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The best walking tours in Dublin

Dublin’s lively neighbourhoods and wonderful architecture are reasons enough to encourage a visitor to lace up their shoes and hit the streets. Follow a knowledgeable guide as you learn all there is to know about the city. Choose from tours that focus on history and hidden gems to food and entertainment, or, if you’re feeling especially daring, even tours focused on true crime and haunted places! No matter what your interests are, there’s a walking tour to satisfy you.

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The Best Walking Tours in Dublin

I love Dublin . As a writer, how could I not? This is a city once home to iconic Nobel laureates like George Bernard Shaw, William Butler Yeats, and Samuel Beckett. It’s the perfect place for cozy cafes and writing.

Dublin is home to the rambunctious Temple Bar, Trinity College (and the famous Book of Kells), the Guinness factory, and a wide array of museums, attractions, and experiences.

Dublin has plenty of walking tours too. There are dozens of options available. Walking tours are one of my favorite ways to get to see a city. I do them whenever I go.

I’ve compiled a list of the best walking tours in Dublin. These are the tours I take when I visit and can’t recommend them enough.

Best Overall Tour

Take Walks is my go-to tour company. Their tours are always fun, educational, and insightful. They use expert guides and get you into places where no other tours go. They have a lot of tours but their Dublin in a Day tour covers the major highlights, including the Book of Kells, the Guinness Brewery, and Dublin Castle. It’s the perfect introduction to the city.

Best Free Tour

Dublin Free Walking Tour

If you’re on a budget, Dublin Free Walking Tours has a free and locally-run daily tour. It covers all the highlights and provides a solid introduction to the city. You’ll see Trinity Church, Temple Bar, the castle, and more. Tours last around three hours. Just remember to tip your guide at the end!

While those may be the best free and paid tours in the city, Dublin has a lot more to offer — no matter your interests. Here are four other insightful and educational tours in the city!  

1. Devour Food Tours

If you’re a foodie like me, don’t miss Devour’s Pubs, Grub, and History tour . This three-hour tour takes you to four historic pubs around Dublin where you’ll enjoy Irish beers, whiskeys, and enough food for a light meal. You’ll also get to visit a pub that pours one of the best Guinness pints in the city. The tour is suitable for vegetarians too.

Tours from 89 EUR.

2. Letz Go City Tours

Letz Go runs three different tours in Dublin, but their in-depth Dublin Castle & Book of Kells tour is their most popular (and my favorite). It lasts 2.5 hours and you’ll get to see the 1200-year-old Book of Kells up close and learn about its unique symbolism and medieval ornamentation. After, you’ll explore the grounds and gardens of Dublin Castle, the former seat of British rule in Ireland (which lasted until 1922). It’s a good option for history buffs.

They also offer a half-day tour to the Guinness Storehouse and Jameson’s Whiskey Distillery as well as a Guinness Storehouse & Book of Kells tour that combines a stop at two of Dublin’s most sought-after sights.

Tours from 63 EUR.

3. Generation Pub Crawl

If you’re looking to take in Dublin’s nightlife and pub scene, this pub crawl can help you do just that. Generation Pub Crawl runs lively pub crawls in a few party cities around Europe, including Dublin. On their tour, you’ll get skip-the-line entry to five venues, including VIP entry into Copper Face Jacks (a nightclub). A few free drinks (including a Guinness) are included too. If you’re a young or a solo traveler looking to have fun and meet people while you go out on the town, this is the perfect tour for you.

Tours from 14 EUR.

4. Original Dublin

Original Dublin offers a standard “city highlights” tour that covers the main sights (and a few hidden gems), but they also have two really unique tours for after you seen the main sights. First is their Mythology and Folklore tour , which visits lesser-known sights and learn about mythical creatures in Irish folklore.

They also offer a Musical Walking tour . On this tour, you’ll be guided around by a local musician to learn about Dublin’s famous musical heritage. You’ll get to hear (and sing) traditional folk ballads. It’s an energetic and interactive tour that’s super fun.

Tours from 22 EUR.

Walking tours are my favorite way to explore a city. I think they can really deepen your understanding of a destination. And Dublin has a lot of history and culture to learn. Be sure to use one of the above companies on your next trip!

Book Your Trip to Dublin: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Use Skyscanner to find a cheap flight. They are my favorite search engine because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned.

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the biggest inventory and best deals. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels. Two of my favorite places to stay are:

• Generator Hostel

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• Safety Wing (best for everyone)
• Insure My Trip (for those over 70)
• Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Looking for the best companies to save money with? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use to save money when I’m on the road. They will save you money when you travel too.

Want More Information on Dublin? Be sure to visit our robust destination guide on Dublin for even more planning tips!

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

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Best Self-Guided Walking Tour of Dublin (With Map)

By Author Keith O'Hara

Posted on Last updated: December 29, 2023

If you’re after a self-guided walking tour of Dublin that packs a punch, you’ve landed in the right spot.

I’ve lived in Ireland’s capital for 34 years and I’m very confident you’ll love the mini-itinerary that I’ve outlined below.

It includes a one and two day option and it takes in the main things to do in Dublin , unique sights that tourists tend to miss and some historical pubs, too.

Our free Dublin walking tour follows a clear, logical route to ensure that you make the most of your time here. Dive on in!

Table of Contents

Day 1 of our self-guided walking tour of Dublin

Click to enlarge image

The Dublin walking tour map above will give you an overview of where our route will take you over each day.

As you can see, each day has a clear route and packs in a mix of key attractions and places you hopefully won’t have heard of.

If you want a guided tour, you’ll find organised Dublin walking tours with excellent reviews right here (affiliate link).

Money saving tip: If you’re planning on visit some of the main fee-paying attractions in the city, the Dublin Pass can save you €50+

1. Molly Malone Statue

Photos via Shutterstock

Day 1 of our self-guided walking tour of Dublin kicks-off at the now-iconic Molly Malone Statue on Suffolk Street in the heart of the city.

The bronze statue shows Molly, a famous character from the Irish song ‘Molly Malone’, who sold ‘Cockles and Mussels’ on the streets of the capital.

The statue was erected in 1988 and it has moved a handful of times. You won’t spend long here, but it’s a nice starting point for your stroll!

2. Trinity College

Our second stop of the day is a handy 2-minute walk from the first! Trinity College is one of the most famous landmarks in Ireland .

It is a renowned educational institution and it was established in 1592. It’s also inside the grounds of Trinity that you’ll find the ancient Book of Kells .

Trinity is the oldest university in Ireland and you can take a ramble through its impressive grounds, admire its magnificent architecture and tour the wonderful Long Room Library .

It’s in the Long Room that you’ll find 200,000+ of the college’s oldest books. It’s worth booking the skip-the-line ticket here as it gets busy ( this ticket gets you access to Trinity and Dublin Castle).

Related reads: See our guides on where to stay in Dublin + the best hotels in Dublin in 2024

3. The Palace Bar

Photos via The Palace on FB

The next stop on our self-guided walking tour of Dublin is going to be a brief one (I’m not suggesting you go drinking at this stage of the day!).

While there are many old pubs in Dublin , few are as visually impressive as the Palace Bar, which you’ll find a 3-minute walk from Trinity.

This pub was built in 1823 and it stands today, many years later, as a Victorian shrine, of sorts. Admire its impressive interior, first, and then saunter inside for a nosey (you can return here later).

It’s located just inside the cobbled streets of Temple Bar , so you can have a nosey around this area, if you like.

