becoming a tour guide in ireland

National Tour Guiding

Develop the professional, technical, social and administrative skills needed to deliver a professional tour guiding experience. National Tour Guides can work anywhere in Ireland.

Unique to Kerry College

Reference 408403
Location Killarney
Type Full-time
Duration 27 weeks
Focus Employment
Certification QQI Level 6
Fees No Fees
Start date 14/10/2024

What will I study?

Irish National Heritage & Culture (6N20231)
Irish Tour Guiding (6N20229)
National Tour Management (6N20230)

Why should I apply?

You enjoy people and sharing stories
Opportunities for travel
Strong demand for qualified guides
Seasonal work

What are the employment opportunities?

Participants who successfully complete this course will seek positions as tour guides employed directly or on a freelance basis with tour operators and tour guide companies.

What are the entry requirements?

Applicants must be 16+ years of age on entry to the course.
Leaving Certificate, QQI Level 4 Major Award or equivalent.
Mature applicant route available for applicants aged 23+.
Competent written and spoken English (CEFR B2 or Higher).
Non-EU/EEA applicants must have permission to work in Ireland.
Must have a motivation to learn, an interest in the subject and the ability to acquire the knowledge, skills and competencies set out in the course.
Able to relate to a variety of individuals and groups is desirable.
Fluency in a second language is desirable.
A full class B driving licence is desirable.
Knowledge of Ireland’s geography, tourist product, social and political history is desirable.
Previous relevant industry experience is desirable.
Excellent communication & interpersonal skills.
Good numeracy skills.
Basic computer skills.
Garda vetting is a requirement for this programme and participation is subject to a satisfactory outcome of the Garda vetting process.

What's the certification?

QQI Level 6 Special Purpose Award Certificate in National Tour Guiding (6S20232)

There are no fees payable on this course. All materials and books are provided. Learner payments may be available to some applicants.

Full-time Courses - FAQs

What is fet, do i have to be on a social welfare payment to do a full-time course at kerry college.

No, but if you are, you may qualify for a Training Allowance or Back to Education Allowance.

All of our employment-focused full-time day courses are fee-free and fully funded. Places are subject to an admissions interview and our course capacity - which can be as low as 14 in some cases.

Again, you don't need to be on a social welfare payment to apply or secure a place.

What's a course for progression?

Our progression-focused courses are full time programmes and run from September to May each year. They provide you with the time and opportunity to explore a potential career and study path - before committing to a third level course of study.

You can achieve up to 390 points on our courses for progression which you can in turn use to access a range of third-level courses.

Kerry College has agreements in place with many Institutes of Technologies and Universities to allow our students to progress to study there.

You'll need to work hard though, achieving a full range of distinctions is often a requirement to progress.

What's a course for employment?

Our employment-focused courses are full-time programmes focused on building knowledge, skill, and ability and essential qualifications to enter the jobs market.

Most have integrated work practice and/or industry placement. Many include unique, professional micro-certifications which further increase your employability.

Our courses for employment are a great choice for those wishing to career change, reskill, upskill, or start your career.

What are the minimum entry criteria?

Specific entry criteria will vary depending on the course.

For most courses for employment, you must have completed a minimum of three years post-primary education or have a Junior Certificate. Some courses for employment require that you are either 18+ or 21+ before applying. Check each course page for further details.

For most courses for further study and university progression, applicants must be at least 16 years of age at course start date and ideally have a Leaving Certificate, LCVP, LCA or at the least QQI Level 4 Major Award.

Mature students (over 23) may also apply.

If you do not meet the specific entry criteria, you may be called for an information interview to secure a place, unless an interview is already part of the admissions process.

What's the NFQ?

The National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ) is a ten-level system (1–10) giving an academic or vocational value to qualifications obtained in Ireland.

Kerry College offers programmes at Levels 5 and 6 but also a range of industry-recognised professional certifications.

In addition, we also offer a number of pathway courses at Level 4.

What's Minor award?

A Minor award is commonly referred to as a module - but also as a component certificate or a certificate of unit credit.

These single 'modules' may be completed and certificated individually. All minor awards are linked to a major award that allows learners to collect and build their minor awards and work towards gaining a major award.

What is a Major award?

A Major award is a significant achievement and usually comprises of 8 minor awards or modules.

Gaining a major award allows progression to a range of third-level programmes or qualifies you for an entry-level job where you can build on your qualification with experience.

Why are course durations in weeks and not years?

Our Monavalley Campus has full-time courses starting every month of the year . These courses range from 8 weeks to 56 weeks in duration. We don't do a mid-term or Easter break at Monavalley. Our Campus Locations at Clash Road, Denny Street, and Listowel run by the academic calendar - starting in September and ending in May and include breaks at mid-term and Easter. Our academic year is 38 contact weeks - so when you see 39 weeks, it's a year-long course of 38 weeks plus one week for Christmas.

How do I apply?

Applications for all full-time programmes should be made online via the Kerry College website. Your application will be processed using FETCHCOURSES - the National FET Course Application System.

If you haven't signed up for a FETCH account, you'll need to do this first. It's free and a one-time setup.

How many Kerry College applications am I allowed to make?

What's fetch courses.

FETCH COURSES is the national application system for all FET course applications.

All new applicants must set up a free account on www.fetchcourses.ie . You must use this to apply for all further education and training progarmmes anywhere in Ireland.

For existing FETCH COURSES account holders, login and apply as before.

I can't access my FETCH account

You can reset your password using your email or mobile phone. When you do, make sure you keep it for future reference.

Bear in mind, FETCH uses your PPS number to identify you - so although you might be able to set up a second account - it won't work properly.

If you're still stuck, contact our Tralee Admissions team on 066-714 96 96 or Killarney Admissions team on 064-662 25 93.

What's the admissions interview about?

We use the admissions interview to ensure minimum entry requirements are met and to pre-screen applicants for work practice and/or industry placement. We also assess which applicants will gain the most from spending some time at Kerry College.

In preparation for the interview, consider why you’ve applied for the course, know the modules and the overall award, what you need to learn, and how you plan to use your new skills. You'll need to bring a copy of your CV and any relevant certificates.

In cases where there is a high demand for a course, you need to do well at the interview to make it onto the class-list.

What if I don't meet the minimum entry criteria?

Sometime, applicants don't meet the minimum entry criteria but feel they have the aptitute and experience to successfully complete the course. This is often where a mature learner is returning to education without a Leaving Certificate.

Get in touch with us at the Tralee Admisisons Office on 066-714 96 96 or Killarney Admissions Office on 064- 662 25 93 where we will discuss your application with you.

I did an admissions interview last year, do I need to do it again?

Yes, you do. A lot can change in a year and we always like to catch up with you and see how we can help.

I've received a course offer. Is there any funding available?

You have 3 funding routes to explore. If eligible, you may receive one of the following on a full-time Kerry College course:

Learner Payment, Back to Education Allowance, and SUSI Grant.

LEARNER PAYMENT

Also known as a Training Allowance. If you are on a qualifying DEASP payment, you may continue to receive this payment as a Learner Payment while on any full-time course at Kerry College. An F103 form is issued by Kerry College to applicants who accept a course place. This form must be completed by you and stamped and signed by DEASP/INTREO. Bring it with you on the first day of the course to have your Learner Payment processed.

BACK TO EDUCATION ALLOWANCE (BTEA)

When you have been accepted onto any full-time course at Kerry College and you feel you may qualify for a Back To Education Allowance, notify DEASP by filling in the form BTE 1 – available for download here: https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/ff3e80-back-to-education-programme-sw70/

You may qualify for a SUSI Grant (via www.susi.ie) if you have applied for a SUSI approved course. Check their website for this list which includes many Kerry College courses for third level progression.

The responsibility for researching and applying for funding and financial supports is yours. We are always available to point you in the right direction though!

I can't take up my place, can I defer?

If you can't take up your place, you should let our team know immediately, so we can offer your place to another applicant.

We don't have a deferral policy in place for our full-time courses.

Can I organise a learner payment after I start the course?

Unfortunately, this is not possible.

Your Learner Payment payment (also called a training allowance) is payable on receipt of signed and stamped F103 form at course start. We send an individualised F103 to all successful applicants. If you are on a qualifying social welfare payment, DEASP/INTREO will stamp and sign this for you.

I don't qualify for any grant or funding. What now?

Our courses for employment are free. If you can attend full time, you can apply for a place. Despite not qualifying for funding or a grant, y ou may still get a travel payment (if you live more than 3 miles/5km away from the campus location) or an accommodation payment (if you live more than 20 miles/32km away from the campus location).

Our courses for progression are free. At present, travel or accommodation payments are not part of these courses.

Kerry College has abolished all online application fees and is working to make Further Education & Training free for everyone in County Kerry.

I need to organise childcare, what are my options?

The NCS (National Childcare Scheme) is now in place and provides childcare supports for those on full-time education and training programmes. Full details can be found on the www.ncs.gov.ie webpage.

Get in touch with Kerry County Childcare Committee at (066) 718 1582 to discuss which childcare supports are available to you should you enroll on a full-time FET course.

Still have questions?

Contact our Kerry College Admissions Offices – Tralee on 066 714 9696, Killarney on 064 662 2593 or [email protected]

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How to Train as a Tour Guide in Ireland – AATGI Collaboration

Are you interested in working in Ireland and have a passion for the country’s history, heritage and culture? Whether you’re an international student studying in Ireland for university or have a passion for business and tourism in beautiful countries, you should consider a career in tour guiding. There are various courses available throughout Ireland that can prepare you for tour guiding, and provide you with the necessary skills and qualifications to become a registered tourist guide.

Tourism-based degrees at higher and further education institutions
Specialised training programmes certified by Fáilte Ireland and FETAC (Further Education and Training Awards Council).

Tourist guides can work in various roles. Some work on specific sites or attractions, some do half-or full-day city tours and others do regional or country-wide tours that last several days.

Why train as a tour guide?

Being a tourist guide involves having a real interest in, and passion for, learning about Ireland, as you must continue to learn about Ireland throughout your career.

Guiding is not just about telling stories; you need to know about day-to-day living in Ireland as well as the geography, dates, history and culture. Not all of this will be taught to you; you must spend time independently learning everything possible in order to give a knowledgeable and interesting tour.

Having a connection with Irish people and experience living there is a plus, so studying in Ireland will be great preparation. You must also be good at organising and have skills in customer service and talking to people. Being fluent in a language other than English is also a great asset and may help you get more work.

The tourist guide industry in Ireland is not yet regulated, but having training and the necessary qualifications means you will find it easier to find work and can be certified and registered by a professional body, giving you an advantage over unqualified guides.

How to be a tour guide

Training and Association Membership

When you have the necessary qualifications, you can apply for the Failte Ireland Tourist Guide Badge, for which you must complete six, four-day tours evaluated by an employer. Once you have this badge, you will be able to apply for membership to AATGI – The Association of Approved Tourist Guides of Ireland.

AATGI is the professional body representing tourist guides across Ireland and lobbying for better working environments for them. It was founded in 1977 and currently has nearly 250 members. It is a member of the Federation of European Tourist Guide Associations and can assist members with:

Job seeking
Guiding rates
And ongoing training such as first aid.

AATGI advises that you must have a love for the business to be a successful tourist guide; the work is seasonal, meaning it cannot bring a year-round salary unless you work elsewhere during the winter. For this reason, many tourist guides have other jobs such as teaching.

They also warn students to be aware of recruiting companies who offer tourist guide training. Some of these will provide the minimum training and then do not allow students to work for other companies, tying them down to one place.

For more information about tourist guide training and certification, including about higher and further education courses, visit – www.aatgi.ie – or – www.failteireland.ie

This content has been provided by The Association of Approved Tourist Guides of Ireland.

Enjoyed this article? Check out our other articles on living and working in Ireland.

