Name: Best of Ireland and Scotland 2026
Start: 2026-07-13T00:00:00.000Z
End: 2026-07-24T00:00:00.000Z
Location: Dublin, Belfast, Edinburgh, Isle of Mull, Inverness, St. Andrews

Explore Europe Tours LLC

Email address verified

10 reviews

Jul 13 - 24, 2026

Group size: 25 - 33

Best of Ireland and Scotland 2026

Dublin, Belfast, Edinburgh, Isle of Mull, Inverness, St. Andrews

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Explore Europe Tours LLC

Email address verified

10 reviews

Jul 13 - 24, 2026

Group size: 25 - 33

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.

Ireland and Scotland
Ireland and Scotland
The Itinerary

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).

Read more

Ireland and Scotland

The Itinerary

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).

The tour was amazing. Travel was easy between locations, food and hotels were great. Becky and Taree were warm and welcoming and picked a wonderful itinerary!

By Helen L for Best of the Balkans---Croatia, Albania, Montenegro on Jun 13, 2025

A beautiful and enriching journey through Croatia, Albania, and Montenegro—full of stunning coastal scenery, fascinating history, and diverse cultures. Each country offered unique highlights, from medieval towns and ancient ruins to welcoming locals and delicious food. A well-rounded introduction to the heart of the Balkans.

By Sue G for Best of the Balkans---Croatia, Albania, Montenegro on Jun 12, 2025

Sue, Thank you for the nice review. Becky and I enjoyed your company and williness to take on this adventure.

By Explore Europe Tours LLC on Jun 13, 2025

This was an amazing trip! Becky and Taree took care of every detail of our travels.. Wonderful accommodations and great tours! Fun group to travel with. We highly recommend Explore Europe Tours!

By Paul P for Best of Italy and Greece on Jan 18, 2025

Thank you, Paul for the review. We enjoyed traveling with and Carol and look forward to more tours together.

By Explore Europe Tours LLC on Jan 19, 2025

My daughter said this was the best trip she’s ever had with classmates and teachers. She lived learning and being hands on! Thank you!

By Olivia H for Belleville East Gettysburg Field Trip on Nov 22, 2023

Olivia, Thank you for sharing your daughter's experience with us.

By Explore Europe Tours LLC on Nov 25, 2023

This was our second trip with this group. The trips were very different but both were amazing! Each day Becky and Taree planned a couple of different cultural experiences. Whether it was a history museum, an art museum, a bike ride in the country side or city, a canal cruise or a cooking class they made sure there was something for everyone to enjoy. I really like that many of the meals are included as it provides opportunity for the travelers to get to know each other. And the hotels are top notch too. We will definitely be traveling with Explore Europe Tours, LLC again soon!