Compare Northern & Southern Ireland by Intrepid Travel vs England, Scotland & Ireland by EF College Break (EF Ultimate Break)

Day 1 Belfast

Welcome to Belfast and the Emerald Isle! Your Irish adventure begins with an important welcome meeting at 6 pm. As you don't spend much time in Belfast as part of the trip, we recommend you arrive a few days early to make the most of it. If you happen to do so, spend some time wandering the streets of the bohemian Cathedral Quarter, or perhaps visit the leafy suburbs of South Belfast or the stately City Hall in Donegal Square. Make sure you also visit the revitalised waterfront area where you will find the Titanic Belfast monument on the site of the former Harland & Wolff shipyard where the legendary RMS Titanic was built. The monument tells the story of the ship's ill-fated maiden voyage in 1912.

Day 2 Giant's Causeway / Belfast

Take a private transfer to the renowned natural wonder known as The Giant's Causeway (approximately 2.5 hours), travelling along the scenic and rugged wild coast north of Belfast. Giant's Causeway is home to roughly 40,000 basalt columns. The landmark has inspired artists and storytellers for centuries. Depending on the school of thought you wish to believe, they are either the result of an ancient volcanic eruption or a rather big argument between rival giants! Upon return to Belfast in the evening, why not visit the areas that have a connection to the Troubles, such as Shankill Road, the unionist Protestant area, the nationalist and Catholic area, as well as the 'Peace Wall'. Explore the local neighbourhoods to get more of a feel of this regenerated city, perhaps with a visit to a local pub for a meal with your travel crew.

Day 3 Galway

This morning, travel by public bus to the harbour city of Galway – capital of the county of the same name. You will be crossing the border from Northern Ireland to the Republic of Ireland, so you may need to switch your Pounds for some Euros at this point. While you're in Galway, you could visit the impressive Galway Cathedral. Its full name, the Catholic Cathedral of Our Lady Assumed into Heaven and St Nicholas, is far more elaborate than the simplicity of its building.

Day 4 Aran Islands / Galway

Enjoy a day trip by ferry to the Aran islands, which have been crafted by centuries of wild winds and smashing waves. The islands are one of the few places where the Irish language is still spoken on an everyday basis. You’ll travel by minibus and on foot to explore the native flora and fauna, with visits to the ruins of a church and a lighthouse. There are also some remains from Bronze and Iron Age fortresses to be found. If you're lucky you may even spot a seal lounging on the rocky shore! Return to Galway for a free evening and time for more exploration. The best way to take in the spirit of this city is by attending a live performance in one of the many pubs, accompanied by a pint of Guinness, of course.

Day 5 Cliffs of Moher / Adare / Killarney

The magnificent Cliffs of Moher will leave you in awe with their striking look over the Irish coastline. The daring can walk to the edge and watch puffins nesting along the cliff face (from April to late July). Learn about the history of the famous site and its feathered inhabitants at the Cliffs Exhibition. Next stop is the quaint village of Adare. Arrival into Killarney is in the late afternoon. You'll learn quickly that pubs are the heartbeat of Ireland, whether you're interested in guzzling beer or simply getting to know more about Irish culture, pubs are definitely an important part of any Irish adventure – the place for infectiously cheerful music, tall tales and making friends over a pint or two. The Irish take their beer seriously, so this is a great chance to taste a variety of rich 'real ales'. Get to know classic pub fare such as Irish stew, chowders and fish and chips, while also sampling less familiar dishes such as coddle, boxty and champ.

Day 6 Ring of Kerry / Killarney

Prepare for picturesque rolling green hills and breathe in the salty coastal air as you travel along the Iveragh Peninsula, better known as the Ring of Kerry – a mystical and unspoilt region of Ireland. You'll pass through bucolic villages and enjoy views across some of Ireland's greatest beaches, beautiful lakes and rivers as well as a bit of dramatic coastal scenery. It's the perfect place for a small town crime drama to be set. Travelling by private vehicle will allow you to stop frequently at any of the numerous outlooks along the way for photos. You’ll visit a sheep farm and will see a demonstration of sheep herding – with skilled border collie dogs at work rounding up the sheep, and following commands from the shepherd, they’re no doubt full of practice. Arrive back into Killarney in the early afternoon. If there is enough time perhaps head out to Ross Castle, picturesquely sitting on the shores of Lough Leane.

