bus tour ireland from dublin

Where should you travel next? Take the free quiz!

These Are the 12 Best Ireland Bus Tours from Dublin

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my links, at no extra cost to you. Please read  full disclosure  for more information.

What better way to explore the Emerald Isle than by hopping on one of these Ireland bus tours from Dublin ?

Ireland is a country that should be on every traveler’s bucket list. Renowned for its lush green landscapes, warm hospitality, and rich history – it’s brimming with reasons to visit. 

I was lucky enough to study abroad in Dublin and was able to take a few bus tours during my time there!

This small island certainly packs a punch, and each region holds unique attractions. This makes it challenging to choose just one area to visit – which is where Ireland bus tours from Dublin come in.

By adding a few bus tours to your itinerary, you can be sure not to miss out on experiencing the real Ireland. 

The many Ireland bus tours on offer boast carefully curated itineraries, encompassing some of the country’s best landscapes and attractions. Choosing a bus tour is a surefire way to get the most out of your Ireland trip.

Table of Contents

Best Bus Tours from Dublin in Ireland

Northern Ireland Highlights Day Trip Including Giant’s Causeway from Dublin

✅ Explore Belfast

✅ Visit Giants Causeway

✅ Visit Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge

Cliffs of Moher Tour Including Wild Atlantic Way and Galway City from Dublin

✅ See the Cliffs of Moher

✅ Drive part of the Wild Atlantic Way

✅ Visit Burren National Park

Kilkenny, Wicklow Mountains, Glendalough, Sheep Dog Trials, Day Trip from Dublin

✅ Visit Kilkenny Castle

✅ Drive the Wicklow Gap

✅ Guided walk of Wicklow Mountains National Park

Ireland Bus Tours from Dublin

⭐️ RATING:  5/5 Stars | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  13.5 hours | ✅   Book it!

Northern Ireland absolutely should not be missed on your Ireland adventure, and this bus tour is a great way of experiencing its highlights. This 13-hour day tour sets off from Dublin and will start by taking you on a 2-hour drive to Belfast.

Here, you’ll jump into a black cab for a Belfast tour led by a guide who grew up in this city during the ‘troubles’ (the Northern Ireland conflict).

The tour will take you through the neighborhoods that were at the heart of the conflict, as well as the famous peace wall, and along the way, you’ll listen to tales of this city’s bloody past. 

There is the option to swap the black cab tour for a visit to the Titanic Dock and Pump House, the site where the ship was constructed before beginning its tragic journey.

The Titanic Experience, situated next door, is a fantastic museum containing artifacts from the ill-fated ship, as well as many interactive exhibitions. 

Next, you’ll head to the UNESCO World Heritage sight of the Giants Causeway. This natural wonder is a true sight to behold, and learning about the mythology surrounding the causeway is fascinating.

Test your bravery by crossing the nearby Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, suspended 100 feet over the fierce Irish Sea. 

All admission costs are included in this trip, and the onboard guides are informative and will keep you entertained throughout the day. 

⭐ Click here to book this tour! ⭐

⭐️ RATING:  5/5 Stars | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  13 hours | ✅   Book it!

The Wild Atlantic Way is a popular trail covering the entire east coast of Ireland, taking in some of the country’s most breathtaking scenery. The road is windy in many parts, and conditions can be treacherous, thanks to Ireland’s unpredictable weather.

This means that driving the Wild Atlantic Way as a self-guided trip can be a stressful experience, and you’re likely to spend more time looking at maps than appreciating the magnificent views. 

There are many Ireland tour packages that cover this route, and a bus tour of the area means all hassle is removed – instead, you can sit back and take in the epic beauty in comfort.

The Cliffs of Moher Tour takes you through the most scenic spots along the Wild Atlantic Way, and you’re given free time to explore the magnificent cliffs at your own pace.

The trip also makes a stop at Burren National Park, famed for its thousands of archaeological sites and rocky landscapes. 

Your final stop will be Galway City, where you’ll enjoy a 30-minute introductory tour before spending a few hours exploring this waterfront paradise on your own accord.

Wandering around Galway’s brightly colored buildings and sampling fresh local cuisine is an experience not to be missed! 

The day trip lasts for around 13 hours, and your local guide will share their knowledge of the Irish countryside as you pass each stop.

There’s even Wi-Fi on board the coach, so you can keep your Instagram followers updated with all the incredible things you see throughout the day. 

Grab the Free Ultimate Ireland Bucket List

Sign up to get access to some of the best things to do in Ireland – perfect for planning your trip!

We respect your privacy. Unsubscribe at any time.

⭐️ RATING:  5/5 Stars | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  10 hours | ✅   Book it!

This bus tour will take you on a journey exploring Ireland’s mythical folklore and stunning medieval architecture. You’ll start at Kilkenny Castle, an 800-year-old Castle founded soon after the Norman occupation of Ireland.

After spending time exploring this remarkable site, you’ll head to a working sheep farm where you’ll watch sheepdog trials and learn how these dogs heard the farm’s animals.

Getting an opportunity to visit a working Irish farm isn’t part of the usual tourist trail, and this is just one of the things that makes this bus tour a great choice. 

After this, you’ll drive through one of the highest mountain passes in Ireland – the Wicklow Gap. This road is nestled between rugged green hills, and the scenery is breathtaking. Make sure to pack your camera!

This area was used as a filming location for ‘Braveheart’ and ‘P.S. I love you’; it’s one of the most stunning spots in Ireland. 

The nearby Wicklow Mountains National Park is your next stop, and here, you’ll enjoy a two-hour guided walk that takes in impressive views across the dramatic mountain range.

From here, you’ll head to the Glendalough Monastic Settlement. This early Christian settlement was founded in the 6th century, and your guide will walk you through the church ruins and ancient graveyards while recounting folklore tales.

The mystical energy in this place makes it a truly special environment to explore. 

This 10-hour day trip is one of the best Ireland bus tours from Dublin for anyone interested in delving into Ireland’s mystical history while also soaking up some of the country’s best natural wonders. 

Small-Group Wicklow, Powerscourt, and Glendalough Day Tour from Dublin

⭐️ RATING:  4.5/5 Stars | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  8 hours | ✅   Book it!

One of the downsides to bus tours is that traveling in a large group can come with downsides.

Larger queues for attractions, not being able to ask your guide all your questions, and people getting in the way of your pictures – these are all things that sometimes happen in a large group. 

This Ireland bus tour from Dublin is the perfect trip if you’re worried about these problems. With a guaranteed maximum of 16 people, this is a great way of experiencing all the perks of bus tour travel without any of the downsides.

You’ll have plenty of exploration time at each spot, making it the perfect tour for the more independent traveler. 

This 8-hour trip starts and ends in Dublin and makes seven stops. Your first stop is the Molly Malone statue, and then you’ll drive to Powerscourt House and Gardens. These gardens are voted 3rd best gardens in the world by National Geographic! 

Next, you’ll head to the charming Enniskerry Village Square. Traveling as part of a small group means you get to visit more local attractions, and Enniskerry Village Square is somewhere that larger group tours don’t tend to visit. 

Next, you’ll spend an hour driving through the Wicklow Mountains National Park, stopping at all the noteworthy points along the way, such as the Guinness estate and Sally Gap.

You’ll visit the bridge used for filming in P.S. I Love You before heading to the beautiful Lough Tay, also known as Guinness Lake. Guinness Lake is where the series ‘Vikings’ was created, and the view over the lake is one of Ireland’s most spectacular. 

Finally, you’ll head to the Glendalough Monastic Settlement, where you’ll have time to explore the beautiful valley and all its ruins.

This is an excellent Ireland bus tour from Dublin as you get to escape the city for a few hours and explore rural Ireland without having to spend too much time on the road – all of the stops are relatively close to one another. 

Titanic Belfast Experience, Giant’s Causeway, Dunluce Castle Day Trip from Dublin

Game of Thrones fans won’t want to miss this Northern Ireland bus tour. You’ll board the bus in Dublin for a 2-hour drive up to Belfast, where you’ll head straight to the Titanic Belfast Experience.

This world-class attraction delves into Belfast’s role in the Titanic’s history and features nine interactive galleries, where visitors will be immersed in the sights and smells of the ship.

Here, you’ll hear stories of life aboard the Titanic and learn about the people who made her – in the very place you stand. 

Following this, you’ll head to the 500-year-old Dun Luce Castle. This iconic castle is located on a cliff edge, towering high above the wild Atlantic Ocean – making it one of the most dramatic views in the country.

It was used as a filming location in Game of Thrones, and fans of the show will recognize it instantly. 

Your final stop will be at the Giant’s Causeway, one of Ireland’s most famous landmarks. You’ll have 2 hours to explore this magical site before returning to Dublin. 

All entry admissions are included in this bus tour, making it a very convenient day out. The day trip is 13 hours long and suitable for all age groups. 

Celtic Boyne Valley Day Trip from Dublin

⭐️ RATING:  4.5/5 Stars | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  10 hours | ✅   Book it!

This is one of the best bus tours in Ireland for history lovers. Ireland has a rich history, and on this trip, you’ll travel more than 5000 years back in time as you explore some of the country’s most significant historical sites. 

The 10-hour-long tour will start and end in Dublin. Your first stop is the famous Hill of Tara, the most sacred ancient site in Ireland. You’ll have an hour to explore this giant mound, which is where the high kings of Ireland watched and ruled over the country.

A quarter of the country can be viewed atop this hill on a clear day – it’s a pretty special place. 

Next up is Trim, an Anglo-Norman castle that is the largest of its type in Ireland. Admission here is included, and your guide will teach you all about the history and significance of the castle.

It has been remarkably well preserved and is surrounded by stunning scenery, and you’ll spend an hour taking it in in all its glory. 

Following this, you’ll go to Loughcrew Cairns, a passage of 5000 Neolithic burial tombs which are filled with ancient rock art.

The next stop is the nearby Fore Abbey, a fascinating area home to 7 wonders – the monastery in the bog, the mill without a race, the water that flows uphill, the tree that has three branches/the tree that won’t burn, the water that won’t boil, the anchorite in a stone and the stone raised by St Fechin’s prayers. Pretty impressive! 

This is a fantastic day out, offering the chance to delve into ancient Ireland without spending the night away from the city. 

Afternoon Tea Bus Tour in Dublin

⭐️ RATING:  4.5/5 Stars | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  1.5 hours | ✅   Book it!

Vintage Tea Trips offer a bus tour with a twist. This hour-and-a-half-long journey is a unique way to see Dublin while sitting in the comfort of a cozy vintage bus, listening to the sounds of smooth jazz and nibbling on divine freshly baked goods. 

There is no structured commentary on the bus, but the friendly tour escorts create a warm and sociable atmosphere among the passengers. You’ll pass all the best sites in downtown Dublin and listen to the team as they share their favorite Dublin stories. 

