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Explore Ireland's beauty on this small group tour with no more than 24 guests from the Giant’s Causeway to the Slieve League Cliffs. Explore the Titanic’s history and attend an exclusive Celtic music concert, among many other highlights. Then conclude your small group tour with a 14-night river cruise from Amsterdam to Budapest.
Inclusions
Experiences in 27 destinations
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Freedom of Choice inclusions
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14 nights on a brand-new luxury river ship, the APT Solara or APT Ostara
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A total of 60 meals and a wide range of onboard beverages
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The services of expert Tour and Cruise Directors
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In-suite dining and beverage service in all suites
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Transfers, porterage, port charges and gratuities
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Visit the Killarney School of Music and attend an exclusive Celtic concert, including an Irish dancing demonstration
Departs June 2026-September 2027
Itinerary
Day 1 - Arrive Dublin
Arrive in Dublin, a vibrant city with a fascinating history and culture. We'll meet you at the airport before personally escorting you to your hotel, ensuring a smooth transition into your Irish adventure. Later, join your fellow travellers at a delightful welcome reception, where you’ll have the opportunity to forge new friendships. Stay: Conrad Dublin
Day 2 Dublin, Belfast
Set out on a guided tour of Dublin and allow yourself to become enchanted by this historic city’s iconic landmarks and hidden gems as your expert guide shares the fascinating stories behind each stop. Venture to the city of Belfast in Northern Ireland, where you’ll pay a visit to the iconic Titanic Belfast, offering a poignant journey through the history of the ship. This evening, relish a sumptuous welcome dinner, showcasing delicious Irish cuisine. Stay: Belfast, The Merchant Hotel Daily: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 3- Belfast, Giant’s Causeway, Derry, Donegal
Travel to the Giant’s Causeway, a series of around 40,000 interlocking basalt columns that rise from the sea. This geological marvel was formed due to volcanic activity approximately 50 to 60 million years ago. Continue to Derry and take in its rich history. Later, arrive at your five-star castle hotel, set upon a secluded lakeside estate. Here, savour dinner this evening. Stay: Two Nights, Donegal, Lough Eske Castle Daily: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 4 - Donegal, Slieve League Cliffs
Today, become immersed in the stunning sea vistas of the Slieve League Cliffs, one of the tallest sea cliffs in Europe. Following this spectacular experience, a guided tour of the area will provide you with fascinating insights into the landscape. Later, enjoy a lunch that will tantalise your taste buds.
Daily: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 5: Donegal, Drumcliff, Ballyfarnon
Visit the historic village of Drumcliff, where you will see the grave site of W.B. Yeats, a prominent Irish poet and one of the foremost figures of 20th-century literature. Afterwards, journey into the heart of rural Ireland and visit The Shed Distillery in Drumshanbo. Learn about how gin is made, including the distillery’s unique Drumshanbo Gunpowder Irish Gin, and enjoy a tasting. Stay: Two Nights, Ballyfarnon, Kilronan Castle Daily: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 6- Ballyfarnon
Begin your day with a visit to the National Famine Museum at the Irish heritage-listed Strokestown Park House, where you'll uncover the moving story of the Great Irish Famine. Gain fascinating insights into the events that reshaped Ireland and led to a global diaspora of Irish emigrants. Later, unwind with a scenic cruise along the River Shannon, soaking up stunning views of lush greenery, quaint villages and the historic landmarks that line Ireland's longest river.
Daily: Breakfast
Day 7- Ballyfarnon, Adare, Killarney
As you travel towards the captivating Cliffs of Moher, gaze upon the rugged karst landscapes carved into beautiful formations of bedrock. Stop in the charming village of Adare, where you’ll find fairytale cottages and quaint streets before continuing to the town of Killarney. Be delighted by an authentic and interactive Irish coffee-making demonstration. Stay: Two Nights, Killarney, The Europe Hotel & Resort Daily: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 8- Killarney, Ring of Kerry
This morning, travel along the Ring of Kerry, where you will bear witness to breathtaking views of the rugged coastline and verdant landscapes. Later, immerse yourself in the charm of Killarney with a pony and trap ride. In the evening, prepare for a memorable performance at the Killarney School of Music.
