Literary Tour Guides in Ireland
Follow in the footsteps of Ireland's literary giants with expert guides. Explore the landscapes, pubs, and sites that inspired Joyce, Yeats, Wilde, and other great Irish writers.
Literary by region
And 14 more counties
40 literary guides in Ireland
Jimmy Mulrooney
My name is Jimmy and I have been touring the island of Ireland with guests from all over the world for the past 30 years. I specialize in Irish history and culture. I give my guests tours that are very experimental and off the beaten path, highlighting places not in the guide books.
- Cultural
- Food & Drink
- Historical
Ciaran Hayden
Ciarán Hayden is a fully qualified national tour guide based in Dublin and Wicklow, with a passion for bringing Ireland’s rich past and vibrant culture to life. A graduate of the Bord Fáilte National Tour Guide programme at the Portobello Institute in Dublin, Ciarán has spent the past three years guiding visitors through the stories, streets, and flavours that define the region. Specialising in modern Irish history and the elegance of Georgian Dublin, Ciarán blends deep historical knowledge with a natural gift for storytelling. His tours explore everything from cultural landmarks and hidden corners to the best of local food and traditional pubs, offering guests an authentic and immersive experience. He also brings a particular depth of insight into Huguenot Ireland, tracing the influence of refugee communities such as the La Touche family, whose Delgany branch played a significant role in the social and economic development of Wicklow. By weaving these narratives into the broader story of Ireland, Ciarán highlights the lasting legacy of migration, enterprise, and identity. His storytelling further extends to Ireland’s long and complex struggle for independence, from the uprising of 1798 through the revolutionary period of the early 20th century and into the present day. With a balanced and engaging approach, he helps visitors understand the people, events, and ideas that shaped the nation. Before becoming a guide, Ciarán served for 28 years as a firefighter — a career that shaped his calm presence, sharp insight, and ability to connect with people from all walks of life. Today, he brings that same dedication and energy to every tour, ensuring each group leaves with a deeper understanding of Ireland and a few great stories to tell.
- Cultural
- Historical
- Coastal
Vinny Judge
Fully accredited, experienced and fun tour guide offering a diverse range of walking tours around Dublin city and beyond. Tours available: Historic Dublin City (Vikings to contemporary Dublin). Malahide Castle to Portmarnock. Howth Head Walking Trails. Bray Head Walking Trails. "Real Irish Music" Pub Crawl
- Coastal
- Cultural
- Literary
James Given
I am a very personal professional tour guide. I am very easy to spend time with. I am very flexable and have a good range of excursions in and around sligo that will inform and amaze you.
- Cultural
- Nature
- Hiking
Cathy Whelan
Cead Mile Failte - One Hundred Thousand Welcomes :) Hi ladies and gents abroad and a warm welcome to my profile page here. My name is Cathy and I am an Irish born and bred tour guide based in our beautiful capital city, Dublin. I have been in the travel industry for over 20 years now and have worked as both a world wide travel manager for a large American company and also as a host and tour guide across Ireland and Europe for the past 8 years. Having worked and travelled quite extensively in the past, I have had the great pleasure of meeting a number of different nationalities and experienced their cultures It has been a great experience for me to work with so many different types of people from young children to the more mature folks enjoying their retirement years Nowadays however, my greatest joy is to show off my own beautiful city and country to all of you from around the world I am always delighted to meet and engage with new people and show them the very best of this lovely little country and help them make memories that will last a life time I am a very friendly and fun but sincere person and I aim to give my guests interesting but fun tours during their time in the city or country I am always open to reworking tours and tweaking or designing new tours to satisfy what any particular individual or group is interested in too and this has made me a popular guide here in Ireland I am like most Irish people in that I do not over brag about myself but I can say with honesty that I am a genuinely professional guide who wants nothing but my groups to home happy and fully satisfied that they have been shown a good time and had lots of fun with me during their time in Ireland If you want to get in touch with me to arrange or book a tour or discuss and preferences or things you would like to do here that are specific, please feel free to email me and I will get back to you promptly Bye for now - my friends to come :) Cathy
- Historical
- Walking
- Coastal
Balor Otherworld
I am a storyteller and private guide living in the west of Ireland all my life. After years working in the private sector I chose to create my own business to sustain and nurture Irish storytelling and offer immersive private tours of Ireland. The tours include visits to hidden gems and a personalised experience. Based on your interests and timings, I craft the most practical experience to ensure you get the most from your time with me. When I am not touring or performing storytelling, my time is spent researching and expanding my understanding of the stories from across Ireland. The stories I tell suit all ages as the topics include history, heirtage, folklore, mythology, urban myth, true crime, fantasy, literary tours, ghost tours etc. The focus is on you, and making sure you get not only excellent value for money but an unforgettable experience to share with your loved ones.