National Tour Guiding – Part Time

Course description.

Are you interested in becoming a tour guide? The National Tour Guiding Programme is a QQI Level 6 qualification for those who wish to train as a Tour Guide. This course combines practical tour guiding skills with the theoretical knowledge to enable learners to provide guiding and tour management services for tourists. You will explore the historic, cultural and social aspects of the city and the region. You will learn how to provide a commentary and organise and manage a tour. Practical experience will be gained through a series of simulated guided tours. This course meets the criteria for the Failte Ireland Industry Qualified Tour Guide Directory. The National Tour Guide Badge is issued to successful students upon graduation.

The delivery of this programme is by interactive webinar sessions and online learning allowing you the flexibility to study from a location convenient to you. Webinars are recorded allowing you the opportunity to catch up should you miss a session. As well as webinars you will gain practical experience by attending a number of guided tours with your classmates. There is an easy payment plan designed to make this course affordable for you. These factors, together with the one to one tutorial support, offer you a course that is accessible, affordable and achievable. Why should I study this course? The tourism industry is one of the largest and ever-changing sectors in the world. It accounts for a third of global services trade and is expected to continue to grow in the coming years. The industry and employment opportunities available are wide and varied if you like travelling, meeting new people every day or working outdoors.

This programme is ideally suited to a person seeking flexibility with a career where they can choose the times of the year they wish to work. The main tourist season is from March to October however with rising tourist numbers, tour guides can now avail of employment opportunities all year round.

Portobello Institute has been training professionals for the Travel & Tourism sector for over 25 years. Our QQI level 6 National Tour Guiding award gives you the opportunity to learn from a range of experts. The tutor team are all experienced industry professionals who can offer superior insight into what it takes to gain employment in this exciting industry. Portobello Institute supports students with their efforts to gain employment as tour guides by introducing them to the major tour operators. Many past graduates have been recruited directly from this programme by the main tour operators in Ireland.

Upon completion of this programme you will hold QQI Level 6 Special Purpose Award in National Tour Guiding 6S20232 with 45 credits .

The primary focus of this programme is to prepare you for employment in the travel and tourism sector. This course is broad based with opportunity to gain an insight into the many facets of the sector from tourism to the operation of an airline, working in a travel agency to being a tour operator are all covered during this programme.

The purpose of this programme is to provide you with the knowledge, skill and competence to work effectively as a tour guide. You will gain a strong understanding of the role and responsibilities of the tourist guide in the context of the Irish tourism industry and develop key skills in customer care and interaction. You will also develop an understanding and appreciation of Irish cultural, built and natural heritage, which is key to your future role as a tour guide.

You will gain the knowledge, skill and competence to manage tours including all travel and transfers within different tour contexts. You will study the principles of tour management and devise commentaries and itineraries for coach and walking tours including a range of different contexts throughout Ireland. You will gain the practical skills needed to manage tours to a professional standard, implementing appropriate administration procedures and demonstrating appropriate safety procedures.

During the course you will complete the following modules; Module 6N20229 – Irish Tour Guiding

Introduction to tourism and tour guiding.
Structure of the Irish Tourism Industry.
Attributes of a tour guide.
Main tourist markets and types of tourists.
Irish Architecture and Buildings.
Irish Vernacular Architecture.
Tour Planning
Customer Handling Skills.
Communication Skills.

Module 6N20230 – National Tour Management

Tour Management – logistics, administration, scheduling, itineraries, team working
Group Management to include diverse populations
Health and Safety
The ‘Jogger Note’
Communication Skills

Module 6N20231 Irish Natural Heritage and Culture

Essential local information (banking hours, post offices, food and drink, shopping, leisure pursuits, entertainment etc)
Historic sites and buildings
Architectural heritage
Geography and key physical features
Agriculture and forestry
Fishing and maritime heritage
Archaeology
Geology/soils
Flora and fauna
The local economy/socio-demographics of the region
Leisure pursuits and amenities
Folklore / myth / storytelling
Famous people associated with the area
Performing arts
Literature (songs/poets/writers/language)
Derivation of Irish place name
Other (to allow the tutor to include other topics specific to their area of interest and which is not included on this indicative list)

Delivery Mode This course has been specifically re-designed for delivery by online learning with live interactive webinar sessions and practical on-site familiarisation trips. It is very suited to you if you have a busy work and home life and want to fit study around this. During the induction, you will be given your log-in details to the online portal, “ePortobello”. Here you will find course notes, reading lists, articles of interest and assessment guidelines. The content is structured in an easy to “find and follow” format. You will need basic computer skills such as searching the internet and typing a word document. The webinars are scheduled two evenings a week on the same evening to give structure to your learning journey and encourage you to continue to progress through the programme.

Alongside webinars there are also 5 weekend dates (either Saturday or Sunday) where students participate in practical tour guiding sessions to gain experience delivering and managing a tour. Course Structure Webinars take place two evenings a week for the duration of the course. Webinars are recorded and should you miss a session, you can catch up with the recorded session at a later date. You will only be able to access webinars of the group you are assigned to. There are also six sessions that take place on a Saturday. These sessions are for field trips.

What is a Webinar?

A webinar, in the context of online learning, is a lecturer delivering a presentation or class online to a group of students. We use specifically designed e-learning software so you can participate in the class just as if you were present in the same room. You can ask a question of the lecturer at any stage during the class. The software is designed with “break-out rooms” where you can discuss a topic or complete a group exercise with a smaller group from your class. You will need a computer, laptop, tablet or smartphone that has internet connection, an audio facility so you can hear and speak during the class and a camera so your lecturer and fellow class participants can see you. The webinar is a secure online environment and only those permitted entry by the lecturer can gain access to the “classroom”. Webinars are recorded during each session and should you miss a session, you can catch up with the recorded session at a later date. You will only be able to access webinars of the group you are assigned to.

Tutor Support

You can email your tutor at any stage during the module to ask a simple query or submit a draft of your assessment. Our programme management team are always available to offer you telephone and email support and if you need to, you can arrange to meet them for further one to one guidance.

Many of our past graduates have found it is the opportunity to ask a simple question, seek direction and submit a draft of their assessment that supported them most to successful completion. This level of one to one support is a particular benefit to choosing this mode of study. Portobello Institute has invested in a team of programme managers and tutors who are experienced sports therapy practitioners as well as qualified and knowledgeable educators. They are available to assist you at every stage of this programme.

Field Trips

There are five tour guiding sessions in all.

The first is often a common tour delivered in a common area such as a walking tour of your closest major city. It will go through the main sites along a planned route and will give you the how and why a route such as that was selected.

The second might be a lesser known tour in the event that your regular route is cut off by unforeseen circumstances (city roadwork) or a foreseen but unavoidable situation (a parade).

The third may go through guiding a tour indoors and the differences required in how you port yourself in a museum-like setting.

The fourth and the fifth will bring you on a coach tour outside of your regular area and go through not only delivering a tour on a coach, but also keeping groups together, giving strict deadlines for return, meeting points, etc. The fifth tour will repeat much of the fourth, by design, since the role itself will require repeating the same information many times over. It is also important to reinforce this type of tour since it is by far the most common. How will I be assessed? A variety of assessment methods are used to support students with different learning styles. These vary from written reports to practical case studies to examinations. We encourage you to reflect on your knowledge gain with a number of assignments designed to explore your learning journey. All of these assessment methods are seeking to support you to combine theory with scenario-based learning and how to practically implement these methods into your everyday practice. The role of a Tour Guide

Manage the experience in a positive and safe manner with control over important aspects of the tour and put redundancy plans in place.
Inform through storytelling and tactile involvement in what should be an honest but favourable picture of the country/area.
Entertain your guests and leave them with a memorable and enjoyable experience they will share with others.
Safety is paramount so keep it in mind throughout your planning and the execution of your tour.

Course Enquiry

Portobello Institute - National Tour Guiding – Part Time - 1

travel-tourism

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National Tour Guide

Regional Tour Guide Training

Culture and Heritage

This exciting training programme will provide participants with the skills, knowledge and competencies required to provide a comprehensive guiding service for tourists visiting and travelling in Ireland. It will be relevant, practical and up-to-date with industry needs and follow best practice guidelines.

The programme comprises two modules: Irish Tour Guiding and Irish Natural Heritage and Culture.

Candidates will graduate with the Special Purpose 6S20233 award on achieving the full 30 credits.

What are the objectives?

To train and prepare you to work as a tour guide in the Heritage/Tourism sector at a regional level.

To give you the skills needed for guided tours including Health & Safety, environmental best practices, and Customer care.

To provide you with professional, technical, social, personal and administrative skills to prepare and offer a quality guiding service to a range of market profiles.

To provide professional awareness to evaluate and respond to the range of issues ongoing in the industry e.g. main bodies, legislation, sustainability, development and protection.

To develop your skills in research (online and other sources)

To understand key aspects of Ireland’s history, archaeology and heritage.

To facilitate learner progression, personal development and enhancement of learning skills.

All this and more!

What are my study options?

10 weeks including exams & Presentations – 3 evenings a week 5.00pm-6.30pm and Saturdays – Start Date: 7th of December 2021.

What you need to apply?

If you have a keen interest in Irish history, heritage and culture and in telling Ireland’s ‘story’ to others, and have an interest in tourism and the understanding of the benefits of quality tourist guiding to the industry and the visitor experience, then this is the course for you!

The cost of this course is €1250

Download the application form here Application Form Regional Tour Guide Training and email it to [email protected]

For more information on this new and exciting course to Dublinia, just contact us on 01-6794611 or email [email protected]

Download National Tour Guide Course Outline Brochure
Download Cultural and Heritage Training Course Outline Brochure

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Course Description

Tour guide - part time.

Why should I study this course?

The tourism industry is one of the largest and ever-changing sectors in the world. It accounts for a third of global services trade and is expected to continue to grow in the coming years. The industry and employment opportunities available are wide and varied if you like travelling, meeting new people every day or working outdoors.

Upon completion of this programme you will hold QQI Level 6 Special Purpose Award in National Tour Guiding 6S20232 with 45 credits

During the course you will complete the following modules;

Module 6N20229 – Irish Tour Guiding

Introduction to tourism and tour guiding.
Structure of the Irish Tourism Industry.
Attributes of a tour guide.
Main tourist markets and types of tourists.
Irish Architecture and Buildings.
Irish Vernacular Architecture.
Tour Planning
Customer Handling Skills.
Communication Skills.

Module 6N20230 – National Tour Management

Tour Management – logistics, administration, scheduling, itineraries, team working
Group Management to include diverse populations
Health and Safety
The ‘Jogger Note’
Communication Skills

Module 6N20231 Irish Natural Heritage and Culture

Essential local information (banking hours, post offices, food and drink, shopping, leisure pursuits, entertainment etc)
Historic sites and buildings
Architectural heritage
Geography and key physical features
Agriculture and forestry
Fishing and maritime heritage
Archaeology
Geology/soils
Flora and fauna
The local economy/socio-demographics of the region
Leisure pursuits and amenities
Folklore / myth / storytelling
Famous people associated with the area
Performing arts
Literature (songs/poets/writers/language)
Derivation of Irish place name
Other (to allow the tutor to include other topics specific to their area of interest and which is not included on this indicative list)

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Course provider.

Portobello Institute

Make enquiry.

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Tourist Guide

Please note that there is no requirement for a licence or permit to provide services as a tour guide in Ireland*, the information below given is for general information purposes only.

The Approved Tourist Guides of Ireland (ATGI) is the professional association of Tourist Guides who are approved by Fáilte Ireland.

While there is no requirement for a licence*, it is advisable to note for anyone providing a service as a tour guide in Ireland including establishing a place of business in Ireland or providing a service without establishing in Ireland, would have to comply with Irish law (i.e. tax etc).

