Grand European Adventure Through History

Welcome to Dublin! Upon your arrival, we'll arrange for your transfer to the hotel, allowing you some free time to unwind and explore at your own pace. Later in the afternoon, be sure to check the hotel reception boards for important details about the start of our tour. Enjoy your first taste of Ireland's charming capital – you'll have the evening to yourself to discover the city's welcoming energy and perhaps sample some local cuisine. Please note: This tour may have travellers joining or departing at various points along the route, meaning group composition can change during the tour. Please also be aware that depending on group composition, guiding may be in additional languages as well as English.

On our second day, we'll immerse ourselves in the gentle charm of Dublin, the capital of Ireland. The morning begins with a panoramic tour, taking us along the tranquil River Liffey. We'll explore the many parks and stroll through the vibrant streets of the city centre. Our journey will include a visit to Ireland’s historic university, where we’ll catch a glimpse of the stately exterior of Trinity College. Afterwards, you’ll have the afternoon free to discover Dublin at your own pace. Take this opportunity to delve into the city’s culture, perhaps visiting museums, sipping coffee in a local café, or simply enjoying the lively atmosphere. Should there be any changes depending on our schedule and daylight hours, please note that the tour may sometimes take place the previous afternoon.

Today, we depart Dublin for an exploration of Ireland's captivating culture and history. Our first stop is Powerscourt, a nearby gem renowned for its 18th-century gardens, which are among Ireland's most beautiful. You'll stroll through these exquisite grounds, with their elegant fountains, serene Japanese Gardens, and unique pet cemetery — all entrance costs are covered for you. After soaking in the peaceful atmosphere at Powerscourt, we continue to Kilkenny, where you'll have time to enjoy lunch and wander through the vibrant streets of this charismatic town. Our journey then takes us south to the awe-inspiring Rock of Cashel, a medieval fortress steeped in history, symbolising Ireland's historical resilience. Admission to this iconic site is on us. We conclude the day in Cork, arriving late afternoon. Here, you'll have the chance to explore Ireland's second-largest city, with its lively centre, before settling down for an included dinner to end the day on a high note.

We begin our adventure by departing from Cork, heading towards the charming coastal town of Kinsale. Our first stop is Charles Fort, a 17th-century fortress where you can take in the breathtaking ocean views. You’ll have some time to explore Kinsale's historic centre, renowned for its picturesque streets and vibrant atmosphere. Our journey continues to Killarney, a popular tourist town nestled in the heart of Ireland. Here, you'll have time to enjoy lunch and wander around the town's inviting streets. A delightful experience awaits you with a jaunting car tour through Killarney National Park, which will take you around its beautiful gardens and scenic lake to Ross Castle, offering stunning lakeside views. A brief cruise on the lake is also included, providing further enjoyment of the stunning environment.Later, we’ll make a short stop in Adare, a village famous for its charming stone and thatched-roof cottages, as well as the remnants of an ancient abbey. By mid-afternoon, we reach Limerick. In Limerick, you’ll have free time to explore the city centre, visit the castle, take a walk along the river, admire the cathedral, or indulge in some shopping. Dinner will be included, offering a chance to relax and reflect on the day's experiences.

Today, we delve into Ireland's rich heritage at Bunratty Folk Park, where you can step back in time and experience life as it was in days gone by, with its quaint cottages and bustling old markets. The park also boasts a well-preserved castle offering a glimpse into medieval life. Our next stop is at Caherconnell, home to the impressive Poulnabrone Dolmen; here, watch skilled dogs expertly herding sheep, showcasing traditional farming practices. We then journey to the dramatic Cliffs of Moher, towering above the Atlantic Ocean, where you can choose to take a walk to O’Brien’s Tower for a panoramic view. Our travels continue through Burren National Park, renowned for its striking limestone landscapes, before we arrive in the vibrant city of Galway, where the day's adventure concludes.

