The tiny but mighty Emerald Isle packs a punch, particularly when it comes to natural beauty. When it comes to  the most beautiful places to visit in Ireland, where to even begin? Our 12-day guided journey across Ireland answers much of that question for you, particularly if you love jaw dropping landscapes and good food; it’s aptly named Ultimate Ireland.

We begin in Belfast, make a loop through Northern Ireland, stopping at Londonderry and Giant’s Causeway, then head south along the eastern coast, clockwise towards Galway. The sheer variety on offer is breathtaking – rugged cliffs and the crashing waves of the wild Atlantic, charming towns, rich culture, buzzy cities and the greenest greens. You can extend this journey into England and Scotland on Castles & Kingdoms, a three week journey. Below, we answer some of your most frequently asked questions, and take you through our favorite places to visit in Ireland.

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Ireland FAQs

Where to go for the first time in Ireland?

You’ll fly into Dublin and you won’t want to miss that. Most shorter itineraries will hop straight across the island to Galway, making time here and there for the key sights of the south: a glimpse of the staggering Cliffs of Moher, or a spin round the Ring of Kerry, perhaps a market tour in Cork.

Is 7 days in Ireland enough?

Seven days is barely enough time to see a region, let alone a whole country, and certainly a country as rich as this one. Our Ireland journey is twelve days long, but could easily be longer. It begins in Belfast and ends in Shannon so you could opt to extend at either side.

What three cities should I visit in Ireland?

Dublin, Galway and Belfast. You’ll find more on all three of these legendary cities below, along with 12 more of our favourite places to visit in Ireland.

Read next: The Roaming Boomers on Traveling to Ireland With Luxury Gold

The 15 Best Places to Visit in Ireland

Dublin

It’s one of the most vibrant cities in the world, and yet it makes for such a relaxed start to any vacation. There are walking tours, or you can pootle between bucketlist sights like the Guinness Storehouse and Trinity College (pausing to admire the stunning Long Room in the Old Library), taking breaks here and there for Irish breakfasts, Dublin Bay prawns and world-class cocktails, depending on the time of day (or maybe not).

Galway

A journey to Galway takes you to the heart of Ireland’s rich culture, vivid history and luscious greenery. On our luxury journeys you’ll visit the gently bustling city, with its tangled lanes and pastel shopfronts, but you’ll stay out in the enchanting countryside, in the lakeside Ashford Castle, the former home of the Guinness family.

Cliffs of Moher

In County Clare, these staggeringly tall sea cliffs are an invigorating sight, and not just because of the sea spray and wind whipping your face. The scene is like a masterpiece come to life – emeralds, teals and midnight blues abound. It’s the Atlantic Ocean as you were meant to see it.

Blarney

The little unassuming village of Blarney is one of our favorite places to visit in Ireland – it’s home to the legendary castle and stone of the same name. Visitors flock here to kiss the Blarney stone in order to be granted the “gift of the gab” – the gab being, a certain eloquence, or skill at flattery or persuasion. We love showing our guests the magic of Blarney.

Giant’s Causeway

Northern Ireland’s World Heritage Site is like nothing you’ve ever seen – it’s an area formed of roughly 40,000 perfect columns of basalt, coming together in what looks like a rudimentary old Lego sea palace, with waves frothing around it, perhaps the sun setting on the horizon. It developed between 50 and 60 million years ago when lava oozed from fissures in the earth. On our journey, a wildlife ranger will show you round.

Ring of Kerry

The Ring of Kerry is a 179km circular route around the Iveragh Peninsula in County Kerry in South Western Ireland. From Killarney, it’s an easy scenic drive, with new, jaw-dropping views every few minutes, and various delicious villages along the way. It’s one of the most famous places to visit in Ireland, and rightly so.

Killarney

Feel completely at one with Ireland in the sprawling Killarney National Park, where the order of the day is lakes, woodlands, waterfalls and landscapes a-go-go. It’s a magical place to explore, with Ross Castle and Muckross House being choice stops.

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Dingle Peninsula

One of the highlights of the west coast’s Wild Atlantic Way, this is an ancient landscape of early grassy hills, craggy cliffs and villages with chapels and holy wells – it never fails to delight. The sandy beaches are some of the world’s most pristine, with the possibility of seal, dolphin, whale, and sea bird sightings just off the coast.

Belfast

We begin our luxury journey in this spirited, sparkling city, so we can start as we mean to go on. It’s got it all: a thriving performing arts scene, cozy pubs, live music, museums (including the fantastic Titanic Belfast), fish suppers and the Ulster Fry (a breakfast that usually combines sausage, bacon, eggs, black pudding, white pudding, soda bread and potato farls).