- Cultural
- Historical
- Literary
Karin Janssen
I’m a multilingual tour guide and professional photographer originally from the Netherlands, living in Ireland since 1997. I’m passionate about Irish culture, history, and folklore, and I love sharing the magic of Ireland through all 6 senses. I speak English, Dutch and French, with basic German and Russian. I studied French, Dutch and Russian translation in Brussels in the 90s, where I met an Irishman who brought me to Ireland—where my own Irish story began. After several years in the corporate world, I followed my passion and became a tour guide to bring more meaning and magic into my work. Today, I offer immersive Irish experiences where you can see castles and ancient churches, smell turf fires, taste traditional soda bread, feel the sea mist, hear live trad music, and discover Irish myths and ghost stories. Based in Bray, Co. Wicklow, I’m ideally placed to explore the Garden of Ireland, including Glendalough, mountains, waterfalls, and stunning coastal scenery. I also offer professional photography to capture your journey and create lasting memories.
- Cultural
- Historical
- Photography
Christian Lund Daniel 克里斯逖安•伦德
Currently offering local knowledge Concerige VIP Services for Dublin.
- Food & Drink
- Adventure
- Cultural
Michael A Potter
Professional tour guide, all areas in Ireland covered, Coach tour's, Walking tour's, Private tour's Heritage tour's, bespoke to your requirements
- Cultural
- Private Driver
- Historical
Tony Carey
As a lifelong resident of Limerick, I have an intimate understanding of the city's hidden gems and historical significance. and create walking tours to suit all tastes. I am qualified as a local and national tour guide and fully insured.
- Cultural
- Historical
- Walking
Pat Lyons
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.
- Cultural
- Historical
- Photography
Maeve McKevitt
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.
- Cultural
- Hiking
- Nature
Aiden O'Byrne
Executive Explorer is led by Aiden O’Byrne, a child of the 60’s, family man, historian, ex-corporate socialite and amateur dramatist. Tours are relaxed, friendly and accurate with an emphasis on tailor-made luxurious experiences. I really enjoy illuminating stories to people. I’m a natural story teller having written and produced a recent short film and am a short-story competition winner (SONY Prize 2000). I love history and especially the experience gained from Fetec Diploma courses in National Tour Guiding, National Tour Management and National Tour Heritage & Culture to interpret our diverse culture for National Tour guiding. Fully trained in Health & Safety protocols for National Tour Guiding to ensure that those of limited accessibilty and disability can be made feel as welcome as those fully able in any situation I love engaging with all cultures to deliver exciting and engaging experiental tours. My work experience involved building relationships with highly educated and senior corporate executives to promote my employers services and products in a modern highly regulated environment and I would hope to put these skills to work in this role.
- Historical
- Nature
- Walking
Stephen Payne
Stephen Payne began his story with passenger travel & tourism back in 2003 and since then has gained almost unrivalled knowledge on showing the very best Ireland has to offer, from castles and country estates, to small remote beaches in Connemara and Kerry. Having been organising bespoke tours for just over 20 years, Stephen leaves no stone unturned when it comes to accommodation, food and lunches, points of interest stops, as well as small details such as tour diaries and giving a truly immersive Irish experience to everyone who travels on board. Having a Fáilte Ireland Irish National Driver Guide qualification means you're not just getting a driver, you're getting a knowledgeable, passionate storyteller who can bring Ireland's history, culture, music, landscapes and people to life as you travel around the country. From the ancient passage tombs of the Boyne Valley to the spectacular views along the Wild Atlantic Way, the breathtaking gardens at Powerscourt to the intricacies of the Book of Kells, the silence of the Famine Memorial to the wonderful Irish music in Tralee — Stephen has guided groups from all across the world and knows the nooks and crannies to make each and every journey one to remember forever.
