Escorted Bus Tours FAQ

How can I book my CIE Tours’ vacation?

There are two ways to reserve a trip:– submit an enquiry using the relevant enquiry form for the tour of your choice or call our office direct and talk to one of our friendly travel experts here in Ireland Tollfree on 1 877 298 7205 from the United States and Canada or +353 69 76308 from anywhere else in the world.

Do you sell optional tours?

No - in Ireland and Britain our tour directors spend their time looking after you rather than being sales people, so you can enjoy a pleasant and interesting travel experience. We include daily sightseeing programs and many dinner/shows in your tour.

Are prices guaranteed?

CIE guarantees that no increase in land costs will occur, once you have paid the deposit for your tour. This is your protection against international currency fluctuations. Once you pay airfare in full and we issue your e-ticket, there is no change in the cost of the e-ticket, even if airfares rise later.

What travel documents do I need to visit Ireland or Britain?

If you are a U.S. or Canadian citizen, the only travel document you need is a valid passport. If you are hiring a car in Ireland, you need a current driver’s license.

Why should I purchase your travel protection plan?

To protect you, your loved ones, your possessions and your travel investment. If you experience health problems, flight delays or stolen possessions, you will receive reimbursement. We offer a great trip cancellation waiver benefit.

How much luggage can I take?

On a Tour coach, we permit one standard-sized suitcase weighing under 50 lbs and one standard-sized carry-on bag. This ensures that baggage will fit in the hold or overhead stowage area. Self-drive clients need to consider the limited trunk capacity of the car they rent. Each airline has its own regulations and some charge for any checked baggage. They can cater for larger baggage; however, our coaches do not have similar storage capacity.

How early can I check into the hotel on day of arrival?

Check-in time at hotels is usually between 1:00 pm and 3:00 pm. As transatlantic flights often arrive in Britain or Ireland early in the day, rooms will not be available until regular check-in time. While you may be tired, you may like to take a walk, have a snack or do a little exploring.

Do you offer triple rooms?

We do not feature triple rooms in our brochure because there is no reduction in cost for a third person sharing a room with two others. European hotel rooms tend to be smaller than North American rooms and contain a double and single bed or two double beds. For comfort, we suggest that three adults take two rooms – a twin and a single.

What about travel times on a coach tour?

Morning departure time depends on the itinerary to be covered on any particular day. Morning departures are usually from 8:00 am to 8:30 am and arrival at the next hotel is usually between 4:00 and 5:00 pm.

What’s a typical coach touring day?

We want you to see as much of the country you are visiting as possible without spending all of your time on the coach. Our tours generally incorporate a sightseeing feature each morning and afternoon. There are breaks at two-hour intervals or less so that you may stretch your legs, purchase a snack or lunch, take photos, smoke and avail of restrooms.

Will I be able to take walks or exercise?

Many of our tours incorporate walking tours in interesting places such as Derry, Cobh, York, and Edinburgh. These are leisurely-paced guided walks. In your free time when you arrive at a hotel in the afternoon, you may like to take a walk on your own or use the hotel’s leisure or spa facilities. Pack comfortable shoes with non-slip soles as many historic places have uneven paving.

What is a table d´hote dinner?

It’s a 4- or 5-course meal with a choice of appetizers, soups, entrees and desserts. Most hotels feature a good assortment of red and white meats, fish and vegetarian foods. If you have dietary restrictions, you can advise us at time of booking or at the restaurant.

Why are London transfers independent?

As there are so many different flights into different terminals at Heathrow Airport, it is not possible to have our personnel greet all clients on arrival. When you book flights with us, we will include vouchers for prebooked airport transfer coach service with your final travel documents.

How much money do I need to carry?

As most components of your tour have been prepaid, you will need money for lunch each day and dinners when you have an evening at leisure. Use credit cards and ATMs to avoid carrying a lot of cash. Are you an avid shopper? Do you like a cocktail in the evening? These costs are up to you. Also, it is customary to tip your guide and driver at the end of the tour.

Are there any free days for activities?

All of our tours offer included sightseeing every day to maximize your time. If you want to take a day out to play golf, ride or simply relax and browse around, you may choose not to travel on a day tour when you are staying in the same hotel for 2 nights.

Would a coach tour be suitable for a honeymoon trip?

After arranging a wedding, many newly-married couples choose our programs as they are happy to have their honeymoon planned for them. Romantic scenic settings throughout Ireland and Britain are ideal for proposals of marriage.

Can I combine a coach tour with a second one or a self-drive program?

Many coach tours are ideally suited for combining and we offer a discount on the second tour. You can easily combine a coach tour with a self-drive vacation with our help. Just ask one of our consultants when you enquire about the coach tour. For a great selection of self-drive itineraries click here.