Related reads: See our guides on the best pubs in Dublin , the best Guinness in Dublin and the best pubs with live music in Dublin

4. O’Connell Bridge

When you’re ready, take the 3-minute walk to O’Connell Bridge, which spans the murky waters of Dublin’s River Liffey.

O’Connell Bridge replaced Gandon’s Carlisle Bridge, which opened in 1794. The bridge that stands to this day opened back in 1880 and cost £70,000 to build.

It measures at 148 ft in length and 160 ft in width. Named after political leader Daniel ‘The Liberator’ O’Connell it boasts impressive features, like its impressive lanterns.

Related reads: See our guides on spending 1 day in Dublin , 2 days in Dublin and 3 days in Dublin

5. The General Post Office

Walk up the historic O’Connell Street (be careful – there are plenty of dodgy characters that hang around here) and head straight from the The General Post Office (GPO) – it’s around a 4-minute walk from the last stop.

The GPO was built during the early 19th century and it’s here that you’ll see some of the more impressive architecture in Dublin , courtesy of the buildings neoclassical design.

This building played a key part in Irish history during the Easter Rising of 1916 when it served as the rebel headquarters. You can take a tour here that’ll immerse you in the city’s past.

6. The Spire

One of the more unique places you’ll visit on this walking tour of Dublin is the Spire – it’s less than 1-minute walk from the GPO… you can’t miss it.

Also known as ‘the Monument of Light’ (along with many other colourful nicknames…), the Spire stands 394 feet tall and it was erected in 2003.

I’ll be honest – the Spire is impressive when viewed from afar, but there’s no real point of seeing it up close.

7. The Ha’penny Bridge

The next stop on our self-guided walking tour of Dublin is a 7-minute walk from the Spire and it’s arguably one of the most beautiful bridges in Europe!

The Ha’penny Bridge , officially known as the Liffey Bridge, is an iconic pedestrian bridge that spans the River Liffey that was built in 1816.

It’s name comes from the fact that you once had to pay a toll to cross the bridge. The cost was a Ha’penny and there were turnstiles at either end of the bridge.

The bridge is a little slice of ‘old-Dublin’ that still used heavily to this day. It’s believed that around 27,000 people cross it each day.

Related read: See our guide on how to get around Dublin

8. St. Michan’s Church

Photos with thanks to Jennifer Boyer

You won’t find our next stop, St. Michan’s Church , on many Dublin walking tours, however, it’s  well-worth  a visit.

It’s a 12-minute walk from the Ha’penny Bridge and it’s here that you’ll find a historic building that dates back to the 11th century.

Oh, you’ll also find crypts with mummies… yes, mummies. In fact, some of the mummies at St. Michan’s are thought to be over 400 years old.

If you’re looking for unique things to see in the capital, make sure to add this one to your self-guided walking tour of Dublin.

9. The Brazen Head

We’re off Dublin’s oldest pub, next – The Brazen Head (a 4-minute walk from St. Michan’s).

The present building that you see today dates back to 1754, local legend claims that the site has housed a tavern since 1198.

And though no documents exist to prove that, we know that there’s been a licensed alehouse here since the mid 17th-century at least (which is old enough!).

If you’re feeling peckish, this is a handy lunch-spot. It’s well worth visiting either way as this place is steeped in history .

10. Christ Church Cathedral

One of the most popular stops on this self-guided walking tour of Dublin is the stunning Christ Church Cathedral , a 6-minute walk from The Brazen Head.

Christ Church Cathedral was founded in the early 11th century under the Viking king Sitruic Silkenbeard (amazingly, that is his real name!).

Originally built as a wooden structure in 1030 with the help of an Irish priest, it was rebuilt in stone in 1172.

The current Gothic-style cathedral, with its striking architecture and impressive interior, has been standing since the 12th century.

11. Dublin Castle

Few castles in Ireland receive visitor numbers like our next stop. Dublin Castle is a 4-minute walk away and it’s here you’ll find an impressive structure that dates back over 800 years.

Originally developed as a medieval fortress under the orders of King John of England, work on Dublin Castle was started by Meiler Fitzhenry in 1204 when the city was under Norman rule following the invasion of 1169.

Constructed on elevated ground once occupied by an earlier Viking settlement, it was completed in 1230 and took on the look of a classic Norman courtyard design.

One of the most prominent parts of the castle today, the imposing Record Tower is the only surviving tower of the original Medieval fortifications.

While its rectangular battlements on the roof are actually a 19th-century addition, they look pretty convincing! 

Related read: See our guide on the best castles in Dublin

12. St. Patrick’s Cathedral

Another firm favourite on this self-guided walking tour of Dublin is located a 12-minute walk from the castle.

St. Patrick’s Cathedral is a historic religious landmark that was founded in 1191. It’s the largest church in Ireland and it boasts Gothic architecture.

When you arrive here, take some time to saunter around the part and admire the cathedral’s exterior, before heading inside to get an eyeful of its outstanding interior.

13. The Guinness Storehouse

Photos © Diageo via Ireland’s Content Pool

Few Dublin walking tours can resist rounding off a day of strolling at The Guinness Storehouse , which is a 17-minute walk from St. Patrick’s Cathedral.

Book your tickets in advance (self-guided or guided) and immerse yourself in the story of the most famous of the many Irish beers .

The building itself is part of the Guinness Brewery and it acts as a seven-story visitor centre that takes visitors through the history of Guinness along with how it’s made and more.

The tour finishes on the rooftop in the impressive Gravity Bar that overlooks Dublin City and beyond.

Day 2 of our self-guided walking tour of Dublin

1. St. Stephen’s Green

We’re going to kick-start day two of our self-guided walking tour of Dublin at St. Stephen’s Green , which is often referred to as the ‘Lungs of Dublin’.

You’ll find the nine hectare/22-acre park at the top of busy Grafton Street when it’s home to commemorative sculptures, extensive trees and a large pond.

It has a pretty  wild  history that few are familiar with (read more here ) and it’s a nice, calm spot to kick-start the day!

2. Leinster House

The second stop of the day takes us 4 minutes down the road to Leinster House – the epicenter of Irish politics.

This is an impressive Georgian building that dates back to the 18th century. Now, while you can take a guided tour, if you like, you’re arguably best off admiring Leinster House from afar.

Unless you’re interested in politics, that is – in that case head on in for a journey back through Ireland’s political past.

3. National Gallery of Ireland

Photo left: Cathy Wheatley. Others: James Fennell (Tourism Ireland)

The National Gallery of Ireland is a 5-minute walk from Leinster House and it’s here you’ll find one of the most popular museums in Dublin .

It’s also one of the best free things to do in Dublin when it’s raining! For visiting art enthusiasts, the National Gallery of Ireland is an absolute must.

This cultural treasure trove houses a vast collection of paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts spanning various periods, from the Renaissance to the present.

Ireland’s artistic heritage can go overlooked by tourists and locals alike – this is an excellent opportunity to immerse yourself in it.

4. Merrion Square

Located in Dublin’s charming Georgian quarter, Merrion Square is a delightful mix of greenery and history (and it’s only 5 minutes from our last stop).

The square boasts finely manicured gardens that feel a far-cry from the busy city streets that lay just minutes away.

If you head for a stroll through its grounds, you’ll stumble upon impressive sculptures (including one of Oscar Wilde).

5. Irish Whiskey Museum

Photos by Brian Morrison via Failte Ireland

If you’re taking this self-guided walking tour of Dublin and it’s raining, our next stop will provide some welcome respite from the elements!

