9 Small Group Day Tours From Dublin ( Top Rated!)

Hi, are you in Dublin and looking for only small group day tours from Dublin to explore other parts of Ireland?

Aha! Let me guess – are you an introvert? Or someone who enjoys exciting interactions? Or do you hate wasting time waiting for others?

Maybe you are like me. I am not comfortable to be in a large group. However, I like socializing, interacting, and being close with the tour participants.

You came to the right place! 

You can save time and energy researching by referring to the best small group day tours from Dublin listed below and making the most of your time in the Emerald Isle!

1. Dublin To Powerscourt, Wicklow, Guinness Lake, Glendalough Tours

2. (Small Group) Cliffs Of Moher And Castle Tour From Dublin

3. Afternoon Dublin Mountain Pub Tour (Small Group Pub Crawl Max 15)

4. Dublin To Enniskerry, Wicklow, Guinness Lake, Glendalough Tours

5. Dublin & Wicklow Mountain Pub Tour Small Group Tour Max 15 People

6. Aran Islands Scenic Flight And Galway Rail Tour From Dublin

7. Dublin To Newgrange, Bru Na Boinne, Monasterboice Monastic Site

8. Dublin To Wicklow And Glendalough Guided Tours With Horse Riding

9. Howth Peninsula Hiking Tour Overlooking Dublin Bay

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Small Group Day Tours From Dublin:

1. Dublin To Powerscourt, Wicklow, Guinness Lake, Glendalough Tours

Why is it one of the top day trips from Dublin?

Starting in Dublin City Center, you will be brought to enjoy the scenery of the 6 top locations in one of Ireland’s counties, Wicklow.

After 30 minutes of journey by bus, you will stop at the first location, Powerscourt House and Gardens. You have about 1.5 hours to explore the gardens or enjoy dining and shopping.

FYI, National Geographic voted the garden as the 3rd Best Garden in the world!

For lunch, you will go to Enniskerry Village Square (“Leap Year” film location) to fill your stomach before a scenic drive through Wicklow Mountains National Park.

Psst! You will travel along Sally Gap to enjoy the breathtaking natural view of hills with running streams and meadows, plus sheep!

Small group day tours from dublin

You must take the chance to capture as many photos as possible!

Last but not least, you will visit the last 3 locations, Old Military Road (“P.S. I Love You” Bridge), Lough Tay (Guinness Lake), and Glendalough Monastic Settlement for a leisure walk around Glendalough.

The Dublin To Powerscourt, Wicklow, Guinness Lake, Glendalough Tours include:

  • Local guide or driver
  • Live commentary
  • Bus
  • Pick-up and drop-off service at Dublin City Center
  • Infant seats
  • €8 off of the Powerscourt Gardens ticket price

What past guests loved about the tour:

“As a solo traveler this one of my fondest memories. Exploring the side of Ireland most only dream about. I was extremely excited to see the Gunniess Lake and Glendalough. Kevin out tour guide was amazing.”

Teneya_P (read more reviews)

2. (Small Group) Cliffs Of Moher And Castle Tour From Dublin

Why is it one of the top day trips from Dublin?

If you wish to enjoy a coastal tour but only have 1 day, choose this tour to explore Ireland’s western coastline, which Paddywagon Tour Dublin organizes!

This small group tour also ensures you enjoy personal service and is perfect if you wish to treat your loved one on a special occasion!

Starting from Dublin City Center, a luxury Mercedes van will bring you to a coastal county, Clare – famous for its limestone landscape, quaint towns, and iconic towering cliffs.

You will travel through Wild Atlantic Way, which has magical coastal views that will leave you in awe, especially if you are a sea lover! 

Small group day tours from dublin

When you arrive at the Cliffs of Moher area, you will be dropped at Doolin Pier to enjoy it from the ocean at your own expense.

Alternatively, you can enjoy the Cliffs from the Visitor Centre (700 feet above). 

Consider spending the allocated 1.5 hours exploring the cliffside trails and enjoying breathtaking views overlooking Galway Bay, Aran Island, and Connemara.

Lastly, you will explore Bunratty Castle and Folk Park. 

Small group day tours from dublin

Since you have about 2 hours there, why not enjoy a refreshing pint and late lunch at one of Ireland’s landmark Irish pubs, Durty Nelly’s Pub?