General information

Becoming Self Employed
Starting a business in Ireland
Temporary/cross border provision of services

* This applies to walking/speaking tour guides only. In the event Guides intended to use transport- the appropriate transport licenses and insurances would be required.

Last Updated: 10th September 2021

Member's Login

We can trace our roots back to 1977, to the establishment of FIGI (the Federation of Irish Guiding Interests). Founded to protect and promote the Profession of Tourist Guiding, Training and Development and to give Tourist Guides a voice in the Tourism Industry. Along the way we became AATGI (the Association of Approved Tourist Guides of Ireland) and now, quite simply, we are known as ATGI, Approved Tourist Guides of Ireland, a full member of FEG, the European Federation of Tourist Guide Associations and we are a full Member of WFTGA, the World Federation of Tourist Guides Organisations. Our name changed but our message remains the same, we are now representing over 520 qualifed and professional Tourist Guides from all over Ireland.

Our members are professional tourist guides trained to lead, educate, engage and entertain a huge variety of clients across the entire island of Ireland, in over 20 languages. Whether you want to hike the mountains and valleys, enjoy traditional food, drink, music or dance, experience the timeless archaeology, learn about Ireland's role in the world or just connect with your Irish roots... there will be an ATGI guide for you!

Our members , of whom we have over 600 and counting, are:

Fully Trained
Accredited by the Irish Training Authority.
Expert professional communicators
Skilled in all aspects of tour management
Fully Insured
Committed to providing our clients with an unforgettable authentic experience of Ireland
Experts in the history and culture of our land
Up to date as we provide continuous professional training to all our members

And, most importantly,

Fun! The 'Craic' is never far away with an ATGI Guide.

LANGUAGE Cantonese (0) Dutch (3) English (103) French (4) German (3) Irish/Gaelic (7) Italian (1) Portuguese (1) Russian (1) Spanish (1)
LOCATION Belfast (5) carlow (3) Cavan (5) Clare (7) Connemara (41) Cork (9) Donegal (7) Dublin (19) Galway (14) ireland (1) Ireland's Ancient East (73) Ireland's Hidden Heartlands (50) Kerry (7) Kildare (10) Kilkenny (9) Leitrim (5) Limerick (8) Loais (5) longford (6) Louth (8) Mayo (7) Meath (10) Monaghan (5) Northern Ireland (37) Offaly (5) Roscommon (5) Sligo (6) The Boyne Valley (48) The Burren (45) The Ring of Kerry (43) Tipperary (8) Waterford (8) westmeath (7) Wexford (9) Wicklow (11) Wild Atlantic Way (59)
TOUR TYPE Coach Tours (Step on Guide) (32) Driver / Guided Tours (58) dublin (1) General Tours (1) Sight Seeing (1) Walking Tours (57)

Welcome to the Independent Tour Guides Association

The Independent Tour Guides Association is a non-profit membership organisation founded in 2013.

As a collective of Tour Guides, our team is dedicated to offering unparalleled experiences that delve into the heart of Ireland’s history, heritage, and culture.

Each guide brings a wealth of knowledge and a passion for sharing the unique stories that shape this extraordinary island.

Whether you’re drawn to the ancient mystique of castles, the rhythmic tunes of traditional music, or the breathtaking landscapes along the Wild Atlantic Way, we ensure the right guide and experience for you.

Explore Ireland’s enchanting past and vibrant present with our diverse team of Tourist guides who are committed to providing you with a memorable and enriching journey through the Emerald Isle.

Why not look through our guides profiles and you can connect with the Tour Guide for you.

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How to Become a Tour Guide in Ireland

2024-03-07 2024-03-07

Introduction

If you have a passion for history, love exploring new places, and enjoy sharing your knowledge with others, becoming a tour guide in Ireland can be a fulfilling career choice. Ireland’s rich culture, breathtaking landscapes, and captivating history make it a popular destination for tourists from all over the world. In this blog post, we will guide you through the steps to becoming a tour guide in Ireland.

Educational Requirements

While there are no strict educational requirements to become a tour guide in Ireland, having a solid foundation of knowledge about the country’s history, geography, and culture is essential. Consider pursuing a degree in Irish history, archaeology, or a related field to deepen your understanding. Additionally, gaining practical experience through internships, volunteering, or taking part in guided tours can be invaluable.

Language Skills

Ireland is an English-speaking country, but being multilingual can greatly enhance your prospects as a tour guide. Fluency in languages such as French, German, Spanish, or Chinese can open doors to a wider range of tour guide opportunities, as it allows you to cater to diverse groups of tourists. Consider taking language courses or practicing through language exchange programs.

Get to Know Ireland

To become an exceptional tour guide, you must have an in-depth knowledge of Ireland’s history, landmarks, and culture. Immerse yourself in Irish literature, watch documentaries, and read about the country’s folklore and traditions. Familiarize yourself with popular tourist destinations, historical sites, and hidden gems. The more you know, the better you can engage with and educate your tour groups.

Certifications and Licensing

While not mandatory, obtaining certifications and licenses can enhance your credibility and increase your chances of securing employment. The Failte Ireland Tour Guide Badge, for example, is a highly regarded qualification that demonstrates your competence and professionalism as a tour guide. To obtain it, you will need to complete a recognized training course and pass an assessment.

Networking and Building Connections

In the tourism industry, connections play a vital role. Network with professionals in the field by attending industry events, joining tour guide associations, and participating in online forums. Building relationships with travel agencies, hotels, and local businesses can also help generate referrals and job opportunities. Demonstrating your enthusiasm and professionalism can make a lasting impression on potential employers.

Developing Essential Skills

A successful tour guide possesses a combination of technical skills and personal attributes. Some essential skills include:

Public Speaking: Effective verbal communication is essential to engage and captivate your audience. Consider taking public speaking courses or joining toastmasters to improve your presentation skills.
Interpersonal Skills: Being friendly, approachable, and adaptable helps create a positive experience for your tour group. Practice active listening, empathy, and resolving conflicts diplomatically.
Organizational Skills: Planning and managing itineraries, coordinating logistics, and ensuring a smooth tour require strong organizational abilities. Attention to detail and the ability to handle unexpected situations are also crucial.

Gain Experience

Before venturing into independent tour guiding, gaining practical experience is crucial. Consider working for a local tour company or becoming an apprentice with an experienced tour guide. This will allow you to understand the dynamics of leading tours, handling different types of tourists, and managing diverse situations. Additionally, volunteering to guide tours at museums, libraries, or cultural events can provide valuable experience and build your confidence.

Create a Unique Tour

One way to stand out as a tour guide is by creating a unique, specialized tour experience. Focus on a specific aspect of Irish culture, such as whiskey distilleries, ancient myths and legends, or historic castles. Tailor your tour to a niche market and provide a truly unforgettable experience for your customers. Research the market to identify any gaps and be creative in designing your tour.

Marketing Yourself

Once you have acquired the necessary skills and experience, it’s time to market yourself as a tour guide. Create a professional website showcasing your expertise, previous tours, and testimonials from satisfied customers. Leverage social media platforms, travel forums, and online directories to reach potential clients. Collaborate with local businesses for cross-promotion and offer special deals to attract new customers.

Becoming a tour guide in Ireland is an exciting and rewarding career choice for those passionate about the country’s history, culture, and natural beauty. By following these steps, gaining experience, and continuously expanding your knowledge, you can embark on a fulfilling journey of sharing Ireland’s treasures with enthusiastic tourists from near and far.

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Work With Us

Work hard? Love Ireland?

If you are interested in working with Vagabond Tours, find our current opportunities below.

🚐 Sales & Reservation Executive | 🛞 Adventure Tours Driver-Guide

We're proud to be a Certified Great Place To Work 2023-2024

💻 Hybrid Working Model
🏥 Private Healthcare
🎓 Professional Development
💰 Competitive Salary
👴🏼 Pension Plan
🚲 Bike-To-Work Scheme
🏓 Ping Pong Table

Share Your CV With Us: info@vagabond.ie

Sales & Reservation Executive

If you love Ireland and enjoy the challenge of sales, why not consider an exciting career with Vagabond Tours?

You’ll be joining a family-owned success story.

Vagabond Tours is an independent Wicklow company that was recently ranked among the world’s best tour operators.

Our 5-15 day small-group tours visit the most beautiful corners of Ireland in a fleet of customised Mercedes tour vehicles.

Read on to learn why you should consider joining our Sales & Reservations team…

An Adventurous New Challenge...

Our Sales & Reservation team are the backbone of our guest experience.

You’ll not only be representing us, you’ll be an ambassador for Ireland itself.

Travel Expert.

Friendly Voice.

Information Guru.

Problem-Solver.

Your role will encompass all of the above — and more — as our crucial, first point of contact for future customers and current guests.

Earn a competitive salary and develop your career as you introduce people from all around the world to Ireland.

Work With Purpose

We expect you to bring your values with you to work.

As Ireland’s first travel B Corp , we are committed to best practice as a business, environmentally, with our guests, our team and our suppliers around Ireland.

At VagaHQ in Ireland, we look for more sustainable ways of doing things every day.

That spirit runs from the sustainably-traded beans in our coffee machine to the solar panels on the roof and the EV charging point.

How can we do better? We’ll expect your creative ideas from day one.

Flexibility and a healthy work-life balance are built-in to the package at Vagabond Tours.

Do more of the things you love — like learning new skills and connecting with new people from around the world — every day of your Vagabond career.

Here are just a few of the skills we’ll help you develop at Vagabond:

Sales Techniques
Effective Organisation
Improved Communication

We like to say, no two Vagabond tours are the same. The same goes for your working day!

Our guests can be aged 8-88. They may want an active bike tour or a family tour of their ancestors’ castle.

On any given day, you may be in touch with our team of VagaGuides or contributing your ideas and experience to a cross-department meeting.

You’re In Good Company

Joining us means joining a community of friendly and experienced colleagues.

We're proud to be a Certified Great Place To Work 2023-2024 .

We pride ourselves at Vagabond Tours for pooling our knowledge, being accessible to each other, learning new skills together and improving Ireland (and the world).

We work hard but also place genuine value on having fun.

The end-of-season get-togethers are legendary and the ping-pong table is always open!

A Windswept & Interesting Career

As a core part of our Sales & Reservations team, you’ll give our guests the ultimate gift; golden memories and life-changing experiences.

It’s not unusual for guests to return to Ireland for a second, third or even fourth Vagabond tour.

We will ensure you are fully tooled-up, trained-up and confident enough to help these happy (and valuable) customers make their return trips.

Even better, your development in our team is the perfect launchpad for a career in the interesting and international tourism industry.

Responsibilities

As a Vagabond Tours Sales & Reservation Executive you will:

Manage each lead throughout the customer journey using a structured lead management process.
Using a blend of the company booking and CRM systems, enter guest details as required for tracking, visibility and tour allocation.
Liaise with the Operations team to ensure the right people are on the right tour at the right time and in the right place.
Prepare documents for each tour, outlining hotels, guest details and activities planned or booked.
Book accommodations and activities, as requested.
Participate in and/or lead cross-department projects. For example, our sustainability Green Team.

Personal Attributes

You will have these personal attributes:

Good organisation, task-oriented with an eye for detail.
Be results-driven as measured against company KPIs, self-motivated and a strong team player.
Enjoy the thrill that comes with converting an early lead to a fully-paid up and happy customer.
Fluent in English with a personable written and verbal communication style.
Have high standards and be described as someone who gives 100%.
Enjoy being part of a dynamic, fun team that strives for the best but, at the same, appreciates that a good sense of humour can save the day!

