13 nights. Ireland, United Kingdom

Day 1

amsterdam, holland

Departure: 17:00

Amsterdam, the capital of the Netherlands, is a city that consistently enchants visitors with its captivating canals, historic architecture, and lively culture. This stunning city has something for everyone, from art enthusiasts and history aficionados to food connoisseurs and party animals. One of the most emblematic features of Amsterdam is its canal system, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Embark on a boat tour or saunter along the canals to appreciate the scenic bridges and vibrant houseboats that line the waterways. The city also hosts many globally recognized museums, including the Van Gogh Museum and the Rijksmuseum, which boasts an extensive collection of Dutch art and artifacts. For those seeking some retail therapy, Amsterdam offers a plethora of options. The city's primary shopping district is centered around Dam Square, where you can find everything from luxury fashion to eccentric boutiques. When it comes to food, Amsterdam is a gastronome's dream. From traditional Dutch delicacies like stroopwafels and bitterballen to international cuisine from every corner of the world, there's something to satisfy every palate. As the sun sets, Amsterdam comes to life with a vibrant nightlife. Venture to the infamous Red Light District for a glimpse of the city's more daring offerings, or visit one of the many bars and clubs scattered throughout the city's streets. Regardless of your interests, Amsterdam is a city that's guaranteed to leave you with unforgettable experiences.

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Day 3

cork, ireland

Arrival: 09:00 - Departure: 18:00

Cork is the second largest city in Ireland, but for some, it's the top Gaelic city and the true capital of the country. Cork is welcoming, worldly, and vibrant. The River Lee runs through the city, leading to one of the largest natural harbors in the world, and it takes about 29 bridges to link its most unique features. Cork is a significant cultural and artistic center, hosting important film, jazz, and poetry festivals like the Cork Midsummer Festival. In 2005, Cork was named the European Capital of Culture. South of the River Lee, St Finbarr's Cathedral, a beautiful limestone structure with three striking spires dedicated to the city's founder and patron, towers over the rest of the city. Visit St. Anne’s church in the Shandon district for the view from the tower and the 200-year-old bells. The Shandon neighborhood has maintained its original charm, filled with narrow streets and vibrant shops. St Patrick's Street, a covered canal, is the city's main thoroughfare and is known for its architectural buildings. Between St Patrick’s Street and Grand Parade is The English Market, a covered fruit and vegetable market that has been in operation since 1610, although the current building was built in 1786. Cork is rebellious and nationalistic, with a scent of sea breeze and a preserved authenticity. The city's oceanic vitality and a carefree zest for life are among its most treasured traits.

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Day 4

dun laoghaire - ireland

Arrival: 08:00 - Departure: 22:00

Dublin has served as the backdrop for numerous novels, which is hardly surprising given its rich literary history that dates back to 800 A.D. with The Book of Kells, currently on display at Trinity College, Ireland's oldest university. The city is the birthplace of many renowned authors including Joyce, Beckett, Yeats, Shawn, and Wilde, to name a few. Dublin's Georgian elegance seamlessly merges with its medieval and modern architecture, giving the city its unique character. It's undeniable that Dublin is a city steeped in culture; in fact, UNESCO named it the city of literature in 2010. Those who appreciate culture will be spoiled for choice with the city's museums and galleries. From the National Museum of Ireland and the National Library to the National Gallery and the charming Little Museum of Dublin, which houses the lectern used by US President JFK to address the National Parliament in 1963, there's plenty to explore. And let's not forget the impressive Dublin Castle, which dates back to the 13th century. But beyond its cultural and historical treasures, what truly sets Dublin apart are its people. Dubliners are friendly, warm, surprisingly outgoing, and witty, especially after a few pints of Guinness. With over 1000 pubs, it's easy to make friends in this city. It's practically a requirement for tourists to spend some time in a pub, as it's one of the most memorable experiences of a visit to Ireland. Dublin is also a youthful city, boasting one of the youngest populations in Europe, with about half of its residents believed to be under the age of 25. This has resulted in a city that's vibrant, dynamic, energetic, and ambitious. Dublin is teeming with trendy bars, upscale restaurants, and lively clubs, with the bustling Temple Bar area at its heart. Live music is practically a religion in Ireland, and Dublin is its holy city. The city's live music scene is exceptional and has produced numerous global music superstars, from U2 and Westlife to The Script and Sinead O’Connor. Everyone is welcome in this multicultural city, but be warned: Dublin, like its people, is so charismatic and captivating that you may never want to leave.

