Private tour in Dublin Cathal S
5.0
(41) reviews
3 hours
1
3 hours
1
Cathal S.
5.0
Guide rating
75
Reviews
Tours delivered
2 hrs
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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, 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.
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.
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.
Start your Dublin adventure with Cathal! We arrived in the Fair City and were immediately treated to three hours of its history and culture, with humor and singing, and personalized to our interests. Highly recommended!
Cathal was engaging, entertaining and very informative. We enjoyed the tour very much. Highly recommended.
The tour was very informative and interesting. Cahal was a great guide and I highly recommend him to others. He even sang some of the traditional Gaelic songs for us and made our experience extra special. Thanks Cahal!
Cathal made our time in Dublin the absolute Hugh point of our time in the city. We feel that we received a friend more than we did a guide. Highly recommended 🙂
Cathal was a wonderful guide, extremely knowledgeable and very personable. He had a passion for the history of the city and the country that was very evident. And while highly informative his sense of humour made it fun at the same time. It was an absolute pleasure exploring Dublin with Cathal and without hesitation I would recommend him and his tour. Brian R.
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.
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Walking tour
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.
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3 hours
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If your tour is valued over $200 USD and booked at least 45 days before the tour date, you can book with a deposit!
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