Ireland Private Tours &amp; Local Tour Guides

Hello, and welcome to my tours page. I have been a licensed tour guide since the eighties, initially working as a tour director on coaches for Ireland's largest incoming tour operator. I started my private luxury car tours after two decades as a tour director. I love sharing the passion and knowledge I have accumulated with visitors today. I travelled a lot in my youth and lived in France for 12 years, where I worked initially for American Airlines and later as a city tour guide. I am bilingual in French. I also spent two years in Italy, both in Rome and Sorrento. I no longer speak Italian, but I can understand it and absolutely love listening to it. I like to read, walk my dogs, and play bridge in my spare time. I operate all the classic tours but can customise each to your interests. I am a recent graduate in genealogy from University College Cork, so I can put you in the right direction as to where to find the necessary records if you're researching your Irish ancestry. If you already know where they come from, I can tailor a tour around that for you. Don't hesitate to contact me and let me know what you want. Thanks for reading. Mary

Caitlin W.

5.00 / 5

(1 reviews)

I am a historian and postdoctoral researcher based in Dublin city offering tours of the city focusing on the modern period - approximately the last 250 years. I completed my PhD in Public History at Trinity College, Dublin, where I studied how history was used to create different identities in the two Irish states after partition. I chose to study public history because I am really passionate about connecting the public with the history all around us and engaging them with it in their everyday life. I have over 7 years of experience working within the tourism industry, many of those were spent devising new tour scripts and completely overhauling the backstage tours at the Abbey Theatre in Dublin (Ireland's national theatre), where I worked for over 4 years. At the Abbey I was fortunate enough to be given the opportunity to develop a whole new revenue stream for the company based around boutique experiences at the theatre ranging from VIP nights, meet & greets, and historical talks. There I developed crucial skills in communicating and engaging a range of different groups and demographics, from intimate tours for the former UN Ambassador Samantha Power and an tÚachtarán Michael D. Higgins to larger tours for groups of active retirees with varying levels of accessibility. Since leaving the Abbey I have worked as a local tour leader for Peter Sommers Travel, a guide for the National Museum of Ireland and the 1916 Walking Tour, and Glasnevin Cemetery, and as a freelance tour guide. I have curated bespoke experiences for guests visiting Dublin such as a walking tour of the city designed with their interests in mind. I have worked with a variety of tour operators to ensure that their important guests had an enjoyable and educational experience. I would love an opportunity to work with your company and some of the guests you have visiting Ireland.

Jason N.

Hello I'm Jason from Dublin and I specialise in private tours to small groups and families in Dublin & throughout Ireland. Each tour is bespoke and tailored to your needs. My passion is showcasing Ireland and the beauty that is around every corner. I have studied history of Ireland and received a diploma in Irish History Studies and Tourism Ireland.

Fiona D.

I am a professional singer and qualified tour guide offering a unique and fun interactive experience, taking in six historic locations and famous songs connected to them. Twenty years professional singer, amateur dramatics and a radio host. I am passionate about Irish history and travel and of course sharing my musical talent. I love meeting new guests from all over the world who visit my wonderful city and share with them my local stories, songs, recommendations and most important having fun, so I would love to work with you and your guests to experience my Dublin.

Mary O.

Hello, and welcome to my tours page. I have been a licensed tour guide since the eighties, initially working as a tour director on coaches for Ireland's largest incoming tour operator. I started my private luxury car tours after two decades as a tour director. I love sharing the passion and knowledge I have accumulated with visitors today. I travelled a lot in my youth and lived in France for 12 years, where I worked initially for American Airlines and later as a city tour guide. I am bilingual in French. I also spent two years in Italy, both in Rome and Sorrento. I no longer speak Italian, but I can understand it and absolutely love listening to it. I like to read, walk my dogs, and play bridge in my spare time. I operate all the classic tours but can customise each to your interests. I am a recent graduate in genealogy from University College Cork, so I can put you in the right direction as to where to find the necessary records if you're researching your Irish ancestry. If you already know where they come from, I can tailor a tour around that for you. Don't hesitate to contact me and let me know what you want. Thanks for reading. Mary

Caitlin W.

