adventures in ireland tour company

Best Ireland Tour Companies

Search 129 Ireland tour operators and travel companies, with 3,100 reviews.

Featured Ireland Trips

Brendan Vacations

All Ireland Tour Companies

Ireland tour companies range from global operators to boutique and local operators. Tours in Ireland often focus on walking, historical attractions, and local immersion. Choose the best Ireland tour operator for your travel style.

Insight Vacations

Exodus Travels

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Intrepid Travel

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Omega Tours

Travel for All

SITA World Tours

ROW Adventures

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Just Go Holidays

Wild N' Happy

Hilltoptreks

Rick Steves

Discovery Bicycle Tours

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Ireland Reviews & Ratings

Jennifer Forsythe

Irish Highlights

It is a fast paced, thorough trip to see some of the best spots of Ireland. The tour director was very knowledgeable. Everything was timed well and I felt that we go...

Trusted Customer

Beautiful scenery. Really enjoyed the special activities (dinner and a show in a castle, dinner in a historic pub, hurling lessons and the pub experience) Trafalgar ...

Allie & Stevie were WONDERFUL!!! This trip was better than I expected! Very organized, plenty of free time, food was excellent and excursions were a blast! I ...

Fun filled trip with great guides, unique experiences and well planned activities. The scenery was interesting, the weather was good and hotels were excellent. Great...

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• [email protected]
• (US / Ca) 011 353 21 237 9006
• (EU) 00 353 21 237 9006

Find Your Tour:

• England, Ireland and Scotland Tours
• Ireland Castle Tours
• Tour for max. 8 guests
• Tours for Solos
• Adults Only Tours
• Wild Atlantic Way
• Ireland's Ancient East
• Ireland Tours from Dublin
• Wild Atlantic Way Tours
• Ireland's Ancient East Tours

Arrange a Tour:

• Private Tours
• Private Tour Attractions
• Example Itineraries
• Genealogy Tours & Family Tree
• Golf Vacations
• Garden Tours

2024 Tour Packages:

• All Ireland Tours & Vacations
• Iconic Britain & Ireland Tour 18 Days | From €4390 | 2024 | Max 26 ppl.
• Iconic Britain Tour 10 Days | From €2490 | 2024 | Max 26 ppl.
• Iconic Ireland & Scotland Tour 14 Days | €3690 | 2024 | Max 26 ppl.
• 14-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland 14 Days | From €2890 | 2024 | Max 26 ppl.
• 10-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland 10 Days | From €1690 | 2024 | Max 26 ppl.
• 8-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland 8 Days | From €1590 | 2024 | Max 26 ppl.
• 6-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland 6 Days | From €990 | 2024 | Max 26 ppl.
• Deluxe Irish Castles Tour 10 Days | From €2790 | 2024 | Max 26 ppl.
• Historic Irish Castle Tour 7 Days | From €1790 | 2024 | Max 26 ppl.
• Ancient Ireland & Scotland Tour 13 Days | From €5390 | 2024 | Max 8 ppl.
• Ancient Ireland Tour 8 Days | From €3390 | 2024 | Max 8 ppl.
• Discover Northern Ireland 6 Days | From €995 | 2024 | Max 26 ppl.

2025 Tour Packages:

• Iconic Britain & Ireland Tour 18 Days | From €4590 | 2025 | Max 26 ppl.
• Iconic Ireland & Scotland Tour 14 Days | €3990 | 2025 | Max 26 ppl.
• Highlights of Ireland & Scotland Tour 9 Days | €2490 | 2025 | Max 26 ppl.
• 14-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland 14 Days | From €2990 | 2025 | Max 26 ppl.
• 10-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland 10 Days | From €1990 | 2025 | Max 26 ppl.
• 8-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland 8 Days | From €1690 | 2025 | Max 26 ppl.
• 6-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland 6 Days | From €1090 | 2025 | Max 26 ppl.
• Deluxe Irish Castles Tour 10 Days | From €2890 | 2025 | Max 26 ppl.
• Ancient Ireland & Scotland Tour 13 Days | From €5690 | 2025 | Max 8 ppl.
• Ancient Ireland Tour 8 Days | From €3290 | 2025 | Max 8 ppl.
• Discover Northern Ireland 6 Days | From €1090 | 2025 | Max 26 ppl.
• Tour Guides / Drivers
• Reviews of our Tours

Further Information

• Frequently Asked Questions
• Travelguide

About tour packages

• Choosing a Tour
• The Tour Hotels
• The Tour Buses

About private tours

• Arranging a Tour
• Private Tour Accommodation
• Private Tour Vehicles

Ireland Tours 2024 & 2025

Looking to customize a bespoke vacation? Check out our Private Tours

We are still Ireland's best-reviewed tour operator, with 97.3% five-star reviews.

Our UK & Ireland Tour Packages

Scroll through our Britain and Ireland tour packages for 2024 & 2025. Alternatively, you can also see what's available on your preferred dates .

Iconic Britain & Ireland Tour

• 34 attractions
• Max. 26 ppl

Experience a once-in-a-lifetime 18-day adventure as you behold the most famous and captivating attractions that Ireland, Northern Ireland, Scotland, and England have to offer.

Iconic Britain Tour

• 14 attractions

Embark on a unique and unforgettable 10-day journey as you explore the most renowned and captivating attractions that England and Scotland have to offer.

6-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland Tour

• 11 attractions

Experience the true essence of Ireland in under a week. Ireland's unmissable destinations and the Wild Atlantic Way in one unforgettable tour.

Deluxe Castle Tour

• 22 attractions

Live like royalty for 10 days across Ireland, staying in real Irish castles and country manors. Enjoy the finest all-inclusive tour Ireland has to offer.

Historic Irish Castle Tour

• 15 attractions

A truly unique tour of Ireland. Visit the must-see attractions whilst discovering unique experiences beyond the tourist trail. All woven together by Ireland's historic castles.

14-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland Tour

• 25 attractions

Discover the Island of Ireland, North and South with this unforgettable 14-day tour. Spend 4 days in Ulster, and 10 more in Eire.

Iconic Ireland & Scotland Tour

Discover the best of Ireland and Scotland with this unforgettable 14-day tour. Compare the cultures of these historic Gaelic nations during a magical fortnight.

10-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland Tour

Experience all that is Ireland in this 10-day adventure. Ireland's best-loved attractions and its best-kept secrets, including the Wild Atlantic Way.

8-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland Tour

• 17 attractions

Take in the essence of captivating Ireland as you embark on an unforgettable 8-day adventure, immersing yourself in the Emerald Isle's beauty and charm.

Highlights of Ireland & Scotland Tour

Explore the wonders of Ireland and Scotland on this remarkable 9-day tour. Immerse yourself in the rich cultures of these historic Gaelic nations as you embark on a captivating journey.

Discover Northern Ireland Tour

• 8 attractions

Northern Ireland's natural beauty awaits on this six-day fully-inclusive tour of Ulster. Picturesque towns, untamed coastlines and friendly locals await.

Ancient Ireland Tour

• 19 attractions

An exclusive tour capped at max. 8 guests, travelling through the idyllic scenes of The Wild Atlantic Way. Including an overnight stay in an Irish castle.

Ancient Ireland & Scotland Tour

• 24 attractions

Embark on a unique and intimate journey through the Celtic heartlands of Ireland and Scotland on this exclusive tour designed for a maximum of 8 guests.

Hello from everyone here at My Ireland Tour

Welcome! We are thrilled that you are interested in visiting our country. We're proud to say that we're still an independent family-run business, based right here in Cork. We offer a range of Britain and Ireland vacation packages , as well as our bespoke private customised tours . We're looking forward to chatting with you and showing you what makes Ireland such a magical place.

Eric O'Gorman, Founder & Director

What are you looking for?

We offer various types of tour to suit all ages, interests and group sizes. What kind of vacation suits you best?

All our Ireland Tours

Ireland's best-loved destinations and its best-kept secrets, all on one magical tour.

Private Custom Tours

Custom private tours, crafted uniquely for you. All group sizes from two people to 100.

Castle Tours

Live like royalty, staying in real Irish castles steeped in history and tradition.

UK & Ireland

Tour Ireland and Britain at the same time with a tour that shows you the best of England, Ireland and Scotland.

Scotland & Ireland

Two great celtic nations, one unforgettable experience. Visit Scotland and Ireland in one trip.

Three unique tour collections

It's now even easier to find your perfect vacation. We have grouped most of our tour packages into three unique collections. Whatever your interests, whatever your budget, we have the perfect range of Irish tours for you and your group. We also offer our popular Discover Northern Ireland Tour (6 days). Alternatively, you can even customize your own bespoke private tour , just for you and your group.

Iconic Scenes Tours

Discover Ireland's best-loved attractions and its best-kept secrets. All with unbeatable value, while staying in some of Ireland's best four-star hotels.

• Compare all Iconic Scenes Tours
• 18-Day Tour (Ireland, England & Scotland)
• 14-Day Tour (Scotland & Ireland version)
• 14-Day Tour (Ireland-only version)
• 10-Day Tour (England & Scotland)
• 10-Day Tour
• 9-Day Tour (Scotland & Ireland version)

Ancient Luxury Tours

Get closer to the action on a tour which is limited to max. eight guests. On these luxury tours, you will be staying in four- and five-star hotels and castles.

• Compare our Ancient Luxury Tours
• 13-Day Tour (Ireland & Scotland)

Luxury Castle Tours

Live like royalty on a tour that is steeped in the rich history and traditions of the Emerald Isle. Stay in Ireland's best four- and five-star hotels and castles.

• Compare our Castles Tours
• 7-Day Historic Irish Castle Tour
• 10-Day Deluxe Irish Castles Tour

Made in Ireland, by us

We are not a reseller or an agent. We only sell our own tours, designed with care in our family office here in Cork, Ireland.

No Middleman

You will not find our tours on any other website. And with no middleman, we can provide unrivalled value with a much more personal experience.

We're here for you

On the phone, you can chat to Eric, Kristel, Shannon, Shauni, Keith or Catriona. We will be delighted to help with any questions you may have.

Britain & Ireland Tours

Why not add England and Scotland to your Irish tour experience? A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to compare and contrast these unique but interconnected cultures. Experience a rich and overlapping history, told from three singular perspectives. Three distinct outlooks, three separate national identities — one friendly welcome. Compare the royalty and pageantry of London with the very different majesty you will find in the rolling glens, lochs and highlands of Scotland. Of course, we think that Ireland holds the crown, with a landscape, a culture and a heritage that puts the Emerald Isle among the jewels of all European travel.

Customize your own tour

Looking for something truly unique? Why not arrange a bespoke private tour exclusively for you and your group? Our private tours can be customized to suit any group size, from two guests to a party of 100 or more. We will work with you to create the perfect tour itinerary for your group, taking away all the stress and leaving you with an unforgettable vacation experience that works for everyone. Certain destinations you want to visit? We can make it happen. Want to stay in a castle or on a working farm? Just say the word.

Stay in real castles

Experience the rich history of Ireland first-hand when you stay in some of the Emerald Isle's most enchanting castles and stately manors. That's right — with our Irish castle tours, you not only visit real Irish castles, you get to stay overnight in them, too. Choose from four castle tour vacation packages , crafted for you by our Irish-born team of tour experts. Whichever tour you choose, you can expect to live like nobility for the duration of your time with us here in Ireland.

Our small groups guarantee Never more than 26 guests per tour

We always keep our tour group sizes small. That's because we want every guest to get the comfort, space and service they deserve. Although many other companies squeeze in groups of up to 50, even the largest of our tour packages are strictly limited to just 26 guests. That leaves empty seats on the coaches. So why do we limit our tours to such small group sizes? Here are six reasons.

Superior Service

Guests consistently list our small group sizes as a top reason why they would book with us again. See our reviews...

More focus on you

With a smaller group, our tour guides have more time to get to know you and your interests.

We deliberately leave empty seats on our coaches, so you can relax and spread out.

Experience each attraction up-close and personal, with more time to ask questions and see what interests you.

Speedier Check-Ins

Compared with many of our rivals, our smaller group sizes make checking in and out of the hotels a breeze.

More Relaxed Pace

Experience Ireland at your own pace. No rushing to keep up and no waiting around for large groups to assemble.

You might also be interested in...

• Sample Itineraries
• Transport Options
• Genealogy Tours

2024 Tour Packages

• Iconic Britain and Ireland (18 Days)
• Iconic Britain Tour (10 Days)
• Iconic Ireland and Scotland Tour (14 Days)
• 14-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland (14 Days)
• 10-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland (10 Days)
• 8-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland (8 Days)
• 6-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland (6 Days)
• Deluxe Irish Castles Tour (10 Days)
• Historic Irish Castle Tour (7 Days)
• Ancient Ireland & Scotland Tour (13 Days)
• Ancient Ireland Tour (8 Days)
• Discover Northern Ireland (6 Days)

2025 Tour Packages

• Iconic Ireland & Scotland Tour (14 Days)
• Highlights of Ireland and Scotland Tour (9 Days)

Adare Village and Thatched Cottages

About Adare Village and Thatched Cottages

Adare is a small town in Co. Limerick, known for its quaint and colourful thatched cottages. Adare is considered to be one of Ireland's most beautiful towns so stop and take in the view. Don't forget your camera today - the perfect chance to capture the essence of old Ireland.

Explore Adare Village along the Wild Atlantic Way .

Black Taxi Tour Belfast

About Black Taxi Tour Belfast

Take a journey through this once troubled city. See the murals of the Loyalist Shankill Road & Nationalist Falls Road. The Troubles took their toll on the economic life of Belfast, but the past ten years of peace have returned much prosperity while the genuine friendliness of the city never left.

• Blarney Woollen Mills

About Blarney Woollen Mills

Originally built in 1823, Blarney Woollen Mills was mainly used for the spinning and weaving of wool. After it closed in 1973, it reopened in 1975 — as an Irish heritage shop.

Visit their website...

Culloden Battlefield

About Culloden Battlefield

The Culloden Battlefield Visitor Centre commemorates the last pitched battle fought on British soil, in April 1746. Learn more about the Jacobite intent to overthrow the House of Hanover and return the House of Stuart to the British throne.

Glenveagh Castle

About Glenveagh Castle

Located within Glenveagh National Park, Glenveagh Castle was built by Captain John George Adair between 1870 and 1873. Having made his fortune through land speculation in America, Adair return to Ireland and began large amounts of land in County Donegal. The castle was built in the Scottish Baronial style and is surrounded by a garden and commands stunning views of the nearby mountains, lakes, woodlands and valleys.

Highland Folk Museum

About Highland Folk Museum

About Highland Folk Museum is a museum and open-air attraction located in the Scottish Highlands. It is designed to showcase the domestic and working lives of the early highland people.

King John's Castle

About King John's Castle

Located alongside the River Shannon in County Limerick, on King's Island. Dating back to 922, to a time when Vikings were the inhabitants of the island (Thormodr Helgason, the Viking sea-king, built the first settlement here. The castle itself was built in 1200, under the instruction of King John of England.

About Moriarty's

Located close to the Killarney National Park, Moriarty's is an Authentic Irish Gift Store and Restaurant. Hand crafted Irish jewellery, Waterford Crystal and classic and modern tweed fashions and furnishings are all on offer at the gift store. The restaurant is an 85 seater offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Mount Congreve Gardens

About Mount Congreve Gardens

Mount Congreve Gardens. Located in Kilmeaden, County Waterford, Mount Congreve Gardens is an 18th century Georgian estate and mansion. It was designed by the same architect that created both of Waterford's cathedrals, John Roberts.

Mount Stewart House & Gardens

About Mount Stewart House & Gardens

Recently recognised as being one of the top 10 gardens in the world, Mount Stewart is a rich tapestry of planting plant life and stunning walking trails. The house dates back to the 19th century, and was the Irish seat of the Vane-Tempest-Stewart family.

Muckross House

About Muckross House

Located on the grounds of the expansive and idyllic Killarney National Park. Muckross House, and its 11,000-acre grounds, was donated to the Irish state in 1932.