You may have these desired skills:

1-2 years’ experience working in a busy customer facing role, ideally in the tourism or hospitality sector.
Excellent all-round computer skills. Be familiar and comfortable with the use of Google (including Google docs and sheets), Microsoft Outlook and Office Suite.
Experience using a CRM system such as Zoho, Hubspot or Salesforce. This is desired but not essential.
Experience using a booking/reservation system is also desired but not essential.

Compensation & Other Details

In return you will receive:

A salary commensurate with experience
A bonus on achievement of KPIs and company budget
Training in company systems
20 days annual leave
Employer contribution to private pension

Reporting to the Marketing and Sales Manager, this full-time permanent role is based at our offices at Newtownmountkennedy, Co. Wicklow.

Hours: 35 hours per week. Our standard working day is normally 9.30am to 5.30pm but flexible working arrangements, including a mix of office and remote working, is possible.

Vagabond Tours is an Equal Opportunities employer

Do you have the drive, enthusiasm, skills — and humour — we’re looking for?

If so, please apply via deirdre[at]vagabond.ie including a cover letter and your latest CV.

Adventure Tours Driver-Guide

If you love Ireland and want to do more of the things you’re passionate about, why not consider an exciting new lifestyle and career change with Vagabond Tours?

✔️ Fresh air.
✔️ Exploring Ireland.
✔️ Outdoor activity and adventure.
✔️ New skills.
✔️ Being part of an awesome team within a company that strives to be a truly sustainable and rewarding employer.

Read on to find out why becoming a VagaGuide might be just the change you’re seeking.

An Adventurous New Career...

You’re not a tour guide with Vagabond, you’re a VagaGuide .

VagaGuides are the superheroes of every guest experience.

How do we know this? Because our 5-star TripAdvisor and TrustPilot reviewers keep on telling us how much they loved their guides.

What Is A VagaGuide?

Storyteller.

Problem-solver.

As a VagaGuide, you’ll become all of the above while leading our 5-12 day small-group tours to Ireland's most beautiful and little-known corners.

Earn a competitive salary — plus tips! — explaining Irish history, culture and nature to guests while driving our fleet of customised 4x4 Mercedes tour vehicles .

As Ireland’s first travel B Corp , we are committed to best practice as a business, environmentally, with our customers, our team and our suppliers around Ireland.

Our sister company, Sustainable Travel Network , is Ireland’s leading sustainability certification body.

We exchange sustainability ideas with our guests on tour as well as via our blogs and social media .

Forget about 9 to 5.

Do more of the things you love — like connecting with new people from around the world — every day of your Vagabond career.

Here are just a few of the skills you’ll learn with Vagabond:

✔️ Leadership
✔️ Resilience
✔️ Organisation
✔️ Communication

There’s no such thing as a typical day. Our guests can be aged 8-88. Our tour itineraries and destinations are famously flexible.

Becoming a VagaGuide means joining a community of friendly and experienced colleagues.

You’ll not only be representing us as a VagaGuide, you’ll be an ambassador for Ireland itself.

Give our guests the ultimate gift; golden memories and life-changing experiences.

It’s not unusual for guests to return to Ireland for a second, third or even fourth Vagabond tour, based largely on their positive experience with a VagaGuide.

Even better, your development as a VagaGuide could be the perfect launchpad for a rewarding career in tourism.

Meet our current team of VagaGuide tour guides

Our tours come in two distinct styles:

🛶 Vagabond Adventure Tours - Fast-paced, adrenaline-filled and active.
🌄 Driftwood Journeys of Discovery - A more relaxed pace with an emphasis on culture and sightseeing.

VagaGuides are expected to deliver both experiences to guests.

No matter which tour style you lead, we are passionate about the fantastic experience delivered to our guests, requiring the highest level of dedication and professionalism from all our team.

In return, we invest considerable time and effort into developing people into our guiding roles.

Our customers come from all over the world and across a wide spectrum of ages and backgrounds. But what they have in common is that they are all here to relax, unwind and enjoy Ireland.

Each Vagabond or Driftwood Tour lasts between 5-12 days. It is hard work and you will be away from home, but it is also great fun, a healthy way of life and very rewarding (you also get a great tan).

Plus the pay is OK too. (Season runs from mid-March to the end of October).

Duties include but are not limited to:

Preparation of vehicle for trip including
Ensure it is clean, has all required kit and equipment
Performing and submitting morning and evening checks
Ensuring vehicle is kept in a roadworthy condition throughout the tour and timely reporting of defects
Safety (including safe driving) and contentment of your groups
Excellent all round knowledge of Ireland - history, culture, education, economy and Irish life in general.
Embarking guests and their luggage each morning
Full delivery of tour information throughout tour
Organising activities, walks etc on tour
Accompanying customers on walks and at attractions
Checking in guests to accommodations at end of each day
Ensuring all admin tasks are completed in a timely fashion (e.g., double checking accommodation allocation)
Timely reporting of all incidents involving customers or which may impact on the company
Cleaning of vehicles to expected standard
Cleaning vehicle inside and out
Ensuring all vehicle fluids are topped up (fuel, oil, water, additives, coolant and brake fluid)
Post tour vehicle checks
Other duties as required: These may vary, and activities outside the role of driver-guide would be optional.

Requirements

Class D or D1 Passenger Carrying Vehicle Licence - If you are looking for work for the 2023 and 2024 season, don't yet have a D or D1 licence, but have begun the process, then feel free to apply. (Vagabond will also partially assist financially with the cost obtaining the D1 licence. This support is paid after the successful applicant’s first touring season).

Tourism or touring experience would be an advantage but not essential. Customer service experience is also handy.

A ‘People Person’- Patient, outgoing, independent, with initiative, reliable, punctual, personable. You don’t have to be the life and soul of the party, but good interpersonal skills are a must.

Successful candidates will be provided with extensive training including:
4-5 weeks in house training, including
Team Training Week (great craic)
On the road training (also great craic)
Further training, if required:
First aid training
Manual Handling
Lowland Leader or Mountain skills training

Do you have the drive, enthusiasm, skills (and humour) we’re looking for?

If so, please email info@vagabond.ie with your cover letter and CV.

Please only apply as a tour guide if you already hold a D or D1 bus licence and CPCs , or have already started working towards getting your licence.

Apply For A Job

What Makes Us Tick?

Read how Vagabond was founded — and where we're headed — on the About Us page .

What Is Responsible Tourism?

Respect for our planet and its people lies at the heart of our responsible tourism mission .

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Exploring The Art of Being a Tour Guide with Jim Dempsey

Jim Dempsey on The Art of Being a Tour Guide

Quite often when you step out as a tour guide it is terrifying. The responsibility can be overwhelming. Stage fright is the closest thing I can think of when I observe this happening to students and newcomers alike. You must have a certain confidence.

This is one of the first things I home in on with students on the course, the source of their confidence. What is it that makes them want to be a guide? A passion for Ireland is a given; the desire to extend hospitality is built into the DNA of most Irish people, and most people from abroad who wish to be guides.

The very specific thing, however, what is that? We are all storytellers by nature and tour guiding is all about storytelling. I look at training each student individually, to develop this very trait. Some have the knowledge but are not confident of the talent, others have lots of talent but lack the knowledge.

My favourite tours usually come early in the season, in May or June. You have a new perspective after the relatively closed winter season. You have new stories to share and to tell, well the good guides do!

As you tell these stories you start to evolve them into entertaining forms and your skills as a storyteller develop. Being able to think on your feet is a critical skill as a guide in my opinion because each tour group is individual, and you tell each group a slightly different version every time.

One of my all-time favourite tours, which I still talk about today was one of my first. Way back in the late 1990s. I was to pick up a party of four women at Shannon Airport and transfer them via the Killimer – Tarbert ferry to Dingle where they had a dinner reservation for an exclusive restaurant. Time was ample but also tight.

The lead traveller emerged into the Arrivals hall and came to me straight away.

“We want to go see the Cliffs of Moher!” she announced.

Perplexed, I replied:

“We can’t, it is in the opposite direction, and we are on a timeline.”

She looked me in the eye and said:

“You’re not listening, we want to see the Cliffs of Moher first!”

This continued until all the women were out with the bags and I was now outnumbered four to one. It was pointless. As I walked to the vehicle the office replied to my missed call. I explained the situation. They requested to speak to the lead traveller and attempted to explain the difficulties this would cause. To no avail, I was instructed to take them to the Cliffs, be as prompt as possible and the restaurant would be rescheduled, if possible.

Off we went. They loved it and I realised who was in charge. These were four women who were lifelong friends, who travelled once a year together and this year it was Ireland, and I was their guide for ten days.

They arrived in Dingle and made a rebooked dinner reservation. The tour continued the next day with awful weather, clouds down around our ankles. They had booked a hiking and outdoor tour. They were from the southeast USA – think sunshine 24/7. This was not part of their plan.

As I brought them to where we were scheduled to hike, they took one look out the window and said:

“Not a chance!”

“What are we going to do instead?” I innocently asked.

“That’s up to you, you’re the guide. What do YOU like doing?” they replied.

“Food and drink are my specialities” was my reply.

The itinerary went out the window, as it often does, and I made it up. They finished in The Shelbourne in Dublin after ten days. Delighted. I learned many lessons on that tour, lessons I teach today.

About the Author

Jim Dempsey has over two decades of experience in the tourism industry and gives fascinating tours right across the country. He is a lecturer on our Tour Guide Level 6 course, you can read his full profile here .

Read More: Discover Tour Guiding as a Profession: A World Full of Travel, Joy and Endless Opportunities

Get in Contact

If you are interested in becoming a tour guide in Ireland you can check out our upcoming courses here .

If you are interested in choosing the course for the career you want, you can book a consultation call with our expert Travel & Tourism advisor Brandon McLean here , email [email protected] or call 01 892 0035.

What are the Essential Skills for Tour Guides?

What Top Two Qualities Do All Excellent Tour Guides Have?

The Joy of Tour Guiding and Cultural Exchange

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The secret life of Ireland’s tour guides

Ireland’s professional storytellers on sharing their love of culture, warring clients and hidden pizzas.

We all love a good story, but only a few can tell them well. A great storyteller is someone who can hold a room, impart new knowledge and bring us to other worlds. Now that we’re waist deep in another summer of staycations, we thought we’d share a few stories from some of the best – the people at the coalface of the tourism industry – tour guides.

Kevin Whelan, has been a tour guide for more than 20 years in his hometown of Nenagh in Co Tipperary, where he gives walking tours and tours of Nenagh Castle. "I didn't have an academic background in history. I never passed an exam in my life, but I had given days to the library just researching – history was a pastime," he says of his career.

“I love teaching people about the history of how the town came to be. I like to bring in interesting characters and different events. As a kid I used to tend to the garden of an old house for the woman who lived there. She’d give me sixpence and I’d get chocolate biscuits. I remember once, her telling me about a man who would come to her at night and stand at the bed and shout at her – then she said to me, ‘Don’t turn around, he’s standing at the end of the bed now’, well I jumped over the bed and out the door, and never went back.” He laughs, “when I tell that story, it breaks up the tour a bit, people enjoy the human stories.”

With more than a few local tales up his sleeve, Whelan finds it easy to captivate his audience. However, there's always the occasional challenge: "Once in Roscrea Castle, a fight started between a husband and wife. The rest of the group was just silent, the two of them were just screaming at each other. What do you do in a situation like that? The man stormed off and the woman just stood there with temper in her face. She just let out a roar at me and told me to keep talking – oh she was horrible. But, you have to be professional," he says.

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James Keenan at Portumna Castle

Like Whelan, fellow Tipperary native and local guide James Keenan, who has been working at Portumna Castle for 12 years, has a few tall tales to break the ice, "I try to bring a bit of humour to the tour and to have a bit of a laugh. There's a 15th-century carving of a lady at the Augustinian Priory, she's wearing a horned headdress and there's still a bit of paint still on her – a little bit of blue and a little bit of white – we tell visitors that she was the first camogie player in Lorrha – as those are the Lorrha colours." Keenan worked in the construction sector before his move into tourism, and has never looked back: "I think of myself as a storyteller – there's a satisfaction in knowing that people have enjoyed your company and have left with a bit more knowledge. I always come back happy – I took a national school out recently and we did a little workshop – a few weeks later I received a handmade card from all the children in the school.