You’ll find the Irish Whiskey Museum a handy 15-minute stroll from Merrion Square and it’s here that you’ll discover the story behind the coveted Irish Whiskey .

I’ve done this tour in recent years and it offers a good mix (terrible pub intended…) of sippin’ and storytellin’.

You’ll get an insight into the history of whiskey and how it’s made and there’s also a tasting at the end.

6. Mulligan’s

© Tourism Ireland

Many Dublin walking tours take you to the busy pubs in Temple Bar . However, if you want to dodge the tourist traps, take the 6-minute walk from the Whiskey Museum to Mulligan’s.

You’ll find it on Poolbeg Street where it’s loved by locals and tourists alike for its old-worlde charm.

The pub received its license in 1782 but it operated as a Shebeen (a place where drink was sold illegally) for many years before.

The biggest compliment that I can give Mulligan’s is that walking through its doors makes you feel like you’ve stepped back in time.

Expect a lovely, traditional interior, a fine pint of Guinness and a furnishings that have stood the test of time.

7. The Custom House

The next stop on our self-guided walking tour of Dublin is the magnificent Custom House, a 4-minute walk from Mulligan’s.

This is an architectural marvel on Dublin’s waterfront and it was designed by James Gandon in the late 18th century.

The Custom House is famous for its neoclassical facade which is best admired from afar, first, before up close.

The building is now home to the Department of Housing.

8. The Famine Memorial

Dublin’s Famine Memorial is a poignant tribute to one of Ireland’s darkest chapters in history.

Located on Custom House Quay, a 4-minute walk from the Custom House, these haunting sculptures depict the devastating impact of the Great Famine in the 19th century.

The memorial serves as a solemn reminder of the suffering endured by the Irish people during that time and stands as a testament to the resilience and spirit of those who lived through the tragedy.

Photo left: Eileen Coffey. Others: Ros Kavanagh (via Fáilte Ireland)

The next stop on our self-guided walking tour of Dublin is a handy 2-minute walk from The Famine Memorial.

EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum explores the profound impact that Irish emigrants have had across the world.

The museum is housed inside a vaulted space and stories are told via interactive exhibitions and striking displays.

You’ll need to pay into this one but it’s well-worth it (especially if it’s raining!).

10. The Jeanie Johnston

Photo left: Gareth McCormack. Others: Dylan Vaughan (via Failte Ireland)

Many Dublin walking tours omit the brilliant Jeanie Johnston Famine Ship which sits a 2-minute walk from the EPIC Museum.

The Jeanie Johnston is an impressive replica of the original ship that transported Irish emigrants to North America during the Great Famine.

The ship is a floating museum that offers an insight into the challenges faced by those Irish men and women that sought a better life across the pond.

You can take a guided tour here where you’ll be immersed in a story that shaped the very DNA of Ireland.

Dublin walking tours FAQs

We’ve had a lot of questions over the years asking about everything from ‘What’s a good route with free attractions?’ to ‘What unique stops should be included?’.

In the section below, we’ve popped in the most FAQs that we’ve received. If you have a question that we haven’t tackled, ask away in the comments section below.

What’s a good route for a self-guided walking tour of Dublin?

If you use our Dublin walking tour map above, you’ll find a clear, logical route that takes in the city’s top sights over the course of two days. You could easily chop and change this route if needed.

Can you walk around Dublin in a day?

You can see the main sights in Dublin city in one day. If you follow the route on our Dublin walking tour map, you’ll only be walking from attraction-to-attraction for a total of 1.5 to 2 hours.

Can you walk around Dublin easily?

Yes. Dublin City is very walkable. Once you have a clear itinerary and know where you’re visiting and when, you’ll have no problem exploring the city on a self-guided walking tour of Dublin.

Keith O’Hara has lived in Ireland for 35 years and has spent most of the last 10 creating what is now The Irish Road Trip guide. Over the years, the website has published thousands of meticulously researched Ireland travel guides, welcoming 30 million+ visitors along the way. In 2022, the Irish Road Trip team published the world’s largest collection of Irish Road Trip itineraries . Keith lives in Dublin with his dog Toby and finds writing in the 3rd person minus craic altogether.

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MUSIC & PUBS

• REVOLUTIONARY DUBLIN & 2016

DUBLIN'S 10 TASTINGS

Dublin kickstarter.

• SECRETS AND HIDDEN GEMS
• HAUNTED DUBLIN
• STREET ART, GRAFFITI, COUNTER CULTURE
• THE PERFECT PINT
• MALAHIDE CASTLE & GARDENS

Let me be your guide

As your tour guide, I’ll help you disconnect from your everyday world, so you can immerse yourself in Dublin and all it has to offer. Check out just some of my tour options below or better still call, text or whatsapp me on 00353871822493 or email me at  [email protected]  so I can create a bespoke tour option to precisely cover your interests, group size and budget.

Ruairi Keogh

MY WALKING TOURS

Experience the Dubliner’s Dublin with Ruairi and learn all about the Irish music from traditional to rock. Visit famous landmarks and pubs and listen and enjoy Irish music at its finest Enjoy Irish pub grub and drinks while lapping up the atmosphere, music and craic in Dublin’s best classic pubs.

Cost: €26pp

REVOLUTIONARY DUBLIN 

Dublin was the epicentre of the Irish struggle for Irish independence and the rising over Easter 1916 is the most important turning point. On this 3 hour tour you’ll visit some of the key places associated with the rising as well as hearing stories that you’d struggle to find in academic tomes.

Cost: €30pp

On this 3 hour tour you ‘ll visit a mix of artisan producers, market stalls, traditional pubs and restaurants sampling incredible products along the way. Everything from handmade fudge to succulent pork, fish and chips, ice-cream and of course a magnificent Guinness poured to perfection.

Cost: €99.50pp

100 minutes around the centre of Dublin that will give you all the essential information that you’ll need about Dublin, its history and must see attractions, You’ll get your bearings, get a taste of all that Dublin has to offer and end up better equipped to make the most of your time here.

Cost: €28pp  

SECRETS & HIDDEN GEMS

Want to see the best of Dublin including its secrets and hidden gems? Discover Dublin’s centre’s unique districts in a three hour tour. From it’s Viking Birthplace and it’s medieval centre, to its’ cultural centre, markets, stores and of course a fantastic Dublin pub.

HAUNTED  DUBLIN

Take 2 hours to discover Dublin’s scary tales and horrifying scandals. Visit the 40 steps where the ghost of Jonathan Swift still appears, Visit places that inspired Brahm Stoker’s Dracula and  visit one of Dublin’s oldest pub which is home to a number of ghostly spectres.

Cost: €28pp

STREET ART, GRAFFITI & COUNTER CULTURE

On this two two and a half hour tour you’ll discover Dublin’s vibrant street life, see where Graffiti transitions into art, spectacular murals and installations, cool markets and local shopping areas, coffee culture and of course craft beers.

THE PERFECT PINT & WHISKEY GALORE

Take a 3 hour wander around some of Dublin’s famous hostelries and public houses. Sample craft beers and ciders and discover what makes the “perfect pint”. Enjoy a couple of drinks in pubs frequented by artists, musicians and literary characters of the past and present

Cost: €43pp

MALAHIDE CASTLE AND GARDENS

Situated 30 minutes north of Dublin’s city centre is the picturesque seaside village of Malahide. Originally founded by the Vikings this scenic coastline enjoys beautiful beaches, landmarks, shops. Bars and restaurants.

Cost: €70pp

“Leading us through different parts of Dublin, he informed us about the city's history, geography, art, culture and even told us a few ghost stories.”

“ruairi knows his stuff, put on your walking shoes and enjoy a great morning.”.

Billy, Northern Ireland

“We had a fabulous time on our food tour with Ruairí. He took us to some really unique spots that fully showcased both the classic Irish food experience as well as Dublin's emerging foodie culture. ”

Matthew, Amsterdam

#DublinWalkingTours

Tag me on Instagram with @bd.walkingtours #staycation2021

Protect Your Trip »

14 best dublin tours: pub crawls, game of thrones & more.

Explore everything from busy pubs to medieval castles on one of these guided adventures.

The Best Dublin Tours

Getty Images

One of the best ways to explore Dublin is on a tour. Whether you're interested in a pub crawl, a ghost tour, a history adventure or a sightseeing excursion, there are plenty of options to choose from.

Whether you want to absorb the sights and sounds of Dublin , taste traditional Irish food and drinks or explore the scenic countryside, the following guided tours have got you covered. The trips, identified by U.S. News as the best using both traveler and expert input, focus on Dublin's history and heritage with unique twists. Some focus on its biggest attractions , others engage participants with fearsome tales and there are even a few that explore film locations from popular movies and shows. But all have one thing in common: knowledgeable guides to share the insights of a local.

Viking Splash Tours

Price: Adults from 33 euros; kids from 27 euros Duration: 75 minutes

Explore Dublin's streets and the Grand Canal Basin via amphibious vehicles with Viking Splash Tours. Along the 75-minute ride, passengers see popular sights, such as Georgian Dublin, various cathedrals and U2's recording studio. Outings begin and end at St. Stephen's Green . Viking hat-wearing guides win praise for their funny and informative storytelling. Tickets cost around 33 euros (about $35) for adults, with discounts for seniors, students and children ages 3 to 14. Children younger than 3 are not permitted on this tour. Tours take place multiple times a day, every day.

View & Book Tickets: Viking Splash Tours

Dublin Traditional Irish Musical Pub Crawl

Price: From 19 euros Duration: 2.5 hours

Described as a "moving concert," this 2.5-hour tour is led by two professional musicians who regale patrons with both tunes and information about traditional Irish music while traveling to pubs around the city's Temple Bar area. Revelers rave about the relaxed pace, the music and the storytelling. Tours last from 7:30 to 10 p.m. and are available four nights a week (Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday) from May to September. The tour operates on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays in April and October, and every Saturday (plus select dates around St. Patrick's Day) in March. The pub crawl costs 19 euros (approximately $20) to attend; alcoholic beverages cost extra. Travelers can also opt for a 5:30 p.m. pub crawl dinner show with Irish dancing for 55 euros (about $59) per person.

View & Book Tickets: Musical Pub Crawl

Secret Food Tours Dublin

Price: Adults from 79 euros; kids from 65 euros Duration: 3 to 3.5 hours

Sample a variety of favorite Irish dishes on this leisurely 3- to 3.5-hour stroll through Georgian Dublin – a small area in the southern region of the city. The tour includes four to six stops for samples of Irish potato cakes, Irish stew, ice cream, smoked salmon and a surprise dish. Guides provide commentary on the area's history and, of course, its cuisine. Foodies find this a satisfying way to learn about the city's dining and drinking culture, and the guides are regarded as dedicated and accommodating. Tickets start at around 79 euros (about $84) for adults; an upgraded drinks package that includes an Irish tea and a glass of beer or wine (plus a total of eight stops) is available for an additional 18 euros (about $19). Children (ages 3 to 12) and teenagers (ages 13 to 17) can participate at discounted rates of 65 euros ($69) and 69 euros ($73), respectively. Start times range from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. daily. Be aware that this tour cannot accommodate dietary restrictions or substitutions.

View & Book Tickets: Viator

Courtesy of Vintage Tea Trips

Vintage Tea Trips – Dublin Afternoon Tea Trip

Price: Adults from 49.50 euros; kids from 27 euros Duration: 70 to 80 minutes

Enjoy a traditional afternoon tea service while seeing Dublin's top sights on this 70- to 80-minute bus tour. The double-decker buses depart the Temple Bar area and drive past tourist hot spots like Phoenix Park and Christ Church Cathedral. Along the way, you'll sip tea and eat treats, such as scones and tea sandwiches. Travelers like the tea and food; they also say the experience is a novel way to see the city and enjoy the guides' commentary. Tours depart Thursday through Monday at 1:15 and 3:30 p.m.; there's an additional 11 a.m. start time on each of these days except for Monday. Adult fares start at 49.50 euros (around $52); tickets for children start at 27 euros (about $29).

Wild Rover Tours – Cliffs of Moher, Atlantic Edge Ocean Walk & Galway City Day Tour from Dublin

Price: Adults from 75 euros; kids from 70 euros Duration: 13 hours

Wild Rover Tours' buses take riders across Ireland to see some of the country's best natural sights. The first stop is the Cliffs of Moher for views of the Atlantic Ocean and thousands of seabirds. You'll then see Burren National Park and enjoy views of Galway Bay and the Aran Islands. The final stop is a visit to the city of Galway for a guided walking tour. Tour-takers rave about the stunning views as well as the professional, knowledgeable drivers and guides. The daily tour starts around 7 a.m. and ends at 8 p.m. Tickets cost 75 euros (about $80) for adults and 70 euros (roughly $74) for kids. The tour cannot accommodate anyone younger than 2. The price covers admission to all sites visited, but it does not include lunch. Wild Rover also runs day tours featuring the Giant's Causeway and Belfast, among other options.

Finn McCools Tours – Giant's Causeway and Titanic Tour from Dublin

Price: From 83 euros Duration: 13 to 14 hours

Travelers looking to hit several sites throughout Ireland and Northern Ireland in one day will want to consider this daytrip from Dublin. Buses depart from Dublin City Gallery on Parnell Square North at 6:45 a.m. and head to the ruins of Dunluce Castle for a photo op, followed by longer stops at Giant's Causeway – a group of thousands of basalt columns formed by a volcanic eruption, which stretches from Northern Ireland to Scotland. Next, you'll head to the Dark Hedges (an avenue of intermingling beech trees seen in the "Game of Thrones" TV series). After that, you'll spend about 1.5 hours exploring the Titanic Museum (admission is included), followed by a half-hour wandering through Belfast on your own. The bus returns to Dublin between 7:30 and 8:30 p.m. Travelers recommend the tour and say it's "worth every penny." Tickets cost around 83 euros (about $88) per person, regardless of age. The company offers several other tours throughout Ireland that depart from Dublin, as well as tours with departures from Belfast and Galway.

Dublin Free Walking Tour – Free Tour South Side

Price: Free Duration: 3 hours

Travelers regard guides of this walking tour as extremely knowledgeable about the city and its history. During this three-hour stroll of Dublin's south side, you'll see top city sights like Trinity College , Temple Bar and Dublin Castle, among others. The tours are offered every day at 9:30 a.m., 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. While the morning walks tend to focus on popular attractions, afternoon outings may stop at more off-the-beaten-path spots. There is no charge for these walks, though guides appreciate tips at the conclusion of the trip. Dublin Free Walking Tours also runs a walking tour of the north side of Dublin.

