Guinness Storehouse Ticket and Big Bus Dublin Hop-on Hop-off Tour

If you’re visiting Dublin for the first time and want to make the most of your short stay, this combined experience of a fast-track ticket to the Guinness Storehouse and a 24- or 48-hour hop-on hop-off bus tour might be just what you need. It offers a good mix of iconic attractions and easy transport around the city, making it a convenient choice for travelers with limited time.

What we really like about this package is how it streamlines your sightseeing—no long lines at one of Dublin’s most popular spots, plus the flexibility to explore at your own pace. The open-top bus with live commentary is a fun way to get a lay of the land, while the Guinness visit provides a deeper peek into Ireland’s most famous export. That said, there are a few things to consider, like some reported issues with audio quality and the busy crowds at the Storehouse.

This experience is best suited for those who want a quick, informative overview of Dublin, coupled with an opportunity to enjoy a world-famous brew with spectacular views. It’s especially ideal if you’re traveling on a tight schedule or prefer not to fuss about transportation logistics—just hop on, hop off, and enjoy.

Key Points

• Convenience and speed: Skip long lines at the Guinness Storehouse with a fast-track ticket.
• Flexible sightseeing: Unlimited hop-on hop-off bus for 24 or 48 hours allows you to explore at your own pace.
• Insightful guides: Live onboard commentary makes city sightseeing more engaging.
• Great views and treats: Sip a Guinness while enjoying panoramic city views from the Gravity Bar.
• Multiple stops: Extensive route covers key attractions, from Trinity College to Phoenix Park.
• Mixed reviews: Some mention audio issues and busy attractions, but overall, many find it worthwhile.

A Practical Breakdown of the Tour

This package’s core appeal lies in its combination of a priority entry to the Guinness Storehouse and the comprehensive bus tour covering Dublin’s highlights. Let’s look closer at what each part offers.

The Guinness Storehouse Fast-Track Ticket

The highlight for many visitors is the skip-the-line access to the Guinness Storehouse. While the ticket includes entry, it also grants access to the Gravity Bar on the 7th floor, where you can enjoy a pint of Guinness with sweeping views of the city below. This part of the experience is often praised—one reviewer called it a “must-do in Dublin” that “tasted better,” and others mentioned that the facility itself is “truly a wonder.”

However, some travelers have noted that the store can be crowded, and seats are limited in the panoramic bar. One review highlighted that “Arthur’s bar and the panoramic bar were very busy” with not enough seating, which might affect your relaxing time at the top.

That said, many reviews love how the tour is not just about pouring a drink but about understanding what makes Guinness so iconic. Even if you’re not a drinker, the architecture and the views from the Gravity Bar make it worthwhile.

The Big Bus Dublin Hop-on Hop-off Tour

The bus itself is a classic way to get around Dublin without having to worry about hailing taxis or navigating public transit. It covers dozens of stops, including O’Connell Street, Trinity College, Temple Bar, Dublin Castle, and Phoenix Park. It’s a route that hits most of the city’s must-see spots.

The live onboard commentary is a big plus, making the journey informative and sometimes entertaining. Multiple reviews mention guides like Jerry, Johnny, and James—who are described as funny, knowledgeable, and engaging, adding a personal touch to the tour.

The flexibility of the hop-on hop-off format means you can spend more time at places you’re interested in and skip others. Some travelers, however, did mention buses don’t run as frequently as they’d like, especially on certain routes. One reviewer said, “The buses don’t come very often,” which could mean waiting around during busy times.

Route Highlights and Stops

The route covers a wide array of Dublin’s highlights, making it a solid overview. Here’s a quick rundown of some stops and what you can expect:

• O’Connell Street: The bustling main artery, perfect for orientation.
• Nassau Street / Book of Kells: Near Trinity College and the famous manuscript.
• Kilkenny Design Store: For souvenir shopping and Irish crafts.
• National Gallery of Ireland & Merrion Square: Great for art lovers and a stroll through beautiful parks.
• Dublin Castle & Christ Church Cathedral: Deep dive into Dublin’s history and architecture.
• St Patrick’s Cathedral: The largest cathedral in Ireland, steeped in history.
• Teeling Whiskey Distillery & Jameson Distillery: For those interested in Irish whiskey.
• Guinness Storehouse: The tour highlight and included in your ticket.
• Phoenix Park: One of Europe’s largest urban parks, ideal for a relaxing walk or picnic.

The route also includes stops at places like the Irish Museum of Modern Art, Heuston Station, and Pearse Lyons Whiskey Distillery, offering a mix of cultural, historical, and leisurely attractions.

