I'm considering doing an "Irish Pub and Folk Tour" through CIE tours and wondered if anyone has had any experience with the tour. It starts in Dublin, with stops in Kinsale, Killarney, and Bunratty.

I'd like to see some of the sights but also some traditional Irish pubs. Just interested in anyone's opinions on these stops or experiences w/guided tours through Ireland.

Thanks

Topping as I am looking as this tour as well. Did a Fodor's search and this is the only post I found on the matter.

Hi guys:

I've never done a CIE tour but they have a good reputation. You could probably just as easily go to all of these places on your own. The problem with going on a tour that includes "traditional irish pubs" is that you are going in a large group (30-40 probably) and there is nothing terribly traditional about a pub that holds a couple bus loads of tourists. There is probably a real nice one just around the corner though.

The stops listed are pretty standard for tours and with many independent travelers. The bulk of the pubs that you find in most of the towns excluding Dublin, would fall into the VERY broad category of traditional pubs. Dublin on the other hand has lots of clubs in addition to the pubs.

Again, CIE has an excellent reputation and if you want to do a guided tour, they would be fine. Consider the option of self drive though.

Bill

I have no experience with CIE tours but IMO you don't need to pay someone to take you to the pubs that provide good music. Visit the towns you wish and simply ask the locals where there is good music and what time it starts. The money you'll save will buy an extra Guinness, Murphy's, or Smithwick's! Enjoy!

Thanks for the responses. I am taking an escorted tour as a 32 yo female traveling alone. Travel companion recently had surgery and I am going in June solo. Do not want to do self-drive though probably would have gone that route with friend. Cie does small groups with max of 25 and I believe they have to have 18 to confirm date. I am social person (though I do travel alone for business quite a bit) and felt a small group would be best. Specifically, travel agent advised CIE good and "Pub and Folk Tour” would probably have younger more active persons in the group as group is encourage to go out for drinks each night at different pub supposedly in addition to the scheduled stops.