Céad Mile Fáilte

The itinerary is the starting point to your tour, but it’s not set in stone. Your group leader may make changes leading up to departure.

Day 1, Tuesday May 11: Overnight Flight

Depart from the USA.

Day 2, Wednesday May 12: Dublin

Arrive in Dublin, a former Viking settlement at the mouth of the River Liffey and now Ireland's capital. Meet your ACIS Tour Manager and begin exploring your surroundings. (D)

Day 3, Thursday May 13: Dublin

Morning sightseeing with a local guide introduces you to Dublin. Discover statue-filled O'Connell Street, see Ha'Penny Bridge and admire the interior of St. Patrick's Cathedral. Then visit the EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum in Dublin's Docklands for an engaging and interactive look at the Irish diaspora. This afternoon, you'll experience Irish culture through a unique Gaelic Games experience. Meet a coach at a local sporting club and try traditional sports such as Gaelic football, handball and hurling. (B,D)

Day 4, Friday May 14: Cork

Today's journey brings you first to the imposing ruins of the Rock of Cashel, offering panoramic views over the Golden Vale's rolling green hills as you explore its ancient fortifications. Entrance is included to Cormac's Chapel, noted for its Romanesque architecture, stone carvings, and 800-year-old frescoes. Continue to Blarney Castle, where you can acquire Ireland's famous eloquence by kissing the Blarney Stone. We'll stop tonight in the southern port city of Cork. (B,D)

Day 5, Saturday May 15: Killarney

This morning stop first at the Queenstown Story exhibition at Cobh Heritage Center to learn about Cobh’s role as Ireland’s most important port of emigration. Later, we make our way along the coast to explore the quaint village and popular holiday resort of Kinsale at the mouth of the River Bandon. Your final destination today is Killarney. As you begin to explore, perhaps take an authentic jaunting tour from Muckross House through Killarney National Park. (B,D)

Day 6, Sunday May 16: Killarney

A full-day excursion takes you along the Ring of Kerry’s stunning, rugged coastline past stone walls, heather and beautiful Lough Leane. The drive along the Ring’s 100-mile scenic loop includes stops for photos as well as an opportunity to watch a sheepdog demonstration showcasing this talented canine’s herding skills. Return to Killarney for dinner. (B,D)

Day 7, Monday May 17: Galway

Your journey swings north to Bunratty Folk Park and Castle, a recreation of rural life in Ireland at the turn of the century. We’ll drive through the unique, nature-carved limestone landscape of the Burren, dotted with interesting archaeological and historical sites, before arriving at the dramatic and exhilarating Cliffs of Moher. The delightful city of Galway is your final destination today. Perhaps start to get to know it with an evening stroll of its medieval center. (B,D)

Day 8, Tuesday May 18: Dublin

On our way back to Dublin, dive deep into the Irish countryside with the chance to be Irish for a Day. Experience rural Irish culture and partake in traditional activities such as bodhran drum lessons, sugán rope making, a bog visit, and brown bread baking, followed by lunch on the farm. Continue to Dublin in the afternoon and contrast the different customs and practices of the country's rural and urban dwellers. Visit the Guiness Storehouse where you will learn more about Ireland's most famouse beer. Tonight you may opt to be transported to the land of fairies and banshees with an optional evening full of traditional Irish food, music and folklore—participation encouraged! (B,L,D)

Day 9, Wednesday May 19: Departure

Depart for the USA. (B)