
Overnight: Galway
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

DAY 8, Tuesday - Return to Dublin
Depart Galway, and travel back to Dublin. En route, stop at Sean's Bar, Ireland's oldest pub, located in the town of Athlone. Indulge in a quintessential Irish experience by savoring an Irish coffee before continuing the drive to Dublin. On arrival, check into the hotel and spend time at leisure. Tonight, discover Dublin's lively Temple Bar area on your own
Overnight: Dublin
Meals: Breakfast

DAY 9, Wednesday - Depart Ireland
Transfer to the airport for your departure flight
Meals: Breakfast