Two of the most beautiful countries in the world are Ireland and Scotland, and you can travel to these countries on a variety of EF Go Ahead Tours. Go Ahead is a group travel company that plans out the itinerary, hotels, activities, and more for you.
Some of the trips highlight the big cities in each country, some are longer and dive in deeper to each country, and others include London in the tour.
Here are the options for trips to Ireland and Scotland with EF Go Ahead Tours:
- Landscapes of Scotland & Ireland
- Highlights of Scotland & Ireland: Edinburgh to Dublin
- Highlights of England, Scotland & Ireland
- Dublin, Edinburgh & London
Keep reading for a complete comparison of the Go Ahead Tours Ireland and Scotland options, including itineraries, pricing, group size, hotels, and more.
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Published: January 17, 2024
EF Go Ahead Tours Ireland and Scotland Comparison
EF Go Ahead offers four tours to Ireland and Scotland. The tours vary in length, price, cities visited, and more.
This table compares the tours. Click the title of each one, or scroll down to see more details of the tours.
| Tour Name | Number of Days | Group size | Physical Activity Level | Transportation on Tour | Extension available? | Price Range | Time of Year | Book Now |
| Landscapes of Scotland & Ireland | 15 days | 15-38 people | High | Motor coach, ferry | Yes – London | $3,500 – $5,000 | March to December | Check available dates |
| Highlights of Scotland & Ireland: Edinburgh to Dublin | 10 days | 15-38 people | Moderate | Motor coach, plane | Yes – Edinburgh | $3,000 – $4,000 | March to November | Check available dates |
| Highlights of England, Scotland & Ireland | 12 days | 15-38 people | Moderate | Motor coach, train, ferry | Yes – London | $3,000 – $4,500 | Year round | Check available dates |
| Dublin, Edinburgh & London | 8 days | 15-38 people | Moderate | Motor coach, train, plane | Yes – London | $3,000 – $4,000 | March to November | Check available dates |
Landscapes of Scotland & Ireland
On the Landscapes of Scotland & Ireland tour, you will explore the charming villages, lush countryside, and dramatic cliffs of Scotland and Ireland.
Begin in Edinburgh, marveling at its Georgian architecture, then traverse the Scottish Highlands and Glasgow.
Cross the Irish Sea to explore historic Belfast, winding south through Galway and County Kerry’s coastal landscapes.
Admire the Cliffs of Moher, wander the Dingle Peninsula, and visit the iconic Blarney Castle before ending your adventure in Dublin’s bustling streets.
Itinerary
Below is the general itinerary you will follow on this tour. It could vary slightly depending on weather or other unforeseen circumstances.
Overnight Flight (1 night)
- Day 1: Travel day – Board your overnight flight to Edinburgh today.
Edinburgh (2 nights)
- Day 2: Arrival in Edinburgh – Welcome to Scotland! Meet your Tour Director and fellow travelers at tonight’s welcome dinner.
- Day 3: Sightseeing tour of Edinburgh – Follow a Scottish local on a sightseeing tour of the city.
Scottish Highlands (2 nights)
- Day 4: Transfer to the Scottish Highlands – Continue to the Scottish Highlands and pass Loch Lomond as you drive through scenic Trossachs National Park.
- Day 5: Sightseeing tour of the Western Highlands – Spend the day exploring the scenery and sites throughout the Western Highlands.
Glasgow (1 night)
- Day 6: Transfer to Glasgow & sightseeing tour – Travel to Glasgow and set off on a tour with a local guide.
Belfast (2 nights)
- Day 7: Ferry to Belfast – Make your way to the village of Cairnryan, where you’ll board a ferry across the Irish Sea to Belfast, Ireland.
- Day 8: Sightseeing tour of Belfast – Get to know Belfast, the cultural heart of Northern Ireland, from a local’s perspective on a guided tour.
Galway (2 nights)
- Day 9: Galway via County Meath – En route to Galway, stop in County Meath to visit Causey Farm. Then end in Galway for a sightseeing tour of the city led by your Tour Director.
County Kerry (2 nights)
- Day 11: County Kerry via the Burren, Cliffs of Moher & Bunratty Castle – Travel through the Irish countryside to County Kerry today.
- Day 12: Dingle Peninsula & Killarney National Park – Make your way along the dramatically rugged terrain of the Dingle Peninsula.
Dublin (2 nights)
- Day 13: Dublin via Blarney Castle – Head to Dublin this morning, stopping to explore Blarney Castle.
