Shore Excursion from Dublin: Including Dublin highlights and Glendalough

Travelers visiting Dublin port often look for a way to see the city’s top sights alongside some of Ireland’s most scenic landscapes. This full-day shore excursion promises just that—combining a scenic drive through County Wicklow with an exploration of Glendalough’s ancient monastic ruins, topped off with a quick tour of Dublin’s most iconic landmarks. Offered by Paddywagon Tours and averaging a 4.0-star rating from over 100 reviews, this trip is a popular choice for cruise passengers wanting a snapshot of Ireland’s natural beauty and historic charm.

One thing we really appreciate about this tour is its focus on Ireland’s lush landscapes—you’ll get sweeping views of mountains, lakes, and rolling hills that look like they jumped straight out of a postcard. The inclusion of Glendalough’s monastic site, with its ancient round tower and legendary cross, offers a tangible connection to Ireland’s early Christian history. On the downside, some reviews highlight the importance of punctuality and guide knowledge, so it’s worth considering how those factors might influence your experience. This tour is best suited for travelers seeking a blend of scenic beauty, history, and city highlights within a manageable time frame and budget.

Key Points

• Balanced blend of city highlights and scenic landscapes in County Wicklow
• Expert driver-guides provide lively commentary, though some reviews mention inconsistent knowledge
• Convenient pickup and drop-off directly at Dublin port simplifies logistics
• A well-rounded experience for those short on time but eager to see multiple facets of Ireland
• Price reflects good value, combining transportation, guided commentary, and scenic stops
• Weather can impact the schedule and overall experience, especially for outdoor attractions

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

The Pickup and First Impressions

The excursion kicks off early at 8:00 am, with pickup from Dublin port. The coach promises climate-controlled comfort and WiFi onboard, making the journey pleasant even in unpredictable Irish weather. One repeat visitor appreciated the smooth pickup, mentioning that the process was “very convenient” and that the driver greeted the group with friendliness. The small group size—capped at 58 travelers—also means fewer crowds and more personalized attention, which many guests enjoy.

Scenic Drive through County Wicklow

The first leg of the trip takes you through Wicklow, often called the “Garden of Ireland” for its verdant hills, lakes, and rugged mountains. The scenery alone is worth the price of admission. Reviewers consistently mention the stunning landscapes, with one describing it as “every photographer’s dream” thanks to the lakes and rolling turf hills.

As you pass by Wicklow’s picturesque mountains and lakes, your guide will offer fun facts and stories—though, as some reviewers note, the depth of knowledge varies. One guest recalled a guide who was “wonderful and very knowledgeable,” adding humor and local lore that made the ride both informative and entertaining.

Glendalough Monastic Settlement

The highlight for many is the stop at Glendalough, famed for its 6th-century monastic ruins and Ireland’s finest round tower. The site is beautifully preserved, with ruins surrounded by lush greenery and two serene lakes. Visitors can walk at their own pace through the ruins, touching the stones of St. Kevin’s cross—legend says that if you touch it, you’ll be married within a year.

One reviewer shared that they “really enjoyed seeing the Glendalough monastery,” describing it as “very pretty” with a “nice little walk through the woods to the lake.” The site’s atmosphere of tranquility is enhanced by the legend of St. Kevin, which adds a mystical touch.

However, some reviews mention that the time at Glendalough can feel rushed. One guest noted that their guide, concerned about time constraints, shortened their visit to just over an hour—especially frustrating if you’re keen on exploring more thoroughly. This highlights a common challenge in short tours: balancing quality with time.

Return Journey: Passing by Wicklow’s Natural Beauty

On the way back to Dublin, the coach routes through Wicklow’s magnificent lakes and turf hills, offering more chances for photos and quiet reflection. Several reviews emphasize the picture-perfect scenery—you might find yourself tempted to hop off the coach for a quick snap or two.

Dublin City Drive and Grafton Street Shopping

After arriving back in Dublin, the tour transitions into a panoramic city drive. Highlights include O’Connell Street, Ha’Penny Bridge, and the chance to admire the exterior of St Patrick’s Cathedral and Trinity College from outside. The guide shares fascinating tidbits about Dublin’s history and architecture, though, as some reviewers point out, the quality of commentary can vary depending on the guide.

