[ Image – Sunset, Ireland ] 

Footsteps of the Saints Pilgrimage of Ireland

A Journey of Faith through the Land of Saints and Scholars

Experience the gentle grace of Ireland on a spiritual journey from the lively streets of Dublin to the serene shores of Belfast. Celebrate Mass in ancient monasteries, visit the resting places of saints, and stand where the Christian faith first took root.

This is a pilgrimage of reflection and renewal, combined with the warmth of Irish hospitality, leisurely touring, and beautiful scenery.

Tour Inclusions

  • Daily breakfast and dinner
  • Centrally located 3–4★ boutique accommodation
  • Catholic tour escort and spiritual chaplain
  • Mass where practical
  • All entrance fees, gratuities and tips
  • Private deluxe coach transport with professional driver
  • Airport transfers in Dublin and Belfast

Itinerary

Day 1 – Arrive Dublin

Céad Míle Fáilte – a hundred thousand welcomes to Ireland! Upon arrival in Dublin you’ll be met and transferred to your hotel. This evening, join your chaplain and fellow pilgrims for introductions, prayers, and a heartfelt included Welcome Dinner. Together you begin a spiritual journey through Ireland’s living faith, ancient heritage, and breathtaking landscapes. Dublin (2 nights) D

Day 2 – Dublin: Faith and Heritage

Begin the day with Mass at St Mary’s Pro-Cathedral, the seat of the Roman Catholic Archbishop of Dublin. Afterwards, explore the city’s great spiritual landmarks — the soaring St Patrick’s Cathedral, founded on the site where St Patrick baptised early converts, and Christ Church Cathedral, whose crypts and medieval architecture tell centuries of faith and struggle.

Visit Trinity College to view the illuminated Book of Kells, a masterpiece of Celtic artistry created by monks around 800 AD. In the afternoon, wander Dublin’s Georgian squares or visit Kilmainham Gaol to understand the sacrifices made for Irish independence. This evening, enjoy dinner together and perhaps a stroll along the River Liffey. B,D

Day 3 – Glendalough & Kilkenny

Travel south through the scenic Wicklow Mountains to Glendalough, a peaceful glacial valley where St Kevin founded a monastery in the 6th century. Walk among round towers, stone churches, and Celtic crosses while your chaplain leads a short prayer service amid this tranquil setting.

Continue through rolling countryside to the medieval city of Kilkenny, renowned for its cobbled streets and charming architecture. Visit St Canice’s Cathedral and its ancient round tower, then enjoy free time in the old town before gathering for dinner. Kilkenny B,D

Day 4 – Rock of Cashel & Cork

Journey into the fertile Golden Vale to the spectacular Rock of Cashel, where St Patrick converted the King of Munster to Christianity in the 5th century. Explore its cluster of medieval buildings perched on a limestone outcrop — a powerful symbol of Ireland’s early Christian history.

Continue south to Cork, Ireland’s second-largest city, filled with bridges, bell towers, and a friendly local spirit. Visit the Cathedral of St Fin Barre, admire its ornate Gothic Revival design, and stroll through the English Market, one of Europe’s oldest food halls. Cork B,D

Day 5 – Killarney & the Ring of Kerry

After morning Mass, travel west toward the lakes and mountains of Killarney, one of Ireland’s most picturesque towns. Today’s highlight is the world-famous Ring of Kerry, a 180-kilometre loop of rugged coastline, shimmering lakes, and emerald pastures. Pause for photos at Ladies View and the Skellig Islands Lookout, and enjoy lunch in one of the charming seaside villages.

Later, visit Muckross House and Gardens, a 19th-century manor set within Killarney National Park. Return to your hotel for dinner and reflection.
Killarney (2 nights) B,D

Day 6 – The Dingle Peninsula

Today, venture into the wild beauty of the Dingle Peninsula, famed for its dramatic Atlantic views and strong Gaelic traditions. Visit Gallarus Oratory, one of Ireland’s oldest stone churches, dating back over 1,000 years and still perfectly intact. In the colourful fishing town of Dingle, enjoy free time to browse craft shops or savour local seafood.

