Private tour in Dublin Cathal S

The Amazing Highlights of Dublin– 3-Hour Walking Tour

5.0

(46) reviews

-
Hours icon 3 hours
Walking
Private tour for 1-6 people
Your party size

1

Tour date
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Last-Minute Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
-
Hours icon 3 hours
Walking
Private tour for 1-6 people
Your party size

1

View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Last-Minute Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later

Cathal S.

5.0

Guide rating

83

Reviews

Tours delivered

2 hrs

Avg. response time

Céad míle fáilte go mBaile Átha Cliath! Or, welcome to Dublin, for short. Some of you may be on your laethanta saoire: your days of freedom. I'm Cathal (pronounced KAH-hul), an Irish name meaning 'battler'. My surname Sheahan means 'of peace'. Together, Cathal Sheahan make me a walking contradiction, as I'm a 'battler of peace'. I'm a private guide with a real passion for bringing Dublin's history and stories to life. I joined Toursbylocals in 2022, but I've spent over a decade guiding visitors through this city, sharing its history, culture, and stories with people from all over the world. Along the way, we'll explore Dublin's ancient and recent history, and I'll regale you with tales from the Battle of Clontarf and the 1916 Rising, along with the odd Irish folk song and a nod to some of our famous writers: Oscar Wilde, Bram Stoker, Jonathan Swift, and others. Born in Dublin and raised in rural County Kerry, I grew up in a world where storytelling was part of everyday life: tales of emigration, rebellion, landlords, fairies, and ghosts. When I later returned to Dublin for university, it felt like stepping onto the stage where so many of those stories had unfolded. My background includes Philosophy, Archaeology, and German. Philosophy helps me find the underlying truth behind events, Archaeology helps me approach stories with the patience and precision of a scientist, and studying German (and living in Germany) helped me see my own history with an international outlook. I also work professionally as an actor. That naturally shapes the way I guide. I bring the city to life through story, voice, atmosphere, and lively conversation. I also enjoy singing, and will add the odd folk song to my tours. My tours are relaxed, engaging, and personal. Whether it's your first time in Dublin or you want to go deeper, I aim to help you experience the city with humour, insight, and a real sense of adventure. Dublin has a story around every corner, and I'd be delighted to share it with you. Whatever brings you to Dublin, I'd love to help you make the most of your time here. So please get in touch, and let's start planning your tour. Cathal

Have a question or want to customize this tour? Message Cathal S.

Overview of your Dublin tour

This private three-hour walking tour offers a relaxed and engaging introduction to Dublin—perfect for first-time visitors or anyone looking to quickly get their bearings in the city. As we walk through Dublin’s most iconic streets and landmarks, we trace the story of the city—from early Viking beginnings, through medieval power and British rule, to rebellion and the shaping of modern Ireland. My approach is personal and story-led, shaped by my background as an actor and storyteller. I bring the city to life through clear, engaging storytelling, local insight, and a touch of Irish humour. Depending on your pace and interest, we may also pause for coffee or refreshments along the way.

Recent Reviews

Marie C.United States
4 days ago

I highly recommend Cathal's tour of Dublin! Since I had only one full day in Dublin, I wanted to maximize my time and see and learn as much as I could about the city. Cathal proved to be a knowledgeable guide, well-versed in history, architecture, literature, and music. As an added bonus, he sang bits of a few songs, bringing the time and place alive. My traveling companions were spending a few more days in Dublin and he recommended places for them to visit. For me, being on a tour with only my small group rather than being part of a larger tour of 20 people is a better way to see the city as you can all move along at the same pace and see and hear better. Cathal's tour is a great way to start your visit to Dublin. You will not be disappointed!

Mark F.United States
5 days ago

Cathal is a very knowledgeable and personable guide. We enjoyed his insights into Dublin, both past and present.

Susan M.United States
2 weeks ago

Cathal gave us a wonderful tour, knowledgeable, a great communicator and story teller. Good communication ahead of time, so pleasant and easy to work with.

