8 Day Ireland Fly & Drive
From
$1439*
Air & Land
Based on airfare from
Departure City
Choose your airport and select a date.
| Prices Vary |
Hotels/Plans Available for Departure Dates
| Plan B | ||
|---|---|---|
| Travelodge Plus Dublin City Center Hotel | Dublin | |
| Dromhall Hotel | Killarney | |
| Flannery's Hotel | Galway | |
| Plan A | ||
|---|---|---|
| Maldron Pearse Street | Dublin | |
| Randles Hotel | Killarney | |
| Radisson Red Galway Hotel | Galway | |
Select a Date to Book
Select a Date to Book
| 2026 Dates & Prices Single Supplement: $650 | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hotel | Dates | Embark | Tour Starts | Ship | Land Only | Air & Land |
| $* $1709* | ||||||
| 2026 Dates & Prices Single Supplement: $750 | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hotel | Dates | Embark | Tour Starts | Ship | Land Only | Air & Land |
| $* $1909* | ||||||
Not Included:
Car rental fees, optional car rental insurance and parking.
Additional Information:
Drivers must be at least 25 years old to rent a vehicle.
The lead passenger will be the listed as the driver of the vehicle. Additional drivers may be added for an extra cost at the time of vehicle pickup.
Accommodation Details:
Travelodge Plus Dublin City Center Hotel, Dublin has limited or no twin rooms (two beds); instead, a double room (one bed) will be provided.
Entry Requirements:
Passengers traveling abroad require a passport valid for six months beyond their travel dates. All travelers are responsible to check if a visa is required for all countries on their itinerary. For visa information, check our Visas page.
Passengers traveling abroad require a passport valid for six months beyond their travel dates. All travelers are responsible to check if a visa is required for all countries on their itinerary. For visa information, check our Visas page.
Is This Trip Right for You?
Things to Consider: This program offers the flexibility and freedom to explore at your own pace. Please note this tour is not escorted and therefore you will not have the services of a tour manager to assist with hotel check-in formalities and luggage handling.
Transportation: A rental car is used for transportation on this program.
Travel Style: This is an Independent program. For more information, click here.
Independent Package Includes
- Round trip flights [FlightRouting]
Other departure cities available. Click on date of departure for selection and prices - 6 nights accommodations in your choice of hotels
- 2 nights Dublin
- 2 nights Killarney
- 2 nights Galway
- 7 day car rental: Mini Manual. Upgrade to other categories available
- Car rental includes: Unlimited Mileage, Third Party Liability Insurance, Collision Damage Waiver (C.D.W.), local taxes (VAT)
- Breakfast daily
Vehicle Options
-
Economy Manual - Opel Corsa or Similar
- 1-3 passengers
- 2 Small Suitcases
- Manual Transmission
-
Economy Automatic - Nissan Micra or Similar
- 1-3 passengers
- 2 Small Suitcases
- Automatic Transmission
-
Compact Manual - Nissan Qashqai or Similar
- 1-4 Passengers
- 1 Large & 2 Small Suitcases
- Manual Transmission
- Air-Conditioning
-
Luxury Automatic - BMW 5 Series or Similar
- 1-4 Passengers
- 1 Large & 2 Small Suitcases
- Automatic Transmission
- Air-Conditioning
Not Included:
Car rental fees, optional car rental insurance and parking.
Is This Trip Right for You?
Things to Consider: This program offers the flexibility and freedom to explore at your own pace. Please note this tour is not escorted and therefore you will not have the services of a tour manager to assist with hotel check-in formalities and luggage handling.
Transportation: A rental car is used for transportation on this program.
Travel Style: This is an Independent program. For more information, click here.
Malahide Castle
Dublin
Dublin
Belfast
Doolin, County Clare
Belfast
Dublin
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The following is a suggested itinerary. While the sites listed below may be visited independently, the package does not cover any applicable entrance or tour fees.
*Please consider that the driving times and distances are estimated and that they can vary because of many circumstances, such as, specific route taken, hotel location, traffic, weather, road conditions. |
Gate 1 Travel itineraries may contain suggestions for activities for your leisure time; these suggestions do not constitute a recommendation nor an endorsement of any specific service provider and the decision to participate in any such activities should be made independently.
Travelodge Plus Dublin City Center Hotel, Dublin
Dromhall Hotel, Killarney
Flannery's Hotel, Galway
This tourist class hotel is about a ten minute drive away from the city centre of Galway.
Hotel Details
Maldron Pearse Street, Dublin
Randles Hotel, Killarney
This first class hotel is located in Killarney just a five minute walk from the town center.
Hotel Details
Radisson Red Galway Hotel, Galway
Book your Optional Tours before you travel. See more, save time, save money.
- Tours purchased while travelling may cost an extra 10% or more
- Tours often sell out. Avoid disappointment
- Save your cash. Credit card processing may not be possible locally
- Travel insurance only covers services purchased prior to departure
- Book Online or call to book these tours up to 1 week before your departure
- The day the optionals operate varies by the day of the week
| Know Before You Go | |
| Although most of the planning and preparation is taken care of for you, there are still a few things you should know and some details you should take care of to ensure your comfort, safety and peace of mind. Please review the following information before your departure to ensure that any surprises along the way will only be pleasant ones. |
| Getting Ready to Go |
| Passports and Visas |
| It is each traveler's responsibility to have a passport valid for at least 6 months beyond the dates of travel and a visa if required. Please check the information at www.gate1travel.com/visas.aspx for the specific country/region you are visiting for more details. IMPORTANT: Passengers who are not U.S. citizens must check with the respective consulate or a visa agency to determine what personal identification is required. Passengers who enter, leave and then re-enter the same country on their itinerary should check if they require a double-entry visa. Passport applications are available at most U.S. Post Offices, as well as at regional Passport Agencies. Passengers requiring visas, whether obtained in advance or locally upon arrival, should ensure that their passport has blank pages.