This trip is a great way to spend an afternoon and is a fun way to experience this quirky city. 

Blarney Castle Day Tour from Dublin Including Rock of Cashel & Cork City

⭐️ RATING:  4.5/5 Stars | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  12 hours | ✅   Book it!

This is a great bus tour from Dublin that explores the highlights of County Cork and County Tipperary.

The first stop is the Rock of Cashel, famous as one of Ireland’s most important historical sites. This cluster of medieval buildings is home to a vast collection of Celtic artwork, and its medieval architecture is renowned as some of the best in Europe.

The buildings perch atop a hill and overlook quintessentially Irish rolling green hills. You’ll have an hour to spend here, and admission is included in the ticket. 

Next, you’ll have an hour and a half to explore the city of Cork. There is no guided tour here, so you can spend your time as you please, and you certainly won’t struggle to find things to do in Cork!

The buzzing city contains a truly vibrant Irish atmosphere and is a foodie’s paradise. 

After your time in Cork, the next stop is the famous Blarney Castle. This beautiful castle is famous in Irish legend – the Irish have been kissing the Blarney Stone for centuries, and it’s believed that by kissing the stone, you’ll receive the ‘gift of the gab’… otherwise known as seven years of eloquent speech. Maybe there’s some truth in it – the Irish are great storytellers! 

This 12-hour tour is a must for history lovers, as it journeys around some of Ireland’s most impressive historical landmarks. 

Dublin: Cliffs of Moher, Kilmacduagh Abbey, Wild Atlantic Way, and Galway

⭐️ RATING:  5/5 Stars | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  12.5 hours | ✅   Book it!

This West Ireland tour covers the same stops as the above Cliffs of Moher tour, but it also includes an additional stop that is exclusive to this tour operator. Kilmacduagh monastery is a 1000-year-old ruin and graveyard and is one of Ireland’s best collections of monastic buildings. 

During your visit, you’ll spend time exploring the 12th-century round tower as well as the ruins and graveyard. The area is surrounded by Ireland’s famous verdant green hills and here you’ll spot more cows than you will people!

The tour is 12 and a half hours long and includes all admission fees, as well as fantastic live commentary, which will teach you everything there is to know about Ireland’s wild and enchanting west. 

Dublin Mountain Pub Tour

⭐️ RATING:  5/5 Stars | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  5 hours | ✅   Book it!

Ireland is famous for its pubs, and for good reason – you’d be hard-pressed to find a country with more charming and atmospheric watering holes. 

The best way to experience Ireland’s pubs is by visiting with a local. This Ireland bus tour from Dublin is hosted by a local guide, meaning you can do just that!

You’ll venture into the mountains of Dublin and tour three different pubs, and your guide will share his knowledge and stories with you at each spot. The tour is 5 hours long, so you’ll have ample drinking time in each.

The best part is that you don’t have to worry about being the designated driver as you’re on a bus tour! This trip is a fantastic way to experience Dublin’s pubs. 

The places you’ll visit are real local pubs, rather than the touristy ones you’re likely to find in the city center. Each pub is located in a scenic mountain setting, and you can expect to find live traditional music at each spot.

The Irish are an incredibly friendly and welcoming bunch, so expect to meet some fantastic people and enjoy brilliant conversation along the way. 

Dublin Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

⭐️ RATING:  4.5/5 Stars | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  1 hour 45 minutes | ✅   Book it!

If you’re a seasoned city-hopper, you’ll be no stranger to seeing Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tours. These cheery red double-decker buses can be found in most cities around the world, and they’re an excellent way to see all the sights and learn along the way. 

Dublin has multiple tour providers offering Hop-On and Hop-Off tickets, each of which allows you to explore the city at your own pace.

On board, you’ll receive an audio guide with an informative commentary of each sight you pass, along with interesting facts about the city.

These buses all follow a similar route around Dublin’s most popular attractions, including everything from the iconic National Gallery to the world-renowned Temple Bar. 

Your ticket is usually valid for 24 hours and allows you to get off at each site you want to explore and skip the ones you aren’t interested in.

Many of the tour providers (such as Big Bus Dublin) also include a free walking tour within the ticket, led by a local historian who takes you to some of the lesser-known sites in areas the bus can’t reach.

This bus tour is the perfect way to get the most out of the city without the additional expense and stress of navigating transport yourself. 

Game of Thrones – Winterfell Trek from Dublin

⭐️ RATING:  5/5 Stars | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  11 hours | ✅   Book it!

Thanks to its stunning scenery and out-of-this-world nature, Ireland has been used in countless film and television productions over the years.

Some Ireland tour packages offer trips that bring these cinematic worlds to life, and this Winterfell Trek is an absolute must-do for fans of Game of Thrones. 

The tour starts when you board the bus in Dublin, where you’ll be given a cloak to wear for the tour – you’ll be feeling like a member of House Stark in no time!

Along the way to visit filming locations from the series, you’ll stop at some of Northern Ireland’s most scenic locations, like Tollymore Forest Park and Strangford Lough. 

Then, you’ll arrive at Old Castle Ward, which was the location of Winterfell in series 1. The tour is led by guides who were extras in the series, and they’ll lead you on a walking tour of areas like Walder Frey’s Twins and Robb Stark’s camp in the Riverlands. 

The guides will share tales of their experience during filming, and you’ll even get to watch special behind-the-scenes footage on tablets. The final stop is Inch Abbey, the 12th-century ruins where Robb Stark became king in the North. 

This trip is an incredible experience for fans of the series, and when surrounded by the ethereal forests and medieval ruins of Ireland, it’s impossible not to feel like you’re in Winterfell. 

Final Thoughts: Ireland Bus Tours from Dublin

As you can see, there are multiple incredible Ireland bus tours from Dublin. Traveling in this way enables you to maximize your time in the Emerald Isle and discover all the best sites without the headache of organizing your own tour.

The only problem with bus tours in Ireland is… which one to choose?!

Related Posts

See All Posts →

How to Take a Day Trip From Dublin to Bray, Ireland

13 Charmingly Best Cities to Visit in Ireland

How to Spend One Day in Killarney, Ireland

Ireland Bucket List: 37 Best Things to do in Ireland

14 Best Views in Dublin That You Can’t Miss

9 Spellbinding Ireland Castle Tours

KP is the head blogger and founder behind Volumes & Voyages. After studying abroad in Dublin for a semester, KP got bitten by the travel bug. Now, she writes articles to help other travelers in between trips where she chases her wanderlust. KP has lived in many different places, including Boston MA, Denver CO, Las Vegas NV, southern VT, and Dublin IE.

Similar Posts

9 Amazing Hidden Gems in Rome, Italy

How to Take a Day Trip to Neuschwanstein Castle from Munich

9 Best Salzburg Day Trips

11 Best Places to Visit in Austria According to Travel Bloggers + Map

13 Best Free Things to do in Prague

Vienna Bucket List: 23 Best Things to do in Vienna

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Privacy Overview

Tours from Dublin

Welcome to history-soaked dublin.

A tale or two can come from touring around Dublin. It’s inevitable. You’ll find yourself in a pub in Dublin.

Perhaps with a pint of Guinness in your hand, quoting Pippin (“It comes in pints?!”), completely overcome with this feeling. One of excitement. Happiness. Possibility. Because you’re in Dublin and this city is like the hug of a loud and rambunctious friend when you finally arrive at the pub on a night out. But why stop there?

Ireland’s beauty is infectious and should be experienced in full. Step out of the bustling city and take a tour from Dublin. The Emerald Isle is ready to tell you some stories. To show you a good time. To score itself into your memory for a long time to come, and become a lifelong friend. 

Find your perfect tour of Ireland from Dublin below.

Planning Your Tour from Dublin

We love the pub-ridden alleys and history-soaked streets of Dublin. But when you explore Ireland and take a trip from Dublin, you escape the city and discover the authentic Emerald Isle. You find cliffs as epic as the ancient sagas, you encounter too-strange-to-be-true traditions, and you taste whiskies that you never knew you needed in your life.

Travel Responsibly from Dublin

Cultural, passionate, historical - we love the life that bursts forth from a city like Dublin. Which is why one of our missions is to protect the places we love. Through our responsible travel initiative , we donate, volunteer, use small mini-coaches and do as much as we can to protect the locations we tour for future generations to enjoy.

Did You Know?

- Trinity College has more than just a pretty face, she’s had some famous graduates too – such as Oscar Wilde and Bram Stoker. - The idea for the Guinness Book of Records originated at the Guinness Brewery in Dublin (now the Guinness Storehouse , which you can visit).

Don't Miss Out

- How can you visit the home of Guinness and not visit where it all began? Even if you’re not a big Guinness fan, the tours themselves are still super interesting. - If you can time it right, why not celebrate St Patrick’s Day in the city of Dublin? Bring your A-Game and lots of the colour green.

Escorted Bus Tours

Holiday Duration? Pick one or more

What kind of experience are you looking for?

Food/Dining

History & Heritage

Honeymoon & Romance

Scenic Attractions

What style of tour are you looking for?

• Escorted Bus Tours Ireland

63 tours met your criteria

Tour highlights include Blarney Castle, Cliffs of Moher, Sheepdog Demonstration, Waterford Crystal, Kings John Castle, Ring of Kerry

Irish Heritage & Dromoland Castle - 8 Days/7 Nights

Glasgow Highlights, Loch Lomond, Lochness Cruise, Edinburgh Castle, Titanic Belfast, Dublin sightseeing.

Taste of Scotland & Ireland - 11 days/10 Nights

Glasgow Highlights, Loch Lomond, Lochness Cruise, Edinburgh Castle

Taste of Scotland - 5 days/4 Nights

Trip highlights include superb 5-Star hotels and luxury Irish Castles

Irish Supreme - 9 Days/8 Nights

Tour highlights include Blarney Castle, Cliffs of Moher, Dublin Castle, Blasket Centre, Foynes flying boat museum & a trip to Kinsale

Southern Gems - 7 Days/6 Nights

Tour highlights includes Blarney Castle, Cliffs of Moher, Sheep dog Trials & Dublin Sightseeing

Taste of Ireland (Tour B)- 6 Days/5 Nights

Tour highlights include Blarney Castle, Cliffs of Moher, Dubln Castle, Ring of Kerry, Sheep dog Trials& Skellig Michael

Taste of Ireland (Tour C)- 5 Days/4 Nights

Tour highlights include Blarney Castle, Cliffs of Moher, Dubln Castle, Ring of Kerry, Sheep dog Trials & Skellig Michael

Taste of Ireland (Tour A)- 7 Days/6 Nights

Trip highlights include Blarney Castle, Cliffs of Moher, Isle of Skye and the amazing Giant's Causeway.

Scots Irish Tour - 11 Days/10 Nights

Trip highlights include Blarney Castle, the world famous Cliffs of Moher, Edinburgh Castle and the Isle of Skye.

Scots Irish Tour - 15 Days/14 Nights

Trip highlights include Cliffs of Moher, Kilkenny Castle, Ring of Kerry & Blarney Castle

Irish Spirit- 8 Days/7 Nights

Trip highlights include Cliffs of Moher, Blarney Castle, Kilkenny Castle and the stunning Ring of Kerry

Irish Spirit - 9 Days/8 Nights

Trip highlights include Isle of Skye, Loch Ness Cruise, Skara Brae and Urqhart Castle.

Scottish Isles & Glens - 12 Days/11 Nights

Tour highlights include Blarney Castle, Cliffs of Moher, Guinness Storehouse Tour, Dingle Peninsula & a fantastic Sheepdog Demonstration

The Irish Pub Tour- 8 Days/7 Nights

Trip highlights include Blarney Castle, the Cliffs of Moher, the Guinness Storehouse and the fantastic sheepdog demonstrations.

The Irish Pub Tour - 9 Days/8 Nights

Trip highlights include Almwick Castle and Gardens, Book of Kells at Trinity College, Cardiff Castle, Edinburgh Castle, Giants Causeway, Hampton Court Palace, Jameson Whiskey Experience, Roman Bath, Stonehenge.

British & Irish Grandeur - 14 Days/13 Nights

Trip highlights include the Cliffs of Moher, Blarney Castle, Cardiff Castle, Epic The Irish Emigration Museum, Roman Baths, St Patricks Cathedral, Stonehenge, Tower of London.

Irish & British Focus - 11 days/10 nights

Trip highlights include Edinburgh Castle, Cardiff Castle, Roman Baths, Tower of London and Windsor Castle

Best of Britain 10 Days/9 nights Tour

Tour highlights include Blarney Castle, Trinity College and the Book of Kells. Little Museum of Dublin, Cliffs of Moher, Dingle Peninsula, Jaunting Carriage Ride in Killarney and Sheep Dog demonstration

Best of Ireland South (Tour B) - 7 Days/6 Nights

Best of Ireland South (Tour C) - 7 Days/6 Nights

Best of Ireland South (Tour A) - 8 Days/7 Nights

Tour highlights include Edinburgh Castle, Inverary Castle, Kelvingrove Art Gallery and museum, Sean's Bar, Cliffs of Moher, Waterford Crystal, Kylemore Abbey and Gardens.

Scottish & Irish Gold - 15 Days/14 Nights

Scottish & Irish Gold - 16 Days/15 Nights

Trip highlights include the Cliffs of Moher, the Giant's Causeway, Titanic Belfast and the fantastic sheepdog demonstrations.

Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way 13 days/12 night

Trip highlights include Blair Athol Distillery, Blair Castle, Edinburgh Castle and the Isle of Skye.

Scottish Dream - 8 Days/7 Nights

Trip highlights include Blasket Centre, Giant's Causeway, Slieve League Cliffs and Titanic Belfast.

Jewels of Ireland - 14 Days/13 Nights

Trip highlights include the Blasket Centre, Brú na Bóinne, the Giant's Causeway and the Slieve League Cliffs.

Jewels of Ireland - 15 Days/14 Nights

Trip highlights include Edinburgh Castle, St. Andrew's, the Cliffs of Moher, the Ring of Kerry and the fantastic Sheepdog Demonstration.

Scottish & Irish Dream- 13 Days/12 Nights

Trip highlights include Edinburgh Castle, Blarney Castle, Cliffs of Moher and the Titanic Belfast.

Scottish & Irish Dream- 14 Days/13 Nights

Trip highlights include Blarney Castle, Cliffs of Moher, Ring of Kerry and Trinity College & the Book of Kells.

Irish Gold Coach Tour - 8 Days/7 Nights

Trip highlights include the Cliffs of Moher, Blarney Castle, Trinity College & the Book of Kells and the stunning Cliffs of Moher.

Irish Gold Coach Tour - 9 Days/8 Nights

Trip highlights include Caernarfon Castle, Snowdonia Train Ride, Shakespeare's Birthplace and the famous Tower of London.

Heart of Wales and England 8 Days/7 Nights

Trip highlights include the Cliffs of Moher, Blarney Castle, Titanic Belfast and the Giant's Causeway.

Irish Adventure - 8 Days/7 Nights

Trip highlights include Cliffs of Moher, Blarney Castle, Knock Shrine and the Giant's Causeway.

Irish Adventure - 9 Days/8 Nights

Trip highlights include Windsor Castle, the Roman Baths, the stunning Cliffs of Moher and Blarney Castle.

Taste of Britain & Ireland - 14 Days/13 Nights

Trip highlights include Blarney Castle, Cliffs of Moher, Giant's Causeway and the Titanic Belfast.

Irish Classic - 13 Days/12 Nights

Trip highlights include Windsor Castle, the Roman Baths, a cruise on Lake Windermere and the Tower of London

Taste of Britain - 7 Days/6 Nights

Trip highlights include the Cliffs of Moher, Down Cathedral, the Titanic Belfast and the world famous Giant's Causeway.

Mystical Ireland - 8 Days/7 Nights

Trip highlights include Muckross House and Gardens, the Cliffs of Moher, Kylemore Abbey and a wonderful Sheepdog demonstration.

Castles & Manors of Ireland - 8 Days/7 Nights

Trip highlights include Cawdor Castle, Edinburgh Castle, Loch Ness Cruise and St. Andrew's Castle & Cathedral.

Scottish Supreme - 8 days/7 nights

Trip highlights include Blair Athol Distillery, Edinburgh Castle, St. Andrew's and the Giant's Causeway.

Irish & Scottish Sampler - 8 Days/7 Nights

Trip highlights include Edinburgh Castle, Stonehenge, , Glasnevin Cemetery Museum and the House of Waterford Crystal.

Essence of Britain & Ireland 11 day/10 night tour

Trip highlights include Dublin Vintage Tea Tour, Seaweed Foraging Experience, Glendalough and Blarney Castle.

The Irish Foodie Tour - 8 Days/7 Nights

Trip highlights include Brodie Castle, Palace of Holyroodhouse, Culloden Battlefield Visitor Centre and the Isle of Skye.

Scottish Clans & Castles 10 day/9 night tour

Trip highlights include Blair Athol Distillery, Loch Ness Cruise & Edinburgh Castle

Scottish Clans & Castles 11 day/10 night tour

Tour highlights include Blarney Castle, Cliffs of Moher, Sheep Dog demonstration, fun cooking experience, viking splash tour, Galway Walking Tour and private chocolate tasting.

Irish Myths & Legends - 8 Days/7 Nights

Trip highlights include Blair Blair Castle, Loch Ness Cruise, Sheep dog demonstration, Riverside Transport & Museum, Sterling Castle and Highland Safaris

Scottish Lochs & Castles - 8 Days/7 Nights

The highlights are Blarney Castle, Cliffs of Moher, Ring of Kerry, Dingle Peninsula, Dublin City Tour, Jaunting car ride, South Pole Inn an Sheep Dog demonstration.

Ireland South Daytripper - 7 Days/6 Nights

Trip highlights include Roman Baths Stonehenge and Windsor Castle.

Taste of England - 14 day/13 night

Trip highlights include Roman Baths, Stonehenge and Cantebury Cathedral and London Eye.

Best of Southern England - 8 day/7 night

Trip highlights include Stonehenge, York, Oxford, Cambridge, Cantebury Cathedral and Lake District

Best of Northern England - 8 day/7 night

The highlights include Beleek Pottery, Blarney Castle, Cliffs of Moher, Abbey Tavern, Cruise on Lough, Glasnevin Cemetery Museum, Florence Court House, Whiskey Experience in Killarney, Sheepdog demonstration, Sieve League Cliffs.

Irish Explorer - 10 Days/9 Nights

Irish Explorer - 9 Days/8 Nights

Trip highlights include North Yorkshire Moors Railway, Glamis Castle, Edinburgh Castle and the Tower of London.

Great British Cities - 8 day/7 night

Trip highlights include Trim Castle Living History Demonstration, the Giant's Causeway, Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge and Edinburgh Castle.

Lochs, Luck & Lore - 8 Days/7 Nights

Trip highlights include Roman Baths, Glamis Castle, Stonehenge and Windsor Castle.

Scenic Britain - 11 day/10 night

Trip highlights include the Dingle Peninsula, the Book of Kells, the Cliffs of Moher and Kylemore Abbey.

Elegant Ireland - 10 Days/9 Nights

Trip highlights include Castle Howard, Stonehenge, Shakespeare's Birthplace and Lanhydrock House.

Highlights of Britain - 15 day/14 night

Trip highlights include Glasnevin Cemetery Museum, the Giant's Causeway and a fantastic sheepdog demonstration.

Northern Welcome - 9 Days/8 Nights

Trip highlights include Glens of Antrim, Windsor Castle, Stonehenge, the Cliffs of Moher and a fantastic Sheepdog Demonstration.

Grand Tour of Britain & Ireland - 23 Days/22 Nights

Trip highlights include Belleek Pottery, Cliffs of Moher, Giants Causeway and Kilmainham Gaol

Irish Odyssey - 12 Days/11 Nights

Trip highlights include Callanish Standing Stones, Island Hopping Experience, Isle of Harris Distillery and Edinburgh Castle.

The Outer Hebrides - Scotland's Gaelic West - 11 days/10 nights

Trip highlights include a West End Theater Show, Harry Potter Themed London Walking Tour, Roman Baths, Stonehenge and the Tower of London.

English Knights & Wizards - 8 Days/7 Nights

Can't find what you're looking for?

Create your own tour

Travel across Ireland in comfort with our expert led Bus and Coach Tours of Ireland

Our bus and coach tours of Ireland are specifically designed to allow you experience the best of what Ireland has to offer during your vacation. Each bus tour has been carefully architected so that you can take in the sights and scenery that Ireland has to offer, in a relaxed and enjoyable manner. We believe that our attention to detail is sure to enrich your coach vacation experience of Ireland.

Two great reasons to book your CIE Escorted Bus Tour with irishtourism.com

Our Price Promise - Guaranteed Lowest Tour Price available IrishTourism.com is committed to offering the lowest price for any CIE International Escorted Coach Tour of Ireland. We will not be knowingly undersold on any of our bus tours of Ireland! However, if prior to booking you find a better price for an identical bus tour of Ireland with any other agent we will match their price. PLUS if your bus tour price is over $1,000 per person we will give you an additional $50 off the price of your tour! Book Now & Save! At least 5% off all our Coach Tours.