View & Book Tickets: Dublin Free Walking Tour

Courtesy of Gary McParland | Game of Thrones Tours

Game of Thrones Tours – Winterfell Trek from Dublin

Price: From 70 euros Duration: 11 hours

"Game of Thrones" fans regularly praise this tour, calling the featured stops and the stories shared by guides incredible. During this daylong outing, you'll visit the Tollymore Forest Park (the backdrop for many of the first scenes of the series), see Inch Abbey and have lunch at a local pub. The highlight of the tour is a hike through Old Castle Ward, which served as the filming location of Winterfell. Though you'll be transported to the different locations via coach, there is a lot of walking involved on the tour; patrons suggest wearing sturdy shoes or hiking boots. Tickets, which start at 70 euros (around $74), include entrance to the castle as well as use of cloaks and other cosplay props. It does not include lunch. Note: Children younger than 12 may not take the tour and children ages 12 to 17 must have a signed parental consent form. Schedules vary by season, but tours typically take place Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday during the summer months, and Wednesday and Saturday in the winter, spring, fall. Groups typically depart at 7:45 a.m.; buses arrive back to Dublin around 7 p.m. The company also offers this tour with a departure from Belfast.

Rural Tours – Dublin Mountain Pub Tour

Price: From 45 euros Duration: 5 hours

After you've had your fill of the pubs in central Dublin, check out what the rural pubs have to offer on this five-hour evening tour. You'll visit three rural pubs, including one of Ireland's oldest and most highly elevated. Tour-takers find the guides entertaining and hospitable and the beer and music first-rate. Tickets cost 45 euros (about $48), which includes transportation from and back to Dublin. Tours run on various days depending on the season and start at 6:30 p.m. year-round; they usually end around 11:30 p.m. Check the company's website or Viator for schedules and booking availability. Participants must be at least 18 years old to tour. Rural Tours also runs a pub tour in the Wicklow Mountains, among other options.

SANDEMANs New Europe – Dublin Dark Side Tour

Price: Free Duration: 2.5 hours

The Dublin Dark Side Tour explores the spookier side of Ireland's folklore and legends. The 2.5-hour walk through cemeteries and back alleys (as well as to landmarks like St. Patrick's Cathedral and Dublin Castle ) features tales of serial killers, ghosts and the Gaelic festival that spawned Halloween. Guides are consistently lauded as gifted, humorous storytellers who make the excursions fun rather than frightening (though other tour-takers note some stories are graphic). Tours start from Barnardo Square at 5 p.m. every day except Monday and Wednesday. Tickets are free, but tips are encouraged. SANDEMANs also operates a free walking tour of the city and a couple of ticketed private tours.

View & Book Tickets: SANDEMANs New Europe

Collins Day Tours – Glendalough, Wicklow and Kilkenny Full-Day Tour

Price: Adults from 40 euros; kids from 25 euros Duration: 9 hours

Highlights of this daylong excursion include Wicklow Mountains National Park, walking tours of the medieval city of Kilkenny and of the sixth-century monastic settlements in Glendalough Valley. There will also be plenty of photo opportunities along the way. Guides regularly win praise not only for their insight, but also for their enthusiasm and warmth. Tourists also find they are given plenty of time at each stop. Buses depart from Hotel Riu Plaza The Gresham Dublin at 8:45 a.m. every day and return to the city at 6 p.m. Tickets cost 40 euros (roughly $42) for adults, 35 euros (about $37) for seniors and youth ages 12 to 17 and 25 euros (approximately $27) for children ages 3 to 11. The price does not cover lunch or entrance to Kilkenny Castle.

Irish Day Tours – Cliffs of Moher Day Trip from Dublin

Price: Adults from 75 euros; kids from 37.50 euros Duration: 12 hours

Irish Day Tours' Cliffs of Moher tour makes for a great daytrip from Dublin. The tour departs the city at 6:50 a.m. Guides will take patrons through the iconic cliffs, stop in the charming village of Doolin at lunch time (though meals are not included in the cost of the trip), admire the rocky landscape of the Burren and spend some time wandering through Galway City before returning to Dublin around 7 p.m. Past visitors say the bus drivers and guides are highly entertaining and knowledgeable. Tickets start at 75 euros (about $80) for adults, with discounts for seniors and children. Irish Day Tours also conducts daytrips to Blarney Castle and Cork, as well as to the Connemara region, among other excursions.

View & Book Tickets: Option 1 | Option 2

DoDublin – Ghostbus Tour

Price: From 35 euros Duration: 2 hours

Listen as skilled storytellers recount legends of terrible acts and sinister figures – including the doctor believed to have inspired novelist Bram Stoker's Dracula character – while being shuttled around Dublin to a graveyard, a church and other purportedly haunted sites. Participants say there is a great deal of laughter during these lighthearted explorations of Dublin's dark side. The Ghostbus Tour lasts approximately two hours and takes place every Tuesday, Friday and Saturday, departing at 7 p.m. at 9:30 p.m. Tickets start at 35 euros (about $37). Tour-takers must be at least 14 years old to participate.

Dublin Literary Pub Crawl

Price: From 15 euros Duration: 2.5 hours

This walking tour is a kind of roving theatrical performance during which professional actors recount scenes from the city's storied history and its literary heritage, while quoting its most celebrated authors. During the roughly 2.5-hour walk, you'll visit four historic pubs in the city, as well as Trinity College. Book lovers declare the performers to be entertaining and memorable. The walk begins at 7:30 p.m. at, appropriately enough, a pub: The Duke Dublin. Outings are offered every evening from April through October and Thursday through Sunday from November to March. It costs about 15 euros (nearly $16) – slightly less for students – to take this tour. Drinks are not included in the price.

You may also be interested in:

• The Best Things to Do in Dublin
• The Best Hotels in Dublin
• The Best Places to Visit in Ireland
• The Best Ireland Tours
• The Best Places to Visit in Europe
• The Best International Travel Insurance Companies

Tags: Travel , Tours , Ireland , Vacations , Europe Vacations , United Kingdom Vacations

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
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Dublin: A Walking Tour of the Main Sights

Ready to explore Dublin on foot? Follow this guide to cover the compact Irish capital and see all of the main sights without needed to hop on a guided Dublin tour.

Starting Out on O'Connell Bridge

 TripSavvy / Jamie Ditaranto

A walking tour of Dublin, self-guided, does it need a lot of preparation and map-work? Actually, it does not, as Ireland's capital is ideal for a leisurely stroll that will take in most of the top attractions too.

Most of the best sights of Dublin are situated in a comparatively small area. To get a good impression of this lively and historic city you only need to take a walk. And you can travel light as shelter from rain and refreshments can be found virtually everywhere. The whole tour of Dublin's Fair City should take anything between two and six hours - two hours for energetic walkers and without lingering too long at any place, six hours including stops, the Trinity College tour and a pause or two in a café. So put on your walking shoes and off we go ...

Start your walk on O'Connell Bridge, the nearest equivalent of a central place Dublin can boast. Reputed to be one of the only bridge in the world that is wider than it is actually long, this is the heart of Dublin, admire the view for a few minutes, then start walking up O'Connell Street . Cross over to the central reservation and have a good look at the O'Connell Memorial with its magnificent statues full of allegory. See an angel crushing a serpent, spot the faithful Irish wolfhound and notice some bullet holes. These were caused by gunfire during the fighting in 1916 and have never been repaired.

O'Connell Street and the General Post Office

Further statues and "The Spire of Dublin" await you—the latter was erected to mark the millennium and is also known as "The Stiletto in the Ghetto."

Of the impressive buildings on O'Connell Street, the General Post Office  takes pride of place. This was the central fighting area of 1916 but has been lovingly restored - it is open to the public during daytime as it still is Dublin's GPO. Have a look around and maybe buy some commemorative stamps in the Philatelic Office. Then continue up O'Connell Street, past the trompe d'oeil Carlton Cinema and on to the Parnell Statue.

Charles Stewart Parnell is remembered more low-key than O'Connell but his monument is among the most beautiful in Dublin. Walk around it and read the names of all 32 counties ... including pre-independence "King's County" and "Queen's County". Carry on past the "Ambassador" (a former cinema converted to a rock venue) for a walk around Parnell Square. You will pass a small monument with a broken chain and an Irish inscription commemorating the founding of the nationalist Irish Volunteers in 1913 on your left.

The Garden of Remembrance and Moore Street Market

Continue towards the magnificent Presbyterian Church and reach the Garden of Remembrance . These were established to honor all the victims of the fight for Irish independence - at all times. The theme is mythical. The large pond, forming a cross, has representations of discarded bronze age weapons at its bottom. The focus of attention will almost invariably be on the massive statue showing the transformation of the "Children of Lír", an evocative and fitting memorial.

When you leave the Garden continue the walk by turning left and then left and left again, passing the historic (and still very busy) Rotunda Hospital and the low-key headquarters of Sinn Fein until you hit Parnell Street. Turn right and then left again into Moore Street , noticing how Dubliners have elevated jaywalking to an art form. Moore Street itself is a semi-pedestrian zone and a collision of Dublin old and new. Traditional street traders hawk their wares from barrows and you might jostle for a place with a horse looking for a snack. The modern ILAC-Centre is on your right, countless Asian, African and East European "supermarkets" are on your left. Smuggled tobacco and cigarettes are sold next to butchers who do a mean breakfast roll. Take some time to enjoy this truly cosmopolitan and colorful area and then take a right into Henry Street to see South Dublin's premier shopping street.

Ha'penny Bridge, Temple Bar and the Bank of Ireland

TripSavvy / Jamie Ditaranto 

Now turn left into Liffey Street and walk down to the river of the same name. You will see the "Hags with the Bags" on your right just before having to cross the river using Ha'penny Bridge (officially "Liffey Bridge"). Dublin's most photographed river crossing was originally financed by a toll of one Halfpenny, hence the name. Today crossing is free.

On the south bank, a small (and sometimes very smelly) thoroughfare will take you straight into the "bohemian" ​ Temple Bar area, the hub of Dublin's trendy nightlife. Assuming you will make this walk during the daytime you may wonder what the fuss is all about - especially in the mornings Temple Bar is near deserted. Most of the action would be in the streets to the right - have a look and judge for yourself whether to come back later.

For now, you may well walk straight on past the looming Central Bank until you reach Dame Street. Take a left here and walk to College Green. On your left is the stately building that once was Ireland's parliament and now is the Bank of Ireland - take a look at the slightly dated security measures including small cannons. The Irish parliament is known as the only democratic representation that voted itself out of existence, effectively accepting direct British rule at the start of the 19th century.

Trinity College and Environs

TripSavvy / Kathleen Messmer

Exactly opposite to the Bank of Ireland, the entrance to Trinity College can be found - do not, under any circumstances, attempt to cross the road without using the regulated crossings. Even hardened Dubliners only attempt this in utter desperation!

After the crossing, you will want to enter the inner courtyard of Trinity College through the arch. It will be a revelation - a wide-open space with the impressive campanile at its center awaits you. The effect can be stunning, so watch out for fellow visitors stopping dead in their tracks right in front of you. Also, watch out for the more daring students trying to cycle through the narrow entrance! Immediately after coming out into the open again you will be invited to join the tour of Trinity College for a fee of € 10. As this includes the entrance fee for the library and the Book of Kells it is a worthwhile option. Should you have no time or restricted funds just have a look around the college grounds and then exit through the same gateway again.

After leaving Trinity College and turning left you will have to brave throngs of people waiting to catch a bus. On your right, you will see  a statue of Molly Malone in a very kitschy music hall style. Nearly every tourist has his or her photo taken here and some scurrilous street "performers" regularly frequent the site. Watching for a few minutes before continuing to Grafton Street can be very amusing.

Grafton Street, Stephen's Green and Merrion Row

Further on you will then find the pedestrian zone of Grafton Street, Dublin's "posh" shopping area. Do some window shopping but also have a look at the magnificent details to be found on the upper facades of the buildings themselves.

At the upper end of Grafton Street, some excellent buskers can occasionally be found performing on the streets for tips. Don't miss the life-size statue of Phil Lynott in a street to the right. The singer of "Thin Lizzy" was Ireland's rock hero long before Bono.

At the end of Grafton Street, the magnificent Stephen's Green Shopping Centre will dazzle you - the faux-Victorian metal and glass building holds dozens of shops plus a good food court and is the perfect place for a quick refresher.

Opposite the shopping center, you'll then notice the Fusilier's Arch, the grandiose entrance to Stephen's Green proper. Take a leisurely stroll through the park and also take in the surrounding areas. In the park, you will find a number of monuments, a garden dedicated to W.B.Yeats (won the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1923) with a cryptic piece by Henry Moore, a quaint lodge and numerous ducks on the lakes. You will also find shop assistants, office workers and students having their lunch al fresco .

Exit the park at the Wolfe Tone Memorial (commonly called "Tonehenge" for obvious reasons) in the northeast corner and then turn into Merrion Row. Here you will find the picturesque Huguenot Cemetery on your left and O'Donoghue's Pub on your right - where the seminal folk group "The Dubliners" started their rise to worldwide fame.

Merrion Square and Kildare Street

When you reach Merrion Street turn left and walk past the impressive Government Buildings, the Natural History Museum (the "Dead Zoo") and the National Gallery . You are now in the center of Georgian Dublin and near the Center of Irish politics. Merrion Square is on your right and in the northwest corner, the strange monument to Oscar Wilde is to be admired - opposite his childhood home. If you are feeling energetic take a stroll around the park, originally earmarked for construction of a cathedral. As the Catholic Church ran out of funds and steam for this project the park was presented to the citizens of Dublin. Today it hosts memorials, flowerbeds, pleasant walks and the buried remains of a bomb shelter.

From Oscar Wilde's statue carry on into Clare Street and then straight on to Leinster Street. At the corner of Kildare Street, the former Kildare Street Club can be admired - look at the curious carvings at the windows, from squirrels playing the lute to monkeys playing pool. Today the French Cultural Institute and the Heraldic Museum are based here. Walk up Kildare Street past the National Library and have a look at Leinster House and the National Museum . On a normal day, you will see protesters in front of Leinster house proclaiming worthy or simply bizarre causes. The gardai on duty seem to have seen it all and are usually visibly bored.

Dawson Street, Burgh Quay and the Custom House

Carry on up Kildare Street and at Stephen's Green take a right and then a right again down into Dawson Street. On your right Mansion House, the official residence of the Lord Mayor of Dublin is seen. A palatial building with the Dublin coat-of-arms on display and frequently used for official functions.

Walking on you cross the road at the bottom of Dawson Street and then bear left, following the footpath right past Trinity College, finally taking a right onto College Street. There you have to cross the street opposite D'Olier Street. Admire the gothic Pearse Street Garda Station to your right, the romantic D'Olier-Building in front and the charming bronze sculpture showing the way to the "Screen" cinema in-between. Walk down Hawkins Street towards the Liffey, passing the faux-Tudor building of the Dublin Gasworks on your left. At the end of the street, you will find a nice memorial to a policeman who died saving the lives of Victorian workmen trapped underground.

