After delving into the rich tapestry of things to do in Dublin, from its historic castles and libraries to the lively pubs and green parks, day trips from Dublin offer a fantastic extension to your Irish journey. These excursions lead you to the rolling hills, ancient ruins, and quaint villages that lie just beyond the city’s hustle and bustle, presenting a fuller picture of Ireland’s charm.
Stepping outside Dublin, you’ll discover the extensive variety of things to do in Ireland, where every turn on the road can reveal breathtaking landscapes, medieval castles, and the warm hospitality of its people. Each day trip invites you to immerse yourself in the country’s deep history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural beauty.
Selecting where to stay in Dublin is crucial for travelers aiming to capture the essence of the city while being strategically positioned for day trips. The right accommodation offers both a gateway to Dublin’s historical and cultural landmarks and easy access to the country’s scenic outskirts, ensuring a rich and varied experience of Ireland.
Discover Best Day Trips from Dublin, Ireland
1. Glendalough, Ireland
Glendalough, in the Wicklow Mountains, is renowned for its monastic settlement founded in the 6th century. This area combines rich history with stunning natural beauty, including two serene lakes and lush woodlands.
Distance: Approximately 50 km
Travel Time: About 1 to 1.5 hours by car or bus
Transportation: Bus (Busbud), Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Ancient monastic settlement, scenic lakes, lush woodlands
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Visitor Centre: €5
- Guided Tour: €10
Budget: Approximately €20-€40 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Upper and Lower Lakes, Round Tower, Cathedral Ruins
Travel Tip: Wear comfortable walking shoes to explore the extensive trails, and don’t miss the ancient round tower and the cathedral ruins.
2. Kilkenny, Ireland
Kilkenny is a medieval town well-known for its historical buildings, including the imposing Kilkenny Castle and St. Canice’s Cathedral. The town also boasts vibrant arts and crafts scenes, with numerous galleries and workshops.
Distance: Approximately 130 km
Travel Time: About 1.5 to 2 hours by car or train
Transportation: Train, Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Kilkenny Castle, St. Canice’s Cathedral, medieval streets
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Kilkenny Castle: €8
- St. Canice’s Cathedral: €4
Budget: Approximately €30-€50 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Kilkenny Castle Park, River Nore, Medieval Mile Museum
Travel Tip: Visit the Kilkenny Castle Park for a leisurely stroll, and explore the local craft shops for unique souvenirs.
3. Newgrange and the Boyne Valley, Ireland
Newgrange is a prehistoric monument in the Boyne Valley, older than Stonehenge and the Egyptian pyramids. This area is rich in archaeological heritage, including the Hill of Tara and the ancient passage tomb of Knowth.
Distance: Approximately 50 km
Travel Time: About 1 hour by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Newgrange passage tomb, Hill of Tara, ancient archaeological sites
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Newgrange Site: €10
- Guided Tour: €15
Budget: Approximately €30-€50 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Newgrange Mound, Boyne Valley, River Boyne
Travel Tip: Book a guided tour in advance to enter the Newgrange passage tomb, as access is limited.
4. Galway City, Ireland
Galway City, known as the Cultural Heart of Ireland, offers a lively atmosphere with its bustling streets, vibrant music scene, and numerous festivals. The city is also a gateway to exploring the scenic Connemara region.
Distance: Approximately 210 km
Travel Time: About 2.5 hours by car or train
Transportation: Train), Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Vibrant streets, cultural festivals, Salthill Promenade
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Free (general city exploration)
Budget: Approximately €50-€80 (including transportation and food)
Scenic Spots: Salthill Promenade, Eyre Square, Galway Cathedral
Travel Tip: Spend some time walking along the Salthill Promenade and enjoy fresh seafood in one of the city’s many excellent restaurants.
5. Belfast, Ireland
Belfast, the capital of Northern Ireland, is rich in history and culture. Key attractions include the Titanic Belfast museum, the Belfast City Hall, and the historic Crumlin Road Gaol.
Distance: Approximately 165 km
Travel Time: About 2 hours by train or car
Transportation: Train, Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Titanic Belfast, Belfast City Hall, Crumlin Road Gaol
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Titanic Belfast: €24
- Crumlin Road Gaol: €12
Budget: Approximately €50-€80 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: St. George’s Market, Victoria Square Dome, Belfast Castle
Travel Tip: Visit the St. George’s Market on a weekend for local crafts, food, and live music.
6. Powerscourt Estate and Gardens, Ireland
The Powerscourt Estate in County Wicklow features one of the most beautiful gardens in Ireland, set against the backdrop of the Great Sugar Loaf Mountain. The estate also includes a large house and a waterfall.
Distance: Approximately 25 km
Travel Time: About 1 hour by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Beautiful gardens, Powerscourt House, waterfall
Best Time to Visit: Spring to Autumn
Entrance Fees:
- Gardens: €11
- Waterfall: €6
Budget: Approximately €30-€50 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Powerscourt Gardens, Great Sugar Loaf Mountain, Powerscourt Waterfall
Travel Tip: Allow plenty of time to explore both the gardens and the waterfall, which is located a short drive from the main estate.
7. Howth, Ireland
Howth is a picturesque fishing village on the Howth Head peninsula, offering stunning coastal walks, fresh seafood, and a charming marina. The Cliff Path Loop and Howth Castle are popular attractions.
Distance: Approximately 15 km
Travel Time: About 30 minutes by train
Transportation: Train
Main Attractions: Coastal walks, Howth Castle, fishing village charm
Best Time to Visit: Spring to Autumn
Entrance Fees:
- Free (general village and coastal exploration)
Budget: Approximately €20-€40 (including transportation and food)
Scenic Spots: Cliff Path Loop, Howth Harbour, Ireland’s Eye
Travel Tip: Enjoy a seafood meal at one of the local restaurants and take a walk on the pier for a chance to see seals.
8. Bray and Greystones, Ireland
Bray and Greystones, coastal towns south of Dublin, are known for their scenic beauty and seaside charm. The Cliff Walk from Bray to Greystones offers breathtaking views of the Irish Sea.
Distance: Approximately 20-30 km
Travel Time: About 45 minutes to 1 hour by train
Transportation: Train
Main Attractions: Cliff Walk, scenic coastline, seaside towns
Best Time to Visit: Spring to Autumn
Entrance Fees:
- Free (for the Cliff Walk)
Budget: Approximately €20-€40 (including transportation and food)
Scenic Spots: Bray Head, Greystones Marina, Cliff Walk Views
Travel Tip: After completing the Cliff Walk, enjoy a well-deserved meal in one of Greystones’ award-winning restaurants.
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Sources:
https://www.getyourguide.com/dublin-l31?activity_type=dayTrip
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