family tours of ireland

Family Tours in Ireland

• Family Tours

Enjoy a family vacation in Ireland - one of the world's best destinations for family tours.

Whether you are a family of four or more, a trip to Ireland is the perfect choice. It is a little known secret that Ireland is one of the best family vacation destinations around. When it comes to things to do in Ireland with kids, the Emerald Isle we have plenty of ideas.

Family Vacation Ideas

On trips to Ireland, kids love to climb to the top of the many round towers, visualise fairies gathering at some of our famous stone age forts and imagining themselves as lords and ladies in our magnificent authentic castles. In other countries, historic landmarks are off limits to inquisitive travellers but the ancient buildings and monuments of Ireland are just waiting to be explored.

Your family  vacation in Ireland  should not just be about historical landmarks however. There are many national parks, encompassing hundreds of kilometres of natural woodland, diverse ecology and serene freshwater lakes can be found in Connemara and Kerry and along Ireland’s coastline.   Your family will discover miles and miles of pristine sandy beaches where activities include surfing and horse-riding.

Family Vacation Packages

You can chose to do all of the day tours, some of them or your family may choose instead to enjoy your hotel and its surroundings. The hotels we have selected for these family packages are all family orientated with facilities for kids such as kids club, kids playground and games rooms and facilities for adults including spa treatment rooms and traditional Irish pubs with frequent live music.

We realise that it can be difficult for families to move from hotel to hotel so these tours are ‘one-centred’ (or multi centred if that is your preference) and designed in such a way that you would just pick up your rental car, drive to your hotel location and check in for the duration of your vacation. When you book your tour with Discovering Ireland Vacations you will get a comprehensive tour pack which will include several day tours that you can chose to take from your base location. Check out our all inclusive family vacations to Ireland and our regular special offers for more.

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Our Ireland tours are culturally rich and immersive – travel experiences that take you inside a working dairy farm in the countryside… to a sumptuous 5-course Titanic tasting dinner in the Merchant Hotel… and along Tauck's Yellow Roads… the roads less traveled… discovering Ireland's windswept beauty and "forty beautiful shades of green."

• ITINERARIES
• FEATURED TOURS

Welcome to Ireland

The Emerald Isle bids you a hundred thousand welcomes, making you feel right at home with its friendly locals, windswept beauty, and stones with stories to tell…

Bunratty castle & folk park, step back to 19th-century ireland.

Bring your imagination... expect a little magic... and discover what it was like to live in the 1800s in a small village in Ireland. The houses and shops in the Folk Park are a collection of typical 19th-century Irish buildings such as the school, doctor's house, pawnbrokers, pub, drapery, printworks, grocery, hardware shop, pottery and a post office. From the castle... to a pet farm... to a beautiful walled garden, your family immerses in all things Irish.

Private sheep-shearing demonstration

Watch a sheep-shearing champion at work on a private visit to an irish sheep farm.

In many countries around the world, the art of sheep shearing – cutting off a sheep's woolen fleece, usually once a year – is not only an important skill on the farm, but a competitive sport among shearers who are typically fit and highly experienced. Ireland has produced many champion shearers, including world-record-breaking Patrick Moran. In a private visit and demonstration on a farm in Derreen, learn how sheep shearing has progressed over the centuries… and meet champion shearer Moran and see him in action, shearing by hand in the traditional style.

Kinsale Pottery and Arts Centre

Private recital at st. fin barre's cathedral, attend a private recital in the triple-spired, gothic revival st. fin barre's cathedral in cork.

The magnificent, three-spired St. Fin Barre's Cathedral in the Irish city of Cork looks every bit like a grand Gothic cathedral from the medieval era, but it's actually a Gothic Revival masterpiece designed in the 19th century by English architect William Burges, and completed in 1879, on a site connected with Cork's patron saint, the 6th-century abbot Finbarr of Cork. But this 19th-century cathedral is no less majestic than its medieval counterparts – it's adorned by more than 1,200 sculptures inside and out, including gargoyles – and is a fitting setting for a private musical recital for Tauck guests only.

Belfast's Titanic exhibit and a Titanic dinner

Belfast's award-winning titanic museum... followed by a 9-course titanic tasting dinner.

Learn insider stories behind Titanic, designed to be one of the finest ships ever to grace the seas, on your visit to Titanic Belfast, built on the site of the former Queen's Island shipyards that produced the ill-fated liner. J. Bruce Ismay, Chairman of the White Star Line, asked Lord Pirrie of shipbuilders Harland & Wolff to construct "a stable ship that will not disturb the sediment in the fine wines" they were drinking together at a planning meeting. And while Titanic was, according to her builders, "as nearly as perfect as human brains can make her," she proved no match for nature. Discover more in modern-day galleries that bring the legendary ship back to life... and enjoy a 9-course Titanic tasting dinner in the Great Room of The Merchant Hotel.

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Guest Favorites in Ireland

"The Irish are so welcoming – you feel right at home. The beautiful landscape is mesmerizing and our traveling companions were convivial. Accommodations were superb and the food was scrumptious – especially the brown bread and butter! Put Ireland on your bucket list!" – Una D., Sonoma, CA

A week in... ireland, the best of ireland, ireland forever, treasures of the british / irish isles, the best of ireland, small groups, ireland & great britain, traveling with tauck, never settle for ordinary.

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Luxury Ireland Vacations

Family adventure travel in ireland.

Ireland has long been an outstanding destination renowned for its great castles, emerald green scenery, wonderfully friendly people, beautiful coastline, lively music, quaint villages and ancient ruins. Now, Ireland is reinventing itself as Europe’s top adventure destination for families as well. Ideal for multigenerational travel, the country offers incredible activities for all ages. Plan a trip to Ireland as your next family vacation!

Destination Highlights

• Sample Itinerary
• Trip Tips & FAQs
• Active Adventures

Hike and cycle the Ring of Kerry and the tallest cliffs in Europe.

Surf the waves of the West Coast, some of the best waves to learn on anywhere.

Sea adventures – including the incredibly fun invented- in-Ireland sport of Coasteering.

Sailing traditional boats along the rugged coast, or kayak or stand up paddleboard the many waterways of the country.

Family Adventures

Beautiful Ireland, the Emerald isle as soon through the eyes of a Quivertree family.

We couldn’t have said it better ourselves.

• Stay in a real castle or traditional B&B
• Listen to fiddlers and pipers at local pubs (Kids welcome)
• Go see Chelsea, Arsenal or Manchester United play in the English Premier League
• Enjoy a traditional seaweed bath
• Spend a night in a lighthouse
• Taste local whiskey and beer, and local chocolates for the kids.
• See a sheepdog in action
• Learn traditional sports such as hurling or gaelic football from the experts.

Ireland Sample Itinerary

Day 1 On arrival in Dublin you’ll have a private transfer to your hotel in the heart of the city. Immediately you’ll appreciate the buzzing atmosphere and the wonderful vibe on the streets! Time permitting this afternoon you can visit EPIC – the Museum of Irish Emigration. The current population of Ireland is 4.9 million but 10 million Irish people left during the emigrations!

Day 2 This morning choose between two of Dublin’s most popular attractions – either the Guinness Storehouse where you can taste and experience the soul and history of Ireland’s most beloved beer or Kilmainham Gaol, notorious for its treatment of Irish political prisoners down the years. Your afternoon is free to wander the beautiful grounds and buildings of Trinity College, founded in the sixteenth century and the most well known group of buildings today in the city.

Enjoyed Riverdance? Tonight you’ll be treated to a traditional evening of Irish step dancing, storytelling and a three course Irish dinner! What a great night!

Day 3 Today you’ll collect your rental car and begin your driving adventure across Ireland! Although your destination is the regal medieval city Kilkenny, it’s worth driving a little further to the Rock of Cashel, the breathtaking ancient ruined fortress for centuries a symbol of royal power. A little further on is Cahir Castle, the feudal fantasy complete with moat, massive walls, turrets, towers and dungeons. Two of Ireland’s greatest sites within minutes of each other.

Then drive back to Kilkenny, the mesmerising city full of medieval alleys, ruined abbeys and lovely modern day pubs. One of Ireland’s most beloved cities.

Day 4 Start the day by wandering the magnificent grounds of Kilkenny Castle as well as doing the short self guided inside tour. After strolling the lovely busy city streets drive on to Killarney where you’ll stay nearby at a typical Irish B&B for 2 nights.

Day 5 You’ll spend today in wonderful Killarney National Park. While this morning you can walk some of the Park’s beautiful trails, this afternoon we have a guided bike round to some of the Park’s less visited but equally gorgeous areas.

Day 6 Skellig Michael, described by George Bernard Shaw as the “most fantastic and impossible rock in the world” and well known to Star wars aficionados, is one of the most unforgiving places on earth and one of the hardest to get to – only 180 people allowed every day and then only in decent weather! How this place came to be home to a community of monks in the sixth century is not known but the buildings are incredible and by visiting the island you’ll be among one of the smallest, most privileged group of travelers the world over! After the boat returns, drive along the beautiful coastal road to incredibly cute Dingle where you’ll spend the night. This is a great opportunity to join a ‘trad’ singalong at one of the local pubs, some of which still double up as grocery stores!

Day 7 Dingle is a lovely Irish speaking fishing town and one of the West Coast’s most colorful. The Dingle Peninsula is one of the best regions in Ireland to explore so today is a perfect day for driving. Slea Head has fine beaches, fabulous walks and some superbly preserved structures from Dingle’s past including beehive huts, forts, inscribed stones and church sites. It’s a fantastic day!

Day 8 Leaving Dingle this morning we head to Lahinch beach for a surfing lesson! Many people don’t realize that Ireland is one of the world’s premier surfing locations!

Then this afternoon you’ll go on to the mighty Cliffs of Moher. The spectacular cliffs do get quite busy so you should also go to Hag’s Head, a dramatic place to view the Cliffs. A magnificent walking trail links the head with the cliffs and Doolin. Tonight you’ll be in Ennis, well known in these parts for its local music so a night of great ‘trad’ Irish music lies in store!

Day 9 Galway is known for its pleasures – pubs, music, cafes and more. It’s a lovely place to spend time and appreciate all that is loved about Ireland. It’s also one of the best places to go watch hurling or Gaelic Football so depending on the season, schedule and availability, we’ll get you to a game tonight!

Day 10 The nearby Aran Islands are the perfect day trip from Galway. Just a 45 minute ferry away from the bustling city lie the islands and their beguiling desolate beauty. Rent bikes and go discover Inishmor’s main attraction, Dun Aengus, the stunning stone fort perched perilously on the island’s towering cliffs. Ferries come and go throughout the day so whenever you’re ready, bike back to the small harbor village and return to Galway.

Day 11 Today, your last full day in Ireland, take a leisurely drive to your final accommodation, the amazing Dromoland Castle. If you want to do more walking along the way, detour to The Burren; if not, head straight to your 5* castle which has been welcoming guests since the sixteenth century!

Day 12 Sadly today it’s time to head for Shannon airport and farewell to Ireland. Till next time!

Ireland Trip Tips & FAQ's

What time of year is best for a family tour of ireland.

Ireland is not called the Emerald isle for nothing! It is a wonderfully green island because it vrains a lot even in summer! So packing rain gear is always advised. May through October is the best time to visit and summer days can be long and sunny.

Is Ireland a Good Place for a Family Vacation?

Ireland is a great family destination! Dublin is buzzing and the smaller towns of the southwest are absolutely lovely for walking around. Irish pubs are totally family friendly and an excellent way to mix with locals. The many castles will stir anyone’s imagination as will the ancient ruins and Irish folk tales and music which make up such a big part of Irish culture. And surprisingly to many, Ireland also has fabulous beaches – surfing is a huge pastime in Ireland!

Family Tours of Ireland: What is There to Do?

Castles, music, pubs, biking, surfing, hiking – so much for families to do! Wonderful ancient ruins like the Rock of Cashel, magnificent castles like Kilkenny, and spectacular museums like the Titanic in Belfast and the Immigration (Epic) Museum in Dublin will be top of most people’s list.

What is the food like in Ireland?

With a variable climate, hearty Irish food found in almost every pub is very welcome! Favourites like fish and chips, Irish stew, sandwiches, seafood and delicious hot soup are very standard fare. And then there are traditional Irish dishes – colcannon, boxty, soda bread, Dublin coddle, barmbrack and more – what are these? Well you have to go to Ireland to find out!

Family Tours of Ireland Accommodations

Accommodation can include intimate boutique hotels and large North American and European chain hotels. But for us the way to go in Ireland is staying in traditional guesthouses and B&B’s and experiencing real Irish hospitality!

Are Family Tours of Ireland Expensive?

Ireland is not a cheap destination. However by eating in pubs and taking advantage of the wonderful countryside and outdoor experiences, it can definitely be a very affordable place to travel.

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Find Your Tour:

• England, Ireland and Scotland Tours
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• Tour for max. 8 guests
• Tours for Solos
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• Wild Atlantic Way
• Ireland's Ancient East
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2024 Tour Packages:

• All Ireland Tours & Vacations
• Iconic Britain & Ireland Tour 18 Days | From €4390 | 2024 | Max 26 ppl.
• Iconic Britain Tour 10 Days | From €2490 | 2024 | Max 26 ppl.
• Iconic Ireland & Scotland Tour 14 Days | €3690 | 2024 | Max 26 ppl.
• 14-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland 14 Days | From €2890 | 2024 | Max 26 ppl.
• 10-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland 10 Days | From €1690 | 2024 | Max 26 ppl.
• 8-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland 8 Days | From €1590 | 2024 | Max 26 ppl.
• 6-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland 6 Days | From €990 | 2024 | Max 26 ppl.
• Deluxe Irish Castles Tour 10 Days | From €2790 | 2024 | Max 26 ppl.
• Historic Irish Castle Tour 7 Days | From €1790 | 2024 | Max 26 ppl.
• Ancient Ireland & Scotland Tour 13 Days | From €5390 | 2024 | Max 8 ppl.
• Ancient Ireland Tour 8 Days | From €3390 | 2024 | Max 8 ppl.
• Discover Northern Ireland 6 Days | From €995 | 2024 | Max 26 ppl.

2025 Tour Packages:

• Iconic Britain & Ireland Tour 18 Days | From €4590 | 2025 | Max 26 ppl.
• Iconic Ireland & Scotland Tour 14 Days | €3990 | 2025 | Max 26 ppl.
• Highlights of Ireland & Scotland Tour 9 Days | €2490 | 2025 | Max 26 ppl.
• 14-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland 14 Days | From €2990 | 2025 | Max 26 ppl.
• 10-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland 10 Days | From €1990 | 2025 | Max 26 ppl.
• 8-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland 8 Days | From €1690 | 2025 | Max 26 ppl.
• 6-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland 6 Days | From €1090 | 2025 | Max 26 ppl.
• Deluxe Irish Castles Tour 10 Days | From €2890 | 2025 | Max 26 ppl.
• Ancient Ireland & Scotland Tour 13 Days | From €5690 | 2025 | Max 8 ppl.
• Ancient Ireland Tour 8 Days | From €3290 | 2025 | Max 8 ppl.
• Discover Northern Ireland 6 Days | From €1090 | 2025 | Max 26 ppl.
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• Reviews of our Tours

Further Information

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• Travelguide

About tour packages

• Choosing a Tour
• The Tour Hotels
• The Tour Buses

About private tours

• Arranging a Tour
• Private Tour Accommodation
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Ireland Tours 2024 & 2025

Looking to customize a bespoke vacation? Check out our Private Tours

We are still Ireland's best-reviewed tour operator, with 97.3% five-star reviews.

Our UK & Ireland Tour Packages

Scroll through our Britain and Ireland tour packages for 2024 & 2025. Alternatively, you can also see what's available on your preferred dates .

Iconic Britain & Ireland Tour

• 34 attractions
• Max. 26 ppl

Experience a once-in-a-lifetime 18-day adventure as you behold the most famous and captivating attractions that Ireland, Northern Ireland, Scotland, and England have to offer.

Iconic Britain Tour

• 14 attractions

Embark on a unique and unforgettable 10-day journey as you explore the most renowned and captivating attractions that England and Scotland have to offer.

6-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland Tour

• 11 attractions

Experience the true essence of Ireland in under a week. Ireland's unmissable destinations and the Wild Atlantic Way in one unforgettable tour.

Deluxe Castle Tour

• 22 attractions

Live like royalty for 10 days across Ireland, staying in real Irish castles and country manors. Enjoy the finest all-inclusive tour Ireland has to offer.

Historic Irish Castle Tour

• 15 attractions

A truly unique tour of Ireland. Visit the must-see attractions whilst discovering unique experiences beyond the tourist trail. All woven together by Ireland's historic castles.

14-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland Tour

• 25 attractions

Discover the Island of Ireland, North and South with this unforgettable 14-day tour. Spend 4 days in Ulster, and 10 more in Eire.

Iconic Ireland & Scotland Tour

Discover the best of Ireland and Scotland with this unforgettable 14-day tour. Compare the cultures of these historic Gaelic nations during a magical fortnight.

10-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland Tour

Experience all that is Ireland in this 10-day adventure. Ireland's best-loved attractions and its best-kept secrets, including the Wild Atlantic Way.

8-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland Tour

• 17 attractions

Take in the essence of captivating Ireland as you embark on an unforgettable 8-day adventure, immersing yourself in the Emerald Isle's beauty and charm.

Highlights of Ireland & Scotland Tour

Explore the wonders of Ireland and Scotland on this remarkable 9-day tour. Immerse yourself in the rich cultures of these historic Gaelic nations as you embark on a captivating journey.

Discover Northern Ireland Tour

• 8 attractions

Northern Ireland's natural beauty awaits on this six-day fully-inclusive tour of Ulster. Picturesque towns, untamed coastlines and friendly locals await.

Ancient Ireland Tour

• 19 attractions

An exclusive tour capped at max. 8 guests, travelling through the idyllic scenes of The Wild Atlantic Way. Including an overnight stay in an Irish castle.

Ancient Ireland & Scotland Tour

• 24 attractions

Embark on a unique and intimate journey through the Celtic heartlands of Ireland and Scotland on this exclusive tour designed for a maximum of 8 guests.

Hello from everyone here at My Ireland Tour

Welcome! We are thrilled that you are interested in visiting our country. We're proud to say that we're still an independent family-run business, based right here in Cork. We offer a range of Britain and Ireland vacation packages , as well as our bespoke private customised tours . We're looking forward to chatting with you and showing you what makes Ireland such a magical place.

Eric O'Gorman, Founder & Director

What are you looking for?

We offer various types of tour to suit all ages, interests and group sizes. What kind of vacation suits you best?

All our Ireland Tours

Ireland's best-loved destinations and its best-kept secrets, all on one magical tour.

Private Custom Tours

Custom private tours, crafted uniquely for you. All group sizes from two people to 100.

Castle Tours

Live like royalty, staying in real Irish castles steeped in history and tradition.

UK & Ireland

Tour Ireland and Britain at the same time with a tour that shows you the best of England, Ireland and Scotland.

Scotland & Ireland

Two great celtic nations, one unforgettable experience. Visit Scotland and Ireland in one trip.

Three unique tour collections

It's now even easier to find your perfect vacation. We have grouped most of our tour packages into three unique collections. Whatever your interests, whatever your budget, we have the perfect range of Irish tours for you and your group. We also offer our popular Discover Northern Ireland Tour (6 days). Alternatively, you can even customize your own bespoke private tour , just for you and your group.

Iconic Scenes Tours

Discover Ireland's best-loved attractions and its best-kept secrets. All with unbeatable value, while staying in some of Ireland's best four-star hotels.

• Compare all Iconic Scenes Tours
• 18-Day Tour (Ireland, England & Scotland)
• 14-Day Tour (Scotland & Ireland version)
• 14-Day Tour (Ireland-only version)
• 10-Day Tour (England & Scotland)
• 10-Day Tour
• 9-Day Tour (Scotland & Ireland version)

Ancient Luxury Tours

Get closer to the action on a tour which is limited to max. eight guests. On these luxury tours, you will be staying in four- and five-star hotels and castles.

• Compare our Ancient Luxury Tours
• 13-Day Tour (Ireland & Scotland)

Luxury Castle Tours

Live like royalty on a tour that is steeped in the rich history and traditions of the Emerald Isle. Stay in Ireland's best four- and five-star hotels and castles.

