Private 10 Day Ireland Tour - Ancient East Adventure

Private Tour Itinerary

• Day 1 - Dublin Airport Collection - Howth & Dublin Orientation

  Upon arrival at Dublin Airport, your private driver-guide will escort you to the Howth Peninsula. This coastal start offers a refreshing walk along the cliffs and through the historic fishing village, providing an ideal recovery after your flight. Following your time by the sea, you will head into the capital for a guided vehicle orientation, highlighting the city's key landmarks and layout. The day concludes with a private transfer to your centrally located Dublin hotel.

  
  

  Overnight: Dublin City

• Day 2 - Dublin City Day Tour

  After meeting at your hotel, your day begins with a private driving tour of key sites such as Trinity College, Dublin Castle, Phoenix Park, and the River Liffey. Beyond these highlights, you may choose to visit specific attractions including the Guinness Storehouse, the Book of Kells, or Kilmainham Gaol. After exploring the city's historical and cultural points of interest, your driver will return you to your Dublin hotel to relax before the journey into the Irish countryside begins.

  
  

  Activity Options: Guided walking tour, Guinness Storehouse, Dublin Castle, St Patrick’s Cathedral, Temple Bar, Malahide Castle, Kilmainham Gaol, The Book of Kells, or the Bog Bodies Exhibition.

  
  

  You'll want to let us know which attractions are of interest to you at the booking stage so we can secure entrance and maximise your time on tour.

  
  

  Overnight: Dublin City

• Day 3 - Bru na Boinne & Boyne Valley

  Following a morning meeting at your hotel, your journey into Ireland’s Ancient East begins with a visit to the Boyne Valley. The centerpiece of the day is the UNESCO World Heritage site of Newgrange. This Neolithic passage tomb, constructed over 5,000 years ago, stands as an architectural marvel that predates both the Pyramids of Giza and Stonehenge. During your visit, you will enter the inner chamber to experience a curated recreation of the winter solstice, demonstrating how the ancients captured the sun’s light with mathematical precision.

  
  

  The day offers further opportunities to explore the valley's layered history. You may choose to visit the Hill of Tara, the ancient seat of the High Kings, the historic Hill of Slane, or the impressive Slane Castle. Each location provides a unique perspective on the regional significance of this valley throughout the centuries. After a full day of historical immersion, your driver will escort you back to Dublin for your final evening in the capital.

  
  

  Overnight: Dublin City

• Day 4 - Dublin to Wexford via Wicklow Mountains

  Departing from your Dublin hotel, the journey heads south into the heart of the Wicklow Mountains National Park. Known as the Garden of Ireland, this region offers a blend of dramatic landscapes and quiet retreats. Your first stop overlooks the striking dark waters of Lough Tay, providing one of the most famous panoramic views in the country.

  
  

  The morning continues at the 6th-century monastic settlement of Glendalough. Here, you can explore the well-preserved round tower and stone churches before taking a guided walk through the surrounding woodlands toward the upper and lower lakes. Following a traditional lunch in a mountain setting, you have the opportunity to witness a private sheepdog demonstration, (optional) showcasing the skill and heritage of a local hill farmer.

  
  

  The afternoon concludes with a visit to Avoca, home to one of Ireland’s oldest working woolen mills, before your driver escorts you to your evening destination in Wexford.

  
  

  Alternative Activity Options: Avoca Woolen Mills, Powerscourt House & Gardens, Powerscourt Waterfall, Irish National Heritage Park, 1798 Rebellion Centre, Wexford Town Walking Tour, Ferns Castle, Lady's Island Lake, or Tintern Abbey.

  
  

  Overnight: Wexford

• Day 5 - Tour Wexford County

  Today offers an opportunity to explore the highlights of Wexford at your own pace. You might choose to start at Ferns Castle to uncover the history of the Anglo-Norman invasion or spend time at the Irish National Heritage Park, where guides trace 9,000 years of Irish history from Celtic roots to monastic settlements.

  
  

  In summer season perhaps ask your guide to stop to purchase some famous Wexford strawberries as a delicious local snack.

  
  

  In the market town of Enniscorthy, you have the option to visit the 1798 Rebellion Centre to learn about the fight for independence. For nature lovers, a stop at Seal Rescue Ireland offers a chance to see their conservation work firsthand. You can also tailor your day with visits to Tintern Abbey, Tacumshane Windmill, or a Wexford walking tour before returning to Wexford town for the night.

• Day 6 - Wexford to Waterford

  This morning offers several ways to explore the scenic Wexford coastline. You might choose to travel toward the charming village of Kilmore Quay before heading west to the historic Hook Head. There, you have the option to visit Hook Lighthouse, widely considered the oldest intact lighthouse in the world, and learn about its 13th-century founder, William Marshal, often called the "greatest knight who ever lived."

  
  

  Your journey could also include a stop at the ruins of Tintern Abbey or a visit to New Ross. In New Ross, you can choose to tour the Dunbrody Famine Ship, an immersive experience detailing the difficult 1840s voyages to the New World. Other possible stops include Lady’s Island Lake or the Tacumshane Windmill. You will eventually make your way to Waterford, where you will spend the next two nights.

