ITINERARY

What is the best month to visit Ireland and Scotland?
The two shoulder seasons, from April to May and September to October, are arguably the best times of the year to visit Ireland and Scotland. Temperatures remain consistently pleasant, sometimes even hot, with minimal crowds and moderate levels of rain.

APRIL 20, 2025: Leave for Ireland

 

Classic Ireland and Scotland Private Tour

Day 1
April 21, 2025 Dublin. – Arrive in Dublin Airport from your overnight flight. After clearing customs, you will find your  transfer driver and be transferred to your hotel, The Camden Court. You will have the rest of the afternoon free to explore Dublin.  Overnight Camden Court Hotel.

Day 2
Dublin Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour. This public bus tour offers a fantastic way to explore the citys highlights. Begin your journey at the iconic Trinity College, home to the ancient Book of Kells and the stunning Long Room Library. From there, the bus will takeyou to the Guinness Storehouse, where you can immerse yourself in the rich history of Irelands most famous brew and enjoy panoramic views of the city from the Gravity Bar. Next, hop off at St. Patrick’s Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture with its beautifully restored interiors and tranquil gardens. Continue your adventure with a visit to Dublin Castle, a historic complex with medieval roots and opulent state rooms. Don’t miss the vibrant Temple Bar district, known for its lively pubs and cultural venues. Finally, the tour includes a stop at Kilmainham Gaol, a historic prison that offers deep insights into Ireland’s turbulent history. With flexible stops and informative commentary, Dublins Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour provides a comprehensive and convenient way to discover the citys rich heritage and vibrant culture. Overnight Camden Court Hotel. Tonight, we will meet our private transfer driver in the lobby of the hotel at 5:30 pm for Taylors Three Rock Dinner Show as our welcome dinner .

Day 3
Dublin-Stud Farm-Kilkenny-Cork. After a leisurely breakfast meet your Driver Guide in the lobby of the hotel. You depart Dublin and travel south. The Irish Stud Farm. Time to enjoy. You then depart for the medieval town of Kilkenny. This is a most intriguing town with cobblestone streets and winding passageways. There is truly no other place in Ireland as ornate and timeless. We will visit Kilkenny Castle, which in the last few years has been completely restored with original artifacts. The Impressive Victorian building was erected in the mid-19th century when it served as a home to the Hackett family. It is south to Cork. Overnight Imperial Hotel Cork

Day 4
Cork-Southern Irish Coast- Killarney. Start your journey from Cork city. Drive to Kinsale for a quick stop as we have been there the day previous. Head towards Clonakilty. Enjoy a walk around this vibrant town known for its lively atmosphere and local markets. Maybe grab a bite to eat at one of its pubs or cafes. Continue to Bantry . Visit Bantry House and Gardens or take a walk around the picturesque town and harbor. After Bantry, drive through some of the scenic routes in the Beara Peninsula or along the Wild Atlantic Way, if time permits. Arrive in Killarney. Overnight in Killarney International Hotel. Dinner tonight @ the hotel for the group

Day 5
Dingle. After breakfast depart Killarney for the Dingle Peninsula. The journey begins with some of the most magnificent scenery in all of Ireland. We continue to Slea Head. Along the way, we will stop to see the beehive style huts, originally inhabited by 12 th century monks, which overlook the rugged Blasket Islands. There is no other landscape in western Europe with the density and variety of archaeological monuments as found on the Dingle Peninsula. Today, we visit the sheep farm on the Dingle Peninsula. Return to Killarney. 

In 1984, a young bottle-nosed dolphin named Fungi started to appear at the mouth of Dingle Harbour. The now world-famous dolphin has remained in Dingle since and has become both a friend to the locals and a great “attraction” for visitors. You may enjoy an optional boat ride to view this famous creature. Return to Killarney. Overnight Killarney International Hotel.  

Day 6
Killarney-Cliffs of Moher-Doolin-Foynes Boat Museum (time permitting) Ennis. Arrive at the Cliffs of Moher. Spend 1.5 to 2 hours exploring the cliffs, taking in the breathtaking views, and maybe even enjoying a walk along the cliff paths. Visit the Cliffs of Moher Visitor Experience if you’re interested in some interactive exhibits and information about the cliffs. Arrive in Doolin. Spend the afternoon exploring this charming village known for its traditional Irish music and picturesque surroundings. If interested, we will visit local attractions such as the Doolin Cave or the scenic Aillwee Cave nearby. Enjoy some leisure time, perhaps with a walk along the coastline or a visit to a local pub for a taste of traditional Irish music. The drive from Doolin to Ennis takes about 30 minutes. Time permitting, we will have an optional visit to the Foynes Flying Boat Museum.  Arrive in Ennis. Ennis has a lively town center with a variety of pubs and shops. Overnight at The Old Ground Hotel Ennis-

