Ireland Small Group Tours
Picture yourself walking along the sandy beaches of West Cork's dramatic coastline, where Atlantic waves crash on ancient rocks, or exploring the colorful port town of Kinsale, where fishing boats bob in the harbor. Kissing the famous Blarney Stone will give you the gift of speech, and don’t forget to follow the rough "Copper Coast," where cliffs glow golden in the sun. True beauty is all around.
10 best Ireland small group tours
Compiled by
MelissaIreland travel expert at TourRadar
- Essence of Ireland Small Group Tour
- Essence of Ireland and Northern Ireland Small Group Tour
- Emerald Escape: Uncover Ireland’s National Parks
- Ireland’s Ancient East
- 8-Day Emerald Explorer Small Group Tour
- 6-Day Magical Southern Explorer Small Group Tour
- Wild North - Multi-Day - Small Group Tour of Ireland
- 5-Day Northern Ireland & Atlantic Coast Small-Group Tour from Dublin
- 11 Day Full Irish Adventure Small Group Tour
- Kisses & Cork, Romance in Ireland’s Rebel City
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
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
Duration 7 days Destinations Dublin, Glendalough, Limerick, Killarney, Burren, Cliffs of Moher Age Range All Ages Welcome Group Size Max Group Size 4 Group Type PrivatePersonalized Operator Worldee From
- US$984
Ireland’s Ancient East
2 Reviews 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, Drogheda, Glendalough, New Ross, Waterford, Wexford, Lismore, Cashel, Kilkenny Age Range Ages 18+ Group Size Max Group Size 6 Group Type PrivatePersonalized Operator BTOURS From $963
20% Off- US$770You save $193
8-Day Emerald Explorer Small Group Tour
65 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 - Small Group Tours From $2,793
15% Off- US$2,374You save $419
6-Day Magical Southern Explorer Small Group Tour
10 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“A good blend between interesting historic sights and amazing scenery. Accomodation was very good with a really good breakfast to start each day.”
Murray, traveled in June
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 12+ Group Size Max Group Size 15 Group Type Group Operator Overland - Small Group Tours From $2,108
15% Off- US$1,791You save $316
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$2,512
5-Day Northern Ireland & Atlantic Coast Small-Group Tour from Dublin
27 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“We now have Ireland in our souls. contributed to a uniquely enriching and memorable trip.”
KATHERINE, traveled in May
A 16-passenger Mercedes mini-coach winds through Maam Valley to hidden spots like Cong Abbey. Groups of 8-12 travelers, perfect for ages 5+, receive personal attention from the driver-guide.
Duration 5 days Destinations Dublin, Belfast, Ballycastle, Giants Causeway, Portrush, Londonderry, Glenveagh National Park, Donegal, Sligo, Achill IslandSee all destinations Age Range All Ages Welcome Group Size Max Group Size 16 Group Type Group Operator Rabbie’s Small Group Tours From
15% Off- US$1,360
11 Day Full Irish Adventure Small Group Tour
16 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“This was the trip of a lifetime!”
Keith, traveled in July
A Mercedes coach for 15 guests stops at Matt Molloy's Bar in Westport and Dingle's local pubs. Close-knit groups enjoy sheepdog demonstrations at Killary Fjord and food tours in Belfast.
Duration 11 days Destinations Dublin, Belfast, Portstewart, Giants Causeway, Bushmills, Londonderry, Glenveagh National Park, Donegal, Ballina, WestportSee all destinations Age Range Ages 12+ Group Size Max Group Size 15 Group Type Group Operator Overland - Small Group Tours From $4,084
15% Off- US$3,471You save $613
Duration 4 days Destinations Cork, Cobh, Blarney Age Range All Ages Welcome Group Size Max Group Size 5 Group Type PrivatePersonalized Operator Worldee From
15% Off- US$341
Reviews of Small Group tours to Ireland
- 8-Day Emerald Explorer Small Group Tour
The tour was very good but it didn’t start out that way. When we showed up on the first day, the bus driver did NOT have our names on his list. The driver called his company “Overland tours” to ask about us. It took 20 nervous minutes for us to find out that we were in the list, just not the list the driver had. The issue they said was caused because we had booked with a third party (tourradar). It now makes sense why we didn’t receive any information from Overland. There were quite a few differences in itineraries between what was advertised by Tourradar and what was actually delivered by Overland tours. The price was great, we loved the tour, but as a third party I would take more interest in making sure your registrants are receiving the information from the tour operator to make sure this doesn’t happen to someone else. I also suggest that you confirm the itinerary prior to posting so that people can have confidence in what they are purchasing is what they will be receiving.
It was a great trip and even better than I expected. Gale you did a great job and thank you
5-Day Northern Ireland & Atlantic Coast Small-Group Tour from Dublin
- 11 Day Full Irish Adventure Small Group Tour
I would highly recommend this trip since it covered so much of Ireland which was great for us as this was our first trip to Ireland It kept us active with hiking, kayaking and biking which we really enjoyed. We enjoyed the cross section of types of accommodations from hotels to B&Bs to a Castle. Our tour guide David was very good. He answered all of our questions, had a great sense of humor, and was very accommodating with all requests.
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."