Scotland & Ireland | Classic | Winter | 2025/2026

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13 Days From

$2244

Scotland & Ireland | Classic | Winter | 2025/2026

13 Days Starting in Edinburgh and ending in Dublin

Visiting: Edinburgh, St. Andrews, Stirling, Inverness, Loch Ness, Aviemore, Glenfinnan Viaduct, Glasgow, Larne, Dublin, Kilkenny, Clonmel, Blarney, Cliffs of Moher, Galway, Derry/Londonderry, Giant's Causeway, Belfast

Tour operator:

Contiki

Tour code:

WWEDMA20

Specialist Group:

18-30 Somethings

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Physical rating:

Medium

Age range:

18-35

Special diets catered:

Vegetarians

Tour operated in:

English

From: $2244

NB: Prices correct on 22-Dec-2024 but subject to change.

Tour Overview

Embark on an unforgettable winter journey through the enchanting landscapes of Scotland and Ireland with our Classic tour for 2025/2026. Begin your adventure in Edinburgh, exploring its historic streets before heading to the birthplace of golf, St. Andrews. Capture the essence of Scotland with visits to Stirling Castle and the mystical Loch Ness. Cross the Irish Sea to discover the natural wonder of the Giant's Causeway and delve into Belfast's rich history at the Titanic Museum. In Ireland, kiss the Blarney Stone, marvel at the Cliffs of Moher, and soak up the vibrant atmosphere of Galway. With guided tours, comfortable coach travel, and stays in charming hotels, this tour offers a perfect blend of sightseeing, history, and culture. Enjoy included breakfasts and dinners as you traverse these iconic destinations, creating memories to last a lifetime.

Highlights

St. Andrews: Discover the birthplace of golf and the historic Swilcan Bridge.
Stirling: Explore the sights and capture a selfie with the memorial to the iconic Scottish knight.
Loch Ness: Cruise along the loch and keep an eye out for the legendary 'Nessie'.
Giant's Causeway: Marvel at this unique natural wonder with its fascinating rock formations.
Belfast: Learn about the city's history with a local guide and visit the Titanic Museum.
Blarney Castle: Kiss the Blarney Stone and explore the medieval Irish castle.
Cliffs of Moher: Experience the breathtaking views of these iconic, rugged cliffs.
Galway: Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, live music, and colorful streets of this charming city.

Places You'll See

Edinburgh Castle

Loch Ness, Scotland

Itinerary

tourhub | Contiki | Scotland & Ireland | Classic | Winter | 2025/2026 | WWEDMA20 | Route Map

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Day 1: Start Edinburgh

Location: Edinburgh

Accommodation Name: Holiday Inn Express Edinburgh City West (or similar)

Royal mile, old Castle, home of the brave, Edinburgh is going to turn it on from start to end. With days of adventure up ahead, go out in search of haggis, a whisky bar and join the jolly locals before meeting up with the crew tonight, in anticipation of the good times that are yet to come.

Day 2: Edinburgh

Location: Edinburgh

Accommodation Name: Ibis Edinburgh Centre South Bridge (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today is yours to roam free - but if you want to get the low down on the history of this city why not join our local guide for an optional tour of Edinburgh Castle (which is resting on an extinct volcano!!) to kickstart your love affair with this city. Or maybe you'll do a spot of tartan shopping on Princes Street or indulge in some whisky tasting.

Day 3: Edinburgh To Inverness Via St Andrews And Stirling

Location: Edinburgh, St. Andrews, Stirling, Inverness

Accommodation Name: Columba Hotel Inverness (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

It's time to blaze a trail out of Edinburgh & head for Inverness. On the way to the main affair of the day we'll stop by St. Andrews, the birthplace of golf, would you believe? As well as Scotland’s oldest university town. We make a stop in Stirling, known for its famous Castle nestled right on a hill, and the town where William Wallace took on the English and yelled "Freeeedom!" Already blown away by the beauty of the rugged mountain scenery en route, we'll arrive in Inverness amped up for mystical tales.

Day 4: Inverness Via Loch Ness And Aviemore

Location: Inverness, Loch Ness, Aviemore, Inverness

Accommodation Name: Columba Hotel Inverness (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

We might be coming down from a high (geographically speaking) this morning, but as we seek out the stunning Loch Ness and Glenfinnan Viaduct, the mood will only be rising. We'll stop to see lovely Loch Ness, the most voluminous lake in the UK - containing more water than all the lakes of England and Wales combined! It's also rumoured to contain something else, something far more legendary which you're sure to have heard of... We'll also check out Aviemore, a picturesque jewel in the Cairngorms' crown - home to lochs, mountain trails and plenty of panoramic views. With breath-taking scenery still in mind, today's sights will leave you more than content with your day's discoveries.

