Everyone visits the Guinness Storehouse and Temple Bar — but Dublin has a secret side, rich with stories, hidden corners, and tours that go way beyond the guidebooks. These 5 lesser-known Dublin tours will take you behind the scenes of the city locals know and love.
1. The Liberties Whiskey Trail
A local-led tasting walk.
- Neighborhood: The Liberties
- Highlights: Pearse Lyons Distillery, Roe & Co, and tucked-away whiskey bars.
- Why it’s hidden: Away from main tourist areas, often run by passionate locals.
2. Northside Noir
A dark history walking tour.
- Theme: Crime, politics, and rebellion.
- Highlights: Stories of the 1916 Rising, Michael Collins, and gangland tales.
- Guide: Run by a local historian with theatrical flair.
3. Street Art & Urban Culture in Smithfield
- What to expect: Murals, spoken word pop-ups, music history.
- Bonus: Includes stops at indie coffee shops and galleries.
- Pro tip: Best done on Saturday afternoons.
4. Literary Pints
Dublin writers in the pub.
- Route: Through historic pubs once haunted by Joyce, Beckett, Wilde.
- What’s special: Live readings and pub tales.
- Tip: Book early – it’s small group only.
5. The Graveyard Shift
Dublin cemetery night tour.
- Location: Glasnevin Cemetery
- Twist: Done at dusk with candles.
- Why it’s different: Focus on folklore and superstitions, not just history.
The best way to see Dublin isn’t in a queue — it’s through quiet lanes, local voices, and stories whispered in stone walls and pub snug corners. These tours show the city’s real soul. Try one. Or all five.
Go with us
Private city tour
Dublin: Private Chauffeur Tour
Four hours through Dublin with your own driver-guide. Up to 16 people.
Two hours on foot, with a photographer
Dublin Personal Photography Walking Tour
Two hours walking Dublin with a professional photographer. You get the edited pictures within days.