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Presents...
A 12 Day - All Ireland
"Meet the locals Signature Tour"
A Private Experience
Is Our Meet the Locals Private Ireland Tour Right for You?
- If you are a culturally curious traveller who prefers to avoid the tourists hotspots.
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- If you want a slower paced tour, spending a couple of hours with one person exploring one place in the depth and detail it deserves.
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- If you are happy not to see everything in favour of developing an understanding of Ireland as a country.
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- If you want a history, culture and folklore centric tour,
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- If you want to learn and enjoy new experiences each day of your trip. ​
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- If you want to spend with and meet local people who specialise in different facets of Irish life.​
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- If you want authentic experiences in real Ireland.
then this tour is the one for you...
The 12 Day Meet the Locals Irish Experience
Explore Ireland away from the crowds on our Meet the Locals Tour, an immersive 19-day journey designed to offer authentic Irish experiences. This tour takes you deep into the heart of the Emerald Isle, introducing you to local traditions, fascinating history, and breathtaking landscapes. Say goodbye to tourist traps and hello to real Ireland.
What Do Our Private Tours of Ireland Include?
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Your own professional driver guide
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Luxury Private Tour Transport
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Two Airport Transfers
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18 Nights Boutique & Luxury Style Accommodations
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Full breakfasts each morning
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A selection of activities and sightseeing each day
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Off the beaten path & away from the crowds.
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Our tours are 100% customisable — you can add or remove days, adjust the pace, and tailor the experience to suit your interests. It's your journey, your way.
12 Day Private Tour of Ireland
The Tour Itinerary
Select the Day of the Itinerary You Want to View or Swipe to See the Full Schedule
Distance Travelled:
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Approx 2,800 km
Approximate Driving Time: 41 hours
Approximate Carbon Emissions: 0.6 tonne of COâ‚‚e
Highlights:
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Newgrange & The Boyne Valley
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The Giants Causeway
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The North East Coast
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The Cliffs of Moher
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Connemara National Park
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Glenveagh National Park
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The Burren National Park
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The Wild Atlantic Way
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The Midland & Shannon Region
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Tour Pace: Slow Pace
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Choose Your Style...
Remember you can always change this tour to suit your own pace, interests and requirements. Just contact us and tell us what you would like.
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Day 1
Airport Pick-Up & Dublin Orientation Tour including Howth
Pick up at Dublin airport and drive to Howth Peninsula for a stroll by the Irish sea and a walk in the quaint fishing village. A perfect fresh air introduction to Ireland after a long flight. After Howth your driver guide will provide an introduction to Dublin with an orientation tour. You will end the day being dropped at your overnight accommodation in the heart of Dublin City.
Approx 5hr Day from pick up.
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Overnight - Dublin City
Day 2
Dublin City Day Tour
Today we will greet you at your hotel and explore the fair city of Dublin with a complimentary guided walking tour of the wonderful capital of Ireland — led by our local expert Julian Vignoles. Julian worked for over thirty years as a radio and television producer in RTÉ, Ireland’s national broadcaster. He began working in tourism in 2012, co-founding a successful bike tour company in Dublin. He’s also the author of three books, including a biography of Ireland’s great blues guitarist, Rory Gallagher, published in 2018. With a deep interest in Irish history, geography, music, and literature, Julian joined the Little Gem Tours team in 2019 and is our Dublin Expert and private walking tour guide.
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In addition to your walking tour, we will take a historical driving tour of the main points of interest in the city, including Trinity College, Temple Bar, Dublin Castle, Christ Church Cathedral, the River Liffey, the Phoenix Park, and much more.
On offer are also optional in-depth tours of some of Dublin’s most iconic attractions, including The Book of Kells, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, EPIC Ireland, or of course, the world-famous Guinness Storehouse.
After enjoying the best of Dublin, we’ll return you to your hotel in the city so you can settle in for the evening — before your rural Irish adventure begins.
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Meet the locals: Julian Vignoles, our Dublin expert and true connoisseur of Irish culture.
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Activity Options - Dublin City walking tour, Guinness Storehouse, Dublin Castle, St Patrick’s Cathedral, Trinity College, Temple Bar, Howth Fishing Village, Malahide Castle, The Book of Kells, The Bog Bodies
Tour Timings - 9:30am to 2:30pm​
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Overnight - Dublin City
Meeting Julian Vignoles, Writer, Guide, Dublin history expert and true connoisseur of Irish heritage & culture.
The Boyne Valley Belfast City via Mythical Ireland
Meeting Anthony Murphy, writer, journalist and photographer from the Boyne Valley who brings Neolithic Ireland alive at the hidden gem - Fourknocks.
Today we will drive south from Belfast stopping along the way at the tranquil and serene Boyne Valley. Here you will meet local expert Anthony Murphy at the enigmatic Fourknocks passage tomb. Feel the ancient landscape beneath your feet as Anthony unveils the secrets and stories held within this less-visited but equally captivating Neolithic site. Being the writer of the only book on Fourkocks, his passion for Irish mythology and archaeology will bring the stones to life, painting vivid pictures of the people who built this remarkable monument thousands of years ago. You'll explore the intricate carvings and learn about the celestial alignments that imbued this sacred place with profound significance, leaving you with a deep connection to Ireland's rich and mysterious past.