- Day 14: Sightseeing tour of Dublin – Take a tour of Ireland’s capital city with a local expert leading the way, and celebrate your trip during a farewell dinner.*
Flight Home
- Day 15: Departure – Transfer to the airport for your flight home.
Optional Early Arrival in London
- Day 1: Travel day – Board your overnight flight to London today.
- Day 2: Arrival in London – Welcome to England! Meet your Tour Director and fellow travelers as you enjoy a welcome drink this evening.
- Day 3: Sightseeing tour of London- Take a guided tour of London’s regal landmarks with a local expert leading the way.
- Day 4: Free day in London – Spend a free day in London or add an excursion.
- Day 5: Train to Edinburgh – This morning, transfer to King’s Cross Station to board your train to Edinburgh, Scotland. Then, meet with the rest of your tour group and get to know them during tonight’s welcome dinner (day 2 of the regular itinerary).
Hotels
Here are some hotels you might stay in on the Landscapes of Scotland & Ireland tour.
- Mercure Edinburgh Haymarket
- Alexandra Hotel
- Novotel Glasgow City Centre
- Maldron Belfast City
- Maldron Sandy Road
- The Connacht Hotel
- Randles Hotel Killarney
- Maldron Hotel Parnell Square
- Dorsett Shepherd’s Bush
What’s Included?
On this tour, you will have a good mix of included activities and meals, in addition to free time and meals on your own. Here is what you can expect to get with the price of the tour:
- 13 nights in hotels
- 13 breakfasts
- Five dinners with beer or wine
- One liquor tasting
- Ten sightseeing tours
- Tour Director & local guides
- Private deluxe motor coach
- One ferry transfer
Note: Flights are not included, but you can add on an airfare package, and you’ll get a round-trip flight, airport transfers once you arrive, and more.
Highlights of Scotland & Ireland: Edinburgh to Dublin
Take an unforgettable adventure on the Highlights of Scotland and Ireland tour with Go Ahead Tours. Immerse yourself in the vibrant local pub culture, explore the bustling capital of Dublin, where the iconic St. Patrick’s Cathedral awaits, and see smaller cities like Glasgow and Galway, each offering a unique charm.
This tour perfectly blends historical landmarks, cultural experiences, and the stunning beauty of Scotland and Ireland.
Itinerary
Below is the general itinerary you will follow on this tour. It could vary slightly depending on weather or other unforeseen circumstances.
Overnight Flight (1 night)
- Day 1: Travel Day – Embark on your journey as you board the overnight flight to Edinburgh.
Edinburgh (2 nights)
- Day 2: Arrival in Edinburgh – Welcome to Scotland! Meet your Tour Director and fellow travelers at a welcome dinner.
- Day 3: Sightseeing Tour of Edinburgh – Explore Edinburgh’s medieval beauty, including UNESCO World Heritage sites, the Royal Mile, and Edinburgh Castle.
Optional Excursion: Abbotsford House & Melrose Abbey
Glasgow (2 nights)
- Day 4: Glasgow via Stirling Castle – Travel through the scenic Scottish countryside to Stirling Castle and then to Glasgow for a local-guided tour.
- Day 5: Free Day in Glasgow – Enjoy a day at leisure or opt for an excursion.
Optional Excursion: Inveraray Castle & Trossachs National Park
Dublin (2 nights)
- Day 6: Flight to Dublin – Fly to Dublin and explore the Irish capital.
Optional Excursion: Traditional Irish Dinner & Show
- Day 7: Sightseeing Tour of Dublin – Tour Dublin’s highlights, including Phoenix Park, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, and Trinity College.
Optional Excursion: Glendalough
County Galway (2 nights)
- Day 8: Transfer to Galway & Sightseeing Tour – Travel west to Galway, Ireland’s third-largest city. Enjoy the local energy and traditions.
Optional Excursion: Castle Banquet Dinner
- Day 9: The Burren & Cliffs of Moher – Explore the dramatic landscapes of the Burren and Cliffs of Moher.
Flight Home
- Day 10: Departure – Transfer to Dublin airport for your return flight.
Optional Early Arrival in Edinburgh
- Day 1: Travel Day – Board your overnight flight to Edinburgh.
- Day 2: Arrive in Edinburgh – Meet your tour director and fellow travelers, enjoying a welcome drink.
- Day 3: Free Day in Edinburgh – Explore the historic city at your own pace or opt for an excursion.
