The Retro Routes Experience: Dublin's Vintage Shopping Tour
Recommended by 100% of travelers
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Dublin, Ireland
- 3 hours 40 minutes (approx.)
- Pickup offered
- Mobile ticket
- Offered in: English
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Overview
Skip hours of browsing reviews and wandering Dublin’s streets in search of vintage finds with this private guided shopping tour. Led by a vintage enthusiast guide, visit curated boutiques, thrift stores, and hidden gems that you’d likely miss on your own. Also, as it's a private tour, you can ask for personal recommendations and discover all sorts of curiosities—including shops with clothing, records, and accessories.
- Discover Dublin’s vintage shopping spots with a private guide
- Go off the usual tourist trail and get great local tips
- Enjoy the perks of having food and drink tastings included
- Get styling tips and special discounts along the way
What's Included
- BrunchWhat better way to break the ice then with an Irish Coffee before our bargain hunt begins!
- LunchFresh out of the oven Irish Pork Sausage Rolls and some Gur cake!
- Alcoholic BeveragesLets wind down with a glass of wine or beer.
Meeting and Pickup
You can head directly to the meeting point, or request pickup
Itinerary
1
Dublin
3 hours • Admission Ticket Free
Additional Info
- Confirmation will be received at time of booking
- Wheelchair accessible
- Stroller accessible
- Service animals allowed
- Near public transportation
- Most travelers can participate
- This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate
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Cancellation Policy
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
Traveler Photos
Reviews
5.0
based on 22 reviews
Tracy_S, Apr 2026
Ciaran was delightful and so fun. Perfect guide with a well mapped out plan for our day. The shops were so interesting with lots of great finds. If you have specific things you’re looking for he will know just where to go. His knowledge of Ireland history and culture is amazing and you feel you are well taken care of all day. He is willing to customize to your likings. Great experience for sure.
Response from Host, Apr 2026
Thank you so much for such a kind and thoughtful review—it genuinely means a lot. I’m delighted you enjoyed the day and that the shops (and their hidden gems!) hit the mark for you.
One of my favourite parts of the experience is tailoring it to each guest, so I’m really glad that came through and helped make your day feel special. And I’ll happily take “delightful and fun” as the highest compliment!
Polly_H, Apr 2026
We had an absolute blast shopping with Ciaran, his knowledge of the city and friendliness was outstanding. He explained everything and took us to some great stores to shop, I would suggest this tour to anyone wanting to have a good time and experience shopping with a true Irish gentleman. I love that he also takes you to local eateries for delicious hot chocolate, bakery treats and wine and cheese. Such a fun experience five stars !⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Response from Host, Apr 2026
Thank you so much for the incredible review—it truly means the world to me. I’m absolutely delighted you had such a fun day exploring Dublin together.
It’s always my goal to make the experience feel relaxed, personal, and full of great finds (with a few tasty stops along the way!), so I’m really glad that came through.
It was such a pleasure spending the day with you, and you’re always welcome back for another vintage adventure anytime.
lynda_m, Jan 2026
Ciaran is just brilliant! What a darling, charming man. I had the best afternoon with him shopping at the coolest retro stores. We became firm friends. I cannot recommend this tour enough.
Response from Host, Jan 2026
Lynda! Having you with me for the day was nothing short of a tonic! Having a wonderful afternoon where we both could spot true vintage gems and enjoy a drink or two along the way. Truly reminded me why I created this experience.
The tour is designed to feel like a day out with a great friend and you are always welcome back.
Melanie_M, Jan 2026
Wonderful tour! Ciaran was very accommodating and gracious when we had a hiccup with our travel. We went to a good variety of shops and had a great time!
Response from Host, Jan 2026
Thank you for the kind review. I am delighted to hear that you had such a great time while you were with us. I am happy to hear that dispute your travel hiccup we were still happy to have a fantastic vintage adventure.
If you ever feel like a day out with us again. You know where to find a truly vintage experience!
April_L, Dec 2025
A wonderful day! I am a solo traveler, arriving in Dublin the night before my tour with Kieran. He was knowledgeable of facts in the area, knew which fun places to shop and has great style. This tour is not only fun but a great way to get to know the area. Kieran is a plus and complete joy.
Response from Host, Jan 2026
Thank you so much for such a lovely review - it truly means a lot . I'm delighted to hear you enjoyed your time exploring Dublin and that the tour helped you feel connected to the area, Especially as a solo traveller. It was an absolute pleasure showing you around and sharing some vintage gems along the way!
Ariel_K, Nov 2025
I genuinely cannot recommend this experience enough. Ciaran is truly a gem of a human. He is kind, hilarious, and so easy going. He is genuinely an absolute joy to be around. In addition to how lovely of a person he is, his style and taste are absolutely impeccable. He took us to incredible vintage shops and restaurants that we would have never found on our own. He has really put in the work to find the best places that offer vintage clothing, local artisan items, and delicious food and drinks.
My husband and I had such a blast spending the afternoon with Ciaran and we found our favorite items we bought during our two week trip to Ireland entirely because of him.