Day 5: Inverness To Glasgow

Location: Inverness, Glenfinnan Viaduct, Glasgow

Accommodation Name: Ibis Glasgow City Centre Sauchiehall Street Hotel (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

After a few days of remote and rugged goodness, a change of pace in Scotland's biggest city is sure to fire things up a notch. Feast your eyes on the railway viaduct – once a calling stop for the magical Hogwarts Express in the Harry Potter films and the breathtaking waters of Loch Shiel, which seems to stretch on endlessly. Get involved with everything great about Glasgow. Live music on every corner, a gothic cathedral & plenty of quirky characters make this city unique. Tonight, you have the option to sign up for a delicious home-cooked meal for a truly local Glaswegian experience.

Day 6: Glasgow To Dublin

Location: Glasgow, Larne, Dublin

Accommodation Name: Travelodge Plus Dublin City Centre (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Scotland, you've been unreal. If Ireland puts on half the show you did, we have many happy days ahead of us. We arrive in the port town of Larne, your first steps on Northern Irish soil, but not for long... So much more than the capital city, Dublin is a place of heritage, character, and more cute pubs than you could crawl in a week. End the day with a lively night of festivities at the cobbled lanes of Temple Bar.

Day 7: Dublin To Clonmel

Location: Dublin, Kilkenny, Clonmel

Accommodation Name: Talbot Hotel Clonmel (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

That's us done with Dublin…for now. But fear not Dub-lovers, we'll get another taste of this fine place before our trip comes to an end. Break up your coach hangs with some bicycle time in a city sure to leave you wanting Irish in your blood. Explore the castle, a cathedral and take in all of the medieval charm that Kilkenny has to offer before we hit the road again. Welcome to Clonmel! But not before the chance to sample some of Ireland's famous whiskey at the Jameson's Distillery in Midleton. After we arrive in the evening, we'll tuck into an included dinner and then head off into town together to explore.

Day 8: Clonmel To Galway

Location: Clonmel, Blarney, Cliffs of Moher, Galway

Accommodation Name: Travelodge Galway City Hotel (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

Clonmel, it's been fun, but we have to leave you now. Next up, we're off to an Irish city that was propelled into the pop culture stratosphere by none other than Ed Sheeran. Anyone wanna guess where? Irish folklore tells us there's a chunk of limestone built into a castle that grants its kissers the gift of the gab. Pucker up kids, we're paying her a visit! Whether heights are your cup of Irish Breakfast or not, these impressive cliff faces are not to be missed! From the moment we arrive in Galway, you'll understand why 2 nights were needed here. Everything you've dreamed Ireland to be is tucked into this small, atmospheric city. Step into a local pub and down Irish stew over live music and chats with locals. Outside will be just as lively, with buskers & colourful buildings lining the streets.

Day 9: Galway

Location: Galway

Accommodation Name: Travelodge Galway City Hotel (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Try your tongue at some Gaelic and carry on exploring gorgeous Galway. Head up to Dún Aonghasa (the ruins of a prehistoric fortress) - make sure you take photos, this area is not for the faint-hearted! Irish life, you so sweet.

Day 10: Galway To Derry/Londonderry

Location: Galway, Derry/Londonderry

Accommodation Name: Holiday Inn Express Derry (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

Goodbye Galway, hello more Irish eye-candy. Here the 17th century walls stand at 8 metres high speaking of times gone by when this area was in battle. Times may have changed, but we're still keen to soak up the history and learn a thing or two from our wise Local Guide.

Day 11: Derry/Londonderry To Belfast

Location: Derry/Londonderry, Giant's Causeway, Belfast

Accommodation Name: Ramada by Wyndham Belfast City Centre (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today we've got a one way ticket to Belfast and a whole lot more exploration to do. UNESCO World Heritage site of the Giant’s Causeway - also known as those giant rock columns you've probably drooled over on Pinterest, needs to be seen to be believed. Get those hashtags ready, a snap with the group is essential on the mind-blowing natural formation. Next up - we'll arrive in Belfast. Concluding the day will be a driving tour and a trip to the Titanic museum where the world's most famous ship was built.

