Afternoon Tea Bus Tour in Dublin

If you’re considering a unique way to see Dublin, this Afternoon Tea Bus Tour might catch your eye. Combining classic sightseeing with the charm of a vintage double-decker bus and the elegance of afternoon tea, it promises a relaxed, enjoyable experience. Based on glowing reviews and detailed descriptions, this tour seems to appeal to travelers looking for a leisurely, flavorful way to take in the Irish capital.

What we love about the experience is how it turns a simple city tour into an indulgent escape — enjoying tasty snacks and drinks while soaking up Dublin’s most iconic sights. Plus, the friendly guides and well-chosen stops make it feel personal and well-organized. However, if you’re traveling with lots of luggage, prams, or need a quick, purely sightseeing-focused trip, this might not be the best fit. It’s especially suited for those wanting a mix of sightseeing, community, and a touch of pampering.

If you enjoy leisurely tours with a dash of fun, good food, and engaging commentary, this could be right up your alley. Just keep in mind the seating is assigned based on booking time, so plan ahead if you want upstairs seats for the best views. Now, let’s break down what makes this tour special — and what to consider before booking.

Key Points

• Relaxed sightseeing combined with afternoon tea creates a leisurely experience.
• Well-reviewed guides and friendly hosts are a highlight, making the tour feel warm and personal.
• The vintage double-decker bus adds charm and offers great views from the upper deck.
• Stops at key landmarks like Guinness Brewery, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Trinity College, and Georgian Dublin provide a rundown of the city.
• The price of around $69 offers good value, especially given the food, drinks, and guided elements included.
• Limited space for luggage or prams means it’s best suited for solo travelers or those without extra baggage.

An Overview of the Experience

This tour offers a delightful way to explore Dublin at a relaxed pace. It’s approximately 90 minutes, during which you’ll ride on a vintage front-engined double-decker bus—a classic sight in itself—and enjoy afternoon tea served right at your seat. Most travelers find it a charming, comfortable way to get an overview of the city, especially if it’s your first visit.

What’s distinctive about this tour is the combination of sightseeing and indulgence. Instead of rushing from one landmark to the next with a hurried guide, you get to sit back, sip tea or coffee, and take in the sights at your leisure. The guides, praised for their knowledge and enthusiasm, add engaging commentary that provides context without overwhelming.

What’s Included and How It Adds Value

For around $69, the package includes afternoon tea, snacks, and beverages, with the option to specify dietary needs 72 hours in advance. You also get a tour escort/host, pickup and drop-off at designated meeting points, and a semi-guided experience that balances narration with free time to enjoy the surroundings and food.

Many reviews highlight the quality of the food—delicious scones, sandwiches, and sweets—along with the endless tea and coffee. Plus, you get to keep a cute souvenir tea cup as a memento. The attention to detail, from decor to service, aims to make the experience feel special and memorable.

The Itinerary – A Closer Look

The tour’s stops are thoughtfully selected to showcase Dublin’s highlights:

• Guinness Brewery: A must-see for first-timers, this stop introduces you to Ireland’s iconic stout, with plenty of photo opportunities outside the brewery. While the tour doesn’t include inside access, the exterior views and surrounding area are worth a glance.

• Phoenix Park: Entering Dublin’s sprawling green space, you get a quick glimpse of the city’s natural beauty and perhaps spot some local wildlife. It’s a peaceful break from city bustle.

• O’Connell Street: Dublin’s main thoroughfare, lined with historic monuments and lively shops, offers a sense of the city’s vibrant street life.

• Trinity College: Though the tour doesn’t go inside, passing by the university’s grand architecture gives a sense of Dublin’s academic and cultural heritage.

• Georgian Dublin: The glimpses of Georgian-era buildings and streets highlight Dublin’s elegant, classical architecture. It’s a visual treat and an important part of the city’s identity.

• St. Patrick’s Cathedral: The tour stops nearby for photos and quick appreciation of this historic site, which is a must-see for visitors.