Glendalough

A little spiritual well of serenity amid the lush greenery of the Wicklow Mountains, Glendalough is a valley carved by grinding glaciers during the last Ice Age. It’s home to one of the most important monastic sites in Ireland –  the monastery founded by St Kevin in the 6th century.

Donegal

Lonely Planet calls County Donegal Ireland’s “wild child”; the landscapes look like they’re from the pages of a fantasy novel. See the Derryveagh mountain range, the Slieve League cliffs and golden eagles soaring over Lough Veagh. Donegal town is a perfect town in the thick of it, offering great craic.

Aran Islands

The three islands at the mouth of Galway Bay – Inishmore, Inishmaan and Inisheer – make up the Aran Islands. A visit here is an immersive experience; locals speak Irish (as well as English) and there is an unusually high number of ruins and significant sacred sights, including Dun Aonghasa, a fort whose structures are thought to date from the Bronze and Iron Ages.

Cork

Ireland’s second largest city is delicious. At the English Market, you’ll find the very best of County Cork’s butter, creamy cheeses made in West Cork, and much more besides. After a dazzling market lunch, you’ll head out to see Cork City Gaol, a castle-like building which once housed 19th century prisoners and is now a museum, and beautiful Fitzgerald Park.

The Skellig Islands

These two uninhabited steep, rocky islets off the Iveragh Peninsula in County Kerry are now most famous as Luke Skywalker’s island sanctuary on the planet Ahch-To in the latest Star Wars trilogy. By regular humans, they’re best seen on a little looping boat tour, on which you might catch a glimpse of nesting puffins, gannets and guillemots (but no jedis).

Croagh Patrick

Nicknamed ‘the Reek’, Croagh Patrick is a holy mountain associated with St Patrick, and an important site of pilgrimage in County Mayo. Archaeologists found that there had been a stone chapel or oratory on the summit since the 5th century. On the last Sunday in July, thousands of pilgrims climb Croagh Patrick in honour of St Patrick, and masses are held at the top.

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You will have seen pictures of these iconic structures, particularly the red ones that loom over sparkling bodies of water (the floating torii gates) – and you’ll have come to recognise them as unmistakeable symbols of Japan. But what exactly are torii gates? They are generally used to mark the entrance to a sacred space, specifically a Shinto shrine. The road leading to a Shinto shrine will always have one or more imposing torii flanking the route, making it the easiest way to determine whether the shrine belongs to Shinto or Buddhism (but not always, as you’ll see). Traditionally, torii gates are left unpainted, or covered in a blazing vermilion.

Experience it on: Majestic Japan

Torii Gates in Japan FAQs

What do torii gates symbolize?

A torii gate marks the division between the physical world and the spiritual realm.

What does walking through a torii gate mean?

When a person passes beneath a torii gate, they are transitioning from the mundane to the sacred.

Which island has a floating torii gate?

One of the most famous torii gates is on the island of Itsukushima (popularly known as Miyajima, which means “shrine island”). The shrine complex is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the torii is its most recognisable landmark. It’s not the only one that appears to float on water, though.

What is the most famous torii gate in Japan?

Of the hundreds of thousands of torii gates dotted across Japan, Itsukushima torii mentioned above is one of the country’s greatest icons, but the 10,000 torii at Fushimi Inari Shrine and the dramatic wooden torii at Meiji Shrine in Tokyo are right up there, too. The Fujiyoshida Sengen Shrine is much-celebrated (and photographed) for the way it frames Mount Fuji. If you have a Majestic Japan luxury tour on your horizon, here are 10 of the most epic torii gates to factor into your journey.

10 of the Most Beautiful Torii Gates in Japan

Fushimi Inari Shrine, Kyoto

Just outside the JR Inari Station (making the transition from mundane to sacred even more stark), the Fushimi Inari shrine in Kyoto is graced with thousands of vermilion torii gates, lining various trails around the main buildings which lead straight into the wooded forest of the sacred Mount Inari. Inari is the Shinto god of rice, and his guardians are kitsune (foxes), which is why there are protective fox statues throughout.

Itsukushima Shrine, Miyajima

The resplendent, world-famous floating torii gate is Shrine Island’s main attraction, and every visitor wants a glimpse. From Hiroshima, it’s a short hop by ferry to Miyajima. You can also head out on a boat cruise to see the torii gate in all its glory – and at low tide, you can walk right up to it. After sunset, the shrine and the torii gate are illuminated for extra magic. Our Majestic Japan journey stops in Hiroshima.

