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6 Day Northern Ireland Tour map route itinerary 6 Day Northern Island Tour Dublin Derry Donegal Belfast Mayo
Driftwood Van

6 Day Northern Island Tour

The Perfect Way to Tour Northern Ireland

Tour Northern Ireland and the northwest coast on this relaxed journey of discovery, featuring excellent hotels, unforgettable sights and fun activities.

Explore the wild backroads of Mayo, medieval castles in Donegal and the epic Giant’s Causeway in Antrim. Overnight in a charming Irish castle hotel and visit the world’s biggest Titanic attraction.

Shop for authentic crafts and meet local people in friendly Irish villages, before visiting Northern Ireland’s cities: Belfast and Derry/Londonderry.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "We went on a six day Northern Tour. The pace was perfect, with high class hotels every night. The tour vehicle was very comfortable and the ride was smooth.

Never felt rushed, never felt bored. If every company out there was like Vagabond, life would be wonderful!" Guest Review MAY 2024

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From €1,728.00 pps* Single Supplement €285.00
*Price displayed is the discounted price for Mar, Apr & Oct.
💵 Equivalent US$1,756 Price Estimated at $1 to €0.93
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*Price displayed is the discounted price for Mar, Apr and Oct.

If the date you want is full please contact us and we will do our best to accommodate you.

A €250 deposit per person is all we need to secure your tour online. All our departure dates are guaranteed.

**All tours are charged in EURO. Exchange rates quoted are online rates and may differ to the rate our payment partner Flywire and banks offer.

Single Supplements apply to Single Room Occupancy.

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Reviews

Genuine Guest Reviews

Trustpilot Heading Image
Loved the whole trip.
My only suggestion is to give everyone more time to do some shopping. We had no free time.
Deborah Ross, 8th Nov 2024
The trip was well organized and our…
The trip was well organized and our guide/driver, Vaughan Ryan, was a peach! He was so kind and helpful and very knowledgeable about the places we were. I learned so much about Ireland and very much enjoyed the trip! thank you!
Christine Long, 6th Nov 2024
Brilliant
Off the beaten path experiences e.g. the sheep dog demo.
Giants causeway was a must see, but very touristy.
Enjoyed the opportunity to have options e.g. explored Bushmills rather than whiskey tour as we are not big whiskey drinkers.
The history behind our stops was super appreciated ; add a few more "Irish folklore" stories.
Waller, 5th Nov 2024

6 Day Northern Island Tour

Trip Advisor Heading Image
"perfect small group tour"
Review Image

Perfect small group tour of Northern Ireland. Overnight locations, accommodations and included meals were authentic and added to the experience.

We didn't have to worry about a thing and everything went smoothly.

The customer service and communication with us before the trip was prompt, professional and timely. Definitely would use Vagabond Tours again.

BOB, APRIL 2024
"fabulous trip"
Review Image

Took the Driftwood 6-Day Small Group Tour of Northern Ireland. What a fabulous trip!

Our driver/tour guide, Angela, was very knowledgeable, friendly, and accommodating.

Everything was well planned and went smoothly. I would highly recommend using this company for future travel in Ireland.

MIKE, MARCH 2024
"it probably gets no better"
Review Image

We went on a six day Northern Tour. The pace was perfect, with high class hotels every night. The tour vehicle was very comfortable and the ride was smooth.

Never felt rushed, never felt bored. If every company out there was like Vagabond, life would be wonderful!

TERRY, MAY 2024
Tour FAQs

Find answers to questions about the 6 Day Driftwood Northern Island Tour itinerary.

Is This The Right Tour For Me?

We do our utmost to ensure that the tour style you choose matches your needs. Our team offer honest and professional customer service from the moment you first get in touch.

Read the following physical requirements to understand if your tour choice matches your abilities.

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How Fit Do I Need To Be?

You'll need basic mobility to enjoy any of our small group tours of Ireland. Standing and walking for extended periods is required on both tour styles.

For Vagabond Cultural Adventures, the fitness requirement is considerably higher than on a Driftwood Journey of Discovery.

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When & Where Do Vagabond/Driftwood Tours Depart From?

All of our tours leave from our pick-up/drop-off point at the Grand Canal Hotel in Dublin.

Our pick-up times from the Grand Canal Hotel vary by tour:

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Do I Need To Pre-Book Activities Before My Tour?

You don't have to pre-book activities until you join your tour. While on tour, your VagaGuide will advise you when you need to book an optional extra.

