TARA TOURS IRELAND

Travel Day

Day 1: Friday October 24th

Board your overnight flight to Dublin

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2 Nights in County Dublin

Day 2: Arrival in County Dublin- Saturday October 25th
A Cead Míle Failte – ‘A thousand welcomes’ to Ireland!
You will be met at Dublin airport on arrival and transferred to your hotel
​Welcome dinner that evening at your Dublin hotel.

Meet your Tour Director and the rest of your group
Included meal: Welcome dinner
 

Day 3: Sightseeing tour of Boyne Valley with Irish Music Night Option- Sunday October 26th
Visit the famous Bru na Boinne World Heritage site.

Includes a visit to Newgrange (older than the pyramids, older than Stonehenge). 

Spooky walking tour of the historic gated town of Drogheda. Dark history includes the medieval Laurence's Gate, haunting St Peter’s graveyard and the relic of St. Oliver Plunkett’s Head.

Included meal: Breakfast

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** Evening excursion/option:

Traditional Irish musicians will have your toes tapping and your heart singing.

An evening of real Irish ‘craic’ (fun) with music, song and storytelling.

Includes a dinner celebrating the best of Irish cuisine and a drink of your choice (try some Guinness or a famous Irish whiskey). 
Cost: $89 per person

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1 Night at Cabra Castle

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Day 4: Hill of Tara & Cabra Castle- Monday October 27th

Visit to the Hill of Tara, a mystical site steeped in legend and history. Walk in the footsteps of Ireland's High Kings as you explore this sacred landscape, known as a portal to the spirit world—a fitting stop for Halloween!

 

Journey to the eerie yet enchanting Cabra Castle, one of Ireland’s most haunted castles. Spend the night surrounded by history and mystery, with tales of ghostly encounters echoing through its grand halls.

Included meal: Breakfast

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2 Nights in Galway

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Day 5: Galway via Belvedere House  -Tuesday October 28th​

Begin the day with a visit to the atmospheric Belvedere House and Gardens in Mullingar, a site rich in history and ghostly tales. Explore the eerie stories of the infamous Jealous Wall, Ireland’s largest folly, and the restless spirits said to wander the grounds. Perfectly steeped in Halloween intrigue, it’s a hauntingly beautiful stop!

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From there, travel west to the vibrant city of Galway, known for its lively atmosphere and historic charm. Check into your hotel and enjoy a free evening to explore the Hallowe'en Festival, bustling pubs, and local music—or simply relax and soak in the energy of this coastal gem.

Included meal: Breakfast & Dinner

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Day 6:  Explore Galway Halloween Festival or Experience The Wild Atlantic Way - Wednesday October 29th

Spend a free day discovering the magic of Galway City, where cobblestone streets come alive with music, art, and the spirit of Halloween. Immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere of the Galway Halloween Festival, featuring spooky parades, street performances, and hauntingly fun events.

Included meal: Breakfast

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**Optional Excursion along The Wild Atlantic Way

Venture out to the iconic Cliffs of Moher, standing majestically over the Atlantic Ocean. Explore the unique limestone landscapes of The Burren, a geological wonder steeped in mystery. Enjoy a delicious traditional Irish lunch in the charming village of Doolin, famed for its music and hospitality.

​Cost: $89​ per person (lunch included)

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2 Nights in Athlone

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Day 7:  Athlone Castle with Shannon Boat Cruise option - Thursday October 30th

Start your day with a visit to the historic Athlone Castle, where centuries of Irish history blend with tales of mystery and intrigue—perfect for the Halloween season. Explore its interactive exhibits and panoramic views, all while delving into the rich folklore of the region.

Check into your cozy hotel along the banks of the River Shannon, Ireland’s longest river, offering a picturesque backdrop to your stay. Spend a leisurely afternoon wandering through the charming streets of Athlone, with its inviting pubs, quaint shops, and vibrant atmosphere.

