
Ireland
Ireland - Highlights
Ireland - Highlights
Duration
8 days
Start/End
Dublin
Tour type
Group
Level
Easy
Accommodation
Typical hotels of the region.
Overview
From Dublin with a whiskey distillery you travel via Galway into Connemara National Park, to the Cliffs of Moher and along the scenic Ring of Kerry to the Dingle Peninsula. Green valleys, bogs, castle ruins and a sheep farm with a sheepdog demonstration.
Ireland reveals its many facets on this 8-day tour: lush valleys and moors, rugged coastlines, deep mountain lakes, and interspersed with castle and monastery ruins. The journey begins in Dublin, continues through Galway to Connemara National Park, takes in the Cliffs of Moher, and follows the scenic Ring of Kerry. A visit to a whisky distillery, a sheep farm with a sheepdog demonstration, and an excursion to the Dingle Peninsula round out the experience.
Tour Code
Tour language
GermanItinerary
Day 1
Germany – Dublin
Arrival • Dinner together
Today you arrive on Ireland's Emerald Isle. You can easily reach your hotel from the airport by public transport. Taxis and other transport services are also available, so you can arrange your own travel. Thanks to your hotel's central location, depending on your arrival time, you'll have the opportunity to explore the Irish capital at your own pace. In the evening, you will meet your guide and fellow travelers in the hotel lobby around 6:45 pm. A leisurely two-course dinner will provide an opportunity to get to know the group and receive a first overview of the next few days of your trip. If you arrive later, dinner will not be served. Two nights in Dublin. (A) (Distance: approx. 15 km; Travel time: approx. 30 min.)
Germany – Dublin
Day 1
Arrival • Dinner together
Today you arrive on Ireland's Emerald Isle. You can easily reach your hotel from the airport by public transport. Taxis and other transport services are also available, so you can arrange your own travel. Thanks to your hotel's central location, depending on your arrival time, you'll have the opportunity to explore the Irish capital at your own pace. In the evening, you will meet your guide and fellow travelers in the hotel lobby around 6:45 pm. A leisurely two-course dinner will provide an opportunity to get to know the group and receive a first overview of the next few days of your trip. If you arrive later, dinner will not be served. Two nights in Dublin. (A) (Distance: approx. 15 km; Travel time: approx. 30 min.)
Day 2
Dublin: Muse and whiskey
Guided city tour • Teeling Distillery • Guinness Brewery (optional) • Free afternoon
Today you'll set off to discover Dublin's most beautiful corners on a guided city tour. Thanks to your accommodation's central location, all the sights are easily accessible on foot. The metropolis sits on the banks of the River Liffey, which divides the city in two. During the tour, you'll pass by numerous points of interest. You'll see the Georgian Quarter with its brick buildings and colorful doorways, the imposing Parliament House, and Ireland's oldest university, Trinity College. One of the highlights of the tour is the Halfpenny Bridge, which spans the Liffey and connects Temple Bar with Henry Street. This 200-year-old bridge is a marvel: Did you know it's one of the most photographed landmarks in the city? Go ahead and take a souvenir photo! You'll also pass by the medieval Christ Church Cathedral (exterior view only), the oldest in the city. And you'll stroll along Grafton Street, Dublin's largest shopping street. After getting a good overview of the city, you'll enjoy a stop at the Teeling Distillery, followed by a tasting. During the guided tour, you'll learn more about the production process and the history of "the water of life." Take the opportunity to ask the expert about their secret recipe. After tasting this exquisite spirit, the day's program concludes. Your guide will accompany you back to the city center, where you can enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure. Optionally, you can visit the Guinness Storehouse to learn more about the production of this iconic Irish beverage (approx. €30, book on site). Spread over seven floors, you'll discover the brewery's history in an interactive way and can sample Irish beer in the Gravity Bar on the top floor. Or simply stroll through the streets of Dublin, soak up the Irish atmosphere, and relax in a local restaurant. You could, for example, end the evening in Temple Bar, particularly known for its lively nightlife and numerous pubs. Everyone can return to their accommodation whenever they want. (F)
Dublin: Muse and whiskey
Day 2
Guided city tour • Teeling Distillery • Guinness Brewery (optional) • Free afternoon
