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Ireland Coast to Coast

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9 days

Discover the highlights of Northern Ireland and the Republic on this 9-day group tour from Dublin. Explore Belfast, Giant's Causeway and Derry in Northern Ireland. Crossing the border, you will take in County Donegal, visit scenic Achill Island, Connemara National Park and the picturesque coastal city of Galway. Take the ferry across the Shannon Estuary, admire the towering Cliffs of Moher and the beautiful Dingle Peninsula. Visit historic Barney Castle, the birthplace of Irish nationalist Daniel O'Connell and vibrant Kilkenny before returning to the Irish capital.

For a detailed itinerary and information about visas, money, weather and more download our Trip Notes

Accommodation Standard

Guesthouse

Tour Overview

Duration

9 days

Starts

Dublin

Ends

Dublin

Range

Handpicked

Tour Guide

Yes - escorted by a tour guide

Group Size

Min 2 / Max 16

Minimum age

5 yrs, accompanied by an adult

Departs

Wednesdays & Sundays

Hotel Rating

Simple guesthouse (hotel upgrade available)

Countries

Northern Ireland, United Kingdom, Ireland

Arrival Transfer

No

Departure Transfer

No

Meals included

Breakfast: 8
Save 30% today
Per Person From
$6,735.00
NZD$4,714.50
Deposit From
Final payment
NZD$1,000.00
$8,429.00

Accommodation Standard

Guesthouse

Tour Highlights

Belfast - Take in the sights of Northern Ireland's capital on an included city tour and visit the Titanic Quarter
Giant's Causeway - Marvel at this incredible UNESCO-listed rock formation, one of the highlights of Northern Ireland
Galway - Explore this pretty coastal city independently, with time to browse the markets and visit a local pub for a drink
Cliffs of Moher - Hike along stunning windswept coastal trails and watch seabirds wheeling over the dramatic clifftops
Killarney - Spend three nights in this charming town, known for its pub culture and entertaining live music
Dingle Peninsula - Stroll along Inch Beach, admire the ancient forts of Slea Head and explore the colourful town of Dingle independently
Carrauntoohil - Enjoy sweeping views of Ireland's highest mountain and drive along the stunning coastal roads of the Ring of Kerry
Blarney Castle - Explore the famous castle grounds and kiss the legendary Blarney Stone to gain the gift of eloquence!

Included

8 breakfasts
8 nights simple guesthouse (hotel upgrade available)
Escorted by a local driver-guide (tour guide changes on day 6)
Entrance to the Cliffs of Moher
Shannon Estuary ferry
Transportation in 16 seat Mercedes mini-coach with air-conditioning
All road tolls
20kg luggage - see Trip Notes for details
Note: This tour is operated in conjunction with our trusted partner and you will join travellers from different operators, not solely On The Go.

Not Included

International flights & visas
Airport transfers (pick up and drop off information can be found in the Trip Notes)
Meals not specified in itinerary
Tipping - an entirely personal gesture!
Entry fees unless specified

Accommodation Standard

Guesthouse

Itinerary

Day 1 - Belfast sightseeing & Giant's Causeway

Dublin - Belfast (Northern Ireland) - Portrush. Welcome to the Emerald Isle! Leaving Dublin, we head to the Northern Irish capital of Belfast. A brief city tour will give you a comprehensive overview of the capital's triumphs, tragedies, and essence. Afterward, we have the opportunity to explore the Titanic Quarter and indulge in a delightful lunch. The regenerated hub, where the iconic liner was constructed and launched in 1911, is home to the award-winning Titanic museum and HMS Caroline.

Moving on from Belfast, we pass through the picturesque Antrim Coast and Glens, designated an official Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. As we travel along the sinuous roads from Ballycastle, prepare to be amazed by the splendid surroundings of the Giant's Causeway. This is where history, myth, and natural beauty converge into a breathtaking experience. This is perhaps the most famous attraction in Northern Ireland, sure to blow you away!

After admiring the iconic Giant's Steps, we complete our drive to the quaint fishing village of Portrush, where we spend the night.

Please note: Check-in closes at 08:45 on day 1 (tour departs at 09:00) - Dublin Nassau Street Pick Up, Opposite the Kilkenny Shop, Nassau St, Dublin.

Accommodation: Mandalay B&B, Aaranmore Lodge or similar

Overnight: Portrush

Day 2 - Derry & Donegal

Portrush - Derry - Donegal (Republic of Ireland). Our first visit today is Derry, a magnificent 17th-century walled city with seven captivating gates. Derry was an epicentre of the Troubles but is now a thriving cultural city.

Leaving Northern Ireland, we cross back into the Republic and drive through County Donegal, where you'll discover breathtaking natural landscapes and a deep Gaelic heritage. As we make your way through scenic Glenveagh National Park, we will marvel at Mount Errigal's towering summit and pass by charming traditional fishing villages. We have ample time for leisurely strolls, taking snapshots, and immersing ourselves in the local way of life before arriving at our overnight lodging in Donegal.

