Exploring Dublin: A Bus Tour Adventure

Dublin is a city steeped in history and culture, with many iconic landmarks and attractions to visit. One of the best ways to explore the city is by taking a bus tour, which offers the perfect introduction to Dublin and provides great photo opportunities from the top deck. The hop-on, hop-off bus tours allow you to discover the city at your own pace, with the flexibility to get off at any stop and explore further. These tours typically cover all the major sights, including the Guinness Storehouse, St. Patrick's Cathedral, Trinity College, and Temple Bar. With entertaining live guides and digital commentary in multiple languages, you can learn about Dublin's history and culture as you take in the views.

Hop-on, Hop-off

The DoDublin Hop-On, Hop-Off tour is Dublin's No.1 tour and has been operating for over 35 years. The tour includes 25 stops, strategically positioned near top attractions, and covers the entire city centre. The tour lasts approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes and includes live commentary from entertaining guides who are also Dublin Bus drivers. The frequency of buses is every 20-30 minutes, and the tour operates daily from 09:00 to 17:00 in winter and until 19:00 in summer.

The Big Bus Hop-On, Hop-Off tour is another popular option, offering 24- to 48-hour tickets with 25 stops across Dublin. This tour also includes a guided walking tour of the city's small streets. The buses operate daily from 09:00 to 17:00, with a frequency of 20-30 minutes.

Both tours offer the flexibility to explore Dublin at your own pace, providing excellent opportunities to capture photos of iconic landmarks from the top deck. Tickets can be purchased online, from staff at the stops, or on the buses.

Dublin's Landmarks

Dublin is a city steeped in history, with plenty of landmarks to visit. Here is a list of Dublin's most notable landmarks:

Trinity College Library

Trinity College Dublin is a university with many famous alumni, including Oscar Wilde, Jonathan Swift, and Samuel Beckett. The Old Library is one of Dublin's most enduring historical attractions, boasting an exhibit of the Book of Kells and the awe-inspiring Long Room. Over 200,000 books line the shelves of this architectural wonder, making it a must-visit for bookworms and architecture enthusiasts alike.

Christ Church Cathedral

Christ Church Cathedral is Dublin's oldest building and one of its most revered cultural landmarks as the spiritual centre of the city. People of all faiths are welcome to explore its rich history, which dates back to when it was a site of baptisms performed by St Patrick. The cathedral also offers guided tours, providing access to its medieval crypt and a climb to the belfry.

Ha'penny Bridge

The Ha'penny Bridge is one of the most photographed bridges in Dublin, stretching almost 150 feet across the River Liffey. As Dublin's first pedestrian bridge, it has been in operation since 1816, initially charging a toll of half a penny for crossing, hence its enduring nickname.

Molly Malone Statue

The Molly Malone Statue is dedicated to the mysterious heroine of a traditional Irish ballad and Dublin's unofficial anthem. The statue draws tourists intrigued by Irish folklore as it stands in the centre of Dublin's Georgian Quarter.

Glasnevin Cemetery

Glasnevin Cemetery, located just outside the city, is one of Ireland's most famous graveyards. It is the final resting place of iconic figures in Irish history, such as Daniel O'Connell and Michael Collins. Expert local tour guides bring their fascinating stories to life, offering a unique perspective on Dublin's history.

Jeanie Johnston Tall Ship

The Jeanie Johnston is a replica of a Great Famine "coffin ship" that carried Irish emigrants fleeing starvation in the mid-1800s. It serves as a living history museum, providing a glimpse into the challenging transatlantic voyage endured by over a million Irish people.

Day Trips from Dublin

There are many options for day trips from Dublin, whether you're looking to explore the Irish countryside, visit a different city, or learn about the country's history. Here are some destinations to consider:

Howth

Howth is a picturesque fishing village located just a 25-minute ride from Dublin on the Dublin Area Rapid Transit (DART) train. It's a popular spot for Dubliners to relax and recharge, offering fresh sea air and a coastal hike. Howth Castle and Gardens, the National Transport Museum, and St. Mary's Abbey medieval ruins are some of the sights to explore. The village also has artisanal food, handmade jewellery, and Irish crafts on offer, as well as waterfront restaurants serving fresh catches. For accommodation, Tara Hall boutique bed and breakfast and the Marine Hotel are recommended. The Howth Cliff Walk is a family-friendly path with panoramic views over the peninsula and is a must-do while in Howth.