Muckross House Traditional Farms

About Muckross House Traditional Farms

Located on the grounds of the picturesque Muckross House and its impeccable gardens. Take a step back in time and see the Irish farming lifestyle of the 1930s and '40s. A time when the horse was responsible for much of the labour and the weather was the be all and end all in terms of production.

The Quiet Man Museum

About The Quiet Man Museum

The Quiet Man Museum. A reproduction of the quaint thatched cottage from the John Wayne starring, John Ford directed movie of the same name. all costumes, artefacts and furnishings have been recreated in precise detail, to reflect the setting of the 1952 classic. Located in the picturesque village of Cong, County Mayo.

18-Day Iconic Britain & Ireland Tour

• Free time in London
• Shakespeare's Birthplace
• Manchester River Cruise
• Tour of York City
• York Minster
• Jedburgh Abbey
• Tour of Edinburgh City
• Holyrood Palace
• Tour of Glasgow City
• Tour of Belfast City
• Titanic Belfast
• Giant's Causeway
• Kylemore Abbey
• Cliffs of Moher
• Ring Of Kerry
• Blarney Castle
• Irish Emigration Museum
• Christ Church Cathedral
• Guinness Storehouse
• Departure flight home

10-Day Iconic Britain Tour

• Roman Baths
• Broadway to Cheltenham Railway
• Afternoon Tea at Broadway Hotel
• Chatsworth House
• Edinburgh Castle
• Stirling Castle
• Loch Lomond Cruise
• Glasgow City

14-Day Iconic Ireland & Scotland Tour

• Arrival at Edinburgh Airport
• St. Andrews Golf Club
• Kingsbarns Distillery Tour
• Loch Ness cruise
• Glasgow Cathedral
• Belleek Pottery
• Sheepdog Demo
• Blind Piper Pub
• Rock of Cashel

14-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland

• Trim Castle
• Belfast City
• Belfast Murals
• Hillsborough Castle & Gardens
• Bushmills Distillery
• Derry City Walls
• Lough Erne Cruise
• Devenish Island
• Jameson Distillery Midleton

10-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland

• Dublin Airport
• Clonmacnoise
• Free time in Galway City
• Killary Fjord
• Free time in Cork City
• Charles Fort
• Irish National Stud
• Traditional Farm Lunch

8-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland

• Mikey Ryan's Bar
• Killarney National Park
• Hazel Mountain Chocolate Factory
• Galway City
• Free time in Dublin City
• St Patrick's Cathedral

6-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland

• Glendalough Monastic Site
• Ring of Kerry

• Clonmacnoise Monastic Site
• Adare Village
• Cork City Gaol
• Midleton Distillery Experience
• Kilkenny Castle

• Dublin Airport arrival
• Waterford Crystal

• Arrival in Edinburgh Airport
• Edinburgh City tour
• Dalwhinnie Distillery
• Eilean Donan Castle
• Isle of Skye
• Glasgow City tour
• Belfast City tour
• Derry City tour
• Dublin City tour

• Lough Eske Castle
• Derry City Tour
• Free time in Derry City

• Pearse Lyons Distillery
• Traditional Music Night

• Derry City walking tour
• Ulster American Folk Park

9-Day Highlights of Ireland & Scotland Tour

• Cruise Loch Lomond
• Clydeside Distillery Tour
• Glasgow City Tour
• Ferry to Belfast
• Belfast City Tour
• Glenshane Country Farm
• Giants Causeway
• Hillsborough Castle
• Carlingford Lough Ferry
• Farewell dinner and show

My Ireland Tour:

My Ireland Tour is a family business based right here in County Cork. Thanks for visiting our website: we're thrilled that you're interested in visiting the country we call home. As an independent Irish business, we're proud that we can give each guest the kind of service that has made us Ireland's top-rated tour operator. We hope to offer you a real Irish welcome soon. Our family business (My Ireland Tour Limited) is registered in Ireland, Company Number 547775.

Contact Us:

• 5 Church Hill  Carrigaline  Co. Cork  P43 X376  Ireland

Useful Links:

• My Ireland Tour Home
• Ireland Tours
• Ireland & Scotland Tours
• Singles Tours of Ireland
• Ireland Travel Guide
• Terms and Conditions
• Aer Lingus Flight Information
• Sustainability Policy
• Book a Tour

• [email protected]
• North America: 1-888-442-4124
• EU: +353(0)86160-6604

Unmissable Ireland Tours…

Welcome to irish experience tours, where adventure, culture & laughter come together in a symphony of unforgettable experiences. explore our guided tours of ireland..

• Travel With 5 Star Guides
• Handpicked Accommodation
• Luxury Vehicles
• Award Winning Adventures

The Adventure Begins Here: Explore Our Tour Packages of Ireland

Our Ireland small-group tours and bus tours of Ireland redefine what it is to explore the island of Ireland, blending the freedom of independent travel with the convenience of stress-free planning. Immerse yourself in the genuine spirit of Ireland with our expert local guides, the true custodians of the Irish “craic.”

Our easygoing tours are fully flexible and immersive for people of all ages and levels of fitness. Celebrate and support Ireland’s local communities and culture; wander quaint cobble streets and taste artisanal food; experience craft demonstrations and connect with the great outdoors in a rich and meaningful way that is suited to you.

Browse our tours and if you have any questions, get in touch . And remember, we also offer Private Tours of Ireland if you want to plan a trip with customisation.

Don't Just Take Our Word For It!!!

Cultural Tour Company Of The Year 2024

13 Day Full Irish Experience Tour

11 Day Ultimate Irish Experience Tour

10 Day Wild Irish Experience Tour

8 Day Castles & Coasts Experience Tour

7 Day Ultimate Atlantic Adventure

Relaxed 7-Day Wild Atlantic Way Tour

5 Day South Coast Experience Tour

5-Day Giant Ireland Getaway

Why choose our guided tours of ireland.

Our dedicated guiding team know Ireland and its locals so intimately, that they can build in flexibility and exclusivity based on your own interests. Our team of creators works closely with local communities and activity providers to help them tell their stories. We’re a passionate, quality driven team.

Our Vehicles

Experience the charm of Ireland in our vehicles—streamlined, polished, and incredibly comfortable. They feature large panoramic windows, reclining seats, and air conditioning as standard. With a maximum limit of 16 people per tour, you’ll enjoy ample space throughout your journey.

We prioritize family-run, locally-owned accommodations for an authentic Irish experience. Our small group sizes allow us to select high-quality establishments in untouched locations, ensuring a diverse and enjoyable stay. Each place is carefully selected to provide a unique and loved experience.

Our Flexibility

Book Any Tour Of Your Choice, Pay A €180 Deposit And Change The Dates And Tour For Free* Up To 30 Days Before Departure. Choose & Change to any available departure, an unlimited amount of times. We also accept different payment methods in different currencies.

Our Responsibility

By exploring our rural & regional areas and supporting local businesses and people, we can use travel as a force for good. We’re committed to preserving our cultural heritage and supporting our communities via indigenous experiences and responsible tourism.

Our Experiences

Our small-group tours redefine exploring the island of Ireland, blending the freedom of independent travel with the convenience of choosing your optional activities. We’ve curated a list of unmissable activities for you, and in places where fantastic choices abound, we’ve entrusted the ultimate decision to you.

Want more Irishness in your life?

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READY TO GET STARTED? NEED A QUESTION ANSWERED?

If you are planning a trip to Ireland tailored for your date, time and places, drop your details below and one of our experts will provide you with a price and details.

10% Off Spring 2025. Travel in March or April for a 10% discount off the May-Sept price.

We create and operate tours that let travellers experience the country from a local and authentic perspective by connecting them with our place and our people. 

• EU - +353861606604
• US / Can - 8884424124

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• Traveller Info
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• Book With Confidence

What Makes A Vagabond Adventure Amazing?

Active and Upbeat

Ready for Ireland? You'll love Vagabond's upbeat pace and adventure activities.

Off Road 4x4 Tour Vehicles

Head off-road in our legendary 4×4 tour vehicles. They're the perfect ride for your Ireland vacation.

Adventure Time!

Hike, bike, horse-ride and kayak through beautiful Irish scenery with adventure activities aplenty.

Off The Beaten Track

Discover hidden Ireland on our off the beaten track tours. See the highlights but escape the crowds!

Experience Irish Culture

Stay in local boutique hotels with great food and nightlife on your guided Ireland small group tour.

Sit Back And Relax!

Your highly-trained local tour guide will deliver an unforgettable experience in Ireland.

Green Leaders

We are proud to be a responsible tourism tour operator. Sustainability lies at the heart of everything we do!

Are you ready for a Vagabond Cultural Adventure?

Off The Beaten Path

Our legendary Mercedes Benz 4x4 tour vehicles will lead you away from the crowds to our favourite spots

Join Us On An Adventure Tour

Ride a horse along a stunning beach on the Wild Atlantic Way

Legendary Destinations

Stand in awe at the Cliffs of Moher. Kiss the Blarney Stone. Tour the Ring of Kerry.

Ready for Action?

Kayak. Hike. Bike.

Choose from a range of adventure activities on your active Vagabond tour.

Find out more

Once In A Lifetime Experiences

You won't believe your eyes at incredible destinations like Skellig Michael

Feast On Irish Food

Taste the revolution happening in fresh, delicious and locally-sourced Irish food

Make Friends On Our Small Group Tours

A maximum of 13 other guests means more time to get to know and love your new travel pals

Choose a Vagabond Tour

It’s our mission to ensure that you enjoy your guided Ireland tours to the max and are on the itinerary that matches your needs best.

Vagabond Cultural Adventures feature a more energetic pace than our Driftwood vacation packages .

We’ve also created a handy comparison tool to help you figure out which Ireland tour is the best fit for you.

Book Early, Save $$$s

Don't Miss Our 2024 Early Bird Offer

Book your Ireland tour soon to lock-in current pricing.

SEE THE OFFER

Too active? Relax on an easy-paced Driftwood Journey of Discovery . Explore quaint Irish villages, cultural stops and craft studios with Driftwood.

❄️💰 PRICE FREEZE:  Book your 2025 active Vagabond Tour and benefit from our Price Lock Guarantee .

Ireland Tours & Vacations

The Emerald Isle: where the rhythm is slower, the people are warmer, the spirit is fuller, and the earth is richer.

Irish hospitality may be a cliché – right up there with leprechauns and kissing the Blarney Stone – but when you take a  tour in Ireland  (whether that's in Galway or down   South ) you realize that this enchanting republic revels in its old-school approach to life. Connemara really is as brooding and lonely as we’ve been led to believe. The Dublin of James Joyce still lingers on in odd pockets of the city. The Guinness really is that good. If you want to enjoy your holiday, it’s best to leave your cynicism at the door and grab Ireland with both hands: learn the folklore of Roscommon and Donegal,   road trip your way along the south's coastline , go searching for faeries in Knocknerea Mountain, moan about the inclement weather and (above all) embrace the craic.

Our Ireland trips

Let's create an exclusive trip for your group.

Ireland tour reviews

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Northern & Southern Ireland

Articles of Ireland

England or Ireland? Where to go on your next trip

Scotland or Ireland: which country should you travel to next?

Ireland at a glance

Capital city.

Dublin (population 500,000)

4.7 million

English, Gaelic

(GMT) Greenwich Mean Time : Dublin, Edinburgh, Lisbon, London

CALLING CODE

Electricity.

Type D (Old British 3-pin) Type G (Irish/British 3-pin) Type M (see D)

Learn more about Ireland

Best time to visit ireland.

Don’t forget your umbrella! Although the wettest time of year is from October to April, rain is pretty much a guarantee year round. Summer, June to August, promises better weather, and the long days are welcome even if the sun isn’t shining. May, June and September are great months to holiday in Ireland, as there are fewer tourists, more daylight and it’s usually relatively warm for Irish standards). July and August are the country’s busier months, but the festivals, events and good craic that take over the country more than make up for the increase in tourists.

Read more about the best time to visit Ireland

History and government

Early history.

Tumultuous is a good word to describe Ireland’s often troubled and sorrowful history, which is filled with invasion, repression, deadly conflict, religious discrimination and emigration. Ireland’s history dates back to 8000 BC, and progressed from a hunter-gatherer society to an agricultural one. Christianity came to the island in the 5th century, replacing the old tribal and Druid societies, though many of the Celtic traditions were preserved. In the 800s, the Vikings started invading and regularly raided and plundered the island for upwards of two centuries. They set up settlements (most notably Dublin), but were eventually pushed out of Ireland by the Irish king Muirecán. (Ireland was then made up of many small kingdoms, who fought each other for dominance of other counties and the entire island.) Then came the Normans. When an exiled Irish king sought help from (English) King Henry II, he sent Norman forces to (successfully) recapture the Irish King’s counties. This event established Norman lords in Ireland, who soon ruled big tracts of Iand. This worried Henry II so much he invaded in person in 1172. Now it was not only Irish lords that were battling for control of the country, but Norman and English ones as well. 

Fast forward to 1536 and Henry VIII, who tried to conquer Ireland and extend English law over the country. This was met with fierce resistance, especially when he tried to convert the Irish Catholics to Protestants. This opened up a brutal few centuries, where the endeavor for Protestant rule over Ireland led to many atrocities and battles. In the 1600s, land was confiscated from Catholics and given to Protestant settlers (known as the Plantations), triggering the first wave of mass Irish emigration. Remaining Catholics were subject to persecution, with their rights becoming less and less as time went on.

The Irish Rebellion of 1798, led by the republican United Irishmen (who wanted to overthrow British rule and have a non-sectarian republic) was brutally quelled and Irish self-government was abolished. From 1845 - 49, Ireland suffered the Great Famine, which saw over a million people die from starvation and disease, and a million or more emigrate. Understandably, relations between the Irish people and the British got worse, as the government had many means to stop the severity of the famine. Another tragedy was that this period (along with other factors) contributed to English largely replacing the Irish language. From this time until 1912, there were many attempts at reinstating home rule (Irish self-government) and a number of rebellions were instigated but failed. It was also when two distinct groups emerged: the Irish nationalists (who wanted Ireland to be independent and governed by the Irish) and Irish unionists (who considered themselves British and wanted to remain in the union).

Recent history

In 1922, after the Irish War of Independence and many years of fighting, the Anglo-Irish Treaty was signed and Ireland was divided into Northern Ireland (six counties) and Southern Ireland (26 counties), known as the Irish Free State. This lead to the Irish Civil War, fought between those who wanted a unified Ireland and those who wanted to keep Northern Ireland under British rule. The Irish Republican Army (IRA) lost, and Northern Ireland remained ruled by Britain.

The Irish Free State was a predominantly Catholic state and the Roman Catholic church had a massive impact on the formation of the country, as it had over much of Irish history. In 1949, the Republic of Ireland was established and left the British Commonwealth. Up until the late 1990s, the economy of Ireland struggled and emigration was an ongoing problem. Unfortunately the economic boom of the 90s and 2000s has faltered, and economic troubles have once again returned. That said, the conservatism of the Catholic church has lost its grip over society, with many social reforms that would have once been unthinkable being implemented in the 90s.

After the division of the counties in 1922, Northern Ireland became a predominantly Protestant state. Years of violence between pro-British Unionists and pro-Irish Republicans have marked its history, which is a complicated and bloody beast woven with political, ethnic and religious differences. It is as fascinating as it is heartbreaking, and worth reading about in a sphere that can do it justice. See our list of recommended books for books detailing this period.

Top 5 Irish mythical creatures

1. leprechauns.

They are Ireland’s most well known mythical characters. They are male faeries who take the form of an old shoemaker and are depicted with mischief in their eyes. Leprechauns are the source of practical jokes, have the ability to grant wishes and have untold riches buried away.

A banshee is a female faerie who is said to emit an other-worldly wail when someone is about to die. While usually heard rather than seen, reports of sightings range from the sight of a beautiful woman who utters a low, pleasant singing to a crone who emits a soul-chilling shriek.

They are creatures that are seals in the water but are human once they shed their skin on land. They are often linked with tales of ill-fated romance, where either a human has stolen the selkie’s skin so they can’t return to the water (and must marry the human) or a human is taken to the depths of the ocean to be their spouse.