5.00 / 5

(1 reviews)

I am a historian and postdoctoral researcher based in Dublin city offering tours of the city focusing on the modern period - approximately the last 250 years. I completed my PhD in Public History at Trinity College, Dublin, where I studied how history was used to create different identities in the two Irish states after partition. I chose to study public history because I am really passionate about connecting the public with the history all around us and engaging them with it in their everyday life. I have over 7 years of experience working within the tourism industry, many of those were spent devising new tour scripts and completely overhauling the backstage tours at the Abbey Theatre in Dublin (Ireland's national theatre), where I worked for over 4 years. At the Abbey I was fortunate enough to be given the opportunity to develop a whole new revenue stream for the company based around boutique experiences at the theatre ranging from VIP nights, meet & greets, and historical talks. There I developed crucial skills in communicating and engaging a range of different groups and demographics, from intimate tours for the former UN Ambassador Samantha Power and an tÚachtarán Michael D. Higgins to larger tours for groups of active retirees with varying levels of accessibility. Since leaving the Abbey I have worked as a local tour leader for Peter Sommers Travel, a guide for the National Museum of Ireland and the 1916 Walking Tour, and Glasnevin Cemetery, and as a freelance tour guide. I have curated bespoke experiences for guests visiting Dublin such as a walking tour of the city designed with their interests in mind. I have worked with a variety of tour operators to ensure that their important guests had an enjoyable and educational experience. I would love an opportunity to work with your company and some of the guests you have visiting Ireland.

Jason N.

Hello I'm Jason from Dublin and I specialise in private tours to small groups and families in Dublin & throughout Ireland. Each tour is bespoke and tailored to your needs. My passion is showcasing Ireland and the beauty that is around every corner. I have studied history of Ireland and received a diploma in Irish History Studies and Tourism Ireland.

Fiona D.

View All Ireland Tour Guides

I am a professional singer and qualified tour guide offering a unique and fun interactive experience, taking in six historic locations and famous songs connected to them. Twenty years professional singer, amateur dramatics and a radio host. I am passionate about Irish history and travel and of course sharing my musical talent. I love meeting new guests from all over the world who visit my wonderful city and share with them my local stories, songs, recommendations and most important having fun, so I would love to work with you and your guests to experience my Dublin.

New Ireland Tour Guides

Diana M.

Hello and Welcome! I’m Diana, and alongside my loved ones, my greatest passion in life is traveling, meeting new people, and sharing the beauty of the world through art and culture. My private guided day tours offer a truly unique and immersive experience—a chance to explore Ireland in a way that few travelers do. These tours are designed to be engaging and enriching, yet never overwhelming, allowing you to connect with the landscape, history, and culture at a comfortable pace. Many of my tours even include a picnic in a scenic, atmospheric spot to enhance the experience. As your guide, I aim to open the door to Ireland’s untouched beauty, from dramatic cliffs to enchanted forests, revealing hidden details that might otherwise go unnoticed. Whether you’re interested in a hike through the hills or horseback riding through breathtaking landscapes, I’m here to make it seamless and stress-free. I’ll take care of all the planning and driving (yes, on the left side of the road!), so your only task is to relax, take in the sights, and enjoy the fascinating stories along the way. Ireland has a way of capturing hearts, and I’d be delighted to be your guide and local expert on this unforgettable journey. Hope to see you soon on one of my tours, exploring the heart and soul of this beautiful country! - Member of ITGA (Independent Tour Guide Association) - PhD in Language & Culture Studies - Lowland Leader Award from Mountaineering Ireland

Shane O.

My name is Shane, and I work with a special team of guides, all family and friends offering private group experiences. We curate bespoke highly personalised adventures connecting the stories, land, sea and sky of the beautiful Howth peninsula in Dublin. All our guides are locals who grew up in Howth and bring their unique insights to each tour. With us, you’ll do more than just see this beautiful part of Dublin - you’ll truly live and feel it. Local leaders are more than just guides; they are storytellers and ambassadors of our rich heritage. We are committed to sustainable adventure and eco-tourism, ensuring that we preserve the coastal beauty and wilderness of Howth and it is our mission to leave lighter footprints, taking care of and respecting the environment for future generations to enjoy. Our team of leaders are sure to make sure you have your best Irish experience in Howth.

Brendan K.

Hi there. I'm Brendan. I am a native Dubliner. I was born here many years ago and spent all my life living and working all over the city. I love food, music, sport, history, politics and of course, the odd pint of Guinness. I retired in 2019 after a 40 year career in the technology industry, working for some of the biggest global names in the business. Because of my passion for all things historical my dream had always been to become a tour guide and I qualified as a official guide in August 2020. I have been taking my guests on journeys around the city since then. I love the idea that when someone tours with me they learn in a fun way about the very long history of Ireland and its people. They also see lots of places and things which I hope I bring to life for them as we stop for a while and discover the many stories to be told about this ancient city. With me you will learn about how Dublin has changed from the time of the Vikings to the time of Google. There are lots of funny stories to be told about that long period of time – I can assure you of that. So – if you are visiting Dublin please consider me as your guide. I am sure that if you choose me we will have some fun and interesting hours together as we walk the streets once used by the Vikings and the Normans and now the home of modern day Irish folk.

Liam R.

Hi, my name is Liam. I am an experienced Irish storyteller in Dublin. I have a huge knowledge of the history of Dublin and Ireland. I am well known as an entertaining and personable companion. My speciality is my Dublin Highlights tour.

Diana M.

Hello and Welcome! I’m Diana, and alongside my loved ones, my greatest passion in life is traveling, meeting new people, and sharing the beauty of the world through art and culture. My private guided day tours offer a truly unique and immersive experience—a chance to explore Ireland in a way that few travelers do. These tours are designed to be engaging and enriching, yet never overwhelming, allowing you to connect with the landscape, history, and culture at a comfortable pace. Many of my tours even include a picnic in a scenic, atmospheric spot to enhance the experience. As your guide, I aim to open the door to Ireland’s untouched beauty, from dramatic cliffs to enchanted forests, revealing hidden details that might otherwise go unnoticed. Whether you’re interested in a hike through the hills or horseback riding through breathtaking landscapes, I’m here to make it seamless and stress-free. I’ll take care of all the planning and driving (yes, on the left side of the road!), so your only task is to relax, take in the sights, and enjoy the fascinating stories along the way. Ireland has a way of capturing hearts, and I’d be delighted to be your guide and local expert on this unforgettable journey. Hope to see you soon on one of my tours, exploring the heart and soul of this beautiful country! - Member of ITGA (Independent Tour Guide Association) - PhD in Language & Culture Studies - Lowland Leader Award from Mountaineering Ireland

Shane O.

My name is Shane, and I work with a special team of guides, all family and friends offering private group experiences. We curate bespoke highly personalised adventures connecting the stories, land, sea and sky of the beautiful Howth peninsula in Dublin. All our guides are locals who grew up in Howth and bring their unique insights to each tour. With us, you’ll do more than just see this beautiful part of Dublin - you’ll truly live and feel it. Local leaders are more than just guides; they are storytellers and ambassadors of our rich heritage. We are committed to sustainable adventure and eco-tourism, ensuring that we preserve the coastal beauty and wilderness of Howth and it is our mission to leave lighter footprints, taking care of and respecting the environment for future generations to enjoy. Our team of leaders are sure to make sure you have your best Irish experience in Howth.

Brendan K.

Hi there. I'm Brendan. I am a native Dubliner. I was born here many years ago and spent all my life living and working all over the city. I love food, music, sport, history, politics and of course, the odd pint of Guinness. I retired in 2019 after a 40 year career in the technology industry, working for some of the biggest global names in the business. Because of my passion for all things historical my dream had always been to become a tour guide and I qualified as a official guide in August 2020. I have been taking my guests on journeys around the city since then. I love the idea that when someone tours with me they learn in a fun way about the very long history of Ireland and its people. They also see lots of places and things which I hope I bring to life for them as we stop for a while and discover the many stories to be told about this ancient city. With me you will learn about how Dublin has changed from the time of the Vikings to the time of Google. There are lots of funny stories to be told about that long period of time – I can assure you of that. So – if you are visiting Dublin please consider me as your guide. I am sure that if you choose me we will have some fun and interesting hours together as we walk the streets once used by the Vikings and the Normans and now the home of modern day Irish folk.

Liam R.

View All Ireland Tour Guides

Hi, my name is Liam. I am an experienced Irish storyteller in Dublin. I have a huge knowledge of the history of Dublin and Ireland. I am well known as an entertaining and personable companion. My speciality is my Dublin Highlights tour.

Popular Ireland Private Tours

The Making of Modern Ireland Walking Tour

Join me as we explore the making of modern Ireland through key sites in Dublin city centre. I have been doing tours of Dublin since 2015, and hold a Masters and PhD in Public History from Trinity College, Dublin. This tour connects history and the present day, starting with the most infamous event in Ireland's history - the Great Famine - and explores the key events that shape our modern nation. Tours can be booked for weekends or midweek and can be scheduled at any time to suit your group.

