Two Sides of Dublin: A Private Full-Day Between Coast, Castle and City

DUBLIN BUS TOUR FIELD GUIDE

Two Sides of Dublin: A Private Full-Day Between Coast, Castle and City

A customizable eight-hour private tour that explores either Dublin’s Southside coastline or Northside villages and castles, then returns to the city for afternoon highlights.

Two Sides of Dublin: A Private Full-Day Between Coast, Castle and City.

Duration
8 hours
Location
Dublin
Operator
Hilltoptreks
Category
Bus Tour
Robert Eric Crews
Founder & Editor, The Adventure Collective
Published Verified

This private full-day tour gives you freedom to choose a Southside or Northside route around Dublin and its coastal villages, visit hidden gems such as Dun Laoghaire and Malahide Castle, stop for a memorable lunch at Johnny Fox’s, and finish with an afternoon back in the city tailored to your interests.

Highlights

Outing Highlights

Dublin’s Southern Shoreline: Dun Laoghaire, Killiney and Dalkey
THE COAST

Dublin’s Southern Shoreline: Dun Laoghaire, Killiney and Dalkey

Drive out along Dublin’s southern coastline to small harbours and promenades that most visitors miss—an intimate look at the city’s coastal villages and seaside panoramas on the Southside option.

Malahide Castle and Howth on the Northside
THE CASTLE

Malahide Castle and Howth on the Northside

On the Northside route, explore the old fishing port of Howth and the historic Malahide Castle and gardens, a long‑lived family seat set amid landscaped grounds.

Lunch at Johnny Fox’s and Optional Powerscourt Gardens
THE LOCAL TASTE

Lunch at Johnny Fox’s and Optional Powerscourt Gardens

The tour includes a lunch stop in the Dublin Hills at the famous Johnny Fox’s pub; Southside itineraries can also include an optional visit to Powerscourt House and Gardens.

What the day feels like

What the Day Feels Like

You’ll be collected in the morning and driven outside the confines of the city to see either coastal villages and hillside pubs on the Southside or a fishing port and a historic castle on the Northside; after a leisurely lunch the guide will return you to Dublin for an afternoon of curated city visits chosen from a long menu of options.

Dublin’s Southern Shoreline: Dun Laoghaire, Killiney and Dalkey

THE COAST

Dublin’s Southern Shoreline: Dun Laoghaire, Killiney and Dalkey

Drive out along Dublin’s southern coastline to small harbours and promenades that most visitors miss—an intimate look at the city’s coastal villages and seaside panoramas on the Southside option.

Malahide Castle and Howth on the Northside

THE CASTLE

Malahide Castle and Howth on the Northside

On the Northside route, explore the old fishing port of Howth and the historic Malahide Castle and gardens, a long‑lived family seat set amid landscaped grounds.

Lunch at Johnny Fox’s and Optional Powerscourt Gardens

THE LOCAL TASTE

Lunch at Johnny Fox’s and Optional Powerscourt Gardens

The tour includes a lunch stop in the Dublin Hills at the famous Johnny Fox’s pub; Southside itineraries can also include an optional visit to Powerscourt House and Gardens.

Suitability

Who it's for

Who this tour suits best—and when to contact the operator.

1
Small Groups & CouplesExcellent fit for couples or small private groups who want a fully customizable day and a private vehicle; note that special arrangements are needed for groups larger than eight.
2
First‑time VisitorsIdeal for visitors who want a guided overview that mixes coastal scenery with city highlights while keeping logistics simple; larger parties should contact the operator in advance.
3
History & Culture SeekersA good match for travelers who want flexibility to prioritize castles, cathedrals and distilleries during the afternoon portion, with private guidance to help choose stops; remember to inquire about arrangements for groups over eight.
4
Large PartiesNot ideal without prior coordination—groups larger than eight must contact the operator for a customized itinerary and quote.

Practical planner

Details to review before reserving

Timing & Duration

The private full‑day runs approximately eight hours; a typical schedule is 09:30 to 17:00 but start and finish times can be adjusted for private bookings.

Pickup & Logistics

Pickup is available at your accommodation, the airport or the port in Dublin; because this is a private tour the route and afternoon city visits can be tailored to your interests.

What to Bring

Comfortable walking shoes; rain gear and sunscreen are advised; a camera and a bottle of water.

Group Booking Notes

For groups larger than eight, contact the operator ([email protected]) to arrange a bespoke itinerary and receive a quote.

Booking Notice

Review cancellation policies before reserving.

Frequently asked questions

Planning Your Outing

How long is the Private Day Tour of Dublin?

The tour is an eight-hour full-day experience.

Where does the guide pick us up?

Pickup is available at your accommodation, the airport or the port in Dublin.

Can I customize the itinerary?

Yes. The tour is private and can be organized to your preferences, including choosing a Southside or Northside route and selecting afternoon city stops.

Where will we stop for lunch?

The sample Southside itinerary includes a lunch stop at the famous Johnny Fox’s pub in the Dublin Hills; afternoon activities follow after lunch.

What are typical Northside stops?

Typical Northside stops include the fishing port of Howth and Malahide Castle and gardens.

What if my group is larger than eight people?

For groups larger than eight you should contact the operator for a bespoke itinerary and a quote.

Are the start and end times fixed?

The example schedule is 09:30–17:00, but as a private tour those times can be adjusted to suit your needs.