Today you'll set off to discover Dublin's most beautiful corners on a guided city tour. Thanks to your accommodation's central location, all the sights are easily accessible on foot. The metropolis sits on the banks of the River Liffey, which divides the city in two. During the tour, you'll pass by numerous points of interest. You'll see the Georgian Quarter with its brick buildings and colorful doorways, the imposing Parliament House, and Ireland's oldest university, Trinity College. One of the highlights of the tour is the Halfpenny Bridge, which spans the Liffey and connects Temple Bar with Henry Street. This 200-year-old bridge is a marvel: Did you know it's one of the most photographed landmarks in the city? Go ahead and take a souvenir photo! You'll also pass by the medieval Christ Church Cathedral (exterior view only), the oldest in the city. And you'll stroll along Grafton Street, Dublin's largest shopping street. After getting a good overview of the city, you'll enjoy a stop at the Teeling Distillery, followed by a tasting. During the guided tour, you'll learn more about the production process and the history of "the water of life." Take the opportunity to ask the expert about their secret recipe. After tasting this exquisite spirit, the day's program concludes. Your guide will accompany you back to the city center, where you can enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure. Optionally, you can visit the Guinness Storehouse to learn more about the production of this iconic Irish beverage (approx. €30, book on site). Spread over seven floors, you'll discover the brewery's history in an interactive way and can sample Irish beer in the Gravity Bar on the top floor. Or simply stroll through the streets of Dublin, soak up the Irish atmosphere, and relax in a local restaurant. You could, for example, end the evening in Temple Bar, particularly known for its lively nightlife and numerous pubs. Everyone can return to their accommodation whenever they want. (F)
Day 3
Dublin – Galway – Connemara National Park
Galway Walking Tour • Connemara National Park Excursion
After our impressions of Dublin, today we continue to the west coast of Ireland: our first destination is Galway. The capital of festivals and Gaelic culture offers a vibrant arts, music, and pub scene. We'll begin with a stroll through the pedestrianized area of this university city to get a feel for its lively and cheerful atmosphere. Afterward, we'll visit St. Nicholas' Cathedral, the youngest stone cathedral in Europe, where we can admire numerous frescoes and sculptures. As is typical on our small-group tours, we'll also have free time in Galway to explore the city on our own. It's always a great combination of group activities and the opportunity for individual discovery. Afterwards, you'll leave the city and venture into the idyllic Connemara region, where you'll enjoy a breathtaking scenic drive through picturesque landscapes. The national park of the same name covers approximately 3,000 hectares and is characterized by its arid plateau, lush green valleys, steep cliffs and mountain slopes, as well as peat bogs and dark mountain lakes. With a bit of luck, you might spot the iconic Connemara ponies. The national park region has been a source of inspiration for numerous authors and poets for centuries, including Oscar Wilde. In the evening, you'll settle into your hotel and enjoy a delicious dinner. 2 nights in the Connemara/Leenane area. (Breakfast/Dinner) (Distance: approx. 310 km; Travel time: approx. 4.5 hours)
Dublin – Galway – Connemara National Park
Day 3
Galway Walking Tour • Connemara National Park Excursion
After our impressions of Dublin, today we continue to the west coast of Ireland: our first destination is Galway. The capital of festivals and Gaelic culture offers a vibrant arts, music, and pub scene. We'll begin with a stroll through the pedestrianized area of this university city to get a feel for its lively and cheerful atmosphere. Afterward, we'll visit St. Nicholas' Cathedral, the youngest stone cathedral in Europe, where we can admire numerous frescoes and sculptures. As is typical on our small-group tours, we'll also have free time in Galway to explore the city on our own. It's always a great combination of group activities and the opportunity for individual discovery. Afterwards, you'll leave the city and venture into the idyllic Connemara region, where you'll enjoy a breathtaking scenic drive through picturesque landscapes. The national park of the same name covers approximately 3,000 hectares and is characterized by its arid plateau, lush green valleys, steep cliffs and mountain slopes, as well as peat bogs and dark mountain lakes. With a bit of luck, you might spot the iconic Connemara ponies. The national park region has been a source of inspiration for numerous authors and poets for centuries, including Oscar Wilde. In the evening, you'll settle into your hotel and enjoy a delicious dinner. 2 nights in the Connemara/Leenane area. (Breakfast/Dinner) (Distance: approx. 310 km; Travel time: approx. 4.5 hours)