Galway

Known as the most Irish city in Ireland and the city of festivals, Galway is well worth the two-and-a-half-hour trip. You can take a bus or train to get there. The city will impress you with its colourful homes and bustling wharf, as well as attractions like the Hall of the Red Earl archaeological site, Druid Lane Theatre, Eyre Square, and the green-domed Galway Cathedral. A cruise on the River Corrib provides a unique perspective of the city. For dining, Ard Bia at Nimmos, Aniar, Loam, Dough Bros, and Papa Rich are top choices. Dela, Coffeewerk + Press, and Kai Café are recommended for brunch. Quays Bar and Dáil Bar are great spots for a night out. As for accommodation, Harbour Hotel, Residence Hotel, Forster Court, and G Hotel are good options. To experience the city's musical culture, head to Quay Street bars like Tig Coili, The Crane, Taaffes Bar, or Tigh Neachtain.

Kilkenny

Kilkenny, nicknamed 'The Marble City', is located on the banks of the River Nore and is about a 100-minute bus ride or 80-minute train ride from Dublin. The city boasts medieval marvels such as St. Canice's Cathedral and the Black Abbey, as well as charming pubs, trendy cafes, and contemporary galleries. The Kilkenny Way hurling experience, Design Centre, Rothe House, and the riverside castle with its sprawling gardens are highlights of the city. For dining, try Petronella on the Butterslip, Bridie's Bar, or Left Bank. Kilkenny is also the craft capital of Ireland, with the Made in Kilkenny Craft Trail leading you to woodworkers, weavers, potters, and glassblowers. Recommended accommodation options include the Pembroke Hotel, Butler House, Newpark Hotel, and Lyrath Estate. A must-do in Kilkenny is to tour Kilkenny Castle, which is now open to the public.

Wicklow Mountains

The Wicklow Mountains, also known as the 'Garden of Ireland', offer outstanding natural beauty with glittering lakes and monastic villages and ruins. It's about a 75-minute drive from Dublin, and the scenic route over Sally Gap mountain pass is especially worthwhile. The area has served as a backdrop for Hollywood films like 'Braveheart' and 'P.S. I Love You'. There are extensive hiking trails, spiritual sites, and high-end spa treatments available. Wicklow Heather restaurant is recommended for dining, and Jake's Pub at Lynhams Hotel provides a traditional pub experience. BrookLodge and Macreddin Village offer eco-conscious accommodation, while there are also bed and breakfasts, self-catering guesthouses, and glamping options. A must-visit in Wicklow is Glendalough, a monastic site founded by St. Kevin in the sixth century, with mystical ruins and a visitor centre.

Belfast

Belfast, the capital of Northern Ireland, is two and a half hours from Dublin by train, bus, or car. The city has a sophisticated vibe and is known for its inspiring architecture, such as the copper-domed City Hall and the Hiberno-Romanesque St. Anne's Cathedral. OX, Barking Dog, Hadskis, and Shu are top dining choices. For drinks, try Kelly's Cellars, an 18th-century pub, or the Crown Liquor Saloon, a period gin house. Belfast also has gorgeous green spaces like the Botanic Gardens and the Ulster Museum for art lovers. Europa Hotel Belfast and the Fitzwilliam are recommended for accommodation. A must-do in Belfast is to visit Titanic Belfast, an interactive museum at the former Harland and Wolff shipyard.

Ghostbus Tour

The Ghostbus Tour is a unique experience in Dublin, offering a glimpse into the city's dark and haunted history. It is the world's first Ghostbus Tour and has been a favourite among locals and visitors for over 20 years. The tour promises to be a great alternative night out, ideal for those seeking a spooky and fun experience.

The Ghostbus itself is a haunted house on wheels, with maze-like corridors and stairs leading to a Victorian theatre on the upper deck. The bus takes you to some of Dublin's most haunted sites, including a hidden city centre graveyard and the medieval steps of St. Audeon's, where ghosts are said to still roam. You will also visit the Hellfire Clubroom and the haunted museum, where you can play cards with the devil himself.