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| Traveling with Friends or Family? |
| If you are traveling with friends or family who are booked on another reservation, please make sure that we are aware. On occasion, we may operate more than one vehicle on your tour departure in which case we will ensure that guests will be assigned together. This is achieved by connecting your reservations before your departure. Once you arrive in your destination, it may not be possible to make assignment changes. To check that your reservations are linked, log into https://www.gate1travel.com/reservations with your email and password, select your reservation number, and check to see that your reservations are indicated as "Traveling With" at the top right side of the display. |
| Trip Preparation |
| A little pre-planning can make your trip go a lot smoother. Several weeks before your trip, make a list of what you will need to take with you. Make sure your personal documents (passports, visas, driver's license) are in order. Make sure also that you have enough prescription medications to last through the trip and carry them with you in case your luggage is delayed. Bring a change of clothes in your carry-on bag in the event that your luggage is delayed or lost. Lost luggage is common. We strongly urge you to consider carry-ons instead of checked bags when possible, and when checking a bag is necessary, choose a bag color and identification that stands out. We suggest that you make photocopies of passports, visas, personal ID and any other important travel documents and pack them separately from the originals. You may also make a digital copy of your passport to keep a clear picture with the important details in your cell phone or digital camera photos. If you lose the originals while traveling, you'll have copies for easier reporting and replacement. Pack a list of medications including dosage and generic names. You may consider bringing a small supply of over the counter medications for headaches and/or anti-diarrhea pills (especially when traveling outside of the USA and Western Europe). We recommend that you pack a portable alarm clock. Due to security reasons, many museums have restrictions on the size of bags that can be taken inside and backpacks, carry-on bags or large purses may not be permitted. It is recommended to bring a small shoulder bag or purse to use in these situations instead. Avoid placing valuables such as cameras in your checked luggage. Airplane pressure can cause similar pressure in your body, most notably in ears, as well as liquid tubes and bottles. Your physician can suggest medication for decongestion. We suggest that you place liquid containers into Ziploc bags to catch any leaks. |
| Travel Safety Advice: The safety of our guests is Gate 1’s #1 concern. Before making the decision to reserve your vacation, we want you to be aware of potential situations which may impact your holiday. While most of the time our programs run precisely according to plans, on rare occasion force majeure events including weather, transportation mechanical issues, or uninhabitable accommodation, civil unrest and even criminal or terrorist activities will present themselves unexpectedly and with little or no notice. Gate 1 will make the decision to cancel a tour only after receiving verifiable government issued information. We are otherwise obliged to comply with contractual airline and vendor agreements and carry out the tour until or unless we are advised otherwise. In the event of such an occurrence anytime after your date of departure, Gate 1 and the local destination ground staff, in coordination with government advisories, airlines, hotels, cruise ships and other vendors, will make decisions with regard to your safety first. We strongly recommend that tour participants review the destination country's specific information at https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/alertswarnings.html. |
| Travel Protection |
| Even the best-planned trips can be impacted by the unexpected. And that is why we recommend that you help protect yourself and your investment by purchasing Travel Protection for your Gate 1 trip. Travel Protection can help with medical coverage for illness or injury, trip cancellation and/or interruption, baggage loss, medical evacuation, and more. At any time before you complete Final Payment, you may choose to purchase Travel Protection. The protection plan premium is non-refundable after a 10-day review period. In addition, you must be medically able to travel at the time the premium is paid. For a summary of the plan details on coverages, benefits, limitations and exclusions, please refer to the Description of Coverage by visiting www.gate1travel.com/insurance/. Cancel for Any Reason Waiver Benefit (CFAR) is a non-insurance feature that allows you to cancel up to 72 hours before your scheduled departure for any reason not otherwise covered in the Travel Protection Plan. CFAR must be purchased at the same time as the Travel Protection Plan as well as within 21 days of the original booking date. Independent or escorted tour reservations will be eligible for a future travel credit equal to the full cost of your trip, less the cost of initial deposit, airline-assessed fees, amendment fees, and insurance premium. Sea or river cruise reservations will be eligible for a future travel credit equal to 50% of the cost of your trip, less the cost of initial trip deposit, airline-assessed fees, amendment fees, and insurance premium. All CFAR credits are valid for a period of two years from the original date of travel. CFAR Credits have no cash value and are not transferrable. Airline-assessed fees are generally $300 per person, but may be as much as fully non-refundable. Some non-refundable airline tickets may retain value, less airline-assessed fees. Your future air credit must be used to book with the same airline. Deadlines to rebook and complete travel vary by airline and may be as early as 12 months from when the tickets were originally issued (not the date of travel). For details, www.gate1travel.com/insurance/. This program does not apply to custom groups and Antarctica cruises. Residents of New York, Missouri & Minnesota may purchase this Cancel for Any Reason Waiver Benefit separate from Travel Protection. Call to speak with a reservation agent for details. This Cancel for any Reason Wavier Benefit is not insurance and is provided by Gate 1 Travel. |
| Mobile Phones |
