× Private Tours Vs Scheduled Tours
Tours of Ireland & Britain can be broken down into two broad categories: "Scheduled" or "Private". The first thing you should consider when booking a a tour is which one is right for you. There are pros and cons to each type of tour. Lets take a look...
Option 1: Arrange a Private Tour
Private tours are tours that can depart on any date and visit almost any location in Ireland and Scotland. The major benefit of private tours is that you are in control. You set the pace of the tour, you decide on the locations to be visited and how long you wish to stay there. You typically won't meet other tourers on a private tour but you will have more free time to meet local people. If you don't mind the lack of a built-in social group (of a scheduled tour) there is no finer way to see Scotland and the entire island of Ireland. The freedom to go where you want, when you want and at your own pace is the main reason people choose private tours.
Freedom and flexibility
Greater flexibility to explore where you wish Unique Itinerary
Attractions hand-picked to suit your interests at your pace Price
Bespoke packages are usually more expensive Less social
There's no built-in social group for you to meet
Option 2: Book onto a Scheduled Tour
Scheduled tours are tours that depart and arrive on preset dates and adhere to a set itinerary with little deviation. On a scheduled tour you and your group will typically be touring on a bus with people you have not met before. They are an excellent and cost-effective way to see Ireland & Britain, and great for meeting new people. Though they lack the total freedom of a private tour they do have a built-in social group in the other tourers. The social aspect of meeting new people and the cost are the main reasons people choose scheduled tours over private tours.
Value
Scheduled packages usually work out cheaper Social atmosphere
Meet and mix with like-minded people Fixed departure times
Designed to work for all but may not be perfect for you Fixed itinerary
One-size-fits-all tour schedules aren't for everyone
Which one is right for me?
Often times a person looking for a private tour can find a scheduled tour that fits their needs. It may be worth looking at our scheduled tours to see if there is something that suits you. Our Mini Group Tours (maximum of 8 people) are a great compromise between private and scheduled tours. Researching scheduled tours is also a great way to find some inspiration for what you may want on your private tour. Alternatively, you can get in touch with us and we will guide you through the process of booking a private or scheduled tour just for you.