• Compare our Castles Tours
• 7-Day Historic Irish Castle Tour
• 10-Day Deluxe Irish Castles Tour

Made in Ireland, by us

We are not a reseller or an agent. We only sell our own tours, designed with care in our family office here in Cork, Ireland.

No Middleman

You will not find our tours on any other website. And with no middleman, we can provide unrivalled value with a much more personal experience.

We're here for you

On the phone, you can chat to Eric, Kristel, Shannon, Shauni, Keith or Catriona. We will be delighted to help with any questions you may have.

Britain & Ireland Tours

Why not add England and Scotland to your Irish tour experience? A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to compare and contrast these unique but interconnected cultures. Experience a rich and overlapping history, told from three singular perspectives. Three distinct outlooks, three separate national identities — one friendly welcome. Compare the royalty and pageantry of London with the very different majesty you will find in the rolling glens, lochs and highlands of Scotland. Of course, we think that Ireland holds the crown, with a landscape, a culture and a heritage that puts the Emerald Isle among the jewels of all European travel.

Customize your own tour

Looking for something truly unique? Why not arrange a bespoke private tour exclusively for you and your group? Our private tours can be customized to suit any group size, from two guests to a party of 100 or more. We will work with you to create the perfect tour itinerary for your group, taking away all the stress and leaving you with an unforgettable vacation experience that works for everyone. Certain destinations you want to visit? We can make it happen. Want to stay in a castle or on a working farm? Just say the word.

Stay in real castles

Experience the rich history of Ireland first-hand when you stay in some of the Emerald Isle's most enchanting castles and stately manors. That's right — with our Irish castle tours, you not only visit real Irish castles, you get to stay overnight in them, too. Choose from four castle tour vacation packages , crafted for you by our Irish-born team of tour experts. Whichever tour you choose, you can expect to live like nobility for the duration of your time with us here in Ireland.

Our small groups guarantee Never more than 26 guests per tour

We always keep our tour group sizes small. That's because we want every guest to get the comfort, space and service they deserve. Although many other companies squeeze in groups of up to 50, even the largest of our tour packages are strictly limited to just 26 guests. That leaves empty seats on the coaches. So why do we limit our tours to such small group sizes? Here are six reasons.

Superior Service

Guests consistently list our small group sizes as a top reason why they would book with us again. See our reviews...

More focus on you

With a smaller group, our tour guides have more time to get to know you and your interests.

We deliberately leave empty seats on our coaches, so you can relax and spread out.

Experience each attraction up-close and personal, with more time to ask questions and see what interests you.

Speedier Check-Ins

Compared with many of our rivals, our smaller group sizes make checking in and out of the hotels a breeze.

More Relaxed Pace

Experience Ireland at your own pace. No rushing to keep up and no waiting around for large groups to assemble.

You might also be interested in...

• Sample Itineraries
• Transport Options
• Genealogy Tours

2024 Tour Packages

• Iconic Britain and Ireland (18 Days)
• Iconic Britain Tour (10 Days)
• Iconic Ireland and Scotland Tour (14 Days)
• 14-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland (14 Days)
• 10-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland (10 Days)
• 8-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland (8 Days)
• 6-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland (6 Days)
• Deluxe Irish Castles Tour (10 Days)
• Historic Irish Castle Tour (7 Days)
• Ancient Ireland & Scotland Tour (13 Days)
• Ancient Ireland Tour (8 Days)
• Discover Northern Ireland (6 Days)

2025 Tour Packages

• Iconic Ireland & Scotland Tour (14 Days)
• Highlights of Ireland and Scotland Tour (9 Days)

Adare Village and Thatched Cottages

About Adare Village and Thatched Cottages

Adare is a small town in Co. Limerick, known for its quaint and colourful thatched cottages. Adare is considered to be one of Ireland's most beautiful towns so stop and take in the view. Don't forget your camera today - the perfect chance to capture the essence of old Ireland.

Explore Adare Village along the Wild Atlantic Way .

Black Taxi Tour Belfast

About Black Taxi Tour Belfast

Take a journey through this once troubled city. See the murals of the Loyalist Shankill Road & Nationalist Falls Road. The Troubles took their toll on the economic life of Belfast, but the past ten years of peace have returned much prosperity while the genuine friendliness of the city never left.

• Blarney Woollen Mills

About Blarney Woollen Mills

Originally built in 1823, Blarney Woollen Mills was mainly used for the spinning and weaving of wool. After it closed in 1973, it reopened in 1975 — as an Irish heritage shop.

Visit their website...

Culloden Battlefield

About Culloden Battlefield

The Culloden Battlefield Visitor Centre commemorates the last pitched battle fought on British soil, in April 1746. Learn more about the Jacobite intent to overthrow the House of Hanover and return the House of Stuart to the British throne.

Glenveagh Castle

About Glenveagh Castle

Located within Glenveagh National Park, Glenveagh Castle was built by Captain John George Adair between 1870 and 1873. Having made his fortune through land speculation in America, Adair return to Ireland and began large amounts of land in County Donegal. The castle was built in the Scottish Baronial style and is surrounded by a garden and commands stunning views of the nearby mountains, lakes, woodlands and valleys.

Highland Folk Museum

About Highland Folk Museum

About Highland Folk Museum is a museum and open-air attraction located in the Scottish Highlands. It is designed to showcase the domestic and working lives of the early highland people.

King John's Castle

About King John's Castle

Located alongside the River Shannon in County Limerick, on King's Island. Dating back to 922, to a time when Vikings were the inhabitants of the island (Thormodr Helgason, the Viking sea-king, built the first settlement here. The castle itself was built in 1200, under the instruction of King John of England.

About Moriarty's

Located close to the Killarney National Park, Moriarty's is an Authentic Irish Gift Store and Restaurant. Hand crafted Irish jewellery, Waterford Crystal and classic and modern tweed fashions and furnishings are all on offer at the gift store. The restaurant is an 85 seater offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Mount Congreve Gardens

About Mount Congreve Gardens

Mount Congreve Gardens. Located in Kilmeaden, County Waterford, Mount Congreve Gardens is an 18th century Georgian estate and mansion. It was designed by the same architect that created both of Waterford's cathedrals, John Roberts.

Mount Stewart House & Gardens

About Mount Stewart House & Gardens

Recently recognised as being one of the top 10 gardens in the world, Mount Stewart is a rich tapestry of planting plant life and stunning walking trails. The house dates back to the 19th century, and was the Irish seat of the Vane-Tempest-Stewart family.

Muckross House

About Muckross House

Located on the grounds of the expansive and idyllic Killarney National Park. Muckross House, and its 11,000-acre grounds, was donated to the Irish state in 1932.

Muckross House Traditional Farms

About Muckross House Traditional Farms

Located on the grounds of the picturesque Muckross House and its impeccable gardens. Take a step back in time and see the Irish farming lifestyle of the 1930s and '40s. A time when the horse was responsible for much of the labour and the weather was the be all and end all in terms of production.

The Quiet Man Museum

About The Quiet Man Museum

The Quiet Man Museum. A reproduction of the quaint thatched cottage from the John Wayne starring, John Ford directed movie of the same name. all costumes, artefacts and furnishings have been recreated in precise detail, to reflect the setting of the 1952 classic. Located in the picturesque village of Cong, County Mayo.

18-Day Iconic Britain & Ireland Tour

• Free time in London
• Shakespeare's Birthplace
• Manchester River Cruise
• Tour of York City
• York Minster
• Jedburgh Abbey
• Tour of Edinburgh City
• Holyrood Palace
• Tour of Glasgow City
• Tour of Belfast City
• Titanic Belfast
• Giant's Causeway
• Kylemore Abbey
• Cliffs of Moher
• Ring Of Kerry
• Blarney Castle
• Irish Emigration Museum
• Christ Church Cathedral
• Guinness Storehouse
• Departure flight home

10-Day Iconic Britain Tour

• Roman Baths
• Broadway to Cheltenham Railway
• Afternoon Tea at Broadway Hotel
• Chatsworth House
• Edinburgh Castle
• Stirling Castle
• Loch Lomond Cruise
• Glasgow City

14-Day Iconic Ireland & Scotland Tour

• Arrival at Edinburgh Airport
• St. Andrews Golf Club
• Kingsbarns Distillery Tour
• Loch Ness cruise
• Glasgow Cathedral
• Belleek Pottery
• Sheepdog Demo
• Blind Piper Pub
• Rock of Cashel

14-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland

• Trim Castle
• Belfast City
• Belfast Murals
• Hillsborough Castle & Gardens
• Bushmills Distillery
• Derry City Walls
• Lough Erne Cruise
• Devenish Island
• Jameson Distillery Midleton

10-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland

• Dublin Airport
• Clonmacnoise
• Free time in Galway City
• Killary Fjord
• Free time in Cork City
• Charles Fort
• Irish National Stud
• Traditional Farm Lunch

8-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland

• Mikey Ryan's Bar
• Killarney National Park
• Hazel Mountain Chocolate Factory
• Galway City
• Free time in Dublin City
• St Patrick's Cathedral

6-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland

• Glendalough Monastic Site
• Ring of Kerry

• Clonmacnoise Monastic Site
• Adare Village
• Cork City Gaol
• Midleton Distillery Experience
• Kilkenny Castle

• Dublin Airport arrival
• Waterford Crystal

• Arrival in Edinburgh Airport
• Edinburgh City tour
• Dalwhinnie Distillery
• Eilean Donan Castle
• Isle of Skye
• Glasgow City tour
• Belfast City tour
• Derry City tour
• Dublin City tour

• Lough Eske Castle
• Derry City Tour
• Free time in Derry City

• Pearse Lyons Distillery
• Traditional Music Night

• Derry City walking tour
• Ulster American Folk Park

9-Day Highlights of Ireland & Scotland Tour

• Cruise Loch Lomond
• Clydeside Distillery Tour
• Glasgow City Tour
• Ferry to Belfast
• Belfast City Tour
• Glenshane Country Farm
• Giants Causeway
• Hillsborough Castle
• Carlingford Lough Ferry
• Farewell dinner and show

My Ireland Tour:

My Ireland Tour is a family business based right here in County Cork. Thanks for visiting our website: we're thrilled that you're interested in visiting the country we call home. As an independent Irish business, we're proud that we can give each guest the kind of service that has made us Ireland's top-rated tour operator. We hope to offer you a real Irish welcome soon. Our family business (My Ireland Tour Limited) is registered in Ireland, Company Number 547775.

Contact Us:

• 5 Church Hill  Carrigaline  Co. Cork  P43 X376  Ireland

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• My Ireland Tour Home
• Ireland Tours
• Ireland & Scotland Tours
• Singles Tours of Ireland
• Ireland Travel Guide
• Terms and Conditions
• Sustainability Policy
• Book a Tour

DESTINATIONS

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Ireland Family Adventure

Customizable Trip

Price is based on sample itinerary and subject to change with further customizations.

Make meaningful, uplifting and lifelong memories as you connect with your loved ones and locals alike on a trip that captures the imagination of all the family. 

A trip that captures the imagination of all the family – from indulging in a unique afternoon tea, hurling a slither (stick and ball) in one of the fastest field sports in the world, to walking with ancient birds of prey – adventures that are shared are more meaningful, uplifting and have a lifelong impact on all the family. Here we delve into all the emotions we feed off as families and then relax, connect and reconnect with ourselves, our loved ones and the locals. There’s still room for a bit of magic by staying at the magnificent Ashford Castle – sharing the experience is unique and everyone will cherish the memories forever.

VIEW DAY-BY-DAY TRIP ITINERARY

Customize this Private Chauffeur Trip

Tell us where you want to go, what you’d like to do and when you want to go. Our Celtic Travel Experts will recommend hand-selected accommodations, the best experiences and arrange for your Private Chauffeur. This is us Taking You Personally.  

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What’s Included on a Private Chauffeur Trip?

Fully customizable itineraries

Planning support from Celtic Travel Experts

Travel in a luxurious Wi-Fi enabled private car

Private Chauffeur who is a skilled storyteller and local guide

Pre-booked accommodations from Catherine’s Collection – highly-rated properties and boutique accommodations, including castles, manors and B&Bs

Access to Catherine’s Collection of hand-selected activities and experiences with Local Specialists

MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences

Every one of our tours includes at least one conscious travel experience that supports one or more of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGS). Look out for yours within the day-by-day trip itinerary.

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Net-zero by 2050

Travel knowing our 4-point climate action plan will ensure net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

Support Local

Your tour directly supports local communities by visiting family-run businesses, UNESCO sites and places of cultural significance.

Sustainable Practices

Every part of our business, from trip design to how we run our offices, aligns to our 5-year sustainability strategy which ensures a positive impact on people, the planet and wildlife.

Philanthropic Efforts

Our not-for-profit, the TreadRight Foundation, invests in nature-based solutions to address climate change.

You’ll make a positive impact to people, planet and wildlife on this tour

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Ireland Family Multi-Adventure Tour

Small Group Adventures for:

Couples, Friends & Solos Adults 18+ Women's Adventures Women 18+ Families with Young Adults 20s & Beyond Best for ages 20+ (min. age 18) Families with Older Teens & 20s Best for ages 17-23 (min. age 14) Families with Teens & Kids Best for ages 9-17 (min. age 4)

From $5,149 - $5,299 /person

Activity Levels 2-4

We categorize our trips based on a range of activity levels from leisurely (1) to avid (5) with plenty of options in between.

Premiere Hotels

Premiere Hotels - From lavish luxury to on-trend boutique, offering experiences as unique as the regions we explore.

Casual Plus Hotels - A step above Casual but not quite Premiere.

Casual Hotels - Known for their character, charm and proximity to outdoor adventures and Backroads activities.

Small Luxury Ships - Unpack once and cover more distance on an intimate ship with spacious staterooms and superb amenities.

2024 : Jun-Aug 2025 : Jun-Aug

Traditional Irish Culture from Cork to Killarney

On two wheels and on foot in Ireland, it's easy to feel connected to your surroundings—and to each other. Gaze at the clouds. Listen to birdsong. Visit places whose names reflect their charm. Ride through remote misty mountains and colorful historic towns. Watch a Kerry dance, and visit a stone circle. There are Gaelic sports for kids and a whiskey tasting for adults. Ease, simplicity and an unforgettable family vacation.

• Bike, hike and paddle through a quintessential Irish landscape—green hills, small farms, quaint cottages and woolly sheep
• Enjoy a private whiskey tasting with a local expert for adults while the kids play traditional Gaelic sports
• Unwind with your family during an evening of classic storytelling by a well-known Irish shanachie
• Revel in fascinating history and lively village culture, including a traditional Irish dance demonstration

Start/End Cork

Do not book flights until your trip details are confirmed.

We recommend flying into and out of Cork Airport (ORK).

Please note that trip start and end locations are subject to change and can vary by departure. A Travel Planner, complete with trip details specific to your chosen date, will be sent to you at time of booking or soon after and will be viewable in your Backroads account.

* Start/End locations may vary. Do not book flights until your trip details are confirmed.

Begin your adventure by traveling from Cork to the start of our first bike ride at a pub in Kilgarvan • Pedal into the Roughty River Valley, and to the outdoor-activity-loving town of Kenmare • From the base of the Caha Mountains, bike into the lush Bonane Valley and to Bonane Heritage park, a private preserve that's home to sacred archaeological monuments including a ring fort, boulder burial and stone circle • Hop in a sea kayak to glide through the protected waterways of Kenmare Bay, enjoying the spectacular landscape and chatty seabirds • Kids try their hand at making their own chocolate treats and play Gaelic football and hurling • Join a private whiskey tasting with an expert while youngsters indulge in fish-and-chips • The pristine Beara Peninsula—one of Ireland's warmest areas—likely looks today like it did to the ancient Celts • Soak up stunning views of the Glen Inchiquin Valley's glacier-carved mountains and sparkling lakes on a hike over Mount Knockagarrane • Behold a 4,000-year-old Druid stone circle, one of County Kerry's most impressive • A festive Irish dance and music demonstration gets feet stomping!

Set on a sprawling waterfront estate, this luxurious inn offers stunning views of Kenmare Bay, MacGillycuddy's Reeks and Sheen Falls. A Relais & Châteaux member. (pool, spa) 

A gorgeous cycling route winds through Moll’s Gap • Views of wild Killarney National Park serve as the backdrop to lunch • Families bike through the Blackwater Valley en route to the Gap of Dunloe • This narrow pass cuts through the highest peaks in Ireland • ​Hike through Killarney National Park with views of serene lakes, rushing waterfalls and dense forests • In Killarney, rows of houses sport cheerfully painted façades and ornate plasterwork • Settle in for an evening of classic storytelling with a well-known Irish shanachie • Make your way to 15th-century Ross Castle on foot for a tour of this old tower house.

A handsome family-owned hotel, promising and delivering "warmth beyond the smile," in the heart of Killarney. (pool, spa)  

Our trips range in activity levels from leisurely (1) to avid (5) with plenty of options in between. Several routes are offered each day so you can choose your perfect amount of activity. Learn more

*Includes shuttle

• Activity Level

Want to learn more about this trip?

Request a Detailed Itinerary! Complete with descriptions of each day, tips on travel arrangements, regional highlights and more, it’s the perfect tool to help you choose. You can easily share it with friends too!

What's Included

• All breakfasts, 6 lunches, 4 dinners
• Expertise and services of our experienced Trip Leaders
• Snacks and beverages between meals
• Additional guides and experts from the region on many trips
• Van shuttles to support a variety of route options
• Comprehensive Travel Planner with detailed pre-trip information
• Private guided tours at museums, historic sites, wineries and other select attractions as noted in the Travel Planner
• All gratuities at hotels and restaurants
• Special events, including wine tastings and other select attractions as mentioned in the Travel Planner
• On biking and multi-adventure trips, use of fully equipped Backroads titanium bike plus helmet and accessories
• Trailercycles, carriers, and kid-sized helmets for Family Trips
• Equipment and experienced guides for kayaking, rafting, snorkeling, sailing and canoeing as described
• Park and other entry fees
• Fares for trains, ferries and other modes of travel as listed in the Travel Planner
• Select coach transfers
• Baggage transfers and porterage

Not Included: Leader gratuities, transportation to and from your Backroads trip start & end locations, and on-your-own meals & activities.

World-Class Hotels

Our hand-selected Premiere hotels offer exceptional hospitality and experiences as special as the regions we explore.

Hotels may vary based on departure. Any variations will be displayed when selecting a departure under Dates & Prices.

Premiere Hotel

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Choose Your Perfect Bike

Our bikes are designed and built with specific cyclists and riding styles in mind, so we can always offer you a perfect ride. Please note that bike requests are subject to availability and prioritized based on the date they're submitted.

Included in your trip price

• Ideal for avid cyclists
• Redesigned for 2024
• Next gen titanium frame with carbon wheels
• Responsive, efficient and comfortable
• Drop handlebars only

Backroads Next Generation Performance Road Bike Sizing & Geometry

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• Suited for a wide range of cyclists
• Comfortable ergonomic seat
• Long wheel base adds to the bike's control and stability
• Upright handlebars only

Backroads Touring Bike Sizing & Geometry

• One of the lightest e-bikes available
• Provides plenty of power and more than enough battery
• Lower top tubes for easier mounting and dismounting

Min. age to ride e-bike: 16+

Backroads Electric-Assist Bike Sizing & Geometry

• Backroads is the only travel company to manufacture it's own line of kid's bikes.
• Features smaller wheels -- the perfect choice for kids.
• On our Family Trips, you'll find 20"" and 24"" bikes.

Kids' Bikes Sizing & Geometry

• For children up to 85 pounds
• Attaches to an adult bike with your child providing some of the pedal power for a real team effort!
• Ideal for kids who aren't yet ready for bike touring.
• Cannot be pulled by an e-bike.

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Dates & Prices

Select Guests & Rooms

Most kids on this trip are 9-16 years old, though we welcome all kids age 4-19.

If you require more than 4 rooms or more than 2 beds per room please contact us.

If you require more than 4 rooms or more than 2 beds per room please contact us .

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You may only reserve one Stateroom Category at this time. Please call 800-462-2848 if you would like to make other arrangements.

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We're always seeking opportunities to enhance our itineraries; published trip details including routes and activities, as well as trips start and end locations, are subject to change and can vary by departure. Please do not use this itinerary to schedule your flights or any other travel. A Travel Planner, complete with the trip details specific to your chosen date, will be sent to you at the time of booking or soon after.

