Dublin to Newgrange & Monasterboice: Small Group Tour

Summary

Boyne Valley ancient tombs round towers & Celtic crosses

You’ll start in Dublin and travel with a small group through Ireland’s Boyne Valley—exploring Newgrange’s ancient tombs with entry included and wandering among Monasterboice’s high crosses. Guided stories bring these places alive while quiet moments let you soak in centuries-old atmosphere. You’ll leave feeling like you touched something timeless.

What’s the experience like?

“If you listen close enough, you’ll hear the wind carry stories older than any of us,” our guide Tom said as we shuffled off the mini coach by Newgrange. I liked him straight away—he had that way of making history feel like gossip. The grass was still damp underfoot and there was this earthy smell, not quite rain but something old and green. We’d started early at the Molly Malone statue in Dublin (I was still half-awake), but by the time we reached the Boyne Valley, I felt wide-eyed. There’s something about seeing those mounds rise out of the fields that makes you stop talking for a minute.

I didn’t expect to feel much stepping inside Newgrange, but honestly? The hush in there is thick—like even your thoughts have to whisper. Tom pointed out the spiral carvings on the stones and explained how, during winter solstice, sunlight shoots right through to the heart of it all. I tried to picture what it must’ve meant for people thousands of years ago. The air inside was cool and smelled faintly like wet stone. (My shoes squeaked embarrassingly on the floor—no one else seemed to notice.)

After lunch (not included, so pack a snack unless you want to try whatever’s at the visitor center), we made our way to Monasterboice. There were only about twenty of us, so it felt more like tagging along with friends than being herded around. The high crosses are massive up close—Muiredach’s Cross especially. I ran my hand over one of the carvings (gently! promise) and wondered how many people had done exactly that before me. A couple of locals were tending graves nearby; one nodded at me and smiled without saying anything.

I keep thinking about those quiet moments—the smell of grass after rain, Tom’s voice echoing off ancient stones, someone laughing softly behind me as I tried (and failed) to pronounce “Mainistir Bhuithe.” It wasn’t just a day trip from Dublin; it felt like brushing up against something much older than myself. So yeah, if you’re curious about history or just want a small group tour where you don’t get lost in a crowd, this is worth waking up early for.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Boyne Valley ancient sites tour

• Meet guide at Molly Malone statue
• Travel through Boyne Valley
• Visit Newgrange Monument
• Explore Battle of the Boyne site
• Tour Monasterboice monastic site

Top questions

Where does the Newgrange & Monasterboice tour start?

The tour begins at the Molly Malone statue in central Dublin.

Is entrance to Newgrange included in this day trip?

Yes, entry fees for Newgrange and Bru Na Boinne are included in your booking.

How many people are on this small group tour?

The mini coach holds a maximum of 29 people for a more personal experience.

Do I need to bring anything special for this tour?

It’s recommended to bring rain gear and a camera; snacks or lunch are also useful.

Is Knowth always part of this day trip from Dublin?

No, Knowth is not accessible between November 1st and March 1st; during these months the Bru Na Boinne visit is shorter.

Are guides qualified for this Boyne Valley tour?

Yes, tours are led by fully qualified and enthusiastic local guides.

Is lunch provided on this Newgrange day trip?

No, lunch isn’t included—plan to bring your own or buy food at stops.

What makes Monasterboice special on this itinerary?

The site features Ireland’s finest Celtic high crosses and an intact round tower from the 10th century.

What’s included

Your day includes comfortable mini coach transport from Dublin city center, entry fees for both Newgrange and Bru Na Boinne monuments (with Knowth when open), plus guidance from a knowledgeable local guide throughout your journey before returning together in the evening.