Hiring a Driver in Ireland {2025 Guide}
Want to tour Ireland at your own pace, but you don't want to drive? You should definitely consider hiring a driver guide in Ireland!
A self-drive vacation in Ireland is not for everyone. Some groups are too large for a single vehicle while for others driving on the left on winding, narrow roads can make the vacation more stressful than relaxing.
So what is the traveler to Ireland to do if they can't or don't want to drive, but want the flexibility to make suggestions and changes?
You plan a trip with a private driver in Ireland!
Need an estimate for a private driver? Click here!
Hiring a Driver in Ireland
You will find multiple options when searching for a private guide in Ireland.
From luxury chauffeur companies that offer inclusive services to independent drivers in Ireland that specialize in day tours, it is possible to find a chauffeured experience to fit your vacation goals.
CLICK HERE for the Ireland driver guides I recommend
How Much Does a Private Driver in Ireland Cost?
The cost of hiring a driver in Ireland has a few variables including:
- Number of people in group (and luggage capacity)
- Size of touring vehicle
- Day tour vs multiday tour
- Round trip vs one-way tour
The average cost for an 8-hour day trip for 4 people is €850.
The average cost to hire a private driver for one week in Ireland for 4 people is €5950.
The above prices are only estimates; some drivers charge more, some less.
Costs are higher for larger groups & vehicles.
How Much Should I Tip My Driver Guide in Ireland?
I recommend a €100 per day gratuity for your private chauffeur for groups of 9 or fewer.
If your group is 10 or more an average of €8-€10 per person per day is recommended.
While that may seem like a lot it is important to consider that your driver is with you at least 8 hours a day. They manage your luggage, act as your tour guide, handle any changes or unexpected problems with your itinerary, and see to every aspect of your tour, making sure you have an exceptional, worry-free vacation.
Independent private driver guides may follow a different protocol than drivers for a touring company. When in doubt inquire directly about tipping procedures.
Finding the Best Private Drivers in Ireland
When searching for a private driver in Ireland it can be difficult to make a choice based on search results.
When choosing a driver guide for your Ireland vacation you want to be sure that they are fully licensed to carry passengers, fully insured (you should never have to pay extra for insurance) and provide their own vehicle (you should never have to rent the vehicle and pay the driver separately).
You can, and should, request proof of licensing. You can download the TFI Driver Check app (it's free) to check the license details of taxis, limousines, and chauffeurs.
If you want to bypass the hassle of searching through dozens of online results to find the best private driver for your trip, let me help you.
I work with some of the best driver guides in Ireland and can connect you directly with a private driver to fit your vacation goals and budget.
Meet the Ireland Driver Guide Companies I Recommend
Ireland Chauffeur Travel: Luxury Private Tours Across Ireland
Exclusive offer -> mention code IRFV for a 5% discount on your tour!
For a bespoke Ireland vacation that leaves no detail overlooked, I highly recommend Ireland Chauffeur Travel—the company I personally use for my guided tours. This all-inclusive private tour company, based in Cashel, Tipperary, specializes in crafting unforgettable journeys tailored to your preferences.
Ireland Chauffeur Travel handles every aspect of your trip—from creating custom itineraries to booking accommodations at 5-star hotels, manor houses, and castles (often with exclusive rates). They’ll also secure dining reservations and arrange access to top attractions. Travel in style with their fleet of luxury vehicles, accommodating groups from 2 to 16 passengers, or more.
My personal consultant, Alma, is ready to help you plan your dream vacation. Don't forget! Mention code IRFV when you contact them via email or phone to receive an exclusive 5% discount on your tour price!
Ireland Chauffeur Travel Website – email: alma@irelandchauffeurtravel.com
Celtic Chauffeur Vacations: All Inclusive Tours for Large Groups
Exclusive offer -> mention code IFV for your tour discount!
Celtic Chauffeur Vacations specializes in all-inclusive, private tours of Ireland, offering exceptional service for large groups of 16 or more while accommodating smaller groups with equal care and attention. Their expert team handles every detail, from crafting custom itineraries to booking accommodations, dining, and unique attractions, ensuring a seamless and unforgettable experience.
