4 day tours from dublin

4 – 5 Day Tours from Dublin

Irish tours departing dublin for 4 - 5 days.

The Emerald Isle is waiting to be explored when you take a 4 -5 day tour from Dublin. Embodying the wild spirit that lives within this rugged landscape, feel at home amongst the historic castles, cool and calming water and sacred Guinness.

But this is not where your tour of Ireland ends. Going beyond the traditional, we look for the hidden gems that could have been buried with their ancestors, lost in plain sight, or even wanting to be kept a secret. There are a multitude of adventures waiting for you when you take a tour from Dublin. With the help of our storyteller driver-guides , they’re pulling back the covers and waiting for you to dive into the tales while on a multi-day Irish tour from Dublin. 

Planning Your 4 - 5 Day Tour from Dublin

Do you dare tread where others have walked, or are you seeking a path less well known? The beauty of a 4 - 5 day tour from Dublin is you can find both. Whether it’s the coastal paths calling out to the Atlantic, or laying footsteps along the cobbled streets of Northern Ireland , the only way to experience the magic is planning your multi-day Irish tour from the country's capital.

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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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Ireland Tours & Trips from Dublin

Find your perfect adventure! We have 193 tours of Ireland that start in Dublin, Ireland. The most popular month is September, and tour lengths range between 1 and 15 days.

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193 ireland tour packages from dublin with 6,381 reviews.

• In-depth Cultural
• Sightseeing

7-Day Emerald Explorer Small Group Tour

We just finished our tour of Ireland with overland and it was the trip of a lifetime. Our guide Eoin was absolutely amazing so knowledgeable charming and funny he was the unexpected bonus to our trip. I would use overland for all my travel if I could!!!!!

• Coach / Bus

Great Tour of Ireland ( 7 days )

Irish Highlights (Summer, 7 Days)

Thoroughly enjoyed the trip but would have been better if other countries were included in the history instead of catering only to the USA. Australia and New Zealand have a huge history of immigrants from Ireland and our population, roots and culture are very Irish. Would have been nice to hear about that instead of all about the USA

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

The Celtic Voyage - Multi-Day - Small Group Tour of Ireland

Excellent in every way. We particularly enjoyed Mic’s presentations.

Wild South - Multi-Day - Small Group Tour of Ireland

There really aren't proper words to describe how incredible this tour was. My wife and I returned nearly 4 months ago and we have thought and talked about this trip nearly every day. We saw so many magical, mystical, emotion-evoking things that it's hard to even comprehend. From ancient ruins where High Kings were crowned, to watching passersby while having great food and drinks at a street side cafe, to walking along a serene riverfront, to sipping tea while watching the sunset from a castle, to enjoying superb cocktails with new friends in an amazing library bar. And, that, was just the first day! Experiences like feeling gale force winds against your face, as you stand next to a lighthouse on top of rocky cliffs that plunge down into the cold North Atlantic, are followed by strolls down winding streets lined with quaint shops, before ducking into a pub to enjoy some of the best musicians, fine ales or whiskies, delicious meals, and the nicest, friendliest people in the world. The accommodations were perfect and allowed us to get a good night's rest everywhere we went. And, the included breakfasts were sublime and filling, which was needed for days full of activities. Activities like walking through morning fog so thick that you could barely see your outstretched hand, before the fog began to lift and we were treated to the breathtaking views from the Cliffs of Moher along with the sounds of buskers playing the uilleann pipes. Just to start the day. We trekked through lush forests to see pristine waterfalls, lochs, mansions, and the haunting Muckross Abbey, believed to have inspired Irish author Bram Stoker in his writing of Dracula! We traveled the scenic Ring of Kerry, visited Molly Gallivans to learn about the history of weaving woolen sweaters and their importantly identifiable patterns, and even sample some locally made honey mead and poitin (Irish moonshine)! We walked barefoot on beaches, saw Clydesdale horses, sang songs, shared stories, and had the most amazing time. If you're a Star Wars fan reading this review, then I haven't even told you the best part. While some members of our group chose to stay on land and tour Valentia Island, we took a small boat, optional tour, out to the Skellig Islands (you know, where Rey and Chewbacca went to find Luke Skywalker in hiding)!!! We saw thousands of endangered birds that use one of the two islands as a sanctuary, and were joined along the way by a pod of many dolphins racing with our boat and jumping out of the water all around us! Cows, sheep, horses, cows, sheep, cows, and sheep. Did I mention cows and sheep? Ireland is a relatively small country. It's only 175 miles wide and 300 miles long. It has a population of 5 million people. It also has 5.5 million sheep and over 7 million cows. Wow! I haven't even mentioned Galway, Clonmacnoise, Puck the Goat King, the Charlie Chaplin statue, the Ford Model T statue, the scenic towns of Dingle and Lahinch, many more lighthouses, and so much more! All along the way, we learned a lot about the history and culture of this beautiful country from our fantastic tour guides, Andy and Diarmuid. You guys ROCK! We can't wait to visit again!!!

10 Day Wild Irish Experience - Small Group Tour

Excellent guide - very informative and expert bus driver!

• €99 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Best of Ireland (10 Days)

This was my first time in Ireland. I absolutely loved everything about this trip. Tour guide and bus driver were amazing. Totally worth every penny. Would go back in a heartbeat

8 Day Castles & Coast Experience - Small Group Tour

Sean was a perfect guide to have for our trip...knowledgeable, witty, and a great driver! He did a nice job of drawing people into conversation about the trip and what we were seeing. Sometimes it was challenging for me in terms of the amount of walking required...as I have an injury that affects my mobility. But Sean did his best to accommodate me by getting me closer to the site or checking to see if a wheelchair was available at certain locations. Lee drove us to our first location and was also an excellent gracious guide. I was grateful he allowed for a photo stop at Castlebar where my ancestors were from. That wasn't on the schedule...and meant alot to me!

7-Day Ireland to Island Small Group Tour of Ireland

Small Bus touring is the way to go!

Introduction to Ireland

We had a great time with Globus, Jonathan our guide, and Norman our driver. The value of the tour is very high. Breakfast and many dinners, high quality, clean, and comfortable hotels, excellent food, so many additional tours and sites to see are included. The guide was so knowledgeable about where we were, what we are seeing, and what we should not miss at each site. We were able to do things like a sheep farm tour with scone cooking, behind the scenes tours at castles or Waterford Crystal. We never would have even known about so many things to do and see in Ireland. We made so many friends on this trip and everyone we traveled with was positive and ready to have fun. We will definitely be traveling with Globus again.

Best of the West

Great trip! As with all coach trips, can feel a little rushed at times but great way to see a lot in a short time!

7 Day Ultimate Atlantic Adventure – Small Group Tour

We had a terrific time on our tour. Our guide / driver Leah was great with excellent stories and information. (Another group following a similar itinerary was equally complimentary of their guide) The company delivers what they promise and more.

Focus on Ireland (Classic, 7 Days)

A short but wonderful trip. Our tour director Greg was amazing. Very friendly and helpful. Looked after all of us so well. Thanks so much.

5-Day Spectacular South and West small group Tour of Ireland

Excellent trip, particularly for those who wish for an active fun holiday, lots of bike riding, hiking, kayaking. Also good finding out about this area of Ireland. Pat was a terrific guide and very interesting with lots of information on Ireland and its history. He was also very helpful with hints on restaurants etc. Good trip Many thanks

Kerry Royal

Had a great time! Our guide, Kathleen was great! She knew everything about Ireland and sprinkled in some great stories! I feel like we got a great look at the southern part of the country!

What people love about Ireland Tours from Dublin

Mike was amazing! We had such a great group of people, Mike was so full of knowledge about the history and culture of Ireland, and it was so laid back. We got to explore each destination at a leisurely pace and enjoyed most evenings checking out the local bars. Highly recommend!

The entire trip was wonderful, very well organized, and satisfying. Peter Flood was an excellent tour guide. He was as knowledgeable as could be, funny, and helpful; and really seems to love what he does.

This tour was so good! We experienced more of Ireland than the itinerary indicated (because of stops we made along our journey, which I loved!), but never felt rushed. Our guide Diarmuid is such a professional - he provided us with interesting information about the places we stopped and Ireland in general, kept us on schedule with a relaxed demeanor, and is genuinely a very nice person. I've never traveled with a tour group before and this one couldn't have been any better. The Emerald Isle is so beautiful and everyone is so friendly that, even when there was a bit of rain, it was still fun. Many thanks to Mick and Diarmuid (the best!!) for making this a most memorable trip. PS the accommodations were fantastic - especially the breakfasts!

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Cliffs of Moher Tour from Dublin

Giant's causeway tour from dublin, blarney castle tour from dublin, (morning) glendalough & wicklow mountains half day tour from dublin, (afternoon) glendalough & wicklow mountains half day tour from dublin, kilkenny and wicklow tour from dublin, belfast (including titanic experience) tour from dublin, connemara and galway tour from dublin, kerry tour from dublin, cliffs of moher & galway from dublin, cliffs of moher tour from dublin (early start with boat cruise option), cliffs of moher & aran islands tour from dublin, (small group) cliffs of moher tour from dublin, (small group) giant's causeway tour from dublin, (small group) blarney castle tour from dublin.

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13 Best Day Trips from Dublin (Tried + Tested for 2024)

By Author Keith O'Hara

Posted on Last updated: December 29, 2023

In this guide, you’ll find 1, the best day trips from Dublin for those of you with a car and 2, some great day tours from Dublin for those of you without a car .

While there are plenty of things to do in Dublin , it’s well worth exploring the wealth of attractions that lay a short distance away.

And, although the likes of Wicklow tends to be the ‘go-to’ of the Dublin day trips, there’s plenty more on offer!

Below, you’ll find organised Dublin day tours for those of you looking for someone else to do the driving and some mighty day trips from Dublin for those of you with a car.

Table of Contents

The best day trips from Dublin by car

Click to enlarge

If you’re driving, there’s countless places to visit near Dublin by car, once you know where to look.

Below, you’ll find the ‘old favourites’ like Glendalough and Newgrange, but you’ll also find some often missed Dublin day trips, like the Cooley Peninsula and more.

1. Wicklow (55-minute drive)

Photos via Shutterstock

Also known as the ‘Garden of Ireland’, Wicklow is one of the best day trips from Dublin for good reason! Well-known for its outstanding natural beauty, the county is blessed with glittering lakes and monastic villages and ruins.

I’ve been taking half day trips from Dublin to Wicklow for years and the itinerary that I tend to use is this one:

• Head to Glendalough, first, as the car park can be a pain
• Pick one of the Glendalough walks , e.g. the Spinc Loop
• Get a post-hike lunch at the brilliant Wicklow Heather
• Head up and do the Sally Gap Drive
• Stop at Lough Tay , Ballinastoe Woods and Glenmacnass Waterfall

If you’re looking for slightly different Dublin day trips, tackle one of the longer Wicklow walks over the course of a morning and afternoon!

2. The Cooley Peninsula (1.5-hour drive)

Photos by Tom Archer via Tourism Ireland

The Cooley Peninsula is one of the more overlooked Dublin day trips. There’s plenty of things to see and do here and there’s a clatter of great places to eat.

