Dublin’s compact size and rich mix of history, culture, and scenery make it a perfect port for shore excursions. Whether you’re after a quick overview of the city, a scenic drive through Wicklow, or a visit to legendary sites like the Cliffs of Moher, there’s something for every traveler. We’re especially fond of tours that mix iconic landmarks with local stories—like the full-day trip combining Dublin highlights with Glendalough or the private journey exploring the Boyne Valley. These options let you experience Ireland’s past and present in a manageable, engaging way. Plus, with options like hop-on hop-off buses, you can customize your time ashore to suit your pace and interests.
Quick Overview of Dublin Shore Excursions
Dublin boasts a variety of tour styles, from guided day trips to flexible hop-on hop-off sightseeing. For a deep dive into Ireland’s history, the full-day Dublin highlights and Glendalough tour offers an immersive experience into both Dublin’s top sights and County Wicklow’s scenic beauty. Want to see the city at your own pace? The live-guided open-top hop-on hop-off tour provides freedom with 25 stops around Dublin. For a taste of Ireland’s wild west, the private Cliffs of Moher and Galway trip packs in stunning coastlines and charming towns. Alternatively, explore ancient sites like Newgrange with a luxury private tour, or venture into the historic Boyne Valley for a full-day adventure. Read on for detailed reviews to help you pick the best fit.
1. Shore Excursion from Dublin: Including Dublin highlights and Glendalough
This full-day tour offers a well-rounded experience, combining Dublin’s top sights with the stunning Wicklow Mountains and Glendalough. It’s perfect for travelers who want a taste of the city and a scenic escape in one package. The journey begins with a luxury coach pick-up from your cruise ship, where your guide shares lively stories and helpful tips about the day’s highlights. You’ll explore Wicklow’s lush mountains, rolling hills, and shimmering lakes—a landscape that’s appeared in Hollywood films like P.S. I Love You and Braveheart. Later, you’ll visit Glendalough’s 6th-century monastic ruins, with its iconic round tower and stone cross, revealing Ireland’s ancient spiritual roots. The final part of the tour is a panoramic drive through Dublin, passing landmarks such as Trinity College, O’Connell Street, and the General Post Office.
Guests love the tour guide’s humor and knowledge, with some mentioning “pleasurable surprises” along the way. The 8-hour trip costs around $91.73 per person, offering great value given the depth of experience and the comfortable coach transport. If you’re after a balanced mix of city sights and scenic countryside, this tour hits the mark. The only caveat is that some reviews advise arriving early at the pickup point.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive day combining city and countryside, with comfortable transport and expert stories.
2. Dublin Shore Excursion, Live Guided Open-top, Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Tour
This flexible, live-guided open-top bus tour provides a relaxed way to see Dublin at your own pace. You can hop on and off at 25 stops, including Trinity College, Dublin Castle, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, and the Guinness Storehouse. The buses run every 20-30 minutes, so you won’t be waiting long to hop back on. Your guide shares stories and insights in real-time, making the experience more engaging than recorded commentary. Whether you want to linger at Merrion Square, explore the Kilkenny Design shop, or snap photos from the open-air top deck, this tour adapts to your interests.
Guests frequently mention the friendly drivers and the convenience of being able to create their own itinerary. With options for 24 or 48 hours of access, it’s an ideal way to maximize your limited time ashore. A 48-hour ticket often includes a complimentary walking tour, perfect for those wanting a deeper dive into Dublin’s history.
Key highlights include major landmarks like Christ Church Cathedral, the Teeling Whiskey Distillery, and the Guinness Storehouse. The price is approximately $40.17 per person, making this a budget-friendly choice that offers great value for flexible sightseeing.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who prefer to explore at their own pace with minimal planning and enjoy Dublin’s top spots comfortably.
3. Dublin Cruise Ship Shore Excursion|Hop-on Hop-off & Rail Transfer
This option combines the convenience of a hop-on hop-off bus with the added bonus of a rail transfer, making it a solid choice for those wanting ease and flexibility. With a 24-hour hop-on hop-off pass, you can visit over 30 stops, including St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Jameson Distillery, and Kilmainham Gaol. Alongside the bus ride, it features a walking tour highlighting Dublin’s key sights, which helps bring the city’s stories alive.
The included map and discount guide help you plan your day, while all entrance fees are covered—no surprises. Customers appreciate the well-organized service and the ability to hop on and off according to their own schedule. The tour’s cost is about $42.42 per person, offering a cost-effective way to see Dublin and learn about its history.
The itinerary covers major attractions, making it suitable for first-time visitors or those on a tight schedule who want to get the highlights without stress. Some reviews note the helpfulness of the guides and the smooth logistics.
Bottom Line: Best for cruise visitors who want a hassle-free, all-in-one introduction to Dublin with the flexibility to explore on their own.
4. Cliffs of Moher, Galway – Private Shore Excursion
This private tour is a dream for those craving an immersive experience of Ireland’s rugged west coast. Costing around $1,563.78 for up to four people, it offers the ultimate flexibility and personalized attention. Your guide takes you directly to the spectacular Cliffs of Moher, where the towering 700-foot cliffs plunge into the Atlantic, offering breathtaking views and photo opportunities. You’ll also visit Galway, a lively university city with colorful streets and a vibrant arts scene, after a scenic drive along the Wild Atlantic Way.
