While they offer traditional group tours, solo travelers should try one of the “locally hosted rail” options: These excursions—including the editor-approved Ireland’s Sparkling Gems tour—will set you up with hotels, transports (including train rides and chauffeured drives), and one activity per day, but leave you with enough free time to explore on your own.
For U.S.-based travelers, Ireland is kind of a no-brainer when it comes to solo travel, thanks to easy access and friendly locals. Travel to the Emerald Isle becomes even easier with Brendan Vacations, a Dublin-based agency dating back to 1969. While they offer traditional group tours, solo travelers should try one of the “locally hosted rail” options: These excursions—including the editor-approved Ireland’s Sparkling Gems tour—will set you up with hotels, transports (including train rides and chauffeured drives), and one activity per day, but leave you with enough free time to explore on your own. Even better? You’ll be given a 24/7 emergency number and a local guide who will meet you in each city, ready to provide restaurant recommendations, insider tips, and more.