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• Ireland with Kids – 5 Star Castle Adventure

Explore Ireland with us on this family vacation which includes a combination of our favourite family hotels and an unforgettable overnight family stay in the 5* Dromoland Castle

• Tour Attractions

BOOK EARLY FOR A FREE UPGRADE AND 15% DISCOUNT

Book any of our wonderful self-drive vacation packages before the 15th of June 2024 to receive a FREE UPGRADE from Economy Manual Car to Compact Manual Car AND 15% discount off your tour price! This offer cannot be used in conjunction with other discounts or special event packages.

Tour Overview

Great tour company.

It has been a difficult time for all of us. I booked a self driving tour through Irish Tourism that was cancelled due to Covid issues with travel. The booking process was excellent and thorough. It wa Read more »

Amazing Asset for...

Stephanie was an amazing source of help, assistance and knowledge for our first trip to Ireland. She kept us informed of the every changing covid rules as well as adapted to our many - at least three- Read more »

Extremely Attentive Staff

Staff was extremely attentive and very flexible when it came to organizing our trip. All questions were answered quickly and in great detail. When some aspects of our selected trip had to be altered d Read more »

Stephanie at Irish Touris

Stephanie at Irish Tourism booked our trip- she was wonderful to work with. I am picky about my rooms - when we booked the trip I requested more spacious accommodations and paid accordingly. We had Read more »

Every thing was as prom..

Every thing was as promised. B&B's were awesome and the proprietors very gracious. Big van with lots of space for the 6 of us as well as our luggage with room to spare. We will definitely use Irish ... Read more »

Your 7 Night Family Package

As children we may have always dreamed of staying in a Castle.  What an adventure this would be!  As an Adult with children of your own let us make your childhood dream come true with our Ireland with Kids 5 Star Castle Adventure tour.  This tour will allow you to explore the island of Ireland having  your own adventures and making memories along the way.  Staying in Kilkenny you will be in the shadow of Kilkenny Castle the focal point of this medieval city with it narrow winding streets to explore.  If you chose to stay in the West Cork area you will be able to explore the rugged coastline in this stunning region of Ireland.  Should you choose Dingle for your base you may take the opportunity to meet Fungi, a resident Dolphin in Dingle bay who has greeted visitors for many years.  You will also be able to enjoy more family adventures amongst  the many coves and beaches that are within easy reach of Dingle town.   The hightlight of your adventure will be your stay in a genuine old Irish Castle,  Dromoland complete with its towers and turrets -  your adventure awaits!

Great Family Facilities

All of the hotels we have chosen for our Family packages have great family facilities, many of them have kids clubs during the summer holidays, playground or playroom, special meals, movie nights, babysitting and great escapes for mom and dad including leisure centres and spas, bars, restaurants and live music.

What's included

• Accommodation in rooms with private facilities 
• Full Irish Breakfast Each Morning
• Rental Car (Chauffeur Option Available)
• Local Telephone Support During Your Trip

Tour highlights

Bunratty castle & folk park, dingle peninsula, gap of dunloe, ring of kerry, crag cave & kingdom falconry.

• Skellig Experience
• Skellig Islands
• Valentia Island
• Aillwee Cave and the Burren Birds of Prey Centre
• CIT Blackrock Castle Observatory
• Fota Wildlife Park
• Kilkenny Castle
• Muckross House, Gardens & Traditional Farms

Overnights for this tour

• Hotel Kilkenny for 2 Nights
• Garryvoe Hotel, Ballycotton County Cork, 3 Nights or choose the Dingle Skellig Hotel, Dingle County Kerry for 3 nights
• 5* Dromoland Castle, County Clare, 1 Night (note, breakfast included for adults, children’s breakfasts are payable on site).
• Family Hotel near your chosen airport for 1 night

Accommodation options

Tour itinerary, day 1 - dublin to kilkenny.

Today travel from your arrival airport to Kilkenny. Your Irish Tourism itinerary will tell you all the best family locations to check out on route! En-Route to Kilkenny you might like to stop in the town of Kildare to visit the National Stud and Japanese Gardens. The National Stud comprises three separate attractions. The 1,000 acre Farm at Tully has been in use as a Stud Farm since 1900 when it was owned by Col. William Hall-Walker. There is a Horse Museum tracing the history of the horse in Ireland using artifacts, illustrations and text and the skeleton of the legendary steeplechaser 'Arkle'. The Japanese Gardens are situated in the grounds of the Stud Farm and were created between 1906 and 1910. Alternatively there is another longer route to Kilkenny which would give you the opportunity to take in some of Ireland's Sunny South East and visit such sites as Powerscourt House and Gardens and Glendalough.

Day 2 - Discovering Kilkenny & Further Afield

Kilkenny is situated on both banks of the River Nore, in the province of Leinster. Kilkenny is world famous for its castle and other medieval building and the atmosphere and charm of this exceptional city makes it a great base for exploring Ireland with your family. From Kilkenny your IrishTourism itinerary will help you explore the surrounding areas of Wexford and Waterford if you would like to.  Wexford contains some of Ireland's most stunning scenery and it is easily accessed from Kilkenny.  Visit the Irish National Heritage Park features replications of Irish homesteads, burial and worship sites, and takes the visitor on a tour through 9,000 years of Irish history or take the Ring of Hook to the tip of Hook Peninsula, here you might wish to see Hook Lighthouse which dates as far back as the early 13th century and was a major achievement at the time of its creation. A short distance from Kilkenny, the city of Waterford can be found and the city has a host of exploration options; Waterford Crystal for instance exhibits one of Ireland’s most well-known exports.  Here you can take a factory tour, giving you first hand access to all areas of traditional crystal production. Other sites of interest include Bishops Palace which tells the history of Waterford from 1700 to 1970 or Reginald’s Tower; one of the oldest urban buildings in Ireland that is now home to a presentation of historic and archaeological artefacts that tell the story of Waterford's Viking past.

Day 3 - Kilkenny to Dingle

There are two possible routes from Kilkenny to Dingle, the most direct route takes you via Limerick City and the small scenic town of Adare. If you decide to stop off in Limerick, King John’s Castle is a fantastic attraction for families. This fortified 13th century Castle on ‘King’s Island’ in the heart of medieval Limerick. The castle overlooking the river Shannon opens an exciting window on the lives and stories of the people through political upheaval, war and famine. Adare is one of Ireland's prettiest and most picturesque villages, and is a haven for those wishing to escape and unwind taking in its medieval surroundings. Situated on the river Maigue, a tributary of the river Shannon, Adare is steeped in history dating back to 1200ad. 

Day 4 - Dingle Sightseeing

Dingle town has a host of touring possibilities for you and your family to enjoy. There are numerous workshops and craft outlets where the visitor can buy locally made pottery, crystal, jewellery, sweaters, linen, and traditional Irish musical instruments. Don’t forget to bring the kids to the best shop in the town, Murphy’s Handmade Ice Cream! One of the most popular things to do  is a boat-trip to see Ireland’s most famous bottle-nosed dolphin, Fungie! Other attractions nearby include Dingle Ocean World which has been keeping the kids of Ireland and abroad amused from the early 1980’s. The centre displays all types of marine life including the newly acquired Gentoo Penguins and a selection of Loggerhead Turtles!  

Day 5 - The Dingle Peninsula or Ring of Kerry

The Dingle Peninsula drive which is dotted with prehistoric forts and monuments, Pre-Christian churches, sandy beaches and remarkable ocean scenery. The best part of the Dingle Peninsula drive is probably the drive around Slea Head. beginning and ending in Dingle, this route takes in a large number of attractions and spectacular views on the western part of the Dingle Peninsula. The route is clearly labelled by road signs throughout its length. If you have seen enough of Dingle you could decide to travel further afield to Killarney where the Ring of Kerry is easily accessible. The Ring of Kerry is a journey through some of the country’s most outstanding scenery around the Iveragh Peninsula. You will pass through such towns as Killorglin, home to the famous ‘Puck Fair’, Ireland’s largest and the world’s oldest market fair. The scenic beach in Glenbeigh, with 8km of golden sand and panoramic views of the surrounding mountains is Kerry's most popular. Shortly after Cahersiveen, Valentia Island comes into view. Valentia Island, a place of unique scenic beauty, tropical vegetation, breath-taking cliffs and magnificent seascapes, can be accessed via a bridge from the fishing village of Portmagee. At the point where the bridge meets the island you will find the Skellig Experience Visitor Centre. The centre interprets in a lively and non-academic way the life of the early Christian Irish monks living in the island monastery of Skellig Michael, a small island recently featured in Star Wars! 

Day 6 - Dromoland Castle

Your IrishTourism itinerary will help you get to Dromoland Castle with sightseeing en-route. One of the finest 5 star hotels Ireland has to offer, Dromoland is equipped to offer a vast number of activities to its lodgers including their Championship Golf Course, a five star leisure centre including 17 metre swimming pool, Jacuzzi and sauna. Other activities include Falconry, Clay Shooting, archery and tennis and the Castle’s parkland and grounds are perfect for exploring on foot or on horseback if you wish. Horse Riding lessons are available at the nearby stables. The Castle has a number of bicycles available for guests who wish to explore the estate in this way.  Or you might even decide to explore the estate by pony and trap whilst listening to an informative guide tells the history of the castle.

Note: Some of these activities incur an additional cost and we advise that you pre-book your desired activity so as to avoid disappointment. Please ask your IrishTourism advisor for further details.

Day 7 - Return to Dublin

Today check out of Dromoland and make your way back to Dublin. Your Irish tourism itinerary will help you figure out what to see and do along the way and n arrival there should be time for some additional sightseeing. Dublin city centre is a compact area, with all points of interest being easily accessible on foot. As a result, you will find a large number of walking tours available, the most popular of which include the “Historical Walking Tour” and the “Literary Pub Crawl”. You may of course wish to visit many of the sights in your own time either on foot or with the Hop-On-Hop-Off bus service that stops at all of the major attractions including Dublin Castle, Trinity Castle & the Book of Kells, Kilmainham Gaol, the National Museum of Ireland and The Guinness Storehouse to name just a few.

Tour attractions

Bunratty Castle is now a very popular tourist attraction. The interior has been furnished by Lord Gort with tapestries & artifacts from various eras in the history

The Burren is a unique karst-landscape region in northwest County Clare, in Ireland and one of the largest Karst landscapes in Europe.

Cliffs of Moher

The Cliffs of Moher boast one of Ireland's most spectacular views On a clear day the Aran Islands are visible in Galway Bay as are the valleys and hills of Connemara.

Cobh Heritage Centre

The Cobh Heritage Centre provides information on life in Ireland through the 18th and 19th centuries, the mass emigration, the Great Famine, and on how criminals were transported...

The Conor Pass is the highest mountain pass in Ireland. It is situated on the Dingle Peninsula in County Kerry, on the road that crosses the peninsula between Dingle Town and the...

There are so many things to see, to do, to explore, to experience on the Dingle Peninsula . . . from almost 2,000 archaeological sites, to more walking than you could fit into a ...

The Gap of Dunloe is a beautiful glacial valley in the Macgillacuddy Reeks mountain range, which dominate the skyline of Killarney on the Ring of Kerry. Here you can enjoy an ene...

Admire breathtaking vistas of mountains, cliffs and beaches on Ireland’s most popular drive, the 100-mile Ring of Kerry.

Blasket Centre

The Great Blasket Centre on the tip of the Dingle Peninsula is an interpretative museum honouring the unique community who once lived on the now abandoned Blasket Islands.

Crag Cave is a colourful wonderland of Stalagmites and Stalactites. It is one of the longest cave systems in Ireland, with a total surveyed length of 3.80kms The existence of the...

Tour Prices

The Ireland with Kids – 5 Star Castle Adventure of Ireland is one of the best ways to see the highlights of Ireland in luxury taking in all the best Irish attractions.

Below, you will find a price for this self drive tour including your car rental. Pricing for other accommodation and transport options is also available upon request. Please also note that all of our driving tours itineraries and sightseeing guides are available to those wishing to avail of one of our experienced driver guides.

7 NIGHTS FAMILY ROOM INCLUDING 7 DAYS FAMILY CAR

Your price includes.

• Detailed Irish Tourism Day Trip Itineraries
• 2 Nights family room in Hotel Kilkenny including full Irish breakfast and taxes
• 3 Nights family room in Garryvoe Hotel Ballycotton or Dingle Skellig Hotel including full Irish breakfast and taxes
• 1 Night family room in Dromoland Castle including full Irish breakfast and taxes (breakfast for children not included, children are charged on consumption at the hotel).
• 1 Night Family room near your chosen airport
• 7 Days Family Car rental: 7 Days Manual Transmission Ford Mondeo/Opel Insignia or Similar
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19 best ireland tours: dublin, giant's causeway & more.

Make the most of the stunning scenery in Ireland and Northern Ireland with the help of knowledgeable locals.

19 Best Ireland Tours

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Whatever attracts you to Ireland – the verdant landscape, the ancient castles and cathedrals or some of its famous manufactured goods – these tours will help you make the most of your time here. With the help of expert and traveler input, U.S. News determined that these tours in Ireland (and a few in Northern Ireland) are the best on offer. While the tours take differing approaches, ranging from boats and buses to horse-drawn carriages, they all have guides well-versed in local history and lore. Indeed, the guides' storytelling skills are often cited as highlights of these outings, which may last as little as an hour or as long as an entire day.

Lally Tours – Galway to Connemara and Kylemore Abbey Full Day Tour

Price: Adults from 50 euros (about $54); kids from 40 euros (about $43) Duration: 7.5 hours

Explore the west coast of Ireland, where the Irish language (Irish Gaelic) remains prevalent, on this daylong bus trip. In addition to learning about the various sights, you may acquire a few words of the local lingo from the onboard guides, whom tour-takers find enthusiastic, knowledgeable and entertaining. The route on this excursion winds through the photogenic Twelve Bens mountain range. Among the stops are a scenic mountainside village and the extravagant Kylemore Abbey, a 19th-century abbey featuring a Victorian walled garden and a neo-Gothic church.

The fee includes admission to Kylemore Abbey & Victorian Walled Garden, but does not include lunch. Outings depart Galway daily at 10 a.m. Hotel pickup is available for no additional charge. Lally Tours also offers full-day excursions to the Cliffs of Moher, among other destinations.

Check prices & availability on:

Irish Day Tours – Blarney Castle Day Tour From Dublin

Price: Adults from 85 euros (about $92); kids from 42.50 euros (about $46) Duration: 12 hours

Blarney Castle, which dates back to the 1400s, ranks as one of the most popular attractions in Ireland. The medieval stronghold, which stands approximately 5 miles west of Cork, houses the legendary Blarney Stone – purported to bestow the gift of eloquence on those who kiss it. In addition to visiting the famed castle, this tour stops at another highly popular destination, the Rock of Cashel and its cluster of medieval buildings, including Cormac's Chapel (which contains Romanesque frescoes) and the Hall of Vicars. The trip also includes a visit to Cahir Castle, a 13th-century defensive structure constructed on an island on the River Suir. Those who've taken the tour report enjoying the impressive castles, as well as the guides' amusing commentary. Many reviewers said this was a long day, but worth it to see and hear more about Irish history.

Tours depart daily from Dublin at 6:50 a.m. and return to central Dublin around 7:30 p.m. Irish Day Tours offers a variety of day trips, including excursions to Wicklow, Connemara and more.

Deros Tours – Ring of Kerry Coach Tour

Price: Adults from 38 euros (around $41); kids from 23 euros (about $25) Duration: 6 hours

Observe the unique landscape of the Iveragh Peninsula, including Ireland's highest mountain, on this half-day bus tour. Stops include the villages of Glenbeigh, Waterville and Sneem. From March to October, coaches also stop for a demonstration of how dogs are trained to herd sheep. A high point – literally – is a visit to Moll's Gap, which affords views of MacGillycuddy's Reeks, including its tallest peak, Carrantuohill, which stands more than 3,400 feet high. Another highlight is the Ladies View (named in honor of Queen Victoria and her retinue) at the Killarney Lakes. Tour-takers sing the praises of the witty, attentive guides and the many photo stops. Others were pleased they opted for tour instead of trying to drive the Ring of Kerry themselves.

Buses leave from Killarney at 10:30 a.m. daily and return around 4:30 p.m. Deros Tours also operates tours of the Gap of Dunloe as well as the Dingle Peninsula, among others.

Midleton Distillery Experience

Price: From 26 euros (about $28) Duration: 75 minutes

See how world-renowned Jameson Irish Whiskey is produced on this tour of the original Midleton distillery, which is located about 15 miles east of Cork. Along the tour, your guide will show you several of the distillery's buildings, where you'll have the opportunity to observe the distilling process. The tour ends with a tasting flight of three whiskeys. Travelers offer high marks for the engaging, well-informed guides. Reviewers also appreciate the whiskey samples and say this is a fun activity even if you're not a whiskey fan thanks to the incredible history and architecture on display.

There are also guided tours of the Jameson Bow St. Distillery in Dublin.

Game of Thrones Tours – Iron Islands & Giant's Causeway from Belfast

Price: From 49 euros (about $53) Duration: 10 hours

"Games of Thrones" fans can visit some of the spots where pivotal scenes of the series were filmed on this full-day excursion to the Glens of Antrim. Highlights include the Giant's Causeway, the Cushendun Caves (where Melisandre births a dark spirit), a beach that served as Dragonstone and the Dark Hedges, an avenue of beech trees where Arya Stark made her escape. Guides, who served as extras on the show, share information about the various sights as well as some behind-the-scenes scoop from the set. Reviewers report finding the passionate guides' commentary insightful and appreciate the small group size. Others took advantage of the costumes and props to snap some memorable photos.

Tours depart from Belfast, Northern Ireland, on Wednesday and Saturday at 7:30 a.m. year-round; additional Sunday departures are available in select months. Be aware that this tour involves some walking on uneven ground and that children younger than 12 are not permitted due to the adult content featured in the tour. The company also offers tours that depart from Dublin, among other locales.

Yellow Umbrella Tours – Traditional Pub Tour

Price: From 42 euros (about $45) Duration: 3 hours

If you've come to Ireland hoping to experience its lively pub culture, then this Dublin tour is for you. With a local leading the way, you'll visit three pubs on the north side of the river, away from the tourist crowds. Samples of Irish beer, whiskey and gin are included, and you'll have the option to purchase traditional Irish dishes, if you're feeling peckish. After visiting the pubs, you'll end the tour listening to live music. Reviewers say guides are friendly, entertaining and share lots of history about the drinks and Dublin. Participants also said the pubs featured on the tour are interesting and fun.

Tours are generally offered daily at 6 p.m.; they meet at The Spire on O'Connell Street. If you're traveling with kids and looking for a more family-friendly experience, consider the company's two-hour Dublin history walking tour.

Irish Day Tours – Cliffs of Moher

Price: Adults from 80 euros (about $87); kids from 40 euros (about $44) Duration: 13 hours

Travel west from Dublin to marvel at the Cliffs of Moher and enjoy panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean on this full-day bus trip. In addition to the nearly 400-foot cliffs, this tour visits the village of Doolin for lunch and the flower-filled Burren National Park, as well as the city of Galway before returning to Dublin. Tour-takers typically appreciate both the remarkable scenery and the astute and entertaining guides. Many reviewers said this is the best thing you can do while visiting Dublin.

Trips depart from the statue of Molly Malone on Suffolk Street daily at 6:50 a.m. and return to the city center around 7:30 p.m. Note: Fees do not include the cost of lunch. Be sure to bring headphones if you want to listen to the commentary on Irish Day Tours' multilingual mobile app. The company also offers tours to the Giant's Causeway, Blarney Castle and more.

Belfastology Walking Tours – Eclectic Belfast Walking Tour

Price: Adults from 20 pounds (about $25); kids from 12 pounds (about $15) Duration: 2.5 hours

Admire Belfast's architecture and hear about the city's history on this jaunt around town. Highlights include City Hall, the Cathedral Quarter, Waterfront Hall and the Albert Memorial Clock – one of Belfast's top landmarks. Reviewers applaud the enthusiastic guides' well-informed commentary; they also appreciate that the tour can be tailored to suit groups' particular interests.

Tours are typically offered multiple times a day starting at 10:30 a.m. Belfastology Walking Tours also offers themed tours, such as political murals and street art and music.

