Shore Excursion from Dublin: Including Dublin highlights and Glendalough

Key Points

• Full-day tour from Dublin port includes both city highlights and scenic Wicklow countryside
• Visits to Glendalough feature 6th-century monastic ruins, a round tower, and legends surrounding St. Kevin’s cross
• Includes panoramic Dublin drive with stops at Trinity College, Grafton Street, and iconic landmarks like Ha’Penny Bridge
• Transportation in air-conditioned coach with WiFi and live commentary from an experienced driver-guide
• Cost of approximately $91.73 per person with a typical 8-hour duration, suitable for cruise passengers with flexible timing
• Reviews highlight knowledgeable guides and scenic landscapes, but some mention delays or shorter visits due to weather or logistics

This shore excursion from Paddywagon Tours offers a balanced glimpse of Ireland’s vibrant capital and its lush countryside. It suits travelers eager to see key Dublin sights while also enjoying the stunning natural beauty of County Wicklow. The tour is well-suited for those who appreciate comfortable transportation, engaging commentary, and a taste of Irish history and scenery. Keep in mind, timing can be affected by cruise schedules and weather, so flexibility is key.

Dublin and Wicklow: The Highlights of the Day

This 8-hour shore tour begins early in the morning at Dublin Port, with pickup available directly from the cruise dock. The luxury coach features WiFi and climate control, ensuring a comfortable ride throughout the day. A friendly, knowledgeable driver-guide will provide lively commentary, sharing fun facts and historical insights about each stop.

The tour balances time between exploring Ireland’s capital city and County Wicklow, known as the “Garden of Ireland,” for its picturesque mountains, lakes, and rolling hills. The itinerary is designed to give a broad overview of Dublin’s most iconic spots and Wicklow’s lush landscapes, with the flexibility to include shopping and sightseeing.

Scenic Drive through County Wicklow’s Landscape

One of the main attractions of this tour is the scenic drive through Wicklow’s countryside. As the coach winds through rolling hills, lakes, and lush greenery, visitors can appreciate the landscape that has starred in Hollywood films like P.S. I Love You and Braveheart.

The first stop is Glendalough Monastic Settlement, famous for its 6th-century ruins, including Ireland’s finest round tower. The site is also home to St. Kevin’s cross, which legend says can grant marriage within a year if touched. The monastic site offers a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for walking among ancient stones and exploring the ruins of the monastery.

A highlight here is the opportunity to see the round tower and stone cross, and learn about Ireland’s early medieval history. The site is free to visit, and about one and a half hours are allocated for this stop, giving ample time for exploration and photos.

Post-Glendalough: Wicklow’s Lakes and Mountains

After visiting the monastery, the coach continues its scenic return trip to Dublin, passing Wicklow’s stunning lakes and mountains. This stretch provides a photo-worthy view of turquoise lakes, turf hills, and majestic peaks, showcasing the region’s natural beauty.

These landscapes are often a favorite for photographers due to their romantic vistas and postcard-perfect scenes. The drive allows travelers to enjoy Ireland’s unspoiled wilderness, with informative commentary about the area’s historical and cultural significance.

Dublin City Highlights on a Panoramic Tour

Once back in Dublin, the tour offers a two-hour drive around the city, highlighting its most famous landmarks. The Ha’Penny Bridge, a pedestrian bridge over the River Liffey, is a favorite photo spot. The driver-guide points out O’Connell Street, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, and Christchurch Cathedral, along with Trinity College, home to the famous Book of Kells.

This panoramic drive gives a compact overview of Dublin’s architectural and cultural highlights. Travelers also get a quick glance at the Grafton Street shopping district, where they can spend some free time for souvenir shopping in stores that showcase Irish arts and crafts.

Free Time and Shopping on Grafton Street

The tour concludes with about an hour of free time on Grafton Street, Dublin’s premier shopping area. Here, visitors can browse luxury stores, browse Irish souvenirs, or simply enjoy the lively street atmosphere. The area is home to famous stores as well as local cafes and street performers, making it a lively spot to soak in Dublin’s city vibe.

This shopping stop is a great way to pick up authentic Irish gifts, from clothing and crafts to local music and treats. It provides a relaxed opportunity to absorb Dublin’s bustling city life before heading back to the port.

