The beauty of Scotland & Ireland

Edinburgh Airport - Edinburgh

Day 1: Welcome to Edinburgh!

Welcome to Edinburgh, Scotland's thriving capital city! Upon your arrival at Edinburgh Airport, pick up your rental car and take the 30-minute drive into the city. There, check into your hotel to relax and rest up after your long journey.

If you want to get out and explore, you can climb the extinct volcano, Arthur's Seat, walk the Royal Mile, take a moment for yourself in Princes Street Gardens, or head to the National Museum of Scotland for a browse. Why not celebrate the first evening of your trip with a cocktail at The Dome on George Street!

Edinburgh

Day 2: A day of thrills in Edinburgh

After breakfast, enjoy a full day exploring Edinburgh. Spend the morning around Princes and George Streets, then take a walk up Calton Hill. There you'll find the National Monument, inspired by the Parthenon in Athens and intended to commemorate the Scottish servicemen who died in the Napoleonic Wars. Head up the Royal Mile to Edinburgh Castle for a tour of this historic landmark, before indulging in a traditional afternoon tea on the castle grounds.

If you're interested in whisky, the Johnnie Walker experience is a must-visit - not only for tickling your taste buds, but also for gaining insight into this famous Scottish brand. A rich and sensory experience awaits, filled with exhibitions and performances.

Edinburgh - Aviemore

Day 3: Journey into the Scottish Highlands

Check out of your hotel after a hearty breakfast and hit the A9 road north to the Scottish Highlands, reaching Aviemore in around three hours. If you want to break up your journey, the town of Dunkeld is a fantastic stop en-route.

On your arrival into Aviemore, lace up your hiking boots: you'll be heading up the moor into the Cairngorm Mountains, and joining a guided tour to visit a local reindeer herd. After feeding and admiring these beautiful creatures, hop onto an old steam train whose track runs along the River Spey - on-board lunch or afternoon tea can be requested ahead of time, for an even more special experience.

Head back to your hotel to relax - or, if you're aching to explore further, Rothiemurchus estate brims with scenic paths and trails and is well worth a visit.

Aviemore

Day 4: A safari adventure in the heart of nature

Be sure to get your fill at breakfast, as you have a big itinerary lined up today. First, you'll head out in a 4x4 Land Rover with a Cairngorms National Park wildlife specialist, on an epic full-day safari across the rugged Scottish landscape.

You'll visit remote and scenic areas, with just a little light walking needed to explore all the wildlife treasures that few know exist. Don't be put off by inclement weather - these days are often the best! This is a great opportunity for wildlife-lovers and birdwatchers to get out their binoculars: you'll have every chance of spotting golden eagles, ospreys, crested tits and crossbills soaring across the skies, as well as red deer and red squirrels deep in the woodlands.

Aviemore - Skye

Day 5: Journey to the Isle of Skye

After breakfast, leave Aviemore behind for the entrancing landscapes of the Isle of Skye, about three hours away by car. Stop before crossing the bridge to admire Eilean Donan Castle, then arrive onto the island to check into your hotel and drop off your bags. Take time to unwind before exploring at your own pace: we recommend Mealt Falls, the iconic Fairy Pools, Sligachan Old Bridge and of course, Old Man of Storr. Alternatively, head to the village of Broadford or enjoy the tranquillity of Loch Coruisk.

Skye

Day 6: Memorable experiences on Skye

Today you will get to see Skye from the sea: after breakfast, head out in sea kayaks to explore the Scottish coastline from a new vantage point. Enjoy a picnic on a remote beach, spot wildlife and soak up surreal views, all with the help of an experienced guide.

In the afternoon, get your trainers on and head out to explore the 3.1km Scorrybreac Trail along the shore of beautiful Portree Bay - from here, you'll enjoy views out across the sea to the Island of Raasay. Once you've worked up an appetite, finish off your day with fine dining at Scorrybreac Restaurant in Portree - try their tasting menu for an unforgettable experience.

Skye - Inverness - Belfast

Day 7: Arrival onto the Emerald Isle

Leave the Isle of Skye behind and continue on to Inverness Airport, about two hours and 45 minutes' drive. Drop off your rental car and catch a flight to Belfast, to begin the second leg of your trip - on the beautiful Emerald Isle!

Pick up a new rental car, drop your bags off at your hotel and head out to visit the Titanic Museum - discover the ship's world-famous story through the eyes of those whose hard work and ambition built her. Then, take time to explore Belfast: walk through the gardens at City Hall, visit the Ulster Museum, or head to a traditional Irish pub and take in the atmosphere of this wonderful city.

Belfast

Day 8: The highlights of Ireland's North Coast

Explore the North Coast today on a self-guided road trip around the iconic Giant's Causeway and the North Coastal Path. The former is the only UNESCO World Heritage Site in Ireland, where you can spend time climbing over ancient stones and reflecting upon the myths and legends of this very unique area.

Stop at one of the fantastic local cafes to refuel, before continuing on with a visit to the old Norman Carrickfergus Castle. Venture past Magheramorne quarry, then experience the wonders of Glenarm, Carnlough and Cushendall - don't miss out on the Carrick-a-Rede death rope bridge!

After a day packed with sights, you'll return to Belfast to unwind for an overnight stay.

Belfast - Galway

Day 9: Dive into the spirit of Galway

After breakfast, say goodbye to Belfast as you journey on to Galway, about four hours' drive away. Enjoy some time to yourself this afternoon, and explore the city at your pace: we'd recommend the Galway City Museum, Nora Barnacle's House, and the Galway Arts Centre for intriguing exhibits and displays. The pubs are especially welcoming here, and offer wonderful opportunities to enjoy traditional Irish music - Tig Cóilí, The Crane Bar, and Tigh Neachtain are popular venues for these lively music sessions.

Galway

Day 10: Cruise along Ireland's scenic West Coast

After breakfast, head out to explore the Aran Islands and Cliffs of Moher on a full-day cruise from Galway. Admire the spectacular Wild Atlantic Way coastline of Connemara and Clare, before docking at the largest of the Aran Islands, Inis Mór. Here, you'll have time to explore a traditional island culture that has survived modern life, before heading back to Galway past the iconic Cliffs of Moher. On this full day out on the water, take the opportunity to breathe the fresh sea air and learn about the wildlife, nature and history of Ireland's West Coast.

Galway - Dublin

Day 11: A cultural day of sightseeing in Dublin

On your last full day in Ireland, depart Galway for a two-and-a-half-hour drive to Dublin. Visit Trinity College's Old Library and Book of Kells to learn about the 1,200-year-old manuscript, its rich symbolism and artistry - it's considered to be Ireland’s greatest cultural treasure. Afterwards, step into one of the most beautiful libraries in the world, the breathtaking Long Room - a working library since 1732 and home to 200,000 of the college's most ancient books. Later on, visit the Temple Bar district to find lively venues, a vibrant music scene, and fantastic restaurants - perfect for an unforgettable last night out.

Dublin - Dublin Airport

Day 12: Goodbye, Dublin!

After breakfast, make your way to Dublin Airport and drop off your rental car. Here is where your trip comes to an end, as you board your flight back home.