The stops are brief, but enough to appreciate the sights and get some context from the friendly guides. This makes the tour especially appealing if you prefer a relaxed pace without long, tiring walks.

The Ride and Atmosphere

Traveling on a vintage bus adds a nostalgic charm that many reviews find appealing. The upper deck offers great vantage points, and since the bus drives slowly through the city, sightlines are excellent. The guides create a lively, warm atmosphere, often sharing stories and humor that make the ride feel engaging.

Groups are kept intimate, usually around 36 travelers, which fosters a friendly vibe. Many people mention the enthusiasm of the hosts and how they go above and beyond to make everyone feel welcome. This personable approach is a big part of what makes this tour enjoyable.

Food and Drinks: A Highlight

The food is frequently praised, especially the scones, which reviewers describe as divine. Sandwiches, wraps, and sweet treats keep the energy up while you enjoy your tea or coffee. The menu is carefully curated to offer a traditional, tasty spread that pairs well with the drinks.

For many, the highlight is the unlimited tea and the chance to sit back and savor the moment. The crew also offers a variety of teas and coffees, ensuring everyone’s preferences are met. It’s especially good for those who enjoy good food and a cozy atmosphere while sightseeing.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for those who want a leisurely, comfortable tour with a blend of sightseeing and indulgence. It’s great for first-time visitors wanting to get an overview of Dublin without rushing. It also suits travelers who appreciate friendly guides, good food, and charming environments.

It’s not ideal for travelers with a lot of luggage or prams, given the limited space on board. If you’re looking for a quick, no-frills sightseeing trip, this might feel a bit slow. But if you’re after a relaxed, fun, and tasty way to explore, this tour hits the mark.

Price and Value

At just over $69 per person, this experience offers quite a bit. You’re paying for more than just a sightseeing ride — the quality of the food, drinks, and personal touches make it stand out. Reviewers consistently note the excellent value, especially given the friendly service, delicious snacks, and scenic route.

Many mention that booking about 42 days in advance helps secure the preferred seating upstairs, which many find enhances the experience. Overall, considering all that’s included, this is a reasonable price for a memorable, relaxed day in Dublin.

If you’re looking for a charming, comfortable way to see Dublin, combined with tasty treats and friendly hosts, this tour is worth considering. It’s especially appealing if you enjoy a laid-back pace, engaging guides, and social dining experiences. The vintage bus adds a nostalgic touch that elevates a simple city tour into a memorable outing.

However, if you’re after a quick, purely sightseeing trip or traveling with lots of luggage, you might prefer other options. This experience shines for travelers seeking a cozy, social atmosphere and a chance to indulge while exploring.

For those celebrating a special occasion or simply wanting a different perspective on Dublin, it could be the highlight of your trip. Just remember to book early, especially if you want upstairs seats, and prepare to relax and enjoy the journey.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children are welcome, but they must be accompanied by an adult. Since seats are assigned based on booking time, upstairs seats are popular with kids for the views.

Can I bring luggage or prams onboard?
No, there’s no space on the bus for luggage, prams, or buggies, so plan accordingly.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for about 1 hour and 30 minutes, including sightseeing and tea service.

What are the departure times?
You can choose from three different departure times throughout the day, helping you fit it into your schedule comfortably.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at Stephen Court, 20-22 St Stephen’s Green, Dublin 2.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
This isn’t specified, so it’s best to check directly with the provider if accessibility is a concern.

What if I have dietary restrictions?
You need to specify any dietary requirements 72 hours in advance. The tour provides snacks, tea, and coffee, with some options for special diets.

Is alcohol allowed on the bus?
No, alcohol is not permitted onboard.

What’s the average group size?
Most groups are limited to 36 travelers, which keeps the atmosphere friendly and intimate.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.

This Dublin afternoon tea tour offers a blend of sightseeing, comfort, and culinary delight that many travelers find a refreshing change from typical city tours. If you’re after a leisurely, fun, and tasty way to explore Dublin, it’s worth considering.