Curator’s statement
Welcome to the ultimate itinerary from Ireland to Scotland, where you will find some exquisite hidden gems and gorgeous landscapes throughout your travels. Apart from visiting London, the North of England, Scotland, Northern Ireland and Ireland hold pertinent historical figures and places that will transport you to medieval times. Visiting Ireland and Scotland is a must in the United Kingdom. Here is my guide to the spots you must see for a magical experience.
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Where to stay
The Wilder Townhouse
Where historic charm meets contemporary elegance in the heart of urban sophistication.
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$50-$100 resort/hotel credit.
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The Shelbourne, Autograph Collection
Iconic Dublin hotel with spectacular service, elegant dining plus rooms and accommodations for the discerning traveler.
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$100 food / beverage credit.
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Breakfast daily.
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Dylan Dublin
Dylan Hotel Dublin is a stylish urban retreat nestled in the heart of the city, blending contemporary luxury with historic charm and personalized service.
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$100 hotel / resort credit
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VIP welcome & amenity
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100 Princes Street
Centrally poised, 100 Princes Street, Edinburgh, merges historic charm with contemporary elegance.
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$100 food / beverage credit.
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Breakfast daily.
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The Balmoral, A Rocco Forte Hotel
Legendary hotel and landmark clock tower, The Balmoral Hotel is a regal and luxurious hotel that is a true love letter to Scotland.
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$100 food / beverage credit.
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Breakfast daily.
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Day 1: We Begin Our Journey from Ireland to Scotland by Arriving in Dublin
After checking in and getting ready for the day, we head off for a walking tour of the city center. We start by checking out Ireland's patron saint, St. Patrick, and Christ Church Cathedral. After visiting the majestic church, we are heading out to the Temple Bar neighborhood. Filled with classic Irish pubs and the iconic fish and chips shops, Temple Bar is a must when visiting Dublin to get a feel of your Irish vacation! We also suggest visiting George’s Street Arcade, where you’ll find some unique trinkets and maybe a souvenir to take home.
For dinner, we recommend Mister S for the best firewood-cooked meal of your life. For a nice cocktail, head to Peruke & Periwig!
Day 2: Rooted in History, With a Taste of Whiskey
We begin our morning by visiting Trinity College, where you will find the infamous Book of Kells and its majestic Long Room Library. This is the perfect space to take some time, wander and see all the books and why the Book of Kells is such an essential piece of history.
In the afternoon, your next visit will be the Kilmainham Gaol. Known as the largest prison in Europe, this place holds significant historical importance as it housed important Irish political figures who impacted Ireland's future.
We are heading to the Jameson Distillery Tour for a final gist of Irish culture. This is a much better experience than visiting the Guinness storehouse. During this tour, you will sample some of the finest whiskey and understand what makes Irish whiskey the king of whiskey.
Day 3: Crossing the Border and Heading North
On our third day, we are heading north to Northern Ireland, specifically to Belfast. In this city, you will learn about the fractured Ireland between Catholics and Protestants that led to one of the deadliest periods in Irish history: the Troubles. You will visit substantial IRA and Protestant murals and witness the division still seen in Belfast.
Day 4: Off to Scotland, Starting in Edinburgh
Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland, like Dublin, holds great historical importance. It has beautiful landscapes and jaw-dropping castles. Upon arrival and check-in, we will head to the Royal Mile, where you’ll see some of the city's fabulous cashmere and tartan stores. As you walk up the street, you will reach Edinburgh Castle. It is a small tour for the afternoon and a great way to start your Scottish leg of the trip.
We recommend The Devil’s Advocate, located right in the city's center, for dinner.
Day 5: A Day of Diverse Experiences - Shopping at the West End, Stroll at Multrees Walk, Embark on the Best Gin Tour
Today is our designated shopping day. We will head towards the West End and then, for true luxury, the Multrees Walk, where you can find anything you need.
After our shopping day, we are heading on a gin tour, a must-see in Edinburgh. We will visit Edinburgh Gin Distillery, where you will learn how juniper turns into some of the most delicious gin you have ever tried. Beware, you may leave a little too happy after the tour!
Day 6: Day Trip to Inverness
Have you heard of the infamous Loch Ness Monster? I bet you’ve listened to Nessie here and there. We are heading up to see if Nessie is alive and kicking. Today, we will visit Inverness to visit the mystical lake and enjoy the gorgeous sights of the Scottish Highlands. Spend the day connecting with nature, admiring the views and trying to spot Nessie.
Day 7: Stockbridge Market, Greyfriars Kirkyard and Victoria Street
We begin our final day by heading to the Stockbridge Market, where you will find some delicious produce and great breakfast goodies to start the day off correctly.
For our Harry Potter fans, you cannot leave Edinburgh without visiting the mysterious Greyfriars Kirkyard, where some of the novel's names were inspired. At the entrance of the graveyard you will find Greyfriars Bobby, the guardian of the graveyard. You can also visit the Elephant House, albeit suffering a fire, where J.K. Rowling was known to be when writing the best-selling books.
Finally, you will go down Victoria Street, another iconic Harry Potter landmark filled with boutiques, cashmere and bookstores that will make for a great Scottish souvenir. If you love pork, we recommend OINK for some quality sandwiches.
![Advisor - Ana P. Bauza Rodriguez](https://media.foratravel.com/image/upload/v1711124513/contentful-migration/advisors/image/DSC_0285_-_Ana_Bauza.jpg)
Travel Advisor
Ana P. Bauza Rodriguez
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This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Scotland and Ireland. Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out Fora Advisor Rod Carrillo-Lundgren's guide, Ireland in November: Off-Season Charm & Dramatic Scenery.