Ireland Small Group Tours
4.6 stars on(9,316 reviews)- Choose from 50+ Ireland tours
- 13,000+ verified reviews from TourRadar travelers
- 24/7 customer support
10 best Ireland small group tours
Compiled by
MelissaIreland travel expert at TourRadar
- Essence of Ireland Small Group Tour
- 3-Day Blarney Castle, Kilkenny & Irish Whiskey Small-Group Tour from Dublin
- Essence of Ireland and Northern Ireland Small Group Tour
- Ireland’s Ancient East
- Great Atlantic Ireland Explorer - 7 days
- Super South Ireland - 5 days
- 8-Day Emerald Explorer Small Group Tour
- 7-Day Ireland to Island Small Group Tour of Ireland
- 6-Day Magical Southern Explorer Small Group Tour
- Wild North - Multi-Day - Small Group Tour of Ireland
Essence of Ireland Small Group Tour
1 Review by TourRadar travelers“It was the right mix of structured time and free time. All tour guides were knowledgeable and extremely personable.”
Janet, traveled in May
Dublin's narrow alleyways and Cobh's historic center unfold perfectly with a small group over 7 days. The limited capacity brings Trinity College Library and Guinness Storehouse to life while fostering meaningful connections.
Duration 7 days Destinations Dublin, Cork, Galway Age Range Ages 12+ Group Size Max Group Size 14 Group Type Group Operator Firebird Tours From
- US$3,678
3-Day Blarney Castle, Kilkenny & Irish Whiskey Small-Group Tour from Dublin
21 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“It was a great experience! Our accommodations were always close to City Centre, clean, comfortable and had a delicious breakfast.”
Jennifer, traveled in October
Groups of 16 travelers, suitable for ages 5+, receive focused attention from the driver-guide. The intimate format allows access to Kinsale's narrow streets and unhurried visits to Glendalough's 6th-century monastery.
Duration 3 days Destinations Dublin, Blarney, Midleton, Cork, Kinsale, Cobh, Waterford, Kilkenny, Wicklow, Glendalough Age Range All Ages Welcome Group Size Max Group Size 16 Group Type Group Operator Rabbie’s Small Group Tours From
- US$867
Small groups gain privileged access to Dublin Castle and Trinity College Library's Book of Kells. The intimate format enhances Cork's English Market tastings and visits to Cobh's St Colman's Cathedral, one of Ireland's tallest buildings.
Duration 10 days Destinations Dublin, Cork, Galway, Sligo, Belfast Age Range Ages 12+ Group Size Max Group Size 14 Group Type Group Operator Firebird Tours From
- US$4,437
Ireland’s Ancient East
1 Review by TourRadar travelers“Loved the excursions and the choice of hotels!”
Suhani, traveled in October
Ireland's eastern treasures welcome groups averaging 49 years old at a relaxed pace. Trinity College and Dublin Castle visits feel intimate, while Newgrange's ancient tombs and Waterford's historic quarter offer authentic encounters.
Duration 6 days Destinations Dublin, Glendalough, New Ross, Waterford, Lismore, Cashel, Kilkenny Age Range Ages 18+ Group Size Max Group Size 6 Group Type PrivatePersonalized Operator BTOURS From $947
15% Off- US$805You save $142
Duration 7 days Destinations Dublin, Cashel, Cork, Blarney, Kinsale, Killarney National Park, Dingle, Cliffs of Moher, Doolin, GalwaySee all destinations Age Range Ages 12+ Group Size Max Group Size 15 Group Type Group Operator On The Go Tours From $3,585
15% Off- US$3,047You save $538
Duration 5 days Destinations Dublin, Cashel, Blarney, Kinsale, Killarney National Park, Dingle, Cliffs of Moher, Doolin, Galway Age Range All Ages Welcome Group Size Max Group Size 15 Group Type Group Operator On The Go Tours From $2,535
15% Off- US$2,155You save $380
8-Day Emerald Explorer Small Group Tour
60 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“We had an enjoyable, varied sightseeing experience on the Emerald Explorer tour.”
Joyce, traveled in July
A Mercedes coach with 15 passengers provides close-up access to Burren Farm and Kilbeggan Irish Coffee masterclass. The small setting allows schedule flexibility and dedicated guidance at Glendalough Monastery and Kylemore Abbey.
Duration 8 days Destinations Dublin, Glendalough, Wicklow, Kilkenny, Cahir, Blarney, Killarney, Killarney National Park, Dingle, KillimerSee all destinations Age Range Ages 10+ Group Size Max Group Size 15 Group Type Group Operator Overland Ireland - Small Group Tours From $3,182
15% Off- US$2,705You save $477
7-Day Ireland to Island Small Group Tour of Ireland
56 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Everything was excellent! The itinerary was exactly what I was hoping for and all the accommodations were beautiful!”
julie, traveled in August
A 16-seat Mercedes Sprinter carrying 12 passengers navigates narrow coastal roads and remote sites. The intimate setting allows spontaneous stops, focused guide attention, and authentic experiences in local pubs across Ireland.
Duration 7 days Destinations Dublin, Cashel, Midleton, Cobh, Blarney, Kenmare, Skellig Michael, Ring of Kerry, Killarney, TraleeSee all destinations Age Range Ages 12+ Group Size Max Group Size 12 Group Type Group Operator Overland Ireland - Small Group Tours From $2,604
15% Off- US$2,213+$162 local paymentsYou save $391
6-Day Magical Southern Explorer Small Group Tour
7 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Accommodations were top quality. Company was responsive to special requests.”
Peter, traveled in May
Fifteen travelers share authentic dining experiences at local favorites in Dingle and Galway. The close-knit group visits the 500-acre Burren Farm and enjoys cozy traditional pub sessions, with fellow travelers averaging 57 years.
Duration 6 days Destinations Dublin, Glendalough, Wicklow, Kilkenny, Cahir, Blarney, Killarney, Killarney National Park, Dingle, KillimerSee all destinations Age Range Ages 10+ Group Size Max Group Size 15 Group Type Group Operator Overland Ireland - Small Group Tours From $2,170
15% Off- US$1,844You save $325
Wild North - Multi-Day - Small Group Tour of Ireland
3 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Im glad I opted for b&b accommodation...it was always of a comfortable standard.”
Gail, traveled in May
Small groups savor traditional music in Westport, wander through Glenveagh National Park's 16,500 hectares, and marvel at Slieve League cliffs. The intimate setting creates meaningful cultural exchanges and adaptable schedules.
Duration 7 days Destinations Dublin, Galway, Croagh Patrick Mountain, Westport, Sligo, Donegal, Slieve League Mountain, Glenveagh National Park, Ballycastle, Giants CausewaySee all destinations Age Range All Ages Welcome Group Size Max Group Size 16 Group Type GroupPersonalized Operator Wild N' Happy From
15% Off- US$2,545
Reviews of Small Group tours to Ireland
- 3-Day Blarney Castle, Kilkenny & Irish Whiskey Small-Group Tour from Dublin
This was a good tour Not too many people Very interesting places Driver friendly and courteous Too much music for me on the bus
- 8-Day Emerald Explorer Small Group Tour
We had a fantastic time, our tour guide Finn was fun, funny and knows his country well! We learned Irish history and folk lore as we traveled through the beautiful cities, small towns and country side. A small tour is definitely the best way to maximize your experience, especially with Finn as your guide! We could never have seen so many wonderful places and learned so much Irish ☘️ history on our own.
- 7-Day Ireland to Island Small Group Tour of Ireland
This was a brilliant tour showcasing the beautiful emerald isle.it was unbelievable the amout of ground we covered in 6 days. The guide Pat was amazingly informative about irish history, geology, culture. He had a great knack of gelling the group and creating a really fun environment. On a couple of occassions due to weather if we could not get to an activity our trip was reinvented seamlessly. Accommodation food and pub nights were great. Pat provided entertainment also on board singing playing tin whistle and again facilitating the group if they wanted to join in with a song. The country looked amazing . Highlights were Skellig Rock with its Puffin magic and Aran Islands . As a first time solo traveller It was wonderful and very easy to mix in and be part of group ans participate in all the a tivities
What our customers ask about Ireland Small Group Tours
What is the typical group size for small group tours in Ireland?
Small group tours in Ireland typically operate with 12-16 travelers per group. Companies like Overland Ireland use passengers while Irish Experience Tours keeps their groups to 16 people maximum. A TourRadar traveler shared "The small group size of 10-12 people allowed us to get to know each other well and access places that normal tourist coaches can't reach like narrow country roads leading to hidden beaches and viewpoints along the Wild Atlantic Way."
What type of accommodation is provided on small group tours in Ireland?
Accommodations on small group tours range from boutique hotels to traditional B&Bs and family-run guesthouses. Travelers might spend one night at the historic Ardree House in Killarney followed by a stay at the coastal Vaughan Lodge in Lahinch. Each property offers genuine Irish hospitality and local character. A TourRadar guest noted: "The accommodations were all situated in the midst of town or a short easy walk away giving us a real feel for each location."
How do meal arrangements work on small group tours in Ireland?
Tours include Irish breakfasts at the accommodations while leaving lunches and dinners open for independent exploration. Tour guides can arrange group reservations at local establishments such as The Fish Box in Dingle or The Spaniard in Kinsale. A TourRadar reviewer mentioned: "Being a small group meant we could easily get tables at local restaurants our guide recommended even during busy times."
How much interaction is there with local communities on small group tours?
Local connections form a key part of these tours through stays at family-run B&Bs visits to neighborhood pubs and experiences like sheepdog demonstrations. A TourRadar traveler noted: "Our small group size meant we could visit local farmers learn traditional crafts and have genuine conversations with Irish people in places like Doolin's famous music pubs."
What level of physical activity can be expected on small group tours?
Tours include moderate walking optional hikes and activities such as cycling in Killarney National Park or kayaking in Dingle Bay. The Cliffs of Moher walk takes about 2.5 hours while a typical Killarney cycling excursion runs 2 hours. Tour guides often provide alternative options to accommodate different fitness levels according to guest reviews.
How does the guide interaction differ in small group Ireland tours?
The smaller group format allows guides to offer personalized attention and detailed insights about locations from the Burren to Connemara. Guides can adjust schedules and make unplanned stops based on group preferences. As one TourRadar traveler put it: "Our guide was exceptional - with just 13 people he could customize our experience and ensure everyone's interests were met while sharing detailed historical information."