Accommodation: Eske Villa, Railway Lodge or similar

Overnight: Donegal
Meals: Breakfast

Day 3 - Donegal coast, Sligo & Achill island

Donegal - Sligo - Achill - Westport. Travelling south, we take in the stunning coast of Donegal and enter County Sligo. The area boasts stunning mountain views of Benbulben. Carrowmore, located outside Sligo Town, offers the opportunity to visit the largest collection of megalithic tombs in Ireland, with some dating back over 6000 years.

Continuing west, we arrive in County Mayo, which was famously and devastatingly ravaged by the Great Potato Famine of the 1840s. The winding roads through picturesque farmlands, bogs, and open moors offer views of distant hills and the Atlantic coast. There is free time to explore Achill Island, connected to the mainland by a bridge. Then it's onward to Westport, where we will be staying for the next two nights.

Accommodation: Clooneen House, Boffin Lodge or similar

Please note: Carrowmore Megalithic Cemetery will be temporarily closed from 31st August 2024 until Spring 2025 due to renovations at the site. During this time, the site will be inaccessible to the public and an additional stop nearby will be scheduled; or, the tour will spend more time at other stops, depending on group preferences.

Overnight: Westport
Meals: Breakfast

Day 4 - Connemara National Park

Today we explore Westport and Connemara National Park, with a flexible itinerary that best suits the weather, as decided by our expert tour guide. Various options are available, such as visiting the magnificent Kylemore Abbey, Connemara National Park, Clifden (the site of the first transatlantic flight), the Sky Road and the Twelve Bens of Connemara. After an amazing day filled with exploration, we head back to Westport to indulge in the delicious local seafood at the top-rated restaurants in town.

Accommodation: Clooneen House, Boffin Lodge or similar

Overnight: Westport
Meals: Breakfast

Day 5 - Cong & Galway

Westport - Cong - Galway. Driving through the rural heart of Connemara, we reach the charming town of Cong, which sits on the shore of Lough Corrib. The town is notable for being the filming location for the classic movie "The Quiet Man," and you are welcome to explore the local museum dedicated to the film. Alternatively, we recommend a visit to the stunningly renovated 12th-century Cong Abbey.

From Cong, we travel through the Maam Valley, a breathtaking pass flanked by gorgeous mountains. Reaching the vibrant harbour city of Galway, there is free time to delve into the traditional market culture, high-end restaurants, and pubs.

Accommodation: Ashgrove, Desota House B&B or similar

Overnight: Galway
Meals: Breakfast

Day 6 - The Burren & Shannon Estuary

Galway - Kilfenora - Killarney. Just off the coast of Galway City lies the Burren, one of Ireland's iconic landmarks. As one of the earliest Christian settlements in Ireland, it boasts broad limestone pavements and rare flora. After exploring the area, we head to Kilfenora, known as the "town of the crosses". We can see the ancient cathedral and enjoy lunch independently in the area.

Our next stop is the breathtaking Cliffs of Moher. There is time for us to hike the dramatic cliff trails here and see seabirds soaring through the clear air. The nearby environmental exhibition provides insights into the unique ecosystem.

We then drive through County Clare, taking in the famous golf course before arriving at picturesque Lahinch Beach. From here we board a ferry across the Shannon Estuary to Killarney, a lively town and home for the next three nights. Killarney is known for its traditional pubs and live music - the perfect place for a Guinness or two!

Please note: On day 6, we change tour guides, and you will have a new guide for the rest of your trip.

Accommodation: Kingfisher Lodge, Ashville B&B or similar

Overnight: Killarney
Meals: Breakfast

Day 7 - The Dingle Peninsula

Killarney - Dingle Peninsula - Killarney. Heading out for a day's activities from Killarney, we travel to the magnificent Dingle Peninsula. We stop first at Inch Beach, where we can stroll along the extensive sands.

Passing through Dingle town, our next stop is Slea Head. Here we admire the ancient forts and prehistoric dwellings amidst breathtaking views of the nearby Blasket Islands. If the weather is favourable, we will have the opportunity to explore the beaches and cliff tops to fully appreciate the stunning scenery.

We then return to Dingle to spend a few hours at leisure. We recommend you savour some of the town's famous seafood! In the early evening, we make our way back to Killarney.

Please note: On some departures of this itinerary, days 7 and 8 are switched. All inclusions and sights visited remain the same.

Accommodation: Kingfisher Lodge, Ashville B&B or similar

Overnight: Killarney
Meals: Breakfast

Day 8 - Wild Ireland & Derrynane House

Killarney - Carrauntoohil - Portmagee - Waterville - Derrynane House - Killarney. Today we take in the best of South West Ireland's wild side, exploring the popular Ring of Kerry route. The day starts with a visit to Carrauntoohil, Ireland's highest mountain. Snap some photos before we head along the picturesque coast road through Glenbeigh and Kells to Cahersiveen.

There is free time for lunch in the quaint fishing village of Portmagee, and travellers can opt to head to Valentia Island for the Skellig Experience. This waterfront centre showcases the history of the ancient community of monks who made the rocky islands their home.

Our tour continues to Waterville, where we make a short stop at Charlie Chaplin's "home away from home" before enjoying stunning views at the top of Coonmakista pass. We then visit Derrynane House, home to the O'Connell family. Daniel O’Connell was known as the "The Liberator of Ireland". This Irish nationalist led Ireland's Roman Catholic majority in the first half of the 19th century.