IrishTourism.com is pleased to announce that CIE Tours International is guaranteeing the vast majority of tour departure dates, so you can now book safe in the knowledge that your chosen tour of Ireland will operate! To determine whether your preferred tour departure date is open and guaranteed, please check with our reservations team prior to booking. You can do this by calling us here in Ireland on one of the numbers below or by sending us an enquiry for the particular tour of your choice. With dates assured, we guarantee that you will have a superb travel experience with us!

Subscribe to our newsletter

• Terms & Conditions
• Travel Agents
• The Irish Tourism Group Sustainability Policy

RU | Site built by Granite Digital & Crafted by Artisan

How do you like to travel?

• Self Drive Tours Ireland
• Honeymoons in Ireland
• Private Group Tours Ireland

How much time do you have have to spend in Ireland?

Talk to our Irish experts

Let us help you create that dream Irish vacation that you will remember forever.

Call us here in Ireland to discuss your plans.

Let's keep in touch

Sign up here to get the latest news, updates and special offers.

• Select Language
• Select Currency
• Australian Dollar
• Canadian Dollar
• Chinese Yuan (CNY)
• British Pound (GBP)
• Indian Rupees (INR)
• Japanese Yen (JPY)
• Malaysian Ringgit
• Newzealand Dollar
• Singapore Dollar

Hop On Hop Off Dublin - Bus Tours

Experience the best of the capital city of Ireland with your hop-on hop-off Dublin tour. Choose from a range of Dublin hop-on hop-off bus tickets and discover the city at your own pace. Explore the culture and vibrance of the city and visit some of the iconic stops like the Irish Whiskey Museum, Dublin Castle, Writers Museum, Guinness Brewery, Temple Bar and many more. The city that wakes up early offers some top-rated Dublin bus tour combinations at compelling prices. It’s what to do in Dublin!

Dublin Sightseeing Bus Tours

( ) experiences found.

• Recommended
• High to low
• Low to high
• User rating

Top Customer Reviews

Mary mcdonald.

Getting a wide overview of a new city helps me get the most out of travels.

Lauren Murphy

woooooo loved it !!!!!!!!

Elizabeth Quigley

Great driver and staff. Very helpful.

Experience Dublin in Hop On Hop Off Bus Tours

Explore the Emerald Isle during your hop-on hop-off Dublin city tours. With your tickets, you don’t need to trouble yourself about how to get around the city. The bus tours are super-flexible, and they make plenty of stops at the top attractions, so you can choose which places you would like to see. Check out the Dublin Castle, Guinness Storehouse, Kilmainham Gaol, and much more!

You can choose from top curated experiences and hop on Big Bus Dublin, Do Dublin, or more. You can even pair a hop-on hop-off with a free museum visit and a walking tour. Otherwise, why not opt for a tour that includes meal deals, a free walking tour, drinks, and more! And for those wanting to avail themselves of a great deal, you can try a DoDublin Card or a Dublin Pass.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: what is the best time to book the hop-on hop-off dublin sightseeing tour.

June to August is the peak season in Dublin when the weather is pleasantly warm and festivities fill the air. However, the city is packed with tourists in the summer season. You can also visit Dublin in late spring to balance out the crowds. Plus, you can secure great deals on sightseeing and accommodation.

Q: What are the key attractions covered in the Dublin hop-on hop-off tour?

Major attractions covered in Dublin open bus tour include the Irish Whiskey Museum, Christchurch Cathedral, Dublin Castle, The Dublin Liberties Distillery, Kilmainham Gaol, Phoenix Park, Writers Museum, Irish Museum of Modern Art, National Museum of Ireland, Teelings Distillery, and Temple Bar.

Q: Is Dublin hop-on hop-off worth it?

Dublin hop-on hop-off bus tour covers all major attractions of the city with strategically placed stops. Add to that, you can also combine your sightseeing bus tour with a River Cruise or The Guinness Storehouse Experience. These tours also include free guided walking tours and immersive audio commentary about Dublin’s Viking history. You can enjoy live commentary in several languages such as English, German, French, Spanish, Cantonese, Japanese, Italian, and Russian to ensure that you don’t miss a thing.

Q: Where can I find a list of all the stops and a map of the various hop-on hop-off tour routes?

You can visit the relevant product page and check the Useful Downloads section to find the latest information as routes, stops and timings change frequently.

Q: Where do I exchange my Dublin Bus tour voucher or paper ticket?

Other hop on hop off destinations.

• New York City
• San Francisco
• Washington DC
• Los Angeles
• Johannesburg
• San Antonio
• Reykjavik Iceland
• St-Petersburg
• Benalmadena
• Thessaloniki
• Kristiansand
• BUENOS AIRES
• Hop On Hop Off Bus Offers and Deals

travel inspiration from guidebook

Raise a glass to Dublin: The City that knows how to Party

The Emerald Isles are waiting for you! The post Raise a glass to Dublin: The City that knows how to Party appeared first on The Guidebook - isango! .

7 Best Things to do in Singapore: A Comprehensive Guide

Popularly known as the Lion City, Singapore is a city-state known for its unique tapestry of experience and the perfect blend of… The post 7 Best Things to do in Singapore: A Comprehensive Guide appeared first on The Guidebook - isango! .

Budapest Travel Tips: 10 Awesome Tips For Your First Trip To Budapest

Pronounced Boo-Da-Pesht and not Boo-Da-Pest, Budapest is a treasure trove of unparalleled architecture, healing thermal baths, and breathtaking landscapes. It is unlike… The post Budapest Travel Tips: 10 Awesome Tips For Your First Trip To Budapest appeared first on The Guidebook - isango! .

Get the latest offers and inspiration

Sign up to our newsletter and get the best isango! has to offer

• Enter a valid email
• Enter the characters shown below Captcha not matching

Terms of Use

• Booking terms & conditions
• Picture credits

Get in touch

Haven't found what you're looking for?

Try a more specific search (e.g Add city or destination name)

You have signed up successfully.

Please stay tuned on your email for exciting offers.

Sign Up Login Login Or Sign Up

Sign up to create and view bookings Login to create and view bookings

• Enter full name
• E-Mail ID Already Exists User does not exist Enter a valid email
• Please enter password Enter valid password(at least 6 characters)
• Remember me Forgot Password
• I wish to receive top deals and travel inspiration
• By signing up you agree to our Terms and Conditions & Privacy Policy .

Forgot Password

• Enter your email address and we will send an email with a link to reset your password.
• Continue Login

Email sent successfully.

USA/Canada Toll Free: 1-888-508-6639 USA/Canada Toll Free / Landline: (046) 9437555

ALL OUR TOURS are fully customizable We offer 24/7 customer care on arrival in Ireland

Where the Love for Ireland Begins

• COACH TOURS OF IRELAND

Travel Ireland, Scotland, Britain or a combination of all three with our popular luxury bus tours, for small groups and large groups . Depending on your budget and length of your stay, we have the perfect coach trip for you to see the best of these beautiful countries.

Travel in comfort from coast to coast and experience varied treasures, from stunning countrysides and coastlines to picturesque towns and World heritage landmarks. In Ireland, tick the Wild Atlantic Way, The Cliffs of Moher and the Giant’s Causeway off your travel bucket list as well as Dublin City, historic Castles and much more.

Choose from our wide range of small and large group coach tours, led by your own personal, expert driver guide. Our all-inclusive bus tours of Ireland, Scotland and Britain include wonderful accommodation, meals and guided excursions.

For a more customized tour experience, we also have a great range of private tours. Be sure to also take a look at our self-drive tours if you would prefer to be in the driving seat.

SMALL & LARGE GROUP TOURS

Small group tours.

6 DAY NORTHERN ISLAND

6 Day Flavour of Ireland

7 DAY TREASURE IRELAND TOUR

7 DAY BEAUTFULL SOUTH TOUR

• 8 Day Love Ireland

10 DAY LOOP OF IRELAND TOUR

11 DAY DISCOVER IRELAND TOUR

Large group tours.

5 DAY TASTE OF IRELAND

6 DAY TASTE OF IRELAND

7 DAY BEST OF IRELAND SOUTH

7 DAY Southern Gems

8 DAY IRISH GOLD

8 Day Irish Heritage & Dromoland Castle

• 8 Day Mystical Ireland

8 DAY The Irish Pub Tour

8 DAY Irish Spirit

9 Day Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way

9 DAY IRISH ADVENTURE

This coach tour is also available in a 8 day tour so pop us an email to get your quote and further details

10 Day Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way

• 10 Day Irish Legends

12 DAY IRISH ODYSSEY

14 Day Jewels of Ireland

5 DAY TASTE OF SCOTLAND

8 DAY SCOTTISH DREAM

Scotland & ireland.

7 DAY IRISH & SCOTTISH SAMPLER

10 DAY TASTE OF SCOTLAND & IRELAND

14 DAY SCOTTISH & IRISH DREAM

15 DAY THE SCOTS IRISH TOUR

16 DAY SCOTTISH & IRISH GOLD

Britain & ireland, coming soon.

Contact Info

• Love Irish Tours
• Unit 8 Scurlockstown Business Park Trim Co Meath
• 1888-508-6639
• (046) 9437555
• edel@loveirishtours.com
• 5 Day Taste Of Ireland
• 6 Day Taste Of Ireland
• 7 Day Best Of Ireland South
• 7 Day Southern Gems
• 8 Day Irish Gold
• 8 Day Irish Heritage & Dromoland Castle
• 8 Day The Irish Pub Tour
• 8 Day Irish Spirit
• 9 Day Irish Adventure
• 9 Day Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way
• 10 Day Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way
• 12 Day Irish Odyssey
• 14 Day Jewels Of Ireland Tour
• 6 Day Flavour of Ireland Tour
• 6 Day Northern Island
• 7 Day Treasure Ireland Tour
• 7 Day Beautiful South Tour
• 10 Day Loop of Ireland Tour
• 11 day Discover Ireland Tour
• 5 Day Taste of Scotland
• 8 Day Scottish Dream
• 7 Day Irish & Scottish Sampler
• 10 Day Taste of Scotland & Ireland
• 14 Day Scottish & Irish Dream
• 15 Day The Scots Irish Tour
• 16 Day Scottish & Irish Gold

Love Irish Tours © 2024 · Website Designed by Website Design Ireland

• REQUEST PRICING
• Send Payment
• SELF DRIVE TOURS OF IRELAND
• PRIVATE ESCORTED TOURS
• PRIVACY POLICY & COOKIE POLICY

Free Attraction Ireland booklet

Just enter your email below to receive our

Free attraction guide right to your inbox

Unleash your creativity inside one of Dublin's most unique treasures, the National Print Museum! Read More

Hop On Hop Off - 48 Hours

The DoDublin Hop-on hop-off tour is the best way to see the City. Book your 2 day* tickets here.

