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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 had an amazing driver (Danny). He was entertaining and fun. He also was flexible and took folks to places their ancestry was from when it was on the route. Small tours can get to places the big coaches cannot plus with a smaller group, you get to know people better and it takes less time getting on/off." Guest Review - Sept 2023

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From €1,647.00 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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Lots of Space! Limited Spaces (6 or Less) Sorry, Fully Booked!

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Start:
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Price:
Single Supplement:
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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
Our VagaGuide
, Philip, was wonderful! The entire group got along very well. We enjoyed every aspect of our trip. Ireland is such a beautiful country!

Thank you Vagabond Tours for such a wonderful first experience of Ireland!
Carol Terry Anderson, 5th Dec 2023
Going to Ireland ? GO WITH VAGABOND!
The absolute BEST way to see Ireland ! Leave the driving, the hotel reservations and the itinerary to Vagabond . Just show up ready for an amazing adventure! It couldn’t be any easier .My friend and I went on the Driftwood 6 day Northern Ireland tour to celebrate her 60 th birthday. Our tour guide Phillip was the best !! Smart, kind, funny and caring , he made sure every person on our trip was having a great time ! When I think of all the beautiful, interesting, and amazing things we did I’m still in awe! There is a reason Vagabond is a five star company…start to finish , the whole team should be commended !
No, 4th Dec 2023
A great time was had by all
Our guide Philip knew the history of the areas we visited. He is very good driver. We always felt safe. We visited so many things and enjoyed all of them. The places we stayed were all very nice. We were lucky to have a great group of people on the bus and we all got along well. .
Tina Kraybill, 4th Dec 2023

6 Day Northern Island Tour

Trip Advisor Heading Image
"we love ireland & driftwood!"
Review Image

Driftwood chose great hotel stays, a good variety of stops along the way and the vans were super comfortable to travel in.

We saw so much of Ireland that we probably wouldn't have experienced if we had tried to do this on our own. Driftwood had little surprises around every corner and the guides were open to some flexibility with the itinerary.

We would highly recommend travelling with Driftwood or Vagabond and would love to come back one day for more adventures.

VERIFIED GUEST, JUNE 2023
"we enjoyed every minute"
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We enjoyed every minute of this tour!

We enjoyed every site and location that we visited - and I learned so much about Ireland from our knowledgeable tour guides.

The level of activity was excellent - the tour was very well paced.

Accommodations and food were excellent ... I highly recommend Vagabond Tours!

VERIFIED GUEST, MAY 2023
"better than big coach tours"
Review Image

We had an amazing driver (Danny)... He was entertaining and fun.

Small tours can get to places the big coaches cannot plus with a smaller group, you get to know people better and it takes less time getting on/off.

Danny set us up with an app where we could share photos with others in the group and message when we find something in the evening — like when we found good traditional Irish music in a pub that evening, we messaged and some folks joined us.

VERIFIED GUEST, SEPTEMBER 2023
Tour FAQs

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

What Currency Will I Need On Tour?

Euro is the main currency you'll use while touring in the Republic of Ireland.

If your tour visits Northern Ireland, you'll also use Pound sterling (£).

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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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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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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 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

Are There Any Luggage Restrictions?

Yes, we do operate a limit on luggage.

Owing to the compact nature of our small-group tour vehicles, your luggage limit is one suitcase per person (no bigger than 30” or 75cm along their longest side).

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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 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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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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Do All Hotels Provide Separate Bathrooms?

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

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

Similar Questions

Where Is My Luggage Stored On Tour Vehicles?

The answer depends on which tour style you have chosen.

Driftwood vehicles have space for luggage onboard. Vagabond vehicles tow a trailer.

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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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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

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, Donegal Castle, 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
  • Boat Trip at Slieve League Cliffs**
    €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
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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.

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
A tour group exploring Donegal Castle
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

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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