Ireland, Scotland and Wales Tours & Trips

What our customers ask about Ireland, Scotland and Wales Tours & Trips

• What are the best times of year to visit Ireland, Scotland and Wales?

  The most favorable weather conditions occur from May through September making these months ideal for travel across the three countries. August brings special appeal to Edinburgh and the Scottish Highlands during the Edinburgh Festival and Highland Games celebrations. For clear views of Ireland's Cliffs of Moher plan your visit between April and October. The hiking trails in Wales' Snowdonia National Park are at their best from late spring through early fall. As one TourRadar traveler noted: "We visited in September and had perfect weather for exploring the Scottish Highlands and Irish countryside with fewer crowds than peak summer."

• What kind of accommodation can I expect on tours through Ireland, Scotland and Wales?

  Tour accommodations typically range from centrally located 3-4 star hotels in major cities to charming country houses in rural areas. City stays often include properties like the Leonardo Hotel in Edinburgh the Ibis City Centre in Glasgow and the Mercure Cardiff Holland House Hotel & Spa. Rural accommodations focus on traditional inns particularly through the Scottish Highlands and along Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way. One TourRadar traveler mentioned: "The hotels were well-located and comfortable especially the Moxy Edinburgh Airport which provided easy access to exploring the city."

• What are the must-try traditional foods in Ireland, Scotland and Wales?

  The regional food scenes reflect distinct cultural traditions across the three nations. Scotland's cuisine centers on haggis in Edinburgh's traditional pubs and fresh seafood along Glasgow's waterfront. Irish coastal towns like Galway serve local seafood and warming stews. In Wales the specialties include Welsh rarebit and locally sourced lamb dishes found throughout Cardiff's dining scene. One TourRadar traveler shared: "The food was a highlight - from Scottish salmon in Edinburgh to Irish stew in Dublin and Welsh cakes in Cardiff."

• What are the shopping opportunities for traditional crafts and souvenirs?

  Each country presents distinct shopping experiences for local crafts. Edinburgh's Royal Mile specializes in Scottish wool tartans and whisky while Dublin's Grafton Street features Irish crystal and knitwear. Traditional Welsh lovespoons and local crafts fill Cardiff's Victorian arcades. Most tours schedule stops at notable spots like the Waterford Crystal Showroom and traditional woolen mills. One TourRadar traveler recommended: "The best authentic souvenirs we found were at local craft markets in Edinburgh and small shops in Irish villages."

• What historical sites should not be missed in Ireland, Scotland and Wales?

  The essential historical stops span centuries of Celtic British and Norman influence. Scotland's heritage shines at Edinburgh Castle and Culloden Battlefield while Ireland's story unfolds at Dublin's Trinity College and the Rock of Cashel. Wales preserves its medieval past at Conwy Castle and Caernarfon Castle. Most tours incorporate these significant landmarks. A TourRadar traveler emphasized: "The historical sites were incredible - from the haunting Culloden Battlefield to the majestic Edinburgh Castle each told fascinating stories of these nations' rich histories."

• What are the transportation options between Ireland, Scotland and Wales?

  Travel between the countries combines modern coach transport with ferry services. Key ferry routes include Holyhead to Dublin (3.5 hours) and Rosslare to Fishguard connecting Ireland and Wales. Comfortable coaches handle transportation within each country providing convenient connections between destinations. As one TourRadar traveler commented: "The coach travel was very comfortable with regular stops and the ferry crossings were smooth and well-organized."