If you’ve got a long list of dream destinations, it can be hard to know which one should be at the top. An Ireland tour has long been considered a favorite by seasoned travelers, and makes a strong case for position one. The amount of sites, history, culture and natural beauty packed into this small island make it one of the most popular destinations in the world. Once you’ve set your sights on the Emerald Isle, consider an Ireland tour to get the most out of your trip.
Here are some highlights that you won’t want to miss — make sure they’re on any itinerary that you consider as you shop around for an Ireland tour:
* Dublin: The vibrant capital is awash in historic sites and handsome architecture, but you’ll find the lively energy here is an attraction in itself. Make sure your stay includes some traditional Irish music and dancing. Avid readers can also revel in the city’s rich literary tradition — see the Book of Kells at Trinity College, or seek out the history of writers like James Joyce, W.B. Yeats and Samuel Beckett. And be sure to take the opportunity to have a pint of Guinness in one of the city’s atmospheric pubs.
* Connemara: This region in western Ireland has some of the most dramatically varied scenery in the country, so it’s a must-see on any Ireland tour. Visit Kylemore Abbey, a Gothic-Revival castle, as well as the Cliffs of Moher and the rocky landscape of the Burren. Tour operators like Tauck give you the opportunity to visit the best of the region before returning for the night to stay in legendary Ashford Castle on Loch Corrib, one of the finest hotels in the world.
* Blarney to Killarney: No trip to Ireland is complete without giving the Blarney Stone a kiss — just go to the 15th-century Blarney Castle and pucker up. Take a journey from there to the historic town of Kenmare where you can stroll around and get a glimpse of a classic Irish town. Next, in Killarney, visit the beautiful Muckross House, a prime example of an Elizabeth-style manor.
* Giant’s Causeway: Located in Northern Ireland, this natural wonder is an unforgettable sight. The sharply defined basalt columns that line the coast — some 40,000 of them — are an otherworldly vision that has been called an 8th wonder of the world. Legend has it that they were paving stones laid by a mythical giant.
The sheer number of sights and things to do in Ireland can make planning a trip on your own overwhelming. Companies like Tauck specialize in finding not just the best activities for travelers, but also in streamlining their journey, taking care of transportation, entertainment, hotels and other travel essentials.
To find out more about touring Ireland’s best sights, explore an E-Brochure and more, visit Tauck’s website at www.Tauck.com.
