CIE Tours

12 Day Irish Odyssey Self-Drive

Explore gorgeous scenery and intriguing culture as you drive around the entire Ireland on this comprehensive tour. Enjoy a stay at the luxurious Cabra Castle in Dublin and a dinner with a flight of craft beers at Walled City Brewery in Derry. All our self-drive Classic Itinerary tours include your hotel stays, a hop-on bus ticket and a voucher for a Dublin attraction, and an entertainment experience; other attractions mentioned are suggestions.

Authentic Local Experiences:

  • Enjoy a flight of locally-brewed craft beers with your dinner at the Walled City Brewery, a family-owned establishment located in a former army barracks in the heart of Derry city.

Trip Highlights:

  • Walled City Brewery

Dining Experiences:

  • 11 Breakfasts (B) and 6 Dinners (D)

Hotels:

  • Herbert Park Hotel | Dublin (2)
  • The River Lee Hotel | Cork (1)
  • Killarney Plaza Hotel | Killarney (2)
  • Radisson Red Galway Hotel | Galway (2)
  • City Hotel | Derry (2)
  • Grand Central Hotel | Belfast (1)
  • Cabra Castle Hotel | Kingscourt (1)

05/16/2025 through 10/20/2025
05/16/2025 through 11/04/2025

Day 1

Dublin, Ireland is an architectural, artistic, and gastronomic marvel. Immerse yourself in this cultural capital and discover a few of Ireland’s most famous landmarks!

A trip to Dublin wouldn’t be complete without imbibing at some of the world’s best distilleries and tasting rooms. The city is home to both the Old Jameson Whiskey Distillery and the Guinness Storehouse, where authentic Irish spirits and ales flow freely. Explore the long histories of these brewing giants in their respective factory museums and be sure to take a hearty swig of Guinness’s iconic stout. A number of local pubs line the streets of Dublin and contribute to the city’s thrilling nightlife. Head to Dublin’s city center to drop by the popular Temple Bar, whose unmistakable bright red exterior invites you to “have a gargle.”

From cathedrals to castles, Dublin boasts many striking architectural jewels that are guaranteed to astound you. Wander inside St. Patrick’s Cathedral, dating back to the twelfth century, to gaze in wonder at its vaulted archways and vibrant stained-glass windows. At the heart of the city lies Dublin Castle, once the medieval stronghold of King John of England and a symbol of centuries-long British rule. This vast and historic château offers a number of exquisite interior rooms, museums, and gardens that make for a perfect tour.

Dublin is a haven for bibliophiles. Frequented in days past by literary greats like Joyce, Wilde, and Yeats, Dublin remains a city for writers and readers. Peruse the deep wooden shelves of Trinity College’s Old Library, which boasts an impressive collection of rare manuscripts and texts (including the famous Book of Kells), or take a gander inside The Winding Stair, a quaint bookshop and upscale eatery mere steps from the city’s iconic Ha’penny Bridge.

You’re bound to have a whale of a time in this delightful city! Let inviting Dublin capture your heart.


Day 2

Dublin, Ireland is an architectural, artistic, and gastronomic marvel. Immerse yourself in this cultural capital and discover a few of Ireland’s most famous landmarks!

A trip to Dublin wouldn’t be complete without imbibing at some of the world’s best distilleries and tasting rooms. The city is home to both the Old Jameson Whiskey Distillery and the Guinness Storehouse, where authentic Irish spirits and ales flow freely. Explore the long histories of these brewing giants in their respective factory museums and be sure to take a hearty swig of Guinness’s iconic stout. A number of local pubs line the streets of Dublin and contribute to the city’s thrilling nightlife. Head to Dublin’s city center to drop by the popular Temple Bar, whose unmistakable bright red exterior invites you to “have a gargle.”

From cathedrals to castles, Dublin boasts many striking architectural jewels that are guaranteed to astound you. Wander inside St. Patrick’s Cathedral, dating back to the twelfth century, to gaze in wonder at its vaulted archways and vibrant stained-glass windows. At the heart of the city lies Dublin Castle, once the medieval stronghold of King John of England and a symbol of centuries-long British rule. This vast and historic château offers a number of exquisite interior rooms, museums, and gardens that make for a perfect tour.

