Shore Excursion from Dublin: Including Dublin highlights and Glendalough

A full-day shore excursion from Dublin often sounds like a whirlwind, but this tour offers a well-rounded experience blending city highlights with the natural beauty of County Wicklow. For $91.73 per person, you’ll spend about 8 hours on a comfortable, climate-controlled coach, with a knowledgeable guide leading the way. The journey takes you from Dublin’s bustling streets to the peaceful lakes and hills of Wicklow, with a special visit to the 6th-century monastic site of Glendalough. It’s perfect for cruise passengers wanting a taste of Irish culture, history, and scenery without the hassle of planning or transport logistics.

Two things we particularly appreciate: First, the special access to Glendalough’s monastic ruins, including the iconic round tower and St. Kevin’s cross, which carry stories and legends that make Irish history come alive. Second, the panoramic drive through Wicklow’s mountains and lakes—the views are breathtaking and photograph-worthy, especially if you love Ireland’s wild, untouched landscape.

On the flip side, a possible consideration is the variable timing and group size, which can affect how long you linger at each stop. Some reviews mention shorted visits or delays, so if you’re after a deep dive into Dublin’s museums or an unhurried pace, this might not be ideal.

This tour suits travelers looking for an authentic taste of Ireland, especially those interested in early medieval sites and stunning scenery, with a convenient, organized experience right from the port. It’s also well-suited for those who enjoy a mix of sightseeing, storytelling, and some shopping time in Dublin’s lively Grafton Street.

Key Points

• Diverse Experience: Combines Dublin city highlights with countryside exploration.
• Authentic Monastic Ruins: Visits Glendalough’s 6th-century monastery and legendary round tower.
• Scenic Drive: Passes Wicklow’s mountains, lakes, and rolling hills—perfect for photography.
• Guided Insight: Expert driver-guide offers engaging stories and historical background.
• Flexible Schedule: Includes time for shopping and optional lunch breaks.
• Weather Considerations: The tour depends heavily on good weather; delays or cancellations may occur.

In-Depth Review of the Dublin & Wicklow Shore Excursion

When we think about a ship shore excursion in Dublin, our aim is to see the city’s highlights while also enjoying the stunning Irish landscape. This tour ticks those boxes with a good balance of city sights and countryside, all within an 8-hour window. It’s priced at $91.73, which for a full day of guided touring, scenic vistas, and access to historic sites, offers solid value—especially considering the ease of port pickup and drop-off, WiFi on the coach, and a driver-guide who shares stories and insights.

Starting Point and Timing

The tour kicks off promptly at 8:00 AM, with pickup at Dublin Port, assuming your ship docks early enough. You’re picked up in a luxury coach that promises comfort and a smooth ride, vital after a potentially long day. The guides are there to set expectations and offer tips for lunch and shopping, adding a personal touch. A key benefit is the early start, which helps maximize your day before the cruise’s departure.

Glendalough: The Heart of the Journey

The first major stop is Glendalough, a must-see for history buffs and nature lovers alike. As we drive through Wicklow, known also as the Garden of Ireland, we’re treated to views of rolling hills, sparkling lakes, and lush greenery. The scenery alone is worth the trip—think of sweeping views that have appeared in Hollywood films like Braveheart and P.S. I Love You.

At Glendalough, you’ll find Ireland’s finest round tower and a peaceful monastic site dating back to the 6th century. The ruins evoke a sense of timelessness, and legends abound—touching St. Kevin’s cross is reputed to bring marriage within a year, a fun local belief. Reviewers consistently highlight how special this visit is, with some saying, “The ruins of the Abbey and wandering through the woods to the lakes are very pretty.”

However, some reviews note that the time allocated at Glendalough can be limited—roughly an hour and a half—so if you’re eager to explore extensively, be prepared for a brief visit. One reviewer shared, “Our guide shortened our time at Glendalough to just over an hour, which was disappointing.” Still, the visit is enough to capture the essence of this ancient monastery and enjoy the reflective atmosphere.