4. Dullahan

A dullahan carries its head under its arm and rides a black stallion – and sometimes drives a wagon made out of skeletons! Its mission is to claim souls, stopping only to call out the name of the person who will die. Those who try to watch him will endure a bucket of blood thrown at them or a whip made out of a spinal cord. Only gold can scare it.

A merrow is the Gaelic version of a mermaid/merman – a half-human, half-fish creature with an amiable and benevolent nature. They are known to lure handsome men to live under the sea, but are also capable of living with humans and marrying them. They have a special hat called a cohuleen druith, and can’t return to the water if they lose it.

Top places to visit in Ireland

1. cliffs of moher.

Take your Irish holiday to a level that’s as high as the Cliffs of Moher themselves as you peer over the brink of these monolithic edges. Both vertical and abrupt in stature, these cliff faces provide monumental views over Galway Bay and out to the Aran Islands. Listen to the powerful waves crash against the sandstone far, far below and let the salty smell of the sea breeze calm your mind and lift your soul.

Trip: Northern & Southern Ireland

2. Aran Islands

Just when you thought Ireland couldn’t get any more spellbinding, the Aran Islands with their staggering cliffs, Celtic churches, and World Heritage Listed sites, peak out above the waters of Galway Bay to prove you wrong. Follow your local leader as you explore, not only the rugged coastline but also the ruins and remains of both the Bronze and Iron Ages for a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience.

3. Ring of Kerry

From the tranquil sound of Torc Waterfall to the imposing monument that is Staigue Fort, the Ring of Kerry only adds to Ireland’s collection of unspoiled natural wonders. Stop in at bucolic villages such as Killarney, Beaufort, and Kenmare on the 179km circular journey and continue to adventure through ‘the Ring’ by private vehicle to see some shepherds in action on a local farm visit.

 To be sure you get the full Irish experience you can’t go past ordering a pint of Guinness at a local pub in the republic’s capital of Dublin. Wandering through the cobbled streets of this electric city is thirsty work and you only need to stop in at one of the many refreshment-ready establishments to get your liquid fill. With a bitter, roasted taste and a texture that goes down (a little too) smooth, you’ll be ordering another round in no time.

5. The Wicklow Way

Known as the oldest, long-distance trail in Ireland, the Wicklow Way offers a whole heap of scenic experiences from passing through open moorland and forested heaths to walking beside fast-flowing mountain streams. If those views aren’t enough to convince you of Ireland’s beauty, then exploring Glendalough Valley’s monastic settlements and peering into deep, sapphire-colored lakes ought to do the trick.

Trip: Walk the Wicklow Way

6. Ballysaggartmore Towers

If you’re wondering what your next stop is on your journey to find some of Ireland’s most magical places, then let us introduce you to the Ballysaggartmore Towers. Created in a gothic style, these towers are both imposing and idyllic, situated in a fairytale-like wooded area that’s perfect for picnics. Join your tour on a walk of the grounds and imagine what it would have been like to roam the ornate stone halls.

Trip: Ireland: Kilkenny & Surrounds

7. Killarney National Park

While the small and charming town of Killarney is well worth a visit in its own right, it’s the dramatic and rugged mountain range that sits alongside it that elevates this scenic spot to the top of any ‘must-see’ list. Featuring the highest peak in Ireland in McGillycuddy’s Reeks and some of the world’s most recognizable lakes and waterfalls, this national park deserves to be explored. And admired. And loved.

Similar destinations

Figuring out which country to travel to can be hard, especially when there are countries right next to each other that seem so similar! So you don't have to roll the dice or pick your next destination out of a hat, we've put together a comparative guide on all things culture, cuisine, and cities (among things) to make your decision a bit easier.

Scotland or Ireland?

England or Ireland?

Further reading

Ireland travel faqs, do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travelers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travelers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

How to get to Ireland

Getting to Ireland is super easy with two popular options: flying or catching the ferry. Flying is the quickest way to get to Ireland but it can be quite expensive depending on where you're travelling from. If you're travelling from a country like Australia or the United States then flying is your only option. If you live in the UK, you have the option of driving to Liverpool and catching the ferry to Dublin so that you can easily get around once you're in Ireland.

Is tipping customary in Ireland?

Tipping of 10-15% in restaurants is common. Some restaurants add a service charge to the bill, so check for this. It’s common to round up fare in taxis or leave around 10% if they’ve been particularly helpful.

What is the internet access like in Ireland?

Internet access is good in Ireland, with internet cafes and Wi-Fi hotspots easily found in most cities and major towns.

Can I use my cell phone while in Ireland?

Cell phone coverage is generally very good in most parts of Ireland. Ensure global roaming is activated before you arrive.

What are the toilets like in Ireland?

Modern, flushable toilets are the standard in Ireland.

Can I drink the water in Ireland?

Tap water is considered safe to drink unless otherwise marked.

Are credit cards accepted widely in Ireland?

Major credit cards are widely accepted by stores and hotels in Ireland. Smaller cafes and shops may not accept credit cards, so ensure you carry enough cash to cover small purchases.

What is ATM access like in Ireland?

ATMs are very common in Ireland, so finding one won't be a problem in most towns and cities.

What to pack for Ireland

As Ireland is known to be quite rainy all year round, packing wet weather clothing is important.

Items like a waterproof jacket or raincoat, quick-dry clothing such as pants and tops, beanies, scarves, thick socks, and gloves will all come in handy. 

You should also consider packing a collapsible, travel-sized umbrella to minimize the likelihood of getting wet when it's raining. 

Remember to pack a camera, a backpack, a reusable drink bottle, and a portable charger as well.

Things to eat in Ireland

Irish food is undoubtedly one of the main reasons why this breathtaking country is so popular among travelers. From hearty stews full of vegetables to salty bread you'll get addicted to, traditional Irish food has a focus on fresh produce served up farm-to-table style.

Is Ireland LGBTQIA+ friendly?

While homosexuality was only decriminalized in Ireland in 1993, it has since become a welcoming and accepting country for LGBTQIA+ travelers within Ireland, and for travelers coming from elsewhere, with a range of gay-friendly venues, bars, and events located in all major cities.

How do I stay safe and healthy while traveling?

From Australia?

Go to: Smart Traveller

From Canada?

Go to:  Canada Travel Information

From the UK?

Go to:  UK Foreign Travel Advice

From New Zealand?

Go to:  Safe Travel

From the US?

Go to:  US Department of State

The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before traveling?

Absolutely. All passengers traveling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

Does my trip support The Intrepid Foundation?

Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. Trips to this country directly support our global Intrepid Foundation partners, Eden Reforestation Projects and World Bicycle Relief. Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

Eden Reforestation Projects

Eden Reforestation Projects are helping to mitigate climate change by restoring forests worldwide; they also hire locally and create job opportunities within vulnerable communities. Donations from our trips support restoration across planting sites in 10 countries around the globe. Find out more or make a donation World Bicycle Relief

World Bicycle Relief provides people in low-income communities with bicycles to mobilize school kids, health workers, and farmers in far-out areas – giving them access to vital education, healthcare, and income. Donations help provide Buffalo Bicycles – specifically designed to withstand the rugged terrain and harsh environment of rural regions – to those who need them most. Find out more or make a donation

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

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

Where the Love for Ireland Begins

Love irish tours, what we believe, our experience.

Love Irish Tours is a leading Irish tour company specializing in customized tours of Ireland. We offer self-drive tours , private escorted tours and bus tours throughout Ireland. All our tours are fully customizable. We provide a wide range of tours to suit any budget. We will not be beaten on price. Book with us and we will ensure you have the most memorable vacation! We put our passion into making your trip the dream vacation you have been planning for years.

We are here for you and we will take great care of you.

We are a young vibrant company based in County Meath in the heart of Ireland. County Meath is one of the most historic parts of Ireland and was the seat of power of the ancient High Kings of Ireland who ruled Ireland from the famous Hill of Tara. Newgrange, the UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a passage tomb that is older than the Pyramids of Egypt and is on our doorstep. Only a stone’s throw away from us is the famous Trim Castle, site of filming of Mel Gibson’s Braveheart. With all this history local to us, it is little wonder we became inspired to showcase all of what Ireland has to offer to the world!

We believe Ireland will be your most memorable vacation. Through us you will experience everything that Ireland has to offer. We genuinely believe you will have the experience of a lifetime and that once you arrive you won’t want to leave. At Love Irish Tours we believe we have everything you need to make your dream Irish trip a reality. We believe our model of doing business will ensure you have the best possible trip to Ireland. We build a personal relationship with all our customers and we have often been told that it is our personal touch that makes Love Irish Tours the success it has become.

We have over ten years experience in the tourism industry. We have extensive experience in the Irish tours business. We have created thousands of customised tours of Ireland over the years and our knowledge of Irish tourism is second to none. We have worked with group sizes ranging from one to 180 people and we have catered for every type of budget. We have travelled the length and breadth of Ireland and we have experienced everything for ourselves so that we know that our customers will have the best experience possible.

Available Tours

Self drive tours.

Our self-drive tours allow you the freedom to enjoy Ireland independently. We will provide an itinerary which can be customised to your needs. You will collect your car at your chosen location and your tour will begin!

• PRIVATE ESCORTED TOURS

Our private escorted tours allow you to explore Ireland with your own personal driver/guide. You will be collected upon arrival at your chosen airport by your driver/guide who will remain with you throughout your tour.

COACH TOURS

Our coach tours allow you to be part of a group with your driver/guide to tour throughout Ireland. A great way to discover Ireland! Not only will you see Ireland’s main attractions but you will discover Ireland’s hidden gems.

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Multi & Single Day Tours in Ireland

From dublin's leading day tour company, discover the beauty of ireland, with wild rover tours.

Cliffs Of Moher, Atlantic Edge Ocean Walk & Galway City Day Tour From Dublin

Kilkenny, Wicklow Mountains, Glendalough Day Tour From Dublin. (Includes Sheep Farm & Dog Trials)

Giants Causeway & Belfast City Day Tour from Dublin

Cliffs of moher, bunratty castle & ennis town, special offers.

10% Off. Cliffs Of Moher & Galway + Giant’s Causeway & Belfast (2 x Tours)

10% Off. Cliffs Of Moher & Galway + Wicklow & Kilkenny (2 x Tours)

10% Off. Belfast & Giant’s Causeway + Wicklow & Kilkenny (2 x Tours)

12.5% Off: 3 Tour Saver. Cliffs of Moher (with Bunratty) + Belfast + Wicklow

Visiting dublin, we've got you covered, dublin attractions discounts, hop on/hop off bus tours, private tours, the best adventures lead to great stories., start your adventure with wild rover tours, ireland’s #1 tour company..

2023 TripAdvisor Travelers Choice Award for Northern Europe – Wild Rover Tours listed in the Top 20 Activities and the only tour company to be awarded this honour.

2020 TripAdvisor Travelers Choice Award for the World – Wild Rover Tours listed as the 2nd Best Day Tour in the category Best Cultural Experiences

2013 – 2023 TripAdvisor Travelers Choice Award for Ireland – Every year for 11 consecutive years Wild Rover Tours has been reviewed and rated as the Best Tour Company in Ireland.

Ireland is a country of people well known as the land of poets, storytellers, musicians, actors, myths, legends and of course “CRAIC”. At Wild Rover Tours we know that a good tour is not a good tour without a good guide. A tour guide to bring variety and entertainment to you while out on the road. At Wild Rover we are the only day tour company in Ireland to employ a dedicated driver that ensures your safety and a dedicated tour guide that ensures you have a fun interesting day out. Our guides are experts in Irish history, folklore,culture. A lot are musicians who perform live on tour. Entertainment is guaranteed as we travel to Ireland’s top attractions.

At Wild Rover Tours, we put our customers first. That means we don’t accept any ‘soft commission’ from low-interest tour stops. We guarantee the maximum time at each of our attractions, and unlike other tour companies, entry to the attractions, a free walking tour is always included in the price. We also guarantee that you will find the best value here on our website, you can’t book our day tours or private tours cheaper anywhere else.

Book your preferred day tour from Dublin online now. There is no risk, we have a free cancellation policy, up to 24 hours in advance. So reserve your seat today!

Multi-award winning day tours

Reviewed no 1 tour operator in ireland. tripadvisor - 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020 & 2023, what our clients love, about wild rover tours, wild rover tours.

Unit 3 Stephen Street Lower, Dublin

• Paul Smith ★★★★★ 2 weeks ago Wonderful day taking a trip to Northern Ireland. The tour guide and driver were top notch and kept the tour fun and interesting. The castle remains were amazing looking out over the Atlantic. And what trip to Ireland would be complete without seeing the giants causeway. Highly recommend.
• Alexandra McDonald ★★★★★ 3 months ago What a fantastic and professional tour company! This Wild Rover tour from Dublin to the Cliffs was the perfect choice for my 7 year old and me. We were visiting Dublin for a long weekend and the Cliffs had been a bucket list item, and not stressing about driving was my main reason for booking. I reserved on their website directly (a fair price!) and went to the meeting point that day at 7am. They have … More large, comfortable coaches with their logo. The Cliffs are magnificent and a must-see! The driver Garry and our guide Rory were so professional and entertaining. Rory pointed out landmarks as we drove, gave us a comprehensive history of Ireland, and had such a lovely personality all day! We made a rest stop on the route there and back (no WC on the bus). We returned back at 7:30pm and it was such a great (albeit long) day. Furthermore, Rory came through the cabin as we were arriving back in Dublin to answer any personal questions we had about the area, and took a few minutes to recommend local restaurants, pubs, and experiences that we would find useful. Absolutely recommend!!
• Katie Howard ★★★★★ 2 months ago Neil and Sarah were fantastic! If you are in Dublin and debating whether this tour is worth it I promise it is. Absolutely amazing. They give you nice long stops so you feel you can take in the area. Great history lessons while driving but also quiet time with music. The sheepdog demonstration was the icing on the cake. I want to come back again now to those areas as they were stunning!
• Kara Moss ★★★★★ 2 weeks ago I loved this tour and our tour guide, Eve. I took the tour a couple of years ago and enjoyed it so much that I came back a second time with another group of friends. It's a great way to see the west coast in a manageable day trip. The dramatic Cliffs of Moher and Galway are well worth the trip. Eve was knowledgeable and funny. I recommend this one over all the competition. Seriously, this is one … More of my favorite bus tours!
• Theresa Langston ★★★★★ 2 months ago Our tour to Northern Ireland and the Giant Cliffs were amazing! Our tour guides Krishna and Barbara were so informative and friendly people. Barbara gave us a lot of Irish history and folklore. The Titanic museum in Belfast was so well done and sad too. The Giant Cliffs are amazing! The views are so beautiful. The countryside throughout Ireland is so green. I would recommend this tour to anyone visiting … More Ireland they were amazing tour guides. Thank you so much!
• Tracey Trower ★★★★★ 4 weeks ago We had a great tour! We lucked out and had fantastic weather and were entertained the whole time. Expert driving on narrow roads is definitely worth the cost of the tours! There a number of tours that pick up in the same location. The Wild Rover buses are gray and labelled on the side. Be sure you are on the right side of the street. The stops along the way make the trip easy. Since there are a lot … More of tours going to the same places, they can be very busy for getting food so having a plan ahead of time will help. Highly recommend!
• Joseph D'Cruz ★★★★★ 3 weeks ago Our first tour with this company. Modern buses with WiFi and charging stations. A very well organized tour of the Irish countryside. A lot to see and enjoy. Mike, our tour guide was informative, very engaging and kept us entertained throughout with traditional, Irish songs. John, our bus driver kept us safe on some very narrow backroads, and was great to talk to. Highly recommend this tour!
• Jeff Meucci ★★★★★ a month ago As some others have mentioned, we're not typically 'tour people', but we just loved this one. Ian was so informative, personable and funny. This tour really gave us a unique cross-section of Ireland and sheep dog trials were definitely a highlight for us. We really recommend this tour!
• Colleen Tracey ★★★★★ a month ago Loved Cliffs of Mohor & thought we spent an appropriate amount of time there. Galway could have been longer - not enough time to explore. More time on the bus than we thought, but lots of sites along the way. Our guide Tom was fantastic!

