
Tenon Tours understands that some travelers are looking for the opportunity to set their own travel dates and choose their own adventures. We created a distinct tour option for travelers who wish to go-it with their own schedule in mind.
Highlights of the Irish Immersion Tour include:
From Belfast to Derry, Donegal to Sligo, you will experience the best of Ireland without a rigid travel itinerary that requires you to be in bed by 10:00PM and up by 7:30AM for the day’s activities. Much like the Tenon Tours group travel weeks, this Ireland tour package provides the necessary transportation, accommodations, tour and event schedules, but you choose how much or how little you wish to do, and more importantly, when you want to do it!
The Irish Immersion Tour sets Tenon Tours apart from other Irish tour operators by allowing you the opportunity to visit our featured hotels and explore the featured tours whether you are traveling alone or with friends. YOU have the power to choose your own travel dates and optional tours, no matter what – a difference that puts Tenon Tours above all others.
*Included with weeks of 6 or more travelers combined on the same week
Take a look at the full itinerary and some of the many events and tours you can take advantage of during your Ireland vacation. Remember, the beauty of our trip is that it provides the necessary transportation, city-center accommodations, and featured tours and events, but is flexible enough to give you the power to pick and choose what it is that you really want to do on your Ireland trip. This means, if half of the group wants to take a Black Taxi Tour of Belfast, while the others tour the Antrim Coast – that’s ok; Tenon Tours can make that happen!
Add a pre-night in Belfast for an extra day to explore the capital city of Northern Ireland. Today you can take advantage of any of the optional tours available in Belfast or just get acquainted with the area before the tour begins.
Arrive in the early morning to Dublin International Airport, where you will get your transfer directly to Belfast to settle in for 2 nights. You will have this day at your leisure to take one of the world famous Black Taxi Tour of Belfast, or start your 24 hour pass on Belfast’s Hop-On/Hop-Off City Tour Bus. Be sure not to miss tonight’s welcome party* hosted at a nearby pub where the Tour Host* will offer a short “Introduction to Ireland” while you get to meet the others traveling with you all week!
Spend the morning recovering from last night’s welcome party or begin exploring the streets, shops, and pubs of Belfast. You may choose to join in on the day’s featured tour of the North Antrim Coast visiting Giants Causeway, Dunluce Castle, Bushmills Distillery and the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge. Tonight is yours to relax and maybe get a birds eye view on The Wheel of Belfast, their new 196 foot high ferris wheel.
Enjoy a traditional Irish breakfast at your leisure this morning. Once packed up you will board your transfer for a scenic journey from Belfast to Donegal including a two hour stop in Derry. Take this time to enjoy some lunch and if you please a guided walking tour to learn why they describe it as “a city to savour”. After learning of the cities complex history you will continue your journey to Donegal. This evening settle in and enjoy dinner in town.
The northwest offers some of the friendliest people and finest scenery you will find. Today you can chose from an array of activities including a visit to Donegal Castle, a cruise around Donegal Bay, fishing, hiking or take a featured tour of West Donegal home to Ireland’s oldest fishing village Killybegs.
Wake up to your traditional Irish breakfast , pack up your room and catch your transfer to one of Ireland’s liveliest towns Westport in County Mayo. The transfer will include a visit to grave of WB Yeats, Ireland’s most celebrated poet. Upon arrival in Westport, check-in to your hotel and head out to explore the magnificent blend of traditional and cosmopolitan heritage from the coziest corner of an old-style pub with traditional music to the modern restaurants and shops all within walking distance.
Today you have so many activities to chose from including a visit to Wesport House with it’s adjoining Adventure Park, Horse-back riding, Fishing, Painting, and even a day trip to Achill Island or Connemara. Enjoy !
This morning you’re off to your last stop for a night in the capital city of the Republic of Ireland. For your last day you may want to enjoy your complimentary pint in the top-floor Gravity Bar overlooking Dublin at the Guinness Storehouse or learn more about the city on the Hop-On/Hop-Off City Tour bus.
Say goodbye to Ireland and your new friends as you head to the Dublin Airport to board your return flights home.
Safe travels and we’ll see you next time!
Continuing on to explore the South of Ireland with us? Enjoy this full free day in Dublin while you await the arrival of fellow travelers who will join the tour for the Irish Immersion South. Join your Tour Host in offering them a warm Irish welcome at this evening’s Welcome Party*.
*Tour Host and Welcome/Farewell Parties are based on a minimum of 6 combined travelers traveling on the same week
**Bolded items are completely optional to give you the flexibility to spend your time as you choose! Please view the tours tab for more information and pricing.