Optional Excursion: Coastal Scotland & St Andrews Pub Lunch
- Day 4: Free Day in Edinburgh – Spend the day as you please, joining the group for a welcome dinner in the evening. (Day 2 of the regular itinerary)
Hotels
Here are some hotels you might stay in on the Highlights of Scotland & Ireland: Edinburgh to Dublin tour.
- Mercure Edinburgh Haymarket
- Maldron Hotel Glasgow City
- Clayton Cardiff Lane
- Maldron Sandy Road
What’s Included?
On this tour, you will have a good mix of included activities and meals, in addition to free time and meals on your own. Here is what you can expect to get with the price of the tour:
Your tour package includes
- Eight nights in hotels
- Eight breakfasts
- Three dinners with beer or wine
- Six sightseeing tours
- Tour Director & local guides
- Private motor coach
- One on-tour flight
Note: Flights are not included, but you can add on an airfare package, and you’ll get a round-trip flight, airport transfers once you arrive, and more.
Highlights of England, Scotland & Ireland
Take a journey through Great Britain and Ireland on this Highlights of England, Scotland & Ireland tour. Begin in vibrant London, explore Edinburgh’s medieval charm, and traverse the scenic landscapes connecting Scotland and Ireland.
Experience the local pub culture in Dublin, marvel at the Ring of Kerry, and visit iconic landmarks like Trafalgar Square and the Cliffs of Moher.
This adventure captures the beauty of emerald landscapes and cultural hubs, offering a perfect blend of history and natural beauty.
Itinerary
Below is the general itinerary you will follow on this tour. It could vary slightly depending on weather or other unforeseen circumstances.
London, England (2 nights)
- Day 1: Travel Day – Board your overnight flight to London today.
- Day 2: Arrival in London – Welcome to England! Meet your Tour Director and fellow travelers at tonight’s welcome dinner.
- Day 3: London Sightseeing – View the landmarks of England’s vibrant and cosmopolitan capital on a guided sightseeing tour. Then enjoy a free afternoon in London.
Optional: Windsor Castle
Edinburgh, Scotland (2 nights)
- Day 4: Train ride to Edinburgh – Journey by train through the English countryside and past the lochs and hills of Scotland. Arrive in Edinburgh and enjoy an included dinner.
- Day 5: Edinburgh Sightseeing – Explore Edinburgh’s medieval beauty on a tour led by a local expert. Then spend a free afternoon in Edinburgh.
Optional: Abbotsford House & Melrose Abbey
Liverpool, England (1 night)
- Day 6: Transfer to Liverpool – Travel through the emerald green landscapes of Northern England, stopping in the Lake District, and enjoy a free evening in Liverpool or add an excursion.
Optional: The Beatles: History & Story Museum
Dublin, Ireland (2 nights)
- Day 7: Ferry to Dublin – Travel through northern Wales, stop in Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch (the longest-named place in Europe), and board a ferry to Dublin.
- Day 8: Dublin Sightseeing – Take a comprehensive tour of Ireland’s capital city with a local expert, and enjoy a free evening in Dublin or add an excursion.
Optional: Traditional Irish Dinner & Show
County Kerry, Ireland (2 nights)
- Day 9: County Kerry via Blarney – Kiss the Blarney Stone at Blarney Castle, then arrive in County Kerry for an included dinner.
- Day 10: Ring of Kerry Tour – Explore the 112-mile coastal route, the Ring of Kerry, with breathtaking scenery.
Dublin, Ireland (1 night)
- Day 11: Dublin via the Cliffs of Moher – Walk along the Cliffs of Moher before you continue to Dublin this afternoon and celebrate your trip during a farewell dinner.
Flight Home
- Day 12: Departure – Transfer to the airport for your flight home.
Optional Early Arrival in London
- Day 1: Overnight Flight – Board your overnight flight to London today.
- Day 2: Arrive in London – Welcome to England! Meet your Tour Director and fellow travelers with a welcome drink.
- Day 3: Spend a free day in London or add an excursion.
Optional: Stonehenge & Salisbury
- Day 4: Free Day in London (Day 2 of the regular itinerary) – Meet up with the rest of your tour group and get to know everyone during tonight’s welcome dinner.
Hotels
Here are some hotels you might stay in on the Highlights of England, Scotland & Ireland tour.
- Holiday Inn London Kensington
- Holiday Inn Express – Edinburgh City Centre
- Mercure Liverpool Atlantic Tower
- Cassidys Hotel
- Meadowlands Hotel
What’s Included?