Day 7 Dublin / Cork

Travel by train to Cork and take a city tour led by your leader. Cork is known as the culinary capital of Ireland, so grab a bite before boarding another train this time bound for the real, proud capital of the Republic of Ireland - Dublin. Spend the evening exploring the cobbled streets of this humming city or drop into the pub for a pint and a yarn. Dublin has much to offer, so make sure you go out and maximise your time here. In the evening, perhaps get your group together and cosy up at a local pub or head into town to find a cool restaurant or bar in Dublin’s Creative Quarter, also known as the city’s 'hipster triangle'.

Day 8 Dublin

As there are no activities planned for today, you are free to head on your way at any time, providing you comply with the accommodation’s internal check-out policy. You might want to return to Belfast by train or further explore Dublin and surrounding area. Your leader can be of assistance in organising train tickets back to Belfast. If you’d like, additional accommodation can be booked in both locations (subject to availability).

Day 1: Overnight flight

Board your overnight flight, bound for Europe.

Day 2: Arrive in Edinburgh + Welcome Mixer

Welcome to Scotland! Meet your Tour Director at the airport upon your arrival. Board your private transfer to your accommodation; the day is yours to explore.

Some free time options:

Stroll the historic Royal Mile and enjoy views of Edinburgh Castle

Taste local dishes (like haggis) in a traditional Scottish pub

Savor Scotch whiskies at a distillery

In the evening, it’s time for your Welcome Mixer. Enjoy appetizers and drinks with fellow travelers.

Day 3: Tour Edinburgh + Free time

Get an in-depth look at Scottish history and modern day life with a guided sightseeing tour of Edinburgh.

Today's Highlights:

View the Scottish Crown Jewels in Edinburgh Castle

Walk the Great Hall and see the armor, swords and medieval decor that line the walls

Visit the Elephant House Cafe, where the first Harry Potter book was written

After your tour, the afternoon is free to explore on your own.

Day 4: The Scottish Highlands

Become one with nature and spend a full day in the Scotland of your imagination.

Today's Highlights:

Relive Braveheart at Stirling Castle, one of Scotland’s most historically significant landmarks

Take a leisurely hike through Trossachs National Park, which features the biggest freshwater body in the UK

Enjoy the scenery as you drive through the rolling meadows and mountain ranges of the Scottish countryside

Day 5: Travel to York

Next stop, York. Board your private coach and set off to the medieval, walled city.

Today's Highlights:

Visit Durham and see its impressive castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site

Use free time to try a traditional pub lunch, or browse Durham Market for unique crafts or local snacks

Arrive in the city of York and spend your evening exploring the twisting streets with your Tour Director

Day 6: Travel to London via Cambridge

It’s time to board your coach and head to regal London. There will be plenty to do upon arrival, but first, stop in the historic college town of Cambridge, birthplace of scientific revelations and beautiful architectural marvels.

Today's Highlights:

Explore Cambridge, alma mater of Stephen Hawking, Sacha Baron Cohen, Charles Darwin and royal siblings William and Harry

Enjoy a pub lunch and pint at your leisure in Eagles Pub, where the discovery of DNA structure was first announced

Arrive in London and walk through famous areas like Trafalgar Square and Leicester Square before enjoying a free evening

Day 7: Tour London

Experience London’s most iconic sites with a local guide for a walking and coach tour of the city.

Today's Highlights:

See Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament and Westminster Abbey, all the while hearing about their unique stories from your local guide

Learn how to tell if the Queen is home at Buckingham Palace

Check out the medieval Tower of London juxtaposed against the modern cityscape

Take the rest of the day to return to any of these sites or find some favorites of your own.

DAY 8

Free day in London + Secret London: Walking Tour

The world is your Oyster Card! Your metro pass is included, so enjoy a full free day to explore London.

Free Time Suggestions

"I'm a what??": Take a selfie at Platform 9 ¾ in St. Pancras Station, or check out Leadenhall Market, Millennium Bridge and numerous other Harry Potter filming locations.

Boleyn Alley: Marvel at the Crown Jewels, see what was once the Royal Menagerie and learn about the darker history that took place in the Tower of London

Don't Look Down: Test your fear of heights at the Tower Bridge glass walkway.