  
  

  Activity Options - Irish National Heritage Park, 1798 Exhibition Center, Wexford Town Walking Tour, Ferns Castle Tour, Lady Island Lake Visit, Tacumshane Windmill, Blackwater Village, Tintern Abbey

  
  

  Overnight - Waterford

• Day 7 - Touring Waterford City and County

  Today offers the chance to immerse yourself in Waterford, Ireland’s oldest city. Founded by Vikings in 914, this historic walled city is famous for its intricate cut glass and stunning architecture. You might choose to explore the Bishop’s Palace or Reginald’s Tower, where you can trace the city's evolution from its Norse foundations to the elegance of the Georgian era.

  
  

  For those interested in interactive history, you could opt for the King of the Vikings 3D experience or a stroll through the Viking Triangle to discover medieval landmarks and local museums. Another unique option is the Irish Wake Museum, which provides a fascinating look at Ireland's distinct traditions regarding death and burial. Whether you prefer browsing local shops or diving into cultural heritage, the day is yours to shape before returning to your Waterford accommodation.

  
  

  Activity Options - King of the Vikings, John F Kennedy’s Home, Dunbrody Famine Ship, Jerpoint Abbey, Thomastown, Kells Priory

  
  

  Overnight - Waterford

• Day 8 - Touring Kilkenny City and County

  Journey into the Heart of Medieval Ireland: From Waterford City to Kilkenny

  
  

  Today’s voyage takes you through the verdant landscapes of the Southeast as we transition from the Viking heritage of Waterford to the marble-paved streets of Kilkenny. This leg of your journey is designed for flexibility; you can choose to dive deep into ancient ruins or enjoy the refined craftsmanship of modern Irish artisans.

  
  

  Curated Morning Exploration

  
  

  Your private chauffeur is at your disposal to facilitate visits to some of Ireland's most storied landmarks. You might choose to visit Jerpoint Abbey, a 12th-century Cistercian masterpiece renowned for its detailed stone carvings and serene cloister. Alternatively, witness the mesmerising art of glassblowing at the nearby Jerpoint Glass Studio, where you can watch craftsmen transform molten glass into vibrant art. History enthusiasts may also wish to stop at Kilfane Church to view the Long Man (Cantwell Effigy), a 13th-century stone carving of a Norman knight that remains one of the most strikingly preserved figures of its kind in Europe.

  
  

  An Afternoon in the Marble City

  
  

  Upon arriving in Kilkenny, the city is yours to discover. Whether you prefer a guided historical walk or a taste of local culture, your afternoon can be tailored to your interests. You may choose to explore the magnificent Kilkenny Castle and its sprawling parklands, or walk the Medieval Mile linking the castle to the majestic St. Canice’s Cathedral. For those interested in local heritage of a different sort, the Smithwick’s Experience offers an interactive tour through the history of Ireland’s oldest ale.

  
  

  Bespoke Activity Options

  
  

  To ensure your day matches your personal style, you can select from various attractions including Kilkenny Castle, the Medieval Mile, Smithwick’s Brewery, The Dunmore Cave, Kilfane Glen and Waterfall, The Long Man Effigy, or the Tudor-era Rothe House.

  
  

  Overnight: Kilkenny

• Day 9 - Kilkenny and Carlow

  Today, your journey leads you toward the charming village of Freshford, Kilkenny, for a deeply personal encounter with Irish heritage. You have the opportunity to meet James at his traditional family pub for an introduction to one of our national treasures.

  
  

  James will guide you through the basics of hurling—a sport of incredible speed and skill that has been a cornerstone of Irish culture for over 3,000 years. After trying your hand at the "clash of the ash," you will retreat to the warmth of the pub. Here, James offers an authentic perspective on the vital role the public house plays in the fabric of rural Irish life. You may even have the chance to master the art of the perfect pour before enjoying a relaxed local lunch.

  
  

  In the afternoon, your private tour continues into the scenic landscapes of County Carlow. We follow the winding path of the River Barrow, stopping to explore picturesque riverside villages like Graiguenamanagh and the historic monastic site of St Mullins.

  
  

  As evening approaches, we make our way back to Dublin City, marking the conclusion of your immersive journey through Ireland’s Ancient East.

  
  

  Customisable Activity Options

  
  

  Depending on your interests, your afternoon can be tailored to include several unique experiences. You might choose the "Farm to Fork" Pig Farm Experience with Laura from Irish Grazer Tours for a taste of local sustainable agriculture. Other heritage options include the grand Russborough House, the haunting ruins of Duckett’s Grove, or the prehistoric Brownshill Dolmen. For those seeking culture or tranquility, the Carlow County Museum and the Delta Sensory Gardens are excellent additions to the route.

  
  

  Overnight: Dublin

• Day 10 - Dublin Airport Transfer

  Your tour ends this morning with a private transfer to Dublin Airport.

Pricing & Availability