“I try to appeal to people’s humanity and give them a sense of colour – what smells came from the kitchen, what they grew in their vegetable gardens, the sports they played, the herbs they used in their cooking. I build these details into the story to give people a sense of what the area was like – I try to bring them back 800 years.”

Sheena Dignam eating an oyster on one of her Galway Food Tours

Another person who is well versed in sharing stories of Ireland's food history and its people is Sheena Dignam; owner of Galway Food Tours. "Growing up, I knew that I was going to run my own business and that it was going to involve food, drink and dealing with the public," Dignam says. She worked for years in the food industry, from restaurants to food start-ups. She even ran her own chocolate shop in Dublin before moving to Galway six years ago where she founded her food tour company. "I really thought it would be cool to bring visitors and locals to meet these passionate food producers", she says. Dignam has a glowing reputation among restaurateurs, chefs and food suppliers; "A big part of the work is the day-to-day dealings with amazing Galway businesses – they welcome us and bring a bit of craic to the tours".

Ellen Quinn Banville during her time as a tour guide in Paris

When asked what stories she keeps for special occasions she jokingly says . . . “I don’t know if I can tell you . . .”, but goes on to say; “there are so many stories to tell – especially in a medieval city like Galway. Did you know it was against the law to sell warm bread in Galway city in the late 1800s?”

Dignam has had her fair share of weird and wonderful experiences. She tells a story about a woman who was “forced” to come on a food tour with her husband. “She just wasn’t interested. What really amused me was - as we were eating our local farmhouse cheeses, air dried lamb, oysters and crab - she would pull out of her small black handbag slices of cheese pizza. It was the smallest handbag. I have no idea where she was keeping all that pizza.”

Ellen Quinn Banville moved to Paris in her early 20s, and by chance ended up as a tour guide. For seven years she gave tours at the Eiffel Tower, the gardens of Versailles and later on, bespoke walking tours around the lesser-known quarters of the French capital. "I realised that I was good at it, and I really enjoyed it. You just get a buzz, it's almost like playing a character – you can just tell when you're winning people over.

With almost two years away from home I began to get very homesick, before it dawned on me – 'how amazing would it be to be a tour guide at home in Ireland?'

“The thing that stuck with me was the psychology of people on holiday – particularly in Paris. There’s often so much riding on that trip. You’d meet people who are on this trip of a lifetime – people have a vivid idea of what Paris should be. I always saw that a big part of my job was, yes, telling the history of Paris, but I always thought it was also showing people how to ‘work’ Paris,” she says. “Sometimes I would bring people to a metro station after their tour, to show them how to buy tickets and how to get through the turnstiles, and make sure they were going in the right direction. But, also I loved sharing an insight into the culture around just sitting and having a coffee, things to make them feel more comfortable and enjoy the experience.”

Tour guide Gemma Howe left Ireland to travel in 2018 and settled in a town in northern Vietnam called Du Gia

Another woman who cut her teeth as an international guide before returning to Ireland is Gemma Howe. Now front-of-house co-ordinator at 14 Henrietta Street museum in Dublin, Howe left Ireland to travel in 2018 and settled in a town in northern Vietnam called Du Gia. "I worked in the hostel, helping the owner as he had very little English. As the weeks went by and I got to know the area, I offered a guiding service to backpackers to hidden gems and waterfalls I found on my days off. With almost two years away from home I began to get very homesick, before it dawned on me – 'how amazing would it be to be a tour guide at home in Ireland?'"

A seasoned tour guide today, Howe shares the biggest challenges of touring the country with foreign visitors: “The weather! Trying to cheer up a group of 40 passengers who have travelled all the way to Ireland to see the Cliffs of Moher and they see nothing but fog! I used up all my terrible jokes on those days,” she says.

In 2020, Howe took on a role as tour guide at Henrietta Street, a former tenement building – now a museum – in Dublin’s city centre. “I love focusing on the stories of ordinary people who, in my eyes, did extraordinary things,” she says. “I was drawn to this building as my family on my mother’s side grew up in a similar tenement in Gardiner Street in Dublin before the big exodus of people from the city to the suburbs. My grandmother had a stall at Moore Street. Growing up in the 1990s my mother sent me to help out at the stall during the summer months. I just sat with my grandmother asking so many questions about what life was like for her and for her mother – who lived in the tenements. Every time I walk through Henrietta Street today my grandmother’s stories are brought to life.”

Seán Buckley at Bryce House on Garnish island

From the tenements of Dublin, to the coast of west Cork – Seán Buckley is delighted to be back giving tours of Bryce House on Garnish Island – "It's a piece of paradise. You come from the rugged landscape here in west Cork and you go out into these beautiful gardens with its own microclimate. I have a lovely commute to work, a 10-minute boat trip each morning, I pass all these seals greeting me everyday, the wildlife, the birds and swans . . . I'd work here 12 months of the year if I could," he says.

Like so many working in the tourism industry, Buckley has had to adapt to a Covid world. “Last year, we weren’t able to give tours at all due to Covid, as the house wasn’t open. But this year, we are delighted to be back there – we were a bit homesick.”

Three of a kind: tasty pepperonata; beautiful polenta; and quirky quinoa

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11 Private Tour Guides In Ireland: Top Picks for 2023!

Got a trip to Ireland coming up and you’re looking for private tour guides in Ireland because it’s your first time here?

You’ve come to the right place!

As people who love independent travel, we used to balk at the idea of tours and tour guides, but I’ve come to realize that just because you choose to take a private tour doesn’t make you any less of a traveler!

Plus a private tour means you don’t have to deal with waiting around for the group and can explore what you want, at your own pace. What’s not to like about that?

We’re Aisha and Ger, and between us, we’ve spent many hours wandering around the gorgeous Emerald Isle.

We have accumulated our fair share of private tours in Ireland that we love and want to share with you!

Our top recommend choice based on personal experience is :

Top Choice Of Private Tour Guides In Ireland : Cliffs of Moher Luxury Car Tour

Save your time researching and waiting around in group tours by reading our list of guides with the best private tours so you can save all that energy to go out and explore!

Affiliate Link Disclosure

Some of the links here are affiliate links, and I may earn if you click on them, AT NO EXTRA cost to you. I hope you find the information here useful! Thanks!

Top Choice of Private Tour Guides In Ireland

1. cliffs of moher luxury car tour.

⭐️Rating: 5 stars out of 5 stars, with 76 positive reviews

⌛️ Tour Length: 8 to 12 hours

Why choose this tour?

The real question is why not pick this Ireland tour?

You will not have any doubts about going with this amazing luxury private tour of Cliffs of Moher with Liberty Irish Tours because it is the ultimate private tour experience with a touch of glamour and class.

The tour generally covers a trip to the incredibly scenic Cliffs of Moher and will take you along the Wild Atlantic Way, but in between, you’re at full liberty to customize it in whatever way you want.

Want to stop for some gourmet Irish food? Sure, your driver will make the arrangements for you!

Think you could do a short hike in between? No problem, just let them know!

Whatever your requirements, this is one of the private tour guides in Ireland that’ll go the extra mile to meet your travel needs and wants, while doing so with much hospitality and many smiles.

Being on a customized private tour also means you don’t have to sit around and wait for others, or get up at an ungodly hour – choose your pick-up time and location, and let the private tour company do their magic. You’ll be dazzled for sure!

The Cliffs of Moher Luxury Car Tour includes:

Private luxury transportation
Fees and taxes
English-speaking tour guide
Private driver

What past guests loved about the tour:

“This is more than just a tour of the Cliffs – we had a full tour of the southern part of the island, including several castles and stops for views and even a visit to a chocolate factory! Our driver was phenomenal. He was so kind and willing to be flexible to our expectations and was full of great tour knowledge! And also had a very nice car and accommodations for us. Highly recommend this tour if you are visiting Ireland even for a couple of days!” – Thalia B (Read more reviews )

Runners Up For Private Tour Guides In Ireland

2. private dingle peninsula full-day tour .

⭐️Rating: 5 out of 5 stars, with 39 positive reviews

⌛️ Tour length: 7 hours

Speak to any local and they’ll probably recommend that you visit the Dingle Peninsula, and for good reason.

This area is beautiful, accessible (with this tour!), and hopelessly charming.

When you’re driving up to Dingle Peninsula, you’ll also go past the Wild Atlantic Way, a tourist route that covers most of Ireland’s west coast, from Northern Ireland all the way to the south.

While that route is staggeringly long, the journey up to Dingle just covers a part of it – the Slea Head Drive.

You’ll get to visit key spots like Beehive Huts, view The Blasket Islands, and even get to hold a baby lamb!

Your private tour guide, a local, will provide a personalized tour experience where they’ll pepper your journey with facts about Ireland, its history, and its culture as you take in the views.

The Private Dingle Peninsula Full-Day Tour includes:

Private transportation from Dingle accommodation
English-speaking tour driver guide

“We had an amazing day with our guide. He picked us up at our hotel in Killarney and we spent the day on the peninsula. Although it was rainy and cool, we still had good visibility of all the major sites. He took us to several archeological sites and we even held a baby lamb. Lunch was in Dingle which is a colorful charming town. The mountain passes are spectacular and the beaches are beautiful. As a native, he knew so much about the area, both past and present. We thoroughly enjoyed our day.” – Joy L (Read more reviews )

3. Wicklow: Private Day Tour from Dublin

⭐️Rating: 5 out of 5 stars, with positive reviews

⌛️ Tour Length: 8 hours

Prefer scenic views compared to city life? Don’t worry you can still get that even if you’re visiting Dublin. Just take this private tour which will bring you out for a day to the breathtaking Wicklow Mountains.

Wicklow Mountains National Park has it all – valleys, streams, scenic winding roads, and amazing coastal views. It was also the backdrop of many famous films like P.S. I Love You and Leap Year.

The tour will pick you up at any location of your choice.

You’ll then embark on a picturesque drive into County Wicklow, during which your experienced guide will share stories and facts about the places you are about to visit.

En route, you’ll also get an opportunity to visit the Powerscourt House Gardens in Enniskerry where you can also grab a cuppa and some pastries at a cafe.

Your drive to Wicklow will be undoubtedly scenic but your guide will also make sure you get your fair share of picture-worthy pitstops along the way.

A lunch stop near Glendalough is included but you’ll need to bear your own cost for food and drinks.

Because of the tour’s nature, they’ll also be happy to accommodate any other stops and attractions along the way – just speak to them and they’ll work something out!

The Wicklow: Private Day Tour from Dublin includes:

Hotel pickup and drop-off
Experienced English-speaking guide

“Our guide, Gillian, could not have been better. She was knowledgeable, friendly, and full of incredibly interesting tidbits about the area and its history. Her stories really brought things to life, but she also gave us freedom to roam and see things without any pressure. I can’t stress enough how very much we enjoyed this trip – and with three generations along that is truly saying something! Thanks again!!” – A GetYourGuide Traveler (Read more reviews )

4. Private Tours with adventure activities, music, Irish pub, sightseeing & more

⭐️Rating: 5 out of 5 stars, with 10 positive reviews

⌛️ Tour Length: 9.5 hours

This tour is one for those who are game for adventure and an experience like no other.

The best part is you won’t need any prior skills or experience – your tour guides will make sure they prepare and coach you well for these activities.

Depending on your preferences, your day could include a kayak to ancient ruins, a mountain hike, and even rock climbing. We hear the kayak trip even includes a trip to a castle ruin that is only accessible by water.

Lastly, no trip to Ireland is complete without a classic Irish pint in a rustic pub – your guide will make sure of that!

This experience is hands-down one of the most fuss-free experiences because they’ll handle all the activity preparation and payment. You just need to bring yourself!

The Private Tours with adventure activities, music, Irish pub, sightseeing & more includes:

Taxes and fees
All activities
Local English-speaking guide
Live entertainment
Private transportation with a private tour

“We’ve traveled in Ireland for 9 days with the Marcus Magee as our local guide. Marcus is an amazing guy with good energy, big smile and always willing to help. One of our best moments of the trip was the local evening at his house – his hospitality was amazing and it was a great pleasure to talk, eat and sing with his family. He’s an excellent singer & guitar player and will teach you the best of the Irish Folklore. On one of the days we did kayaking and it was so much fun! He is very professional, skillful and trustworthy. Marcus is full of knowledge and experience to make your trip the perfect experience in Ireland. Definitely made me want to come back to Ireland and I would highly recommend Marcus Magee and Rural Adventure. Thank you Marcus.” – A Tripadvisor Reviewer (Read more reviews )

5. 4-Hour Slea Head Drive Tour – Personal Chauffeur Guided Tour

⭐️Rating: 5 out of 5 stars, with 22 positive reviews

⌛️ Tour length: 4 hours

If you’re planning to visit Dingle Peninsula (and you most definitely should!) then this half-day private chauffeur guided tour should be one of your top choices.

Your private tour guide will plan a personalized tour itinerary for you, including as many or as few sights as you’d like.

Prefer to take things slow and easy? Or want to jam-pack everything? Just speak with them beforehand and they’ll plan it out.

For a start, the tour has a rough itinerary of these key highlights – Ventry Beach, Fahan Beehive Huts, Slea Head Drive, Coumeenoole Beach, Dun ChaoIn Pier, Clogher Strand, Gallarus Oratory, Kilmalkedar Church and Rlasc, an early monastic settlement.

Your guide Gillian, one of the most knowledgeable private tour guides in Ireland, promises an entertaining and engaging experience despite the jam-packed schedule.

She’ll leave you with many laughs, and newfound knowledge and appreciation of Irish history and culture.

The 4-Hour Slea Head Drive Tour – Personal Chauffeur Guided Tour includes:

Private transport
Air-conditioned vehicle
English-speaking local guide
Pickup and drop-off

What past guests loved about the tour:

“Gillian gave us an amazing tour. She was knowledgeable about Dingle and the areas around Dingle. She told us about the history and we had plenty of stops for beautiful pictures. It was obvious that Gillian had studied different areas of history in Ireland and that she continued her education. She also had some personal anecdotes that added to the charm of the tour. We were so glad to have her driving around some of those narrow, windy roads. We even rode behind a herd of cattle being hustled by a dog for a bit.” – A Tripadvisor Reviewer (Read more reviews )

6. Dublin: Private Jameson and Guinness Half-Day Tour by Bus

⭐️Rating: 5 out of 5 stars, with 8 positive reviews

⌛️ Tour Length: 4.5 hours

Ireland, specifically Dublin, is home to the best liquid black gold in the world, Guinness. The Guinness Storehouse is the world’s largest brewer of stout and sees 4 million tourists a year .

This day private tour will start just right after breakfast, and for good reason too, with all that alcohol sampling coming up!

While you’re on the way to the Guinness Storehouse, there will be a knowledgeable host onboard who will tell you about Dublin.

This host, who is also well-versed in whiskeys and beer, will also be the one to guide you through the Guinness Storehouse. How’s that for a consistent and seamless private tour experience?

You’ll also get to sample a pint of the world-famous liquid black gold, Guinness Stout, at the brewery’s very own Gravity Bar.

The tour doesn’t end there – you’ll get to visit the Jameson Distillery and undergo the Bow Street Experience where you’ll learn about the popular Jameson whiskey.

You’ll also taste for yourself a flight of Jameson whiskeys and have a cocktail too.

We love that beyond all the whiskey and beer knowledge you’ll glean, you’ll also get an in-depth look into Dublin’s main highlights.

John, your guide, will also leave you with some of his eating and drinking gems before you’re dropped off!

The Dublin Private Jameson and Guinness Half-Day Tour By Bus includes:

English-speaking guide
Bottled water
Hosting by a whiskey and beer specialist
Admission and a private tour of the Guinness Storehouse
Guided tour of the Gravity Bar, complete with a pint of Guinness
Guided tour at the Jameson distillery, with a cocktail and sampling of three Jameson whiskeys

“This was a really cool experience. John was an excellent guide. Communication was great. It was nice to get an insider’s perspective on the drive over to the tours. John was able to provide a nice dialogue and history of Dublin and Whiskey in general. Would definitely recommend this tour!” – A GetYourGuide Traveller (Read more reviews )

7. Dublin: Half-Day Private Walking Tour

⭐️Rating: 5 out of 5 stars, with 14 positive reviews

⌛️ Tour Length: 3 hours

If you’re the type of traveler who loves having a local bring you around the city to give you an insider’s peek into their world, then this tour is exactly what you need on this trip.

While the general tour is crafted by famous Irish historian Pat Liddy , the team of professional tour guides will also tailor the walking tour according to your preferences, interest, walking speed, and intended distance.

The knowledgeable guide will pick you up at your centrally-located Dublin accommodation and walk you through the Irish capital’s history and intricacies.

Expect to be wowed, surprised and even tickled silly with some Irish fun facts you’ll learn along the way.

If you wish, the tour guides can also take you to major Dublin tourist attractions like the Trinity College Library, Guinness Storehouse, and the Jameson Distillery, at discounted rates.

The best part is you get to start this tour at any time you want – an excellent option if you might be landing in Dublin at an odd hour and can’t check into your hotel yet, or if you’ve got a couple of hours to kill in between.

Tap on your guide’s wealth of knowledge and experience during the tour, and they’ll also leave you with a complimentary map of the city, helping you make the most of your time there.

The Dublin: Half-Day Private Walking Tour includes:

English-speaking guide
Walking tour of Dublin for up to 3 hours
Discounted entry to Dublin’s top tourist attractions
Complimentary Dublin map

“Julian was a great guide, not only giving us detailed and interesting history of the sights, but also helping us with ideas for lunch, and where to find Irish music. He was responsive to our requests and a delightful companion for the morning!” – A GetYourGuide Traveler (Read more reviews )

8. Dublin walking tasting tour with Secret Food Tours (Private Tour)

⭐️Rating: 5 out of 5 stars with 30 positive reviews

First things first – we don’t see why you shouldn’t choose this tour when it includes freshly-baked soda bread, among a whole list of amazing Irish foods!

But no really, this walking tasting tour will give you the best of both worlds.

It’ll take you on a stroll through Dublin and stop at key pubs, markets, and shopping highlights along the way.

Your guide from Secret Food Tours will pepper your walk with little nuggets of information about where Dubliners eat, drink and make merry, and also share some tidbits of Irish food culture.

Don’t worry there’s some serious eating on this tour too – Irish potato cake, smoked salmon, soda bread, Irish stew, and ice cream just to name a few. You’ll even get a secret dish which you’ll have to attend to know what it is!

If the idea of freshly-baked soda bread in the heart of Dublin doesn’t pique your interest, we don’t know what will!

The Dublin walking tasting tour with Secret Food Tours (Private Tour) includes:

Private tour guide
Private tour
Traditional Irish potato cake
Smoked salmon
Artisinal ice cream
Freshly-baked soda bread
A delicious secret dish (If this doesn’t get you excited, I’m not sure what will!)

What past guests loved about the tour:

“Ciaran was a fantastic guide. He showed us many attractions in Dublin and had lots of information and stories around them. He took us to restaurants with local specialités, and also showed us where not to go. A fun and very interesting tour, well worth the money. Ciaran is a real character with a lot of humor!” – A Tripadvisor Reviewer (Read more reviews )

9. Jewish History of Dublin: 3-Hour Walking Tour

⭐️Rating: 4.9 out of 5 stars, with 39 positive reviews

⌛️ Tour Length: 2.5 hours

Want to go for a private tour of Dublin beyond the usual city highlights? Then this Jewish History of Dublin private walking tour won’t disappoint you.

Though only a few thousand Jewish remain in Ireland , this community is now largely concentrated in Dublin.

This tour will take you through “Little Jerusalem”, the area which once housed a vibrant and thriving Jewish community, and also takes you past the Irish-Jewish Museum (but does not include entry).

You’ll also visit key Jewish highlights like the oldest synagogue in Ireland and the only kosher bakery in the country – where you’ll also get a chance to have some coffee and some Challah bread.

Your guide will tell you about the history of the Jewish community, share little facts about these places, and also update you on what has become of this historic community and space.

The Jewish History of Dublin: 3-Hour Walking Tour includes :

Guided walk around Dublin
Guided walk around Dublin’s “Little Jerusalem”
Visit Dublin’s only Kosher bakery

“We booked the tour to get a feel for Jewish Dublin. I have a Masters in Jewish studies and am the Director of Jewish Learning at a synagogue in the US but really had very little knowledge of the Jewish community of Dublin. Our three hour tour turned into a five hour in-depth experience with our insightful and brilliant guide Fergus. We strolled through the Jewish sites of Dublin hearing tales of the Jewish experience and for me filling in a gap in my knowledge of Jewish history. The tour culminated in the delightful Jewish Museum of Dublin where Alex (Director of Dublin’s Tours) gave us insights into the museum’s collection and then a volunteer docent of the museum took over. The experience is one of a kind. I highly recommend.” – A GetYourGuide Traveler (Read more reviews )

10. Dublin: 3-Hour Irish Revolution Walking Tour

⭐️Rating: 4.8 out of 5 stars, with 12 positive reviews

⌛️ Tour Length: 3 hours

All history buffs should not miss this three-hour walking tour that deep-dives into the Irish Revolution.

The tour provides an overview of how the Irish capital city of Dublin was pivotal more than a century ago in the creation of the independent Irish state.

To help you better understand the history and to relate it to the sights you’ll see along the way, your experienced guides will also provide you with some photos and maps to supplement their stories.

You’ll go past places like Trinity College Dublin, Liberty Hall, Abbey Theatre, Ha’Penny Bridge, Eagle Tavern, Dublin City Hall, Dublin Castle, and finally Four Courts by the River Liffey.

Your guides, who have a postgraduate in Irish history, will pepper the tour with stories, and historical facts and leave you with an immersive experience like no other.

The Dublin: 3-Hour Irish Revolution Walking Tour includes:

English-speaking tour guide with Irish history background
Complimentary packet of photos and maps of the revolutionary period

“We could not have enjoyed our tour with Alexander more. He was so knowledgeable about a huge range of subjects and kept us interested and engaged all the time. The tour was incredibly well put together and we all learned so much. I think I can honestly say it was my most enjoyable few hours walking around Dublin, ever. Alexander gave us more than 100% of his time and attention, having tailored everything to our needs. I could not recommend the tour highly enough and will certainly be booking another in the future.” – A GetYourGuide Traveler (Read more reviews )

11. Dublin: 3-Hour Irish Literature Walking Tour

⭐️Rating: 4.9 stars out of 5 stars, with 18 positive reviews

You should go for this tour if you’re a literature fanatic and are visiting Dublin for its rich literary history.

Dublin is home to three Nobel Prize in Literature winners, so it is really no surprise that you’ll find the Irish capital city oozing with little tidbits and the history of these great writers.

This tour is led by Alexander, an entertaining and engaging English literature graduate from Trinity College Dublin.

He promises an immersive and informative experience around Dublin’s literary highlights and heroes.

He has such rave reviews that we’re quite sure he is easily one of the best private tour guides in Ireland when it comes to literature tours.