Protecting Our Planet

Our eco-friendly mission.

We are committed to playing our part towards a greener, more sustainable future and are dedicated to working towards a business model that offers eco-friendly day tours from Dublin with zero added emissions to the environment, negating each one of our passengers’ carbon footprint.

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Experience the Best of the Emerald Isle

Embark on an unforgettable journey through Ireland with CIE Tours, with over 90 years of expertise in welcoming you to explore this enchanting island. From the majestic landscapes of the Ring of Kerry to the iconic Giant’s Causeway, experience Ireland's rich history, warm camaraderie, and thrilling adventures. Discover renowned sites like the Cliffs of Moher, the historic city of Dublin, and the charming towns along the Wild Atlantic Way. Whether you're selecting from our 20 carefully planned guided tours, designing a custom vacation for any group size, or embarking on an independent self-drive adventure, CIE Tours ensures unforgettable Irish experiences tailored to your interests. With a remarkable guest satisfaction rate of 95%, allow us to guide you through the extraordinary magic of Ireland, where every journey is a trip of a lifetime.

Ballintubber Abbey

Elaborately carved Celtic crosses dot the grounds of this ancient church founded in 1216, in Ireland's scenic County Mayo.

O'Brien's Tower

Originally built as a viewing area for 19th Century visitors, O'Brien's Tower sits near the high point of the Cliffs of Moher.

A vibrant arts and culinary scene—and colorful buildings set along medieval streets—make Galway a can't-miss stop.

Blarney Castle

Kissing the "Stone of Eloquence" may be the reason millions of tourists flock to Blarney Castle every year, but the gardens around it—including its new Poison Garden filled with dangerous and toxic plants—are another reason to add this to your must-do list.

Trinity College & Book of Kells

Ireland's oldest college houses one of the country's most cherished treasures—a beautiful illuminated version of the New Testament Gospels, created by monks in the 9th century. It's one of the essential things to see in Dublin.

Giant's Causeway

Legend has it that the basalt stone columns were set into the sea by giants creating stepping stones—but volcanic activity set these stones in place millions of years ago.

Kylemore Abbey

This 19th century grand manor and its legendary gardens became the home to Benedictine nuns fleeing Belgium during World War I.

Skellig Experience

Learn about the island of Skellig Michael, where early Christian monks lived in austere conditions. This beautiful and remote location was used in the film "Star Wars VII".

Dublin's Ha'penny Bridge

This cast-iron walking bridge, which spans the River Liffey, was built in the 19th century. Join the 30,000 Dubliners and visitors who walk across Dublin's iconic Ha'Penny Bridge each day.

Ring of Kerry

The Ring of Kerry offers one of the most scenic drives in the world, with emerald green meadows, stark cliffs and sandy shores dotted with ruins.

Dingle Peninsula

The Irish mainland's westernmost point features wide, sandy beaches and rocky cliffs along its edges, and dramatic hills and mountains at its center.

Aran Islands Cliffs

These beautiful cliffs rise dramatically along the entire western side of Inis Mor island and yield great views of the Cliffs of Moher across Galway Bay.

Musicians and artists are an integral and vibrant part of fabric of the lively, cultured city of Galway.

Cheesemonger

Ireland's food renaissance includes many artisan producers who take full advantage of its natural bounty.

Bunratty Castle

This splendid 15th-century tower house in County Clare includes a living reconstruction of the life of Ireland over a century ago.

Get a fascinating glimpse into Ireland's long-practiced art of falconry, the country's traditional "Sport of Kings."

Flavors of the Sea

Ireland abounds with the savors of the sea and the folk who fish it.

Fine Dining

A generation of culinary innovation and exploration has made modern Ireland a foodie's paradise.

In Ireland, fresh seafood is never more than a short swim away.

Merry Ploughboy

Dine at this iconic pub and come alive to the fancy footwork of Irish step dancers and lively traditional tunes.

Cliffs of Moher

These shale and sandstone cliffs rise 700 feet above the Atlantic, and serve as one of the most iconic pieces of scenery in all of Ireland.

Sheep Herding

Ireland's emerald green pastures are home to countless flocks of sheep. Irish wool is used for the intricately knitted Aran sweaters and other goods.

Ireland Tours

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2025 Tours: Save $400pp - Use Code EBD25400

Irish Supreme

Starting from $5,295

Experience Irish hospitality at its finest as you explore the splendor of Ireland's iconic attractions and savor local culinary delights. Luxuriate in overnight stays in five-star modern hotels,…

​Guided Tours, Guided Small Groups

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Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way

Starting from $2,695

Discover the untamed nature and rich cultural heritage of Ireland’s western coast, with its spectacular ocean vistas, enchanting towns, and craftsmanship deeply rooted in tradition.

2025 Tours: Save $200pp - Use Code EBD25200

Dublin Daytripper

Starting from $2,395

Unpack once and Dublin will be your home base for discovering Ireland’s fun side, including plenty of music and ventures to Ireland’s sporting world.

Taste of Ireland

Starting from $1,395

This fast-paced, short-and-sweet Ireland tour is the perfect introduction to the Emerald Isle. Taste of Ireland hits all of the "greatest hits" highlights—from Blarney Castle to the Cliffs of…

​Guided Tours, Guided Small Groups, Independent Adventures

Irish Adventure

Starting from $1,945

Make the most of every moment of your Ireland vacation—you'll discover all the can't-miss Irish scenery and history on this fast-paced tour.

Taste of Scotland & Ireland

Starting from $3,195

The perfect combination of two great countries in one itinerary. Start in Glasgow before exploring the Scottish Highlands with a Loch Ness cruise and whisky tasting. Visit St Andrews and Edinburgh…

Best of Ireland South

Give us a week, and we'll tour the best of Ireland with you. Thrill at the amazing Cliffs of Moher and the gorgeous Dingle Peninsula on this perfect introduction to the Emerald Isle. 

Starting from $2,545

Take your time on this Ireland tour, which explores the most acclaimed sights in the south and west, including the mountainous beauty of Connemara.

Irish Odyssey

Starting from $3,395

Explore Ireland's gorgeous scenery and rich history on this comprehensive Irish tour that hits every corner of the island.

Ireland South Daytripper

Starting from $2,345

Turn your Irish vacation into a staycation. Set up your home base in the lovely village of Adare, then set out on day trips to see some of Ireland's top attractions. 

Irish Legends

Starting from $2,745

Delve into Ireland and its past on this tour, which mixes in plenty of hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path sights among the tried-and-true favorites. 

Irish Classic

Starting from $3,795

Skirt along the entire rugged coastline to see the highlights on this Ireland tour.

The Scots Irish Tour

Starting from $3,595

This fast-paced Scotland and Ireland tour focuses on their rich history, with plenty of castle tours and museums to help bring the past to life. It's the perfect trip for those interested in…

The Irish Pub Tour

Starting from $2,145

Irish pubs are the hearts of their communities—a source of camaraderie, stories, and song. Raise a glass (or two!) to rich pub culture and history on this guided tour of Ireland, which offers…

Irish Spirit

Starting from $1,995

This leisurely Irish tour covers the spectacular scenery of the countryside and seaside, with plenty of stops in the Emerald Isle's vibrant towns to stop and explore.

Scottish & Irish Dream

Starting from $4,195

This great combination tour covers essential parts of Scotland with dreamy castles, mythical Isle of Skye, historic Culloden, skilled sheepdogs and the capital city of Edinburgh. Your adventure…

Scottish & Irish Gold

Starting from $4,495

This great combination tour covers the same itinerary in Scotland as on the Scottish & Irish Dream with romantic castles, mythical Isle of Skye, historic Culloden, and Edinburgh. In Ireland…

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Jewels of Ireland

Starting from $3,995

Enjoy the splendor of every corner on this leisurely Ireland tour of the essential—and the unexpected.

Taste of Britain & Ireland

Starting from $4,445

Get a great introduction to two great countries on this lively trip to England, Ireland, and Scotland. Enjoy a generous helping of the essential must-dos, with a hint of the unexpected. 

Irish Heritage

See all the highlights on this classic tour - and on our 8-day option, luxuriate in a stay at the elegant, five-star Dromoland Castle Hotel.

Southern Gems

Starting from $2,245

Visit many beloved highlights of Ireland: Dublin Castle, Blarney Castle, the Cliffs of Moher. Experience a medieval castle banquet.  Stay in two of Ireland's most charming towns: Kinsale and…

Mystical Ireland

Starting from $2,645

Explore the lesser-known northern half of Ireland, starting in Dublin and ending in Shannon. This itinerary hugs the coastline and visits St. Patrick country, Titanic Belfast, the walled city of…

Evergreen Ireland North

Starting from $1,145

Scenic wonders, lively cities, and cozy firesides: this winter tour of Ireland showcases the best of the northern half of the island.

Evergreen Ireland South

Starting from $1,195

This spirited tour offers many of Ireland’s must-see highlights, with plenty of time for independent exploration.

Taste of Ireland Self-Drive

Starting from $895

This fast-paced, short-and-sweet Ireland tour offers the potential to see the top Irish highlights. Stay in Dublin, Killarney and Clare on this driving adventure.All our 2024 self-drive…

Best of Ireland South Self-Drive

See many of Ireland’s most amazing landscapes, including the stunningly beautiful Dingle Peninsula. Stay in Dublin, Killarney, and Newmarket-on-Fergus.   All our self-drive Classic…

Irish Gold Self-Drive

Starting from $1,695

Venture to the most acclaimed sights and scenic byways of the West and South of Ireland. Visit beautiful Connemara, stroll Kilkenny’s medieval streets, and drive the Ring of Kerry. All our…

Irish Odyssey Self-Drive

Explore gorgeous scenery and intriguing culture as you drive around the entire Ireland on this comprehensive tour. Enjoy a stay at the luxurious Cabra Castle in Dublin and a dinner with a flight…

Irish Legends Self-Drive

Starting from $1,645

Explore hidden gems along with tried-and-true favorites on this self-drive adventure. Begin with a stay in a beautiful Georgian mansion, visit medieval Kilkenny, friendly Killarney, and buzzing…

Irish Classic Self-Drive

Starting from $2,095

Drive the rugged coastlines and countryside as you explore. See Dublin’s highlights, then head to Belfast as you start your route around Ireland. 

Irish Spirit Self-Drive

Starting from $1,295

See spectacular scenery as you drive this great route, offering castles, cliffs, and coastlines.  All our 2024 self-drive Classic Itinerary tours include your hotel stays, a hop-on bus…

Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way Self-Drive

Starting from $1,795

Drive west to see some of Ireland’s most spectacular Atlantic coastline and enjoy stays in scenic Donegal, charming Westport, pretty Adare, and lively Killarney. Take in Dublin,…

Ireland at a glance

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English & Irish

Must-have souvenirs

Irish whiskey

Aran sweaters

Waterford crystal

Local lingo

Craic (fun)

Banjaxed (broken)

Sláinte (cheers!)

So much beauty in one country as we travel from coast to coast…I truly was not ready to leave.

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Small Group Day Tours

• Cliffs of Moher Tour from Dublin
• Giant's Causeway Tour from Dublin
• Blarney Castle Tour from Dublin

Small Group Shore Excursions

• Shore Tour from Dublin
• Shore Tour from Cork
• Shore Tour from Belfast

Private Day Tours

• Private Giant's Causeway Tour
• Private Cliffs of Moher Tour
• Private Kilkenny & Wicklow Tour
• Private Galway & Connemara Tour
• Private Blarney & Cork Tour
• Private Belfast Tour
• Private Powerscourt & Glendalough Tour
• Private Kilkenny & Waterford Tour

Private Multi Day Tours

• 2 Day Southern Ireland
• 2 Day Northern Ireland
• 2 Day Western Ireland
• 2 Day County Kerry
• 3 Day Southern Ireland
• 3 Day Northern Ireland
• 4 Day Southern Ireland
• 4 Day Northern Ireland
• 6 Day Ashford, Killarney & Dublin

Private Shore Excursions

• Private Dublin Shore Excursion (Wicklow)
• Private Half- Day Dublin Shore Excursion (Wicklow)
• Private Cork Shore Excursion (Blarney)
• Private Belfast Shore Excursion (Giants Causeway)

Golf Tours of Ireland

• South West Golf Tour
• Northern Ireland Golf Tour
• East Coast & Dublin Golf Tour
• North West Ireland Golf Tour

Explore Ireland

Luxury small group tours, about elegant irish tours, private tours, small group tours, why travel with us.

We travel in style and comfort. I guess we’re known for that. But for me, it’s always been about the journey. Cathal O'Connell Founder & President

The Best Tour Companies in Ireland

Ireland . It’s a scenic country full of rolling green hills, photogenic cliffs, impressive castles, cozy Irish pub, friendly locals, and a lot of Irish charm.

I’ve loved every part of my experiences in Ireland .

My first trip was a quick 24-hour visit to Dublin , but, I loved it so much I’ve gone back about four times since. Ireland has a special magic to it that makes every visitor fall in love. (Ok, not everyone, but most people love it here!)

While the cities are incredible and have a lot to offer, Ireland is best seen by car so you can get off-road and visit the small little villages, castles, and parks that dot the country.

However, if you’re like me, and not a fan of driving (especially driving on the left!), the next best thing to driving or just city hopping on buses is going on a tour in Ireland. Given the country’s small size, you can see a lot of it in a little time and a tour can be a good way to pack it all in without the hassle of organizing all the details yourself.

There are lots of tour options here — from walking tours in Dublin to multi-day tours around all of Ireland. Here is a list of my favorite tour companies in Ireland, each of which have something unique to offer:

1. Historical Walking Tours of Dublin

The city of Dublin is such a fascinating place to explore, and it’s full of historical spots that you might just wander past if you’re not with a guide from Historical Walking Tours of Dublin . They’ve been operating tours since 1986 and one of the reasons they’re so good is their guides all have postgrad history qualifications – but also know how to lead a tour with a good Irish sense of humor.

Each walking tour is just over two hours long and they start from the front gate of Trinity College at 11am every day, with an extra tour at 3pm from May to September. They’ll take you to many of the highlights of Dublin like the House of Lords, Temple Bar, Christ Church Cathedral, and Dublin Castle and you’ll end up with a great overview of Irish history. Tickets are 14 EUR.

2. Paddywagon Tours

An Irish born-and-bred tour company that started in 1998, Paddywagon Tours offers both day tours for lots of popular tourist attractions in Ireland as well as multi-day tours ranging from two to nine days long, with accommodation choices ranging between B&Bs and hostels.

If you’re time-pressed and looking for some day trips from Dublin to quickly see a bit more of Ireland, Paddywagon has trips to places like the Cliffs of Moher, the Ring of Kerry, and even up to the Giant’s Causeway and other highlights of Northern Ireland. Costs range from 45 EUR to 65 EUR for these trips. They also run day trips out of other centers like Belfast, Limerick, and Cork.

Paddywagon’s multi-day tours range from 149 EUR for a two-day trip up to 689 EUR for their All Ireland nine-day tour, with backpacker accommodation (or 999 EUR if you want B&B stays). Even though you could easily spend a month in Ireland, given its relatively small size you can actually get a lot out of nine days. If you’re a student they also run some student special trips at even lower costs so keep an eye out for them.

3. Shamrocker Adventures

Shamrocker is a great option for budget travelers looking for multi-day tours of Ireland. Their approach is to try and combine the best of independent travel and group trips. That means they give you choices like different levels of accommodation and you can self-cater when it comes to food. They also have great guides who are passionate Irish storytellers — even their bus drivers have a great sense of humor!

Tours range between three and seven days, with the shorter trips focusing on just one part of Ireland — the south or the west — and costing around 300 EUR per person. Shamrocker’s seven-day trip covers all the main sights like the Giant’s Causeway, Cliffs of Moher, Galway , and Blarney Castle and is 609 EUR for adults and 589 EUR for students.

4. Wolfhound Adventure Tours

Wolfhound Adventure Tours is a boutique tour company run by Trinity College history-graduate Dave O’Connor. Tour groups have a maximum of 12 travelers and tours include some biking and hiking, which are optional but definitely a big part of the fun.

Tours range between five and ten days — the shorter tours give you an option of going to the north to the Giant’s Causeway or heading west to see the Cliffs of Moher and the Aran Islands, both of which are 985 EUR. Wolfhound trips can include kayaking, horseriding, whale watching, and even surfing lessons and are a great choice for anyone looking to get active!

5. Vagabond Tours

Vagabond Tours is an Irish company and offers two kinds of small group tours, Driftwood Tours if you want to take it easy, and Vagabond Tours which include activities like hiking, sea kayaking, and cycling.

Tours range in length from six to eleven days, and in price from 1,550 EUR to 2,900 EUR per person. They have some of the common itineraries such as a Northern Ireland tour taking in the Giant’s Causeway and Belfast and the Giant Irish tour which circumnavigates the country, but they also have a few specialty trips like a foodie tour, an adventure trip which includes a visit to the Skellig Islands, and a tour for history buffs focusing on castles and kingdoms.

Rob Rankin, co-founder of Vagabond Tours, is a huge advocate of responsible and sustainable tourism and the leader of Ecotourism Ireland, and Vagabond Tours has been eco-tourism gold-certified since 2017.

6. Extreme Ireland

Extreme Ireland offer adventure tours around Ireland, with several Wild Atlantic Way trips available, ranging from six to 12 days long. They take small groups (a maximum of 16 travelers) led by skilled guides who have all the skills necessary to help you have a safe and adventurous tour.

Their 12-day trip will take you all over Ireland — it doesn’t just show you the regular sightseeing highlights!. The tour also includes several bike rides, a stint of stand up paddleboarding, hikes along sea cliffs and wild coastlines, kayaking, and surfing. This one comes in at 2,200 EUR while their shorter tours start at 1,100 EUR.

7. Intrepid

An Intrepid trip is always a good option — they’re my go-to multi-day tour company no matter where in the world I’m heading. With small groups (a maximum of 12 travelers for Ireland), carefully-hired local guides, and a relaxed pace, Intrepid tours really can’t be beaten. They offer just one trip in Ireland but it covers all the major sights and attractions, an eight-day adventure that spans from Belfast in Northern Ireland to Killarney in the south-west.

Their Ireland tour will take you through Dublin and Galway and includes sightseeing hotspots like the Cliffs of Moher and the Giant’s Causeway, as well a chance to explore the Aran Islands. Accommodation is in a mix of hotels and hostels, with breakfast included. The tour costs 2,300 EUR per person.

From walking tours to help you understand the history and culture of the great city of Dublin to multi-day adventures circumnavigating the whole of the island, taking a tour in Ireland will make sure you get to know lots of interesting locals and learn more about what makes the Irish tick.

Whether it’s the crazy ritual of kissing the Blarney Stone, exploring the incredible landscapes in Northern Ireland Game of Thrones was filmed, or simply knowing which pub in Galway is the best spot for a Guinness, these Ireland tour companies will help make your Irish experience the best it can be!

Book Your Trip to Ireland: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Use Skyscanner or Momondo to find a cheap flight. They are my two favorite search engines because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned. Start with Skyscanner first though because they have the biggest reach!

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.

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 (for everyone below 70)
• Insure My Trip (for those over 70)
• Medjet (for additional repatriation 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 Ireland? Be sure to visit our robust destination guide on Ireland 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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19 best ireland tours: dublin, giant's causeway & more.

Make the most of the stunning scenery in Ireland and Northern Ireland with the help of knowledgeable locals.

19 Best Ireland Tours

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Whatever attracts you to Ireland – the verdant landscape, the ancient castles and cathedrals or some of its famous manufactured goods – these tours will help you make the most of your time here. With the help of expert and traveler input, U.S. News determined that these tours in Ireland (and a few in Northern Ireland) are the best on offer. While the tours take differing approaches, ranging from boats and buses to horse-drawn carriages, they all have guides well-versed in local history and lore. Indeed, the guides' storytelling skills are often cited as highlights of these outings, which may last as little as an hour or as long as an entire day.

Lally Tours – Galway to Connemara and Kylemore Abbey Full Day Tour

Price: Adults from 50 euros (about $54); kids from 40 euros (about $43) Duration: 7.5 hours

Explore the west coast of Ireland, where the Irish language (Irish Gaelic) remains prevalent, on this daylong bus trip. In addition to learning about the various sights, you may acquire a few words of the local lingo from the onboard guides, whom tour-takers find enthusiastic, knowledgeable and entertaining. The route on this excursion winds through the photogenic Twelve Bens mountain range. Among the stops are a scenic mountainside village and the extravagant Kylemore Abbey, a 19th-century abbey featuring a Victorian walled garden and a neo-Gothic church.

The fee includes admission to Kylemore Abbey & Victorian Walled Garden, but does not include lunch. Outings depart Galway daily at 10 a.m. Hotel pickup is available for no additional charge. Lally Tours also offers full-day excursions to the Cliffs of Moher, among other destinations.

Check prices & availability on:

Irish Day Tours – Blarney Castle Day Tour From Dublin

Price: Adults from 85 euros (about $92); kids from 42.50 euros (about $46) Duration: 12 hours

Blarney Castle, which dates back to the 1400s, ranks as one of the most popular attractions in Ireland. The medieval stronghold, which stands approximately 5 miles west of Cork, houses the legendary Blarney Stone – purported to bestow the gift of eloquence on those who kiss it. In addition to visiting the famed castle, this tour stops at another highly popular destination, the Rock of Cashel and its cluster of medieval buildings, including Cormac's Chapel (which contains Romanesque frescoes) and the Hall of Vicars. The trip also includes a visit to Cahir Castle, a 13th-century defensive structure constructed on an island on the River Suir. Those who've taken the tour report enjoying the impressive castles, as well as the guides' amusing commentary. Many reviewers said this was a long day, but worth it to see and hear more about Irish history.

Tours depart daily from Dublin at 6:50 a.m. and return to central Dublin around 7:30 p.m. Irish Day Tours offers a variety of day trips, including excursions to Wicklow, Connemara and more.

Deros Tours – Ring of Kerry Coach Tour

Price: Adults from 38 euros (around $41); kids from 23 euros (about $25) Duration: 6 hours

Observe the unique landscape of the Iveragh Peninsula, including Ireland's highest mountain, on this half-day bus tour. Stops include the villages of Glenbeigh, Waterville and Sneem. From March to October, coaches also stop for a demonstration of how dogs are trained to herd sheep. A high point – literally – is a visit to Moll's Gap, which affords views of MacGillycuddy's Reeks, including its tallest peak, Carrantuohill, which stands more than 3,400 feet high. Another highlight is the Ladies View (named in honor of Queen Victoria and her retinue) at the Killarney Lakes. Tour-takers sing the praises of the witty, attentive guides and the many photo stops. Others were pleased they opted for tour instead of trying to drive the Ring of Kerry themselves.

Buses leave from Killarney at 10:30 a.m. daily and return around 4:30 p.m. Deros Tours also operates tours of the Gap of Dunloe as well as the Dingle Peninsula, among others.

Midleton Distillery Experience

Price: From 26 euros (about $28) Duration: 75 minutes

See how world-renowned Jameson Irish Whiskey is produced on this tour of the original Midleton distillery, which is located about 15 miles east of Cork. Along the tour, your guide will show you several of the distillery's buildings, where you'll have the opportunity to observe the distilling process. The tour ends with a tasting flight of three whiskeys. Travelers offer high marks for the engaging, well-informed guides. Reviewers also appreciate the whiskey samples and say this is a fun activity even if you're not a whiskey fan thanks to the incredible history and architecture on display.

There are also guided tours of the Jameson Bow St. Distillery in Dublin.

Game of Thrones Tours – Iron Islands & Giant's Causeway from Belfast

Price: From 49 euros (about $53) Duration: 10 hours

"Games of Thrones" fans can visit some of the spots where pivotal scenes of the series were filmed on this full-day excursion to the Glens of Antrim. Highlights include the Giant's Causeway, the Cushendun Caves (where Melisandre births a dark spirit), a beach that served as Dragonstone and the Dark Hedges, an avenue of beech trees where Arya Stark made her escape. Guides, who served as extras on the show, share information about the various sights as well as some behind-the-scenes scoop from the set. Reviewers report finding the passionate guides' commentary insightful and appreciate the small group size. Others took advantage of the costumes and props to snap some memorable photos.

Tours depart from Belfast, Northern Ireland, on Wednesday and Saturday at 7:30 a.m. year-round; additional Sunday departures are available in select months. Be aware that this tour involves some walking on uneven ground and that children younger than 12 are not permitted due to the adult content featured in the tour. The company also offers tours that depart from Dublin, among other locales.

Yellow Umbrella Tours – Traditional Pub Tour

Price: From 42 euros (about $45) Duration: 3 hours

If you've come to Ireland hoping to experience its lively pub culture, then this Dublin tour is for you. With a local leading the way, you'll visit three pubs on the north side of the river, away from the tourist crowds. Samples of Irish beer, whiskey and gin are included, and you'll have the option to purchase traditional Irish dishes, if you're feeling peckish. After visiting the pubs, you'll end the tour listening to live music. Reviewers say guides are friendly, entertaining and share lots of history about the drinks and Dublin. Participants also said the pubs featured on the tour are interesting and fun.

Tours are generally offered daily at 6 p.m.; they meet at The Spire on O'Connell Street. If you're traveling with kids and looking for a more family-friendly experience, consider the company's two-hour Dublin history walking tour.

Irish Day Tours – Cliffs of Moher

Price: Adults from 80 euros (about $87); kids from 40 euros (about $44) Duration: 13 hours

Travel west from Dublin to marvel at the Cliffs of Moher and enjoy panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean on this full-day bus trip. In addition to the nearly 400-foot cliffs, this tour visits the village of Doolin for lunch and the flower-filled Burren National Park, as well as the city of Galway before returning to Dublin. Tour-takers typically appreciate both the remarkable scenery and the astute and entertaining guides. Many reviewers said this is the best thing you can do while visiting Dublin.

Trips depart from the statue of Molly Malone on Suffolk Street daily at 6:50 a.m. and return to the city center around 7:30 p.m. Note: Fees do not include the cost of lunch. Be sure to bring headphones if you want to listen to the commentary on Irish Day Tours' multilingual mobile app. The company also offers tours to the Giant's Causeway, Blarney Castle and more.

Belfastology Walking Tours – Eclectic Belfast Walking Tour

Price: Adults from 20 pounds (about $25); kids from 12 pounds (about $15) Duration: 2.5 hours

Admire Belfast's architecture and hear about the city's history on this jaunt around town. Highlights include City Hall, the Cathedral Quarter, Waterfront Hall and the Albert Memorial Clock – one of Belfast's top landmarks. Reviewers applaud the enthusiastic guides' well-informed commentary; they also appreciate that the tour can be tailored to suit groups' particular interests.

Tours are typically offered multiple times a day starting at 10:30 a.m. Belfastology Walking Tours also offers themed tours, such as political murals and street art and music.

Galway Tour Company – The Aran Islands & the Cliffs Cruise

Price: Adults from 70 euros (about $76); kids from 65 euros (about $71) Duration: 10.5 hours

Experience both the Aran Islands and the Cliffs of Moher on this daylong outing. Buses leave Galway at 9 a.m. and travel along the Wild Atlantic Way south to the fishing village of Doolin. From there, tour-takers ride an express ferry to the smallest of the three Aran Islands, Inisheer, where – for at least two hours – they can explore cafes, castles, churches, lighthouses, shipwrecks, pubs and other attractions. After lunch, the journey continues by coach to the incredible cliffs. Travelers praise the guides' amusing and educational commentary and call the views phenomenal.

Buses typically return to Galway around 7:30 p.m. Tickets include admission to the Cliffs of Moher, but not lunch or any optional activities on Inisheer. Note: This tour is available daily from the beginning of March to the end of October. Galway Tour Company also take visitors to Connemara and the Kylemore Abbey, among other popular destinations.

Wild Atlantic Way Day Tours – Connemara and Connemara National Park Day Tour from Galway

Price: Adults from 45 euros (about $49); kids from $43 Duration: 9 hours

Take in the sights of Connemara on this day trip from Galway. Traveling both the Wild Atlantic Way and the Sky Road, this bus ride passes through the picturesque villages like Barna, Furbo and Spiddal, and makes stops at locales like Pines Island and the town of Clifden. The excursion also includes a three-hour visit to Connemara National Park or Kylemore Abbey (you get to choose). The views along the drive are often deemed a high point, and guides win kudos for their knowledgeable narration and skilled driving of the narrow roads. The route winds through the Maumturks and Twelve Bens mountains on the way back to Galway, where the trip usually ends around 6:30 or 7 p.m.

Tours depart from the Kinlay Hostel on Merchants Road at 9:30 a.m.; they are offered daily year-round. Fees do not include lunch, but do include the entry fee for Connemara National Park. The company also offers tours that depart from Limerick and Ennis.

Wild Rover Tours – Kilkenny, Wicklow Mountains, Glendalough Day Tour from Dublin

Price: From 43 euros (about $47) Duration: 10 hours

Spend a day learning about the history and folklore of eastern Ireland on this combination walking and coach tour. Take a guided stroll through the cobblestone streets of Kilkenny and then explore the city on your own, possibly opting to visit Kilkenny Castle, which dates to the 12th century. Then, traverse the photogenic Wicklow Mountains, where scenes from movies – including "Braveheart" – were filmed. The outing's visit to Glendalough, known for its glacial valleys and lakes, includes a guided tour of its monastic city, which was built circa A.D. 600. The trip also features a stop at a working sheep farm. Both the scenery and the guides' expert commentary and recomendations consistently win praise from travelers.

Tours are available daily all year, but the order in which you visit attractions varies seasonally. Pickups from a trio of Dublin locales occur between 8:10 and 8:30 a.m.; tours conclude back in the city around 6:20 p.m. Note: Prices do not include lunch or any attractions in Kilkenny. Wild Rover Tours also offer "Game of Thrones"-themed outings, as well as day trips to the Cliffs of Moher.

LetzGo City Tours – Skip the Line: Guinness Storehouse & Jameson Irish Whiskey Experience Tour

Price: From 112 euros (about $122) Duration: 4 hours

If you're hoping to visit the Jameson Distillery and the Guinness Storehouse on your trip to Dublin, consider this half-day tour, which includes skip-the-line access to both attractions, as well as expert commentary from a local guide. You'll start at the Jameson Distillery Bow St. to learn about and, of course, sample some celebrated whiskey. Then head over to the Guinness Storehouse, a seven-story monument to Ireland's renowned stout, and ascend to its Gravity Bar, a rooftop bar boasting unrivaled views of Phoenix Park, the Wellington Monument, the Wicklow Mountains and more. Along the way, hear about the city's brewing and distilling history from guides. Reviewers typically find the guides' stories entertaining, as well as educational. They also enjoyed the photo stop outside the oldest pub in Ireland, which dates back to the 11th century.

Skip-the-line tours are generally offered several times daily starting at 10:45 a.m. The company also hosts pub and city tours, as well as skip-the-line access to the Book of Kells and Dublin Castle.

McComb's Coach Travel – Giant's Causeway Tour

Price: From 35 euros (about $38) Duration: 10 hours

Take a scenic drive to Northern Ireland's famed Giant's Causeway, the sole UNESCO World Heritage Site in Northern Ireland, on this daylong tour. Along with its World Heritage Site status, Giant's Causeway is also a site of geological significance comprising approximately 40,000 hexagonal basalt columns. Other stops along the Causeway Coastal Route include Carrickfergus Castle, the Dark Hedges and Dunluce Castle, as well as a pub for lunch. Tour-takers generally appreciate the good humor and insights of the drivers/guides.

Coaches depart Belfast daily at 8:30 a.m. and return around 6 p.m. Note: This outing involves some walking on uneven surfaces. McComb's Coach Travel offers a variety of other tours, including a "Game of Thrones" tour.

