@WhereinDublinDublin is known for its rich history, lively culture, and, of course, world-famous beers. If a trip to Dublin is on the cards, one activity that’s often high on the list is a brewery tour. But the big question for most travelers is: how much does a Dublin guided brewery tour cost? From my own personal experience, the price isn’t just about what you pay upfront, it’s about what you get in terms of experience, history, tastings, and fun. Let’s jump into all the details so planning a brewery adventure in Dublin becomes a breeze.
Why Choose a Guided Brewery Tour?
Before we get into costs, it’s worth understanding why a guided brewery tour is worth every euro. Dublin has a booming craft beer scene alongside its historic giants like Guinness. A guided tour allows you to:
Learn the story behind iconic brands.
Explore brewing techniques and secret recipes.
Sample fresh beers in their original environment.
Ask questions and interact with experts.
Discover hidden craft breweries off the typical tourist path.
From my own personal experience, even if you think you know beer, a tour will give you insights you simply can’t get from tasting in a bar. Guides are knowledgeable and passionate, often sharing quirky facts that make the experience fun and memorable.
What Influences the Cost of a Brewery Tour?
The cost of a guided brewery tour in Dublin depends on several factors. Here’s a breakdown:
1. Size and Popularity of the Brewery
Major breweries like Guinness or Jameson often charge more because of the brand experience and the extensive facilities. Smaller craft breweries may charge less, but the tours are often more intimate and hands-on.
Guinness Storehouse Tour: €25–€40
Jameson Distillery Tour: €25–€35
Smaller craft breweries: €15–€25
From my own personal experience, booking a tour at a smaller brewery felt more personal, and I could ask the guide detailed questions about the brewing process.
2. Duration of the Tour
Longer tours with in-depth explanations, tastings, and behind-the-scenes access naturally cost more. Shorter tours may only last 30–60 minutes and give a general overview.
Short tours (30–60 mins): €10–€20
Standard tours (1–2 hours): €20–€40
Premium tours (2–3 hours + tasting): €40–€60
3. Inclusions: Tasting & Food
Tours that include multiple tastings, flights of beer, or paired food experiences usually cost more. Some breweries even offer “brew your own beer” experiences for an additional fee.
Tasting only: usually included in standard tours.
Tasting + food pairing: €40–€70
Brew your own beer session: €50–€90
4. Private or Group Tours
Private tours are pricier, but they’re ideal if you want a personalized experience. Group tours spread the cost across participants, making them more budget-friendly.
Private tour: €100–€200 for 2–4 people
Group tour: €20–€40 per person
Top Brewery Tours in Dublin and Their Costs
Let’s look at some of the most popular brewery tours in Dublin, along with estimated prices:
1. Guinness Storehouse
Price: €25–€40
Duration: 1.5–2 hours
What’s included: Guided tour, interactive exhibits, tasting in the Gravity Bar with panoramic views of Dublin.
From my own personal experience, this tour is a must for first-time visitors. The tasting at the top of the building alone makes the cost worth it.
2. Jameson Distillery Bow St.
Price: €25–€35
Duration: 1–1.5 hours
What’s included: Guided tour, whiskey tasting, history of the brand, cocktail-making option.
Even though this is technically a distillery, many visitors combine it with brewery tours in Dublin for a full Irish spirits experience.
3. Dublin Liberties Distillery
Price: €15–€25
Duration: 1 hour
What’s included: Small-batch whiskey insights, tasting, local stories.
Smaller, less touristy, and more affordable, this is perfect for travelers who want a deeper connection with local culture.
4. 5 Lamps Brewery
Price: €15–€25
Duration: 1 hour
What’s included: Craft beer tasting, brewery process explanation, casual atmosphere.
Craft breweries like 5 Lamps offer a hands-on experience. From my own personal experience, I got to see brewing tanks up close and even smell the hops—something you can’t do at the big breweries.
5. Porterhouse Brewing Company
Price: €10–€20
Duration: 45 minutes–1 hour
What’s included: Beer tasting, brewery tour, taproom visit.
This is ideal if you’re looking for a relaxed tour without the frills but still want authentic Dublin beer.
Tips for Getting the Best Value on a Brewery Tour
Paying for a brewery tour is easy, but getting the best experience for your money takes some planning. Here are my recommendations:
Book in Advance
Tours at major breweries often sell out, especially on weekends. Booking ahead can also save a few euros in online discounts.
Look for Combo Deals
Some tours offer combo tickets with multiple breweries or distilleries. This is great if planning to see more than one place.
Consider Off-Peak Times
Weekday tours or early morning sessions tend to be cheaper and less crowded.
Take Notes During the Tour
Even if it’s just for fun, jotting down interesting facts can make the experience feel more valuable. From my own personal experience, I still remember quirky brewing stories I noted on a tour years ago.
Don’t Skip the Tasting
The price often includes tastings. Skipping them means missing the main highlight. Small breweries sometimes let you sample extra beers for a small fee.
How to Budget for Your Brewery Experience
If planning a trip to Dublin, here’s a rough budget guide based on tour type:
- Budget-friendly: €10–€20 per tour, mainly small craft breweries.
- Mid-range: €25–€40 per tour, includes major attractions like Guinness or Jameson.
- Premium experience: €50–€90 per tour, includes tastings, food pairings, or private sessions.
Remember to factor in travel costs, souvenirs, and extra tastings outside the main tour.
Final Thoughts
A Dublin guided brewery tour is more than just a way to taste beer—it’s a way to explore Irish culture, meet passionate brewers, and learn history in a fun, immersive way. From my own personal experience, paying a little extra for a guided tour is worth it because the stories, insider knowledge, and behind-the-scenes access elevate the experience beyond what a casual pub visit can offer.
The price range is broad, so whether on a budget or splurging for a premium tasting, there’s a Dublin brewery tour for every traveler. Planning ahead, booking online, and considering smaller craft breweries will maximize enjoyment and minimize stress.
