Ireland's South East – Kilkenny, Wicklow and County Wexford

Regional departure by coach, then to Holyhead for the ferry to Ireland, and onward to Enniscorthy for a four-night stay.

Relax with a day at leisure, or why not join our optional excursion to the old Norse town of Wexford? Wexford was once known as Waesfjord – ‘the harbour of the mud flats’ – and boasts narrow winding streets, a picturesque harbour, and lively pubs and hostelries. The town is situated where the River Slaney enters Wexford Harbour, once a thriving port.

We later continue to New Ross, a town steeped in history, where we will visit the Dunbrody Famine Ship. Actors in period costume narrate the story of the Irish famine emigrants on this authentic reproduction of an 1840's emigrant vessel.

This morning, we head to the charming inland city of Kilkenny on our included excursion to Ireland’s medieval capital. Above the broad sweep of the River Nore sits the castle, while a pretty humpbacked stone bridge leads up into narrow, cheerful streets lined with carefully maintained buildings.

You'll have free time to explore the town at leisure. Be sure to visit Kilkenny Castle, or alternatively, join our optional walking tour – a popular and enjoyable way to get to know the medieval capital of Ireland.

Visit the charming city of Waterford. Waterford is the oldest city in Ireland, first visited by the Vikings in 852 AD. The walled city has retained much of its medieval character together with the graceful buildings from its 18th century expansion.

The parameters of the 10th-century settlement can be clearly identified in The Viking Triangle – the ‘old town’ of the city. Here, you can admire Reginald's Tower, which is the most historic urban medieval monument in Ireland. Other prime examples of beautiful 18th-century architecture include the elegant Chamber of Commerce building, the City Hall and the Bishop's Palace.

We depart and head north through the spectacular Wicklow Mountains, calling at the town of ‘Ballykissangel’ fame, Avoca, and the valley of the two lakes, Glendalough, celebrated equally for its beauty and for its historical and archaeological interests.

This afternoon, we continue to Dublin. The city has plenty to delight even the most familiar visitor. Magnificent Georgian architecture adds drama to every moment. Live entertainments, charming distractions and tempting indulgences await around every corner.

Our optional sightseeing tour is a popular and enjoyable way to get to know the Ireland’s capital. We continue to our hotel on the outskirts of Dublin for an overnight stay.