⚠️ IMPORTANT: The only exception is the Skellig Michael Island landing option. This optional extra is only available on the 12 Day Vagabond Giant Irish Adventure Tour. It requires prior booking at least 45 days before you arrive in Ireland.

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Which Small-Group Tours Visit Northern Ireland?

We love introducing our guests to the wonderful cities and surprisingly wild coastline of Northern Ireland.

The following four small-group tour itineraries visit Northern Ireland:

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What Currency Will I Need On Tour?

There are two currencies used on the island of Ireland. Which one you need, depends on which part of Ireland you're visiting.

You'll use Euro (€) while visiting the Republic of Ireland. Northern Ireland's currency is the Pound sterling (£).

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How Much Cash Should I Bring To Ireland?

We recommend bringing a small amount of cash in euros to Ireland with you.

Around €300 euro should be more than enough to get you through your first days in Dublin.

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How Much Should I Tip Tour Guides In Ireland?

The industry standard in Ireland is €15 per person, per day. But this is, of course, at your discretion.

Our team of VagaGuide tour guides really appreciate any tips that come their way after leading a Vagabond or Driftwood small-group tour.

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What Size Luggage Should I Bring?

To make everyone's tour run smoothly, we operate strict limits on baggage size. Plan to bring 1x compact suitcase as well as 1x daypack or backpack, per guest booking.

Your single large piece of luggage should weigh no more than 51lb (23kg) and measure no longer than 31” (79cm) along its longest side. This 31 inch (79cm) limit includes any wheels that may protrude from the suitcase or bag.

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What Should I Pack?

Travel light.

That's the one travel tip that we hear again and again from guests who have experienced our tours.

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Where Can I Do Laundry On Tour?

Serviced laundry facilities are available on tours that stay 2 nights in the following towns:

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Is Lunch and Dinner Included?

Lunches and dinners are not included on Vagabond and Driftwood Tours. You are free to choose your own lunches and dinners.

Your VagaGuide tour guide will recommend their favourite cafes, restaurants and shops. We find that this flexible approach to included meals allows us to cater for diverse tastes, budgets and diets.

All hotel breakfasts are included in your tour price.

Similar Questions

Do Hotels In Ireland Have Air Conditioning?

Most hotels in Ireland do not have air conditioning.

The climate in Ireland usually isn't hot enough to warrant air conditioning.

In periods of prolonged warm weather, hotels that don’t have air conditioning will normally install fans in the bedrooms.


Find out more about Irish weather and the best time to visit Ireland

Similar Questions

Do Hotel Rooms In Ireland Have Hairdryers?

All of your hotel rooms on tour provide hairdryers.

Please note that, in some cases, Irish hotel hairdryers may not be the most powerful models.

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What Types Of Rooms Are Available?

All of our hotels offer double, twin and single room types. Doubles have 1x bed, twins have 2x separate beds and singles have 1x bed.

When booking with us, please select a room requirement for each passenger listed. Choose your room type based on each person sharing.

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What Size Are The Hotel Beds?

The standard bed size in Ireland equates to a US Queen (60" x 80"). This may vary with hotel or room type.

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Do I Need Travel Insurance?

While travel insurance is not a requirement for our tours, we strongly recommend that you purchase comprehensive travel insurance cover before your trip to Ireland.

Your policy should cover all medical costs associated with travel.

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Are There Restroom Stops During The Tour?

Yes, there are regular comfort stops along the tour route where you can avail of restroom facilities.

Simply ask your VagaGuide if you're unsure when the next stop is coming

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Do Tour Vehicles Have Wifi & USB Charging Points?

There are no wifi or charging points available on Vagabond & Driftwood tour vehicles.

We recommend bringing a cellphone with you on tour in Ireland to take pictures and to stay in touch with loved ones back home.

Talk to your cellphone provider about international data roaming before you depart. Alternatively, purchase a sim card on arrival in Ireland to help you get online.

If you think you'll need it, pack a lightweight power bank in your daypack or backpack.

Even better, take a digital detox while exploring Ireland with us!

Similar Questions

Which Small Group Tours of Ireland Visit Donegal?

Donegal is one of our favourite places to visit in Ireland. We know you'll love it too!

The following tour itineraries explore Donegal.

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What Activities Have Weight Limits?

We always put guest safety first on Vagabond Cultural Adventures.

For this reason, when engaging in kayaking and horseback-riding activities, the following personal weight limits apply:

🐴 Horseback-Riding

Male weight limit: 238lbs / 17 stone / 108kg

Female weight limit: 225lbs / 16 stone / 102kg

🛶 Kayaking

Per person Double Kayak weight limit: 110kg / 17.5 stone / 245lbs

Total Double Kayak weight limit for 2 guests: 190kg / 30 stone / 420lbs

Per person Single Kayak weight limit: 92kg / 14.5 stone / 200lbs.

