Dominated by the ramparts of Edinburgh Castle, this picturesque city offers shopping on Princes Street, the grandeur of the Royal Mile, St. Giles Cathedral and historic Palace of Holyrood House, where Queen Mary lived and many Scottish kings were wed. Or you could venture across the moors to marvel at the scenic Highlands.
Cromarty Firth opens in Scotland's saw-toothed Atlantic coast, welcoming travelers to the safe haven of Invergordon. This capital of the Scottish Highlands contains vivid reminders of the fierce independence of the Highlands clans. Visit Cawdor Castle, tour a famous scotch distillery, or scan the dark, windswept waters of nearby Loch Ness for signs of the monster.
Discover the relics of old Ireland on a port call to Dun Laoghaire, located only 15 minutes from Dublin. In Dublin, visit Trinity College and St. Patrick''s Cathedral. Tour the emerald countryside of Portmamock, and visit nearby Malahide Castle, or see the magnificent Powerscourt Estate in County Wicklow. Save time, too, for Dublin''s colorful pubs, or a visit to the world-renowned Guinness brewery.
A town of churches, bridges and pubs, Cork is best known for Blarney Castle where you are invited to kiss the famed stone to acquire the "gift of gab." St. Patrick Street, the town's main thoroughfare, is good for shopping and people watching. See the Shandon bells in St. Anne's church. Those who are willing to climb the 134 winding steps to the top of the steeple will be rewarded with a wondrous view of the city, harbor and hills.