City Tours in Dublin

Dublin is one of Europe’s most popular destinations. Boasting a rich cultural, musical and literary history, Ireland’s capital city is a bucket list-worthy destination. And with its legendary Irish charm, you’re certain to get a warm and friendly welcome.

There is no better way to discover the city’s myriad wonders than by taking a city tour in Dublin. See the best of what this thriving metropolitan has to offer, without any planning. Get the full Dublin experience and visit some of the city's most iconic landmarks and attractions.

Here's all you need to know about city tours, one of the most captivating sightseeing tours in Dublin.

What are the best city tours in Dublin?

Whether you're looking to soak up some culture, take in the cathedrals, or just get a feel for Dublin, there are numerous tour options that meet your sightseeing needs.

Private guided walking tour in Dublin

A Dublin walking tour is a wonderful way to immerse yourself in the city's charming ambiance.

Music lovers rejoice with a chance to see Claddagh Records, a famous music shop where U2 recorded some music. Take in the Wall of Fame which pays tribute to famous Irish musicians like Phil Lynott, Rory Gallagher, Sinead O'Connor, and Bob Geldof. You’ll also check out Temple Bar, one of the best places to experience a live traditional Irish music session.

For more literary splendor, head to Trinity College where you can marvel at The Book of Kells and the Brian Boru harp. Additional literary stops include the Oscar Wilde monument, where you can see bronze statues and his house. There’s also a stop at the James Joyce Statue.

Walk across the beautiful Ha'penny Bridge and stop at the GPO Museum and delve into Ireland’s history. Take in more of Dublin’s charm from the O'Connell Bridge over the Liffey River. Enjoy a stroll down Grafton Street, known for its fabulous shops, good food and street artists.

Skip-the-line St Patrick’s Cathedral and Dublin City Tour

If you're short on time this tour is a great option as you can choose between the 2- or 3-hour tour option. It also includes skip-the-line tickets to the cathedrals so you won’t have to wait in line and can walk right in — just like a VIP.

The 2-hour option will take you to beautiful St Patrick’s Cathedral where you can learn more about the history of this iconic cathedral as well as the legend of St. Patrick’s Day, and bask in its glorious architecture. Take in the scholarly ambiance at Trinity College.

Then enjoy the stately Dublin Castle which has served as a military fortress, a prison, a treasury, a court of law, and the seat of English Administration in Ireland for 700 years. Now it's used for important state events and presidential inaugurations.

The 3-hour tour has an extra stop at the famous Christ Church Cathedral, which is almost 1,000 years old. An architectural masterpiece with vaulted ceilings and a medieval tiled floor, you can explore the underground crypt or climb higher into the belfry to see the world-famous bells.

Full-day private Dublin city highlights tour

A full-day excursion is a great way to get an overall feel of Dublin. This private tour for four allows for a great deal of customization. You can pick your start times, choose to stay longer at a specific destination, or even skip certain attractions. Go off the beaten path to experience some amazing sights.

Visit popular must-see attractions like St Patrick's Cathedral, Guinness Storehouse and Malahide Castle, a magnificent medieval castle. You also have the option of choosing between Kilmainham Gaol, a former prison turned museum or Phoenix Park, a green oasis that’s close to the city center.

Take in the fresh air as you’ll get the full Dublin experience with visits to the beautiful coastal town of Portmarnock and the little fishing village of Howth including the Summit, which offers magnificent panoramic views across Dublin Bay.

Which places are visited?

Dublin is a feast for the eyes with plenty of historical unforgettable spots. These are destinations you don't want to skip.

Trinity College

Marvel at the beautiful architecture at Ireland’s most famous university. Don’t miss the Book of Kells, a gorgeous, illuminated Gospel manuscript that dates to the ninth century. You can also see the Brian Boru harp, a medieval musical instrument, displayed in the Long Room which is in the Old Library — one of the most photographed rooms in Dublin.

St Patrick’s Cathedral

A part of Ireland’s history for over 800 years, St Patrick's Cathedral is one of the few buildings left from medieval Dublin. The titanic bronze doors, rich Neo-Gothic architecture and the thousands of stained-glass windows are a visual delight. The Cathedral's Discovery Space is a great addition as it features iPads playing sounds from the choir and touchscreen technology illuminating the cathedral's long history.

Guinness Storehouse

This legendary building pays homage to Guinness. Set over seven incredible floors, the Guinness Storehouse is built around a rising glass-shaped atrium – so you’re standing in a giant pint glass! Learn interesting facts from the tons of videos, some of which have interactive touchscreens, while others can even take photos of you. You don’t want to miss the huge indoor waterfall which highlights how water, hops, barley and yeast come together to make Guinness.

How much do city tours in Dublin cost?

City tours in Dublin are offered at various pricing options from €110 to €620 depending on the number of attractions visited.

A private guided walking tour will cost around €110 per person and lasts for 3 hours with commentary in English or Italian. The entrance fees are not included.

A skip-the-line tour costs €170 per person and can accommodate up to 15 travelers. Entrance fees to the Cathedrals are included but admission to the bell towers is not.

A full-day private tour of the city highlights costs €620 for a group of four travelers in a car. The tour lasts 8 hours, with lunch and entrance fees at an added cost

What is included?

All tours will include a professional guide who will share their expertise with you. Entrance fees are sometimes included in the tour pricing but not always, so check on your booking form if you aren’t sure.

Tours done in a vehicle will offer a pickup and drop-off from your hotel. Most tours offer a minimum of 4 attractions, while a walking tour could cover as many as 13 stops.

Where does it start?

Dublin city tours done in a vehicle offer a pick-up from your hotel while a walking tour will meet at a popular tourist destination. Check your tour booking to find out more details about where to meet.

How long does it last?

A city tour of Dublin will run for between 2 to 8 hours depending on the type of attractions visited. A more detailed tour done in a vehicle will include numerous stops and run for longer. If you want to get a comprehensive tour opt for a longer full-day tour.

Is it wheelchair friendly?

There are some wheelchair friendly tours in Dublin on offer, but double-check with the tour operator beforehand to ensure your chosen experience is wheelchair accessible.

When is the best time for a city tour in Dublin?

The best time for a city tour in Dublin is in spring (April to June) or autumn (September to October). During these periods you'll experience mild weather and fewer tourists than the peak summer months of July and August.

If you want to experience the Irish festivities, consider visiting in March for St Patrick's Day on the 17th.

What other sightseeing tours can you do in Dublin?

• Free walking tours in Dublin
• Hop-on hop-off bus tours in Dublin
• Scavenger games in Dublin

Travel tips

• You may be doing a lot of walking as part of your tour, so make sure to wear comfortable shoes.
• Dress in layers and take an umbrella as rain showers are common, even in summer.
• While Guinness is a must-try, also explore other local brews and Irish whiskeys.
• Ask your tour guide for recommendations on what else you can see and do during your stay in Dublin.