| Mobile networks differ from country to country. We recommend you check with your provider to see if your wireless plan will work in the destination(s) you are visiting. To avoid possible roaming charges, you may want to consider purchasing an international plan. With most major phone companies, for a modest fee, you will be able to use your domestic plan's talk, text, and data allowances just like you do at home. If you can access the internet while you travel, you can also take advantage of services such as WhatsApp or Skype. |
| Making Telephone Calls from One Country to Another |
| When dialing a number from one country to another, you should proceed as follows: dial your country's Exit Code (often indicated with a “+” sign), then the destination Country Code, then the Phone Number. For most countries, the exit code is 00. Exceptions include the USA and Canada (011), Hong Kong and Cambodia (001), Australia (0011), and Russia (8 Pause 10*). For Brazil, please consult with the local telephone company. If you are dialing from a mobile phone, you can enter a “+” instead of the international Exit Code (011, 001, 0011 or 00) by pressing and holding the 0 key. For most countries in Africa, Asia, Europe, South America and South Pacific, if you are calling from a local phone to a number within the same country, you should drop both the exit and country codes and then add a leading 0 (zero). Exceptions include Spain, Italy, Hungary and Malta (no additional zero needed to dial locally). Example: To dial the following number in Germany (as listed on your voucher): +(49) 0555-555 From USA or your US cell phone: 011-49-555-555 From another country in Europe: 00-49-555-555 From a German phone within Germany: 0555-555 |
| WiFi Access |
| WiFi is available in most airports, hotels, and cruise lines, as well as on some flights, trains, and buses. There may be a fee for access and service quality and speed may vary greatly especially while on moving vehicles. Availability on cruises is also dependent upon its location while sailing through multiple countries. Please note that WiFi can be extremely slow, unreliable, and sometimes nonexistent in developing countries. |
| Staying Healthy While Traveling |
| Please consult with your healthcare provider for up-to-date requirements. You may also check the Centers for Disease Control (www.cdc.gov) and/or the World Health Organization (http://www.who.int/en/) for their recommendations. Any required inoculations must be documented by clients' healthcare provider on a valid vaccination certificate, which must be carried as proof where necessary. Individuals with heart disease, chronic illness, physical handicap, advanced pregnancy, or mental illness should not participate in these rigorous travel programs. While traveling, illnesses can sometimes be unavoidable. If a traveler arrives feeling ill or becomes sick during the tour, they will be separated from the group and directed to either a local or virtual medical facility for diagnosis. This precaution is necessary to ensure the well-being of all travelers. The traveler may only rejoin the group after receiving written clearance from an accredited medical facility confirming they are fit to continue. All costs associated with medical treatment and related expenses such as additional hotel nights or transportation not included in the original itinerary will be the responsibility of the passenger. Travel protection plans will only consider coverage with service receipts provided by legally qualified health care facilities, and in accordance with policy terms. There are several easy steps you can take to stay healthy while traveling which may help prevent contracting an illness while away from home.
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| Notice on Aircraft Cabin Insecticide Treatment - Please note that some countries may require aircraft cabin insecticide treatment for in-bound foreign flights. A list of such countries is available at:
http://www.dot.gov/office-policy/aviation-policy/aircraft-disinsection-requirements. |
| Consideration for Tour Participants (Escorted Tours) |
For the benefit of all tour participants, we ask tour members to be considerate of their fellow travelers in the following ways:
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| Climate & Clothing |
| Ireland - Bring comfortable walking shoes, a sweater, clothes you can layer, an all-weather jacket, and an umbrella. Some religious sites may require modest dress to enter (no shorts, short skirts, or sleeveless tops). Ireland Average Temperatures: Fahrenheit | Celsius |
| About Drones |
| Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV) or "drone" technology has quickly become affordable and is increasingly popular with recreational users. While some countries have clear, established drone laws, others do not, or existing regulations are undergoing review and change. Travelers who wish to bring a drone on their trip are responsible to research and abide by the laws and regulations of the countries they are visiting, as well as to check with their airline(s) regarding their rules for transporting drones. Please note that tours are unable to extend the length of scheduled visits and stops to accommodate use of drones. |
| About Independent Travel |
| Independent tours allow you the freedom and flexibility to enjoy your vacation days at your own pace, to explore on your own, to be spontaneous and to focus on personal interests. Accordingly, independent tours are very different from Gate 1's escorted tours, which are conducted by a Tour Manager who accompanies you throughout, manages your needs and provides expert guiding services from the beginning to the end of your tour. When traveling independently, please bear in mind that you will be responsible for your needs throughout. Depending upon the package or services you have selected, you may encounter representatives along the way, such as a transfer driver, or a local sightseeing guide. Those may be included in your tour or options you have pre-selected. However, you will be on your own to handle your luggage, locate service providers, check into and out of your hotels, and to get to and from train stations or car rental counters. Independent touring, as the name implies is for the independent traveler who is comfortable traveling on one's own with less guidance. Of course, as with all Gate 1 touring packages, you will find your services exactly as reserved when you arrive to your destination. |
| Book & Film Recommendations |