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Meiji Shrine, Tokyo

Surrounded by lush greenery in the heart of Tokyo, the Meiji Shrine is the deep breath you need after you’ve bustled through the nearby neighbourhoods of Shibuya and Harajuku. The three wooden torii gates on the approach to the main shrine are immense – the second is the largest of its kind in Japan, made from a 1,500-year-old Japanese cypress tree. Slot this one in at the beginning or end of your Majestic Japan journey.

Kumano Hongū Shrine, Tanabe

Deep in the mountains of the Kii Peninsula, surrounded by cedar and cypress trees, Kumano Hongū Taisha is the head temple of the 3,000 Kumano shrines across the country. It’s part of the World Heritage Site called Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range. Its entrance is marked by the highest torii gate in the world.

Motonosumi Shrine, Yamaguchi

For one of the most scenic shrine locations in Japan, head to the Motonosumi Shrine, which is marked by a procession of 123 vermilion torii gates, running along the cliffs and leading down to the Sea of Japan. Uniquely, it was founded in 1955 by a local fisherman called Hitoshi Okamura, and i offers its visitors business success, bountiful fishing, and safety for fishermen.

Amanoiwato Shrine, Miyazaki Prefecture

This shrine is dedicated to the sun goddess Amaterasu who hid in the cave here, keeping her light from the world. Some of the shrine grounds are located on the opposite side of the Iwato River, but the torii gate is in the cave itself. It’s known as a “spiritual power spot” and you can walk right through it, along a narrow path surrounded by piles of stones.

Oarai Isosaki Shrine, Ibaraki Prefecture

One of three torii gates here stands against the horizon on a coastal rock in the Pacific Ocean, with waves crashing and frothing around its base. This gate is called Kamiiso-no-Torii, and marks the place where the shrine’s deity is said to have landed. It has more than a touch of the otherworldly about it – the views out to sea are incredible, particularly at sunrise.

Arakura Sengen Shrine

In an ancient forest at the foot of Mount Fuji, the dark red torii gate here was specifically placed so that the view of Mount Fuji fits entirely inside. In cherry blossom season, it’s surrounded by the rosy pink hues of 300 cherry trees. The nearby Chureito Pagoda is a stunning five-storied pagoda, with 400 steps leading to more epic views of the mountain. See Japan’s most iconic views on a Japan luxury tour.

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With a cultural scene tied up in royalty, historic landmarks and some of the world’s oldest and best hotels, London is a honeypot for luxury living. And it goes hand in hand that there is a plethora of luxury experiences in London to choose from.

Guests on Luxury Gold’s 10-day British Royale journey will get 24 hours in the UK’s iconic capital – including some free time between the included experiences. For those who want to make the most of their time in London, or choose to arrive in the city a couple of days before their itinerary starts, this is the guide for you – the  very best London experiences to make you feel like the star of your own  

Take a helicopter ride along the River Thames

Seeing the London skyline from a hotel sky bar is one thing (Sky Lounge at The Shard has the best), but there’s nothing quite like soaring over the Thames, Houses of Parliament, St Paul’s Cathedral and the Shard at sunset. Topping the list of luxury experiences in London,  The London Helicopter’s 35-minute flight follows the majestic river as it passes dozens of key landmarks. Why this flight? You’ll enjoy it with a chilled bottle of Champagne and glasses on hand for two. With 24 hours in London to spend as you please, this is how to do it – living the high life in the literal sense. A once in the lifetime thing to do in London.

Price: £750 for two

Enjoy an iconic afternoon tea at Claridges

Looking for luxury things to do in London? Afternoon tea in is not just one of the best London experiences, it’s an essential one. But in a city with scores of afternoon teas, high teas, tea services on buses and as takeaway picnics, why Claridges? Well, because this Mayfair hotel is the crème de la crème – it’s where the Princess of Wales stayed over before marrying the future heir to the throne, it’s been a hotel since the 1850s, and it does a superior afternoon tea service. Think dainty finger sandwiches of cucumber and dill creme fraiche, smoked salmon with lemon and capers, plus exquisite cakes, served on the finest bone china. Add a glass of one of several premium champagnes to really do it like the royals.

Price: £100pp with a glass of Laurent-Perrier Héritage

Credit: Claridge’s

Dine aboard a luxury steam train from London Victoria

Harking back to the golden age of travel, London still operates gorgeous steam trains from its main terminals – take the Belmond British Pullman, which runs delightful round-trips into the countryside from London Victoria station. If you are looking for one of the most memorable luxury experiences in London, book for a five-course lunch and you’ll board in your finest to a Champagne reception, with uniformed stewards and lavish Art Deco train interiors right out of an Agatha Christie novel. Chugging into the Kent countryside with steam streaming from the engine carriage, you’ll enjoy fine dining treats such as braised shorthorn beef with oxtail tart, or damson baba.

