Let us plan your vacation to two of our favorite countries!  Enjoy a 12-day trip to Ireland and Scotland in 2026. These countries have breathtaking scenery, architecture, and rich culture.  In Dublin taste the Guinness and local whiskey, have a look at the Book of Kells, and enjoy the street life in the Temple Bar district. In Belfast we will visit Harland and Wolfe, where they built the Titanic. We will visit the breathtaking Giant's Causeway and have a whiskey tasting at Bushmills.  At night, you can join a traditional sing along in a pub and dance with friends.  In Scotland, we will visit the beautiful Island of Mull, cruise the famous Loch Lomond, and take a gondola to see views of Ben Nevis.  We will also be visiting the famous towns of St. Andrews,  Inverness (and Culloden Battlefield), and finally, Edinburgh . There are castles to visit on this tour. Relax with friends and meet new ones on this unique historical and cultural trip.

Regardless of reason, cancellations are costly. All cancellations must be in writing, and the date of postmark will determine the amount of refund due. For flight changes or cancellations, revision fees and/or airline cancellation charges will apply. Roommates canceling can result in a single supplement charge for the roommate. The Participant who cancels will be responsible for that charge if a substitute roommate cannot be found. Cancellation and Interruption Insurance is strongly recommended. 

From time of deposit to April 26, 2026: $350 cancellation penalty plus any non-refundable deposits that are incurred from the supplier will charged to the traveler.

From Arpil 27, 2026 – May 10, 2026: $1,000 cancellation penalty plus any non-refundable deposits that are owed to the supplier will be charged to the traveler. From May 11-June 15, 2026: $2500 cancellation penalty plus any non-refundable deposits will charged to the traveler. From June 16, 2026 onwards: No refund.

Explore Europe Tours, LLC, reserves the right to alter itineraries without notice should it become necessary. While on tour, if conditions necessitate changes, or if certain features are unavailable, or limited, we reserve the right to vary or substitute alternatives. All prices are  calculated at the exchange rate in effect at the time of this quotation. Should currency fluctuations necessitate an adjustment in tour price; the adjusted price will be reflected in the final invoice.

Responsibility: Explore Europe Tours, LLC, their officers and employees, tour hosts, or any  other persons or vendors connected with the  tour shall not under any circumstances be liable to the client under or by reason of this agreement directly or indirectly for any accidents, injury, delay, damage, or inconvenience caused to the client by negligence of others, by malfunctions of transportation systems or  equipment, by acts of war, terrorism, or rebellion, strikes, theft, itinerary changes, extreme  weather conditions, or cancellations, and the  client hereby releases the above mentioned corporation and persons from any and all such liability. The airline's concerned are not held responsible for any act, omission, or event during the time passengers are not on their planes or conveyances. The passenger's contract in use by the airlines concerned, when issued, shall constitute the sole contract between the airlines and the purchaser of this tour and/or passenger. Any and/or all transportation companies herein mentioned shall not have nor incur any responsibility to any traveler aside from their liability as common carriers. Air and land costs are subject to change without notice.  Air transportation is via special, non-refundable airfare. Any additional airfare assessments made by the airlines for any changes  whatsoever shall be the responsibility of  the client. Other rules may also apply. Services of any A.R.C. or I.A.T.A. carrier may be  used in conjunction with this tour. If there is a change in air prices and/or currency exchange rates, we reserve the right to adjust the price. 

PRE TOUR: Friday 10 July 2026

Depart St. Louis for Shannon, Ireland.

Saturday 11 July 2026

Arrive in Shannon and drive 15 minutes to Bunratty Castle and Folk Park. Bunratty Castle is one of the country’s most complete and authentic medieval castles. Built in 1425 and once home to the powerful O’Brien clan, it features a richly furnished interior with centuries-old artifacts, including tapestries and weapons. Visitors can explore its winding staircases, Great Hall, and even a dungeon with a 15-foot drop. The castle sits beside the Bunratty Folk Park, a recreated 19th-century Irish village complete with traditional farmhouses, shops, and native animals.

Travel through the stunning landscape of Connemara, a mosaic of rugged mountains, bogs, heaths, grasslands, and woodlands. The Twelve Bens mountain range dominates the skyline, offering some of the most dramatic views in Ireland. If time permits, we will enjoy a hike through this spectacular landscape.