| Many of our guests enjoy reading about their destination - either in advance of their trip or while traveling - as a way of adding context to their visit. Whether reading a traditional guide book, learning about the history and culture, or simply enjoying a fictional novel set in the destination, a good book can add greatly to your experience. Similarly, a good movie set in your destination helps set the mood before you travel. We asked our Tour Managers and staff to recommend books and films which past guests may have enjoyed. The following does not constitute an endorsement of any authors, books or films listed, it is merely a collection of guests' recommendations. |
| IRELAND: Books Angela's Ashes by Frank McCourt Circle of Friends by Maeve Binchy My Left Foot by Christy Brown Philomena by Martin Sixsmith Dubliners by James Joyce The Woman at the Window by Pádraic Ó Conaire Letters to My Daughters by Emma Hannigan The Storm Keeper's Island by Catherine Doyle Ulysses by James Joyce IRELAND: Films The Irishman (2019) Sing Street (2016) Brooklyn (2015) The Wind that Shakes the Barley (2006) Omagh (2004) Waking Ned Devine (1998) Michael Collins (1996) The Quiet Man (1952) |
| Preparing for Your Trip |
| Seat Assignments |
| As a courtesy service, complimentary airline seat assignments are requested on your behalf and, when available, are displayed in order of Passenger #1, #2 and so on. Assignments reflect the best available seats at the time of booking. Some airlines and/or fare types do not allow for pre-seating and require this be done at airport check-in only; in which case the display shows “N/A”. Seats are subject to change by your airline(s) including, for example, when there is a schedule change or equipment change after your initial booking; this may cause seat assignments to be changed or even cancelled. Some airlines offer preferred seating for an additional fee; these seats may only be purchased directly from the airline. You will need your family name and the 6-digit airline “Record Locator” which is displayed with the flight details on your reservation. In the event that you change seat assignments directly with your airline, changes will not be reflected on your invoice or documents. At the time that Gate 1 travel documents are issued, the currently assigned seats will be listed based on the assignments stored in your airline reservation at that time. Should you have questions regarding your assignments, please write to us at www.gate1travel.com/contactus. |
| Luggage & Packing |
| Checked bags are typically limited to a total dimension of 62 inches by adding length + width + height (example: 26"+26"+10" = 62"), and a maximum weight of 50 lbs (23kg). Smart Bags with a USB charging port, GPS tracking device and other high-tech features are prohibited as checked or carry-on baggage unless the bag is made with removable batteries and the batteries are removed and stored separately. Many airlines charge for checked bags including flights which begin and end within the USA. The most inexpensive airfare options commonly known as Basic Economy airfares do not include any checked bags nor seat assignments before the day of departure. However, for some airlines, other airfare categories also do not include checked baggage. This will be clearly displayed in our airfare selection and on your invoice. Where available, we highly recommend selecting airfares which include at least 1 piece of checked baggage. Gate 1 Travel is not responsible for checked bag fees, excess luggage or weight charges levied by an airline. Checked baggage allowances displayed on reservation details and invoices reflect the applicable allowance at the time of booking but are subject to change by your airline(s). For your airline's requirements and fees, visit www.gate1travel.com/baggagefees.aspx. For important baggage information, visit www.gate1travel.com/luggage.aspx. Avoid placing valuables in your checked luggage. Federal law forbids the carriage of hazardous materials aboard the aircraft in your luggage, your carry-on or on your person. A violation can result in five years' imprisonment and penalties of $250,000 or more (49 U.S.C. 5124). Hazardous materials include explosives, compressed gases, flammable liquids and solids, oxidizers, poisons, corrosives and radioactive materials. Examples: Paints, lighter fluid, fireworks, tear gases, oxygen bottles, and radio-pharmaceuticals. There are special exceptions for small quantities (up to 70 ounces total) of medicinal and toilet articles carried in your luggage and certain smoking materials carried on your person. Check the Transportation and Safety Administration (TSA) website www.tsa.gov to find out the current list of acceptable items you may bring on a plane before packing. We recommend that you use brightly colored luggage tags, straps or other identifiers to help you locate your luggage upon arrival or to describe it in the event that it is lost. |
| Intra-Flights |
| All intra-flights included in your package are booked in Economy Class. Checked bags are typically limited to a total dimension of 62 inches (157 cm) by adding length + width + height (example: 26"+26"+10" = 62" / 66cm+66cm+25cm = 157cm), and a maximum weight of 50 lbs (23 kg). Exceptions are listed below and may differ from international flight luggage limits. More detailed baggage restrictions for your airline can be found at www.gate1travel.com/baggagefees.aspx. |
| Day of Departure |
| Flight Services |
| What to do if You Need Assistance |
Whether you purchased your airfare from Gate 1 Travel or from the airline directly, please bear in mind that Gate 1 Travel does not own nor operate the airline(s), nor the airport facilities where they operate. At times, flying can be a frustrating experience, especially when things do not go exactly as planned, and airline explanations can be confusing or even misleading. Should you face a problem, remain calm and seek assistance either from the airline directly or from Gate 1. Please be aware that in most cases, on the day of your flight(s), airlines pass responsibility for your reservation to their staff at the airport and it is not always possible for Gate 1 Travel to intervene on your behalf, either through our reservations system or directly with your airline. |
| Arrival & Departure |
| Arrival Procedures |