Galway Tour Company – The Aran Islands & the Cliffs Cruise

Price: Adults from 70 euros (about $76); kids from 65 euros (about $71) Duration: 10.5 hours

Experience both the Aran Islands and the Cliffs of Moher on this daylong outing. Buses leave Galway at 9 a.m. and travel along the Wild Atlantic Way south to the fishing village of Doolin. From there, tour-takers ride an express ferry to the smallest of the three Aran Islands, Inisheer, where – for at least two hours – they can explore cafes, castles, churches, lighthouses, shipwrecks, pubs and other attractions. After lunch, the journey continues by coach to the incredible cliffs. Travelers praise the guides' amusing and educational commentary and call the views phenomenal.

Buses typically return to Galway around 7:30 p.m. Tickets include admission to the Cliffs of Moher, but not lunch or any optional activities on Inisheer. Note: This tour is available daily from the beginning of March to the end of October. Galway Tour Company also take visitors to Connemara and the Kylemore Abbey, among other popular destinations.

Wild Atlantic Way Day Tours – Connemara and Connemara National Park Day Tour from Galway

Price: Adults from 45 euros (about $49); kids from $43 Duration: 9 hours

Take in the sights of Connemara on this day trip from Galway. Traveling both the Wild Atlantic Way and the Sky Road, this bus ride passes through the picturesque villages like Barna, Furbo and Spiddal, and makes stops at locales like Pines Island and the town of Clifden. The excursion also includes a three-hour visit to Connemara National Park or Kylemore Abbey (you get to choose). The views along the drive are often deemed a high point, and guides win kudos for their knowledgeable narration and skilled driving of the narrow roads. The route winds through the Maumturks and Twelve Bens mountains on the way back to Galway, where the trip usually ends around 6:30 or 7 p.m.

Tours depart from the Kinlay Hostel on Merchants Road at 9:30 a.m.; they are offered daily year-round. Fees do not include lunch, but do include the entry fee for Connemara National Park. The company also offers tours that depart from Limerick and Ennis.

Wild Rover Tours – Kilkenny, Wicklow Mountains, Glendalough Day Tour from Dublin

Price: From 43 euros (about $47) Duration: 10 hours

Spend a day learning about the history and folklore of eastern Ireland on this combination walking and coach tour. Take a guided stroll through the cobblestone streets of Kilkenny and then explore the city on your own, possibly opting to visit Kilkenny Castle, which dates to the 12th century. Then, traverse the photogenic Wicklow Mountains, where scenes from movies – including "Braveheart" – were filmed. The outing's visit to Glendalough, known for its glacial valleys and lakes, includes a guided tour of its monastic city, which was built circa A.D. 600. The trip also features a stop at a working sheep farm. Both the scenery and the guides' expert commentary and recomendations consistently win praise from travelers.

Tours are available daily all year, but the order in which you visit attractions varies seasonally. Pickups from a trio of Dublin locales occur between 8:10 and 8:30 a.m.; tours conclude back in the city around 6:20 p.m. Note: Prices do not include lunch or any attractions in Kilkenny. Wild Rover Tours also offer "Game of Thrones"-themed outings, as well as day trips to the Cliffs of Moher.

LetzGo City Tours – Skip the Line: Guinness Storehouse & Jameson Irish Whiskey Experience Tour

Price: From 112 euros (about $122) Duration: 4 hours

If you're hoping to visit the Jameson Distillery and the Guinness Storehouse on your trip to Dublin, consider this half-day tour, which includes skip-the-line access to both attractions, as well as expert commentary from a local guide. You'll start at the Jameson Distillery Bow St. to learn about and, of course, sample some celebrated whiskey. Then head over to the Guinness Storehouse, a seven-story monument to Ireland's renowned stout, and ascend to its Gravity Bar, a rooftop bar boasting unrivaled views of Phoenix Park, the Wellington Monument, the Wicklow Mountains and more. Along the way, hear about the city's brewing and distilling history from guides. Reviewers typically find the guides' stories entertaining, as well as educational. They also enjoyed the photo stop outside the oldest pub in Ireland, which dates back to the 11th century.

Skip-the-line tours are generally offered several times daily starting at 10:45 a.m. The company also hosts pub and city tours, as well as skip-the-line access to the Book of Kells and Dublin Castle.

McComb's Coach Travel – Giant's Causeway Tour

Price: From 35 euros (about $38) Duration: 10 hours

Take a scenic drive to Northern Ireland's famed Giant's Causeway, the sole UNESCO World Heritage Site in Northern Ireland, on this daylong tour. Along with its World Heritage Site status, Giant's Causeway is also a site of geological significance comprising approximately 40,000 hexagonal basalt columns. Other stops along the Causeway Coastal Route include Carrickfergus Castle, the Dark Hedges and Dunluce Castle, as well as a pub for lunch. Tour-takers generally appreciate the good humor and insights of the drivers/guides.

Coaches depart Belfast daily at 8:30 a.m. and return around 6 p.m. Note: This outing involves some walking on uneven surfaces. McComb's Coach Travel offers a variety of other tours, including a "Game of Thrones" tour.

House of Waterford Crystal – Factory Tour

Price: Adults from 17.50 euros (around $19); kids from 9.50 euros (about $10) Duration: 1 hour

Get a behind-the-scenes look at how world-famous Waterford Crystal is made on this tour, which visits the factory's blowing, mold-making, cutting, sculpting, engraving and inspection rooms. Visitors consistently find the crystal-making process fascinating and the guides informative and friendly. If you're in the Waterford area, many reviewers called this the No. 1 thing to do.

Tours are available year-round multiple times on most days, though there are none on Saturday and Sunday from November through February. Start times are determined upon your arrival at the plant in its namesake city, so be sure to check hours of operation, which vary by season. If you like what you see being crafted and want some crystal to take home, you can stop at the factory's retail store after the tour.

DC Tours – A History of Terror

Price: From 22 pounds (about $28) Duration: 2.5 hours

Learn about some of the most contentious moments in Northern Ireland's decades-long ethno-nationalist conflict (known as the Troubles) on this walking tour of Belfast. Tours start outside Belfast City Hall daily (barring some holidays) at 10:30 a.m. and conclude on the banks of the River Lagan. Stops along the way include Donegall Place, site of a 1972 bombing; Cathedral Quarter, the city's cultural district; and the Spirit of Belfast, a sculpture often called "The Onion Rings." History buffs generally find the passionate and engaging guides' commentary both informative and entertaining. Reviewers also say you don't need to know much about the Troubles to enjoy this tour.

This tour entails walking for about a mile and a half and is not recommended for children younger than 12. If you're looking for more of an overview of the city, DC Tours also conducts a three-hour "Best of Belfast" tour, among other experiences.

Taste & Tour – Belfast Food Tour

Price: From 67 pounds (about $85) Duration: 4 hours

Sample the Belfast dining scene on this four-hour stroll in the center of the city. After starting in St George's Market, the tour proceeds to various area bars and shops, as well as a restaurant in the Cathedral Quarter. Food and drinks sampled along the way should be sufficient for both breakfast and lunch, according to Taste & Tour. Foodies enjoy the ample food and beverage offerings as well as the friendly guides' culinary wisdom.

Tours typically depart from St. George's Market at 10:15 a.m. on Fridays and 10 and 10:45 a.m. on Saturdays. The company also offers tours that explore the city's cocktail and craft beer scene.

DoDublin – Hop-On Hop-Off

Price: Adults from 30 euros (about $33); kids from 10 euros (about $11) Duration: 2 hours

Explore multiple Dublin attractions at your own pace on this hop-on, hop-off bus tour – or stay on board and see the sights. The tour's route includes EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum, the Guinness Storehouse, the Little Museum of Dublin, St. Patrick's Cathedral and much more. Drivers provide running commentary about the city's sights (and recorded narration in nine languages is available). Tourgoers applaud the drivers' witty remarks and recommend taking this tour at the start of your Dublin visit to familiarize yourself with the city.

Bus tours operate daily and depart every 20 to 30 minutes (depending on the day), with the first departing 59 Upper O'Connell St. at 9 a.m. and the last at 5 p.m. DoDublin offers both single- and two-day tickets for its hop-on, hop-off tours. For each adult ticket purchased – regardless of duration – a child younger than 15 can ride for free. Moreover, the fees include admission to the Little Museum. In addition to its hop-on, hop-off tours, DoDublin also operates a nightly ghost bus tour.

Killarney Jaunting Cars – From Park to Castle Tour

Price: Adults from 65 euros (about $70); kids from 10 euros (around $11) Duration: 1 hour

On this hourlong horse-and-carriage ride, you'll travel to both Killarney National Park and Ross Castle, passing sights like St. Mary's Cathedral and MacGillycuddy's Reeks along the way. Why a carriage ride? This mode of transportation allows visitors to see parts of the park where motor vehicles are not allowed. Travelers consistently describe the guides as humorous and well-versed in area culture and history. Reviewers also say the ride is relaxing; many called the tour the highlight of their trip.

Carriages depart from the Great Southern Killarney hotel several times daily, with the first usually heading out at 9:30 a.m. and the last at 5:15 p.m. Killarney Jaunting Cars also offers a variety of combo tours, in addition to a five-hour tour to the Gap of Dunloe.

Killarney Lake Tours – Killarney Water Bus Tour

Price: Adults from 15 euros (about $16); kids from 8 euros (about $9) Duration: 1 hour

See the sights of Killarney from Lough Leane, the area's largest lake, on this hourlong boat ride. Water buses launch from and return to Ross Castle and pass attractions, such as Innisfallen Island's monastic ruins and O'Sullivan's Cascade; cruisers also get an eyeful of the nearby mountains. Tour-takers say this activity is reasonably priced and enjoy the guides' anecdotes and historical observations. They also rave about the views.

Trips are available multiple times daily with standard departure times of 11 a.m. and 12:30, 2:30 and 4 p.m.; additional times may be added in the summer. Water bus tours can also be combined with a horse-drawn carriage (aka jaunting car) ride around Killarney.

You may also be interested in:

• The Best Dublin Tours
• The Best Places to Visit in Ireland
• The Best Travel Insurance for Europe

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Your Family Will Love Our Tours of Ireland 💚

Connect with loved ones on a spectacular, fully-guided adventure in Ireland.

We know how important family is to you.

They deserve the best Ireland vacation possible.

So go ahead and give them an unforgettable gift with Vagabond & Driftwood.

📧 ENQUIRE ABOUT OUR TOURS

Why Vagabond?

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family-Owned & Operated - We Get It!

🚴 Activities To Keep Everyone Happy

🚐 Choose Scheduled Or Private Itinerary

✨ We Guarantee Fun & Magic Memories!

💰 Trusted by 1000s of Families Over 20 Years

Why Families Love Vagabond

My wife and I wanted to take our adult children on a family vacation (7 people).

I quickly became overwhelmed trying to research renting a van, driving on the left, driving a manual transmission with my left hand, finding accommodations for 7 people, and activities ...

I was so excited to find Vagabond Tours. They took all the stress out of the trip planning.

Dave was our tour guide on the trip and was awesome, friendly, and helpful. He provided history and facts about the land as we traveled.

The accommodations were perfect. Dave provided options for each day with back-up plans just in case of weather.

VERIFIED GUEST, JULY 2023

From start to finish it was AH-mazing!

Our family group of 4, of varying ages, could not have asked for a better experience.

Having the details of the itinerary planned by an experienced tour company based in Ireland, with an amazing guide and driver, all hotels and most activities booked and paid for in advance contributed to the overall enjoyment of this trip.

Our group of 4 will have memories we will be talking about for a lifetime and we all highly recommend using Vagabond Tours.

VERIFIED GUEST, OCTOBER 2023

This is the ideal tour for a family of... siblings and spouses to take together.

The other five tour members really complemented our family and Tim as our guide was knowledgeable, considerate, accommodating and really enhanced our understanding of Irish history.

Every night he sent us texts updating us on the next day's weather and anything we needed to know in preparation for the day.

It really was a trip of a lifetime and Driftwood was surely the best choice for us.

BARBARA, SEPTEMBER 2023

From Our Family To Yours...

Since 2002, Vagabond Tours has been a family-run business.

Our guests, the communities you'll visit and our love for Ireland are at the core of everything we do .

We look forward to welcoming you and your loved ones.

Come and embrace Ireland with us in 2024 and 2025!

Rob & Amy Rankin + the Vagabond Team

The Best Ireland Tours For Families

Keep All Generations Happy!

Ireland boasts a winning mix of wonderful cultural activities, beautiful landscapes, a mild climate year-round and famously laid-back and friendly locals.

We know your family will also be pleasantly surprised by Ireland's delicious and diverse food scene and the excitement on offer in our gateway city, Dublin.

Plan the perfect family trip to Ireland with the help of our expert and friendly team, based here in Ireland.

Meet The Davidsons

Ten members of the Davidson clan embarked on a private tour of Northern Ireland in July 2019.

Aged 14 to 80, this diverse family group squeezed maximum enjoyment from their fully guided, 7 day private tour.

Personalised Stops

"When the Davidsons visited their ancestral castle in Donegal, I arranged for its owner to personally deliver a surprise tour.

Vagabond Private Tours of Ireland are flexible by design. This encourages one-of-a-kind experiences like this"

VagaGuide John, Private Tour Guide

Magic Memories

“We have many beautiful memories that will live in our hearts for many years to come.

Ireland is such a special place and I'm so glad we got to take the adventure with Vagabond.”

Evette Davidson Ridenhour

Read more about this Private Tour of Ireland

We adapt the itineraries of our scheduled tours for private tours.

✅ Our scheduled tours use boutique accommodation located in all corners of Ireland.

✅ Each scheduled tour itinerary offers a wide range of activities that can be adapted to your group's preferences.

✅ Timings are vital to the success of any tour. We know the timings of our scheduled tours and can adapt that effectively on a private tour.

✅ Our scheduled tours itineraries are flexible. We can lengthen a regular itinerary. Take a detour. Or just offer a section that you'll love.

Our Family and Group Private Tours Are Great For You If...

• You love a particular town or region in Ireland
• You're tracing your Irish family roots to an area NOT featured on our scheduled tours
• You're dreaming of overnighting on an Atlantic island
• You're an avid angler or keen golfer and would like extra time to pursue your passion in Ireland
• You are a club or association that has a specific interest connected with travel or Ireland
• You're rewarding your hard-working employees with a team-building experience in Ireland

Private Tours of Ireland That Past Guests Loved:

• Family group tours of multiple generations;
• Corporate and incentive groups (with team-building exercises);
• University re-union tours;
• Student/educational tours;
• Camping adventures;
• Photography tours;
• Just a bunch of friends who like travelling together!

Pricing For Our Private Tours of Ireland

Our private tour prices vary. The price we quote will relate to the regular tour prices but also the number of people in your group and the duration of your tour.

LEARN MORE FROM OUR FRIENDLY TEAM TODAY

Choose a vagabond tour.

It’s our mission to ensure that you enjoy your guided Ireland tours to the max and are on the itinerary that matches your needs best.

Vagabond Cultural Adventures feature a more energetic pace than our Driftwood vacation packages .

We’ve also created a handy comparison tool to help you figure out which Ireland tour is the best fit for you.

Choose A Driftwood Tour

Our range of Driftwood Tours are adventures in their own right. They just aren’t as physically active as Vagabond Cultural Adventures .

10% October Deal

October is a magnificent, mellow and magical month to tour Ireland with us.

Scheduled departures in October 2024 and 2025 cost 10% less than peak season tours.

SEE THE OFFER

What makes us tick.

Read how Vagabond was founded — and where we're headed — on the About Us page .

What Is Responsible Tourism?

Respect for our planet and its people lies at the heart of our responsible tourism mission .

💰 EARLY BIRD OFFER: Pay 2024 prices for your 2025 Driftwood tour. Save up to €222 !

• Travel Planning Guide

The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Ireland

Create lasting memories.

Are you in search of the perfect family vacation that combines adventure, relaxation, and quality time with your loved ones? But is planning a trip too much of a hassle? Well, we have analyzed all of the best organized all-inclusive family-friendly tours for Ireland based on key criteria such as guest ratings, prices, tour length, and of course, kid-friendly activities for children under 18. The mission of the selected tours below is to ensure that your family's vacation is not only enjoyable but also stress-free, allowing you to focus on what truly matters: creating unforgettable memories together. Great for museums & attractions, family-friendly activities, and budget-friendly accommodations, Ireland is a terrific destination. Simply sit back, relax, and cherish the moments spent together as you explore the beauty that Ireland has to offer. So why wait? Book one of these amazing tour packages today and get ready to create lifelong memories as you explore the wonders of Ireland together with your loved ones.

Long cliff walks, castles, stunning beaches, gardens, lighthouses, and terrific museums are all some of the best things to do with families in Ireland. In Dublin, you'll find the Imaginosity Childrens Museum, the Dublin Zoo, the Natural History Museum, and Dublin Castle to name a few. Not far from Dublin you can find more castles, the Medieval Museum in Waterford, and Viking history. On the west coast, don't miss the cliffs of Moher, with their epic views, or the ancient stones of the Burren. And the small towns of the Ring of Kerry and Dingle Peninsula are fun for everyone, too.

• ONE FOR THE ROAD 15 Days, $2166.87
• North of Ireland Escape (22 destinations) 7 Days, $1329.00
• The Best Of Ireland 8 Days, $1249.00

What types of child-friendly tours are available in Ireland?

Here are the important factors:

• 110 trip options analyzed
• $290 average price per day (USD)
• 3 to 16 days in length
• 4.69 of 5 average rating
• 34 people or less on average

Curious about the diverse range of family-friendly tours? Prepare to be amazed by the array of options available to suit every traveler's preferences. It comes as no surprise that visitors adore these tours, given their exceptional average guest rating of 4.69 out of 5 stars. When it comes to group sizes, the average maximum capacity stands at 34 people, allowing for a comfortable and sociable experience. The shortest tour is 3 days, while the longest is 16 days. As for physical activity options, the tours are thoughtfully categorized as easy and moderate, with the most being easy. For transportation , the tours are marked as coach / bus, train & rail, and self drive, with a prevalent number on coach / bus tours. With a comprehensive analysis encompassing 110 family-friendly tours, you can rest assured that Ireland has something tailored to your interests and preferences, promising an unforgettable experience for all.

(All tour prices are in US Dollars before taxes, and come from a base price that is reported by TourRadar. Peak season prices can vary significantly, particularly in destinations where seasonal travel fluctuates dramatically.)

So, let's get to it and see...

The 10 Best Family-Friendly Tours in Ireland

One for the road.

• Great Value: the daily price is lower than average for family-friendly tours.

This exceptional trip offering by Interrailing Packages has received a 4.5 out of 5 rating. On this 15-day journey you can unwind while also making new memories. Along the way, this journey encompasses 4 destinations, including Cork and Killarney. You'll start and end this amazing trip in Dublin. With a group size of 250 people, it's suitable for travelers from 2 to 75 years old. This remarkable trip is priced at an unbeatable $144 per day.

• Train & Rail

North of Ireland Escape (22 destinations)

• High Quality: guest ratings are higher than average.

Check out this voyage that has received rave reviews, earning a stellar 5 out of 5 rating, visiting Ireland and Northern Ireland. This itinerary covers 10 captivating destinations, with stops in Giants Causeway, Belfast, Athlone, and Galway, among others. Dublin will be both the start and end of your journey. This terrific trip also highights local culture and family-friendly activities. Spanning across 7 unforgettable days, this voyage offers an intimate group experience with 46 participants, and it's great for travelers from 5 to 80 years old. Brought to you by the renowned Globus , this exceptional opportunity is priced at an incredible $154 per day - an unbeatable value.

• Coach / Bus
• In-depth Cultural

The Best Of Ireland

This 8-day journey is ideal for travelers from 9 to 80 years old. And priced at only $156 per day, it's a great value, too. Immerse yourself in a travel experience that includes 5 destinations, featuring Galway, Connemara National Park, and Ring of Kerry. Your adventure starts and ends in Dublin. It's offered by Indus Travels , a very popular company with rave reviews and knowledgeable guides.

Highlights of Ireland & Scotland

Priced at just $185 per day, this terrific 12-day voyage, visiting Ireland, Northern Ireland, and Scotland, is ideal for travelers from 5 and up. Uncover the beauty of 25 destinations on this itinerary, with highlights such as Glasgow, Fort William, Inverness, and Culloden. Dublin will mark the start of your journey, while Edinburgh will serve as its final destination. Organized by the reputable Cosmos , this is one of the best tours on this list.

