Many travelers diss the thought of taking this very visible bus tour that seems to be in every major city in the world. If you’re new to a city, it’s a wonderful introduction to its highlights. For us, Dublin, Ireland, had been explored before, but we had a short window for exploration; we decided to HOP ON for a morning overview of the city and see what we hadn’t seen before.

The DoDublin Tour was highly recommended by the concierge at The Shelbourne, so that confirmed the choice. With its pickup spot directly across the street, it was convenient. Easy to book, go online (discount for booking online) and choose your tour and time frame. We discovered they offered a city sightseeing 24-hour tour (adult €32, student or senior, €30) or 48-hour option (adult €37, student or senior, €35). There’s also a Freedom Ticket (72 hours on Dublin’s public transport system, plus 48-hour hop-on, hop-off tour) which is considered an incredible value at €49. Considering the pricy cost of a taxi, it’s a good way to keep costs down and access every part of the town. There’s also complimentary admission and drinks included with tickets. You can also add airport transfers to a ticket.

Drivers are so friendly and will help you with all your questions. If you choose to purchase a ticket on the spot, the driver is ready to book your ticket. Also, grab a map for reference and be ready to depart when the driver approach.

The Docklands tour (included with every hop-on, hop-off ticket) has returned! This 45 minute tour is separate from the Original Hop-on hop-off tour and takes you to visit the beautiful Dublin Docklands, visiting attractions including EPIC, the Irish Emigration Museum, the Jeanie Johnston, Windmill Lane Studios.

We make it a point to take a city bus tour upon arrival, whether in the United States or abroad. Although we had been to Dublin before and walked the city extensively, it was interesting to see its changes, as well as serving a reminder of the venues and locales that had slipped our mind. Climb to the upper level for the best unobstructed view of sights.

Why choose a hop-on, hop off experience?

• Showcases the highlights of the city with easy access and multiple stops.

• With small windows of time, it highlights the main tourist attractions within the city.

• Drivers share historical and other interesting facts that you might not have known and pique your interest to learn more.

• Creates an itinerary of locations to make follow-up visits during the trip.

• Multiple discounts on other tours and attractions included with the hop-on, hop-off purchase. (In Dublin, complimentary addition to the Little Museum of Dublin)

• Notable stops on the Dublin tour: Trinity College, National Gallery of Ireland, St. Stephen’s Green (The Shelbourne Dublin), Oscar Wilde birthplace, Dublin Castle, Temple Bar, St. Patrick’s Cathedral and Christ Church, Teeling Whiskey, Guinness Storehouse, Jameson Disillery, and more. 25 stops in all.

Vintage Tea Trips | One of the bus tours I have yet to take (in Dublin, but we’re seeing tea buses pop up in other locations) puts afternoon tea on wheels. I’ve seen this 1960s vintage bus wheeling through the streets of Dublin, happy women sipping their tea and enjoying the sights. Tea and storytelling, the way the Irish intended for afternoon tea. They offer a variety of tours; book online. Adult, €55 for 70-80 minute afternoon tea tour.