Itinerary subject to change.
With a commitment to immersing our travelers into each city’s culture, Tenon Tours realizes the importance of selecting your accommodations to enhance your travel experience. Hotels are carefully chosen based on location and quality in an effort to meet your expectations and ensure your satisfaction. Locations are considered to provide the conveniences of the city’s attractions, local restaurants, pubs and public transportation. Whether it’s a boutique hotel or a large chain property, our Premiere hotels will always have a quality rating of 3 or 4 stars, as well as a Trip Advisor rating of 3 or higher.
Park Inn Belfast is the perfect partner for Belfast with its lively colors, fresh and modern designs and exciting facilities. Located in the heart of Belfast near the newly re-opened Ulster Hall, Belfast City Hall, Golden Mile, Belfast Waterfront Hall, Grand Opera House and Albert Memorial Clock, Park Inn Belfast is ideal for both business and leisure travelers.
The Abbey Hotel is located in the beautiful coastal town of Donegal, ideally situated for exploring the rugged North West Coast of Ireland. With its 100 newly refurbished ensuite bedrooms, most overlooking Donegal Bay and the River Eske,The Abbey Hotel is the premier location for any stay in the Donegal area.
The Clew Bay Hotel Westport is a beautiful hotel situated in the centre of Westport, a heritage town in County Mayo. This family owned and managed Mayo hotel property combines a genuine welcome and an outstanding Westport location to create a truly memorable experience. Guests have complimentary access to Westport Leisure Park, which is located next door and boasts a 25m swimming pool, sauna, steam room, plunge pool and fitness suite. The Clew Bay Hotel, Westport, Co. Mayo is also the perfect Mayo hotel with a suberb choice of activities in and around the town of Westport.
Whether for the hotel’s superb location in Dublin City centre to its striking contemporary interior, the Trinity Capital Hotel has it all. Completely remodeled and extended in 2007 the Trinity Capital Hotel now presents a boutique style hotel with a uniquely stylish twist around every corner.
Hotels based on availability and may be substituted with hotels of similar rating and price
Tenon Tours offers a wide range of optional featured tours and events that will make your Ireland vacation more memorable, or in the case of the Countrywide Pub Crawl, a lot less! These featured tours and events will be available for purchase both before you leave and when you arrive. Check out the list below; the town from which each tour originates is listed next to the name of the tour.
Take a journey on a Belfast City Bus Tour which departs regularly from Castle Place, right in the middle of Belfast City Center. See how the city was born during a time of industry and engineering. Learn how it survived famine, disease, bombing raids and the political troubles of its modern history, to become one of Europe’s most popular and exciting destinations. Let the tour guides entertain and educate on a whistle stop tour through 300 tumultuous years of history and introduce you to a city brimming with confidence and optimism. (24 Hour Ticket, Bus Tour approx. 1 hr 30 mins)
Take part in one of the World Famous Black Taxi Tours of Belfast. The local guides will tailor your tour, giving you the option of where you would like to visit most and of course will supply commentary featuring local stories and wit. Start your tour in the City Center, then move through the Shipyards and see where HMS Titanic was built and launched from. See the political districts which have bore the brunt of conflict over the last thirty years before seeing the elegant University Quarter and Museum district. (At Leisure, Approx. 1 hr 30 mins)
The Wheel of Belfast has been operating in the Grounds of City Hall since October 2007. Shortly it will be celebrating its 2nd Birthday despite originally being scheduled to stay for only 6 months. This is a glowing endorsement of its popularity. The Wheel has 42 gondolas including 1 VIP gondola which is equipped with leather seats, tinted windows, CD and DVD player and a glass floor. Each regular gondola can hold up to 6 adults and 2 children while the VIP holds a maximum of 4 people. Each journey lasts for approximately 12 minutes with VIP’s getting double the time. (At Leisure)
This amazing tour is centered on one of the Seven Wonders of the World, the Giants Causeway, as these wondrous rock formations are a spectacle to behold. Begin by driving inland to the coast, stopping at a secret location to view an Irish Mythological Site and discover St. Patrick’s childhood dwelling area. Then there is a quick stop at the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, and of course the Bushmills Whiskey distillery (sampling is allowed, you’re not driving!). Finish your tour with a magnificent drive back via Torr Head and experience an awesome view of the Irish sea from this high cliff-edge road. (Day Tour)