Evergreen Ireland South - 7 Days/6 Nights

Check out this incredible trip that has received a 5 out of 5 rating from previous guests. With a duration of 7 days, this journey ensures an intimate group size of 44 people, and is good for travelers from 8 and up. Traverse through 7 enchanting destinations, with Ring of Kerry, Blarney, Waterford, and Cliffs of Moher among the must-see stops along the route. Begin and conclude your remarkable journey in the gorgeous destination of Dublin. This fantastic option, organized by CIE Tours , presents an unbeatable value at just $171 per day.

Irish Escape

Spanning over 7 days, this voyage has a maximum size of 46 individuals. Welcoming travelers from 5 to 80 years old, it is organized by Globus , a very popular company with plenty of great reviews. This trip visits 11 destinations, including Galway, Cliffs of Moher, Ennis, and Adare along the way. You'll start and end your journey in beautiful Dublin. And since the priority is on local culture and family-friendly activities, this tour is a great choice. Available at an unbeatable price of only $171 per day, this option also has a rating of 5 out of 5 stars from previous guests.

• Sightseeing

Irish Discovery

Here's your chance to take off on an exceptional journey, visiting Ireland and Northern Ireland, that has garnered a 5 out of 5 rating. With a duration of 9 days, this jouney will have 50 participants, and it warmly welcomes travelers from 5 and up. Rest assured, this trip is all about local culture and family-friendly activities, guaranteeing an unforgettable adventure. Expertly organized by Cosmos , this amazing trip is an incredible value at just $194 per day.

3-Day Discover Northern Ireland Small-Group Tour from Dublin

This memorable journey, visiting Ireland, Northern Ireland, and England, is offered by Rabbie’s Small Group Tours which has received plenty of positive reviews. The trip itself has a guest rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars, and is priced affordably at $215 per day. Explore 8 incredible locations on this trip, including Glenarm, Ballycastle, Giants Causeway, and Portaferry. You'll start and end this amazing trip in Dublin. This extraordinary adventure also revolves around local culture and family-friendly activities. The maximum group size is 16 people, welcoming travelers from 5 and up.

From Dublin to London

Set off on an extraordinary journey, visiting Ireland, Wales, and England, that has been awarded a 5 out of 5 stars by previous guests. This terrific trip also highights local culture and family-friendly activities. With a duration of 9 days, this journey offers an intimate group setting, accommodating 50 individuals, while extending a warm welcome to travelers from 5 and up. Discover a journey that spans 13 destinations, with notable stops in Stonehenge, Galway, Cliffs of Moher, and Ennis. Beginning in beautiful Dublin, you'll have a terrific journey that ends in London. Brought to you by Cosmos , this exceptional deal is an incredible steal at a mere $200 per day.

Irish Explorer

With this option you can experience an unparalleled trip for 7 unforgettable days, visiting Ireland and Northern Ireland. It ensures an intimate group setting with 51 participants at most. This trip takes you on an adventure to 13 destinations, including Belfast, Giants Causeway, Londonderry, and Sligo. Your adventure starts and ends in Dublin. Expat Explore Travel , the organizer of this journey, extends a warm invitation to guests travelers from 10 to 90 years old. This extraordinary opportunity offers exceptional value at only $163 per day.

See also The Best Historical Tours in Ireland , The Best 10-Day Tours in Ireland , The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Ireland , The Best 3-Day Tours in Ireland , The Best 2-Week Tours in Ireland , The Best Christmas & New Years Tours in Ireland , The Best Coach Bus Tours in Ireland , The Best Adventure Tours to Ireland , The Best Sightseeing Tours in Ireland , The Best Cultural Tours in Ireland , The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Ireland , The Best Luxury Tours to Ireland , The Best Budget Tours to Ireland , The Best Tours for Seniors to Ireland , or The Best Contiki Tours to Ireland for more tour ideas. With so many options, there's a guided tour or vacation package for every type of traveler.

Also, if you're departing from a specific destination, see The Best 3-Day Tours from Dublin , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Dublin , The Best 10-Day Tours from Dublin , or The Best 2-Week Tours from Dublin for more package tour options.

How much do family-friendly tours to Ireland cost?

After analyzing 110 family-friendly tours in Ireland, we found the average price to be a remarkably economical $290 per day. Naturally, this region has many fantastic options for family-friendly tours with a variety of prices. The individual costs will vary by the destinations, travel style, available dates, and other factors. If you're interested in more information about tours here, see our guide to tour prices in Ireland .

And for more information on Ireland, see Ireland Travel Costs and Ireland Hotel Costs .

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Best things to do in Ireland with kids

Mar 28, 2024 • 6 min read

Kids will be as amazed as anyone at Ireland’s astonishing natural attractions © arkanex / Getty Images

With its lush green fields, dramatic coastline and magical castles, Ireland has long been on the discerning traveller’s bucket list.

But the famous Irish welcome is not just for adults: parents will find a land where its myths and legends come alive for their little ones and where the outdoors is the star attraction.

Is Ireland good for kids?

Travelling with kids in Ireland is easy and, as it’s a relatively small island, getting around is straightforward. Cars are best for getting out into the countryside, but the main cities and larger towns are served by train and bus from Dublin , the capital. Dublin is very stroller friendly but if you’re hitting the country’s walking trails or beaches, a baby carrier is advisable. There are playgrounds in most small towns but the country is a work in progress when it comes to providing public toilets and baby changing facilities.

“ Cead míle Fáilte ” means “one hundred thousand welcomes” in the Irish language and families and children are welcomed with open arms into most restaurants and pubs in the country. However, the law states that children can’t stay in bars past 9pm (10pm from May to September). Most restaurant menus have a separate kids’ menu and many hotels have family rooms or interconnecting rooms to cater for families.

If you don’t want to bring all your baby gear with you,  Stork Exchange is a baby and children’s equipment rental service based at Dublin Airport that uses quality brands only. Planning to visit several historic places? Buying a Heritage Ireland  Family Heritage Card for €90 could be a good-value option, giving you access to 50 historic sites and visitor attractions nationally. 

Navigate like a local with these tips for getting around

Where is best in Ireland for kids?

From the museums and galleries of Dublin to the rugged beauty of The Burren in County Clare; from the magic of visiting the Giant’s Causeway in County Antrim to digging with a bucket and spade on a remote beach in County Mayo , it’s easy to see why families will leave Ireland already planning their next visit.

This is Ireland, so history is written on every stone wall. The Little Museum of Dublin  gives a potted history of the Irish capital for all ages while EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum , tells you why the Irish have had such an impact on the world.

And if you’re seeking the freedom to run on a beach with the salt of the Atlantic stinging your skin, you’ll be spoiled for choice. From Keem Bay Beach on Achill Island in County Mayo to Narin Strand in Portnoo, County Donegal , there are stunning opportunities for beachcombing, paddling and sandcastle building. 

Read more:  The best time to visit Ireland

Best things to do in Ireland with babies and toddlers

Dublin Zoo  offers parent-and-toddler sessions to start children on their wildlife journey at various times of the year, and the Museum of Natural History  on Kildare St is the perfect spot to while away a rainy afternoon. The cafe at the National Gallery next door is perfect for refueling. 

Located in a magical woodland, Wild Ireland  on the Inishowen Peninsula in County Donegal is a unique wildlife sanctuary and home to many rescued animals including brown bears, wolves, lynx and wild boar. The paths are perfect for little legs and strollers.

Named after the gardener from County Wexford's  Wells Estate , Mogue’s Enchanted Woodland Walk has become home to numerous trolls, bears, fairies, witches and wizards. There's even a dragon hidden within the trees.

Go on a woodland adventure

Set in 32 hectares (80 acres) of natural woodland and featuring one of the country’s longest ziplines, Castlecomer Discovery Park  in County Kilkenny is a great place for kids to ditch the screens and immerse themselves in the outdoors. Its junior woodland course is suitable for kids aged three to seven, while kids over seven will love the Skywalk Challenge, an aerial adventure course.

The Treetop Walk at Avondale Forest Park  in  County Wicklow  culminates in a visit to a 38m-tall (125ft) viewing tower. Kids will also love the opportunity to descend via the country’s longest slide but queues are long in the summer months.  

Learn about the Titanic

Titanic Belfast  is where the sights, sounds and smells of the ill-fated cruise liner are brought to life in eye-watering detail.

Take to the dunes

Ards Forest Park Sand Dune Trail near Dunfanaghy, County Donegal is not only perfect for buggies but is ideal for little legs not ready to graduate on to more difficult hiking trails yet.

Cycle a greenway

The free 46km (29-mile) off-road Waterford Greenway stretches from the edge of Waterford city right down through the Comeragh Mountains and the Copper Coast and into Dungarvan. You can take it at your own pace and bikes are available for hire at the many hubs along the route. 

Best things to do in Ireland with tweens and teenagers

Learn to surf.

Opened in the summer of 2023, the National Surf Centre  at Strandhill, County Sligo , is home to three surf schools providing lessons for beginners as well as more-experienced surfers. Check out Kingdomwaves Surf School , which offers surf lessons and surf hire at both Inch and Banna beaches, two beautiful blue flag beaches in County Kerry . 

Free yourselves from an escape room

If the weather isn’t playing ball, try the Boda Borg escape-room-type challenge at Lough Key Forest and Activity Park  in County Roscommon. Over two hours, you'll go from room to room trying to solve the quests or complete the challenges.

Discover secret beaches

It’s hard to beat the sense of adventure that comes with seeking out a secret beach. There are no roads to Trá Mór outside Dunfanaghy in County Donegal, making its discovery all the more thrilling.

Find your inner thrill seeker

The Gobbins Cliff Path gives a real rush. Located around 30 minutes’ drive from Belfast along the Causeway Coast, this thrilling cliff walk, where bridges carry you over crashing waves to sunken caves, is accessible only by guided tour and takes about two hours. 

Planning tips 

One of the biggest considerations to make when planning a trip to Ireland is the weather. The Irish have a saying that there can be four seasons in one day for a reason, so pack your wet-weather gear, a pair of sturdy walking boots and a change of clothes. Phone signal can be unreliable, so download or take a hard copy of any maps you may need.

If your trip takes in both the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland , bear in mind you’ll need two different currencies; the Republic of Ireland uses the euro while Northern Ireland uses the pound.

Keep planning your trip to Ireland

Want the scoop on Ireland's top towns and cities? Here are the best places to visit . See more of Ireland on one of these classic road trips .

This article was first published May 11, 2021 and updated Mar 28, 2024.

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How to Plan a Family Trip to Ireland

By Amy Tara Koch

After inhaling The Land of Stories, Chris Colfer’s children’s series about twins who slip into a fairyland where Red Riding Hood has her own kingdom and Mother Goose is a babysitter, my 12-year-old daughter Brette made a request: Could Ireland top the list for our annual summer trip? Its picturesque landscape—castles on craggy cliffs, mossy woodlands potentially enchanted by sprites and trolls—was the stuff of fantasy fiction. To her credit, she broadened the appeal to really land the pitch: “Mom, I looked and there are fancy hotels.” Those family members entrenched in reality, my husband and 16-year-old daughter, ratified the proposition. It helped that the mystical land of Yeats, James Joyce, U2, and spectacular bacon-infused breakfasts was made even more appealing by affordable fares on Aer Lingus .

Our summer tradition is to take lengthy vacations that often make no sense on paper. Instead of being driven by what's nearby, our choices are guided by new experiences—often offbeat—and the goal of getting the kids to 21 countries by the time they are 21 years old. It starts with brainstorming in October (" Venice is sinking —we need to go!" "Hiking in Switzerland sounds fun—I read that you can have lunch in an alpine hut and swim in green rivers of glacial water." "Where are the San Juan Islands ? You can kayak with Orcas there!") By late December, we have enough of a framework to book flights (during the year, we stockpile credit card points and airline miles to apply toward plane tickets), and then we fill in the blanks along the way.

Here’s the kicker: The kids are our designated tour guides. To prep, they have to plot out the itinerary on a map—an actual paper map!—and complete Mom-made worksheets that require investigation into local cuisine, attractions, regional peculiarities (like later dinner times in France and Italy, and seafood for breakfast in Scandinavia), and the designated region’s historical significance. Sure, the research produces eye-rolls and teen-sized groans. But the prep work is non-negotiable and delivers a quantifiable payoff: nods of recognition and appreciation for real-life contact with a landmark or experience baked into the master itinerary.

For Ireland, the focus was Dublin and a country estate in the Midlands. Here's how our itinerary looked:

Family-friendly activities are almost all just a short walk from the city center—near St. Stephen’s Green, up to Temple Bar, and over to Trinity College—so we made it our goal to stay in the middle of it all.

Stay: The Merrion

As Brette predicted, this glamorous hotel —four restored Georgian townhouses with an exquisite interior garden and crowd-pleasing 60-foot swimming pool—was the perfect perch.

Not to be missed: the Art Tea, served in the grand drawing room, which riffs on the hotel’s extensive collection of 19th- and 20th-century Irish paintings. Whimsical pastries (like an abstract Madonna and Child by Mainie Jellett interpreted as a pouf of passion fruit and orange cheesecake encircled by cubist-style white chocolate panels) are displayed alongside mini cards of the paintings, plus tiered platters of traditional Irish sandwiches, scones, and Battenberg cake, a colorful checkerboard sponge cake.

Herd of wild deer grazing in the Phoenix Park.

Phoenix Park

On top of exploring the medieval tower-house of Ashtown Castle and the Dublin Zoo, catching sight of the resident fallow deer is the draw at this 1,700-acre walled park, a former royal hunting ground. “The deer remind me of the Patronus Charm in Harry Potter,” said Brette, referring to the silver doe conjured by Severus Snape. According to Irish lore, the bush-like hawthorn trees on the park perimeter are where the fairies meet.

Dublin Castle

Originally created as a Viking fortress, this 13th-century castle (with additions in later centuries) has functioned as a prison, treasury, court of law, and royal residence. Its vibe—part Hogwarts, part Beauty and the Beast (post-curse) palace—is fully appreciated after a visit to the elaborate state apartments that are still used for state functions.

Old-School Book Shops

With Dublin’s rich literary heritage, it’s no surprise that independent book shops abound. We popped in to a few—The Winding Stair, The Village Bookshop, The Gutter Bookshop—each buying a book by an Irish artist. Brette picked Spellbook of The Lost and Found , a tale of magic and friendship by Moira Fowley-Doyle; Doyle and I scooped up Nora Webster by Colm Tóibín, who also authored Brooklyn , the book behind the recent film starring Saoirse Ronan.

A morning spent with Context Travel investigating the historic nooks and cobblestoned crannies with a local expert. A family favorite is the group's 2.5-hour Book of Kells tour, exploring the history of the ninth-century manuscript with a visit to Trinity College's Old Library and the National Museum of Ireland. I opted for a custom tour—also a 2.5-hour experience—to incorporate historic and literary sightseeing (visiting Oscar Wilde’s home and a few James Joyce haunts) as well as food experiences, like trying Durrus Ógb cheese and soda bread.

My husband picks a sporting activity for most places we visit (baseball in Tokyo, soccer in London, hockey in Sweden). In Dublin, it was hurling , a gladiatorial form of field hockey played with a wooden stick and small ball. Attending a match makes for a thrilling family activity.

By Jessica Chapel

By Emily Pennington

By Charlie Hobbs

By Kaitlin Menza

Playing lords and ladies at Ballyfin.

BALLYFIN ESTATE, CO. LAOIS

Next up? Ballyfin, the Regency mansion of Sir Charles and Lady Caroline Coote turned 20-room hotel on 614 acres of parkland and wildlife-filled ancient woods. The kids channeled their inner aristocrat by horseback riding, trekking through the demesne, interacting with eagles, hawks, and owls during a falconry session, boating, fishing, picnicking alongside the property’s lake, and playing croquet on the meadow. Kid-sanctioned highlights: an Agatha Christie–style secret door hidden in the bookcase of the library; a Roman-looking grotto “folly”; and a fantastic dress-up experience where guests pluck period costumes from a selection culled from the Lyric Opera of Chicago and sport them a la Downton Abbey throughout the evening.

A morning at the nearby Slieve Bloom Mountains to hike and visit Birr Castle, pictured, an Anglo-Norman fortress (celebrated for formal gardens and a landscape of rare trees and plants) still used as a private residence by the Earls of Rosse.

Recommended

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The Westbury

Dublin Travel Guide

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Visiting Ireland with kids: all you need to know

All you need to know to plan a family trip to Ireland: info, recommendations and insider tips by a local mum to help you plan your perfect family vacation in Ireland.

I love traveling around Ireland with my kids.

We live in Dublin and even if Ireland is home for our family, we seem to never tire of admiring it with the eye of the visitor.

After 15 years here, I still explore with the same awe I had when I first set foot on Irish soil and my husband and kids, both born and raised here, seem to share the same experience.

It is from this specific point of you, that of the visitor turned local, that I write this post today.

It is my family guide to Ireland and contains all my best tips for visiting Ireland with kids.

Wishing you a wonderful Ireland family vacation!

Table of Contents

The best time to visit Ireland with kids: Ireland in each season

If you are planning a family trip to Ireland, you may have to arrange it around school holidays and if that is the case, you will be happy to hear that no matter when the school break falls, it can be a good time for visiting the Emerald Isle!

Ireland has a reasonably temperate climate, considering how far North it is, and while your experience of the place will be very different if you come in summer or winter, there is something fun to do in all seasons.

If you can choose, however, without a doubt some times are better than others to plan a trip to Ireland. In particular, it is useful to know the following.

The best time to visit Ireland is the spring / summer , and specifically the months between May and August.

At this time, Ireland his reasonably dry, you are likely to get nice sunny, bright days and the days are long, meaning you get a good amount of light for sightseeing well into the evening.

The summer is a great time to visit Ireland with kids who love sports and outdoor pursuits; hiking, zip-lining and adventure centers here abound!

Another fun time to visit Ireland with kids can be Christmas .

Christmas in Dublin, Galway and Cork, in particular, is lovely as they have some of the best Christmas markets in Ireland .

While undoubtedly a cold time, the cities dress up with Christmas decorations and it can be a fun time for shopping, meeting Santa, indoor play centers (there are many in the big cities) and hot chocolate!

Documents needed to enter Ireland with kids

The documents you need to enter Ireland depend on your country of origin.

Ireland is inside the EU but outside the Treaty of Schengen and this may affect your travels and require additional paperwork.

The best source of information for documents needed to enter Ireland is your nearest Irish embassy or consulate. You can find the complete list here (official sire of the Irish departments of Foreign affairs).

Good to know : if you are traveling to Ireland alone with a child with a surname different from yours, you may be asked to show their birth certificate stating you are their parent or an equivalent document that proves you are their legal guardian and are allowed to travel with them. I have been asked this document occasionally only but since it can happen, I believe it is important to know about it and be ready.

How to get around Ireland with kids: car, train or bus?

By far the easiest way to travel around Ireland with kids is by car.

Ireland has an ok network of buses and trains.

However, without your own vehicle, you are very much limited in your choice of accommodation.

In many cases, the most atmospheric and budget-friendly accommodation options in Ireland are a little away from the main centers and they can be hard to reach if you are relying on public transport and trains only.

If you can, a car in Ireland is your best friend!

You can find my tips for driving in Ireland here

If you prefer not to drive, another good alternative is taking day trips and day tours.

Ireland has a very good selection of days tours offered by several companies that allow you to visit many of Ireland’s main attractions without having to get behind the wheel.

In many cases, you can even choose a home base and simply take day trips from there: Dublin, Cork and Galway are all good options for this type of trip.

This is a quick selection of some of the most interesting offers.

Need to know: rules for the use of car seats in Ireland . The use of car seats in private cars is mandatory in Ireland for kids up to age 12. Make sure you book one when renting a car or bring your own! Taxis are exempt from this rule: if you only need to hop on a taxi on arrival, you may want to consider going without a seat. However, please be advised that the transfer from the airport to your hotel is likely to involve motorway driving.

Ireland sightseeing with kids: tackling Ireland’s main sites as a family

Ireland is very kid-friendly and many of the places you are likely to have on your Irland bucket list are easy to visit even with kids in tow.

