short trips from ireland

5 weekend breaks less than 2 hours from Ireland

Did you know there’s a host of beautiful weekend break destinations that you can fly to in less than 2 hours the short flight time leaves you with more time to see the sights, sample the cuisine and soak up the culture. here are our top 5 weekend breaks less than 2 hours from ireland., 1. brussels, fly from dublin to brussels in just 1 hour 40 minutes.

Belgian chocolate… Belgian beer… It’s no wonder that Brussels is top of the list for a city break in Europe. A flight from Dublin Airport to Brussels is around 1 hour and 40 minutes leaving you with more time to explore everything Brussels has to offer.

Top Attractions in Brussels

Grand Place / Grote Markt

Historically, the Grand Place was Brussels’ marketplace where traders sold their goods. As a result, today the streets surrounding the square carry names such as butter, herbs and cheese. As Brussels grew as a city, the market stalls were replaced with magnificent buildings displaying architectural styles from the Baroque, Gothic and Louis XIV eras. There’s a buzzing atmosphere at the Grand Place – during the day the square fills with tourists but at night locals and tourists alike meet to relax and have drinks.

Belgian Comic Strip Center / Centre Belge de la Bande Dessinée

Fun fact: There are more comic strip artists per square kilometre in Belgium than in any other country in the world. Both Tin Tin and the Smurfs were created in Belgium. The Belgian Comic Strip Centre is a museum dedicated to the comic strip. Visitors can embark on a journey from the concept to shop stages and view over 5,000 original drawings. The building itself is a piece of art designed by Art Nouveau architect Victor Horta.

2. Amsterdam

Fly from dublin to amsterdam in just 1 hour 40 minutes, fly from cork to amsterdam in just 1 hour 50 minutes.

Filled with culture and packed with things to do, Amsterdam is a European city like no other. From art galleries to architecture, cafes to nightclubs, there’s something for everyone in the city. You can fly from Dublin to Amsterdam in as little as 1 hour 40 minutes.

Top Attractions in Amsterdam

Anne Frank Museum

Located within the actual home in which Anne Frank and her family hid in for most of World War II, The Anne Frank museum provides visitors with an incredibly personal insight into the life of the Jewish refugees originally from Frankfurt. The house has been kept as it was when Anne Frank wrote her world-famous diary and serves as a poignant reminder of the devastation of the holocaust.

Van Gogh Museum

The Van Gogh Museum has been a top attraction among tourists in Amsterdam since opening in 1972. A visit to the museum will share the life, works and woes of the troubled artist. The museum houses 200 paintings, 500 drawings and 700 letters. The collections of work are sectioned into periods of time within the artist’s life, allowing visitors to witness how Van Gogh’s style evolved as his life progressed.

We also have a guide to the perfect day in Amsterdam that’s worth checking out.

3. Edinburgh

Fly from dublin to edinburgh in just 1 hour 10 minutes, fly from shannon to edinburgh in just 1 hour 35 minutes, fly from cork to edinburgh in just 1 hour 40 minutes.

Arguably one of the most picturesque cities in Europe, Edinburgh is a cultured, history-steeped, cobble-stoned medieval haven waiting to be explored. Flights to Edinburgh are usually great value and take approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes, making it one of the best places to that’s within 2 hours flying time from Dublin.

Top Attractions in Edinburgh

Edinburgh Dungeon

Discover Edinburgh’s gruesome past through an interactive and terrifying experience at the Edinburgh Dungeon. Meet cannibals and killers and hear the secrets of the Green Lady in this actor-led experience with state-of-the-art special effects. You won’t know what’s real and what’s not! This tour is recommended for the brave at heart only.

Edinburgh Castle

Perched at the top of Castle Rock, Edinburgh Castle is unrivalled as Scotland’s number one visitor attraction. The iconic building sits on top of an extinct volcano and provides visitors with panoramic views of the city. Inside the castle, visitors can see some of the oldest and most important buildings such as St Margaret’s Chapel, The National War Memorial and The Half Moon Battery. Scotland’s Crown Jewels are also on display.

Fly from Dublin to Paris in just 2 hours

Fly from cork to paris in just 1 hour 45 minutes, fly from shannon to paris in just 1 hour 45 minutes.

Though labelled as the City of Love, Paris is so much more. It’s an urban metropolis filled with an eclectic mix of architecture, cafés, bars and restaurants, shops and historical sites. You can fly from Dublin to Paris in approximately 2 hours giving you more time to soak up the city on your weekend break.

Top Attractions in Paris

Once a palatial home to France’s kings, the Louvre Museum is now home to over 30,000 pieces of art from the 5th to the 19th centuries. Some of the most famous pieces include the Mona Lisa by Leonardo Da Vinci, the Venus de Milo sculpture from around 150 BC by Alexandros of Antioch and the painting of Liberty Leading the People by Eugène Delacroix.

A tour of the Louvre takes around 3 hours. The museum is a hugely popular attraction and guests can pre-book a tour to gain a “skip the queue” pass.

