Ireland, the classic - 9 days

You want the highlights? Here they are. Discover Dublin's hidden gems, the famous Dublin Doors and the mighty cathedrals that dominate the cityscape. You can marvel at the Book of Kells, the most famous picture book in the world, in the fantastically beautiful university and you will quickly lose your heart to Ireland over golden Guinness and “Molly Malone” in the quaint pubs with traditional live folk music. On your journey through the rugged, romantic and sometimes mystical landscape, this will happen to you many times and by the time you drive through Connemara, you will no longer be surprised at the superstition of the Irish. Winding roads, moss-covered stone walls, colorful ferns and the seemingly endless Atlantic Ocean - welcome to the edge of the world. This really does seem to be the case at the mighty Cliffs of Moher. The south will also enchant you. On the popular scenic road, the Ring of Kerry, there is a breathtakingly beautiful corner of the world to discover.

Day 1: From Rotterdam across the North Sea to Hull
Today you reach the port of Rotterdam. The P&O ferry, which will take you to the north of England overnight, is already moored at the pier. Marvel at the departure maneuvers of the experienced crew from the deck and enjoy a relaxed cruise feeling after your dinner (optional).

Day 2: Across England and Wales and by ferry to Dublin – 370 km - F/A
After breakfast, the ship moors in Hull. Via Manchester and Chester, you travel across England and Wales to Holyhead. From here you cross the Irish Sea to the Emerald Isle. “Céad mile fáilte” - welcome a thousand times over, as the Irish say! You should use the evening to get to know Dublin's lively streets. Not just in the Temple Bar pub district - there's a quaint pub on every corner. Have you already found your favorite beer?

Day 3: Ab durch die Mitte – von Dublin ins County Clare – 270 km - F/A
Pack your camera - this city tour promises unforgettable insights into the heart of Dublin and shows you the highlights, history, literature and lifestyle of this fascinating city. The tour begins at the famous Trinity College, Ireland's oldest university, founded in 1592. Dublin Castle was built in the 13th century on the remains of a Viking settlement and was the seat of British administration for centuries. You will also see Dublin's two most impressive churches. Christ Church Cathedral, the oldest cathedral in the city, impresses with its Gothic architecture and mysterious crypt. Just a few minutes away is St. Patrick's Cathedral, Ireland's largest church, dedicated to the country's patron saint. Incidentally, the name Ha'penny Bridge comes from the toll you had to pay to cross the bridge in times gone by. No visit to Dublin is complete without a detour to the famous Temple Bar district. This lively maze of cobbled streets is known for its pubs, music and art. Your guide will share stories about Dublin's thriving music scene and show you some of the iconic murals and street art. During the tour you will not only discover the impressive sights, but also hear the stories and legends that make Dublin one of Europe's most charming capitals. You will then head west.

The mystical 6th century monastery ruins of Clonmacnoise (optional) is a current World Heritage candidate and is located on the way to the rugged west coast of the Emerald Isle. It was a center for Christianity, learning, trade and crafts. As a result, it became a target for raids by the Vikings. Today, only the ruins of the stone monastery remain: a cathedral, several churches, round towers, three high crosses and much more. If you close your eyes and forget everything around you, you can almost feel the presence of the monks. The monastery is located on the banks of the River Shannon and if you wish, you can also approach the monastery by boat on the waterway, just like the Vikings did in 842 (optional).

Day 4: Connemara - A (beautiful) freak of nature – 300 km - F/A
Pure nature is on the agenda today - Connemara! Here you can feel the wind in your hair, the unique nature around you and one thing above all: freedom. The Connemara peninsula is one of the most pristine and untamed regions on the island.
Past Galway, towards Lough Corrib, you travel deeper and deeper into the wilderness of Ireland and away from the hustle and bustle of the city - vastness and greenery as far as the eye can see. Swampland next to peatland, gentle, gliding streams and dark blue lakes next to lush green meadows. Dark red fuchsias next to white, woolly sheep. In the middle of this seemingly unreal fairytale landscape rises, almost regally, the romantic Kylemore Abbey (optional). As peaceful as the former castle may seem, the history of the nuns who have called Kylemore their home since 1920 is all the more exciting. You can learn more about this during the interactive exhibition - curious? You can review your experiences over tea and scones (optional). After a well-earned break, continue to the secret capital of the west coast: Galway. Life rages here! The locals know how to party, with rousing live music pouring out of many tiny pubs and the many different street performers are sure to fascinate you with their skills. If the dates work out, here would be an exceptional opportunity to see the great music and Riverdance show “Trad on the Prom” at the Leisureland Theater. Impressive musicians and dancers show off all their skills here - something you will certainly not forget (optional).