Visiting Dublin with kids

Dublin is a very family-friendly city and I know its kid-friendly side very well, Dublin being our city!

If this is your first time visiting, I highly recommend you find a hotel in the city center and explore some of the city’s main sites as well as plan additional time just for the kids.

My tops things to see in Dublin with kids are Trinity College and the Book of Kells, Dublinia (interactive Viking Museum), Dublin castle and maybe surprisingly, the Guinness storehouse!

Kid specific attractions to seek out, in my opinion, are Stephen’s green park, the Dublin splash tour, the zoo and Imagnosity, Dublin’s children museum (outside of the center but great for a rainy day!)

Dublin has also many parks and playgrounds , perfect for a break from sightseeing.

Exploring Glendalough with children

Glendalough is a gorgeous monastic site only 40 Km from Dublin, in Country Wicklow.

It is a lovely place for sightseeing with kids as it has a lake and ample space to run around.

The best way to reach is by car. With kids, I suggest you skip the visitor center and simply walk towards the lakes and the monastic site.

The visit is free, the forest is lovely for a walk or a picnic (it is also stroller friendly if you have younger kids) and the Glendalough hotel has a decent, kid-friendly restaurant for food and facilities.

You can find mi tips for visiting Glendalough here.

The Cliffs of Moher

The Cliffs of Moher are one of the most famous attractions in Ireland and while they may not strike you as the most ki-friendly place (350 mt cliffs plunging into the ocean anyone?), they actually are a bit of a treat with kids.

The area is very well equipped for small visitors (they have a nice visitor center and cafe) and the cliffs are protected by tall slabs of rock that make them safe.

However, cautious here is needed: if you have over-enthusiastic kids, make sure they don’t run too far ahead and make sure they do not go on the parts of the path that are marked as unmanned!

While you ill see a string of adult visitors ignoring the warning signs, these paths are not safe and especially for kids, they can pose a real danger.

Good to know : not fr from the cliffs there are the Ailwee caves, a wonderful place for kids. Here, you can go on a guided tour of a real cave (easy, no experience necessary) and experience what total darkness is! It is slightly scary but also cool. You also have a falconry center in the same complex with really fun and educational flight displays of falcon and owls.

Driving the Ring of Kerry with children

The Ring of Kerry is a wonderful drive following the coast of the Kerry peninsula, in the West of Ireland and it is one of the most famous places and drives in the whole of Ireland.

It is indeed a lovely area and it can surely be visited with kids. However, it can also be hard to take.

The problem here is that the road is long and winding and while the scenery is stunning, you find yourself in the car a lot – this can be too much for many kids and frankly awful if they suffer from motion sickness.

If you want to visit Kerry with kids, I recommend you take a few days and break up the drive as many times as you need. Even better, you can explore the National Park with a home base in Killarney , which is lovely and family-friendly.

If you prefer not to tackle it at all but still see nice scenery, I would recommend considering Dingle or the Beara peninsula instead: they both have amazing scenery and require less time in the car.

Blarney Castle

Blarney Castle is one of the most famous attractions in Ireland and one of my favorite.

The castle itself is atmospheric, imposing and romantic, and towers above a stunning estate with gardens, forests and grottoes.

It is a fantastic place to spend a day outside with the kids and it is packed with stories and things to see: you will learn stories of the local witch and you will also have the chance to visit a poison garden. Super fun!

You can read our guide to visiting Blarney Castle with kids here .

Connemara is an area of great natural beauty and a very popular destination in Ireland not just for visitors but for local families.

It is an area many Irish people use as a base for the summer as it is remote, beautiful and not too awfully expensive.

Visitors usually want to see Kylemore Abbey and Clifden but families should also add a stop in a farm.

A stop in one of the local farms can be really fun for the kids and it can also be a way to tap into a slightly more local experience than what you get in main tourist sites.

You are also likely to meet many Irish families having a fun day out, which can be a fun way to make local friends and play for a few hours!

A fantastic place for families in Connemara is the Delphi centre and resort: this is a hotel and adventure center with lots of activities for kids and adults, in one of the most stunning locations in Ireland!

Newgrange is an incredible place for adults and kids and one I recommend visiting especially if you have school-age children who can appreciate the marvel of it.

A passage tomb dating back to the neolithic, Newgrange can only be visited by booking a guided tour.

I do not recommend it with little kids, who may find the dark and small space distressing, but it is a place school kids tend to love.

Good to know if you have toddlers with you: almost in front of it there is a nice farm open to visitors with animals and a nice cafe.

Please note: in 2020, visiting inside the tomb are suspended for health and safety reasons.

Kilkenny is a small city in the center of Ireland with a lot on offer for kids: a castle (with amazing playground ), a city train for tourists, lots of shops and restaurants and a plethora of outdoor certifies in the area such as kayaking!

We go to the city often, sometimes as a day trip from Dublin and sometimes for a weekend and the city never lets us down.

You can read why we love it and the best things to see in Kilkenny here .

Kids attractions in Ireland

As well as kid-friendly sightseeing, Ireland has many kid-centered attractions that I highly recommend you add to your Ireland itinerary.

Among the many, I recommend

Farms, castle and manor houses

Ireland has many castles, farms and manor houses now open to the public and often offering kids’ activities. Some we know and love are:

• Killruddery House and gardens (amazing play area and activities), Co Wicklow
• Russborough House (maze, falconry center, fairy walk, playground), Co Wicklow
• Avondale house (forest walk and playground), Co Wicklow
• Wells house (forest Gruffalo walk, archery, playground), Co Wexford
• Ardgillan castle (a fairy walk, playground), Co Kildare
• Malahide Castle (amazing playground), Co Kildare
• Birr Castle (playground, walk, an amazing science center and a historic, record-breaking telescope), Co Offaly
• Trim Castle (castle visit to feel king for a day), Co Meath
• Powerscourt House and Gardens (lovely manicured gardens with lots of space to run and Santa visits at Christmas), Co Wicklow

Parks and Adventure centers for kids

Over the last few years, adventure centers have pen up in several parts of the country and they can be real fun for kids.

Tayto Park is a theme park while the others are adventure centers with outdoor adventurous activities such as ziplining, treetop rope course and more.

Some we love are:

• Tayto Park , a kids favorite, super fun theme park (think rollercoasters etc)
• Castelcomer Discovery Park , Co Kilkenny
• Lough Key camping and adventure center , Co Roscommon
• Delphi Adventure Resort , Co Galway (great for a family weekend getaway too!)
• Kippure Adventure Center, Co Wicklow

Where to stay in Ireland with kids

Ireland has a vast choice of accommodation choices for families ranging from hotels to holiday rentals to guesthouses etc.

Hotels tend to be the most expensive option. They come in all shapes and sizes and often have good facilities for families including indoor pools, kids’ activities and restaurants onsite – very handy!

You can find here >>> our selection of the best family hotels in Ireland .

Guesthouses and B&Bs are smaller and have a more personal feel. They are usually in local homes and kids are welcome, although not all can accommodate 3 or 4 people in a room. My favorite website to book guesthouses and B&Bs is booking.com which allows choosing the best rooms for your party taking your kids’ age into account and also has good cancellation options. You can find deals and options here

Rentals can be a good option for longer stays

For all these bookings I usually trust booking.com which has always served us well and has amazing free cancellation policies on most properties. See all they have in Ireland here

Visiting an Irish pub with kids in tow

if you are in Ireland, chances are you may want to experience a real Irish pub and there is no need to skip on this just because you have kids.

While not all pubs are kid-friendly, many are: pick those that serve food and ask for a kids menu – many will surprise you with a good one!

Please note: In 2020, new rules have been introduced with timed slots for meals and pub visits. Make sure you make dinner plans in advance by ringing the pub or making a reservation online to secure a table.

What to pack for visiting Ireland with kids

You can find my packing lists for Ireland here, however, these are the main things I suggest you add if coming to Ireland with kids:

• Stroller for babies and toddlers. I recommend one with bigger wheels, so it can tackle country paths and longer walks. All terrain strollers are the best in Ireland as they seamlessly go from town to country.
• An extra change of clothes and shoes for rainy days
• Books about Ireland they can read as the go
• A small pair of binoculars for birds and wildlife

I hope you enjoyed this quick guide to visiting Ireland with kids and it helped you plan your Ireland family vacation. Safe travels!

Mama Loves Ireland

Céad míle fáilte! A thousand times welcome! I am a travel-loving Italian Mama lucky enough to call Ireland her home. Let my articles help you plan your trip to Ireland and get ready to fall in love with the Emerald Isle, just like I did. With love. M x

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Ireland and Scotland Family Tours & Vacation Packages

Let TourRadar take the hassle out of finding a trip for the whole family. With 28 tours of Ireland And Scotland lasting from 10 days up to 16 days, you're sure to find a great family-friendly adventure. Looking beyond Ireland And Scotland? See all family holidays .

28 Ireland And Scotland Family trips with 1,422 reviews

• In-depth Cultural
• Coach / Bus

Best of Ireland and Scotland (15 Days)

"This made our experience wonderful. He went above and beyond." Rene, traveled in September 2022

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Best of Ireland & Scotland (Classic, 14 Days)

"The great knowledge of all the history and culture made everyone feel so welcome." SANTOS, traveled in April 2024

• Sightseeing

Highlights of Ireland and Scotland (11 Days)

"The scenery was beautiful. The tour was interesting and great." Madeline, traveled in June 2023

Best of Ireland & Scotland (Small Groups, 14 Days)

"The quality of the travel, hotels and experiences were a complete delight to share with the whole group." Lucy, traveled in September 2023

England, Scotland and Ireland end Dublin

"All 3 countries were beautiful but not enough overnight time was spent in key cities. The trip was well worth it in part due to him." Laura, traveled in September 2023

Highlights of Ireland & Scotland

"The tour was quite good with some days with more free time than others. My only suggestion was luggage portage should be included." Catherine, traveled in April 2023

Scotland and Ireland with London

"The tour was informative and engaging. We had a great experience overall." Hui-Ming, traveled in September 2022

Celtic Highlights

"Great tour. For example, in Belfast would have loved to see the new Titanic exhibit." Janice, traveled in May 2018

Celtic Twist

Ireland & Scotland

Celtic Classic

Leisurely United Kingdom and Ireland ( 15 days )

Celtic Connections Self-Drive

"our hotels were excellent the cruise on the Nile was like a dream loved every minute of our tour" Carol, traveled in October 2019

Best of Ireland and Scotland 2024 (15 Days)

"Everything was great! The breakfasts were terrific. All of the local specialists were top notch." Wade, traveled in August 2019

Taste of Scotland & Ireland - 11 Days/10 Nights

"He shared so many stories. He was the best part of our tour." Deon, traveled in September 2022

Reviews of Ireland And Scotland Family Tours

Our guide Michelle was excellent. The city sightseeing tours on the bus were a waste of time. Our local tour guide in Edinburgh was awful. Why the laughing through most of her talking? Very irritating. The Fish & Chips dinner in the local dumpy restaurant was the worst meal of the trip. Otherwise just what we expected.

Greg and Arther did and excellent job above and beyond great knowledge of all the history and culture made everyone feel so welcome

The tour was interesting and great. The guides were good and explain the places well. The scenery was beautiful.

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Just because you’ve had kids, doesn’t mean your traveling days are over. We’ll take you to the best family vacation spots and beyond, with family-friendly stays and experiences that will spark the joy of travel, make real connections, and excite the whole family.

Adventure for all ages

Our family getaways feature experiences that keep everyone happy, from little ones to teenagers and adults. Visit the Harry Potter highlights like Platform 9¾, sail around the Greek Islands, become a medieval archer in Ireland or an archery pro in England, learn how to make (and eat!) pizza in Italy, or go ziplining on the slopes of a volcano in Costa Rica.

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Inspire your family’s sense of adventure and watch your children light up with wonder. The best family vacations are full of pinch-me moments, like staying in an ancient castle in Wales or a ranch in the Wild West of America. Learn about wildlife conservation in Costa Rica, experience life on a family farm in Ireland, or learn about Roman history by transforming into a gladiator!

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With all the logistics and must-do experiences covered, the only thing you need to worry about is having fun, together. Expect quality stays, luxury transport and plenty of meals included - and that means a whole lot of full tummies and happy faces. Our expert Travel Directors unlock the magic of travel at every turn, so you can focus on making memories and exploring the world together.

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You can skip the planning for these 7 affordable bucket list family travel adventures

A s enriching as family vacations can be, there's no question they're stressful to plan. And if you want to show your kids the world, planning family travel adventures to bucket-list destinations like Ireland, Alaska, or America's national parks can also be a bit daunting. The good news is there may be a better alternative to consider—letting someone else do all the planning on a guided tour.

I've participated in numerous guided group tours with my family, and they've been among the most hassle-tree times together we've ever had. Letting trip planners and seasoned guides take care of tedious details and time-consuming logistics removes many of the difficulties that come with traveling, especially with kids. 

While a trip to the destination of your dreams is never going to be a cheap family vacation , group travel tours can save you time, money, and a lot of stress. The end result? Family travel adventures that run smoothly and don't come with any costly surprises. Here are 15 value-packed guided tours for your family’s 2024 adventures. 

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HASSLE-FREE VACATIONS: 11 best guided tour companies for family tours

1. Iceland with National Geographic Family Journeys

G Adventures

Renowned small group travel tour company G Adventures has teamed up with National Geographic to create escorted family travel itineraries that take full advantage of NatGeo’s expertise in wildlife, storytelling, and photography. The company’s eight-day Iceland Family Journey delves into the subarctic island nation’s unique geological features in an experiential way, including hiking on the edge of a volcanic crater and riding Icelandic horses near a waterfall. 

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The tour company's trip leaders are trained to engage young guests ages seven to 17, and the participant limit is capped at 20. These guided family travel adventures start at $4,999 per adult (there’s a $200 discount for kids ages seven to 12) for 2024 and they include transportation within Iceland, accommodations, daily breakfast, three lunches, and one dinner. 

2. Highlights of Ireland

Brendan Vacations

The wild Atlantic Ocean, misty cliffs, and impossibly green countryside are a few of the reasons why the Emerald Island's mystical beauty has inspired poets for centuries. From Dublin's cosmopolitan charm to hanging by your heels to kiss the Blarney Stone in Cork, Brendan Vacations are experts when it comes to Celtic travel, and its Shamrocks and Leprechauns tour is a favorite with families.

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Highlights include going behind the scenes where Game of Thrones was filmed and marveling at the spectacular Cliffs of Moher. Interactive experiences, such as tea with a family on their sheep farm and dressing up like medieval archers as you learn to aim a bow and arrow, make a lasting impression. 

There’s a maximum of 45 participants aged five and older on this 10-day trip in 2024. Prices start at $3,083 and children ages five to 17 receive a 10 percent discount. Transportation within Ireland, accommodations, and 15 meals are included. A travel director accompanies you throughout, with local specialists enriching the journey. 

3. Canadian Rockies from Banff to Jasper 

Backroads’ guided family travel adventures are a hit with active travelers who crave communion with nature. On Backroads’ Banff to Jasper Multi-Adventure Family Tour , you’ll join a small group of families as you bike, hike, and paddle your way across the magnificent Canadian Rockies. Float down the Athabasca River, soak in sweeping vistas at Icefields Parkway, and walk on a glacier. 

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This trip has a maximum of 26 guests and is recommended for ages nine and older. Trip leaders receive specialized training to ensure that they’re well-equipped to engage youngsters. The six-day trip costs $3,999 per person in 2024. Kids 17 and under receive a 10 percent discount when staying in a single or double occupancy room; the child discount is increased to 20 percent if there are three or more people staying in the same room. Lodging, activities, daily breakfast, six lunches, four dinners, and snacks are included. 

4. Grand Alaskan Adventure

If your family loves the Great Outdoors, Alaska is the vacation of a lifetime. Cosmos offers guided group tours to "America’s Last Frontier" that present value without skimping on quality. The Grand Alaskan Adventure is an appealing choice with a balanced blend of group activities and free time.

SEE THE WORLD: 11 guided tour companies that offer trips around the world  

Starting and finishing in Anchorage, you'll cross Prince William Sound and glimpse otters, seals, and whales. A ride on the Alaska Railroad will delight fans of train travel, while two days spent in Denali National Park’s wilderness is an immersion in majestic beauty. Keep your eyes open for bears, moose, and caribou as you travel the Denali Highway across Alaska’s lightly treaded interior.

In 2024, this seven-day guided family travel adventure starts at $2,139 and includes some meals, accommodations, and activities. Children as young as five are welcome, and those ages five to 17 receive a 10 percent discount. The average number of participants is 36.

5. Taste of Portugal

Globus 

With alluring beaches, ancient villages, and sophisticated cities, it’s no wonder Portugal is trending in 2024. The Taste of Portugal with Madeira guided group itinerary from Globus visits cosmopolitan Lisbon, Porto’s cobbled streets, and the semi-tropical island of Madeira, with its natural rock-pools and unique wicker basket toboggan ride. 

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This 11-day escorted trip starts at $3,309 including hotels, nine breakfast, and three dinners. Kids as young as five may participate and those between ages five and 17 receive a 10 percent discount. The average group size is 36 guests. 

6. New Zealand Family Travel Adventure

Austin Adventures

Headquartered in New Zealand, guided tour company Austin Adventures is an expert when it comes to showcasing this country’s natural assets. Energetic families who want an intimate group experience will be pleased with the New Zealand Family Vacation itinerary. Starting and finishing in Christchurch, you'll visit a wildlife preserve with resident koalas, wallabies, kiwi, and ancient tuatara (a rare reptile); hike to glacial lakes; and kayak and float down a rose-lined gorge. 

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Children six and older are welcome on this 13-day trip, which costs $5,499 per adult and $4,999 per child 12 years and under. Lodging, activities, and almost all meals are part of the deal. The maximum group size is 14 people plus two guides. 

7. The Greek Islands of Mykonos, Santorini, and Crete

EF Go Ahead Tours 

Get acquainted with a trifecta of Greek islands on The Greek Islands: Mykonos, Santorini, and Crete from EF Go Ahead Tours . Absorb ancient Hellenic heritage in Athens before arriving in lively Mykonos for a dip in its crystal-clear water. Cruise to Santorini, where volcanic black sand beaches are juxtaposed with bright white and sea blue houses. Then it's on to Crete with its trail of historic treasures, from palaces to archaeological ruins. 

TROPICAL BLISS: 7 best tropical vacation spots for families  

This 14-day family travel adventure has a maximum of 30 participants and starts at $4,019 in 2024. It includes hotels, daily breakfast, five dinners, a dedicated tour director, and local guides along the way. Children age six and older are welcome, though they don't receive a discount.

Affordable bucket list family travel adventures where someone else does all the planning originally appeared on FamilyVacationist.com .

More from FamilyVacationist:

• 6 best Hawaii all-inclusive resorts for families
• 8 best Bahamas all-inclusive resorts for families
• 6 best-value all-inclusive resorts for families

FamilyVacationist.com and TourScoop.com are owned and operated by Vacationist Media LLC. Using the FamilyVacationist travel recommendation methodology , we review and select family vacation ideas , family vacation spots , all-inclusive family resorts , and classic family vacations for all ages. TourScoop covers guided group tours and tour operators , tour operator reviews , tour itinerary reviews and travel gear recommendations . The views and opinions expressed in this column are the author’s and do not necessarily reflect those of USA TODAY.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: You can skip the planning for these 7 affordable bucket list family travel adventures

Fifty great things to do with your family this summer

From petting zoos to natural history museums, here are the best options to keep kids busy over the summer.

Brooke Renwick and Lily Macauley, aged 8, at Jurassic Newpark, Kilkenny. Photograph: Dylan Vaughan

School’s almost out for summer for the primary school kids, while the long summer holidays have already begun for our teens. Trying to keep them occupied over the next couple of months is the challenge that awaits us. But fear not, because we’re back with our list of 50 great things to do with your family this summer, with something for all the ages – and all the weathers.

Explorium, National Sport and Science Centre, Sandyford

Have you ever seen lightning dance? Well, that’s just one of the treats in store at the Explorium in Sandyford, where science has never been so much fun. Spoiler alert – dancing lightning is absolutely a-may-zing to witness. You don’t need to be a science buff to begin with, but there’s a good chance you will be by the time you leave.

