A Magical Irish Christmas: Castles, Culture & Coastal Wonders

Celebrate Christmas and New Year in true Irish style on this 12‑day luxury itinerary through Dublin, the West Coast, County Clare, and Killarney. Enjoy private tours, castle stays, festive feasts, breathtaking scenery, whiskey tastings, and New Year’s celebrations in the heart of Dublin. From the Cliffs of Moher to historic estates, artisan shopping, scenic drives, and exclusive holiday events, this journey blends culture, comfort, and unforgettable Irish charm.

Christmas, Temple Bar Pub, Dublin City ©Failte Ireland
$16,500

Starting Price 

11

Nights

hand-crafted itinerary

5-Star Hotels

Captivating Experiences

Culinary Delights

Ireland at Christmas: Itinerary Inspiration

  • Day 1 – Dublin Delights & First Sips of Ireland

    Begin your journey with a warm Irish welcome as your private driver escorts you to your Dublin hotel. After freshening up, enjoy a privately guided walking tour blending landmark highlights and hidden local gems. After a light lunch, visit the Guinness Storehouse for a “Pour Your Own Pint” experience before relaxing at the Gravity Bar with panoramic city views. Return to your hotel to rest, and dinner recommendations can be arranged.

    Historic Guinness Storehouse Brewery Gate in Dublin with iconic Guinness logo on black iron gates


  • Day 2 – Grafton Street Glitter & Dublin’s Festive Buzz

    After breakfast, explore Dublin’s lively holiday atmosphere. Wander Grafton Street for Christmas shopping, artisan finds, and spectacular street performers. Enjoy a pre‑dinner pint in one of Dublin’s iconic pubs like McDaids or Kehoe’s. Dinner reservations can be arranged for any evening.

    Exterior view of The Grafton Hotel in Dublin with modern red-brick facade and entrance signage


  • Day 3 – Westward to Christmas in a Castle

    Your private driver transports you west through the Irish countryside toward your luxurious castle Christmas retreat. Stop at Clonmacnoise or Sean’s Pub en route before arriving to mulled wine, treats, and festive elegance. Enjoy afternoon tea, a cocktail reception, and a gala Christmas Eve dinner.

    Historic Ashford Castle in Ireland with stone towers, lush greenery, and lakefront view


  • Day 4 – A Christmas Day Fit for Royalty

    Spend Christmas Day at Ashford Castle with a leisurely breakfast, festive estate activities, gourmet Christmas lunch, wine tasting, evening entertainment, and spectacular seasonal delights. A day of indulgence from start to finish.

    Young woman standing by colorful harbor in an Irish coastal village with fishing boats and houses in the background


     

  • Day 5 – St. Stephen’s Day Serenity

    Begin with a relaxed breakfast and optional strolls through the estate. Spend the afternoon enjoying activities such as boat trips, falconry, guided walks, films, or simply relaxing. Enjoy dinner and evening entertainment within the castle.

    Falconer holding a bird of prey at Ashford Castle in Ireland during an outdoor falconry experience.


  • Day 6 – Cliffs, Castles & Clare Charm

    Depart Ashford Castle for the Cliffs of Moher, where you’ll experience The Ledge 4D attraction and (weather permitting) visit O’Brien’s Tower. Continue to County Clare to check in at a historic castle surrounded by 500 acres of woodland. Enjoy an evening of warm welcomes, stories, and exquisite dining.

    View of the Cliffs of Moher in County Clare, Ireland, with dramatic sea cliffs and ocean below.


  • Day 7 – Killarney Calling

    Travel south to Killarney, with an optional walk on Banna Strand and refreshments in Ardfert. Explore Killarney National Park, Muckross House, or enjoy a pony‑and‑trap ride to Ross Castle. Dinner at your boutique 5‑star hotel can be arranged.

    Ross Castle beside the lakes and mountains of Killarney National Park in County Kerry, Ireland.


  • Day 8 – Ring of Kerry Wonders & Victorian Grandeur

    Embark on a scenic drive around the Ring of Kerry, enjoying coastal landscapes, cliffs, islands, and picturesque villages. After lunch, tour Muckross House and its Victorian treasures before returning to your hotel for an evening of lively Irish music and dining.

    Horse‑drawn jaunting car carrying visitors along a scenic path in Killarney National Park, County Kerry, Ireland.


  • Day 9 – Back to Dublin for Festive Fireworks

    Travel from Kerry back to Dublin, stopping at the Rock of Cashel. After checking into your hotel, stroll to Grafton Street and explore Dublin pubs. Begin enjoying Dublin’s New Year Festival events—concerts, fireworks, and citywide celebrations. Dinner reservations can be arranged.

    Aerial view of the Rock of Cashel in County Tipperary, Ireland, showing the medieval hilltop fortress surrounded by green countryside.


  • Day 10 – Art, Whiskey & Ringing in the New Year

    Explore St. Stephen’s Green, Merrion Square, galleries, museums, and shopping. Enjoy an interactive cocktail‑making class at the Jameson Distillery. Choose from various New Year Festival events to celebrate in style. Dinner reservations available.

    Person standing on a cliff overlooking dramatic ocean waves and rugged coastline at sunset.


  • Day 11 – New Year’s Day Elegance & Leisure

    Sleep in, then enjoy an indulgent Art Afternoon Tea at your hotel. Spend the afternoon strolling St. Stephen's Green before savoring a final special dinner in Dublin to conclude your Irish holiday.

    Woman reading a book while sitting on a blanket in a grassy field surrounded by wildflowers.


  • Day 12 – Slán Abhaile: Farewell to Ireland

    Bid farewell as your private driver transfers you to the airport for your journey home.

    Airplane flying across a colorful sunset sky with vibrant orange and purple clouds.


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