What’s Included and What’s Not

You’re getting a lot for the $74.91 price point. The fast-track entry to Guinness is a big time-saver, and unlimited hop-on hop-off access gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace over a day or two. The tour also features live commentary (or recorded in various languages), which helps you understand the city and its history better.

However, it’s important to note that hotel pick-up and drop-off are not included. If you’re staying outside the city center, you’ll need to plan your transportation accordingly. Also, if you’re expecting a guided tour that takes you directly to each stop, this is more of a hop-on hop-off experience—you’ll be responsible for your timing.

What Do the Reviews Say?

The reviews paint a picture of mostly positive experiences. Many travelers praise the knowledge and humor of the guides and the convenience of the bus route. For instance, one reviewer said, “Jerry was our guide. He was funny and very knowledgeable,” adding that the Guinness Storehouse sunset visit was a surprise highlight.

Others appreciated the food and drinks at various stops, with some reviewers noting that the food in cafes and restaurants was superb. Several guests mentioned that the audio commentary added a layer of education and fun, making their trip much more engaging.

On the flip side, some users experienced minor frustrations—like audio issues or buses not arriving as frequently as they’d like. One reviewer pointed out that the “fast track” tickets didn’t always seem to work smoothly at the store, which could be disappointing if you’re expecting to bypass long lines.

Analyzing the Value

At around $75, this combo tour is a decent deal for a short visit. It combines transport, attraction entry, and local insights in one package, saving you time and potentially money. If you value ease and flexibility, especially in a city as busy as Dublin, it’s a practical choice.

However, keep in mind that this tour is best for those who want a general overview rather than an in-depth experience. The fast-track entrance to the Guinness Storehouse** is a definite plus, but some reviews suggest it might not always be seamless; be prepared for possible wait times or minor issues.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for first-time visitors who want a broad taste of Dublin’s major sights without the hassle of planning multiple tickets or navigating public transport. It suits travelers who prefer a relaxed pace and enjoy guided commentary—whether live or recorded. If your schedule is tight but you still want to see the city’s highlights and indulge in Ireland’s most famous brew, this combo offers good value.

It’s also a good choice for those who enjoy a lively atmosphere and appreciate the insight of guides like Jerry or Johnny. Conversely, if you’re a detailed-oriented traveler seeking a private, in-depth tour, you might find this experience too generalized.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, it’s generally suitable for most travelers, especially since the hop-on hop-off bus allows flexibility. However, check individual attraction policies if you’re traveling with young children.

Does the ticket include hotel pick-up?
No, hotel pick-up and drop-off are not included. You’ll need to plan your own transportation to the bus stops.

Can I use the hop-on hop-off bus for 24 or 48 hours?
Yes, the ticket is valid for either 24 or 48 hours, giving you plenty of time to explore at your own pace.

Are there audio guides available in different languages?
Yes, recorded commentary is available in eight languages, making it accessible for international visitors.

What should I expect at the Guinness Storehouse?
You’ll get fast-track access, a chance to learn about the brewing process, and enjoy a pint in the Gravity Bar with city views.

Is the bus tour wheelchair accessible?
Service animals are allowed, and most travelers can participate, but specific accessibility details are not provided, so confirm if needed.

How frequent are the buses?
Some reviews mention buses don’t come very often, which means planning your timing is important.

What’s the duration of the bus route?
The whole loop takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, but this can vary with stops and traffic.

Are there any additional costs I should know about?
Extras like food or drinks outside the included Guinness pint are not covered. Also, hotel transport is separate.

Can I cancel this experience?
Yes, there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing some peace of mind if your plans change.

Final Thoughts

This Guinness Storehouse Ticket combined with a Dublin hop-on hop-off tour offers a solid way to see Dublin efficiently and enjoyably. It’s particularly suited for first-time visitors or those with limited time who want to hit all the key spots without stress. The flexibility of hopping on and off at numerous stops, paired with the convenience of skip-the-line entry to Guinness, makes for a good value.

While some may find the bus frequency or audio quality less than perfect, most reviews highlight the friendly guides, tasty food, and stunning views as big pluses. It’s a balanced experience—neither overly luxurious nor overly rushed—and a practical way to get a good feel for the city.

If your goal is to combine iconic sights with a taste of Irish culture and history, and you don’t mind the occasional busy scene or minor hiccup, this tour is worth considering. Just remember to plan your timing wisely and keep an eye on the weather—Dublin’s unpredictable!

Happy travels, and enjoy Ireland’s charming capital!