The only completely walled city in the British Isles, Derry is the second largest city in Northern Ireland. The city is brimming with history and has a rich and varied culture. To really grasp the complex history of this fascinating city and its vibrant present, we highly recommend taking part in one of the many walking tours offered by the city of Derry. Please take a look at all of the Walking Tours here. (At Leisure)
Spend the day visiting the spectacular highlands of Donegal, one of Irelands most desolate yet spectacular regions. Your journey will include Letterkenny, Kilmacrennan and Termon where you travel to the fabulous Glenveagh National Park. Next it’s a visit to Poison Glen, home of the Dunlewey Center offering boat trips and an open farm in the shadow of Mt. Errigal, Donegal’s highest peak. Make sure you listen as most of the staff use Gaelic as their means of conversing, you may even learn a few words (cupla focal) to take home with you! (Day Tour)
Built by the O’Donnell chieftain in the 15th century, beside the River Eske, the Castle is the center attraction to the town of Donegal. The Castle has extensive 17th century Jacobean style additions by Sir Basil Brooke, after Hugh O’Donnell burnt it to the ground rather than let the castle fall to enemy hands. The Castle is furnished throughout and includes Persian rugs and French tapestries. Information panels chronicle the history of the Castle owners from the O’Donnell chieftains to the Brooke family. (At Leisure)
Located on the North-West coast of Ireland between the rolling Donegal hills and the majestic Atlantic Ocean, you can experience an Equestrian dream. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rider, you are welcome to come along the quiet country roads and participate in a memorable and exciting day for all groups, families and individuals. (Full and Half Day Tours available)
To get the full benefit of a visit to Donegal, a trip in the waterbus is a “must”. The 80 minute cruise explores the history, environment and wildlife of this unique estuary, which is renowned for its vistas of mountains and sea. From the helm, the Skipper gives a lively commentary on the sights of special interest, including the Old Abbey, the Coastguard Station, Murvagh Golf course, Rooney’s Island, Belles Isle, Rossylongan Estate and much, much more! (At Leisure, approx. 1 hr 20 mins)
The Inishowen peninsula is one of Ireland’s untapped gems. This amazing tour will take you through the breathtaking Mamore Gap, to the picturesque areas of Clonmany and Ballyliffin, over to Carndonagh and then to Ireland’s northernmost point, Malin Head. Continue on to Kinnegoe Bay to hear of the ill-fated Spanish Armada ship the Trinidad Valencia. All along you will be entertained with stories about the eccentric Bishop Hervey, the last duel in Ireland, the illicit trade in poitin making and much much more. (Day Tour)
The county of Sligo, better known as Yeats County, is a town not to be missed for it’s pure depth and wonder. Here you will visit the grave site of the famous poet William Butler Yeats at the Drumcliffe Churchyard, under the loaf-shaped Benbulben Mountain. The place is also considered to be the main source of inspiration by the poet, because it has beautiful scenery and long coastlines.
Home of Grace O’Malley (Granuaile the Pirate Queen of Connaught), the Westport House is located west of the Shannon and is one of Irelands’ most historic homes. Take some time to enjoy a superb parkland setting with lakes, terraces, wonderful gardens and magnificent views overlooking Clew Bay, the Atlantic Ocean, Achill, Clare Island and Ireland’s holy mountain Croagh Patrick. It was built and is still privately owned by the Browne family who are direct descendants of the 16th century Pirate Queen, Grace O’Malley. Westport House was opened to the public for the first time in 1960 and since then has welcomed over 4,000,000 visitors.
The west coast of Ireland is a walkers paradise. Why not come to the edge of Europe, and let us guide you through a magnificent and mystical landscape? There are rambling country lanes to discover, breathtaking coastal paths, ancient pilgrim routes, ribbon like mountain tracks and the moors of Connemara richly scented with flora and fauna. The walks are suitable for most people who are relatively fit and should be within the capabilities of most. A certain amount of flexibility is allowed in the program to allow for slower pace or bad weather. The walking pace is moderate with adequate stops for sightseeing, photographs and lunch.
Go trekking during your trip to Ireland in some of the best riding territory in the country. The center is situated near Croagh Patrick and we use trails around the foothills and on quiet country lanes. Take a ride on the beach treks, lasting from 2 hours at low tide on the lovely beaches of Clew Bay. Beach riding is fun and exciting for the more experienced rider. It’s often referred from past guests as “the ultimate riding experience”. Personal attention, well schooled home-bred horses, wonderful trekking landscape and spectacular views – this is the Irish equestrian holiday for you!