Explorium is one of those unique places that the entire family can enjoy, irrespective of the age spread. For younger children, there are spaces to test their imagination, dress up, bring drawings to life and engage in sensory play in the unique ways. There’s a big slide that you can whizz down on large inflatable rings – what more could a child ask for?

For older children and adults, the science area offers the opportunity to lie on a bed of nails, see how much power you can generate by getting on the hamster wheel, test your sporting reactions, speed and strength and have an anti – gravity experience (which is every bit as cool as it sounds). While the climate area evaluates your carbon footprint with games that will help you find ways to reduce it. And if that’s not enough there are climbing walls and VR and AR areas too.

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Claire Byrne and Mary Lou McDonald come unexpectedly close to a shouting match

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Ticket prices vary depending on experience, and details can be found at Explorium.ie

Emerald Park, Meath

Emerald Park. Photograph: Mark Stedman

With a brand new land, Tir na N’Óg, that contains two new intertwining rollercoasters, Na Fianna Force and The Quest, Emerald Park is the perfect outing for those with children of all ages, right up to adulthood. And there’s plenty to keep everyone occupied for the whole day.

There’s a junior zone with an array of rides for younger children (and us less brave adults), including a driving school, traditional carousel, spinning honeypots, a crazy bus and lots more. And a whole other section with terrifying and dizzying rides for those who are not so faint of heart.

Experience it yourself, or supervise from the safety of terra firma, as your children scream with delight from the Cú Chulainn rollercoaster and its ilk, showing no fear whatsoever. And let’s not forget the zoo and the 5D cinema. You can bring a picnic or buy food on site. Plenty of options available.

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One personal tip is to leave the Viking Splash ride until towards the end, because traipsing around the park in wet clothes for the rest of the day is less craic than you might think.

Under 3s go free and there is free entry for accompanying carers of guests with additional needs. Other ticket prices vary from €25-€52, and can be booked at emeraldpark.ie

Zombie Apocalypse at Zero Latency, Swords and Sandyford

Zero Latency, Swords

Let she who has never imagined herself partaking in a zombie apocalypse cast the first stone – or fire the first shot. In the virtual reality sense, of course.

It’s hard to anticipate until you’re there and zombies are coming at you from every direction, just how much fun the virtual reality experience can be. Though you’re wandering around on level ground in the safety of an arena, the experience will convince you that you’re going up and down in elevators, are delicately poised on a building’s external air shafts, and even hanging on for dear life in open helicopters, all the while watching out for zombies who can appear out of nowhere and cause you to scream in fright and fun.

Suitable for age 8 right up to adult, it’s a group activity that all the family (within that age range) can enjoy together. And if zombies aren’t your thing there are lots of other VR experiences to try.

Prices vary depending on experiences chosen and details can be found at zerolatencyvr.ie

Clara Lara Funpark, Wicklow

Rowing boats, go karts, amphicats, water slides, climbing frames and nets, crazy golf, and Tarzan ropes over giant puddles that are only going to end one way, are just some of the fun activities that families can enjoy at Clara Lara outdoor fun park.

There are plenty of areas for picnics and lots of picnic tables across the entire fun park, and if you’re a fan of barbecues, then bring along a disposable one, because there are barbecue stalls scattered plentifully around the park too.

The one thing that you can almost certainly count on, is that your children will be soaking, and likely extremely mucky too at the end of a day spent having fabulous, outdoor fun. So, bring towels and a change of clothes (or two). And make sure children wear their oldest, oldest shoes.

Scattered around the fun park are wooden huts that children can get changed in as needed.

Children under the age of 2 go free, while other prices vary depending on age. For more details and to book see claralara.ie

Limerick Greenway

Sisters Emma Noreen (5) and Sarah Ruttle (10) at Barnagh on the Limerick Greenway. Photograph: Seán Curtin/True Media

Riding a bike is just like erm.. riding a bike and it appears there is truth in the cliche – you never forget. So, if you’re looking for an activity that will get all the family active, why not take to the greenway and cycle to your heart’s content, free from the worry of oncoming traffic or unsteady-on-their-wheels younger children.

There are several bike hire providers along Limerick greenway for all your pedal bike, electric bike and bike trailer needs. And the Barnagh Greenway hub is a joy to stop off at for refreshments and a break. Just remember the padding, if it’s been a while since you were on a bike. Your bum will thank you for it.

More details are available at limerick.ie/greenway

Jumpzone Liffey Valley, Santry and Sandyford

Jennifer Zamparelli pictured with children Harry Yaxley, Emma Quinn and Izzy Quinn in JumpZone. Photograph: Brian McEvoy

Tire out your children at one of Jumpzone’s trampoline sports parks where they can bounce to their hearts’ content from trampoline to trampoline. Play dodge ball, take a swing on the trapeze, test out the assault course, take on the battle beam – Gladiator style, or get to the top of some warped walls.

One of the joys of Jumpzone is that it’s not a weather dependent activity, meaning your kids can get active indoors. Plus it’s open to everyone over the age of five – dads and mums included. Pelvic floors notwithstanding. Jumpzone also runs sensory sessions each month, during which loud music is turned down and whistles are not used by court monitors.

Prices range from €13.95-€19.95. More details at jumpzone.ie

Jurassic Newpark, Kilkenny

Lily Macauley (8) from Kilkenny pictured having a Roarrsome time at Jurassic Newpark. Photograph: Dylan Vaughan

With 12 life-size, (enormous) moving, dinosaurs, Jurassic Newpark will capture the attention of any dinosaur-loving children you may have or know. This is an experience that’s best for younger children (under 12s), and along with dinosaurs there’s a playground, go kart track and a fairy trail to explore.

There are also animals such as sheep, cows, alpacas and emus to meet as you walk through the park. And if you keep your eyes peeled you might even see the lesser spotted tractor-saurus.

Prices range from €6.50 to €15. More details are available at jurassicnewpark.com

Fort Lucan, Lucan

A giant wooden pirate ship, wooden climbing frames and nets, slides, go carts, swings and a giant helter skelter are just some of the activities children can look forward to at Fort Lucan. An experience aimed at children under 12, it has the feel of a traditional wooden, playground wonderland and there’s plenty of space to picnic too if the weather obliges.

But that’s not all Fort Lucan has to offer. Two water slides which drench and delight add to the fun of the whole experience.

Tickets must be booked in advance online, and prices vary. For details and to book see fortlucan.com

National Stud and Gardens, Kildare

A mare and foal at the Irish National Stud and Gardens, in Tully, Co Kildare

Who doesn’t love beautiful horses? At the national stud, children and adults can get up close to some beautiful horses, stroll the stunning grounds, and if you’re lucky (as we were) it may even be possible to see a newly born foal and feed the older horses.

Learn about the history of the stud, the birds and bees (horsey style), and try out the racehorse experience – complete with mechanical horses, and visit the kid zone which includes swings, slides, climbing frames and a fairy trail. Plus there’s a lovely coffee shop and restaurant on site if you get peckish while you’re there.

For more information and to book see irishnationalstud.ie

Archaeology Museum, Kildare Street, Dublin

If you have any budding archaeologists in your family then the National Archaeology will likely be an attraction for them. Discover all about Ireland’s gold and the Derrynaflan chalice and if the kids have learned about Vikings in school, there’s a whole exhibition on Viking Ireland that will mean a lot more to them now. And it’s free.

Take a ferry to the Aran Islands, Galway

A trip on a boat is always a source of excitement for children, and an added bonus when you take the ferry with Aran Islands ferries from Galway to Inis Mór is that you get to take in stunning views of the Cliffs of Moher from the sea, on the return journey.

On the island, there’s the beach to enjoy, if the weather co-operates, or you can hire bikes to get around more efficiently and take in island life. This is, however, Ireland, so take the rain gear as well as the sun cream with you!

More details and booking at aranislandferries.com

EPIC – The Irish Emmigration Museum, Dublin

EPIC – The Irish Emmigration Museum, Dublin. Photograph: Leon Farrell

A visit to the EPIC museum is different from your typical museum. For one it’s extremely interactive, which helps to keep the kids and adults entertained and engaged the whole way around.

Learn about Ireland’s history of emigration, explore what it means to be Irish, and see the routes Irish people took to begin a new life. You can even experience, through the interactive and immersive nature of the museum, what those journeys were like.

It’s a museum experience that hits home a little bit differently when you or people you’ve loved have experienced emigration.

Prices vary. For more details and to book see epicchq.com

Kia Ora Mini Farm, Gorey, Wexford

Kia Ora Mini Farm is a great experience for families with younger children. With Emus, pot bellied pigs, llamas and alpacas among other animals on the farm, there are lots of creatures for children to get up close to.

And in addition to the animals, there’s go karts, crazy football, diggers, a maze, fire truck and lots of other activities for children to do there. There’s a coffee shop on site, but there’s plenty of space to picnic if that’s your preference.

Tickets are €10 and are available at kiaoraminifarm

Castlecomer Discovery Park, Kilkenny

Katie Brooke (7) from California visiting family in Castlecomer Discovery Park. Photograph: Dylan Vaughan

A day trip for those who love an active outing. Whether it’s scaling treetops, archery, zip lines, axe throwing, sky walking, bouncing nets, or fairy villages, there’s something here for all the ages.

Activities are booked to fit certain time slots, so allow time to get from one activity to the next. Certain activities have age restrictions. But there’s a junior zone where younger children can get moving too. Bring all your energy and your head for heights if the skywalk or zip line tickles your fancy. And because it’s an outdoor activity, with lots of climbing and clambering, remember to dress appropriately. Bring something to tie up your hair too if it’s long, so it doesn’t get caught, if you’re planning to try out activities such as the zip line.

Prices vary depending on activities chosen. For more details and to book, see discoverypark.ie

Dublin Bay Cruises

Fancy seeing Dublin from a sea perspective? Dublin Bay cruises offers that opportunity with an activity that all the family can enjoy, big and small. Take a trip around Dún Laoghaire, Dublin city or the Howth peninsula in the comfort of one of their boats and see the capital through different eyes.

If the weather obliges it’s an even nicer trip, though of course it’s always windier at sea, so bring the sun cream and an extra layer of clothing in case. And there’s the option to sit below deck and have a drink and some treats from the on-board bar too.

Ticket prices vary depending on the trip chosen and you can book at dublinbaycruises.com .

Kildare Farm Foods

Pet farms are always a favourite with the kids, especially the younger ones and at Kildare farm, not only can the kids get up close to the animals, they can even feed them too with special animal feed sold by the farm for €1. The farm itself is free to visit.

On site there’s also indoor crazy golf and a teddy bear factory at additional costs. There’s a sensory playground also and the farm is accessible. And if the parents fancy doing a little farm shopping, that’s an option too.

For more information and to book see kildarefarmfoods.com

Blarney Castle and Gardens

Blarney Castle, Co Cork. Photograph: iStock

Kiss the Blarney stone for the gift of the gab they said. What they didn’t say is how many stairs you’d have to climb to get to it. Or the brave lean back required to reach it. Still it’s absolutely worth it for the wonderful view – and to never be stuck for words. The climb will likely suit older children better, due to the narrow, winding and many stairs. The Blarney stone and castle however, are not all that there is to see here.

The gardens are magnificent, and the poison garden a personal hit with my own kids. The murderous potential was endless!

For more details and to book, see blarneycastle.ie

Always a hit with all the family and it’s not weather dependent either, so win-win.

Watch out for family-friendly specials such as kids club morning screenings which are often less expensive. The Odeon cinemas are running Bargain Wednesdays.

Plus, some movie theatres including the Odeon cinemas and Movies At cinemas at various locations around the country, offer autism-friendly screenings making for a more inclusive experience for all the family.

Aquazone Waterpark at The National Acquatic Centre, Dublin 15

A hit with kids of all ages and their parents too. Pirate play area, slides, leisure pool and wave machines all contribute to the brilliant fun that’s had in the water. There are eight different rides and slides available, including the green giant and the dark hole. And a ‘lazy river’ drifts off the main pool.

There are restrictions on adult to child ratio depending on the age of the child, so be sure to check that you have adequate adult numbers before heading off.

Individual ticket prices start at €8.50 but there are family prices too. For more details and to book, see aquazone.ie

The Dead Zoo – Merrion Street, Dublin 2

Tobias Uepping with his son Jakob Uepping (5) from Muenster, Germany, at The Dead Zoo. Photogrpah: Gareth Chaney/Collins

Who’d have thought dead animals could fascinate children so much and yet The Dead Zoo is one museum that children love to go back to again and again. Foxes, whales, hares, fish, badgers, birds and lots more are on display for children to stare at and read about. And they never get bored with it.

And best of all, it’s free!

Cork City Gaol

At Cork City Gaol you can see what life was like in a 19th century prison. You can step inside the cells and wander the corridors and visit the governor’s office. Tour guides are available to take you through the experience, or you can use an audio tour guide, which is also a great option.

It’s an activity that because of its historical nature will likely appeal to slightly older children more, but rest assured all-aged children will enjoy the opportunity it offers to place their parents in the stocks!

A really interesting place to visit.

Self-guided tours start from €7 per person. Guided tours start from €9 per person. You can book at corkcitygaol.com

Museum of Decorative Arts & History, Collins Barracks, Dublin 7

The Museum of Decorative Arts & History has something for everyone. With several floors to explore there’s plenty to keep the attention of younger and older children, with military artefacts, historical clothing and jewellery, pottery, silverware, yachts and even furniture and kitchenware all on display.

With so much to see, you’re likely to spend more time here – and again because it’s part of the National Museums of Ireland, it’s free.

Brigit’s Garden, Roscahill, Co Galway

Brigit’s Garden in Roscahill on the road from Galway city to Connemara is gorgeously picturesque with the Celtic gardens promising to take you on a magical journey into the heart of Ireland’s heritage and mythology. It is set in 11 acres of native woodland and wild flower meadows, and visitors can take in the sun trail, an ancient fairy fort, a thatched roundhouse and a crannóg as well as the largest sundial in Ireland.

Entry for adults is €10, while children’s tickets are priced at €7.

For more information, including details of upcoming walks, and to book tickets see brigitsgarden.ie

Airfield Estate, Dundrum, Dublin 14

Airfield Estate, Dundrum, Dublin 14. Photograph: Nick Bradshaw

The 15-hectare Airfield Estate is a working city farm that will keep kids and adults occupied for a decent chunk of a day. There are animals, gardens, woodlands and some excellent food to eat in and take away. As a working farm, children can see some farm practices in play such as egg collecting and cows being milked. And there are plenty of events being organised throughout the summer such as family bat walks and teddy bears picnics. And there’s an indoor play zone too.

Under 3s go free. For details for family passes and other discounts see airfield.ie

Country Life Museum, Castlebar, Co Mayo

Learn all about bees, the natural environment, cycling the country, and Polish folk art with a visit to the Country Life Museum. Children can learn about the sort of clothes children wore in the 1800s and even dress up in them. Try out games from yesteryear and there’s a wooden playground on the grounds of the museum.

And if you want to make a trip to the museum a more active one, you can combine your visit with a cycle on the museum greenway too.

As a National Museum of Ireland, the visit is free.

Squirrel’s Scramble Tree Adventure Park, Kilruddery

If a family climb sounds like your thing, then a trip to Squirrel’s Scramble, in Kilruddery, Co Wicklow should be on your radar. Test your climbing and balance abilities with rope bridges, tree walks, and zip lines as you make your way through the forest, and burn off some of the pent up summer holidays energy.

It’s an activity that’s suitable for children aged five up, though under sevens must be accompanied by an adult.

Prices start from €20 but vary depending on when and how many are part of a booking. For more details see squirrelsscramble.ie

Family-friendly festivals

Art, history, games, culture, family fun, and music are to be brought to the shore in Dún Laoghaire from June 29th to July 7th. With balloons, music and dance in the park, stunt kites, outdoor movies on the green, kite flying competitions and the opportunity for children to make their own kites at the make and do area, Coastival promises something for all ages. And for smaller children (those aged 2-5), Ollie the Octopus’ picnic party, which is an interactive creative play experience, will take place in the DLR Lexicon. For more information visit dlrcoco.ie/dlr-events/event/coastival-celebrate-dun-laoghaire

Cork Carnival of Science

Cork Carnival of Science is back at Fitzgerald Park this June. Photograph: Clare Keogh

The Cork Carnival of Science takes place today and tomorrow. In the real capital there will be a host of science shows featuring family-friendly experiments, games, interactive fun and a whole lot more besides.

For more information visit corkcity.ie

Cruinniú na nÓg

Taking place on June 15th, “a day of free creativity for young people” is the promise of this countrywide festival with all sorts of craic happening, from an Aerial Cirque and more grounded circus workshops in Dublin to comic and graphic novel workshops in Galway to Lego stop motion in Limerick. This must be one of the most diverse and all-encompassing festivals for young folk the country has ever seen. You will struggle not to find something to keep you entertained.

For more information visit cruinniu.creativeireland.gov.ie

Taking place from June 27th-30th, this three-day event in Kells, Co Meath is not a child-specific festival by any stretch of the imagination with writers including Anne Enright, BBC investigative journalist Peter Taylor featuring alongside events focused on Leonard Cohen; fascism and the Far Right in Ireland from the 1920s to the present day; and others, but there are also child-friendly events, including one which asks where all the animals in Ireland live and then answers that question. There’s also a Where’s Wally event which, we presume, is for kids but of course, will challenge anyone to find the goofy-looking eejit.

More details are available at hinterland.ie

Night & Day

Taking place from June 28th-30th, the Night & Day festival at Lough Key Forest Park will go toe-to-toe with Taylor Swift’s arrival in Ireland (good luck with that!), offering a family-friendly music festival featuring the apples of our eye Bell X1, our perfect cousins in the Undertones and after all that (sorry, we’ll stop now) the lovely Frank and Walters. Alongside the music is a family zone with dancing, baby bopping, pottery painting and more.

For more information see nightandday.ie

Kaleidoscope

Another Irish festival offering an alternative to the Swift juggernaut, Kaleidoscope festival, taking place from June 28th to June 30th, is always super chilled out and a fun way to introduce your smallies to the joys of music in a field before what might be many years of them heading off to the Electric Picnic, Longitude and whatever festivals will be there in a decade. This year The Kooks, Lyra, The Waterboys , Block Rockin Beats and King Kong Company headline the three-day family festival.

For more details and to book tickets see kaleidoscopefestival.ie

[  62 Irish festivals to head for this summer, from music and comedy to literature and science  ]

Spraoi International Street Arts Festival

The Spraoi International Street Arts Festival takes place from August 2nd-4th. Waterford will be alive with artists and musicians for a bank holiday bonanza which will climax with a large parade through the streets of the city, which is set to be watched by more than 20,000 people.

For more information on the festival, check out spraoi.com

Some other favourite things to...

Escape rooms.

A 13-year age gap between the youngest and oldest child has meant family activities have always been a struggle – everything is too childish or too difficult or too boring for someone. Years ago, while on a family holiday, we tried an Escape Room – which involves around 2-6 people finding clues and solving puzzles. It usually has a time-limit of one hour, and often involves several rooms, with tasks completed to move to the next stage. The first time, we got about halfway through when we ran out of time. It didn’t matter. The annoyance at not winning the game was overshadowed by how engaged every family member was and our determination to try again. Since then, Escape Rooms have become an integral part of the family holiday – most recently Breakin’ Escape Rooms in London. The ones in Ireland attempted (with some successfully completed!) include We Escape in Cork, Forbidden Quest in Belfast, and Incognito in Dublin. – Damian Cullen, Health and Family Editor

K Bowl in Naas is great for bowling. It’s a real novelty for the kids and it involves exercising their wee muscles and gross motor skills as well as their numerical skills (knocking over skittles). There are bumpers for kids so essentially, they can’t miss. An added bonus if a grandparent comes along. We found out my dark-horse mother-in-law was a bit of a shark. Apparently she’d honed her craft years ago in Stillorgan! – Aideen Finnegan, Audio Producer

Bird watching

Birdwatch Ireland has a list of nature reserves across the country. Photograph: iStock

During the height of the pandemic, the world shrank to the house and garden. Feeding the birds suddenly passed for high-grade entertainment. Soon, my two boys were avid bird-watching experts.

So, when travel restrictions eased, the Kilkoole Reserve in Co Wicklow became our favoured haunt. The marshy pools attract Teal, while the eagle-eyed will spot Reed Buntings perching on tall stems. Listen out for the rat-a-tat-tat of woodpeckers and along the shingle beach in summer keep an eye out for little terns, who gather by the shoreline.

