Whether you’re planning a family reunion, corporate retreat, stag or hen weekend, or a group holiday, Ireland is one of the best destinations in Europe for group travel. From rugged coastlines to lively towns and welcoming locals, there’s something for every kind of traveller.
But organising group transport and logistics can be tricky — that’s where a minibus or coach hire makes all the difference. Here’s your ultimate guide to group travel in Ireland for 2025.
1. Why Ireland Is Perfect for Group Trips
Ireland is compact yet incredibly diverse. Within a few hours, you can go from the busy streets of Dublin to peaceful lakes in Kerry or towering cliffs in Clare. The country’s mix of history, nature, and nightlife makes it ideal for any group trip — whether you’re exploring castles, hiking trails, or enjoying a Guinness by the fire.
📍 Popular group destinations:
- Dublin – for culture, pubs, and history.
- Galway – for music, arts, and the Wild Atlantic Way.
- Killarney – for lakes, nature, and national parks.
- Kilkenny – for castles, medieval charm, and food tours.
🔗 See top Irish destinations on Discover Ireland.
2. Choosing the Right Transport for Your Group
When travelling in a group, coordination is key. Hiring a private minibus or coach ensures everyone travels together comfortably and on time.
Benefits of minibus hire include:
- No need for multiple cars or parking worries.
- Flexible pick-up and drop-off locations.
- Cost-effective when shared across the group.
- Professional drivers who know Ireland’s roads and attractions.
3. Types of Group Trips We Cater For
At Going Places Minibus Hire, we provide comfortable transport for all occasions, including:
- Corporate events and team-building days.
- School or college trips across Ireland.
- Stag and hen parties heading to Dublin, Galway, or Carlingford.
- Sporting events and away matches.
- Tourist day trips to Ireland’s top attractions.
4. Top Tips for Planning Group Travel in Ireland
✅ Plan early: Accommodation and transport book up quickly, especially in summer.
✅ Be flexible: Weather can change fast, so have indoor backup options.
✅ Budget together: Split costs evenly to keep things fair.
✅ Book a driver: Navigating Irish roads can be challenging for large groups — especially in rural areas.
✅ Communicate: Keep everyone in a group chat for updates and coordination.
5. Best Times of Year to Travel
- Spring (March–May): Mild weather and fewer crowds.
- Summer (June–August): Perfect for festivals, beaches, and longer daylight hours.
- Autumn (September–October): Ideal for scenic drives and countryside colours.
- Winter (November–February): Great for cosy getaways and festive city trips.
6. Recommended Group Itineraries
1-Day Tour from Dublin:
➡️ Glendalough → Wicklow Mountains → Powerscourt Gardens
2-Day Adventure:
➡️ Galway → Cliffs of Moher → Bunratty Castle
3–5 Day Trip:
➡️ Wild Atlantic Way → Dingle → Killarney → Cork
Your minibus driver can help you customise the route to match your group’s interests and time frame.
