See the Best of Ireland with Brendan Vacations

A Dream Tour for First-Time Visitors

Ireland is a place that captures the heart. With rolling green hills, dramatic cliffs, cozy pubs, and centuries of history, it’s no surprise that travelers from around the world are drawn to its charm.

For those ready to explore Ireland without the stress of planning every detail, Brendan Vacations offers the Best of Ireland guided tour—a thoughtfully curated 10-day journey that showcases the most iconic sights and the lesser-known gems of the Emerald Isle.

Why Choose a Guided Tour in Ireland?

Navigating Ireland’s winding roads, rural villages, and countless castle detours can be an adventure on its own. With Brendan Vacations, guests enjoy the comfort of a luxury coach, expertly planned accommodations, local guides, and insider access to experiences most travelers wouldn’t find on their own.

The Best of Ireland tour is perfect for:

  • First-time visitors who want to see a variety of cities and landscapes

  • Travelers interested in history, culture, and natural beauty

  • Couples, friend groups, or solo adventurers looking for a mix of group travel and personal exploration time

Tour Overview: What’s Included

This 10-day itinerary begins and ends in Dublin and visits 16 cities, including:

  • Waterford

  • Cork

  • Killarney

  • Galway

  • Sligo

  • Donegal

  • Derry

  • Belfast

The tour includes:

  • 9 nights of hand-selected accommodations

  • 14 meals (including local specialties)

  • All transportation between stops

  • Guided tours and exclusive experiences

  • A full-time Travel Director and local experts

Tour Highlights: From Castles to Coastlines

Blarney Castle

Guests can climb the castle tower and (optionally) kiss the famous Blarney Stone. The surrounding gardens and castle grounds are just as enchanting.

📌 Tip: Wear comfortable, weather-resistant shoes for this stop. These waterproof sneakers are a smart option for walking on stone steps and misty paths.

The Cliffs of Moher

These iconic sea cliffs are breathtaking. On a clear day, you can see the Aran Islands across Galway Bay.

📌 Travel essential: A packable windbreaker like this one is a must for braving the gusty coastal air.

Galway & Killarney

From lively street performers in Galway to cozy pubs in Killarney, these towns offer a taste of Ireland’s warm hospitality and rich musical traditions.

📌 Don’t forget: Bring a travel journal (like this one) to jot down favorite pubs, tunes, and memorable conversations.

Northern Ireland Stops: Derry & Belfast

Experience the unique history and culture of Northern Ireland with visits to the walled city of Derry and the Titanic Quarter in Belfast. These stops offer insight into both ancient and modern Irish history.

Unique Experiences with Brendan Vacations

Brendan’s Make Travel Matter® experiences are woven throughout the tour. These are opportunities to support local communities, artisans, and sustainability efforts while traveling.

Expect moments like:

  • Visiting a working sheep farm for a herding demonstration

  • Enjoying a private dinner with traditional Irish music

  • Touring lesser-known heritage sites with expert local guides

What to Pack for Ireland

Ireland’s weather can be unpredictable—sunny and rainy within the same hour—so smart packing is key.

Must-haves include:

  • Layers: Think sweaters, scarves, and a good travel umbrella.

  • Waterproof outerwear: This lightweight rain jacket packs down easily in a carry-on.

  • Comfortable walking shoes or boots: Ideal for cobbled streets and country trails.

  • A universal power adapter: This one handles all your electronics with ease.

Is Brendan Vacations Right for You?

This tour is ideal for those who want:

  • A professionally guided, stress-free experience

  • Balanced days of sightseeing and free time

  • Comfort, safety, and expert insight throughout the journey

With its rich itinerary and seamless logistics, the Best of Ireland tour delivers all the magic of Ireland in one unforgettable trip.

Ready to Experience Ireland?

Whether you’re checking a dream destination off your list or diving deeper into your Irish roots, Brendan Vacations makes it easy to explore with confidence.

Want help booking your spot or building a custom itinerary around this tour? Reach out anytime—I'd love to help you experience the magic of Ireland the way it’s meant to be seen.


Pin this post to your travel board and start planning your Irish adventure today!


*Speake Travel is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

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