IRELAND AND SCOTLAND TRIP INFORMATION

Sept. 4^th – Sept 14^th, 2026

Visiting Dublin, Ireland in September 2026

Exploring Ireland is often described as stepping into a living postcard, where the landscape transitions seamlessly from the neon-green rolling pastures of the “Hidden Heartlands” to the jagged, salt-sprayed cliffs of the Wild Atlantic Way. To truly experience the island, one must embrace the “four seasons in one day” weather and the slow pace of its winding backroads. While iconic landmarks like the Cliffs of Moher and the Guinness Storehouse offer essential cultural touchstones, the magic of the Emerald Isle frequently reveals itself in the quiet intervals: a spontaneous “trad” music session in a Doolin pub, the mist clinging to the ruins of Glendalough, or the sight of sheep claiming right-of-way on a narrow coastal pass.

For those seeking to go beyond the typical tourist trail in 2026, the rugged Beara Peninsula and the soaring Slieve League cliffs in Donegal offer a dramatic, crowd-free alternative to the more famous Ring of Kerry. Whether you are hiking the ancient trails of the Wicklow Way or driving the serpentine bends of the Healy Pass, the journey is defined by a sense of deep history and the legendary “thousand welcomes” of the locals. From the medieval charm of Kilkenny to the bohemian energy of Galway, exploring Ireland is less about checking off a list of sights and more about finding a rhythm that matches the timeless, rugged beauty of the Atlantic coast.

September is arguably the “sweet spot” for a Celtic getaway. You’ll catch the tail end of the mild summer weather and the very beginning of the autumn colors, all while dodging the suffocating crowds of July and August. Our journey begins in Dublin, where the energy of Temple Bar and the history of Trinity College provide a lively introduction. After a day or two of urban exploration, most travelers head west toward the rugged Atlantic coast. September’s mist often clings to the Cliffs of Moher, making the dramatic drop into the ocean feel even more primordial. You’ll spend time in towns like Galway or Killarney, where the “trad” music sessions are moving from outdoor courtyards back into the cozy, peat-scented corners of local pubs. The landscape is lush, but you’ll notice the ferns and hillsides beginning to turn a rusty gold.

A short ferry transition brings you to Scotland, often landing in Glasgow or Edinburgh. Our home will be the cultural heart of Scotland, Glasgow, however Edinburgh is a short 45 min train right to the East. Glasgow is Scotland’s largest city and is often considered the “cool” sibling. It is a UNESCO City of Music with a legendary nightlife scene. Locals (Glaswegians) are famously friendly—the city’s slogan is “People Make Glasgow”—and the vibe is much more down-to-earth and unpretentious. A modern city experience: incredible street art, a massive food scene, independent boutiques, and the best live music venues in the country.

Edinburgh will be catching its breath after the August festivals, making it the perfect time to walk the Royal Mile without shoulder-to-shoulder traffic. From there, the pull of the Highlands is irresistible. A drive toward the Isle of Skye or Glencoe reveals Scotland’s dramatic scale—towering peaks, deep lochs, and vast glens. In September, the purple heather is in full bloom across the moors, and the air has a crisp, bracing quality that makes a glass of single-malt whisky at a local distillery taste exactly as it should. The city is split into the Old Town (medieval, narrow closes, the Castle) and the New Town (grand Georgian terraces). It is visually stunning from almost every angle, with dramatic hills like Arthur’s Seat providing panoramic views.

Your cost for the trip to Dublin and Glasgow $3280.00 You will receive: