Dublin isn’t just Ireland’s capital—it’s a city bursting with energy, history, and lively neighborhoods. Its compact size makes walking tours a great way to soak up its character, whether wandering through Temple Bar or exploring Trinity College. We love how the city’s mix of historic sites, bohemian pubs, and cultural landmarks makes it a perfect playground for guided experiences. For example, a private Nearly All of Dublin in 5 hours offers a tailored way to see key sights like Dublin Castle and Temple Bar, with the flexibility to customize your route. Or if you’re after a deeper dive into Irish scenery, a Giant’s Causeway Day Tour lets you explore the rugged coast and legendary formations like the Dark Hedges.
Dublin’s tours cover everything from historic landmarks to scenic landscapes and lively pub crawls. Whether you want a quick overview, a private in-depth experience, or an outdoor adventure, the list below has options for every traveler.
1. Private (Nearly!) All of Dublin in 5 hours (Walking Tour)
This highly-rated private walking tour gives you a personalized way to cover many of Dublin’s top sights—including Trinity College, Dublin Castle, and the cobbled streets of Temple Bar—in just five hours. What sets it apart is its flexible, customizable format, letting you create an itinerary tailored to your interests. You can opt to visit the Book of Kells (tickets sold separately) and enjoy a leisurely lunch break.
The guide, who has 215 reviews at a perfect 5.0/5, offers insights into Dublin’s history, from the university’s Protestant roots to Oscar Wilde’s alma mater. Guests appreciate the private experience, especially for families or small groups, because it feels more like exploring with a knowledgeable friend than being herded through attractions. At $257.85 per person, it’s a bit of an investment, but the personalized service and deep local knowledge make it worthwhile for those wanting a comprehensive, tailored introduction to Dublin.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers with limited time who want a flexible, private overview of Dublin’s must-see sights.
2. Giant’s Causeway Day Tour from Dublin
For around $94.79, this full-day trip transports you from Dublin into the dramatic landscapes of Northern Ireland. The highlight is the Giant’s Causeway, with its thousands of hexagonal basalt columns—a UNESCO World Heritage site. The tour also includes stops at the Dark Hedges (famous from Game of Thrones), Dunluce Castle, and scenic coastal drives along the Causeway Coast.
What makes this tour stand out is its combination of stunning natural sights and accessible logistics: round-trip transportation from Dublin is included, with all entrance fees covered. The guide shares stories of folklore, geology, and history, bringing each stop alive. Reviews praise the engaging guides like Shane, who makes the long day both fun and informative.
If you’re a fan of wild coastlines, photo opportunities, and legendary landscapes, this is an excellent choice. At 13 hours, it’s a full day, so it’s best for active travelers ready for a lot of sightseeing.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting a comprehensive Northern Ireland experience without the hassle of driving, especially if you love geology and coastal scenery.
3. Dublin & Wicklow Mountain Pub Tour small group tour max 15 people
For $111.22, this 9-hour tour combines Ireland’s famed pub culture with breathtaking mountain scenery. Driving through the Dublin and Wicklow Mountains, you’ll stop at authentic rural pubs, where you can try local drinks and enjoy traditional Irish music. The tour emphasizes local interaction—meeting pub owners and hearing stories that bring Ireland’s pub traditions to life.
Guests love Shane, the personable guide, who creates a relaxed atmosphere in small groups. Stops include the Blue Light Pub with views of Dublin Bay, Johnnie Fox’s (a historic farm house pub), and a village pub in Roundwood. This tour balances scenic drives with culture, making it ideal for travelers wanting more than just scenery.
Since the party size is limited to 15, it fosters genuine connection and conversation. It’s perfect for those who want to experience core Irish culture in a relaxed, social setting.
Bottom Line: Great for social travelers eager to combine mountain views, local pubs, and Irish music in a small-group setting.
4. Afternoon Dublin Mountain Pub Tour (small group pub crawl max 15)
This 5-hour relaxed afternoon tour costs about $79.94 and is ideal for travelers craving a laid-back, social escape from Dublin’s city center. You’ll visit three pubs in the Dublin Mountains area, including Johnnie Fox’s and The Merry Ploughboy. Each stop offers live Irish music, local drinks, and hearty pub food (own expense).
Guests consistently mention how Shane’s knowledgeable and friendly approach makes the experience memorable, with reviews praising the vibrant atmosphere and scenic surroundings. The tour focuses on Irish pub culture and scenic vistas, providing a perfect blend of relaxation and cultural insight.
Limited to 15 people, it’s a good choice if you want a manageable, intimate experience with plenty of time to chat, sip, and enjoy.
Bottom Line: A cozy way to enjoy Irish pub music and scenery with a small group, especially for those with limited time on a Sunday afternoon.
5. From Dublin: Wicklow, Powerscourt, and Glendalough Day Tour
This 8-hour scenic tour at about $67.92 per person offers a comprehensive look at Ireland’s countryside. It features visits to Powerscourt Gardens, renowned for their impressive landscaping, and Glendalough, famous for its monastic ruins and tranquil lakes. The tour also includes scenic stops in the Wicklow Mountains, with plenty of opportunities for photos and walks.
Guests love how the guide, Ronald, provides informative commentary, making the landscapes come alive. The mix of gardens, ancient ruins, and mountain vistas makes this suitable for history buffs and nature lovers alike. The tour is outdoors-focused and offers a good value for the full day, with stops at notable filming locations like “P.S. I Love You” and “Vikings.”
Ideal for those who want a relaxed, scenic day with a small group, but be prepared for some walking and outdoor weather.
Bottom Line: A top choice for travelers wanting a guided outdoor experience that combines gardens, lakes, and mountain views.
6. Celtic Boyne Valley & Ancient Sites Day Tour From Dublin
This 10-hour tour, costing about $67.92 per person, takes you into Ireland’s mystical Boyne Valley. Highlights include Trim Castle, a massive Norman fortress, the Hill of Tara, the traditional seat of Irish kings, and the megalithic tombs of Loughcrew. It’s perfect for history lovers eager to see Ireland’s ancient sites.
Guests mention how guide Flann’s knowledge enhances each stop, sharing legends and historical insights that deepen the experience. The tour includes 6,000-year-old artwork and panoramic views of the Irish landscape. It’s a full-day trip that offers a well-rounded look at Ireland’s early history, with plenty of walking and exploration.
Suitable for those interested in archaeology and Irish myth, it offers a mix of outdoor sightseeing and storytelling.
Bottom Line: Excellent for travelers interested in ancient Ireland and Celtic legends, with manageable walking and a knowledgeable guide.
7. Dublin to South West 5 Day Small-Group Tour with Accommodation
At $1,448.65, this five-day journey is for those ready to explore Ireland’s west coast, including the Cliffs of Moher, Dingle Peninsula, Blarney Castle, and Galway. The trip includes hotels, transport, and some meals, making it a stress-free way to see major sights without planning every detail.
Guests rave about the guides, like Vinney, who combine humor with rich storytelling, and the variety of stops, from Chocolate factories to castles and scenic coastlines. This tour suits travelers wanting a deep, multi-day immersion in Ireland’s landscapes and culture.
Ideal for those with more time and a desire to connect with local history, food, and scenery in a small-group setting.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers seeking a guided, multi-day adventure with hotel stays and curated experiences.
8. Cliffs of Moher & Wild Atlantic Way Luxury Award Winning Tour
For a luxurious day, this private car tour (up to 2 people for $1,511.73) offers customized itineraries along Ireland’s legendary Atlantic coast. Highlights include the Cliffs of Moher, views of dolphins and puffins, and stops at historic ruins like Dunguaire Castle.
Guests mention how the private vehicle and expert guide make all the difference—it’s a smooth, comfortable ride with insights tailored to your interests. You can add stops for gourmet food, wildlife watching, or Galway city. This tour is perfect for travelers seeking a personalized, high-end experience with flexibility and privacy.
It’s a longer day (8-12 hours), but the level of customization and comfort justifies it.
Bottom Line: Excellent for couples or small groups looking for a private, flexible tour with luxury touches.
9. Dublin Private Highlights & History of 1916 Easter Rising Tour
This 3-hour private tour at $130.24 per person offers a condensed, personal exploration of Dublin’s key sites like Dublin Castle, Trinity College, and Christ Church Cathedral. The guide’s private approach enables tailored stops, and you’ll hear stories about the 1916 Easter Rising along the way.
Guests appreciate the flexibility, with reviews emphasizing how guide Maroşa made complex history accessible and engaging. It’s ideal if you prefer a customized, intimate experience that covers both sightseeing and meaningful stories.
Great for travelers with limited time who want a personalized deep dive into Dublin’s history.
Bottom Line: Perfect for history enthusiasts who want an exclusive, flexible overview of Dublin’s highlights.
10. Dublin: Sightseeing Walking Tour in German
At 2.5 hours, this small-group walking tour in German is a quick way to get acquainted with Dublin. The guide takes you to Dublin Castle, City Hall, and Trinity College, with a focus on hidden gems and lesser-known stories.
Guests describe Fiona as engaging and informative, making the city’s sights come alive in a short amount of time. It’s ideal if you prefer a guided overview in your native language or want a brief yet enriching introduction.
Good for travelers with limited time or those who want a taste of Dublin’s charm without a full-day commitment.
Bottom Line: A concise, well-paced tour perfect for language-specific needs and short schedules.
11. Semi-Private (8 people max) 2.5 Hour Dublin Walking Tour
For $71.10, this 2.5-hour tour offers an intimate, insider look at Dublin. You’ll visit iconic sights like Christ Church Cathedral and the Ha’penny Bridge, with stops at Molly Malone and Saint Patrick’s Cathedral. The guide shares local tips and stories that enrich each stop.
Reviews highlight the personal touch, with guides like Jimmy making the experience fun and educational. This tour suits travelers who want a more relaxed, small-group experience without sacrificing key sights or stories.
It’s ideal if you want a manageable, socially engaging exploration of Dublin’s historic and cultural highlights.
Bottom Line: Great for small groups or solo travelers looking for a friendly, personalized tour experience.
12. Dublin LGBTQ Pride Historical and Cultural Walking Tour
At $27.87 for about two hours, this tour explores Ireland’s LGBTQ+ history alongside Dublin’s landmarks. It covers Liberty Hall, Abbey Theatre, and Dublin Castle, sharing stories of queer figures and milestones like marriage equality.
Participants rave about Helena’s enthusiasm and her focus on stories that often go untold in typical guides. The tour is perfect for travelers interested in social history and the city’s modern cultural scene.
It’s a meaningful, engaging way to see Dublin through a different lens, suitable for open-minded travelers eager to learn more about Ireland’s social progress.
Bottom Line: Best for those curious about Ireland’s LGBTQ+ history and stories of resilience and change.
13. DayTripper Dublin: A Guided City Walking Tour
At $27.66, this 3.5-hour tour offers a rundown of Dublin’s highlights, including St Stephen’s Green, Grafton Street, and Dublin Castle. The guide provides insider tips and local color, making it ideal for first-timers.
Guests praise the knowledgeable guide and the mix of famous sights and lesser-known facts. It’s a great way to get your bearings early in your trip and plan your next days in Dublin.
Suitable for travelers who want an all-in-one introduction to the city in a manageable time frame.
Bottom Line: An excellent orientation tour for first-time visitors wanting a solid foundation for exploring Dublin further.
14. 8 Day Emerald Explorer Small Group Tour of Ireland
This immersive 8-day trip for $2,994.39 offers a deep dive into Ireland’s west coast, including the Cliffs of Moher, Dingle Peninsula, Blarney Castle, and the Ring of Kerry. The tour includes hotels, transport, and some meals, making it convenient and comfortable.
Guests love the guides like Vinney, who combine humor with storytelling, and the variety of sites visited. It’s ideal for travelers eager for a multi-day, all-encompassing experience that takes the stress out of planning.
Perfect if you want a comprehensive, small-group tour that covers iconic scenery, historic castles, and vibrant villages.
Bottom Line: The best choice for travelers with extra time seeking a well-organized, enriching adventure through Ireland’s stunning landscapes.
How to Choose the Best Dublin Tour for You
When selecting a tour, consider your budget, schedule, and interests. If your focus is on sampling Ireland’s pub culture and scenic mountains, tours like the Wicklow Mountain Pub Tour or Afternoon Dublin Mountain Pub Tour provide authentic local experiences with a relaxed vibe.
For those wanting a private, tailored experience, the Nearly All of Dublin in 5 hours offers flexibility in sightseeing. If you’re interested in Ireland’s natural wonders and don’t mind a longer day, the Giant’s Causeway Day Tour or Cliffs of Moher & Wild Atlantic Way** are top picks.
Budget travelers should look at shorter tours like the Dublin Sightseeing Walking Tour in German or the Dublin LGBTQ Pride Tour. For multi-day adventures, the 8 Day Emerald Explorer offers a complete Irish experience.
To sum it up, Dublin offers a rich variety of tours suited to different interests and schedules—whether you want to explore its history, enjoy scenic drives, or experience vibrant pub life. For those who want a personal touch, private and small-group options excel, while day trips to iconic sites like the Cliffs of Moher or Giant’s Causeway provide unforgettable scenery. Booking early is recommended, especially for popular tours and private experiences, to secure your spot on these memorable excursions.