Finish your day at Glen Keen Farm, one of Ireland's largest working sheep farms, is a popular visitor center located along the Wild Atlantic Way. This family-run farm offers a range of authentic cultural experiences. We will enjoy sheepdog herding demonstrations, traditional music, and tea and scones

Off to Galway's Raddison Red Hotel for check in.

Tonight we dine at a local restaurant. (I/F/D)

Sunday 12 July 2026

After a full Irish breakfast, we will head south through the Burren, a distinctive limestone landscape known for its rocky terrain, rare plant species, and underground caves. Despite its barren look, it supports a unique mix of Arctic, Mediterranean, and alpine flora. The area also holds ancient archaeological sites, making it both a natural and cultural landmark.

After lunch, we will visit the majestic Cliffs of Moher., which rise over 700 feet above the Atlantic Ocean and stretch for nearly 8 miles. We will visit the cliffs from both the sea and land. We will get up close and personal views from a unique cruise (weather permitting), which offers stunning views of the rugged coastline and also the Aran Islands and Galway Bay.

We will pay a visit to the Burren Smokehouse, a delicious and authentic taste of Ireland’s west. Taste Ireland’s finest artisan smoked salmon, crafted with traditional oak-smoking methods and local, sustainably sourced fish. You can explore interactive displays, watch a short film on salmon smoking, and learn about the Burren’s food heritage. We will have samples after the presentation.

After our tour, we will end our day at the famous Dingle Skellig hotel, a beautiful hotel overlook Dingle Bay. Tonight would be a great night to head to town to enjoy traditional Irish music as Dingle, a vital hub for traditional Irish music due to its strong cultural heritage and vibrant local music scene. The town hosts regular live sessions in pubs, where local musicians and visitors gather to play traditional instruments like the fiddle, bodhrán, and uilleann pipes. Its location in the Gaeltacht (Irish-speaking region) also helps preserve and promote traditional songs and the Irish language, making Dingle a cornerstone of Ireland’s living musical tradition.

Dingle Skellig Hotel (B)

Monday 13 July 2026

After a full Irish breakfast, we will travel the Dingle Peninsula., which offers one of Ireland’s most scenic experiences, with dramatic Atlantic views, historic sites, and rich cultural stops. Highlights include the coastal Slea Head Drive, ancient Beehive Huts, and sweeping beaches like Inch and Coumeenoole. Along the way, enjoy views of the remote Blasket Islands—making this drive a perfect blend of nature, history, and Irish tradition.

On our return, we will see Conor Pass, one of Ireland’s highest and most scenic mountain passes, located on the Dingle Peninsula in County Kerry. It offers dramatic views of the surrounding mountains, lakes, and coastline as it winds between Dingle Town and the north side of the peninsula. The narrow, winding road is not for the faint of heart, but the breathtaking scenery—especially from the summit viewpoint—makes it a must-see for adventurous travelers exploring the area.

Overnight at the George Hotel Limerick.

Tuesday 14 July 2026

After a full Irish breakfast, we head to famous Tipperary, where we will tour the stunning Rock of Cashel, a historic fortress complex, known for its striking medieval architecture and rich history. Perched on a limestone hill, it was once the seat of the kings of Munster and later became an important ecclesiastical site. The Rock of Cashel dates back to the 4th century as a royal site, but most of the surviving structures were built between the 12th and 13th centuries. Its medieval buildings, including the cathedral and chapel, reflect its significance from the 1100s onward. The complex includes a round tower, a high cross, a Romanesque chapel, and a Gothic cathedral, making it one of Ireland’s most impressive and visited heritage sites.

After our tour, we will head to Dublin to meet the rest of the group at Guinness Storehouse. (B/D)

MAIN TOUR
Day 1 –Monday 13 July 2026

Fly to Dublin, Ireland. (I/F).

Day 2 –Tuesday 14 July 2026 

Arrive in Dublin and explore rich history on a guided tour, visiting St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Phoenix Park, and the  bustling O’Connell and Grafton Street. Visit Trinity College and marvel at the Book of Kells and Trinity College reading room at the Old Library Exhibition.  

