Ireland West and North: 8 Day Tour

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  • 8 Days
  • Guaranteed Departure - Max 20 Guests
  • Pace: Easy going, but loads to do every day
  • Honors Degree in Ireland North and West

Explore Ireland’s North and West on an 8-Day Small Group Tour

As a local, family-run company based in Galway since 1988, Lally Tours specialises in travel that’s relaxed, authentic, and rooted in expert local knowledge. Our small-group tours (always under 16 people) include activities for the entire group while still allowing plenty of independent time to explore at your own pace. You’ll travel in comfort on our modern midi-coaches, enjoy carefully selected accommodation in locally owned properties, and be led by a welcoming, knowledgeable guide from the West of Ireland.

Our immersive 8-day journey across Ireland’s West and North takes you beyond the usual tourist trail – see Northern Ireland’s dramatic coastlines and Donegal’s unspoiled beauty, and get acquainted with the culture and history of western Ireland. An epic journey from Belfast to Galway, this tour blends world-famous landmarks with lesser-known gems, giving you a deeper connection to Ireland and its people.

You’ll cross the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, stand in awe at the Giant’s Causeway, walk the historic walls of Derry, and experience the towering Slieve League Cliffs! The route continues through Sligo and into scenic Connemara before ending in vibrant Galway, one of our favourite Irish cities. With 2-night stays in both Belfast and Donegal, there’s time to explore without feeling rushed.

(Still exploring options for your stay in Ireland? Browse our full selection of Multi-Day Tours of Ireland.)

Ireland West and North Tour Highlights

  • Belfast City Hop On Hop Off Tickets 48 Hours
  • Belfast Local Day
  • Visit Carrick A Rede Rope Bridge
  • Visit Giants Causeway
  • Walls of Derry City Walking Tour
  • Visit Slieve League Cliffs
  • Visit Downpatrick Head
  • 1/2 Day Exploring Westport
  • Galway City Walking Tour
  • Galway Local Day

8 Day Tour Map

Featured Stops

  • Overnights: 2 nights in Belfast, 2 nights in Donegal, 1 night in Westport & 2 nights in Galway
  • Key DestinationsBelfast, Donegal, Sligo, Westport, Connemara, Galway City, Aran Islands, Burren, Cliffs of Moher

Ireland West and North Itinerary

Day 1 - Arrival and Exploration in Belfast

The journey starts at our Dublin City Centre meeting point. Meet your driver-guide and board a premium tour coach with a maximum of 20 guests for a personal experience.

Enjoy a scenic drive to Belfast, where your guide will share insights into Ireland’s history. After dropping your bags, you’ll have extensive independent time to explore Belfast’s sights and sounds at your own pace. Your driver-guide is always available nearby to ensure you make the most of your time in the city.

Day 2 - Day in Belfast

Enjoy a flexible day in Belfast, designed to let you explore the city your own way. With plenty of time and support to plan your perfect day, you can choose from a range of incredible experiences — take a Black Cab Tour, visit the Titanic Experience, explore the Game of Thrones Studio Tour, play a round of golf at Rory McIlroy’s home club, hike The Gobbins, or join a walking tour of Belfast’s famous murals. The day is yours to discover the city at your own pace.

Day 3 - Causeway Coast

Discover the stunning Causeway Coast, beginning with a thrilling walk across the famous Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge. Visit the legendary Giant’s Causeway, where ancient volcanic rock formations meet Irish mythology, before heading to Derry for a guided walking tour of this historic walled city. End the day with a relaxing coastal stay in beautiful Donegal.

Day 4 - Wild Wild North West

Venture into the Wild Wild North West on a scenic coastal drive through some of Ireland’s most remote and untouched landscapes. Marvel at the breathtaking Slieve League Cliffs, the highest cliffs on mainland Ireland, before settling in for the night at a traditional hotel in the heart of Donegal town.

Day 5 - Sligos Surf Coast and Downpatrick Head

Explore the Sligo Surf Coast and the dramatic landscapes of Downpatrick Head. Begin with a visit to the coastal village of Mullaghmore, then hike to the striking cliffs of Downpatrick Head. The day concludes with an overnight stay in the charming town of Westport.

Day 6 - Connemara and Galway City

Travel the scenic route to Galway through the Gaeltacht region of Connemara, renowned for its rugged beauty and rich culture. Meet a local farmer and enjoy a lively sheepdog demonstration, explore the enchanting grounds of Kylemore Abbey and its walled gardens, and discover why the Irish language continues to thrive here. Finish the day by sampling poitín, a traditional local spirit.

Day 7 - Local day in Galway

Spend a local day in Galway starting with a guided walking tour to get acquainted with the city’s vibrant streets and rich history. Afterward, enjoy independent time to explore at your own pace — shop, discover hidden gems, and hop between the city’s lively bars.

Day 8 - Local morning in Galway

Enjoy a leisurely morning in Galway, taking in the city’s charm at your own pace. The day concludes with a relaxing cross-country train journey back to Dublin.

Tour Brochure

FAQs

Where does this tour start and finish?

On Day 1 – This one starts at a central location in Dublin City Center. Your driver/guide will collect you in one of our Lally Tours buses and then we’ll drive north, out of Dublin City towards Belfast

On Day 8 – Your guide will board you onto your train from Galway Ceannt Station to Dublin Heuston Station. This takes approx 2.5 hours and train tickets are included.

What kind of accommodation is included?

We use locally owned, centrally located 3- and 4-star hotels that reflect Irish hospitality and comfort. We like to ensure a good variety along the tour – From small traditional hotels to more more modern “fancier” hotels. Giving you a great sense of what true Irish hospitality feels like.

Are breakfasts and dinners included?

Breakfast is included each morning. Lunches and dinners are flexible so you can enjoy local pubs, cafés, and restaurants at your own pace.

What’s included in the price?

All transportation, accommodation, guide services, and group activities listed in the itinerary are included. Optional extras are clearly marked.

Can I request a private room or share with a friend?

Yes — you can choose between twin, double, or single rooms during booking. Single supplements apply.

How many people travel in each group?

Small groups — usually 12 and never more than 20 guests — ensuring a relaxed, personal experience.

How much luggage can I bring?

One medium suitcase (max 20 kg) and a small day bag per person is ideal. But our vehicles are nice and spacious so no issue if you need a bit more, just give us a heads up so we know to expect it. Also, be sure to leave plenty of room for shopping (and whiskey…)

Can I pay in instalments?

Yes — secure your place with a deposit and pay the remainder in easy instalments.

Is there much walking on this tour?

Most stops involve light walks or short hikes, all optional. Good walking shoes recommended.

Do you include travel insurance?

It’s not mandatory but highly recommended to cover cancellations, medical costs, and lost belongings.

How flexible is the itinerary?

Our itineraries are well planned but allow plenty of free time, especally in the evenings and in key “Local Days” in Belfast, Galway and Killarney. These are done to ensure a lovely blend of group touring, but to also make sure everyone isn’t joined at the hip for the whole trip.

Are tips included?

Tips are not included – They are optional and entirely at your discretion

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