Practical Details: Booking, Timing, and Group Size

The tour departs from Dublin Port at 8:00 am, with pickup starting at 7:30 am for cruise disembarkations. Most bookings are made about 97 days in advance, reflecting its popularity. The maximum group size is 58 travelers, ensuring a relatively intimate experience.

The tour duration is approximately 8 hours, covering all stops and city highlights. The itinerary is flexible to accommodate cruise schedules, with the tour returning to the dock in time for departure. Weather conditions can affect timing, especially for the outdoor stops, so travelers should be prepared for possible changes.

Guide and Transportation Quality

The driver-guide provides live commentary throughout the trip, sharing fascinating stories and insights about Dublin and Wicklow. The air-conditioned coach with WiFi enhances comfort and convenience, making the long drive more enjoyable.

Reviews mention that guides vary in their knowledge and enthusiasm; some are praised as very knowledgeable and humorous, while others are noted to be less engaged or disinterested. The coach’s climate control and WiFi are generally appreciated, as is the smooth transport between stops.

Cost and Value for Money

At $91.73 per person, this tour offers value for those wanting a comprehensive day trip that combines city sights with scenic countryside. The admission to Glendalough is free, and the tour includes port pickup and drop-off, making logistics straightforward.

While lunch is not included, there are options available during the day, and ample time for refreshments and shopping. The small group size and personalized commentary add to the overall experience, providing a personal touch absent from larger tours.

Limitations and Considerations

Some reviews highlight delays or logistical issues, such as waiting times or guides being less informed. Weather can impact the schedule, especially for outdoor visits like Glendalough. Occasional shortened visits at certain stops, due to weather or time constraints, are possible.

Also, because this is a guided coach tour, travelers with mobility issues should verify accessibility options. The tour is best suited for those comfortable with bus travel and walking around historic sites.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This full-day Dublin and Wicklow excursion appeals to cruise passengers wanting to maximize their time ashore with a well-organized, scenic overview. It’s ideal for history enthusiasts, nature lovers, and those eager to see Ireland’s countryside and city highlights in one day.

Travelers who appreciate comfort, engaging guides, and photo opportunities will find this tour rewarding. However, those seeking in-depth exploration or longer visits at each stop might prefer more specialized or private options.

Dublin and Glendalough Shore Excursion: Final Thoughts

This tour offers a balanced mix of scenic beauty and city sights, perfect for cruise travelers seeking a rundown. The scenery of Wicklow is a standout feature, with plenty of photo-worthy views of lakes, mountains, and ruins. The city drive showcases Dublin’s most recognizable landmarks, with time for shopping on Grafton Street to cap the day.

While weather and logistics can sometimes limit the experience, the guides’ storytelling and scenic stops generally shine through. The price point makes it a good value for a full-day tour combining nature, history, and city life. The flexibility to adjust based on cruise schedules makes it a practical choice for many travelers.

This Dublin and Wicklow shore excursion stands out as a solid, enjoyable way to see Ireland’s highlights in one day, especially for those who appreciate scenic landscapes and cultural landmarks.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour from Dublin port?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, including all stops and city sightseeing.

Is lunch included in the price?
No, lunch is not included. Travelers can choose to bring their own or buy food during the free time in Dublin.

What are the main stops on this tour?
Key stops include Glendalough Monastic Settlement with its ruins and round tower, and a panoramic drive around Dublin featuring landmarks like Trinity College, O’Connell Street, and Grafton Street.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children are welcome if accompanied by an adult. However, mobility requirements should be checked based on individual needs.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes suitable for outdoor walking and weather conditions are advised, especially since outdoor stops like Glendalough involve walking.

Can I cancel this tour if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start. Cancellations made less than 24 hours in advance are not refunded.

What is the group size limit?
The maximum group size is 58 travelers, helping maintain a comfortable atmosphere.

Is WiFi available onboard?
Yes, the coach offers WiFi during the trip, making it easy to stay connected.

Who operates this tour?
The tour is run by Paddywagon Tours, known for providing guided coach trips across Ireland and Dublin.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather for outdoor stops. If canceled due to weather, a full refund or reschedule is offered.