Depending on whether or not you want to include a hike in your trip, here’s a suggested itinerary:

• Pick a walk (options – Ravensdale Forest Walk , Annaloughan Loop Walk or the Slieve Foye Loop )
• Spin into the town for breakfast/lunch (Liberty Cafe and Ruby Ellen’s are solid options)
• Take a tour of the castle or rent a bike and spin along the Carlingford Greenway)

There are heaps of other things to do in Carlingford if the options above don’t tickle your fancy!

3. Meath (35-minute drive)

County Meath is another of the best day trips from Dublin by car. It’ll take you around 35 minutes by car to reach and there’s an endless number of things to do in Meath to keep you busy.

If you’re looking for a day-out in the Boyne Valley, here’s a mini itinerary to tackle:

• Book tickets for Newgrange in advance and do the tour
• Grab lunch in nearby Inside Out in Slane
• Take a ramble around the trails in Slane Castle
• Visit the ancient Old Mellifont Abbey

Or, of you fancy seeing more of Meath, check out the Hill of Tara , one of the most important archaeological sites in the country or Trim Castle , the best-preserved of the many Anglo-Norman castles in Ireland . 

4. The Mournes (2-hour drive)

One of the more impressive places to visit near Dublin by car are the Mourne Mountains in County Down.

Now, you’ll need to do a bit of planning if you opt for this Dublin day trip, as there’ll be a fair bit of walking involved.

If you’re visiting the area for the first time, I’d  strongly  recommend heading into Tollymore Forest Park (above) and then heading for lunch in Newcastle followed by a stroll on the beach.

Or, if you fancy a hike, there’s  heaps  of Mourne Mountain walks to tackle, like the tough Slieve Donard hike .

5. The Ring of Gullion + Newry (1.5-hours)

© Tourism Ireland photographed by Brian Morrison

One of the best day trips from Dublin that’s very regularly overlooked is the trip that takes in both the Ring of Gullion and a glorious corner of Rostrevor.

Start your road trip with the Slieve Gullion Drive or walk, depending on how you’re feeling (the walk is steep). Head into nearby Gather and Brew after for a bite-to-eat!

When you’re ready, take the spin out to Kilbroney Park – it’s here that you’ll find the Cloughmore Stone and the aptly named Kodak Corner.

If you’re looking for day tours from Dublin with plenty of walks, this one is hard to beat!

6. Kilkenny ( 1.5-hour drive)

Another of the best day trips from Dublin is Kilkenny. Now, while there are  plenty  of things to do in Kilkenny , many people make the mistake of think that there’s only the castle.

Head for the supposedly haunted Dunmore Cave , first, and take the tour. Then spin into the city and you have everywhere from the Smithwick’s Brewery and the castle to the Medieval Mile to choose from.

Food wise, there’s plenty of options in the city. If you need a reccy, both foodworks and Aroi Asian Fusion are worth a bash. Round off your day with a visit to Jerpoint Abbey . 

7. Options that require 2.5-hours+ driving

Although we’ve tackled several places to visit near Dublin by car above, there’s endless day tours from Dublin if you’re open to driving a bit further.

One of the more popular road trips from Dublin is to Cuilcagh (above) in Fermanagh. It’s around a 2.5-hour spin.

If you’re not afraid of a bit of driving, you could visit Waterford ( Coumshingaun Lough’s a tough but rewarding hike), Wexford and plenty more.

The best day tours from Dublin (organised / guided tours)

The second section of our guide is for those of you without a car and it contains a handful of carefully selected half day tours from Dublin with great reviews online.

If you don’t fancy taking an organised tour, we have a guide to some great day trips from Dublin by train , too.

Note: if you book a tour through one of the links below we  may make a tiny commission that helps us keep this site going. You won’t pay extra, but we really do appreciate it.

1. Cliffs of Moher, Kilmacduagh Abbey + Galway

I’m going to kick things off with arguably one of the best day tours from Dublin when it comes to reviews (it has 4.8/5 from 8,900+ reviews at the time of typing).

If you’re looking to escape the capital and explore a chunk of the west coast, this day tour from Dublin takes in the Cliffs of Moher , Dunguaire Castle , the Burren and plenty more.

Key info on the tour:

• Starts at: 6:45 AM
• Length:  13 hours
• Reviews: 4.8/5 from 8,900+ reviews
• Cost:  From €83 p/p

2. Giants Causeway, Dark Hedges, Dunluce + Belfast

Next up is another of the best day tours from Dublin when it comes to reviews (it has 4.8/5 from 4,000+ reviews at the time of typing).

This is a half day trip from Dublin that takes in some of the top attractions on the Causeway Coastal Route , like Dunluce Castle , The Dark Hedges and the Giant’s Causeway along with a 1.5-hour stop in Belfast City.

• Length:  12 hours
• Reviews: 4.8/5 from 4,000+ reviews
• Cost:  From €88 p/p

3. Kilkenny, Wicklow + Glendalough with Sheepdog Show

If you’re looking for short day trips from Dublin, this organised tour requires much less travelling than the previous two, and it currently has 4.8/5 from 1,400+ reviews.

This is one of the more popular half day trips from Dublin and it takes in Glendalough , the ancient city of Kilkenny and a very impressive sheepdog demonstration.

• Starts at: 08:00 AM
• Length:  9 hours
• Reviews: 4.8/5 from 1,400+ reviews
• Cost:  From €40.80 p/p

Read more + buy tickets

4. Rock of Cashel, Cahir + Blarney Castle

The next of our half day tours from Dublin is going to appeal to those of you looking to visit some of the most impressive castles in Ireland .

This is a 12-hour tour that includes the entrance fees to each of the attractions.

And, while there’s a good bit of driving involved, it’s broken up with the stops at Blarney Castle (the home of the Blarney Stone ), the Rock of Cashel and Cahir Castle.

• Starts at: 06:50 AM
• Reviews: 4.6/5 from 350+ reviews
• Cost:  From €85 p/p

5. Newgrange and the Boyne Valley

Another of the best one day trips drom Dublin takes you into the heart of the brilliant Boyne Valley to explore counties Louth and Meath.

You’ll take the tour of Newgrange, explore the Battle of the Boyne Visitor Centre and see the ancient Monasterboice which is home to some magnificent Celtic Crosses .

• Starts at: Check when booking
• Length:  8 hours
• Reviews: 4.6/5 from 230+ reviews
• Cost:  From €75 p/p

6. Connemara Dublin Day tour

The last in our guide to the best day tours from Dublin is the Connemara tour – and it’s a busy one!

This Dublin day tour takes you across Ireland, past the Maumturk Mountains and on to Killary Harbour for a 1.5 hour boat cruise of the fjord.

It then continues on to Kylemore Abbey one of the more imppressive buildings in Ireland, before heading to Galway City where you can ramble around for just over an hour.

• Reviews: 4.2/5 from 467+ reviews

Dublin day trips: Which ones have we missed?

I’ve no doubt that we’ve unintentionally left out a brilliant day trip from Dublin (or 7!) 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 short day trips from Dublin

We’ve had a lot of questions over the years asking about everything from ‘day trips in Ireland by car from Dublin? to ‘What are the most unique places to visit outside Dublin?’

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.

What are the best day trips from Dublin?

In my opinion, the best day tours Dublin has to offer are Wicklow, Meath and Louth as they’re 1, close and 2, home to endless things to do.

What is the best organised one day trip from Dublin?

It depends. There are endless Dublin day trips to tackle. The tours above, particularly the Wicklow one and the Galway one, are worth checking out.

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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4-Day Tours

The Perfect 4 Days in Ireland Itinerary (+Tips)

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In the midst of planning your ultimate Ireland trip and in desperate need of an in-depth itinerary? Well, you’re in the right place for a good time. Let us introduce you to your new best friend — our perfectly curated 4 days in Ireland itinerary.

The Emerald Isle beckons and has a certain allure that other destinations could only dream of. Yes, it features astounding natural beauty from coast to coast, but this gem also boasts stunning cities, a rich cultural history, and unforgettable attractions worthy of your Europe bucket list .

And when all is said and done, you’re in for an adventure that begs the question, “How could you ever experience Ireland in any other way?” Keep reading for a full 4-day Ireland itinerary below. 

4 Days in Ireland itinerary | Perfect Ireland road trip 4 days

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A quintessential part of any worthwhile European itinerary, Ireland has become a staple destination for anyone looking for a truly memorable trip. From the spectacular natural elements of the west coast to the traditional cities of its southern regions, you’re bound to fall head over heels. 

Ireland Itinerary 4 days: At a glance

We will share a few Ireland itinerary samples – the first one is in the format of a road trip exploring the Republic; the second one has you based in Dublin and then taking day tours from there (no car necessary) and the last one is a mix of Ireland and Northern Ireland in the UK. 

So let’s quickly break down everything you’ll experience and explore as part of your Ireland itinerary.

Ireland Itinerary 4 days (Sample 1): Republic of Ireland road trip itinerary

• Day 1 of 4 days in Ireland: If you’re after some epic scenery, remote landscapes, and must-visit attractions, your first day surely won’t disappoint. Day one is about exploring the enigmatic capital of Ireland — Dublin.
• Day 2 of 4 days in Ireland: What would a trip to Ireland be without visiting the Cliffs of Moher? Well, still pretty impressive, but this is one natural landmark you can’t miss. Beyond that, day two also boasts the village of Doolin and a stop in Galway.
• Day 3 of 4 days in Ireland: When visiting Ireland, taking time to appreciate natural beauty is a must. So on your third day, it’s time to get lost in nature (for a little while at least) at the National Park of the Wicklow mountains. Then it’s time to explore every inch of Glendalough.
• Day 4 of 4 days in Ireland: Finally ending your Ireland trip, it’s time to head back to indulge in the more laid-back and quintessential parts of the isle. Fitting in a few more must-visit hotspots, it’s the perfect end to your adventure.

Ireland Itinerary 4 days from Dublin (Sample 2): Day trip options from Dublin

• Day 1 of 4 days in Ireland: Explore Dublin
• Day 2 of 4 days in Ireland: Go on a day trip to the Cliffs of Moher and Galway
• Day 3 of 4 days in Ireland: Wicklow Mountains, Glendalough & Kilkenny Tour
• Day 4 of 4 days in Ireland : Tour to Cork, Cobh, and Blarney Castle

Ireland Itinerary 4 days (Sample 3): Best of Dublin, Belfast, and beyond  

• Day 3 of 4 days in Ireland: Travel to Belfast and explore 
• Day 4 of 4 days in Ireland: Day trip from Belfast to Dark Hedges, and Giants Causeway 

Planning 4 days in Ireland itinerary: Travel Tips

How to get to Ireland

Getting to Ireland is relatively straightforward as there are two primary ways to reach the isle. The first would be to grab a seat on an international flight bound for Dublin International Airport.

Located roughly 6 miles from the city center, it’s easy to get to and from the airport. Hopping on the city bus 700 (8 euros) will take you right into the heart of Dublin, and from there, you can make your way to your accommodation via a private taxi.

• You can also book a private transfer from the airport to your hotel
• Or book an airport shuttle bus to the city centre

We flew to Dublin airport, but there are other international airports on the island as well – like Cork, Knock, and Shannon airport. 

Alternatively, if you’re making your way to Ireland from England, you can opt for a ferry trip. Ferries to Dublin depart from Liverpool and Holyhead; expect to pay about €200 per seat. 

We recommend choosing the ferry from Liverpool as you have a choice between a fast ferry line and a slower one. 

On a fast ferry, the trip takes about two and a half to three and a half hours. On the other hand, a slow ferry takes about 7 hours, so it’s best to plan accordingly.

How to travel around Ireland

Once you’re firmly footed on the Emerald Isle, the next question is how to get around. Well, luckily, there are three different options available to you. The first is by using public transportation systems , which include a combination of buses and trains. 

While this is a good choice as you can easily navigate your way around the isle via this combo, it does affect your time and pace. Honestly, you’ll be at the mercy of train and bus schedules, and when you only have a few days in a magical place like Ireland, that’s the last thing you want.

The second (and more popular choice) is via rental car. Not only does this satisfy every road trip craving you might have, but it’s also a fantastic way to traverse Ireland’s countryside and city streets. 

If you’re looking for budget-friendly rentals, we recommend services like DiscoverCars, who operate in over 150 countries. 

Lastly, via day tours. We will go deeper into this itinerary option below (options 2 and 3).

Where to stay for the perfect Ireland itinerary

So, now you’re firmly settled into Ireland and considering where to rest your head during your stay. While Ireland brims with fantastic options, some outshine the rest. Here are our recommendations for where to stay while on the island.

A no-brainer choice, but staying in Dublin is as good as it gets. It’s the country’s capital and transportation hub, offering the perfect base for your adventures. Here are a few hotel options, 

• Hendrick Smithfield : We recommend staying at Hendrick Smithfield, the best property for not breaking the bank while having every luxury you need. They got a lovely bar and lobby, and the suites are comfy for a short trip. Check out availability here
• Holiday Inn Express Dublin City Centre: This is another affordable accommodation option in Dublin, located in the heart of the city. They offer free breakfast and simple, yet bright rooms. You can also park your vehicle (for a fee). Check availability here 

Ireland Itinerary 4 days (Sample 1): Republic of Ireland road trip 4 days 

Day 1 of 4 days in Ireland itinerary: Explore Dublin

On your first day in Ireland, it’s only logical (and super exciting) to explore its crown jewel, the capital city of Dublin. Packed with incredible attractions and highlights, the city is one in a million and the perfect starting point for your Ireland itinerary.

While you can easily spend more than one day in this part of the country, one day is enough to take in its highlights.

Marvel at the monuments of O’Connell street

After settling into your hotel room, it’s time to dive headfirst into this Ireland guide. And what better way than by sightseeing some of Dubin’s most iconic landmarks? First up is the Spire of Dublin on O’Connell street.

Locally, this monument is also known as the Monument of Light. It’s a 393-foot stainless steel, pin-like creation that stands in the center of Dublin’s main thoroughfare. 

Construction ended in January 2003, and ever since, it has been a staple attraction among the landmarks of Dublin.

Visit Temple Bar Area

After crossing the historical Ha’penny Bridge, it’s time to head to the famous Temple Bar. This stunning riverside neighborhood spreads across cobbled pedestrian lanes and overflows with highlights. 

From O’Connell street, you’re luckily within walking distance from Temple Bar, as there’s quite a bit to see here. One of Dublin’s most popular areas, you’ll spend a while immersing yourself in traditional Irish pub life and its eclectic bar and boutique store scene. 

And no one would blame you for indulging in a traditional Irish pint while in Temple Bar, regardless of the time of day.

Wander around Trinity College

A highlight of most Ireland itineraries, Trinity College, is up next. A crucial part of the country’s history, this educational institute is much more than your average university. 

Easily one of its must-see places is the Old Library of Trinity College. Its Long Room has been used since 1732 and holds some of Ireland’s most ancient texts. Inside, you’ll find the Book of Kells. 

This illuminated manuscript was made by Irish monks roughly during the year 800 and contains some of the most detailed depictions of the Gospels of the New Testament. 

Explore Dublin Castle

A long-standing feature of a trip to Ireland is a visit (or better yet, a guided tour – like this one) to Dublin Castle . A former motte-and-bailey castle, the building today serves as the Irish government building. 

Constructed during the early 13th century on the grounds of a Viking settlement, it’s an enthralling experience to visit its grounds. If you’re a history buff, then taking the time to explore this glimpse into Ireland’s history is a must.

Visit Christ Church Cathedral

Although not the largest church in Ireland, Christ Church Cathedral in Dublin rivals the title holder, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, in beauty and history. 

More commonly known as The Cathedral of the Holy Trinity, this Gothic and Romanesque jewel of the Roman Catholic church is a must-visit. Here, you can immerse yourself in one of two ways. The first is simply taking in the sights of the exterior and marveling at its stunning architecture. 

However, the second, and by far the best way, is to get yourself the Go City: Dublin Pass, which grants access to this monument at no additional cost. The pass can be bought for 1-5 days. 

Indulge at the Guinness Storehouse

How about a tour through the original Guinness Storehouse for a more buzzworthy blast from the past? This building is a pure display of Irish history — and a tastebud-treating one at that.

The site where Arthur Guinness signed a 9,000-year lease in 1759, it’s made of seven floors,  each dedicated to a specific part of the brewing process. While you can opt for a guided storehouse tour, there’s nothing like going solo.

Tickets to the Guinness Storehouse go for around €19–€24 and give you a tasting and a 1-pint voucher for an ice-cold Guinness. The best part? You can enjoy your drink on the top floor paired with epic views overlooking the city.

Stroll through St. Stephen’s Green

To cap off day one of this Ireland itinerary, it’s time to appreciate the more natural side of Dublin. And there is no better way than by taking a late afternoon stroll through St. Stephen’s Green Park in the city center.

Clocking in at over 20 acres, it’s one of the oldest parks in Ireland, dating back to 1664. While you might think it’s just any old park, it sits right in the heart of Dublin’s shopping district, so you can get some retail therapy while you’re here.

Day 2 of 4 days in Ireland itinerary: Visiting the Cliffs of Moher

Your second day in Ireland is about exploring the west coast of Ireland. It’s a natural playground where stunning landscapes meet a scenic countryside unlike any you’ve seen before.

Beyond the Cliffs of Moher, you’ll fill your day by visiting Doolin and end it with a visit to Galway.

Ireland’s west coast is a premier part of any Ireland itinerary. Thus it’ll be an early morning start followed by a day of sightseeing and exploring.

Early morning at the Cliffs of Moher

You simply can’t visit Ireland without taking the time to explore and experience one of its most spectacular natural attractions. Few places compare to the Cliffs of Moher. 

While you can start the day at Bunratty Castle and then head to the cliffs, they attract quite a crowd. So it’s best just to dive right in (metaphorically, of course).

Why are the Cliffs of Moher so impressive? Well, consider this; six miles of majestic coastline that plummets directly into the ocean. With that image in mind, you can hike the cliff line for some surreal views.

Drive the Wild Atlantic Way

Have you ever heard of the Wild Atlantic Way? This beautiful stretch of road, totaling 2499 km (1,553 miles), runs from the west through parts of Ireland’s north and south coasts. As far as a scenic drive goes, few road trip destinations could compare. 

This road comprises quite a few stellar country highlights, from the Cliffs of Moher, the Ring of Kerry, Connemara, and The Burren. While you won’t be driving the whole Wild Atlantic Way, any distance traveled along its roads is unforgettable.

Explore the tiny village of Doolin

One of the closest towns to the Cliffs of Moher, the tiny village of Doolin is your next stop on this one-day road trip. At roughly 8 km (5 miles) from the cliffs, it’s a charming little addition to your day, and spending time in one (or two) of the classic Irish pubs that line its streets is a must.

No Ireland road trip would be complete without a visit to this quaint town that sits firmly on the Wild Atlantic Way.

Get lost in Galway

After exploring Doolin, it’s time to head for Galway. Depending on how long you choose to spend in Doolin, you’ll arrive in Galway mid to late afternoon. 

This makes it the perfect time to explore the city and take in some of its best sights before deciding on a place to grab some well-deserved dinner.

After spending the day exploring (not just Galway), heading to any of the best pubs in Galway is a must. While each is unique, the Front Door Pub stands out, famous for its beef and Guinness stew.

When you’re done with dinner, the drive back to Dublin might be a bit much to tackle, so it would be a good idea to spend the night in Galway. The cultural hub of Ireland, staying in Galway, is almost equal to staying in Dublin. 

Stay overnight in Galway: It’s got every element of a major city while featuring a traditional side you just don’t get in other places. We recommend booking a room at the Menlo Park Hotel , a 4-star property in the city’s heart.

The following day it’s time to head back to Dublin. We recommend heading out as early as possible to make the most of day three.

Day 3 of 4 days in Ireland itinerary: Wicklow and Glendalough

Kicking off your third day in Ireland, you’ll explore county Wicklow, which holds some of the most natural hidden gems of the Emerald Isle. After taking in the sights of this county close to Dublin, you’ll head to Glendalough, where you can quite literally get lost in nature.

Morning adventure in Baltinglass

Thankfully, county Wicklow is not far from Dublin, so you can start the day a bit later than usual, especially after driving back from Galway. 

Some highlights of the area include the stunning Blessington Lakes, the headliner being Baltinglass. A worthwhile short trip while here is the historic Baltinglass Abbey constructed during the 12th century.

Visit the Glendalough monastic site

After your morning in Baltinglass, it’s time to head for the scenic and lush Glendalough. Beyond its stunning landscapes, it features spectacular views that will stick with you for this entire trip and well after.

Within this glacial valley lies one of the most imposing early medieval monastic settlements in the entire country. Founded as the first Christian settlement in the 6th century, most of the structures you’ll see date back to the 10th century.

Explore Glendalough upper lake

Now for a fun (and somewhat physical) addition to your Ireland itinerary. It’s time for a hike after visiting the Glendalough Monastic site. Although hike might not be the right word, this walk through the lower lake area to the upper Glendalough lake area is a must.

These two lakes are a local favorite, and once you set out, you’ll quickly agree it’s a fantastic way to spend your days in Ireland.

Discover Poulanass Waterfall

For those looking to go chasing waterfalls. You’re in luck. Taking a slight detour off the main trail to the upper lake, you’ll arrive at the stunning Poulanass waterfall. These small falls spill into the upper lake area, creating an almost ethereal atmosphere.

Several spots along the walking trail provide spectacular views of the waterfall. And for those who love fun facts, the name Poulanass comes from old Irish, which translates to “Hole of the waterfall”. Did we mention the epic views you’ll get of Guinness lake?

Day 4 of 4 days in Ireland itinerary: Discover the more laidback side of Ireland

Your final day in Ireland will be a more laid back and relaxed exploration of some of the country’s most enticing highlights. A trip to Killarney National Park, a road trip through the Dingle Peninsula, and some beach bumming at a beach or two await you.

Venture into Killarney National Park

Yes, many come to Ireland for its rich history and even richer love for a pint and some live music. But venture into the Irish countryside and you’ll discover unique places like Killarney National Park.

Experiencing the best of this national treasure can be done via a guided tour like this Killarney National Park tour on a private horse and carriage . Or you can head on a hike to epic spots like Torc Waterfall.

Head out on a drive along the Dingle Peninsula

While most travelers would take the Ring of Kerry road from Killarney, another equally fantastic option is to tackle the scenic drive along the Dingle Peninsula. 

Ringed by sandy beaches and craggy cliffs, this striking natural feature includes mountain ranges and peaks such as Mount Brandon. Beyond that, there is quite a bit to do here, including visiting a few Star Wars filming locations and indulging in Irish culture on a pub crawl.

Take your drive off-road at Inch Beach

A surefire standout of the Dingle Peninsula is Inch Beach. This rugged sand beach is unique because you can take your car and drive along the coastline as far as it stretches. We recommend you do just that.

And after driving a bit, step outside your car, dip your toes into the Atlantic and grab a few snapshots of the stunning beach.

Explore the town of Dingle

As the final stop of your four days in Ireland, head to the charming town of Dingle. It’s a colorful and culture-rich town where cute shops, ice cream parlors, ships bobbing in the bay, and swimming dolphins are highlights.

Speaking of dolphins, the town’s unofficial mascot is a bottlenose dolphin named Fungie, who has welcomed visitors to the village for more than 30 years. 

And if you’re not one for dolphin spotting, pub crawling is almost a national sport here, with a whopping 65 pubs in the small town. 

Tip: If you’re looking for inspiration for your next trip to central Europe, look at our European itinerary .

Ireland Itinerary 4 days from Dublin (Sample 2): Day trips, without a car

Here is an alternate Ireland Itinerary for 4 days, where you can base yourself in Dublin throughout the duration of your Irish trip and not rent a car. 

We recommend the Go City: Dublin Pass for 4 days so that you have a transportation savings card for commuting in the city. This pass also includes one day of the hop-on and hop-off tour, which will allow you to check off all the major attractions in the city in one day. 

Plus you also get access to the Guinness Storehouse. 

Day 1 of 4 days in Ireland: On the very first day explore the city highlights of Dublin.

Day 2 of 4 days in Ireland: On the second day of this itinerary, start on a day trip to the Cliffs of Moher and Galway. 

You can book a day tour such as this one that includes Galway and the Burren, the monastic ruins of Kilmacduagh, and of course the gorgeous Cliffs of Moher. 

This tour is provided by Finn McCools Tours, and we highly recommend their service – their local guides are very knowledgeable and helpful!

Day 3 of 4 days in Ireland: Venture out to check off Wicklow Mountains, Glendalough, and Kilkenny on day 3. On this 9-hour day trip , you will get to soak in the views at Wicklow. 

And then enjoy a walking tour of Glendalough, and finally visit Kilkenny before returning to Dublin. The tour doesn’t include entry to Kilkenny castle. 

But the scenic drive includes sites from movies such as P.S. I Love You and Braveheart. You can book this affordable tour here

Day 4 of 4 days in Ireland : Explore the city of Cork on day 4 of this 4 day Ireland itinerary. You can take the train from Dublin to Cork, or opt for another day tour that includes Cobh and entry to Blarney Castle. 

Cork is Ireland’s southern capital and is known for its arts, music, and literature. The historic city centre is filled with charming Georgian buildings, beautiful 17th-century alleys, and modern architecture. 

Ireland Itinerary 4 days (Sample 3): Best of Dublin, Belfast, and beyond 

This 4 day itinerary includes Northern Ireland, which is a part of the United Kingdom . The UK is not a part of the European Union nor do they follow the Schengen agreement, so you might need a visa to cross over. 

US and Canadian passport holders do not need a tourist visa to enter the UK, but please ensure you carry a valid passport with you at all times. 

Day 1 of 4 days in Ireland: On day one in Dublin, spend time exploring the city’s highlights. 

Day 2 of 4 days in Ireland: Next, go on a day trip to the Cliffs of Moher and Galway. You can book a day tour such as this one that includes Burren, and the monastic ruins of Kilmacduagh. 

Day 3 of 4 days in Ireland: Head straight to Belfast on day 3. It will take less than 2 hour’s drive or 2.50 hour train ride to get there from Dublin.

In Belfast, explore the following spots, 

• Hit the Saint George’s Market
• Visit the Belfast City Hall
• Go on a Black Taxi City Tour, where you will learn about Belfast’s troubled past. The tour lasts 4 hours, and it also includes mural stops. Our guide shared so many stories of the troubles, of political turmoil, and the events leading up to Bloody Sunday, and its impact later. Highly recommend a walking tour either in Belfast or Dublin to learn more about it. 
• Hit the Titanic Quarter . Ensure you book tickets ahead of your visit. 
• Sign off for the night at the Cathedral Quarter 

Read: Here is a detailed list of things to do in Belfast in one day

Where to stay in Belfast? We recommend an overnight stay in Belfast for days 3-4. The Clayton Hotel is a great place to call home for 2 days. It is located within walking distance of the Titanic Quarter and other sightseeing spots. 

Day 4 of 4 days in Ireland: End your Irish road trip of 4 days, with a visit to Northern Ireland’s only UNESCO World Heritage site – the Giant’s Causeway, and then explore the Dark Hedges, and walk over the Atlantic ocean at the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge 

Without renting a car , you can choose this Northern Coast day tour from Belfast that covers all of the places including the ruins of Dunluce Castle whilst enjoying a scenic drive along the Antrim Coast Road. Check it out here

4 Days in Ireland itinerary: Sightseeing Map

Ultimate Ireland Travel Tips for your itinerary

Ireland is a beautiful country you should visit at least once. As for some insider tips to making the most of your adventure beyond getting a rental car and prepping for driving on the left side of the road, we’ve got you covered.

Four days in Ireland is enough time to experience the best of what this wonderful country has to offer. With four days, you can explore Dublin and take a day trip to the countryside tour of some of the most stunning landscapes such as the Cliffs of Moher, Wicklow Mountains, Glendalough, and Kilkenny.  Of course, the more time you have is better.

Ideally 7 days. The number of days needed in Ireland largely depends on what you wish to experience and see. If you would like to explore the entire island, then more than 4 days might be necessary. However, if your time is limited and you’d just like to get a taste of the country, 4 days should be plenty.  Ideally, with 7 days in Ireland, you can spend 2 days in Dublin , followed by scenic stops at some of the most picturesque places like the Cliffs of Moher or the Wicklow Mountains, and then end by visiting Aran islands.

The best time to visit Ireland would be during either of its shoulder seasons. These periods are from March to May and from September to November. During these months, you’ll have the advantage of lower tourist numbers and mild temperatures, not as cold as in winter. While summer is best if you want to be assured of sunny days, this is also the peak season for tourism. Thus most attractions get overcrowded.

What to pack for Ireland?

• Universal adaptor: Europe uses round power pins, so carry a universal adapter. Here is what we have
• Anti-theft backpack: Because we travel in trains, and use other means of public transportation, we recommend carrying an anti-theft backpack (or a daypack). We use the same backpack as a carryon (and – I carry 4-5 dresses, 4 blouses, 2 light jackets, and a small cosmetics bag)
• Comfortable walking shoes : Walking shoes are a must for all of your Europe trips. You will end up walking/wandering/strolling quite a bit (in old towns, transiting through transport, neighborhoods, etc). Many old towns are also carefree, and pedestrian-friendly – so lace up!
• Lightweight rain jackets : Highly recommend carrying a lightweight waterproof jacket at all times of the year, especially on your road trips

4 Day Ireland Itinerary | Final Thoughts

That’s a wrap on your 4 days in Ireland itinerary; a whirlwind adventure that will have you coming back for more. Yes, there is so much more to see on this stunning island, and if you have more time, heading to northern Ireland won’t disappoint.

But if you just have 4 days, this Ireland itinerary brings you right to the doorstep of its best and most memorable attractions. 

PS: Check out our curated list of European travel tips to ensure you don’t miss a beat when planning your next Ireland journey.

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Pin: Perfect Ireland Itinerary 4 days | Ireland Travel Guide

Mayuri is the founder & editor of ToSomePlaceNew. An Indian-Canadian globetrotter, she has traveled to over 100 cities and 35+ countries. Mayuri has a graduate degree in History and is an MBA. She loves traveling the world, capturing historical nuances, and discussing that over a cup of coffee with her husband, Salil. She currently resides in Edmonton, Canada, and plots travel plans to Europe, the Americas, and beyond. 

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Welcome to Irish Day Tours

WELCOME TO IRISH DAY TOURS

DAY TOURS AROUND IRELAND – DAY TRIPS FROM DUBLIN

Irish day tours is Ireland's leading day tour company. Our one-day trips depart daily from Dublin 364 days a year to some of the most iconic locations in Ireland & Northern Ireland . We currently operate seven one-day trips, by coach from Dublin, which includes;

Cliffs Of Moher 

Giant’s Causeway

Blarney Castle 

Cliffs of Moher Premium tour

Celtic Boyne Valley 

Premium Wicklow & Glendalough tour

Wild Connemara

All of our trips are fully led by our legendary guides who will bring the tour to life with wonderful stories from Irish history and folklore. 

We pride ourselves on our customer service and have a 98% satisfaction rating on Tripadvisor with an overall rating of 5 stars.  

You can buy tickets for your one-day trip by making the booking online or calling one of our Tourist Offices in Dublin, located at 37 College Green and 69 O'Connell Street.

Check out one of our day tours?  

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Cliffs of Moher

10 Best Small Group Day Tours From Dublin

Posted on November 17, 2023 | Julie J. |

Last Updated on November 17, 2023

Planning a trip to Dublin and want to explore more of the country? We have carefully selected the best small group day tours from Dublin so you can explore Ireland’s highlights .

Luckily, Ireland is a pretty small country and it’s easy to visit the most popular places with just a day trip. If you don’t want to bother with renting a car and if you dislike big bus tours, then small group tours are ideal.

☘️ BEST SMALL GROUP DAY TOURS FROM DUBLIN ☘️

Don’t have time to read the whole article? The hands-down best choice is this Wicklow, Powerscourt, and Glendalough Day Tour with 16 people max and minimal travel time between stops.

I’ve only selected tours with up to 25 people , with good reviews, and from trusted Irish tour companies. I recommend booking from Viator (owned by TripAdvisor), they work with carefully selected local businesses and make booking a tour fast and convenient. I’ve also included a few options from GetYourGuide .

Whether you want to see the Cliffs of Moher, kiss the Blarney Stone, explore the Giant’s Causeway, or hike in the Wicklow Mountains, you’ll find plenty of small group tours that will take you to these must-see places in Ireland.

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Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links, which means that if you click on any links and make a purchase, we’ll get a small commission, at no cost to you.

This Article at a Glance

🥇 Cliffs of Moher, the Burren, and King John’s Castle

⭐️ Rating: 4.5/5 🚶 Group Size: 25 people max ⌛ Duration: 13 hours

🥈 Connemara Peninsula

⭐️Rating: 4.2/5 🚶Small Group ⏳ Duration: 12 hours

🥉 Wicklow, Powerscourt, and Glendalough

⭐️Rating: 4.5/5 🚶 Group Size: 16 people ⏳ Duration: 8 hours

Wicklow, Glendalough, and Horse-Back Riding

⭐️Rating: 4.5/5 🚶 Group Size: 8 people ⏳ Duration: 8 hours

Newgrange & Knowth

Aran Islands and Galway

⭐️Rating: 4.5/5 🚶 Group Size: 10 people ⏳ Duration: 14 hours

Giant’s Causeway and Bushmills

⭐️Rating: 4/5 🚶 Group Size: 25 people ⏳ Duration: 12 hours

Glendalough, Wicklow Mountains, and Kilkenny

⭐️Rating: 4.5/5 🚶 Group Size: 16 people ⏳ Duration: 8,5 hours

Blarney Castle and Rock of Cashel

⭐️Rating: 4.0/5 🚶 Group Size: 25 people ⏳ Duration: 12 hours

Things to Consider Before Booking Your Day Tour

Consider distances and driving time before booking and keep in mind you’ll spend a couple of hours in transportation for most of these day trips.

Weather is often bad in Ireland which can be disappointing. Make sure to pack rain gear and wear layers. You might want to bring snacks and water as well. For some tours, bad weather might require a change of itinerary.

The more places are included in the day tour, the less time you’ll get to spend at each stop, so you might feel rushed.

Make sure to read carefully the itinerary, what’s included, and the reviews, so you know what to expect. I would advise contacting the tour company after booking to confirm your reservation and the itinerary.

Best Small Group Day Tours From Dublin

1 – cliffs of moher, the burren, and bunratty castle.

⭐️  Rating : 4.5 out of 5 Stars | 🚶  Group Size : 25 people | ☘️  Check Rates and Availability

The Cliffs of Moher are simply a must-see when in Ireland. It’s one of West Ireland’s top tourist attractions and you’ll understand why once there. On this tour, you can choose to see the cliffs from above , at the visitor center, or from sea level with a cruise .

If you pick the cruise, there will be an additional fee, and note that the cruises only run from March to October.

On your way there you’ll drive by the Burren along the Wild Atlantic Way, offering some of Ireland’s most striking landscape.

Visiting the Burren was one of the highlights of my trip, the landscape is unique and like nowhere else. While you won’t have time to go for a hike at the national park, you’ll be able to take in the scenery while driving through the region.

“Incredible! Our group ended up just being 4 people so we got an extremely personal experience. Our tour guide, Nick, was great and very knowledgeable!”

– HALEY (READ MORE REVIEWS )

On your way back, you’ll stop at the 15th-century Bunratty Castle and Folk Park where you can have lunch, tour the castle, and have a glimpse of what rural life looked like centuries ago, before making your way back to Dublin.

All entrance fees are included, except if you pick the cruise, and you’re free to bring a packed lunch or have something at the cliffs or at the castle.

The tour is operated by PaddyWagon one of the leading tour companies in Ireland. Their guides and drivers are usually known for making the trip fun and informative.

2 – Connemara Full-Day Small-Group Tour from Dublin

⭐️  Rating : 4.2 out of 5 Stars | ⏳  Duration : 12 hours | ☘️  Check Rates and Availability

The Connemara is one of Ireland’s most beautiful regions. On this small-group day tour from Dublin, you’ll get to drive around the peninsula , seeing its wild landscapes, rugged mountains, and breathtaking lakes.

During the nicer month (April – October), you’ll get to go on a 1.5-hour boat cruise around Killary harbor and the fjords. The rest of the year, you will visit the Killary Sheep Farm where you’ll watch a sheepdog demonstration and be told about life in the Connemara.

“Long but great trip! Our excellent bus driver Jonathan made sure we were happy and content and even entertained us with some beautiful Irish singing”

– HELLEN (READ MORE REVIEWS )

You’ll then stop by the 19th-century Kylemore Abbey where you’ll have time to get lunch (not included) and take some photos. You might have time to visit the abbey but it’s not planned in the tour.

You’re last stop is the city of Galway where you’ll get free time to explore the downtown area. Try to catch a live traditional music performance at one of the pubs if you can!

3 – Wicklow, Powerscourt, and Glendalough Day Tour

⭐️  Rating : 4.5 out of 5 Stars | 🚶  Group Size : 16 people | ☘️  Check Rates and Availability

Just an hour south of Dublin lay the beautiful Wicklow Mountains known for its great hiking trails, stunning scenery, and hidden gems.

If you don’t want to feel rushed and spend many hours in transportation, I recommend booking this tour as the places visited are not too far from Dublin.

You’ll start the tour with a stroll around Powerscourt Gardens , considered some of the most beautiful gardens in the world . You’ll find a cafe and a souvenir shop there as well.

Then you’ll head to the charming Enniskerry Village where you can have lunch and stroll around.

“Very comfortable van for our small group. John gave us a detailed explanation of everything and all the tour activities were on time. The places we visited were stunning.”

– DANIELA (READ MORE REVIEWS )

In the afternoon, the tour will take you through Wicklow Mountains National Park with stops at the “PS I Love you” bridge and Guinness Lake . You’ll take the scenic road (aka the Old Military Road) so you can enjoy the beautiful scenery all around.

Then comes the highlight of this day trip: Glendalough , known for its ancient monastic settlement and the hiking trails up the mountains and around the 2 lakes. You’ll get free time to explore the ruins of the settlement and stroll around the first lake.

You can also just hang out at one of the cafes if you’re not up for a walk, it’s pretty flat though.

The tour does not include lunch and the Powerscourt entrance fee (9 euros).

4 – Wicklow and Glendalough Day Tour with Horse-Back Riding

⭐️  Rating : 4.5 out of 5 Stars | 🚶  Group Size : 8 people | ☘️  Check Rates and Availability

Run by the same company as above, this tour is similar except that the stop at Powerscourt is replaced with horseback riding . You’ll be assessed and then given a horse that matches your skills before heading for a 1,5-hour ride through the beautiful Wicklow’s countryside.

“This was a very great day and the guide was just marvelous! The horses are very well taken care of. The whole trip is smoothly and perfectly planned.”

– ANNA (READ MORE REVIEWS )

5 – Celtic History Tour: Newgrange & Knowth

Also a great option if you want to stay close to Dublin and not spend many hours in transportation, this small group day tour will take you to 2 of Ireland’s most important historic sites .

Newgrange is the largest burial site and place of ancient worship in Ireland, aligned with the winter solstice, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site . You’ll start the day visiting it and you’ll get explanations about the site and its history on the ride there.

Right next to Newgrange, you’ll also get to visit Knowth , a smaller site with 17 tombs.

“This was the best tour we did in Ireland. I recommend it to everyone. Our guide, Johnny was a fount of information and brought many historic stories to life. “

– SERINA (READ MORE REVIEWS )

Then you’ll head to Oldbridge Estate where the Battle of the Boyne took place. You’ll learn more about Irish history and the importance of this fight between the forces of the deposed King James II and those of King William III.

The Monasterboice Monastic Site is the last stop of the day. It was founded in the 5th century by St Buithe and today, two churches from the 14th century remain as well as a round tower from the 10th century and many Celtic high crosses.

6 – Aran Islands Scenic Flight and Galway Rail Tour

⭐️  Rating : 4.5 out of 5 Stars | 🚶  Group Size : 10 people | ☘️  Check Rates and Availability

This tour is a great option if you want to see the Aran Islands but only have one day. A 3-hour train ride will take you to Galway where a shuttle awaits to take you to the airport.

The scenic flight is only 10 minutes and will take you to the island of Inis Mor . You’ll then visit the island, with some of the stops requiring a short hike , passing by thatched cottages, sandy beaches, medieval churches, and Celtic stone crosses.

Some of the highlights include the pre-Christian fort of Dún Aonghusa, the Seven Churches, and the charming village of Kilronan.

“The tour was well planned and very informative. We very much enjoyed both the train ride and the flight over to the islands. Frank our guide was so nice and very helpful! All the sights on the island were enjoyable.”

– SANDI (READ MORE REVIEWS )

Before taking the train back, you’ll have some free time to stroll around Galway .

The guide will meet you at the train station in Dublin and travel with you and your group. Meals are not included.

Note that the flight might be canceled last minute, even on your way there, because of bad weather. In this case, you’ll be offered an alternate tour of the Connemara region and a refund for the difference.

7 – Giant’s Causeway and Bushmills Tour

⭐️  Rating : 4 out of 5 Stars | 🚶  Group Size : 25 people | ☘️  Check Rates and Availability

This Northern Ireland day tour from Dublin is a great way to see the country’s highlights when you’re short on time.

Your day will start with a tour of the oldest licensed whiskey distillery in the world, Bushmills Distillery . You’ll get to see the factory at work, sample the beers they produce, and shop for souvenirs.

You’ll then have lunch at a local pub before starting on the Giant’s Causeway , where you’ll get skip-the-line admission to the Visitor Centre, free time to explore, and a visit of the interpretative center.

“This tour was a great way to see two outstanding attractions. We especially wanted a small group and the extra cost is well worth it. Though it is a long day stops along the way and returning to Dublin made the travel just fine. Our guide was informative and upbeat throughout the entire day.”

– TONI (READ MORE REVIEWS )

Travel along the coastal routes through the Glens of Antrim on your way to Belfast before returning to Dublin.

Everything is included except for food.

8 – Glendalough, Wicklow Mountains, and Kilkenny Day Tour

⭐️  Rating : 4.5 out of 5 Stars | 🚶  Group Size : 16 people |  ☘️   Check Rates and Availability

I’ve already listed 2 tours for the Wicklow Mountains but this one also includes Kilkenny, a must-visit during a trip a Ireland.

On this tour, you’ll drive through Wicklow National Park and have some time in Glendalough to visit the ruins and walk around the lake.

Then you’ll spend the afternoon in Kilkenny . Once you arrive you can pick a place to have lunch before meeting back with the rest of the group to go visit the castle .

“Our tour was lovely. It was nice having just a small group along the way. Richard was very friendly and funny, and knowledgeable about the area. The van was comfortable and the drive between the sites was scenic and informative. We had the freedom to explore each site at our leisure and thoroughly enjoyed the day.”

– AMANDA (READ MORE REVIEWS )

The town is really charming with old colorful buildings and paved streets, perfect for a stroll. You’ll get some free time to explore on your own as well.

Lunch and the entrance fee for the castle (8 euros) are not included.

Overall Kilkenny is a nice town to visit and small enough to do so in a short time, but it will add driving time to the day compared to the two other options that include Wicklow.

9 – Blarney Castle and Rock of Cashel Day Tour

If you don’t mind the long drive, and you know you won’t go to Southern Ireland or Cork later on, then this is a great day tour to take. You’ll visit two of Ireland’s most beautiful castles: the Rock of Cashel and Blarney Castle.

Entrance fees to both are included and you’ll have time enough to visit both thoroughly.

“Great trip, driver very knowledgeable”

– CHRISTINE (READ MORE REVIEWS )

The Rock of Cashel is one of the best-preserved medieval buildings in Ireland. There don’t miss the stunning  Cormac’s Chapel  from the 12th century, the  Round Tower , and the  Gothic Cathedral  from the 13th century.

In Blarney, don’t miss kissing the Blarney Stone , believed to give the gift of dab.

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4 Days in Dublin: The Ultimate Traveler’s Guide for 2024

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Not sure how to spend 4 days in Dublin? Whether your vibe is eating all the Irish food, taking walking tours seeped in history, or enjoying some of the best views in Ireland – you’ll find it on my 4-day Dublin itinerary. Keep reading!

The first time I visited Ireland was in 2018 during my post-graduation trip. Dublin was our first stop and we stayed for four days, minus the one day we spent across the country at the Cliffs of Moher. Since both my friend and I were recent grads at the time, and had yet to find real jobs, we planned that Europe trip on a budget. The second time I visited Dublin, later the same year after I had found a job working in Florence, I had a bit more money to blow.

Dublin is filled with friendly-locals, centuries-old architecture, and Irish charm around every corner. Grab a pint at the Guinness Storehouse and learn the rich history behind the world’s most famous stout, indulge in some traditional Irish cuisine – like hearty shepherd’s pie or fish and chips, or take a stroll through Trinity College to see the famous Book of Kells.

The possibilities are endless in Dublin. So sit back, relax, and keep reading to find out exactly what should be on your itinerary for 4 days in Dublin.

Find what you need:

The Lazy Girl’s Guide to Dublin

Too busy to read the full post? I get it! Screenshot my Lazy Girl’s Guide below to catch the highlights you need to hit during your 4 days in Dublin.

• Take a free walking tour of Dublin 🥾
• Explore St. Patrick’s Cathedral ⛪️
• Have lunch at O’Neills Pub & Kitchen 🥪
• Head to the Guinness Storehouse & Gravity Bar 🍺
• Grab some traditional Irish food for dinner at Fitzgerald’s 🥔
• Pub crawl your way through Temple Bar! 🍸
• Explore Dublin Castle 🏰
• Visit Trinity College and the Book of Kells 📕
• Grab a casual lunch at Trinity Bar Venue 🥧
• Explore Temple Bar in the daylight ☀️
• Head to The Brazen Head , the oldest pub in Dublin for dinner 🍗
• Take a day trip to the Cliffs of Moher and Galway ⛰️
• Shop for traditional Irish souvenirs in Galway – like claddagh rings 💍
• Eat some of the best food in Galway at The King’s Head Pub 👑
• Enjoy Dublin’s colorful doors 🚪
• Grab a hearty lunch at The Hairy Lemon 🍋
• Find the umbrella street for some iconic photos ☂️
• Visit the Jameson Experience 🥃
• Have boxty for dinner at Gallagher’s Boxty House 😋

4 Days in Dublin on the Map

Day 1: walking tour, the guinness storehouse, pub crawl.

There are so many reasons to visit Dublin! …or rub-a-dub-Dublin as we called it 😂. Although you could easily spend a week exploring the best of Ireland —4 days in Dublin was all we were able to budget for during our post-grad Europe tri p . Unfortunately, I didn’t have the time to visit Ireland during my semester abroad, although it is a popular destination among American students in Europe! If you’re a student visiting Dublin, make sure to check all your study abroad essentials off the list before your trip to Ireland.

Get ready for day 1 of your life-changing Dublin itinerary.

Take a Free Walking Tour

Kick off your first day in Dublin with a bang on a free walking tour of Dublin with Sandemans New Europe!

This 2-hour tour with a local guide will cover some of the city’s best highlights like Dublin Castle, Temple Bar, and Trinity College. I love starting each trip to a new city with a walking tour – it’ll give you an idea of the city’s layout and other attractions you might want to visit during your trip. They usually offer two tours a day, one at 11:00 am and one at 2:00 pm.

St. Patrick’s Cathedral

As the National Church of Ireland, St. Patrick’s Cathedral is definitely worth a quick visit. Although we sadly didn’t have time to explore the interior of the 800 year-old cathedral, we spent a half hour taking pictures and exploring the grounds around it. If you decide to go inside, admission to the church is pretty reasonable at only €10 (€9 for students). You can purchase tickets online here .

Have Lunch at O’Neills Pub and Kitchen

At over 300 years-old, O’Neills Kitchen is one of the oldest pubs in Dublin. Here, you’ll find a wide selection of Irish food that is every bit as delicious as it is traditional.

Two different self-serve counters offer up enormous sandwiches, piping hot soups, and huge portions of hearty Irish classics like fish & chips and Irish stews. Our sandwiches (pictured below), were piled high with brie, turkey, avocado, and cranberry sauce. Dubbed “the O’Neill’s Thanksgiving special,” it was hands down one of the best meals I’ve had in Ireland. I couldn’t even wait for the picture before taking a bite!

Visit The Guinness Storehouse and Gravity Bar

As Ireland’s most popular tourist attraction, the Guinness Storehouse is the perfect addition to your 4 days in Dublin itinerary. Tickets range from €20-35 depending on the day and time you book. Since the Guinness Storehouse welcomes over 1.4 million visitors per year (it was actually named Europe’s top attraction in 2023), I would highly recommend booking tickets ahead of time .

Once you arrive, seven floors of interactive beer experiences all lead to the top level, The Gravity Bar. Redeem your free Guinness ticket at the top and experience beautiful, 360 degree views of Dublin (even though it’s nearly impossible to get a picture near the window).

👉🏼 Click here to book your Guinness Storehouse tour !

Fitzgerald’s Bar

Fitzgerald’s is where we ate our first full Irish meal in Dublin…complete with a couple rounds of Guinness of course. We chatted with the friendly bartender as he served us Irish stew with soda bread, a Cajun chicken burger, and round after round of frosty Guinness…until my friend decided she was more of an Irish cider person.

This bar and restaurant is located right on the River Liffey with lots of big windows, so it’s a great spot to people watch out of the cold.

Book a Pub Crawl

Booking a pub crawl is my personal favorite thing to do in every city! I’ve enjoyed pub crawls in major cities all over the world like Lisbon , Rome , Bangkok , and countless others.

If you sign up for a crawl at the beginning of your trip, it’s a great way to meet fellow travelers to hang out with for the rest of your stay (especially for solo travelers ). Right away, we ended up booking a top-rated Viator pub crawl for only $15 each and it was one of our favorite nights during our 4 days in Dublin.

Starting at Bad Bob’s in Temple Bar, our amazing guide, Michael, led us to five of Dublin’s best bars in five hours! We had an amazing time and met lots of fellow travelers. I would definitely recommend this pub crawl for anyone looking to have fun in Dublin on a budget.

👉🏼 Click here to book your Temple Bar pub crawl !

Day 2: St. Patricks, Trinity College, Temple Bar, Brazen Head Pub

Hopefully you’re not too hungover to explore today, because day 2 of your 4 days in Dublin itinerary is going to be filled with some of the city’s best historical highlights and restaurants.

Kick off the day with a trip to Dublin Castle and a glimpse of the 1,200 year-old Book of Kells at Trinity College. Next up, grab a tasty lunch and get ready to explore historic Temple Bar during the day. Last, enjoy a hearty dinner at one of Dublin’s oldest restaurants – The Brazen Head.

Ready? Let’s go!

Explore Dublin Castle

From 1204 all the way until 1922, Dublin Castle was the seat of British rule in Ireland, but it was originally commissioned as a medieval fortress by King John of England. A major fire in 1684 destroyed much of the original structure, but parts of it survived and can still be toured by visitors to this day.

Entry tickets are only €8 for adults and €6 for students and they can be bought here on the castle’s official website .

See the Book of Kells at Trinity College

On your second day in Dublin, why not pop over and see one of the oldest books in the world?

The Book of Kells was written by four Christian monks around the year 800 AD. A €21.50 ticket (€17.50 for students) will grant you entrance to see the Book of Kells, the Old Library, Gaia, Secret Life of the Collections, and Book of Kells 360. You’ll also gain access to the Long Room, the main chamber of the Old Library built in the early 18th century. Click here to buy tickets !

If you’re dying to see both Dublin Castle and the Book of Kells, why not bundle for convenience? This top-rated Viator tour combines both experiences on a two and a half hour, skip-the-line tour!

👉🏼 Book your Dublin Castle + Book of Kells Tour here !

Trinity Bar Venue

After a history and culture-filled morning, we headed over to Trinity Bar to lunch and to try some of Dublin’s other local brews (other than Guinness). I enjoyed a delicious Hop House 13, while my friend opted for a crisp Orchard Thieves Cider. We were both a little hesitant at the sound of Guinness Pie, but after ordering it we were both pleasantly surprised (and very full!).

Explore Temple Bar

Confusingly enough, Temple Bar does not refer to one bar (although there is an actual bar with that name). Temple Bar actually refers to a hip and fun area of Dublin!

Across the river from Abbey Court Hostel , Temple Bar is made up of colorful streets full of fun bars and clubs playing live music. It’s a great place to hang out with a Guinness, listen to some Irish music, and chat with locals and tourists alike. Temple Bar is filled with delicious restaurants as well as bars, although the menus tend to be a little pricier in such a touristy area.

Grab Dinner at The Brazen Head

Opened in the 12th century, The Brazen Head is the oldest pub in Dublin. It’s easy to tell why it’s been open so long, it’s absolutely chock full of Irish charm!

The menu offers a wide variety of Irish classics, like bangers & mash and beef and Guinness stew, as well as typical pub fare like chicken wings and burgers. It’s the perfect spot for a long, leisurely lunch or a hearty Irish dinner steeped in over 800 years of history.

In my opinion, the best part about The Brazen Head is one particular item on their appetizer menu…the fried wedge of brie.

Day 3: Day Trip to the Cliffs of Moher and Galway

It’s officially day 3 of your 4 days in Dublin, and it’s time for a day trip to the Cliffs of Moher and Galway! No trip to Dublin is complete without a stop at one of Ireland’s most beautiful treasures. Picture towering cliffs, green rolling hills, and ocean views as far as the eye can see.

After you’ve taken in the views to your heart’s content, your tour will head over to Galway – a charming Irish town in the province of Connacht. Wander the charming cobblestoned streets, shop for Claddaugh Rings, and enjoy a pint at one of the oldest restaurants in the city, The King’s Head.

the Cliffs of Moher

Although not officially in Dublin, you can’t visit Ireland without adding the Cliffs of Moher to your itinerary! The cliffs are actually pretty far from Dublin, around three hours each way, so we decided to book a day-trip to simplify things (and avoid the need to rent a car in a country that drives on the left side of the road).

Viator offers tons of great day-trip tours to the Cliffs of Moher from Dublin, like this 5-star rated excursion (with over 11,000 reviews!) that includes transportation to and from the cliffs, a stop at the Cliffs of Moher, admission to the Cliffs of Moher Visitor Experience, 2-hours in Galway, and a complimentary Galway walking tour for only $85. Your guide will offer some interesting tidbits about Irish history as you cruise down the Wild Atlantic Way.

👉🏼 Click here to book your day trip to the Cliffs of Moher !

Grab a Bite in Doolin (If Time Allows)

Unfortunately, if you booked a guided tour to the Cliffs of Moher, a stop in Doolin might not be feasible. However, if you plan on seeing Ireland’s most famous cliffs on your own, then I highly suggest making a stop in scenic Doolin for lunch at The Ivy Cottage .

On our way back to Dublin, our tour group stopped in Doolin village for a bite to eat (keep in mind – this is not the same tour mentioned above since it didn’t include a stop in Galway). We snagged a spot on The Ivy Cottage’s outdoor patio and ordered chicken and pulled pork paninis. Both were very tasty and it was a great place to end a fantastic day in Ireland.

Head to Galway

If you have extra time in Dublin, consider adding a stop in Galway to your day-trip to the Cliffs of Moher. Many tours to the Cliffs of Moher will also include a stop in Galway, since it’s only an hour and a half drive away.

Since my first tour to the Cliffs of Moher did not include a stop in Galway, the first time I visited was on a day trip with Bus2alps in November of 2018. Although I would have loved to spend the night there (since I hear the nightlife is fantastic), a few hours was plenty of time to enjoy the highlights.

If you’re visiting during November or December, make sure to check out the Galway Christmas Markets! I was lucky enough to have timed my first visit in November, so we spent a fun-filled hour perusing the stands and sipping on piping hot cider. If you have the time, you may even consider booking a walking tour of Galway .

Lastly, don’t leave Galway without buying yourself a Claddagh Ring. Claddagh rings represent love, friendship and loyalty and are traditionally passed down from mother to daughter. Find a large and decently affordable selection at Claddagh Jewellers on Mainguard Street.

Heads up: If you wear the ring with the heart facing in, it means that someone has your heart (you’re in a relationship). If you wear the ring with the heart facing out, it symbolizes that you’re looking for love (you’re single).

Enjoy a Traditional Irish Dinner at The King’s Head

No stop in Galway is complete without enjoying a hearty, delicious, and unforgettable meal at The King’s Head . I’m serious – my friend swears this was the best sandwich she ever had in her life. The building dates back 800 years and there is a famous 400 year old fireplace inside that’s still fully operational.

The main stage on the ground floor of The King’s Head features live music every day of the week, so it’s a great spot to throw back a few pints, warm up with a great meal, and enjoy the lively atmosphere.

Day 4: Colorful Doors, The Jameson Experience, The Boxty House

It’s officially your last day in Dublin, but don’t be too sad – there’s still plenty of time left to explore the last of this vibrant city. Day 4 will be spent enjoying Dublin’s famous colorful doors, snapping Insta-worthy pics on a street covered in umbrellas, sipping whiskey at the Jameson Distillery, and feasting on more delicious Irish cuisine at Gallagher’s Boxty House.

Search for Dublin’s Colorful Doors

Dublin is famous for its colorful doors, but sometimes the best streets can be hard to find. On my first 4 days in Dublin, we wandered around for hours searching, finally stumbling upon the colorful doors on Lesson Street. This Tiffany blue door was our personal favorite and strolling around to see all the different colors is a great activity to add to your Dublin itinerary. Just try not to annoy the locals who actually live there!

I’ve done some research since returning from Dublin, and it turns out the best places to enjoy Dublin’s colorful doors are Fitzwilliam Square and Merrion Square . Be sure to charge up your camera, this is a fantastic photo spot in Dublin.

Have a Hearty Lunch at The Hairy Lemon

If you’re wondering where to eat in Dublin, look no further than the famous restaurant The Hairy Lemon in the South City Centre.

This quirky restaurant, decorated in years of memorabilia with a sitting room suspended in mid-air, has quickly become one of Dublin’s trendiest pubs. However, you might be wondering…what’s up with the name?

Supposably, the restaurant was named after a Dublin local dubbed “Hairy” with a face shaped like a lemon and a complexion that mirrored one as well. He roamed around Dublin in the 1940’s and helped the police catch stray dogs!

Pro tip: order the “coddle” – a traditional Irish dish that consists of pork sausage, thick-cut bacon, sliced potatoes, onions, and a side of soda bread to soak it all up.

Find the Umbrella Street on Anne’s Lane

While wandering around trying to find colorful doors (and getting a bit lost), we stumbled onto Anne’s Lane filled with tons of colorful umbrellas. Although you can find umbrella streets all over Europe, it can be fun to stop for a few cute pictures and get out of the sun for a minute.

Get Tipsy at the Jameson Distillery

I’ll tell you a secret…I absolutely hate whiskey. But, that’s not why I didn’t make it to the Jameson Distillery – we simply didn’t budget our time well. I guess that’s what happens when you have 4 days in Dublin and you spend half of them hungover.

Next time I visit Dublin, the Jameson Distillery is #1 on my list. Just because I don’t have a taste for whiskey, doesn’t mean I can’t enjoy and appreciate and integral piece of Irish history.

The Dublin Distillery on Bow Street was opened by John Jameson himself in 1780, making it one of the oldest distilleries in Dublin. If you’re interested in touring this world-famous distillery, I recommend booking this guided experience with a whiskey tasting for only $33 on Viator!

👉🏼 Click here to book your Jameson Distillery tour !

Gallagher’s Boxty House

I’ll be honest, we completely botched our visit to Gallagher’s Boxty House – one of the best restaurants in Temple Bar. Why, you ask? Because Gallagher’s Boxty House is known specifically for one dish – Boxty …and we didn’t order it.

Don’t judge us too harshly, we didn’t even know it existed during our 2018 visit! After learning about this delicious Irish concoction, I will definitely be ordering it on my next visit.

Boxty is a type of potato pancake with an almost dumpling-like consistency. This dish is often served for breakfast with poached eggs, roasted tomatoes, and bacon or as an afternoon snack with ingredients like melted cheese, ham, and smoked salmon.

Keep in mind that although it’s rated as one of the best restaurants in Dublin, Gallagher’s Boxty House is not exactly budget-friendly. They also don’t serve tap beer, which for a Wisconsin girl is nothing short of blasphemous.

Where to Stay in Dublin

📍budget-friendly: abbey court hostel.

Keeping our budget in mind, we decided to book hostel accommodation in Dublin. Hostels are usually much cheaper than Airbnbs if you’re traveling in a smaller group. After some research, we decided on Abbey Court Hostel . With a great location in the middle of Dublin, Abbey Court was clean, safe and overall the perfect choice for young and budget-conscious travelers. The hostels serves a complimentary breakfast from 7:30-9:30 am. We were never up that early to enjoy it…but if you’re an early riser it’s great to have a free meal!

Other highly-rated hostels to try:

• Clink i Lár (⭐️ 9.0/10)
• Temple Bar Inn (⭐️ 9.9/10)

👉🏼 Click here to book your stay at Abbey Court !

📍Mid-Level: Wynn’s Hotel

Located in the heart of Dublin right off of O’Connell Street, Wynn’s Hotel is the perfect example of affordable luxury. Guests of Wynn’s are within walking distance of top sights like Trinity College, Dublin Castle, and Temple Bar and the hotel offers plenty of great amenities like free breakfast, room service, and parking. For only around $200 per night (depending on the season), it’s the perfect Dublin hotel to get a sense of history and comfort without breaking the bank.

👉🏼 Click here to book your stay at Wynn’s Hotel !

📍Luxury: Anantara The Marker Dublin

If you’re traveling on a larger or unlimited budget, why not stay in the lap of luxury at one of the best hotels in Dublin, Anantara The Marker . This luxurious hotel is located on Grand Canal Square in the heart of Dublin’s business and cultural quarter, and, when it comes to amenities, they’ve pulled out all the stops. Guests can enjoy an on-site spa, state-of-the-art fitness center, 23-yard infinity pool, sauna, steam room, and a rooftop lounge with panoramic views of the city.

👉🏼 Click here to book your stay at Anantara The Marker !

How to Get to the Airport

To get to the city center from the airport, just hop on the 700 bus to O’Connell Bridge. The bus takes about a half hour and only costs €9, which is much cheaper than a taxi into the city. Check the airport bus timetables here .

Uber is also available in Dublin if you’re a bit too tired from your international flight to sit through a bus ride!

4 Days in Dublin FAQ:

It really depends on your travel style and preferences. Some people may feel that 4 days is enough to see all the main sights and attractions in Dublin, while others may want to stay longer to explore more of the city and take some day trips to the countryside. However, personally, I thought that 4 days was plenty of time to explore the best that Dublin has to offer.

Dublin can be pricey, especially compared to other cities in Europe. However, there are plenty of budget-friendly options for accommodation and dining. It’s all about doing your research and finding the best deals.

Unfortunately, Dublin is not known for being a prime location to see the Northern Lights. The city is too far south and there are often too many clouds and too much light pollution in the area. If seeing the Northern Lights is high on your list, it’s best to plan a trip to countries like Norway or Iceland where sightings are more common.

The best month to visit Dublin really depends on your preferences and what you want to experience. If you’re looking for warmer weather, then the summer months (June-August) are a good time to visit. However, this is also peak tourist season so expect larger crowds and higher prices. Spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) can be great times to visit as the weather is milder and there are fewer tourists. Winter (December-February) can be cold and rainy, but it’s also a great time to experience the festive holiday season in Dublin and find some awesome travel deals. Let’s be honest – Dublin is not known for its weather. So I’d say, visit whenever you want!

Final Thoughts

Even if you only have 4 days in Dublin, any trip to this magical city is guaranteed to be an unforgettable experience. I enjoyed every Guinness, every hearty Irish meal, and every night spent in a lively Irish pub mingling with locals and dancing to live music.

There’s plenty to see on your trip to Dublin, whether you enjoy throwing back whiskey at one of Dublin’s oldest distilleries, soaking up history at Dublin Castle, or witnessing breathtaking views across the country at the Cliffs of Moher. Hopefully, this 4 days in Dublin itinerary helps you tackle the highlights and maximize your time in Dublin.

Thanks for reading and I hope you all enjoy Dublin as much as we did! If you like what you see, follow my blog and my adventures on Instagram @madisonsfootsteps . You may also enjoy my related posts below…

Lake Como in October: Menaggio, bellagio, and Varenna

The Best 5 Day Itinerary for Dubrovnik, Croatia

How to Spend 5 Days in Lisbon (and Sintra)

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Madison Krigbaum is the founder and sole contributor of Madison's Footsteps – a solo female travel blog started in 2017 with a focus on destinations in Honduras, Italy, and Thailand. Since her study abroad semester in Rome, Madison has traveled to 31 countries, many of which she visited as a solo traveler. She lived in Roatan, Honduras for one year, Thailand for three months, and spent over two years in Italy (in Florence and Rome). She just returned from three months in Lisbon, Portugal and is considering heading back to Central America next!

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Travel Itineraries , Europe , Travel Destinations , Travel Tips

4 days in dublin: itinerary for ireland’s capital.

FMTC Affiliate Disclosure: Blond Wayfarer contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I earn a commission at no extra cost to you. This disclosure pertains to all affiliate links.

Most of us know Dublin as Ireland’s fun-loving, youthful, and vibrant capital city. Dublin’s an especially fun place for travelers who have Irish heritage and want to learn about their families’ histories, as well as avid readers who’ve fallen in love with authors such as Oscar Wilde and Bram Stoker. 

Furthermore, Dublin is a very easy European vacation if you’re coming from the east coast of North America. I believe you can fly from Newark to Dublin in six hours. And if you’re visiting from the UK? Even better!

What’s  not  to love about Dublin?

You can easily see Dublin over a weekend, but I recommend staying longer if your itinerary allows it. Specifically, this guide was written to help you plan 4 perfect days in Dublin. 

Keep in mind that it’s 100% true that most of Ireland’s beauty exists in the countryside. However, you don’t want to rush through this city with its abundance of museums, day trips, and pubs. 

Let’s get started! 

Table of Contents

Dublin Tips

Before we talk about your itinerary for 4 days in Dublin, I also wanted to provide some general tips to help you navigate and enjoy the city. 

And if you’re an anxious traveler ? Then you’re in luck because Dublin isn’t a difficult destination!

Honestly, I found traveling around Dublin very easy even though I was alone.

In general, solo travel in Ireland is a wonderful and accessible for someone who is juuuust dipping their toes into overseas travel. Dublin’s tourist infrastructure is wonderful and readily accessible, and for English native speakers, you don’t need to worry about any language barriers. 

Not to mention, most Irish people are pretty friendly and will help you if you’re lost. Just don’t bother someone who is obviously in a hurry! 

Below, I’ve included some practical suggestions for transportation, accommodations, and more!  

Best Time to Visit Dublin

Dublin is a delightful city year round. 

So, if you’re limited to certain months because of school or work, then just book your vacation when you’ve free time, and enjoy everything that Dublin has to offer you.

At the same time, take advantage of flexibility if you’re lucky enough to have it. 

For example, let’s say you want to avoid crowds and score cheaper hotel rooms. Then avoid July, August, and the week surrounding Saint Patrick’s Day.

Dublin might be Ireland’s capital, but it’s not an incredibly large city compared to places like New York or Paris. You can feel  the crowds when too many people are packed near Temple Bar and on Grafton Street.

If you want abundant sunlight and the best weather, then I would definitely recommend late spring and summer, and just deal with the crowds. The winter months bring much darker days, but luckily, you shouldn’t see much snow. 

As for myself, I visited Dublin in April and thought it was a fine time to go! 

Getting Around Dublin

Arriving in dublin.

Most travelers will land at  Dublin Airport . 

The airport is close to the city center, only about six miles away. Feel free to grab a private taxi if you’re jetlagged, but for those of you on a budget, Dublin Airport has public transportation options available too. 

Two direct buses most useful to tourists are the Airlink 747 and the Aircoach 700 . These buses run on a regular schedule, and the entire journey takes about 40 minutes.

Dublin Airport also has plenty of car rental services.

While having your own car is useful outside Dublin, I highly recommend against having a car for your 4 days in Dublin itself. All city attractions are very walkable. Not to mention, day trips are easy to do with the help of a tour guide. Cars are expensive headaches that you’re better off without. Save the car rental for driving around the island. 

Note to US Travelers:  If you’re flying out of Dublin and returning to the United States, you will clear customs at the Dublin airport. Lines might be long and sluggish, so arrive at the airport at least three hours prior to your flight. I’ve done some, uh, tight connections at Dublin’s airport, and don’t recommend trying it. 

Public Transportation in Dublin

Fortunately, most attractions in Dublin are within walking distance of each other. 

Inside the city, you’ll find plenty of buses and Luas , which is Dublin’s lightrail system that I personally used to go to Kilmainham Gaol. For the Luas, you may purchase your tram tickets at any street side vending machine. 

Furthermore, if you want to go outside Dublin, the DART (Dublin Area Rapid Transit)  system will take you along the coastline, making towns such as Howth very accessible for visitors without a car. 

Taxis are quite expensive so I would personally walk or use public transportation unless you have an emergency. 

Where to Stay in Dublin

Because Dublin is so popular, you have plenty of options when it comes to accommodation. Dublin’s also rather pricey compared to other parts of Ireland, so I tried to include hotels and hostels that would appeal to all budgets!

Happy browsing! 

Dublin Hostels

• Abbey Court Hostel:  Abbey Court Hostel is scenically located on the banks of the River Liffey, and is a perfect budget option for solo travelers! (see prices on TripAdvisor.com and Booking.com )
• Jacobs Inn Hostel: This award-winning hostel is in a great location, and has a bar and restaurant right on site. (see prices on TripAdvisor.com and Booking.com )
• Oliver St. John Gogarty’s Hostel: This hostel right in the middle of Temple Bar is highly rated and named after an Irish poet, which, of course, I love! (see prices on TripAdvisor.com and Booking.com )

Dublin Hotels

• Brooks Hotel: Seeking some luxury on your 4 days in Dublin? Then you’ll love this 4 star boutique hotel! (see prices on TripAdvisor.com and Booking.com )
• Hampton Hotel: Hampton Hotel is actually located in a very pretty suburb – Donnybrook – and is set inside a charming Georgian building. This hotel would be a great option for travelers wanting a quieter stay. (see prices on TripAdvisor.com and Booking.com )
• Roxford Lodge Hotel: Want to stay in a Victorian townhome? Look no further than this boutique hotel located in one of Dublin’s most fashionable areas. (see prices on TripAdvisor.com and Booking.com )

What to Pack for 4 Days in Dublin

As for packing, of course, you’ll want to consider the time of year that you visit Dublin.

However, these essentials are important for any short city trip! Don’t forget them at home!

• Dublin Travel Guide:  As much as I love blogs, I’m a sucker for traditional guidebooks. Lonely Planet makes my favorite ones! So bring a Lonely Planet Guidebook for Dublin to learn about everything to see and do! These guidebooks are available in .pdf and Kindle formats. 
• A Good Pair of Shoes:  You’ll walk a lot in Dublin. Don’t skimp on shoes, and make sure they’re waterproof too! I’d recommend these Merrell Waterproof Ankle Boot . They are cute to wear in the city, but provide all the practicality you need! 
• Point and Shoot Camera:  I like taking great pictures, but I’m not a fan of lugging around a huge camera. My personal favorite is the Sony Alpha a6000 Mirrorless Digital Camera which takes stunning high-quality photos. 
• Travel Insurance:  Don’t ever, ever,  ever  leave home without purchasing travel insurance . Your medical insurance may not follow you overseas. I always use World Nomads when I travel and have never felt disappointed!
• Travel Umbrella:  Welcome to Ireland where it rains at random times. You’ll want to bring a travel umbrella with you to Dublin. Nothing too big or bulky, but enough to stop you from getting wet when those dark clouds roll in.
• Windbreaker/Waterproof Jacket:  Ireland’s windy and wet especially on ferries and near the cliffs! Pack a light windbreaker to keep yourself warm and dry on those rainy days.
• UK-Ireland Electric Adapters: Lastly, you want to make sure you’re able to charge your devices. If visiting from North America or Europe, make sure to pack UK-Ireland Adapters so you’re able to plug in! 

For spring-specific inquiries, I talk a lot about what to pack for Ireland in April , but some essentials are important for any time of the year! Check it out! 

Quick Glance: 4 Days in Dublin

4 days in dublin: detailed itinerary and guide.

Alright! Let’s talk about your epic 4 days in Dublin!

This detailed itinerary will give you suggestions for walks, day trips, and attractions. But, as always, I’ve left some wiggle room so you can put your own personal touches on your travel plans. 

Happy reading!

Day 1: Walking Tour, Temple Bar, Trinity College

After checking in, I recommend taking a free walking tour . I always like suggesting walking tours on first days, because, although you might feel tired, these walks offer great insight to your temporary new home. 

SANDEMANs New Europe offers a lovely Dublin Free Tour where you’ll learn a ton about the city and make new friends. On this tour, you’ll learn all about Dublin’s most famous writers, its fascinating Viking history, and the Irish people’s struggles for independence. 

With free walking tours, make sure you have some spare Euros to tip your guides! It’s a free tour. Be generous especially if your guide is amazing. 

After your walk, explore the famous  Temple Bar  neighborhood. Snap scenic pictures of River Liffy on Ha’penny Bridge,  and pose outside the original red and cheery  Temple Bar  pub. You’ll also want to see the Molly Malone Statue , which is based off an Irish song. Is posing near pretty Molly touristy and silly? Yes, sure, but what’s traveling without a little cheesy fun?

Last but not least, embrace your academic side with a visit to  Trinity College.  Trinity has a beautiful campus. I recommend taking a walk and checking out all the statues on campus. 

And, of course, you’ll discover both the magical book-lined  Long Room  on Trinity College’s campus. 

Trinity College’s biggest attraction, however, is the mystical  Book of Kells. This incredible treasure, concerning the Gospels, was carefully written by monks in 800 CE. You cannot take pictures of the Book of Kells and must come in-person.

If you want to skip the line, purchase a Book of Kells ticket ahead of time, which you can combine with Dublin Castle.

Day 2: Tour Brú na Bóinne, Dublin Castle, Chester Beatty

I hope your 4 days in Dublin is off to a wonderful start! Today we’re leaving the city.

In the morning, you’ll go transport back in time to Celtic pre-history. Believe it or not, Dublin is close to mystical sites that are even older than the Pyramids. To reach these sites, you can either book a spot on a guided tour or rent a car for the day.

Start your day with a magical visit to the Hill of Tara.  The oldest tomb here – Mound of Hostages – dates way back to 3,000 BC. 

The Hill of Tara was also the inauguration place of the high kings of Ireland. 

After Tara, explore the UNSECO World Heritage Site Brú na Bóinne or Boyne Valley Tombs. The most famous of these tombs is  Newgrange. 

At Newgrange, you’ll learn all about this fascinating site at the Visitors Centre. Afterwards, your tour guide will walk you to Newgrange itself. Believe me, standing near a 5,200 year old tomb will take your breath away! 

You can see all these sites with your own car. If you don’t want the stress of driving, then you can book a tour to takes you to Newgrange and the nearby castles . An organized tour offers the benefit of additional insights from your guide. 

In the afternoon, return to Dublin to see  Dublin Castle  and nearby  Chester Beatty Library.  Chester Beatty is free, which is great for budget travelers, and come on, who  doesn’t  like being surrounded by books?

Day 3: Grafton Street, Museums, St. Stephen’s Green, St. Patrick’s Cathedral

Rise and sun! We’re off to  Grafton Street!

Grafton Street is one of Dublin’s main shopping streets and is pedestrian friendly. Although Grafton Street draws in tourists, I still found the hustle and bustle energizing and even did a bit of souvenir shopping!

Grafton Street ends at  St. Stephen’s Green , which is, without a doubt, one of the prettiest parks in all of Dublin!

Next you’ll want to check out Dublin’s incredible museum scene. I’ve listed several recommendations in this post.

Museum Recommendations:

• Dublin Writers Museum:  Want to learn all about Irish literature? Then check out Dublin Writers Museum , which is located inside a gorgeous mansion. Exhibits feature writers such as Swift, Wilde, Yeats, Joyce, and more!
• EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum: Want to learn all about your family history? This award-winning museum is all about Irish Emigration and the contributions of Irish immigrants around the world!
• The Little Museum of Dublin:  This much loved museum is all about Dublin’s history. The Little Museum of Dublin is set in a beautiful Georgian Townhome and guided tours are provided throughout the day. 
• National Museum of Ireland – Archaeology:  Want to go waaaay back in time? This fascinating archeology museum is also a great supplement learning to your trip to Newgrange. 

At the end of the day, go see another popular Dublin attraction:  St. Patrick’s Cathedral! You literary fans won’t want to miss the burial place of Jonathan Swift. 

Day 4: Kilmainham Gaol, Guinness Storehouse, Afternoon Howth

Kilmainham Gaol is one of the most popular tourist attractions in all of Dublin, even though it’s admittedly a sad place to visit.

The Irish Struggle for Independence was bloody. At Kilmainham Goal, you’ll learn that several Irish revolutionaries were arrested and executed here after their part in the 1916 Easter Rising. Not to mention, many other rebellion leaders were held prisoner here, going as far back as 1798. 

To see Kilmainham Goal, you’ll be taken as part of a tour, which is great for those of you who want to learn about Irish history. 

After Kilmainham Gaol, you’ll probably need something to cheer you up. What better than a visit to Guinness Storehouse ? Even if you don’t drink or don’t like Guinness, you should still visit, especially since the top of the storehouse has some of the prettiest views in Dublin. 

Last but not least, with 4 days in Dublin, you’re bound to tire of the city and look for a change of pace. Fear not!

Nearby Howth offers fresh seaside charm and a cute lighthouse. It’s a small and pretty town that is fit for grabbing a seafood meal before your final evening in Dublin.

Happy travels!

I hope this itinerary helped you plan an epic 4 days in Dublin! Have a great time exploring Ireland’s amazing capital city. You’ll fall in love with it. 

Rachel Elizabeth

At 22, I took my first overseas trip to Bermuda. Took a break to follow the "American Dream." Had my self-esteem broken. Embarked on my first solo trip to Scotland at 26. The travel bug dug its way under my skin. I now book multiple trips a year.

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