Ireland Educational Tours

There’s much for students to see and do in Ireland’s capital and largest city. Take a tour of Trinity College, the historic institution of higher education in central Dublin. Then visit the historic library at Trinity College that houses the Book of Kells. The pages of this 9th century gospel text are displayed with backlighting to best show the intricate designs, colors, Celtic, and Christian symbolism painstakingly created by hand. Stop at Dublin Castle, the former seat of the British government in Ireland and the site of many political clashes during Ireland’s fight for independence. Students can walk the sprawling grounds and see a medieval Norman Tower, Royal Chapel, Town Hall, and Coach House. The largest cathedral in Ireland, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, dates back to the 5th century. Despite being built in 1911, the cathedral is still host to many national ceremonies, burials and home to an illustrious choir.

“Kilkenny City is home to one of the most recognizable landmarks in Ireland: the 12th-century Kilkenny Castle. Go back in time and explore Ireland’s Medieval Mile, a discovery trail running through Kilkenny city. The county is full of vibrant heritage and history at every turn, so there are many stories for you to uncover in Kilkenny.”

Other historical points of interest in Kilkenny include Jerpoint Abbey, a 12th-century ruin with intricate stone carvings from the 13th-16th centuries on display in the cloisters and tombs. St. Mary’s Cathedral is a Roman Catholic church constructed in 1843 at Kilkenny’s highest point using limestone from the surrounding area. St. Mary’s Gothic spires and tower are visible on all approaches to the town. Visitors can climb one of only two historical towers in Ireland that are open to the public at St. Canice’s Cathedral, a 13th century church with fantastic views of the town and the surrounding countryside.

A city on Ireland’s west coast, Galway is known for its winding medieval streets and charming old pubs. Groups will enjoy a walking tour to learn about the history of the city and see the colorful homes on the waterfront, as well as medieval St. Nicholas church, Lynch’s Castle and more. Galway is surrounded by incredible natural beauty, from the region of Connemara to the iconic Cliffs of Moher. Featured in modern film and Irish folklore, the cliffs reach 700 ft at the highest point and provide sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean, and on clear days, the islands in Galway Bay.

“It’s got natural beauty. It’s got tons of history. And it’s got super-friendly locals who know how to have a good time. No wonder Belfast is one of the hottest destinations in Europe to visit. Quick to charm and packed with brilliant attractions, including the world-class Titanic Belfast, this is a city that’s bursting with creativity.”