When you think of Dublin, one name immediately comes to mind—Guinness. As one of the most famous beers in the world, Guinness has been a staple of Irish culture for centuries. If you’re traveling to Dublin the Guinness Storehouse is a must-visit!

Over our years of travel, we have been to quite a few renowned breweries like Carlsberg and Heineken (even some of our less renowned local breweries haha), but we had always heard that the Guinness Storehouse is one of the best breweries in the world. Nothing could have prepared us for just how immersive and exciting the experience would be for all ages. From learning the science behind their unique flavor to sipping a fresh pint at the Gravity Bar, our visit proved that this isn’t just a brewery—it’s an integral part of Dublin’s heart and soul.

A Look Inside the Guinness Storehouse

The History of Guinness

The tour begins with an introduction to the rich history of Guinness, tracing its origins back to 1759 when Arthur Guinness made a bold move by signing a remarkable 9,000-year lease for the St. James’s Gate Brewery. This decision laid the foundation for what would become one of the most iconic beer brands in the world, shaping centuries of brewing excellence and tradition.

As we wandered through exhibits showcasing vintage advertisements and old brewing equipment, we were amazed by how much Guinness has shaped Irish culture. Their creative and quirky marketing campaigns—like the famous "Guinness is Good for You" slogan—have left a lasting mark on the beer industry. Walking around the city it’s impossible to find a bar not decked out in Guinness advertisement both old and new.

The Brewing Process – From Grain to Glass

One of the most fascinating parts of the Storehouse is the floor dedicated to the Guinness brewing process. Here, you get to see, smell, and even taste the raw ingredients—water, barley, hops, and yeast—that create the signature stout.

Giant vats and interactive displays walk you through the journey of how Guinness is brewed, from roasting barley at the perfect temperature to the fermentation process that gives it that deep, rich flavor. We even got to stand inside a huge wooden barrel once used for storing Guinness before modern kegs existed!

The Guinness Experience

https://www.guinness-storehouse.com/en/booking

The traditional tour (Guinness Storehouse Experience) is a self-guided tour through 7 immersive levels, covering the history as well as the science behind how Guinness is crafted. As you travel through the different levels, they have some incredible displays that make learning about the process a work of art. Your tour concludes with breathtaking views of Dublin at the Gravity Bar accompanied with a perfectly poured pint of Guinness. The standard tour was incredible and filled with a lot to do, including a sensory room where you smell the different ingredients that includes a mini sample Guinness. However, they do offer some cool add-on experiences for the 18+ crowd:

Stoutie (from €28): An extra pint that features your selfie on the head!
Guinness Academy (from €32): Learn how to pour a perfect pint and get a certificate to show you were here.
Home of Guinness Experience (from €48): A fully guided tour, as well as learning to pour your own pint. This is only available Monday-Thursday at 11am & 1pm.
Paddle at Open Gate Brewery (from €37): After your self-guided tour at the Home of Guinness, bring your taste buds to Guinness Open Gate Brewery, where you can try exclusive limited-edition experimental brews in a working brewery.

***price of add-on experience includes the standard tour which starts at €20. Ticket info here

We elected to do the Stoutie Experience (obviously for the ‘gram), which felt very similar to an influencer event. They take your photo and then you wait for the image to be printed on the head of the pint, all within a matter of a few minutes. We really wanted London to join us in the photo, however only people 18+ can be photographed (understandably so). A cool and unique experience, and it only costs roughly the price of a pint.

The Gravity Bar – The Best View in Dublin

Following a long and informative tour of Dublin’s favorite beer, Guinness saves the best part for last. Most breweries give you a sample in a dark and dreary taproom, but at the Gravity Bar you get the best views of the Dublin skyline as you sip on a freshly poured pint.

We happened to time our tour perfectly for sunset (around 4pm in the winter) at the Gravity Bar, spotting famous landmarks like St. Patrick’s Cathedral and the Dublin Mountains in the distance. There's something special about drinking a fresh Guinness in its birthplace, surrounded by breathtaking views of Dublin.

Why the Guinness Storehouse is One of the Best Breweries in the World

After visiting, I can confidently say that the Guinness Storehouse is more than just a brewery—it’s a world-class experience. What sets it apart from other breweries around the world?

A rich history that dates back over 250 years.
Interactive and immersive exhibits that make learning about beer fun.
The perfect blend of culture, history, and craftsmanship.
An unbeatable pint of Guinness straight from the source.
The Gravity Bar’s breathtaking view of Dublin.

Whether you’re a beer lover or just someone who appreciates a well-curated experience, the Guinness Storehouse is a must-visit when in Dublin.

Tips for Visiting the Guinness Storehouse

Book your tickets in advance – It’s one of Dublin’s most popular attractions, and lines can get long.
Go early or late in the day – To avoid peak crowds, aim for a morning or late afternoon visit.
Taxi is probably the simplest ways to get to the Storehouse, I’d suggest the FreeNow app over Uber just based on availability. Check here for more information on getting there.
Spend time in the exhibits – Don’t just rush to the Gravity Bar! The interactive displays make the tour special.
Try the specialty Guinness brews – Some beers are only available at the Storehouse, so take advantage.
Enjoy the Gravity Bar at sunset – If you can time it right, the golden-hour views are spectacular.

Final Thoughts

Visiting the Guinness Storehouse was one of the highlights of my Dublin trip. It’s not just about beer—it’s about history, craftsmanship, and the heart of Irish culture. Whether you're a die-hard Guinness fan or just curious to learn more, this is an experience that shouldn't be missed.

If you’re planning a trip to Dublin, add the Guinness Storehouse to your itinerary—you won’t regret it!

(Insert image: A cheers shot with a pint of Guinness, or the exterior of the Guinness Storehouse.)

The Guinness Storehouse: Why It’s One of the Best Breweries in the World