Cultural Tour Guides in Ireland

Immerse yourself in Ireland's rich cultural heritage with expert local guides. From ancient Celtic traditions to contemporary arts, from traditional music sessions to literary landmarks, our cultural guides bring Ireland's living culture to life. Discover the stories, customs, and creativity that make Ireland unique, guided by locals who live and breathe Irish culture every day.

39 Cultural Guides in Ireland

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Orla McCarthy

Cork

Born and raised in Cork, I've spent over 15 years exploring the culinary scene of Ireland's food capital. From artisan cheese makers to craft breweries, I'll show you the authentic flavors of the Rebel County.

Cultural
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Brendan J. Hynes

Clare, Galway, Sligo, Limerick, Mayo

Brendan has lived in Galway for nearly all his life and can trace the origins of his family name back to the 9th century in South Galway. He is a graduate of NUI Galway in 2014 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Archaeology and Geography and is a Failte Ireland and I.T.M.I. qualified tour professional. He has been involved in tourism since 2006 leading visitors on journeys of discovery through some of the most beautiful settings in Galway, Ireland, and the world. For leisure he enjoys travelling, reading and photography. As an experienced tour professional, Brendan can work on extended tours on an International, National and Local basis; and as a city walking tour guide. He can also work with Cruise Ships (River & Ocean) as an on board or land based tour director/manager, host or escort. For individual and group tours, he can customize an itinerary to your interests and needs to maximize your time. His gateway airports are Dublin, Shannon and Knock. So come and explore with Brendan.

CulturalHistoricalFood Drink
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Maeve McKevitt

Carlow, Clare, Donegal, Galway, Kildare, Laois, Limerick, Louth, Meath, Offaly, Sligo, Waterford, Wexford, Wicklow, Westmeath, Tipperary, Roscommon, Monaghan, Mayo, Leitrim, Kilkenny, Kerry, Dublin, Cork, Longford, Cavan

Drawing on extensive experience leading travelers from around the world, I craft tours that go beyond the typical highlights. I specialize in immersive, thoughtfully paced experiences that connect you to local culture, hidden gems, and authentic moments. Every tour is designed with care, curiosity, and attention to detail.

CulturalHikingNature
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Catherine Lavery O Brien

Clare, Donegal, Galway, Kildare, Laois, Limerick, Louth, Meath, Offaly, Waterford, Carlow, Wexford, Wicklow, Westmeath, Tipperary, Roscommon, Monaghan, Mayo, Longford, Leitrim, Kilkenny, Kerry, Dublin, Cork, Cavan

Hello Im Catherine, A seasoned Chauffeur tour of it's over 20 years experience navigating Irelands scenic routes and historical landmarks. Deeply passionate about sharing the beauty of Ireland's coastlines , the richness of its heritage, abd and tge vibrancy of its unique culture. Specializing in personalized tours that showcase hidden gems abd iconic sites, offering insights into local traditions, folklore and history. Dedicated to providing a comfortable, safe and unforgettable travel experience, tailored to your interests and preferences. Highlights: Costal drives along the Wild Atlantic Way, historical exploration s of ancient castles and monastic sites, and immersive cultural experiences in vibrant towns and Islands.

CulturalFood & DrinkHistorical
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Niamh Fitzgerald

Kerry

Growing up in Dingle, I learned Irish as my first language and the sea as my second home. I specialize in coastal walks, dolphin watching, and introducing visitors to our unique Gaeltacht culture and traditions.

CoastalCultural
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Martin Hurley

Carlow, Clare, Donegal, Galway, Kildare, Laois, Limerick, Louth, Meath, Offaly, Wexford, Monaghan, Kilkenny, Dublin, Cavan, Cork, Kerry, Leitrim, Longford, Mayo, Roscommon, Tipperary, Westmeath, Wicklow, Waterford, Sligo

I’m a driver guide with over 20 years of experience driving tourists all over Ireland North and South.

Driver GuidePhotographyCoastal
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Grainne Brennan

Sligo

Poet and Yeats scholar offering unique literary tours through W.B. Yeats' beloved Sligo. Walk in the footsteps of Ireland's greatest poet and discover the landscapes that inspired his work.

