Guinness Storehouse Ticket and Big Bus Dublin Hop-on Hop-off Tour

Rating: 4.5/5 (based on 246 reviews)
Location: Dublin, Ireland
Price: $74.91 per person
Supplier: Big Bus Tours Dublin
Duration: Approx. 1 hour 30 minutes for the Guinness tour, with unlimited hop-on hop-off bus access for 24 or 48 hours
Ticket Type: Mobile ticket, with fast-track entry to Guinness Storehouse

Introduction

For travelers with limited time in Dublin, combining the fast-track Guinness Storehouse experience with a hop-on hop-off bus tour offers an efficient way to see the city’s highlights without the stress of planning every step. This package promises easy transport, insightful live commentary, and a taste of Ireland’s most iconic brew—plus the chance to avoid long lines at the Guinness flagship.

One thing we love about this combo is the convenience of seamless transportation paired with priority access to one of Dublin’s most popular attractions. However, a possible consideration is that the “fast track” claim at Guinness doesn’t always match reality, so expect some waiting depending on the time of day.

This tour suits visitors wanting a quick but rundown of Dublin’s key sights, especially those on a tight schedule or first-timers eager for an introduction to the city’s charms.

Key Points

• Time-efficient: Combines city sightseeing with skip-the-line access to Guinness Storehouse
• Flexible: Hop-on hop-off buses run for 24 or 48 hours, letting you explore at your pace
• Informative commentary: Live guides and recorded info enhance understanding of Dublin’s history and culture
• Value for money: Includes a full pint of Guinness in the Gravity Bar, plus multiple stops at major sights
• Mixed reviews: Some mention audio issues or busy bars, but overall positive experiences
• Ideal for: First-time visitors, short stays, or those wanting a relaxed, guided overview

The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect

Starting Point: 13 O’Connell Street Upper

The tour kicks off on O’Connell Street, Dublin’s main thoroughfare. Here, you’re in the heart of the city with easy access to shops, cafes, and historical landmarks. The open-top bus begins its journey with lively commentary, often led by engaging guides with a wealth of facts and humor—many reviewers praise guides like Jerry, who was both entertaining and knowledgeable.

Key Stops & Sights

Stop 2: The Book of Kells Experience
Located on Nassau Street, this stop offers visitors a chance to admire the famous illuminated manuscript housed at Trinity College. While the tour itself doesn’t include the college visit, it provides a quick overview of this renowned site, plus nearby attractions like the National Gallery of Ireland.

Stops 3-4: Kilkenny Design & National Gallery
These stops give art lovers and design enthusiasts a taste of Ireland’s creative heritage. The Kilkenny Design Store is perfect for picking up souvenirs, while the National Art Gallery showcases Irish and European artwork—great for a brief cultural fix.

Stops 5-7: Merrion Square, St Stephen’s Green, and Trinity College
Travel between lush parks and historic university grounds, soaking up Dublin’s green spaces and academic atmosphere. Reviewers enjoyed the live commentary for insights into Dublin’s history and architecture.

Stops 9-12: Temple Bar, Dublin Castle, Christ Church Cathedral, St Patrick’s Cathedral
These are Dublin’s most famous neighborhoods and landmarks. Expect to hear lively stories about the city’s history, along with practical tips. A highlight for many is the Temple Bar area, known for its lively pubs and street entertainers.

Stop 13: Teeling Whiskey Distillery
For those interested in Ireland’s whiskey scene, this stop offers a quick glimpse into the craft and heritage of Irish distilling, often paired with tastings.

Stops 14-18: Christchurch Hall, Guinness Storehouse, Pearse Lyons Whiskey, Royal Hospital Kilmainham
This cluster of stops immerses visitors in Dublin’s cultural and brewing history. The Guinness Storehouse is the crown jewel—more on that below.

Additional Stops: Including Heuston Station, Phoenix Park, National Museum, and Nancy Hands Bar—these extend the tour’s scope, offering a comprehensive look at Dublin’s diverse attractions.

The Guinness Storehouse Experience

The highlight for many is the fast-track entry to the Guinness Storehouse. As one reviewer noted, “The Guinness factory was interesting,” and many appreciated skipping long queues. You’ll get a self-guided tour through the brewing process, ending at the Gravity Bar on the 7th floor, where you can enjoy a complimentary pint of Guinness with panoramic views of Dublin.

Some travelers mentioned that while the tickets promise “fast track,” actual wait times can vary depending on the time and day. Several reviews pointed out that the bar areas can get crowded, making it hard to find a seat but still worth the experience for the view and the iconic pint.

The Hop-on Hop-off Bus Experience

The buses operate on a regular schedule, but some reviewers noted that buses don’t always come very often. However, the live commentary makes every trip informative and entertaining, with drivers like Robbie and James receiving praise for their humor and knowledge.