Day 4
Connemara Region
Excursion to Killary Harbour • Sheepdog demonstration • Stop at Kylemore Abbey
Today you'll immerse yourself in the Connemara region and its breathtaking natural beauty. Your adventure begins in Leenane, at Killary Harbour, Ireland's only fjord. At 16 km long, it's perfect for a hike (easy, 7 km, approximately 2.5 hours, +/- 140 meters of elevation gain). Admire the beautiful and unique fjord and its crystal-clear waters along the way. The fjord forms the border between counties Mayo and Galway. The region is also famous for its numerous mussel farms. After a strenuous hike, you can relax and enjoy the scenery: at a sheepdog demonstration by the fjord, you'll see a farmer and his Irish Border Collies herding their flock. Fascinated by these animals and their tactics, you'll return to your hotel. On the way, a stop at Kylemore Abbey is well worth it. It looks like a fairytale castle on the shores of a lake surrounded by reeds. Encircled by the Twelve Bens mountain range, it offers breathtaking panoramic views. Here you'll have time to admire the Victorian-era castle from the outside and take photographs. If you wish, you can also have lunch nearby. Afterward, you'll return to your hotel. For dinner, you can enjoy the hotel's excellent à la carte cuisine. (B) (Distance: approx. 55 km; Travel time: approx. 1.5 hours)
Connemara Region
Day 4
Excursion to Killary Harbour • Sheepdog demonstration • Stop at Kylemore Abbey
Today you'll immerse yourself in the Connemara region and its breathtaking natural beauty. Your adventure begins in Leenane, at Killary Harbour, Ireland's only fjord. At 16 km long, it's perfect for a hike (easy, 7 km, approximately 2.5 hours, +/- 140 meters of elevation gain). Admire the beautiful and unique fjord and its crystal-clear waters along the way. The fjord forms the border between counties Mayo and Galway. The region is also famous for its numerous mussel farms. After a strenuous hike, you can relax and enjoy the scenery: at a sheepdog demonstration by the fjord, you'll see a farmer and his Irish Border Collies herding their flock. Fascinated by these animals and their tactics, you'll return to your hotel. On the way, a stop at Kylemore Abbey is well worth it. It looks like a fairytale castle on the shores of a lake surrounded by reeds. Encircled by the Twelve Bens mountain range, it offers breathtaking panoramic views. Here you'll have time to admire the Victorian-era castle from the outside and take photographs. If you wish, you can also have lunch nearby. Afterward, you'll return to your hotel. For dinner, you can enjoy the hotel's excellent à la carte cuisine. (B) (Distance: approx. 55 km; Travel time: approx. 1.5 hours)
Day 5
Connemara – Cliffs of Moher – Tralee
Burren National Park road trip • Cliffs of Moher • Ferry crossing to Kerry
Today, a breathtaking landscape awaits you as you drive through the Burren National Park region. You won't see any trees on the arid, rocky terrain. When it rains, the water immediately seeps into the numerous cracks and fissures of the limestone plateau. Plants manage to take root in isolated spots, and especially in spring, you may see wildflowers blooming in certain areas. Your journey takes you through this extraordinary karst landscape to your next destination: the Cliffs of Moher. These cliffs are your next stop. On Ireland's west coast, you'll feel the wind and the cool Atlantic breeze on your face as you stand atop the almost vertical cliffs. Enjoy the unique panorama and let your gaze wander into the distance. Since 2021, visits to the Cliffs of Moher require advance booking for a specific time slot, and you'll spend approximately an hour and a half on the cliffs. After a walk along the rugged cliffs and some free time for lunch, you'll continue on to Killimer. Here you will board the ferry and enjoy the views during a relaxing crossing. After a short journey, you will arrive in County Kerry, which you will explore over the next few days. Kerry is especially known for its Atlantic coastline, numerous peninsulas, and small bays. Once there, you will transfer to your next hotel in Tralee, where you will also enjoy dinner tonight. 3 nights in Tralee. (Breakfast/Dinner) (Distance: approx. 245 km; Travel time: approx. 5 hours)
Connemara – Cliffs of Moher – Tralee
Day 5
Burren National Park road trip • Cliffs of Moher • Ferry crossing to Kerry