You are now at Burgh Quay and will have to bear right to walk downstream along the Liffey. Do not worry if the Liffey seems to flow in the opposite direction, this will be just a strong tide coming in. After a short walk, you will have a splendid view of the faithfully restored Custom House on the north bank of the river. Cross over to the Northside using the modern Talbot Memorial Bridge and you will see the International Financial Services Centre on your right, dwarfing the moving Famine Memorial just beside the river.

Back to O'Connell Bridge ... or Further?

From the bridge, you might also see the replica "famine ship" Jeanie Johnston lying at berth in the redeveloped Dublin Docklands to the right. Have a closer look if you like, then head back westwards (or upstream) along the quays, passing Custom House until you come to the unashamedly ugly Liberty Hall (the Trade Union Headquarters) and turn right. Tucked away under the railway overpass and facing Liberty Hall is a memorial to James Connolly, the Irish-American socialist who fought and died with his small Irish Citizen Army in 1916.

Near the tram tracks take a left turn into Abbey Street and you will be guided towards the Abbey Theatre - Ireland's national theatre founded by W.B.Yeats. Unimposing on the outside but still putting on top-notch productions, though the scandals of O'Casey's days seem to be truly a thing of the past. Just a few yards more will bring you to O'Connell Street and O'Connell Bridge is to your left.

Your walking tour of Dublin has ended.

If you still feel energetic (maybe after a coffee and some cake) you could hop on a LUAS tram going westwards. This will take you to the Four Courts, the National Museum in Collins Barracks and on to Kilmainham Gaol. You will also be able to see the sprawling Guinness brewery and could even walk up to the Phoenix Park .

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THE BEST OF DUBLIN - HIGHLIGHTS AND HIDDEN CORNERS

Cost: Adults  €25

Seniors/Students €20

Children over 12 years old €15

We highly recommend booking this tour online to avoid disappointment. 

Top Highlights

This exceptional and easy-going tour is one of the best introductions to Dublin’s rich history and culture. Enjoy this small-group experience. The maximum number of participants on tour is limited to 16 people per guide, but off season we often have fewer people on each walk. In case we reach 16 bookings, we provide additional guides. 

• Explore many of the renowned sites and hidden corners of Dublin with our professional guide

• Learn about Dublin’s 2,000 years of history and the even older cultural Irish influences.

• Discover places you can’t see on a bus tour.

• We only take small groups

Places we'll see or pass by

Please note that all visits are external, but opportunities will be available for such visits after the tour.

• Dublin Castle grounds
• Christ Church Cathedral
• Fishamble Street & Smock Alley
• Meeting House Square, Temple Bar
• Millennium Bridge & River Liffey
• Italian Quarter
• St Mary’s Church (now a famous café/bar)
• Henry & Moore Streets
• O’Connell Street
• General Post Office
• O’Connell Monument
• Former Parliament House (Bank of Ireland)
• Finish outside Trinity College

Take a Closer Look

This exceptional and easy-going tour is one of the best introductions to Dublin’s rich history and culture. Enjoy this small-group experience. Maximum numbers on tour limited to 16 people and is often less. Additional guides are provided where required. (effective from 01 April 2023).The walk takes you to many of Dublin’s icons and also brings you to some wonderful hidden spots too. If you are looking for a comprehensive tour that introduces you to the best of the city centre, on both sides of the River Liffey, then this is the tour for you.

Starting from Dame Street you will wind your way through the former Viking & Medieval Quarter including Dublin Castle and Christ Church Cathedral before wheeling around through Temple Bar and across to the River Liffey to the Northside City and onto the main historic street, O’Connell Street. We will pass by the General Post Office which housed the headquarters of the rebels of the 1916 Rising which resulted in the then destruction of this building and almost the entire street and surrounds. We will finish around Trinity College and the former 18th century Houses of Parliament.

All these places certainly have their interesting histories, but the human stories associated with them often capture more than just their eventful past. Our dedicated guides will share their love for the city with you and make you feel like a true Dubliner. 

To crown all this, the tour will also introduce you to many secret gems and surprises that visitors and even Dubliners often miss. Find Dublin’s first but now defunct full-time cinema, a church that’s not a church, a former Lisbon tram now serving as a café. Discover an amusing representation of a da Vinci painting, feel the bounce of a wobbly bridge and enjoy the tale of a post-box that represents Ireland’s transition to independence. And not forgetting a stark-naked representation of a very famous 18th century composer! 

Slide title

Tour Details

Meeting point, the tree of gold, central plaza, dame street .

  COST

Adult €25

Children €15 (12 to 18 years old)

Children under 12 years old free of change with accompanying adult.

DATE & TIME 

Please arrive at least 10 minutes before the tour commences, as the tour needs to leave at the given time and it is not possible to catch up with the guide afterwards.

01 April -30 April

Daily at 10.15 am

01 May – 30 September

Monday through Saturday at 10.15 am and 2.15 pm

Sunday at 10.15 am

01 October – 31 October

01 November – 31 March

Mon, Wed, Fri & Sat at 10.15am

Please arrive 10 minutes before the tour starts. If you miss the starting time, we won’t be able to join you with the tour. However, we can offer a tour at a different time or on a different day (subject to availability).

Office phone:

+353 1 832 9406, emergency phone:, +353 87 905 2480 , [email protected], privacy policy   cookie polic y.

DUBLIN WALKING TOURS

Professional Guided Tours. Discover Dublin's History with Dublin City Walks

YOUR ADVENTURES BEGIN HERE

Please note that all my tours are private, bespoke and on a demand basis. I do not run public scheduled tours. Thanks.

Dublin Grand Tour

Visit the beautiful squares and find out why with over 6,000 Georgian doors, no two are the same. Walk in the footsteps of James Joyce..

Georgian Architectural Tour

Principally known as a “Georgian City” Dublin offers many building styles from medieval to modern. Whilst Palladian style architecture...

Dublin Writers Tour

Visit the beautiful Georgian squares and find out who inspired Bram Stoker to write Dracula. Walk in the footsteps ..

James Joyce Tour

This walk around central Dublin brings you to over 20 sites associated with Joyce and the characters he created in his books...

Museums and Galleries Tour

Dublin offers a superb selection of historical artifacts housed in The History, Decorative Arts, and Natural History Museums..

1916 Rising Tour

A walk designed to investigate and explain the traumatic events that occurred in Dublin in 1916 and beyond. Starting with the fight...

The Best Walking Tours in Dublin. Discover Dublin’s Fair city by walking.

Dublin city is perfectly suited for providing the best walking tours due to its compact size and abundance of interesting historical and cultural sites.

Every pavement stone and alleyway has over a thousand years of stories just waiting to be told. Discover famous characters and events, amazing architecture and art, our writers and their pubs.

Each walk is a bespoke experience, based on the varying interests of the participants and are all differently unique. All tours are led by Liam Greene, a native Dubliner and a qualified, experienced guide and historian. The walks are easy in pace and are enhanced with readings, pictures and lots of gentle humor.

Best walking tour in Dublin. 3 hours from €180 per group. Dublin Grand Tour includes:

Dublin Castle

Christchurch Cathedral

Halfpenny Bridge

O’Connell Street/GPO

Dublin Spire

Old Parliament Building

St. Stephens Green

Trinity College

Oscar Wilde statue

Merrion Square

Please note that other attractions such as Guinness Storehouse, Trinity Library/Book of Kells, Whiskey Distilleries, Viking Splash tours should all be pre-booked directly by the clients as demand can be high.

Member of the Independent Tour Guides of Ireland.

Liam is a member of the Independent Tour Guides Association and is a certified and fully insured tour guide with a wealth of knowledge and experience that will make your tour a memorable one.