Rosemary L.United States
3 weeks ago

Our guide Cathal was definitely a 10! He's a true Dubliner with a charming personality and wonderful in-depth knowledge of all things Dublin. He even breaks out in song (very discretely)! He is also very flexible and accommodating with changes in our schedule. He was a delight who made Dublin come alive for us.

Marc P.United States
4 weeks ago

We landed in Dublin and Cathal met us at our hotel. He personalized our tour with a combination of his suggestions and our preferences of places we wanted to see. The tour was relaxed but covered everything on our agenda and more. Cathal has great knowledge of the history of Ireland and Dublin. Everywhere we went we learned interesting information. He is very easy to talk to and kept us engaged and entertained the whole way. Although we were tired from the trip and the 3 hour tour, I couldn't believe when it was already over. Starting our trip with a tour also helped orient us to the city and made it easier to get back to places we wanted to spend more time.

Melinda K.United States
August 2026

What a wonderful way to start our stay in Dublin. Cathal provided the perfect balance of history and fun as we explored the city. I especially appreciated his sharing of his own experience growing up in Ireland and helping us appreciate the changes (positive and negative) in his country. The pride he has in Ireland is so evident and his appreciation and talent for story telling makes for such a good tour. I highly recommend Cathal and know you won't be disappointed.

Your Dublin tour itinerary

Possible Highlights Include: Dublin Castle (Exterior and Gardens) For over 700 years the centre of British rule in Ireland. Christ Church Cathedral and the Medieval Quarter This includes the former Viking settlement at Wood Quay, where Dublin’s story begins. Temple Bar and the Ha’penny Bridge Colourful and historic – home to Dublin’s first pedestrian bridge over the River Liffey. Trinity College and College Green Founded in 1592, Ireland’s oldest university and a key stage in the city’s intellectual and political life. Grafton Street and St Stephen’s Green (optional) A lively contrast of street life and peaceful green space. Depending on where we meet, we may also visit O’Connell Street and the GPO, Merrion Square, the National Gallery, or the National Museum of Archaeology. Each tour is private and flexible, allowing us to adapt naturally on the day. For a slower pace and deeper exploration, the 4-hour and 5-hour tours offer a more immersive experience.

Want to customize this tour?

Tell your guide which places matter to you, skip what doesn't, and tailor the experience for your group's needs. Not finding what you want? Message your guide to build something unique.

Transport details
Type: Walking

Walking tour

What's included
Private Guide
What's not included
Other: Personal expenses.
Food Drinks Snacks
Meeting location

3Olympia Theatre, 3Olympia Theatre, Dame Street, Temple Bar, Dublin 2, Ireland

Meeting Location is outside the 3Olympia Theatre on Dame Street. Depending on your location and the day, we can also meet at the Moly Malone Statue on Suffolk Street, or at the Oscar Wilde Memorial on Merrion Square. I can also meet at your hotel, if it is centrally located.

  • You can request a specific meeting location (for example, your hotel) during the checkout.
Other details
Tour categories
City Highlights
History
Architecture
Art And Culture
Off The Beaten Path
Tour reference number
1020134
Languages
English
Activity level
Minimal
Accessibility
Kid Friendly
Wheelchair Accessible

Traveller reviews

5.0

FAQs

Who is this private tour in Dublin best suited for?

This private tour in Dublin is perfect for first-time visitors or anyone looking to quickly get their bearings in the city. It's also ideal for those who enjoy engaging storytelling and want to connect with a local guide for deeper insights into Dublin's history and culture.

What should I bring or wear?

Can this private tour in Dublin be customized to focus on what I want to see and skip places I've already visited?

How long is the tour, and can the start time or duration be adjusted?

Where does the tour start and end?

How much walking is involved, and is it suitable for kids, seniors, or travellers with mobility concerns?

What languages is this tour offered in?

What's included in this private tour, and what should I budget for separately?

Is this a private tour? What is the maximum group size and the starting price?

AI-generated. Please confirm details with your guide

-
Hours icon 3 hours
Walking
Private tour for 1-6 people
Your party size

1

Tour date
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Last-Minute Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
-
Hours icon 3 hours
Walking
Private tour for 1-6 people
Your party size

1

Tour date
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Last-Minute Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
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