Day 5: From the spectacular Cliffs of Moher to Kerry – 200 km - F/A
The stony desert in the Burren region seems like something from another planet - that must have been how Neil Armstrong felt on the moon. The gray and dreary landscape is criss-crossed by caves and strudle holes. There are always colorful, flowery splashes of color in these holes. The local flora shows itself in its most beautiful colors. Depending on your mood, you can make a photo stop at Dunguaire Castle. Small, but in a beautiful romantic location by the sea and directly on the N67. Hold on tight at lunchtime, it could get windy. The Cliffs of Moher are a masterpiece of nature and are on the bucket list of every visitor to Ireland. Over a length of 8 km, the steep cliffs plunge vertically into the Atlantic Ocean and are met by the wild, lashing waves. A breathtaking spectacle and not for the faint-hearted.

As soon as you can tear yourself away from this unique sight, continue past Limerick and Bunratty Castle (optional) to Kerry. The majestic Bunratty Castle, built in the 15th century, is one of the best-preserved medieval castles in the country. It impresses with its high towers, magnificent rooms and a collection of historic furniture and tapestries. Right next to it is the Bunratty Folk Park, a living open-air museum that shows Irish life in the 19th century. With reconstructed houses, workshops and a typical village, the park offers an authentic journey back in time. Your hotel for the next two nights is already waiting for you.

Day 6: Green, greener, Ring of Kerry – 200 km - F/A
Let us take you on one of the most beautiful panoramic roads in Europe, the Ring of Kerry. Wild and romantic coastal scenery, majestic mountains and deep blue lakes that stand in stark contrast to the lush green meadows. This is exactly how you imagine Ireland, isn't it? Visit a sheep farm and marvel at the great interaction between the shepherd and his herding dogs (optional).
From Killorglin the road almost always runs along the coast, enjoy the wonderful views. In the afternoon you drive through Killarney National Park.
Killarney impresses above all with its flair. In the evening, enjoy the streets full of life and the music from the pubs. Diving in and out of pub life is definitely recommended. The closing time at 11 pm (last beer!) means you can still be fit the next morning.

Day 7: Return to Dublin – 300 km - F/A
You have already experienced a lot on your round trip through Ireland, do you know what is still missing? Today it's back to the capital. Visit the home of the world-famous Irish stout, known for its deep black color, creamy head and unique taste, which has been brewed in Dublin since 1759. At the Guinness Storehouse, the iconic visitor center in St. James's Gate Brewery, you can discover the history, brewing art and magic of Guinness - including a perfect pint in the Gravity Bar with spectacular views over Dublin.

Day 8: From Dublin back to the overnight ferry from Hull – 370 km - F
“Slán agat” - goodbye! On the ferry to Holyhead, you enjoy one last view of the Emerald Isle. A tear drips onto the penultimate page of your diary. Or is it just the spray? The night passage to Rotterdam begins in Hull in the evening.

Day 9: Arrival in Rotterdam and journey home - F
With unforgettable memories in your luggage, you leave the ferry and start your journey home in the morning in the port of Rotterdam. Ireland - we'll see you again...

Erlebnispaket Irische Erlebnisse
Admission Monastery Clonmacnoise (Visitor center closed from October 2025 until the end of 2026)
Admission Bunratty Castle and Folk Park
Entrance and tour of Kissane Sheep Farm incl. herding dog demonstration (closed on Sundays)

Erlebnispaket Irische Verführungen
Admission Kylemore Abbey and Gardens incl. Afternoon Tea/Coffee und Scones
Admission and tour of the Guinness Storehouse Dublin incl. 1 pint of Guinness

Unser Tipp:
Want even more of that Irish feeling? Then head to Riverdance: you shouldn't miss it. Trad on the Prom celebrates Irish traditions with a contemporary production of world-class music, song and dance. Artists who have captivated audiences in such extraordinary productions as “Riverdance”, “The Chieftains”, “Lord of the Dance” and “Feet of Flames” have now come together on ONE STAGE to deliver an unforgettable entertainment experience. The show at Leisureland Theatre, Galway runs nightly from mid-May to the end of September on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays from 8.30pm to 10.30pm.