Retired and ready to roam? Ireland and Scotland are the perfect blends of vibrant rolling hills, green clifftops, castles, and rich history to explore at whatever pace you’d like. And, you’re in luck — they’re also two of our most popular destinations, so we’ve got a few tips and tricks up our sleeve! Here are some must-hit spots for seniors to visit when traveling to the lands of lochs, legends, and lore. 

We’ve also linked a few of our itineraries we think are the best and most popular for our traveling seniors, any of which are fully customizable to ensure you include the essentials on your travel list! 

Ireland

Welcome to the Emerald Isle! Begin in Dublin where the streets are stirring with live music, gift shops, pubs, and plenty of jovial Irish spirit. Here, you can enjoy walks along the stone streets in the city’s heartbeat and visit the infamous Guinness Storehouse where you’ll find seven stories of wheat barrels, machinery, brews, and pour-your-own experiences, finishing at the 360° Gravity Bar. Afterwards, visit the beautiful campus of Trinity College where you’ll find the Book of Kells exhibit in the large, cavernous library. 

See the storied halls and large gardens of Kilkenny Castle, one of the most popular tourist attractions in Ireland. The castle is open year-around and its fifty acres offer much to be seen and explored, including a terraced rose garden, an intricate courtyard, royal decor, and plenty of tumultuous history to learn about. 

You’ll see the gorgeous, quiet countryside of Killarney and County Clare, with thatched cottages that look like something out of a fairytale. Browse shops and, if you’re up for it, visit the mighty Cliffs of Moher—heads up, be prepared for some heavy breezes! While this stop will have a bit of walking to the cliffs and some misty weather, we think the view is absolutely worth it.

The quaint, charming city of Galway is a traveler favorite, with many pubs, restaurants, shops, and walking paths to explore. If you’ve ever heard of the famed Claddagh Ring, here’s the place to purchase the souvenir. 

A self-drive tour of the Ring of Kerry is a perfect day tip! You may go at your own pace, make stops as you wish, and view the beautiful coastal inlets, rolling countryside, and breathe in the fresh sea air. The circuit takes about 3.5 hours, and you’ll take in views you’ll remember forever. 

While these are just a few highlights not to miss, the below inspirational itineraries have more details and fully-customizable days: Best of Ireland, Enchanted South.

Scotland

Welcome to Scotland! You’ll feel the magic in the air the moment you’re off the plane. Enjoy the day in Edinburgh, and you can begin with a hop-on hop-off tour to get your bearings and see the beautiful cityscape. A popular attraction is the Royal Yacht Britannia, the boat that’s sailed over 1,000,000 nautical miles and was the former yacht of Queen Elizabeth 11. You’ll explore five decks, state apartments, and even enjoy tea and scones in the Royal Deck Tea Room! 

Visit the mountaintop Stirling Castle where Mary Queen of Scots was crowned. You’ll learn about the architecture and history, and the view from the top is well worth the visit! Then, make your way to Loch Lomond, a large lake in southern Scotland. You’ll see a magnificent view of the low mountains and the smooth, reflective lake, plus the park is a great place to sneak a peek at red deer and other wildlife—you can even take a hawk walk and spot some birds of prey. Did you know the area was the first place to become a national park in Scotland? 

The incredible Isle of Skye is full of craggy coasts, stunning sunsets, and shimmering waterfalls. You can visit fairy pools, go fishing, and spot the Old Man of Storr, a rocky hill on the Trotternish Peninsula which is believed to have been an ancient burial ground. The Quiraing walk begins here, and you can go just as far as you wish and still see endless cliffs and inland lochs. 

Near the end of your trip, travel to Inverness and visit St. Andrews, which is so much more than just the home of golf! Explore the remains of the cathedral which dates back to the 12th century and walk in the footsteps of golf legends on the Old Course. A walking tour will take you through the city’s history, restaurants, relics, and off-the-beaten-path stops such as the Knights Templar and the St. Andrews Meridian Line. We recommend tasting lots of the local food, too!

If you’d like to customize one of our Scotland itineraries, we’d recommend starting with The Best of Scotland or our Grand Tour of Scotland. Visit as much or as little sites as you like, but no matter what you’ll come back from a most unforgettable vacation.

Whether you’re hoping to visit Ireland or Scotland, or both (we really think they’re the perfect duo!), we’d love to take you there and help plan the perfect itinerary. Browse other personalized trips below. See you soon!

