Discover the most-beloved attractions of both Ireland and Scotland at an exciting pace, traveling in style and comfort aboard a luxury coach.
Stroll through the regal streets of Edinburgh, uncovering its history on a panoramic tour and on foot. Cruise the mysterious waters of Loch Ness and explore the haunting ruins of Urquhart Castle. Walk along the Giant’s Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and admire the stunning views of the Causeway Coast. Visit the Titanic Experience in Belfast, a powerful tribute to a century-old tragedy, and step inside Dublin’s iconic St. Patrick’s Cathedral. From vibrant cities to rugged natural beauty, these two remarkable lands captivate at each and every turn.
*Breakfast is not included on Day 1
Your journey begins in Edinburgh, the enchanting capital of Scotland, where history and culture blend seamlessly. This evening, gather with your fellow travelers to share stories and anticipation over a warm and welcoming dinner at a local restaurant, savoring traditional Scottish flavors and hospitality.
Set off bright and early with a visit to the iconic Edinburgh Castle, home to the Scottish Crown Jewels and steeped in centuries of history. Take in the city’s highlights on a panoramic tour of Edinburgh’s elegant New Town, followed by an engaging walking tour leading up to the castle.
This afternoon, enjoy free time to wander the city’s charming streets at your own pace. In the evening, consider joining an optional excursion to the Spirit of Scotland Show for a lively celebration of Scottish music, dance, and culture.
Leave Edinburgh behind as you journey to St. Andrews, a picturesque town in the Kingdom of Fife, known as the birthplace of golf. Admire the iconic Royal and Ancient Clubhouse and the legendary Old Course, steeped in history. Then, travel north to Inverness, the vibrant capital of the Highlands, surrounded by stunning landscapes and rich Scottish heritage.
After breakfast, start your day with a scenic cruise on the legendary Loch Ness, taking in the serene waters before arriving at the foot of the historic Urquhart Castle. Wander through the ruins of this ancient stronghold, where over a thousand years of Scottish history come alive through tales of chivalry and defiance. Return to Inverness for free time to explore the city’s charming streets or enjoy a peaceful riverside walk. In the evening, immerse yourself in a traditional Highland experience, complete with captivating storytelling, lively singing, and vibrant Scottish dancing!
Leave Inverness behind as you make your way south, stopping just north of Fort William to marvel at the historic Caledonian Canal and the remarkable Neptune’s Staircase, a series of eight locks showcasing incredible engineering. Continue through the dramatic landscape of Glencoe, one of Scotland’s most awe-inspiring and historically significant glens. Your day concludes in Glasgow, where Scotland’s vibrant culture and modern energy await.
This morning, venture out on a guided exploration of Glasgow, where you’ll visit the iconic George Square and pass by the impressive Glasgow Cathedral and Provand’s Lordship, the city’s oldest house. Delve into the area’s rich industrial heritage as you uncover the stories of its past. Afterward, travel to the picturesque Ayrshire coast to board your ferry, crossing the historic Irish Sea toward Northern Ireland’s vibrant capital, Belfast.
Embark on a privately guided tour of Belfast, Northern Ireland’s largest city, where you’ll gain insight into the city’s tumultuous past as you explore its vibrant and diverse neighborhoods. Marvel at the towering “Samson” and “Goliath,” the iconic cranes of the Belfast shipyard. Conclude your day with a visit to the award-winning Titanic Experience, a museum that brings to life the story of the ill-fated ship and the city’s pivotal role in its construction.
Travel along the breathtaking Antrim Coastal Route, stopping to marvel at the UNESCO-listed Giant’s Causeway. This stunning natural wonder, formed by volcanic activity millions of years ago, features hexagonal columns that resemble an ancient cobbled road leading into the sea. Continue your journey with one of the world’s most scenic rail trips along the Causeway Coast, soaking in spectacular views before reaching the historic walled city of Derry. Explore the city’s medieval walls, St. Augustine’s Cathedral, and the Guildhall on a guided walking tour. In the evening, discover why Derry is one of Ireland’s best-kept secrets during an optional evening with a local singer playing traditional music at a pub serving traditional pub-style food.
Today’s journey highlights the rugged beauty of County Donegal, beginning with a visit to Donegal Castle, a stunning 15th-century restoration brimming with history. Afterward, enjoy free time to wander through Donegal Town, a charming village nestled at the mouth of the River Eske. In the evening, return to Derry where you’ll have a Diner’s Choice experience, allowing you to select your ideal dining spot from a variety of the city’s top restaurants.
Set off through the picturesque Northern Ireland countryside, making your first stop in Armagh to admire the twin St. Patrick’s Cathedrals, one Catholic and one Protestant, each representing the two facets of Ireland’s rich history. Next, visit a family-run cider farm, where you’ll meet the owners, stroll through the orchards, and sample their award-winning Irish ciders. Afterward, cross into the Republic of Ireland, with your day concluding in Dublin, a lively city brimming with culture and charm.
A locally guided tour of Dublin highlights the world-renowned St. Patrick’s Cathedral, O’Connell Street, Phoenix Park and the city’s magnificent rows of lovely Georgian town homes. You may choose to join an optional tour with lunch at a local pub followed by a visit to the Guinness Storehouse.
Spend the rest of your day at leisure as you delve further into Dublin’s cultural treasures. This evening, toast the end of an incredible adventure during a farewell dinner at one of the city’s most popular local restaurants.
Enjoy your final breakfast this morning before your tour comes to an end. The choice is yours to return home or extend your journey with a post-tour stay to continue exploring Ireland’s wonders.
(For all Trans-Atlantic flights, we recommend arriving at the airport 3 hours before departure to ensure a smooth check-in process.)
All hotels and accommodations included in your trip are carefully selected to meet a 4-star standard or higher. While we occasionally book 3-star hotels or B&B properties, they must meet our high standards of quality and comfort. To ensure consistency, we strive to have a team member visit each property regularly or conduct a thorough site inspection.
Round trip flights to the tours destination are not included, but we are happy to provide you with a flight quote for your trip along with travel protection for the duration.
While booking flights may seem simple, hidden fees and service classes that exclude seats, meals, or bags are common. Since 1985, our expertise and exclusive contracts allow us to secure better routes and often better prices than what’s available online.
We would be happy to help create a custom itinerary for you before or after your time in Scotland and Ireland, if you’d like to extend your trip.
Ideal for active travelers, this tour involves some physical activity – requiring the ability to walk up to four miles a day, navigate hills and uneven terrain, climb stairs, and handle altitudes of 6,000–9,000 feet. Expect some longer days balanced with free time to recharge or set out on your own adventure. This level is not a fit for travelers who require mobility assistance devices.
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