Afternoon Tea Bus Tour in Dublin

Discover Dublin’s Charm on a Vintage Double-Decker with Afternoon Tea

The Afternoon Tea Bus Tour in Dublin offers a delightful blend of sightseeing and indulgence, all aboard a charming vintage double-decker bus. For $69.17 per person, this 90-minute tour takes you past iconic landmarks like Guinness Brewery, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Trinity College, and the Georgian Dublin area. With three departure times throughout the day, it accommodates various schedules, making it a flexible way to explore the Irish capital.

This tour emphasizes comfort and a relaxed atmosphere, ideal for first-time visitors seeking a gentle overview of Dublin’s highlights. The experience includes afternoon tea with seasonal drinks and delicious snacks, all served on the iconic bus, creating a cozy, engaging environment. While seating is assigned based on booking time and no luggage, prams, or buggies are permitted onboard, the tour’s small group size (max 36 travelers) ensures a friendly and personalized vibe.

Key Points

• Affordable and charming 90-minute sightseeing tour on a vintage double-decker bus.
• Includes afternoon tea, snacks, and hot beverages with options for dietary requirements with 72 hours’ notice.
• Stops at major Dublin sights like Guinness Brewery, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, and the O’Connell Street.
• Flexible scheduling with three departure times each day.
• Highly rated with 5.0/5 rating from over 2,400 reviews, praised for friendly guides, tasty food, and a relaxing atmosphere.
• Not suitable for luggage, prams, or buggies, and no alcohol allowed onboard.

The Unique Experience of Afternoon Tea on a Double-Decker Bus

The vintage front-engined double-decker sets a nostalgic tone for this Dublin tour. As the bus moves through the city, the semi-guided commentary offers insights into the landmarks passed, like Wood Quay and the historic Christchurch Cathedral. The small group size fosters an intimate environment where hosts and guides engage warmly with guests.

The afternoon tea service is a standout feature. Aboard the bus, you enjoy varieties of tea and coffee, along with delicious snacks and delicacies. The menu includes pastries, sandwiches, and sweet treats, with many reviews highlighting the high quality and tasty nature of the food. Guests also receive a souvenir tea cup, adding a charming keepsake to the experience.

From Guinness to Georgian Dublin: Stop Highlights

The tour’s stops are carefully curated to cover both famous landmarks and scenic areas. The Guinness Brewery is a key highlight, allowing you to see the brewery from the outside while hearing stories about its history. The bus then continues into Phoenix Park, one of Europe’s largest enclosed parks, offering a peaceful view of Dublin’s natural beauty.

Next, guests visit O’Connell Street, Dublin’s main thoroughfare, with its impressive monuments and vibrant atmosphere. The stops at Trinity College and the Georgian Dublin area showcase Dublin’s architectural variety and historic charm. The St. Patrick’s Cathedral provides a glimpse into Ireland’s religious and cultural history, completing the tour’s well-rounded sightseeing segment.

The Logistics: Meeting Point, Duration, and Group Size

The tour departs from Stephen Court, 20-22 St Stephen’s Green, a central location near public transportation. The 90-minute ride is designed for a leisurely pace, with pickup and drop-off included at designated meeting points. The group size is limited to 36 travelers, ensuring an intimate experience but also meaning early booking is advisable to secure upstairs seating.

Since the tour is designed for most travelers, including children, it’s an accessible option, though children must be accompanied by an adult. No alcohol is permitted on board, maintaining a family-friendly environment.

Food and Beverage Quality on the Bus

The afternoon tea served on this tour is carefully curated, with varieties of teas and coffees available. The snacks are described as delicious, with some reviews emphasizing that the food exceeds expectations for a tour of this nature. The menu typically includes pastries, sandwiches, and sweet treats like scones, which guests often find divine.

Special dietary requests can be accommodated with 72 hours’ notice, allowing guests with specific needs to enjoy the experience comfortably. The tea cups given as souvenirs add a charming touch to the overall enjoyment.

The Guide and Host Experience

Multiple reviews praise the friendly, knowledgeable hosts who make the experience warm and engaging. Guides like Ella, Leah, and Holly are noted for their enthusiasm and storytelling ability. The bus driver Liam earns special mention for navigating Dublin’s narrow streets with skill, making the ride smooth and comfortable.

Hosts go above and beyond, with some guests mentioning personal touches like singing birthday songs or taking photos to capture memories. The informative commentary strikes a balance, providing enough historical and cultural context without overwhelming.

The Atmosphere and Vibe on the Tour

The decor and presentation of the bus are described as super cute, with table settings and decor that elevate the experience. The relaxed, friendly atmosphere fosters conversation and enjoyment among guests, making this more than just a sightseeing tour — it’s an afternoon of civilized fun.

Guests often comment on the delightful ambiance, describing it as chilled but lively, with great food and drinks. The upstairs seating is popular, so booking early helps secure a prime spot with a view.

Accessibility and Practical Tips

No space is available for luggage, prams, or buggies, so plan accordingly if traveling with small children or carrying large items. The tour is near public transportation, making it easy to access from central Dublin.

It’s advisable to book at least 42 days in advance, as the tour is quite popular, especially during peak seasons. The full refund policy offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour, providing flexibility for change of plans.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This Afternoon Tea Bus Tour suits history buffs, food lovers, and first-time visitors who want a relaxed, enjoyable overview of Dublin. The combination of sightseeing and afternoon tea offers a unique, charming way to explore the city with minimal walking. Guests seeking a family-friendly activity also find this ideal, especially with the upstairs seating for kids.

However, those with large luggage, prams, or buggies should consider other options, as space is limited. The no alcohol policy ensures a family-friendly environment, but guests looking for a lively pub atmosphere may prefer different tours.

Final Thoughts on the Dublin Afternoon Tea Bus

The Dublin Afternoon Tea Bus Tour delivers a beautiful mix of sightseeing, comfort, and indulgence. Its well-curated stops and delicious food make it stand out as a relaxing way to explore the city. The high praise from over 2,400 reviews confirms its popularity and quality, especially for those who appreciate friendly hosts and tasty treats.

While it’s not designed for those with large luggage or seeking a bustling party, this tour excels for families, couples, or solo travelers wanting a memorable, refined Dublin experience. The small group size and charming vintage bus create an atmosphere that feels both intimate and fun. For a delightful and different way to discover Dublin, this tour offers more than just sightseeing — it offers a moment to savor.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 90 minutes, providing a relaxed overview of Dublin’s key sights.

Where does the tour start?
The tour departs from Stephen Court, 20-22 St Stephen’s Green, in central Dublin.

Can dietary restrictions be accommodated?
Yes, special dietary requirements can be requested with 72 hours’ notice.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children are welcome as long as they are accompanied by an adult. Seats upstairs are available for kids if booked early.

What landmarks are included in the stops?
Stops include Guinness Brewery, Phoenix Park, O’Connell Street, Trinity College, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, and parts of Georgian Dublin.

Is there alcohol on board?
No, alcohol is not permitted on the bus to maintain a family-friendly environment.

Are there options for late bookings?
It’s recommended to book at least 42 days in advance due to high demand. Cancellations are free if made 24 hours before.

What makes this tour special?
The combination of vintage bus charm, delicious afternoon tea, and personalized service makes this a memorable way to enjoy Dublin.