The (Small Group) Cliffs Of Moher And Castle Tour From Dublin includes:

  • Professional and friendly guide
  • Live commentary
  • Air-conditioned luxury Mercedes van
  • Complimentary Wifi
  • Hotel pick-up and drop-off (as listed)
  • Infant seats

What past guests loved about the tour:

“Dominic was a wonderful guide! Full of stories of the history, the land and the people. He entertained us with his folklore and songs and was a wealth of information The sights were amazing and the day went by in a flash!”

Carolyn_M (read more reviews)
Small group day tours from dublin

3. Afternoon Dublin Mountain Pub Tour (Small Group Pub Crawl Max 15)

Why is it one of the top day trips from Dublin?

Not sure how to spend your Sunday afternoon in Dublin? Then book for this Afternoon Dublin Mountain Pub Tour (Small Group Pub Crawl Max 15)!

What a unique way to experience Irish culture by visiting 3 rural Irish pubs located in the Dublin Mountains! Plus, you will also get to enjoy the beautiful scenery of the mountains.

From Dublin City Center to out of the city, you will stop at the first pub, Merry Ploughboy Gastro Pub. It is a cozy local pub located at the foothills.

It’s so much fun to enjoy a locally crafted beer or traditional Irish beverage while chatting and getting to know other tour participants!

Move to the 2nd location, where you will experience the most unique pub: Johnnie Fox’s Pub! It was a farmhouse before turning into a pub.

While there, take the opportunity to enjoy some tasty beers and delicious lunch while enjoying live traditional Irish music and its diverse traditional style.

Then, the tour will take you to Blue Light Pub. What’s special about this local pub is its spectacular view – the best views of Dublin Bay!

It is the perfect spot to end your pub tour as you get to enjoy Guinness with warm fires, especially on a chilly day.

Last but not least, take photos as a group to commemorate the moment!

The Afternoon Dublin Mountain Pub Tour (Small Group Pub Crawl Max 15) includes:

  • Friendly guide
  • Live commentary
  • Air-conditioned vehicle
  • Pick up and drop off service at Dublin City Center

What past guests loved about the tour:

“It was a fantastic, memorable tour. Our guide, Shane, was excellent! I loved every minute! The countryside was beautiful. I highly recommend this tour.”

Patty_K (read more reviews)
Small group day tours from dublin

4. Dublin To Enniskerry, Wicklow, Guinness Lake, Glendalough Tours

Why is it one of the top day trips from Dublin?

This tour brings you to see a different side of Ireland, focusing on Wicklow National Park and Glendalough!

First, you will enjoy a 1.5-hour short hike in Scalp while enjoying views of the Irish and Wicklow Coastline, Wicklow Mountains National Park, and Dublin City.

When it’s time for lunch, you will stop at a small Victorian Village named Enniskerry Village Square to enjoy its locally produced foods.

After filling your stomach, you will resume walking around the Wicklow Mountains National Park and will find the Sally Gap in the middle of the Wicklow Mountains. 

Small group day tours from dublin

They offer beautiful natural scenery, and you can stop along the way to enjoy it. And, of course, for photography purposes!

You just need to be always prepared with your photography gear 🙂

If you walk another 8 km, and then you are at Lough Tay or Guinness Lake already.

Small group day tours from dublin

Then, you will be given some time to explore the Glendalough area for its medieval abbey before going into the 6th monastery of St Kevin in Glendalough Monastic Settlement.

The local guide will tell you about its history and folklore.

Lastly, you can spend the last 1 hour of leisure time exploring Glendalough Valley and its two lakes at Glendalough Upper Lake.

The Dublin To Enniskerry, Wicklow, Guinness Lake, Glendalough Tours include:

  • Local guide or driver
  • Live commentary
  • Air-conditioned vehicle
  • Infant seats
  • Pick up and drop off service at Dublin City Center

What past guests loved about the tour:

“We’ve booked the tour to spend a day outside the city (Dublin) and it didn’t disappoint us. Our guide, Robert, was fantastic and had a good sense of humour. The weather was perfect and the walk (short hike) was just what we’d expected. Beautiful views, historical insight and good company (we were a group of 9). We got back to Dublin a little earlier than planned, which was ok as everyone seemed a little tired in the end.”

Daniela_S (read more reviews)

5. Dublin & Wicklow Mountain Pub Tour Small Group Tour Max 15 People

Why is it one of the top day trips from Dublin?

If you are curious about Irish pub culture, then book this tour while you are in Dublin!

This full-day tour will bring you to visit 6 rural Irish pubs in the Dublin and Wicklow Mountains. It is perfect for those who prefer to start touring in the evening!

Starting in the countryside of Dublin, Dublin Mountains, you will be brought to 2 different rural pubs, The Blue Light Pub and Johnnie Fox’s. 

Then, you will travel through Wicklow Mountains National Park to the Wicklow Mountains to visit a local pub in Roundwood. 

It is located in the center of Wicklow, known as the “Garden of Ireland”.

Next, you will spend more time at Glenmalure Lodge to enjoy your pints and dinner while mingling with friendly locals and the tour participants. 

After dinner, you will hike down the hill to Rathdrum. It is a small local community where you will spend time chatting in the local country pub.

Small group day tours from dublin

For the 6th or last pub, The Harbour Bar is a good choice to end your pub tour! 

With live Irish traditional music and a massive selection of local beers, it is definitely a moment to remember!

The Dublin & Wicklow Mountain Pub Tour Small Group Tour Max 15 People includes:

  • Local guide
  • Air-conditioned vehicle
  • Pick-up and drop-off service at Dublin City Center

What past guests loved about the tour:

“Shane was an amazing guide on our Mountain pub tour. Full of local knowledge, history and laughs along the way. This excursion is a must thing to do to experience real pubs , real people, great drinks, authentic food and beautiful landscapes away from Dublin.”

Jeff_M (read more reviews)
Small group day tours from dublin

6. Aran Islands Scenic Flight And Galway Rail Tour From Dublin

Why is it one of the top day trips from Dublin?

Railtours Ireland First Class organizes one of the day trips from Dublin by train, flight, and air-conditioned vehicle for those looking for an adventurous tour of the Aran Islands.

Aran Islands consists of 3 islands: Inis Mor, Inis Meáin, and Inis Oírr Islands. The largest and most popular one is Inis Mor Island, where this tour will bring you!

This tour will start early in the morning by boarding the 3-hour train from Dublin to Galway. There is so much to see along the journey! Relax and enjoy the view!

Once you arrive, you will travel to Connemara Airport for a 10-minute flight to Inis Mor. It’s a short but enjoyable flight with views of Galway’s coast and Inis Mor’s villages and fields! 

Small group day tours from dublin

In Inis Mor, you will enjoy a scenic island tour through beautiful limestone landscapes, thatched cottages, sandy beaches, medieval churches, and Celtic stone crosses.

To complete your island tour, you will stop at a few places. The main highlight is Dun Aonghasa or Dun Aengus Fort.

Within 75 minutes, wander around the semi-circular prehistoric fort and listen to its history, guided by the guide. 

Also, take this opportunity to capture photos and record videos of the thrilling views!

Then, it is time to eat! You will fill your stomach at a pub in Kilronan before continuing the journey to Na Seacht Teampaill or The Seven Churches.

Unlike the name, there are only 2 churches still standing there: Teampall Brecan and Teampall An Phoill.

It is the end of your island tour. You will fly back to Galway and enjoy some free time in the city before riding another train back to Dublin. 

The Aran Islands Scenic Flight And Galway Rail Tour From Dublin includes:

  • Qualified and professional guide or driver
  • Live commentary
  • Flight
  • Reserved seat on the train
  • Host on train
  • Air-conditioned vehicle
  • Information pack

What past guests loved about the tour:

“Out of the 5 days that I stayed in Ireland this by far was the best day of my entire trip. Got to experience a scenic route via train and a private plane, not to mention the hike as well as ample amount of time in Galway. I would highly recommend this to anyone that travels.”

ayjp89 (read more reviews)

7. Dublin To Newgrange, Bru Na Boinne, Monasterboice Monastic Site

Why is it one of the top day trips from Dublin?

If you are a history lover wondering about Irish people and their history, book this tour to bring you centuries back!

Booking this tour also means you are ready to go to Boyne Valley, home of historical sites with mythical landscapes.