Dublin is a haven for bibliophiles. Frequented in days past by literary greats like Joyce, Wilde, and Yeats, Dublin remains a city for writers and readers. Peruse the deep wooden shelves of Trinity College’s Old Library, which boasts an impressive collection of rare manuscripts and texts (including the famous Book of Kells), or take a gander inside The Winding Stair, a quaint bookshop and upscale eatery mere steps from the city’s iconic Ha’penny Bridge.

You’re bound to have a whale of a time in this delightful city! Let inviting Dublin capture your heart.


Day 3 The Irish Republic's second largest city is a surprisingly appealing place - you'll find time passes effortlessly during the day, and by night the pub scene is lively. The town center is uniquely situated on an island between two channels of the Lee River. North of the river, in the Shandon area, is an interesting historic part of the city, if a bit run down today. Sights to the south include Protestant St Finbarr's Cathedral, the Cork Museum (largely given over to the nationalist struggle in which Cork played an important role), the 19th century Cork Jail, the City Hall and numerous churches, breweries and chapels.

Cork prides itself on its cultural pursuits, and apart from a heap of cozy pubs, the Cork Opera House, Crawford Art Gallery and Firkin Crane Centre offer both traditional and mainstream fare. A popular day trip from Cork is to Blarney Castle, where even the most un-touristy visitor may feel compelled to kiss the Blarney Stone. Cork is around five hours to the south of Dublin by bus.
Day 4 Killarney - Ireland's most vibrant town. Located in the Southwestern region of Ireland, in County Kerry, Killarney is a renown stop on the famed "Ring of Kerry" journey. The town itself is set near the beautiful Killarney National Park, by the shores of Lough Leane and in the shadow of Ireland's highest mountains. The mystic beauty of Killarney's lakes is wonder to behold. From clubs and pubs, to ancient sites and historical places, Killarney is a perfect blend of past and present.
Day 5 Killarney - Ireland's most vibrant town. Located in the Southwestern region of Ireland, in County Kerry, Killarney is a renown stop on the famed "Ring of Kerry" journey. The town itself is set near the beautiful Killarney National Park, by the shores of Lough Leane and in the shadow of Ireland's highest mountains. The mystic beauty of Killarney's lakes is wonder to behold. From clubs and pubs, to ancient sites and historical places, Killarney is a perfect blend of past and present.
Day 6 Galway, on Ireland's picturesque west coast, offers a vibrant blend of culture, history, and natural beauty that enchants visitors from around the world. This historic city, often referred to as the "City of the Tribes," was shaped by the seven tribes that dominated it during the medieval period. The city's lively atmosphere is a fusion of traditional Irish charm and modern creativity, evident in its colorful streets and dynamic cultural scene.

Stroll through the bustling Quay Street and discover an array of charming shops, lively pubs, and cozy restaurants. The area's vibrant market and street performers add to its festive ambiance, making it a perfect spot to soak up Galway's unique spirit. Nearby, the Galway Cathedral, a stunning example of neo-Romanesque architecture, stands majestically on the banks of the River Corrib. Its interior, adorned with colorful mosaics and intricate stonework, is a testament to the city's rich artistic heritage.

Galway is also renowned for its proximity to the Cliffs of Moher, one of Ireland’s most iconic natural landmarks. These dramatic cliffs rise over 700 feet above the Atlantic Ocean, offering breathtaking views and thrilling walks along the edge. Additionally, the nearby Connemara National Park presents a rugged landscape of mountains, lakes, and wild boglands, ideal for hiking and exploring.

Fun Fact: Galway is known for its vibrant arts scene and is home to the annual Galway International Arts Festival, which attracts performers and artists from around the globe. The festival’s eclectic mix of theater, music, and visual arts underscores Galway’s status as a cultural hub in Ireland.
Day 7 Galway, on Ireland's picturesque west coast, offers a vibrant blend of culture, history, and natural beauty that enchants visitors from around the world. This historic city, often referred to as the "City of the Tribes," was shaped by the seven tribes that dominated it during the medieval period. The city's lively atmosphere is a fusion of traditional Irish charm and modern creativity, evident in its colorful streets and dynamic cultural scene.