Join us for a tour and sampling at the Guinness Brewery, Ireland’s #1 International visitor attraction. Since opening in November 2000, the Guinness Storehouse has attracted over 4 million visitors from every corner of the Globe. Enjoy the tour of the Storehouse before sampling the goods at the top-level Gravity Bar as you catch a view of the city. (At Leisure)
You will discover the time-honored secret of how three simple ingredients – water, barley and yeast – are transformed into the smooth golden spirit that has always been and continues to be, Jameson Irish Whiskey. After learning about Jameson Irish Whiskey from the arrival of the Barley to Bottling it would be only fair for you to be allowed to taste it. At the end of the guided tour each visitor is offered a complimentary glass of Jameson. Your whiskey education does not stop there, as our guides select volunteers to take part in a Whiskey comparison tasting, demonstrating the subtle difference in taste between various types of Irish Whiskey and compare with leading Scotch and American Whiskeys. (At Leisure)
With 26 stops at Dublin’s top visitor attractions and a live guide there is no better way to see Dublin! This fun and friendly 90-minute tour is complete with live commentary by industry trained local guides. The tours depart every 6 to 20 minutes throughout the day and stops along the tour route include Trinity College, the Guinness Storehouse, Dublin Castle, St Patrick’s Cathedral, Kilmainham Gaol and the Old Jameson Distillery. (24 Hour Ticket)
Viking Splash Tours is a great way to see the sights of Dublin – both on land and water! Traveling on board our Amphibious World War II vehicles (DUKWs) you are taken on a spellbinding tour of Dublin. Our Viking Tour Guides ensure you not only hear about Viking Dublin, but also see sights such as St Patrick’s and Christ Church Cathedrals, Trinity College, Government Buildings and Georgian Dublin. The climax of the tour sees our Viking DUKWs splash into the water at the newly developed Grand Canal Docklands where the recording studio of U2 and much more are explored. (At Leisure, 1 hr 15 mins, seasonal, May-November)
Unlike any other traditional Irish music night in the city, it is organized and hosted by All-Ireland Champion traditional Irish musicians and dancers in an intimate and homely setting. There are no stages, microphones or fake antiques hanging here! This has made the evening hugely popular with both Irish guests and guests from abroad. On arrival you are welcomed by your host for an evening of traditional Irish music, delicious Irish dinner and of course Irish dancing that will both entertain and educate. You can take part as much as you like or simply sit back in comfortable surroundings and enjoy the best traditional Irish music and Irish dancing party in Dublin. (Dinner/Evening Event)
Join us for an Evening of fine food, song and dance along with a guided tour of the Distillery and a complimentary Jameson drink. This evening package is comprised of a guided tour, 4 course menu, & traditional Irish entertainment featuring The Shindig Players and Claddagh Irish Dancers. Irish “Shindig” Nights operate Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from April to October. (Dinner/Evening event)
**At Leisure: Tours are open to visit at your leisure. Transportation and admission fees can not be pre-sold and are required to be paid on-site. With your travel documents issued prior to departure you will be provided with a guide including transportation directions, times, admission fees and site information.
Day Tours meet at approximately 9 or 10am and return around 5 or 6pm. Optional Tours can be purchased up until the day prior to departure. Space on these tours can not be guaranteed if not purchased prior to departure. Prices are listed per person and based on current rates and exchange rates. Prices are not guaranteed until reservation is complete with deposit received.
| Dates | |||
| 8-Day/7-Night (Sun-Sun) | North then South 7 night tour 15-Day/14-Night (Sun-Sun)
$100 off combined I & II Tours |
North then South 10 night tour 18-Day/17-Night (Sun-Wed)
$150 off combined I & II Tours |
|
| Jan-Feb | $947.00 | $1,847.00 | $2,147.00 |
| Mar-Apr | $1,047.00
April 18th only $997 |
$1,997.00 | $2,297.00 |
| May-Sept | $1,147.00 | $2,197.00 | $2,547.00 |
| October | $997.00 | $2,167.00 | $2,397.00 |
| Nov-Dec | $947.00 | $1,847.00 | $2,147.00 |
Terms: Pricing is per person based on land-only, double occupancy, and does not include airfare or $19-$59 processing fee. Add a pre-night on Saturday in Belfast for only $79 per person or a post-night on Sunday in Dublin for $97 per person (includes room, breakfast & airport transfer). Single supplement reflects and additional $50/night. Some weeks may be excluded from general pricing due to special events.
- Save 5% off of the base price if you pay in full 6 months prior to departure
- Save 10% off of the base price if you pay in full 12 months prior to departure
1. Request information about your desired package to be contacted by one of our tour coordinators, or save time and book your trip now.
2. Make the required deposit of $250 per person (land) plus any airfare (varies). Save up to 10% by paying in full early!