What also struck me was the relationships Ciaran has built with the shop and restaurant owners that he brings his guests to. They know him and everyone seems to love him, and it is no secret why. Because we loved our time with him too and felt we got so much more than our money’s worth.
If you’re on the fence wondering if this tour is worth it, I can absolutely assure you that it is. And if you love vintage clothing, supporting local businesses, and spending time with a quirky, fun, and funny tour guide that really has his finger on the pulse of the Temple Bar neighborhood, you really shouldn’t miss out on this experience, because you won’t find another like it.
Response from Host, Nov 2025
Ariel!
Thank you so much for this
absolutely incredible review. I’m genuinely blown away by your kind words. It means the world to hear that your Retro Routes Experience became such a highlight of your trip — that’s exactly what I hope every guest walks away with.
I had an absolute blast showing you both around some of my favourite vintage spots, local makers, and hidden food gems. Dublin has such a vibrant creative scene, and it’s always a joy to share the shops and cafés that put so much heart into what they do. I’m also delighted you found pieces that became your favourite purchases of the whole trip — that’s the magic of vintage!
Thank you as well for mentioning the relationships with the shop and restaurant owners. They’re wonderful people who put real love into their businesses, and I’m very lucky to work alongside them. Hearing that it added to your experience truly makes my day.
You were an absolute pleasure to spend the afternoon with — fun, curious, and full of great energy. I’m so grateful you chose to spend your time with me, and I hope our paths cross again the next time you’re in Dublin.
Wishing you both all the very best.
Tracy_A, Nov 2025
What an absolutely wonderful experience! The Retro Vintage Tour was an absolute delight from start to finish. Ciaran was incredibly pleasant, engaging, and personable — I truly feel like I’ve made a friend for life. His stories, deep knowledge of Dublin, and impeccable taste in food and wine made the day unforgettable. The sausage pastry was honestly the best I’ve ever had! Ciaran went out of his way to make sure I was comfortable, entertained, and fully immersed in the experience. A perfect blend of history, charm, and good company — I couldn’t recommend this tour more highly!
Response from Host, Nov 2025
Thank you so much for your wonderful words! I’m absolutely delighted you enjoyed the Retro Routes Experience and that the stories, stops, and treats made such an impression. It means a lot to hear you felt welcomed and comfortable throughout the day — that’s exactly the spirit we aim for on every tour. I’m so glad you joined and hope our paths cross again next time you’re in Dublin!
Amanda_T, Oct 2025
Have some extra time in Dublin, but not sure what to do with it? Do you love shopping for Vintage? Do you want a more local experience of the city? Then this is the tour for you.
You will hit shops that span pretty much each decade and some spots with items by local artisans, as well as upcycled items (think earrings from old vinyl records). There is something for everyone.
Ciaran was a wonderful guide and picked up on my tastes immediately. He is personable but also gives you your space to shop. I did not feel forced to purchase during the tour but did find some great pieces for myself and my mom to bring back. Most of the shops also have special discounts for those on the tour. Ciaran also threw in some facts and pointed out interesting areas along our route (shout out to the Cranberries and U2). If you do not see anything that jumps out at you to purchase, the tour includes some food and beverage stops. If you are leaving empty handed you will at least not leave with an empty stomach. I had what I can only describe as the best Irish Coffee I have ever had, a sausage roll, traditional cake, a cheese and wine/ beer stop at the end of the tour.
If you have looked at this tour more than once, just book it. You will have a great time.
Response from Host, Oct 2025
Thank you so much for this amazing review! I’m delighted you enjoyed exploring Dublin’s vintage side and that we found some special pieces for you and your mom. It was a real pleasure showing you around and sharing a few of my favourite local spots (and tunes!). I’m also very happy you enjoyed the food and Irish coffee stops — they’re some of my favourites too. Thanks again for joining the Retro Routes Experience and for the lovely feedback. Hope to see you again next time you’re in Dublin!
Kari_S, Oct 2025
The Vintage Shopping tour was one of the highlights of my time in Dublin. Ciaran was a very enthusiastic guide. He knows all of the shop owners first hand & I was surprised that each offered a 10% - 15% discount. If shopping isn't your thing, then the stops for Irish coffee & a sweet, a savory sausage/croissant or wine & cheese sampler will not disappoint. Do not even think twice about booking this tour. Ciaran will keep you smiling, laughing & learning while you shop!
Response from Host, Oct 2025
Thank you so much for your kind words! I’m thrilled to hear the tour was one of the highlights of your time in Dublin. It was such a pleasure showing you around and introducing you to some of my favourite local vintage shops (and their lovely owners!). I’m delighted you enjoyed the food and drink stops too — a proper Dublin experience isn’t complete without a good Irish coffee! Thanks again for joining the Retro Routes Experience and for the wonderful recommendation. Hope to see you back in Dublin soon!
Catrina_H, Aug 2025
Great fun walking and shopping in Dublin with Ciaran. He was knowledgeable and highly entertaining. The food stops were a bonus. Thank you for a great day out
Response from Host, Aug 2025
Thank you so much for your kind words! I’m delighted you enjoyed exploring Dublin’s vintage treasures with me, and I’m glad the food stops added to the fun. It was a pleasure having you on the tour, and I hope to see you again for more retro adventures in the future!