Today, a breathtaking landscape awaits you as you drive through the Burren National Park region. You won't see any trees on the arid, rocky terrain. When it rains, the water immediately seeps into the numerous cracks and fissures of the limestone plateau. Plants manage to take root in isolated spots, and especially in spring, you may see wildflowers blooming in certain areas. Your journey takes you through this extraordinary karst landscape to your next destination: the Cliffs of Moher. These cliffs are your next stop. On Ireland's west coast, you'll feel the wind and the cool Atlantic breeze on your face as you stand atop the almost vertical cliffs. Enjoy the unique panorama and let your gaze wander into the distance. Since 2021, visits to the Cliffs of Moher require advance booking for a specific time slot, and you'll spend approximately an hour and a half on the cliffs. After a walk along the rugged cliffs and some free time for lunch, you'll continue on to Killimer. Here you will board the ferry and enjoy the views during a relaxing crossing. After a short journey, you will arrive in County Kerry, which you will explore over the next few days. Kerry is especially known for its Atlantic coastline, numerous peninsulas, and small bays. Once there, you will transfer to your next hotel in Tralee, where you will also enjoy dinner tonight. 3 nights in Tralee. (Breakfast/Dinner) (Distance: approx. 245 km; Travel time: approx. 5 hours)
Day 6
Ring of Kerry
Scenic tour • Coastal walk • Muckross Garden
Today, marvel at one of Europe's most beautiful coastal routes: the Ring of Kerry. First, enjoy the diverse scenery on a scenic drive through dramatic cliffs, picturesque bays, verdant heaths, rugged coastlines, idyllic villages, and secluded beaches. A short walk along the fertile coast awaits, offering unique and unforgettable views (easy, 5 km, approx. 1.5 hours, +/-170 m elevation gain/loss). Your journey continues to Killarney National Park, a captivating combination of mountains, forests, lakes, and waterfalls. From there, you'll arrive at Muckross House, where you can admire the meticulously maintained gardens. Numerous azalea and rhododendron bushes surround this magnificent estate. The property also features a café, where you can enjoy a coffee, depending on the group's needs. Afterward, you'll return to your hotel. Depending on your preferences, you can dine at the hotel restaurant or visit a nearby pub. (F) (Distance: approx. 165 km; Travel time: approx. 4 hours)
Ring of Kerry
Day 6
Scenic tour • Coastal walk • Muckross Garden
Today, marvel at one of Europe's most beautiful coastal routes: the Ring of Kerry. First, enjoy the diverse scenery on a scenic drive through dramatic cliffs, picturesque bays, verdant heaths, rugged coastlines, idyllic villages, and secluded beaches. A short walk along the fertile coast awaits, offering unique and unforgettable views (easy, 5 km, approx. 1.5 hours, +/-170 m elevation gain/loss). Your journey continues to Killarney National Park, a captivating combination of mountains, forests, lakes, and waterfalls. From there, you'll arrive at Muckross House, where you can admire the meticulously maintained gardens. Numerous azalea and rhododendron bushes surround this magnificent estate. The property also features a café, where you can enjoy a coffee, depending on the group's needs. Afterward, you'll return to your hotel. Depending on your preferences, you can dine at the hotel restaurant or visit a nearby pub. (F) (Distance: approx. 165 km; Travel time: approx. 4 hours)
Day 7
Dingle Peninsula
Carretera de Slea Head • Playa Inch • Slea Head • Dingle
Today you will explore the unique natural beauty of the Dingle Peninsula. You will drive along a section of the famous and winding Slea Head Road, a scenic coastal route with spectacular views. Breathe in the fresh sea air as you stretch your legs on Inch Beach, one of Ireland's longest beaches. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along this kilometer-long stretch of sand, a favorite spot for surfers. Afterward, your journey continues to Slea Head, the westernmost point of mainland Europe. This remarkable headland served as a filming location for Star Wars. Explore the area where Luke Skywalker lived and take in the breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and the nearby Blasket Islands. You will spend the afternoon in the charming village of Dingle. Nestled in a sheltered bay, this fishing village is sure to delight any explorer. Take a leisurely stroll through the village streets and enjoy a traditional Irish beer in one of the local pubs or browse the many shops. Your guide will surely recommend a good restaurant for a farewell dinner to bring your evening to a perfect close. (F) (Distance: approx. 135 km; Travel time: approx. 3 hours)
