Best of the South - September 25, 2026 | Quest Travel Adventures

Get ready for an unforgettable journey through the heart and soul of Ireland, personally curated by renowned Irish tenor and PBS star Michael Londra. With luxurious accommodations, delicious local cuisine, and opportunities to immerse yourself in Irish history, music, and craftsmanship, this handpicked itinerary brings together the best of Ireland's culture, scenery, and charm, all with Michael's insider touch.

TRAVEL DATES: September 25, 2026 - October 3, 2026
Starting price based on double occupancy.

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Day 1:

September 25: Dublin Arrival

After landing at Dublin Airport, meet your driver/guide and kick off your adventure with breakfast at a cozy local spot. Then, head west through scenic County Clare to visit the breathtaking Cliffs of Moher, where sweeping views of the Atlantic and the rugged coastline await. Continue to the charming village of Adare, check into your hotel, and take some time to unwind. In the evening, enjoy a warm welcome dinner and start soaking in the Irish hospitality.

Dinner & Overnight: The Dunraven Hotel, Adare

Irish coffee making and tasting - Ireland with Michael

Day 2:

September 26: Foynes Flying Boat Museum

Today, make your way to Foynes to explore the Flying Boat Museum and discover the fascinating story of early air travel in the 1930s and '40s. Irish coffee was first created here for warm, frozen, weary travelers, and you will learn how to make one just right, then sit back and enjoy it! Afterward, head to Killarney and check into your hotel. In the evening, relax over a delicious dinner and settle in for the night.

Dinner & Overnight: Brehon Hotel, Killarney

Day 3:

September 27: Dingle Peninsula Drive

Today, explore the breathtaking Dingle Peninsula, hailed by National Geographic Traveler as “the most beautiful place on earth.” Drive along the scenic south shore, offering views of mountains, beaches, green landscapes, and rocky headlands. Pause at scenic spots for photos. Visit Louis Mulcahy Pottery for exquisite handcrafted porcelain and stoneware, then Brian de Staic for stylish jewelry. Return to your hotel in Killarney with free time to explore and dine independently.

Overnight: Brehon Hotel, Killarney

Day 4:

September 28: Blarney Castle

After breakfast, head to Blarney to kiss the famous “Stone of Eloquence” atop Blarney Castle and explore Blarney Woollen Mills for Irish products. Take time to stroll through the charming village. Next, journey to Midleton to tour the Old Midleton Distillery and learn about whiskey production. Enjoy a sample at the end of the tour. Arrive in Cork, check into your hotel, and unwind before heading out to enjoy some local cuisine at a nearby restaurant.

Overnight: River Lee Hotel, Cork

Day 5:

September 29: Kinsale Sightseeing

This morning, explore Kinsale with a local guide on a brief walking tour. Known for its charming streets and Georgian houses, Kinsale is celebrated as the "gourmet capital" of Ireland with its award-winning restaurants and pubs. After the tour, enjoy free time to explore the town independently. Spend the rest of the day sightseeing, shopping, and dining at your leisure.

Overnight: River Lee Hotel, Cork

Day 6:

September 30: Mount Congreve Estate & Gardens

Leave Cork behind and head to the stunning gardens of Mount Congreve, a vast and beautifully landscaped estate with over 100 acres of vibrant gardens to explore. Then, continue to Waterford for a visit to the House of Waterford Crystal. Discover how the famous crystal is crafted and see some incredible, handcrafted pieces up close. Afterward, check into your nearby hotel and relax before enjoying a delicious dinner at the hotel restaurant.

Dinner & Overnight: Ferrycarrig Hotel, Wexford

Day 7:

October 1: Hook Lighthouse

Today, explore the historic Hook Lighthouse, Ireland's oldest operating lighthouse. Then, visit Johnstown Castle Gardens, boasting over two hundred species of trees and shrubs. Enjoy tea and freshly baked scones with your group amidst the exquisite 19th-century castle. Transfer to your Dublin hotel, check in, and enjoy leisure time before tonight’s festivities. In the evening, savor quality Irish food with lively music and dance at The Irish House Party.

Overnight: The Davenport Hotel, Dublin

Day 8:

October 2: Hop-On Hop-Off Dublin

Spend the day at your leisure using your Hop-on Hop-off pass to explore the city. Visit museums like the National Museum, National Gallery, or Writers Museum, or shop along Nassau Street, Grafton Street, or Henry Street. In the evening, dine at one of Dublin's many restaurants or pubs.

Overnight: The Davenport Hotel, Dublin

Day 9:

October 3: Return Home

All too soon, your vacation has come to its final day. Transfer to Dublin Airport in good time to check-in for your flight. You may do some last minute shopping at the duty free stores before boarding your flight back to the United States.