*Valid for 48 hours from first use, so if you activate at 3pm on Monday you'll be able to use it until 3pm on Wednesday!

• Dublin's Most Popular Hop-On Hop-Off Tour!

See All of Dublin's Favourite Attractions & Museums!

Kids Go Free* + Free Entry to Dublin's Famous Little Museum

Dublin's Best Tour Guides

• Sightseeing for just one day? Check out 24 Hour tickets

Tour Overview

Discover Dublin's best sites and attractions with Dublin's No.1 Hop-On Hop-Off Tour. Visit the attractions like the Guinness Storehouse, Trinity College and the Book of Kells, and Dublin Zoo, or really discover the true nature of Dublin at the city’s hidden gems like Epic The Irish Emigration Museum, Teeling Whiskey Distillery, Marsh’s Library beside St. Patrick’s Cathedral, and many more.

The DoDublin Tour is the most comprehensive bus route with strategic stops located close to all the major attractions in the city. Perfect for the first-time visitor to the capital, or if you're just looking for a great fun-filled way to travel around the city, with a super guided tour along the way.

Enjoy views of the city’s stunning Georgian Architecture, City Parks, Monuments, as well as the gorgeous Phoenix Park on WiFi-enabled open-top double-decker buses while listening to the best tour guides in Dublin.

Kids Travel Free

A child under 15 travels free with every Hop on Hop off adult ticket purchased and free entry into The Little Museum of Dublin. You'll receive a free map of the city too.

You’ll enjoy live commentary from our Fáilte Ireland trained drivers, all native Dubliners and all of whom are great entertainers. The term “gift of the gab” was invented for DoDublin tour guides! They take great pride in presenting the best of Dublin city, with plenty of historical and cultural references, quotes by famous Dublin poets and writers, loads of jokes and plenty of Songs from Dublin City too. We also provide pre-recorded multilingual tours in 9 languages.

• Find out all sorts of useful information on Dublin at the Essential Dublin Information  page

Meal & Drink Deals

Fantastic meal and drink deals included with your Hop-on Hop-off Tour Ticket. We have partnered with great Café's Restaurants and Bars across Dublin City!

2 for 1 Murray's Bar and Grill (available between 12:00 - 17:00) - O'Connell Street Stop

2 for 1 The Lotts Café Bar (available 11:00 - 17:00, 7 days a week) - Bachelor's Walk Stop

2 for 1 KC Peaches on all cooked breakfasts - Trinity College, St. Stephen's Green & Temple Bar Stops

Free Glass of Guinness at Lennan's Yard - St. Stephen's Green Stop

Free Glass of Red Ale at Kenndy's Pub & Restaurant - Westland Row Stop

*Please note much present tour ticket to avail of these offers*

Buy 48 hour Hop-on-Hop-off Tour Tickets

View Online Map Here

Download Map (.pdf)

Tour Information

• First Tour departs Stop 1 at 09:00. Last Tour departs at 17:00
• Monday - Friday : Tours every 30 minutes
• Saturday - Sunday : Tours every 30 minutes until 10:00, every 20 minutes until 16:00, and every 30 minutes until 17:00

Customers must ask Bus Driver for a Ticket for Free Entry to Little Museum

*One child under 15 travels free with each adult. Tickets must be purchased for additional children and Student tickets must be purchased for children 15 years old and over. *Max 8 child tickets per booking (including FREE). Any addition children per group must hold a student ticket.

Live and Multi-lingual buses are provided.

Tours are in German, French, Spanish, Portuguese, Russian, Chinese, Italian and Irish.

Please look for the sign on the front of the bus. Every 2nd bus is live and every other bus is multi-lingual.

Children travelling for FREE do not need a ticket.

All DoDublin buses are wheelchair accessible.

“The best way to see the city”

Whoever invented hop-on hop-off city tour busses was an absolute genius!

Deals of the Week   European Long Weekends   Up to 50% OFF

Coach / Bus Tours & Trips from Dublin

See the best Coach / Bus trips from Dublin, Ireland. We have 94 adventures that range from 3 days up to 15 days in length. The most popular time for tours leaving Dublin is August.

94 Coach / Bus tour packages from Dublin with 5,250 reviews

• In-depth Cultural
• Coach / Bus

The Celtic Voyage - Multi-Day - Small Group Tour of Ireland

The Celtic Tour by Wild N Happy went way beyond my expectations! It was a complete delight to be enlightened by such knowledgeable, native guides of Gaelic Irish culture who authentically could share the stories of the historical unfolding of Irish history. I would only trust driving to the tour guide along those narrow and windy roads to awesome ancient historical landmarks along the amazing western coastline. Our guide knew the best spots to go to, depending on what your desire was to explore in the quaint villages and gave us plenty of time to assimilate. The Tour provided diversity, a well thought-out mix of outdoor and indoor activities, lots of surprising stops along the way, and everyone seemed fulfilled and reluctant to end this highly recommended Celtic adventure!

Irish Highlights (Summer, 7 Days)

The Irish Highlights Trafalgar Tour was excellent. The tour director and driver were great and the events and scenery were amazing. The weather was very hot and it was good that fans were available in the rooms.

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

• Sightseeing

Best of Ireland (10 Days)

Fantastic tour guide and exceptional driver! Every excursion was well worth the cost. I enjoyed the food and sights! I would highly recommend it

Irish Discovery

I was very happy with much of your.

Introduction to Ireland

Our tour guide was Tiarnan....he was excellent and had a wealth of knowledge. I would definitely go with Globus again!! :)

Highlights of Ireland & Scotland

Wonderful! First time traveling outside of the US alone. It was a beautiful tour! Henry was amazing! He was full of knowledge and fun facts. The itinerary was awesome and well organized. So happy I went! I made life long friends sling the way! Recommend and will be using this tour again soon! Just book it! You’ll love it!

Best of Ireland & Scotland (Classic, 14 Days)

It was a wonderful trip!

Wild South - Multi-Day - Small Group Tour of Ireland

Excellent tour and company. Tour guides and accommodations were second to none. If you want to know the real Ireland and it’s rich history in a comfortable setting and without the stress of driving you will not be disappointed. This was a trip of a lifetime and we would recommend to anyone.

Best of Ireland & Scotland (Small Groups, 14 Days)

The tour itinerary was full allowing a broad experience to be gleaned from both Ireland and Scotland respectively. The quality of the travel, hotels and experiences were a complete delight to share with the whole group. We gelled as a group and this made the excursion thoroughly enjoyable, despite the wet weather! Our driver was exemplary which made for safe and enjoyable travel on the coach throughout. Our tour guide was highly knowledgeable and experienced which added plentifully to the daily tours. A very enjoyable tour, highly recommended.

Exploring Dublin, United Kingdom and Paris

We had an amazing time on her trip. Everything promised was delivered. Thing that we didn’t know was that we would be transferring to different groups. Initially this was confusing, but I do have to say that all the transitions were very smooth. We went to many beautiful pieces and met many beautiful people. generally are gods more helpful and even caring. I would recommend this tour.

Irish Escape

It was awesome. Loved it

Shamrock Royal

Gordon (TM) and Kieran (Driver) were awesome! The tour was great, with an amazing group of travelers. Of course, it would have been nice to spend more time there, but we saw everything (and more) that we wanted to see.

Wild Atlantic Experience

Very good tour „Ireland and Northern Ireland“ with great guides (Robert and Tony)????

Great Tour of Ireland ( 7 days )

3-Day Blarney Castle, Kilkenny & Irish Whiskey Small-Group Tour from Dublin

An excellent tour of southern Ireland. Good guide, well laid out, interesting stops and good hotels/B&B's. Accomplished a lot in 3 days, without having to sit on the bus for long periods of time.

What people love about Coach / Bus Tours from Dublin

The tour went as planned. The guide was excellent. Recommendations would be to extend the time to 8 or 9 days to maximize two days in Lahinch and Galway to experience more of the culture and scenery. One night in each of the cities does not allow for to that experience.

The entire trip was wonderful, very well organized, and satisfying. Peter Flood was an excellent tour guide. He was as knowledgeable as could be, funny, and helpful; and really seems to love what he does.

This was my first time in Ireland. I absolutely loved everything about this trip. Tour guide and bus driver were amazing. Totally worth every penny. Would go back in a heartbeat

Travel Styles

Coach / bus from dublin.

• to Dublin (73)
• to Belfast (6)
• to Edinburgh (6)
• Ireland Travel Guide | All You Need to Know
• Best 7 Day Ireland Itineraries 2024/2025 (with Reviews)
• Best 10 Day Ireland Itineraries 2024/2025 (with Reviews)
• 10 Best Coach & Bus Companies (with Reviews)

 Dublin Bus

Close 

Dublin's No.1 Sightseeing Tour Company

DoDublin is the No.1 rated Dublin Bus Tour on TripAdvisor

For a vacation you'll never forget!

DoDublin are the top tour company in Ireland's capital city. We show more people around Dublin than anybody else, and we've been No.1 since 1988.

• Friendliest guides - with an encyclopedic knowledge of the city they love.
• We offer fantastic value and 1 Child U15 Goes Free.
• Buses arrive every 20-30 minutes (in Summer, every 30-60 minutes in Winter)
• Buy online before you arrive and present voucher on your phone!

Take our Hop on Hop off tour of the city, try a Day Trip on our famous double decker buses.. We have the biggest fleet of sightseeing buses and higher frequency for our city tour than any other bus company in Ireland, with the most dedicated and passionate tour guides behind the wheel!

Ireland is one of Europe's top vacation destinations and it's easy to see why.

• The Irish scenery is simply breath-taking - from its ancient cities to its wonderful green countryside.
• Céad Míle Fáilte (or one hundred thousand welcomes) On vacation it's often the people you meet who leave the biggest impression, and the Irish are famous for their warm and friendly nature.
• Ireland is a country that is steeped in history with medieval castles, Georgian splendour, and prehistoric monuments to be found around every turn!
• Ireland's culture and arts are famous throughout the world, from their music, writers and poets, ancient folklore and they're wit.
• Modern Ireland is renowned as a travel destination for its great food, top quality hotels and accommodation and excellent customer service and value for money.

Green is the colour that is synonymous with Ireland. City's throughout the world "go green" each year (in Chicago they even dye the river) to help celebrate St. Patrick's Day. Well DoDublin are green all year round, and if you're in Dublin city you're never far away from a Green DoDublin Bus. Hop on board and we'll help you DoDublin, like a Dubliner!

For Dublin’s fastest, most frequent and best valued airport transfers book through the Airlink Express Airport Transfer Hub

Take Dublin’s No.1 city sightseeing tour on open top bus.

24 Hour & 48 Hour tickets available helping visitors truly discover Dublin.

One original route covering the city’s must-see attractions.