We make our way back to Killarney, stopping at Moll’s Gap and Ladies View, from where we can make the short walk to admire Torc Waterfall.

Accommodation: Kingfisher Lodge, Ashville B&B or similar

Overnight: Killarney
Meals: Breakfast

Day 9 - Blarney Castle, Cahir & Kilkenny

Killarney - Blarney Castle - Kilkenny - Dublin. We begin our journey back to Dublin, passing through the mountainous region of West Cork. Arriving at Blarney Castle, there is time to explore the grounds. If you would like to kiss the famous Blarney Stone to gain the gift of eloquence, then you are welcome to do so!

Continuing to Cahir, we can see the unique island castle before arriving in Kilkenny, a vibrant city that boasts an impressive ancient castle, a thousand-year-old round tower, and a remarkable National Craft Centre. There's time to explore at leisure or enjoy a final Guinness before we arrive back in Dublin and our Irish adventure comes to an end.

Please note: This tour ends at 19:30 - Dublin Nassau Street Drop Off, Opposite the Kilkenny Shop, Nassau St, Dublin.

2025 Itinerary change: Please note that from 1st April 2025, the tour will end at 19:00pm (previously 19:30pm.)

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation Standard

Guesthouse

Accommodation

The hotels listed below are ones which we frequently use on this tour. We reserve the right to substitute these hotels to ones of a similar standard.
Aaranmore Lodge
Portrush

This premium B&B is a 6-minute walk from Portrush railway station, which offers direct trains to Londonderry/Derry and Coleraine, and is 7.9 miles from the Giant's Causeway. The bright, airy rooms feature wood floors, TVs, free WiFi, and tea and coffee-making facilities. A full Irish breakfast and off-street parking are included, and there is also a guest lounge with a TV.

Our Rating
Simple
Local Rating
Mid Range Lodge
Bed & Breakfast
Donegal

On this tour, you will stay in bed and breakfast properties (B&Bs). These are usually smaller residential properties, with just a handful of guest rooms. You’ll have a bedroom, bathroom and often, access to a communal dining room for breakfast. Rooms will always be clean and comfortable, with a private bathroom. Bathrooms are usually en-suite, but on rare occasions, access may be via a communal hallway. This means that the bathroom will still be private and only for your personal use, but it is not en-suite (located in the room). You will need to leave the room to use the bathroom.

Our Rating
Standard
Local Rating
Guesthouse
The Railway Lodge
Donegal

The Railway Lodge Guest House, located just a 3-minute walk from the centre of Donegal Town, is a well-established, family-run B&B operating since 1999. All rooms are en suite and include free Wi-Fi and breakfast.

Our Rating
Simple
Local Rating
Guesthouse
Boffin Lodge
Westport

This unpretentious bed-and-breakfast is 5.5 km from Westport train station and 7.7 km from Westport House and Country Park. The simple, cosy rooms come with en suite bathrooms, TVs, tea and coffee-making facilities, minifridges, and free Wi-Fi. A complimentary full Irish breakfast is also provided.

Our Rating
Standard
Local Rating
Guesthouse
Desota House B&B
Galway

This informal B&B is located 1.2 km from the city centre and a 15-minute walk from Galway railway station. The simple, contemporary rooms feature free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, minifridges, tea and coffee-making facilities, and en suite bathrooms. Guests can enjoy complimentary use of a computer, as well as a full Irish breakfast and a continental breakfast buffet served in the modern dining room.

Our Rating
Simple
Local Rating
Guesthouse
Kingfisher Lodge
Killarney

Just a 5-minute walk from the town centre and a 10-minute walk from Killarney train station, this modest guesthouse offers straightforward accommodation. The unfussy rooms include en suite bathrooms, tea and coffee-making facilities, flat-screen TVs, and free Wi-Fi. A full breakfast is provided, and additional amenities include a drying room for gear and clothing, as well as a garden.

Our Rating
Standard
Local Rating
Guesthouse

Accommodation Standard

Guesthouse

Prices & Dates

All departure dates are guaranteed with a minimum of 2 persons. 'Twin/Double' prices are per person when there are 2 people on the same booking sharing a room. 'Single' prices are applicable to solo travellers and anyone wanting the privacy of their own room. Room sharing is not available on this tour.

2025
Twin/Double
Single
2 Apr - 10 Apr
Save 30%
$6,735$4,715
$8,515$5,961
6 Apr - 14 Apr
Save 30%
$6,735$4,715
$8,515$5,961
9 Apr - 17 Apr
Save 30%
$6,735$4,715
$8,515$5,961
13 Apr - 21 Apr
Save 30%
$6,735$4,715
$8,515$5,961
16 Apr - 24 Apr
Save 30%
$6,735$4,715
$8,515$5,961
20 Apr - 28 Apr
Save 30%
$6,735$4,715
$8,515$5,961
23 Apr - 1 May
Save 30%
$6,735$4,715
$8,515$5,961
27 Apr - 5 May
Save 30%
$6,735$4,715
$8,515$5,961

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