Ireland: First-timers’ tour includes airfare, car

It’s a small country but big on touring, and this package makes it easy for first-time visitors as well as independent travelers to take in some of Ireland’s most popular sights.

The eight-night Best of Ireland excursion, offered by the Aer Lingus Vacation Store, includes round-trip airfare from Los Angeles and a rental car for the duration. Travelers will spend their first night at Fitzpatrick Castle, about 20 minutes from downtown Dublin. Other accommodations include a two-night stay at the Clayton Hotel in Galway, home to its St. Nicholas Collegiate Church and the impressive Galway Cathedral. The next two nights are at the Inn at Dromoland in Clare, where participants can check out Bunratty Castle or take a day trip to Limerick or Cork. Then it’s on to the Scotts Hotel in the heart of Killarney and visits to the Ring of Kerry and Dingle Peninsula. The last night is at the Heritage Golf & Spa Resort in Killenard, about an hour from Dublin.

Nine- and 10-day options also are available.

Dates: Available departures May through December.
Price: From $1,699, per person, double occupancy for October departures from LAX. Summer and late-fall fares are higher. Includes round-trip airfare, accommodations for eight nights and standard economy car rental.
Info: Aer Lingus Vacation Store, (800) 495-1632 Follow us on Twitter @latimestravel, like us on Facebook @Los Angeles Times Travel.