We leave Galway this morning for the charming village of Cong, nestled in a picturesque lake district. Here, we'll explore the ruins of the Royal Abbey and take a leisurely walk around Ashford Castle, a grand medieval fortress now transformed into a luxury hotel. Our journey then continues to Clonmacnoise, where we'll delve into the Celtic monastic ruins on a guided tour, with entrance tickets included. Finally, we head back to Dublin, arriving in the evening, where you may wish to enjoy your last night exploring the Irish capital.

On day seven, we begin our journey with an early morning ferry crossing to Wales, lasting approximately three to three and a half hours. Upon arrival, we'll head to Caernarfon, a picturesque town known for its seaside location and the dominating presence of its impressive castle, a recognised World Heritage Site. You'll have time to enjoy lunch and wander through the historic streets, soaking up the unique atmosphere.Our adventure then continues as we travel to Liverpool. There, we’ll offer a brief bus tour of this vibrant city, also designated as a World Heritage Site and renowned for its bustling port—the second largest in the United Kingdom. If you're a Beatles enthusiast, you may be interested in visiting The Beatles Museum, which offers fascinating insights into the iconic band's history.

We start today in central England with a visit to Stratford-upon-Avon, the birthplace of William Shakespeare. Enjoy the freedom to have lunch and explore this charming town at your own pace, taking in its rich literary heritage and picturesque setting. We then journey to Oxford, a city globally recognised for its esteemed university and profound historical significance. Oxford has been an academic home to countless kings, politicians, philosophers, and scientists. After soaking in the sights, we continue our travels to the vibrant city of London, where we will arrive in the evening.

In the morning, we will embark on a guided tour of London, taking in the notable sights of Westminster, the iconic Parliament, the City, and the picturesque River Thames. The afternoon is yours to explore as you wish, with an optional excursion available to the Thames Valley, including a visit to the charming town of Windsor and its magnificent castle. In the evening, we will gather at Piccadilly for a leisurely walk through Leicester Square, Chinatown, and Soho, an area renowned for its vibrant atmosphere, theatres, and bustling nightlife. Do note that in certain cases, this evening outing might be scheduled for our arrival day in London. We will conclude the evening with a return to our hotel by bus.

Today is a wonderfully open day in London, where you have the freedom to explore the city at your leisure. Take this opportunity to visit iconic landmarks, discover hidden gems, and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and history that London has to offer. Whether you're interested in museums, shopping, dining, or simply strolling through its charming streets and parks, the city beckons with endless possibilities. Enjoy this day of discovery at your own pace, making memories in one of the world's most dynamic cities.

As we leave the hustle and bustle of London, our journey today takes us across the Channel to France by ferry. Once we've completed our brief stop in Calais, we will continue to Amiens, a city renowned for its striking Gothic cathedral, which boasts a rich architectural heritage. Here, you can wander the lively, narrow streets, explore the unique floating gardens, or visit the house where the famous author Jules Verne once lived. Our travels will then lead us to Paris, where we will arrive by the end of the day, ready for the next leg of our adventure.

Today, we'll delve into the fascinating history of France with a visit to the splendid Palace of Versailles – entry is at your own discretion. Marvel at the breathtaking gardens and grand architecture of this historic seat of royalty. Upon our return to Paris, we'll explore Montmartre, a vibrant neighbourhood famed for its artistic heritage and bustling cabarets. To further capture the essence of Paris, we'll embark on a panoramic tour with a knowledgeable local guide, meandering through the city's majestic boulevards and past its renowned landmarks. Following this, we will return to the hotel, with the evening offering an optional variety show for those interested in soaking up more of Paris's lively culture.

Today in the heart of Paris, we begin with a visit to the iconic Eiffel Tower. You can ascend to its second floor and take in the breathtaking views of the city—a ticket for the experience is included. Following this, we invite you to a serene boat cruise along the River Seine, lasting just over an hour, where you can relax and enjoy sights of some of Paris's most emblematic landmarks from the water. The afternoon is yours to discover the city at your own pace. Please note that if the queues at the Eiffel Tower are extensive, we may adjust the visit to a different time or even the following day to ensure your convenience. Please arrange for your return to the hotel at your leisure.

Following breakfast, your adventure concludes, leaving you with cherished memories of the experiences and sights from this incredible journey. Safe travels as you continue your onward journey or return home.