Scenic Drive Back to Dublin

On the return trip, the coach passes through Wicklow’s stunning mountain scenery, with lakes and green hills stretching endlessly. This part of the tour is a real highlight for photographers and anyone who appreciates Ireland’s untamed landscapes. The views are described as “picture perfect,” and many travelers find this segment of the trip worth the price alone.

Dublin City Highlights and Shopping

After lunch or a quick refreshment break (depending on your schedule), the tour continues into Dublin’s city center for a panoramic drive. Expect to see O’Connell Street, the Ha’Penny Bridge, and the famous Molly Malone statue. From there, you’re given about two hours to explore Grafton Street, a hub for shopping and lively street performers.

The city stops are a whirlwind—St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Christchurch Cathedral, Trinity College—but you’ll get a taste rather than a full tour. One reviewer appreciated the time for shopping and sightseeing, saying, “Great tour of Glendalough and Dublin highlights right from the port, with some time for lunch and shopping.”

Practical Aspects and Group Size

The tour is capped at 58 travelers, which means it’s not overly crowded, but still large enough to feel lively. WiFi on board helps you stay connected and maybe share a few photos. The driver-guide is mentioned as engaging and informative, though a few reviews note that microphone issues or less experienced guides can impact clarity.

Timing is flexible, but you’ll want to keep track of your ship’s schedule—most groups are back at the port with plenty of time to disembark before departure. Some reviews mention delays or waiting outside the ship, so punctuality is crucial.

Pros and Cons Based on Reviews

Pros:
– Knowledgeable guides who share entertaining stories and Irish legends.
– Stunning scenery, especially in Wicklow and Glendalough.
– Good value for a full-day guided experience.
– Convenient port pickup and drop-off.

Cons:
– Time at Glendalough can be limited, especially if the weather causes delays.
– Some travelers have experienced late pickups or missed the tour due to port delays or weather.
– Group size and schedule flexibility can vary, sometimes leading to rushed visits.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This excursion is ideal for cruise passengers who want a compact yet authentic Irish experience. It’s perfect if you’re interested in medieval ruins, scenic drives, and Dublin city icons, but not looking for an in-depth, slow-paced exploration. If you value professional storytelling and picturesque landscapes, you’ll appreciate what this tour offers. However, if you’re keen on spending extra time at each site or exploring on your own, you might find the schedule a bit tight.

Final Thoughts

This Dublin and Wicklow shore tour offers a thoughtful combination of city highlights and countryside beauty, all within a well-managed 8-hour window. The real charm lies in the glimpse into Ireland’s ancient monastic history at Glendalough and the spectacular mountain vistas of Wicklow, which make for memorable photos and stories. The guide’s storytelling adds a layer of authentic Irish flavor, making history come alive for most travelers.

While it’s not perfect—some reviews mention short visits or logistical hiccups—the overall experience is quite positive, especially considering the price point. If you’re looking for a value-packed day with a mix of culture, history, and scenery, this tour is a solid choice.

In summary, this tour suits travelers who want a structured, scenic, and culturally enriching day without the fuss of navigating unfamiliar roads themselves. It’s especially recommended for those who appreciate guided storytelling and picturesque landscapes, and who are prepared for the possibility of shorter visits during less-than-ideal weather.

Frequently Asked Questions

What time does the tour start?
The tour departs at 8:00 AM, with pickup from Dublin Port. If your ship docks later, the tour will begin approximately 30 minutes after disembarkation.

How long do we spend at Glendalough?
Expect about 1 hour and 30 minutes at the monastic site, which includes time to see the ruins, the round tower, and St. Kevin’s cross.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included. The guide will provide options and suggest places for lunch, or you can bring snacks and enjoy some free time in Dublin afterward.

What sights will we see in Dublin?
You’ll view the O’Connell Street, Ha’Penny Bridge, Molly Malone statue, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Christchurch Cathedral, and Trinity College, along with some shopping time on Grafton Street.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If conditions are unsafe or too severe, the tour might be canceled or shortened. In such cases, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refundable.

Choosing the right excursion depends on your interests and expectations. This tour offers a genuine Irish experience in a manageable timeframe, perfect for cruise passengers seeking a blend of history, scenery, and city life—without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.