House of Waterford Crystal – Factory Tour

Price: Adults from 17.50 euros (around $19); kids from 9.50 euros (about $10) Duration: 1 hour

Get a behind-the-scenes look at how world-famous Waterford Crystal is made on this tour, which visits the factory's blowing, mold-making, cutting, sculpting, engraving and inspection rooms. Visitors consistently find the crystal-making process fascinating and the guides informative and friendly. If you're in the Waterford area, many reviewers called this the No. 1 thing to do.

Tours are available year-round multiple times on most days, though there are none on Saturday and Sunday from November through February. Start times are determined upon your arrival at the plant in its namesake city, so be sure to check hours of operation, which vary by season. If you like what you see being crafted and want some crystal to take home, you can stop at the factory's retail store after the tour.

DC Tours – A History of Terror

Price: From 22 pounds (about $28) Duration: 2.5 hours

Learn about some of the most contentious moments in Northern Ireland's decades-long ethno-nationalist conflict (known as the Troubles) on this walking tour of Belfast. Tours start outside Belfast City Hall daily (barring some holidays) at 10:30 a.m. and conclude on the banks of the River Lagan. Stops along the way include Donegall Place, site of a 1972 bombing; Cathedral Quarter, the city's cultural district; and the Spirit of Belfast, a sculpture often called "The Onion Rings." History buffs generally find the passionate and engaging guides' commentary both informative and entertaining. Reviewers also say you don't need to know much about the Troubles to enjoy this tour.

This tour entails walking for about a mile and a half and is not recommended for children younger than 12. If you're looking for more of an overview of the city, DC Tours also conducts a three-hour "Best of Belfast" tour, among other experiences.

Taste & Tour – Belfast Food Tour

Price: From 67 pounds (about $85) Duration: 4 hours

Sample the Belfast dining scene on this four-hour stroll in the center of the city. After starting in St George's Market, the tour proceeds to various area bars and shops, as well as a restaurant in the Cathedral Quarter. Food and drinks sampled along the way should be sufficient for both breakfast and lunch, according to Taste & Tour. Foodies enjoy the ample food and beverage offerings as well as the friendly guides' culinary wisdom.

Tours typically depart from St. George's Market at 10:15 a.m. on Fridays and 10 and 10:45 a.m. on Saturdays. The company also offers tours that explore the city's cocktail and craft beer scene.

DoDublin – Hop-On Hop-Off

Price: Adults from 30 euros (about $33); kids from 10 euros (about $11) Duration: 2 hours

Explore multiple Dublin attractions at your own pace on this hop-on, hop-off bus tour – or stay on board and see the sights. The tour's route includes EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum, the Guinness Storehouse, the Little Museum of Dublin, St. Patrick's Cathedral and much more. Drivers provide running commentary about the city's sights (and recorded narration in nine languages is available). Tourgoers applaud the drivers' witty remarks and recommend taking this tour at the start of your Dublin visit to familiarize yourself with the city.

Bus tours operate daily and depart every 20 to 30 minutes (depending on the day), with the first departing 59 Upper O'Connell St. at 9 a.m. and the last at 5 p.m. DoDublin offers both single- and two-day tickets for its hop-on, hop-off tours. For each adult ticket purchased – regardless of duration – a child younger than 15 can ride for free. Moreover, the fees include admission to the Little Museum. In addition to its hop-on, hop-off tours, DoDublin also operates a nightly ghost bus tour.

Killarney Jaunting Cars – From Park to Castle Tour

Price: Adults from 65 euros (about $70); kids from 10 euros (around $11) Duration: 1 hour

On this hourlong horse-and-carriage ride, you'll travel to both Killarney National Park and Ross Castle, passing sights like St. Mary's Cathedral and MacGillycuddy's Reeks along the way. Why a carriage ride? This mode of transportation allows visitors to see parts of the park where motor vehicles are not allowed. Travelers consistently describe the guides as humorous and well-versed in area culture and history. Reviewers also say the ride is relaxing; many called the tour the highlight of their trip.

Carriages depart from the Great Southern Killarney hotel several times daily, with the first usually heading out at 9:30 a.m. and the last at 5:15 p.m. Killarney Jaunting Cars also offers a variety of combo tours, in addition to a five-hour tour to the Gap of Dunloe.

Killarney Lake Tours – Killarney Water Bus Tour

Price: Adults from 15 euros (about $16); kids from 8 euros (about $9) Duration: 1 hour

See the sights of Killarney from Lough Leane, the area's largest lake, on this hourlong boat ride. Water buses launch from and return to Ross Castle and pass attractions, such as Innisfallen Island's monastic ruins and O'Sullivan's Cascade; cruisers also get an eyeful of the nearby mountains. Tour-takers say this activity is reasonably priced and enjoy the guides' anecdotes and historical observations. They also rave about the views.

Trips are available multiple times daily with standard departure times of 11 a.m. and 12:30, 2:30 and 4 p.m.; additional times may be added in the summer. Water bus tours can also be combined with a horse-drawn carriage (aka jaunting car) ride around Killarney.

You may also be interested in:

• The Best Dublin Tours
• The Best Places to Visit in Ireland
• The Best Travel Insurance for Europe

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

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• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
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7 Tour Companies in Ireland to Choose From in 2024

• Post author: colette
• Post published: June 11, 2024
• Post category: Activities / Package Tours / Tour Companies / Tours of Ireland
• Post comments: 1 Comment

Updated June 2024 —Are you considering a guided tour of Ireland or would you rather wing it without the help of an expert tour guide?

For those of you who are hesitant about driving in Ireland and don’t need the added stress that often comes with this, a guided tour is a great alternative.

Guided package tours are also a good way for first-time visitors to get acquainted with the country and see its main tourist attractions.

Here you’ll find information on 7 tour companies to choose from, all of them researched for you by Ireland on a Budget.

There are many more tour companies out there, but these ones will give you a good idea of what’s available.

In addition to these, Aer Lingus also offers vacation packages that are worth looking into.

The total cost of an Aer Lingus vacation includes airfare, accommodation, meals, and transportation. as well as rental car if you choose a package that includes that.

All other tours mentioned in this post exclude the cost of airfare, except for Gate 1 Travel. When different currencies are quoted, the price is based on the current rate as of June 11, 2024.

With that in mind, let’s dive in and learn more about the 7 tour companies in Ireland that you should consider when you're planning your vacation to the Emerald Isle.

Table of Contents

1. CIE Tours

CIE Tours, based in Morristown, NJ, has been around since 1932, which means that they have a lot of experience in the industry.

The company offers package tours to Ireland, Scotland, England, and Wales, as well as Italy, Iceland, and Central and Eastern Europe.

CIE Tours also offers multi-destination tours that include Ireland and the country of your choice, be it the Scottish Highlands, England’s Lake District, London, or Iceland.

Its “Taste of Ireland” 5-day, 4-night tour is perfect for people who have never been to Ireland before.

Prices start at $1,395 US/$1,921.77 CAD per person.

The package includes accommodation, transportation by bus, breakfast each day, as well as welcome drinks with your group on the first day of the tour.

This particular guided CIE tour of Ireland begins in Dublin and ends in Shannon, which is where you’ll catch your return flight.

Attractions in between include the Ring of Kerry, the Skellig Experience, a sheepdog demonstration in Killarney, Blarney Castle in Cork, the Cliffs of Moher , and a medieval banquet experience at Bunratty Castle & Folk Park.

Details on other tours can be found on the CIE website.

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2. Vagabond Tours

Vagabond Tours offers two different types of small group tours and is one of the 7 tour companies in Ireland that you should consider.

One of them is called Driftwood Tours , which is a guided tour but with the option to veer off the beaten path every now and again.

Such tours included a tour guide, transportation by coach, a variety of low-key activities, and plenty of free time.

Driftwood Tours can last anywhere from 6 to 11 days.

The 7-day Irish Castles and Kingdoms Tour costs approximately €1,975.50 per person sharing (about $2,163 US/£1,704 Sterling/$2,906 CAD/$3,329 AUD.

That includes most daily activities and visits, transportation to all destinations, accommodation, including a night in the 4-star Ballyseede Castle in Tralee, Co. Kerry, a full Irish breakfast each day, and tickets to the various attractions that are included in the tour.

Other meals during the day and accommodation in Dublin are not included. Some optional tours/visits to attractions are also not included in the price.

By contrast, the Vagabond Tours are for those who want the ultimate adventure in Ireland. That includes exploring the sights but also getting involved in activities like kayaking, surfing, hiking, and cycling.

The company’s 7-day Magnetic North Adventure Tour is a great example of a high adventure tour.

This one starts in Dublin and takes in many of the popular attractions in Northern Ireland, including the Giant’s Causeway in County Antrim, day trips to Derry and Belfast , kayaking around the Inishowen Peninsula in County Donegal , horse riding on a beach in County Sligo and cycling on the Great Western Greenway in Co. Mayo, among other pursuits.

This trip, beginning at €1,867.50/$2,002.62 US/£1,573.73 Sterling/$2,760.84 CAD/$3,036.41 AUD per person, is like others offered by Vagabond Tours, offering accommodation, admission for most daily activities and visits, a hearty Irish breakfast each day, transportation, as well as guided tours of both Derry and Belfast.

Some of the places where you’ll stay on this tour include the Londonderry Arms Hotel, once owned by Winston Churchill and located in Carnlough, part of the beautiful Coastal Causeway region; the Bishop's Gate Hotel in Derry ; the Arnolds Hotel in Dunfanaghy, County Donegal, the Mount Falcon Estate and Hotel near Ballina , County Mayo, and The Wyatt Hote l in Westport, also in County Mayo.

3. Railtours Ireland

Fancy getting around Ireland by train?

RailtoursIreland offers exactly that, providing approximately 40 tours, everything from 1-day tours to 11-day vacations, leaving Dublin’s historic Heuston Station .

While most of your journey on a Railtours vacation will take place on a train, there are times when you’ll need to transfer to a coach bus, provided by Railtours.

The 5-day Royal Atlantic Tour will take you by train to Cork City . From there, you’ll visit Cobh , Blarney Castle and the Ring of Kerry.

Other destinations on this whirlwind trip include the Cliffs of Moher, Connemara, and the Aran Islands .

The price of this tour is approximately $1,298 US/£1,020.64 Sterling/$1,788.48 CAD/$1,967.74 AUD per person sharing and is one of the more affordable tours that Railtours Ireland offers.

The cost includes train tickets, along with a full Irish breakfast each day, as well as bus travel, admission to the various visitor attractions, and accommodation.

Railtours Ireland also provides day tours to various locations in Ireland.

Customers who book 2 or more full day tours will receive a complimentary 48 hrs Do Dublin Hop On/Hop Off sightseeing tour ticket.

Book any of the company's overnight tours and receive a complimentary 48-hour Do Dublin Hop On/Hop Off sightseeing tour ticket.

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4. Paddywagon Tours

Paddywagon Tours offers economical tours of Ireland that won’t break your budget. That includes many day tours as well as multi-day excursions.

For tourists who want to get a quick snapshot of the tourist attractions outside of Dublin, Paddywagon’s day tours are a great way to do that. They range in price from €33 and up.

If you’re interested in taking a multi-day tour with Paddywagon Tours, there are several to choose from, including tours lasting 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, and 9 days.

Tours fall into two categories, Backpacker and Economy, with the chance to stay in a hostel if you're on a tighter budget or in a B&B/guesthouse if you choose the economy rate.

Private tours are also available for families, couples and groups looking for a more customized experience in Ireland through its sister company Elegant Irish Tours .

Its popular 6-day Tour: All Ireland costs an affordable €899 per person for the Backpacker option ($964.03 US/£757.88 Sterling/$1,327.56 CAD/$1,460.60 AUD), with the economy rate a little costlier at €1,499 per person ($1,607.28 US/£1,263.95 Sterling/$2,213.41 CAD/$2,435.35 AUD).

It covers a lot of Ireland, including Belfast, the Giant's Causeway, Derry, the Cliffs of Moher, the Dingle Peninsula , The Ring of Kerry, and the magical Blarney Stone, to name a few.

Accommodation, admission to the various attractions, and breakfast each day are all included in the price.

5. Trafalgar Tours

Like CIE Tours, Trafalgar has been in the travel business for a long time – since 1947, in fact. So, you can expect them to deliver top-quality tours around Ireland and across the world.

While Trafalgar Tours are a bit more expensive, there is also a lot of value that you’ll get from booking a tour with this company.

In addition to the daily breakfast that you’ll get on a Trafalgar tour, some packages also include dinner.

Keep that in mind when deciding which tour company to choose for your trip to Ireland.

You can book anywhere from 6 days to a 23-day tour with Trafalgar.

Its Best of Ireland: 10 Day Ireland Tour of Dublin, Ring of Kerry and Galway starts at $2,745 per person (£2,158.67 Sterling/$3,780.13 CAD/$4,160.10 AUD).

It includes 15 cities, 9 breakfasts, 1 lunch, and 4 dinners.

Expect to visit Counties Wicklow, Waterford, Cork, Kerry, Limerick, Galway, Mayo, and Sligo.

6. Brendan Vacations

With nearly 50 years in the travel industry, the folks at Brendan Vacations know a thing or two about crafting just the right kind of vacation packages for their customers.

The company offers a number of tours including guided vacations, private chauffeur-led trips, self-drive tours, locally hosted rail trips and lux self-drive tours.

There are plenty of vacation packages to choose from, including its Ireland's Sparkling Gems tour from $2,403 per person (£1,890.63 Sterling/$3,309.80 CAD/$2,763 AUD) as well as its Ireland Coast to Coast tour, a self-drive package from $1,498 per person (£1,181 Sterling/$2,014 CAD/$3,643.17 AUD).

Self-drive packages include car rental, accommodation, sightseeing and full breakfast daily.

The Sparkling Gems tour includes transportation (either by train or private vehicle), accommodation, sightseeing and breakfast daily.

7. Gate 1 Travel

Gate 1 Travel is known for its wide-ranging package tours to destinations around the world, including Ireland.

I've personally taken a number of Gate 1 package tours to other countries and can highly recommend them.

You can find lots more Ireland vacation packages with Gate 1 on the company's website .

Tips for Choosing the Right Vacation Package

• Book with a small group, if possible. If you travel in smaller groups, the chances are you’ll get to experience the more authentic side of Ireland . Plus, the tour company may be able to secure a nicer hotel with a smaller group.
• Try not to book tours where you’re frenetically going from one place to another. Instead, opt for tour companies that give you the chance to stay in one destination for two nights, for example, instead of one.
• Check out the location of the hotel you’ll be staying in. It’s much better if your tour company has you stay in accommodation that is located in the middle of a town or city or at least very close to it so that you can do some exploring by yourself.
• Before you pay, check to see what’s included in the total cost. In addition, ask if that price is set once you make a deposit or pay in full.
• If there are some things that you’ll need to pay extra for, make sure that is detailed upfront so there are no surprises.
• Always read the company’s cancellation policy and other important information that can usually be found on the tour company website.

The tour companies listed above will no doubt answer any questions that you may have.

Go to the contact page on their websites to see how you can reach a customer service agent before you make the final decision.

Have you purchased a package tour? Let me know in the comments section below.

Read More: Explore Magical Ireland with Keogh Tours

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At Galway Tour Company our drivers provide a truly unique experience each time. Our tours ensure you have stories to tell for years to come. Make memories, choose Galway Tour Company!

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From Mercedes cars to buses we have a solution for your needs

Full and half day tours to some of Ireland’s and the Wild Atlantic Way’s top attractions

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Bespoke Tours & Private Hire

As well as our regular tours, Galway Tour Company also provides a private hire and bespoke tour offering. Create your own itinerary and explore the best that Ireland has to offer. Simply tell us where you would like to go and our team of experts will help you to plan the perfect stress free trip. This is suitable for family groups, schools or work outings who wish to plan a day trip or extended tour. 

Our local guides are extremely knowledgeable and can take you not only to the main attractions but also to some of Ireland’s hidden gems that are off the beaten track. 