Day 7
Ennis-Clonmacnoise-Malahide. Depart from Ennis. Arrive at Clonmacnoise. Explore this fascinating historical site, which includes well-preserved ruins of a monastic settlement, ancient high crosses, and a round tower. You will have the option to take a guided tour if available or use an audio guide to get detailed information about the site. Perhaps stop for a meal in Athlone, a charming town with several dining options.Consider places like The Left Bank Bistro or Thyme Restaurant for a pleasant lunch break. Spend the afternoon exploring Malahide. You may visit Malahide Castle and Gardens, a beautifully preserved medieval castle surrounded by lush gardens. You can take one of 4 optional tours at the Malahide Castle and Gardens: art tour – €25.00; castle classic tour and gardens- €15.00; guided garden tours – €16.00; whiskey tour and taste – €35.00.  These are per person prices.  (Tours not yet available for 2025) You might also enjoy a stroll around the picturesque village and the marina. Overnight at The Grand Hotel Malahide. Dinner tonight @ the hotel for the group.

Day 8
Malahide-Dublin Airport-Edinburgh. (Flight is extra – cost not included) Today you make your way to Dublin Airport via group transfer. You then take a flight (flight not included) to Edinburgh. Upon arrival in Edinburgh, you meet your professional group transfer driver and make your way to your Edinburgh Hotel. Time to explore on your own. Optional tour suggestion- (Not included- approx. €20 pp) If you’re up for a bit of adventure, consider a ghost tour in the evening to explore Edinburgh’s haunted history.! Overnight at The Apex Grassmarket Hotel Edinburgh

Day 9
Edinburgh Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour (Included). Embark on a captivating journey through Edinburgh with the citys Hop On Hop Off bus tour, a fantastic way to explore Scotlands historic capital. Begin your adventure at the iconic Waverley Bridge, where you’ll board the bus and head straight to the Edinburgh Castle, perched majestically atop Castle Rock. From there, you can hop off to delve into Scotland’s military history at this ancient fortress. Continuing your tour, the bus will take you through the Royal Mile, lined with charming shops and historic sites, including St Giles’ Cathedral. Next, disembark at the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the Queen’s official residence in Scotland, and explore its opulent rooms and beautiful gardens. As you journey through the city, marvel at the Georgian architecture of the New Town and the elegant Princes Street Gardens. The tour also includes a stop at the National Museum of Scotland, where you can immerse yourself in the country’s rich heritage. For panoramic views, hop off at Arthur’s Seat, the extinct volcano offering a breathtaking vantage point over Edinburgh. Finally, the bus will guide you through the vibrant Grassmarket area, bustling with lively pubs and eateries, perfect for a well-deserved break. With frequent stops and flexible timing, this hop-on-hop-off experience ensures you capture the essence of Edinburgh at your own pace.  Overnight at The Apex Grassmarket Hotel Edinburgh. Dinner tonight @ the hotel for the group  

Day 10
Edinburgh-St-Andrews-Inverness. This morning take a drive along the Fife coastal route through the beautiful fishing villages of the East Neuk of Fife where there are many galleries and arts and crafts shops. Anstruther for its famous fish shop, Pittenweem – a centre for arts and crafts and Crail – a visit to the harbour is a must. Take time this afternoon on your own to explore St. Andrews Cathedral ruins. The Cathedral dominated the history of the medieval church in Scotland from its construction in the 12th century until the Protestant Reformation in 1560. Scotland’s largest and most magnificent medieval church, the cathedral was the seat of Scotland’s leading bishops. On the Scores stand the ruins of St. Andrews Castle which was the main residence of the bishops and archbishops of St Andrews. Today, a siege mine and counter-mine can be explored, and the ‘bottle dungeon’ viewed. Travel into the town centre to North Street and see the stunning St. Salvator’s Chapel, the chapel is a rare and beautiful example of Late Gothic architecture. You cannot miss St. Andrews University, the educational location of the William and Kate, as St Salvator’s Quadrangle sits behind the Chapel. Travel to South Street and The Tower of Holy Trinity, a Category ‘A’ listed building, and the most historic church in St Andrews. This was where John Knox first preached in public in June 1547. Your route now takes you through the Cairngorms National Park and over the Drumochter Pass into the Highland capital of Inverness. Overnight at Kingsmill Hotel, Inverness.

