Is the Guinness Storehouse Tour Worth It? Review and Tips (2024)!
Guinness is one of the most famous beers in the world, but is the tour of the Guinness Storehouse in Dublin worth it? In this post, I’ll share my honest opinion of the experience based on firsthand knowledge and provide helpful tips for visitors who want to make sure they get the most out of their visit. So let’s dive in and see if a trip to Dublin’s must-see attraction is really as amazing as it seems!
Are the Guinness Factory Tours Really Worth Doing?
The Guinness Storehouse tour in Dublin is definitely worth doing on your trip. It’s not a very expensive tour, for one, and it’s also a unique way to learn about Dublin City’s history. Whether you are a beer drinker or not, it’s fascinating to learn about how influential Guinness was in Dublin’s development and how innovative their marketing and evolution were throughout the years.
I lived in Dublin for a few months and went on the Storehouse tour probably 3 to 4 times whenever friends or family visited – that’s how much I thoroughly enjoyed the tour! Each time, I was able to take in a slightly different perspective or learn something I missed before. Plus, who doesn’t love ending each tour with a pint of Guinness overlooking the sweeping Dublin skyline?
I’ve also been on a handful of other brewery tours, and the Guinness Storehouse tour is the best of the ones I’ve been on by far. Not only do you learn about the brewing process and see some “behind the scenes” type aspects, but there is so much more to the tour than simply the brewing.
Why Is the Guinness Storehouse Important?
The Guinness Storehouse is an incredible and important piece of history, situated in the heart of Dublin where it has been since 1759. It’s a very special place to both locals and tourists, providing an insight into the world-famous brewery’s long-standing cultural and economic impact on the city.
Here you can learn how Guinness shaped Irish culture over 250 years from unique brewing methods to iconic billboards and advertisements. Not only does Guinness typify so much about Ireland’s top export, but its home offers an entertaining educational experience for those curious enough to explore it.
Whether you’re a beer enthusiast or collector, or just looking for a fun way of learning more about Dublin’s history, the Guinness Storehouse has something to offer everyone.
What Do You See on the Guinness Storehouse Tour?
The basic Guinness Storehouse tour takes you on a journey through the brewing process, history, and taste of Guinness. There are 7 floors at the Storehouse, each with a unique theme and some of which are extra add-ons to the basic tour ticket.
This is a brief snippet of what you can expect to see on your Guinness Storehouse tour.
The Story of Guinness (Beer Brewing Process)
The ground floor starts with the story of Guinness as told from the brewing process. Each part of the process has a dramatic visual component to it along with facts and information so you truly begin to see and understand how impressive the brewing process is. You are reminded that the Guinness Storehouse is a vast architectural gem of Dublin City and has been for almost three centuries now.
Meet Arthur Guinness (the Beginning)
On the first floor, you begin to learn the history of Guinness, starting at the very beginning. Arthur Guinness first bought the brewery at St James’s Gate, Dublin in 1759. You will learn about his family and how he grew Guinness to be the popular brand it is today.
You will also learn how Guinness was first made and distributed and the impressive workers who dedicated their careers to the factory, such as the 300 coopers that handmade 1,000 casks every week. You will begin to see the evolution over the years and how the city of Dublin was largely influenced and built by the success of Guinness.
Guinness World of Advertising
The best floor of the tour – in my opinion! You will journey through 80 years of ground-breaking print, digital, and TV marketing campaigns from across the world. This is one of the most unique collections of advertising in the world from tiny Guinness buttons to giant Guinness posters and statues.
You’ll see the toucan, harp logo, fish riding a bicycle – and more! This is where you can get lost for a good while taking in all of the details and imagination of the marketing over the many years.
Gravity Bar (Free Beer!)
Ok, so THIS is probably the real best floor of the tour because it’s where you get your free pint of Guinness (18+)! End the tour at the Gravity Bar, one of the highest points in Dublin city with 360° panoramic views across all of Dublin. Take a lap around the bar to view iconic sites across the city such as the Wellington Monument in Phoenix Park, the Wicklow Mountains, or Aviva Stadium.
In addition to all that you see on the basic Guinness Storehouse tour, there are a few different ticket options to add on some extra experiences.