Christine_A, Aug 2025
My daughter and I had a wonderful day out with Ciaran. The tour included a stop at a coffee shop to enjoy an Irish coffee with a demonstration on how it was prepared. Then full day of traveling around Dublin not only showing the best vintage stores, but also historic sites. Our day ended with a nice glass of wine And cheese!! Ciaran wonderful host! Highway recommend the tour!
Response from Host, Aug 2025
Thank you so much for your lovely review! I’m so glad you and your daughter enjoyed the day, from the Irish coffee to the vintage finds and the wine & cheese finale. It was a real pleasure showing you both around Dublin’s shops and historic spots, and I truly appreciate the high recommendation.
Allison_T, Jul 2025
Ciaran was a joy to explore the Vintage shops with! We had a wonderful time seeing Dublin through its fashion. And Ciaran was a knowledgeable guide. The morning was a perfect blend of history, food, and shopping. This is the perfect experience for friends visiting Dublin who want a bit of everything. Highly recommend.
Response from Host, Jul 2025
Thank you so much for your kind words! 😊 I’m delighted to hear you enjoyed exploring Dublin’s vintage fashion scene with me. It’s always a pleasure to share a mix of history, great food, and unique shopping spots — and I’m so glad you felt it was the perfect blend. I truly appreciate the recommendation and hope to welcome you or your friends on another Retro Route in the future!
Warm regards,
Ciaran ☘️🛍️🧥
Audrey_E, Jun 2025
Cairan was an amazing guide with lots of knowledge and experience about all of the shops we visited and the history of Dublin! He is delightful, kind, and he has that special insight on how to make sure everyone is taken cate of! The shops we visited were a nice mixture , with some being high end! Perfect day starting out with Irish coffee, shopping , lunch at a nice little bakery and ending with wine snd cheese! I highly recommend this tour! Audrey
Response from Host, Jun 2025
Hi Audrey,
Thank you so much for your kind words! It was an absolute pleasure having you on the tour. I’m delighted you enjoyed the balance of vintage shops, the stories behind Dublin’s streets, and, of course, the food and drink stops along the way! 😊
Hearing that you felt looked after means a lot — creating a welcoming, memorable experience for each guest is always my goal.
Hope to see you again the next time you're in Dublin — the retro treasures will be waiting!
KarenErickson, Jun 2025
We had a fabulous time on this tour, and especially with our awesome guide! I had taken a similar tour in 2018, so when we came back with our daughter and 19-year-old granddaughter, I wanted to have a family vintage shopping experience. This was the perfect day for us.
We started out with the most delicious Irish coffees ever, and then proceeded to the first set of 4 or 5 great shops. The first couple were good starters, as they were on the less expensive side and we quickly got a lot of fun things really inexpensively. We stopped for a fast bakery lunch, and then off we went to another 5 or 6 shops. These were a little higher end, and we got some great buys on designer pieces. Finally, we ended with wine and cheese at a cute little shop.
We wound up with just bags and bags of stuff, then went home and had a fashion show of all our treasures. Because of the length of the tour, the amount of stops (where our guide got discounts on all our buys), and the food and drinks involved, this tour was not only fun, but probably paid for itself. I highly recommend it!
Response from Host, Jun 2025
Hi Karen,
Thank you so much for your lovely review! It means the world to us that you chose to come back and bring your daughter and granddaughter along for the ride — what a fabulous day out across three generations!
We’re thrilled you enjoyed the mix of shops, the Irish coffee, the bakery lunch, and of course the wine and cheese finale. And we love that you had your own fashion show at home — that’s exactly the kind of memory we hope our tours inspire.
We hope to see you again next time you're in Dublin — you're always welcome on The Retro Routes Experience!
Michaela_W, Jul 2025
Ciaran was a great guy. Knows the people, the city, the shops and was super nice. Left us enough time to shop and was relaxed and unobtrusive. Very different shops with different “focuses”, everyone who likes vintage clothes will find something.
Really recommended!
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Response from Host, Jul 2025
Vielen lieben Dank für eure wunderbare Bewertung! Es freut mich sehr zu hören, dass ihr die Tour und die Vielfalt der Läden genossen habt. Es war mir eine Freude, euch durch Dublin zu führen – und euch genügend Zeit zum Stöbern und Entdecken zu geben gehört für mich einfach dazu. Hoffentlich sehen wir uns bald wieder auf einer weiteren Retro-Route!
Alles Gute und viele Grüße aus Dublin.
Thank you so much for your lovely review! I'm really glad you enjoyed the variety of vintage shops and felt relaxed and unrushed during the experience. It's important to me that everyone has the time and space to explore what they love — and it was a pleasure showing you around the hidden gems of Dublin.
Wishing you all the best, and I hope to welcome you back on another Retro Route someday!
Warm regards,
Ciaran ☘️🧥🛍️
From $95.70
per personup to 24 hours before the experience starts (local time)
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The Retro Routes Experience: Dublin's Vintage Shopping Tour
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3 hours 40 minutes
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