- Cultural
- Historical
- Music & Arts
Eoin Cusack
Hi there, this is Eoin from Galway Chauffeurs. We are based in Galway, in the west of Ireland, but we provide private tours throughout the entire country. All of our drivers are qualified tour guides affiliated with Fáilte Ireland, and all our vehicles are luxury vehicles, including Mercedes V-Class models and similar premium transport. We would be delighted to help put together an itinerary tailored to your trip. Please check out our reviews on TripAdvisor through our website: galwaychauffeurs.ie� Best regards, Eoin
- Cultural
- Food & Drink
- Historical
Patrick Tipper
Hi , I’m a vastly experienced tour guide and driver , who can show you around Ireland through all the major sights, and the more interesting roads less traveled, with all there is to see there . I can advise on accommodation, restaurants, live music venues , around the country. to enhance your stay .
- Cultural
- Food & Drink
- Historical
Catherine Lavery O Brien
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.
- Cultural
- Food & Drink
- Historical
Antonella Brunelli
Buongiorno! I am Italian and I live in Italy and during the Summer Season in Ireland. I am specialized in Art History and in Horticulture. I am a qualified National Guide in both countries.
- Cultural
- Historical
- Photography
Jaeici O'Muircheartaig
I was born in a small village near the foot of Mount Brandon, and spoke only Irish until I was 12. From an early age, Irish folklore, traditions and customs captivated me, and my love of all things Irish blossomed. It is a love that remains with me to this day. I grew up in the heart of the Dingle Peninsula surrounded by breathtaking scenery, the Blasket Islands, Skellig Michael, Mount Brandon and the Three Sisters, and I dreamed of being able, one day, to share this incredible place with visitors from all over the world. My dream was realised when I qualified as a Fáilte Ireland Approved Tour Guide. To date, I have taken people from all over the world on magical journeys and experiences across the entire island of Ireland.
- Cultural
- Historical
- Photography
Paula Moore
Hi There My Name is Paula. I’m a qualified Tour guide and am very passionate about telling you about my knowledge of history and culture here in Ireland. I have good knowledge of Ireland in Celtic times, Christian, Viking, Anglo Norman, Tudor times to Ireland’s independence in 1922. I would like to take you to the landmarks where such big events happened. I am your Ambassador here in Ireland and I am to show you around. I know you will enjoy this journey with me. I look forward to hearing from you soon.
- Cultural
- Historical
- Walking
John Field
Hello ! My Dublin walking tours are a mixture of history, folk tales, mythology and song. James Joyce themed tours are a speciality. My previous working background was in IT where I was fortunate to have met wonderful people from all over the world whose cultures and stories have astounded me. I look forward to sharing Ireland’s stories and culture with you As we say here in our ancient Gaelic language - Fáilte go hÉirinn (Welcome to Ireland)
- Cultural
- Historical
- Literary
John Ducie
We offer private, tailored guided tours that take you on an unforgettable journey across Ireland. From the vibrant city of Dublin to hidden gems throughout the country, John, an experienced historian and licensed Irish Government Approved National Tour Guide, ensures every tour is filled with fascinating history, rich culture, and breathtaking landscapes. Tours For The Thinking Traveller With so much to explore, you’re in control. Whether you dream of wandering ancient castles, savouring Irish cuisine, or immersing yourself in the local culture, we’ll help you create an itinerary that suits your interests. Our experienced guides provide unique insights into Ireland’s history and culture. You’ll gain a deeper understanding of the places you visit, making your journey more meaningful.
- Cultural
- Historical
- Literary
Peter O'Connor
Medieval archery lessons with tall tales and a little history on the background and lifestyle od archery through the ages. Storytelling and actual loosing of arrows is open to all. Optional is learning, and having fun.
- Cultural
- Nature
- Music & Arts
Gerry Kelly
I asked an old friend if I should switch from community work into tour guiding......."great idea" he said; you'll get paid to talk. My motto is "Where facts and fun meet". My aim is always that clients will learn some new & interesting facts about our country, AND enjoy themselves along the way. Before taking up guiding i worked in Community and Youth work for 15 years, and this was great preparation for treating everyone as an individual, and that everyone had a story to tell. I enjoy working with all sorts of groups and individuals, and I would list my own special interests as sports, current affairs and utterly useless trivial information. Whether it's a half day stroll around Dublin city centre or a full tour of the Emerald Isle I always aim to inform and entertain, and help provide lots of good and happy memories. In case you are wondering.......I do not have a social media presence. Without being too preachy, i kinda think it's causing the collapse of western civilisation as we know it. That and old dogs & new tricks etc.