With a fleet of premium vehicles and professional chauffeurs, Celtic Chauffeur Vacations combines comfort and style with local expertise, making every journey truly special. Whether you're organizing a family gathering, corporate event, or intimate trip, contact their team to plan your perfect Irish getaway.
Contact Celtic Chauffeur Vacations via the website or email to info@celticchauffeurvacations.com. Reminder! Mention code IFV for exclusive savings!
Bronze and Boru: Luxury Custom Tours of Ireland
Discover Ireland in unparalleled comfort and style with Bronze and Boru, a premier touring company based in County Limerick, where the Wild Atlantic Way meets the Hidden Heartlands. With over 20 years of combined experience, their expert driver-guides specialize in creating bespoke tours that go beyond the typical tourist routes.
Travel in our fleet of luxurious Mercedes vehicles, accommodating groups of 2 to 12 passengers, and experience Ireland's stunning landscapes, hidden gems, and authentic local culture. Whether you're starting with a planned itinerary or need guidance to perfect your journey, Brendan and Richard will help make your trip unforgettable.
Contact Bronze and Boru to start planning your personalized Irish adventure.
Bronze & Boru website – email: info@bronzeandboru.com
Best of Ireland Tours: Expert Guided Tours Across Ireland
Best of Ireland Tours provides private driver-guided experiences with unmatched local knowledge in the counties of Clare and Galway and offers tours across Ireland. Whether you're planning a day trip or a multi-day journey, your expert guide will enhance your itinerary with insider insights and hidden gems.
With comfortable, high-quality vehicles for groups of up to 16, Best of Ireland Tours ensures a seamless and enriching travel experience, showcasing Ireland’s stunning landscapes, rich history, and authentic local culture.
Contact Best of Ireland Tours via the website or email nialmcleary@gmail.com
Emerald Irish Tours: Personalized Journeys Through Ireland
Discover Ireland's beauty with Emerald Irish Tours, a family-run business based in the heart of the iconic Wild Atlantic Way. Specializing in custom itineraries and driver-guided tours, Emerald Irish Tours offers single and multi-day experiences tailored to your interests, providing a flexible and personalized way to explore the Emerald Isle.
As a leading female-owned chauffeur service, Emerald Irish Tours offers a range of luxury vehicles to ensure your journey is as comfortable as it is memorable. They also provide travel consultations to help you plan the perfect Irish getaway, tailored to your vacation goals.
Reach out to Martina and Carmel via their website or email info@emeraldirishtours.com
Abbeyleix Chauffeur Services: Private Tours for Groups of Up to 7
Experience Ireland in comfort and style with Abbeyleix Chauffeur Services, conveniently based in County Laois. Located just outside Dublin, this premium service offers day tours from the city and fully guided trips throughout Ireland.
Perfect for couples or groups of up to seven, you’ll travel in luxury vehicles, including a Mercedes E-Class sedan and a Premium Ford Tourneo Custom 7-seater with leather interiors. Whether you need help planning a custom itinerary or want to refine your existing plans, Abbeyleix Chauffeur Services ensures your trip is tailored to your interests.
Reach out to Aubrey through the website or email directly at abbeyleixlimo@gmail.com
About Ireland Taxi Tours: 16 Convenient Hubs Across Ireland
If you think hiring a private driver is beyond your budget? Think again! With About Ireland Taxi Tours, intercity travel becomes an affordable luxury. You can opt for a direct route or enjoy a scenic journey with a knowledgeable local driver. The one-way pricing is more cost-effective since the driver returns to their home base, and each leg of your trip brings the expertise of a new, local guide.
Planning a longer adventure? About Ireland Taxi Tours also offers tailored multi-day tours and specialized cruise ship excursions to enhance your experience.
Book online or email info@aboutirelandtaxitours.ie
Traveling in Ireland podcast episode 146
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