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Day 6

liverpool, england

Arrival: 04:30 - Departure: 19:00

It's hard to bring up Liverpool without the Beatles coming to mind. The band remains a source of pride for the locals, but it's important not to let that overshadow the other attractions in this west coast English city. Its undeniable cultural vitality is evident in the revitalization and repurposing of its industrial heritage, the transformation of Albert Dock into a cultural and recreational hub, the opening of the Tate Gallery, and the creation of the Garden Festival, all of which have made Liverpool one of the most lively cities in the country. Albert Dock is undoubtedly the most significant landmark in Liverpool. A series of sturdy brick warehouses encircle a basin. A World Heritage site, Albert Dock is home to the award-winning Tate Liverpool, the Merseyside Maritime Museum, and the impressive International Slavery Museum. With so much to explore, take a break and rest your tired feet at one of the many bars, cafes, and restaurants located around the dock. And then there's the Beatles. There are numerous spots throughout the city that honor this iconic band. Museums, bars, shops, hotels, and cafes themed around the band's history draw many music enthusiasts. All these Beatles sites share the limelight with another city symbol: The Metropolitan Cathedral, the largest cathedral in the UK, also draws many tourists with its unique architecture. Of course, you can't discuss Liverpool without bringing up football. At Anfield stadium, home of Liverpool F.C, visitors can learn everything there is to know about this esteemed club. Around the stadium, there are several pubs for pre-game drinks and a chance to meet the team's fervent fan base. That's the true Liverpool experience.

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Day 7

belfast, northern ireland

Arrival: 07:30 - Departure: 18:30

Belfast, once a city scarred by conflict, has reclaimed its true essence as Ireland's hidden gem. With its array of attractions and newfound reputation as a nightlife hub, it has become a lively destination. A visit to Belfast City Hall is essential when exploring the city. Situated at Donegall Square, the city's heart, this Renaissance-style building features stunning stained glass windows and murals that illustrate Belfast's history. Down by the river docks, you can find the intriguing statue of a giant fish, with the Titanic Belfast rising behind it. The Titanic Belfast is an interactive exhibit that opened to mark the 100th anniversary of the ship's sinking. Located in the modern Titanic Quarter, Europe's largest waterfront development, it is a futuristic blend of residential, commercial, tourism, education, and retail spaces that has given Belfast a new urban district. One of the city's undeniable attractions is the political murals on Shankill Road, with over 700 murals reflecting Belfast's painful past. However, Belfast is undoubtedly looking towards the future. The city is filled with stylish bars and restaurants, and its warm and friendly residents will make you fall in love with Belfast.

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Day 8

glasgow (greenock), scotland

Arrival: 07:00 - Departure: 18:00

6

Day 10

lerwick/shetland, scotland

Arrival: 07:00 - Departure: 18:00

7

Day 11

inverness/loch ness scotland

Arrival: 08:00 - Departure: 18:00

Inverness serves as the hub and tourist hotspot of the Highlands. This thriving port city, situated on the scenic banks of the Ness River, is an excellent starting point for exploring this Scottish region, home to some of Britain's most breathtaking landscapes. However, the city itself is also worth a visit. Inverness is a fascinating and appealing city with a wide array of attractions and activities, ranging from ancient castles to dining establishments, a Loch Ness cruise, or a riverside walk. The city is small, compact, and easy to navigate. The city's castle, majestically overlooking the river, is a prominent feature of the skyline. The castle's current structure is a formidable 19th-century Neo-Norman red stone fortress, still encircled by part of its original bastion wall. Below the castle, the Inverness Museum and Art Gallery provides a comprehensive overview of the Highlands' evolution, while medieval Church Street houses the town's oldest surviving buildings. Contrary to popular belief, Inverness Castle is not the site of Macbeth's murder of King Duncan; the actual location is the dreamlike Cawdor Castle, complete with a moat and drawbridge, situated just east of Inverness. The stunning gothic structure is certainly worth a visit, if only for its dazzling gardens. The ruins of Urquhart Castle, a local and national symbol and one of the region's most photographed sites, are located on the Loch's northern side. This is where most sightings of the famous monster have been reported. Today, Inverness is a modern city, equipped with all the contemporary conveniences and facilities you would expect from a major city. There are numerous charming riverside restaurants and lively sidewalk cafes, as well as a variety of specialist retailers in the historic Old Town and Victorian Market. Whether you're wandering the city streets or venturing out into the Scottish Highlands for a day trip, Inverness is undoubtedly one of the must-see destinations in the United Kingdom.

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Day 12

kirkwall, scotland

Arrival: 08:00 - Departure: 18:00

Day 14

amsterdam, holland

Arrival: 06:00

Amsterdam, the capital of the Netherlands, is a city that consistently enchants visitors with its captivating canals, historic architecture, and lively culture. This stunning city has something for everyone, from art enthusiasts and history aficionados to food connoisseurs and party animals. One of the most emblematic features of Amsterdam is its canal system, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Embark on a boat tour or saunter along the canals to appreciate the scenic bridges and vibrant houseboats that line the waterways. The city also hosts many globally recognized museums, including the Van Gogh Museum and the Rijksmuseum, which boasts an extensive collection of Dutch art and artifacts. For those seeking some retail therapy, Amsterdam offers a plethora of options. The city's primary shopping district is centered around Dam Square, where you can find everything from luxury fashion to eccentric boutiques. When it comes to food, Amsterdam is a gastronome's dream. From traditional Dutch delicacies like stroopwafels and bitterballen to international cuisine from every corner of the world, there's something to satisfy every palate. As the sun sets, Amsterdam comes to life with a vibrant nightlife. Venture to the infamous Red Light District for a glimpse of the city's more daring offerings, or visit one of the many bars and clubs scattered throughout the city's streets. Regardless of your interests, Amsterdam is a city that's guaranteed to leave you with unforgettable experiences.

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