2-Hour Historical Walking Tour from Dublin
Active
2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
This is more than just a 'sightseeing tour' (but there's plenty to see) but an in-depth presentation of the main features of Irish history—the English conquest, the influences of the American and French Revolutions, the Great Hunger, the struggle for independence, the Northern Ireland Peace Process, Brexit—by a history postgraduate.
Available options
2-Hour Historical Walking Tour from Dublin
What's included
Included is the expertise of our guides who are all history postgraduates.
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Tours leave from the Grattan statue, College Green, opposite Trinity College front gate and enter the campus where we outline its history as Ireland's oldest university (1592) & its most valuable artefact, the Book of Kells, an 8th century manuscript of the four Gospels, written in Latin.
2
Originally Ireland's colonial parliament, built in 1729, abolished by the Act of Union in 1800, symbolic of 'Protestant Ascendancy', particularly in the 18th century & of the period's neo-classical architecture.
3
Stop 3
Originally ear-marked for demolition, this area of narrow streets was repurposed as 'Dublin's Cultural Quarter' in the 1990s.
4
Wood Quay was the site of extensive archaeological excavation in the 1980s of the Viking city, who had founded the city in AD 840.
5
Ireland's legal headquarters, where a Civil War started in June 1922, between those who supported, and those who opposed, the Treaty of December 1921, which had brought to an end the War of Independence 1919-21.
6
Stop 6
Dublin's oldest cathedral (1030), rebuilt in stone in the 1170s by Strongbow, who was central to the original English invasion of the 1170s.
7
Stop 7
Inside is a statue of Daniel O'Connell, Dublin's first Catholic Lord Mayor (1840). He led a successful campaign for Catholic Emancipation (1829), the end of all anti-Catholic laws, hence he's known as 'The Liberator'.
8
Stop 8
Originally built by ('Bad') King John in 1204, it was the seat of British administration until 1922. Also the location of the Dubh Linn (Black Pool), from which Dublin gets its name.
What's not included
Entry to the Book of Kells.
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.8
133 reviews
5★
118
4★
5
3★
7
2★
0
1★
3
Tripadvisor
4.9
728 reviews
5★
691
4★
18
3★
8
2★
6
1★
5
Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Meeting point
Tours leave from the Grattan statue, College Green, opposite Trinity College front gate.
Important notes
Hand to our guide at the start of the tour.
About Dublin
Dublin, the capital of Ireland, is a vibrant city rich in history, culture, and charm. Known for its welcoming atmosphere, literary heritage, and lively pub scene, Dublin offers a unique blend of medieval architecture, modern amenities, and stunning coastal landscapes.
Top Attractions
Trinity College and the Book of Kells
Trinity College is Ireland's oldest university and home to the famous Book of Kells, a beautifully illustrated manuscript from the 9th century.
Historical
1-2 hours
€16 (Book of Kells exhibition)
Guinness Storehouse
The Guinness Storehouse is a seven-story interactive experience dedicated to the history and brewing process of Ireland's most famous beer.
Cultural
2-3 hours
€25-€30
Kilmainham Gaol
Kilmainham Gaol is a former prison that played a significant role in Irish history, particularly during the struggle for independence.
Historical
1-2 hours
€8
Dublin Castle
Dublin Castle has been a symbol of British rule in Ireland for centuries and is now a major government complex and tourist attraction.
Historical
1-2 hours
€10-€12
St. Patrick's Cathedral
St. Patrick's Cathedral is one of Dublin's most impressive churches, known for its stunning architecture and historical significance.
Religious
1 hour
€7.50
Phoenix Park
Phoenix Park is one of the largest urban parks in Europe, offering a peaceful escape from the city with its lush greenery and wildlife.
Nature
2-3 hours
Free
Must-Try Local Dishes
Irish Stew
A hearty dish made with lamb or beef, potatoes, carrots, and onions, slow-cooked to perfection.
Main Course
Contains meat, can be made vegetarian
Boxty
A traditional Irish potato pancake made with grated and mashed potatoes, flour, and buttermilk.
Side Dish
Vegetarian
Coddle
A comforting dish made with sausages, bacon, potatoes, and onions, slow-cooked in a rich broth.
Main Course
Contains meat
Soda Bread
A traditional Irish bread made with flour, baking soda, and buttermilk, known for its dense texture and slightly tangy flavor.
Bread
Vegetarian
Popular Activities
Hiking in the Wicklow Mountains
Kayaking on the River Liffey
Rock climbing at Dublin Rock Climbing Centre
Spa day at a luxury hotel
Strolling through St. Stephen's Green
Enjoying a pint in a cozy pub
Visiting museums and galleries
Attending a traditional music session
Best Time to Visit
June to August
Summer is the peak tourist season with the warmest weather and longest daylight hours. This is the best time for outdoor activities and festivals.
15°C to 20°C
59°F to 68°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Irish, English
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Time Zone
GMT (UTC+0) or GMT+1 during daylight saving time
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Dublin is generally safe, with low levels of violent crime. However, petty crime such as pickpocketing and bag snatching can occur, especially in tourist areas and on public transport.
Getting there
By air
- Dublin Airport • 10 km (6 miles) north of the city center
By train
Heuston Station, Connolly Station
By bus
Busáras Central Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Dublin Bus offers a comprehensive network covering the entire city and surrounding areas.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Free Now, Uber
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Temple Bar
Dublin 2 (City Center)
Dublin 4 (Ballsbridge and Sandymount)
Dublin 7 (Smithfield and Stoneybatter)
Dublin 8 (The Liberties)
Day trips
Howth
13 km (8 miles) from Dublin • Half day to full day
A charming coastal village known for its scenic cliffs, fishing harbor, and fresh seafood.
Malahide Castle and Gardens
14 km (9 miles) from Dublin • Half day
A historic castle and beautiful gardens offering a glimpse into Ireland's medieval past.
Glendalough
50 km (31 miles) from Dublin • Full day
A scenic monastic site and glacial valley in the Wicklow Mountains, known for its ancient ruins and hiking trails.
Festivals
St. Patrick's Festival • March 17
Dublin Theatre Festival • September-October
Temple Bar Traditional Music Festival • March
Pro tips
- Visit the Guinness Storehouse for a complimentary pint and stunning views of the city
- Explore the historic Trinity College and the Book of Kells, but book tickets in advance to avoid long queues
- Take a stroll through St. Stephen's Green, a beautiful urban park in the heart of the city
- Experience traditional Irish music in a cozy pub, such as The Brazen Head or The Cobblestone
- Try Irish stew, a hearty and comforting dish made with lamb or beef, potatoes, and onions
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