From Mercedes cars to buses with 11, 19, 41, 43 and 50 seater bus options, we have a solution for groups and budgets of all sizes. Our range of services include, airport transfers & executive chauffeur. Travel in style by booking with Galway Tour Company. 

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8 Day Irish Castles & Coastal 2024 - Laurel Pitzer X 8 PRIVATE TOUR

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 Visit Irish Castles and explore Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way packed full of history & culture 

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The real Irish B&B experience is the opportunity to stay in an Irish family-run accommodation and immerse yourself in Irish traditions and culture. You will be greeted with the warmest of Irish welcomes.  They are great value for money, with a real home-from-home experience.

• Private room for two people
• 3* and above rating
• Small, locally run, and independently owned accommodation
• Low-cost, quality private accommodation
• En-suite guaranteed
• Breakfast provided
• Private room for one person

Leave the capital and enjoy the scenic journey to Ireland’s most beautiful region of Westport, in the West of Ireland.

This morning as we drive 3 .5 hours across Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands, your driver will keep you entertained by easing you into a gentle exploration of some of the country’s untouched terrain. Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands encompass a region full of rich history, diverse culture, and stunning natural beauty.

After arriving in Westport and checking -in, spend the rest of the day wandering the town’s colorful streets, visiting friendly pubs, cafes, and craft shops.

Or opt to do the following; 

• Although you will be visiting Westport House the next day, you can still head for a ramble around the grounds and gardens. Its riverside location sits amid manicured gardens and offers incredible views overlooking Clew Bay and up towards Croagh Patrick – Ireland’s Holy Mountain.
• Opt to take a 90 mins cruise, and explore the World Famous Clew Bay; its 365 islands, seal colony, and Inishgort Lighthouse, the holy mountain of Croagh Patrick & John Lennon’s Island.
• Rent a bike and discover the amazing Great Western Greenway from Achill Island to Westport – 45km – (can also be made much shorter)
• Discover the Old Railway Line Loop Walk – a 5km loop walk starting at the center of town, out towards Westport quay via the old railway line, and back to the town via Westport Huse & Gardens.
• There’s an endless number of pubs in Westport. From tourist favorites, like Matt Molloy’s, to often-missed spots, like Toby’s, there’s a pub to tickle every fancy.

The next morning, after a full Irish breakfast, you will be brought on a wonderful tour of one of Ireland’s most scenic regions – Connemara.

Overnight in Westport

Drive average time today is 3hrs 30mins

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7 Day Ultimate Atlantic Adventure – Small Group Tour

Enchanting emerald isle (8 days), 7-day great atlantic adventure small group tour, the celtic voyage - multi-day - small group tour of ireland, wild south - multi-day - small group tour of ireland, 7 day atlantic way experience - small group tour, journeys: iconic ireland national geographic journeys, the dingle way - self guided ireland 9 day, the dingle way - self guided ireland 10 day, kerry camino walk.

• Enjoy an exhilarating climb to the summit of Diamond Hill.
• Experience the Gaelic speaking island of Inis Mor by bike or pony & trap
• Discover Irish crafts, “the craic” & adventure in charming harbour towns charm

“This tour gives you a balance of exploring time on your own, and being part of a group and experiencing the Irish culture.”

• Coach / Bus

• Kayak with dolphins and hike along the mighty Cliffs of Moher
• Enjoy bohemian Galway and the rugged sights of Connemara
• Discover the lunar landscape of the Burren

“The hiking, biking and kayaking activities kept us moving while exploring this beautiful country.”

• In-depth Cultural
• Discover Killarney, Ireland’s first national park
• Get your camera ready as you visit the Cliffs of Moher
• Learn a few Irish words and admire Ireland's scenery

“The different sites were incredible. Thank you very much Wild N' Happy!!!”

• Learn a few Irish words and head to the edge of Europe
• Step back in time and visit the medieval Rock of Cashel
• Capture the dramatic landscapes of Ring of Kerry

“The Wild South Tour was an excellent tour overall, very good value! We especially liked the boat trip to the Skellig Islands.”

• Sightseeing
• Visit the Gaelic speaking island of Inis Mor by bike, bus or pony & trap
• Experience the wonder of Atlantic waves crashing against rugged cliffs
• Explore the ancient woodlands of Killarney National Park by jaunting cart

“We were able to find the perfect vacation to Ireland to fit what we wanted to do. We all agreed that this was our best family vacation yet!”

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Posted: July 21, 2024 | Last updated: July 21, 2024

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National Geographic Expeditions Travel Tour

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Best for history buffs

National geographic expeditions.

• Trips around the globe
• Behind-the-scenes access to NatGeo research and projects
• Highly skilled scientists, photographers and historians accompany tours
• Limited options for kids and families

For curious travelers who love to explore history, culture and archeology, National Geographic Expeditions is tops in its field. Highly trained NatGeo experts accompany trips and share their insights and insider knowledge with small groups of equally curious travelers. One recent traveler called the 10-day guided Human History trip to Spain and France to see paleolithic art and cave paintings "among the best trips of our lives," also noting that the adults-only itinerary also felt like a romantic getaway .

• Sample trip: Human History: Northern Spain and Southwest France

Adventuresbydisney Travel Tour

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Best for families

Adventures by disney.

• Seamless transfers between locations
• Highly trained guides
• Special access to iconic sights
• Adults-only itineraries offered infrequently

First, let's dispel any notion of Mickey driving a tour bus, and there are no costumed characters on Adventures by Disney itineraries, which include myriad global destinations including Antarctica, Africa, Japan and Europe. What these tours do have, though, is the attention to detail and planning prowess that Disney is known for, plus a unique ability to offer special access to some of the world's most impressive sights. Plus, of course, it's one of the best tour companies for family vacations (although there are adults-only trips as well).

My family and I have traveled with Adventures by Disney to Yellowstone National Park and to Italy. Some of my favorite moments included private access to the Sistine Chapel for our group (approximately 26 people) and a "magical" ability for our bags to be transported from one hotel room to the next, especially impressive when I checked out of a Tuscan villa one morning and my suitcase was in a room with a view of Venice's lagoon later that day. A recent traveler called the Peru trip "super fun and impeccably run" after exploring Machu Picchu and rafting down the Urubamba River.

• Sample trip: Peru: Lima, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, Cusco

Backroads Travel Tour

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Best for biking

• Range of bicycles available, including electric-assist E-bikes
• Itineraries for couples, friends or solo travelers
• Itineraries for families with older teens and 20-plus, a rarity
• “Dolce Tempo” trip options offer an easygoing pace
• Many trips are only offered seasonally, May to October

If you like active vacations and exploring the outdoors, then Backroads may be the perfect tour operator for you. They specialize in European itineraries both for adults-only and for families. Backroads also offers "multi-adventure" tours where, say, a biking trip in Spain will also offer surfing lessons and kayaking. One mom of two 20-somethings shared, "We've taken four multi-sport trips with Backroads, and each one was phenomenal." The trip I have on my dream board is the "Bordeaux & Dordogne Bike Tour," which includes stops at "grand wine estates" and Michelin-star restaurants, a perfect blend of calorie consumption and exercise.

• Sample trip: Bordeaux Bike Tour

Brendan Vacations Travel Tour

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Best for castles and royal lovers

Brendan vacations.

• 50 years of experience
• Option for a private chauffeur for smaller group travel
• Partners with top hotels in the U.K. and Ireland
• Limited destinations

When I was ready to explore the rolling green hills of the Emerald Isle, Brendan Vacations was my first stop. They offer wonderfully immersive tours that loop you around the island, stopping at iconic sights such as the scenic Ring of Kerry, dramatic Cliffs of Moher and the Blarney Stone. Best of all, my tour stayed at Ashford Castle, a grand estate in Cong where my family and I were able to try falconry, stay in a room built in a real tower and eat our breakfast porridge in a chandelier-filled dining room, just as if we were staying as guests of a king or queen in a royal palace . Brendan also offers tours to Scotland, Northern Ireland and London and combinations of the four.

• Sample trip: Iconic Ireland and Ashford Castle

Roadscholar Travel Tour

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Best for seniors

Road scholar.

• Offers resources for at-home learning
• Special “grandparent” trips for multigenerational travel
• Solo travel options available
• Many trips are two weeks or longer

With a focus on lifelong learning, Road Scholar is for travelers who embrace slower trips and deeper cultural explorations, and the company specializes in senior travel . Road Scholar extends its focus on education to online lectures and virtual tours to educate interested travelers on a destination. For example, for the Canadian Odyssey, the company's suggested reading list includes 19 books for the 11-day trip. Road Scholars is especially popular with retirees and seniors, who tell us they appreciate traveling with like-minded folks. Looking for more options? Here are some more trips for seniors who love to travel.

• Sample trip: Canadian Odyssey: Québec City to Toronto

Goaheadtours Travel Tour

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Best for solo travelers

Ef go ahead tours.

• No additional costs for a private room
• Invite six friends on a tour, and you’ll earn a free spot
• Travels to a wide array of destinations
• The solo itineraries are so popular that most 2023 trips have a waitlist

Group tours are great for solo travelers who want the camaraderie of other travelers with the same interests for shared adventures. The one downside to most group tours is the dreaded "single supplement," where a solo traveler might be charged a supplement that can almost double the cost. Not so with EF Go Ahead Tours, one of the best tour companies for single travelers, whose Solo Tours include a private room at no extra cost. The feedback we've gotten about EF is that their tours are "well-run and precisely organized." Itineraries for their solo trips range from Egypt to Japan to most of Western Europe, like our sample Spain trip that includes both cultural and culinary highlights, including a cooking class.

• Sample trip: Spain for Solo Travelers: Barcelona, Madrid & Seville

Insightvacations Travel Tour

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Best for in-depth itineraries

Insight vacations.

• Comprehensive itineraries that include all major attractions
• Free time and choice of activities for a more individual feel
• Tours offered in smaller European destinations
• Larger than average group size

When you want to see the best of a destination and know you're not missing any "must-see" spots, Insight Vacations has you covered. A recent traveler told us she picked this Best of Italy 11-day trip through Italy "to see everything" and wasn't disappointed. Another highlight of Insight is its wide selection of tours in smaller European destinations, such as Slovenia and Finland.

• Sample trip: Best of Italy

Geoculturaworld Travel Tour

Shop on GeoCultura

Best for getting beneath the surface

• No single supplement for solo travelers on many tours
• Shorter itineraries available for long weekend getaways
• Guides who are notable experts in their fields
• Tours only available in England, Europe and North America

GeoCultura company grabbed my interest for its focus on geology—what's happening not only on the surface of a destination but underneath it as well. Trips led by professors and specialists in the world of geology, paleontology and archaeology "dig in" to all the layers of a destination, so to speak. For the Rockies and Badlands tour, a guide who teaches "geology for non-geologists" at Canada's Mount Royal University leads the quest to explore sedimentology, trace fossils and traverse diverse landscapes.

• Sample tour: The Rockies and the Badlands: Geology and Dinosaurs in Canada

Wheeltheworld Travel Tour

Shop on Wheel the World

Best for accessible travel

Wheel the world.

• Large selection of destinations
• Can plan quick trips for individual travel
• Small group size, often 10 people or fewer
• Trips fill up fast

One of the best tour companies in the accessible travel category, Wheel the World offers a platform of accessible tours , experiences and accommodations for disabled travelers. From international surf trips to rainforest tours, the company offers adventure trips in 40 destinations around the world and on every continent. Group tours are led by guides specially trained by the company to provide assistance to disabled travelers, and all itineraries have been tested to make sure they're accessible, have adaptable bathrooms and provide the best travel experience. The Costa Rica trip, for example, includes amphibious wheelchair use in Arenal's hot springs and use of trekking wheelchairs to explore Manuel Antonio National Park.

• Sample trip: Costa Rica, a natural paradise

What to look for when booking a tour company

Shop on Audley

Best for curated itineraries

Audley travel.

• Highly personalized trip itineraries
• Options around the globe
• Skilled in adventure travel trips
• Limited option for group trips

Not all tour operators have large group tours. Audley Travel is a good example of a company that offers full-service trips that can be individualized for independent travelers. For example, I recently explored Namibia on a bucket list eight-night itinerary to four different Natural Selection safari lodges. Audley handled all the details, including international routing that was way more involved than I could have figured out on my own. I followed their itinerary, however I didn't travel with a group, but instead with individual travelers who were following the same itinerary. (In other words, there is no tour leader and travelers are free to customize their itineraries.) In other cases, the company will create custom itineraries, and they do have some very small (around eight people) adventure mobile safari tours too.

• Sample trip: Namibia flying safari

There are a lot of tour companies out there, so it can be difficult to find the one that's right for you, especially if you're traveling with a group for the first time. Here are a few factors to consider as you narrow down your search.

• Cost: Because of their all-inclusive nature, tour company vacations can be more costly than traveling on a budget-friendly trip of your own. However, you get to skip the hours of research and logistics stress, which can be well worth it. Know your budget and what you're willing to pay for versus do yourself as you plan your trip.
• Flexibility: Some tours may be scheduled at the hour, while others may offer optional excursions or free time to explore your destination. Whether you're ready to be chauffeured around or would rather have the opportunity to strike out on your own, there's a tour company for you.
• Special Interests: Many tours have themes that go beyond location, whether they dive into a specific era of history , focus on a certain type of cuisine, or lean into an outdoor activity. Traveling with a tour company can be a fitting opportunity to fuel your passion for travel and any other hobbies you might have.

Why you should trust us

I'm an award-winning travel writer, covering everything from how to pack your clothes to stay wrinkle-free to the secrets of Disney World . I have 25 years of journalism experience and am a passionate traveler myself. My work has appeared in Lonely Planet, The Points Guy, Travel Agent Central, Luxury Travel Advisor, TravelAwaits and more.

How we found the best tour companies

To come up with the list of the best tour companies, we reached out to travel planners and other travel experts for their top picks. We also used our personal travel experience and checked in with travelers who have vacationed with these tour companies to get their first-hand reviews. Finally, we cross-checked our research with Tripadvisor's star ratings to make sure we've picked the best of the best so that you can have the best group tour all-inclusive vacation no matter where you want to go.

Is it cheaper to travel with a tour company?

While booking a tour company can be more expensive than planning a trip yourself, it can also have financial benefits. Tour companies often have relationships with vendors, hotels and even airlines, allowing them to negotiate or get discounts on your behalf. Here are our top tips to book cheap travel with tour companies .

What is the difference between a tour company and a travel company?

Tour companies plan and package tours for travelers. In contrast, travel agents at travel companies often serve as the intermediary between clients and tour companies, helping them to find the best fit. Travel agents may also create customized trips for travelers from transportation to lodging to itineraries.

What's the major difference between a tour and a vacation package?

Tour packages are guided tours offered by a tour company, and vacation packages include all the logistical elements of a tour package, like transportation and lodging, without the tour guide. A vacation package is best suited for someone who doesn't want to spend time planning a trip but also wants the flexibility to manage their own time at their destination.

Is it cheaper to book tours in advance?

Like airfare and hotels, booking a tour company earlier can save you cash. Some tour companies run early bird specials for those able to book months or even a year out. You may even see deals on Black Friday or other major shopping holidays.

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Your next adventure: Dublin, Ireland

Join National Geographic photographer Jonathan Irish as he captures the very best of Ireland’s lively capital city.

If there was a competition for pretty cities, Dublin would easily take the top prize. There’s no question that Ireland’s capital is gorgeous, thanks to a mix of cobblestone streets, red-brick facades, and well-designed green spaces. On top of that, it offers something for everyone—from backpacking students to active retirees.

National Geographic photographer Jonathan Irish recently visited Dublin to capture the essence of this vibrant destination—a place teeming with history and culture.

“As a photographer, you’re always looking for the heart of the city,” Jonathan says. And he found it—in urban parks, storied pubs, iconic establishments, and one-of-a-kind shops. Discover Dublin, Ireland through Jonathan's lens, and see why this city should be your next adventure.

