Dublin tours help visitors to navigate the many attractions in this lovely city that are fighting for their attention. A significant portion of any trip to Dublin will be learning about the recent struggles of Ireland, from the time of the potato famine through the 1916 Easter Rising and the country’s gaining independence from Britain, and more recently the troubles within Northern Ireland. When embarking on a tour of Dublin, these events will be brought to life by passionate tour guides. One of the best guided tours in Dublin regarding this topics is at Kilmainham Gaol—don’t miss this incredible attraction, particularly if you’re interested in the recent history of Ireland.

One of the most popular tours in the city is the Guinness Brewery tour. This self-guided tour teaches visitors about the history of Guinness and about how Irish stout is made. Interactive exhibits and a journey through the storehouse itself make the Guinness Brewery tour something special. Book your tickets in advance to earn a small discount and print out your ticket, which will allow you to skip the line. The best part of the self-guided tour is the Gravity Bar. Located at the top of the Guinness Storehouse, the Gravity Bar has fantastic views over the rooftops of Dublin. Your admission fee entitles you to a free pint, so drink up!

Other choices for Dublin tours serve as an introduction to the city. Dublin bus tours offer a hop on, hop off option that connects all of the major tourist attractions in the city. Live commentary helps to illuminate sites throughout the city, and an open second-deck is especially pleasant on a sunny day. Boat tours of the River Liffey aren’t usually as extensive or informative, but the Viking Splash tour, which travels on land and in water, can make for an entertaining afternoon. If you’re interested in the history of Dublin, sign up for a historical walking tour or the 1916 Rebellion tour.

Dublin Map

Museums in Dublin will also have guided tours that are worth looking into. Even museums that have free admission sometimes charge a small fee for these tours, but they are worth it. The Chester Beatty Museum for example has a tour that will highlight some of the most significant pieces of the collection. Other museums include the National Gallery, the National Museum of Ireland, and IMMA (the Irish Museum of Modern Art). All offer guided tours at different times, so consult each museum’s schedule for the most up-to-date information on days, times, and fees.

Another popular tour of Dublin is at the Jameson Distillery. Considered by some visitors to be the most tasty of all Dublin tours, this option brings visitors through the Old Jameson Distillery and teaches them about the history of Irish whiskey. Similar to the Guinness Brewery tour, visitors are encouraged to taste at the conclusion of the tour. Whichever tour of Dublin you choose, they are a great way to connect with local residents who have a particular love of one element of Dublin’s culture. Why not infuse a little education into your vacation?