 

Similar Questions

Who Guides The Tours?

All of our tours are fully guided by our team of expert driver guides.

We call them VagaGuides.

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What Day Do Tours Return To Dublin?

To help you plan your return flights, here are the days and times that our tours return to Dublin.

The return point for all tours is Dublin's Grand Canal Hotel

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Can I Access My Bag While On Tour?

It's difficult to access your main luggage or suitcase while on tour. Luggage is securely packed in our tour vehicles. As a result, it's not easy for your driver guide to access individual items of baggage during the day.

However, you can easily access your luggage at each hotel. So that you have your travel essentials close at hand, we recommend bringing a daypack, or backpack, that you can keep beside you in the tour vehicle.

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Where Will My Tour Start From?

All of our tours pick-up and drop-off from the same point in Dublin - the Grand Canal Hotel.

The Grand Canal Hotel is located just south of Dublin city centre.

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Which Small Group Tours Visit The Wild Atlantic Way?

The Wild Atlantic Way is one of our favourite routes to tour.

Here are all of the small-group tour itineraries that explore the Wild Atlantic Way.

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Are Hotel Rooms In Ireland Ensuite?

Yes, all hotel rooms on Vagabond and Driftwood Tours of Ireland are ensuite.

Expect your own separate bathroom with toilet, sink and shower unit and/or combined shower and bath.

Similar Questions
Hotels

A hot shower after a woodland stroll. A real fire. A pint. We assure you that wherever you stay with us, you’ll love it.

We put great effort into selecting accommodation on Driftwood tours. Your tour will overnight in locally-owned establishments (in some cases for generations). Receive a heartfelt welcome, often from the hoteliers themselves. No hotel chains here!

Border between sections

Mount Falcon Estate Hotel

Situated in the heart of the Moy Valley, the 4 star Mount Falcon Estate offers 100 acres of magical woodlands to add to the adventure of the day.

If you have time, make sure you experience the hotel's spa and a falconry experience

This Victorian Gothic manor house was originally built as a wedding gift.

It's widely recognised as one of the the most romantic historic hotels in Ireland; perfect if you have an anniversary while on tour.

Exterior view of Mount Falcon House and Estate
Interior design of main bedroom in Mount Falcon House

Ocean Sands Hotel

The Ocean Sands is located in Sligo, in Ireland's northwest.

This modern hotel is nestled on a pristine beach overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.

The seaside Ocean Sands Hotel reflects the best of Irish hospitality.

After fun days on the road with Vagabond & Driftwood, you can enjoy delicious cuisine and breathtaking ocean views from the restaurant, bar or one of the comfortable guest rooms.

Exterior of Ocean Sands Hotel in Sligo
Bedroom at Ocean Sands Hotel in Ireland

Abbey Hotel Donegal

Enjoy the charms of Donegal town at the comfortable Abbey Hotel.

Relax in superbly appointed bedrooms before savouring delicious food and lively traditional Irish music performances.

You're guaranteed a warm Irish welcome at the Abbey!

The exterior of The Abbey Hotel in Donegal
The abbey hotel double room interior

Ebrington Hotel

A contemporary spa hotel located just a stone's throw from the Guildhall Square in Derry/Londonderry.

The original building dates to 1842. However the Ebrington Hotel has been fully refurbished in 21st century style.

Make sure you pack your swimwear and make use of the hotel's luxurious spa facilities, including a pool.

 

Ebrington Hotel Exterior in Derry, Northern Ireland
Ebrington Hotel Pool in Derry, Northern Ireland

Ballygally Castle Hotel

Ever stayed the night in a haunted castle? Now you can.

Sitting proudly on the scenic Northern Ireland coast, Ballygally Castle Hotel features a 400 year old tower house which is home to a friendly ghost. Spooky!

Ballygally is the only 17th century building still used as a residence in Northern Ireland today.

This elegant and welcoming hotel has become a firm guest favourite on our small-group tours of Northern Ireland.

A view of Ballygally castle at dusk
The gardens of ballygally castle with a blue sky

The Cuan

The boutique Cuan has been in the heart of Strangford village since the early 1800s.

This is a unique hotel destination in a stunning setting.

The immediate area is a delight to explore. Strangford is home to beautiful sandy beaches that are perfect for a relaxing stroll at the end of the day.