Dingle Peninsula
Day 7
Carretera de Slea Head • Playa Inch • Slea Head • Dingle
Today you will explore the unique natural beauty of the Dingle Peninsula. You will drive along a section of the famous and winding Slea Head Road, a scenic coastal route with spectacular views. Breathe in the fresh sea air as you stretch your legs on Inch Beach, one of Ireland's longest beaches. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along this kilometer-long stretch of sand, a favorite spot for surfers. Afterward, your journey continues to Slea Head, the westernmost point of mainland Europe. This remarkable headland served as a filming location for Star Wars. Explore the area where Luke Skywalker lived and take in the breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and the nearby Blasket Islands. You will spend the afternoon in the charming village of Dingle. Nestled in a sheltered bay, this fishing village is sure to delight any explorer. Take a leisurely stroll through the village streets and enjoy a traditional Irish beer in one of the local pubs or browse the many shops. Your guide will surely recommend a good restaurant for a farewell dinner to bring your evening to a perfect close. (F) (Distance: approx. 135 km; Travel time: approx. 3 hours)
Day 8
Tralee – Adare – Dublin – Germany
Adare Village • Airport transfer • Return trip
Today you say goodbye to Ireland. On your way back to Dublin, you'll be able to stretch your legs one last time during a stop. Enjoy a visit to Adare, a picturesque and authentic village with thatched houses. Stroll leisurely through its streets and discover rural Ireland before continuing your journey to Dublin Airport. Since return flight times within the group may vary, your arrival at the airport will be coordinated with the departure of all passengers and is scheduled for approximately 1:00 pm. You can use the remaining time until your return flight as you wish, for example, to explore Dublin on your own. Your luggage can be stored at the airport for an additional fee. Then comes the moment to say: “Slán go foill anois – Goodbye and see you soon!” With many impressions of the Emerald Isle, you begin your journey back to Germany. (F) (Distance traveled: approx. 310 km; travel time: approx. 3.5 hours)
Tralee – Adare – Dublin – Germany
Day 8
Adare Village • Airport transfer • Return trip
Today you say goodbye to Ireland. On your way back to Dublin, you'll be able to stretch your legs one last time during a stop. Enjoy a visit to Adare, a picturesque and authentic village with thatched houses. Stroll leisurely through its streets and discover rural Ireland before continuing your journey to Dublin Airport. Since return flight times within the group may vary, your arrival at the airport will be coordinated with the departure of all passengers and is scheduled for approximately 1:00 pm. You can use the remaining time until your return flight as you wish, for example, to explore Dublin on your own. Your luggage can be stored at the airport for an additional fee. Then comes the moment to say: “Slán go foill anois – Goodbye and see you soon!” With many impressions of the Emerald Isle, you begin your journey back to Germany. (F) (Distance traveled: approx. 310 km; travel time: approx. 3.5 hours)
Services
What's included
Round-trip economy class flight to Dublin (DUB), subject to availability; a flight supplement may apply.
7 nights in a double room with bathtub or shower/WC.
Daily breakfast (D), 3 dinners (D)
Transfer from your hotel in Tralee to Dublin Airport.
Transportation in air-conditioned vehicles
German-speaking local tour guide
Entrance fees and national park fees
Visit to a whisky distillery with tasting included.
Visit to a sheep farm with a sheepdog demonstration.
Excursions according to the program
contribution to climate protection
Small group with a maximum of 16 people.
Guaranteed departure with a minimum of 6 guests.
What's not included
Travel insurance (we are happy to put together an individual offer)
personal equipment
Advice
Feeder flights, other departure airports or Rail&Fly (we are happy to put together a suitable offer)
Guinness Storehouse in Dublin (Label 2): approx. €30 per person.
Character of the trip
Fitness
Easy
Altitude
Low
Culture / nature
Balanced
The excursion requires no special athletic abilities. A normal level of fitness is sufficient for walking around town and taking short walks, for example, along the Ring of Kerry and in Connemara National Park. Sturdy footwear and waterproof clothing are essential, as rain is always a possibility in Ireland.
Dates and prices
Group dates
Single room supplement from 490 euros