Day 12: Belfast To Dublin

Location: Belfast, Dublin

Accommodation Name: Travelodge Plus Dublin City Centre (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

With one night left in Ireland and on tour, we're on the fast track to Dublin where our Irish fairytale first began. A promise is a promise. Here we are back in the city that started our Ireland infatuations. Use this second stint to do your missed critical activities such as visiting the Guinness Storehouse where you can learn how to pull a pint the Irish way. Tonight you can choose to end your week in Ireland at a Free Time Add-On farewell dinner.

Day 13: End Dublin

Location: Dublin

Meals Included: Breakfast

We leave Ireland today with leprechauns in our hearts and memories in our souls. Say goodbye at breakfast as it will be the last bite our crew has together.

What's Included

Meals

12 Breakfasts and 4 Dinners are included.
Accommodation

Accommodation in various hotels such as Holiday Inn Express Edinburgh City West, Ibis Edinburgh Centre South Bridge, Columba Hotel Inverness, Ibis Glasgow City Centre Sauchiehall Street Hotel, Travelodge Plus Dublin City Centre, Talbot Hotel Clonmel, Travelodge Galway City Hotel, Holiday Inn Express Derry, and Ramada by Wyndham Belfast City Centre.
Guided Tours

Guided tours in various locations including Edinburgh, Stirling, Belfast, and Derry/Londonderry.
Transportation

Transportation between various locations including Edinburgh, Inverness, Glasgow, Dublin, Clonmel, Galway, Derry/Londonderry, and Belfast.
Visits to Attractions

Visits to attractions such as St. Andrews, Stirling Castle, Loch Ness, Glenfinnan Viaduct, Cliffs of Moher, Blarney Castle, Giant's Causeway, and the Titanic Museum.
Travel

Travel between destinations in a comfortable coach, with scenic stops along the way including St. Andrews, Stirling, Loch Ness, and the Giant's Causeway. Enjoy ferry crossings between Scotland and Ireland.

What's Not Included

Optional Tours

Optional tours such as the Edinburgh Castle tour and the farewell dinner in Dublin are not included.
Personal Expenses

Personal expenses such as shopping, additional meals, and drinks are not included.
Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is not included and must be purchased separately.
Flights

Flights to and from the starting and ending locations are not included.

Mode of Transport

Travel between destinations in a comfortable coach with scenic stops, including ferry crossings between Scotland and Ireland, covering locations such as Edinburgh, Inverness, Glasgow, Dublin, Clonmel, Galway, Derry/Londonderry, and Belfast.

Accommodation

Stay in a variety of comfortable hotels including Holiday Inn Express Edinburgh City West, Ibis Edinburgh Centre South Bridge, Columba Hotel Inverness, Ibis Glasgow City Centre Sauchiehall Street Hotel, Travelodge Plus Dublin City Centre, Talbot Hotel Clonmel, Travelodge Galway City Hotel, Holiday Inn Express Derry, and Ramada by Wyndham Belfast City Centre.

Dining Summary

12 Breakfast (B)4 Dinner (D)

Included Experience

St. Andrews: If you like golf, you’ll love St Andrews. But if you think it spoils a nice walk in the park, there’s also Swilcan Bridge.Stirling: Explore the sights of Stirling and get a selfie with the memorial to the iconic Scottish knight.Loch Ness: Sit back, relax and cruise along the loch with your Contiki crew. But keep your eyes peeled and camera ready for mythical ‘Nessie’.Fort William: Heads up ‘Potterheads’. Keep your eyes peeled for the Hogwarts Express.Giant's Causeway: Sure, rock formations may sound a bit dull on paper, but this quirky natural wonder has to be seen to be believed.Belfast: Hang with a local guide to see all the landmarks and learn about the city’s checkered history.Blarney Castle: Your chance to kiss the Blarney Stone and get the ‘gift of the gab’. And to visit the medieval Irish castle.Cliffs of Moher: These rugged, photogenic cliffs have been the star of many films, including a Harry Potter one.Galway: Tread the cobbles of this well-loved Irish city with your new Contiki crew. See Lynch’s Castle, Eyre Square and all the best pubs.Derry/Londonderry: One for the history fans. Take a look around Ireland’s only walled city, built in the 17th Century.