EXTRA: Guinness Academy
At an additional price, you can take part in the “Guinness Academy.” You will learn to pour a pint (the RIGHT way) and receive a certificate to prove you poured a pint of Guinness at the factory itself.
EXTRA: STOUTie Experience
Have a selfie printed on the head of an expertly-poured pint of Guinness.
EXTRA: Connoisseur Experience
This is the most comprehensive (and expensive) ticket option. After your tour, you will get to learn how to pour your own pint, have an exclusive tasting session hosted by a Guinness Beer Specialist, and get a seat in the secret Connoisseur Bar.
Is the Guinness Academy or Connoisseur Experience Worth It?
It totally depends on you! Personally, I think even the basic tour is very comprehensive and you still get a free pint of beer. If you want to learn how to pour your own beer, go for the Academy option! The Connoisseur Experience is really only worth it if you are VERY into Guinness beer, tastings, and special treatment. Otherwise, truthfully you can have a full experience and save some money with one of the first two options.
Pros and Cons to Discover if the Guinness Storehouse Tour Is Worth It for You
Pros:
Cons:
Best Guinness Storehouse Tour Ticket Options
There are a few different options and bundles to get your Guinness Storehouse tour, so let’s dive into which one is most worth it.
1. Guinness Storehouse Tour Entry ONLY
This is the most simple tour option at the lowest price. It’s self-guided, but you can purchase an audio guide for an additional few dollars.
Prices start around $32 USD.
✔️ CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFO & TO BOOK
2. Guinness Storehouse AND Jameson Distillery – Skip the Line Entry
Another great option is to bundle the Guinness and Jameson tours. The Jameson Irish Whiskey Experience is an excellent Dublin tour as well and is very popular. It’s a bit shorter and less involved than the Guinness tour, but especially if you’re a whiskey drinker – this tour is a must for you!
This is a guided group tour and the best part is you will have timed entrance tickets that allow you to skip the line at each location. Included is a pint of Guinness and a Jameson whiskey drink.
✔️ CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFO & TO BOOK
3. Guinness Storehouse & Jameson Distillery – Private GUIDED Tour
If you are looking for a guided tour with additional information, facts, and history – this is the best tour for you. It’s a private tour, so the draw is that it’s more expensive, however, I think it’s entirely worth it for those looking for that personalized, curated experience.
✔️ CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFO & TO BOOK
4. Dublin: Go City All-Inclusive Pass with 35+ Attractions
For tourists visiting Dublin and trying to see the most possible within a limited amount of time, this pass is EXTREMELY worth the relatively low price point. The Go City pass gives you access to over 35 attractions. Visit as many as you like with a 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5-day pass.
The Guinness Storehouse tour is of course included, as are other popular sites such as Saint Patrick’s Cathedral, Dublin Castle, Jameson Distillery Bow St. Tour, and a handful of other tours, museums, and experiences around the city.
If you are looking to get the best bang for your buck and plan on seeing and doing a good amount around Dublin – this pass will save you A LOT of money!
✔️ CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFO & TO BOOK
5. Extras & Tour Add-Ons
If you’re looking to add any extras to your tour such as the Guinness Academy, it’s best to take a look at the Guinness Storehouse website. You can pick which “experience” you would like and any add-ons that might be available. Take a look at the various prices for those ticket options below.
✔️ CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFO & TO BOOK
How Long Do People Spend at the Guinness Storehouse?
The recommended amount of time for people to spend on the Guinness Storehouse tour is about 90 minutes. However, you could really spend anywhere from 1 hour up to about 4 hours, depending on how quickly you move through museums and how much time you want to spend at the bar or restaurants onsite.
What Is the Dress Code for Guinness Storehouse?
There is no real dress code for the Guinness Storehouse tour. I would recommend wearing comfortable shoes as you’ll be doing a good amount of walking and comfortable, but appropriate clothing.
For the Guinness Brewery Tour (which is not currently operating) you are asked to wear sensible footwear (no heels or open-toed shoes), long sleeves, and pants, as it’s required to cover your arms and legs for access to some buildings.
How to Get to the Guinness Storehouse
Address: St. James’s Gate, Dublin 8, D08 VF8H, Ireland
You can easily get to the Guinness storehouse by driving, taking a taxi, walking, biking, or taking public transportation.
If you drive, there is free parking a few minutes away on Crane Street, and is offered on a first-come, first-serve basis.
If you take the bus, get off on James’s Street and Watling Street at stop number 1940. If you are taking the tram, the closest LUAS stop to the Storehouse is called James’s.
If you’re using a Hop On Hop Off bus, it’s recommended to allow for about one hour and 20 minutes from O’Connell Street.
Make sure to arrive at least 5-10 minutes before your scheduled time slot!
Guinness Storehouse Hours
Monday to Friday: 10am to 7pm (last admission is at 5pm)
Saturday: 9:30am to 8pm (last admission is at 6pm)
Sunday: 9:30am – 7pm (last admission at 5pm)
These hours are subject to change.
What Time of Day Is Best to Go on the Guinness Storehouse Tour?
It’s best to take the tour as early in the morning as possible, as the Guinness Storehouse is most crowded in the late afternoon (from about 1pm onwards).
Guinness Storehouse Restaurants & Bars
There are plenty of options to grab a bite to eat along the tour or take a break and enjoy a few pints. The Guinness Storehouse offers a handful of dining options, all of which have great food that is intentionally curated to pair well with Guinness beer!
1837 Bar & Brasserie – The menu features delicious items such as oysters, flatbreads, and their famous Guinness Burger. Best to make a reservation ahead of time.
Brewer’s Dining Hall – Seafood-inspired menu that includes some classics such as their Signature Beef & Guinness stew. A good stop to take a break along the tour.
Arthur’s Bar – This casual, fun pub has an all-day menu that ranges from pastries and toasties to salads.
Cooperage Cafe – If you just need a quick pick me up or you skipped breakfast to make your tour on time, this is a quick stop for snacks and drinks.
So, Is the Guinness Storehouse Tour Worth It?
Going to the Guinness Storehouse in Dublin is an absolute must-do on any trip to Ireland, and very much worth the time. It’s more than just a tourist spot; it’s a place steeped in history and tradition that takes visitors on a journey of discovery about Guinness beer, its founder Arthur Guinness, and the proud Irish brewing history.
From the interactive multi-media exhibits that explain how beer is made, to the rooftop Gravity Bar which offers panoramic views (and a complimentary pint), there’s something for everyone at this unique experience. Whether you have an interest in learning more about traditional brewing techniques or just want a fun afternoon out with friends, the Guinness Storehouse definitely won’t disappoint.
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☘️ Ireland FAQs ☘️
✈️ Where Can You Find the BEST Flight Deals to Ireland?
1. Scott’s Cheap Flights – FREE flight deals alert, works best if you can be flexible
2. Skyscanner – FREE search engine, great for budget flights + deal
❗Is Travel Insurance Required in Ireland?
No, it’s not.
However, it’s always recommended to have travel insurance any time you travel in case of injury, accident, lost luggage, missed flight, etc. The best and most affordable travel/expat insurance is Safety Wing.
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☔️ When Is the Best Time to Visit Ireland?
Summer (June-August) – is the warmest and rains the least but you will have the most crowds.
Spring (March-May) or Fall (September-November) – are cooler and have more rain but you will beat the crowds and see some incredible wildflowers (spring)/greenery (fall).
🏠 Where Should You Stay in Ireland?
Hotels, hostels, vacation rentals, and house sitting are all available in Ireland for accommodation. My top recommendations for each are:
• Booking.com
• Hostelworld
• Vrbo (usually better options than Airbnb in Ireland)
• Trusted Housesitters (watch a home/pets in return for a FREE place to stay)
☘️ Where Can You Find Tours?
I found incredible tours in Ireland >>>HERE for private and guided group tours of both the most popular attractions and ones that fit your specific interests.
🚘 Should You Rent a Car in Ireland?
I always tell my friends and family to rent a car in Ireland so that they don’t miss out on the gorgeous scenery and wonderful things to do in between the big cities! However, if you plan to stay only in the cities, then you should be fine getting by with buses and walking.
>>> What to know about driving in Ireland
>>> The best car rental in Ireland
🍻 Make sure to try out the pubs! Even if you don’t drink, the atmosphere, live music, and friendly people are very uniquely Irish.