You’ll walk past Oscar Wilde’s former home, hear readings of famous writers along the way, hear a ballad sung in the Gaelic tongue, see an exhibition featuring W.B. Yeats, and even visit a bar where great writers used to hang at.

The tour also includes entry to many Dublin must-visit spots including the National Gallery of Ireland and Trinity College Dublin.

The Dublin: 3-Hour Irish Literature Walking Tour includes:

English-speaking guide with an English literature background from Trinity College Dublin
Entrance to the National Gallery of Ireland
Entrance to W.B. Yeats exhibit
Entrance to James Joyce Center
Entrance to Seamus Heaney exhibit
Complimentary information booklet on Irish literature and documentaries on great Irish writers

“I chose to do the Irish Literature Walking Tour and I’m still pondering it weeks afterwards. Alex was an erudite and warm tour guide. We talked, walked, did readings, walked more, sat, chatted, walked and had a pint. I will recommend this to anyone who is passionate about Irish literature or who wants to make a start on the journey. It’s simply one of THE BEST tours I’ve ever taken and has inspired me greatly. Thank you, Alex, for your afternoon, I was privileged to share it with you.” – A GetYourGuide Traveler (Read more reviews )

What To Pack For Ireland

Ireland’s weather can be quite nice, but it can also get very cold and rainy and you want to be prepared for the weather to change at any time.

Here are some items when deciding what to pack for Ireland:

Lightweight layers like a regular shirt and some long-sleeved shirts
Or if you prefer, some base layer thermals
A fleece jacket or a puffer jacket
Fleece-lined leggings or fleece- l ined jeans
A trusty scarf
Touchscreen gloves
A stylish coat
Comfortable walking shoes

Ireland vs Germany: Which Country Is Right For You?

FAQs On Private Tour Guides In Ireland

How much is a guided tour in ireland.

If you’re wondering how much is a guided tour in Ireland, it can be anywhere from as little as less than $5 for a Dublin Music Walking Tour to as much as $12,000 for a self-drive coast-to-coast tour of Ireland .

How Do I Get A Personal Tour Guide?

There are many ways to get a personal tour guide to tour Ireland:

GetYourGuide
Tripadvisor

Can I Hire Someone To Drive You Around Ireland?

You can absolutely hire someone to drive you around Ireland . Getting a private driver in Ireland is easy. You can do so through websites like Viator and GetYourGuide .

Top Places To Visit In Ireland

These are some of the top places to visit in Ireland:

Killarney National Park
Blarney Castle And Gardens
Rock Of Cashel
Trinity College Dublin
Powerscourt House & Gardens
Kilkenny Castle
Kilmainham Goal
Jameson Distillery Bow St.

How Many Days In Ireland Is Enough?

Ten days in Ireland is enough to tour Ireland, including visiting the capital city of Dublin, and some highlights like Galway , Cliffs of Moher , Dingle Peninsula , Rock of Cashel and even a Northern Ireland tour .

Depending on where you’re basing yourself in Ireland, it may be worth spending more than a day in Northern Ireland to fully take in the beauty of the region.

If you only had a day in Ireland however, then you most certainly must pay the charming capital city of Dublin a visit.

Is It Worth Visiting Ireland?

Yes, it is worth visiting Ireland for its absolute beauty, history and scenic views. From Dublin to Belfast and Galway, the country has so much to offer and you’ll never be bored!

What Is A Private Tour Guide?

A private tour guide means someone who will take you on a personalized tour tailored to your preferences and requirements.

An Ireland private tour usually includes a private driver in Ireland who could also double up as a tour guide, who will take you on day tours, or even multi-day tours depending on your preferences.

How To Become A Tour Guide In Ireland?

To become a tour guide in Ireland, you’ll need to undergo the National Tour Guiding Programme , which is a QQI Level 6 qualification.

You should be above 18 years old and have previous experience in the tourism sector before you take this program.

Once you’ve obtained the above certification, you’ll be well on your way to lead tours in Ireland.

How To Become A Private Tour Guide

In order to become a private tour guide, you’ll need to take these steps:

Decide if you really want to be a private tour guide
Define the type of guide you want to be
Dedicate time to get the right licenses and certifications
Just do it – go out get and get a job with a guiding company or come out on your own and look for clients!

How To Find A Private Tour Guide?

One sure way to find a private tour guide to go online to sites like Viator and GetYourGuide to seek out a specialized tour guide.

How Much To Tip Private Tour Guide In Ireland?

The standard to tip a private tour guide in Ireland is 10 percent, even though tipping is not mandatory in Ireland.

If you enjoyed your Ireland tours, why not show your appreciation by tipping? In particular, if yours was an Ireland private tour, you could tip more if you really enjoyed the personalized attention and itinerary.

Do Tour Guides Need Insurance?

Yes, as a tour guide you’ll need insurance to insure yourself against any financial losses that might occur during your guiding experience.

This could stem from your clients getting into an accident on your tour, or if some property was damaged while you were leading your clients on a tour.

What’s The Best Way To Find A Private Tour Guides in Ireland?

The best way to find a private tour guide is to rely on reviews on trustworthy sites like Viator and GetYourGuide which carry verified reviews from past travelers who will tell you if the private tour guide was good, reliable and value for money.

If you’ve been on a wild goose chase trying to seek out the best private tour guides in Ireland, we hope this article has provided you with a solution or two.

While private tours and guides can be extremely subjective, we believe that some of these private tour guides provide the best day private tours and if not, they’ll be more than happy to customize them according to your needs.

We love Ireland so much that both of us have chosen to make this place our home, and we hope that you’ll also have an amazing time exploring our country and have amazing experiences.

Let us know if you found our recommendations helpful and which parts of Ireland were your favorite to visit!

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How Much Do You Tip A Tour Guide In Ireland

Published: December 12, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Doria Salomon

Plan Your Trip
Travel Essentials & Accessories
Travel Guide
Travel Tips

Introduction:

While expressing appreciation to your tour guide is a common practice worldwide, the question of how much to tip can often be perplexing, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the cultural norms and customs in Ireland. Tipping is a personal choice, but it’s important to consider certain factors when determining an appropriate amount to tip your tour guide. By understanding the local customs and recommended tip amounts, you can show your gratitude in a respectful way.

In this article, we will delve into the factors to consider when tipping a tour guide in Ireland, explore the cultural norms and customs surrounding tipping, provide recommendations for tip amounts, and offer additional considerations to keep in mind. Whether you’re exploring the bustling streets of Dublin, marveling at the Cliffs of Moher, or immersing yourself in the vibrant music scene in Galway, this guide will help you navigate the world of tipping and ensure a positive experience for both you and your tour guide.

Factors to Consider when Tipping a Tour Guide in Ireland:

Cultural norms and customs for tipping in ireland:, recommended tip amounts for tour guides in ireland:, additional considerations for tipping in ireland:, conclusion:.

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Would you travel on a nuclear-powered cruise ship.

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Is the future of cruise ships, nuclear energy?

Cruises are increasingly popular but not the most environmentally-friendly option for travelers keen to keep carbon emissions low. It's also true that cruise companies need to meet goals of being carbon-neutral by 2050—one possible solution then, would be to start building nuclear-powered cruise ships.

Using nuclear power for shipping is not new. There are currently 200 nuclear reactors on ships globally, mostly submarines and naval ships. In the 1950s, the U.S. government built a passenger boat run on nuclear power—it could hold 60 travelers and lots of cargo—but it was rife with issues, not entirely related to its energy source. Now, the NS Savannah sits inside a dock in Baltimore, designed more as a proof-of-concept than anything else, reports NPR .

The forward part of the ship held a pressurized water reactor that used low-enriched uranium to produce heat—the steam that was produced ran the ship's turbines, spun the propellors and so produced electricity to power the ship up to 20 knots, equivalent to the speed of many cruise ships today. The Russian government also commissioned Sevmorput, a nuclear-powered cargo ship in 1988, that's still in operation. Two other boats—the Japanese Mutsu and the German Otto Hahn—started out life as nuclear but were fitted to take diesel later on.

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) is the United Nations agency that regulates global shipping and it's set a target of carbon neutrality by 2050 for the cruise industry—shipping currently produces 300 million tonnes of carbon emissions every year, around 3% of global emissions.

This obviously poses some issues, because while boats are being built more efficiently, cruise ships are increasing in size—the largest, Icon of the Seas, set sail this year, and ships are installing ever-more diverse activities onboard, such as go-karting, moving bars, zip lines, rollercoasters and skydiving and surfing simulators.

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Most ships still run on diesel fuel with about one quarter now using alternative fuels such as liquefied natural gas, methanol, or hybrid propulsion—all lower in carbon emissions. According to the Cruise Line Industry Association (CLIA) there are 25 ships using Liquified Natural Gas that will start operating in the next five years. Seven ships belonging to Norwegian Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises, and Disney Cruise Line are also coming online that are methanol ready or methanol capable. Carnival is also looking to retrofit ships to take methanol. One of the issues though is that these fuels could be used for other purposes, as could the green power that produces them.

At the annual Seatrade Cruise Global conference that took place in Miami this month, industry leaders believe that using nuclear technology is increasingly a possibility. Inside the NS Savannah, there is a small wooden cube that fits into a person's hand that represents the volume of uranium needed to allow the ship to travel 454,000 nautical miles to circumnavigate the world more than a dozen times (a boat traveling the same distance on fuel would need 28 million gallons). These ships could go for years without refueling (some usually carry some diesel in reserve), can carry more passengers and/or cargo without the need for large fuel tanks and more importantly, fourth generator nuclear reactors are smaller and make operations much simpler.

Cruise ships have long lives and could theoretically be retrofitted with nuclear power when they go in for a refit. Some companies are engaged in studies for using nuclear power aboard ships, like the partnership between Italian shipbuilding company Fincantieri and Newcleo—the results of a feasibility study to assess the practicality of deploying a 30-megawatt reactor on marine vessels is due at the end of this year.

The NS Savannah taught a lot of lessons about how to run a nuclear passenger ship but also laid bare some problems. It can be difficult docking a ship that runs on nuclear fuel into harbors—special documentation is naturally required, people need to be trained on what to do in emergencies and some countries, like New Zealand, have all out bans on nuclear ships entering their waters.

And finally, the biggest problem might just be the paying customer—unsurprisingly, many people believe the public might not be particularly favorable to the idea.

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A first-timer's guide to Napa Valley

Apr 28, 2024 • 11 min read

Napa Valley is synonymous with luxury. Posh hotels, chef-driven restaurants and extravagant tasting fees cemented that reputation decades ago.

But at its core, Napa is farm country— a place where people dig in the dirt and make a living from the land. Despite all odds, this gives Napa a grounded feeling, even in its swankiest spaces. At the end of the day, visitors come to Napa Valley because they love food, wine and beautiful scenery. It’s a passion shared by the community of this incredible locale.

The five towns of Napa Valley (St Helena, Yountville, the city of Napa , Calistoga and American Canyon) are home to 16 wine appellations and more than 400 wineries. The options can be daunting to first-time visitors but we’re here to help. From mud baths in Calistoga to tips for visiting wineries, our first-timer’s guide to Napa Valley will give you everything you need to know to plan a trip here, including the best hotels, wineries, restaurants and activities.

Two people sit on a bench at a winery looking out over vineyards with vines stretching down the hill in the sunshine

When is the best time to visit Napa?

It’s always a good time to visit Napa in our book, however, the timing of your trip will impact your experience. Peak tourist season is in summer when the average high temperature is 82°F. If you plan to visit this time of year, you’re unlikely to find any bargains. Make your reservations for lodging, restaurants and wineries as far in advance as you can.