Signature Experience – Exclusive Celtic Music Experience
Delight in an exclusive Celtic music experience at the Killarney School of Music, which will transport you into Ireland’s vibrant musical heritage. Watch in awe at the extraordinary instrumental and vocal performances that capture the essence of Irish musical tradition. The traditional Irish dances will add another dimension to this cultural celebration. Daily: Breakfast
Day 9- Killarney, Blarney, Cashel, Kilkenny
Journey to Blarney Castle, where the famed Blarney Stone awaits discovery. Nestled within the castle's ancient battlements, this iconic treasure is composed of Carboniferous limestone. Later, visit the Rock of Cashel, a symbol of Ireland’s medieval history. Finish the day at your hotel in the heart of Kilkenny, where you’ll enjoy a delicious dinner. Stay: Two Nights, Kilkenny, Pembroke Hotel Daily: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 10 - Kilkenny
Tour the Legends Hurling Museum and delve into the history and cultural significance of Gaelic football in Ireland. Afterwards, embark on a guided walking tour of Kilkenny and discover the city’s storied past and architectural treasures. Enjoy an afternoon at leisure where you might choose to explore Killarney’s hidden gems at your own pace. Daily: Breakfast
Day 11- Kilkenny, Kildare, Dublin
Travel to the Irish National Stud and Gardens, where a Signature Experience awaits. Later, continue onwards to Dublin. Savour a delectable dinner this evening.
Signature Experience – Irish National Stud and Gardens
Embark on a private tour of the Irish National Stud and Gardens, the only stud farm in Ireland open to the public. Learn about thoroughbred breeding and get the chance to see foals, mares, stallions and retired geldings. After the tour, enjoy the award-winning Irish Racehorse Experience, an interactive journey that takes you through the rich heritage of the Irish thoroughbred industry. You will also delight in an exclusive Private Stallion Parade, showcasing two of the farm’s incredible stallions. Conclude with a leisurely stroll through the tranquil Japanese Gardens before enjoying lunch at the cafe. Stay: Conrad Dublin Daily: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 12- Dublin, Amsterdam, Embark Ship
Be transferred to the airport for your included flight to Amsterdam. On arrival, you'll be transferred to your luxurious floating home for the next 15 days. Unpack, relax and get acquainted with your ship. Stay: 14 Nights, APT Solara or APT Ostara Daily: Breakfast, Dinner
DAY 13 – Amsterdam
Spend today on your preferred activity. Rejoin the ship in Utrecht and cruise towards Germany in the afternoon. Tonight, enjoy a gala welcome dinner. Freedom of Choice Options • Glass-Top Boat Canal Cruise: A peaceful way to see Amsterdam’s best sights as you glide through the World Heritage-listed canals. • Old Amsterdam Cheese Store Visit: Enjoy a cheese tasting matched with wine. • Guided Bike Ride: Cycle through the countryside to Durgerdam before visiting the Street Art Museum. • Keukenhof Gardens (Spring Departures): Explore over 70 acres of world-renowned gardens with millions of tulips in bloom. Daily: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 14 – Andernach
Signature Experience: On a visit to Namedy Castle, wander about the rooms and grounds, then enjoy a cocktail party where a pianist sets the mood. This morning will be spent cruising through Germany. Disembark in Andernach and enjoy a Signature Experience here. Daily: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 15 – Rüdesheim
Today you’ll approach the most beautiful stretch of the Rhine River. Glide past crumbling ruins, rocky cliffs and rolling vineyards before docking in Rüdesheim. Freedom of Choice Options • Gondola Ride: Glide over the Rhine Valley vineyards to the Niederwald Monument. • Siegfried’s Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum: Tour an eccentric collection of automated musical instruments. • Historic Wine Cellar Visit: Taste local Rhine Valley wines in one of Germany’s best-known regions. Daily: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 16 – Miltenberg
This morning, delight in a relaxing cruise along the Main River before arriving in Miltenberg. Spared from the destruction of World War II, the town of Miltenberg is much like a time capsule, revealing what old-world village life was like in Germany before the war. Here, set out on your chosen sightseeing activity.
Freedom of Choice – Guided Walking Tour and Liqueur Tasting
Embark on a guided exploration of Miltenberg. Discover the town's remarkably preserved buildings and lively squares, offering a unique glimpse into Germany’s rich history. Then, visit one of Franconia's oldest wine cellars for a tasting of local liqueurs.