Drive along Slea Head, one of Ireland’s most scenic routes, where islands, cliffs, and ancient beehive huts tell stories of early Christian hermits. Return to Killarney for a relaxing dinner with your group. B,D

Day 7 – Adare & Cliffs of Moher to Galway

Depart Killarney and travel north through the pretty village of Adare, known for its thatched cottages and historic friary. Continue to the majestic Cliffs of Moher, where vertical walls of stone plunge dramatically into the Atlantic Ocean. Enjoy time to walk the cliff paths and take in one of Ireland’s greatest natural wonders.

Arrive in Galway, the bohemian heart of the west, where cobblestone streets echo with music and laughter. Evening at leisure to explore or join your chaplain for prayers in the city’s Cathedral of Our Lady Assumed into Heaven and St Nicholas. Galway (2 nights) B,D

Day 8 – Knock Marian Shrine

Today, make pilgrimage to Knock, Ireland’s most important Marian Shrine. Here, in 1879, fifteen villagers witnessed an apparition of the Virgin Mary, St Joseph, and St John the Evangelist. Celebrate Mass in the Apparition Chapel, visit the Basilica of Our Lady Queen of Ireland, and see the Knock Museum which shares the story of this miraculous event.

Enjoy peaceful time for prayer and reflection in the shrine gardens before returning to Galway in the late afternoon. B,D

Day 9 – Croagh Patrick & Ballintubber Abbey

After breakfast, journey north to Croagh Patrick, the sacred mountain where St Patrick fasted for forty days in 441 AD. Those who wish may take a gentle walk on the lower slopes, while others enjoy the visitor centre and the breathtaking views over Clew Bay.

Continue to Ballintubber Abbey, founded in 1216 by King Cathal O’Connor. Known as “the Abbey that refused to die”, it has hosted unbroken worship for more than 800 years. Here we celebrate one of Ireland’s most enduring spiritual sites. Westport B,D

Day 10 – Sligo & Drumcliffe to Derry

Travel north along the Wild Atlantic Way to Drumcliffe, once a monastery founded by St Columba and now the resting place of poet W.B. Yeats. Continue into Northern Ireland, pausing for lunch by the lakes of Fermanagh before reaching the walled city of Derry/Londonderry.

Enjoy a guided tour of the historic city walls, St Columb’s Cathedral, and the Bogside Murals, powerful symbols of peace and reconciliation. Derry B,D

Day 11 – Giant’s Causeway & Downpatrick

Today explore the magnificent Giant’s Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site of 40,000 basalt columns formed by volcanic activity — a marvel of nature that invites quiet wonder. Travel along the Antrim Coast Road, one of the most scenic drives in Ireland.

In the afternoon, journey south to Downpatrick, where St Patrick, St Brigid, and St Columba are believed to be buried. Visit the St Patrick Centre, then celebrate Mass at St Patrick’s Church, a deeply moving moment for any pilgrim. Downpatrick or Belfast B,D

Day 12 – Armagh & Belfast

Depart for Armagh, the ecclesiastical capital of Ireland. Visit both the Roman Catholic St Patrick’s Cathedral and the Anglican St Patrick’s Cathedral, standing proudly on opposing hills and uniting the Christian heritage of Ireland’s patron saint.

Continue to Belfast, a vibrant city of innovation and resilience. Visit St Peter’s Cathedral for Mass, and tour the Titanic Belfast Experience, an inspiring exhibition about the ship’s creation and legacy. This evening, share an included Farewell Dinner with your fellow pilgrims — a celebration of faith, friendship, and shared memories. Belfast B,D

Day 13 – Farewell from Belfast

After breakfast, transfer to Belfast Airport for your onward flights. Take with you cherished memories of Ireland’s saints, its gentle countryside, and the enduring spirit of faith that flows through this land. B

THIS ITINERARY IS THE PROPERTY OF THE TOUR COMPANY AND IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE.

Available dates: May to September. 
Pricing: $5,495. Single supplement on request. 
Email info@travlink.net or within NZ call 0800 99 77 88 for more about this unique tour