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
- Wild Atlantic Way | Ireland
- Road Trip Around Ireland
- The Wild Atlantic Way Tour Ireland
- Culinary Indulgence | Ireland
- Northern & Southern Ireland
- 8-Day Emerald Explorer Small Group Tour
- 6-Day Magical Southern Explorer Small Group Tour
- Wild Grande - Multi Day - Small Group Tour of Ireland
- 8-Day Luxury Ireland Escape - Small Group Tour
- Hosted 10-Day Ultimate Ireland Small Group Tour
Wild Atlantic Way | Ireland
“The landscapes along the Wild Atlantic Way were simply breathtaking.”
William, traveled in June
Small parties of 1-3 travelers, averaging 62 years, visit hidden gems like Ballymastocker Bay and Studio Donegal's traditional weaving workshop. Welcoming B&Bs provide personal attention with 50+ positive reviews.
Duration 10 days Destinations Dublin, Enniskillen, Glencolumbkille, Slieve League Mountain, Kilcar, Donegal, Malin, Sligo, Mayo, WestportSee all destinations Age Range Ages 18+ Group Size Max Group Size 5 Group Type Private Operator BTOURS From $1,701
20% off- US$1,361
Duration 10 days Destinations Howth, Dublin, Kildare, Powerscourt Mountain, Wicklow, Glendalough, Kilkenny, Cashel, Cork, Ring of KerrySee all destinations Age Range All Ages Welcome Group Size Max Group Size 5 Group Type PrivatePersonalized Operator Worldee From
20% off- US$1,365+$3,512 upfront costs
The Wild Atlantic Way Tour Ireland
“A great way to discover the beauty of Ireland, it's countryside, music and amazing people!”
Nicola, traveled in August
A 16-seater minibus navigates remote trails like Sheep's Head Peninsula and Mount Brandon. The small group receives dedicated attention from Irish Tourist Board guides and visits local venues like Tom Crean's South Pole pub.
Duration 7 days Destinations Dublin, Cashel, Blarney, Bantry, Dingle, Cliffs of Moher, Doolin, Aran Islands, Galway Age Range Ages 20+ Group Size Max Group Size 16 Group Type GroupPersonalized Operator Hilltoptreks From
20% off- US$1,673
Culinary Indulgence | Ireland
“The itinerary gives food lovers plenty to look forward to while still leaving space to experience the character of Ireland beyond the tasting rooms.”
Peter, traveled in June
A self-drive adventure ideal for couples or small groups includes whiskey blending at Irish Whiskey Museum. Groups of 2-4 enjoy private tastings at Burren Smokehouse and VIP access to Midleton Jameson Distillery.
Duration 8 days Destinations Dublin, Kilkenny, Cork, Kinsale, Foynes, Limerick, Bunratty, Cliffs of Moher, Burren Age Range Ages 18+ Group Size Max Group Size 6 Group Type Private Operator BTOURS From $1,606
20% off- US$1,285
Northern & Southern Ireland
“She was not a tour guide. I was expecting more information about the people, locations and cultures of Ireland.”
Pamela, traveled in October
Typically 12 travelers (average age 56) visit the Cliffs of Moher and Aran Islands together. Local hotels from Belfast's Cathedral Quarter to Galway's historic center host the close-knit group.
Duration 9 days Destinations Belfast, Giants Causeway, Londonderry, Galway, Aran Islands, Cliffs of Moher, Adare, Killarney, Ring of Kerry, Dublin Age Range Ages 15+ Group Size Max Group Size 12 Group Type Group Operator Intrepid Travel From $4,890
20% off- US$3,912
8-Day Emerald Explorer Small Group Tour
“We would highly recommend the tour.”
Randall, traveled in August
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
20% off- US$2,736
6-Day Magical Southern Explorer Small Group Tour
“Great tour, wonderful country.”
Joseph, traveled in September
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
20% off- US$2,065
Wild Grande - Multi Day - Small Group Tour of Ireland
“The accommodation in the larger cities wasn't central but the view from the hotel in Cork made up for the hike up the hill.”
Jean, traveled in October
With just 16 guests, this tour offers personal guidance and secret local spots. Boutique B&Bs in Killarney and Westport provide cozy stays, while activities like kayaking on Lakes of Killarney become intimate adventures.
Duration 13 days Destinations Dublin, Cork, Skibbereen, Kenmare, Killarney, Ring of Kerry, Dingle, Slea Head, Lahinch, Cliffs of MoherSee all destinations Age Range All Ages Welcome Group Size Max Group Size 16 Group Type GroupPersonalized Operator Wild N' Happy From
20% off- US$4,028
8-Day Luxury Ireland Escape - Small Group Tour
“visiting beautiful areas and castles. we had a great week”
Mary, traveled in September
Duration 8 days Destinations Dublin, Kildare, Newmarket on Fergus, Cliffs of Moher, Killarney, Cork, Cahir, Kilkenny, Glendalough Age Range Ages 18+ Group Size Max Group Size 10 Group Type Group Operator Overland - Small Group Tours From
20% off- US$5,595
Hosted 10-Day Ultimate Ireland Small Group Tour
“The tour was active and busy with a number of activities.”
John, traveled in August
Duration 10 days Destinations Dublin, Cashel, Blarney, Kinsale, Kenmare, Killarney National Park, Dingle, Slea Head, Castlegregory, BurrenSee all destinations Age Range Ages 12+ Group Size Max Group Size 15 Group Type Group Operator Overland - Small Group Tours From
20% off- US$4,924
Reviews of Small Group tours to Ireland
- 8-Day Emerald Explorer Small Group Tour
I thoroughly enjoyed this tour. The tour was well organized, informative and fun. The small group size was definitely a plus. It allowed the group to interact well. Our guide was knowledgeable and engaging. Highly recommend this tour.
- 7-Day Great Atlantic Adventure Small Group Tour
Our family of 6 did the Ireland to Island 7 day tour. It was hands down the best vacation we have had as a family to date! We thoroughly enjoyed every day on the tour and Overland made everything run so smoothly. Our tour guide Hugh was the absolute best. He went out of his way to make sure we had a great time along the way and even assisted with making dinner reservations! I was sad to see our trip come to an end. Highly recommend this to anyone looking to explore Ireland! Simply the best way to go!🇮🇪
A week packed with history and anecdotes from our driver and guide, Duirmid. Great bunch of fellow travellers completed our enjoyment.
Wild South - Multi-Day - Small Group Tour of Ireland
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."