Onboard, the storytellers are professional actors who bring Dublin's dark history to life. They strike a perfect balance between comedy and horror, sharing tales of sinister surgeons, bodysnatchers, ghosts, and mythological villains. You will also learn about the inspiration behind Bram Stoker's legendary character, Dracula, and his Dublin origins.

The tour is not for the faint-hearted and is recommended for those aged 14 and above. It is a great choice for birthday parties, hen or stag dos, and office outings. With its combination of scary moments, interaction, and stories based on historic events, the Ghostbus Tour offers a memorable and entertaining experience.

Dublin Whiskey Distillery Tours

Dublin is home to many whiskey distilleries, each with its own unique history, offerings, and experiences. Here is a guide to help you choose the perfect whiskey distillery tour to suit your preferences.

Jameson Distillery Bow St.

Jameson is the most famous Irish whiskey, attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors annually. The distillery was opened by John Jameson in the late 1700s within what is arguably one of the most famous whiskey distilleries in Ireland. The Jameson Bow Street Experience, also known as the "Jameson Distillery Tour," is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Dublin.

On this tour, you will learn about the history of the Jameson family and the distillery, which started in 1780. You will also discover the story behind the iconic spirit and the process of whiskey-making. The tour includes a guided tour of the distillery, a whiskey tasting of three types of Jameson whiskeys, and a complimentary cocktail or drink at the bar. The standard tour and tasting cost around €30 per person and last for about 45 minutes.

Teeling Whiskey Distillery

Teeling Whiskey Distillery is located in the Liberties, Dublin's renowned "whiskey district." It is the first whiskey distillery to be built in Dublin in 125 years, opening its doors in 2015. Teeling prepares its whiskey using a mix of traditional and unconventional techniques.

The standard tour is fully guided and includes a whiskey tasting. It costs around €18 per person and lasts for about an hour. There are also other ticket options available, such as the "Teeling Tasting Tour," which includes a tasting of two whiskeys for €20 per person, and the "Teeling Trinity Tasting Tour" to try three whiskeys.

Roe & Co Distillery

Roe & Co Distillery is located in the heart of the Liberties in Dublin 8. It is Diageo's newest whiskey distillery in Dublin, situated near the Guinness Storehouse. The distillery has a rustic yet plush feel, with well-designed features like the toilet and bar seats.

The tour includes a fully-guided tour, a choice of two workshops, and a cocktail. It costs around €25 per person and lasts for about an hour. You will learn about the history of George Roe, a 19th-century whiskey pioneer, and explore the golden era of Irish whiskey.

Pearse Lyons Distillery

Pearse Lyons Distillery is a unique whiskey distillery housed within the former St. James' Church in the Liberties. The church's stunning architecture and heritage have been preserved, creating a modern distillery with a blend of historical and modern elements. The distillery opened in 2017 and is named after its founder, Dr. Pearse Lyons.

The "Trilogy Tour" includes a guided tour and a tasting of three whiskeys: Pearse Original, a 12-year-old single malt, and a gin. It costs €20 per person. The tour lasts for about an hour, during which you will learn about the history of the church's renovation and the whiskey-making process.

The Dublin Liberties Distillery

The Dublin Liberties Distillery is a modern, state-of-the-art distillery located on Mill St. It offers an immersive visitor experience with excellent guides. On the tour, you will discover the history of Dublin's Liberties district and gain insight into the distilling process.

The tour includes a welcome drink, a guided tour, and a whiskey tasting. It costs around €17 per person and lasts for about 45 minutes.

Other Whiskey Tasting Tours

In addition to distillery tours, there are guided whiskey tasting tours in Dublin that take place in pubs or bars. These tours are a great way to learn about whiskey and try different varieties without visiting a distillery. Here are a few options:

• Whiskey Tasting Tour of Dublin: A 2-hour tour that includes tasting five Irish whiskies along with cheeses, Irish bread, and chocolate. It costs around €55 per person.
• The Irish Whiskey Museum: A 1-hour tour with a guided history of whiskey and a tasting. It costs around €22 per person.
• The Dublin Whiskey Experience: A 2-hour tour led by an expert guide, including whiskey tastings at different locations in the city. It costs €70 per person.

Frequently asked questions