The journey includes passing by Burren National Park and stopping in Doolin for lunch (own expense). Your guide can tailor stops along the route, making the experience highly personalized. Reviews highlight the expert guidance of Tommy, who is praised for his accommodating nature and storytelling.
This tour is best suited for travelers seeking a luxury, private experience with a flexible itinerary. A potential downside is the high cost, but it’s justified by the private chauffeur and exclusive access. It’s ideal for small groups or families who want a custom day trip without the crowds.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want a luxurious, tailored day exploring Ireland’s iconic coastlines and charming towns.
5. Liberty Irish Tours Dublin City & Wicklow Mountains Luxury Car Shore Excursion
For travelers after a more exclusive experience, this luxury car tour offers personalized sightseeing with a small group or private vehicle. Starting with a visit to Trinity College, your guide shares insights into Dublin’s literary and historic highlights. The tour then proceeds into County Wicklow, known as the “Garden of Ireland,” where rolling hills and lush landscapes are on full display. You will see Wicklow’s scenic valleys and possibly some filming locations from movies.
Rated highly for its knowledgeable guide and customizable itinerary, this tour is ideal for those wanting a more intimate setting. Priced at about $1,105.39 per group, it’s a good value if you prefer comfort and privacy over crowds. The guide’s local expertise ensures you’ll hear stories and legends you won’t find in guidebooks.
Guests appreciate the flexibility and personalized service, making it perfect for couples or small groups who prefer a more relaxed, tailored day. The main downside is the higher price point, but for a luxury experience, many find it worthwhile.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers seeking a private, comfortable way to see Dublin and Wicklow with a personal touch.
$1,105.39 per group (up to 4)
6. Dublin Shore Excursion: City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
This classic hop-on hop-off tour is a straightforward way to hit the main sights with minimal effort. Costing around $37.01 per person, it features 28 stops, including famous landmarks like Dublin Castle, Phoenix Park, and the Guinness Storehouse. The onboard audio guide provides background in six languages, helping you learn as you go.
This tour works well for those on a tight schedule who want to see as much as possible without the complexity of multiple bookings. Guests mention that the efficiency and coverage make it a reliable choice, with many appreciating the easy access to key attractions like the Old Jameson Distillery and Trinity College.
However, some reviews note it’s not the most in-depth tour, and the recorded commentary can be less engaging than a live guide. Still, if your goal is a quick overview and flexible exploration, this is a solid, budget-friendly option.
Bottom Line: Ideal for budget-conscious travelers wanting a convenient, all-in-one Dublin introduction.
$37.01 per person
7. Boyne Valley, Meath – Private Shore Excursion
This private day trip takes you into Ireland’s ancient past, exploring the Boyne Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Costing about $1,259.66 for up to four people, it includes visits to Newgrange, a 3200 BC passage tomb older than Stonehenge and the Pyramids, and the Hill of Tara, the legendary seat of Ireland’s High Kings. Your guide handles all logistics, making for a hassle-free day.
Guests love the personalized attention and the chance to walk into prehistoric monuments and hear stories about Ireland’s legendary kings and myths. The tour also visits Trim Castle and Monasterboice Monastery, adding depth to the experience. Reviewers note the expert storytelling and the flexibility of the private guide as standout features.
This tour is best for history enthusiasts or small groups seeking an intimate, tailored exploration of Ireland’s early history. The main consideration is the higher cost, which reflects the private nature and exclusive access.
Bottom Line: Perfect for history lovers wanting a customized, private experience of Ireland’s ancient sites.
How to Choose the Right Shore Excursion in Dublin
When selecting your Dublin shore experience, think about your budget, interests, and timing. If you want a rundown with scenic countryside, the full-day Dublin highlights and Glendalough tour delivers a balanced mix. For flexibility and city highlights, the live-guided hop-on hop-off is ideal, especially for those with limited time.
History buffs or those craving a private, luxurious experience should consider the Boyne Valley private tour or the Cliffs of Moher in Galway. Budget travelers will find the city sightseeing hop-on hop-off offers great value.
Booking early is wise, especially for private tours or popular sites like Newgrange and the Cliffs of Moher. Consider your fitness level—some trips involve walking in uneven terrain, so pack comfortable shoes. Always check which tours include lunch or entrance fees to avoid surprises.
Final Thoughts
Dublin offers a range of shore excursions that cater to different interests and budgets. For a comprehensive city and scenic experience, the full-day Dublin highlights and Glendalough tour is hard to beat. If you prefer more control over your sightseeing, the open-top hop-on hop-off provides flexibility. For luxury travelers or history buffs, private tours of the Boyne Valley or the Cliffs of Moher promise a personalized touch.
No matter which option you choose, Irish charm and spectacular scenery await. As with all travel planning, early booking secures the best choices and availability. Now is the time to pick your perfect Dublin shore adventure and get ready for a memorable Irish experience.