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Activity Options - Newgrange, Monasterboice, Fourknocks​​
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Overnight - Belfast City
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Day 3
Day 4
Exploring Belfast City & Surrounds
Meeting Tom McNally, Local Black Cab Taxi Guide in Belfast City where you will learn about Belfast City and the history of 'The Troubles'.
This morning we will rise early to visit the Titanic Belfast Exhibition and learn about the heroic shipbuilders of Belfast in the 19th century. After this you will be taken by a Belfast local for a political Black Cab Taxi Tour. This fascinating tour is a vital way of understanding Northern Ireland and its turbulent history. It will show you the peace wall and murals that are a poignant memorial to Northern Ireland's history.
We will then embark on a driving tour of the city which will introduce you to the city’s other gems such as the fascinating, yet haunting prison cells of the Crumlin Road Gaol, the restored Victorian Grand Opera House and the beautiful Belfast botanical gardens.
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Activity Options: Giant's Causeway Exhibition Centre, The Carrick a Rede Rope Bridge, Cliff Walks, Bushmills Whiskey, Games of Thrones Sites.
Tour Timings - 9:30am to 5:30pm
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Overnight - Belfast, Northern Ireland
Day 5
Belfast City to Derry City via The Causeway Coast
On our second day we will continue our journey north, this time taking the stunning coastal drive on the way to the north-east coast. This journey will take us through the nine Glens of Antrim where the mountains meet the sea. The drive offers spectacular views across to our neighbours Scotland on a clear day and through many quaint towns and villages along the way. Our first activity of the day will be the Carrick a Rede Rope Bridge. (Option to take The Bushmills Whiskey Distillery Tour).
If you are brave enough you will cross this shaky bridge suspended 30 metres above the waves of the ocean. We will then pop into the beautiful fishing village of Ballintoy before journeying on to the world famous Giant's Causeway, where geology meets mythology. Here you will have plenty of time to enjoy the stones and learn all the myths of Fionn MacCumhaill. We will then continue on our coastal drive this time taking us to some of the island's best beaches before arriving in Derry City where we will spend our second night.
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Activity Options: Giant's Causeway Exhibition Centre, The Carrick a Rede Rope Bridge, Cliff Walks, Bushmills Whiskey, Games of Thrones Sites.
Tour Timings - 9:30am to 5:30pm
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Overnight - Derry City, Northern Ireland
Derry city
Meeting Dermot McCloskey, Expert Guide of the Maiden City. ​​
This morning, we will rise early to explore the vibrant and historic city of Derry — also known as Londonderry — one of the most culturally rich destinations in Northern Ireland. Our day will begin with a guided walking tour of the only fully walled city in Ireland, where you'll stroll along the iconic 17th-century city walls, offering panoramic views over the Bogside and its famous murals.
Joining us in Derry is Dermot McCloskey, a proud local of the Maiden City, who has been unveiling the incredible history of his beloved hometown for years. In his company, you’ll embark on an immersive exploration of the historic Walled City and its deep maritime roots. Dermot brings Derry’s layered story to life, guiding visitors through its complex past — from its medieval foundation, through the dark days of The Troubles, to the vibrant and resilient city it is today. This is a rare chance to discover a lesser-known Irish gem with a true historical expert. Your walk through Derry will include key landmarks such as Shipquay Gate, St. Columb’s Cathedral, and the Guildhall, where you’ll hear compelling tales of siege, resistance, and the civil rights movement that helped shape modern Ireland.
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Following the walking tour, we’ll enjoy a leisurely driving tour through the city’s cultural and political sites, including Free Derry Corner, the Bloody Sunday Memorial, and neighborhoods that hold deep significance in Northern Ireland's journey toward peace.
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To round out your visit, there will be time to explore the city’s creative spirit — from charming local craft shops and the iconic Peace Bridge to a relaxing stop at one of Derry’s lively cafés by the River Foyle.
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Tour Timings - 9:30am to 5:30pm
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Overnight - Derry City, Northern Ireland
Day 6
Derry to Donegal via Glenveagh National Park
This fascinating tour will take you around the medieval walls with views down to the Bogside. After which we will head west again across the border into the wild and rugged county of Donegal. This beautiful county hosts some of the most beautiful and spectacular scenery on all of the island. Here we will find, Grianan an Aileach, a magnificent stone fort which commands superb views across Lough Swilly and the surrounding mountainous countryside. We will drive past the looming Mount Errigal as we make our way into Glenveagh National Park, where we can take scenic walks and visit the late 19th century Glenveagh Castle. We will then make our way south through the breathtaking country scenery and overnight on the serene shores of Lough Eske in an overnight lakeshore stay
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Activity Options: Grianan an Aileach Walk, Glenveagh Castle & National Park​​
Tour Timings - 9:30am to 5:30pm
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Overnight - Donegal
Day 7
Donegal Surrounds via Wild Slieve League
Meeting Eddie Doherty, Handweaver of Donegal Tweed in the wild west.