CulturalHistoricalLiterary
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Judith ( Judy ) O'Shea

Kerry

I was born in Annascaul on the Dingle peninsula on a dairy farm , one of 8 children. I grew up on the Dingle Peninsula then moved between the cities of Limerick, Dublin and Cork for work after College. ( I have an honours degree in Economics and Sociology from UCC). I have worked in Community development , I.T. , Accounting over my career. I then moved home to Dingle and I now have 11 years of experience as a driver guide. I have crewed and guided on the Blasket island ferry and driven private Golf and Heritage tours nationally on multiday tours. My favorite parts of the job is showing our quirky neolithic monuments that are scattered everywhere in the country to visitors.....showing them how to see them in the landscape and understand what are they seeing as they drive along. Also bringing families to their last known address / townland before their families emigrated ( usually in the 19th C ) to North America. We often connect with living relatives due to speaking to locals and good fortune ☘️🍀 I also do day tours from Killarney and Dingle...

CulturalDriver GuideHistorical
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Sinead Walsh

Waterford

History graduate from Trinity College with 12 years of guiding experience. I bring Waterford's Viking heritage and medieval history to life through engaging storytelling and expert knowledge.

CulturalHistorical
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Shamrock Routes Limited

Carlow, Clare, Donegal, Galway, Kildare, Laois, Limerick, Meath, Louth, Offaly, Sligo, Waterford, Wexford, Cavan, Cork, Dublin, Kerry, Kilkenny, Leitrim, Longford, Mayo, Monaghan, Roscommon, Tipperary, Westmeath, Wicklow

Shamrock Routes provides 5 Star Luxury Chauffeur Service in V Class Mercedes We travel to all historic sites in Ireland, England, Scotland Wales, and Northern Ireland Shamrock Routes Also provides Airport Transfers Day Trips Golfing Holidays up to 6 people travelling

CulturalHikingNature
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Conor O'Brien

Tipperary

Medieval history expert specializing in Ireland's castles and fortifications. From the Rock of Cashel to Cahir Castle, I reveal the fascinating stories behind Tipperary's ancient strongholds.

CulturalHistorical
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Jack Hayden

Kerry, Cork, Kilkenny, Roscommon, Mayo, Clare, Donegal, Galway, Kildare, Laois, Limerick, Waterford, Wexford

Hi I have the privilege of showing guests around around Ireland for 23 years and have stumbled on some hidden gems over the years. We go where large vehicles can’t I’m really passionate about the great Little Country

CulturalNaturePhotography
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Siobhan Murphy

Galway

Foodie and culture enthusiast based in the heart of Galway. I love showing visitors the best local spots for seafood and traditional music.

Cultural
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Maurice Kenneally

Cork, Kerry, Tipperary

Corkprivatetours.ie we aim to give you an unforgettable experience on a day trip around the backroads of County Cork.

HistoricalDriver GuideCultural
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Jessie Mc Donald

Carlow, Donegal, Kildare, Limerick, Wicklow, Tipperary, Kilkenny, Dublin, Galway, Clare, Laois, Waterford, Cork, Kerry, Westmeath, Roscommon, Sligo, Wexford

Jessie McDonald is the founder and driver-guide behind Jessie's Tours of Ireland. A qualified tourist guide, with an honours degree in Archaeology, and with full NTA-SPSV licencing and a comfortable ŠKODA Superb, I combine professionalism and reliability with a deep love of Ireland’s landscapes, history and folklore. My background in guiding — enriched by a keen interest in geology, archaeology, native flora and fauna — means every tour is crafted with care, attention to detail and a genuine desire to reveal the real Ireland.

CulturalHistoricalFood & Drink
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Western Tours & Tales

Clare, Galway, Mayo

Western Tours & Tales have aligned our business with the Wild Atlantic Way brand region. Our Tourist Guiding services are aimed at those wishing to explore the enchanting mid-West region of Ireland. Our small team of Guides bring individual destinations and attractions of Celtic Ireland to life.

CulturalHistoricalWalking
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Willie Grace

Kilkenny, Carlow, Tipperary, Cork

A Thomastown native with a gift for storytelling and a great sense of humor! I've been entertaining visitors with tales of Kilkenny's medieval past for over 20 years. Whether it's the legends of the castles or the craic in the local pubs, I'll make sure your tour is as fun as it is informative.

