Ireland 2021

Wondering if someone could recommend a good escorted guide bus tour to do for either 13 or 14 day tour. This is my scrapbook of tours I would like to do of Ireland. Going to organise family and friends that year.
So I was wondering what is a good company to go with and what is a really good tour to do of Ireland.
Suggestions welcomed. Need some guidance in planning a trip to Ireland.
Sincerely: Jennifer Lynch

Hello Jennifer,

Great to hear that you are planning for your family and friends to come over to see us in a few years time!

It's never to early to start the process, especially when there is a large number of people involved and dates to set aside.

There is a list of approved tour operators on our main web pages that may be of use to you as you start your plans, please take a look and see if there are suitable, many will offer bespoke tours as well, so a combination of the tours is also an idea. There are Canadian based operators and Irish based operators to choose from to best suit your circumstances.

I'm sure our fellow members will have some wonderful ideas that you could incorporate into your tour of the island of Ireland.

Are there any places in particular or must-see locations that you already have in mind?

Speak soon,

Martin

Hi Martin, yes here are my suggestion's that I would like to do - 
National Museum of Ireland, The Book of Kells Exhibition, Kilmainham Gaol, Titanic Belfast, Famine Warehouse 1848, Kenmare Lace and Design Centre, Michael Collins Centre, Belleek Pottery Visitor Centre, Killevy (Killeavy) Old Churches, Blarney Stone, Waterford Crystal and would take some suggestions on what to do in Cork and Galway.
Sincerely Jennifer Lynch

Hi Jennifer, 

Your itinerary looks great so far! :)

When you're in Cork, take a trip out to nearby Cobh if you have the time. You'll find a lot more Titanic history there since it was the ship's last port of call, and it will be a nice connection to your visit to the Titanic Experience in Belfast. I also recommend the Titanic Trail, since the tour is filled with history and lovely sights around the harbour. Cork itself is a great city for wandering through, and the English Market is a lovely stop to grab a bite to eat. You'll find stalls with all sorts of locally produced food and dishes there, and there is something for everyone. 

In Galway, make sure to explore the city and soak up the atmosphere. You'll find pubs with great trad music sessions, and restaurants with amazing seafood. Are you planning on venturing outside of the city as well? You could go on a trip to Connemara National Park and make a stop at the harbour town of Clifden for a hot drink or dinner on the way back. It's an absolutely stunning area, you won't know where to look. :) 

Let me know if there's anything else you need!

Thank you Melin for the information. I will try to add that to my trip. Any other places you would recommend to do in Ireland?
Sincerely Jennifer Lynch

Hi Jennifer
I hope you enjoy researching your trip - it's great to start with an open canvas :)  You mentioned Galway, which is only "the next parish" as they say, from Co. Clare.  I would recommend including Clare in your itinerary, there are so many wonderful things to do/see here - not least of course the famous Cliffs of Moher.
There are different ways to explore the cliffs, from above at the visitors centre, along the edge on the cliff walk or with our boat under the cliffs on a on a cruise:


I would also highly recommend Doolin as a base for your Wild Atlantic Way adventure - Galway is an hour and a half drive north, and you can easily do this as a daytrip, returning to Doolin for your evening entertainment of live Irish music

I hope this helps your planning, let me know if you have any questions,

Happy planning!
Joan and all the team at Garrihys Doolin2Aran Ferries

Hi Jennifer,

It sounds as if you are going to have quite a trip in 2021!

Since you are at the planning stage now, I am wondering if you had thought of the Causeway Coastal Route. This famous route stretches from Belfast all the way to the walled cityof Derry/Londonderry, and together with Belfast has been voted Best in Travel 2018 by Lonely Planet. 

About mid-way along this stunningly-scenic route punctuated by quaint coastal villages, craggy cliffs and headlands, long sandy beaches and isolated glens lies The Giant’s Causeway – a UNESCO World Heritage Site.  Its remarkable hexagonal basalt stones and columns are truly fascinating for people of all ages.  It is accessible to all as well, as there is a bus which transports people between the Visitors’ Centre and “the Stones”.  Think of the great photo opportunities while there!  There are plenty of opportunities for long walks along sections of the Causeway Coastal Way or for playing golf on courses which hosted the Irish Open (2017) and The Open (2019).   

To find out more about the entire area may I invite you to check out our website by clicking on the following link http://www.visitcausewaycoastandglens.com/

There is also a section about different sorts of tours in the area: https://www.visitcausewaycoastandglens.com/todo-results/?slg=todo&mdf_cat=-1&page_mdf=222240f64ba22e15244e5de43d00205a

I hope all your plans take shape easily and that you and your party of family and friends have a truly memorable and enjoyable trip.

Mary.

Thank you Mary will look into that information as well.Thank you once again.sincerly:jennifer lynch