| Upon arrival, please complete immigration formalities if necessary and claim your luggage. If your program includes airport arrival transfers, check your voucher for specific instructions, as they vary with every destination. In most cases, you will be met after collecting your luggage or passing through Customs by the local representative who will be holding a Gate 1 Travel sign and/or a sign with your name on it. In some instances you will be instructed to walk a short distance to a transportation counter. The company's name and location will be printed on your voucher. If for any reason you do not connect with the Gate 1 transfer personnel, go to the Tourist Information Desk and ask them to page the Gate 1 Travel representative or phone the number on your voucher. If you are delayed due to lost luggage, phone the number on the voucher or have a companion exit the Customs Area to advise the transfer representative. Be wary of airport scammers who offer unwanted assistance. If you are arriving without a pre-arranged transfer, we strongly recommend going to the Tourist Information Desk to ask for a licensed taxi or transfer service. You may be asked to pay for the transfer at the desk prior to the trip, this will ensure you are not charged extra during the trip. |
| What To Do When Your Flight Is Delayed |
| Airlines do not share flight manifest information. Therefore, the only way we may learn of a delay or schedule change while you are traveling is from you, the traveler. The sooner you are able to contact one of our offices, the better we can respond. Please refer to the Emergency Assistance instructions on this same document. Gate 1 Travel is only able to guarantee pre-reserved arrival transfers for up to one hour from the scheduled time, no matter the cause. In case you are delayed for any reason, and are unable to follow the instructions on your voucher, please make independent transfer arrangements and retain your receipts. Unused tour services, including transfers and hotel nights are not refundable. Upon you return home you will need to contact your airline and/or insurance carrier to investigate the possibility of reimbursement for any unused tour services. |
| Departure Procedures |
| If your program includes departure transfers, instructions will be stated on your voucher or provided locally. |
| Transfers |
| Due to local traffic and other extenuating circumstances, we ask that you allow 30 minutes from your scheduled transfer time for our representative to arrive. This includes hotel, airport and cruise transfers. Such possible delays are taken into consideration in scheduling transfers and you should therefore have no concerns about arriving late for your tour, flight or cruise. For transfers from a hotel, let the hotel reception desk or concierge know that you are waiting for a transfer. In the case of a missed transfer, reimbursement for your out-of-pocket expenses will be considered provided you obtain a written statement from the hotel's front desk verifying the length of time you waited, and the time you left the hotel, and a receipt for your transportation with time and date. The cost of a transfer is more expensive than hiring a taxi, as a Gate 1 transfer necessarily includes round trip service, or 'dead-leg'. Often the places of call (airports, seaports, hotels) demand entrance and parking fees, where drivers may have to wait for up to an hour. Passengers comfortable hiring a taxi on their own and do not require assistance will save money. |
| About Your Accommodations |
| Hotels |
| Gate 1 Travel has carefully selected each hotel based on overall quality, location, price, service, and cleanliness. All rooms are standard twin-bedded (two single beds) rooms with private facilities. Special requests such as bed types, smoking preference and connecting rooms are subject to availability. Room selection in all cases, unless otherwise reserved, is strictly at the discretion of the hotel's management on a run-of-house basis. Triple rooms consist of standard twin beds or one double bed plus a sofa/folding bed or cot for third person except in the U.S. and Canada, where triple rooms often consist of two double/queen beds for three persons; where available, a fee may be charged by the hotel for the addition of a cot/rollaway. The number of persons accommodated does not dictate the room size. While air conditioning is available in most hotels, we recommend checking the room amenities listed under the "Featured Hotels" tab of your package to confirm. Please note that many international hotels were built before central air conditioning was introduced. In those that do offer air conditioning, usage may be restricted, often due to government regulations aimed at promoting energy conservation. It's typical for air conditioning to be used only during the summer months, to follow a set schedule (sometimes turned off at night), and to operate at lower settings than what many Americans are accustomed to. Some lodges and accommodations in remote regions may not have all of the amenities, such as hairdryer, alarm clock and room service, that you might find in a larger hotel located in a city center. |
| Hotel Check-in/ Check-out |
| Hotel check-in time is generally not before 4:00 p.m. and check-out time is prior to noon. If you will be arriving early in the day or departing in the evening, hotels will usually allow you to store your luggage in their luggage room. Ask at the front desk if the hotel can check you in earlier, or let you stay later. |
| At Your Destination |
| Eco & Sustainable Tourism |
| We support global efforts to create a more eco-friendly world, intolerant of any forms of cruelty, abuse and intentional environmental destruction. To that end we ask that our clients maintain a watchful eye as they travel, and report any abuses they may encounter. One of the many benefits of tourism is the shared cultural knowledge and ultimate elimination of negative behavior through education. We rely on your good feedback to enable this element of symbiosis. As you travel and learn about foreign cultures, we ask first and foremost that you practice tolerance and respect for local customs. |
| Staggered Arrival & Departure |
| Many tours are offered with multiple duration options, allowing travelers to choose one or more destinations in a single trip. As a result, the number of participants on your tour may vary, as we accommodate travelers arriving and departing at different points in the itinerary. |
| About Your Sightseeing |
| To ensure a pleasant and fair experience for passengers on our escorted tours, there is a mandatory seat rotation policy on our motor coaches which will be organized by your Tour Manager. On river cruises, color-coded group splits may be used for shoreside included and Optional tours. Some buses are equipped with toilet facility, however they are strictly intended for emergency use only and often require the vehicle to stop for safety reasons before use. When travel dates coincide with religious holidays and national celebrations, some monuments and sites may be closed, sometimes without prior notice. On these occasions, escorted touring itineraries may be amended to reflect these closures. Occasionally, during holidays and certain periods, and/or due to other unforeseen circumstances including weather conditions, there may be last-minute changes, sometimes after arrival, which may affect the sequence of the tour and locations visited. National monuments and tourist sites regularly undergo renovations, which can obscure the monument's view. No tour will be canceled due to renovations, however Gate 1 will decide based on the conditions whether to amend an itinerary. To respect the privacy of all tour participants, your tour manager will not organize a group photo or collect passenger email addresses for a group list. |