HistoricalCulturalWalking
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Terry Lambert

Dublin, Wicklow, Kilkenny, Meath, Kerry, Cork, Clare, Mayo, Sligo, Kildare, Galway

Terry Lambert & Hilltoptreks — What Makes Us Special For over two decades, Terry Lambert has been leading people into the heart of Ireland’s natural beauty, sharing the landscapes, stories, and secrets that make this island such an unforgettable place to explore. As the founder of Hilltoptreks, Terry brings a lifetime of experience in the outdoors, a deep love of Irish culture, and a genuine passion for showing guests the Ireland he knows best—authentic, welcoming, and full of quiet magic. With Terry, it’s never just a tour; it’s a personal journey shaped by warmth, humour, and a sense of adventure. Hilltoptreks’ day tours and walking holidays stand out because they go beyond the usual tourist path. Whether it’s exploring Wicklow’s forested trails, stepping back thousands of years at Newgrange, or wandering through the valleys and coastlines of Ireland’s west, every experience is crafted with care. Our routes are handpicked, our pace is relaxed, and our guides—each one hand-chosen by Terry—bring their own local knowledge, personality, and storytelling charm. Guests don’t just see Ireland; they feel it. What truly sets Hilltoptreks apart is our connection with people. Terry has always believed that the best experiences come from small groups, personal attention, and the freedom to slow down and enjoy the journey. This approach has shaped everything we do: the friendly atmosphere, the flexibility of our itineraries, the choice between guided and self-guided adventures, and the genuine relationships we build with our guests. Many return year after year—not just for the scenery, but for the sense of belonging they find with us. From easy day tours to multi-day walking holidays in Ireland and beyond, Hilltoptreks offers experiences that are thoughtful, uplifting, and rooted in a true love of the outdoors. Under Terry’s guidance, we’ve always kept one simple goal at the heart of our work: to help people discover places that inspire them, challenge them, and stay with them long after the journey ends.

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Cornelius Blake

Carlow, Cavan, Clare, Cork, Kerry, Leitrim, Mayo, Roscommon, Westmeath, Galway, Laois, Louth, Offaly, Waterford, Dublin, Kilkenny, Longford, Monaghan, Tipperary, Wicklow, Wexford, Sligo, Meath, Limerick, Kildare, Donegal

I am an Irish Tourist Board approved National Tour Guide, providing personalized Day Tours as well as Full vacations, offering assistance and advise on itineraries. I have many years experience in the sector and enjoy showing visitors around Ireland, telling stories, sharing in the rich history the music, the beautiful scenery and culture.

CulturalHistoricalPhotography
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Dairine Nuttall

Wicklow, Dublin

I am a qualified tour guide and have been guiding and driver guiding for the past twelve years. I am a member of ATGI (Approved Tourist Guides of Ireland) and I hold a Small Public Service Vehicle licence which means that I am licensed to carry people for hire or reward and am fully insured for this. In Ireland you cannot transport people for hire or reward without this licence so always look for the green disc on the front and rear windscreens. I drive an E class Mercedes limo which can take up to four passengers - two seats in the front and three in the back. My tours cover Dublin and the adjoining county of Wicklow, and can be walking tours or driving tours or a combination of both. Hiking, gardens, farming and stately homes are a speciality as are tours for those seeking to visit their ancestral homeland. I grew up on a farm in the Wicklow Uplands, and worked in the property business, and then in the political world, before becoming a tour guide. I am knowledgeable, energetic, intuitive, and easy going and I really enjoy meeting people. A tour with me can cover many topics, and I am a great believer in being flexible (within reason!) and in quality rather than quantity when it comes to an itinerary. Contact me to make a bespoke itinerary that suits YOU!

CulturalHistoricalLiterary
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Phil Archbold

Dublin, Wicklow, Kerry, Galway, Kilkenny

Experienced local guide ready to show you around.

CulturalHistoricalDriver Guide
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Tony Keane

Kerry

Hi, my name is Tony and as someone living on the Dingle Peninsula with involvement and employment in the tourism industry for the past 20 years, I decided to start a traditional pub tour in Dingle Town to showcase the amazing pubs we have on our doorstep to our visitors, it is the only tour of its kind. We have had a successful first year with over 30 tours and 170 people but now the focus is to grow the tour bigger and better for guests to Dingle in 2026 with more singing, storytelling, music, traditional Irish pub snacks and maybe even a bit of dancing who knows :) /

Food DrinkCulturalHistorical
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Aoife O'Brien

Galway

Born and raised in Galway City, I've spent my life exploring the rugged beauty of Connemara and the vibrant culture of the West. From traditional music sessions to ancient stone walls, I'll show you the real heart of the Wild Atlantic Way.