Experience Dublin City

with Liam Greene, a native Dubliner and a qualified, experienced guide and historian.

Client’s Reviews

Liam, the walking tour guide was definitely a WOW moment, I thoroughly, thoroughly enjoyed our time with him.

Parker S . , Atlanta, USA.

Even though I was jetlagged Liam carefully guided me through 6 miles (I checked my Fitbit later) of Dublin in all its Christmas finery, it was great, I can’t recommend this high enough.

Breet T . , Los Angeles, USA.

I really enjoyed this tour, we had a great guide, Liam Greene. He was very informative, funny and very caring to a person who was not a quick walker as the rest of us.

Aideen O’ B., Longford, Ireland.

Liam was very informed, he had good visual aids, gave the right amount of information but also kept a good balance between facts and entertainment.

Gavin H., Edinburgh, Scotland.

Thank you Liam for sharing with us your passion for Dublin, as well as his fantastic sense of humour. We had a fantastic walking tour and would recommend it to all visiting the city.

Judy C. , Broome, Australia.

Liam our guide gave us an excellent background of the history of Dublin. We kept a good pace but had ample time to orient ourselves to the downtown area.

Dale L., South Carolina. USA.

Liam was a very good story teller, most entertaining and good company. Plenty of laughs and we enjoyed his very Irish sense of humour

Taff T. , Sydney, Australia.

Liam’s tour was the perfect balance of history, anecdotes and beautiful sights. He was extremely well informed and witty. We couldn’t think of a single question to stump him.

Genevieve W., London, England.

Send me a message.

Send me your details and I will get in touch as soon as I can. You can also try calling if you need a quicker response Thanks Liam .

Select Tour List The Grand Tour Writers Tour Georgian Architecture Tour James Joyce Tour Museum and Galleries Tour 1916 Rising Tour

Preferred date of tour:

Preferred time of tour:

Preferred time of tour 10 AM 2 PM

[email protected]

+353 87 255 4765

Dublin Strolls

Guided Walking Tours of Dublin City

Daily Tours: 11AM & 230PM

About Dublin Strolls - Guided walking tours of Dublin city

Discover Dublin through the eyes of a local on your guided walking tour. Join your experienced tourist guide, Dermot, to discover Dublin city on foot. We keep our group sizes small to make sure you leave loving Dublin city as much as we do!

Daily Tours at 11:00AM and 2:30PM

Take one of our most popular walking tours; learn about Medieval and Viking Dublin, seek out the grandeur of Georgian Dublin or explore the city's most famous sights on this small group walking tour of Dublin. 

We offer customised tours for individuals, families, friends and groups. Have a special interest in literature, history, music? Want to rediscover your city, or your Irish heritage? We will design a bespoke guided walking tour of Dublin city to match your interests, ensuring you have the best day out exploring Ireland's beautiful capital city. 

GEORGIAN DUBLIN, SOUTHSIDE

Duration: 2.5 to 3 hours at a leisurely pace

On this guided walking tour discover the delights of Georgian Dublin and delve into its history. Sights include: Georgian Squares, Leinster House, Huguenot Cemetery and much more

Get in touch

+353 83 067 3393

[email protected]

Join Us for the Craic!

Belfast Cork Dublin Galway

We are Yellow Umbrella Tours. We are proud to be local and independent. Join us to experience the best of Dublin.

Best of dublin tour (southside), tips - based, everyday at 10am, 11am & 2pm at the spire (the big needle) on o'connell st..

Join us on this tour to experience the top attractions and get a feel for our charming city.

​- Trinity College – Temple Bar – Dublin Castle – Christchurch Cathedral – St. Patrick’s Cathedral

Meet beside the Spire (the big needle) in the middle of O’Connell Street.

Free Tour Dublin Highlights

Time: 10am, 11am and 2pm every day.

We offer Southside FREE walking tours several times daily. Also check out the Northside FREE walking tour at 3.00pm every...

Free Tour Northside

Time : 03.00 pm every day.

On this tour, we will visit famous locations such as The Garden of Remembrance: dedicated to those who gave their...

Tour Gratis Lado Sur

Todos los días a las 11:00.

La calidad de nuestros tours está garantizada porque se basan enteramente en las propinas. Tu guía no recibe dinero de...

Tour Gratis Lado Norte

Todos los días a las 16:00.

Misterios y Leyendas

Todos los días a las 18:00.

Callejones, leyendas, secretos, misterios… adéntrate con nosotros en el lado oscuro de Dublín para conocer su historia más desconocida.

Explore Our Most Popular Tours

Dublin Traditional Pub Tour

Everyday at 6PM at the Spire (The Big Needle) on O'Connell St.

Private Walking Tours

Want to explore the city on a personal level and from a local perspective?

Testimonials

What people say about us, southside dublin free walking tour.

Southside Tour with Peter was Fantastic. I am all about walking yours in towns and this was one of the best. It lasted about 3 hours, but I could have wandered around with Peter for a couple of more hours and not gotten bored. We got great general history of Ireland and insite to specific sites on the South Doubling tour. Highly recommend.

Absolutely recommend!

During my short trip to Dublin I decided to book a free walking tour with the Dublin Free Walking Tour – South Side. Our guide was Conor (with one ‘n’) who did a great job sharing bits of Ireland’s/Dublin’s history and present in a relatively short amount of time (one can learn a lot in 3 hours) and with some humour. I had lots of fun learning during this tour and I would 200% recommend anyone to book it. I’m sure you won’t regret it!

Great experience

Our tour lasted 2hr45 of the Southside, and was really excellent. Our tour guide gave us lots of information and was happy to answer questions, and was generally very friendly and easy to understand. It’s a contribution at the end as well, but nominally free. Would definitely recommend!

All you need to know within 2 hours

A great mixture between information, fact, cultural insights and first hand tips for pubs and restaurants. Would encourage everyone to go on a tour!

Must-do in Dublin

Had a fantastic South Side tour with Richie on Sunday morning. Very informative and funny, and we learned interesting history about Dublin. It’s three hours but time flies by! Highly recommend to anyone wanting to take a walking tour – best way to get your bearings plus learn about the buildings instead of just looking at them!

Interesting tour!

Very interesting tour about the history of the city of Dublin. Our guide Conor was dynamic and captivating! We recommend to discover the city at the beginning of your stay!

Informative and fun tours with a great guide

We did both the north and south side tours with Peter. He was absolutely fantastic and really knowledgeable, giving an insight into the city we never would have had walking round in our own. He was also really helpful in answering any questions and providing recommendations for the rest of our trip. Great experience and would definitely advise anyone visiting Dublin to book on to both tours.

Educational and fun. Highly recommended!

My hostel recommended this company to me. Incredibly knowledgeable guide for the free morning & afternoon walking tour (tour date 30.11.2021). Did not expect this level of knowledge and presentation skill from a free tour, but will definitely take a closer look at their normal tours next time I am in Dublin. I am sure they are fabulous too. Overall highly recommended!

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

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

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

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

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

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

See The Book Of Kells At The Trinity College Library

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

Catch A Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

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

Get A Taste Of Irish Food

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

Hop Onto A Viking Splash Tour

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

Drink At Temple Bar

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

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

Dublin Castle

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

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

Chester Beatty

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

Shop At George's Street Arcade

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

Take A Guinness Brewery Tour

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

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

Visit Jameson Distillery

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

See Local Music At Whelan's

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

Drink High Tea On A Vintage Bus

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

Cross Ha'Penny Bridge

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

Free Walking Tour

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