Price: From £540pp

Create your own bespoke perfume at Floris

Luxury fashion, beauty and fragrance houses have deep roots in London – for one, perfumer Floris was founded back in 1730 in London’s smart St James’s neighbourhood. It’s since received royal warrants and celebrity fans from Winston Churchill to Marilyn Monroe, but still operates an exclusive bespoke service today. One of the most unique luxury experiences in London, enter its historic boutique at 89 Jermyn Street, where you’ll be given a glass of Champagne as you peruse a selection of fragrance bases over a two-hour session, naming notes you love and trying different blends until you’re happy with your fragrance’s bouquet. You can then give it an original name, and even have the bottle engraved – not only one of the best London experiences, but one that will endure long after you return home.

Price: £750 for 100ml

Creating your own unique scent at one of London’s oldest perfume houses (Floris)

Put your foot down at an Aston Martin driving experience

You expect me to talk? No, Mr Bond, we expect you to drive. Like 007 himself, of course in a classic Aston Martin, made in Britain since 1913. Head to the Millbrook-based Aston Martin Clubhouse just outside the capital for a four-hour luxury driving experience, involving a four-hour drive with an instructor and guide, an overview of your chosen vehicle’s dynamics, a chauffeur-drive transfer from the nearest station and breakfast pastries, a hot lunch and other refreshments served at the Clubhouse. 

Price: From £1,800

Drive an Aston Martin while you’re in London (Unsplash/Andrew Pons)

Hire a personal shopping assistant at Liberty London

London’s stylish, original and carefully curated luxury shopping scene is best experienced at Liberty of London – the grand, mock-Tudor department store just off of Regent’s Street devoted to everything from botanical-print textiles to cult beauty products and homeware design. One of the most stylish luxury experiences in London, book a personal shopper here for the most relaxed retail experience in town: based in a private suite on the second floor, you can arrange to put together next season’s wardrobe, reinvigorate your entire beauty regime or redecorate your home. Once you’ve selected your favourites, simply have them delivered. Not only is this one of the best London experiences, it’s also free. 

Price: Free

Book a private photography shoot

In town for a special occasion? Capture the magic effortlessly by engaging a private photographer for an afternoon – a two-hour shoot is typical, often at “golden hour”, the time before sunset. One of the ultimate private experiences in London, a local photographer can help you plot out a particularly scenic walking route along which to snap your sophisticated vacation photos, perhaps pausing by the Thames riverbank, in pastel-painted Notting Hill or the romantic, 1900s Apple Market in Covent Garden. Once framed at home, your 24 hours in London will last forever.

Price: £475 for two hours

Commission a tailored suit on Savile Row

London is famous for its tailoring, with the visionaries along the world-famous Savile Row stitching classic, timeless and more cutting-edge suits for generations. Having your next ensemble made to measure on this iconic Mayfair street is a worthwhile use of 24 hours in London; there are a handful of top boutiques to choose from, but Gieves and Hawkes has real pedigree. Since being founded in the late 1700s, it’s tailored suits to King Charles and the late Duke of Edinburgh, and they’ll run you through a comprehensive library of luxe (some exclusive) fabrics and textiles to work with, keeping your measurements and preferences on file for future purchases.

Price: From £5,000

Take an exclusive, after-hours tour of the Tower of London and witness The Ceremony of the Keys.

Join us on our British Royale luxury journey and you’re invited to the Tower of London to experience this historical site with a VIP tour. At your special after-hours visit you’ll get an inside look at the history of the Tower of London, home of the Crown Jewels, before experiencing the Ceremony of the Keys, the oldest practiced military ceremony in the world. While the Tower remains a living fortress, changing and adapting as times demand, it still maintains centuries of colorful traditions. In fact, the Ceremony of the Keys is a 700-year-old tradition that stood the tests of even the most tumultuous times, presided over by the Yeoman Warders. One of the most exclusive luxury experiences in London, book your place on British Royale now.

Hire a private pod on the London Eye

Nothing quite makes a statement like an exclusively hired Private Pod on the London Eye. It’s the ultimate way to experience 360-degree views of London and Central London. Soar 135m above London’s skyline with up to 25 people. This elevated setting provides you with panoramic, unobstructed views of London’s iconic skyline, including the Thames, Big Ben and Buckingham Palace, all in intimate comfort. Whether for a romantic celebration, a special occasion, or simply to indulge in the city’s beauty away from the crowds, the tailored atmosphere can be enhanced with personalized touches, such as champagne, fine dining or curated entertainment, elevating the experience to truly luxurious heights.

Price: From £850

See London in style on Luxury Gold’s 10-day British Royale tour.