Guided Tours in Ireland

As surprising as it is, there are no set requirements for guided tours of Ireland as far as licensing or educational experience. All guides need to begin their business is a business name, a business brochure, and someone to pay them for their services. While this may serve as a fantastic opportunity for people looking to make a buck, it creates a tour maze for those looking for a quality tour. Here are a few tips to help you separate the quality from the non quality tours.

Look for longevity. How long have the guided tours of Ireland been in operation? Of course, years in the business alone do not guarantee quality. However, typically speaking, the more time a tour company has under their belt, the more likely you are to have a fantastic experience. A few Ireland tour companies have been continuously running trips from the States to Ireland for two generations!

Be aware of background. Where is the tour leader from and where were they born? What is his or her education? The quality of guided tours of Ireland obviously depends on the guide. Look for a guide who has lived in Ireland—and preferably studied there, too. Not only is such a guide more likely to be well versed in Irish history and culture, but he or she will also know about the little treasures that are off the beaten path.

Consider the itinerary. There are guided tours that focus mainly on a specific city or region. Others look exclusively at one aspect of Irish life, such as the culture, history, art, music, or food. While these can be wonderful—if they correspond with your interests—you may have a richer experience if you opt for one of the guided tours of Ireland that offer more variety. Some of the best guided tours of Ireland give you a taste of city life, village life, and everything in between.