North Dublin Castles & Coastal Private Tour

Overview

Escape the bustle of Dublin city and discover the stunning north coast that most visitors never see. This private full-day tour combines Ireland’s rich castle heritage with dramatic coastal scenery, charming fishing villages, and some of the best seafood in the country.

Your journey begins at the magnificent Malahide Castle, where 800 years of history unfold through beautifully preserved rooms and award-winning gardens. From there, we trace the coastline through the golden sands of Portmarnock, a local favorite, before arriving at the picturesque fishing village of Howth.

Here, you can stretch your legs on the famous cliff walk with sweeping views of Dublin Bay and the Baily Lighthouse, or simply wander the harbor watching fishing boats return with the day’s catch. We’ll recommend the perfect spot for a leisurely seafood lunch overlooking the water.

This tour moves at your pace. Linger where you love, skip what doesn’t interest you, and let your private guide share the stories that bring each stop to life.

Key Highlights

Malahide Castle & Gardens
800 years of history with stunning botanical grounds
Howth Cliff Walk
Dramatic coastal trail with panoramic Dublin Bay views
Baily Lighthouse
Iconic 19th-century lighthouse perched on Howth Head
Portmarnock Velvet Strand
Miles of golden beach beloved by locals
Howth Harbour
Working fishing village with fresh seafood restaurants
Scenic coastal drive
Hidden coves and sweeping sea views along the route

Sample Itinerary (Flexible)

Malahide Castle & Gardens

Explore the castle, walled gardens, and butterfly house
1

Portmarnock Velvet Strand

Stretch your legs on one of Dublin's finest beaches
2

Howth Village & Harbour

Wander the charming streets and working fishing port
3

Howth Cliff Walk

Choose your trail length with lighthouse views throughout
4

Seafood lunch

Fresh catch at a harbor-side restaurant (Octopussy's, Aqua, or King Sitric)
5

Scenic coastal return

Leisurely drive back to Dublin via the coast road
6

What’s Included

Private luxury vehicle or mini-van for the day
Professional chauffeur-guide with local expertise
Fully customizable itinerary
Hotel or accommodation pickup and drop-off
Bottled water and WiFi in vehicle

What’s Not Included

Entrance fees (Malahide Castle ~€14 per adult)
Lunch and refreshments
Gratuities (discretionary)

What Travellers Say

Private Luxury Tour of Dublin
"Fabulous tour of Dublin City & Howth. Miriam was so lovely and knowledgeable about everything — the best route to take, the oldest pub, the local history. I 100% recommend this tour!"
reby t
Jan 2025
Highly Recommend Miriam
"Miriam was awesome. We spent 5–6 hours with her on our tour. She has a great sense of how much detail to provide and a wonderful sense of humour. Miriam really brought the history of Dublin's coastline and castle heritage to life for us."
823grego
May 2025
The Best Tour Ever
"Miriam is a terrific guide — she shares the history and stories of Dublin and the coast in a fun and interesting way, engaging our teen grandkids as well as the adults. The best tour ever!"
RobinP2375
2025
The Right Guide to Kick Off Our Vacation
"Noel was a great guide for our group. He showed up on time, was engaging, had a great sense of humour, and was very knowledgeable about every destination. The perfect way to kick off our Ireland vacation!"
CAECB
Sept 2025
Miriam Should Be Your First Choice
"Miriam was an excellent host — very informative, with a delightful personality and a great sense of humour. Her choice of route along the North Dublin coastline was inspired. A truly memorable day."
Bruce B
Jun 2024

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Frequently Asked Questions

The tour takes in Malahide Castle and its award-winning gardens, the golden sands of Portmarnock’s Velvet Strand, the charming fishing village and harbour of Howth, the famous Howth Cliff Walk with views of Dublin Bay and the Baily Lighthouse, and a scenic coastal drive back to Dublin.
The tour includes a private luxury vehicle for the day, a professional chauffeur-guide with local expertise, a fully customisable itinerary, hotel or accommodation pickup and drop-off, and bottled water and WiFi in the vehicle.
Yes, Howth is well known for its fresh seafood, and your guide will recommend the best harbour-side spots. Suggested restaurants include Octopussy’s, Aqua, and King Sitric, all offering great views alongside the food. Lunch costs are not included in the tour price.
The cliff walk offers trails of varying lengths, so you can choose a route that suits your group. Your guide will help you pick the right option on the day, whether you want a short stroll or a longer hike with lighthouse views.
Malahide Castle entry is approximately €14 per adult and is not included in the tour price. Lunch, refreshments, and gratuities are also additional. All other stops on the tour, such as the coastal walk and harbour, are free to enjoy.

Send an Enquiry

Have questions or want to discuss a custom itinerary? We’ll respond within 24 hours.

Starting from
€650
per tour (1–8 people)
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