| Land Only Passengers (Escorted Tours) |
| Your tour manager will contact you after your arrival at your hotel. Passengers who have not purchased arrival transfers from Gate 1 Travel should proceed directly to the hotel for check-in. The details of the hotel can be found in your documents. |
| Purchasing Tours Locally |
| On escorted tours, the guides will generally sell optional tours to passengers who have not pre-purchased them. Payment can be made by cash or credit card, unless otherwise noted below. This does not apply to Independent packages. Please see Gate 1 Terms & Conditions for more information. https://www.gate1travel.com/terms.aspx#optional |
| Independent Activities - Gate 1 itineraries may contain suggestions for activities for your leisure time; these suggestions do not constitute a recommendation nor an endorsement of any specific service provider and the decision to participate in any such activities should be made independently and with due consideration. Gate 1 is not responsible for any activities not expressly included in its programs. Caution should be exercised when selecting certain activities that may require physical strength, coordination or exertion. Particular care should be taken when considering animal rides, such as on camels, mules or horses |
Important: Please read the following information about your car rental carefully
Vehicle Pickup:
Vehicle rentals must be picked up during office hours and within one hour from the scheduled pickup time listed on your voucher. Flights must be arranged in accordance with office hours and should arrive no later than 1.5 hours prior to office closing time.
Vehicle Drop-off:
If it is necessary to drop the vehicle off prior to the rental location's office hours, please inform the car rental agent when picking up the car to make alternate return arrangements. The car rental representative will provide instructions on how and where to leave the car.
Vehicle Pickup:
Vehicle rentals must be picked up during office hours and within one hour from the scheduled pickup time listed on your voucher. Flights must be arranged in accordance with office hours and should arrive no later than 1.5 hours prior to office closing time.
Vehicle Drop-off:
If it is necessary to drop the vehicle off prior to the rental location's office hours, please inform the car rental agent when picking up the car to make alternate return arrangements. The car rental representative will provide instructions on how and where to leave the car.
| Driving - Ireland |
| Rental Duration: Vehicle rental is based upon consecutive 24-hour periods. Additional time will be billed and payable locally. The full daily rate will be charged after 29 minutes. There will be no refunds for late pick-up or early return. Rates do not include fuel. After the duration of the rental, the vehicle must be returned in the same condition in which it was received, or additional fees may apply. Driver Registration: The driver of the vehicle must be older than 25 years old and hold a major credit card in their name that is accepted internationally. Accepted Credit Cards:
If using a Debit Card, you must purchase our Super Collision Damage Waiver product to reduce your financial responsibility to zero in case of vehicle theft or damage (details are provided in the 'Waiver and protection options' section). PIN-enabled cards will require your PIN for authorization. Specified value/pre-paid Payment Cards will not be accepted. We also do not accept cash. A valid drivers license issued a minimum of 12 months prior to rental is required. An International driving license is required for renters who do not present a European Union driver's license. Drivers must carry their license from their country of origin as well as the International driving license. Additional drivers may be added at the approximate cost of 10 Euros per driver per day, payable locally. Only drivers registered on the rental contract will be eligible for insurance coverage. Vehicle Security Pre-Authorization Charge: At the time of rental, a pre-authorization charge will be obtained on a major credit card in the approximate amount of the first tank of fuel and optional equipment, approximately 250-500 Euros. The credit card must have sufficient credit to cover these fees. The charge will be held on your card until the vehicle is returned. Inspect Your Vehicle: It is important to thoroughly inspect your vehicle before leaving the lot to avoid being held responsible for any damage to the rental car, other than normal wear-and-tear. Walk around the vehicle with the sales agent before driving off. Inspect the vehicle for existing dents, scratches, or other potential damage, and make sure that anything you find is noted on the contract. If the vehicle is unsatisfactory for any reason, request an exchange before leaving the lot. Vehicle Insurance: Car rental fees include Collision Damage Waiver (CDW), Theft Protection (TP), 3rd Party Liability, and Personal Accident Insurance (PAI). Additional Damage, Theft Protection and Personal Accident Insurance will be available at the time of car pick up and are also payable locally. Selections from these contracts may be found below. Coverage includes:
Vehicle Deductible: As outlined above, insurance to reduce your financial responsibility in the event of damage or theft to your vehicle while in your possession is included with your rental. Should you encounter one of these situations, you will still be subject to a deductible charge ranging from approximately 400 - 2,800 Euros, the exact amount is dependent on rental vehicle category. Optional additional insurances are available for purchase at the time of vehicle pick-up. Optional Additional Coverage includes:
Customer Care and Roadside Assistance: In the event of vehicle malfunction or an accident, the rental company must be contacted immediately. Failure to do so will compromise any claims for compensation. A customer care representative will be available 24 hours a day. If the vehicle is inoperable, request authorization to continue your trip with alternative transportation, you will be provided with an authorization number which can be used to pick up a replacement vehicle at the nearest rental car location. You may reach Budget Car Rental Roadside Assistance via an Italian phone through their toll free number 800-801-180, or from an international phone at +39 06 98240800. Emergency Assistance is available for the following:
In the case of an accident: Be sure to fill out the incident report form completely and have it signed by all parties involved. Driving in the Republic of Ireland: Driving is on the left-hand side of the road, which means that the driver's seat is on the right-hand side of the vehicle. If driving a car with a manual transmission, the gear shift will be to the left. All road tolls are the sole responsibility of the renter. You will be required to review the road toll policy at the time of pick up with the agent and sign an agreement stating that you have read and understand all road toll policies. Child Safety Seats: Car seats may be available at airport locations at a cost of approximately 14 Euros per day. Car seats must be pre-ordered and paid for locally. You are required to fit the child seat yourself. Safety: IMPORTANT: Do not leave luggage, passports, or any valuable objects inside an unattended vehicle. In case of a flat tire, call for assistance. Do not accept help from strangers, as this is sometimes a ploy to try to steal valuables from the vehicle. GPS systems and Cellular Phones: We recommend the use of a navigation system such as a navigation app on your personal mobile device or a GPS system while driving in Ireland. In our experience, mobile apps, such as Google Maps or Waze, are the more reliable and user-friendly options. An international data plan is necessary to utilize GPS on your mobile device. Contact your cell phone's service provider to check if international coverage is available. Personal Wi-Fi devices or cell phones may also be rented locally (subject to availability). A GPS system for your vehicle can be rented locally. Please note that these devices may only provide turn by turn instructions via a map system, an audio guide is not guaranteed. In remote locations, sometimes navigation systems will recommend using streets that may not be properly maintained. In these situations we recommend trying to find an alternative route. As always, it is important to pay attention to road conditions and drive carefully. Car rental insurance options and their coverage DO NOT cover loss, damage, or theft of the GPS. GPS units have a replacement fee of 260 Euros. Post Travel: After the termination of your car rental, you may potentially incur additional fees related to services or charges that are not included with your Gate 1 package. Examples of these may include, but are not limited to, supplement for additional drivers, elected additional insurance, traffic violations, damage to the vehicle, or returning the vehicle with low fuel. These fees are payable directly to the car rental company and it is the your responsibility to contact the car rental company regarding such charges. These fees are not dictated or processed by Gate 1 Travel. Additionally, For your protection, we recommend you retain any and all documentation received at the counter from the car rental agency until you return home and are certain there are no more charges from the agency. Without it, we may not be able to assist should a dispute arise. |
| Ireland - The Euro is the currency of the Republic of Ireland. The Euro should be used to purchase all goods and services. Irish bank opening hours are typically Monday through Friday, 10 am to 4 pm depending on the bank. Most Irish banks do not offer currency exchange services. For this reason, it is strongly recommended to acquire a small amount of Euros prior to arriving. ATM machines found in larger cities are a better option.
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| Shopping |
| Most people enjoy bringing home at least one souvenir from the countries they visit. However, some find any amount of shopping to be too much while others never find enough opportunities. We have built into our Escorted itineraries a few shopping stops at recommended spots. These stops are designed to enhance your experience by providing an opportunity to see first-hand quality locally crafted merchandise which you may not be able to find on your own. Shops are checked to ensure the quality and authenticity of the products they offer, and we limit guides from visiting other locations. In some cases, we plan these stops to provide an opportunity to use clean bathrooms and to stretch your legs. All shops want your satisfaction, and therefore in case of any misunderstanding they ask that you kindly submit your claim to us within one week of the item's receipt. Claims submitted later will be subject to each store's policies. While shopping independently, we advise you to exercise care and common sense when making any purchase. Always get a formal receipt. And remember that, just like in this country, if a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is! About Tax-Free Shopping Tax-Free Shopping allows shoppers to reclaim the VAT (Value-Added Tax) or GST (Goods and Services Tax) they have paid on their purchases in some foreign countries in accordance with restrictions and procedures as dictated by each country. Refund eligibility varies by country, but may require presenting a scanned copy of your passport at the time of purchase, a minimum amount spent, or providing original store receipts. For more details, check the respective country's online website, with the shop salesperson, with your tour manager or at www.globalblue.com for specific country regulations and airport operation hours. Please keep in mind that you must apply for VAT refund in the airport of the country the items were purchased and allow enough time prior to your flight for the application. U.S. Customs & Shipping Charges You may carry items with a fair retail value totaling $800 into the U.S. Taxes may be applied to the next $1,000 worth of merchandise. U.S. Customs determines the value of your items, often honoring a genuine sales receipt. Items which are shipped home are always subject to duty when received in the U.S. (in addition to shipping charges). Some shops may offer to include shipping and duties in the price but this typically means shipping only to the customs facility closest to you and payment only of the export duties; you would still need to collect the item and pay U.S. import duties. Please be aware that it is illegal to import products made from endangered animal species. U.S. Customs & Border Protection will seize these items, as well as most furs, coral, tortoise shell, reptile skins, feathers, plants, and items made from animal skins. |