How We Travel

Learn More
  • Motorcycle

    Ride your way: custom tours built for adventure, created by motorcyclists.

  • Self Drive tour in Europe
    Self Drive

    Hit the road your way: itinerary, car, accommodations, sights, and tours. But let us do all the heavy lifting.

  • Chauffeur 1
    Chauffeur

    The freedom of your own private car, the luxury of your own personal guide. And the very best hidden secrets.

  • funny mural of school children in uniforms
    Scheduled Tour

    For travelers who prefer to join a small group tour, we offer scheduled tours.

  • Train going over bridge next to waterfall
    Rail

    Convenient, comfortable, oozing with charm. With a front-row seat to some of the most beautiful scenery in the world.

  • Young people overlooking scenic area in Europe
    Private Group

    The trip of a lifetime, personalized just for your group of friends, family, or organization down to every last detail.

  • Honeymoon coupe drinking wine by ocean
    Honeymoon

    Every tour is different, perfectly matched for every couple. Crafted by a team who is as excited about your honeymoon as you are.

View Over Old Man Of Storr, Isle Of Skye, Scotland. During a beautiful sunrise and dramatic sky with a local shower here and there. The Old Man of Storr looms over Portree, Isle of Skye and is situated 7 miles north of the town. It is dominated by the 50 metre high petrified lava pinnacle of the Old Man of Storr, with a brutal tumble of cliff behind, and the panorama spreads across loch, sea and islands to the high mountains of the mainland beyond.

Best of Scotland

10 Days | 11 Nights
Castles
Outdoor
History

Edinburgh is the starting point on this iconic 10-day tour of Scotland. Walk the cobblestone streets of the Royal Mile with its magnificent Edinburgh Castle at the top. Discover the many different sides of this UNESCO World Heritage city. Heading west from Edinburgh, you will see the lochs and glens that – along with the highlands and islands – make this country such a spectacular destination.

Starting From $3,247 per person based on double occupancy
Grand Tour of Scotland

Grand Tour of Scotland

15 Days | 14 Nights
Arts and Culture
History
Culinary
Outdoor

Scotland, at your leisure. Taking it one historic castle, distillery, and breathtaking glen at a time, savoring the amazing food and drink that Scotland is famous for along the way. 

Starting From $3,197 per person based on double occupancy
Historical Adventure of England & Scotland

Historical Adventure of England & Scotland

8 Days | 7 Nights
Arts and Culture
History
Outdoor

Enjoy an introduction to England and Scotland with this 7-night tour. Take in the highlights of cosmopolitan London before moving northward to the Roman walled city of York and onto bonnie Scotland to enjoy its capital city of Edinburgh and the magical highlands.

Starting From $2,097 per person based on double occupancy
Giants Causeway Ireland

Northern Embrace

11 Days | 10 Nights
Arts and Culture
Sustainability
History
Outdoor

Northern Ireland at its finest! Drive the stunning Causeway Coastal Route, walk in the footsteps of giants, and see Game of Thrones filming locations.

Starting From $3,450 per person based on double occupancy
The Island of Ireland

The Island of Ireland

15 Days | 14 Nights
Arts and Culture
City
Outdoor
History

Embark on an unforgettable journey through the heart of Ireland, from its northern reaches to the picturesque south. Delve into the vibrant cities of Dublin and Belfast before immersing yourself in the rugged beauty of the Wild Atlantic Way. This tour promises a perfect blend of captivating scenery and enriching experiences, offering a comprehensive exploration of Ireland’s diverse treasures.

Starting From $3,450 per person based on double occupancy
Adare Manor Limerick Ireland

Enchanted South

8 Days | 7 Nights
Culinary
City
Outdoor
Castles

Experience the best of the South of Ireland from its bustling capital city to the medieval city of Kilkenny and on to one of the wildest, most enchanting and culturally rich coastal touring routes in the world. 

Starting From $3,150 per person based on double occupancy
By-Your-Side

By-Your-Side Service℠

Our personal concierge service and mobile app

Europe Experts

Custom Europe Experts

Experts in planning truly customized trips

Without Compromise

Value without Compromise

High-touch inclusions and customized experiences

Consistency with Individuality

Consistency with Individuality

You’ll always be met with the highest standards

Let's Get Social

@tenontours