Shore Excursion From Dublin: Including Dublin Highlights and Glendalough

This shore excursion from Dublin offers an opportunity to explore the captivating blend of historic landmarks and picturesque countryside that define the Irish capital. Visitors can enjoy the vibrant city center, witnessing the iconic Georgian architecture and bustling atmosphere of O’Connell Street, before venturing out to the serene Glendalough valley. There, they’ll discover the ancient monastic site, marveling at the impressive round tower and intricate stone cross that have stood the test of time. With a chance to shop for unique Irish souvenirs, this excursion promises to provide a well-rounded experience that showcases the rich cultural heritage of Dublin and its surroundings. What awaits those who embark on this journey?

Key Points

• This full-day shore excursion from Dublin offers a comprehensive tour of County Wicklow and Dublin’s highlights, including the medieval monastery of Glendalough.
• The tour provides a panoramic drive showcasing Dublin’s top attractions, such as Trinity College and O’Connell Street, as well as an opportunity to explore the famous Grafton Street.
• Visitors can admire the impressive round tower and intricately carved St. Kevin’s stone cross at the early medieval remains of St. Kevin’s monastery in Glendalough.
• The guide shares captivating legends and history about the sacred site of Glendalough, allowing visitors to enjoy the serene atmosphere of the valley.
• Grafton Street offers a diverse array of shops and boutiques, where visitors can find unique gifts and mementos, such as Aran sweaters, Celtic jewelry, and Waterford crystal.

Overview of the Shore Excursion

The shore excursion from Dublin offers a full-day tour that takes visitors on a scenic journey through the beautiful County Wicklow and the historic city of Dublin.

Guests will travel by air-conditioned coach, soaking in the breathtaking mountains, hills, and glens of County Wicklow.

The highlight of the excursion is a visit to the medieval remains of St. Kevin’s monastery in Glendalough, where they’ll see the iconic round tower and St. Kevin’s stone cross while learning about the site’s rich history and legends.

In Dublin, the tour provides a panoramic drive showcasing the city’s top attractions, including Trinity College and O’Connell Street, along with time for shopping on the famous Grafton Street.

Highlights of Dublin City

During the shore excursion, visitors can view Dublin’s top attractions through a panoramic city drive, including the iconic Trinity College and the bustling O’Connell Street.

Trinity College is home to the famous Book of Kells, a medieval illuminated manuscript that attracts visitors from around the world.

O’Connell Street is Dublin’s main thoroughfare, lined with historic buildings, monuments, and bustling shops and restaurants. Travelers will have the opportunity to explore this vibrant street and browse the famous stores along Grafton Street for souvenirs.

The shore excursion provides a rundown of Dublin’s highlights, allowing visitors to soak in the city’s rich history and lively atmosphere during their limited time in port.

Visiting St Kevin’s Monastery

After exploring the highlights of Dublin city, visitors embark on a scenic journey to the early medieval remains of St Kevin’s monastery in the beautiful County Wicklow.

The monastery, founded in the 6th century, sits nestled in the stunning Glendalough valley and offers a glimpse into Ireland’s rich religious heritage.

Visitors can marvel at the impressive round tower, a symbol of the monastery’s former glory, and the intricately carved St Kevin’s stone cross, which stands as a testament to the skilled craftsmanship of the era.

The guide shares the captivating legends and history of this sacred site, allowing travelers to fully enjoy the serene atmosphere and the timeless allure of Glendalough.

Exploring the Round Tower and Cross

Amid the serene setting of Glendalough, visitors can’t help but be captivated by the towering presence of the impressive round tower, a striking architectural feature that has long intrigued historians and travelers alike.

Standing at over 30 meters tall, the tower is believed to have been constructed in the 10th or 11th century as part of the early medieval monastic settlement.

Nearby, the ancient stone cross provides another glimpse into Glendalough’s rich history. Known as St. Kevin’s Cross, this intricately carved monument offers insights into the religious and cultural significance of the site.

Together, the round tower and stone cross serve as powerful reminders of the enduring legacy of this remarkable Irish heritage site.

