Rings of holly decorate the doors as candles flicker in the windows, bringing in a traditional Irish Christmas. Gaelic heritage blends with Christian customs set against the backdrop of the majestic countryside during your custom tailored Christmas tour of the Republic of Ireland. The songs of carolers fill the vibrant markets of Galway. Historic pubs with roaring fires provide a welcoming atmosphere in Limerick. Strong ramparts continue to protect the grand castle of Dublin and captivating seaside...
Customizable Itinerary
Day 1
Galway – Dec. 22nd – The Charming Christmas Welcome
Galway has a medieval character emanating from the cobblestone streets and the striking stone gargoyles and bears on the 14th-century façade of Lynch’s Castle. Your flight lands at Shannon Airport, where you meet your private transfer at baggage claim. The road takes you past opulent charming hamlets and undulating plains. Castle turrets rise above the hillsides in the distance. You arrive in Galway and feel an immediate connection with the easily traversable streets and cozy boutique shops treading the line between chic and kitschy. Locals drink beer in the King’s Head Pub on High Street, which boasts over 800 years of history.
The aroma of freshly fried fish, accompanied by the staple side of chips, emanates from McDonagh’s, which has served the popular dish for four generations. Your private transfer escorts you to the luxurious estate of Glenlo Abbey, which encompasses nearly 140 acres edging the shores of Lake Lough Corrib. The 18th-century property combines soothing contemporary luxury with a rich history of Irish aristocracy. The celebrated Pullman Restaurant fills what were once two carriages of the opulent Orient Express. Before dinner, the scent of herbaceous steeping tea fills the former train cars, accompanied by decadent dark chocolate finger cakes. Once in your room, you can relax with a magnificent view of the countryside, leading your eyes to the lake’s mirrorlike waters.
What's Included:
Day 2
Galway – Dec. 23rd – True Irish Beauty near Christmas
Day 3
Dromoland Castle – Dec. 24th – Cliffs and Christmas Eve Castles
Day 4
Dromoland Castle – Dec. 25th – A Christmas for the Nobility
Day 5
Dromoland Castle – Dec. 26th – A Boxing Day Tradition
Day 6
Killarney – Dec. 27th – The Continued Spirit of Christmas
Day 7
Killarney – Dec. 28th – A Holiday Ring of Kerry
Day 8
Dublin – Dec. 29th – Uncorking the Holiday Fun
Day 9
Dublin – Dec. 30th – Walking the Story of Dublin
Day 10
Dublin – Dec. 31st – An Irish Hello to a New Year
Day 11
Dublin – Jan. 1st – Saying an Irish Goodbye
Trip Highlights
- Bask in a lavish and cozy Christmas inside a historic castle, embellished with a perfect Irish holiday feast
- Spend a day in elegance with a sporty thrill at the Limerick Races to experience Boxing Day with the locals of the exuberant city
- Witness the drama of historic castles that have withstood the tests of time or continue to watch over the hillsides in cherished ruin
- Wander through the enchanting Christmas Markets of Galway City to find holiday treats, comfortable garments, traditional gifts, and endless festivities
- Discover the exciting landscape and secluded villages along the Ring of Kerry, home to majestic mountains, lakes, and coastline
- Visit the remarkable precipices of the Cliffs of Moher, home to nesting puffins, ancient rocks, and scintillating views
- Bring in the New Year in Dublin listening to the peeling bells of Christ Church Cathedral after viewing the glowing lanterns in the Procession of Light
- Indulge in luxurious accommodations crafted out of lavish historic estates and grand castles offering views to Ireland’s history, culture, and countryside
Detailed Description
The spirit of Christmas and the holiday season shines brightly from the streets of Dublin to the villages around the Ring of Kerry. Your 10-day trip immerses you in the marvelous landscape of the Irish countryside and the gregarious Irish culture accentuated by the animated time of year. Uncover history, enjoy the mythology and experience the true essence of the holidays beginning with your arrival at Shannon Airport. Your private transfer meets you at baggage claim and escorts you to the gorgeous estate of Glenlo Abbey, located outside the city of Galway. Settle into the comforts and luxuries of your accommodation with views of the Irish countryside.
The next day, you have a private tour of Ireland’s true natural beauty at Connemara. Witness the rushing rivers, serene woodlands, gorgeous meadows, unique hills, and glistening lakes before wandering along the Christmas Markets of Galway. The following day is Christmas Eve, and you venture to the historic grounds of Dromoland Castle by way of the Cliffs of Moher. View a panorama of the soaring coastline and nesting puffins before basking in the luxuries of your accommodation located near the town of Newmarket-on-Fergus. Then it’s Christmas, where you have the opportunity to indulge in a full Irish breakfast and traditional lunch. Enjoy the tranquil grounds of the castle and listen to the tinkering of a resident pianist before dinner.
Make your way to the Limerick Racecourse to spend time in the luxury boxes watching the horses speed down the track, which has become a Boxing day tradition. The next day, your private transfer leads you to Kerry County and the stately accommodation of Killarney Park Hotel. The jovial charms of the holiday season remain in the villages and cities across the country. Your guide takes you around the Ring of Kerry for you to discover the exciting coast, mysterious hills, and sweeping sea views of one of Ireland’s most notable scenic drives.
Transfer to Dublin the next morning by way of Cork and Tipperary County. Stroll down cobblestone lanes and see a historic English Market. Find the Rock of Cashel before arriving at the Merrion Hotel. Relish the vibrant life of Dublin with a half-day tour offering a narrative of Dublin’s rich history, captured in sites such as Trinity College and the Guinness Storehouse. The following day, you stroll through the Kilmainham Jail to learn about the Irish Revolution before preparing for an evening of New Year’s festivities. Witness the Procession of Light or join the crowds at Christ Church Cathedral to listen to the bells peel. On the final day, your private transfer escorts you from the Merrion Hotel to Dublin Airport for your flight home.
Starting Price
$7,200 per person (excluding international flights)
Your Zicasso trip is fully customizable, and this sample itinerary is a starting place for your travel plans. Actual costs are dynamic, and your selection of accommodations and activities, your season of travel, and other such variables will bring this budget guideline up or down. Throughout your planning experience with your Zicasso specialist, your itinerary is designed around your budget. You can book your trip when you are satisfied with every detail. Planning your trip with a Zicasso travel specialist is a free service.
What's Included
- Accommodations
- In-country transportation
- Some or all activities and tours
- Expert trip planning
- 24x7 support during your trip
Your final trip cost will vary based on your selected accommodations, activities, meals, and other trip elements that you opt to include.
Reviews of Zicasso's Referral Service
4.84 stars based on 402 reviews.
Reviewed By Jennifer D.
Reviewed By Diana a.
Reviewed By Byrne B.
Reviewed By Ingrid B.
Reviewed By Dhaval V.
Reviewed By Victoria D.