Birdwatch Ireland has a list of nature reserves here, including Wexford Wildfowl Reserve; Cuskinny Marsh, Co Cork; Rogerstown Nature Reserve, Co Dublin; Bishop’s Island, Co Galway; and many more. For more information, check out: birdwatchireland.ie/our-work/nature-reserves . – Carl O’Brien, Education Editor

Bricktionary

Who doesn’t love a bit of Lego? Bricktionary in Dublin’s The Theatre of Light is an A to Z showcase of creations, from the Muppets’ Animal and a giant Nasa space shuttle to giant robots and a zebra. It’s the work of Ryan “The Brickman” McNaught, a certified Lego professional and master builder. But in true Lego fashion, it’s also about getting involved, with several interactive build zones that include an earthquake challenge, robot building and a mosaic that kids big and small can help shape. And the best thing is the Lego is left behind for someone else to stand on. – Ciara O’Brien, Business and Technology Journalist

Cheap, free, and easy activities

Home baking.

And when I say baking, I should add that I include making Rice Krispie buns in that. But kids love to cook and bake (even when those skills have completely bypassed their parents) So put them into action with some simple recipes and embrace the mess, and voila – the evening’s dessert is sorted!

A board game and movie marathon

Michael J Fox in Back To The Future, 1985. Photograph: Universal/Getty Images

Dust down the board games and get them (and you) off those screens for a little while, with some traditional family fun that all the family can enjoy. Divide into teams if needed and get those strategic hats on. Some personal favourites here are 30 seconds, Twister, Monopoly and chess! Then set up a home cinema with the movies of your youth – and there were some crackers, as we well know, in the 1980s and 1990s. Back to the Future, The Goonies, Planes, Trains and Automobiles, Babe, Labyrinth, Never Ending Story, Mrs Doubtfire, Drop Dead Fred – the possibilities are endless.

Draw the curtains, put on some microwave popcorn and Buck’s your Uncle.

Make your own comics or newspaper

Get the kids to put those artistic, imaginative and writing skills to use by designing their own comics or newspapers. Interview siblings and relatives, tell tales of adventure and day trips. And for those not able to write yet, well, they can draw the pictures to be used as accompanying photos.

A teddy bears picnic

Or lunch, or snack, or dinner by any other name. With a teddy bear. To be held wherever needed – in a back garden or green area nearby if the sun is shining. Or on a blanket on the floor of your sittingroom if the rain has appeared. It’s sometimes just about mixing things up and adding a bear. And maybe a song, for good measure.

Go to the library

Workshops, story times and puppet shows are just some examples of the events held at libraries. Photograph: iStock

A visit to your local library can often offer more than you might imagine. Workshops, story times and puppet shows can all be on their list of events. And then there’s the joy of reading that most parents would like to encourage if they can. Choosing their own book can help a lot with that.

Search up ‘how to draw’ videos

T’internet is not all bad and googling ‘how to draw’ videos can keep the children occupied for ages as they follow step by step videos showing how to draw and object or character of their choice. Pencils, crayons and paper at the ready.

Make an indoor tent or fort

Cushions, blankets, chairs, throws, whatever you have and get creative. Build a second one too if need be and the kids can visit each other and play games.

Teach them some old-fashioned outdoor games

If it is an option, it is worth encouraging kids to play outdoors. Photograph: iStock

Of course, in the olden days, our parents weren’t organising things for us to do constantly because we played outside lots. And if that’s an option, it’s worth encouraging. The hours of fun brought to us by rounders, Kerbs, Red Rover, skipping and the likes can be theirs too if we show them the ways of Gen X and millennials.

Make a home movie

Put the digital devices we spend so much time complaining about to good use, by suggesting the kids make a movie. Bring toys to life or dig deep into the dress up box for a constant flow of costumes changes. Between getting creative, recording and some editing, it should keep them occupied for a while.

Have a scavenger hunt

Indoor or outdoors depending on the weather. Draw up a list of random things for the children to find and set an amount of time for them to complete it. Sure you never know, something you’d considered lost forever might even turn up while they’re on the hunt.

Set up an obstacle course

Or better still get them to help you create one. Again it can be indoors or outdoors depending on space and weather. Encourage them to try to set new personal bests, which should kill a bit of time at least.

Do a sportsathalon

Gather your footballs, tennis rackets, scooters, skipping ropes, whatever takes your fancy, and write out a plan assigning 5, 10, 15 minutes per activity as suits and go from one directly to the other, in pursuit of Ironman/Ironwoman accolades, kinda.

At the very least, you’ll tire them out.

Read more ...

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Local elections: Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael look set to lose council seats but Green vote defying odds in early going

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Investigation into Co Donegal fish kill after 300 trout and eels found dead in river

Apollo 8 astronaut William Anders, who took Earthrise photo, dies in plane crash

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Reserve your preferred departure date and we will advise you once the 2025 trip is finalized and priced. You will then have two weeks to cancel; should you cancel, you'll receive a full refund of your trip deposit and the cost of the Travel Protection Product (if purchased). If you are making your own air arrangements, do not book your flights until this trip is finalized as start and end cities may change. We look forward to traveling with you!

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Travel Documents

If you are a U.S. citizen traveling internationally, you will need a passport valid for six months beyond the completion of your Tauck journey for entry into Ireland; however, you do not need a visa for the short duration of this tour.

If you are a citizen of another country traveling internationally, you should contact an embassy or consulate of Ireland to determine what travel documentation is required.

Please note that longer stays abroad for any purpose may require additional travel documentation. 

We recommend that you make at least two photocopies of all the travel documents that you bring with you. Include copies of the photo page of your passport that contains the date of issuance, the date of expiration and your citizenship. Secure one set of copies in the safe in your room while traveling and leave one set behind with someone at home who will assist you in the event your documents are misplaced, lost or stolen.

To facilitate Travel Requirements, destinations are increasingly utilizing online forms that require digital proof that you've successfully completed your submission (via an email, QR code, etc.) To ensure smooth travels and peace of mind, we strongly recommend all guests carry a personal smart phone and sign up for international data plans before traveling overseas.

Note: For activities marked with an asterisk (*) in day-by-day descriptions, participation is at your own risk; a signed liability waiver will be required.

TRAVELING WITH CHILDREN AS A GUARDIAN:  If you are traveling as the guardian of a child/children, we strongly suggest that you carry a letter from both parents of the child authorizing emergency treatment in the event of illness or accident. For travel abroad, many foreign countries have specific entry requirements for children under 21 who are traveling internationally without BOTH parents. (These requirements are in response to the increased incidence of children being abducted and taken abroad.) PLEASE NOTE THAT TAUCK IS NOT RESPONSIBLE for the disruption of travel caused by improper documentation for children traveling without both parents.

How to Book a Tour

See your travel advisor, or call Tauck at 800-468-2825 to make a reservation.

At the time of booking, please have the following information ready for all members of your party:

• Tour Name and Departure Date
• Traveler's Name: First and last names as they appear on your passport or driver's license
• Traveler's Address(es)
• Email Address*
• Traveler's Phone Number(s)*
• Emergency Contact Information: Please provide the name and phone number  of a relative or friend (not travelling with you) whom we could contact during the tour in the unlikely event of an emergency
• Interest in purchasing a travel protection plan (US and Canada)
• Interest in extending your trip by staying in a Tauck recommended hotel before your trip begins or after it ends
• Interest in our specially negotiated airfares

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Deposits & Final Payment

Deposits and fees for the optional Protection Plan or Cancel Fee Waiver [CFW] coverage are due at time of booking.

The deposit amount is $600 per person

Final Payments:

Final Payment is due to Tauck  60  days before departure for lands trips, and  120  days before departure for cruises and rail journeys. If your deposit was made by credit card, final payment will be automatic unless you opted out at time of booking. Bookings without full payment at this time may be subject to cancellation without notice. Failure to make payment will be a considered a cancellation by the guest and all applicable cancellation fees will apply.

Travel Protection Plan

Effective for plans purchased as of July 1, 2021:

Tauck's Guest Protection

Tauck's Guest Protection provides you with cancellation protection before your journey begins as well as insurance benefits while you are traveling. Guest Protection includes the following:

Cancellation Waiver – Provided by Tauck:

Under Tauck's Cancellation Fee Waiver you can cancel your tour for ANY REASON up to the day before departure and receive a money-back refund (except in Extreme Circumstances*) on the land tour cost, based on your original method of payment.

*Extreme Circumstances:  In the event of an act of God, war (whether declared or undeclared), terrorism, accident, natural disaster, outbreak of disease, or other event or circumstance beyond our control that contributes to or results in cancellation rates above our historical cancellation rates in the absence of such event or occurrence, Tauck reserves the right to issue a credit to you in lieu of a money-back refund, applicable to a future Tauck journey.

Travel Insurance Benefits – Underwritten by United States Fire Insurance Company.

• Trip Cancellation –  If you must cancel your tour due to a covered reason, the plan provides coverage for the amount you paid for your travel arrangements. Since the non-insurance cancellation waiver takes care of the land package cancellation fees already, this benefit reimburses the airfare cancellation charges up to the value of your original airfare purchase.
• Trip Interruption –  If you have to interrupt your tour for covered reasons, the plan provides reimbursement to catch up to your tour or return home.
• Travel Delay –  Provides reimbursement for missed, prepaid travel arrangements if you are delayed by a common carrier, natural disaster, unannounced strike, or other reasons as cited in the plan.
• Medical Expense –  Reimburses covered medical expenses incurred in the event you become injured or sick during your trip. 
• Baggage / Personal Effects Protection –  Provides reimbursement in the event your luggage or personal effects are, lost, stolen, damaged or delayed during your trip.
• Worldwide Emergency Assistance Services –  Provided by Carefree Travel Assistance; 24-hour emergency telephone assistance hotline for medical and travel related problems.

The cost of Tauck's Guest Protection is: $425  per person

This protection provides insurance coverage that applies only during the covered trip. You may have coverage from other sources that provides you with similar benefits but may be subject to different restrictions depending upon your other coverages. You may wish to compare the terms of this policy with your existing life, health, home and automobile policies. If you have any questions about your current coverage, call your insurer, insurance agent or broker.

This optional Guest Protection must be requested at time of booking and fee must be included with initial payment. Fees are based on costs as of July 1, 2021, and are subject to change. Details will be provided with written confirmation of your tour reservation. Guest Protection does not protect travel agent commissions. Reimbursements will be made according to original method of payment. The amount of any refund shall be reduced by any recoveries obtained by you from any third parties.

The Guest Protection plan waives cancellation fees outlined below, provided we are notified of cancellation before your tour departs. Tour cancellation fees are waived regardless of reason, without written notice, and Tauck will refund land tour cost.

To obtain your state-specific Certificate of Insurance that contains the complete terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions of the certificate, visit  affinitytravelcert.com/docs/TACGPPINTL .

If You Have To Cancel

If you cancel within 10 days of initial deposit Within the first 10 days after you place your initial deposit, you may cancel your reservation for any reason with no cancellation fees. If you cancel more than 10 days after initial deposit Regardless of reason, cancellations result in costly charges from our travel and hotel providers covering penalties and fees incurred by canceling confirmed bookings. These fees vary from tour to tour. Therefore, the following fees apply.

Cancellation Fees with Tauck's Guest Protection Plan:

Loss of Guest Protection fee, per person 

Cancellation Fees without Tauck's Guest Protection Plan :

60 days or more before departure = $600 per person

59-8 days before departure = $900 per person

7-1 days before departure = $1500 per person

Time of cancellation will be when notice is received in our Wilton Woods, CT office.

In the event of an unforeseen circumstance beyond our control, Tauck reserves the right to amend the cancellation terms outlined herein.

Note:  All Guests, regardless of residency, who book a Tauck journey have the option of purchasing the Cancellation Waiver provided by Tauck in the event they need to cancel their trip after making their reservations. Tauck's Guest Protection, which includes both the Cancellation Fee Waiver and the Travel Insurance Benefits and Assistance Services described above, is not available to residents of Puerto Rico.

Travel Terms and Conditions

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Air Information and Luggage Restrictions

AIRFARE: Airfare to and from this destination is not included in the journey cost. If purchasing your air elsewhere, it is very important to provide us with your confirmed arriving and departing flight information no later than 3 weeks before your arrival date. Flight information can be submitted to Tauck (or verified, if you've already provided it) in the My Account section of Tauck.com.

TAUCK AIRPORT TRANSFERS are included at the start and end of the journey between the airport and the Tauck hotel. Airport transfers are available for any pre tour or post tour hotel stays immediately consecutive to the tour, providing flight information is received in the Tauck office no later than three weeks in advance. Details on locating your transfer upon arrival to the tour start city will be included in your final documents. AIRLINES and CHECKED LUGGAGE: Due to space limitations during your Tauck journey, we ask that you please limit your checked luggage to one average-size suitcase per person. Besides complying with the Tauck restriction noted above, you should also be sure to research and comply with all airline baggage restrictions relating to your flights to and from your Tauck journey. Airlines have become much more strict in enforcing size and weight limits in recent years, and are free to revise luggage policies without notice. Researching and complying with airline luggage restrictions is the responsibility of the guest, and Tauck cannot be held responsible for any costs or disruptions to travel caused by the failure to research and comply with airline policies. PLEASE NOTE that if you are booked on a tour that includes on-tour flights, the checked luggage weight restrictions for these flights may be lower than the weight restrictions for your international flights.

Checked Luggage – General

Due to space restrictions, we ask that you please limit your checked luggage to one suitcase per person weighing no more than 50 pounds (23 kg) and with overall dimensions (length + width + height) not exceeding 62 inches (158 cm).

Besides complying with the Tauck restriction noted above, you should also be sure to research and comply with all airline baggage restrictions relating to your flights to and from your Tauck journey. Airlines have become much more strict in enforcing size and weight limits in recent years, and luggage exceeding airline standards for size or weight may result in expensive overage fees or other consequences.

Airlines are free to revise luggage policies without notice, and certain airlines have different baggage allowances for different classes of service. Researching and complying with airline luggage restrictions is the responsibility of the guest, and Tauck cannot be held responsible for any costs or disruptions to travel caused by the failure to research and comply with airline policies.

Tauck luggage tags will be provided by your Tauck Director on Day 1 of your itinerary. Please do not attach a Tauck luggage tag to any carry-on items, as the Tauck tags designate luggage that is to be handled and transferred by ground operators and hotel staff during your journey.

Carry-on Luggage - General

Although oversize bags and wheeled, carry-on luggage are popular for airline travel, they are often not convenient or appropriate for motor coach travel or for many on-tour flights. Most modern sightseeing motor coaches offer limited space for numerous or larger items. Space under seats or in the overhead rack is typically small, and designed to accommodate items like coats, hats, purses, and small camera bags, etc.

For your day-to-day travel while on tour, we recommend that you limit your hand luggage to a small, soft-sided carry-on piece, and that you bring only those items you need handy during the day such as make-up, medications, cameras, film, etc. Items too large to fit under the motor coach seat or on the overhead rack must be stored in the luggage bays beneath the motor coach, and may be inaccessible during daytime travel.

Health, Safety and Mobility

HEALTH CONSIDERATIONS

Please check with your health insurance provider to determine whether you are covered while traveling. If you will not be covered under your current policy, we strongly suggest that you arrange for adequate coverage while on tour.

If you have a medical condition which might limit your participation in activities, please consult your physician for pre-departure health advice and notify us as soon as possible, if you have not already done so. We will advise your Tauck Director accordingly.

VACCINATIONS  

If you are a resident of the U.S., no vaccinations are currently required for travel to Ireland. For complete vaccination and inoculation information please contact your physician, the public health service in your area, or the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) to obtain information regarding vaccinations that may be required for your journey. The Travelers' Health Section of the CDC operates a 24-hour "Travelers' Health Hotline" at 800-232-4636 (toll-free in the U.S.). You may also log on to the CDC website by clicking here.

If you are a resident of another country, please contact an embassy or consulate of Ireland to determine what vaccination(s) may be required for your travel.

SPECIAL DIETARY REQUESTS

The restaurants, hotels, caterers and numerous other partners we work with all do their best to accommodate special dietary requests from Tauck guests. However, given the diverse nature of those food providers (from small wineries to grand hotels to world-famous restaurants in more than 70 countries worldwide), some of our partners are better able than others to accommodate such requests. We therefore cannot guarantee that all dietary requests can be accommodated at every meal. Also, please note that where dietary requests can be accommodated, choices will frequently be limited.

Ireland Forever is an active tour. To enjoy this tour, you should be in good health and able to walk reasonable distances, often over unpaved and uneven surfaces. Some of the most memorable sightseeing can only be accomplished on foot. The amount of walking you do, however, is at your discretion.

PLEASE NOTE:  We regret that this Tauck itinerary cannot accommodate wheelchairs or motorized scooters.  Likewise, we regret that we're unable to provide individual assistance to guests with walking difficulties or other personal needs.  The responsibility of the Tauck Director who accompanies your trip is to ensure that the larger group enjoys a relaxing and informative journey, and he or she cannot be relied upon to provide ongoing individual assistance to any one guest.  Guests requiring such individualized assistance must be accompanied by an able-bodied companion who can provide it.

Ireland has introduced a ban on smoking in all enclosed places of work in Ireland. This includes all bars, night clubs, restaurants and hotels. Although the public spaces within the hotel are non-smoking, you may request a smoking guest room at your hotel.

Reading List

We have compiled a reading list of recommended books to give you more information about the destinations you will be traveling to on your upcoming journey!

You can view the reading list  here.

The weather in Ireland can be variable, alternating between wet and cool days, and sunny and mild days. The climate is generally moderate throughout the country, tempered by the Atlantic Ocean Gulf Stream. Average high temperatures from April through October range from 55 to 65˚F (13 to 18˚C) and the average low temperatures range from 40 to 55˚F (4 to 13˚C). Ireland, like other European countries, has experienced unusually warm spells in recent summers. Ireland's greenery owes its notoriety to the frequent rainfall.

To read about current weather conditions, we suggest you log on to the Internet website by clicking here .

What To Pack

Bringing the right clothing for your trip is important – we've partnered with Necessary Gear who provide an "easy-to-use, one-stop shop" for your Tauck travel needs, specifically selected for this trip. Click here to visit their site .

The weather in Ireland is moderate. Your journey is designed with leisure in mind. Dress for comfort and convenience with a wardrobe that is adaptable and allows for layering. Generally, during the day, casual, comfortable, cotton clothing is recommended. Cool weather at higher elevations or at night will require warmer, layered clothing. The Emerald Isle owes its name to its precipitation, so rain is to be expected anytime.

For the welcome and farewell receptions, casual resort wear is appropriate; formal wear is never required for dining with your fellow guests at a Tauck provided dinner. When dining on your own, you may have the opportunity to dine at an upscale restaurant, which may require men to dress in coat and tie, and women in more elegant eveningwear. It is advisable to avoid wearing jeans, sneakers or shorts for dinner.

You will find a hair dryer located in your hotel guest room. Irons and ironing boards are available upon request. Valet laundry and dry cleaning services are also available for a fee.

We recommend that you pack an adequate supply of your prescription medication in its original container to last through your entire journey, together with a copy of your doctor's prescription or a letter from your health-care provider on office stationery explaining that the medication has been prescribed for you, a list of the generic names of your medication, your travel documents and a change of clothing in your carry-on bag to avoid any inconvenience in the event that your flight or luggage is delayed.

Following is a list of recommended items to pack for your trip to Ireland:

• Casual daytime wear – shorts, slacks, long and short-sleeved shirts
• An optional jacket and tie for men
• Casually elegant evening wear for ladies
• Sunglasses, sunscreen, hat
• A light sweater or jacket for higher elevations or a breezy night
• Binoculars (7x50 preferably)
• Insect repellent
• Camera, lenses, batteries, memory cards and chargers
• Lightweight, comfortable, sturdy walking shoes that have already been broken-in
• Travel alarm clock/cell phone with alarm function (many hotels do not have clocks in the rooms)
• Rain poncho and collapsible umbrella
• Reusable zipper-lock bags or other waterproof bags
• Daypack for camera equipment
• Sundries and toiletries that may be difficult to find en route
• Copies of your travel documents that should be secured in the safe in your hotel room while traveling
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