On this tour, you will have a good mix of included activities and meals, in addition to free time and meals on your own. Here is what you can expect to get with the price of the tour:
- Ten nights in hotels
- Ten breakfasts
- Four dinners with beer or wine
- Six sightseeing tours
- Tour Director & local guides
- Private motor coach
- One train ride
- One ferry transfer
Note: Flights are not included, but you can add on an airfare package, and you’ll get a round-trip flight, airport transfers once you arrive, and more.
Dublin, Edinburgh & London
Are you ready to explore Dublin, Edinburgh, and London, guided by locals who reveal iconic landmarks and hidden gems?
From Dublin’s St. Patrick’s Cathedral to Edinburgh’s Royal Mile and London’s Trafalgar Square, Big Ben, and Buckingham Palace, soak in these dynamic cities’ rich history and vibrant culture.
Itinerary
Below is the general itinerary you will follow on this tour. It could vary slightly depending on weather or other unforeseen circumstances.
Overnight Flight (1 night)
- Day 1: Begin your journey with an overnight flight to Dublin.
Dublin (2 nights)
- Day 2: Arrive in Dublin – Meet your tour director and fellow travelers at the welcome dinner.
- Day 3: Dublin Sightseeing – Explore the top sights in Dublin, then enjoy a free afternoon in the city.
Optional: Glendalough
Edinburgh (2 nights)
- Day 4: Flight to Edinburgh – Fly to Edinburgh, Scotland.
- Day 5: Edinburgh Sightseeing – Take a tour of the city led by a local expert, then enjoy a free afternoon in Edinburg.
Optional: Palace of Holyroodhouse & Afternoon Tea.
London (2 nights)
- Day 6: Take a train ride to London. Journey by train and enjoy the scenic landscapes.
- Day 7: London Sightseeing – Take a guided tour of Trafalgar Square, St. Paul’s Cathedral, Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, the London Eye, and more, then enjoy a free afternoon in London.
Optional: Windsor Castle.
Flight Home
- Day 8: Departure – Transfer to the airport for your flight home.
Optional extension in London
- Day 8: Free day in London – Explore London at your leisure.
Optional: Tower of London OR the London Eye & Pub Dinner.
- Day 9: Free day in London – Enjoy a day at your pace, and have a farewell drink in the evening with fellow travelers.
Optional: Stonehenge & Oxford.
- Day 10: Departure – Transfer to the airport for your flight home.
Hotels
Here are some examples of the hotels you might stay in on the Dublin, Edinburgh & London tour.
- Cassidys Hotel
- Mercure Edinburgh Haymarket
- Holiday Inn London Kensington
What’s Included?
On this tour, you will have a good mix of included activities and meals, in addition to free time and meals on your own. Here is what you can expect to get with the price of the tour:
- Six nights in hotels
- Six breakfasts
- Three dinners with beer or wine
- Three guided sightseeing tours
- Expert Tour Director & local guides
- Private deluxe motor coach
- One on-tour flight
- One train ride
Note: Flights are not included, but you can add on an airfare package, and you’ll get a round-trip flight, airport transfers once you arrive, and more.
Special Departures for Dublin, Edinburgh & London
There is a variation of the Dublin, Edinburgh, & London tour that takes place over Halloween called the Haunted Halloween tour. Not only will you visit all the top sites in these three cities, but you will also experience additional tours and excursions that highlight their spooky histories and tales.
The tour only happens once a year for Halloween, and it’s a great way to experience Dublin, Edinburgh, and London in a unique way.
Other options for Ireland and Scotland Tours
If none of the tours above are what you’re looking for, there are a few other options you have for visiting Ireland and Scotland, both with Go Ahead Tours and with another company.
One option is to book the Grand Tour of Ireland with a Scotland extension. You will spend the first two weeks of the trip in Ireland, and then you can add on the optional extension, which includes three more nights in Edinburgh and Glasglow.
Another option, if you are between 18 and 35, is to travel with EF Ultimate Break, Go Ahead’s sister company.
They offer a 17-day tour through England, Scotland, and Ireland. This tour covers six cities and is great if you are a young adult looking to travel with others your age.
You can also book this tour over New Year’s with a special celebration on New Year’s Eve included.
Save $100 off your first trip with EF Ultimate Break:
Ready to visit Ireland and Scotland?
Go Ahead Tours makes traveling to Ireland and Scotland easy since they plan everything for you. They have plenty of trips to choose from to visit these beautiful countries.
No matter which tour you choose, you’re bound to fall in love with Ireland and Scotland thanks to EF Go Ahead Tours.
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