Dublin by Car: Best Highlights and Hidden Gems

About This Tour

Dublin Highlights – A Comfortable, Story-Filled Day Around the City Travel between stops in comfort by car—no long walks between locations, no crowded buses, just a relaxed and efficient way to see Dublin’s best in half a day. Book your private tour and make the most of your time in the city with a local guide!

Start your day at Merrion Square, Dublin’s most elegant Georgian square, home to colourful doors, leafy gardens, and the witty Oscar Wilde memorial.

Then step back in time at Christ Church Cathedral, where Vikings, medieval knights, and ancient crypts all come together in one incredible setting.

At Whitefriar Street Church, visit the resting place of St. Valentine—a surprising and romantic stop in the heart of the city.

Next, explore the courtyard and gardens of Dublin Castle, where centuries of Irish history come to life.

Finally, unwind in Phoenix Park, one of Europe’s largest city parks, home to wild deer, the President’s house, and stunning open spaces.

What’s Included

• Private transportation
• Bottled water
• Air-conditioned vehicle
• Parking Fees

What’s Not Included

• Coffee and/or Tea
• Snacks
• Christ Church Cathedral

Itinerary

1. You’ll be picked up from your hotel and our first stop will be Merrion Square. At Merrion Square in Dublin, travellers will experience one of the city’s most elegant Georgian squares, rich in history, culture and art. In the northwest corner of the park is a witty and thought-provoking memorial to Oscar Wilde, who was born just across the street. A reclining statue of the writer is accompanied by pillars engraved with his famous quotes. You’ll learn his tragic life story. You’ll briefly visit the National Gallery (free admission), which houses Irish and European masterpieces, including works by Jack B. Yeats and Caravaggio. A short walk away is Leinster House (the Irish Parliament) and Government Buildings, you’ll learn about political parties and government structure in Ireland. (90 min)
2. Next we’ll drive towards Christ Church Cathedral and you’ll step into nearly 1,000 years of Irish history in the heart of medieval Dublin. It’s Dublin’s oldest working cathedral - admire its stunning Gothic and Romanesque architecture, with soaring stone arches, medieval floor tiles, and intricate stained-glass windows. You’ll learn lots of history and stories about medieval Dublin (60 min)
3. We’ll make a stop for coffee and refreshments at the best coffee place in Dublin and then visit Whitefriar Street Church which is a peaceful, atmospheric Carmelite church known for its soaring interiors, stained-glass windows. It’s a real hidden gem and the church is famously home to the relics of Saint Valentine, patron saint of love and lovers. Housed in a specially dedicated shrine, complete with an inscription from Pope Gregory XVI, it’s a romantic and meaningful stop for couples or anyone intrigued by history and faith.

(60 min) 4. We’ll then walk to Dublin castle - one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Originally built as a medieval fortress in the early 13th century, Dublin Castle has served as a Viking settlement, English stronghold, British administrative centre, and, today, a site of national pride. We will explore its transformation through the centuries—each stone telling a story of Ireland’s turbulent past. (30 min) 5. We will then drive to Phoenix Park, and you’ll enjoy one of the largest enclosed public parks in any European capital—a green oasis full of nature, history, and iconic Irish landmarks. Originally established in 1662 as a royal hunting ground, Phoenix Park today is a vibrant public space with vast meadows, wooded areas, and peaceful trails. One of the park’s most beloved features is its herd of wild fallow deer, descendants of the original 17th-century stock. Seeing them roam freely adds a magical, timeless feel to any visit. Perfect for a family tour! (60 min)

Good to Know

• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• Service animals allowed
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Specialized infant seats are available
• Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

This is a private tour. Available in: en, fr.