CulturalFood DrinkWalking
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Joe Ormonde

Carlow, Donegal, Kildare, Limerick, Meath, Sligo, Wexford, Cavan, Dublin, Kilkenny, Longford, Monaghan, Tipperary, Wicklow, Clare, Galway, Laois, Louth, Offaly, Waterford, Cork, Kerry, Leitrim, Mayo, Roscommon, Westmeath

Experienced and insured chauffeur providing premium limousine tours across Ireland. Located in Tipperary, I handle airport pick-ups and drop-offs. Award-winning landscape photographer dedicated to showcasing Ireland's stunning scenery.

CulturalHistoricalPhotography
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Angela Gavigan

Sligo, Offaly, Meath, Donegal, Galway, Clare, Kerry, Kilkenny, Leitrim, Longford, Mayo, Monaghan, Roscommon, Tipperary, Westmeath, Wicklow, Dublin, Cavan, Cork, Waterford

I’m a qualified, experienced and knowledgeable National Tour Guide and a member of ATGI (Approved Tourist Guides of Ireland) so I can help you plan a very memorable trip that will include some very cool surprises. I’ll collect your group, drive and guide you for the duration of your trip in a comfortable and luxurious vehicle. I will personally help you select excellent hotels that will marry wonderfully with your plans. These will vary depending on time of year, number of rooms required for your group, and standard of accommodation you would like. There is a diverse range of accommodation to choose from – Castles, Hotels, Irish Country Houses, Farmhouses and Guesthouses. I’m very happy to help you with accommodation and dining recommendations.” Whether you’re planning a solo trip, a family getaway, or a romantic escape, I’m here to help you create memories that will last forever.

Music ArtsDriver GuideFood Drink
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Ciaran Fitzgerald

Kildare

Third-generation horse trainer from the heart of Ireland's thoroughbred country. I offer exclusive tours of the Irish National Stud, local stables, and the rich equestrian heritage of Kildare.

Cultural
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Pat Lyons

Limerick, Dublin, Kilkenny, Galway, Clare, Cork, Kerry

We Specialise In Golf, Leisure & Activity Tours, Which Are Customised To Clients Requirements. I'm a Private Driver, Fully Licenced with a Luxury Mercedes Minibus, Ideal for Small Groups, with Loads of Luggage Space. Activities Arranged, Cycling, Golf, Hiking, Horse Riding, etc. Day Sightseeing, Itinerary Planning, Airport Transfers. Inquire About Self Catering Accommodation Options.

CulturalHistoricalPhotography
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Ger Considine

Clare, Galway, Mayo

Experienced local guide ready to show you around.

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Jason Neeson

Dublin, Wicklow, Wexford, Meath, Tipperary

Planet Dublin Tours provides private sightseeing tours for small groups, families & friends in Dublin and throughout Ireland.

Driver GuideCulturalHistorical
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David Matthews

Clare, Galway, Kildare, Limerick, Waterford, Cork, Dublin, Kerry, Kilkenny, Mayo, Carlow, Donegal, Laois, Louth, Meath, Offaly, Sligo, Wexford, Cavan, Leitrim, Longford, Monaghan, Roscommon, Tipperary, Westmeath, Wicklow

A qualified National Tour Guide and member of the Association of Tour Guides of Ireland, I can work with an existing itinerary or help design the perfect Irish experience.

CulturalDriver GuideFood & Drink
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Maeve Ryan

Limerick

English literature professor and Frank McCourt enthusiast. I offer immersive literary walking tours through Limerick, exploring the city that inspired Angela's Ashes and countless other Irish works.

CulturalLiterary
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Michael Fox

Meath, Wicklow, Dublin

I’m a private tour guide and driver based in the Boyne Valley, offering personalized visits to Newgrange, the wider Boyne Valley and Scenic Wicklow. I collect guests from their accommodation in Dublin or Meath and bring them on a relaxed and informative day out in a comfortable sedan for up to three guests or a Mercedes MPV for groups of up to six. Each tour is crafted around your interests, with archaeology, stories and local history woven into the day. I’m a qualified National Tour Guide and a fully licensed driver and my aim is to provide a warm welcome and a memorable experience.