3. Final payments are due no later than 60 days prior to departure.
4. You will receive travel documents by email 5-10 days prior to departure.
What do we mean by semi-escorted?
Our semi-escorted tour is one in which we arrange transportation from town to town, rather than having to drive yourself (self-drive), or having to be stuck on the bus with a tour group for the duration of your trip (fully escorted). We’ve found that, paired with a provided itinerary and optional tours, it’s the perfect way to combine the structure you need, with the flexibility you want!
What type of transportation will we use while traveling in Ireland?
Transportation will vary depending on group size, ranging from scheduled service coach transfers to private luxury motor-coach. While we don’t retain a single vehicle for the duration of your trip, we do work with several local transportation and tour suppliers to ensure comfortable, hassle-free transfers and sightseeing excursions. The transfer from Belfast to Donegal is guaranteed private chauffeur-driven with a minimum of only 2 travelers. Donegal to Sligo and Sligo to Dublin are private starting at only 6 travelers on the same week. Some transfers and optional tour pick-up points may require up to a 5 minute walk.
What do you mean by scheduled service?
With scheduled transfers you will enjoy a ride on a luxury coach bus or train with service provided by a local Irish company such as UlsterBus, Bus Eireann, CityLink, GoBus or IrishRail. Scheduled transfers can be updated to private transfers for an additional charge, please ask your sales representative.
Does my flight need to arrive or depart at any specific time? How do airport transfers work?
Your flight does not need to meet any specific time requirements though most flights from the U.S. do arrive early in the morning. Airport transfers are supplied by either AirCoach city-center shuttle, CityLink shuttle, hotel shuttle, pre-paid taxi or Bus Eireann.
What time of day will we depart each city?
Departure times to each city can differ, but are usually between 9am and 3pm. All departure times will be listed on your travel documents issued prior to departure from the U.S. so that you can plan our your days activities accordingly.
Will I have free time or will I have to stay with the group the entire time?
The foundation of our tour is the flexibility that is built into it! Other than transfers from town-to-town, it’s your vacation to spend as you please.
Will there be someone accompanying our group while we are on tour?
For most groups or weeks with 6 or more travelers a tour host will be available upon your first night in Belfast for the Welcome Party. With a minimum of 2 travelers your driver will be available throughout most of your journey to assist with check-ins, transfers, and optional tours and events, as well as any emergency situations that may arise. In the event that there is not a full-time host, you will be provided with contact names and numbers in the event of an emergency.
Is our tour departure guaranteed?
Yes, all tours are guaranteed and will not be canceled due to a lack of travelers. Our flexible transportation contracts allow for us to run a tour with 2 or 20 people. This is not normally the case for many fully escorted tours that can be canceled or changed if not enough travelers book to fill a coach bus.
Who is this tour recommended for?
We recommend this tour for the active independent traveler who is looking for an alternative to driving themselves or a fully planned tour with no freedom & flexibility.
This tour is NOT recommended for those who require private transportation service at all times, all luggage handling, or have mobility issues such as wheelchairs, trouble walking or limiting medical conditions.
Is this not the type of traveling for you? Do you prefer a fully escorted tour? Just let us know! We have access to multiple fully escorted itineraries that we are able to offer at discounted rates.

You are free to book your flight on your own so that you may keep your eye on the rates as they fluctuate prior to travel, pick the schedule you desire and pay when you are ready. We also leave this purchase up to you in the case that you would like to use frequent flyer miles or discounts you may have earned in the past. Please remember to double check your itinerary before purchasing a flight to make sure you have the correct arrival and departure airport as many of our tours require an arrival into Dublin airport and departure from Shannon airport when you leave. Another thing to keep in mind as you are booking your flight is that most flights to Ireland require an overnight flight departing the night before your scheduled tour start date.
All flights purchased through Tenon Tours do require full payment at the time of confirmation and do incur a ticketing fee. Your rate will not be locked in until the Terms and Conditions are e-signed and the Passenger form is submitted online. All flights, unless otherwise informed, will be e-ticketed only requiring a voucher to be printed prior to departure. This e-ticket will be issued one week prior to travel. Please review your two choices:
Ticketing Fee: $16 per person
With choice #1 Tenon Tours will inform you of the lowest rate available at the time you are ready to purchase a flight in full. Your flight information, departure times & airline, will be provided to you no later then 3 weeks prior to depature. Your ticket will be booked for the dates required and cities requested/needed. This option is not available if booking less than a month prior to traveling.
Ticketing Fee: $26 per person
With choice #2 Tenon Tours will review the current rate, schedule, times and airline with you upon purchasing your flight in full.