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Itinerary
The Charms of County Cork
We fly to Dublin airport and continue onwards to our overnight hotel in the Dublin area.
The Charms of County Cork
We catch the ferry from Holyhead to Dublin and continue onwards to our overnight hotel in the Dublin area.
The Charms of County Cork
We set out on our journey to Cork, with a stop en route in the historic town of Cashel. There’s free time here for a stroll, to take in the scenery or to find a cosy spot for lunch at your leisure. Or take this opportunity to purchase entrance to the Rock of Cashel, one of Ireland’s top archaeological spots, set on a rocky outcrop. The prominent hill is dotted with a range of ancient fortifications, including a storied 12th-century round tower, a 13th-century Gothic cathedral and a 15th-century castle.
The Charms of County Cork
The medieval Blarney Castle awaits, built nearly 600 years ago by a powerful Irish magnate and now one of the country’s most famous visitor attractions. Millions have flocked here to kiss the legendary Stone of Eloquence and never again be lost for words, but there is so much more to see, including the atmospheric dungeons, a poison garden and the lovely countryside views from the battlements.
We then enjoy some free time in Cork, Ireland’s second-largest city. Take a stroll along the picturesque streets lined with colourful buildings or choose to purchase entrance to the striking Saint Fin Barre’s Cathedral and the fascinating Cork City Gaol, both available to explore at your own leisure. For a bite to eat, head to the famous English Market, where the bustling food stalls offer some of the best local produce and delicious treats in the city.
The Charms of County Cork
Today, we visit the maritime town of Cobh for our Titanic Experience. Here was the last port of call for the Titanic, where 123 passengers boarded before the ship set sail on its fateful journey across the Atlantic. Our guided tour takes us through the original departure point, and we learn, through interactive exhibits, about the ship’s journey and the stories of those who travelled on it. This is followed by free time to explore the fascinating exhibitions at your own pace.
We have the opportunity to soak up the charm of Cobh before we continue to the colourful harbour town of Kinsale, famous for its pastel-painted streets and marina. Browse the shops and art galleries, stroll along the waterfront and perhaps enjoy lunch at your leisure at one of the town’s many restaurants to find out why Kinsale is known as the gourmet capital of Ireland.
The Charms of County Cork
After checking out of our hotel, we travel to Dublin, where we spend the afternoon at leisure. There are plenty of historic sites, architectural splendours and iconic monuments to see, from the oldest, Dublin Castle, to one of the newest, the Spire of Dublin. Or you may like to experience one of Dublin’s traditional pubs – there are 1,000 lining the city’s cobbled streets! We also have the option to join a guided tour of the city before spending the night in our hotel in the Dublin area.
The Charms of County Cork
We check out of our hotel early to catch the ferry back to Holyhead; therefore, a voucher will be provided to enjoy breakfast on board. On arrival in Holyhead, we continue our journey home.
Cashel Heritage Town Visit
Visit the heritage town of Cashel and take in the skyline dominated by the Rock of Cashel, a dramatic limestone outcrop crowned by medieval ruins. Ramble old lanes and frame photographs that capture its rugged profile above the rooftops.
Once seat of the Kings of Munster, the complex’s round tower, Cormac’s Chapel and Gothic cathedral form one of Ireland’s most stirring silhouettes. Meadows near Hore Abbey add a pastoral foreground that invites you to pause for photos and reflection.
Dublin Guided City Tour (Optional)
Join a guided panoramic tour to trace Dublin’s story from Viking settlement to modern capital. See elegant Georgian squares, Trinity College, O’Connell Street and the GPO, cross the photogenic Ha’penny Bridge, and step into the courtyard of Dublin Castle.
Insightful commentary weaves history, literature and local life into a vivid city overview. This optional experience is at additional cost (£19pp) and bookable on tour, subject to availability and minimum numbers.
Rock of Cashel Admission (Optional)
Step inside the Rock of Cashel to explore soaring Gothic ruins and close-up details of the ancient round tower. Enter the Romanesque Cormac’s Chapel, admire carved stonework and take in panoramic views over the Golden Vale from this storied limestone height.
Layers of power and piety unfold—from the Kings of Munster to medieval churchmen. This optional admission is at additional cost and typically bookable on tour, subject to opening times and conservation access for Cormac’s Chapel.
Saint Fin Barre’s Cathedral, Cork (Optional)
Step inside Saint Fin Barre’s Cathedral to admire soaring spires, lavish mosaics and stained glass that bathe the nave in colour. Limestone and marble craftsmanship rewards slow looking, from side-chapel carvings to the ornate pulpit.
Designed by William Burges in the 19th century, this exuberant Gothic Revival landmark is crowned outside by the gilded “Resurrection Angel.” This optional visit is at additional cost and bookable on tour, subject to opening hours.
Cork City Gaol Museum (Optional)
Explore Cork City Gaol, a 19th-century prison whose castellated exterior opens into atmospheric cell wings and iron walkways. Exhibits and audio bring to life routines, reform ideals and the social backdrop of incarceration.
Stories of ordinary men and women linger as echoes of past inmates</strong) guide you through corridors and governor’s rooms. This optional visit is at additional cost and bookable on tour, subject to availability.
Cobh Titanic Experience & Maritime Heritage
Visit seafront Cobh for a guided tour at the Titanic Experience, set in the historic White Star Line Ticket Office. Follow the personal stories of the 123 passengers who embarked here through immersive displays, period photographs and atmospheric staging.
Step out to the promenade beneath the spire of St Colman’s Cathedral and gaze across Cork Harbour—the Titanic’s last port of call. The setting frames Ireland’s deep transatlantic links and the poignant human narrative behind a world-famous voyage.
Kinsale Harbour Town Visit
Explore Kinsale’s pastel-painted streets and lively waterfront marina, a compact tangle of galleries, boutiques and cafes made for wandering and photography. Colourful shopfronts and Atlantic light create a cheerful canvas for a gentle town stroll.
Once a strategic harbour and the scene of the 1601 battle, Kinsale now shines as the Gourmet Capital of Ireland. Look across the water toward the star-shaped bastions of Charles Fort and soak in a maritime atmosphere shaped by centuries of trade and seafaring.
Cork City Visit & English Market
Stroll Cork’s handsome St Patrick’s Street and cross bridges over the River Lee to the Victorian arcades of the English Market. Meet stallholders and sample regional produce—smoked fish, farmhouse cheeses, artisan breads—in a lively setting beloved by locals.
Trading since 1788, the market anchors a city spread across river islands and grand 19th-century terraces. Street musicians, friendly chatter and the aroma of roasted coffee shape a warm Cork welcome at the heart of Ireland’s southern capital.
Blarney Castle & Gardens
Explore Blarney Castle, climbing narrow stone steps to the battlements to, if you wish, kiss the Stone of Eloquence. From the towers, admire wide views over County Cork and the River Martin valley, with woodland unfolding below the medieval keep.
Wander the landscaped grounds, from the intriguing Poison Garden to the mossy Rock Close with its druidic stones and bubbling stream. Raised by the MacCarthy lords nearly 600 years ago, the fortress blends Gaelic stronghold with later romantic planting and story-steeped corners.