| Ireland - Among the most popular items to shop for in Ireland are Waterford crystal, wool knitwear, silver and gold jewelry, and Belleek china. |
| Your Safety is Very Important |
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Prior to your trip, if you are traveling overseas, we strongly recommend that you visit the website of the U.S. Department of State at www.travel.state.gov, specifically the section which addresses International Travel. You should read the tips for foreign travel and travel warnings for the country or countries that you plan to visit. It is also important that you do not allow your common sense to take a vacation while on your trip. Here are several tips which, if followed, will save much potential hardship:
If you've purchased an escorted tour program, your travel documents will include telephone numbers of local Gate 1 Travel representatives who will do their utmost to assist you in the event of an emergency. The numbers are printed on your Gate 1 Travel vouchers. Please copy the numbers. Once you relinquish the voucher, you will not have this information. Passengers traveling independently should employ the services of hotel concierges and local authorities. |
| Tourist Street Scams |
Pickpockets and thieves can destroy an otherwise wonderful holiday. Be mindful of these precautions to help avoid being scammed or robbed:
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| Local Emergency Phone Numbers |
Ireland
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| Languages |
| Ireland - English is the local language. |
| Electricity |
| Please note: The U.S. uses 120 volts and you can purchase a converter and transformer at most hardware stores for your 120V appliances. |
| Ireland - The voltage used is 220 volts. |
| Code of Conduct |
| Ireland - Shaking hands is the standard greeting and casual dress is appropriate. The Irish people are generally very warm and welcoming. Close community is an important part of Irish social life, often centered around pubs, which are not as age-segregated as bars in the United States tend to be. The Catholic Church is highly respected, and jokes at the expense of the Church are considered to be in poor taste. |
| Meals & Dietary Requests |
| Included meals are based on the restaurant's set menu or buffet and usually represent local cuisine. Vegetarian meals are available in most locations, while vegan, protein-rich or gluten-free menus are rare. Special dietary requests, which must be selected in the passenger details section of your reservation, cannot be guaranteed. We are unable to provide meals in accordance with strict religious requirements, such as Kosher or Halal, nor can we accommodate specifically salt-free, high-protein or low-carb meals.
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| Holidays |
| On public holidays, there may be reduced public transportation, as well as limited hours or closures of attractions, shops and restaurants. |
| Holidays - Ireland |
Holidays 2026 Jan 1: New Year's Day Feb 1-2: St. Brigid's Day Mar 17: St Patrick's Day Apr 3: Good Friday Apr 5: Easter Apr 6: Easter Monday May 4: May Day Jun 1: June Bank Holiday Aug 3: August Bank Holiday Oct 26: October Bank Holiday Dec 24: Christmas Eve Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: St Stephens Day Dec 31: New Year's Eve Holidays 2027 Jan 1: New Year's Day Feb 1: St. Brigid's Day (observed) Mar 17: St Patrick's Day Mar 26: Good Friday Mar 28: Easter Mar 29: Easter Monday May 3: May Day Jun 7: June Bank Holiday Aug 2: August Bank Holiday Oct 25: October Bank Holiday Dec 24: Christmas Eve Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: St Stephens Day Dec 31: New Year's Eve |
| Suggested Tipping |
| Gratuities |
| Tipping is always at your personal discretion. For your convenience, please refer to the summary below as a guideline for recommended gratuity amounts. Gratuities may be paid in local currency or in the U.S. dollar equivalent where accepted, and we recommend keeping small bills on hand for tipping. Please note that in many destinations, tipping is considered a customary part of local compensation. While you may occasionally be approached for additional tips, you should never feel pressured to do so. If at any time you feel uncomfortable or uncertain about a situation, please speak with your Tour Manager or contact our office using the phone numbers provided in your travel documents. |
| Suggested Tipping: Independent Tours |
Hotel Porter: US $3 per bag Hotel Wait staff: 5-10% of the bill (lunch or dinner) Local Sightseeing Tours: Guide: US $3 per person per half day, US $6 per person per full day Driver: US $2 per person per half day, US $4 per person per full day Gate 1 Representative (where applicable): US $10 per person per day |
| Ireland - For activities on your own, gratuities are appreciated and expected for good service in restaurants and other places that cater to tourists. |
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8 Day Ireland Fly & Drive, March 2025
Our trip to Ireland was fantastic! We had the best time. The hotels you booked were all very nice and the breakfasts that they served kept us full until dinner time! The cities you booked were all different and each had unique things to explore. We loved it all and speak very highly of you. Thanks also for the suggested itinerary. We did most things that were recommended and felt it was worth it. Thanks for everything Gate 1, I'm sure we will be contacting you soon about another adventure!
Terri D.7 Day Ireland West Coast Fly & Drive, April 2018
Our trip to Ireland was fantastic! The hotel accommodation was clean and the staff was extremely friendly and helpful. There were no problems with the airline tickets or rental car reservation. Everything went extremely smooth and we were happy to book with Gate 1.
Colleen T. Minneola, FL8 Day Ireland Fly & Drive , January 2017
Our trip to Ireland was fabulous. We really enjoyed every aspect of it. The accommodations were wonderful, the suggested itinerary was very helpful, although we didn't get to everything on the plan we thoroughly enjoyed everything we did (and have a plan for our return, we will definitely take this trip again). We have booked several trips with Gate 1 and have consistently been very pleased with each one, we recommend your agency often.
Carole G. N Bellmore, NY