From the wild, storm lashed coastlines of the Atlantic Ocean to the tranquil, rolling hills of the Magical Midlands or the world renowned limestone Karst region, yet home to a dramatic underground world of caves and watercourses, including the longest stalactite in Europe at Doolin Cave. All of these Irish landscapes are steeped in myths, legends and fairytales, stretching back to the age of the Celts and Newgrange or ‘Bru na Boinne’ and way beyond…. If you are into photography try to come to Ireland in early May when it is at its greenest or in late September when the light is low and places like Connemara are completely magical.
Day 1 Arrival and Guinness Storehouse
Arrival at Dublin airport, where you are met and transferred to the 4 star O` Callaghan Davenport Hotel (or similar 4 star hotel) with accommodations in superior room including breakfast daily.
Make your way to the Guinness Storehouse, the seven-floor exhibition space at the St James’s Gate Brewery in central Dublin, where Guinness was first brewed in 1759. Explore the Storehouse, which is modeled like a giant, seven-floor pint glass of Guinness, at your own pace. Start at the ground floor Atrium and work your way up to the ‘head of the pint’, the seventh-floor Gravity Bar, as quickly or slowly as you like. In the Atrium, see the copy of the 9,000-year brewery lease signed by Guinness’ founder, Arthur Guinness, in 1759, and learn about the four ingredients of the iconic Irish stout. On the First Floor, find out all about the Guinness brewing and barreling process through virtual exhibits, equipment displays and videos on the craft of the coopers — the original wooden barrel-makers. Then, over the next three floors, immerse yourself in the Guinness story through a host of interactive displays and multi-sensory experiences. On the Fifth Floor, enjoy some Guinness-inspired dishes (own expense) at The 1837 Bar and Brasserie and Arthur’s Bar, and then, hit the glass-walled Gravity Bar. Enjoy a free pint of Guinness here while you drink in the 360-degree views over Dublin: it’s the most spectacular bar in the Irish capital!
Day 2 Early Access: Book of Kells and Dublin Castle
The Book of Kells located within the walls of Trinity College Dublin was written around 800AD. This masterpiece is considered the greatest example of medieval illumination. The manuscript is now displayed in Dublin’s beautiful 16th century Trinity College Library. This tour offers visitors to Dublin a one of a kind opportunity to enjoy the exhibition experience without the hustle and bustle of crowds. Continue on your tour to Dublin Castle, located in the heart of historic Dublin. The castle was originally built in the 13th century on a site previously settled by the Vikings it has operated as a military fortress, treasury, a prison, courts of law and the seat of English Administration in Ireland for 700 years. On this exterior tour, you will have the chance to visit the Garden, the Upper & Lower State Yards, the original Record Tower and Octagonal Towers and other highlights. You will also see Ireland’s only official Statue of Molly Molone (Dublin’s mascot), “The Victorian 18th century Georges Street Arcade” shopping center as well as stunning Georgian masterpiece “Powerscourt Center”.
Day 3 Game of Thrones Filming Locations Tour
Visit Belfast’s famous Titanic Quarter, named after the ‘unsinkable ship’. For Game of Thrones fans however, the star attraction is Titanic Studios, home to one of the world’s largest stage sets. After taking a peek at the studios, set off for the first destination – Carrickfergus Castle. Follow in the footsteps of William the Conqueror as you explore the history fortress, then continue to Carnlough harbor, which was on Season 6. Journey along the scenic Antrim Coast Road and stop to visit the Cushendun Caves, where one of the most memorable scenes took place – Melisandre of Asshai giving birth to her ‘shadow baby’. Then, arrive at the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, an historic rope bridge that passes 100ft (30m) over the Atlantic Ocean and connects the coastal cliffs of Northern Ireland to Carrick-a-Rede Island. Continue to Larrybane, where Brienne of Tarth beat Ser Loras of the flowers and was given a place in Renly’s Kingsguard as her reward, before paying a visit to Northern Ireland’s only UNESCO World Heritage site – the Giant’s Causeway. Next, head to Dunlace Castle, better known as the House of Greyjoy. Finally, drive along the eerie Dark Hedges, where Ayra Stark made her escape from King’s Landing, before returning to Belfast.
Day 4 Departure
This trip includes:
3 nights accommodations in superior room with Breakfast Daily
Tours Mentioned above
Roundtrip airport/rail station to hotel transportation
This trip doesn’t include:
Travel insurance
Meals and beverages not indicated in
“This trip includes”
Local city tax
Entry fees to sights and museums unless noted
Transportation to tour meeting points and from tour end point unless noted
Tips/Gratuity
Airfare