Day 11
Highlands.  (OPTIONAL GOLF – will have information later) This morning you will travel the short distance to the Clansman Harbor for your Jacobite Freedom Cruise to enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding mountains from the loch and sail the deepest part using the Jacobite sonar then alight at Urquhart Castle where you will have the chance to explore for an hour before cruising back up the loch to the Clansman Harbour. Urquhart Castle was the site of many battles led by the Clan MacDonald. It stands on a rocky promontory on the north shore with stunning views of the glen and a chance to spot the famous Loch Ness Monster. It has a turbulent history: seized by the English in 1296, sacked in 1545 by MacDonald Lord of the Isles and later left to decay after 1689. Returning to land travel to the west of Inverness to the little town of Beauly. Here you can take a walk around the tranquil ruins of Beauly Priory founded around 1230AD by monks of the Valliscaulian order. Take a stroll around Beauly’s village square, (one of the largest in the Highlands), where there are attractive shops and restaurants for lunch or refreshments before making a final stop today at Culloden Battlefield where the last hand-to-hand battle was fought on British soil which takes on a whole new meaning with the opening of an exciting new visitor centre and interactive exhibition. The battlefield itself is now restored to as close as possible that marched on by the two sides on that fateful day. Overnight at Kingsmill Hotel

Day 12
Inverness- Ft William. As you leave Inverness, consider stopping at the Culloden Battlefield, where the historic Battle of Culloden took place in 1746. Visit the visitor center to learn about the battle and its significance in Scottish history. The Battlefield is the site of the final confrontation of the Jacobite Rising of 1745, a pivotal event in Scottish history. On April 16, 1746, the Jacobite forces, led by Charles Edward Stuart (Bonnie Prince Charlie), faced the government army, commanded by the Duke of Cumberland, in a decisive battle that lasted less than an hour. The battlefield itself is preserved as an open space, allowing visitors to walk the grounds and reflect on the events that unfolded there. Continuing on you’ll find the Clava Cairns, a prehistoric burial site dating back over 4,000 years. Explore the well-preserved chambered cairns, passage graves, and standing stones, which are thought to have inspired the fictional Craigh na Dun in Diana Gabaldon’s “Outlander” series. Your journey ends in Fort William, a bustling town nestled at the foot of Ben Nevis. Group Dinner and overnight The Garrison Hotel.

Day 13
Ft William – Glasgow. Begin your day by departing from Fort William and heading south, passing through the stunning landscapes of Glencoe, where you can stop to admire the dramatic mountains, valleys, and waterfalls that define this iconic region of the Scottish Highlands. Take time to explore the Glencoe Visitor Centre, which provides insights into the areas. Explore the picturesque ruins of Kilchurn Castle, situated on the edge of Loch Awe. Enjoy the stunning reflections of the castle in the loch and the surrounding landscapes. Travel through the stunning Scottish Highlands. Your driver guide will take you through breathtaking scenery, including mountainous landscapes, glens, and lochs. Enjoy commentary on local history, culture, and natural features. Explore the charming town of Inveraray. Inveraray Castle is a beautiful castle and ancestral home of the Duke of Argyll. Explore the grand rooms and picturesque gardens. Inveraray Jail is a historical attraction offering a glimpse into the past with its preserved jail cells and informative exhibits. Continue your journey towards Loch Lomond. Enjoy the scenic drive through the Trossachs National Park. Your driver guide will point out notable sights and provide insights about the area. Explore the beauty of Loch Lomond. You can take a relaxing stroll along the shores, or if time permits, enjoy a short boat ride on the loch (Optional). The surrounding scenery is perfect for some memorable photos. Travel from Loch Lomond to Glasgow. Your journey will take you through the final stretch of the Scottish countryside as you approach the vibrant city of Glasgow. Arrival in Glasgow. Explore Glasgow’s city centre, visit George Square, or take in an (Optional) show at the King’s Theatre or a live music venue. Overnight at The Radisson Hotel Glasgow.

Day 14
Glasgow.  Hop on Hop off Bus  – (Included) Today you will have the opportunity to visit the sights and attractions of Scotland’s second city.  The West End of Glasgow houses Glasgow University, the fourth-oldest university in the English-speaking world and one of Scotland’s four ancient universities. Byres Road is the hub of this vibrant area with many unique shops, restaurants, and cafes. You may wish to stop in Ashton Lane for some refreshments before continuing to the Kelvingrove Museum and Art Gallery houses one of Europe’s great civic art collections and is the most popular free to enter visitor attraction in Scotland, and the most visited museum in the United Kingdom outside London. Travelling towards the city centre stop to admire The Glasgow School of Arts building designed by Charles Rennie Mackintosh and built from 1897 – 1909. The school has produced most of Scotland’s leading contemporary artists including, since 2005, 30% of Turner Prize nominees and three recent Turner Prize winners. George Square: considered by many to be Glasgow’s City Centre. It is a great place to start seeing the sights. The Square was designed and built in the late 19th century at the height of Glasgow’s prosperity. Overnight at The Radisson Hotel Glasgow. Farewell Dinner @ the hotel for the group

Day 15
Glasgow-Glasgow Airport. This morning, we make our way via private group transfer.  There is only one time for the transfer.  If you are leaving earlier or later, we will have to arrange for a Private pickup. SIGNUP HERE

Book Your Adventure Today!

Don’t miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore  Scotland and Ireland  with Blue Sky Vacations. With limited availability, now is the perfect time to secure your spot on this unforgettable 15-day tour. Create lasting memories with family and friends as you experience the best of these stunning destinations. Book now and start your adventure!