Then, dive into Ireland’s brewing heritage at the Guinness Storehouse for a tour.  The Guinness Experience is a self-guided tour. The  journey begins at the bottom of the world's largest pint glass and continues up through seven floors filled with interactive experiences that fuse Guinness' long  brewing heritage with Ireland's rich history. At the top, guests will be rewarded with a pint of perfection in the world-famous 360 degree rooftop Gravity Bar. 

Enjoy a delicious welcome 3-course dinner at local restaurant.  Dinner includes a three course meal, water and gratuities. (I/F, D).

OPTIONAL SUPPLEMENT 

We also have an optional Jameson Whiskey experience  for those looking to indulge in the Irish pleasure.  The Bow Street Experience Guided tour, approximately 45 minutes long, includes a tasting of three Jameson's whiskeys. Each tour is public and includes up to 30  participants, so there may be members of the public on the tour with the group.  Participants also receive a complimentary Jameson's signature cocktail in JJ's Bar.  Under 18s can take part in the Bow Street Experience and will be provided with a soft drink in place of the whiskey tasting.  GBP 35.00 per person.

Check in to our 4 Star Accommodation:  Iveagh Garden 

Day 3—Wednesday 15 July 2026 

Step inside the historic Kilmainham Gaol.  For over 100 years Kilmainham  held thousands of men, women and children for crimes that ranged from minor offences to being involved in some of the most momentous events in Irish history.  A visit will take you on a journey through Irish history. You will discover the stories of people held here as ordinary criminals alongside those who fought for Irish independence. From the 1798 rebellion, to the 1916 Easter Rising, the Anglo-Irish War (1919-21), to the devastation of the Irish Civil War (1922-23) all these important events have a chapter in the story of Kilmainham Gaol.  After a guided tour, we will leave Dublin and head to Belfast.  

In Belfast, we will visit  the award-winning Titanic Belfast Museum and learn about the building of the “unsinkable” ship.  Then, take a tour of the Belfast murals, particularly those on the Falls Road and Shankill Road, which are powerful visual representations of the city's history, political and religious divisions, and the ongoing struggle for peace and reconciliation.  Many of these paintings depict key figures, events, and messages of the "troubled" decades of Irish history.  We will also see the Peace Wall, which still divides parts of the Protestant and Catholic communities.

Finally, we will have a three-course dinner showcasing Northern Irish flavours. 

Check into the luxurious Europa Hotel, a 4 Star Accommodation. (B,D).

Day 4–Thursday 16 July 2026 

Marvel at the legendary Giant’s Causeway, a unique geological formation of approximately 40,000 interlocking basalt columns formed by an ancient volcanic fissure eruption.  According to legend, the columns are the remains of a causeway built by the Irish giant Fionn mac Cumhaill (Finn MacCool).  Fionn was challenged to a fight by the Scottish giant Benandonner. Fionn accepted the challenge and built the causeway across the North Channel so that the two could meet.  In the legend, Fionn hides from Benandonner when he realizes that his foe is much bigger than he is. Fionn's wife, Sadhbh, disguises Fionn as a baby and tucks him in a cradle. When Benandonner sees the size of the "baby," he reckons that its father, Fionn, must be a giant among giants. He flees back to Scotland in fright, destroying the causeway behind him so that Fionn would not be able to chase him down. Across the sea, there are identical basalt columns (a part of the same ancient lava flow) at Fingal's Cave on the Scottish isle of Staffa.  

If time permits and there are some brave souls, we will stop at the  Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge for a crossing of the 90-foot high swinging bridge.  

Then return to Belfast for another delicious dinner, which includes a three course meal, water, taxes, and gratuities.

 Europa Hotel, Belfast (B,D).

Day 5 –Friday 17 July 2026 

Leave Northern Ireland and fly to Glasgow: on arrival embark on a scenic drive through its breathtaking landscapes. Cruise the serene Loch Lomond.  This one-hour circular tour of Loch Lomond's South basin departs from Balloch and enjoys views of the magnificent Ben Lomond and passes a number of Loch Lomond's stately homes and castles along the shoreline. Venture out towards Inchmurrin Island- the largest of Loch Lomond's 33 islands and home to the ancient remains of Lennox Castle, which in the 14th century sheltered a  fugitive Robert the Bruce before he was to become King of Scotland.  

Travel to the charming town of Oban where we will be introduced to Scotland fare over a warm Scottish welcome dinner.

Check into our 4 Star Accommodation at Oban Bay:  Oban Bay Hotel (B,D).

