Guinness & Jameson: Our Dublin Tasting Tour Review
If you’re heading to Dublin, there are two iconic experiences you simply can’t skip: the Guinness Storehouse and the Jameson Distillery Bow St. These tours are more than tastings — they’re immersive, beautifully designed experiences that blend Irish history, craft, and culture in a way only Dublin can deliver. Here’s our full review of both tours and what you can expect when you visit.
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If you’re visiting Dublin for the first time, pairing these tours with a centrally located hotel like the Conrad Dublin makes exploring the city incredibly easy.
Read our 3-day Itinerary - 3 Days in Dublin: Perfect Itinerary + Points Guide
🍺 Guinness Storehouse vs. Jameson Distillery: Which Dublin Tour Is Worth It?
The Guinness Storehouse isn’t just a brewery tour — it’s a full sensory experience. Spread across seven floors, the tour walks you through the history of Guinness, the brewing process, the iconic advertising campaigns, and the global legacy of Ireland’s most famous stout.
What We Loved
The interactive exhibits — from smelling the roasted barley to learning how the bubbles work, everything is hands‑on and fun.
The tasting room — a sleek, white, almost futuristic space where you learn how to properly taste Guinness.
The Gravity Bar — the highlight. Panoramic views of Dublin paired with the freshest pint of Guinness you’ll ever have.
Overall Vibe
It’s polished, modern, and incredibly well‑designed. Even if you’re not a big beer drinker, the storytelling and visuals make it worth the visit.
🥃 Jameson Distillery Bow St.: A Warm, Welcoming Whiskey Experience
Just across the river in Smithfield, the Jameson Distillery offers a completely different energy — intimate, cozy, and deeply rooted in Irish tradition. The guided tour is smaller and more personal, making it feel like you’re stepping into the brand’s original home.
What We Loved
The guided storytelling — our guide was funny, knowledgeable, and made the history feel alive.
The comparative tasting — Jameson vs. Scotch vs. American whiskey. A great way to understand what makes Irish whiskey unique.
The Bow St. Bar — beautifully designed and perfect for sipping a cocktail after the tour.
Overall Vibe
Warm, friendly, and authentically Irish. It feels less like a museum and more like a conversation.
🍻 Guinness vs. Jameson: Which Tour Should You Choose?
Honestly — do both. They complement each other perfectly.
Guinness is big, bold, and visually impressive.
Jameson is intimate, guided, and flavor‑focused.
🥇 Guinness vs. Jameson: Which Tour Should You Choose?
Together, they give you a full picture of Ireland’s brewing and distilling heritage.
Choose a hotel that makes it easy to reach both tours. We stayed at the Conrad Dublin, and the location worked perfectly for exploring the city.
✅ Tips for Visiting Both Tours
Book ahead, especially on weekends and holidays.
Start with Guinness earlier in the day — it’s larger and takes longer.
Plan Jameson for later — the guided format feels more relaxed.
Eat before or after — both tours include tastings, but not meals.
Leave time for the gift shops — they’re genuinely well‑curated.
Helpful Travel Extras
Lightweight luggage for cobblestones (IT Luggage)
International data for Ireland (EtravelSIM)
Travel insurance for tours (Faye)
Final Thoughts
Both tours are iconic for a reason. Guinness delivers the big, cinematic experience; Jameson gives you warmth, storytelling, and flavor. Together, they offer the perfect introduction to Dublin’s brewing and distilling culture.
Me and my husband in Ireland at Jameson Whiskey
About the Author
Julie is a travel‑hacking expert and the founder of NO POINT LEFT BEHIND, a resource for families who want to turn everyday spending into unforgettable trips. She shares practical guides, points strategies, and real‑life travel experiences to help you maximize every dollar. Stay connected — follow Julie on Facebook for fresh travel tips and join the Travel Hacking Moms Facebook Group to be part of a supportive community of travelers learning together.