- Historical
- Walking
- Coastal
Dairine Nuttall
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!
- Cultural
- Historical
- Literary
William Duffy
Really Great Tours Discover the authentic pulse of the west of Ireland with Really Great Tours, led by local guide, storyteller, and ecotourism specialist Bill Duffy. Deeply rooted in County Mayo, Bill steers clear of the crowded, commercial tourist trails, inviting you instead to experience the magic of "Slow Travel." These immersive, unhurried journeys connect you deeply with the living culture, folklore, and pristine wilderness of the coast. From the rare, colourful flora of the Atlantic blanket bogs to the captivating stories of our offshore islands, Really Great Tours offers a genuine escape into Irish heritage. It is the perfect getaway for those looking to slow down, listen to the land, and discover the region's best-kept secrets.
- Cultural
- Hiking
- Nature
Dermot O’Connor
Fully accredited national tour guide covering the 32 counties of Ireland. Discover Ireland at your pace. Discover Ireland at your leisure.
- Cultural
- Hiking
- Nature
Jason Ó Fionnáin
I’m Jason Ó Fionnáin, an Irish filmmaker, professional photographer, storyteller, creative educator and qualified TEFL teacher based near Mullingar in Ireland’s Ancient East. I create private, personalised experiences that bring Ireland’s landscape, mythology, archaeology and living culture to life. My tours are relaxed, immersive and designed around each guest’s interests. Rather than simply visiting landmarks, we explore the stories, ancient beliefs, local traditions and hidden details connected to each place. Experiences can include heritage storytelling, photography guidance, forest walks, creative activities and conversational English practice for international visitors. I specialise in small groups, families, students and travellers seeking an authentic connection with Ireland beyond the usual tourist routes. From 5,000-year-old passage tombs and medieval monasteries to sacred hills, lakes, castles and quiet countryside, every experience is shaped with care, local knowledge and a genuine Irish welcome.
- Adventure
- Cultural
- Historical
Mireille Finnegan
Mireille( French) Finnegan( obviously Irish) L'Irlande est mon pays d'adoption. Membre de Atgi depuis 2009.Généraliste mais très attirée par les Arts, sportive et curieuse, je vous ferai partager mon amour de l'Irlande. Vous verrez, c'est contagieux! You can't forget to visit Northern Ireland and Scotland, as our history is linked since neolithic time. Outside of Ireland, i will be happy to show you the rest of Europe as a Tour Leader. Specially Spain, France and Swizerland where I spent the last three years. https://photos.app.goo.gl/rr5hwAwJ9dsJuN6s6 https://www.facebook.com/share/1MxCE599aX/
- Cultural
- Hiking
- Music & Arts
Patrick Cooney
Over 40 Years experience touring Ireland as a Driver and Guide. I’m a fully certified badged guide. I have worked with all major tour companies.
- Private Driver
- Historical
- Coastal
Marius Marosan
I'm a Romanian living in Ireland, passionate about meeting new people, travelling, cooking, history, photography and music. I'm also very passionate to discover and get to know new cultures, cuisines and places. I do official tours since 2018 and I can show you amazing places far from the tourists' paths.
- Adventure
- Historical
- Nature
Dom Pio O'Cruadhliocht
A true eccentric artist, born in the heart of Dublin. I have traveled from Eastern Europe to the Middle East, absorbing languages and cultures in my journey. I love to roam the many historical streets, visiting new exhibitions, or relaxing in the many beautiful parks of this gorgeous city. My interest is in Secret History. So let us go to the largest urban park in Europe to see wild Deer, the largest private collection of Oriental art, and the first public library in Ireland, the famous Dublin cathedrals and rich Georgian architecture.
- Historical
- Food & Drink
- Literary
Carina McNally
I am an author, journalist, playwright, storyteller, and tour guide from the Beara Peninsula, Co. Cork. My historical walking draws on the Irish landscape, its mythology, history and folklore.