Day 6 –Saturday 18 July 2026 

Hop on a ferry to the Isle of Mull for a full-day exploration of its rugged beauty (Ferry from Oban to Craignure is 50 minutes, although this can vary depending on the service. Please note that ferry services can be affected by poor weather).  

We will have a guided tour of Isle of Mull.   

Sip  Scottish whisky at Tobermory Distillery with an option to visit a local cheese farm for a tasty tour.  Or enjoy free time in the colourful harbour town before returning to Oban.

Optional:  Isle of Mull Cheese Farm tour  GBP 26.00 per person

Dinner at leisure Oban Bay Hotel (B)

Day 7 –Sunday 19 July 2026 

Today's journey explores Scotland’s dramatic landscapes and rich history. Begin  with a tour of Inveraray Castle & Gardens, the ancestral seat of the Dukes of Argyll, and home to the present Laird and his family where grand architecture and lush grounds offer a glimpse into Scotland’s noble  past, followed by a light lunch or afternoon tea. 

In the afternoon, a guided hike from Glencoe Visitor Centre reveals the rugged beauty of this historic valley,  infamous for the 1692 Glencoe Massacre of the Jacobites.

End the day with dinner at leisure in this charming coastal town. Oban Bay Hotel (B)

Day 8 –Monday 20 July 2026 

Today's journey blends stunning scenery with poignant history. Visit Fort William (where scenes of Outlander were filmed) and ride on the Nevis Range Gondola, offering breathtaking views of Ben Nevis and the Highlands. 

Then, visit Culloden Battlefield & Visitor Centre, where the 1746 battle  marked the end of the Jacobite Rising—an atmospheric site with immersive exhibits. 

For whisky enthusiasts, we have an optional Highland Malt Whisky Experience at MacGregor’s Bar. Subject to availability.Experience is available nightly at 7pm and lasts approximately 90 minutes. Includes 5 drama whisky. GBP 52.00 per person. MacGregor's is know for its vibrant atmosphere and strong focue on music and culture.

Enjoy a 3-course dinner at local restaurant (we have requested MacGregor's).

Check in to Inverness 4 Star Accommodation Craigmonie Hotel (B, D)

Day 9--Tuesday 21 July 2026 

Visit Scone Palace and GARDENS for a taste of Scottish royalty with a traditional cream tea lunch.

Continue to enjoy St Andrews for a guided walking tour of this historical town and visit its famous cathedral.  

Head to our final destination, Edinburgh, where we will enjoy a 3-course dinner at local restaurant 

Check in to 4 Star Accommodation Hoxton Edinburgh 

Day 10--Wednesday 22 July 2026 

Immerse yourself in Edinburgh with a city sightseeing ticket, allowing entrance to three royal attractions, Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Yacht Britannia and the Palace of Holyrood, plus unlimited access to three Hop-On Hop-Off City Bus Tours, so you can hop on and off throughout the city.  Edinburgh City Sightseeing Royal Edinburgh Ticket includes 48 hour access to Hop-On Hop-Off City Bus  Tours and admission to Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Yacht Britannia, and the Palace  of Holyroodhouse. 

Dinner at leisure.  Overnight at Hoxton Edinburgh (B)

Day 11--Thursday 23 July 2026 

Enjoy a day at leisure in the capital today or include an optional day excursion with a guide to Rosslyn Chapel and Stirling Castle. 

OPTIONAL SUPPLEMENT:  Admission to Rosslyn Chapel includes access to the Chapel, the chance to enjoy a talk and enjoy the visitor centre, including the interpretation,  coffee shop and gift shop. Rosslyn Chapel Guides give information talks throughout  the day, providing an introduction to the Chapel’s history and main carvings as mentioned in Dan Brown's book The Da Vinci Code.

OPTIONAL SUPPLEMENT 

Visit Stirling Castle, a historic landmark in Scotland, played a significant role in the country's history, hosting battles, royal events, and even serving as a location for the coronation of Mary Queen of Scots. It is fully furnished as when Mary lived there.  There are docents throughout telling about each room/area.

Dinner at leisure.  Overnight at Hoxton Edinburgh (B)

Day 12--Friday 24 July 2026 

Bid farewell to Scotland with a transfer to Edinburgh Airport, taking home unforgettable memories of your Celtic adventure! (B, I/F).