Excursion:

Secret London: Walking Tour Extra Cost

Explore hidden London on an exciting, behind-the-scenes look at the city’s wild street art and eclectic neighborhoods. These streets have seen it all, from humble immigrant roots to the terror of Jack the Ripper. Today, they are home to actors, celebrity chefs, rock stars and murals from rebel artists like Banksy and Shepard Fairey. Are they modern art? Insightful political statements? Or mere graffiti? You decide. After seeing it all, you’ll head to a hand-picked chippy for a delicious meal of fish and chips, just like a proper Londoner.

Day 9: Travel to Liverpool

Board your private coach to Liverpool, home of the Beatles, Liverpool Football Club and waterfront nightlife. En route, make a stop in William Shakespeare’s hometown for lunch.

Today's Highlights:

Make your way to Liverpool via private coach

Have lunch in Stratford-upon-Avon, birthplace of William Shakespeare

Arrive in Liverpool and explore the area with your Tour Director

See the The Cavern Club, where the Beatles played their first gigs

Day 10: Travel to Dublin

Travel to Dublin via Holyhead. Upon arrival, you’ll have a free evening to explore the city, experience Dublin’s famous nightlife or call it a night.

Today's Highlights:

Drive to Holyhead and take a ferry across the Irish Sea to Dublin, Ireland

Arrive in Dublin and explore the area with your Tour Director

See the highlights like Grafton Street and the Temple Bar District, the hotspots for entertainment and nightlife

Day 11: Tour Dublin

See Dublin’s major highlights and historical sites on a walking and bus tour with a local guide.

Today's Highlights:

Visit St. Patrick’s Cathedral, the largest church in Ireland

Drive through Phoenix Park

Pour your perfect pint in the Guinness Storehouse (and get a certificate upon completion to prove your mastery)

Enjoy your brew while overlooking the Dublin skyline from Gravity Bar at the top of the Storehouse

Day 12: Excursion to Belfast + Free day in Dublin

Enjoy a full free day to explore Dublin on your own or take an excursion to Belfast, Northern Ireland, to visit the Titanic Museum and learn about the Troubles.

If you choose a free day, some options include:

Visit the Trinity College Library and see the most famous ancient Irish manuscript, the Book of Kells

Tour Kilmainham Gaol and learn about the enormous prison that housed political prisoners during the Irish Revolution

Immerse yourself in the pub culture in the Temple Bar District; grab a pint and chat up a local

Excursion:

Explore Belfast: The Titanic & The Troubles  Extra Cost

Add another country to your list of places visited with a day trip up to Belfast in Northern Ireland. Today, the city is must-visit gem known for its fascinating history and friendly locals, but that wasn’t always the case. A local guide will tell you all about the Troubles—a violent conflict that raged throughout the city until 1998. You’ll visit the Titanic Belfast Museum, a new six-story interactive museum quickly gaining accolades worldwide for its unforgettable presentation of the ill-fated voyage. The museum is adjacent to the drydock where the ship was built. After the museum, you will have time to explore the city.

Day 13: Travel to Galway

Next stop: Galway! But first, stop at the Cliffs of Moher, one of Ireland’s most visited natural attractions.

Today's Highlights:

Board your private coach en route to Galway

Experience the natural beauty of the famous Cliffs of Moher

Arrive in Galway and take an introductory walk with your Tour Director

Explore the city on your own with a free evening in Galway

Day 14: Explore the Aran Islands + Farewell Dinner

Board a ferry in Galway for a full day on the Aran Islands. Visit the Dun Aengus Ruins (an ancient fortress built upon a plunging precipice), and bask in the charm of the Irish countryside.

Today's Highlights:

Watch as Galway disappears behind you on the 45-minute ferry ride to the Aran Islands

Rent a bike and explore the green, Irish countryside

Explore the ancient and mysterious Dun Aengus Ruins and decide for yourself how they came to be

Return from your adventure in the evening and get ready for your Farewell Dinner. Enjoy a final meal together before departing for home tomorrow morning.

Day 15: Fly Home

It's time to say your goodbyes. Head to the airport for your flight back home.

Or ------Stay ahead or stay behind

Extending your trip for a few extra days before or after your tour is easy, and you can add anywhere from between one and 90 days. We'll book your flights per your specifications if you'll handle the hotels, local activities and ground transportation during the extra portion of your stay.