The buses’ flexibility is a major plus—you can hop off at any stop to explore further or stay on for a panoramic overview. Many reviews highlight that the route covers most of Dublin’s key sights, making it an excellent choice for first-timers or travelers wanting to maximize their limited time.

Value and Practical Considerations

Priced at approximately $75, this combined ticket offers very good value considering the skip-the-line advantage at Guinness and the extensive city tour. The unlimited hop-on hop-off ticket for 24 or 48 hours means you can tailor your experience, whether you want a half-day overview or a more relaxed exploration.

A major perk is the live commentary, which many reviewers found both fun and insightful. The recorded commentary, available in 8 languages, ensures that non-English speakers still get a good understanding of Dublin’s highlights.

One common concern was audio issues on some buses, which slightly hampered the experience but seemed to be a minor glitch in an otherwise engaging tour. Also, the “fast-track” label doesn’t guarantee zero wait times, especially during peak hours, so expect some patience.

Note that hotel pick-up and drop-off are not included, so plan your arrival and departure accordingly, especially if staying outside the city center.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

Reviewers repeatedly praised the knowledgeable guides like Jerry and Johnny, who added humor and fascinating facts, making the city’s history come alive. Many also appreciated the stunning views from the Gravity Bar, with one noting that the panoramic vistas made the Guinness experience “a Dublin must-do.”

Several mentioned that food and drink options, such as at Nancy Hands Bar or the Guinness café, were excellent, providing a satisfying break amid sightseeing. The diverse stops—from whiskey distilleries to art galleries—ensure there’s something for all.

Some travelers experienced moments of disappointment, like audio issues or crowded bars, but overall, the experience was rated highly, especially given the convenience and the chance to learn about Dublin while enjoying its must-visit attractions.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This combo tour is perfect for first-time visitors eager to see Dublin’s main sights without the hassle of multiple bookings. It suits short stays where maximizing limited time is essential. History buffs, culture lovers, and beer enthusiasts will all find value here—especially with the priority access to Guinness Storehouse**.

Those interested in a relaxed, guided overview of the city, combined with a chance to indulge in Ireland’s famed stout, will find this offers a good balance of education, entertainment, and convenience.

However, if you prefer a more personalized or in-depth experience at specific attractions, you might want to supplement this with additional tours or visits.

The Sum Up

This combined Guinness Storehouse and Dublin hop-on hop-off tour offers a practical, engaging way to get the most out of a short trip. It balances city sightseeing with fast-track access to a Dublin icon, making it an excellent choice for travelers wanting efficiency without sacrificing depth. The live guided commentary adds a lively touch, and the wide range of stops ensures you’ll see Dublin’s most iconic sights.

While some reviews mention minor issues like bus frequency and audio quality, these are generally overshadowed by the overall value and fun of the experience. You’ll appreciate the flexibility of unlimited travel over 24 or 48 hours, allowing you to explore at your own pace. Plus, the views from the Gravity Bar and the insider stories from guides make it more than just a sightseeing bus.

If you’re seeking a well-rounded, budget-friendly way to familiarize yourself with Dublin’s highlights and enjoy a pint of Guinness in a spectacular setting, this tour should definitely be on your list.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. The hop-on hop-off buses are flexible, and the guided commentary makes it easy to meet others or just enjoy the trip solo.

Does the ticket include hotel pickup?
No. Hotel pick-up and drop-off are not included, so you’ll need to plan your own transportation to the starting point.

How long does the Guinness Storehouse tour last?
The entry itself takes about an hour and a half, including the chance to enjoy a pint in the Gravity Bar and view Dublin from above.

Can I access the Guinness Storehouse directly with my ticket?
Yes, your ticket includes fast-track entry to skip some lines, though wait times can still vary.

How many stops are on the hop-on hop-off route?
There are numerous stops—over 20—including key sights like Trinity College, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Dublin Castle, and Phoenix Park.

What language options are available for commentary?
Live commentary is usually given in English, with recorded options in 8 languages for broader accessibility.

Is the hop-on hop-off service available all day?
Buses run on a schedule, but some reviewers noted they don’t come very often. Check the timetable when planning your day.

Can I buy this ticket last minute?
It’s recommended to book about a month in advance, especially during busy seasons, but last-minute bookings are often possible, subject to availability.

What is the main benefit of this combined tour?
It’s the ease of combining city exploration with priority access to Guinness, making the most of limited time in Dublin while enjoying insightful guides and stunning views.

In essence, this tour is a smart choice for visitors who want to combine Dublin’s top sights with a taste of its most famous brew, all wrapped in a relaxed, fun-filled experience.