Stroll through the bustling Quay Street and discover an array of charming shops, lively pubs, and cozy restaurants. The area's vibrant market and street performers add to its festive ambiance, making it a perfect spot to soak up Galway's unique spirit. Nearby, the Galway Cathedral, a stunning example of neo-Romanesque architecture, stands majestically on the banks of the River Corrib. Its interior, adorned with colorful mosaics and intricate stonework, is a testament to the city's rich artistic heritage.

Galway is also renowned for its proximity to the Cliffs of Moher, one of Ireland’s most iconic natural landmarks. These dramatic cliffs rise over 700 feet above the Atlantic Ocean, offering breathtaking views and thrilling walks along the edge. Additionally, the nearby Connemara National Park presents a rugged landscape of mountains, lakes, and wild boglands, ideal for hiking and exploring.

Fun Fact: Galway is known for its vibrant arts scene and is home to the annual Galway International Arts Festival, which attracts performers and artists from around the globe. The festival’s eclectic mix of theater, music, and visual arts underscores Galway’s status as a cultural hub in Ireland.
Day 8 The River Foyle curves picturesquely around the old walled town of Derry, creating a cosy setting which jars horribly with the reality of this city's recent troubled history. The old centre of Derry is the small walled city on the west bank of the river, with the square called the Diamond at its heart. Barbed-wire barriers detract from the magnificence of the city walls, though also giving resonance to their history. From the top there are good views of the Bogside and its defiant murals - 'No Surrender!' - and the Free Derry monument. Inside the walls, the Tower Museum tells the story of Derry from the days of St Columcille to the present. St Columb's Cathedral stands within the walls of the old city and dates from 1628; it's usually surrounded by barbed wire and surveillance cameras. Last century, Derry was one of the main ports from which the Irish emigrated to the USA. The Harbour Museum has a small collection of maritime memorabilia on display. Derry is only just over one and a half hours from Belfast by bus.
Day 9 The River Foyle curves picturesquely around the old walled town of Derry, creating a cosy setting which jars horribly with the reality of this city's recent troubled history. The old centre of Derry is the small walled city on the west bank of the river, with the square called the Diamond at its heart. Barbed-wire barriers detract from the magnificence of the city walls, though also giving resonance to their history. From the top there are good views of the Bogside and its defiant murals - 'No Surrender!' - and the Free Derry monument. Inside the walls, the Tower Museum tells the story of Derry from the days of St Columcille to the present. St Columb's Cathedral stands within the walls of the old city and dates from 1628; it's usually surrounded by barbed wire and surveillance cameras. Last century, Derry was one of the main ports from which the Irish emigrated to the USA. The Harbour Museum has a small collection of maritime memorabilia on display. Derry is only just over one and a half hours from Belfast by bus.
Day 10

Belfast, the vibrant capital of Northern Ireland, is a city steeped in rich history and brimming with cultural charm. Known for its role in the Industrial Revolution, it was once a major shipbuilding hub, most famously the birthplace of the RMS Titanic. Today, visitors can explore the Titanic Quarter, where the Titanic Belfast museum stands as a modern architectural marvel, offering a fascinating and interactive journey through the ship's history. The city’s maritime heritage is also reflected in attractions like the SS Nomadic, the last remaining White Star Line ship, which once ferried passengers to the Titanic.

The cultural scene in Belfast is equally captivating, with a rich tapestry of music, art, and festivals. The city has been designated a UNESCO City of Music, reflecting its vibrant music scene that ranges from traditional Irish sessions in cozy pubs to contemporary performances at venues like the SSE Arena. Art enthusiasts can visit the MAC (Metropolitan Arts Centre) to experience cutting-edge exhibitions and performances, while the annual Belfast International Arts Festival showcases a diverse array of local and international talent.


Day 11 Cavan consists of undulating land with unnumerable low round hills (drumlins) and lakes, many with picturesque settings and dotted with wooded islands which provide much of the counties delightful scenery. The anglers in particular, will find unlimited opportunities for game and coarse fishing.
Day 12

06/06/25 - 06/17/25

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