Freedom of Choice – Local Monastery Visit
Travel to the hills overlooking Miltenberg for a visit to a local monastery. Here, you'll meet with a Franciscan friar to hear about life in the monastery. You'll also sample some homemade sausages, cheese and bread before free time to wander through the gardens and vineyard. Daily: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 17 – Würzburg
Your day unfolds on your terms with a choice of sightseeing activities. Freedom of Choice Options • Würzburg Residence: Tour this grand 18th-century palace, famed for its gilded stucco and Tiepolo frescoes. • Explore Rothenburg: Visit this walled medieval town and its Christmas Village. • Hike to Marienberg Fortress: Climb to Würzburg’s landmark castle overlooking the city. Daily: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 18 – Bamberg
This morning, your ship will arrive in World Heritage-listed Bamberg, another one of the few German cities that was not destroyed during World War II. As you explore the Old Town with a guide, you will discover a range of historic churches and buildings, including the town hall on the Regnitz River. Following your tour, rejoin your ship to cruise onto the Main-Danube Canal. Daily: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 19 – Nuremberg
This morning gives you the chance to choose your sightseeing activity. Continue cruising along the Main-Danube Canal this afternoon — a marvel linking the North Sea and the Black Sea. Freedom of Choice Options • World War II Sites: Visit the Reich Party Rally Grounds and learn about Nuremberg’s wartime history. • Medieval History Tour: Explore the 900-year-old ramparts, Imperial Castle, and Gothic churches. Daily: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 20 – Regensburg
Discover this atmospheric World Heritage-listed city, the first capital of Bavaria. Freedom of Choice Options • City Tour: Explore Regensburg’s Roman-era streets and medieval architecture. • Guided Bike Ride to Walhalla: Cycle to the neo-classical hall of fame above the Danube. Daily: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 21 – Passau, Salzburg, Linz
Signature Experience: Be welcomed by a Jagdhornbläser (hunting horn blower) to a rustic restaurant on Gaisberg Mountain overlooking Salzburg. Enjoy a drink, lunch, and a Sound of Music show. Take a guided tour of Salzburg before this memorable event. Daily: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 22 – Melk, Dürnstein
Visit the statuary-adorned Melk Abbey, then choose how you’ll reach the next port. Freedom of Choice Options • Cruise Through the Wachau Valley: Sail to Dürnstein and wander its cobblestoned lanes. • Guided Bike Ride from Melk to Dürnstein: Cycle the Danube’s scenic trail through Wachau Valley. Daily: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 23 – Vienna
Arrive in Vienna for a guided city tour along the Ringstrasse and St Stephen’s Cathedral. Enjoy an afternoon at leisure before tonight’s grand event. Signature Experience – Cocktail Party and Private Performance: After dinner, attend an exclusive event at the Liechtenstein City Palace with a full orchestra performing Mozart and Strauss, plus an operatic recital. Daily: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 24 – Vienna
Choose how to spend your final full day in Vienna, then set sail for Hungary. Enjoy a Captain’s Farewell Dinner tonight. Freedom of Choice Options • Schönbrunn Palace: Explore the opulent summer palace of the Habsburgs. • Visit Bratislava (Slovakia): Cross the border to Slovakia’s capital, discovering its architectural contrasts and Communist-era landmarks. Daily: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 25 – Budapest
Choose your sightseeing in Hungary’s grand capital before enjoying an afternoon at leisure. Freedom of Choice Options • City Tour: Visit Heroes’ Square, St Stephen’s Cathedral and the Great Market Hall. • Funicular Ride to Castle Hill: Take in panoramic views and visit Fisherman’s Bastion. • Thermal Baths Visit: Relax in Budapest’s famous hot-spring pools. Daily: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 26 – Disembark Ship, Depart Budapest
Sadly, the time has come to say goodbye. After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your onward journey. Daily: Breakfast
Booking terms and conditions apply.
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Term and conditions apply: All pricing subject to change and availability. Advertised prices are per person twin share unless stated otherwise. Offers may be withdrawn at any time. Itineraries are subject to change. Booking Conditions and Phil Hoffmann Travel Schedule of Professionalism* applies. Please speak to your Phil Hoffmann Travel Consultant for more information.