Buy tickets for all of Dublin's top tourist attractions;

Includes EPIC - The Irish Emigration Museum,

Christ Church Cathedral, Teelings Whiskey Distillery

and much more!

Venture outside Dublin city for the day.

See world famous landmarks and breath-taking landscapes including the Cliffs of Moher, Glendalough and the Titanic exhibition.

Experience traditional Irish culture and craic in popular cities like Belfast, Galway, Kilkenny and more.

• Click to open search
• Open the main navigation
• Newsletter Opens in a new window

The best bus tours in Dublin

Go sightseeing in Dublin on a city bus tour, and see all the landmarks in one day.

If you’re short on time, a bus tour is a great way to see Dublin. You can tick off all the major sights in one fell swoop, without your step counter going through the roof.

Whether you want to pack in as much as you can, or simply see the sights from the comfort of a double decker bus, these tours will show you the best of Dublin.

• 1 . Hop On Hop Off Tour by DoDublin Tours
• 2 . Big Bus Dublin
• 3 . City Sightseeing
• 4 . Vintage Tea Trips
• 5 . What to see in Dublin

Seeing the city by bus means you don’t need to decide between visiting Kilmainham Gaol or the Phoenix Park , because you can do it all in one day, hopping on and off at your leisure. Better still, you’ll often be accompanied by a tour guide who can point out the local hotspots as you sail on past.

It's also a cost-effective way to see the city, particularly if tickets to museums or other attractions are thrown into the mix. As a general rule, you can expect to pay around €30 for a 24-hour hop on, hop off tour, or around €35 for a two-day ticket. On most of the tours, at least one child goes free per adult, making family tours even better value.

But bus tours aren’t just for seeing the city. Nearby attractions are also at your fingertips, on tours that take you all around Ireland without you having to hire a car or navigate public transport. You can head off to places like the Cliffs of Moher or the Giant's Causeway and be back in the city by nightfall.

Hop On Hop Off Tour by DoDublin Tours

You’ll spot these bright green buses all over the city. Their hop on, hop off tours take in all the major sights, including the Guinness Storehouse, Trinity College and EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum . But they also stop off at the smaller attractions, like Teeling Whiskey Distillery in the Liberties and Marsh’s Library , right next to St Patrick’s Cathedral . A ticket also includes entry to the Little Museum of Dublin and a Pat Liddy's walking tour . Buses depart from O’Connell Street regularly.

Guinness Storehouse

If you want to get out of the city, they also run tours south to Wicklow and Glendalough, or north up to Belfast and the Causeway Coast. They also offer a Ghostbus tour of Dublin, where you’ll visit a medieval vault and a city graveyard, accompanied by some fairly theatrical characters. While their original tour is most definitely not for kids, they’ve now created a version for children aged between 7-14.  

Big Bus Dublin

This bus tour takes in 25 stops around Dublin, with a guide pointing out all the sights of the city, or a pre-recorded commentary available in eight languages. As well as all the locations set in the middle of the city, the tours head out to Dublin Zoo in the Phoenix Park, as well as Kilmainham Gaol and Richmond Barracks . Even if you don’t hop off and explore those sights, the trip will give you a broader sense of Dublin’s geography away from the city centre. The regular tours kick off from O’Connell Street, check Big Bus Tours Dublin for up-to-date departure times.

All tickets include a walking tour, and there’s free Wi-Fi on the bus, too — so you can plot out your next move, or post a video of the on-board singalongs to Instagram. They also offer a night tour , so you can see all the landmarks illuminated after dark, like the lights of St Patrick’s Cathedral or the buildings that line the River Liffey. There’s also a deluxe package available, which includes the hop on, hop off ticket for three days, a night tour and a half day coastal tour to the fishing village of Howth .  

City Sightseeing

There are more than 30 stops on the City Sightseeing hop on, hop off tour, including Jeanie Johnston , a replica famine ship on the River Liffey, and the Irish Museum of Modern Art in Kilmainham. Buses run every hour, departing from Trinity College.

As well as the included stops in the city, you can get picked up in the morning from bus stops around Ballsbridge, which is handy if you’re staying in that neighbourhood and want to see the more central sights without getting separate transport into town. 

They also offer a river cruise along the Liffey, giving you a unique perspective of the city from the water. Starting at Bachelor’s Walk, you’ll sail under O’Connell Bridge and past the 18th-century Custom House, all the way to the glass and steel architecture of the Docklands. 

Irish Museum of Modern Art (IMMA)

Vintage tea trips.

This isn’t a traditional bus tour. Instead of hopping off at various spots, you’ll stay on the vintage bus for the duration of your journey, passing the highlights of the city as you tuck into afternoon tea accompanied by the sounds of 1950s jazz. You’ll see sights like Trinity College, the Phoenix Park and Christ Church Cathedral , with freshly made sandwiches, desserts and pastries on the table in front of you.

What to see in Dublin

Planning your hop off points? Our guide to the great things to see in Dublin will get you started, with most of them included on the bus tours above.

Dublin Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tours

Big Bus: 24/48/72-Hour Hop-On Hop-Off Dublin Tour

• You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
• Get a taste of the best of Dublin at your own pace with an unlimited hop-on-hop-off bus tour.
• Access 1 route – Red Route with over 23 stops dotted along the city with the option of a Discover, Essential or Explore pass.
• The 48 and 72-hour passes also include a guided walking tour and night tour. Additionally, with your 72-hour pass, get a half-day coastal tour too!
• The open-top-double-decker buses will give you the best views of the city along with an entertaining live guide present onboard.
• Some popular stops include the iconic Trinity College, Kilmainham Gaol and Dublin Castle.

Discover Pass: 24-Hours

• 24-hour unlimited hop-on hop-off pass
• Entertaining live guide
• Pre-recorded audio commentary in 8 languages
• Guided walking tour

Essential Pass: 48-Hours

• 48-hour unlimited hop-on hop-off pass

Explore Pass: 72-Hours

• 72-hour unlimited hop-on hop-off pass
• Half-day coastal tour
• Entrance fees at the monuments
• Meal inclusions
• First bus: 9am from stop #1 (13 Upper O'Connell Street)
• Last bus: 5pm from stop #1 (13 Upper O'Connell Street)
• Frequency: Every 15 to 20 mins
• Popular stops: National Art Gallery, Dame Street/Dublin Castle, Christ Church Cathedral & St. Patrick's Cathedral

Click here for a detailed route map and its boarding points.

Walking Tour

• Depature: 11am from O'Connell Street
• Duration: 2 hours
• First bus: 7pm from stop #1 (13 Upper O'Connell Street)
• Last bus: 8:30pm from stop #1 (13 Upper O'Connell Street)
• Duration: 1 hour

Half-Day Coastal Tour

• Depature: 2pm from stop#1 (13 Upper O'Connell Street)
• Duration: 60 mins
• Tip: For a deeper understanding of Ireland's tumultuous past, visit Kilmainham Gaol, a former prison that played a significant role in Irish history.
• Facilites: Wheelchair & Pram/Stroller accessibility, Pre-recorded commentary, Headphones, Guide dogs.
• The pre-recorded commentary is available in English, French, German, Italian, Spanish, Japanese, Cantonese & Russian.
• These tickets are valid for 1 days from the date of purchase.

City Sightseeing 24/48/72-Hour Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus Tour of Dublin

• Explore Dublin at your leisure with this unlimited hop-on hop-off tour on a modern, open-top, double-decker bus.
• Get unlimited access to over 25 stops across the red route, with the freedom to hop on and off as many times as you like with your 24, 48, or 72-hour pass.
• Enhance your trip with a walking tour of Dublin in Spanish or English, offering a deeper dive into the city's rich history and culture.
• Enjoy the convenience of free Wi-Fi and an audio guide in 8 languages to tell you more about the places you see along the way.
• Visit popular stops such as the Guinness Storehouse, Kilmainham Gaol, and Temple Bar, and discover the hidden gems of Dublin.
• 24/48/72-hour unlimited hop-on hop-off pass
• Audio guide in 8 languages
• Walking tour
• Entry to attractions
• First bus: 9:15am
• Last bus: 5pm
• Frequency: Approx every 30mins.
• Popular stops: Dublin Castle, St. Patricks Cathedral, Irish Museum of Modern Art & Phoenix Park

Please click here for a detailed map and its boarding points.

• Departure: 11am from stop #2 (Barnardo Square next to City Hall)
• Duration: 3 hours
• Frequency: Daily
• Tip: Hop off at the Guinness Storehouse (stop 7) and learn about the history of Ireland's famous beer and enjoy a pint with panoramic city views.
• Facilities: Wheelchair Accessibility, Free Wi-Fi, Audio Guide, Earphones.
• The audio guide is available in English, Spanish, French, German, Italian, Chinese, Portuguese, and Russian.
• These tickets are valid for 12 months from the date of purchase.

Dublin Hop On Hop Off Bus Tours

Dublin is the capital city of Ireland, known for its rich literary history, vibrant pub culture, and friendly locals. It is home to famous landmarks such as Trinity College, Dublin Castle, and the Guinness Storehouse, as well as a thriving arts and music scene.

But getting around the old city can be confusing for a new visitor. With Dublin’s Hop On Hop Off Buses , you can get to explore all the top spots in the city. And, with this convenient mode of transport, all you need is one ticket!

Read on to learn more about Dublin hop-on hop-off bus tours.

Why Choose Dublin Hop On Hop Off Bus Tours?

• Visit Top Landmarks: See all of Dublin’s top attractions from the open-top buses that are ideal for sightseeing.
• Easy and Convenient: Explore the best of Dublin with just one ticket without worrying about your commute.
• Save Money: Hop-on hop-off bus tours will help you save money as you won’t have to spend on local transport fares to get from one spot to the other.
• Complimentary Add-Ons:  Get free onboard Wi-Fi, walking tours, night tours, and more with your tickets.
• Pre-Recorded Commentary: There are audio guides in 10 languages, including English, Spanish, French, German, Italian, Irish, Chinese, Portuguese, Russian, and Polish, as well as a live commentary to give you information on all the attractions you will visit.

For more information on the special features and inclusion, please check your tickets.

