Experience the best small group tours Ireland has to offer on this immersive 11-day journey with Connect the Dots Tours of Ireland. Enjoy luxury accommodations, expert local guides, iconic sights, and authentic cultural experiences on one of the best tours Ireland for travelers who value comfort, insight, and connection.
Experience unique adventures and authentic Irish traditions:
Connect the Dots Tours is all about getting to meet and chat with the locals. Whether it’s a farmer herding sheep with his dog, weaver quietly working away in the back of their thatched cottage deep in western Donegal, visiting a unique traditional Irish pub that is owned by the same family for 7 generations or experience the ancient sport of Falconry.
We visit Castles and Ancient Ruins such as the Rock of Cashel, Donegal Castle, abandoned abbeys, 5000-year tombs, 1000-year old Celtic Crosses and much more. Exploring Ireland’s darker side of tourism. We visit haunted castles. We learn of Belfast’s ‘Troubles’ from those who have lived through it. We learn the tragic history of cruel landlords during the 19th century famine times.
Visit key museums such as Titanic Belfast and the Museum of Country Life in Mayo.
Your guide meets you this morning at the entrance of Stauntons on the Green Hotel in central Dublin. We head north into Northern Ireland. In Belfast, we begin with a deeply moving private discussion at The Felons Club, where three local men—each from a very different background—share personal perspectives on ‘The Troubles’, peace, and reconciliation. This rare experience reflects the heart of Connect the Dots Tours of Ireland: real conversations, not surface-level sightseeing.
After lunch, we visit Titanic Belfast, built on the very site where the ship was designed and launched. This immersive museum brings the Titanic story vividly to life.
Tonight, we settle into Ballygally Castle, a stunning 17th-century castle overlooking the sea—our first taste of Luxury Tours of Ireland.
Overnight: Ballygally Castle (Sea View Rooms)
✔ All entrance fees included
After breakfast, we explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Giant’s Causeway, where 40,000 ancient basalt columns rise dramatically from the Atlantic.
We pause for photos at the haunting ruins of Dunluce Castle before continuing to Derry, Ireland’s only fully walled city. Visit the Guildhall or enjoy time exploring the historic streets before we journey through the scenic Barnesmore Gap into County Donegal.
Overnight: Central Hotel, Donegal Town (Bay View Rooms – 2 nights)
✔ All entrance fees included
This morning, we travel west to the breathtaking Slieve League Cliffs, among the highest sea cliffs in Europe. Weather permitting, enjoy an unforgettable boat excursion beneath these towering cliffs (There is also the road-access option for anyone not keen on a boat ride). Note ~ Boat trips do not run during the low season.
We continue through remote landscapes to Ardara, a heritage village known for pubs, great food and craftsmanship. Visit a local whiskey and gin distillery, followed by a personal meeting with a traditional local weaver—an authentic Donegal experience rarely found on standard Tours Ireland.
Return to Donegal Town in the late afternoon.
✔ All entrance fees included
Today we follow the Wild Atlantic Way, stopping for a memorable sheepdog demonstration beneath the iconic Benbulben Mountain. At Glencar Waterfall, we experience landscapes immortalized by poet W.B. Yeats.
After lunch in Sligo, we explore the National Museum of Country Life, offering deep insight into Ireland’s rural heritage. We end the day in charming Westport, often voted Ireland’s favorite town.
Overnight: Wyatt Hotel, Westport (Deluxe Rooms – 2 nights)
✔ All entrance fees included
A shorter, scenic day through Connemara’s rugged beauty. Our highlight is Kylemore Abbey, a romantic mansion set against mountains and lakes, rich with history and gardens.
We circle Killary Fjord, Ireland’s only fjord, and visit a hidden gem waterfall – Aasleagh Falls before returning to Westport early for leisure time, dining, or traditional music.
✔ All entrance fees included
We visit Cong, famous for The Quiet Man, then continue to vibrant Galway City—a cultural hub of music, food, and creativity. After free time, we drive along Galway Bay, stopping at Dunguaire Castle, before entering the limestone landscape of The Burren.
Explore the ancient Poulnabrone Dolmen, dating back over 5,500 years.
We close the day with an evening of songs and stories in the home of local musicians – Doolin Music House.
Overnight: Doolin Inn, Doolin (Deluxe Room)
✔ All entrance fees included
We visit the Cliffs of Moher early, avoiding crowds and maximizing the experience. Crossing the Shannon by ferry, we explore hidden gems like Carrigafoyle Castle (seasonal).
Arriving on the Dingle Peninsula, often ranked among the Best Tours Ireland highlights, we settle into one of Ireland’s most beloved towns.
Overnight: Benners Hotel, Dingle (Superior Rooms – 2 nights)
✔ All entrance fees included
A flexible day to enjoy Dingle your way—strolling the town, visiting artisans, golfing, boating, or simply soaking up local culture. Later, we enjoy the dramatic Slea Head Drive – Probably the most scenic drive in all of Ireland.
✔ Free Day in Dingle
We travel to Killarney National Park for a traditional jaunting car ride, visiting Muckross Abbey, Torc Waterfall, and lakeside gardens. Explore Muckross House, beloved by history enthusiasts.
Enjoy a private castle tour, then continue to the colorful harbor town of Cobh, rich in maritime history.
Overnight: WatersEdge Hotel, Cobh (Sea View Rooms)
✔ All entrance fees included
After a relaxed morning, we visit the iconic Rock of Cashel, one of Ireland’s most important historic sites. Later, arrive in Kilkenny, the medieval heart of Ireland, with time to explore its castle, lanes, and lively center.
Overnight: Pembroke Hotel, Kilkenny (Superior Rooms)
✔ All entrance fees included
Our final day begins with a private falconry experience, where you’ll interact closely with majestic birds of prey. We then journey through the Wicklow Mountains to Glendalough, a serene 6th-century monastic site.
We return to Dublin in the evening, concluding one of the most immersive small group tours Ireland has to offer.
✔ All entrance fees included
Tour Price per adult sharing (11 Full Days): €3675* **
*Single Supplement of €850 for adults traveling alone/not sharing accommodation. (Hotels charge extra for solo travelers)
** 3rd April, 10th April, 17th April, 25th September, 2nd October, & 16th October tours run at the reduced rate of €3295
10% non-refundable deposit required to secure your place on the tour. Balance due 45 days prior to your chosen tour start date.
Casual, comfortable and light. Always best to dress in layers in Ireland. Always good to have a light raincoat.