Shopping for Souvenirs in Grafton Street

Visitors browsing along Grafton Street, Dublin’s famous shopping district, will find a diverse array of shops and boutiques offering an array of Irish-made souvenirs and local products.

From traditional Aran sweaters and Celtic jewelry to Waterford crystal and Belleek porcelain, the street’s charming stores cater to all tastes and budgets.

Buskers and street performers add to the lively atmosphere, creating an immersive experience for shoppers.

Those looking to bring home a piece of Irish culture and history will be spoiled for choice, with opportunities to find unique gifts and mementos that capture the essence of Dublin.

The pedestrian-friendly street also allows visitors to leisurely browse and soak in the vibrant energy of this iconic Dublin destination.

Transportation and Accessibility Details

The tour includes pickup and drop-off directly at the port, ensuring a seamless transportation experience for participants.

The air-conditioned coach provides comfort throughout the day-long excursion, and on-board WiFi allows travelers to stay connected.

While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, the coach can accommodate strollers, and service animals are permitted.

Public transportation options are available near the tour’s meeting point for those who wish to explore Dublin independently before or after the excursion.

With a maximum group size of 58 travelers, the shore excursion offers a personalized experience as participants soak in the stunning landscapes of County Wicklow and discover the rich history of Dublin’s top attractions.

Inclusions and Additional Information

This shore excursion from Dublin includes a driver/guide who provides live commentary on board the air-conditioned coach. Participants can also take advantage of the on-board WiFi to stay connected throughout the day.

Infant seats are available, and children must be accompanied by an adult. While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s stroller accessible, and service animals are allowed. The meeting point is conveniently located near public transportation options, allowing travelers to explore Dublin independently before or after the excursion.

The maximum group size is 58 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience as the tour ventures into the stunning landscapes of County Wicklow and visits Dublin’s top attractions.

Explore the early medieval remains of St Kevin’s monastery in Glendalough.

Enjoy time to shop for souvenirs in the famous stores along Grafton Street.

Marvel at the beautiful mountains, hills and glens of County Wicklow.

Customer Reviews and Ratings

Travelers have overwhelmingly praised this shore excursion from Dublin, with a 93% positive rating across 93 reviews. Many guests highlighted the knowledgeable and friendly driver-guide, who brought the history and culture of Dublin and Glendalough to life with engaging commentary. The scenic coach journey through the picturesque County Wicklow countryside was a highlight, with ample time to soak in the stunning natural landscapes. Visitors also appreciated the well-organized itinerary, which balanced guided touring and free time for independent exploration in Dublin.

Ratings	Percentage
5 stars	75%
4 stars	18%
3 stars	7%

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

There is no specific dress code for this tour. Visitors should wear comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for walking and spending the day outdoors, as the tour includes both city sightseeing and a visit to the countryside.

Can We Bring Our Own Snacks on the Tour?

Participants can bring their own snacks on the tour. The tour operator encourages bringing snacks and drinks to enjoy during the excursion, as there may not be frequent opportunities for stops along the way.

Is It Possible to Extend the Duration of the Tour?

The tour’s duration can likely be extended, though this would incur an additional fee. Passengers should contact the tour operator directly to inquire about extending the tour and discuss any associated costs or scheduling changes.

How Often Does the Bus Depart From the Port?

The bus departs from the port on a daily basis, with multiple departure times available throughout the day. The specific schedule and frequency of the departures can be confirmed at the time of booking the tour.

Can We Request a Specific Language for the Tour Guide?

Customers can request a specific language for the tour guide when booking this shore excursion. The tour provider aims to accommodate language preferences, though availability may vary. It’s best to inquire about language options during the booking process.

Recap

This comprehensive shore excursion offers travelers an engaging exploration of Dublin’s iconic sights and the captivating medieval monastery of Glendalough.

Visitors will marvel at Trinity College, admire the historic round tower, and enjoy the lively atmosphere of Grafton Street.

With a blend of city highlights and culture, this tour provides a well-rounded experience for those seeking to discover the unique charms of Dublin and its surrounding region.