Dublin Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour Timetable

City Sightseeing

• Timings: 9:15 AM to 5 PM
• Frequency: Every 30 mins
• Walking Tour: Twice a day at 11 AM and 2 PM
• Guided Walking Tour: at 11 AM daily. The duration is 2 hours
• Night Tour: 7 PM & 8:30 PM, The duration is 1 hour
• Coastal Tour: at 2 PM daily. The duration is 4 hours

Dublin Hop On Hop Off Visitor Tips and Guidelines

• Know What Your Ticket Includes:  Most hop-on hop-off bus tour operators have multiple ticket options. Some may not include all the routes on the tour, while others may even offer additional perks like a boat ride or a walking tour. 
• Plan Your Route:  Find out the routes that your hop-on hop-off bus will take (all tour operators offer a map of their routes), so you can decide which stops you would like to get off at beforehand. It is also important to know which major attractions are near the stops. 
• Schedule Your Stops:  If you want to tour any of the attractions near the bus stops, make sure you know how long the tour will be, and when the next hop-on hop-off bus will stop. 
• Buy Attraction Tickets: Many attractions require entry tickets, be sure to purchase these in advance online to avoid standing and waiting in long queues.
• Peak Hours:  If you can you the time and day of your bus tour, find out what the rush hours are in New York during your visit, so you can avoid getting stuck in traffic. 
• Try to Take the Tour Twice:  If you have time, consider first making a full loop on the bus without getting on or off the bus. It may seem like this defeats the purpose of a “hop-on hop-off” tour, but this way you can get an overview of Dublin with a good seat and view for the entire trip.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dublin Hop On Hop Off Bus Tours

A. Yes, Dublin has a hop-on hop-off bus tour.

A. You can buy Dublin hop-on hop-off tickets online.

A. Yes, you can avail Dublin hop-on hop-off tickets online.

A. Hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus tour ticket prices start from £16.

A. Hop-on hop-off buses in Dublin allow you to get on and leave the bus at any of the designated stops to see the major city landmarks whenever you want.

A. Dublin hop-on hop-off buses run between 10 AM to 6 PM and arrive at a frequency of 15 minutes.

A. Yes, there are audio guides available for adults in 5 languages on the Dublin hop-on hop-off bus tours, including English, Spanish, Italian, French & German.

A. Yes, Dublin’s hop-on hop-off bus tours are accessible to wheelchair users.

14 Things To Do in Dublin, Ireland On a Long Layover With AerLingus

Utilizing a long layover is one of the best traveler hacks out there. With AerLingus offering most flights with a stopover in Dublin, if you're going to stop there anyway, you might as well leave the airport and get some exploring in. Dublin is a relatively small city, and with even just one day, you can tick a few things off of your Irish bucket list. Here are 10 recommended things to do on a long layover in Dublin with AerLingus.

UPDATE: 2023/05/12 13:37 EST BY KHYATI DAND

More Things To Do in Dublin, Ireland On a Long Layover With AerLingus

It can be very hard to kill time on long layovers but that's not something travelers flying to Dublin have to worry about. With the entire city at one's disposal, long layovers in Dublin are an excellent way to explore the Irish capital. This list was updated to include more things that travelers can do on stopovers in Dublin when flying with AerLingus.

RELATED: 10 Places Perfect For Exploring While On a Long Layover

See The Book Of Kells At The Trinity College Library

The Library of Trinity College in Dublin is one of the oldest libraries in Ireland and nothing will make time fly by quicker than the dark aisles of its 16th-century reading halls. The library has over 7,000,000 volumes of books on its shelves but if there's one thing that visitors must see, it's the Book of Kells -- the four Latin Gospel manuscripts dating back to the 9th century. No matter the time of the year, the library always has at least one volume on display for the public to see.

Catch A Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

Flights can get pretty darn tiring. Oftentimes, there's very little energy left for anything exciting on a layover, let alone exploring an entirely new city . In that case, hop-on hop-off bus tours offer visitors an excellent means through which to see Dublin without much physical exertion on their part. Simply catch an open-top double-decker bus, grab a seat in a corner, and watch Dublin's top attractions pass by as you listen to audio guides for context.

Get A Taste Of Irish Food

What better way to spend a layover in Dublin than to eat your way through the Irish capital? Food blogger Ketty Quigley's Delicious Dublin Tours take visitors on a three-hour walking trip around the city with stops at plenty of famous eateries in between. As local experts tell tales of Dublin's food history, visitors will not only taste the best of local Irish food, but they will also learn of its past and present. These tours operate regardless of the weather in the notoriously temperamental capital.

Hop Onto A Viking Splash Tour

Long layovers in Dublin are one thing if you're alone or in the company of a fellow adult, but finding entertainment can be a far more tedious task when traveling with kids. A Viking Splash Tour is an excellent adrenaline-filled activity -- and an incredibly unique one at that -- for both adults and kids to take part in when in Dublin. The tours take place on a restored World War II amphibious vehicle that functions much like a bus on the roads but transforms into a boat as it mightily glides into the Grand Canal Dock, splashing passengers on board with the cold waters of the canal.

Drink At Temple Bar

What visit to Ireland is complete without a proper pint of Guinness? Head to the place that does it best, and arguably the most famous bar in not only Dublin but all of Ireland: Temple Bar Pub. Not to be confused with the neighborhood that is called Temple Bar, Temple Bar Pub is an infamous landmark pub with the traditional bright red exterior, welcoming you in to have a pint or two.

Related: 10 Pubs You Need To Grab A Brew At While Visiting Dublin

Dublin Castle

Despite popular belief, there's a lot more to do in Dublin than just drinking. Ireland is home to several castles, and Dublin Castle is one of the finest . Having been built in the thirteen century, Dublin Castle has since served as home to English and British administration. In 1922, Dublin Castle was given to the Irish government, where it now serves as a popular tourist hotspot. For an entry fee of about 8 euros, you can head inside and see the collection of art, as well as take in the majestic red velour and gold-plated interior.

Related: 9 Things To Do In Dublin: Complete Guide Beyond The Pubs To This Irish Capital

Chester Beatty

Within the confines of Dublin Castle is what Lonely Planet has described as one of the best museums in Europe: Chester Beatty. Also known as Chester Beatty Library, this museum is home to the collections of Sir Chester Alfred Beatty, a philanthropist and mining magnate who was given the title "King of Copper" due to his fortune. The collections at Chester Beatty include but are not limited to Arabic treatises on religion, Western manuscripts, pieces from Persian poets, and even Japanese art.

Shop At George's Street Arcade

Looking to get a little shopping in on your long layover in Dublin? George's Street Arcade is one of the best places in the city of Dublin to do so. Centrally located close to other major tourist spots, George's Street Arcade has shops ranging from Brazilian-made fashion at Carnaval to Mystic Ireland Crystals. There are also plenty of eateries on site, like the top-rated vegan burgers at Flip Burgers and proper wine and cheese at Loose Canon.

Take A Guinness Brewery Tour

Back to booze because, hey, it is Ireland, after all. Aside from Irish whiskey, the most popular alcoholic beverage in Ireland is Guinness. The Irish take their Guinness seriously. There's a craft behind pouring each one which amplifies the overall taste. If you're curious to know the art behind this extremely popular beer, head to the Guinness Brewery for a tour.

Related: You Need 90 Minutes To See The Guinness Storehouse, And Here's What The Ultimate Self-Guided Tour Looks Like

Visit Jameson Distillery

If you're more into whiskey, or better yet, if you want to add a second boozy adventure to your layover in Dublin, the Jameson Distillery is a great addition to your activities. Learn the history behind one of the most popular Irish whiskeys in the world. Created in 1780 by John Jameson, the long-standing tradition behind making Jameson can now be experienced as a tourist. The tour options range from a simple visit to cocktail classes.

See Local Music At Whelan's

Who doesn't love a good Irish folk band? While you are bound to find live music at pretty much any pub in the city, Whelan's is one of the best. You can check out their calendar on their website to see who's playing, and it's recommended to book a table in advance since this place quickly fills up. Enjoy a beverage while listening to some classical local Irish music.

Drink High Tea On A Vintage Bus

Are you less interested in whiskey and stouts and more interested in feeling posh with a cup of tea in hand? There are many tours to book in Ireland , but one of the more unique experiences in Dublin offered on GetYourGuide is a high-tea tour while riding on a vintage bus . Priced at about $50 per person, a high-tea tour in Dublin is a fun way to experience the city from a double-decker bus that's been refurbished to be its fanciest self. The tour comes with food options, including those that are vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free friendly.

Cross Ha'Penny Bridge

The Ha'Penny Bridge is a pedestrian bridge located in central Dublin. It was built in May 1816 over the River Liffey and remains a popular tourist attraction to this date. Its central location is close to the popular Temple Bar neighborhood, and the best part about ticking Ha'Penny Bridge off of your bucket list during a short layover is that it's only going to take a few minutes to see it.

Free Walking Tour

One of the best ways to quickly explore any city while learning a bit about its history is by taking a free walking tour . Explore Dublin by foot, see plenty of major tourist hot spots, and learn the history through a local tour guide, all for zero cost. The tour is offered several times a day, meaning it's likely you can fit it into your Dublin layover regardless of what time you land.

• Ireland Tourism
• Ireland Hotels
• Ireland Bed and Breakfast
• Ireland Vacation Rentals
• Flights to Ireland
• Ireland Restaurants
• Things to Do in Ireland
• Ireland Travel Forum
• Ireland Photos
• All Ireland Hotels
• Ireland Hotel Deals
• Last Minute Hotels in Ireland
• Things to Do
• Restaurants
• Vacation Rentals
• Travel Stories
• Rental Cars
• Add a Place
• Travel Forum
• Travelers' Choice
• Help Center

Your opinion on my itinerary for Oct 3 - 18th, 2024. - Ireland Forum

• Europe    
• Ireland    

Your opinion on my itinerary for Oct 3 - 18th, 2024.

• United States Forums
• Europe Forums
• Canada Forums
• Asia Forums
• Central America Forums
• Africa Forums
• Caribbean Forums
• Mexico Forums
• South Pacific Forums
• South America Forums
• Middle East Forums
• Honeymoons and Romance
• Business Travel
• Train Travel
• Traveling With Disabilities
• Tripadvisor Support
• Solo Travel
• Bargain Travel
• Timeshares / Vacation Rentals
• Europe forums
• Ireland forum

Hello Everyone, and thank you in advance for your advice!

A bit of background - my friend and I are both in our 50s, active and fit, preferring casual atmospheres to formal. We are history buffs who love the outdoors, with a love for good craic and cold pints in the evenings. We only have two weeks, yet do not want to run ourselves ragged trying to see too much..which I fear we may be doing with this itinerary!

Any and all thoughts/opinions/advice is appreciated - thank you.

Day 1 - land in Dublin , get settled in hotel, wander about

Day 2 - Explore Dublin (I have a dossier of things we can pick from, Trinity college , EPIC, etc.)

Day 3- Day tour of Newgrange /Hills of Tara (possibly with the Unplugged Tour - opinions?)

Day 4 - Explore Dublin some more

Day 5 - Pick up rental car at airport, find a Tesco for road snacks, drive to Galway - settle in

Day 6 - Explore Galway, stay over

Day 7 - Take the a.m. ferry to Ines Mor, explore and stay over

Day 8 - Ferry back to mainland, drive down to cliffs of Moher, then on to Bunratty castle (staying nearby) for the medieval banquet that evening.