Included meal: Breakfast

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**Optional Boat Cruise on the River Shannon to Clonmacnoise 

For an unforgettable experience, take an optional boat cruise along the serene River Shannon, cruising through tranquil waters to the ancient monastic site of Clonmacnoise. This 6th-century settlement is steeped in history and surrounded by stunning landscapes, with its medieval ruins offering a glimpse into Ireland’s spiritual past. As you drift along the river, enjoy the peaceful ambiance and scenic beauty of the Irish countryside, making it a perfect way to connect with the spirit of the season.

​$75 per person

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Day 8:  Free Day in Athlone or Optional Trip to Nenagh Jail & Castle  - Friday October 31st

Celebrate Halloween in the charming town of Athlone with a free day to explore at your leisure. Wander the cobblestone streets, soak in the spooky atmosphere, and perhaps discover a hidden haunted corner of this historic town—Athlone is said to have its share of ghostly residents.

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As night falls, gather for a farewell dinner at Sean’s Bar, Ireland's oldest pub, which has its own haunting tales to share. With centuries of history, it’s the perfect place to toast to your Irish adventure—just beware of the spirits that are said to linger!

Included meals: Breakfast & Dinner (excluding early morning departures)

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**Optional Excursion:

For those with a taste for spine-tingling history, our optional excursion promises an unforgettable journey into Ireland’s darker past. Begin with a visit to Nenagh Castle, an imposing medieval fortress that looms with tales of power and betrayal. Next, step into the chilling confines of Nenagh Jail, where the grim echoes of prisoners and their harrowing stories seem to linger in the air. Finally, explore the somber Portumna Workhouse, a haunting reminder of Ireland’s Great Famine, where the struggles and resilience of the impoverished are deeply felt in its stark walls. Each stop offers a fascinating glimpse into Ireland's haunted history, blending eerie atmospheres with poignant stories of the past.​

 

 

Departure Day

Day 9:  Transfer to Dublin Airport - Saturday November 1st

Journey to Dublin Airport for your departure flight.

Included meal: Breakfast 

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Optional Extension: 2 Nights in Dublin City

Stay an extra 2 nights in Dublin City hotel. Breakfast served each morning.

 

Day 9:  Dublin City Tour - Saturday November 1st

Explore the vibrant heart of Dublin, where history and modernity blend seamlessly. Begin your day with a guided tour of Christchurch Cathedral, one of Dublin’s oldest and most iconic landmarks. Marvel at its stunning architecture, rich history, and the stories woven into its walls.

Next, take a scenic stroll around Dublin Castle, a site that has been at the center of Irish history for over 800 years. Learn about its role in Ireland’s past, from royal residence to government seat, and admire its beautiful grounds and impressive structures.

With plenty of time to soak in the atmosphere, you’ll have a true taste of Dublin’s fascinating heritage.

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Evening Option: Dublin Ghost Tour 

As the sun sets, embark on a spine-tingling Dublin Ghost Tour to uncover the city's darker side. Led by a local guide, you’ll explore the haunted corners of Dublin’s ancient streets, hear chilling tales of ghostly encounters, and visit some of the city’s most eerie landmarks. This ghost tour will leave you with a thrilling glimpse into Dublin’s supernatural past.

Get ready for a night filled with eerie stories, haunted history, and a touch of the supernatural!

 

Day 10: Free Day in Dublin or EPIC option- Sunday, November 2

Enjoy a free day in Dublin to explore at your own pace. Wander through the lively streets of the city or visit one of Dublin's many museums and galleries. There's something for everyone, from shopping on Grafton Street to taking in the sights along the River Liffey.

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Optional Excursion:
For a deeper dive into Ireland's poignant history, join our EPIC Emigration Museum and Jeanie Johnston Famine Ship excursion. At EPIC, immerse yourself in the stories of Irish emigrants who left for new lives across the globe, with interactive exhibits that bring their journeys to life. Then, step aboard the Jeanie Johnston, a replica famine ship that tells the harrowing tale of the Irish who set sail for America during the Great Famine.

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Day 11: Departure Day - Monday 3rd November

Transfer to the Airport for your flight home. 

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Included meal: Breakfast (excluding early morning departures)