Compare Northern & Southern Ireland by Intrepid Travel vs St. Paddy’s Day in 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: Introduction to Dublin

Your tour director will take you on a quick walk so you can get to know the area. In the last decade or so, Dublin has become one of the most cosmopolitan cities in Europe. It’s the hometown of James Joyce, U2, and Guinness. After clearing customs, you’ll meet your full-time tour director and the rest of your group.

Welcome Mixer

Get to know your fellow travelers at an authentic local spot over some drinks and light appetizers.

Day 3: Sightseeing Tour of Dublin (local guide)

A local guide will show you the best of Dublin. Pass by the Irish President’s home as you head through Phoenix Park. Take in the views along the River Liffey and check out an ancient Viking site. See the famous Trinity College, where Bram Stoker (the author of “Dracula”) studied.

St. Patrick’s Cathedral

Go inside the 800-year-old church named after the famous saint. This is the biggest church in Ireland, and it stands on the exact spot where St. Patrick is said to have baptized converts.

Guinness Storehouse

Witness the history and brewing process of the world’s most famous beer. The Guinness Brewery was founded in 1759. Go through the Guinness Storehouse, a converted 19th-century building where you can see how the famous stout is made. For many, the real highlight of the visit is the Gravity Bar, a glass-enclosed space about 200 feet up, where you can sample the brew as you enjoy 360-degree views of Dublin.

Day 4: St. Paddy’s Day in Dublin

Wake up early and get out there. Today is totally free for you to celebrate the big day however you want. Maybe start by checking out Dublin’s official St. Patrick’s Festival, with its parades, music, comedy, and other quirky events. Later, you’ll probably end up with the crowds in Temple Bar, an area by the River Liffey that’s chock full of pubs, parties and traditional Irish restaurants. Wherever the day leads you, get ready for the best St. Paddy’s Day of your life.

Day 5: Travel to County Kerry via Killarney

Continue on to County Kerry, known for its scenic green landscapes—classic Ireland.

Blarney Castle

En route to County Kerry, stop for a visit to the famed Blarney Castle. To reach the legendary Blarney Stone and to receive the “gift of the gab,” you’ll have to climb the steps of the castle, lean backward under the parapet wall and kiss the stone upside-down.

Day 6: Highlights of the Ring of Kerry

Drive the 112 miles around the Iveragh Peninsula, better known as the Ring of Kerry. Catch breathtaking views all the way—see the beaches, the Atlantic Ocean, the Lakes of Killarney and Macgillycuddy’s Reeks (the tallest mountains in Ireland).

During the drive, you’ll make a pit stop in Glenbeigh and visit the Bog Village, where you can walk through a re-creation of an Irish village from the early 1800s.

Day 7: Travel to Galway via Cliffs of Moher

On the way to Galway, stop at the Cliffs of Moher for amazing views of the coastline. The limestone walls of rock dominate the coast for five miles and rise to staggering heights of 700 feet.

Highlights of Galway

Your tour director will introduce you to Galway. Walk along the banks of the River Corrib, and keep your eyes open for the red-sailed boats out on Galway Bay.

Top 4 nightlife suggestions:

1. Taaffes – Come here for nightly traditional Irish music and keep your ears open for spoken Gaelic.

2. The Living Room – This is the place to go if you're looking for a hip, modern vibe.

3. The GPO – One of Galway's most popular nightspots, it’s the longest-standing club in the city.

4. The Quays Pub – The atmosphere is one-of-a-kind in this former medieval French church. Whether you prefer to dance, listen to live music, or just to hang out with a pint of Guinness, there’s something for everyone in this massive pub.

Day 8: Day Trip to the Aran Islands

Weather permitting

Head out on a day trip to the rugged Aran Islands, where old traditions are standing strong. Gaelic is still the main language of the islands, and traces of ancient Gaelic customs can still be found in the shops and cottages that dot the landscape. You’ll visit Dun Aengus, a famous prehistoric fort dating back to the Iron Age.

Farewell Dinner

Share some last laughs (and maybe shed a few tears) at an included farewell dinner with the group.

Day 9: Fly Home

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