A Thriving Pub Scene

While 'Pub-lin' isn't its common nickname, it would aptly suit this city, given it's home to over 770 pubs. Most visitors start with Temple Bar in central Dublin, an iconic namesake pub famous for a good Irish “craic”―great fun, live music, and boisterous crowds.

Tourists come for the Instagrammable backdrop and extensive drink list at what is arguably the most famous of the dozens of pubs in the neighborhood. Though around the corner (about an eight-minute walk away), there’s a completely different vibe at Grogan’s Castle Lounge . Here, you won't find TVs blaring or loud music playing; instead, patrons engage in intimate conversations with each other. This is a place that encourages visitors to be friendly and neighborly.

"Pubs are the heart of the social life in the city. You don’t go there to watch TV. You don’t go there to stay on your phone. You go there to converse with other people and socialize." Jonathan Irish , National Geographic Photographer

Jonathan recommends the specialty at Grogan’s: a ham and Irish cheddar cheese toastie with a pot of Irish tea. (You can ask the bartender to make it “special” with sliced onions and tomatoes or dot it with Colmans yellow mustard for added zing.)  

For a memorable fish and chips plate, head a bit west to The Brazen Head pub. There’s been an establishment serving guests on these grounds since 1198, and the medieval fortress-like building has been licensed to serve ale since 1661. The stone wall and red-leather seat interior is bolstered by a large courtyard where boisterous crowds turn up for live music throughout the week.

To wrap up your pub tour visit Guinness Storehouse . Once the world’s largest brewery, Guinness is inextricably tied to Dublin’s history. It also happens to be one of Ireland’s most popular tourist attractions. The site is worth a visit (book tickets in advance) even if you aren’t a fan of iconic dark stout.

Dublin’s Coolest Neighborhood

With its Victorian terraced cottages and brightly colored doors, Stoneybatter has been called one of the "coolest" neighborhoods in the world.

“It’s a really interesting contrast between traditional UK architecture and these really beautiful colored doors and window dressings … I get really excited when I find interesting things like that.” Jonathan Irish , National Geographic Photographer

Stoneybatter began as one of the city's earliest villages and by the late 17th century had become so filled with wandering animals in its streets that it earned the nickname "Cowtown." To this day,   boot scrapers can be found outside some of its doors: People needed something and somewhere to wipe the mud from their shoes before entering.

The neighborhood remains one of the best-preserved parts of the city, where visitors mesh easily with students, young professionals, and creatives. One of the best spots to observe local life is at Slice , a neighborhood café and restaurant thats been serving up some of Dublin’s best brunch fare for the past decade (try their slow-cooked BBQ beef banh mi, smashed avocado toast, or fluffy buttermilk pancakes).

Jonathan also suggests perusing the shelves at The Lilliput Press . The famous publishing house was trusted with the first-ever Dublin-based printing of the classic 1920s novel Ulysses in 1997. It found its home in Stoneybatter when it moved to the neighborhood in 1989, quickly becoming one of the city’s most charming bookstores.

Urban Green Spaces

One of Europe’s largest city parks is Phoenix Park , known as the place "where Dublin goes to breathe." The park was once a royal hunting reserve. Today, all manner of wildlife, including a herd of wild fallow deer and an impressive array of birds, roam free. It’s the antidote for the hustle and bustle of city life. “You really feel like you’re away from it all,” Jonathan says.

Rent a bike from Phoenix Park Bikes to better explore the 1,750-acre park’s paths, Victorian Tea Rooms, woodlands, monuments and historic buildings. Save time to park your bike, sit on a bench, and soak in the gorgeous surroundings. Jonathan found a similar zen vibe on early morning photo walks along the River Liffey ’s picturesque bridges, and recommends renting a kayak or booking a boat tour for a new perspective.

In the heart of Dublin, you’ll find St. Stephen’s Green . The enclosed 22-acre park, which sits just across from the famous Shelbourne Hotel (the first Irish Constitution was drafted in a room here in 1922), retains its Victorian garden oasis feel. Wander tree-lined paths past languishing swans and ornamental gardens.

Beyond the gates of St. Stephen’s Green is Grafton Street, where shop windows are filled with fashion-forward deals and Dublin souvenirs. Grab a tasty "99" treat, an ice cream cone with a stick of flaky milk chocolate inserted at the top, then take in the slew of talented buskers , musicians who turn the streets into impromptu performance venues.

Irish Craftsmanship

For souvenirs, Jonathan suggests something iconically Irish.

“I bought a Merino wool blanket and a flat cap at the   Aran Sweater Market ,” he says, noting that the experience helped him better appreciate the intricate, subtlety of an Irish stitch.   “Every family has their own stitch, and not only in sweaters, but blankets and everything. In the Aran Market there   is a wall with all of the different stitches, with the names of the clans they are from. It was so fascinating,” he says.  

"The simplest decision—to loop the wool a certain way, to overlap a stitch or interweave it—says so much about the family that made it." Jonathan Irish , National Geographic Photographer

Visitors will be tempted by the famous cable knit sweaters, or jumpers as they're known here, that originated in the Aran Islands off Ireland’s west coast. Clerks can offer insights into the handicraft art that has lasted for generations. If you’ve got Irish roots, make your purchase more meaningful by adding a family crest or choosing stitches from the official register of historic patterns.

And So Much More…

Dive deeper into Dublin’s history by visiting the many castles that sit within the city limits. At the 13th-century Dublin Castle , you can tour a Viking settlement as well as the State Apartments that serve as the venue for presidential inaugurations. The castle’s Dubh Linn Garden and Christ Church Cathedral (less than a five-minute walk away) are two other worthwhile stops―and don’t miss Marsh’s Library , Ireland’s oldest public library, where you can take a peek at books dating back to the 17th century.

But that’s Dublin: a city where gems―hidden and otherwise―are shared as freely as tall tales in the pubs and neighborhoods open themselves up to you with a bite, a pint, and a conversation.

Jonathan’s advice: Slow down, take it all in―then explore even further.

"There’s so much to see in Ireland. And Dublin is just the start of it." Jonathan Irish , National Geographic Photographer

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Syracuse Boat Tours offer themed cruises on Onondaga Lake

• Updated: Jul. 18, 2024, 8:53 p.m.
• | Published: Jul. 18, 2024, 12:03 p.m.

Syracuse Boat Tours began booking cruises on Onondaga Lake in early July 2024. (Provided photo by Mike Lopercio) Mike Lopercio

• Steve Featherstone | [email protected]

There are few American cities where you can relax on a boat in the middle of a lake and take in a sweeping view of the skyline as you sip a cocktail.

Syracuse is one of those geographically blessed cities where such pleasures are possible—if you own a boat, that is.

Now the boatless among us can enjoy a cruise around Onondaga Lake without the hassle of owning a boat, thanks to Syracuse Boat Tours , a new marine tourism-focused company that began booking cruises earlier this month.

The public response so far has been “pretty solid,” said owner/operator Annette Peters, a Syracuse native who lives on the Seneca River.

“I love this community, and we’ve got a jewel in Onondaga Lake that we just don’t appreciate,” Peters said. “I’ve taken people out on my boat on Onondaga Lake for years and they’re always so shocked how beautiful it is and how seldom its used.”

Annette Peters, owner/operator of Syracuse Boat Tours, a new company offering daily cruises on Onondaga Lake. Steve Featherstone | [email protected]

Peters says she’s picking up where Mid-Lakes Navigation, the last company to offer Onondaga Lake cruises, left off about 10 years ago. The company operates one boat at the moment, a 22-passenger pontoon boat.

Scheduled open-seating for one-hour or 90-minute cruises depart daily. The best way to get a seat is to book online . The boat is also available for private charters.

Depending on the cruise, admission costs $12.50-$15 for children; $27.50-$30 for adults.

Syracuse Boat Tours offers a range of themed cruises, including:

• Tiki Cruises: jam to Caribbean music as you sip fruity cocktails/mocktails. On Tiki Tuesdays the boat will pick you up and drop you off at the funky Tiki Bar on the Seneca River, where passengers get a ten percent discount.
• Happy Hour Cruises: Cruise from the Seneca River into the lake and watch the Syracuse skyline come into view. Music provided, or passengers can bring their own playlists.
• Historical Cruises: Narrated cruises that delve into the lake’s long history.
• Sunset Cruises: Get a front row seat to a spectacular sunset over the lake.

Other themed cruises will be scheduled throughout the summer, including a wine-tasting tour, a Seneca River cruise, bourbon-tasting tour, and fall cider and foliage tours.

Nikita Jankowski takes a snapshot of her children, Noble and Xochi, aboard Syracuse Boat Tours' 30-ft pontoon boat as it cruises down the Onondaga Lake outlet. Steve Featherstone | [email protected]

If business is good, Peters plans to upgrade service next year with a bigger boat ideal for dinner cruises. The pontoon boat could then be used to shuttle passengers to the Amp, Inner Harbor/Aquarium, Onondaga Lake Park, or the Tiki Bar on the river.

As more people recognize Onondaga Lake as a tourist destination, Peters says she’s positioned to take advantage of CNY’s future growth.

“We need a water taxi, and this is the first one,” she said. “That’s the dream.”

Editor’s note: Annette Peters is a previous employee of Advance Media New York and The Post-Standard. She retired in December.

Steve Featherstone covers the outdoors for The Post Standard, syracuse.com and NYUP.com . Contact him at [email protected] or on Twitter @featheroutdoors . You can also follow along with all of our outdoors content at newyorkupstate.com/outdoors/ or follow us on Facebook at facebook.com/upstatenyoutdoors .

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Global IT outage hits companies around the world as planes grounded and train services affected

The outage is affecting Windows PCs globally, with hundreds of flights grounded worldwide and GP surgeries being left unable to book appointments – and it could take "weeks" to fix.

News reporter @laurenvrussell

Friday 19 July 2024 22:20, UK

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Businesses including banks, airlines, train companies, telecommunications companies, TV and radio broadcasters, and supermarkets have been affected by a mass global IT outage.

Major US airlines including American Airlines, Delta Airlines and United Airlines have been grounded, while airports in Germany, Amsterdam and Spain are also reporting issues.

The outage was related to a Microsoft Windows PC update rolled out by global cybersecurity firm CrowdStrike - and while the company says a fix has been deployed, an expert has warned it could take "weeks" for all computers and systems to be fully restored.

According to an alert sent by CrowdStrike to its clients, the company's falcon sensor software caused Microsoft Windows to crash and display a blue screen, which has begun to be referred to as the "blue screen of death".

Read more: Outages latest: Follow live What has been impacted and where?

CrowdStrike chief executive, George Kurtz, said in a statement on X that "the defect [was] found in a single content update for Windows hosts".

"This is not a security incident or cyberattack. The issue has been identified, isolated and a fix has been deployed," Mr Kurtz said.

Adam Leon Smith of BCS, the Chartered Institute for IT, said: "The fix will have to be applied to many computers around the world. So if computers are getting blue screens and endless loops, it could be more difficult and take days and weeks.

"Microsoft Windows isn't the main OS for mission-critical systems, that's Linux - and so this could have been much worse."

The outage affected Windows PCs globally, including at Sky News in the UK which was not able to broadcast live TV first thing on Friday morning.

pic.twitter.com/4dnNPawEJG — Sky Group (@SkyGroup) July 19, 2024

The company said in a statement it was seeing disruption to its usual broadcasting and customer service teams due to the third-party outage and apologised for any inconvenience.

UK airports 'experiencing delays'

Flights are being grounded at numerous airports worldwide and passengers in the UK are facing hours of queues to get into terminal buildings, check in and go through security.

As of 8pm, 5,078 flights had been cancelled worldwide - which equates to 4.6% of all scheduled flights globally, according to an aviation analytics company.

Cirium Data also said 167 flights that should have left UK airports have been cancelled so far - which is 5.4% of departures - while 171 inbound arrivals were cancelled.

London's biggest airport, Heathrow, said in a statement that its "flights are operational though we are experiencing delays".

pic.twitter.com/iPFMsDVgwT — London Luton Airport (@LDNLutonAirport) July 19, 2024

It said it was implementing contingency plans to minimise any impact on journeys and passengers are advised to check with their airline for the latest flight information.

Gatwick Airport said "passengers may experience some delays" due to the global outage - particularly when checking in and passing through security.

Luton Airport also said it was aware of the global IT issue and is currently using manual systems to support operations.

Ryanair, Europe's largest airline by passenger numbers, said it was "forced to cancel a small number of flights today" and told passengers: "If your flight has been cancelled, we kindly request that you leave the airport as the IT outage means we cannot currently assist passengers at the airport."

Edinburgh Airport also urged those whose flights had been cancelled to leave. Passengers there were unable to use automated boarding pass scanners and monitors at security displayed a message saying "server offline", according to a Reuters witness.

The airport had reverted to checking boarding passes manually, the witness said.

'Beyond the control of GP surgeries'

The IT outage has also reached GP surgeries across the UK, which said they are unable to access patient records or book appointments.

NHS England said the IT outage is "causing disruption in the majority of GP practices" in England but there is currently no known impact on 999 or emergency services.

Northern Ireland's Department of Health said two thirds of its GP practices had been impacted.

Grimethorpe Surgery in Barnsley said it had no access to the clinical system, EMIS Web - which allows healthcare practitioners to view and contribute to a patient's healthcare records.

The Wilmslow Health Centre in Cheshire wrote on X: "All practices in the UK using the NHS-commissioned GP computer system EMIS are currently without access to their IT systems.

"This is beyond the control of GP surgeries. Please bear with us until we have our IT systems back online."

Another surgery in Putney, southwest London, shows an error message online when patients attempt to book appointments.

The Windrush Medical Practice in Witney, Oxfordshire, asked patients with "routine concerns" to wait until Monday after the booking system has been affected by the global outage.

Meanwhile, the Metropolitan Police said it has not been affected, and everything seems to be working normally.

Issues at UK train stations

Also in the UK, Southern, Thameslink, Gatwick Express and Great Northern - all four of Govia Thameslink Railway's brands - said its services were experiencing widespread IT issues.

⚠️ We are currently experiencing widespread IT issues across our entire network. Our IT teams are actively investigating to determine the root cause of the problem. We are unable to access driver diagrams at certain locations, leading to potential short-notice cancellations,… — Thameslink (@TLRailUK) July 19, 2024

"We are unable to access driver diagrams at certain locations, leading to potential short-notice cancellations, particularly on the Thameslink and Great Northern networks," the company said.

"Additionally, other key systems, including our real-time customer information platforms, are also affected."

However, most trains ran as scheduled - though some passengers encountered problems inside stations as South Western Railway said all its ticket vending machines had stopped working due to IT issues.

Out-of-date prices at London Stock Exchange

The London Stock Exchange is among the businesses that have been affected by the global outage, Sky News' business correspondent, Ian King, said.

A statement posted on the exchange's website earlier said a technical issue was being investigated with the publication of RNS - the exchange's Regulatory News Service - announcements.

When trading began at 8am this morning, the exchange's website was still showing prices from the close on Thursday evening.

The FTSE-100 opened 50 points lower - around 0.62% - at the open but no prices were available on the exchange's website, King said.

Read more from Sky News: 'Police presence' on streets of Leeds after mass riots Trump's wife and eldest daughter make rare appearance

Other major European stock indices have also opened to the downside this morning, with the DAX in Germany down by 0.55% half an hour into the session, while the CAC-40 in France and the MIB in Italy down by 0.45% apiece.

Users on the subreddit for cyber security firm Crowdstrike reported issues in India, the United States and New Zealand.

. @SkyNews have not been able to broadcast live TV this morning, currently telling viewers that we apologise for the interruption. Much of our news report is still available online, and we are working hard to restore all services. — David Rhodes (@davidgrayrhodes) July 19, 2024

While users in Australia began reporting issues early on Friday, stating they had been locked out of their workstations.

Keep up with all the latest news from the UK and around the world by following Sky News

Within hours, Australia's National Security Coordinator said it was aware of the large-scale technical outage affecting a number of companies and services across the country.

It said there was currently no information to suggest the outage is a cyber security incident.

Related Topics

• Global IT outage