RS Ireland tour 14 verses 7 days

We did the Ireland / N. Ireland tour a number of years ago when it was 15 days. Only 4 were spent in N. Ireland, the other 11 in Ireland itself. Based on that, we think that seven days would be way too short, and you will barely scratch the surface. If at all possible, opt for the 14 day trip. It is a beautiful country and you'll be glad you have the extra time.

Not having done either, perhaps it is wrong to comment, but I have holidayed in Ireland...

Looking at the two itineraries, the 14 day trip wins hands down as it covers so much more of Ireland and sounds a lot more interesting/exciting. Assuming the 7 day tour is the one described as "Heart of Ireland' it just covers the centre bit and misses out a lot of what are generally considered the 'must sees' as well as many of the most attractive parts of Ireland. I would feel short changed by this one....

We took the RS 7 day tour of Ireland (at the time it was 8 days). April, a bit rainy though not too cold. It was fantastic. We had the best RS guide in the universe— Stephen Mcphilemy. Best part of the trip was him telling stories growing up in Northern Ireland during the troubles. He’d make you laugh, make you sing, make you cry.

The short trip wasn’t enough. So we came back and took Stephen’s tour from his own tour company for another week, this time covering the north. Incredible. That was in July. It was hot— like 70 degrees! Forced Stephen to get ice cream twice in one day during the heat wave.

Now I’ve read the reviews of the other RS guides of Ireland. Wow. They seem like they are all the best guides in the universe (though McPhilemy is undoubtedly the best of the best.)

All of this is a long way to say, go for 14. Heck, go for 21 or more. But it’s okay to split it up. No matter how you do it, you’ll have a great time and learn a lot. If you do make on a McPhilemy tour, make sure he tells the story of the his next door neighbor— the Campbells.

P.S. Who won best actress this year? The Irish are winning everything!

Happy travels

We've spent 84 days in Ireland over 20 years, and after our upcoming 21 day trip, I'm finally feeling that I haven't missed a must see/do, although the next trip is already taking shape. Go for 14.

We actually have done both of the tours and I would go for the 14 day trip if this is your first trip to Ireland. There is so much to see and do in Ireland and the 7 day trip is just not enough time to do anything but hit a few spots. We have actually spent a lot of time in Ireland on our own and took the tours because we did not want to drive again. A little difficult to rent a car when you are over 80. We will be returning to Ireland again this September. Can't wait. We always have enjoyed September in Ireland but have been there twice in June which was also enjoyable. Whatever you decide you will definitely have a good time on a Rick Steves tour and you will want to return to Ireland again and again.

Thank you everyone! Absolutely 2 weeks and a bit more added to each end. Appreciate your thoughts.

I was actually considering the exact same question—whether to do the 7-day or the 14-day Ireland itinerary—since some of our young adult kids may not be able to take a full two weeks off.

That said, this is really helpful information and gives us a lot to think about. I appreciate you sharing your perspective.

At this point, we’re leaning toward trying to make the 14-day trip work, even if it takes a bit more coordination. We’re likely targeting June 2028, so we have some time to plan and hopefully align everyone’s schedules.

Thanks again for the insight.

David Roeshot