Spring and fall are the next busiest times of the year. Spring brings average high temperatures of 68°F while in fall, high temperatures average 78°F. The lower, but still pleasant, temps are especially appealing for visitors who plan to hike, bike or engage in other outdoor activities.

Winter temperatures reach an average high of 60°F. This season gets the most rain (although this is California so there will still be plenty of dry, beautiful days). Since winter is the least crowded, it is the most affordable time to visit Napa with many hotels, resorts and spas advertising special packages and discounts off their regular rates.

How much time should I spend in Napa?

Set aside three to four days for your Napa Valley itinerary. This allows enough time to visit your top wineries and restaurants, plus time for other activities like spa treatments, hiking, lounging by the pool or riding the wine train.

A cyclist pedals up a hill and looks out over the hillside below him on a sunny day

What are the top things to do in Napa Valley?

Most people come to Napa to visit wineries – more on that later – but don’t overlook Napa’s exceptional culinary, wellness and recreation opportunities.

You can get filthy (in the best possible way) at the north end of the county in Calistoga. Calistoga is recognized around the world for mud made with a mixture of mineral-packed volcanic soil and water drawn from local hot springs. The two most common treatments involve painting it on your body or soaking in a tub of warm, nurturing mud. At least seven spas offer Calistoga mud experiences including the luxurious Spa Talisa at the Four Seasons Resort and Residences and the do-it-yourself mud bar at MoonAcre Spa and Baths .

Calistoga is also home to two of Napa Valley’s most unique natural attractions. The Old Faithful Geyser is a smaller, but still impressive version of Yellowstone’s most famous jet spout . In Calistoga, Old Faithful shoots hot water 30–80ft towards the sky every 10 to 20 minutes. Just outside of Calistoga at the Napa/Sonoma border, a three million-year-old petrified forest with 1.5 miles of hiking trails provides a fascinating glimpse at geological history.

No trip to the valley would be complete without a trip to downtown Napa’s Oxbow Public Market , a 40,000-sq-ft marketplace packed with locally sourced culinary delights. From California-grown olive oil at the Olive Press to artisan cheeses at the Oxbow Cheese and Wine Merchant , this is the place to stock up for a picnic or edible souvenirs. You’ll also find a bookstore, distillery, bakeries and restaurants. After you’ve finished browsing, find a seat on the riverfront deck out back to sample fresh oysters on the half shell from Hog Island Oyster Bar .

With menus centered around locally-grown ingredients, Napa is almost as famous for fine dining as it is for wine. Food this fresh is revelatory. A dish, such as fermented soy dip served with raw vegetables pulled from the ground at the Charter Oak , will ruin you forever for grocery store veggies. Other bucket-list dining experiences include the six-course prix-fixe chef’s tasting menu at La Toque , the daily tasting menu at the French Laundry , and Kenzo Napa , where seafood is flown in daily from the finest fish market in Japan. Please note that reservations at these restaurants are coveted, and should be made as far as possible in advance.

Don’t let these vaunted names fool you into thinking you need to spend a fortune to get a good meal in Napa. The valley is filled with scores of reasonably-priced restaurants including Heritage Eats in Napa where you can feast on comfort foods like a smoked ham bowl or white cheddar mac and cheese for less than $15 a person. For tasting menus, Thomas Keller’s ad hoc offers a daily tasting menu currently priced at $56 a person for lunch or $69 a person at dinner. The Gate House Restaurant at the Culinary Institute of America offers three courses prepared by student chefs for $35 at lunch or four courses for $45 at dinner (please note that restaurant prices are always subject to change).

For nightlife, the Blue Note Napa Jazz Club hosts an exciting mix of live performances ranging from household names to rising stars and tribute bands. It also holds the Summer Sessions outdoor concert series and the Black Radio Experience at the Meritage Resort and Spa . If you’re on the hunt for a good dive bar, Ana’s Cantina in downtown St Helena is the place for a game of pool, tunes from the jukebox and a stiff drink.

Other top activities in Napa Valley include hiking or biking the 12.5-mile Napa Valley Vine Trail , which will eventually extend 47 miles from Vallejo to Calistoga.

Two glasses of red wine; two glasses of white wine

Tips for visiting wineries in Napa

Gone are the days when you can walk into virtually any Napa Valley winery and ask for a tasting without an appointment (or even a fee). Although there are a few wineries like Hall Wines in St Helena, where walk-ins are welcome, reservations are required at most wineries in Napa Valley. This helps ensure the wineries have adequate time to guide you through your tasting. From the guest's perspective, appointments are helpful when it comes to budgeting, arranging transportation and planning your Napa itinerary.

The average wine tasting fee in Napa Valley is $40 per person but it isn’t unusual for prices to climb to $200 or even more. Most wineries have a menu of tasting options, with standard tastings at the low end and premium experiences with food pairings, library wines, or guided tours commanding a higher price. Please note that the tip is not included in the tasting price so it will need to be factored into your budget.

Expect to spend at least 90 minutes at each winery (often longer for premium experiences). For this reason, it’s best to stick to no more than two or three tasting room visits a day. We recommend clustering each day’s reservations in the same area so you won’t have to rush between wineries. For instance, in the Stag’s Leap District, Cliff Lede Vineyards and Baldacci Family Vineyards are only a mile apart. Cliff Lede’s Backstage Lounge Tasting Room Experience offers an elevated tasting with premium wines in a room filled with rotating art and rare rock memorabilia. At Baldacci, the Cave Tour and Tasting Experience includes a cave tour and barrel tasting followed by a seated tasting paired with seasonal appetizers.

In the Rutherford area, Sullivan Winery is only half a mile from the Prisoner Wine Company . At Sullivan, the Merlot Mastery Tasting starts with a tour of the gardens and grounds before moving on to a seated tasting with two flights of its prized merlot accompanied by light bites. At Prisoner, you’ll find many culinary pairings including the Wine and Dim Sum Experience.

Attire is wine country casual. A pair of nice jeans, golf shirts, sundresses or casual blouses are the norm in Napa Valley. Do wear comfortable shoes, especially if you plan to walk through the vineyards or participate in a tour.

Expert tip: The Covet Pass offers complimentary tastings at seven Napa wineries and seven Sonoma wineries, plus additional discounts for a one-time fee of $150.

A cable car that's been converted to run on the road parked near a vineyard

How to get around in Napa without a car

Napa Valley is 30 miles long and stretches at most 5 miles wide. In this sense, Napa is small and easy to navigate, but driving can be tricky in a destination centered around wine. Luckily, if you don’t have a designated driver there are several ways to get around Napa without a car.

The Napa Valley Wine Train offers several tasting journeys including a 36-mile roundtrip through gorgeous scenery to disembark for seated tastings at Charles Krug Winery and V. Sattui Winery . A four-course lunch is served onboard. You can also hitch a ride to three tasting rooms in an open-air San Francisco cable car on the Napa Valley Wine Trolley .

Many tour operators provide transportation to Napa wineries. Several, like Napa Valley Wine Country Tours , offer a choice between public group tours, which are less expensive, or private tours with a customized itinerary.

If you prefer to get around by foot, base yourself in the cities of Napa or Yountville. Napa has more than 50 downtown tasting rooms and there are 14 walkable tasting rooms in downtown Yountville.

Where to stay

If there was ever a place to treat yourself to a nice hotel, it’s Napa Valley. The region is home to some of the best hotels in the country, with grounds and accommodations so astonishingly beautiful you might not want to leave to go wine tasting (but definitely leave to go wine tasting). If you’re in the position to splurge our top picks are:

The Poetry Inn is an exclusive property with only five guest rooms and a small, on-site spa. The all-suite hotel is the epitome of privacy and luxury with huge guest rooms featuring private sitting areas, outdoor patios, and indoor and outdoor showers with stunning hillside or vineyard views. A gourmet multicourse breakfast is included with each stay. Poetry Inn is the only hotel in the Stag Leap district.

Meadowood Napa Valley in St Helena is set on a magnificent 250-acre estate with mature, oaks and native plants surrounding 36 suites and guest rooms with soaking tubs and private outdoor sitting areas. Hiking trails, tennis courts, swimming pools, a Wine Center and a tranquil spa ensure you’ll never lack activities during your stay.

Carneros Resort and Spa offers standalone cottages and homes surrounded by rolling hills and vineyards in Napa. Amenities include a luxurious onsite spa, two swimming pools, pickle ball courts with an adjacent Veuve Clicquot Champagne Bar and Lounge, a complimentary buffet breakfast, and access to Cadillac Luxury Vehicles during your stay.

If a mid-range hotel is better suited for your budget we recommend the Meritage Resort and Spa or Silverado Resort . The Meritage offers perks like a complimentary shuttle service to downtown Napa and a verdant lawn surrounded by tasting rooms and an upscale market. At the Silverado Resort, amenities include golf courses, bocce ball courts, a pool and a fitness center.

The most affordable lodging options in Napa Valley are generally found in American Canyon, which offers several reliable, reasonably-priced chains such as the DoubleTree by Hilton Napa Valley American Canyon and Holiday Inn Express and Suites Napa Valley American Canyon .

The green vines of a vineyard stretch down a hill during summer months

My favorite thing to do in Napa

When I come to Napa I love to take a class to enhance my appreciation of food and wine or learn a fun, new skill. I’ve never been anywhere else where classes are so varied and accessible, so I take advantage whenever I can. Often, these classes are offered directly through my hotel. The Wine Center at Meadowood Napa Valley runs classes ranging from introductory tutorials on Napa wine to advanced courses on subjects like the history of the wine label. Carneros Resort and Spa has a dazzling array of daily classes focusing on everything from sabering champagne bottles to pickleball.

The Culinary Institute of America is my hands-down choice for cooking classes with options for group or private instruction. I’ve also found classes offered at Napa Valley wineries. Bouchaine Vineyards regularly hosts an exciting roster of sessions on topics like pairing wine and cheese, blending wine and even falconry.

How much do you need to budget for a trip to Napa?

The amount you’ll need to spend on a trip to Napa is highly variable depending on your itinerary and even the season you choose to visit. Although it is generally considered a luxury destination, you can still plan an affordable trip to Napa with the tips and tricks in this first-timer’s guide. The numbers below are not definitive but will provide a general idea of how much it costs for budget-conscious, midrange, and luxury travelers to visit Napa.

Hotel room for two: $100–1200 a night
Rental home/Airbnb for two: $200–1000 a night
Wine tasting fees: $25–250 per person at each winery (not including tip)
Lunch for two: $30–100 per person
Dinner for two: $100–300 per person (or more)
Glass of wine: $13–50
Bottle of wine: $108 average
Group shuttle to wineries: $125 per person
Private transportation to wineries: $600 (and up)
Spa treatment: $100–400 per person (and up)

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How to be a tour guide. Training and Association Membership. When you have the necessary qualifications, you can apply for the Failte Ireland Tourist Guide Badge, for which you must complete six, four-day tours evaluated by an employer. Once you have this badge, you will be able to apply for membership to AATGI - The Association of Approved ...
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If you are interested in becoming a tour guide in Ireland you can check out our upcoming courses here. If you are interested in choosing the course for the career you want, you can book a consultation call with our expert Travel & Tourism advisor Brandon McLean here, email [email protected] or call 01 892 0035. Explore the ...
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2. For a full-day tour: If you're embarking on a full-day tour, a tip of €10 to €20 per person is considered appropriate. A longer tour often requires more preparation and energy from the guide, and a slightly higher tip acknowledges their dedication and commitment to ensuring a memorable journey. 3.
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Don't let these vaunted names fool you into thinking you need to spend a fortune to get a good meal in Napa. The valley is filled with scores of reasonably-priced restaurants including Heritage Eats in Napa where you can feast on comfort foods like a smoked ham bowl or white cheddar mac and cheese for less than $15 a person. For tasting menus, Thomas Keller's ad hoc offers a daily tasting ...

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