You will be brought to a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Newgrange, as a first stop. It is located within the Brú na Bóinne Complex with Knowth and Dowth.

Besides its purpose as a burial site, it is important to Ireland’s Neolithic people to align with winter solstice during that time.

Then, you will move to the second stop, Oldbridge State or Battle of the Boyne Visitors Center. 

FYI, The Battle of the Boyne in 1690 decided the ruling class in Ireland, Britain, and Europe.

If you are interested in learning more about this historical place, you may pay for the self-guided tour at the entrance.

The last historical site you will visit is Monasterboice Monastic Site or Mainistir Bhuithe (Monastery of Buithe), the 5th-century St. Bhuite monastery. 

This area has 2 churches, 1 Round Tower, and 3 famous Celtic High Crosses. The highest and finest high cross is Muiredach’s High Cross!

That wraps up your history tour in Boyne Valley before you are dropped off at the meeting point.

The Dublin To Newgrange, Bru Na Boinne, Monasterboice Monastic Site includes:

  • Qualified friendly guide or driver
  • Live commentary
  • Minibus
  • Entrance Fee of Newgrange and Bru Na Boinne
  • Infant seats
  • Pick up and drop off service at Dublin City Center

What past guests loved about the tour:

“This was the best tour we did in Ireland. I recommend it to everyone. Our guide, Johnny was a font of information and brought many historic stories to life. The tour included trips to both Knowth, and Newgrange. At Knowth there are over 20 tombs and you get to climb up on top of the main tomb structure for a stunning view where 14 houses once stood. Knowth has a fabulous visitor center with great information. You will be doing a lot of walking, so wear comfortable shoes. At Newgrange, you get to go inside and they simulate the light from the solstice into the chamber. It’s awesome. Johnny also took us to a lunch spot where the Battle of the Boyne was held, the major shift in 1690 to English rule. He split us up in groups to tell us the story, including what happened to one of the traitors. The gardens were beautiful there. And he also took us to Monasterboice to see the Celtic crosses, which was awesome!”

Serina_C (read more reviews)
Small group day tours from dublin

8. Dublin To Wicklow And Glendalough Guided Tours With Horse Riding

Why is it one of the top day trips from Dublin?

This tour is customized for you who want to enjoy the wildness and beauty of Wicklow differently by riding a horse!

Yup, it’s a horseback riding! A beginner with no experience also can join this tour.

The journey to Wicklow will start in Dublin and stop at Killegar Stables in Enniskerry, where your horseback riding adventure in Wicklow starts!

There is an assessment to confirm if you are fit for the activity. If you pass, you will be taken to a nearby horseback riding track.

An experienced guide leads the ride. You will be brought through the woods and get to enjoy the views of Wicklow from the back of a horse.

Small group day tours from dublin

The views are so magical that you want to stop for photos (Psst: please do so 🙂).

After the horse riding, you must be left with less energy, right? But you still have a lot to explore! 

You will be heading to Enniskerry Village Square, a small Victorian Estate Village, for the locally produced lunch.

Then, you will continue the tour through the breathtaking Wicklow Mountains National Park, where you can see the Lough Tay or Guinness Lake.

Do not hesitate to ask your guide for a photography stop. The scenic view is worth it!

As you pass by Sally Gap, you will definitely stop along the road. The natural scenery is speechless, and you won’t get it anywhere else!

You will also visit the 6th-century monastic site of St Kevin at Glendalough Monastic Settlement before going to Glendalough Upper Lake to enjoy the beautiful valley and its 2 lakes.

Not many tour operators offer horse riding tours. This is one of the best day trips from Dublin with horse riding experience.

The Dublin To Wicklow And Glendalough Guided Tours With Horse Riding includes:

  • Local guide or driver
  • Live commentary
  • Horses
  • Boots and helmets
  • Infant seats
  • Pick up and drop off service at Dublin City Center

What past guests loved about the tour:

“Lovely views and vistas. Richard was a great tour guide. We first stopped at the stables for a 90 minute horseback ride through woods and bog, guided by Joe and Emily. They made sure we were safe on the horses and we got to walk and trot on the trail. We next headed to Enniskerry for a delicious lunch at Poppies, home cooking. Driving through the mountainous bogs, lots of views and understanding of how the mountains hold and filter rainwater. Next down to Glendalough for a hike through St. Kevin’s cemetery and to Lower and Upper Lakes.”

