From Dublin: Half-Day Guided Coastal Tour to Howth Village

Nestled just outside of Dublin, the charming coastal village of Howth offers a delightful escape from the city. A half-day guided tour is the perfect way to experience this picturesque destination. Visitors can expect a scenic bus ride, a guided walk along the breathtaking Howth Cliffs, and ample time to explore the quaint town. With accessibility and knowledgeable guides, this tour provides an ideal blend of adventure and leisure. What awaits those who embark on this journey may just surprise you.

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Key Points

A half-day guided coastal excursion from Dublin to the picturesque seaside town of Howth, including a 60-minute bus ride each way and a 60-minute guided walking tour.
Opportunity to explore Howth Village independently for 75 minutes, with access to local seafood options and notable landmarks like St. Mary’s Abbey and Martello Tower.
Wheelchair-accessible tour with a live English-speaking guide providing insightful commentary throughout the experience.
Convenient booking process with a full refund available for cancellations up to 24 hours in advance.
Positive customer reviews highlighting the tour guides, transportation, and overall value for money, with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The tour is a half-day guided coastal excursion that takes visitors from Dublin to the charming village of Howth.

Priced from $43.62 per person, the 4-hour tour includes a 60-minute bus ride each way and a 60-minute guided walking tour of Howth. Visitors will have 75 minutes of free time to explore the village.

The tour is wheelchair accessible and has a live English-speaking guide. Departure is from 13 O’Connell Street Upper in Dublin, and the tour covers Howth Summit, the fishing village, St. Mary’s Abbey, and Martello Tower.

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Itinerary Details

The tour begins at 13 O’Connell Street Upper in Dublin, where participants board a bus for the 1-hour drive to Howth.

Upon arrival, a guided 1-hour walking tour of the Howth Cliffs commences.

Afterward, visitors have 75 minutes of free time to explore Howth Village at their leisure, including dining on local seafood and visiting medieval ruins like St. Mary’s Abbey and the Martello Tower.

Finally, the group boards the bus for the 1-hour return trip back to Dublin, completing the 4-hour coastal excursion.

Highlights and Activities

Scenic views from the Howth Cliffs highlight the guided walking tour, allowing participants to soak in the coastal landscapes.

The tour also offers:

Leisurely exploration of Howth Village, a charming fishing town with opportunities to try local seafood and fish and chips.
Notable landmarks including the medieval ruins of St. Mary’s Abbey and the historic Martello Tower.
Time for independent discovery, enabling visitors to discover Howth at their own pace during the 75-minute free time.

Throughout the tour, the knowledgeable local guide provides insightful commentary, enhancing the overall experience.

Booking Information

Reserving a spot on the Coastal Tour to Howth Village is easy. Simply reserve your spot online and pay later. There’s no upfront payment required to book your place.

If your plans change, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. To redeem your tour, present your booking confirmation to the Big Bus Tours staff at least 15 minutes before the scheduled 9:30 AM departure from 13 O’Connell Street Upper in Dublin.

With free cancellation and a convenient meeting point, booking this immersive half-day tour couldn’t be more straightforward.

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Customer Reviews and Ratings

With an overall rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars based on 1,157 reviews, the Coastal Tour to Howth Village has earned high praise from past participants.

The tour guides in particular have been lauded, earning a 4.8/5 rating. The transportation aspect of the tour was also well-received, scoring 4.4/5.

While the value for money was rated 4.2/5, reviewers noted the tour provided excellent bang for their buck.

As one Australian traveler, Merrilyn, said, "Gerry was a great tour guide, kept us entertained and informed."

Another American, Danielle, remarked, "The driver/guide was great. It was a great value for the money."

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Scenic Views From Howth Cliffs

One of the standout features of the Coastal Tour to Howth Village is the guided walking tour along the Howth Cliffs. Towering high above the Irish Sea, the cliffs offer breathtaking panoramic views that captivate visitors. As you ascend, you’ll be treated to stunning vistas of the rugged coastline, the fishing harbor, and the distant Dublin skyline. The tour guide provides fascinating insights into the local geography and wildlife, enhancing the overall experience.

| Howth Cliffs Viewpoints |

| — |

| Howth Summit |

| Cliffside Trails |

| Baily Lighthouse |

The Howth Cliffs walking tour is a highlight of this coastal excursion, allowing you to learn about the natural beauty of this picturesque region.

Exploring Howth Village

After exploring the scenic Howth Cliffs, the tour takes visitors to the charming Howth Village.

Visitors are taken from the scenic Howth Cliffs to the charming Howth Village on this tour.

This quaint fishing town offers a delightful opportunity to experience local culture and cuisine.

Visitors can:

Stroll through the bustling harbor and admire the colorful boats and lively atmosphere.
Explore the narrow streets lined with cozy pubs, artisan shops, and fresh seafood restaurants.
Visit the medieval ruins of St. Mary’s Abbey and the historic Martello Tower, providing a glimpse into Howth’s rich heritage.

With ample free time, travelers can savor the village’s relaxed pace and enjoy the authentic Irish coastal experience.

Dining Options in Howth

Visitors to Howth Village have a wealth of dining options to choose from, ranging from traditional pubs serving hearty Irish fare to upscale seafood restaurants showcasing the village’s coastal bounty.

For a classic pub experience, the Bloody Stream and The Harbour Bar are local favorites, serving fish and chips, shepherd’s pie, and other pub classics.

For a more refined dining experience, Aqua and The Oar House offer fresh seafood dishes like oysters, lobster, and catch of the day.

Many eateries also feature scenic waterfront views, providing the perfect backdrop for a memorable meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Participants are allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, there may be opportunities to purchase refreshments during the free time in Howth Village. Check with the tour operator for any specific guidelines.

Are Discounts Available for Seniors or Students?

The tour operator doesn’t offer any discounts for seniors or students. Prices remain the same for all participants, regardless of age or student status. However, booking in advance can sometimes provide savings on the overall tour cost.

Can I Extend My Time in Howth After the Tour Ends?

Unfortunately, the tour itinerary does not allow for extending time in Howth after the tour ends. The tour provides 75 minutes of free time in Howth, but participants must then return to Dublin with the group.

Is There an Option to Upgrade to a Private Tour?

Unfortunately, there doesn’t appear to be an option to upgrade this tour to a private one. The tour is offered as a shared group experience, and the provider doesn’t seem to provide a private tour option.

Do I Need to Wear Special Clothing or Footwear for the Howth Cliff Walk?

The Howth Cliff Walk is a moderate hike, so comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended. Layers may be helpful as the coastal weather can be changeable. No special equipment is required for the tour.

The Sum Up

The half-day guided coastal tour from Dublin to Howth Village offers an affordable and accessible way to experience Ireland’s natural beauty. With a scenic bus ride, guided cliff walk, and free time to explore the charming village, this 4-hour excursion provides a well-balanced itinerary for visitors. Whether you’re seeking breathtaking ocean views or a chance to learn about local culture, this tour is a must-do for those visiting Dublin.

You can check availability for your dates here: