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Explore the Best of Ireland with These 12 Day Trips from Dublin

These 12 day trips that will allow you to explore the best of Ireland.

Dublin is a city full of history, interesting sites and attractions, and an endless number of pubs. However, as fantastic as Dublin is, there is more of Ireland that is worth exploring; much of which can be seen on a day trip. So, if you are only in town for a few days, here are 12 amazing day trips from Dublin that will allow you to see some of the best of Ireland.

The Cliffs of Moher

The Cliffs of Moher are Ireland’s most visited natural attraction (and a popular filming location). Shrouded in myth and legend, the Cliffs of Moher are truly a must-see when in Ireland. Make sure to stop by the visitor center as well; there is an interesting 10-minute video showing the cliffs from a bird’s eye perspective.

INSIDER TIP Most visitors stay in the same area close to the visitor’s center, so for photos without the crowds, be sure to walk along the paths for a bit. You won’t have to go too far to find a quieter vantage point.

Galway city.

Galway is a lively city on Ireland’s west coast known for buskers, lively pubs, and genuine Irish “craic.” It’s a small town that’s easy to explore by foot. The local museum is free to visitors as is entry to the beautiful Galway Cathedral. A day trip to Galway city can be done with a tour, or on your own. The City Link bus runs direct between downtown Dublin and Galway and is only two and a half hours each way.

INSIDER TIP The famous Irish Claddagh ring comes from Galway, so if you are looking for the perfect souvenir, head to Thomas Dillon and Sons, the oldest makers of this traditional ring.

Recommended fodor’s video, cork and blarney castle.

Cork is the second largest city in Ireland and a great place to explore for a few hours. It’s a pedestrian-friendly city center with a well-known English Market and several historic attractions, though the main point of interest is the nearby Blarney Castle and the famous Blarney stone. According to legend, those brave enough to bend backward over the castle walls to kiss the Blarney Stone will receive the gift of gab.

INSIDER TIP If you’d rather skip the tour, you can do this day trip on your own. The train will get you from Dublin to Cork in about two and half hours. Then, from Cork you can hop on a local bus to get to Blarney Castle. Just make sure to check train and bus times in advance.

The ring of kerry.

The Ring of Kerry is one of the most picturesque routes you can take in Ireland. Most people drive it on their own, using Killarney as their base, but there are a couple of tour companies that will take you from Dublin. Beautiful viewpoints, sandy beaches, quaint villages, and historic sites are a few of the things you will get to see and explore on this day trip.

INSIDER TIP It’s only worth it if the weather its nice, so keep an eye on the forecast before booking.

Wicklow and glendalough.

Wicklow is known to be one of the most picturesque areas in Ireland. Many popular films including Braveheart and PS I Love You were filmed in the area. The biggest draw in Wicklow National Park is Glendalough , which is nicknamed ‘the valley of the two lakes’. Not only does it have spectacular scenery, but the remains of an ancient monastic city can be found here. Some day tours also include the medieval city of Kilkenny in their Wicklow and Glendalough tour; a great choice for travelers short on time.

Kilkenny is a beautiful Medieval city with an impressive castle and several religious buildings. While steeped in history, it’s also a very creative town with dozens of artisans and craft shops, making it a shopping paradise. Kilkenny is another day trip that you can easily to on your own. You can take either a bus or train from downtown Dublin and be in Kilkenny in about two hours’ time. Take a walk down the Medieval Mile, explore the grounds of Kilkenny Castle, and grab lunch at one of the many friendly pubs.

The Giants Causeway and Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge

Averaging around 14 hours, this might be one of the busiest day trips from Dublin, but it’s also one of the best. The Giants Causeway is a stunning UNESCO World Heritage Site in Northern Ireland. The massive basalt columns standing tall against the crashing ocean are a must-see. The drive along the Causeway coastal route is one of the most scenic drives in Ireland, and a walk across the Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge, which sits about 30m above the ocean, is a thrill.

INSIDER TIP At the Giant’s Causeway, there are two routes you can take: to the left there is a large road down to the waterfront, or on the right you can do a bit of a hike along the cliffs before heading down. Take the path on the right for the best views and photo opportunities.

Howth is the easiest day trip from Dublin, and a great choice for travelers who would rather explore on their own time rather than with a scheduled tour. It’s easy to get to: a quick ride on the local Dublin DART or, weather permitting, you can take one of the Dublin Bay Cruises. Howth is a scenic fishing village with several paths and trails for all walking levels. The Howth market is perfect for a bit of shopping and Howth Castle makes a great photo-op.

INSIDER TIP Since Howth is a fishing village, it’s known for its seafood dishes. Try the Oar House or Aqua for a delicious seafood lunch or dinner.

Connemara National Park in western Ireland is rugged, wild, and absolutely beautiful. Mountains, lakes, colorful villages, and endless sheep provide inspiration for photographers of all levels. Many day trips to Connemara also include a couple of hours in Galway, allowing you to get the most out of your visit. Pick a tour that includes a stop at Kylemore Abbey , one of the most beautiful buildings on the island.

'Game of Thrones' Tour Through Northern Ireland

Any Game of Thrones fan will know that Northern Ireland is an important filming location in the hit television series. This day trip option from Dublin will allow you to visit and experience some of the most famous spots including the Dark Hedges, Dunluce Castle , Larrybane, the Cushendun Caves, and the Ballintoy Harbour.

INSIDER TIP Some tours will also stop at the Giant’s Causeway, and even though it’s not a filming location, you should take advantage of the extra stop to see one of the most beautiful sites on the island.

Newgrange and hill of tara.

Newgrange and the Hill of Tara are unique archaeological finds that have fascinated visitors and locals alike for hundreds of years. Newgrange is a prehistoric monument and tomb that is older than Stonehenge and the Egyptian pyramids, and the Hill of Tara is a large complex associated with the High Kings of Ireland. Both feature strongly in Irish myth and legend.

INSIDER TIP The only way to access Newgrange is with a guide from the visitor center, so don’t bother booking a small/private tour, as it won’t make much of a difference in the end.

The capital of Northern Ireland is a great city to explore for a day. Belfast is steeped in history; from the Titanic to The Troubles, so there is no shortage of things to see and do here. The Titanic Experience, a historic black taxi cab tour, and the famous

INSIDER TIP Pop into the Crown Liquor Saloon during your free time. This historic Belfast pub is famous for being one of the most beautiful Victorian Gin Palaces during its time. Today, it’s probably the most beautiful pub in all of Ireland.

Belfast murals are a few of the highlights you can experience.

THE 10 BEST Day Trips from Dublin

Day trips from dublin.

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1. Cliffs of Moher Tour Including Wild Atlantic Way and Galway City from Dublin

2. Dublin to Cliffs of Moher, Burren, Wild Atlantic and Galway Tour

3. Northern Ireland Highlights Day Trip Including Giant's Causeway from Dublin

4. Blarney Castle Day Tour from Dublin Including Rock of Cashel & Cork City

5. Kilkenny, Wicklow Mountains, Glendalough, Sheep Dog Trials, Day Trip from Dublin

6. Dublin: Giants Causeway, Dunluce Castle, Dark Hedges and Belfast

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14. Dublin to Cork, Blarney Castle, Cobh Cathedral by Train and Coach

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17. Glendalough & Wicklow Mountains Half Day Morning Tour from Dublin

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The 5 best day trips from Dublin

Want to embrace what Ireland has to offer? The best day trips from Dublin showcase the best of this marvellous place

The Irish capital is positively overflowing with exciting things to do, but the best day trips from Dublin offer the opportunity to get to know this fascinating country a little deeper. The Emerald Isle hasn’t earned that moniker through luck, after all.

Ireland is all stunning hilltops and craggy coastline, a love letter to the beauty of nature that will have breathing deep romantic sighs in no time. What’s more, most of these spots are just a car, train or bus ride from the city centre, meaning you can explore the best that Ireland has to offer and get back to Dublin in time for a pint or two. What could be better?

RECOMMENDED: 🍻 The best pubs in Dublin 🍲 The best restaurants in Dublin 🏨 The best hotels in Dublin 📍 The best things to do in Dublin

This guide is by Elizabeth Smith , a writer based in Dublin.  At Time Out, all of our  travel guides  are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our  editorial guidelines . 

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Best day trips from Dublin

1.  Howth

A 25-minute ride on the Dublin Area Rapid Transit (Dart) train, the picturesque fishing village of  Howth  is the closest spot for a proper day out. City dwellers often visit this rocky peninsula to relax and recharge. Fresh sea air is the perfect motivation for a coastal hike, though there are also sights like Howth Castle and Gardens, the National Transport Museum, and St. Mary’s Abbey (temporarily closed) medieval ruins to explore.

Steps from the train station, artisanal food, handmade jewellery and Irish crafts spill from market stalls. Between these hawkers and the antique shops in town, you’re bound to find a souvenir. When you’re hungry, Howth’s waterfront restaurants serve fresh catches straight from the trawlers and dinghies along the pier. Thankfully, the nightlife that made Dublin famous doesn’t fade along the way here.

Grab fresh fish and chips from  Beshoff Bros , a treasured takeaway on Harbour Road. Sprinkle on some salt and vinegar and enjoy them picnic-style in the park as you watch sailboats bob along the bay. Just beware of swooping seagulls hungry for a bite. For a more formal sit-down meal, head to  The Brass Monkey ,  Octopussy’s , or  Aqua  at the end of the pier.

The porches at Wright’s  Findlater  and  Bloody Stream  are made for pints and people-watching. If you’d prefer to cosy up somewhere snug, enjoy trad live performances at Abbey Tavern up the street from St. Mary’s ruins.

Hit the links for a round at  Deer Park  or  Howth Golf Club . Both public courses are a healthy, hilly challenge. 

A short walk to town and easily accessible from the train station,  Tara Hall  boutique bed and breakfast offers warm welcomes, private terraces and delicious brekkie. The more modern Marine Hotel in Sutton is a solid backup.

If you only do one thing… 

Lace-up your sneakers and head on the  Howth Cliff Walk , a family-friendly path with panoramic views over the peninsula. On clear days, Lambay Island and Ireland’s Eye nature reserve and bird sanctuary appear on the horizon.

2.  Galway

The furthest journey on our list,  Galway  is well worth the two-and-a-half-hour trip. Bus Éireann, GoBus IE, and the IrishRail all complete the route daily if you prefer not to drive. Affectionately referred to as the most Irish city in Ireland and the city of festivals, coastal Galway is a haven of Celtic music and culture. Thanks to the 17,000 students who attend the local outpost of the National University of Ireland, this small city feels increasingly international.

With rows of colourful homes and a bustling wharf, the city will certainly impress your Instagram followers. The Hall of the Red Earl archaeological site, Druid Lane Theatre, Eyre Square, green-domed Galway Cathedral, and a 16th-century Spanish Arch are all worth visiting, but a cruise on the River Corrib provides a more unique perspective.

Global seasonal plates wow at the quaint  Ard Bia at Nimmos . Meanwhile, Michelin stars abound the ever-evolving, locavore-themed menus at Aniar and Loam. Wood-fired, Neapolitan-style pizza at  Dough Bros  and southeastern Asian specialities at Papa Rich round out the top dining options. Try Dela , Coffeewerk + Press, or New Zealand-tinged Kai Café for brunch. 

Gothic-style Quays Bar and Dáil Bar keep the craic coming late into the night. The pubs may be world-famous, but sometimes you just need to let loose after the trad music stops.

Wander the winding cobblestone streets, relish the idyllic bay surroundings, listen to top-notch buskers and drop into independent shops. The staff at Charlie Byrne’s Bookshop, Judy Greene Pottery and Gifts, Dillon’s Claddagh Gold and Sheridans Cheesemongers are almost as charming as the wares on sale.

Harbour Hotel  in the heart of the city is a bright, boutique hotel with small but comfy rooms. If you’re willing to be a bit further from the action, the upscale G Hotel overlooking Lough Atalia more than earns its five stars. Budget travellers should check the hip Residence Hotel in the lively Latin Quarter or boutique-style Forster Court just off Eyre Square.

Quay Street bars host musicians every day of the week. Head to Tig Coili, The Crane, Taaffes Bar or Tigh Neachtain and join in the fun. After a few sessions, you’ll know a  bodhrán  from a tambourine, a tin whistle from a flute, a  bouzouki  from a mandolin, and a concertina from an accordion.

3.  Kilkenny

‘The Marble City’ nestled on the banks of the resplendent River Nore in Ireland’s Ancient East is a mini-metropolis, complete with medieval marvels and artisanal delights. About 100 minutes by bus and 80 by train on the Kildare or Waterford line, it’s a lovely voyage from Dublin centre to the quaint (and crumbling) walls of  Kilkenny City . 

After marvelling at the stained glass in St. Canice’s Cathedral and the Black Abbey, follow the narrow Norman lanes to a charming pub, trendy café or contemporary gallery. The Kilkenny Way hurling experience, Design Centre, and Rothe House are among Kilkenny’s highlights, though nothing dazzles more than the riverside castle and its sprawling gardens. If you stay past sunset, expect exceptional food and noteworthy nightlife.

Petronella  on the Butterslip welcomes diners with music and storytelling events alongside updated twists on classic Irish dishes. 

Franciscan monks have been brewing  Smithwick  ale since 1231, making it older than Guinness. At Smithwick Brewery , holographic men and talking paintings will tell you the full story before you sample the stuff for yourself. If you want a tipple without the tale, head to Bridie’s Bar speakeasy-style saloon or Left Bank, a Bank of Ireland branch-turned-tavern.

The Marble City is also the craft capital of Ireland. Walk the  Made in Kilkenny Craft Trail  to meet woodworkers, weavers, potters, glassblowers, and other makers in their shops and studios.

The fab  Pembroke Hotel  is within walking distance of every attraction. Feeling fancy? Book a stay at Butler House, a romantic, ivy-covered Georgian home where the Earls of Ormond once lived. If you want a bit more space, the four-star Newpark Hotel is nestled within 40 acres of parkland. Though just 10 minutes from the city, the 170-acre, 17th-century Lyrath Estate is a luxury rural retreat.  

Purchased for a measly 50 pounds in 1967, the Anglo-Norman  Kilkenny Castle  now belongs to the public. For a small fee, anyone can tour the grand bedrooms, drawing rooms, library, tapestry room, and magnificent Long Room filled with family portraits of the Butlers, who called this medieval fortress home for more than 500 years. If tours aren’t your thing, observe the castle from the surrounding park.

4.  Glendalough

When Irish weather agrees with you, head for the Wicklow Mountains Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Just set the GPS or board a bus headed to Glendalough , Irish for the ‘valley of two lakes’. The landscape changes dramatically on the 75-minute drive from Dublin along the M50 and N11. If you have more time to spare, the scenic route over Sally Gap mountain pass via R115 is especially magical. 

The area’s dense forests, glimmering glacial lakes, and sweeping, heather-clad moors served as the backdrop in Hollywood blockbusters like ‘Braveheart’ and ‘P.S. I Love You’. Nature lovers will feel at home on the extensive network of trails, and spiritual sightseers can find solace at the mountain’s timeworn religious sites, while high-end spa treatments help everyone unwind.    

The rustic  Wicklow Heather  restaurant serves up an extensive range of exquisite yet affordable dishes made from fresh, local produce. So long as there isn’t a private event while you’re there, enjoy a nightcap with literary legends Yeats, Joyce, Heaney and more in the Irish Writers Room.

Dating to 1776,  Jake’s Pub  at Lynhams Hotel will transport you back to the 18th century. Make friends with the benevolent barman, cosy up around the fireplace, and sip some hearty pints. Traditional music sessions on Sunday evenings only enhance the experience. Nearby Oldtown is full of great options too, like the Roundwood Inn pub and Coach House cocktail bar. 

There are nine hiking trails from  Glendalough , ranging from 45 minutes to four hours, one to 11 kilometres, easy to extreme. Consider putting your bird-watching, biking, and orienteering skills to the test while out in the wild. 

BrookLodge and Macreddin Village  eco-conscious hotel complex houses 86 chic, country-style bedrooms decked out with bay windows and four-poster or sleigh beds. It’s much more than a place to rest your head, though. Every BrookLodge guest should make use of the Finnish spa, Hammam massage centre, and organic restaurants. There are also several bed and breakfasts, self-catering guesthouses, and a family-run glamping site on a 21-acre Shropshire sheep farm.

Most visitors come to  Glendalough  to see mystical monastic ruins. Founded by St. Kevin in the sixth century, the monastery’s surviving buildings were built from stone between the 10th and 12th centuries. Make sure to catch the visitor centre’s film about the site before you investigate.

5.  Belfast

Dublin may be compact, but Belfast is so densely packed you’ll feel like a local after walking around Northern Ireland’s capital in as little as a day. Two and a half hours by train or bus and only two hours by car, Belfast is easy to get to – and so close you may not even have to book a hotel. Known as the birthplace of the ‘RMS Titanic’ and hub of the infamous ‘Troubles’ that divided the nation for decades, Belfast has a more sophisticated vibe than you might expect. It’s the perfect day trip for urbanites and history buffs alike.

Inspired architecture like the copper-domed City Hall, modernist MAC Arts Centre, leaning Albert Mermorial Clock, Victorian Grand Opera House, and Hiberno-Romanesque St. Anne’s Cathedral dance along the skyline while intrepid chefs revolutionise an already vibrant restaurant scene. Even though it’s on the other side of the border, the people are as hospitable and the nightlife is (almost) as buzzing as in Dublin down south.

OX ’s Michelin-starred tasting menu, simple décor and riverside views are worth the hype. Six seasonal, vegetable-forward courses showcase some of the best in modern British cooking for just £55. Other standouts include the beef shin burger at Barking Dog, cod at the casually fabulous Hadskis, and the duck confit starter at Shu. 

Leave time for at least two drinks: a pint of Guinness at Kelly’s Cellars , an unkempt 18th-century pub on Bank Street, and a cocktail at the Crown Liquor Saloon, a period gin house on Great Victoria Street.

Some 28 acres of gorgeous green space fill Belfast’s Botanic Gardens . Combine your visit with a trip to the Palm House (temporarily closed) exotic greenhouse or an exhibition of Northern Irish art at the free-entry Ulster Museum.

Learn about this city’s dark past with a night at Europa Hotel Belfast , which suffered 33 IRA bomb attacks (yet no deaths) during the Troubles due to its central location and clientele of foreign journalists. Europa’s sizeable rooms and unpretentiously polished lobby are perfectly safe at this point – and the on-site Causerie Bistro is a reliable dinner spot. The smart and stylish Fitzwilliam beside the Great Opera House is a good alternative if you’re looking for a truly lavish stay. Benedicts, Bullitt Hotel, Ten Square or The Merchant Hotel aren’t bad either.  

If you only do one thing…

As it turns out, James Cameron was on to something. Uncover the real story behind the most famous ship in history at Titanic Belfast , a six-floor, nine-gallery interactive museum at the former Harland and Wolff shipyard on Queen’s Island where it was built. Book online or arrive early to avoid queues.

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20 Best Day Trips From Dublin (Cost, Transport and Tips For 2024)

Categories Clare , Cork , Dublin , Kildare , Kilkenny , Meath , Tipperary , Where To Go , Wicklow

Dublin is an amazing city with lots of things to do . From interesting museums , awesome nightlife , imposing castles to amazing ancient sites, Dublin is a good base for your Ireland adventure. However, if you find yourself running out of things to do in this Irish capital, there are several day trips from Dublin that you can do.

Here are the 10 best day trips from Dublin.

Things you'll find in this article

20 Best Day Trips From Dublin, Ireland

How to get to trim castle from dublin, recommended hours for the day trip, how to get wicklow mountains national park from dublin, how to get to rock of cashel from dublin, how to get to blarney castle from dublin, how to get to giant’s causeway from dublin, how to get to cliffs of moher from dublin, how to get to kilkenny from dublin, how to get to howth from dublin, how to get to castletown house from dublin, through uber or taxi, through train, through group tours, 11. boyne valley, 13. connemara, 14. hill of tara, 15. monasterboice, 16. malahide castle, 17. waterford, 18. aran islands, 19. athlone.

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• Top 10 Gardens and Parks in Dublin To Visit

1. Trim Castle is one of the best day trips from Dublin

Trim Castle is a Norman castle on the south bank of River Boyne in the town of Trim and currently the largest Anglo-Norman castle in Ireland.

Built in 1173 by Hugh de Lacy, the castle was used as a center of Norman administration for the  Lordship of Meath . It is also probably best known as the setting for Mel Gibson’s Braveheart. 

The castle boasts imposing twenty-sided towers protected by curtain wall and moat. It was a great example of experimental military architecture during its period. If you want to learn more about the legacy of this castle, this day trip from Dublin is a must.

Admission Fee

€5 per adult, €3 for students, and €13 for a family of 4. It includes access to the Trim Castle grounds and an audio-visual show at the visitor center. You can get the ticket from the visitor center.

If you don’t have a car, you can take the Bus Éireann (#111) from Busaras station in Dublin to Delvin (Opp Gaffneys) and get off in Trim Castle .

It takes about an hour or you can take the Bus Éireann (#109B) to Knightsbrook Hotel and get off at Opp Boyne Bridge By-Pass in Trim. This takes a bit longer than Delvin by 10-15 minutes.

From the bus stop, take a walk towards the castle entrance. It’s about 500 meters from both bus stops and it takes about 5 minutes. The bus fare is about €10-12 one-way or €20-24 for a round trip and they have buses that leave every hour.Or you can check out this Trim Castle and Slane Whiskey Distillery Tour

Or you can check out this Trim Castle and Slane Whiskey Distillery Tour. Which is a steal given that it includes transport and admission fees!

6 hours. You have 3 hours for the journey and 3 hours to explore the castle and the surrounding area.

Opening Hours

Grounds open only at this site and free admission

Feb 8th – March 16th

09.30 – 16.30

March 17th – Sept 30th

10.00 – 17.00

Oct 1st – Oct 31st

Nov 1st – Nov 4th

09.00 – 16.00  (Weekends Only)

Contact Information

Location: Trim, Co Meath

Phone: +353 46 943 8619

Email:   [email protected]  

2. Wicklow Mountains National Park

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Wicklow Mountains National Park is the largest national park in Ireland with an area covering more than 129,500 square kilometers.  It is also the only one located in the east of the country. It extends from County Wicklow and a small area of Dublin.

It’s not that far from the city center and it’s one of the best day trips from Dublin

The park contains a variety of attractions that include lush forests, fields, and mountains, and the historical Glendalough Valley. Glendalough features early medieval monastic structures and Glendalough lakes .

Admission is free to the national park.

Without a car, going to Wicklow Mountains National Park from Dublin is expensive and much more complicated.

You can take a bus from Portobello, Richmond Street Sth (Lennox Street) bus stop to Poolbeg Street – Valleymount Road through Dublin Bus #65 and get off in County Wicklow, Valleymount Road. This costs about €10 for about 1.5 hours.

Then take a taxi to the Wicklow Mountains National Park which costs between €35-50 for half an hour ride.

Or you can take this day tour for €35 per person including Wicklow Mountain, Glendalough & Kilkenny. It also includes pick-up and dropoff in Dublin which will save you over €80 for transportation alone.

Allocate between 7-8 hours so you have ample time to explore the national park.

The park is open at all times but the visitor center is only open from May to September daily between 10 am to 5:30 pm. From October to April during weekends from 10 am to 4:30 pm. If you are planning to stay in the park, for more information click here .

Location: Wicklow Mountains National Park, Kilafin , Laragh, via Bray , Co. Wicklow A98 K286

Email: [email protected]

Phone: +353 761 002667

3. Rock of Cashel Day Trip from Dublin

The Rock of Cashel , also known as Cashel of the Kings and St. Patrick’s Rock, is a historic site located at Cashel in County Tipperary . It is one of the most spectacular attractions in Ireland and also one of the most visited.

This iconic landmark was the seat of the High Kings of Munster and was built between the 12th to the 13th century.

Adult: €8.00

Group / Senior: €6.00

Child / Student : €4.00

Family: €20.00

Take the Dublin Airport – Cork Parnell Place bus (Bus Eireann #X8) from Outside Heuston Train Station to Main St. Get off at Main St and walk for about 10 minutes (800m) towards the entrance of Rock of Cashel.

The bus ride takes about 2 hours and it costs about €24-29 one way or €48-58 for a round trip. The bus also leaves every 4 hours so plan accordingly.

Or you can take this day tour for €75 per person which includes a trip to Rock of Cashel, Cahir Castle, and Cork City . This will give you an option to plan your time better and explore more places.

Allocate between 7-8 hours so you have ample time to travel and explore the Rock of Cashel.

9 am to 4:30 pm during winter and 9 am to 7 pm during the summer.

Location: Rock of Cashel, Moor, Cashel, Co. Tipperary , Ireland

Phone: 062 61437

Email: [email protected]

4. Blarney Castle is one of the best day trips from Dublin

One of Ireland’s most popular attractions is Blarney Castle located in Blarney , County Cork . Built nearly six hundred years ago by one of Ireland’s greatest chieftains, Cormac MacCarthy. 

Surrounding the castle are extensive gardens. There are paths touring the grounds with signs pointing out the various attractions such as several natural rock formations and beautiful gardens.

Aside from the castle itself, the place is also popular because of Blarney Stone.

In order to get the gift of eloquence, for over 200 years many famous people from around the world climb the stairs to kiss the famous Blarney Stone.

There is an ongoing debate over the story of the Blarney Stone but no one has been able to prove the origin of the stone.

€16 for adults, €13 for students and seniors, and €40 for the family. 

The fastest way to get to Blarney Castle using public transportation is through the train and then bus. However, it will have few connections.

Take the Irish Rail from Dublin to Cork Kent (about 2.5 hours for €45-65). Get off at Cork Kent and then take a bus from Kent Station to CIT Campus and get off at St. Patrick Street (O2 Store).

It’s a short trip for 8 minutes (€3-5) and then take another bus from St. Patrick St (Drawbridge St Jctn) to Blarney Village. The bus trip is about 30 minutes for €5-6.

Then walk from Blarney village to Blarney Castle for another 7 minutes. In total, transportation might cost between €53-76 for one way trip and it might take between 3.5 to 4 hours of journey.

Or you can take this day tour for just €50 per person which includes Blarney Castle, the gardens, and shortstops in Cork City and Rock of Cashe l .

Allocate between 11-12   hours so you have ample time to travel and explore Blarney Castle.

9 am to 5 pm

Location: Blarney, Cork, Ireland

Phone: +353 21 4385252

Email: [email protected]

5. Giant’s Causeway and Game of Thrones filming locations

The historic path of Dark Hedges, Image by Christine Rogador

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The  Giant’s Causeway  is an area of about 40,000 interlocking  basalt columns , the result of an ancient  volcanic fissure eruption.

It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a national nature reserve. It is located in Northern Ireland and it is about a 3-4 hour drive from Dublin on a rental car .

Game of Thrones grew in popularity for the past 7 years. The TV series focuses on medieval realism which shows several medieval and exotic locations. These locations also grew in popularity that tours to these locations have become coveted by loyal fans.

In Northern Ireland alone, there are over 10 locations where you can experience Game of Thrones in real life .

Access to the Giant’s Causeway is free however the visitor center charges £12.50 per adult and £31.00 for a family of 4.

Using public transportation, it might take between 6-7 hours to get to the Giant’s Causeway. The fastest option is by taking a train to Northern Ireland and then a bus.

Take a train from Connolly to Belfast City Centre in Lanyon Place Train Station. This takes about 2 hours and can cost between €30-45 one way. Transfer to Belfast Central station and take a train to Coleraine station . It takes about a 1.5-hour ride for €10-14.

And from Coleraine Bus Station, take a Translink UK bus to Aird Giants Causeway The Nook. It’s about a half-hour ride for €4-7. Then walk towards Giant’s Causeway. Giant’s Causeway is about 1.5km from the bus stop.

Or you can save yourself a massive headache by taking this day tour for half the price . The tour includes Giant’s Causeway and the filming locations of Game of Thrones.

16 hours at least.

The opening hours vary depending on the season. For updated opening hours, click here .

Location: 44 Causeway Road Bushmills County Antrim BT57 8SU Northern Ireland

Phone: (028) 2073 1855

Email: [email protected]

6. The Cliffs of Moher is o

Cliffs of Moher tour, Image by Christine Rogador

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The Cliffs of Moher are sea cliffs located in County Clare , Ireland. It is one of Ireland’s most spectacular sights and one of the most visited attractions in Ireland with 1.5 million visitors annually.

Standing 702ft above the ground at their highest point and 8km long, the Cliffs boast one of the most amazing views in Ireland. On a good day, you can see the Aran Islands in Galway Bay.

Cliffs of Moher is one of the best day trips from Dublin and a day tour from Galway.

For a complete list of the admission fees, click here .

Cliffs of Moher is over 266 kilometers from Dublin . If you don’t have a car, you can take 2 connecting buses that go directly to Cliffs of Moher.

From Burgh Quay, Dublin City South, you can take a Bus Dublin Coach to Dunnes, Friars Walk. This takes about 3.5 hours for €20-25 one way.  

And then from Friars Walk, walk to Ennis Bus Station to take a bus that goes to Cliffs of Moher Visitor Centre. This takes about an hour for €9-11 a trip. Then from the bus stop, just walk about 5 minutes to get to the entrance of the visitor center.

There’s also a Citylink bus from Temple Bar , Crampton Quay that goes to Cliffs of Moher via Gmit. Travel time and bus fare are almost the same.

Or you can also take this day tour from Dublin that only cost half of the transportation. It also includes a shortstop to Galway and Burren .

It might take 6 hours one way to just get to the cliffs so it’s better to allocate at least 14 hours to enjoy the place.

8 am to 7 pm although, during winter, the cliffs are closed by 5 pm.

Location: Lislorkan North, Liscannor, Co. Clare, Ireland

Phone: [email protected]

Email: +353 65 708 6145

Buy your ticket online here.

7. Kilkenny Castle and the city

Kilkenny Castle was built in 1195 to control a fording-point of the River Nore and the junction of several routeways. It was a symbol of Norman occupation and it is an important site to the history of Kilkenny.

In 1967, the Castle was transferred to the people of Kilkenny for £50. The Kilkenny Castle is now one of the very few castles in Ireland that offer tours to the public. The garden and park in the castle complex are also open to the public.

The city of Kilkenny is one of the most beautiful and charming Irish cities. Located in the center of Ireland, it has a charming medieval center, lively pubs, and a dynamic art scene.

Because of this, there are many unique things to do in Kilkenny, Ireland . From its majestic creeper-clad castle, a bustling crafts industry, cobbled lanes, beautiful churches, and secret passages, Kilkenny will surprise you in many ways.

Adult € 8.00 | child € 4.00 | Family € 20.00

From Dublin, you can take the bus that goes directly to Kilkenny from Dublin City South, Burgh Quay station. It takes almost 2 hours for €6 – €10 for Dublin Coach or €11 – €14 for Eurobus. They have buses that leave every 3 hours so plan accordingly.

From Kilkenny, Ormond Road bus stop, you can easily walk for 5-10 minutes to go to the castle. You can also take a train from Heuston station to Kilkenny MacDonagh station. This takes about the same time as the buses but more expensive at €23- €35 for a one-way trip.

Then walk from the station to the town center and the castle.

Or you can take this day trip to Kilkenny and Wicklow Mountain for only €25 per person. 

Allocate at least 7 hours to fully enjoy the trip.

Daily from 9 am to 5:30 pm

Address: The Parade, Collegepark, Kilkenny, Ireland

Phone: +353 56 770 4106

Email: [email protected]

8. Howth is one of the best day trips from Dublin

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Below the hilly headland at the northern boundary of Dublin Bay lies the small fishing village of Howth. It is only a half-hour drive from Dublin which makes it one of the most convenient day trips from Dublin.

There are so many things to do in Howth which includes a castle, hiking trails , amazing seafood, and a charming coastal village.

Depending on the activity, it is free sightseeing around the village but the Castle has an admission fee. For any booking information to the castle, click here .

You can reach Howth using DART which is a fast train service from Dublin’s city center. Return ticket costs €4.70 from Connolly, Tara, or Pearse stations in the City Centre and is valid for one day. There are trains every 15 minutes.

Or you can take this day trip to Howth from Dublin.

4-5 hours should suffice to explore the highlights of Howth village.

9. Castletown House is one of the best day trips from Dublin

Located in County Kildare , Castletown House and Gardens is Ireland’s largest and earliest Palladian-style estate. It was built between 1722 and 1729 for William Connolly, speaker of the Irish House of Commons and the wealthiest commoner in Ireland.

You can explore the parklands, the river walk, the temple, and the garden inside the estate. The grounds of the estate are accessible to the public for free but there’s an admission fee inside the house and one must book in advance.

€10.00 for adults, free for children below 12, €5.00 for 12-17 years old, and €25.00 for a family of 4.

Take a Bus Eireann bus (#120) from Dublin, Halfpenny Bridge to Celbridge, Celbridge. This takes about 30 minutes. Then walk from Celbridge bus stop to Castletown House for 15-20 minutes. Bus fare is between €6-8.

You can also get this Dublin pass to give you an access to over 30 attractions around Dublin. 

4 hours should suffice which makes it one of the best half-day tours from Dublin.

10 am to 6 pm but it closes earlier in winter. To get the updated schedule, click here .

Location: Castletown House and Parklands, Celbridge, Co. Kildare, W23 V9H3

Phone: +353 1 6288252

Email: [email protected]

10. Brú na Bóinne (Boyne Valley Tombs)

Brú na Bóinne (Palace of the Boyne) or popularly known as the Boyne Valley tombs are passage tombs located near River Boyne, 8 km west of Drogheda . The site covers over 780 hectares where the majority of the monuments are located on the north side of the river.

It contains one of the most important prehistoric landscapes in the world dating back to the Neolithic  period.

Bru na Boinne is famous for its Megalithic passage tombs called Knowth, Newgrange, and Dowth.

Below is the Exhibition, Newgrange, and Knowth fee. Dowth is not officially included in the tour but visitors can check out the passage tomb through private transport

Adult: €13.00 | Sen/Group: €10.00 | Child/Student: €8.00 | Family: €30.00

How to get to Brú na Bóinne from Dublin

Brú na Bóinne is only less than 40 km from the city which makes it one of the most popular day tours from Dublin.

There are several ways to get to Brú na Bóinne.

You can simply book an Uber or take a taxi to Boyne Valley tombs. Taking an Uber might cost you between €95-€130 and €75-€90 for Taxi.

You can also check for the best rates on rental companies in Ireland here: Rentalcars

Take a train from Connolly Station (Irish Rail) to Drogheda . Trains leave every hour and it takes an hour to get to Drogheda. Train fare is between €9-€14 for one way.

Then from Drogheda station, take a taxi to Brú na Bóinne in Drogheda . This might cost between €14-€17 for an almost 9km trip.

There are several companies that offer tours to Brú na Bóinne from Dublin.

The best thing about these tours is you can also combine Boyne Valley tombs with other attractions in the area such as the imposing Slane Castle and Trim Castle , Navan , and other attractions in the Drogheda area.

You can check the tours below:

  Slane Castle ,  and Boyne Valley  are both good deals. But if you are traveling with friends, this private tour of  Boyne Valley and Trim Castle Day Tour might be a better option.

5-6 hours

February – April: Daily 09.30 – 17.30

May: Daily 09.00 – 18.30

June – Mid September: Daily 09.00 – 19.00

Mid – End September: Daily 09.00 – 18.30

October: Daily 09.30 – 17.30

November – January: Daily 09.00 – 17.00

Contact Information for Brú na Bóinne

Location: Brú na Bóinne Visitor Centre, Donore, Meath

Email: [email protected]

Phone: +353 41 9880300

Boyne Valley is the ideal location for exploring Ireland’s rich heritage. The Boyne Valley, a beautiful green oasis in Ireland’s Ancient East, was once the domain of Ireland’s high monarchs and has a 5,000-year history.

Simply looking at you will reveal the legacy of every major figure from Ireland’s past, encompassing high kings, Vikings, as well as Anglo-Irish nobility.

It’s a hard city to beat for foodies, with superb local vegetables, outstanding ingredients, and a thriving restaurant scene.

How to get to Boyne Valley from Dublin

The M1 will take you from Dublin’s city center to Bru na Boinne in around sixty to ninety minutes. There is no approved public transportation link for the entire Boyne Valley, although numerous operators provide daily planned trips from Dublin to Newgrange and Tara, which are typically bookable in bigger hotels or visitor’s centers.

You can also book this Boyne Valley Entry Day Tour with Newgrange and Bru Na Boinne for $85. This tour led me to Newgrange, a sacred and ceremonial site. Then we tour the Battle of the Boyne Visitor Centre to learn about local history.

To book this tour click here.

Diverse Ring of Kerry Landscape

Discover County Kerry’s magnificently gloomy vistas, rocky headlands, and crashing surf. The sound of the ocean will be with you long after you leave.

Discover lovely towns and villages in Kerry with vividly painted buildings, traditional pubs, colorful shopfronts, and an abundance of attractions to visit.

Explore this beautiful county’s twisting rural roads and small mountain pathways. Take a trip to Kerry and you’ll see why it’s called The Kingdom.

How to get to Kerry from Dublin

A train from Dublin to County Kerry takes around 5 hours and 40 minutes, passing through Mallow as well as Casement Station. On the other hand, you may take a bus from Dublin to County Kerry in approximately six hours and thirty minutes through Lower Glanmire Rd & Merchants Quay.

If you want to save time deciding which road to follow, book this Kerry Full-Day Tour from Dublin . This full-day excursion from Dublin to Kerry brings us to a magical and pristine part of Ireland that has drawn people for centuries. The region has some of Europe’s best seaside vistas.

Connemara is a land steeped in tradition, folklore, and breathtaking beauty. The location is noted for its untamed topography and gentle hues, and it is enclosed by the Atlantic and placed in a particularly attractive portion of County Galway.

Rust-colored bogs are punctuated by polished grey-blue lakes; old dry-stone walls wind their way through hills; and coral beaches, sandy coves, and little ports are framed by an ever-changing ocean.

Traditions are still alive and well in Connemara. From the dishes on the table to the music in bars, everything is steeped with a distinct cultural history.

How to get to Connemara from Dublin

Without a car, the best way to go from Dublin to Connemara is by rail and bus, which takes 4 hours and 50 minutes and costs between 43.37 USD and 65.05 USD.

Clifden is easily accessible from Galway or Westport via the N59. The N6, a major new highway, connects Dublin to Galway.

Do you want to save time? Enjoy this Connemara Full-Day Tour from Dublin for just 95.73 USD. We leave early in the morning heading toward the Molly Malone Statue and go to Oughterard, the gateway of Connemara. Pass through charming villages with breathtaking vistas.

We proceed to Maam Cross and have our first view of one of the many lakes that make Connemara renowned.

Tara Hill has been significant since the late Stone Age after a passage tomb was constructed there.  Tara’s significance grew as Christianity gained authority over the ensuing centuries. Its halls as well as palaces are now gone, leaving just earthworks.

Nevertheless, there are still spectacular sites to be seen. One such example is the Lia Fáil, the magnificent coronation stone along with one of the four fabled riches of the Tuatha Dé Danann, which sits majestically on the An Forradh monument.

The site’s guided tours will let you comprehend the regal history of this extraordinary place and picture its past glory.

How to get to Hill of Tara from Dubli

If you’re driving, use the N3/M3 north. To escape the cost of the toll part of the M3, proceed on the R147 north via Dunshaughlin and, shortly after approximately 3.1 kilometers, approach the signs for Tara. To get past the toll section, leave the M3 at Junction 7 and proceed to follow the signage for Tara.

Take this day excursion for 99.11 USD to experience the Hill of Tara. On a full-day picturesque tour from Dublin, we visit the Boyne Valley and learn about the Hill of Tara, the historic capital of the High Kings of Ireland.

Monasterboice is a magnificent monastery site in County Louth with an amazing circular tower as well as two high crosses. Saint Buite created the neighborhood in the 600s, and it now draws people from across the world.

There is an old graveyard, two chapels, and a sundial on the grounds, but Monasterboice is most known for its stunning high crosses. Inside the remains is the spectacular Muiredach’s High Cross, often regarded as the best high cross in Ireland.

Explore the calm ancient remnants of Monasterboice to uncover a vanished world of Irish Christianity. The location is reached by crossing a tiny road from the parking.

How to get to Monasterboice from Dublin

It takes roughly 50 minutes to go from Dublin to Monasterboice if you have a car. If you prefer to go by train, the Dublin Connolly line takes around 55 minutes to Drogheda. Then, take a cab for another 15 minutes; taxi fares range from 21.66 USD to 27.07 USD.

If you don’t have a car and need to travel to Monasterboice quickly, the quickest method to go from Dublin to Monasterboice is via taxi, which costs between 90.25 and 117.32 USD and takes 50 minutes.

A castle in the heart of a freely accessible park in Malahide, a charming port community. Don’t be afraid to go: it will transport you to the core of Irish history.

Guided tours of Malahide Castle’s main chambers and banqueting hall are available. The Oak Room and Grand Hall are particularly noteworthy. The furniture, tapestries, and general design are all period.

You may finish your tour by going to the store, which sells Irish handicrafts. A small cafeteria area offers snacks including coffee and pastries.

How to get to Malahide Castle from Dublin

There are several public transportation choices from Dublin City to Malahide Castle. Dublin Bus lines 32 and 42 connect the city center to Malahide hamlet.

There is additionally an express bus service 102 from Dublin Airport to Malahide village. Malahide is served by the DART, Dublin’s rail network, from multiple city center stations. The castle is approximately. Malahide village is a ten-minute walk away.

The most affordable way to go from Dublin to Malahide Castle is by taking the Line 42 bus, which is priced at $3.25 and takes 50 minutes.

Take this Malahide Castle trip for 55.19 USD if you prefer a less stressful day trip. We begin our journey in Dublin, exploring the neighboring shore of Dublin Bay, passing through the interior, and finally the coast.

We make a picture stop at the intriguing Casino Marino to discover more about how this modest architectural beauty is used.

Ireland’s oldest city, located in the heart of Ireland’s historic East, is a treasure mine of historic antiquities, magnificent architecture, and wonderful local gastronomy.

A trip through Waterford’s downtown will reveal a plethora of exquisite architectural showpieces from this era. However, to grasp the full picture, you must go back much farther to its establishment by the Vikings.

The Vikings recognized a good thing when they saw it: a protected port, an advantageous spot on the River Suir, and a solid trade position all drew Norse raiders to Ireland’s first capital.

How to get to Waterford from Dublin

There are several ways to get to Waterford City, whether by train or by car. Waterford is served by Bus Éireann from Dublin. The bus from Dublin to Waterford is the cheapest option, costing 14.44 USD – 27.07 USD and taking 2 hours and 20 minutes.

If you have a car, driving from Dublin to Waterford takes 1 hour and 40 minutes and costs between $30.68 and $46.33 USD.

If you have a lot of free time, consider taking this 6-day Tour of Southern Ireland from Dublin . The trip will begin in downtown Dublin. Drive across the undulating countryside to the Wicklow Mountains, leaving the capital behind.

Continue to Kilkenny, a historic city with cobblestone streets and famed red ale. Dunmore East, on the southeast coast near Waterford Harbor, is a calm place to spend the evening with a few bars and several fantastic seafood restaurants.

The Irish-speaking Aran Islands do not fail to amaze visitors with their wild vistas and charming homes. These three islands have preserved the history and legacy of traditional Irish living, and hundreds of people come each year.

There are lot to do on Inishmore; depending on your arrival time, travelers get anything from 5 to 7 hours to bike and explore the island’s famed forts, cliffs, stores, and beaches before the boat returns.

Some people choose to experience everything Inishmore has to offer, staying overnight to soak up the traditions and take advantage of the island’s vibrant nightlife and eateries.

How to get to Aran Islands from Dublin

It is advisable to take the boat from Rossaveel or an Aer Aran Islands aircraft. Traveling from Dublin to Galway is quite simple since major roads run through the Midlands Region.

The cheapest method to commute from Dublin to Aran Islands is by bus, taking 4 hours and 20 minutes and costing between 23.46 USD and 37.90 USD. Alternatively, you may take this day trip for $100.25.

Athlone, situated on the banks of the majestic River Shannon in the heart of Ireland, has naturally caught the curiosity of anyone from saints to sergeants over the years.

Athlone’s background is filled with turmoil. Battles occurred here, Vikings looted, and two violent sieges destroyed the town, which one survivor described as “hell on Earth.” This history is brought up to date in the superb Athlone Castle on the shores of the Shannon.

How to get to Athlone from Dublin

You may get from Dublin to Athlone via train, bus, or vehicle. Train travel from Dublin to Athlone is the most cost-effective option, costing between $12.63 and $19.85 USD and taking 1 hour and 30 minutes.

The quickest method to go from Dublin to Athlone is to drive, which costs between 23.46 USD and 36.10 USD and takes 1 hour and 10 minutes.

Bray, the largest town in County Wicklow, has been named one of the top 14 most underrated vacation spots in the entire globe by TimeOut Magazine. It is regarded as the Gateway to the Garden of Ireland and is Ireland’s oldest beach town.

Visitors from Dublin who wish to escape the bustling pace of life in Ireland’s capital frequently visit to Bray for the day. During the summer, the number of visitors from Dublin grows, and Bray’s mile-long beachfront becomes a hive of activity.

How to get to Bray from Dublin

You may get from Dublin to Bray via rail, bus, taxi, or vehicle. The bus from Dublin to Bray is the cheapest option, costing between 2.35 and 3.25 USD and about 40 minutes.

The quickest method to go from Dublin to Bray is via taxi, which costs between 32.49 and 41.51 USD and takes around 20 minutes.

Still looking for the best place to stay in Dublin? Check out our best hotels in Dublin guide here .

Hi, I’m Christine – a full-time traveler and career woman. Although I’m from the Philippines, my location independent career took me to over 40 countries for the past 8 years. I also lived in 3 continents – from the Caribbean, South East Asia to Africa. But despite living in several countries, my love for Ireland remains the same. A country that had been a part of my life since I was 14 because of my love for Irish music and bands. Ireland Travel Guides was born because of this passion and hopefully, in some little ways, this website will be able to help you on your next trip to Ireland.

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10 Excellent Day Trips and Weekend Getaways from Dublin, Ireland

Paraphrasing a line from a popular song, Dublin is not Ireland. Yes, it’s stunning and adorable, but the Emerald Isle is much bigger and culturally diverse than its capital. On the bright side, you can explore most of the island in a few day trips and weekend getaways that start in Dublin.

Last updated: January 20, 2023

Ireland is made for adventures and road trips. Everything in this country screams for your attention. While you enjoy famous pubs and bustling streets of the capital, ancient ruins, stunning cliffs, picturesque hills and pastures allure you to explore Ireland’s countryside over the course of a few day trips or weekend getaways that start in Dublin.

Like the majority of visitors of the island, I stayed in Dublin and planned a few day adventures to different regions of the country. Direct international flights, great food and accommodation options, plenty of things to do and see – there is no better place to start your Ireland trip .

But the main reason that prompted me to stay in the capital was a wide range of opportunities to explore most of the Emerald Isle during a few days trips from the city. As a solo traveler, I couldn’t say no to this. Now using my experiences and recommendations by some locals I met in Ireland, I’ve compiled the list of the best day trips and weekend getaways from Dublin.

THE 10 BEST DAY TRIPS AND WEEKEND GETAWAYS FROM DUBLIN TO ADD TO YOUR IRELAND ITINERARY

Located about 2.5 hours from Dublin, Galway is one of the best day trips and weekend getaways to immerse in traditional Irish folk music. Moreover, the place unveils secrets behind Irish craic, letting you experience famous pub culture and festivals of the country. And where there is a pub, there is alway   traditional dancing and music. No wonder, the city is known as the Cultural Heart of Ireland .

Buskers along with a rainbow of colors in Galway’s Latin Quarters further define the unique and entertaining nature of the city. At the same time, The Long Walk , a row of colorful houses facing Galway Bay, welcomes you to experience a quieter side of the city.

How to Visit: You can visit Galway on a day trip from Dublin by bus or train. Many guided tours combine a trip to Galway with other Irish attractions, such as the Cliffs of Moher.

TIP: Yet if you have enough time, be sure to take two separate day trips from Dublin and explore these places individually. Each of them needs more than one hour you will otherwise get on a full-day guided tour from the capital of Ireland.

2. The Cliffs of Moher and Doolin

The Cliffs of Moher is one of the mandatory day trips from Dublin for nature lovers. The famous landmark on the west coast of the country lets you experience gorgeous, yet proud and temperamental Ireland. Strong winds blowing from the Atlantic Ocean never once let you forget how powerful and forceful nature can be.

And yet, the stunning surroundings along with its scenic hiking trails dare to challenge you and inspire to take one of the most unforgettable day trips you ever go on from Dublin.

During their adventures at the Cliffs of Moher, the roadtrippers often visit Doolin . Famous for its colorful houses, authentic pubs, and green pastures surrounding it, the village adds a rural vibe to your day trips from Dublin.

How to Visit: As with Galway, many tourist offices offer full-day trips from Dublin to the Cliffs of Moher with a quick stop for lunch in Doolin. Public transport isn’t the best option to get here as there are no direct busses or trains. Due to required transfers, such day trips from Dublin to the Cliffs of Moher can take up to 5 hours as opposed to 3 hours by car.

If you’re interested in guided excursions, here are some of the tours I took or considered taking while exploring Ireland.

3. Day Trips to the Burren

Many guided day trips from Dublin to the west coast also include a drive through the Burren , a unique lunar-like landscape of barren grey limestone. If the weather is favorable, your tour guide may let you get out of the bus for a quick 10-15-minute walk in the area.

TIP: A short stop is definitely not enough for one of the most beautiful and diverse in plants and animals places in Ireland. Thus, renting a car allows for the more fulfilling day trips or even weekend getaways from Dublin to see the natural wonders of the Burren.

4. Glendalough and Laragh

With just a little bit over one hour drive away, Glendalough is one of the closest day trips from Dublin. This glacier valley in County Wicklow entices with an Early Medieval monastic settlement and two picturesque lakes nearby.

How to Visit: Direct busses from Dublin reach the place in a little bit over one hour. Half- and full-day tours are also available.

TIP: But if you want to make this visit one of your best day trips from Dublin, be sure to get a car. There are ample other places to see in County Wicklow, such as the village of Laragh, Poulanass Waterfall , and Powerscourt Waterfall.

5. The Wicklow Mountains

You can certainly combine a drive through the Wicklow Mountains with your visit to Glendalough. However, if you’re aching for more impactful travel experiences, devote a full day for your trip from Dublin to the mountains. On the other hand, with such epic hikes as the Wicklow Way and the St. Kevin’s Way , even a weekend may not be enough.

6. Day Trips from Dublin to Belfast

Northern Ireland needs at least a few long day trips or weekend getaways from Dublin to present its natural and cultural highlights. While it’s technically a different country, you can still travel here if you have a UK visa or a passport that allows you to do it freely.

The best place to start your day trips from Dublin through Northern Ireland is undoubtably Belfast. Known for its history and troubled past, the city has grown to a popular weekend destination with bustling farmer’s markets and award-winning restaurants. The most popular attraction still remains Titanic Belfast . The ill-fated ship was built in Belfast in 1911-1912, after all.

7. The Giant’s Causeway

Another beautiful destination in Northern Ireland, the Giant’s Causeway is regarded by the Irish as the 8th Wonder of the World. With about 40,000 stone pillars cutting out of the cliff faces, it’s quite an attraction to see during one of your long day trips.

8. Day Trips from Dublin to Baltinglass

The travelers rarely spend the whole day in Baltinglass , often combining it with other day-trip destinations. Do whatever it feels right to you. Yet apart from its famous 12th-century Baltinglass Abbey , the place boasts other historical buildings and ancient ruins that can occupy your entire day.

TIP: Moreover, its convenient location (the place can be reached by public transportation or car) makes Baltinglass one of the easiest and most underrated trips from Dublin.

County Kerry is the longest day trip from the capital of Ireland. Again, a rental or your own car helps you cover this distance in the fastest and most time efficient manner.

But leaving all these logistic matters behind, the place astounds with its remarkable scenery, sandy beaches, and rugged coastline. Furthermore, you can hit all the highlights of the area on the Ring of Kerry, a 179-kilometer (111-mile) scenic drive around the Iveragh Peninsula.

10. Short Day Trips from Dublin to Keadeen Mountain Farm s

Two things define Ireland: the awe-inspiring landscapes and green pastures spread across rolling hills of the island. While farming is one of the most profitable fields of economy, it’s also a significant part of Irish culture .

Irish farmers, recognizing their important role in the cultural heritage and looking for ways to make extra money, open their doors for the short day excursions from Dublin. So for example, it takes a few hours to visit Keadeen Mountain Farms , meet its animal residents, and learn about production and benefits of hemp seeds.

TIP: Be sure to ask for a private tour in advance or join one of a few guided day tours.

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4 of the best day trips from Dublin

Apr 15, 2024 • 7 min read

Take time to explore beyond Dublin's city center with these top day trips © Marco Bottigelli / Getty Images

The richly layered city of Dublin  – full of culture, community spirit and character – has plenty of things to keep you busy and entertained, with even more beyond the capital that's worth seeing on a day out.

Within a 40km (25-mile) radius of Dublin's center you can travel back in time to the neolithic era, visit grand Georgian estates and explore one of the most beautiful valleys in the country, at the foot of which are nestled the ruins of a 6th century monastic settlement. A little closer to the city are some seaside suburbs, including one that is a popular weekend destination for Dubliners looking for a scenic walk and some of the best seafood around.

Here's our guide to the best day trips from Dublin.

1. Get the DART to the seaside village of Howth

Travel time: around 45 minutes

Tidily positioned at the foot of a bulbous peninsula, the pretty port village of Howth (the name rhymes with "both") is a major fishing center, a yachting harbor and one of the most sought-after addresses in town.

It's an easy hop out of the city – the DART drops you right by the harbor, where you can take a stroll among the fishing boats or pop into  Howth Market for a coffee and a snack. But the real appeal comes a little further afield. Walk about 10 minutes along the coast and you'll be at the start of the Howth Cliff Path Walk, a 6km (3.7-mile) loop that takes you over the headland for gorgeous views of the grassy slopes that run down to the sea. If you want to do a proper hike, there are longer routes that lead to the Baily Lighthouse and back over rough, mountainous terrain.

And when you’re done, there are great restaurants where you can try some of the freshest seafood you’ll find anywhere in the city, including  Octopussy’s for seafood tapas,  Aqua for more elegant fare and, if you like your seafood served deconstructed, the superb Mamó , a modern bistro with an excellent value set lunch.

How to get to Howth from Dublin:  Howth is at the northern end of the DART line.

Fancy seeing more of Ireland on foot? Here's our guide to the country's best hiking routes

2. Visit the neolithic passage tombs of Brú na Bóinne

Travel time: 1½ to 2 hours

The vast neolithic necropolis known as Brú na Bóinne (the Boyne Palace) is one of the most extraordinary sites in Europe. A thousand years older than England's Stonehenge, the tombs, burial mounds and passages here are a powerful testament to the mind-boggling achievements of prehistoric humankind.

All visits begin at the superb visitor center, where you can learn the history of the site as well as get a fascinating insight into the times, complete with a little digital razzmatazz. There’s also a reconstruction of Newgrange’s interior passage.

From here, shuttle buses take you to the passage tombs: the most popular tour takes in Knowth and Newgrange. You can’t go into  Knowth , but the tour covers the collection of megalithic art carved into the exterior slabs of stone: keep an eye out for the depictions of the lunar cycle.

The star of the show is  Newgrange , one of the most remarkable prehistoric sites in Europe. The white quartz walls of the mound are impressive, but that pales in comparison to when you set foot into the passage and make your way to the center. Once there, the guide turns off the lights and a thin shaft of amber light starts to make its way down the tunnel – a simulation of the actual winter solstice ceremony, when on December 21 the whole passageway is illuminated by sunlight piercing its way through the roofbox above the main entrance. Even the simulation is a mystical experience.

How to get to Brú na Bóinne from Dublin:  If you’re driving, Brú na Bóinne is 50km (31 miles) north of Dublin; take exit 9 off the M1 and follow the signs. The easiest way to get there by public transport is to get the train or bus to Drogheda and then hop on the  Local Link 163 (40 minutes; three times daily) which goes from the train station and the Spar opposite the bus station. Alternatively, you can get there by organized tour from Dublin; one of the better options is  Mary Gibbons Tours (€75), which operates full-day tours with plenty of historical knowledge.

3. Walk around the monastic ruins of the beautiful Glendalough

Travel time: around 1 hour

It’s only about an hour south of the city, but  Glendalough feels like a place lost in time. This gorgeous valley (the name Glendalough comes from the Irish, Gleann dá Loch, meaning "Valley of the Two Lakes") is one of the most beautiful corners of the whole country and the epitome of the kind of rugged, romantic Ireland that probably drew you to the island in the first place.

At the heart of it are the ruins of a monastic settlement established by St Kevin around 498 CE. These include a 1000-year-old round tower, a ruined cathedral and the tiny church known as St Kevin's Kitchen.

The substantial remains of this important monastic settlement are certainly impressive, but an added draw is the splendid setting: two dark and mysterious lakes tucked into a long, glacial valley fringed in forest that have some great walking trails and a couple of hikes up the surrounding mountains. It is, despite its immense popularity, a deeply tranquil and spiritual place, and you will have little difficulty in understanding why those solitude-seeking monks came here in the first place.

If you've got your own car, one of the most scenic drives in Ireland is along the Military Rd between Laragh (1.5km/0.9 miles from the car park at Glendalough) and Glencree, on the road to Enniskerry. The road, so-named because it was built in the early 19th century by the British Army, traverses the beautiful Glenmacnass Valley (and a fabulous waterfall) and the Sally Gap, where a slight detour will bring you to a gorgeous viewpoint overlooking Lough Tay. Another detour by the Glenmacnass Waterfall car park takes you to a scenic spot over heart-shaped Lough Ouler.

How to get to Glendalough from Dublin:  Glendalough is tucked into the Wicklow Mountains 68km (42 miles) south of the city center. To get there by car, follow the N11 south and take the R755 at Kilmacanogue; the narrow road winds its way through the mountain. A popular alternative is to take the bus:  St Kevins Bus departs from the bus stop on St Stephen's Green North in Dublin at 11:30am, with the latest return bus leaving Glendalough at 4:30pm.

Exploring Ireland by road? Here are the country's best driving routes

4. Pore over the grandeur of the Powerscourt Estate

Travel time: 45 minutes to 1 hour

Wandering through the exquisite formal gardens of the 64-sq-km (25-sq-mile)  Powerscourt Estate should give you an idea of how extravagantly the 18th-century artistocracy lived – and the stunning views of the surrounding countryside they enjoyed. At the heart of Wicklow’s most visited attraction is a beautiful Palladian mansion, which was designed by Georgian architect Richard Castle between 1730 and 1741.

Most of the 68-bedroom house is not open to the public, but there's a fine cafe and several gift and homewares shops, while the grounds are home to two golf courses, a garden center and the best  hotel in Wicklow. If you’re driving (or part of a tour), about 6km (3.7-miles) south of the house brings you to  Powerscourt Waterfall , the tallest in Ireland and a popular picturesque spot that is best enjoyed after heavy rainfall.

When you’re done in the estate, a short walk down the hill brings you to the village of Enniskerry, which was established for the estate workers but is now a nice spot for a bit of lunch.

How to get to Powerscourt Estate from Dublin:  Powerscourt is off the M11/N11, 27km (17 miles) south of the city center. Get off the N11 at Exit 7 and loop around, rejoining the N11 going northward and take the first exit toward Enniskerry Village.

Dublin Bus No 44 and  Local Link 144 go from the city center to Enniskerry village taking between 45 minutes and 1 hour). From here, the walk to the house should take about 20 minutes (the main entrance to the estate is 0.5km/0.3 miles up the hill from the village). You can also get the 185 bus in Bray, which is on the DART train line.

This article was first published March 2016 and updated April 2024

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11 Best Day Trips from Dublin, Ireland (+ Tips!)

I’m going to kick off this guide to the best day trips from Dublin with a piece of advice that may sound a bit strange given the context of this blog post: if you can structure your trip to Ireland so that you avoid taking multiple day tours from Dublin, please do.

Here’s why.

Dublin is a lively and interesting city with plenty of things to do … and lodging in Dublin is significantly more expensive than just about anywhere else on the island.

For that matter, while Dublin is an incredibly fun place to spend a few days, when dreaming of a trip to Ireland, odds are that impossibly green fields, quaint villages, and dramatic cliffs were more at the forefront of your mind than city streets–so get out and enjoy them!

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

That being said, there are still plenty of reasons to plan some fun day trips from Dublin: maybe you’re visiting friends who live in the city, coming to town for work, or are taking a brief trip to Dublin and don’t have time to head all the way out of town for a couple of nights.

If so, one of these Dubli,n day trips just might be for you!

Ireland is a fairly small place–the entire island is roughly the size of Indiana–so a surprising percentage of the country is within your grasp on a day tour from Dublin.

However, certain destinations are certainly better options than others: here are some of the best day trips from Dublin!

Table of Contents

Taking Day Trips from Dublin: Self-Drive or Book a Tour?

Day trips within 2.5 hours of dublin, dublin day trips more than 2.5 hours away.

One of the most common questions that pops up when arranging day trips from Dublin is whether to self-drive or book a tour.

T he answer is, that depends entirely on your travel style and on which day trip you are taking !

Some of these Dublin day trips are absolutely best accomplished independently (the Hook Peninsula, for example), while we strongly recommend booking a tour for others (like for visiting the Cliffs of Moher ).

Most can go either way, and it just comes down to personal preference.

I’ve linked very popular, well-reviewed tours to each of the locations below where applicable–feel free to compare prices and inclusions for your group as compared to an independent trip.

If you’d like to self-drive, we use and recommend Discover Cars for renting cars in Ireland!

When making price comparisons, be sure to include the cost of gas, insurance, tolls, entrance tickets, and time in your calculations when deciding which option is best for your trip.

Check rental car prices with Discover Cars now!

Located less than an hour from Dublin, the adorable fishing village of Howth is among the easiest of the top day trips from Dublin–and you can even visit this village in Ireland by train !

While you certainly can book an organized tour here, especially if you’d like to combine a visit to the village with a trip to Malahide Castle , you don’t need to: it’s easy enough to enjoy the beautiful harbor, market, and castle in town.

Of course, the real star of the show in Howth is a bit outside the village itself.

The Howth Cliff Walk and Howth Lighthouse are both absolute stunners, and any Dublin day trip to Howth should absolutely include them !

Book your day trip to Howth + Malahide Castle today!

Kilkenny (+ Cashel)

The adorable town of Kilkenny is everything that a small Irish town should be: it’s colorful, it’s relaxed, it has some stunning churches, and–the cherry on top–it’s home to a fabulous castle.

It’s also the perfect town to combine with Cashel for an epic Dublin day trip.

The Rock of Cashel, perched high on a cliff overlooking the surrounding countryside, is rumored to be the site of the King of Munster’s conversion to Christianity in the fifth century.

In addition, the Rock of Cashel served as the seat of Munster kings long before the Normans arrived in Ireland.

Today, an impressive Celtic art collection is located at the sight, and the views overlooking the nearby countryside are stunning.

While you’re near Cashel, be sure to pay a visit to the stunning Hore Abbey that is just a few minutes away (you can literally see it from the Rock of Cashel, and vice versa).

The ruins of Hore Abbey are not only incredibly beautiful but are also free to visit!

Prefer an organized day tour from Dublin to Kilkenny? This one is extremely popular and visits both Kilkenny and the Wicklow Mountains!

Wicklow Mountains

Want to get out into the countryside on your day tour from Dublin? Head to Wicklow Mountains National Park!

This incredible national park is known as “the Garden of Ireland”–so you can imagine how green it is–and is also home to an early Christian settlement, whose ruins you can tour during your day in the Wicklow Mountains.

Whether you want to hike the day away (don’t forget a raincoat!), explore the area’s history, take a scenic drive, or all of the above, the Wicklow Mountains are a fantastic option for a Dublin day trip.

This well-reviewed day tour from Dubin is perfect for outdoor lovers looking to explore the Wicklow Mountains!

Familiar with Waterford Crystal?

If so, then you’re familiar with the town of Waterford, Ireland–at least in a way.

The beautiful town of Waterford is worth including on any list of the best day trips from Dublin, not only for its lovely harbor and impressive history dating back to the Vikings but for the chance to tour the Waterford Crystal Factory in the home of the company.

Even if you’re not particularly into expensive, sparkly things, the factory is definitely worth visiting: the entire tour completely exceeded our expectations and was incredibly interesting.

(And yes, we walked away with a memorable Irish souvenir : a crystal 4-leaf clover Christmas ornament).

Touring the Waterford Crystal Factory d efinitely qualifies as something unique to do in Ireland!

Grab tickets for the Waterford Crystal Factory tour now!

Hill of Tara

If you’re interested in the far reaches of Irish history, a day trip to the Hill of Tara might be the right option for you.

The hill, and the structures on it, have long played a significant role in Irish history–the oldest visible monument is a burial mound that dates to 3,000 BCE!

Fast forward a few thousand years, and the Hill of Tara played a role as the inauguration site of the Kings of Tara during the Iron Age and Early Christian Period, before the hill was eventually abandoned as an inauguration site in the 11th century.

Book your day trip to the Hill of Tara and beyond from Dublin today!

Hook Peninsula

The Hook Peninsula, located in County Wexford, may not be the best-known of these day trips from Dublin, but it is one of our favorite places in Ireland and absolutely deserves to be included.

If you’re looking for a bit of an independent, offbeat day trip that you won’t run into many crowds of foreigners on, this is the trip for you.

The Hook Peninsula is home to some incredibly interesting (and photogenic!) places, including the Hook Lighthouse, Tintern Abbey, the John F. Kennedy Arboretum, and the theoretically haunted Loftus Hall.

Said to be the most haunted building in Ireland, Loftus Hall is worth visiting for both the historical stories, the interactive and well-done ghost tales, and–surprisingly–the home’s staircase, which is a stunning creation of which only three like it exist on the planet.

The first of these staircases is in the Pope’s residence in Vatican City . The second is at the bottom of the ocean with the Titanic. And the third is right here in Ireland’s Ancient East.

While most of the day trips from Dublin outlined here take place in the Republic of Ireland, Belfast breaks the mold.

As the capital city of Northern Ireland, Belfast is packed with interesting sights, including plenty of (recent) history surrounding The Troubles–and any trip to Dublin should absolutely include some time exploring that history, including at the Peace Walls that physically divide sections of the city.

However, The Troubles shouldn’t be the only thing you focus on exploring in Belfast: be sure to make time to explore the history of the Titanic, which was built here, as well as Belfast Castle, St. George’s Market, and Belfast City Hall.

Book your day trip to Belfast today!

Set where the River Corrib spills into the Atlantic Ocean on the west coast of Ireland, lively and colorful Galway is an excellent day trip opportunity if you want to compare Dublin to an entirely different Irish city.

There are plenty of fun things to do in Galway during a day of exploring: check out the Spanish Arches, while an afternoon away in 18th-century Eyre Square, stroll down beautiful Shop Street, take in some traditional Irish music in one of Galway’s many celebrated pubs, or even hit the water on a boat tour.

This extremely popular day trip from Dublin covers both Galway and the Cliffs of Moher!

I’ve intentionally separated these three day tours from Dublin, Ireland–which are easily among the most popular in the country–from the rest to drive home the point that these make for extremely long, tiring days, and are best accomplished via a booked tour.

I’m not saying not to go (trust me, I deeply understand the desire to see dream destinations whenever the opportunity presents itself, even if the opportunity is not perfect), but think carefully before going, and strongly consider an organized tour.

That way, hassles like driving directions, opening and closing times, ticket purchasing, stopping for lunch, etc, are all handled for you, ensuring that your trip is as stress-free as possible, allowing you to focus all of your energy on the magnificent scenery!

Cliffs of Moher

Probably the most famous tourist destination in all of Ireland (and absolutely one of the most popular day trips in Dublin, despite the logistical challenges), the Cliffs of Moher live up to the hype: the cliffs truly are incredibly gorgeous, and a visit here is bound to satisfy anyone looking for stunning views in Ireland.

However, the Cliffs of Moher are also located more than 3 hours each way from Dublin, and visiting them requires more travel time than any of the other day trips from Dublin on this list.

That doesn’t mean not to go, but it does mean to be prepared for a very, very long day–though if you’ve long dreamed of seeing the Cliffs of Moher in person, we doubt you’ll mind the effort much once you’re standing on the edge of Ireland and looking out across the Atlantic Ocean.

This day trip to the Cliffs of Moher is one of the most popular in Ireland and is extremely well-reviewed. If you don’t want to spend as long at the cliffs themselves, this one also includes time in Galway!

Giant’s Causeway + Causeway Coast

Next to the Cliffs of Moher, Giant’s Causeway–the beach made up of 40,000 basalt columns in Northern Ireland–is likely the best-known tourist attraction on the entire island of Ireland.

Add in the fact that Giant’s Causeway is conveniently located practically next door to plenty of other highlights like the Carrick-a-Rede bridge and more than its fair share of Game of Thrones filming locations, and it’s easy to see why a trip up to the Causeway Coast is among the top day trips from Dublin.

Located 3 hours from Dublin, though, this day trip isn’t one to take on lightly–luckily, if you’re up to the long day, experts have pulled together some incredibly popular tours that cover plenty of different interests: this one is perfect for Game of Thrones fans like us, and this one includes a trip to Belfast!

Plan your day trip to the Causeway Coast today! Book your Game of Thrones tour or general tour including Belfast , both of which include a stop at Giant’s Causeway!

Blarney Castle + Cork

Always wanted to kiss the stone at medieval Blarney Castle and receive “the gift of the gab”? 

If 3 hours each way doesn’t seem like too much of a price to pay, you can do so on one of the most popular day trips from Dublin!

This popular day tour includes not only a tour of Blarney Castle, which is among the most popular castles to visit in all of Ireland, but also a chance to visit the stunning English Market in Cork–a spot your taste buds will certainly thank you for visiting–and a stop at the Rock of Cashel.

Book your day trip to Blarney Castle today!

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

2 thoughts on “11 Best Day Trips from Dublin, Ireland (+ Tips!)”

This helped us so much! We’re going on a trip to Ireland for Christmas this year and your blog has all the answers we needed!

So glad to hear that! Hope you guys have a great Christmas in Ireland!

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9 Spectacular Day Trips from Dublin Everyone Should Do

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Are you visiting Dublin? If so, you need to check out these spectacular Dublin day trips during your stay. Ireland is not a large country so many visitors base themselves in Dublin with plans to explore the country on day trips. While I do not recommend going as far as Galway or the Ring of Kerry on a day trip, it is certainly doable.

However, what we offer here are some of the best day trips from Dublin for visitors looking to get off the beaten path a bit, experience Ireland as many locals do without spending hours on a bus while also getting in some epic nature scenery, history and food along the way.

After visiting the Dublin and Ireland for the last 20 years, we have made our share of mistakes and have come up with a great list of spectacular day trips from Dublin that will be worth the effort and time.

Disclosure: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, meaning at no additional cost to you, I will earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase.

Jump to a Heading Below

Getting Around Dublin (& Out of Dublin)

If you plan to be only in the city center of Dublin during your visit to Ireland, we highly suggest learning all you can about the local public transport options like the LUAS (street tram), DART (light rail) and the bus system.

For those planning to venture around Ireland, consider renting a car. We love driving in Ireland, but understand that for many visitors it can be scary. While most vehicles are manual shift, automatic cars can be booked for a bit higher price. On my planning a trip to Ireland page, I share all the info on driving in Ireland to help you get going. Consider renting a car after your stay in Dublin has finished as driving in the city is confusing and stressful for many. 

Getting Around Dublin By Bus

The Dublin bus network is extensive and your best bet for journeys outside of the center of town. You can use this  Journey Planner to find the nearest bus stop and plan your route. The biggest negative for taking the bus in Dublin is that passengers need to have exact change for their destination. To get around this, visitors can purchase a Leap Card (valid for 72 hours) which can be purchased at local convenience stores and topped up as needed. 

Children under the age of 5 travel free with a paying adult. Also note that space is limited at rush hour, but buses run quite frequently during this time so you should never have to wait too long.

Getting Around Dublin by LUAS & DART

For those who plan to use public transportation to get out of town, you will want to check out the DART and LUAS. Tickets can be purchased online or from vending machines at stations. Your Leap Card is also valid on the LUAS and DART in Dublin.

The LUAS is a tram that crosses the city. There are only 2 routes, so most visitors won’t find themselves on this unless they are staying one either the Red or Green lines. To find out more on routes check out the map here .

The DART, Dublin Area Rapid Transit, is the train that you will take to get outside of Dublin to the coast. This rail system runs from the northern suburbs of Howth and Malahide, through the City Centre, and onto the outer southern suburbs of Blackrock and Greystones. Again, your Leap Card will also work on this.

Getting Out of Dublin

For the day trips that require you to go further afield, you can check out the Irish rail tickets as well as various bus lines that traverse the country. However, by far the most extensive public transport system around the country is bus. Travel is typically affordable and can be purchased in advance through Bus Eiranne . Connections are available between all major cities and are are reliable and comfortable.

9 Spectacular Day Trips from Dublin

1. howth is a beautiful seaside village dublin day trip.

Another great option for visiting Howth is to get out on the sea by boat . Here you can hire a boat from the west pier from 10 euros (and up) to explore by water or even stop off at some of the islands in the area to hike around.

For those with multigenerational families, there is also plenty to do here in Howth from eating to shopping. We love King Sitric Restaurant , but there are tons of options. Peak in and see what smells the best.

Getting to Howth from Dublin

Howth can be reached easily by car or by train from Dublin. By train, get on the northbound DART from Dublin city center. A day-return ticket costs €6.25. By car, it is approximately 45 minutes from the city center.

2. Glendalough & Wicklow Mountains is the Best Nature Day Trip from Dublin

Even though this area is known for its monastic settlement ruins, the biggest draw is hiking. In less than half a day you can easily hike both the upper and lower lakes loop starting from the visitors center. There are some boggy areas (fun for tourists!), but you shouldn’t need anything too much more than rain jackets, and waterproof shoes with a decent tread. 

After your hike and look around, head to the Glendalough Hotel for simple traditional Irish food and drink to refresh you for your journey home. While here also visit the picturesque Glendalough Cemetery and monastic ruins .

Another unique experience in this area if you have time is to visit the village of Annamoe, located at the foot of the Wicklow Mountains where you can experience a sheppard at work. 

Getting to Glendalough from Dublin

The best way to get to Glendalough from Dublin on a day trip is to go by car. If you don’t have a car, there are several day tour operators that you can join. There are no public bus options, however there is a private bus company St Kevin’s Bus Service that offers daily services between Dublin and Glendalough with a few stops in between. This is a great option if you don’t want a tour and don’t have a car of your own.

On your way to Glendalough or on your way back to Dublin, take the road less traveled through Sally Gap . Here you will see one of the most beautiful roads in Ireland. Keep an eye for the sheep who are sure to be all over the road!

3. Belfast & Beyond – A Great Day Trip from Dublin for City Lovers

Located only 2 hours from Dublin, the capital of Northern Ireland is a fascinating city to visit. Once in Belfast,  you can take a black taxi tour to learn more about “The Troubles” (what the Irish call the separation between north and south that took over the island for many many years), or spend time visiting the beautiful Titanic Belfast museum built on the site of the former shipyard where the RMS Titanic was built.

If going to Belfast isn’t quite enough Northern Ireland for you, you can continue up the Causeway Coast to visit some of North’s most spectacular sights. To do this in a day trip, you will definitely need a tour as it is a long day. 

Getting to Belfast from Dublin

There are a myriad of options for day trips to Belfast from Dublin. This is one destination on our list of day trips from Dublin that I do not recommend taking your own car. Parking in Belfast is expensive and difficult to navigate at times and the train takes almost the exact same time as driving. 

The average travel time between Dublin and Belfast is approximately 2 hours and 9 minutes. The first train leaves Dublin around 7:35 a.m. with the last at 20:45. With 8 trains a day, leaving every few hours, this is a great way to explore Belfast in a day (or more!). Check out the fastest train between the two cities, the Enterprise .

4. Bray to Greystones: A Nature Break on the Coast

Another great coastal day trip from Dublin is Bray and Greystones. This day trip can be combined with a day trip to the Wicklow Mountains for those of you with a car of your own. The main draw for this Dublin day trip is the chance to explore the coast on a lovely coastal cliff walk. Starting in Bray (or Greystones), the Cliff Walk is approximately 7 kilometers, taking about 2 hours for most people. The Cliff Walk offers beautiful views, wildlife sightings and a rich history to explore.

From the Bray promenade, follow the signs in Bray to Bray Head to start the walk. You can also park in the Raheen Park car park which will reduce the walk by 1 kilometer.  Once you arrive to either Bray or Greystones, stop in one of the many pubs for drink and food before driving or catching the train back to Dublin.

Getting to Bray/Greystones from Dublin

Getting to and from Bray and Greystones is very easy from Dublin. You can drive as it is super easy to park in both towns or you can take the bus or train. Check timings and costs from the links above to find out the best option for your journey. Also, note if you have parked on one end and do not want to return by foot, there are several option by bus, train or even taxi to return.

5. Athlone – Visit the Center of Ireland on a Day Trip from Dublin

You can’t visit Ireland without getting out to a traditional village off the beaten path. After visiting much of the country, Athlone is one of my favorite villages. Big enough to offer plenty to do but still traditional and colorful enough for great photo ops. Located about 2 hours from Dublin by train, this is a little long of a day trip, but is a perfect stopping off point if you are heading west towards Galway.

In Athlone you can visit Sean’s Bar , the oldest pub in Ireland according to the Guiness Book of World Records, check out some art at the local (free!) Luan Art Gallery and the Athlone Castle .

Getting to Athlone from Dublin

If you plan your day trip early enough, you can catch a train for around 30 Euro return from Connolly Station. If you are like me and wait until the last minute and train tickets are too expensive, consider the bus. A return bus journey costs around 18 Euro and takes about 2 hours 15 minutes.

For those of you with a car, driving to Athlone is simple and the town offers an abundance of parking. We highly recommend driving if possible as there are a great number of beautiful sights to see on the outskirts of Athlone if you have a car.

6. Kilkenny Offers the Most Picturesque Day Trip from Dublin

Wonder along High Street, Parliament Street and through St. Kiernan’s going through the various slips (connecting alleyways built underneath buildings) for some great shots of the city and to soak up the vibe here.

Getting to Kilkenny from Dublin

Visiting Kilkenny from Dublin is a quick and easy day trip either by car, bus or train. Once you are in Kilkenny you can get around easily without a car, so if your budget allows, take the train as it’s the most comfortable! Check the sites above for the best options on rail and road.

7. Powerscourt Waterfall is the Best Day Trip from Dublin for Families

While you are in the area, you can also make a quick visit to the Powerscourt Gardens.

Getting to Powerscourt Waterfall from Dublin

The only way to get to Powerscourt Waterfall on a day trip from Dublin is by car. However, if you want to go to the Powerscourt Gardens, there are a couple of transport options. To reach the estate, you can take a bus (185 and 44) to Enniskerry village which is about a 25 minute walk from the gardens. DART goes to Bray, where you can then catch a bus to Enniskerry village.

8. Malahide Castle – A Dublin Day Trip Close to Town

Not quite even a day trip, Malahide Castle is located only a few minutes from the Dublin airport, offering one of the easiest day trips from Dublin. Located on over 250 acres of land, Malahide Castle dates back to the 12th century and was build more than 800 years ago. The town of Malahide is quaint and worth the visit. 

When you arrive to town, hop on the Toot train for a wonderful tour of Malahide or go straight to the castle. For the best tour, make sure to make a reservation as you will learn a great deal of Irish history on the tour. Otherwise enjoy the beautiful gardens and butterfly house while cruising around the grounds.

Getting to Malahide from Dublin

The easiest way to get to Malahide from Dublin is via the DART which has a train ending here from Dublin city center. Driving is also easy with ample parking (paid) available.

9. Newgrange & The Hill of Tara is the Oldest Site in the World

Getting to Newgrange From Dublin

Unfortunately the best way to see Newgrange is either with your own personal car or an organized tour. 

+ Even More Dublin Day Trips

Blarney Castle

Blarney Castle is also known as the home of the Blarney Stone. The gift of gab is what you come here for. Kiss the Blarney Stone, explore the castle, eat some food and then head back to Dublin on your day trip here. For a great full day tour, check out this one .

My favorite town in all of the Republic of Ireland is the colorful, art filled town of Galway . This is a quintessential Irish town. The accents are stronger, the pubs are more vibrant and the colors are everywhere. If you can stay for more than a day, you will love it, but see what you can during a short visit from Dublin.

Cliffs of Moher

The Cliffs of Moher is one of the most popular day trips from Dublin even though it is a LONG day. If you can’t make your way here on a larger Ireland tour, plan to visit on an organized tour. The Cliffs of Moher is one of the most spectacular sights in Ireland. For the best of the west, check out this tour that takes in the Cliffs of Moher and Galway .

Ring of Kerry

The biggest draw for many visitors to Ireland is the chance to drive the Ring of Kerry . The biggest reason I don’t recommend doing this on a day trip is because you will spend your entire day driving with little time on the ground. When possible make a stop in Killarney and venture out to the Ring of Kerry from here. If this isn’t an option, here are some great Dublin day tours to check out.

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10 Best Day Trips from Dublin Ireland (2024)

Planning day trips from Dublin are your express ticket to Ireland’s charm, especially if your time is limited or you just want to use Dublin as a base. Each destination is a snapshot of the country’s beauty within a day’s reach, from Medieval castles to dramatic coastlines, quaint villages to natural wonders.

If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, there are trails to hike, lakes to explore, and coastal cliffs to marvel at. History buffs can travel back in time to medieval castles and heritage sites, while anyone looking for a change of scenery away from the city will find charming villages and breathtaking natural wonders.

Each of these Dublin day trips is a perfect blend of exploration and relaxation. So, whether you go on your own, on a bus trip or book day trips by train from Dublin, keep reading to help plan your Dublin itinerary!

1. Cliffs of Moher

This iconic natural wonder also happens to be Ireland’s most visited place! And it’s no wonder…the cliffs are breathtaking. They span for almost 5 miles along the Atlantic coastline, getting as tall as 700 feet high in some places!

Their one-of-a-kind beauty comes from the accordion-like layout of the Cliffs of Moher. The further you walk along the trails stemming off in either direction from the Visitors Center, the more of the cliffs you can see. Depending on your timing, the sun’s rays shimmer off the face of the cliffs.

So, no matter how many days you’re spending in Ireland, visiting the Cliffs of Moher should be at the top of your Ireland itinerary .

How to Get There:

The bad news is the Cliffs of Moher are just over 3 hours by car from Dublin. It’s possible to drive yourself there and back and still have a few hours to enjoy the Cliffs of Moher. The majority of the drive is along highways which makes it a bit easier to manage.

The good news is, that while you can spend a whole day at the Cliffs of Moher if you want to walk the coastal paths between Hags Head or Doolin, most visitors take about 2-3 hours (a morning or an afternoon) to enjoy the cliffs.

This makes it possible to do the round-trip drive and have time for the Cliffs of Moher if you make an early start.

Cliffs of Moher Day Trips from Dublin:

Perhaps even better, there are plenty of options for taking a Cliffs of Moher day trip from Dublin.

This is one of the Dublin day tours on this list that I wholeheartedly recommend. Save your eyes and energy for savoring every angle of the cliffs and the pathways that run alongside them instead of needing to do the round-trip drive on your own.

Plus, as a bonus, most of these tour options include other stops like Galway, Doolin, or the Burren. It’ll be a full day (12-13 hours) but going with a tour will help you maximize the time and see the most possible while in this area.

• This Cliffs of Moher, Kilmacduagh Abbey & Galway Day Tour is one of the most-booked day trips to the Cliffs of Moher from Dublin. You’ll have 2 hours to explore the Cliffs of Moher and 1 1/2 hours to visit the city of Galway. Along the way, you’ll see places like Kilmacduagh Abbey, Dunguaire Castle, and even a glimpse of the Burren which will make you feel as if you’ve been transported to the moon!
• Another popular option includes this Cliffs of Moher, Atlantic Edge & Galway City tour . You’ll have 2 hours at each, the Cliffs of Moher and in Galway, including a 30-minute guided tour in Galway to learn more about the historic city. In between these two stops, you’ll experience the incredible Burren landscape, including Burren National Park and the region’s ancient monuments and megalithic tombs.

2. Giant’s Causeway and Belfast in Northern Ireland

Like the Cliffs of Moher, the Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its 40,000 hexagonal basalt columns laid out side-by-side along the untamed Atlantic shore are an epic sight together with lush cliffs careening upward just in the background.

Formed by a volcanic eruption millions of years ago, these geometric formations are the perfect stepping stones to explore the coast after taking in the scenic panoramas from the viewpoints above.

Within an hour of the Giant’s Causeway, Belfast, a city still healing from its troubles, is a city unlike any other in Europe. When you visit, you can’t help but see and feel the palpable scars left from Northern Ireland’s recent dark history. The city is also where the Titanic was built and the Titanic Museum tells the complete story of the ill-fated ship.

Combine all of this with numerous iconic Game of Thrones filming locations and the dramatic ruins of Dunluce Castle and you have all you need for one of the best day trips from Dublin.

The city of Belfast in Northern Ireland is just under 2 hours from Dublin. The Giant’s Causeway is another hour further north along the island’s northern coastline.

You can drive freely between Ireland and Northern Ireland, although you should always tell your car rental company if you plan to cross a country border. Likewise, there’s not an immigration checkpoint, but it’s wise to have your passport with you should you get stopped and asked for it.

Giant’s Causeway Tour from Dublin

Even though I rented a car for my last trip to Ireland, I spent the last several days in Dublin without a car. I used one of those days to do a Giant’s Causeway tour from Dublin and it was one of the best days of my entire trip.

• This is the Dublin to Giant’s Causeway tour I did which included 2 hours at the Giant’s Causeway and about the same amount of time in Belfast. We also stopped to take photos of Dunluce Castle and the Dark Hedges from Game of Thrones. I had time to walk along some of the cliff trails at the Giant’s Causeway before heading down to the beach. In Belfast, I was able to nest a 75-minute Black Cab tour into my free time to learn more about the city’s turbulent past.
• This day trip from Dublin is a variation of the tour I did. Instead of using all your free time to visit Belfast city sights, the tour includes entry to the city’s Titanic Museum.

Full Disclosure: When I decided to book the above tour to Belfast and Giant’s Causeway, I wanted to also try to learn more about Belfast’s history. I reached out to one of the companies doing Black Cab Tours in Belfast and explained I would be in the city for a couple of hours but I wasn’t exactly sure of my timing. The day of, I used WhatsApp to update them about my arrival time. I highly recommend doing a Black Cab tour should you find yourself with some time in Belfast. As an alternative, there is this newer tour offering which incorporates a choice between the Titanic Museum and a Black Cab tour for your time in Belfast, without sacrificing time at the Giant’s Causeway. This is likely to be logistically easier than how I booked mine.

3. Glendalough & the Wicklow Mountains

Just beyond Dublin’s city limits to the south, the urban landscape gives way to rolling hills and eventually mountain passes over 1,600 feet high. The serpentine roads cut through the Wicklow Mountains and wind past lakes, estate gardens, hiking trails, and ancient monastic ruins.

There are several fantastic County Wicklow things to do including a visit to the eerily serene Glendalough. This ancient monastic city is an early Christian site that started in the 6th century, though the remaining ruins date back to between the 10th to 12th centuries.

The views overlooking Lough Tay (a.k.a. Guinness Lake) are gorgeous, as are those from the Wicklow Mountain viewing platform. If you’re in search of some of the best gardens in the world (seconded by National Geographic), the Powerscourt Estate Gardens are not to be missed!

County Wicklow and the area’s popular stop, Glendalough, are only a 45-60 minute drive to the south of Dublin. And yet, you’ll feel lightyears away from the city.

The best way to get there is by car. There is some public transportation to the area’s bigger towns like Bray or Wicklow, but it’s impossible to move around the area without a car.

Even if you’re in Ireland for just a few days or you just want one of the best short day trips from Dublin, I highly recommend renting a car and taking a day trip to Ireland’s spectacular Wicklow Mountains.

As an alternative, you can consider a Wicklow Mountains tour from Dublin.

Wicklow and Glendalough Tours from Dublin

• This Wicklow Mountains and Glendalough tour also includes a couple of hours in the medieval town of Kilkenny. With your free time there, you can opt to have lunch at one of the historic pubs or check out the impressive Kilkenny Castle. If you have a few extra moments to spare, St. Canice’s Cathedral is also worth a visit.
• A trip to Ireland would not be complete without spending time with some of the country’s resident sheep! This Wicklow tour from Dublin includes time at Glendalough and in Kilkenny, but also adds a sheepdog demonstration to see how these working dogs herd their sheep.
• If you prefer, instead, to immerse yourself in the breathtaking nature of the Wicklow Mountains, this day tour from Dublin is for you. You’ll have the opportunity to visit Glendalough, as well as choose between a guided nature walk in the mountains or a visit to Powerscourt Estate to see the magnificent gardens.

ProTip: If you do decide to stay in the Kilkenny area as part of your Ireland itinerary, consider a stay at the beautiful Mount Juliet Estate. It’s just 20 minutes from Kilkenny and surrounded by the gorgeous Irish countryside.

4. Blarney Castle & Surrounding Area

If you want to experience Ireland’s magical heritage, Blarney Castle is one popular spot you can’t miss. This medieval gem is nestled in the tiny town of Blarney, 15-20 minutes away from Cork.

The castle has its origins dating back to before 1200 AD. Although it was destroyed in 1446, it was later reconstructed by Cormac MacCarthy, King of Munster, making it not just a stone-and-mortar wonder but a portal to Ireland’s rich past.

The main attraction? The famous Blarney Stone found atop the castle. Legend has it that after kissing the mystical limestone block, you’ll leave the castle with persuasive powers and a way with words.

But a trip to this castle isn’t just about kissing the famous stone, it’s also about the surrounding area. You’ll love the breathtaking views of the lush Irish countryside and you can explore the serene castle grounds and gardens.

Blarney Castle is nestled in the tiny town of Blarney Village, which is 15-20 minutes away from Cork City in southern Ireland.

A drive from Dublin to Cork takes about 3 hours (depending on traffic) along the N8 motorway. Simply follow the signs south for Cork and continue the drive leading to Blarney. Keep in mind that exploring the Blarney Castle and its gardens may take up to 4 hours and the line leading to the Blarney Stone can be long, so consider joining a tour to take the stress out of managing the logistics.

Aside from avoiding long hours of driving back and forth, the tours are even better because you get to enjoy a scenic drive with panoramic views of the Emerald Isle.

Blarney Castle Tour from Dublin

• This Blarney Castle tour from Dublin will take you to Ireland’s top 3 historic gems—the Blarney Castle, Cahir Castle, and the Rock of Cashel. The tour will take a whole day departing Dublin on an air-conditioned bus at 7 in the morning and driving through some of Ireland’s most picturesque roads. And getting to combine a visit to Blarney Castle with the Rock of Cashel is a great way to maximize your time and see both of these popular sights.
• If you prefer to immerse in one of Ireland’s most vibrant cities, this Blarney Castle Full-Day Tour from Dublin is for you. The tour will take you on a trip to explore the city of Cork at your own pace and shop for traditional foods and fresh produce from the historic English Market. After touring the city, visit Blarney Castle and its gardens.

5. Celtic Boyne Valley

At the heart of Ireland’s Ancient East brings a journey through the country’s rich past and cultural heritage. Located just 30 minutes north of Dublin in the North East of Ireland in County Meath, a trip to Celtic Boyne Valley feels like time traveling with its many ancient sites.

This landscape is steeped in Celtic history and myth and houses the Hill of Tara, a legendary seat of Irish kings. The Neolithic tombs of Loughcrew are also located in this valley, which are 5000 years old.

And if you want to get a glimpse of ancient traditions, a visit to Trim Castle showcases the best preserved Anglo-Norman castle in Ireland from the Middle Ages. Also located in the valley is where St. Fechin founded a Christian monastery in the 7th century.

From Dublin, you can travel north along one of the main motorways out of the city. The drive will take about an hour depending on the site you want to visit first.

Driving through Boyne Valley is easy (just remember to stay on the left!) because the roads are marked with tourist-friendly road signs. The historic sites are only about 30 minutes away from each other.

Celtic Boyne Valley Tour from Dublin

• This Celtic Boyne Valley tour will take you to 5 historic sites: the Neolithic tombs of Loughcrew, Hill of Tara, Trim Castle, and the 7th Century Christian Monastery of Fore Abbey. The tour already includes the admission fees and roundtrip transportation service to visit the sites, and you’ll be joined by an expert guide providing information about each location. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes as there will be short hikes to get close to the sites.

6. Newgrange (also in the Celtic Boyne Valley)

Also nestled within the archaeological wonders of Boyne Valley, is the prehistoric monument and UNESCO World Heritage site, Newgrange. This grand passage tomb is dated from around 3200 BC during the Neolithic period making it older than Stonehenge!

It’s a majestic monument with a large circular mound and a long passage leading to a central chamber. During the winter solstice, sunlight illuminates the passage casting light into the heart of the chamber.

Newgrange highlights Neolithic builders’ incredible skills and their ability to connect architecture to celestial events. Guided by experts, you’ll learn all about its religious, astrological, and ceremonial importance.

Make your way to the Brú na Bóinne Visitor Centre to reach Newgrange. If you’re driving, it’s approximately a 50-minute journey from Dublin.

For those opting for public transportation, there are various routes to choose from, involving a combination of buses and trains. The most efficient route is to hop on the 100x bus headed to Drogheda Bus Station. Then, transfer to the number 188 bus, which will take you directly to the visitor center.

You can also opt to go with a guide if you don’t want to drive or take the bus.

Newgrange Tour from Dublin

• This Boyne Valley with Newgrange and Bru Na Boinne Entry tour includes skip-the-line access to Newgrange Monument and the Bru Na Boinne area, ancient sites dating back over 5,000 years. You’ll also get to visit Monasterboice and the Battle of Boyne where you can learn about the lives of Neolithic settlers and immerse yourself in Celtic traditions.

7. Galway and Connemara

Located on the Atlantic coast of western County Galway is a land boasting the wild beauty of Ireland. Connemara is a mesmerizing region known for its untamed landscapes surrounded by rolling hills, shimmering lakes, sandy bays, and roaming sheep that seem shocked at the mere sight of a human!

It’s the perfect place to explore if you’re looking for an outdoor escapade where you can explore one of the most remote landscapes in Ireland, from Connemara National Park to the Sky Road drive near Clifden.

Along the western edge of the Atlantic coast and the gateway to the Connemara is a vibrant, lively city called Galway in the province of Connacht. This coastal city along Galway Bay will welcome you with its warm hospitality, lively traditional music scene, and artistic spirit.

Its bustling streets are filled with eye-catching, medieval architecture. From quaint shops, eclectic galleries, diverse food scene, and lively pubs, you’ll surely be charmed by Ireland’s coolest city.

From Dublin, the best route to take is the M6 motorway to the N6 national road leading to the city roads into the center of Galway. This drive may take 2 to 3 hours depending on the traffic and stops. To get to Connemara from Galway, take the Clifden Road (N59) which takes more than an hour’s drive.

Alternatively, if you’re planning to use public transportation, the best option is to take the train from Dublin Heuston Station to Galway. The ride will take about 2 hours and 30 minutes. You can also book a bus from Dublin to Galway. Then, connect to the Citylink bus #923 in Galway that passes through Connemara. The Country Shop stop in Letterfrack is just a 15-minute walk to the Visitor’s Center at Connemara National Park.

ProTip: In my opinion, though, both driving and taking public transit can be a lot of hassle because of its distance from Dublin. I did drive through the area but not as a day trip from Dublin but rather while staying in Galway. You can also choose to stay in Galway and then take day trips from Galway instead.

The best option is to opt for a tour offering hassle-free roundtrip transportation service, so you can enjoy the scenic route without being too spent on the travel time.

Dublin to Galway Tour

• This one-day trip from Dublin to Connemara and Galway is a memorable mix of nature trip and city exploration. The first stops are in Connemara where you can appreciate the untouched beauty of nature. Plus, you’ll get to visit the traditional farm and silver mines at Glengowla, as well as see the sheepdogs in action, before heading to the remote landscapes in Ireland. After Connemara, the tour will head back to Galway where you’ll have a couple of hours to explore Galway. You can decide to join a walking tour or venture off on your own to immerse yourself in Galway’s food and music scene. The lively streets of Galway City will surely leave a lasting impression that’ll make you want to come back for more.
• On this day trip from Dublin to Connemara , you’ll pass through the region’s wild landscape through the Inagh Valley and Connemara National Park. Depending on the season you visit, you’ll have the chance to take a boat tour of Killary Harbor or watch sheepdogs doing their work. Afterward, you’ll have a brief photo stop at Kylemore Abbey followed by an hour or so in Galway.

What makes these tours even better is that you can just sit back, relax, and enjoy the panoramic views as the tour guide takes you on a scenic road trip through one of Ireland’s most beautiful areas.

8. Connemara with Kylemore Abbey Stop

Aside from the breathtaking views of Connemara’s untamed landscapes, this coastal district also houses serene fishing villages like Leenane and Killary Harbour, the only place in Ireland where you’ll find a real fjord. The views from this area are spectacular!

In addition to its wild beauty and coastal villages, Connemara also holds a historic gem. The stunning Kylemore Abbey is a lakeside 19th-century neo-Gothic mansion that was originally a home before serving as a school and abbey. It’s surrounded by a gorgeous Victorian-walled garden and also has a small church on the grounds, as well.

When you visit Kylemore Abbey, you get to admire its beauty and also learn about the history and romance within its majestic walls.

It’s a 3-hour and 30-minute drive from Dublin to Kylemore Abbey. You’ll use the M4 and M6 highways to route N59 into the Connemara area.

There is Bus Eireann route #419 has service to Kylemore Abbey. However, this route begins at Galway Station so you’d need to get yourself to Galway Station first. needless to say, putting all of these logistics together on your own to get there and back to Dublin in one day is not easy and would need to be perfectly planned.

Another option is going with the group below. You’ll accomplish a visit to Kylemore Abbey, as well as see other spots in Connemara.

Connemara and Kylemore Abbey Day Trip from Dublin

• This Connemara and Kylemore Abbey tour starts by taking the train from Dublin Heuston Station to Galway. From there, you’ll drive through the Inagh Valley and past the Twelve Bens and Maamturks. Stop in pretty Leenane and at Killary Harbour to see the Killary Fjord. Afterwards, make your way to Kylemore Abbey. You’ll have about 2 hours to explore the grounds and have lunch. (If you want to go inside the Abbey, you’ll need to purchase a ticket.) Then, finish the tour by driving the spectacular Sky Road, near Clifden and part of the Wild Atlantic Way. You’ll take the train back to Dublin from Galway after a long but very fulfilling day.

While this day trip from Dublin doesn’t include any time to freely explore Galway like the ones above, getting to visit Kylemore Abbey and seeing the sights along Sky Road and the Connemara more than makeup for it!

9. Howth and Malahide Castle

Escape from the hustle and bustle of the city without going too far by heading to Howth. This coastal village is located in northeastern County Dublin, just a 25-minute train ride away from Dublin city’s center.

This lively fishing village boasts views of a picturesque harbor and tranquil outdoor adventures. It’s famous for its hiking trails on Howth Head with its paths surrounded by views of Dublin Bay and the Wicklow Mountains, not to mention Howth Castle.

You’ll also find a coastal trail leading towards Howth Lighthouse that is beloved by both locals walking their dogs and visitors to the area. Howth also has fantastic seafood restaurants and museums for history buffs to visit.

Whether you prefer outdoor activities, exploring museums, savoring delicious meals, or simply enjoying a Guinness in a local pub, Howth has something for you!

A quick and easy way to Howth is by riding the DART (Dublin Area Rapid Transit) from Dublin Connolly to Howth Railway Station. But if you’re near other stops, you can check out this train map to know where you should hop on. Alternatively, you can ride the Dublin-Howth Bus H3 which also takes around 30 minutes as the train.

If you’re driving a car, Howth is just 30 minutes away from Dublin City Center. There is also free parking in Howth at the Howth Harbour Public Car Park.

Howth Day Tours from Dublin

Although Howth is accessible through public transit, you can also visit by joining a tour. Both tours below include transportation services to different spots in Howth with an expert guide.

• If you only have limited time to visit Howth, this half-day tour from Dublin to Howth Village is ideal. You’ll have an hour to experience the Howth Cliff Walk with a guide and the remaining time is dedicated for you to explore the village to immerse in its seaside beauty and lively community.
• This day trip from Dublin to Howth offers more free time in Howth village where you can feast on fresh seafood, see seals swimming in the harbor, and explore the community. Another highlight of this trip is a guided tour inside Malahide Castle to learn about its history.

10. Ring of Kerry Highlights

The Ring of Kerry, a legendary circuit on Ireland’s southwestern coast, is a captivating journey through some of the country’s most stunning landscapes. This scenic route, approximately 111 miles long, runs through deep forests and past rolling hills, sparkling lakes, and crashing waters of the Atlantic.

Your journey through the Ring of Kerry will take you to some of Ireland’s most breathtaking scenery. From the Macgillicuddy Reeks, Ireland’s highest mountain, Moll’s Gap, Ladies View, and the world-famous Lakes of Killarney, this road trip will leave you in awe.

Unfortunately, it takes more than 4 hours to reach the Ring of Kerry from Dublin by car, even though the route uses major highways for a straightforward journey leaving Dublin via M50 and N7.

However, the better way to reach the Ring of Kerry on a Dublin day trip is by taking the train from Dublin to Killarney. From Killarney, you can book a tour with a private transfer that’ll take you to the top sights along this gorgeous loop.

The Ring of Kerry is a far distance from Dublin. But for someone with limited time in Ireland who wants to see a few of the top sights and the landscape of the Ring of Kerry, independently going by train or opting for the tour below are good options.

ProTip: If you’re wondering, too, about the Dingle Peninsula , it’s a similar drive from Dublin. However, there’s no train station in Dingle for faster travel. The best day trip from Dublin to this general part of Ireland is the Ring of Kerry tour described below.

Ring of Kerry Tour from Dublin

• This Rail Tour from Dublin to the Ring of Kerry starts at Dublin Heuston station at 7:00 a.m. where you’ll board the InterCity train to Killarney with breakfast available onboard. Upon arrival in Killarney, you’ll explore breathtaking sites like Dingle Bay, Macgillicuddy Reeks, Carrantoohill, Moll’s Gap, Ladies View, and the Lakes of Killarney.

Dublin Day Trips: Your Gateway to the Wonders of Ireland

I love adding day trips to my travel itineraries. They are great ways to maximize the time you have and add additional sights and destinations to your itinerary without the hassle of switching accommodations.

Whether you’re into scenic strolls, coastal hikes, castle exploration, or ancient sites, Dublin’s surroundings have it all. These day trips provide a perfect escape from the city, showcasing the natural beauty and heritage that make Ireland so enchanting.

So, what are your questions about these day trips from Dublin?

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Travel Guide

• Things to Do
• Best Hotels
• Things to See
• Best Restaurants
• Best Nightlife
• Suggested Itineraries
• Planning a Trip
• Transportation Tips
• North of Dublin: Counties Meath & Louth
• West of Dublin: County Kildare
• South of Dublin: Counties Wicklow & Carlow
• A Day in Bray
• Organized Tours
• Active Pursuits
• Spectator Sports

Side Trips in Dublin

Driving in or out of Dublin along the big, bland motorway, it’s easy to dismiss the region immediately surrounding the city’s urban sprawl. However, you’ll find plenty to do within an hour’s drive north, south, or west of Dublin. Rural landscapes, ancient ruins, stately homes—some of Ireland’s most iconic sights are surprisingly close to the city. And although it’s possible to see any of them on a quick day trip, some fine hotels and restaurants reward visitors who opt to stay overnight instead.

North of Dublin , you’ll find the remnants of ancient civilizations at prehistoric sites Newgrange and Knowth. A short distance away, the green hills around the Boyne Valley hold the long-lost home of early Irish kings, who once reigned with a mixture of mysticism and force.

West of Dublin is Kildare, Ireland’s horse country. Even if you’re not into horseracing, a couple of handsome stately homes and interesting historical sites make this area worth checking out.

South of Dublin , the Wicklow Mountains rise from the low, green countryside, dark and brooding. A beautiful region, dotted with early religious sites and peaceful river valleys, the hills are perfect for a day trip from Dublin, and make a good starting point for a driving tour of the south of Ireland.

Dublin's Southern Suburbs

Heading southward along the bay, the bustling harbor town of Dún Laoghaire (pronounced Dun Lear -y) is quickly followed by the more upscale seaside towns of Dalkey and Killiney. All have been collectively nicknamed "Bel Eire" for their beauty and for the density of Irish celebrity residents. You could spend an afternoon wandering all three, or just pick one and linger there for a day. Dún Laoghaire has lots of shopping, as well as a long promenade and a bucolic park. Killiney has a picturesque, cliff-backed expanse of beach. Pretty little Dalkey is a heritage town with two tiny castle towers, a lovely medieval streetscape, and lots of charming pubs, gourmet restaurants, and pricey little boutiques.

If you're traveling to Ireland by ferry from Holyhead, Wales, your first glimpse of Ireland will be the port of Dún Laoghaire. Many people decide to base themselves here and commute into Dublin each day. It's certainly quieter and more picturesque; if you're not staying out late at night (the trains stop running just before midnight, and a taxi will cost quite a lot), you'll save some money over similar luxe accommodations in Central Dublin. And therein lies some really good news for travelers (though not so much for the local economy): hotel prices in these districts have plummeted in the last year or two. Top hotels that previously charged hundreds of euro per night, now cost a fraction of that -- often under €100, even in high season, which puts some extremely fine places to stay within reach of those without money to burn.

Dublin's Northern Suburbs

Dublin's northern suburbs make a convenient base for travelers via Dublin International Airport, and there's much to do here, with a delightful assortment of castles, historic buildings, gardens, and the beach to keep you busy. The towns of Drumcondra and Glasnevin have good hotels.

Just north of Dublin, the picturesque suburbs of Howth and Malahide offer panoramic views of Dublin Bay, beautiful hillside gardens, and many fine seafood restaurants. Best of all, they are easily reached on the DART. Farther north along the coast, but only 20 minutes from Dublin Airport, lies the bustling and attractive harbor town of Skerries . Skerries is a convenient and appealing spot to spend your first or last night in Ireland; or stay longer and explore all this area has to offer, including a resident colony of gray seals.

Note : This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.

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14 Top-Rated Day Trips from Dublin

Written by Meagan Drillinger Updated Apr 15, 2024 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

For a country as jam-packed with attractions and things to do as Ireland, visitors are often surprised at how easy it is to hit most of them. Drive a few hours in any direction from Dublin and you'll be able to reach most of Ireland's top tourist attractions in a single day.

You can visit iconic places like Blarney Castle and the Ring of Kerry ; world-class natural wonders, including the Cliffs of Moher and Giant's Causeway ; ancient sites, such as Glendalough and the megalithic tombs of Newgrange; and even the attractions of Belfast, the capital of Northern Ireland, with its impressive Titanic discovery center on the site where the great ship was built.

Getting around couldn't be easier. The main rail service in Ireland is Irish Rail , which will take travelers almost anywhere they want to go. If you're doing quick trips within Dublin proper or to a nearby suburb, DART (Dublin Area Rapid Transit) is the most convenient. It's the electric rail system that runs along the coast from Malahide or Howth down to Greystones in County Wicklow.

Dublin has many different coach bus services, including, but not limited to Bus Eireann , Aircoach , Dublin Coach . Because tourism to Ireland is so high, the country also has an abundance of package day tours that leave from Dublin. All of these options make it easy to arrange these trips without needing to rent a car.

Learn more about the nearby places to visit with our list of the best day trips from Dublin.

1. Cliffs of Moher

2. glendalough and kilkenny, 3. blarney castle and cork, 4. giant's causeway, 5. belfast and the titanic quarter, 6. newgrange and hill of tara, 7. ring of kerry, 8. powerscourt, 9. boyne valley and loughcrew celtic tombs, 10. connemara and galway, 11. howth and malahide, 12. dalkey and killiney, 13. killarney, map of day trips from dublin.

Ireland's most visited natural attraction , the soaring Cliffs of Moher rise to more than 214 meters above the crashing Atlantic in a wild and dramatic eight-kilometer coastline. Take time to walk the trail along the clifftop for views of the Aran Islands, and see displays about the geology and environment of the cliffs at the visitor center.

At the southwestern edge of the Burren, a region in County Clare that includes the wild, rocky landscapes of Burren National Park, the cliffs and the sea stack just offshore are home to thousands of seabirds.

By Car: Because the Cliffs of Moher are quite far from a rail station and it requires also taking a bus, it's easiest to do this day trip by car or on a guided tour. Drive time from Dublin is about three hours .

By Tour: Going on a guided tour will allow you to see many of Ireland's other west coast attractions. On the way from Dublin you can stop in Kilfenora for a visit of the Celtic High Crosses, or in County Limerick to visit the 13th-century King John's Castle, built on a Viking settlement and considered one of the best preserved Norman castles in Europe.

As well as a drive along Galway Bay for views of the Aran Islands and the 12 Bens, some tours also stop at Dunguaire Castle . On a 13-hour Cliffs of Moher Day Trip from Dublin , you can enjoy the beautiful County Clare countryside from an air-conditioned bus as an expert guide explains the area's geology and history. After a leisurely stroll on the path along the cliffs, you can explore the tiny town of Doolin, known for its music. Doolin is one of the most charming towns in Ireland.

Read More: From Dublin to the Cliffs of Moher: Best Ways to Get There

In a glacial valley below the Wicklow Mountains in County Wicklow, Glendalough was one of the most important monastic sites in Ireland. It was founded by St. Kevin in the 6th century and became known as the Monastic City . There are many things to see here, the most impressive being the well-preserved, 30-meter-tall Round Tower .

Near St. Mary's Church is the 12th-century Romanesque Priest's House; a tall granite cross dating to the sixth or seventh century; and the largest church, which dates to the 11th and 12th centuries.

Near Glendalough are two other interesting historic sites: the 11th-century Trinity Church and St. Saviour's Priory, with Romanesque stone carvings. Information at the visitor center will help you find and identify the various landmarks, and you can also follow marked nature trails.

If going on your own, you can take the bus from Dublin to Glendalough aboard the (aptly named) Glendalough Bus . The bus will pick you up in Dublin at St. Stephen's Green for the hour-and-20-minute drive . The bus operates year-round.

If you want to go to Kilkenny for the day, you can travel by train or bus. Irish Rail operates a route between Dublin Hueston and Kilkenny MacDonagh, which takes approximately an hour and a half .

You can also travel by the Dublin Coach (a.k.a. the Big Green Bus), which takes about an hour and 45 minutes and departs from Burgh Quay in Dublin.

If you're driving to Glendalough from Dublin, stop to admire the scenery of the Wicklow Mountains, including Wicklow Gap and the dramatic Turlogh Waterfall. On a 10-hour Kilkenny, Wicklow Mountains, Glendalough, Sheep Dog Trials, Day Trip from Dublin , in addition to traveling through the beautiful Wicklow Mountain National Park, you'll have a guided tour of the tower and other historic sites at Glendalough.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Kilkenny, Ireland

For many, kissing the famous Blarney Stone is a highlight of their trip to Ireland, and it's easy to combine this with a sightseeing tour of the lush and rolling Irish countryside and visits to the cities of Cork and Cobh.

Even for those not interested in perfecting their Irish eloquence of speech by kissing the stone, Blarney Castle is worth seeing for its beautiful gardens and shopping at the famous Blarney Woollen Mills at the castle, an 1824 mill that has become a center for Irish weaving and knitting.

On the Blarney Castle Day Trip from Dublin , you can not only visit Blarney Castle and kiss the famous stone, but also visit the Rock of Cashel in County Tipperary. This spectacular hilltop medieval complex includes a 13th-century Gothic cathedral, a 12th-century round tower, a Romanesque Chapel with wall paintings, and a 15th-century castle. You'll also have time for some independent sightseeing in Cork City, where your local guide will recommend attractions.

Personally, Cork was one of my favorite cities in Ireland. I love Saint Fin Barre's Cathedral, which is one of the most beautiful Gothic cathedrals I've seen in my travels across Europe. I also highly recommend visiting Sin e' in the evenings for the live traditional music sessions.

There is no convenient way to get to Blarney Castle directly from Dublin using public transportation, so driving yourself or taking a tour will be the most convenient way. However, it is easy to get from Dublin to Cork via public transit. The trip on Irish Rail is about two and a half hours .

Aircoach operates 36 express daily services from Dublin City Centre to Cork, and this is a cheaper option.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Cork

Northern Ireland's only UNESCO World Heritage Site , the strange polygon columns of basalt known as the Giant's Causeway are the result of a volcanic eruption 60 million years ago. The columns form oversized stairs and stepping stones that legend holds to be the work of the giant Finn McCool when he crossed to Scotland to battle his nemesis, Benandonner. On a clear day, you can see the Scottish shore, several giant steps away.

See more of the dramatic coastal scenery as you cross the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge , suspended high over the sea. If the coast looks familiar, it was the location for filming Game of Thrones, and you may see the avenue of beech trees called the Dark Hedges, which served as the King's Road. Day trips from Dublin can easily include other attractions in Northern Ireland.

The Northern Ireland Highlights Day Trip Including Giant's Causeway from Dublin tour includes a stop in Belfast , Northern Island's capital, for a city tour in a traditional black taxi. After a scenic drive along the Antrim coast, there is plenty of time at Giant's Causeway to learn about the geology of this natural wonder at Visitor Heritage Centre, as well as to walk across the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge.

There is no convenient way to get directly to Giant's Causeway from Dublin by bus or train. The trips will be upward of 5 hours and will include a transfer. The best way to get to Giant's Causeway from Dublin is to self-drive the 3-hour drive or to be part of a group tour. Just make sure your rental car is permitted to travel to Northern Ireland, as it is part of the United Kingdom. You will also need your passport.

Address: Causeway Road, Bushmills, Antrim, Northern Ireland

Read More: From Dublin to the Giant's Causeway: Best Ways to Get There

Northern Ireland's capital is a lively, colorful city that has faced its sometimes violent past and is determined to reinvent itself into a cultural capital. The prime tourist attraction is the waterfront Titanic Quarter , where the RMS Titanic was built more than 100 years ago and which was the epicenter of the city's long maritime heritage as the cornerstone of the British Empire's shipbuilding.

The striking star-shaped building of Titanic Belfast is already a city landmark, with state-of-the-art interpretive exhibits that trace Belfast's maritime history and the story of the Titanic with features that include an underwater exploration theater and re-created decks and cabins.

The Titanic Belfast Visitor Experience and Giant's Causeway Day Trip from Dublin combines Northern Ireland's two most popular tourist attractions into a single 13-hour excursion by luxury coach. After learning about the Titanic's voyage in the interactive discovery galleries and visiting the Ocean Exploration Centre to see how ocean behavior is tracked, the tour continues to the Giant's causeway, where there is plenty of time for the Visitor Heritage Centre and crossing the swaying Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge before returning to Dublin.

Getting to Belfast from Dublin could not be easier by train. The ride is roughly 2 hours from Dublin Connolly Station directly into the heart of Belfast. There are many coach bus services between Dublin and Belfast, but the Dublin Express is easiest from the City Centre. The ride is two and a half hours.

Address: 1 Queen's Road, Titanic Quarter, Belfast, Northern Ireland

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Belfast

Ireland's most important prehistoric sites lie close to each other, near the River Boyne. Newgrange is a huge passage tomb dating from the Neolithic period. Built around 3200 BC, it predates both Stonehenge and the Egyptian pyramids. The circular mound is supported by a retaining wall of white quartz stones and large stones carved in spiral and other designs. Inside are passages and chambers, and at the Winter Solstice, the rising sun illuminates the interior. Newgrange is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The Hill of Tara plays large in Irish history and mythology as the traditional inauguration place of the ancient high kings. There are several stone structures here, the oldest of which is the megalithic tomb called the Mound of the Hostages , thought to have been built about 3000 BC. Earthworks here include two linked enclosures: a ring fort and a ring barrow.

You can step back in time to Celtic Ireland on this Celtic Boyne Valley Day Trip from Dublin , a full-day bus tour that includes the Loughcre with Celtic Tombs, the Hill of Uishneacht, and the Hill of Tara.

There is no direct route between Dublin and Newgrange via public transportation. The best option is to go via a tour or take a taxi.

Official site: www.newgrange.com

Scenic drives don't get any better than the 177-kilometer route around the Iveragh Peninsula known as the Ring of Kerry. It offers a non-stop panorama of ocean views, islands, lakes, and mountains, dotted with postcard villages. Day tours from Dublin vary, but most include the magnificent inland Lakes of Killarney and stop at viewpoints for Macgillicuddy Reeks , the 17-kilometer mountain range that includes Ireland's highest peak , Carrantuohill.

These and more are covered on the 15.5-hour Ring of Kerry Rail Trip from Dublin , which begins with a train ride to Mallow, in County Cork, before meeting a local professional guide and traveling by coach to the region's most majestic landmarks.

My favorite way to explore the Ring of Kerry is to do self-drive. I've done this route multiple times and it is one of the best things to do in Ireland. Self-driving may be a bit more work, but it allows for greater flexibility when it comes to making stops to explore. Some of my favorite stops in the Ring of Kerry include the town of Kenmare, Ross Castle, and Portmagee.

• Read More: Exploring the Top Attractions of the Ring of Kerry

The 47 acres of Powerscourt grounds were designed so the estate would blend harmoniously with the surrounding Wicklow countryside, especially Sugarloaf Mountain , which is framed as a stunning backdrop. More than 200 varieties of trees, shrubs, and flowers are arranged in formal beds along the promenades of the Italian Gardens and in other settings, including a charming Japanese Garden ; a Rose Garden; and Kitchen Gardens, where herbs and vegetables share the grounds with flowers.

The interior of the former manor house has been converted into an upscale shopping venue for Irish crafts and designs, including an Avcoa shop, one of Ireland's most revered brands. Powerscourt is often included in a scenic day tour of County Wicklow that also visits Glendalough and Wicklow Mountains National Park.

The most full-service way to visit Powerscourt from Dublin is through a guided tour. An eight-hour, small-group tour includes Powerscourt, along with Wicklow and Glendalough . It gives plenty of time to explore the home and grounds and the entry fee is reduced for those part of this tour.

Powercourt is just 20 minutes south of Dublin so you could take a taxi there, as well as the bus. The closest public transportation to the estate is the 44 bus , which drops visitors in Enniskerry village, just a quick walk from Powerscourt.

Address: Enniskerry, County Wicklow

Official site: http://powerscourt.com/

If Ireland's ancient Celtic past fascinates you, the Boyne Valley and its environs are the place to go. Set in beautiful Irish countryside are some of the oldest sites in Ireland, including the well-preserved passage tombs at Loughcrew Cairns . You can walk through winding stone passageways inside to see 6,000-year-old stone carvings on the walls. On the River Boyne, Trim Castle was built in the 1170s, and is Ireland's largest Anglo-Norman castle.

In County Louth are the ruins of the early Christian settlement and famous 10th-century Celtic crosses at Monasterboice . The crosses have biblical inscriptions, and the 5.5-meter Muiredach's High Cross is considered the best in Ireland, covered in intricate Celtic stone carving. Above it stands a round stone tower more than 30 meters tall that protected the monks from Viking raids.

Because this is such a rural and remote part of the Irish countryside, the best way to explore these sites is to take a tour or self-drive. You can visit all of these sites, along with the Hill of Tara (see above) and the town of Drogheda, a Danish settlement in the days of the Vikings, on Ireland's Ancient East Day Trip from Dublin including Boyne Valley . The 10-hour tour travels across the scenic Irish countryside by bus, accompanied by a local guide who relates the history and legends of these ancient sites.

The coast of western Ireland, north of Galway Bay, is an irregular one of bays and tiny inlets with sandy coves, islands, islets, and rocky points. Inland are rugged mountains, lakes, and villages of thatched cottages. At the center of the area is Connemara National Park , south of the scenic loughs (lakes) of Kylemore and Pollacapall, where you'll find the atmospheric 19th-century Kylemore Abbey with its lovely Victorian walled gardens . The coastal towns of Roundstone and Clifden , favorites for artists, are good stopping points for a seafood lunch.

On the Connemara and Galway City Day Tour from Dublin , you can combine highlights of Connemara with a visit to the historic city of Galway, Ireland's major trading port since the Middle Ages. On the included guided walking tour, you can still see reminders of the foreign influences its trade brought, such as the famous Spanish Arch .

If you'd like to spend more time here, the train ride from Dublin takes about 2.5 hours, and you'll find plenty of good places to stay in Galway. I recommend the g Hotel & Spa for a funky, modern hotel in a great location.

Galway is one of my favorite cities in Ireland for its maritime history, beautiful architecture, and vibrant restaurant scene. Quay Street is the most vibrant area if you're in town for only a little while.

Just north of Dublin, the Howth peninsula is an easy day trip from Dublin by DART train, with plenty of things to do. Along with the tidied-up fishing village itself, you can see Viking ruins and the impressive Howth Castle. If you arrive with an organized tour group, you can tour the castle's interior.

On the castle grounds is a Neolithic site , a dolmen with a 70-ton capstone. Views from Howth Head are spectacular, and on very clear days you can see the Dublin skyline. Also in Howth is the boyhood home of the poet William Butler Yeats. The DART train line also runs to Malahide , with a beautiful castle that's open to the public.

Walkers will enjoy the coastal path around Howth Head , with views of Dublin Bay and the Wicklow Mountains, and looking north to Lambay Island and the Mourne Mountains. The trail is easy to find; it begins at the Howth DART station.

South of Dublin, and reached from the city on the Bray/Greystones DART line, the neighboring towns of Dalkey and Killiney lie along the coast of the Irish Sea.

Dalkey once had seven medieval Norman castles, of which one, Dalkey Castle , survives and houses a Heritage Center. State-of-the-art interactive exhibits include fascinating anecdotes of local history, including tales from the time when Dalkey was the port of Dublin.

Just offshore, Dalkey Island was inhabited as long as 6,500 years ago, and has a burial cairn, two holy wells, and other early remains. The island is a short boat ride from either Bulloch Harbour or Coliemore Harbour.

Continuing south on the DART line, Killiney is a town of parks and affluent homes, with views of Dublin Bay and the Wicklow Mountains. A popular seaside resort in the 1800s, Killiney has a pebble beach. For the best views of a panorama that 19 th -century writers compared to Naples Bay (hence the abundant Italian place names), climb the steep hill to the summit of Killiney Hill Park

Official site: https://www.dalkeycastle.com

One of the main highlights of the Ring of Kerry is the bustling town of Killarney. A beginning or end point for the journey, Killarney has some wonderful sites and attractions in and around the city that are worth a visit. But travelers do not have to embark on the entire Ring of Kerry to see the best of Killarney. All they need is to take a day trip from Dublin.

This Kerry Highlights Day Tour from Dublin is a 14-hour jam-packed experience that will make sure visitors see everything Killarney has to offer. Travel along the coastal roads into Killarney National Park, stop by charming villages like Adare, and see the natural beauty of the Lakes of Killarney and Torc Waterfall.

Dublin Coach also has a direct bus from Dublin to Killarney. The trip is just over four hours.

One of the lesser visited cities of Ireland, Sligo Town is absolutely worth a day trip from Dublin. Less than a three-hour drive from the city center, Sligo is a coastal seaport and the capital of County Sligo. It is one of the most historic and culturally significant cities in Ireland and far enough off the tourist trail to have you feeling like you've discovered a secret for yourself.

Sligo sits on the Garavogue River. The centuries-old city has stunning historic architecture, like the medieval Sligo Abbey and the Lissadell House and Gardens. Just outside the city is the Carrowmore Megalithic Cemetery.

Sligo is also the city that gave us W.B. Yeats. Visit the Yeats Society to learn all about this world-renowned poet and author. Yeats is buried at Drumcliffe Church, just outside the city. Sligo also sits in the shadow of Benbulben, a flat-topped rock formation that overlooks the rolling fields of the county. This protected site is one of the most impressive in all of Ireland.

If you decide to visit Sligo, this self-guided eBiking tour can be done in half a day and allows travelers to get around the city efficiently, taking in many of the historic sites that the city has to offer. Another way to visit Sligo is with this guided Sligo surfing tour . Sligo has some of the best waves in Ireland and this guided tour will take surfers of all levels.

You can take a direct train from Dublin Connolly station to Sligo in just over three hours. Bus Eireann operates a route from Dublin to Sligo, as well.

Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Sligo

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Dublin's Best Day Trips

7 Day Trips to Take From Dublin

Planning on taking a day trip from Dublin, but can't decide which direction to set out in? That's not an uncommon problem – partly due to the fact that you can get literally anywhere in Ireland (and back) in a day. 

But let us be realistic, day trips are not just about getting there, taking a selfie, then heading back. They are about experiencing a place (or places) fairly nearby, not about having an exhausting road trip. So for the purpose of choosing the best day trips from Dublin the following rules have been applied: the destination should to be worth visiting, be able to keep you entertained for a while, and must be within reasonable reach of the Irish capital, so that drive time does not become longer than the time available to spend at the location itself.

And starting with this idea in mind, here are the seven best day trips from Dublin:

The Boyne Valley: More than Newgrange and Tara

"Boyne Valley Drive": the signs guiding you onwards on the route through Ireland's East, mainly the county of Meath , traditionally start in Drogheda , and from there will guide you to the site of the Battle of the Boyne and Oldbridge Estate . Then you'll head on to Brú na Bóinne, the "Bend of the Boyne" . The great ancient monuments here of Newgrange and Knowth are accessible by guided tour — plan to make time for this, though this will eat into the hours.

The next stop usually is the famed Hill of Tara , though reality often does not live up to the hyped-up expectations of visitors. But consider the excellent café, bookstore, and artist's studio for a refreshing pit-stop. The next attractions on the Boyne Valley Drive are then Trim, with its massive Norman castle, the cairns on Loughcrew near Oldcastle, the heritage town of Kells, and the ruined monasteries of Mellifont and Monasterboice. 

How to Get There: The drive from Dublin’s city center will take about ninety minutes to the Bru na Boinne Visitor Center via the M1. There is no recommended public transport connection for the whole Boyne Valley, but daily organized tours from Dublin to Newgrange and Tara are available from several providers, usually bookable in larger hotels or tourist information centers.

Tayto Park: Family Fun

Bernd Biege

This is strictly for those who can spend an entire day at a theme park. Tayto Park — erected in honor of Ireland’s most prominent potato crisp — offers much more than a crunchy munchfest. The park is home to the Cuchullain rollercoaster, the largest wooden rollercoaster in Europe, dedicated to Ireland’s greatest hero. Ireland’s stock villains, the Vikings, provide entertainment with a water ride. And from kiddies’ rides to adrenaline-pumping zip-lines and climbing parcours there is enough stuff to keep you entertained for a whole day. Add to that a zoo with an exciting collection of wild animals, including big cats, and the hours will fly by in no time. 

How to Get There: The drive from Dublin’s city center will take about thirty minutes to Tayto Park via the M2. Public transport connections are available on routes 103 and 105 by Bus Eireann.

Kildare Town

Historically associated with Saint Brigid, who might also have been a goddess , Kildare Town celebrates the “Mary of the Gaels” with a cathedral, a round tower , statues, and an impressive Holy Well. And then there are the horses —  County Kildare is horse country, and the Irish National Stud Museum is located here. Visitors can also enjoy acres of parkland and the town's very fine Japanese garden. Should your taste run to less culture and more couture, however, Kildare Village is the place to go, a huge outlet center with all the big names

How to Get There:  The drive from Dublin’s city center will take just under an hour to Kildare Town via the M7. Public transport connections are by Bus Eireann (route 300, roughly an hour), or by Irish Rail (less than half an hour from Heuston Station).

The Wicklow Mountains: Glendalough in the Middle

The Wicklow Mountains are an area of outstanding natural beauty, part of which is protected as a national park, and many Dubliners head for these hills for some weekend walking and relaxation. During the week, however, and especially on cooler days, you’ll find yourself in the middle of nowhere. Even signposts are rare on the winding, undulating roads that meander past bogs and hillsides.

A tour of the Wicklow Mountains comes highly recommended as a day trip alone. Though you might choose to head straight for the monastic settlement of Glendalough , where Kevin sought solitude, and where today a sprawling medieval complex and some gorgeous lakeside walks await the visitor, for free. Again, avoid the weekend… the spectacle of cars queuing for a long time to get into the car park is not a “must see”.

How to Get There:  The drive from Dublin’s city center will take at least ninety minutes to Glendalough via the N11 and Roundwood – much longer if you take the scenic route via the R115 and across the Sally Gap (which is recommended). There are public transport as well as day tour connections offered by St. Kevin’s Bus Services, see their website for details .

Howth: A Picturesque Fishing Community

Dublin’s easiest day out would be a quick ride to Howth, on the northern fringes of Dublin Bay. The town is a small fishing village, the last stop on the DART line, and a favorite spot for Dubliners who need to recharge their batteries. Especially recommended are Howth Castle (though the interior is not open to the public), the Howth Cliff Path Loop (this can also safely be tackled by those new to exploring the wild) , a walk to Howth Harbour Lighthouse (with its great views towards Ireland’s Eye and the coast north of Dublin), and a visit to Saint Mary's Abbey (with notable tombs and graves).

How to Get There: Take public transport — the DART service will carry you to Howth Railway Station. Or hop on a Dublin Bus 31  — stops are in Howth Harbour and at Howth Summit. The journey should take thirty to forty minutes.

Clonmacnoise, Plus the Shannon and Some Whiskey

For a longer day out, start early and head off to Clonmacnoise, an ancient monastic site right on the banks of the River Shannon . This was built on one of the most important trade routes, where the river was crossed by the Esker Way. This magical place in County Offaly with its churches, round towers, and ancient pilgrims’ way, winding past high crosses , will enchant you.

Afterwards, head to the bustling town of Athlone for a good look at the Shannon locks and Lough Ree to the north. Then take a relaxing drive back to Dublin, but make sure to head into Kilbeggan, for a visit of the old distillery. The restaurant next door also comes highly recommended for traditional Irish food in generous portions!

How to Get There:  The drive from Dublin’s city center will take about ninety minutes to Clonmacnoise via the M4, M6 and N62. There is no recommended public transport connection.

Bray and Greystones

The coastal towns of Bray and Greystones aren't super exciting. True, there is a seafront, Greystones still retains some of that “fishing village” character, and Bray still oozes the genteel atmosphere of a Victorian vacation spot. But stay long enough to head south on Bray’s fabulous promenade, and push past the incline, because here the walk to Greystones starts, following the cliffs, at times high above the Irish Sea, with the occasional goat clambering on dangerous rocks. This is one of the best bracing walks to be had in the metropolitan Dublin area, even if technically you're  already in County Wicklow . If you do the cliff walk in both directions, reward yourself in one of the many pubs near Bray’s promenade!

How to Get There:  Again, take public transport. The DART service will carry you to Bray Railway Station in around 45 minutes. You can make your way back from Greystones directly via DART as well, with 53 minutes journey time to Dublin.

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The 10 best day trips from dublin, ireland.

After multiple trips to Ireland, where I skipped over Dublin in favor of my favorite city, Galway, I’ve since returned to Dublin and have fallen in love with Ireland’s capital city. Aside from having a wide variety of fun things to do within the city, Dublin makes an excellent base for exploring the rest of Ireland, especially when you’re short on time. I find it easy to plan day trips from Dublin as Ireland is a small country, so many places on your Ireland bucket list are just a few hours away. 

Of course, that’s coming from someone who lives in California and has driven 8 hours without leaving the state!

Some Dublin day trips on this list will take half a day, while others will be an entire day. While many places on this list deserve more than a day, I’ve done my best only to include day trips that are reasonable to do in a day. I define reasonable as taking 2.5 hours max, one way to get to where you’re going.

This post contains affiliate links, which means that, at no additional cost to you, I will earn a tiny bit of income if you decide to make a purchase or booking.

Ireland travel resources

• Book your flight to Ireland with Skyscanner
• Get reliable travel insurance with World Nomads
• Find awesome accommodation with booking.com or Hostelworld
• Check out this awesome Galway Food Tour
• Must haves for your trip to Ireland: my favorite waterproof booties, this power bank to stay connected, and a reusable water bottle

Getting Around and Out of Dublin

Before we get into planning your day trips from Dublin, let’s go over how to get around Dublin itself and Ireland as a whole.

Getting to Dublin City Center from the Airport

The first thing you’ll need to do is get from Dublin Airport to Dublin City Center . This is very straightforward! You can take a bus or a taxi.

Getting to Dublin By Bus

The bus is the cheapest way to get to Dublin City Center from the Airport. Once you clear customs and gather your luggage, follow signs for buses, specifically the Dublin Express . You can purchase your ticket online or from the person working at the kiosk.

Simply tell them your destination, and they’ll tell you the closest bus stop. They may not know your exact accommodation, so have a general idea of where you need to get in the city, and they’ll get you there.

A single ticket costs €9, and a return costs €11.

Getting to Dublin By Taxi

If you prefer to take a taxi directly to your accommodation, follow the signs for taxi ranks outside Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. The taxi will cost between €25 and €30 and take approximately 35-45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

Walking in Dublin

Dublin is very compact, and many of the city’s main attractions are a quick walk from your accommodation. It’s also a very flat city, so you won’t have hills or steep staircases, which surprised me about Edinburgh . There are also plenty of public transportation options in Dublin.

The LUAS is Dublin’s tram system, which has two lines: the Red Line and the Green Line. The two lines intersect in the city center and extend further out. The Red Line has stops for the Dublin Heuston and Dublin Connoly train stations, which will help you reach many of these day trip destinations.

Renting a Car in Dublin

If you’re doing an Ireland road trip, I recommend picking up your rental car upon arrival, heading straight onto your road trip, and spending time in Dublin on the back end of your adventure. Alternatively, you can spend a few days exploring the best things to do in Dublin and then return to the airport to get your rental car and head out on your road trip.

Long story short, I only recommend driving in Dublin if you’re used to driving on the opposite side of the road, in a city with many pedestrians, and have a place to park your car.

Getting Out of Dublin to the Rest of Ireland

Ireland by bus.

Traveling around Ireland by bus is an easy and inexpensive way to see the country. Multiple bus companies have direct routes between Dublin and popular destinations like Galway, Cork, Belfast, and beyond. Local buses can then take you to smaller towns.

Although bus travel is cheaper than renting a car, it may require more planning. You must ensure your itinerary makes sense for the bus routes and timetables.

I’ve traveled extensively by bus in Ireland, visiting towns like Doolin, Dingle, Kinsale, Clifden, and Westport. I also hopped on the back half of a guided tour when I realized there was no convenient bus route to my next destination. With a bit of patience and creativity, buses are a great way to get around Ireland.

The bus journeys have always been safe and comfortable. Plus, many have Wi-Fi on board if you need to connect, although I usually use the rides to catch up on sleep. The bus drivers are also typically helpful when you need to know the closest stop to your destination.

Check out CityLink for transport between major hub cities, and then use Bus Eireann to help get you to smaller towns.

Ireland by Train

Iarnród Éireann Irish Rail provides train service throughout the Republic of Ireland, while Translink serves Northern Ireland. Although slightly more expensive than the bus services, trains may be the fastest way to get where you want to go!

Irish Rail also operates DART, the commuter train system in Dublin. Using DART, you can get to beautiful places like Howth, Bray, and Malahide within 30 minutes to an hour. The train ride to Bray is breathtaking.

Irish Rail also connects major cities with stops in between. I could take the train from Westport back to Dublin and found it very simple. I also liked that I could change my ticket easily on their website (which I had to do multiple times as I was sick with COVID). 

I also took the train from Cork to Cobh and found navigating it straightforward.

Irish Rail’s network covers Belfast, Galway, Sligo, Waterford, Mayo and more. 

You should buy your train tickets in advance, as they sell out and prices increase closer to the departure date.

Ireland by Tour

Another way to see Ireland is with group tours. While I don’t recommend having your entire trip be a guided tour, a guided day tour to a place you want to see that may be too difficult to get to on public transport is a great way to see Ireland, learn more about its history, and meet new people!

Group tours are the pricier option, but it’s worth it to maximize your time in Ireland.

I’ve done a few group tours throughout Ireland, and one of the best day tours I did from Dublin was to Glendalough and the Wicklow Mountains.

Highly recommended tour companies include Wild Rover Tours ,  Love Irish Tours , and Rabbie’s .

Best Day Trips from Dublin, Ireland

Now that you’ve got a better understanding of how to navigate around the Emerald Isle let’s get into some of the best day trips from Dublin! I will start with Dublin day trips that are easy to reach on public transport. As the post continues, the trips will get further from Dublin and require more planning.

Ready? Let’s go!

Day Trip from Dublin: Howth

Howth might be the most popular Dublin day trip as it’s only 15km north of Dublin city.

Howth is a charming fishing village with stunning landscapes, delicious seafood, and a rich history. 

Start your day in Howth with the unforgettable Howth Cliff Walk . This walk takes you from the train station, through the harbor, and up along the rugged cliffs. Walk the trail all the way to the lighthouse for a great view. 

When you’re done hiking, return to town to explore Howth Castle and Gardens. It is currently a private residence, but you can wander the castle gardens. 

Before you return to Dublin, stop into any seafood restaurant in the harbor for a late lunch or early dinner. You can’t go wrong with any of them!

Getting to Howth from Dublin

The best way to get to Howth from Dublin is on DART. It’s a short 30-minute train journey. You can purchase your ticket and hop on the train at any Dublin station. The Howth train station is also incredibly cute and worthy of a photo. 

Alternatively, you can take Dublin Bus H3 from Busaras bus station to Howth Harbor. The ride will take approximately 30-40 minutes.

A return ticket on DART costs €5 and a bus ticket is about the same.

Interested in a guided tour to Howth that includes a ferry trip around Ireland’s Eye? Book it here !

Day Trip from Dublin: Malahide

Another easy day trip to add to your Dublin itinerary is Malahide, a coastal town located about 15km north of Dublin city center. 

When you disembark the train, walk to Malahide Castle, a medieval castle surrounded by 260 acres of green space. Tours of the Castle last about 45 minutes, and you can spend as long as you’d like doing a self-guided garden tour. Alternatively, you can skip the castle tour and only do the gardens, which I did after being burned out from castles in Scotland. 

I recommend stopping into the visitor center cafe for a sandwich and snacks, which you can enjoy in the garden (especially on a sunny day!).

When you’re done at the Castle, return to Malahide village, where there are great cafes, shops, and pubs. Similar to Howth, there is a harbor but no cliff walk. However, it is a lovely walk along the coast with views of Dublin Bay and a small beach.

Getting to Malahide from Dublin

Hop on DART for Malahide from any of Dublin’s train stations! It takes about 35 minutes to reach the village. Unfortunately, this journey does not take you along the coast, but it brings you to the heart of Malahide quickly and easily!

You can purchase your tickets on the day of. A one-way fare is about €6.

Day Trip from Dublin: Bray

The charming seaside town of Bray holds a special place in my heart. It was my first-day trip from Dublin on my first solo trip to Ireland in 2015! The journey to Bray from Dublin is part of this adventure as the train hugs the rugged Irish coast, offering stunning views.

The highlight of Bray is the Bray to Greystones Cliff Walk . However, upon researching this post, I learned it may be closed due to landslides. If it’s not, it is definitely a must-do. If it is closed, you can hike to Bray Head for panoramic views of Dublin Bay.

If you can complete the walk to Greystones, then hop on DART to return to Bray for lunch or return to Dublin. 

Getting to Bray from Dublin

Bray is another simple and easy DART ride from Dublin. This journey will take a bit longer, about 45-50 minutes, but it’s so worth it!

You can purchase your return ticket the day of, which will cost about €6.

Day Trip from Dublin: Powerscourt Estate and Gardens

Nestled in the foothills of the Wicklow Mountains is the luxurious Powerscourt Mansion , which features exquisite gardens and a waterfall. Dating back to the 13th century, it is considered one of the grandest estates in Ireland. Visitors can tour the rooms or enjoy a meal at the Avoca cafe.

The real gem of this day tour, however, is Powerscourt Gardens. National Geographic named Powerscourt Gardens the third finest garden in the world- quite the claim to fame! Spend a few hours checking out the Japanese garden, the blooms of the Walled Gardens, and Triton Lake.

Ireland’s highest waterfall is the Powerscourt Waterfall. However, it’s 6km away from the estate. The best way to see the waterfall is by car. 

Getting to Powerscourt from Dublin

Consider combining your day trip to Bray with an afternoon at Powerscourt Gardens. From Dublin, take DART to Bray. When you’re done in Bray, take the 185 bus to Enniskerry.

Alternatively, if you’re coming straight from Dublin, take bus 44 to Enniskerry.

From Enniskerry, it’s about a 20-minute walk (some of which is uphill) to the estate. 

This would also be a solid guided day trip from Dublin. Many Wicklow day trips include a stop at Powerscourt. Check out this one if you’re interested.

Interested in a guided tour to Powerscourt Gardens? Book it here !

Day Trip from Dublin: Dun Laoghaire

Dun Laoghaire is a lovely day out from Dublin. Start your day with a walk along Dun Laoghaire Pier and then grab a coffee or meal at Happy Out Cafe or Bibi’s Cafe. 

Continue your stroll through People’s Park , which has well-maintained gardens, a tearoom, and a great Farmer’s Market every Sunday.

Sea swimming is a popular pastime in Dun Laoghaire, as you can see from the Victorian Bathhouse that was recently revitalized. You can also swim near Sandymount.

Check out the free Joyce Tower Museum to learn more about Ireland’s rich literary history. The tower is the setting for the opening of Joyce’s Ulysses.

Getting to Dun Laoghaire from Dublin

Hop on DART for the 35-minute train ride to Dun Laoghaire. The Dun Laoghaire train station is right in the center of town!

A return way ticket costs €5. 

Day Trip from Dublin: Wicklow

Wicklow is often called the Garden of Ireland due to its lush forests, lakes, and rolling hills. As such, hikers love exploring County Wicklow to hike Sugarloaf Mountain, the Wicklow Way, or other trails in Wicklow National Park. 

If you’re not much for hiking, don’t worry; Glendalough, home to one of Ireland’s most important monastic cities, is well worth visiting. The city contains the ruins of the monastic site founded by St. Kevin in the 6th century, including the impressive round tower. 

Also in the area is Powerscourt Gardens, which I mentioned before!

You could easily spend more than a day exploring all there is to do in the Wicklow mountains.

Getting to Wicklow from Dublin

A day trip from Dublin to Wicklow is best accomplished with a car or group tour. It is about an hour’s drive.

I took this group tour from Dublin to Wicklow , and I absolutely loved it. We saw Glendalough, the Powerscourt Gardens, and the PS I Love Your Bridge. Plus, I learned more about Irish history along the way than if I’d tried to DIY it. 

Alternatively, a private bus company, St. Kevins , will take you from Dublin to the Glendalough visitor center. Many popular hiking trails begin near the visitor center, and you can reach the monastic sites and Upper and Lower Lake on foot. The bus ride takes about 1.5 hours and has two daily departures from St. Stephen’s Green. A return ticket costs €20. If you choose this option, consider staying the night, so you’re not rushed for time!

Interested in a guided tour to Wicklow National Park, Glendalough, and Powerscourt – this is the ONE! Book it here !

Day Trip from Dublin: Newgrange and the Hill of Tara

Located in County Meath in the heart of Boyne Valley is the UNESCO World Heritage site, Newgrange. Newgrange is a 5,000-year-old passage tomb (older than the Egyptian Pyramids) with neolithic carvings. Each year, the winter solstice illuminates the inner sanctum. 

From Newgrange, continue your journey to the nearby Hill of Tara, an ancient ceremonial and political center that served as the seat of the High Kings of Ireland. Explore the lush landscape with ancient monuments, including the iconic Lia Fáil (Stone of Destiny). The Hill of Tara offers panoramic views of the countryside and connects you with the myths and legends that have shaped Irish identity for centuries.

Getting to Newgrange from Dublin

The easiest way to get to Newgrange and the Hill of Tara is by car or group tour. It’s about a 1-hour drive from Dublin. 

There are multiple guided tours from Dublin to this important archaeological site. Book it here !

Day Trip from Dublin: Kilkenny

Kilkenny is a charming medieval town with highlights that include a castle, Smithwick’s Brewery, and narrow streets filled with shops, pubs, and cafes. 

When you arrive in Kilkenny, head to the Castle for a self-guided tour of the rooms. Then, explore the castle grounds, which include a garden and a large lawn. 

Afterward, head into town on the Medieval Mile, which connects the Castle to St. Canice’s Cathedral and round tower. You can climb the round tower for awesome views of the surrounding area.

For lunch or dinner, head to Kyteler’s Inn on Kieran Street. One of Kilkenny’s oldest pubs, it is associated with witch stories and hauntings. However, it is currently a lively pub with great food. 

When you’re done exploring the narrow cobblestone streets of Kilkenny, popping into anything that piques your interest, head back to Dublin.

Getting to Kilkenny from Dublin

Kilkenny is easy to reach from Dublin by train, bus, or car. However, I recommend taking the train or bus. Each will take approximately 2 hours to reach Kilkenny. I just tried checking the train price, and no tickets are available online for a week from today. The Dublin Bus is likely the better option!

Interested in a guided tour? This one combines Kilkenny with the Wicklow mountains. Book it here !

Day Trip from Dublin: Galway & Cliffs of Moher

Galway and the Cliffs of Moher are right on the cusp of the time cut-off for a Dublin day trip. Galway is my favorite place in Ireland, and you should definitely spend more than one day there. With more than one day, you could take day trips from Galway to the Aran Islands or explore more of the Wild Atlantic Way.

However, you can see a lot of Galway city center in a day. Wander down the pedestrian-friendly Shop Street, lined with shops, pubs, and restaurants. Shop Street will also be filled with buskers if you’d like to pop into one of my favorite Galway pubs for a pint and live music.

If you have time, one of my favorite things to do in Galway is walking the Salthill Prom to the Blackrock Diving Tower. It’s a great spot for sunset. Then, stroll back to the city center through the West End.

Getting to Galway from Dublin

Direct buses and trains leave Dublin for Galway multiple times daily. The trip takes roughly 2.5 hours. A return bus ticket costs about €25, and a train ticket costs about €30.

If you’d like to see the Cliffs of Moher while you’re in Galway, doing a group tour from Dublin is best. It would be quite the feat to do both on public transit in a day because it takes about 2.5 hours to get to the Cliffs of Moher from Galway . 

I recommend this group tour that includes Galway, the Burren, and the Cliffs of Moher! Book it here !

Day Trip from Dublin: Northern Ireland

Another Dublin day trip that makes the list is Northern Ireland, just 2.5 hours away. Northern Ireland deserves way more than just 24 hours, but you can still see quite a bit in that time frame. 

In Belfast, you can take a black cab tour to see the famous murals, understand what they mean, and learn about The Troubles. Beyond Belfast city, you can explore the unique Giant’s Causeway or see Game of Thrones filming locations like the Dark Hedges. 

Getting to Northern Ireland from Dublin

A car will give you the most flexibility and opportunity to see the most in Northern Ireland. The drive from Dublin is roughly 2.5 hours.

The Dublin Express connects Dublin to Belfast. It picks up from the airport and Dublin city center. The cost is about €20-25, depending on when you purchase the tickets and your departure time. I highly recommend purchasing your tickets in advance online.

Alternatively, a direct train from Dublin Connoly to Belfast takes 2 hours and costs approximately €30. 

If you don’t have a car and would like to see more of Northern Ireland than Belfast, I recommend this awesome group tour, which includes Belfast, The Giant’s Causeway, Dunluce Castle, and other highlights.  Book it here !

Ireland is a relatively small country, so you can cross many places off your bucket list with these Dublin day tours. I hope this post inspires you to see as much of Ireland as possible with careful planning and creativity. Let me know if you have any questions about planning your itinerary.

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8 Best Day Trips from Dublin

Home » See & Do » 8 Best Day Trips from Dublin

Looking for the best day trips from Dublin? You’re in luck! In this post, we will talk about the 8 best Dublin excursions to different regions in the Emerald Isle.

As a couple who traveled many times to the country and even ventured on a fantastic Ireland road trip , we’ve built up this complete list of day trips from Dublin, which combines some major tourist attractions in Ireland and Northern Ireland.

To be honest, Frank was the one driving during our road trip as the narrow Irish roads, together with the fact they ride on the left side, made me very uneasy about driving.

If you would love to see more of the Emerald Isle, but like me, you feel a little intimidated by driving in the country, know that you can see all of these places below (and more!) without having to worry about transportation at all.

That’s because we will talk about mesmerizing day tours and trips from Dublin you can take to see the undulating hills, green-hued landscapes, and rugged coast of Ireland.

Looking for the best day trips from Dublin? Read on!

Best Day Trips From Dublin

Here are the best Dublin day trips that you can take not only to learn more about Irish history but also to marvel at the undulating landscapes and breathtaking cliffs of Ireland.

Cliffs of Moher – Our Favorite Day Trip from Dublin!

The Cliffs of Moher is by far one of the best places to visit in Ireland .

And rightly so because this place is seriously insane!

Imagine this. You’ve just arrived at the Cliffs of Moher. You’re strolling along the marked path along the cliffs, and you feel a salt-tinged breeze on your skin as you stop for a moment to take in the infinite blue horizon in front of you.

That’s such a moment of peace and gratitude! We were in complete awe!

Therefore, it shouldn’t come as a surprise to you that the Cliffs of Moher is our favorite day trip from Dublin.

Even if the weather isn’t coping, we highly recommend you pay this place a visit as the cliffs are impressive no matter the weather conditions–unless it is too windy, of course!

Most tours to the cliffs make one or two stops before arriving there, and another stop in Doolin for lunch, which is a lovely town. We can’t recommend it enough!

Check current prices for the Cliffs of Moher tour

(To the tune of ‘Galway Girl’…)

Galway City is one of the most popular day trips from Dublin because the city has this small-town feel to it that is just delightful!

Beyond that, the Galway food and drink scene is thriving at the moment! The city is famous for having excellent seafood too.

And the good news is that several Dublin day tours to Galway also stop at the Cliffs of Moher.

For instance, this tour rides to the cliffs first, then the Burren (smaller cliffs), drives along Galway Bay, and finally gets to Galway.

So if you want to have some gorgeous views, you will want to sit on the left side of the bus.

Also, you will want to have a good night of sleep before this day trip as the bus departs from Dublin before 7 AM. Still, it’s totally worth the trip!

Check current prices for the Galway and Cliffs of Moher tour

Ring of Kerry

The Ring of Kerry is one of the most famous driving routes in Ireland. Most tourists stay in Killarney and make it their base to discover the region and the ring around the peninsula.

While this is one of the most extended day trips from Dublin by train, which makes up for a very packed day, driving through the Ring of Kerry is still doable.

Some of the landscapes you will spot along the way are the picturesque Killarney National Park, the massive Macgillycuddy Reeks mountain, and plenty of stunning views of the rugged Irish coast and infinite horizon.

Needless to say, this sea-worthy driving route has plenty of photo ops.

Check current prices for the Ring of Kerry trip by train

Blarney Castle + Cork

Blarney Castle is a short ride away from Cork City, one of the largest Irish cities.

And while you can easily rent a car yourself and drive your way through Ireland, hiring a local guide with transportation between sites makes things much easier for you, especially if you only have a day to visit a new place.

More importantly, you can not only learn about Irish history but also receive the gift of eloquence.

That’s right. In Blarney, you can kiss the Blarney stone near the castle with the same name, and the legend has it that those who kiss the stone receive the gift of the gab.

True or not, the Irish are great storytellers…

Anyway, the castle itself is also a significant tourist attraction in Ireland. Still, the guide also takes you to Rock of Cashel, Cahir Castle, and Cork.

If you want to learn a bit more about Irish culture, this Dublin day trip is perfect for you!

Check current prices for the Blarney Castle + Cork tour tickets

Ireland’s Ancient East

The region just north of the capital is an easy excursion from Dublin City.

Boyne Valley is just a little over a 1-hour drive from the city, but it holds rich history and mystery, and of course, heaps of green landscapes.

Here, you can visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site Newgrange tomb (older than Stonehenge and the Egyptian pyramids!) and the Hill of Tara, where you have a 360-degree view of the verdant Irish countryside.

The Boyne Valley is filled with Irish history, so it is a no-brainer for history buffs.

It’s a beautiful place and a lovely day trip from Dublin!

Check current prices for the Irish Ancient East tour tickets

Wicklow, Glendalough, & Kilkenny

If you’re a history lover or are looking for some outdoor activities near Dublin, you will love this Dublin getaway to the southeastern region.

For starters, the Wicklow Mountains National Park is a lovely area where you can take in the green-hued landscapes of Ireland.

One of the highlights of the park is the monastic sites of Glendalough, dating back to the 6th century. These monastic city ruins are hands-down a must-visit.

However, since you’re halfway to Kilkenny City, why not stretch your trip a little longer and visit a delightful Irish town too?

Kilkenny is a medieval city with plenty of historical buildings and churches to discover, including the unique pub “Hole in the Wall.”

While there, be sure to visit the 12th century Kilkenny Castle.

If you want to learn about Irish history and spend some time outdoors while listening to passionate stories from a local guide, this is the perfect day trip for you!

Check current prices for the Wicklow, Glendalough, & Kilkenny tour

Belfast City

Belfast is Northern Ireland’s capital, and it makes up an excellent side trip from Dublin since it is just two hours up the road.

The city is jam-packed with excellent museums and has a fascinating (and dark) political history; therefore, a guided tour to learn about its past is a must.

Still, the highlight of the tour is the Titanic Belfast Experience, where the most massive ship back then was built. Today, the site is transformed into a museum experience to show more about the history and tragic fate of the Titanic.

In short, it is an excellent place to visit near Dublin, mainly because you get to visit another country.

Check current prices for the Belfast day trip

Giant’s Causeway and Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge

Are you a fan of Game of Thrones? Or of dramatic landscapes and natural wonders? Then this Dublin day tour is right up your alley!

Here, you leave the Irish city right in the morning to explore the mystical regions of Northern Ireland.

That’s because you stop at places like the UNESCO World Heritage Site Giants Causeway, where about 40,000 interlocking basalt columns rise from the ground.

You also make a stop at Carrick-a-Rede, a rope bridge set in a fantastic landscape, weather-permitting you can cross it for free!

Besides, you also pass by the Dark Hedges, an 18th-century road of intertwined beech trees that looks like a spine-tinged tunnel. And you have a stop in Belfast, Northern Ireland’s capital.

This full-day tour is excellent to see plenty of new sites in another country if you don’t have much time!

Check current prices for the Northern Ireland day trip

Ireland Day Trips: Tips and advice

• You will want to wear comfortable walking shoes for most Dublin excursions as you might have to walk on uneven paths.
• It’s very windy in Ireland, especially on the coast, so better pack a handy scarf.
• Oh, and besides wind, Ireland sees a significant amount of rainfall too. Therefore, you will want to protect your smartphone with a waterproof case . It is one of the best investments we have made as it is also perfect for beach vacations!
• In line with the point above, be sure to add a rain jacket to your Ireland packing list or an umbrella if you prefer.

Dublin Travel Resources

Excited about your trip to Dublin yet? We can imagine!

In fact, we want you to have a fantastic time in Ireland, and we wrote handy guides to help you with that.

Since you will be in Dublin, you might want to read our post about getting to the city center from the airport .

As for itineraries, we have a few options that might interest you:

• One day in Dublin : This is a quick guide to seeing the major attractions in the city as well as enjoying the nightlife in town.
• 2 days in Dublin : This guide is for those travelers who have a little more room in their schedule to discover the Irish capital.

While we talked about the best day trips in Ireland and beyond, you will want to read our guide to the best day tours from Dublin , the capital city, if you’re unsure what tour suits your needs best.

It’s a comparison of what they offer and what you can expect in terms of sights, transportation, and group sizes.

And if you haven’t booked your accommodation yet, we highly recommend you do so as the Emerald Isle is an expensive country, and planning your trip to Ireland ahead might save you money!

We wrote a detailed guide on where to stay in Dublin for different budgets and interests. Here, we talk about the best areas to stay in the city.

Still, if you want to splurge for a day (you deserve it!), you might consider spending a night in a castle hotel . There’s one castle hotel near Dublin, Clontarf, and it is absolutely perfect! We talk about it in the link above.

This castle is a must, especially if you’re traveling with your significant other, from affordable rates to a great location (near the city) to the facilities.

And just for fun, take a look at these interesting facts about Ireland !

That’s it for today, gals and guys. Happy travels!

Did you like this post about Dublin day trips? Then save it to Pinterest or share it with someone who might like it too!

Don’t Forget About Travel Insurance!

Before you leave for Ireland, make sure you have a valid travel insurance policy because accidents happen on the road. We have been paying for Safety Wing travel insurance for a little over a year now, and we happily recommend them to our family and friends.

If you get sick, injured, or have your stuff stolen, you'll be happy to have the ability to pay for your medical bills or replace what was stolen.

Because, for just a couple of dollars a day (depending on how long your policy is for), you're going to get lots of things covered. Be smart and get travel insurance .

10 Easy Day Trips From Dublin To Explore The Best Of Ireland

Posted on Published: December 8, 2023  - Last updated: February 28, 2024

Categories Europe , Ireland , Travel

Going on day trips from Dublin is one of the best ways to explore Ireland .

Ireland is a small enough country that you can get pretty much anywhere from Dublin, including all the main sights and cities, in Dublin and around, without worrying about checking-in and out of hotels everyday.

I’ll go over the best things to do near Dublin , and how to go on day trips from Dublin Ireland.

Psst! This blog post contains affiliate links in it which sends me a bit of extra money if you use them… at no extra cost to you!

How To Go On Day Trips From Dublin Ireland

There are three ways to go on day trips from Dublin: you can rent a car, book an organized tour, or take the well connected Irish bus system throughout the country.

Here’s an overview of each one , so you can decide which mode of transportation is right for you.

Plan the ultimate vacation

My  digital travel planner template  has everything you need to plan your vacation: research templates, travel planner itinerary, travel budget templates…etc. . You can print it out or use it digitally on your phone, tablet, or computer.

Renting A Car In Dublin

Renting a car in Ireland gives you the most flexibility for planning the exact Dublin excursions that you want.

You can explore at your own pace, stop anywhere along the route, and spend as much time as you want in each place.

This is the best option if you’re interested in combining multiple activities or small towns into one day trip from Dublin.

There are quite a few downsides to renting a car in Ireland, mainly to do with the driving situation itself… which, no surprise, isn’t great… Before you rent a car in Dublin, read my review for driving in Ireland here .

If you’re still interested in renting a car, we rented ours from Enterprise . It’s our go-to car rental company wherever we are, and never have any issues with them!

Book An Organized Tour – Dublin Excursions

There are tons of organized tours to choose from that leave from Dublin as well, see them on Viator here .

This is how I explored Ireland the first time I visited. I was visiting with my sister and we didn’t feel comfortable driving in Ireland, so we booked organized tours from Dublin instead.

We had a blast! It was such a breath of fresh air not to think about anything for the day, but just sit back and enjoy the sights .

There are also organized tours that combined a few towns or activities in the same area, allowing you to explore a lot more during the day.

It might be the most expensive option for going on day trips from Dublin, but it’s also the least stressful !

Top Day Trips From Dublin – Viator Organized Tours

Cliffs of Moher, Wild Atlantic Way, & Galway →

Blarney Castle & Cork (with the Rock of Cashel) →

Northern Ireland Highlights Tour (with Belfast & Giant’s Causeway) →

Kilkenny, Wicklow Mountains, & Glendalough from Dublin →

For more organized tours from Dublin, click here .

Take The InterCity Bus

For a more affordable way to go on day trips from Dublin, you can take an InterCity bus (there are a few different companies, like Bus Éireann or CityLink ).

This is a network of buses that run to and from popular destinations throughout Ireland, with a lot that leave from Dublin.

This is the only option I haven’t tried for myself on day trips from Dublin (but I have used similar bus systems in other European countries). So if I find myself back in Ireland, this is most likely the option I would lean towards.

The bus system is integrated with Google Maps, so it’s easy enough to find the right bus to take (there’s often a direct bus leaving from Dublin, but you might have to plan a bit in advance).

You gain extra flexibility when planning compared to organized tours, but lose it when it may not be as easy to get everywhere you want to go. So it will depend on where you want to go. And at least you’re able to relax on the bus!

Top 10 Best Things To Do Near Dublin

1. howth (45 minutes).

Howth Ireland has to be one of the easiest day trips from Dublin .

Howth is a small fishing village on the outskirts of the city. It’s one of the only Dublin day tours that you can use public transit to get to if you don’t have a car.

The village is mainly known for the Howth Walk . This is a smaller (but still scary!) cliff walk compared to the Cliffs of Moher. If it’s a nice day outside, it’s definitely worth checking out and enjoying the views.

You can read my full guide to visiting Howth Ireland from Dublin here , or book a half day organized tour from Viator here .

2. Wicklow Mountains National Park (1 hour)

If you’re looking to escape to nature, Wicklow Mountains National Park is the Dublin excursion for you.

Enjoy gorgeous scenery, and you might get lucky and even spot some wildlife .

For any P.S. I Love You Fans visiting Ireland, this is where you’ll also find a lot of the filming locations , including the famous bridge!

You’ll have to rent a car, or book an organized tour to get here though ( like this one on Viator ).

You might also be interested in…

My digital and printable packing guide on Etsy . Filled with packing planning prompts for your next trip!

3. Castletown (1 hour) – Things To Do Near Dublin

Castletown is a mansion built for William Conolly, a speaker of the Irish House of Commons, in the 1720s. It was the first Palladian-style House in Ireland (an architectural style known for its perfect symmetry).

The mansion is just outside Dublin city centre, in Celbridge, County Kildare. So needless to say, it’s pretty easy to get there . You can drive here, but you can also take the bus or even the train from Dublin, see directions here .

Not only is Castletown gorgeous to tour, but you should also spend time exploring the adjacent Parklands, which are completely free. It’s a beautiful garden with trails and points of interest that take you all the way down to the River Liffey.

Castletown is closed during low season, but the Parklands remain open all year round.

4. Tullamore (1-2 hours)

Tullamore is a town in Ireland most famous for its’ whiskey, Tullamore Dew . So, it’s no surprise that a day trip here should include a stop at the distillery just outside town.

The town itself is small, but still worthwhile to walk around.

If you’re looking to compare whiskeys, you can also check out Kilbeggan Distillery on the other side of the highway. It’s a much smaller distillery that actually completely closed in 1950 due to lack of funding. The townsfolk came together to bring it back to life in the 2000s!

The best way to get to Tullamore is by car or the InterCity bus to Galway, which makes a stop in Tullamore.

5. Athlone (1.5-2 hours)

Athlone is another small town that’s worth a stop on a day trip from Dublin. It’s just past Tullamore on the way to Galway from Dublin.

It’s actually one of the larger towns in Ireland , with a bit more in the town centre to fill your day. There’s a castle, a cathedral, and viking boat tours on the River Shannon.

Athlone is also one of the more beautiful (or iconically Irish) towns I’ve seen with every building painted a different colour.

Plus, it’s also home to the oldest pub in Ireland, Sean’s Bar. And this is the real one – not The Brazen Head in Dublin, who also claims that title. Sean’s Bar actually has the Guinness World Record to prove it!

Our time was cut short in Athlone as we made our way to Galway, but I would have loved to spend an entire day exploring it!

The intercity bus to Galway stops in Athlone, or you’ll have to rent a car to get here.

Book a Private Whiskey Tour Through Ireland: Tullamore, Kilbeggan, & Athlone

See it on Viator here.

6. Rock of Cashel (1.5-2.5 hours)

The Rock of Cashel is one of Ireland’s most visited attractions – and for good reason. It not only has historical significance, but also some of the oldest medieval architecture in the country.

The Rock of Cashel stands out in Ireland, literally and figuratively. It’s located on a limestone “mountain” surrounded by flat land. Apparently, the rock mountain is the direct result of St. Patrick banishing Satan from the nearby cave he lived in.

This became the seat of the kings of Munster, and where St. Patrick even converted King Aengus to Christianity (becoming Ireland’s first Christian king).

There are several points of interest here: the abbey ruins, Cormac’s Chapel (with the best preserved Romanesque Fresco in Ireland), and a cross tombstone that was hit by lightning, and St. Patricks Cross (which is said to have dental healing powers).

The town of Cashel is worth checking out once you’re in the area as well.

There are countless organized tours that stop at the Rock of Cashel, I actually went on this one from Viator , which also included a stop at Blarney Castle. Or there is a direct bus from Dublin through Bus Éireann .

Day Trips From Dublin to Blarney Castle on Viator

Blarney Castle & Rock of Cashel →

7. Belfast (2-3 hours)

Belfast is a must-do on any trip to Ireland . It’s a part of Northern Ireland (which means it’s in the UK) and has a completely different history than Dublin.

Belfast had a rough past, and is still rebuilding from it. That’s why one of the top things to do while you’re here is a Black Cab tour (like this one on Viator ). They’ll teach you about the rough history between the Protestants and Catholics, known as The Troubles.

While you’re here, you should also check out the Titanic Museum. Belfast is where it was built after all (you can book a combined ticket on Viator here ).

Belfast is one of the main day trips from Dublin, so you can drive here, take the bus, or join an organized tour. I actually did a similar one to this tour from Viator , which also includes a stop at the Giants Causeway.

Day Trip From Dublin To Belfast & Giants Causeway

Northern Ireland Highlights Tour: Belfast (with black cab or Titanic museum option) & Giant’s Causeway. Book it on Viator here →

For more organized tours to Belfast from Dublin, click here .

8. Galway (2-3 hours)

Galway is another classic Irish harbour city to visit on a day trip from Dublin.

Although it isn’t the most beautiful city, there are some scenic spots that are worth checking out (like Nimmos Pier). And there’s quite a bit of history to learn about here, so I would highly recommend booking a walking tour, like this one on Viator .

The city even has connections to literary icon James Joyce if you’re interested!

And no trip to Galway is complete without a stop at the orginal Supermacs (Ireland’s McDonads).

See my full list of things to do in Galway here .

Most organized tours to Galway from Dublin also include a stop at the Cliffs of Moher, but I don’t recommend booking an organized tour to see the Cliffs of Moher ( see why here !). So I’d recommend either driving or taking a direct bus to Galway from Dublin.

9. Cork & Blarney Castle (2.5-4 hours)

Cork is the second largest city in the Republic of Ireland, so it seems to be a main city to visit in Ireland. I didn’t exactly fall in love with Cork when I visited, but I’m happy I saw what it was all about (which isn’t much).

The main attraction, and the main reason to visit Cork, is Blarney Castle on the outskirts of the city. There’s also more than enough to do at Blarney Castle itself, if you wanted to skip Cork entirely.

Blarney Castle is actually famous for the Blarney stone , which you’re supposed to kiss to receive the gift of the gab . Just a heads up, there will most likely be quite the long wait to kiss it. But, once you’re there, the grounds are also worth exploring.

Cork and Blarney Castle can be on the longer side of day trips from Dublin (depending on traffic), so I would recommend going on an organized tour (like this one on Viator ) or taking the InterCity bus so you can relax a bit.

10. Giant’s Causeway (3-4 hours)

The Giants Causeway is the furthest day trip from Dublin, but nonetheless a worthwhile one.

It’s a huge bay made up of limestone basalt columns that you can walk around on, believed to have formed from an ancient volcanic eruption. Let’s just say, they’re cool AF. You can walk all along the rocks, admiring the incredible scenery.

Once you’re here, you can also make a stop at the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge nearby.

But again, due to the distance from Dublin, the easiest way to get here is to book an organized tour from Dublin, like this one on Viator .

Why I Didn’t Include The Cliffs of Moher For Dublin Day Tours

The Cliffs of Moher is technically within range for a day trip from Dublin (about a two and a half hour drive by car).

Just because it’s doable in a day from Dublin, doesn’t mean you should attempt it. You see, seeing the Cliffs of Moher is very weather dependant. And as we know, the weather in Ireland isn’t exactly sunshine and rainbows 24/7.

I also don’t think the Cliffs were anything special, and ultimately the other day trips from Dublin are so much more worthwhile.

You might also be interested in reading…

• Should You Visit The Cliffs Of Moher In Ireland!?

P.S. Need A Place To Stay In Dublin?

I’ve stayed in Dublin twice, at very different places, and would honestly recommend both depending on your budget and type stay!

For a budget friendly option, stay at a hostel, I really enjoyed staying at The Abbey Court Hostel ( see it on Booking.com ). We couldn’t beat the location, on the River Liffey, included breakfast, and loved the interior design with all the graffiti! See updated rates and availability here .

When I came back to Dublin with my partner, we stayed at the Zanzibar Locke Hotel ( see it on Booking.com ). This was perfect for the stay we needed, with more apartment vibes equipped with a washing machine and kitchenette. See updated rates and availability here .

Click here for more hotel options in Dublin, Ireland

My Ireland Day Trip Must Haves

Read More Related Posts

• Top 15 Things To Do In Galway Your First Time Visiting
• What To Expect Driving In Ireland (& Why You Might Not Want To!)

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17 Amazing Day Trips From Dublin Without A Car

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Wondering how to go on day trips from Dublin without a car ? You are in the right place!

I was in Ireland twice for two months in total and although I loved renting a car, I realized that there are many tours that you can do from Dublin if you don’t feel like driving in Ireland .

Discover the best day trips from beautiful Dublin and embark on unforgettable adventures nationwide.

Table of Contents

Best Day Trips from Dublin Without A Car

1. day trip from dublin to dun laoghaire.

⏰ 30 minutes by DART (Dublin Area Rapid Transit)

Dun Laoghaire is a stunning coastal town not too far from Dublin, making it an ideal destination for a short day trip.

Reached by DART, an electrified commuter rail railway network, the town offers everything you might be looking for in an Irish city, from history to charming architecture to natural beauty. 

Once you arrive at Dun Laoghaire, start your adventure with a self-guided historic walking tour around the town.

The route takes you to significant landmarks such as the Oratory of the Sacred Heart and the Bathhouse on Windsor Terrace and other spots like George’s Street Upper and The People’s Park.

After a lovely and educational walking tour, enjoy a stroll along the harbor’s encircled piers, the West and East Pier, to take in breathtaking views of the shimmering Irish Sea and admire the original 19th-century lighthouses.

For a touch of culture and history, visit the impressive National Maritime Museum , housed in a striking former church. It features marvelous exhibits showcasing Ireland’s rich maritime heritage.

Lastly, while in Dun Laoghaire, enjoy the lively atmosphere of the streets and browse along boutique and local shops for a souvenir or a gift.

But a must-do activity is visiting the Sunday Market at the People’s Park, one of the most popular markets in Dublin for homemade food, jewelry, arts and crafts.

2. Day Trip from Dublin to Malahide Castle

⏰ 40 minutes by DART

Another fantastic short-day trip from Dublin is to Malahide Castle. Also, reached by DART within 40 minutes, the castle makes for an ideal destination for those who want to experience Ireland’s elegant past away from Dublin’s bustling environment.

Although you can explore the castle only by a tour guide, I guarantee you that it is worth it!

While wandering through the elegantly adorned rooms, as well as the botanical gardens, you’ll get to learn so much about the castle, the Malahide area, and the Talbot family, who owned it for almost 800 years.

For instance, each room features ancient tapestries and furniture from different eras, allowing you to travel back in time with each step you take.

Furthermore, the enchanting Botanical Gardens include thousands of plant varieties, wood carvings, fairy trails with picnic spots, butterfly houses, and many more treasures that you can uncover.

3. Day Trip from Dublin to Bray

⏰ 45 minutes by DART

Bray is another beautiful coastal town just a short train ride away from Dublin, offering an idyllic escape. 

Start your adventure with a stroll along the Bray Promenade, taking in panoramic views of the rugged coastline. Admire the Victorian seafront, adorned with colorful beach huts and charming cafes. 

If you’re feeling adventurous, go for a hike on the breathtaking Bray Head Cliff, a scenic trail winding through lush greenery and offering stunning views over Bray and the surrounding landscape.

Also, for a more cultural immersion experience, visit the charming Bray Heritage Center to learn about the town’s fascinating history and maritime heritage.

4. Day Trip from Dublin to Greystones

⏰ 1 hour by DART

Nestled along the stunning Irish coast and a short train ride away from the city, Greystones is a haven for nature and outdoor lovers. However, to reach Greystones, you’ll need first to venture on a short hike from Bray, where you’ll find the closest DART station. 

So, your journey towards Greystone will begin by taking the scenic coastal walk along the breathtaking Cliff Walk, a marvelous way to immerse yourself in Ireland’s stunning natural beauty as you meander through lush greenery and rocky paths. 

Once you reach Greystones, reward yourself with a delicious meal at one of the town’s charming restaurants, serving fresh seafood and farm-to-table delights. Then, explore the quirky shops and boutiques in the town center, or relax on the gorgeous Greystones Beach. 

5. Day Trip from Dublin to Hill of Tara

⏰ 1 hour by bus

Ireland is famous for its captivating mythology, fascinating history, and fairytale-like ambiance. So, a day trip to the Hill of Tara, also known as the seat of the High Kings, from Dublin is perfect for stepping into ancient Ireland.

Located about an hour from the city, this historic site holds immense cultural and archaeological significance.

Explore the vast, green landscape dotted with ancient monuments and burial mounds, including the iconic Stone of Destiny and the passage tomb known as Dumha na nGiall, and absorb the serene atmosphere and breathtaking views.

Additionally, visit the on-site visitor center to deepen your understanding of the site’s rich history and mythology and discover the tales of battles, coronations, and ancient rituals that unfolded here. 

6. Day Trip from Dublin to Castletown House

⏰ 1 hour by bus or train

Castletown House is a gem located about an hour bus or train ride from Dublin, immersing you into a magnificent journey through architecture and history. 

Specifically, Castletown House is one of Ireland’s finest 18th-century Palladian mansions. So, here, you can admire a marvelous exterior with a symmetrical and elegant facade and beautifully preserved interior. For instance, marvel at the exquisite stucco ceilings, opulent tapestries, and lavish furnishings.

Furthermore, the mansion’s pristine gardens are perfect for strolls to unwind and take in tranquil beauty along hidden paths, serene lakes, perfectly manicured lawns, and the nearby River Liffey to enjoy the peaceful ambiance of the surrounding countryside.

7. Day Trip from Dublin to Athlone

⏰ 1 hour 30 minutes by train or bus

Situated in the heart of Ireland, Althone is a charming destination to delve into history, culture, and a lively atmosphere. 

Firstly, once you arrive at Athlone, begin your journey by exploring the magnificent Athlone Castle. As it is perched on the banks of the River Shannon, the castle offers both a glimpse of the town’s and the region’s history and panoramic views from its impressive rooftop.

Then, venture towards the town’s bustling streets to explore the various shops and enjoy a hearty meal and a pint of beer at a traditional pub. 

If you want to delve even more into Althone’s heritage, visit Luan Gallery, where contemporary art and exhibitions await.

Lastly, finish your day with a leisurely walk along the riverbank to soak in the tranquil ambiance of the picturesque Shannon and capture stunning cityscape photos.

8. Day Trip from Dublin to Kilkenny

Kilkenny is easily reached by train or bus within an hour and a half, and it’s an excellent day trip destination for those who wish to experience Ireland’s medieval heritage. 

Your first stop in Kilkenny should be the magnificent Kilkenny Castle, a towering fortress dating back to the 12th century. Wander through its opulent rooms adorned with intricate tapestries and ancient artwork. 

Then, continue your historical tour with a leisurely walk along the medieval mile, where you’ll encounter stunning landmarks such as St. Canice’s Cathedral and the captivating Gothic-style Black Abbey.

For an artsy experience, visit the Kilkenny Design Center and other artisan craft shops to marvel at Kilkenny’s artistic heritage and pick up a unique souvenir.

Last but not least, stroll through Kilkenny’s charming streets to discover a wealth of history and culture and enjoy a delicious meal at one of the city’s many renowned restaurants serving traditional Irish cuisine.

9. Day Trip from Dublin to Meath

⏰ 1 to 2 hours by bus or train

The historic county of Meath is a treasure trove with plenty of ancient wonders and mystical tales, making it the perfect destination for history and nature lovers. 

Accessible by train or bus, start your adventure by visiting the UNESCO World Heritage site of Bru na Boinne, home to the extraordinary passage tombs of Newgrange and Knowth.

Continue your journey to the Hill of Tara, the ancient ceremonial and political center of Ireland’s High Kings, and delve into the region’s rich past at the Trim Castle, the largest Anglo-Norman castle in Ireland. 

For a more tranquil escape, visit the beautiful gardens of Kells Priory or take a peaceful stroll along the banks of the picturesque Boyne River.

10. Day Trip from Dublin to Belfast

⏰ 2 hours by train or bus

Frankly, Belfast is a must-visit destination since it allows you to experience the contrasting beauty of Northern Ireland as you immerse in its rich and fascinating history and culture. 

Reached by train or bus, Belfast is easily accessible within two hours from Dublin. Therefore, you have the opportunity to explore plenty of fantastic landmarks like the Titanic Belfast , an iconic museum that tells the story of the world’s most famous ship.

Furthermore, you can discover the region’s political and social history at the murals of the Shankill and Falls Road, which provide a poignant insight into Belfast’s troubled past.

While in Belfast, be sure to also stroll along the city center’s bustling streets and browse eclectic shops and markets like St George’s Market, renowned restaurants, and charming pubs to indulge in local culture, traditional Irish dishes, and lively atmosphere.

11. Day Trip from Dublin to The Mournes

⏰ 2 hours by bus

Accessible by a direct bus or train to Newry, the Mourne Mountains are the perfect day trip from Dublin for an outdoor adventure. 

A must-visit within the Mourne Mountain range is the Tollymore Forest Park, known for its ancient woodlands, scenic rivers, and moss-covered bridges. 

For a more challenging hike, head to Slieve Donard, the highest peak in Northern Ireland, and enjoy panoramic views of the rugged coastline below. 

Another worth-visiting spot is the picturesque Silent Valley Reservoir, which offers a tranquil escape and is the perfect destination for Instagrammable photos.

Lastly, after hiking across the mountains, visit the charming village of Newcastle to savor a hearty meal at one of the many cozy pubs and stroll along the sandy beach.

12. Day Trip from Dublin to The Ring of Gullion

Reached by bus through Newry or Dundalk, the Ring of Gullion is a scenic and historically rich area that’ll transport you back in time. 

First, venture towards the heart of the Ring, Slieve Gullion, a dormant volcano steeped in mythology. Climb to the summit and enjoy the breathtaking views of the surrounding lush landscapes. 

Additionally, journey through the picturesque countryside to discover quaint villages like Crossmaglen and significant museums like the Louth County Museum to immerse yourself in Gaelic culture and delve into an epic adventure through the Ti Chulainn Center dedicated to the mighty warrior Cuchulainn.

13. Day Trip from Dublin to Cork

⏰ 2 hours 30 minutes by train or bus

Cork is a bustling hub of culture, history, and fantastic food, so it’s a fantastic day trip choice to experience the vibrant Irish lifestyle. Furthermore, with excellent public transportation links, exploring Cork without a car is a breeze. 

Once you arrive in Cork, start your day by visiting the Cork City Gaol , a former prison-turned-museum that provides a glimpse into Ireland’s troubled past. 

Then, continue to the renowned Crawford Art Gallery to admire an impressive collection of Irish artwork to immerse in the country’s vibrant culture.

Another excellent landmark to experience Cork’s fascinating culture and history is the historic University College Cork, which features stunning architecture and beautiful gardens. 

Last but not least, stroll through the picturesque English Market to immerse in the aromas of fresh produce and artisanal delicacies, or wander along the iconic St. Patrick’s Street and browse through charming shops and boutiques or enjoy a warm hearty meal at one of the bustling restaurants. 

14. Day Trip from Dublin to Galway

Galway is a popular destination on the west coast of Ireland that can easily be reached in two and a half hours from Dublin by bus or train. 

Begin your Galway adventure by immersing yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Shop Street, lined with colorful buildings, lively pubs, and talented street performers.

For a touch of history, explore the bold and imposing Galway Cathedral or dive into Gaelic history at the lively Galway City Museum . 

If you wish to have a more romantic day trip, go for a stroll at the Salthill Promenade and admire the breathtaking sunset. 

And of course, don’t forget to indulge in the city’s vibrant culinary scene, especially traditional seafood dishes.

15. Day Trip from Dublin to Blarney Castle

⏰ 2 hours 30 minutes by train or bus 

Easily accessible by public transportation, Blarney Castle is a majestic medieval stronghold that can take you on a journey back in time to an era of ancient warriors and mythical tales. 

As you explore the castle’s medieval architecture and sprawling gardens, don’t miss the chance to climb the narrow and winding staircase to the top. 

Furthermore, here you’ll find the renowned Blarney Stone. Legend has it that kissing this famous stone will bestow the gift of eloquence or the skill at flattery. 

There are many stories behind the stone and its powers, but it is said that a witch revealed the stone’s power to Cormac Teige MacCarthy, who fell out of favor with Queen Elizabeth I and needed the persuasive powers of speech.

Apart from the stone and its legend, at Blarney Castle, you can take a stroll through the stunning Rock Close, where beautiful pathways lead to hidden caves, fairytale waterfalls, and ancient druidic ruins.

16. Day Trip from Dublin to Giant’s Causeway

⏰ 5 hours by bus or train

A magical must-visit destination is the Giant’s Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage site blending myth and nature. Situated on the rugged Northern Irish coastline, it is easily accessible within five hours by train or bus.

Marvel at the remarkable hexagonal basalt columns, formed millions of years ago by volcanic activity. Wander along the coastal path to take in the surreal beauty over the dramatic cliffs of the blue waves of the Irish Sea.

Then, visit the Giant’s Causeway Center, where you can delve deeper into the rich history and folklore through interactive exhibitions.

17. Day Trip from Dublin to the Cliffs of Moher

⏰ 5 hours 30 minutes by train or bus

The Cliffs of Moher are an awe-inspiring natural wonder that will surely leave you breathless. So, journey through the scenic Irish countryside by train or bus and venture towards these towering cliffs stretching over 700 feet above the Atlantic Ocean for a mesmerizing adventure.

Marvel at the dramatic cliffs, which have been featured in countless movies and have captured the hearts of visitors from across the globe, and explore the visitor center to learn about the incredible geological and historical significance of this UNESCO Glocal Geopark.

DAY TRIPS FROM DUBLIN WITHOUT A CAR

Transportation for Day Trips from Dublin

👉🏽 leap card.

The LEAP Card is a fantastic way to save money while day-tripping around Ireland. It’s a reloadable smart card offering a convenient and cost-effective way to travel with the bus, DART, and the railway in Dublin and its surrounding area. 

Specifically, you can simply top up your LEAP Card and enjoy discounted fares for seamless transfers between different modes of transport. 

👉🏽 Dublin Area Rapid Transit (DART)

DART is undoubtedly one of the most convenient transportation modes in Dublin for a day trip beyond the city borders and along the coastline of Dublin Bay.

Specifically, DART stands for Dublin Area Rapid Transit, and it’s a commuter train system providing an effortless and enjoyable way to escape the bustling city and discover the beauty of Dublin’s surrounding areas, such as Dun Laoghaire, Malahide, and Bray.

🛣 DART Station

DART runs through central Dublin and the coastal suburbs at the north and south of the city, so its distance is from Malahide and Howth to Bray in County Wicklow. 

Specifically, the line runs north and south, splitting at Howth Junction station, so it’s essential to pay attention to the train’s final destination to ensure you are going in the right direction.

DART’s main station in Dublin is Connolly Station, while other significant stations are Malahide DART station to visit Malahide Castle, Killiney for the best view of Dublin Bay, and Howth for a walk through the ruins of St. Mary’s Abbey.

🎫 DART Tickets

It’s essential to purchase your ticket for DART before boarding the train. You can get them online, from ticket machines at any station, or the ticket counters in some of the major stations.

The price for a single ticket depends on the distance between your starting and ending stations. For instance, a single adult ticket from Connolly in central Dublin to the end of the line in Howth is €3.30 one way or €6.25 for a return ticket.

There are also the options for an all-day adult ticket for €12, a three-day pass for €17.50, and a seven-day pass for €29.50.

👉🏽 Dublin Train

When it comes to transport options for exploring the surrounding area and long-distance day trips, the Dublin train network is an excellent choice. 

For instance, if you’re craving a cultural immersion, the Irish Rail offers easy access to charming towns like Kilkenny or bustling cities like Belfast and Cork. 

🛣 Dublin Train Station

The Dublin train station is known as Connolly Station, and it’s the major hub for exploring the stunning destinations surrounding the city. 

The station is in the heart of Dublin and is near many hotels, restaurants, and attractions, making it a convenient starting point for your adventures outside of Dublin. 

Furthermore, the station offers modern facilities, making it easy to navigate through the various platforms and catch your train on time. 

🎫 Train Ticket

Generally, it’s advised to purchase your tickets in advance, either online or at the train station, to avoid any last-minute rush or disappointments. 

However, be sure that the Dublin rail network offers various ticket options to suit different travel preferences. For instance, if you’re seeking flexibility, choose an open-ended Explorer Ticket. 

👉🏽 Dublin Bus

Dublin’s bus system is another excellent means of transportation for day trips from the city, as it covers both the city center and the outskirts. 

Furthermore, the bus is often more reliable if you’re planning to visit more rural areas. 

Also, Dublin buses are both a convenient and budget-friendly option for traveling.

🛣 Dublin Bus Head Office

The Dublin Bus Head Office is in central Dublin and is a fantastic spot to gather information about routes, timetables, and fares hassle-free. 

Furthermore, at the Dublin Bus Head Office, you can purchase tickets, obtain helpful maps, and get insider tips on hidden gems to explore along your chosen route. 

🎫 Bus Ticket

With a convenient online booking system, you can easily purchase your bus tickets in advance, saving you time and energy. Additionally, the bus service offers a range of ticket options, such as single fares and day passes.

If you prefer to avoid public transportation and have a hassle-free journey across the many beautiful destinations in Ireland from Dublin, go for an organized tour.

Of course, there are many of them taking you on exciting adventures, but for your convenience, below you’ll find the top tours from Dublin for some unforgettable day trips.

🥇 Top tours for a day trip from Dublin

✔️ cliffs of moher, burren, and city of galway day tour.

4.8 ⭐️ 11,429 Reviews

Join this guided day trip from Dublin to the Cliffs of Moher by a modern and comfortable coach and venture to various stunning and historical destinations with lush landscapes.

First, you’ll journey across Curragh, pass by the Irish National Stud thoroughbred horse breeding facility, and make a stop at Barack Obama Plaza until you arrive at the majestic Cliffs of Moher. 

At the Cliffs, you’ll have about two hours of free time, allowing you to visit the interactive Cliffs of Moher Visitor Experience to enjoy displays of bird’s-eye view and a video from the underwater caves. 

Next, you’ll drive along the Wild Atlantic Way, pass by the quaint villages Ennistymon and Kinvara, the Dunguaire Castle, the Twelve Bens mountain range, and the captivating Burren, and finally arrive at the vibrant Galway City, where you’ll spend about one and a half hour to explore its charming cobblestone streets. 

Besides the stops at the Cliffs of Moher and other fantastic attractions, enjoy the stunning views along the Wild Atlantic Way, including views of the Aran Islands and Galway Bay.

It was an amazing experience! Our your guide Marc and driver Neil took great care of us and the experience was really the best. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ getyourguide_traveler – january 2024

✔️ Giants Causeway, Dark Hedges, Dunluce & Belfast tour

4.8 ⭐️ 5,064 Reviews

This tour will take you on an unforgettable day trip across the coastline of Northern Ireland by bus to visit iconic sights like the Giant’s Causeway, the Dark Hedges, Dunluce Castle, and Belfast. 

First, after you depart from Dublin, you’ll stop at a service station for breakfast or lunch and then venture towards the famous and picturesque ruins of Dunluce Castle.

Afterward, you’ll head to the unique and gorgeous Giant’s Causeway, the UNESCO World Heritage Site, and marvel at the hexagonal columns up close.

Then simply immerse in the stunning views of the Irish Sea until you reach the “Dark Hedges,” an avenue of beech trees planted in the 18th century that became famous as a Game of Thrones setting.

Lastly, you’ll head to Belfast and spend approximately one and a half hours exploring, shopping, and grabbing some food before the return journey.

This day trip was awesome. Probably my favorite thing we did while being in Ireland! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ natalie , january 2024

✔️ Wicklow Mountains, Glendalough & Kilkenny tour

4.7 ⭐️ 3,033 Reviews

Choose this guided day trip to immerse yourself in the vast Wicklow Mountains, visit the monastery of Glendalough, and marvel at the medieval lanes of Kilkenny.

With a luxury bus, you’ll set off to Glendalough and join an optional guided tour of the monastic settlement or simply explore the area and relax at a local cafe.

Otherwise, if you want to add an adventurous flair to your tour, you can opt for a hike to the Upper Lake via a boardwalk through a stunning nature trail that leads deep into the valley, the Lower Lake, and onto the Upper Lake.

Then, the tour continues through the Wicklow Mountains to learn about their geology and history, as well as pass through famous movie locations. 

Lastly, you’ll reach Kilkenny, where you’ll have the opportunity to freely explore narrow lanes, historic buildings, and its extraordinary castle and enjoy lunch in the local pubs. 

It was a great day, I enjoyed it immensely! The highlight for us was the Wicklow Mountains, a beautiful area with beautiful views. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ albert , january 2024

Practical Tips Before Going on a Day Trip from Dublin

Generally, before going on any day trip, it is crucial to consider a few practical tips to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience,

For instance, before your day trip from Dublin, it’s best to plan your itinerary . So, be sure to research your destination, note down the must-see attractions, and create a feasible schedule to cover them all.

Additionally, check the weather forecast to dress appropriately and pack necessary items such as water, snacks, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes.

Also, it’s essential to check the schedule for the earliest and latest buses or trains or make prior arrangements for any guided tours. 

Lastly, remember to inform a friend or family member about your day trip plan and ensure you have all relevant contact information for emergencies. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it easy to get around dublin without a car.

Yes, it is easy to get around Dublin without a car since the city has a well-developed public transportation system that includes buses, trams, and trains.

How many days is enough for Dublin?

Generally, two to three days in Dublin is enough to experience the main attractions and get a good sense of the city’s culture and history. However, if you would like to enjoy more of the city and its surrounding area, opt for at least five days.

What is the best day to go out in Dublin?

Friday and Saturday nights are especially popular for a night out since many people enjoy the city’s nightlife, live music, and pub culture.

For instance, the Temple Bar area is particularly busy during these nights, with numerous pubs and other entertainment venues attracting locals and travelers alike.

Is Dublin a walkable city?

Yes, Dublin is a fairly walkable city as its center and main attractions are compact and easily accessible on foot.

Furthermore, Dublin’s streets are generally well-maintained and pedestrian-friendly, while many areas, such as Temple Bar and Grafton Street, are pedestrian-only.

Are taxis expensive in Dublin?

Taxis in Dublin can be quite expensive compared to other cities. The fares are generally metered, and the cost will depend on the distance traveled and the time of day.

Currently, the initial charge for daytime is €3.80, while for nighttime and on Sundays, the initial charge is €4.20.

How long is the train journey from Dublin to Cork?

The train journey from Dublin to Cork is about 2 and a half hours from Dublin Heuston Station to Cork Kent Station.

However, note that travel times can change due to factors like train schedules, delays, and stops along the way.

What is the famous tourist street in Dublin?

The famous tourist street in Dublin is called Grafton Street, a vibrant pedestrianized street located in the heart of Dublin’s city center.

It is known for its lively atmosphere, bustling shops, street performers, and wide range of dining options. 

Where is the best area of Dublin to stay?

Generally, the most popular area to stay in Dublin is the city center since it allows easy access to major attractions like Trinity College, Dublin Castle, and Grafton Street. It also offers a wide selection of hotels, restaurants, bars, and shopping opportunities. 

Final Thoughts: Day Trips from Dublin without a car

Dublin is not only a vibrant city to explore but also serves as the perfect starting point for fantastic day trips without the need for a car. 

Whether you fancy visiting ancient ruins, exploring charming towns, or immersing yourself in breathtaking nature, these 17 amazing day trips, your Irish holiday is bound to be filled with extraordinary discoveries and unforgettable moments. 

So, don’t let the lack of a car hold you back, and let the journey begin!

Before You Go…

Here are some useful posts that you might be interested in:

• 18 Things to Know Before Renting a Car in Dublin Ireland (2023)
• 25 Best Spa Hotels in Ireland for a Relaxing Getaway
• Driving In Ireland: 18 Must-Read Tips Before Renting A Car In Ireland
• The Ring Of Kerry Ireland (2023): The 18 Best Attractions And Tours
• The 7 Best Taxi Apps In Ireland

Founder and Editor

Isabella is traveler and animal lover, a former tourism professional with an multinational background that includes living and working in Jamaica, Antigua, Seychelles, Egypt, and Mexico, where she spent seven years. In 2017, she took a bold leap, leaving her fancy job in Cancun to embrace a nomadic lifestyle when she founded her travel blog Boundless Roads, with the purpose to help solo female travelers to live their best travel adventure, embracing their fears and choosing the roughed path. Today, she manages three successful travel blogs, balancing her digital ventures while exploring new places and photographing this beautiful world.

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9 Best Day Trips from Dublin by Train (2024)

By Author Keith O'Hara

Posted on Last updated: December 29, 2023

This guide contains itineraries for those of you looking to take day trips from Dublin by train.

Each itinerary is mapped out to ensure that you:

• Know where to get the train from
• Have a doable itinerary for the day (i.e. all suggestions will be a walkable distance)
• Don’t have to worry about any planning

We’ve included day trips outside of the county (e.g. Kilkenny) along with day trips outside of the city (e.g. Howth).

Table of Contents

The best day trips from Dublin by train

Click to enlarge image

There’s endless things to do in Dublin , but if you fancy escaping the city for a bit, you’re in luck – there’s  plenty  of places to visit for a day trip.

Below, you’ll find a mix of Dublin day trips by train that range from 30 minutes to 2 hours and 42 minute journey times.

1. Kilkenny (1 hr 28 min journey)

Photos via Shutterstock

The first of our day trips from Dublin by train is the ancient city of Kilkenny. It’ll take you around 1.5 hours to get there.

You need to head to Heuston Station, so either take a taxi, walk, or take the Luas Red line , which stops right outside Heuston.

Where you’ll arrive

You’re getting the Waterford Train and hopping off at Kilkenny (MacDonagh) Station .

This is a nice, central station located right in the city which means you don’t have to worry about getting buses/taxis.

Your itinerary for the day

• Stop 1: Kilkenny Castle
• Stop 2: Medieval Mile Museum
• Stop 3: Lunch (Petronella is a great lunch spot)
• Stop 4: Butterslip Lane
• Stop 5: Smithwick’s Experience
• Stop 6: The Black Abbey
• Stop 7: The train back to Dublin

2. Belfast (2 hr 15 min journey)

The next of our day trips from Dublin by train is Belfast City in County Antrim.

The train from Dublin to Belfast leaves from Conolly Station, a short walk from O’Connell Street.

There are several ways to get there, you can take a taxi, walk, or take the Luas Red line , which has a stop right out of the front.

The train to Belfast arrives into Belfast Lanyon Train Station, which is right in the heart of the city centre.

This is a good starting point as many of the best things to do in Belfast are nearby.

Belfast is a walkable city if you have a clear itinerary, like the one below. However, if it’s raining, it’s worth taking the hop-on-hop-off bus .

• Stop 1: St George’s Market (short stroll from the train)
• Stop 2: Belfast Black Cab tour (book in advance – get them to drop you to stop 3 after)
• Stop 3: The Cathedral Quarter for lunch
• Stop 4: St Anne’s Cathedral
• Stop 5: Titanic Belfast (25-minutes from stop 4)
• Stop 6: The train back to Dublin

3. Howth (45 min journey)

Next up is the first of our day trips from Dublin by train that doesn’t take you out of the county.

The busy fishing town of Howth is home to plenty to see and do along with a bustling restaurant and pub scene.

To get to Howth, take the train from Connolly Station. It’s a handy 30-45-minute journey.

Howth train station is finely plonked right in the town centre, so you’ll arrive right into the thick of things.

When you arrive, leave the station and head across to Howth Market to start your day trip.

• Stop 1: Howth Market
• Stop 2: The Howth Cliff Walk
• Stop 3: Lunch in one of the many restaurants in Howth
• Stop 4: Ye Olde Hurdy Gurdy Museum Of Vintage Radio
• Stop 5: Howth Pier
• Stop 6: The train back to the city

4. Galway City (2 hr 30 min journey)

Photos by Stephen Power via Ireland’s Content Pool

The forth of our day trips from Dublin by train takes us to Galway. The train from Dublin to Galway leaves from Heuston.

The trip to Galway takes about 2.5 hours. There are plenty of shops inside the station where you can grab snacks for the train and get some breakfast.

The train to Galway arrives into Ceannt Station – right in the heart of Galway City.

This is a great arrival point as you’re within easy walking distance of all the main attractions.

Galway is a very walkable city, but if it’s raining or if you fancy getting dropped to the ‘main’ attractions the hop-on/hop-off bus tour is well worth buying .

• Stop 1: Lunch (there’s some great restaurants in Galway . Blake’s is a good lunch option).
• Stop 2: Galway Cathedral (the jewel in the Galway City skyline)
• Stop 3: Quay Street and the Latin Quarter
• Stop 4: The Hall of the Red Earl (ruins dating to the 13th century – one of the more unique places to visit in Galway )
• Stop 5: Galway City Museum (tells the story of prehistoric Galway)
• Stops 6 + 7:  The Spanish Arch and the Long Walk
• Stop 8: Back to the train station

5. Waterford City (2 hr 32 min journey)

The next of our day trips from Dublin by train takes us to the ancient city of Waterford, down the coast from Dublin.

The train from Dublin to Waterford leaves from Heuston. There are several ways to get there, you can take a taxi, walk, or take the Luas Red line , which has a stop right out of the front.

The train will take you to Waterford (Plunkett), which is just over the bridge from the city centre.

It’ll only take you around 10 minutes to stroll into our first stop, however, you need to make a choice.

If you’re after an active day, it’s worth considering the Waterford Greenway walk/cycle, which starts from the city and will take you a good 4-6 hours.

• Stop 1: The Clock Tower
• Stop 2: Reginald’s Tower
• Stop 3: Lunch
• Stop 4: Medieval Museum
• Stop 5: The Bishop’s Palace
• Stop 6: King of the Vikings

6. Dalkey + Killiney (40 min journey)

The second of our day trips from Dublin by train that doesn’t leave the county takes us out to the affluent areas of Dalkey and Killiney .

You can get the train from Connolly Station (the one heading to Greystones) and you’ll arrive in around 40 minutes.

The train to Dalkey stops at Dalkey DART Station which is a short ramble from the centre of the town.

The town itself is lovely to stroll around and it’ll feel a world apart from the hustle and bustle of Dublin City.

• Stop 1: Dalkey Castle
• Stop 2: Lunch in the town
• Stop 3: Sorrento Park
• Stop 4: The Vico Baths
• Stop 5: The Killiney Hill Walk
• Stop 6: Killiney Beach
• Stop 7: The train back to the city

7. Cork City (2 hr 42 min journey)

The next of our day trips from Dublin by public transport requires the most travelling and it’ll arguably only work if you take an early train.

The train from Dublin to Cork City leaves from Heuston. There are several ways to get there, you can take a taxi, walk, or take the Luas Red line , which has a stop right out of the front.

The train from Dublin to Cork takes you into Cork (Kent) Station. Now, unlike some of the day trips from Dublin above, getting from the station to the various attractions isn’t as easy.

Cork City’s attractions are fairly spread out so, unless you fancy doing a lot  of walking, it’s worth booking the hop-on-hop-off bus or a bike tour.

As Cork City’s attractions are fairly spread out, it’s worth taking one of the tours below as they’ll make getting around much handier:

• The hop-on-hop-off bus (stops at Crawford Art Gallery, UCC, St. Anne’s Church, Cork City Gaol and The English Market)
• The Cork City Cycle Tour (you’ll spin along Cork’s cycle lanes and riverside pathways and see Fitzgerald’s Park, St. Finbarr’s Cathedral and more)

8. Malahide (30 min journey)

One of the handier day trips from Dublin by public transport is to head out along the coast to the lively little town of Malahide.

It’s a short, 30-minute or so train journey and it takes you to an area packed with history, coastal walks, great food and more.

The train to Malahide drops you right in the town, next to the church and a short walk from the castle grounds.

If you’re visiting during the busy summer months, it’s worth getting to the town early as it receives its fair share of tourist footfall.

• Stop 1: Malahide Castle Park
• Stop 2: Malahide Castle
• Stop 3: Lunch in the town
• Stop 4: Malahide harbour
• Stop 5: Malahide Beach
• Stop 6: The coastal walk to Portmarnock Beach
• Stop 7: The train station in Portmarnock is a good 40-minute walk so it might be easier to get the bus

9. Bray (50 min journey)

The last of our Dublin day trips by train takes us into County Wicklow to the buzzy coastal town of Bray.

You can get the train from Connolly Station (the one heading to Greystones) and you’ll arrive in around 45 minutes.

The train station in Bray is nice and central. It’s located right across from the Promenade in the town centre.

Hop out and head across to the pathway that follows the coast and gulp down some fresh ocean air.

• Stop 1: Bray Prom
• Stop 2: The Bray Head Walk
• Stop 4: SEA LIFE Bray Aquarium
• Stop 5: The train back to the city

What day trips from Dublin by public transport have we missed?

I’ve no doubt that we’ve unintentionally left out some brilliant Dublin day trips by train from the guide above.

If you have a place that you’d like to recommend, let me know in the comments below and I’ll check it out!

FAQs about the best day trips from Dublin by train

We’ve had a lot of questions over the years asking about everything from ‘What are the cheapest Dublin day trips by train?’ to ‘Which are the nearest?’.

In the section below, we’ve popped in the most FAQs that we’ve received. If you have a question that we haven’t tackled, ask away in the comments section below.

Where can you take the train from Dublin?

You can take Dublin day trips by train to Belfast, Kilkenny, Waterford, Wexford, Sligo, Galway, Athlone, Howth, Malahide, Dalkey and plenty more.

What are the best day trips from Dublin by train?

In our opinion, the best day trips from Dublin by public transport are Belfast, Kilkenny and Waterford as each station is nice and central and there’s plenty to see and do within walking distance.

Keith O’Hara has lived in Ireland for 35 years and has spent most of the last 10 creating what is now The Irish Road Trip guide. Over the years, the website has published thousands of meticulously researched Ireland travel guides, welcoming 30 million+ visitors along the way. In 2022, the Irish Road Trip team published the world’s largest collection of Irish Road Trip itineraries . Keith lives in Dublin with his dog Toby and finds writing in the 3rd person minus craic altogether.

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20 EPIC Day Trips By Train From Dublin [2024 UPDATE]

Ireland is an incredible European destination with its medieval castles and rolling green hills, but what makes it truly amazing is the diversity in its regions from modern cities to rural, countryside villages. There are countless day trips by train from Dublin available to travelers that are occasionally overlooked.

In just a few hours, you could go from sharing a pint with a local at the Temple Bar in Dublin to skipping rocks at the Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland.

Many people dream about taking a trip to Ireland one day but aren’t sure which day trips to include on their itinerary.

That’s why I have created this ultimate guide to the best day trips you can take from Dublin so there is no guessing which towns are worth visiting! If you are planning on arriving in the Irish capital, be sure to check out my Perfect Two Days in Dublin Itinerary .

I hope you find the article useful in planning your next Ireland itinerary !

Happy Travels!

20 EPIC Day Trips by Train from Dublin

If you’re looking to fit more into your Ireland itinerary but aren’t planning to rent a car, check out these amazing day trips from Dublin by train! They’re easy to plan and affordable to reach, so the whole family can travel together with ease.

They have been put in order from the shortest travel time to the longest, to save you a bit of research, as well!

1. Kilkenny – one of the quickest day trips by train from Dublin!

Kilkenny is a charming town with a beautiful castle located only a 100-minute train ride from Dublin. If you’re short on time, Kilkenny is one of the best day trips from Dublin by train since it will give you the chance to explore the countryside, some castles, and some lovely Irish cobblestone streets.

When walking around Kilkenny, there are a few places to make sure you stop in and see including the Kilkenny Cathedral as well as the Kilkenny Castle .

Both are extremely captivating with their intricate details and medieval style and are by far some of the best buildings to see in Ireland. They tower over the town and create the perfect backdrop for pictures and quintessential wandering!

Afterward, stroll along the Nore River and take a peek inside the dozens of beautiful shops selling homemade artisan crafts. I found my Aran Islands wool scarf in Kilkenny, and it’s still my favorite to this day!

2. Limerick

Limerick can be found on the western coast of Ireland almost directly between Doolin and Dingle. This small town packs a cultural punch with its array of museums, art galleries, ancient cathedrals, stone memorials, and even the infamous King John’s Castle .

Limerick is one of the best places in Ireland to capture a glimpse of what life may have been like in previous centuries while still being surrounded by beautiful scenery and hospitable people.

If you are what I like to call a “museum hopper” (someone who hops from one museum to the next all day long), then Limerick should be included as one of your day trips by train from Dublin.

The Hunt Museum , the Limerick Museum , and the Limerick City Gallery of Art are all well-known for their interesting artifacts and pieces of literature and art, and are well deserving of a visit from any art history enthusiast!

Easily reachable in just 2 hours by train from Dublin, Limerick is an amazing city to choose for your day trips from the Irish capital!

3. Rock of Cashel

The Rock of Cashel is a famous limestone hilltop that is covered in ancient ruins dating back to the 1100s. You can find the old cathedral shown above, an ancient fort, and plenty of medieval artifacts worthy of exploring.

Spend some time walking along the long, stone pathway to the castle, wander some of the halls accessible to visitors, and then make your way up to one of the nearby hilltops .

Why? Because you’ll be rewarded with exceptional views of the entire hilltop and you’ll get to see just how many ancient ruins lie on this plot of Irish soil!

The further back and higher you can get from the cathedral, the better views you’ll get. Yes, it is quite hilly so some walking (and a good bit of endurance) will be required, but I can almost guarantee it will be worth it.

The Rock of Cashel is easily reachable on a day trip from Dublin by train in just over 2 hours (2.75 hours if you have to change trains), so consider it a great addition to your Ireland itinerary!

4. Galway – one of the most popular train trips from Dublin!

Galway is almost directly west of Dublin on Ireland’s far west coastline and is one of the more “city-like” destinations on this list. While it is one of the more popular day trips from Dublin by train, it is far more of a city than it is a charming Irish town.

One of my absolute favorite things to do in Galway is to go see a Trad on the Prom show! This exciting show is full of traditional Irish music and Irish step dancing and makes for one of the best things to do in Ireland, in my opinion.

If you find yourself dancing, singing, or tapping along to the live bands that play in pubs all over the country, then this show is for you. Keep in mind, they aren’t always in Galway so you may need to do some research before planning your trip if you want to include them on your itinerary!

Galway is easily reachable by train from Dublin in just under 2.5 hours, so you could easily check out for just a day or so.

5. Cork – among the most iconic places to visit near Dublin by train

This colorful city also just so happens to be Ireland’s second-largest followed by Louth and is known to be one of Ireland’s best foodie destinations. Just a meager 2.5-hour train ride from Dublin, you can easily include a day trip to Cork city centre in your visit!

Take some time to stroll through the dozens of stalls at the infamous English Market on Princes St. where you’ll find goodies galore! From handmade chocolates to local cheeses and produce, even Queen Elizabeth II said it was a place to explore after her visit in 2011!

Once you’ve had your share of food, you can make your way over to the Blarney Castle to wander its halls and kiss the Blarney Stone for good luck (here are 7 Incredbile Blarney Castle Tours from Cork & Dublin if you’re interested).

Then, it will be time to check out the museum, Cork City Gaol , and learn about the life of the inmates that once walked the prison halls. Both day and nighttime tours are on offer here, but those who wander in at night have told tales of spooky events!

For an in-depth look at accommodations in Cork, check out my full guide on Where to Stay in Cork, Ireland – A County Cork Guide .

6. Killarney

Situated southeast of the Dingle Peninsula in County Kerry, Killarney is a charming town on the borders of the Ireland-famous Killarney National Park .

While you could easily spend days exploring this natural treasure, there are also plenty of other things to do, as well!

Ross Castle surely won’t disappoint with its dominating design and medieval towers, the Muckross House has gardens that span as far as the eye can see along Muckross Lake, and the Killarney House and Gardens provide a wonderful escape from the center of town for those looking to escape modern-day shops and buildings.

For those who swoon over colorful shops and cobblestone streets, the center of town is lined with plenty of charming buildings and colorful, Instagram-worthy spots worth checking out.

And since it’s just 3 hours and 15 minutes by train, this is a great day trip by train from Dublin to consider!

7. Blarney Castle – one of the most beautiful train journeys from Dublin

The infamous Blarney Castle and Gardens can be found about 20 minutes northwest of Cork and offers visitors incredible views from the top. Just a 3 hour and 20-minute train ride from the capital, a visit to Blarney Castle makes for one of the best day trips by train from Dublin you can take!

For the perfect day trip from Dublin, start by exploring downtown Cork, then slowly make your way over to the castle by mid-morning.

Stroll the grounds and surrounding lush gardens, then make your way into the castle which is open year-round. But, if you’re in a bit of a rush, head to Blarney Castle first and leave Cork for later since long lines generally start forming around mid-morning!

Once you get to the top, take in the sweeping views before making your way back down and over to the Blarney Stone.

If you’re up for the challenge, you’ll have to lay flat on the ground on your back and bend over backwards to kiss the Blarney Stone – this is said to bring good luck as it is a tradition that has been going on for centuries.

✔️ Pro Tip : you may want to bring an alcoholic wipe or pad to wipe your mouth off afterwards… hundreds of people kiss that stone every day and in the hours before you, so it’s not exactly sanitary.

8. Cobh – one of the most iconic day trips by train from Dublin!

Ever seen pictures of Ireland in a magazine of multicolored houses descending down a long sidewalk with a majestic cathedral in the background?

Well, that’s Cobh ! It’s about 3 hours and 20 minutes from Dublin by train, so you can try to squeeze it into a day trip from Dublin, or better yet, into a 2-day trip from Dublin.

Cobh is one of the most quintessential places in Ireland and makes for one of the best day trips from Dublin by train. It’s located a mere 30 minute drive southeast of Cork, but provides a completely unique experience compared to other places in Ireland.

Cobh has both modern and traditional Irish parts to it, with some charming streets like the one pictured above to the rustic sidewalks that line the fishing docks.

No matter where you go in Cobh, you’ll be sure to find fresh seafood, colorful buildings, and lively pubs at any time of the day.

9. Cliffs of Moher – easily one of the most popular day trips from Dublin by train!

The Cliffs of Moher are by far one of the most popular day trips from Dublin by train and are included on almost every Ireland itinerary I’ve ever written and seen!

These spectacular cliffs boast steep edges and drops and dramatic views over the Atlantic Ocean. At their highest point, you can stand at over 700 feet (213 meters) while watching the giant waves crash along the rugged coastline below via a stunning cliff walk.

These cliffs are located in County Clare, about 10 minutes south of the popular fishing village of Doolin (also included on this list!) and can be reached via car, bus, train (in around 3.5 hours), or the most popular option is to take a day trip from Dublin.

If you’re traveling with a family, aren’t renting a car, or only have a short amount of time for exploring, I suggest checking out these 7 Top Rated Cliffs of Moher Tours from Dublin ! If you’re interested in day trips, you can also check out any one of these 9 Top-Rated Giant’s Causeway Tours in Ireland .

10. Kinsale

Located in County Cork and forming the beginning of the infamous Wild Atlantic Way , Kinsale is a beautiful town known for its vibrant streets, charming architecture, and shops and pubs galore.

Of the many experiences one can have here, be sure to make a visit to the Desmond Castle . This unique castle was originally built around 1500 and is now home to the International Museum of Wine!

✔️ I can’t think of a better pairing than castles and wine, so this is a win-win in my book.

The Kinsale Museum is another great place to learn about Ireland’s history dating back to the late 16 th century in the center of town, or if you are up for a little bit of walking, there are a few great spots located just outside the town, as well.

All that is left of the coastal fortress, James Fort , dates back to the early 17 th century and offers gorgeous views of Kinsale from across the Archdeacon Duggan Bridge .

Charles Fort is another great spot to witness some ancient Irish ruins for the history buff in your group!

✔️ Kinsale takes about 3 hours and 40 minutes to reach by train, so this may be a lot for the average traveler to do in one day. Instead, opt to visit Kinsale if you have 2 days or more available for your Dublin day trips by train.

11. Doolin – one of my personal favorite day trips from Dublin Ireland by train!

If you have read my other articles about Ireland, you have probably learned by now that Doolin is one of my absolute favorite places in Europe. So, you can probably guess that I’m going to try to convince you to plan one of your day trips by train from Dublin to this quaint fishing village!

But, I have to be honest, Doolin is not home to many major attractions… but, that is what makes it so great! Yes, the Cliffs of Moher are just a mere 10 minute drive away, but most people come for the cliffs then continue on their way.

Doolin is home to one of the best pubs in Ireland, Gus O’Connor’s Pub , which is known for its good food and live music, and the nearby Burren Geopark which forms part of the Cliffs of Moher and offers incredible sights and spectacular views.

But, otherwise, Doolin is just a charming fishing village known for its local pubs, wonderful locals, and traditional Irish culture! It’s reachable from Dublin city centre in just over 4 hours by train making it possible to do in a day, but it’s really best explored in 2-3 days.

If you’re looking for a small-town village feel on your trip to Ireland, Doolin should be at the top of your list!

✔️ Doolin is just over 4 hours from Dublin by train, so this would make for a hefty day of travel. If you have the option, I would recommend staying overnight in Doolin before taking the train back to Dublin the following day.

Situated on the famous Dingle Peninsula, Dingle is one of my favorite places in all of Ireland!

It’s home to dozens of vibrantly colored cottages, scenic outlooks over the Atlantic, and some of the best fish and chips in the country.

While Dingle is a wonderful place for relaxing and strolling through town in search of authentic, Irish-made souvenirs, it’s also a great place for some fun out on the ocean!

You can join a “ seafari “, or sea safari, in search of dolphins, seals, birds native to the area, and more. There are also plenty of opportunities for exploring the harbor on kayaks or taking a boat trip out to the Blasket Islands .

Whether you decide to sit back in an armchair overlooking the harbor from my favorite Dingle accommodation, Pax Guesthouse , in search of the famed Dingle dolphin, Fungie, or you choose to head out onto the water, be sure to include Slea Head drive on your way into or out of town!

It’s one of the most famed roads in all of Ireland and makes this day trip from Dublin extra special.

✔️ You can reach Dingle easily by train, but you’ll be looking at around a 5.5-hour travel time. So, it’s best to only do this if you have a couple of days before you need to return to Dublin, or drive yourself which will only take around 4 hours.

For an intricate look at where to stay in Dingle, read about these 9 Best Dingle Accommodations !

Weekend Trips from Dublin by Train

If you aren’t planning on renting a car in Ireland and want to explore some destinations that may require a little extra planning, check out these amazing destinations below!

Many of them will require 3-5 hours of train travel each way, so I suggest staying overnight before making your return trip to Dublin, if possible.

13. Giant’s Causeway – one of the best two day trip from Dublin by train

The Giant’s Causeway in Bushmills, Northern Ireland is one of the most highly recognized destinations in the country.

This fantastic location boasts thousands and thousands of tall basalt columns that have previously been called the “8th wonder of the world” by tourists and locals alike.

This unique gem is reachable in about 5 hours from Dublin by train, but due to its exotic location on the extreme northern border of the island of Ireland and the need to cross country borders to reach it, you’ll want to plan to have more time at this specific spot.

The area is one of the most scenic in not only Ireland, but also Europe, and is by far one of the best day trips by train from Dublin on this list! It will require several transportation swaps, so it’s best to plan your route in advance.

✔️ Be sure to have personal identification with you… in past years, people typically haven’t been seeing border patrols when arriving in Northern Ireland from the Republic of Ireland, but there is always a chance. Passports may be required to show if you are wishing to board a ferry or plane.

14. Kylemore Abbey

The famous Kylemore Abbey and Victorian Walled Garden is a true wonder in Galway, Ireland. This monstrous castle was built in 1920 as a Benedictine monastery overlooking the Pollacapall Lough.

The area boasts beautiful gardens and free walking tours of the property, as well as a stunning, gothic church, a pottery and crafts studio, a restaurant, and even a tea room.

The monastery is often mistaken for a medieval castle owing to its grand size, dominating location, and middle-aged architecture. But, today, the grounds are often flocked by people touring the inside and outside of the building and are beautiful to visit year-round.

Now, I’m going to be honest… this trip is only for the dedicated train enthusiast . The trip takes around 15 hours and will require a train swap at some point, so Kylemore Abbey should be done in a long weekend or preferable longer if you can manage it!

World-famous for its inclusions in movies and books, the region of Kerry on the southwestern edge of Ireland is known for its Ring of Kerry . This ring is nearly 180 kilometers long and offers some of the most stunning views of the Irish coastline anywhere in the country!

If you plan on self-driving any portion of your day trips from Dublin, be sure to combine the Ring of Kerry with the nearby Dingle Peninsula and if you have the time, the town of Killarney and its national park.

This is one of the most scenic areas in Ireland that also offers easy access to great seafood and hospitable people!

You can reach Kerry in under 6 hours by train from Dublin, so you can attempt to squeeze the journey into a weekend, but I would recommend staying 3 nights in Kerry before returning to Dublin, if possible.

16. Connemara National Park – one of the best nature day trips from Dublin by train!

While Connemara National Park can be visited on a day trip from Dublin by train, I highly suggest setting aside at least two days if you can to account for the travel time (about 5.5 hours of train travel each way).

✔️ The journey will also take you many more hours if the high-speed train is booked up owing to numerous stops, so I wouldn’t suggest taking this as just a single day trip from Dublin.

This national park is actually where you’ll find the Kylemore Abbey and the Victorian Walled Garden as well as plenty of hiking and sightseeing opportunities.

If you love to hike, Diamond Hill makes for the perfect day hike that provides sweeping views over the Irish countryside and surrounding mountains. It stands around 442 meters (1450 feet) and offers trails of varying difficulties.

The Connemara Loop is also wonderful for walking and hiking around and may even offer you some exciting wildlife spotting opportunities! It’s particularly beautiful in the winter months , when the possibility of seeing snow is at its annual high.

17. Slieve League – among the best day trips from Dublin by public transport system

While many tourists come to Ireland with the ultimate goal of reaching the almighty Cliffs of Moher, there are actually significantly larger and higher cliffs elsewhere in Ireland.

The Slieve League cliffs in northwestern Ireland in County Donegal are among the most impressive in all of Europe. In fact, the Cliffs of Moher only reach about 700 feet, whereas the Slieve League cliffs reach nearly 2,000 feet!

That is over two and a half times the height of the Cliffs of Moher! These mighty cliffs are also just under 6 hours by train from Dublin, so you could easily fit them in on a weekend trip from the city.

Once you’ve acknowledged how large these cliffs actually are, head into Donegal and look for some handcrafted souvenirs made out of the ancient Donegal tweed .

It’s one of Ireland’s most precious resources and has been used for centuries for its warmth and long-lasting qualities.

Half Day Trips from Dublin by Train

I’ve included a list of a few of the best short day trips from Dublin below, some of which may surprise you!

18. Town of Bray – among the best short day trips from Dublin by train

This coastal town is a meager 45 minutes by train outside the city of Dublin (though it can take much longer to get there if you leave during high-traffic hours). Located 30 kilometers southeast of the city, visitors can find a true beach escape perfect for the summer months.

The primary beach in Bray is lined with a beautiful boardwalk and you have the option of visiting a quaint little town with colorful shops and beautiful rolling hills on either side.

Stop in Bray for the afternoon to look for sea glass and get into nature a little or even just to escape the chaos that comes with Dublin!

19. Wicklow Mountains National Park

Located just over an hour south of Dublin, the Wicklow Mountains are one of the most beautiful day trips by train from Dublin that you can take!

They offer incredible opportunities for hiking, sightseeing, and wildlife spotting, as well as the chance to swim in some beautiful crystal clear lakes.

It is estimated that over one million people visit this national park each year for its remarkable flora and fauna, stunning scenery, and convenient location when coming from Dublin. Reachable in just around 90 minutes by train, there are few better half day trips from Dublin you can take!

20. Belfast – easily one of the best train rides from Dublin

The capital of Northern Ireland, Belfast is a true Irish city living up to its name. This city is one of the liveliest in the country, similar to that of Dublin, boasting hundreds of pubs and outdoor cafes all over the place.

Outside of the main city life, you’ll find the Belfast Castle and the unique Ulster Museum which gives visitors insight into over 9,000 years of Irish history. You’ll also be within an hour and a half of the Giant’s Causeway, making this a great day trip from Dublin.

If you’re looking for another place to spend a night out on the town, Belfast surely won’t disappoint. It’s also a mere hour and 40 minutes away from Dublin by car, so you can easily reach this iconic Irish city for a half day trip!

So, is Belfast a day trip from Dublin? Yes, it absolutely can be!

FAQ: Day Trips by Train from Dublin

In this next section, we’ve answered some of the most common questions about taking day trips from Dublin without a car!

Where do Trains Go to from Dublin?

Trains from Dublin can take you to a variety of destinations! You can explore Ireland’s rich history in Kilkenny, soak in the vibrant arts scene in Galway, or embrace the tranquility of the coastal town of Greystones.

If castles pique your interest, then a trip to Malahide Castle is a must. For a quaint village experience, head off to Howth. There’s so much to discover outside of Dublin, all conveniently accessible by train!

What Day Trips Can You Take from Dublin Ireland?

As for day trips from Dublin, you could visit the bustling markets of Cork City, explore the rolling hills of Wicklow, or enjoy a day on the beach at Bray.

You could also take a trip to the mysterious Cliffs of Moher, experience a traditional Irish night out in Kilkenny, or spend an afternoon strolling around Sligo. The possibilities are endless!

Can You Take Day Trips from Dublin?

It is absolutely possible to take day trips from Dublin , whether it be by the Irish rail, car, or a Dublin bus! From day trips on the train to multi-day car journeys, Ireland has something for everyone.

Can You do a Day Trip from Dublin to Cork?

It is definitely possible to do a day trip from Dublin to Cork . The journey does take about 2 and a half to 3 hours each way, but there are plenty of sights along the way and you can make it an enjoyable experience.

Since it will be a long day of travel, it’s usually recommended to spend at least one night in Cork before returning to the Irish capital.

What are the Best Day Trips from Dublin?

Some of the best and most popular day trips from Dublin include Waterford, Cork, Galway, and the Cliffs of Moher . You could always stick around Dublin to check out the Guinness Storehouse or the Jameson Distillery , but that’s not going to take all week…

These places are easily reachable in just a couple hours, so you can make day train trips out of them quite easily… especially if you opt for a guided tour !

But, in our opinion, there are several day trips from Dublin that top our list, though they may be a little bit difficult to do in just one day.

If you have the option of staying overnight in another town, we would highly recommend visiting Adare, Dingle, Doolin, Kilkenny, and Cobh!

How Do I Get to the Irish Countryside from Dublin?

Getting to the Irish countryside from Dublin city centre couldn’t be easier. Whether you rent a car and drive yourself on a self-guided road trip or you jump on a short train ride, you can be in the Irish countryside in no time!

Many of the most popular towns near Dublin such as Drogheda, Kilkenny, and Waterford all have beautiful countryside to explore in addition to their quaint towns.

Pretty much no matter where you go in Ireland outside of the major cities you’re going to find that ideal Irish countryside!

Ireland is an incredible destination year-round with its hospitable locals, traditional folk music, unparalleled scenery, and heartwarming culture. Although, Belfast doesn’t have a famed Aldi like the rest of the Republic of Ireland.

If you are planning your next trip to Ireland and need some advice on what to pack, be sure to check out my ultimate packing list for Ireland before heading to the airport!

Other Helpful Ireland Resources

Dublin Postal Codes & Zip Codes in 2024 (Map & Diagram!)

I hope this guide helps you plan some fantastic day trips by train from Dublin and inspires you to travel outside of this magnificent country’s capital. I can honestly say this is the best way to explore a new country, but especially in Ireland where the locals will take you in like family.

Hey there! I'm Emily Concannon, a seasoned globetrotter who has backpacked her way across over a dozen European countries, immersing myself in the diverse cultures, languages, and cuisines of the region.

My passion for travel transcends personal experiences; I've spent years learning how to transform my globetrotting knowledge into personalized itineraries for fellow travelers worldwide.

With a tally of 26 countries (and counting!) under my belt, my day job involves extensive research on different countries which often leads me to booking a new adventure every chance I get!