You’ll then have about two hours to explore Grafton Street, Dublin’s most famous shopping thoroughfare. Whether you’re after Irish arts and crafts, luxury brands, or just soaking up the vibrant street atmosphere, this stop offers plenty of options. Many guests appreciated the chance to pick up souvenirs or enjoy some Irish lunch—note that lunch isn’t included in the tour price.

Practical Details and What You Can Expect

Transportation: The use of an air-conditioned coach ensures comfort, and WiFi allows you to share photos or check messages during the drive. The vehicle is designed for small to medium-sized groups, making interaction more personal.

Timing: The tour starts at 8:00 am and generally lasts about 8 hours. The schedule is tightly planned to fit in the key sights, but weather or delays (such as late disembarkation from the cruise) can impact timing. Several reviews mentioned delays caused by weather or misunderstandings with pickup points, so arriving promptly is advised.

Guide Quality: While many found the driver/guide friendly and engaging, some reviews suggest uneven knowledge or disinterest from certain guides. If your guide is particularly lively and humorous—like the reviewer who called Connor “wonderful and very knowledgeable”—you’ll have a more enriching experience.

Cost and Value: At approximately $91.73 per person, the tour offers good value when considering transportation, guided commentary, and scenic stops. However, keep in mind that lunch is not included, and some guests felt the time at Glendalough was a bit rushed, which could impact perceived value.

Weather Considerations: Irish weather can be unpredictable, and tours have been canceled or cut short due to storms or rough seas affecting port access. Several guests appreciated that the tour was still offered despite weather issues, but those expecting a full day may need to be flexible.

Authentic Experiences from Reviewers

Several guests highlight the personal touch of guides. One particularly touching review shared that visiting the monastic cemetery where an ancestor was buried was “super,” even if the gravestone wasn’t found. Others appreciated guides who tried to salvage the trip when weather caused delays, with one saying, “Alex took lemons and tried to make lemonade,” demonstrating genuine effort to enhance the experience despite setbacks.

The scenery at Glendalough often receives praise: “breathtaking,” “very pretty,” and “like a movie set.” The views of Wicklow’s mountains and lakes are repeatedly described as “spectacular,” so if you’re into landscape photography or just love nature, this tour won’t disappoint.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This excursion suits travelers who want a balanced taste of Ireland’s city life and country scenery in a single day. It’s ideal if you’re short on time but eager to see iconic landmarks, scenic landscapes, and immerse yourself briefly in Irish history. The small group size and direct port pickup make for a hassle-free experience, especially for cruise passengers.

However, if you’re a “must-see-everything” traveler or have particular interests in detailed history or extended exploration, this might feel a touch rushed—particularly at Glendalough. The weather can also be a wildcard, so flexible travelers will appreciate the effort to run the tour despite possible delays.

FAQ

Is lunch included in this tour?
No, lunch is not included. You’ll have the opportunity to purchase food or enjoy a quick refreshment stop during the day.

What is the duration of the tour?
The full tour lasts approximately 8 hours, starting at 8:00 am and ending back at Dublin port around 4 pm, depending on conditions.

Are WiFi and air conditioning available on the coach?
Yes, the coach is air-conditioned and offers WiFi onboard, making the journey comfortable and connected.

Can I expect a lot of walking?
The walking at Glendalough is manageable—mainly walking around the ruins and scenery. The rest of the day involves mostly sitting during the drive.

What if the weather is bad?
Irish weather can be unpredictable. Tours may be canceled or shortened due to adverse conditions. The operator offers full refunds or rescheduling options if weather causes cancellations.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and children must be accompanied by an adult. It’s suitable for families looking for a scenic and cultural outing.

Final Thoughts

This Dublin and Wicklow shore excursion offers a solid snapshot of Ireland’s natural beauty and historical sites. Its value lies in the combination of scenic landscapes, ancient ruins, and city highlights—all accessible within a manageable day. You’ll love the views, the stories shared by guides, and the ease of picking up at the port. Just be prepared for the weather and potential schedule adjustments.

Perfect for cruise travelers who want a taste of Ireland without overextending, this tour provides a practical, enjoyable way to make the most of your limited time ashore. Whether you’re captivated by Glendalough’s ruins or just want to relax and soak up Irish scenery, this trip delivers a little bit of everything.

To sum it up, if you’re after a well-rounded, budget-friendly day trip that combines nature, history, and city sights, this tour ticks most boxes. Expect friendly guides, stunning landscapes, and a good dose of Irish charm—just keep your schedule flexible and your camera ready.