This is the Ireland you’ve always imagined: pub-lined streets, lush emerald countryside, historic castles and cathedrals, and more lakes and lochs than you can count. So whether you’re Irish to your core or only on March 17, there’s plenty of good craic to go around.
Find your seat, pick a movie, and then try to get a wee bit of shuteye. The majesty and raw beauty of Ireland awaits.
Day 2: Arrive in Dublin + Welcome Dinner
Welcome to Dublin, the capital of Ireland! Once you arrive and drop your bags off at the accommodation, take a stroll to St. Stephen’s Green, Grafton Street, and Temple bar, where pub culture, literary history, and all-around charm await.
In the evening, enjoy a Welcome Dinner of local cuisine and drinks with fellow travelers at an authentic local spot. Afterwards, you’re free to take the party elsewhere!
Today’s highlights
Land at the airport and meet a waiting EF representative.
Transfer to your hotel to check in and check out your room.
Get familiar with the area around your hotel with an introductory walk with your Tour Director.
Travel questions?
Chat with a Trip Expert!
1-800-766-2645
Monday–Thursday, 9am–7pm ET
Friday, 9am–5:30pm ET
Accommodations
We handpick every accommodation and focus on locations and properties where local culture is at your doorstep. Specific accommodations will vary based on your departure date, but these are frequently used properties for this tour.
This design-led hostel is located in trendy Smithfield. Guests enjoy a vibrant atmosphere with café-restaurant and bar onsite. Nearby you'll find Dublin's famous Temple Bar and the Jameson Distillery.
The Kilford Arms Hotel
This cozy hotel is located in the heart of Kilkenny City Centre. Guests will enjoy the option of two bars, the White Oak Restaurant, and live entertainment. Nearby, you’ll find Smithwick’s Brewery, The National Reptile Zoo, and...
Earls Court House
This boutique, family-run hotel is located near Killarney's vibrant town center. Guests enjoy free WIFI, onsite bar and outdoor patio. Nearby you'll find quaint pubs, restaurants and Killarney National Park.
Kinlay Hostel
This hostel is located in the heart of Galway city. Guests enjoy the onsite lounge with pool table and spacious dining room. Nearby, you'll find the city's best restaurants, bars and shopping.
I thoroughly enjoyed my time in Ireland. This was my first time there and I went with my sister. EF was the right way to go and our tour director Diarmuid was awesome and very knowledgeable and communicated our itineraries with us very well.
Grand Tour of Ireland
5 out of 5 stars
1st-time traveler Anonymous, traveled in Nov 2024
I loved this tour. I felt like I got to see all that I had wanted to see in Ireland. I would recommend staying and extra day and doing a day trip up to Northern Ireland. I would also recommend doing the Aran Islands excursion. Almost everyone in my group decided to do this.
Great first experience with EF
5 out of 5 stars
1st-time traveler Matthew, traveled in Aug 2024
I thoroughly enjoyed my first trip with EF. Everyone was friendly and cordial with each other. I enjoyed all the activities we did. My only wish is that we got to spend another night in Dublin so I would swap the 2nd night in County Kerry because I feel like there was still more...
Ireland 2024
5 out of 5 stars
1st-time traveler Anonymous, traveled in Nov 2024
I really loved this trip. The tour guide was extremely helpful in recommending places to eat/drink and places to see. I would recommend Ireland as there is so much beautiful sites to visit. Hotels were i stayed at were all very nice and most places were walking distance from...
Amazing trip!!!
5 out of 5 stars
2nd-time traveler Sonia, traveled in Nov 2024
Book the trip!!! This trip was such an amazing way to experience Ireland. There was so much to see and learn about in every city/town we visited which made it really memorable. Our tour director Diarmuid was very easygoing and funny and had plenty of knowledge, experiences, and...
Book it right now!
5 out of 5 stars
2nd-time traveler Anonymous, traveled in Sep 2024
Truly one of the best trips I've ever been on! This was my first EF trip and I was a solo traveler. However, I met an amazing group of friends and we still keep in touch to this day! Marco, our tour director, was so kind and knowledgable (not to mention, really funny). We had...