How Much Do Ireland Tours Cost for Families? A Complete Guide

Ireland, with its rolling green hills, medieval castles, coastal cliffs, and friendly locals, is one of Europe’s most family-friendly travel destinations. Families are drawn to the Emerald Isle for its mix of cultural history, outdoor adventures, and warm hospitality. But before you pack your bags, you’re probably wondering: How much does a family tour of Ireland really cost?

In this complete guide, we’ll explore every major expense category—from flights and accommodations to meals and attractions—so you can confidently plan your Irish getaway. All cost estimates are provided in U.S. dollars (USD) and reflect 2024–2025 travel pricing.

What Factors Affect the Cost of an Ireland Family Tour?

Tour costs can vary widely based on:

• Time of year
• Type of tour (group, private, self-guided)
• Length of stay
• Accommodation preferences
• Transportation method
• Activities and attractions included

Let’s break these down one by one.

1. Flights to Ireland

Flights are often the largest single expense for families traveling internationally.

• Average round-trip airfare (economy class):
• From the East Coast (e.g., New York, Boston): $500–$800 per person
• From the West Coast (e.g., Los Angeles, Seattle): $700–$1,200 per person
• Children’s fares: Usually around 75–90% of adult prices, depending on age and airline.

Total Estimate for a Family of 4:

$2,000–$4,000

Booking 4–6 months in advance and flying into Dublin or Shannon can help reduce costs.

2. Tour Types and Package Costs

There are three main types of tours: Group, Private, and Self-Guided. Here’s what each entails:

Group Tours (Escorted)

Ideal for families wanting convenience. These tours include transportation, accommodations, and select activities in a pre-arranged itinerary.

• 7–10 day tours: $1,400–$2,200 per adult
• Children under 12: $800–$1,500 depending on provider
• Family Discount: Many tour companies offer 10–15% off for kids or 3rd/4th person

Total for a Family of 4 (7–10 days): $4,500–$7,500

Self-Guided Tours

These are more flexible and generally less expensive. You rent a car, book your own accommodations, and plan your own route.

• Rental car for a week: $500–$800
• Gasoline (petrol): $6.50–$7.50 per gallon (~$150–$200/week)
• Accommodations (mid-range): $150–$250/night
• Activities and admissions: $300–$600 total

Total for a Family of 4 (7 days): $3,500–$6,000

Private Tours

These are customized tours with private guides and drivers—ideal for families seeking luxury and personalized service.

• Private driver + vehicle: $600–$1,000 per day
• Upscale lodging: $300–$600 per night
• Private activities, castle visits, VIP passes, etc.

Total for a Family of 4 (7–10 days): $10,000–$20,000+

3. Accommodations

Ireland offers a wide range of lodging options, and families can choose between budget B&Bs, mid-range hotels, or luxury castle stays.

Per Night Family Room Costs:

• Budget (B&Bs, hostels): $100–$150
• Mid-range hotels/guesthouses: $180–$250
• Luxury hotels or castles: $400–$700+

For a 7-night stay:

• Budget: $700–$1,050
• Mid-range: $1,300–$1,800
• Luxury: $2,800–$5,000+

4. Transportation

Rental Car (7–10 days):

• Family-size car or SUV: $500–$900
• Fuel: $150–$250
• Insurance: $100–$200 (unless included via credit card or travel blog insurance)

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Guided Group Tour Transport:

• Included in tour price

Private Driver:

• $600–$1,000/day (includes vehicle)
• For 7 days: $4,200–$7,000

Self-drive tours are the most economical and flexible, especially if you're comfortable driving on the left side of the road.

5. Food & Dining

Food in Ireland is generally affordable, and family-friendly pubs and restaurants are common.

Average Daily Food Costs (Family of 4):

• Breakfast: Often included
• Lunch: $40–$60 total
• Dinner: $80–$120
• Snacks/Drinks: $15–$30

Daily Total: $130–$200

7-Day Total: $900–$1,400

You can save by:

• Booking hotels or B&Bs with included meals
• Buying groceries and picnic items from supermarkets

6. Attractions & Activities

Ireland has plenty of free outdoor sites, but many attractions have entry fees.

Popular Attractions (Family Pricing):

• Cliffs of Moher: $30–$40
• Blarney Castle: $45
• Kilkenny Castle: $25–$35
• Dublin Zoo: $60–$70
• Sheepdog Demonstrations: $40
• Falconry Experiences: $80–$120

Total Activity Budget for 7–10 days: $300–$600

7. Time of Year and Seasonal Pricing

Ireland’s prices fluctuate by season:

• High Season (June–August): Most expensive for tours, flights, and lodgin
• Shoulder Season (April–May, Sept–Oct): Mild weather, 15–30% cheaper
• Low Season (Nov–March): Cheapest but colder, with shorter days and some attraction closures

Savings Tip: Shoulder season offers the best mix of value, weather, and availability.

Example Budget Scenarios for a Family of 4

🟢 Budget Tour (7 Days)

• Group tour, shared accommodations, limited activities
• Total: $4,500–$6,000

🔵 Mid-Range Self-Guided (10 Days)

• Rental car, 3-star hotels, main attractions
• Total: $6,000–$9,000

🟣 Luxury Private Tour (10 Days)

• Castle stays, private driver, curated experiences
• Total: $12,000–$20,000+

Tips to Save Money on a Family Ireland Trip

• Use multi-attraction passes (like the Heritage Card)
• Book early for flights and accommodations
• Travel during shoulder season
• Stay in self-catering cottages or family-run B&Bs
• Limit high-cost activities to 2–3 per trip
• Use public transit in cities like Dublin or Galway

Final Thoughts

Whether you're a budget-conscious family or looking for an upscale, hassle-free vacation, Ireland offers something for everyone. A typical family of four can expect to spend anywhere from $4,500 to $15,000+, depending on the style and duration of the tour.

By planning carefully—balancing comfort, convenience, and cultural experiences—you’ll not only stay on budget but create unforgettable memories in one of the world’s most scenic and welcoming countries.