Daily Itinerary for the 04 October 2026

Day 1: Sunday, October 04– Depart the USA

Our pilgrimage begins as we depart from either Boston or Chicago on an overnight flight to Dublin. This journey is more than travel—it’s a time to step away from the everyday and draw nearer to the spiritual roots of our faith. As we fly across the Atlantic, we prepare our hearts for the rich religious history and scenic beauty that await us in Ireland. Dinner will be served on the flight.

Day 2: Monday, October 05– Arrive in Dublin / Armagh / Belfast

After arriving at Dublin Airport, we are greeted by our friendly guide and driver. We enjoy a well-deserved full Irish breakfast to start the day. From here, we head north through the rolling countryside to Armagh, long known as the ecclesiastical capital of Ireland. We visit the stunning St. Patrick’s Cathedral, a place steeped in centuries of Christian tradition. If possible, we celebrate our first Mass here. Continuing north, we arrive in Belfast, where we settle into our hotel for dinner and a good night's rest. B,D

Day 3: Tuesday, October 06– Downpatrick and Titanic Belfast

This morning we visit Downpatrick, one of Ireland’s most sacred towns and a place closely linked to St. Patrick. Here, we explore the St. Patrick Centre and Down Cathedral, where the saint is believed to be buried. We celebrate Mass in a local parish, joining our prayers with the faithful who have worshipped here for generations. In the afternoon, we return to Belfast and dive into its maritime history with a visit to the Titanic Belfast Museum, an extraordinary, interactive experience telling the story of the world's most famous ship. Dinner and overnight in Belfast. B,D

Day 4: Wednesday, October 07– Carrick-a-Rede, Giant’s Causeway, Derry, and Donegal

Today is one of breathtaking views and remarkable stories. We travel along the Antrim Coast to walk the dramatic Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, suspended high above the sea. We continue to the Giant’s Causeway, marveling at the natural basalt columns and the legends that surround them. Our journey takes us next to Derry, where we walk the 17th-century city walls and reflect on Ireland’s complex past. We end the day in Donegal, where we celebrate Mass at the beautiful St. Eunan’s Cathedral in Letterkenny before dining and resting in Donegal Town. B,D

Day 5: Thursday, October 08– Glenveagh, Slieve League, and Donegal Tweeds

We begin with a visit to Glenveagh National Park, where the peaceful castle and gardens offer a chance to experience Ireland’s serene natural beauty. If weather permits, we enjoy a boat cruise at the towering Slieve League Cliffs, among the highest sea cliffs in Europe. Later, we visit a traditional woolen mill—either Studio Donegal or Triona Woollen Mills—and learn about the ancient craft of Irish weaving. Mass this evening is in the picturesque town of Killybegs at St. Mary of the Visitation Church. Dinner and overnight in Donegal. B,D

Day 6: Friday, October 09– Bundoran, Drumcliffe, Knock, and Kiltimagh

After breakfast, we enjoy a brief stop in Bundoran, known for its scenic coastal views. We then travel to Drumcliffe, where we pay our respects at the grave of W.B. Yeats, resting under the shadow of Ben Bulben. Our destination this afternoon is Knock, one of the most important Marian shrines in the world. We join in prayer and celebrate Mass at this sacred place. Dinner and overnight in the nearby town of Kiltimagh. B,D

Day 7: Saturday, October 10– Knock and Ballintubber Abbey

We begin with a return visit to Knock for further reflection and prayer, taking time to explore the basilica and grounds. In the afternoon, we travel to Ballintubber Abbey, a site of uninterrupted worship since the 13th century. We take in the quiet strength of this holy place and attend Mass in a setting that truly connects us to the faith of generations past. The evening is free for relaxation or quiet personal time. B,D

Day 8: Sunday, October 11– Westport, Kylemore Abbey, and Galway

This morning, we visit Westport, a town known for its charm and vibrancy. We continue through the rugged beauty of Connemara to the striking Kylemore Abbey, nestled beside a lake and surrounded by forested hills. We explore the peaceful grounds and its Victorian walled garden before returning to Galway. Here, we celebrate Mass at the city’s cathedral and enjoy dinner together. Overnight in Galway. B,D

Day 9: Monday, October 12– Clonmacnoise and Dublin

After breakfast, we begin our journey eastward towards Dublin. Along the way, we stop at Clonmacnoise, an ancient monastic settlement founded by St. Ciarán in the 6th century. Surrounded by the peaceful banks of the River Shannon, we walk among weathered stone crosses and historic ruins. If weather allows, we pause at a nearby Mass Rock, and celebrate Mass, where persecuted Catholics once secretly worshipped. We then continue to Dublin, where we visit Trinity College to view the illuminated manuscript of the Book of Kells. Dinner and overnight in the capital. B,D

Day 10: Tuesday, October 13– Dublin City Day

Our day begins with Mass at Immaculate Conception Church (Church of Adam and Eve). We then explore Ireland’s rich history of emigration at the EPIC Irish Emigration Museum. In the afternoon, we visit the Jameson Distillery for a guided tour and optional tasting. The rest of the day is free to explore Dublin at your own pace. Dinner and overnight in the city. B,D

Day 11: Wednesday, October 14– Glendalough, Grafton Street, and Farewell Dinner Show

We travel to Glendalough, one of Ireland’s most beloved monastic sites, founded by St. Kevin in the 6th century. We celebrate Mass at the tranquil God’s Cottage and take time to walk the peaceful trails among ancient ruins and lakes. Returning to Dublin, we enjoy some free time on Grafton Street for shopping or a coffee in one of its historic cafés. In the evening, we come together for a farewell dinner and traditional Irish show at The Merry Ploughboy—an evening of music, storytelling, and laughter. Overnight in Dublin. B,D

Day 12: Thursday, October 15– Return to the USA

This morning we transfer to Dublin Airport for our return flight home. As we depart, we carry with us memories of sacred places, heartfelt prayers, and new friendships forged on this pilgrimage through the heart of Ireland. Dinner and snack will be served on flight. Mass at Whitefriar Church or St. Bridgets Church on route to airport.