Experience the best of Scotland and Ireland at a relaxed pace, from Edinburgh's majestic castle and Royal Mile to Ireland's dramatic Cliffs of Moher and ancient Burren landscapes. This thoughtfully crafted journey avoids tourist traps and large bus tours, instead featuring intimate small-group experiences (maximum 16 guests), scenic train rides along the Scottish coast, and authentic encounters with local culture. Discover historic castles, charming seaside villages, mystical ancient sites, and breathtaking coastal vistas, all while enjoying the comfort of superior centrally-located hotels within walking distance of major attractions. With no driving required and expert local guides who share insider stories and hidden gems, this is Celtic travel as it should be – genuine, comfortable, and unforgettable.
Travel Dates: April 6-17, 2026 (11 nights)
Travelers: Three ladies ready to explore the Celtic lands
5 Nights (April 7-12)
Scotland's enchanting capital offers the perfect blend of history and comfort. Unlike sprawling London, Edinburgh's compact city center means castle, shops, and restaurants are all within easy walking distance. The medieval Royal Mile provides level walking with frequent benches, charming tea rooms, and centuries of stories at every turn.
Your Hotel: Leonardo Royal Hotel Edinburgh
Walking distance to Royal Mile
5 Nights (April 12-17)
While Dublin bustles with crowds and Galway overflows with tourists, Limerick offers authentic Irish charm without the chaos. This riverside gem puts you just 30 minutes from the Cliffs of Moher and serves as the perfect base for exploring County Clare's natural wonders. With a compact medieval quarter, friendly locals, and far fewer tour buses, you'll experience the "real" Ireland that many visitors miss.
Your Hotel: Limerick Strand Hotel
10-minute walk to King John's Castle
🛫 International Travel Day
Depart Mobile via Dallas and London to Edinburgh
Overnight flight - rest well for your Scottish adventure!
Arrival in Edinburgh: 4:40 PM
Evening Activity: Gentle stroll along the historic Royal Mile
Suggested Dinner: The Witchery by the Castle (atmospheric Scottish dining)
Early rest to adjust to time change
Day Tour: 1 Day Loch Ness, Glen Coe and Scottish Highlands - More Info
Journey through Scotland's most breathtaking landscapes on this Highland adventure. Your comfortable coach departs at 8 AM, returning around 8:30 PM.
Tour Highlights:
Designed for comfort: Air-conditioned coach, regular rest stops every 90 minutes, no walking required. Expert Scottish guide shares stories throughout. Small group ensures personal attention.
Day Trip to North Berwick (30-minute scenic train ride)
Return: Late afternoon for rest at hotel
Dinner Suggestion: The Scran & Scallie - scranandscallie.com (Tom Kitchin's gastropub, comfort food, 10-min taxi)
Morning: Rosslyn Chapel Tour (Da Vinci Code chapel)
Half-day tour options with Rabbies - Book Tour
Visit the ornate 15th-century chapel featured in The Da Vinci Code. Includes transport and guided tour explaining the mysterious carvings and Templar connections.
Afternoon: Princes Street Gardens stroll and afternoon tea
Optional: Old Town Walking Tour - Join Tour
Dinner Suggestion: The Dome - www.thedomeedinburgh.com (elegant Georgian setting, early bird menu 5-6:30pm)
Option 1: Train to Stirling Castle (50 minutes, flat castle grounds)
Option 2: Loch Lomond Day Tour (scenic drive, photo stops)
Small group tours available - View Options
Evening: Farewell Scottish dinner at The Ivy on the Square - www.theivyedinburgh.com (sophisticated dining, theatre menu available)
Morning: Depart Edinburgh 10:05 AM
Afternoon: Arrive Shannon Airport 4:05 PM
Transfer: Pre-arranged transport to Limerick Strand Hotel (30 minutes)
Evening: Rest and riverside dinner at hotel
Full Day Tour Options:
Includes: Cliffs viewing, visitor center, optional boat cruise
Duration: 8 hours with comfort stops
Evening: After tour dinner at The Cornstore - www.cornstore.ie (steaks and seafood in converted warehouse, 5-min walk from hotel)
The Burren & Ancient Sites Tour
Kennedy & Carr Tours - Book Tour
Evening: Dinner at The French Table - www.thefrenchtable.ie (intimate bistro, early bird 5-7pm)
Option 1: Galway to Inisheer Aran Islands, Cliffs of Moher & Boat Trip
Full day tour - Book Tour
Experience both the Aran Islands and Cliffs of Moher in one spectacular day. Ferry to authentic Gaelic-speaking island included.
Option 2: Dublin Half-Day Private Walking Tour - Booked by Somo Travel
Explore Dublin's fair city with your own private guide! This intimate 3-hour walking tour covers the city's most iconic landmarks including Trinity College's historic campus, the cobblestone streets of Temple Bar, Dublin Castle's medieval grandeur, and the famous Molly Malone statue. Your expert local guide will share fascinating stories about Dublin's Viking origins, medieval history, and literary heritage while walking at your comfortable pace. Highlights include St. Stephen's Green gardens, the Ha'penny Bridge over the River Liffey, and insights into famous alumni like Oscar Wilde and James Joyce. Perfect for first-time visitors who want a personalized introduction to Dublin's rich history and vibrant culture.
Weather Alternative: Medieval Banquet at the Bunratty Castle - Viator Enjoy a night of medieval enchantment at Bunratty Castle in Ireland, with a 4-course feast fit for a king included.
Evening: Traditional Irish meal at Durty Nelly's - www.durtynellys.ie (historic 1620 pub, 20-min drive)
Morning: King John's Castle (5-minute walk from hotel)
Lunch: House Limerick - www.houselimerick.ie
Afternoon: Hunt Museum & River Shannon boardwalk
Evening: Farewell dinner at hotel's River Restaurant
Early packing for morning departure
Early Morning: Hotel departure 5:30 AM
Transfer: Pre-arranged transport to Shannon Airport
Departure: Shannon Airport 7:40 AM
Travel via London, Philadelphia, and Charlotte
Arrival Mobile: Same day (with time change)
Edinburgh: Start your mornings at Deacon's House Cafe on Brodie's Close (off Royal Mile) - their traditional Scottish breakfast with homemade oatcakes is divine! www.deaconshouse.co.uk
Limerick: Don't miss the Saturday morning Milk Market (if you're there on the 11th) - Ireland's best farmer's market with local crafts and treats. Perfect for gifts! www.milkmarketlimerick.ie
Waterfall Photo Op: In Edinburgh, ask your Rosslyn Chapel tour guide about the hidden Roslin Glen waterfalls - just a 10-minute flat walk from the chapel parking lot. Send SomoTravel a photo! 📸
Per Person:
Grand Total: $4,085-4,285 per person
For Three Travelers: $12,255-12,855
This includes all transportation, accommodations, and planned activities
Comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended for international travel.
Estimated Cost: Travel insurance typically costs approximately 10% of the total package price
Coverage includes trip cancellation, medical emergencies, and travel delays
Price to be determined based on your specific needs and chosen coverage level