- Adventure
- Historical
- Nature
Brede Merrigan
Brede Merrigan is the founder and badged driver-guide behind Crystal Tours Ireland. Brede wanted to do the most important thing that she loves most in the world—showcasing the breath taking beauty of Ireland to visitors and ensuring they have the best vacation of their lives. With a heart full of Irish pride and an unwavering commitment to excellence, Brede built this company to offer more than just a tour; she offers a genuine connection to the land, its history, and its people. Brede absolutely adores what she does, and that passion is the crystal-clear foundation of every journey we create. She has assembled a remarkable team of professional, badged tour guides who share her vision and enthusiasm. Behind the wheel of our fleet of modern, comfortable vehicles, you'll find knowledgeable storytellers who are eager to share not only their extensive knowledge but also their own personal stories and local insights. They are the key to unlocking the real Ireland, taking you beyond the guidebooks to experience the hidden corners, the warm welcomes, and the inside stories that make this island so unforgettable. With Crystal Tours Ireland, you're not just seeing the sights; you're experiencing Ireland through the eyes of people who cherish it most. I also suggest you check out TripAdvisor and read the outstanding reviews our drivers have received since setting this up in April of 2025 - https://www.tripadvisor.ie/Attraction_Review-g186616-d33054246-Reviews-Crystal_Tours_Ireland-Kilkenny_County_Kilkenny.html.
- Private Driver
- Literary
- Photography
Colm Tipp Hogan
I am a highly-rated, independent private tour guide based in Dublin. I specialise in customized walking and historical tours of the city, and am reknowned for my deep knowledge of Irish history, literature, and my ability to sing traditional Irish songs
- Historical
- Walking
- Food & Drink
121-Ireland-Tours
Travel in our comfortable 8-seater Mercedes V-Class limousine. You will have a professional driver / tour guide. This ensures a personal and memorable experience. Discover Ireland your way with 121 Ireland Tours, offering private, chauffeur-driven tours from Dublin for small groups of 1 to 7 passengers. Travel in comfort, avoid crowded buses, and enjoy a fully personalised Irish experience with a local driver who knows the country inside out. Whether you're visiting Ireland for the first time or returning to explore more, we create unforgettable journeys tailored to your schedule, interests, and pace
- Cultural
- Historical
- Photography
Brendan J. Hynes
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.
- Cultural
- Historical
- Food & Drink
Joe Ormonde
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.
- Cultural
- Historical
- Photography
Eóin Patrick Cashman
I am the Tour Operations & Transport Manager at Cronin’s Coaches, a core division of the Cronin Travel Group. The group brings together Specialized Travel Services (STS), Select Hotels & Experiences, Cronin’s Coaches, and Cork City Tours to deliver fully integrated travel solutions across Ireland and the United Kingdom. I work closely with a wide portfolio of international partners including CIE Tours, Gate 1 Travel, Collette, Brendan Vacations, Insight Vacations, Trafalgar, Kleemann Tours, and Specialized Travel Services, along with a broad network of bespoke tour operators and travel agencies worldwide. My role centres on the planning, coordination, and delivery of transport and touring programmes at scale, ensuring consistency, compliance, and a high standard of service across every itinerary. My background is rooted in bespoke touring and hands-on delivery, and I take a practical, detail-driven approach to operations. My experience spans private driver-guided journeys, multi-vehicle coach programmes, and complex touring logistics across Ireland and the UK, allowing me to bridge the gap between planning and execution with confidence. I can support clients directly with tailored transport solutions, including driver-guide services, luxury vehicles, and full coach touring programmes. Working alongside my team within Cronin Travel Group, we also deliver complete itinerary packages, combining transport, accommodation, and curated experiences into a seamless end-to-end product. Despite my operational focus, I remain closely connected to on-the-ground delivery, working alongside drivers and guides to ensure each programme runs smoothly and reflects the standards expected by both partners and guests. My knowledge of regional touring across Ireland and the UK, combined with strong industry relationships and a structured operational approach, ensures that every journey is delivered with clarity, efficiency, and attention to detail.
- Private Driver
- Historical
- Hiking
Gary Brown
I am a playwright and singer songwriter after a very successful career in advertising. I am well read and articulate and love history, literature and music. I am outgoing, fit and a proud Irish citizen, I have experience as a public speaker, storyteller and singer. I am a golfer and have a keen interest in most sports .
- Cultural
- Historical
- Music & Arts