Green exterior of Cuan hotel in Northern Ireland
A double bed in with a green throw on it in the cuan hotel
Inclusions

All Driftwood tours are flexible. Your 6 Day Driftwood Northern Island Tour is no different.

Unmissable activities are included. Where there are great options, we’ve left the final decision up to you. Feel free to choose your evening meals and lunches. All additional tour options are marked clearly below.

Brexit Notice: Please note all tours travelling into Northern Ireland will continue to run as normal and scheduled. Please contact us with any direct concerns you may have.

  • A journey of discovery in a super-comfy, slick Mercedes mini-coach
  • The services of a highly-trained and professional VagaGuide tour guide
  • 6 full days on tour
  • 5 nights' accommodation
  • 5 delicious and filling hot Irish breakfasts
  • Most daily activities and essential attractions
  • A one night stay in a castle hotel
  • Entrance into the world famous Giant's Causeway, Dunluce Castle and Hillsborough Castle
  • A guided walking tour of Derry/Londonderry
  • A guided sheepdog demo in Sligo
  • Shuttle bus in Glenveagh National Park

All details of prices and suppliers listed here are correct at time of publication. Our suppliers occasionally increase prices for optional tour activities during the touring season. This is a rare occurence. In the unlikely event of a major price increase, we will do our utmost to update you.

** Cash is required for this activity. No card payment available.

Flexible and optional activities on tour
  • Slieve League Boat Trip**
    €25.00
    Guided boat trip in the shadow of 2000ft high sea cliffs. Cash required.
  • Entrance to Donegal Castle
    €5.00
    Self-guided tour of 15th century Donegal Castle.
  • Glenveagh Castle Tour
    €7.00
    Guided historic tour of Glenveagh Castle Tour in Donegal
  • Bushmills Whiskey Tasting
    £10.00
    Tasting at the world's oldest licensed whiskey distillery.
  • Giant's Causeway Shuttle Bus**
    £1/€1.20
    Shuttle bus from Giant's Causeway visitor centre to the stone formation.
  • Black Cab Tour**
    £20.00
    Guided Belfast tour. Recommended. Cash Required (£GBP Sterling).
  • Titanic Experience
    £24.95
    Self-guided tour of the world's largest Titanic visitor experience.
Vagabond, Always going that extra mile
Our tour prices do not include flights, travel insurance or Dublin accommodation
Guaranteed Booking Price
Amazing VagaGuides! Read More
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Loads of Laughs
Photos
Exterior of Ballygally Castle Hotel in Antrim
Enjoy a night in a charming Irish castle hotel and overnight in boutique guesthouses.
Sunlight on Giant's Causeway in Northern Ireland
Tour the spectacular Causeway Coastal Route in Northern Ireland
Ruins of Dunluce castle on the Antrim coast
Visit stunning Dunluce Castle on the Antrim coast
Sunlight catches the 17th century walls of Derry, Ireland's only walled city
Take a guided tour of the 17th century walls of Derry, Ireland’s only walled city
A man and a woman on a boat trip underneath the Slieve League cliffs in the sunshine
Spot wildlife on a boat trip to Slieve League sea cliffs
Titanic mural on a building in Belfast, Northern Ireland
Explore the vibrant history of Belfast on a Black Cab Tour
Dramatic mountain scenery of Granny Pass in Donegal
See green valleys and deserted beaches on the Wild Atlantic Way
Itinerary
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6 Day Driftwood Northern Island Tour Intro & Highlights

  • Experience the historic cities and spectacular natural scenery of Northern Ireland and the rugged northwest region.
  • Visit the geological wonder that is the Giant's Causeway, Northern Ireland's World Heritage site.
  • Board a boat trip to Slieve League, the highest accessible sea cliffs in Europe.
  • Traverse mountain passes and pristine beaches in Donegal, one of Ireland’s most beautiful but undiscovered counties.
  • Take a history tour with a local guide to see street murals and learn about the 'Troubles' in Belfast, capital of Northern Ireland.
  • Relive epic battles on a historic walking tour of Ireland’s only fully intact walled city; Derry/Londonderry.
  • Overnight in high quality guesthouses and locally-owned hotels.
  • Take a guided tour of the castle where the British Royal Family stay in Northern Ireland.
  • Meet master craftspeople and skilled artisans in working craft studios.
  • Encounter authentic culture and local experiences in off the beaten track destinations.
Giants causeway with a mountain the background
Couple on boat tour to Slieve League in Donegal

Day 1: Let’s Hit The Prehistoric Road!