Day 9 - Drive to Dingle , hang out there and rest

Day 10 - Drive the Dingle Peninsula, make our way to Killarney that night and get settled in

Day 11 - Get up and drive the Ring of Kerry , stay over in Killarney again

Day 12 - Drive to Cork , explore it, stay over

Day 13 - Drive to either Rock of Cashel or Kilenny (opinions?), stay over

Day 14 - Take our sweet time driving back to Dublin, turn in rental car , take taxi to hotel

Day 15 - Relax in Dublin, see anything last minute or say a tearful goodbye to favorite places

Day 16 - Try to figure out a way to get asylum in Ireland so we can stay, fail miserably and fly home with great sadness.

Whew! So, I tried to build in enough time to stop along the way when driving, as well as keep our planned activities to a minimum so we can be as flexible as possible - but I worry that it is still too much.

I am open to any and all suggestions. So far, I have only booked our initial Dublin hotel (the Harding hotel ) and our rental car (from NewWay Car Hire ). I am considering the Clontarf Castle Hotel for our last two nights, just to end the journey with super comfy beds...and to be able to say we stayed in a castle! but again, totally open to any suggestions for changes, places to stay along the way, etc.

Thank you so much for taking the time to read and respond, I appreciate it!

7 replies to this topic

Such a shame you are missing both Connemara and the Burren. An endless number of historical sites.

If you change your mind about Connemara it's well worth your time and effort to explore these sites.

https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowTopic-g5773054-i32866-k10376078-Connemara_Knockbrack_Megalithic_Tomb-Connemara_County_Galway_Western_Ireland.html

https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowTopic-g5773054-i32866-k10394617-Connemara_Hiking_Walking_in_Cleggan-Connemara_County_Galway_Western_Ireland.html

https://www.tripadvisor.ie/ShowTopic-g5773054-i32866-k10835914-Connemara_Moyrus_Medieval_Church-Connemara_County_Galway_Western_Ireland.html

https://www.tripadvisor.ie/ShowTopic-g5773054-i32866-k11382051-Connemara_Glassilaun_Beach-Connemara_County_Galway_Western_Ireland.html

An overnight is ideal, a great time to be on Inis Mór.

You should have time to visit these sites, anyone will point you in the right direction.

Na Seacht Teampaill, Dún Dúchathair, Clochán na Carraige, Dún Aonghasa, Poll naBpèist, Teaghlach Einne.

Inis Mór-based Dara Molloy has compiled a remarkable booklet covering the main historical sites.

https://www.aislingmagazine.com/globalisation/Book_LegendsInTheLandscape.html

This post has been removed at the author's request.

Yikes…… we will be in Ireland in September and most of the places we have booked are already fully booked for our dates. My suggestion would be to try to secure lodging and then compose your itinerary.

I booked our lodging back in November for this September.

• Euros 11:37 pm
• Luggage in car - robbery? 11:33 pm
• Half-day + overnight in Kinsale 9:41 pm
• talbot hotel or crown quarter? 9:34 pm
• 1 night in Dublin 8:29 pm
• Heuston Station Parking 7:10 pm
• Stopover between Dublin & Cork? 6:46 pm
• age restrictions in ireland 6:27 pm
• Your opinion on my itinerary for Oct 3 - 18th, 2024. 5:33 pm
• Help with travel plans/itinerary 5:19 pm
• Belfast to Malahide advice for Sunday, May 5th 5:12 pm
• Bus from Swords premier inn 4:59 pm
• some public transportation questions 4:54 pm
• Football 4:26 pm
• Ireland in March - is weather a problem? 13 replies
• Weather in December/January 13 replies
• Castles To Stay In 3 replies
• wheres the best place to stay in ireland? 11 replies
• September weather 9 replies
• Monastery/Convent Lodging in Ireland 10 replies
• Car Rental Insurance in Ireland 287 replies
• First timers - best places to visit in Ireland? 10 replies
• Current gas prices?? 16 replies
• Exploring Ireland Self Drive Tour 102 replies

Ireland Hotels and Places to Stay

• How do I start to plan my trip to Ireland?
• When I visited Ireland, I wished I had. . . . . . .
• Driving in Ireland + Road Conditions + Vehicle Size + Trip Reports: Updated 2023-2024
• Car Rental Insurance Ireland Updated 2024 + Options to Pay for Coverage
• Which are the best guidebooks to Ireland?
• Public Transport Ireland + 2024 Updated Resources +Trip Reports Ireland No Car
• Collective Knowledge: How often have you visited Ireland?
• Packing: What Should I Wear and What Essentials Should I Bring?
• What are the most popular things to see and do in Ireland?
• The Burren, a unique landscape - why visit?
• Connemara - where the tour busses don't go
• Ireland's Enduring Appeal by Eddie L
• What is the weather like in Ireland and when is the best time to visit?
• Can I use my electrical appliances in Ireland?
• Should I tip in Ireland?
• What's the best way to change money?
• What about pub etiquette in Ireland?
• What are the 10 must see things including
• What is a Heritage Card and how do I get one?
• Where can I find pet friendly accommodation in Ireland?
• What do I need to know about bed and breakfast accommodation?
• Travelling the back roads of Western Ireland Part 2
• Travelling the back roads of Western Ireland Part 1
• Some Information for Newbies

Hands of history – Frank McNally on the digital disenhancement of Fr Mathew

A chip off the old block.

The statue of Fr Mathew on O’Connell Street in Dublin is missing a thumb and various fingers

Among the latest acquisitions at the Little Museum of Dublin – now in temporary exile pending refurbishment of its Stephen’s Green headquarters – is a thumb of Father Mathew.

Not an actual relic, no. The earthly remains of Ireland’s Apostle of Temperance (1790-1856) still repose in their entirety, as far as I know, in a cemetery in Cork.

This is just a stone thumb, from the statue on O’Connell Street. But the story of its amputation is an amusing sub-plot in the social history of modern Ireland.

It happened back in July 1990, during the great homecoming reception for Jack Charlton’s Republic of Ireland soccer team after the heroics in Italy.

Miniature monster – Frank McNally on the fall and rise of the “baby Guinness”

The beat goes on – Colm Keena on music, evolution and society

Mash hits – Tim Fanning on potato impresario Henry Doyle

When the open-top bus from the airport crawled through dense crowds in the city centre, statues and trees were highly prized as vantage points.

The lapidary Father Mathew stood as usual with arms outstretched, as if still preaching about the evils of drink – as well he might have done during Italia 90, which had been a big setback for his life’s cause.

Down at street level, meanwhile, a lady watched some local youngsters clamber onto and about the statue’s person. One grabbed the thumb which broke off and fell to the ground.

So she picked it up and brought it home, meaning to return it to the Office of Public Works eventually. Instead, it spent the last 34 years as her souvenir of that time of national euphoria, before she finally donated it to the museum.

There must be a few similar mementoes on Dublin sideboards still, because when I took a stroll past him earlier this week, I noticed that poor Father Mathew has barely a single finger left intact.

Whether by Italia 90, Stephen Roche’s Tour de France, Barry McGuigan’s world title, or one of the other causes for mass gatherings on Dublin’s Main Street in the 1980s and 90s, he has been digitally disenhanced to the tune of about 90 per cent.

We can hardly blame his sculptor, Mary Redmond, for not foreseeing this risk back in 1893. But contrast the more modern, and cannier, statue of Big Jim Larkin nearby.

Even as it exhorts the poor of Dublin “let us rise”, its giant upraised hands are so far aloft as to be beyond the reach of anyone without specialist climbing equipment. Also, they’re made of metal.

So too, luckily, is the statue of Parnell, which seems to be directing traffic to turn left at the end of the street. Its outstretched right arm, capable of seating two or three street urchins in comfort, would long ago have gone the way of the Venus de Milo’s if it had been stone.

Parnell’s traffic policing role aside, the statues of O’Connell Street are like a straggling bus queue. They all face the same direction, standing at irregular distances, as if waiting for the 7a on O’Connell Bridge.

With his extravagant hand gestures, Father Mathew must once have looked as if he was complaining to the man immediately in front of him – Lord Nelson, as was – to close the gap on Larkin and the others before somebody cuts in.

As for the two at the top, William Smith O’Brien and John Gray, not only do they have a better chance of catching the bus when it finally turns up, they are also less likely to lose limbs while waiting.

Both are stone. But Gray’s right hand is clenched in a fist while his left is wrapped around a scroll. The even more sensible O’Brien, meanwhile, has his arms folded.

Exhibits at the Little Museum of Dublin also include a piece of what used be the Nelson statue, although which piece is debated. It’s certainly a chip off the old block, separated by the 1966 explosion or the resultant high-speed collision with O’Connell Street.

The curators prefer to believe it’s his nose. And there is support for this theory in the rest of the Nelson head, now residing in Pearse Street Library and clearly the victim of a rhinectomy.

I heard about the Father Mathew thumb on Saturday last, when attending one of the Little Museum’s final tours prior to the six-month shut-down.

The most exciting bit, personally, was when our very funny guide Emma mentioned the first two Dubliners to be awarded the Nobel Prize for Literature and then, walking across the crowded room and grabbing me by the shoulders, said: “And here is the third.”

I’m not the first Irish Times writer to be wrongly told he has won a Nobel, although the last time it happened – to my former colleague John Banville – may have been somewhat more credible.

Still, I enjoyed the brief, deflected glory, before Emma revealed me to be standing in front of a portrait of the person she actually meant: Samuel Beckett.

Speaking of stand-ins, the Little Museum will relocate for it sabbatical to No 33 Pembroke Street, near Matt the Thresher’s restaurant. An exhibition has already opened there as the “History Factory and Pop-up Shop”.

IN THIS SECTION

Pushing the envelope – alison healy on the heroes and eccentrics of the irish postal service, miriam lord: total eclipse of the dáil as houdini harris does a disappearing act on day one, ‘when my grandad arrived he was illiterate, and now his grandson is earning this country an oscar nomination’, ‘my wife wants another child, but i would be in my 80s when they go to college’, soldier sexually abused colleagues when drinking session turned sour, court martial told, vera pauw ‘destroyed’ by diane caldwell’s criticism and ‘disappointed’ in eileen gleeson, major overhaul of eu asylum policy approved by european parliament, look inside: stunning beachfront house hovering over the water in howth for €3.6m, latest stories, never fear, the hyper-realistic cake artists will save us all in the end, blind internet users struggle with error-prone ai aids, new plans to stop dublin being a ‘drive through’ city gather speed, slovakian election is another bloody nose for pro-eu forces, running out of time on auto-enrolment.

• Terms & Conditions
• Privacy Policy
• Cookie Information
• Cookie Settings
• Community Standards