Fiona's Musical History Tour

A unique two hour experience for visitors to Ireland offering a fantastic insight to both the history of Dublin and its musical heritage for the ultimate two for one tour. The two mile route is located along Dublin's most historic neighbourhood with stops as Christchurch cathedral, Dublin Castle, Olympia theatre, Molly Malone Statue, Temple Bar, the River Liffey and Viking Dublin. Each stop then has a famous song explained and performed by a professional singer and qualified tour guide

FROM$250/ per group

Fiona D.

The best of Dublin, in a day, on foot!

This is a walking tour, and aims to showcase some of the wonderful historic sights in our capital city. Dublin is a beautiful city, with it's Georgian terraces and squares being particularly special. As a private tour, this can be curated to reflect your interests and fitness levels.

Panoramic Walking Tour

Walk with Anthony as he takes you on a quirky walking tour through Dublin's fair city. Home to famous writers like the notorious Oscar Wilde and James Joyce. Anthony's guided tour takes you through the sweeping history of Dublin from its foundation by Viking Norsemen through the conquest by the Norman's and its development under English rule. Through plagues, revolutions, through opulence and despair, filled with high romance and treason.

FROM$150/ per group

The Making of Modern Ireland Walking Tour

Join me as we explore the making of modern Ireland through key sites in Dublin city centre. I have been doing tours of Dublin since 2015, and hold a Masters and PhD in Public History from Trinity College, Dublin. This tour connects history and the present day, starting with the most infamous event in Ireland's history - the Great Famine - and explores the key events that shape our modern nation. Tours can be booked for weekends or midweek and can be scheduled at any time to suit your group.

Fiona's Musical History Tour

A unique two hour experience for visitors to Ireland offering a fantastic insight to both the history of Dublin and its musical heritage for the ultimate two for one tour. The two mile route is located along Dublin's most historic neighbourhood with stops as Christchurch cathedral, Dublin Castle, Olympia theatre, Molly Malone Statue, Temple Bar, the River Liffey and Viking Dublin. Each stop then has a famous song explained and performed by a professional singer and qualified tour guide

FROM$250/ per group

Fiona D.

The best of Dublin, in a day, on foot!

This is a walking tour, and aims to showcase some of the wonderful historic sights in our capital city. Dublin is a beautiful city, with it's Georgian terraces and squares being particularly special. As a private tour, this can be curated to reflect your interests and fitness levels.

Panoramic Walking Tour

Walk with Anthony as he takes you on a quirky walking tour through Dublin's fair city. Home to famous writers like the notorious Oscar Wilde and James Joyce. Anthony's guided tour takes you through the sweeping history of Dublin from its foundation by Viking Norsemen through the conquest by the Norman's and its development under English rule. Through plagues, revolutions, through opulence and despair, filled with high romance and treason.

FROM$150/ per group

View All Ireland Private Tours

New Ireland Private Tours

Private tour from Dublin: Hill of Tara, Trim Castle, Bective Abbey

7 hours

Get away from Dublin, move in a relaxing pace and have the opportunity to explore three stunning places in County Meath - the legendary Hill of Tara, the largest Anglo-Norman Castle in Trim, where the famous Braveheart movie was filmed, and the atmospheric ruins of Bective Abbey, where we'll have the opportunity to enjoy a lovely picnic of Irish teas and pastries.

FROM$735/ per group

Diana M.

Personal shopping in Dublin

5 hours

We will spend the day, shopping in Dublin, visiting indoor markets, boutiques, bookshops and fashion designer studios. We will take photos and do photoshoots along the way. We will have lunch and coffee and a glass of prosecco. At the end of the tour we will have a glass of wine and maybe some live music.

FROM$200/ per group

Dublin by night

A Journey through see some of the most historic and fun pubs in Dublin. From Irish traditional music pubs to cocktail bars and art gallery bars. Irish bars have been Rebel hideouts during the 1916 rising and are still the beating heart of the Irish Social scene. These bars are the highlights of Dublins historical and social life.

FROM$100/ per person

Culture and Arts

A cultural voyage around Dublin museums and antiques shops and art gallery's. A coffee and or lunch stop. Photographs and videos. Souvenirs Closing drinks.

FROM$150/ per person

Private tour from Dublin: Hill of Tara, Trim Castle, Bective Abbey

7 hours

Get away from Dublin, move in a relaxing pace and have the opportunity to explore three stunning places in County Meath - the legendary Hill of Tara, the largest Anglo-Norman Castle in Trim, where the famous Braveheart movie was filmed, and the atmospheric ruins of Bective Abbey, where we'll have the opportunity to enjoy a lovely picnic of Irish teas and pastries.

