I just returned from my first Contiki Tour that toured around Southern Ireland for 9 days. The trip began in Dublin and headed westwards to Galway for 2 nights, down the coast to Kilarney, eastwards to Cork, continuing to Kilkenny and finishing in Dublin once again.
I was extremely happy with the information Contiki provided in their package as far as optional side trips (which I highly recommend!!) that definitely make the trip, as well information on how to make your own way to the hotel. For myself arriving in a city I have been in before and making my own way around is all part of the thrill of traveling. They provided some great tips on what transport to take and how much it will cost.

If you have never been to Dublin I would suggest arriving 1 day early to take in the city on your own. At the end of the tour you do have a full day to see the city but nothing beats the first thrill of seeing a new city when you just get there. Dublin is very traveler friendly. St Stephens Green is beautiful, Grafton street is amazing for those looking for a little retail therapy however, be warned... it is expensive. McDonalds combos in Canada $6, in Dublin 6 Euros. The conversion is a bit steep.

If you are a history buff there is no lacking in Dublin. Take the hop on hop off bus to familiarize yourself with where all the major attractions are. And if you enjoy the occasional cocktail then Temple Bar is the best are to enjoy a few Guinness'. Take a stroll along the river Liffey as well. Lots to see, great mix of history and modern all throughout the city. Don't forget to pop into Trinity College to view the book of Kells.

As much as I loved Dublin, the west coast was what I went there to enjoy. Galway is a beautiful city that you can easily spend 6+ hrs walking... trust me I did. Fantastic Fish and Chips in the main pedestrian area as well. Once again as the theme in Ireland, there is no shortage of pubs. You have 2 days in Galway and it is worth every minute. Beautiful west coast former fishing town.

The Cliffs of Moher were one of the most scenic places I have visited. Make sure there's lots of room on your digital camera as you will need it all. Combine that with the stone wall meadows seemingly everywhere in the west coast and the ring of Kerry, it is a photo buffs dream.

The Sheppards pie I enjoyed just outside Kilarney was second to none (my fiance would kill me if she read that... sorry but it's true!).

For anyone that has ever wanted to enjoy the amazing wonders of Ireland but is short on time then I would recommend this trip to anyone. Of course with it being a Contiki Holiday, it is only for those 18-35. I can also say that those who are worried that it may be a bunch of young kids wanting to booze it up need not worry. I'm 30 and had a blast!! There's lots of free time to enjoy yourself the way you want to and take in the sights you went there to see. There is nothing in the itinerary that states you must make time for drinking.... although since you are in Ireland and as the saying goes:  "When in Rome, do as the Romans." Well, when in Ireland...SLAINTE!!!  (Gaelic for Cheers!!)

http://www.flightcentre.ca/tours/contiki/tour_details.jsp?TourCode=153-southern-ireland&region=Europe&dep_date=&duration=0