Driver GuideCulturalHistorical
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Mary G O' Sullivan

Cork, Kerry, Clare, Galway

Professional licensed national tour guide since 1992. I am a graduate of 'Genealogy' and 'Irish Heritage and Folklore' from UCC. I offer private bespoke day and multi-day tours specialising in the South West along the Wild Atlantic Way. I avoid the fixed 'bus tour' circuit as much as possible and focus on off-the-beaten-path places as well as the main attractions.

CulturalHistoricalDriver Guide
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Derek Spillane

Cork, Donegal, Galway, Clare, Louth, Meath, Kerry, Kilkenny, Dublin, Limerick, Mayo

I have a BA (Hons.) Degree in History and Heritage Studies and a Postgraduate Diploma in Education. I hold SPSV licence and I'm an accredited National Tour Guide and limousine driver. I can trace my Galwegian roots back to 1776, to the Aran Islands and I can assist you trace your Irish roots if required. Throughout my life, I have travelled extensively around the world and realised the value of a good guide in bringing a place alive. I resolved back then to become a professional guide one day and show visitors the places I feel are unique and special. I was born in a Gaelic speaking area and would love to share a few words with you and share my passion for history and folklore. Credentials I hold a BA (Frist Class Honours) Degree in History and Heritage Studies and a Postgraduate Diploma in Education, achieving a Distinction in my Level 9 Postgraduate Degree. I am a fully Accredited Failte Ireland Natiinal Tour Guide and have been offering guided tours since 2012. I have full public liability insurance and hold a B and D1 full drivers license. My expertise include Ireland's history, archaeology, architecture, literature, folklore and folklife (including Ireland's food heritage).

Driver GuideWalkingHistorical
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Dermot O’Connor

Carlow, Clare, Donegal, Galway, Kildare, Laois, Limerick, Louth, Meath, Offaly, Sligo, Waterford, Wexford, Wicklow, Westmeath, Mayo, Tipperary, Roscommon, Monaghan, Longford, Leitrim, Kilkenny, Kerry, Dublin, Cork, Cavan

Fully accredited national tour guide covering the 32 counties of Ireland. Discover Ireland at your pace. Discover Ireland at your leisure.

CulturalHikingNature
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michael cowell

Carlow, Clare, Donegal, Kildare, Galway, Laois, Limerick, Louth, Meath, Offaly, Sligo, Waterford, Wexford, Cavan, Dublin, Cork, Kerry, Leitrim, Kilkenny, Longford, Mayo, Monaghan, Roscommon, Tipperary, Westmeath, Wicklow

Hi I am Michael Cowell founder and owner of MCT Irish Tours, we tour the 32 countries of Ireland, Your Tour, Your Vacation, our Experience.

Driver GuideCulturalFood & Drink
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Fionn MacCarthy

Clare

The Burren is one of Europe's most unique landscapes, and the Cliffs of Moher are just the beginning. As a geologist and traditional musician, I offer a unique blend of natural history and Irish music culture that you won't find anywhere else.

CulturalNature
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Mark McHale

Dublin

Mark is a born-and-bred Howth local who has spent his life exploring every cliff path, hidden trail, and historic corner of the peninsula. He turned that passion into Hidden Howth Experiences — a collection of award-winning tours that mix breathtaking scenery, proper Irish storytelling, great food and drink, and plenty of laughs along the way. Joined by his iconic sidekick Missy the dog, Mark creates tours that feel less like a formal experience and more like a day out with friends. Guests get the real Howth: the stories locals grew up with, the secret viewpoints, the characters of the village, and the warm Irish welcome that keeps people coming back again and again. If you want a fun, relaxed adventure with a local who loves what he does — you’ve just found it.

CulturalHistoricalFood & Drink
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Tadhg O'Sullivan

Cork

Kinsale is Ireland's gourmet capital, and I'm here to prove it. As a certified sommelier and food enthusiast, I'll take you on a culinary journey through West Cork's artisan producers, seafood restaurants, and historic pubs.

CoastalCulturalFood Drink

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a cultural tour in Ireland include?

Cultural tours typically include visits to historic sites, traditional music venues, literary landmarks, local festivals, and interactions with artisans and cultural practitioners.

How long do cultural tours last?

Cultural tours range from 2-hour city walks to full-day experiences and multi-day cultural immersions.