FROM$735/ per group

Diana M.

Personal shopping in Dublin

5 hours

We will spend the day, shopping in Dublin, visiting indoor markets, boutiques, bookshops and fashion designer studios. We will take photos and do photoshoots along the way. We will have lunch and coffee and a glass of prosecco. At the end of the tour we will have a glass of wine and maybe some live music.

FROM$200/ per group

Dublin by night

A Journey through see some of the most historic and fun pubs in Dublin. From Irish traditional music pubs to cocktail bars and art gallery bars. Irish bars have been Rebel hideouts during the 1916 rising and are still the beating heart of the Irish Social scene. These bars are the highlights of Dublins historical and social life.

FROM$100/ per person

Culture and Arts

A cultural voyage around Dublin museums and antiques shops and art gallery's. A coffee and or lunch stop. Photographs and videos. Souvenirs Closing drinks.

FROM$150/ per person

View All Ireland Private Tours

Popular Ireland Private Cars

Private Tour of Dingle and Slea Head Drive

Killarney

Comprehensive tour of the Dingle Peninsula, considered by some to be the most beautiful place on earth! Sandy beaches and green rolling landscapes with many ancient archeological ruins.

FROM$750/ per group

Mary O.

Dublin City Private Sightseeing Day Tour

Enjoy a private sightseeing tour of Dublin city with a local tour guide who be take to visit many locations on both sides of the river Liffey. You will also get to view some hidden gems!

FROM$799/ per group

Jason N.

The best of Wicklow, with a local, by limousine. A full day out!

This is a driven day tour of the 'Garden of Ireland' as County Wicklow is known. We will visit Powerscourt Gardens, Wicklow National Park and Glendalough. A hike could be included in the day if requested - or a sheep dog demo. (admissions/demos are extra). I am the eighth generation of an upland farm, with sheep and cattle, so know the area very well, and am proud to show it to guests.

Half day Dublin Jameson Distillery and Guinness Storehouse private tour

Self guided tour of the Guinness Storehouse and Jameson Distillery at your own pace. Explore the history and enjoy the taste of Ireland's two most famous drinks. Take your Guinness journey to new height at The Gravity Bar while soacking in breathtaking 360 degrees view of Dublin's skyline.

FROM$480/ per group

Vivid Voyages

Private Tour of Dingle and Slea Head Drive

Killarney

Comprehensive tour of the Dingle Peninsula, considered by some to be the most beautiful place on earth! Sandy beaches and green rolling landscapes with many ancient archeological ruins.

FROM$750/ per group

Mary O.

Dublin City Private Sightseeing Day Tour

Enjoy a private sightseeing tour of Dublin city with a local tour guide who be take to visit many locations on both sides of the river Liffey. You will also get to view some hidden gems!

FROM$799/ per group

Jason N.

The best of Wicklow, with a local, by limousine. A full day out!

This is a driven day tour of the 'Garden of Ireland' as County Wicklow is known. We will visit Powerscourt Gardens, Wicklow National Park and Glendalough. A hike could be included in the day if requested - or a sheep dog demo. (admissions/demos are extra). I am the eighth generation of an upland farm, with sheep and cattle, so know the area very well, and am proud to show it to guests.

Half day Dublin Jameson Distillery and Guinness Storehouse private tour

View All Ireland Private Cars

Self guided tour of the Guinness Storehouse and Jameson Distillery at your own pace. Explore the history and enjoy the taste of Ireland's two most famous drinks. Take your Guinness journey to new height at The Gravity Bar while soacking in breathtaking 360 degrees view of Dublin's skyline.

FROM$480/ per group

Vivid Voyages

Ireland Tour Reviews

Ken P.

5 / 5

Sep 18, 2024

The best of Wicklow, with a local, by limousine. A full day out!

Sep 18, 2024

“A Nice Day In the Country”

Best of Wicklow was a nice day in the country. Dairine was informative engaging and extremely open on the history of the area Her knowledge extended beyond history to the local plants wild life and geography She has deep roots in the local area dating back multiple generations of farming Highlight of our trip to Ireland

Dairine N.

Thank you for that lovely review - I delighted to hear you enjoyed your day in Wicklow and it was a pleasure to tour with you both.

Emma D.

5 / 5

Sep 7, 2023

The Making of Modern Ireland Walking Tour

Sep 7, 2023