FAQs

London: Travelling to (and through) the UK & Northern Ireland? You’ll need Essential Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA)From January 8, 2025, UK law means that if you’re entering/transiting through the United Kingdom (UK) and Northern Ireland you’ll need an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before you travel. Confused? Don’t be – just read on here.Edinburgh: How do we travel between Scotland and Ireland? You'll cross the Irish Sea aboard a modern, high-speed ferry with comfy facilities. Best part? You’ll be able to leave the coach and explore the ferry and its food court during the 2-hour journey. We’ll hop back on the coach before disembarking.Edinburgh: How long are the drives? You’ll be on the road for around 2-3 hours between stops. We’ll check out some cities along the way, so that you can soak up some more of the localities in the British Isles. Either way, get ready for all the beautiful backdrops you’ll see.

Check out our Q&As

What kind of meals are included in the tour?

The tour includes 12 breakfasts and 4 dinners.
What type of accommodation can I expect during the tour?

Accommodation is provided in various hotels such as Holiday Inn Express Edinburgh City West, Ibis Edinburgh Centre South Bridge, Columba Hotel Inverness, Ibis Glasgow City Centre Sauchiehall Street Hotel, Travelodge Plus Dublin City Centre, Talbot Hotel Clonmel, Travelodge Galway City Hotel, Holiday Inn Express Derry, and Ramada by Wyndham Belfast City Centre.
Are guided tours included in the itinerary?

Yes, guided tours are included in various locations including Edinburgh, Stirling, Belfast, and Derry/Londonderry.
How will we travel between destinations on the tour?

Travel between destinations is by a comfortable coach with scenic stops along the way, and there are ferry crossings between Scotland and Ireland.
What are some of the key attractions we will visit during the tour?

The tour includes visits to attractions such as St. Andrews, Stirling Castle, Loch Ness, Glenfinnan Viaduct, Cliffs of Moher, Blarney Castle, Giant's Causeway, and the Titanic Museum.

Is travel insurance included in the tour package?

No, travel insurance is not included and must be purchased separately.
Are flights included in the tour package?

No, flights to and from the starting and ending locations are not included.
What optional activities are available during the tour?

Optional tours such as the Edinburgh Castle tour and the farewell dinner in Dublin are available but not included in the tour package.
How long has the tour company been trading?

In 1961, a guy called John Anderson founded Contiki in New Zealand. Whilst later bought by The Travel Corporation, the tour company had already been using the name ‘Contiki’ since its inception.
Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?

Contiki trips are designed & operated exclusively for those aged 18-35 years. Your travelling companions will be like-minded adventurers within that age range. The age range is adhered to strictly.
What policies are in place for Covid-19?

Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies
Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

Yes
What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® is our commitment to protect people, wildlife and the incredible planet we all share. Powered by The TreadRight Foundation, a non-profit organisation and Contiki’s guiding hand when it comes to making travel matter.
What documents will I receive before I travel?

All documentation will be sent via email around 21 days prior to your trip departure. You can also access information on your trip by signing up to My Contiki via the top right icon of the homepage.

Reviews of this operator

Trusted Customer

Northern Choice plus Kaikoura

16-Jan-2023

The trip ran so smoothly and was well organised! The extra add ons were amazing and all the services were spot on. Food places were reasonable. I'm definitely booking my next contiki trip again soon!

Feefo Trusted Reviews

Sophie

Exceptional customer service

14-Jan-2023

Contiki were exceptional in providing customer service. They provided me with lots of information and were quick in responding to all my questions. I found that they were super helpful.

Feefo Trusted Reviews

Trusted Customer

First time traveling with Contiki. Highly recommend! You’ll have a blast

17-Jan-2023

First time traveling internationally since Covid and glad I spent the trip with Contiki. The travel, lodging, meals, activities everything was planned effortlessly. Going to Greece in may with contiki. Highly recommend

Feefo Trusted Reviews

Trusted Customer

Amazing trip. Made great friends and memories. Can’t wait for my next trip

15-Jan-2023

I had 24 people on my contiki and I think it was the perfect number, we all got to know each other well and got along great. Our tour guide was fun and knowledgeable, the hotels were nice and in great locations.

Feefo Trusted Reviews

Tanner Stokes

My amazing trip to Africa

13-Jan-2023

Sherif was an excellent tour guide. He was extremely knowledgeable about every single small detail at each site that we visited. In addition to his great service, he has a glowing spirit that made me feel like I had family with me the entire trip. Anything that I was concerned about, he always had an answer and was there to help. I truly enjoyed my experience and will purchase a tour with him in the future

Feefo Trusted Reviews

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