Begin your Driftwood Journey of Discovery from Dublin, bound for Mayo in Ireland's northwest.

  • Discover an Iron Age trackway at Corlea. Europe's oldest oak road was constructed nearly 2200 years ago.
  • Explore Ireland’s rich rural heritage at the Museum of Country Life; a modern exhibition space set amid landscaped gardens.

Accommodation tonight is at The Mount Falcon Estate & Spa or The Ocean Sands Hotel.

The average driving time today is 4 hours 30 minutes.

Door open on a Drifter tour vehicle in Northern Ireland
Exterior of Museum of Country Life Castlebar in Ireland

Day 2: Donegal Boat Trip & Sheepdog Demo

Travel from Mayo to Donegal in Ireland's remote northwestern corner.

  • Watch shepherd and dog working perfectly in tandem during a sheepdog demo (Fee Included).
  • Scenic coastal drive to Slieve League with the option to take a boat trip under these towering sea cliffs (Optional Extra).
  • Alternatively, shop for crafts in Donegal town with the option of a self-guided tour of Donegal Castle (Optional Extra).

Accommodation tonight is at The Abbey Hotel.

The average driving time today is 3 hours 30 minutes.

Tour Group visits Donegal Castle
Explore one of the finest examples of a Gaelic castle in Ireland
Slieve League cliffs, a beautiful destination if you're spending 2 weeks in Ireland

Day 3: National Park & Walking History Tour

Northward, ever northward! We travel today from Donegal to Derry/Londonderry in Northern Ireland.

Accommodation tonight is at Ebrington Hotel.

The average driving time today is 3 hours.

The exterior of Glenveagh castle and gardens.
Tour group at stone ring fort while touring Ireland for 2 weeks

Day 4: Castle Hotel Stay & Giant’s Causeway

Touring Northern Ireland, we move from Derry/Londonderry along the Antrim coast.

  • Walk in the footsteps of Finn McCool at the legendary Giant's Causeway (Fee Included). Shuttle bus available (Optional Extra).
  • Game of Thrones fan Alert! Look out for Theon Greyjoy stepping ashore at tiny Ballintoy Harbour.
  • Whiskey tasting at Bushmills, the world's oldest licensed Irish whiskey distillery (Optional Extra).

Accommodation tonight is at Ballygally Castle Hotel.

The average driving time today is 3 hours 30 minutes.

Giants causeway with a mountain the background
A barman at the Armada Hotel in Ireland examines a measure of Midleton Irish whiskey in a glass tumbler with light shining above him

Day 5: Belfast History Tour & Royal Castle

  • Sea cliffs and a welcome spa hotel, travelling from Antrim to Newcastle via Belfast city.
  • Explore the vibrant history of Belfast on a historical Black Cab Tour (Optional Extra).
  • Visit the Titanic Centre, the world's largest Titanic visitor experience (Optional Extra).
  • Guided tour of Hillsborough Castle & Gardens, the British Royal Family's residence in Northern Ireland (Fee Included).

Accommodation tonight is at The Cuan Hotel.

The average driving time today is 2 hours 30 minutes.

A tour group at the peace wall in Belfast, Northern Ireland
Tour Group visit the Titanic Centre in Belfast, Northern Ireland
Belfast's Titanic Experience; the best Titanic museum in the world!

Day 6: Mountains, Castles & Celtic Crosses

Headed south from Down to Dublin, there’s still time for some of Ireland’s top highlights on your final day

  • Step back in time to imagine kings, earls and lords battling over Dundrum Castle.
  • Revel at the Celtic high crosses of Monasterboice.
  • Farewell hugs all round for your new Driftwooder friends in Dublin between 5-6pm.

The average driving time today is 3 hours 30 minutes.

Detail of decoration on High Celtic Cross at Monasterboice in Ireland
Seals recline on rocks near Rathlin Island in Northern Ireland
Dates+Availability
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Lots of Space! Limited Spaces (6 or Less) Sorry, Fully Booked!
Start:
Finish:
Price:
Spaces Status:
Enquire Now

*Price displayed is the discounted price for Mar, Apr and Oct.

If the date you want is full please contact us and we will do our best to accommodate you.

A €250 deposit per person is all we need to secure your tour online. All our departure dates are guaranteed.

**All tours are charged in EURO. Exchange rates quoted are online rates and may differ to the rate our payment partner Flywire and banks offer.

Single Supplements apply to Single Room Occupancy.

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🌼💰 15% OFF MARCH 2025 — Tour In March 2025 & Pay 15% Less Than Peak Season. LEARN MORE

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