We will start the morning driving out to the wilds of Donegal where we will arrive at one of the wonders of Ireland—Slieve League Cliffs. Standing nearly three times the height of the Cliffs of Moher, these majestic cliffs are a highlight of the northwest coast. Here you will have time to walk the cliffs and take in the awesome coastal splendour of the west coast of Ireland. You will also have the option of taking a boat and getting a real perspective of the vastness of the rugged coastline.​
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Our journey then will continue around the peninsula with stops at the quaint villages along the way such as Killybegs, the fishing town, and Ardara.​
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While in Ardara, we'll visit the workshop of Eddie Doherty, one of Ireland's last traditional handweavers. Eddie began weaving at the age of 16 and, after decades working with major Irish fabric companies, returned to his roots in 1992. Using 100% Irish wool, he handweaves exquisite tweeds, capes, scarves, and throws on a traditional loom in his home studio. His craftsmanship has attracted admirers worldwide, including renowned fashion houses like Armani and Ralph Lauren. Visiting Eddie offers a unique glimpse into a centuries-old craft that continues to thrive in Ardara.​
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Our day will end arriving back into Donegal town where you will have time to take in some of the wonderful craft and clothes shops on the Diamond.
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Activity Options: Slieve League Walk, Slieve League Boat Trip, Knocknarea Climb, Carrowkeel, Carrowmore
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Tour Timings - 9:30am to 5:30pm​​
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Overnight - Donegal
Day 8
Donegal to Rural Mayo via Sligo
Meeting Oyster Farmers in Sligo. Learn about oyster farming in the wild west of Ireland.
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Today we will make our way north into wild Donegal via the tranquil Yeats County - Sligo. Here you will visit the grave of WB Yeats at the base of Ben Bulben before making our way east through the lakes and mountains of Sligo including Glencar Waterfall and the Gleniff Horseshoe drive. Our journey will then take us to visit oyster farmers where you will learn the art of oyster farming in the west of Ireland. We will then continue our dri ver eventually arriving into Donegal for your first night in the wild county.
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Activity Options: Sligo Town, Carrowmore, Carrowkeel, Kesh Caves, Enniskillen, Marble Arch Caves, Belcoo, Devenish Island, The Boa Figure.
Tour Timings - 9:30am to 5:30pm
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Overnight - Ireland West Farm Stay - Carracastle, Rural Mayo
Day 9
Rural & Folklore Ireland
Meeting Eddie Joe Dooney, Local Farmer, Bog Cutter and heritage expert. Learn about rural Mayo and cutting the turf on the wild Bogs of East Mayo.
This morning you will wake up early on the farm to enjoy a tour of the farm with Farmer and heritage expert - Eddie Joe Dooney. Eddie will take you on a short walk through his farm to the blanket bogs of Mayo. Along the way, you will learn of the old and new Irish farming traditions including working the bogs, cutting the peat and you will hear Irish folklore and rural history along the way.
Our next stop is at the cosy Barroe Rock Forge where Pat, the local blacksmith, will recreate for you the old Irish amulet of the Nine Irons, used by our ancestors for good health and good harvest. After a day in Carracastle village we will make our way back east eventually finishing back in Dublin City where we will end our adventure.​
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Tour Timings - 9:30am to 5:30pm
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Overnight - Ireland West Farm Stay - Carracastle, Rural Mayo
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Day 10
Rural Mayo to Dublin via The Hidden Heartlands
Today we will make our way back east across the River Shannon into Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands and the Ancient East. Our trip will take a stop at the sacred center of Rathcroghan in Roscommon where you hear the legends of Queen Maebh and discover the Oweynagat portal to the underworld. We will then continue east stopping at Strokestown House where you have the option of taking a tour of the famine museum to learn more about this harrowing, yet hugely significant period in Irish history. We will then make our way into the ancient east and take a beautiful walk around the neolithic center of Loughcrew. One of the most important neolithic sites in Europe. Finally we will arrive into the thriving capital city of Ireland, Dublin where we will end our wonderful 12 day adventure!
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Activity Options - Rathcroghan, Loughcrew Cairns Walk, Trim Castle. Fourknocks, Ancient Bog Trackway
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Tour Timings - 9:30am to 5:30pm
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Overnight - Close to Dublin City
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​DAY 12 - AIRPORT TRANSFER
Day 11
Accommodation Options
on the 12 Day Ireland Private Tour
Where would you like to stay in your tour?
We offer a varied portfolio of boutique and luxury options of accommodation from the exclusive to the less expensive. We believe variety is the spice of life and we encourage a mix style of accommodations to enhance your private tour experience. All of our partner accommodations are of the highest standard and offer a special, memorable, local experience.
Below you will find some examples of our partner accommodations.
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5 Star - Castles, luxury hotels & city hotels
4 Star - Manor houses, deluxe hotels and city hotels
3 Star - Country houses, gourmet hotels & retreats
Speciality Lodgings - B&B's, guesthouses & farmhouses
Others - Hostels, Private Rentals, Camping, Glamping & Quirky
We will tailor the tour using your accommodation option.
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