Itineraries | Meet in Ireland

Dublin and Cork

Authentic cuisine and traditional tipples in two vibrant cities

There’s no question that the Irish love their food and drink, which is why this four star itinerary is perfect for those seeking to enjoy a cultural slice of Ireland. Authentic cuisine, traditional tipples and good fun form the essence of this medium budget itinerary, but there’s plenty of history and culture to soak up — from a walking tour of the cobbled capital to the Titanic Experience in Cobh. From Ireland’s capital of Dublin to the vibrant foodie hub of Cork city, this five-day plan is an unforgettable itinerary that your guests will be speaking about long after they’ve departed these shores.

Day One

A buzzing metropolis with bespoke brews

Samuel Beckett Bridge against the Dublin sky

This four star itinerary will kick off with a guided tour across Dublin’s cobbled streets, introducing the group to the rich history and contemporary culture of Ireland’s capital city. After the tour, guests will refuel with a hearty lunch in the heart of the city before heading to the Open Gate Brewery by St. James’ Gate. In this operational brewhouse, guests will have the chance to learn about the new and exciting recipes being explored by Guinness brewers.

That evening the group will receive a warm Irish welcome at one of Dublin’s lavish hotels where they’ll get a chance to unwind before venturing back into the bustling capital. Private dinner at one of the city’s most authentic eateries will be complimented by unique entertainment — the ideal conclusion to their first day getting to know Dublin.

Day Two

Fun and games in the Silicon Docks

Delegates in life jackets, paddle boarding in a body of water

Day Two will get off to an active start with a variety of exciting water sports, such as paddle boarding and kayaking, in the Silicon Docks. As the largest tech headquarters in Europe the docks are famous; Facebook, Google, LinkedIn and AirBnB, to name but a few, reside here. Those shy of the water can channel their inner yogi in a truly unique yoga experience.

An afternoon of free time will follow, where guests can wander through Grafton Street — Dublin’s hottest shopping district — for a spot of retail therapy or tour the city’s renowned museums and galleries for some cultural delights. The evening will see the group enjoy a dine around experience in the city centre before ending their day with a dollop of Dublin’s most loved cultural experience: the traditional Irish pub.

Day Three

Good food, great whiskey and an evening of Jazz

Woman admires chocolate display in the English Market

After two days in Dublin, the group will travel south to Cork, the food capital of Ireland. Although just three hours by private transfer, the trip will be broken up with a visit to the historic Jameson Distillery in Midleton — and as no visit to Ireland is complete without sampling whiskey, guests will be treated to an exclusive tour and tasting.

After arriving in Cork City, the group will make their way to the famous English Market, largest covered market in Europe. Bursting with Irish cheeses, cured meats and local artisan produce, guests will have the chance to savour this unmissable gastronomic experience.

After sampling authentic Irish cuisine in a unique setting, the group will check into one of Cork’s beautiful properties to relax. That evening, a private dinner will be hosted in the buzzing city centre followed by an evening of jazz at the legendary Metropole Hotel.

Day 4

Sea legs and gourmet credentials along Cork’s coast

No trip to the island of Ireland is complete without an attempt to gain your sea legs — and on their second day in Cork, the group will be treated to a unique sailing experience. While aboard, guests will explore the stunning coastline and enjoy spotting wildlife along the shores of colourful Kinsale.

The group will dock for the afternoon to wander through the quaint, winding streets of Kinsale on a delicious food tour. The trail will see guests stopping at various eateries where they’ll receive céad míle fáilte (one hundred thousand welcomes) from each of the local characters and producers while sampling their culinary creations. A delicious dinner will follow that evening, followed by authentic traditional Irish entertainment to keep things lively.

Day 5

Cobh, cooking demos and céilis

On the final day, the group willstep back in time to enjoy some culture and history. At the Titanic Experience, they’ll witness the last possible departure point for passengers on the ill-fated ship and learn about life on board through their own virtual journey. After discovering the Titanic, guests will move on to explore the charming seaside town of Cobh.

The foodie theme continues at picture-perfect Ballymaloe Country House Hotel. Though famous for its beautiful surroundings, it’s the interactive cookery demonstrations that really draw a crowd; the group will take part with the help of friendly and talented Ballymaloe staff.

After a chance to relax, guests will depart for the historic Cork City Gaol for a Farewell Gala Dinner. This unusual but unforgettable venue aims to delight and surprise; guests will be regaled with shocking tales about the haunted gaol’s past as well as the famous prisoners that spent nights there.

This once-in-a-lifetime experience will conclude with a traditional Irish band and céili dance — an Irish folk dancing session that anyone can take part in. Céilis never fail to coax guests onto the dance floor to dance the night away.

Departing Ireland’s shores

Easy transfers will be arranged to Cork or Dublin Airport where the group will fly home, with many memories to take back with them.

The Meet in Ireland Team is ready to help you create memorable experiences for your incentive programme, drawing on the unique beauty and attractions of Ireland – contact us today for more advice.

For more information on business tourism offerings in these regions, visit the websites of the Cork Convention Bureau and Dublin Convention Bureau, who work in partnership with Meet in Ireland to provide authentic local experiences.

Sample incentive itinerary

Guests will explore Ireland's eclectic culture, from paddle boarding and local brews to jazz and céilis, across two buzzing hubs on this five-day programme.