Peggy_M (read more reviews)
Small group day tours from dublin

9. Howth Peninsula Hiking Tour Overlooking Dublin Bay

Why is it one of the top day trips from Dublin?

This hiking tour by Howth Adventures brings you to trek along the coastline of Howth Peninsular and explore its culture, history, and beauty.

Starting in Howth Harbor, you will walk uphill, heading to the top of Howth Head through woodlands along rustic and less traveled trails. 

As said by H.G. Wells, Howth Head has the most beautiful view in the world!

Small group day tours from dublin

While there, you will go for a cliff walk to the Cliff Path Loop. The view is unbelievable as you can see Howth Harbour, Ireland’s Eye, and Lambay Island from there.

Next, you are going to Sutton. You will walk around the bottom of Shielmartin Hill overlooking Dublin Bay to Martello Tower Sutton – Dublin’s hidden gem!

Besides visiting the tower, you can enjoy the secret beaches, smuggler caves, and the panoramic view. They are FREE!

You will continue hiking along the cliff paths to Baily Lighthouse, and the hike will stop at Howth Submit. It offers breathtaking views of Dublin Bay, Wicklow Mountains, and Baily Lighthouse.

Then, you return to the harbor by walking along the old tramlines. However, the routes may be different for each tour, depending on the weather and tides.

The Howth Peninsula Hiking Tour Overlooking Dublin Bay includes:

  • Expert local trekking guide
  • Live commentary

What past guests loved about the tour:

“The hike around Howth was beautiful and fun. It was about 9 miles with some hills – hiking shoes are helpful. The views were amazing. Our tour consisted of 7 people – 2 families of three and one single person. A great group with easy conversation. Dee is a wonderful guide! She’s friendly and local and very knowledgable. Her stories and enthusiasm made the hike even better. This was a hike she did regularly even before she was a top-notch tour guide. If you’re staying in Dublin, just hop on the DART to Howth. Easy trip and highly recommended.”

William_B (read more reviews)

FAQs on Small Group Day Tours From Dublin

2-day Tours From Dublin Recommendations

You can refer to the 5 websites below for the 2-day tours from Dublin recommendations. 

It is perfect for you who have more than 1 day in Dublin and wish to explore outside the capital without any hustle.

Is It Worth It To Join Small Group Day Tours From Dublin?

Wondering if it is worth it to join small group day tours from Dublin? Yes, it is worth it to join small group day tours from Dublin.

You get to:

  • Explore authentic local attractions, foods, and history
  • Share experiences with like-minded tour participants
  • Have close friendships
  • Travel without worry about your security since you are in a group
  • Save money since small group tours are affordable

Pros And Cons Of Small Group Tours

So, what are some pros and cons of small group tours?

Pros of Small Group Day Tours From Dublin:

  • Build connections with other tour participants
  • Create incredible memories together
  • More fun and safe

Cons of Small Group Day Tours From Dublin:

  • There is potential for arguments
  • Hard to find personal space
  • Less opportunity to ask questions

More Tour Options To Explore Dublin and Ireland

Wondering about more tour options to explore Dublin and Ireland? Besides the best day tours from Dublin listed above, here are more tour options to explore Dublin and Ireland:

How Can I Avoid Being Scammed By Tour Operators?

So, how can I avoid being scammed by tour operators? Do your part to avoid being scammed by tour operators by following the tips below:

  • Research the tour operators
  • Contact previous customers
  • Book through reputable websites:
  • Arrange for a meeting before paying
  • Ask for the trip and the tour operators’ details
  • Do not pay in full as a deposit

What Should I Pack For A Day Tour In Ireland?

Curious about what you should pack for a day tour in Ireland? What you pack for a day tour in Ireland is crucial to ensure you have a stress-free tour. So, make sure to come prepared by packing the items listed below:

When Is the Best Time To Visit Ireland?

Looking for the best time to visit Ireland? The best time to visit Ireland varies depending on your preferences and what you are looking for. 

I would recommend you visit the Emerald Isle (Ireland) in May, September, and October. 

Daytime is longer within these months, besides to avoid summer (crowded and expensive) and winter (cold).

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