Sacré-Coeur Basilica and Quartier Montmartre

Sitting at the highest point in Paris like an ornamental decoration, the Basilica is a must-visit in Paris. It was built in 1914 and contains archaeological elements of both the Romanesque and Byzantine styles. Inside the Basilica, guests are greeted with a striking mosaic work of Jesus Christ with a flaming heart.

Outside the building, visitors can lounge on the terrace while soaking up the views of Paris. The area is frequented by Parisians, musicians, artists and performers too. Next to the Sacré-Coeur is the Medieval village of Montmartre, where you’ll find cobblestone streets, boutiques, art galleries and beautifully quaint cafés.

Fly from Dublin to Bilbao in 2 hours

The Basque city of Bilbao in Northern Spain is a cultural hub filled with art, architecture and design. It’s surrounded by both green mountains and tall skyscrapers and is the perfect location for a weekend of exploring, sight-seeing and eating. A flight from Dublin to Bilbao takes around our 2-hour flight limit from Dublin.

Top Attractions in Bilbao

The Guggenheim Museum

Inaugurated in 1997, the Guggenheim building is a work of art in its own right. With a ship-like shape created from metal, the museum contains works from Anish Kapoor, Jeff Koons and Eduardo Chillida. There are also larger artworks on view outside the museum in an area that is known as the ‘Art District’.

Bilbao’s pintxos bars

The Basque Country is famed for its delicious pintxos bites. They consist of small pieces of bread topped with all types of local ingredients including meat, fish, vegetables and cheese. Bilbao is home to some of the best pintxos bars in the country. Casa Victor Montes, Café Iruna and Asador Indusi all come highly recommended in the city.

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10 Excellent Day Trips and Weekend Getaways from Dublin, Ireland

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

Last updated: January 20, 2023

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

2. The Cliffs of Moher and Doolin

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

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

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

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

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

3. Day Trips to the Burren

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

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

4. Glendalough and Laragh

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

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

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

5. The Wicklow Mountains

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

6. Day Trips from Dublin to Belfast

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

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

7. The Giant’s Causeway

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

8. Day Trips from Dublin to Baltinglass

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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25 Incredible Half-Day Tours and Trips From Dublin (2024)

Dublin, the charismatic capital of Ireland, is not only a city of bustling pubs and vibrant culture but also a gateway to captivating destinations that lie just beyond its borders. If you’re pressed for time or simply looking to squeeze in some adventure during your stay, don’t worry! There are many incredible half-day tours and trips to take from Dublin. From scenic landscapes to rich historical sites, these expeditions offer a taste of Ireland’s breathtaking beauty and fascinating heritage, all conveniently packed into a few precious hours.

When I was living in Dublin and studying at Trinity College , I often only had a few hours to explore in between classes and studying. Luckily, there is plenty to do within easy distance of the city! In this blog, I will first cover the best half-day guided tours from Dublin (the most convenient options) before diving into a couple of extra half-day trips you could take on your own.

Best Half-Day TOURS From Dublin

Wicklow mountains & glendalough tours:.

Nestled just beyond the charming streets of Dublin, the Wicklow Mountains (AKA Dublin Mountains) and Glendalough are stunning sites with their captivating beauty and rich history. You will be mesmerized as you traverse through the rolling hills, valleys, and serene lakes that adorn this picturesque region.

As you explore Glendalough, a hidden gem tucked away in the mountains, you’ll discover the ancient ruins of a sixth-century monastic settlement. From the iconic Round Tower to the enchanting St. Kevin’s Church, every stone whispers stories of the past.

Nature enthusiasts will be delighted by the abundance of scenic hiking trails and breathtaking viewpoints that offer sweeping vistas of the surrounding landscape. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful retreat in nature, a glimpse into Ireland’s fascinating history, or simply a half-day filled with stunning sights, a visit to the Wicklow Mountains and Glendalough is an absolute must.

1. Glendalough & Wicklow Mountains Half-Day Morning Tour from Dublin

⭐️ Rating: 4.5 / 5 | ⏰ 5 hours (approx.) | 🏅 Badge of Excellence | ✔️ Flexible Booking ↳ CHECK PRICING AND AVAILABILITY HERE

Departing from the heart of the city, this half-day expedition whisks you away to a world of breathtaking landscapes and ancient treasures. Enjoy the views of lush green valleys, surrounded by lush hills and picturesque lakes that seem straight out of a fairytale. As you venture deeper into the heart of Wicklow, your knowledgeable guide will share tales of Irish history and folklore, adding a touch of magic to the journey.

The highlight of the tour is undoubtedly Glendalough, an awe-inspiring monastic site nestled amidst serene forests and crystal-clear lakes. Here, you’ll explore the ancient ruins of a sixth-century monastery, soak in the tranquil atmosphere, and perhaps even stumble upon hidden trails that lead to captivating viewpoints.

Whether you’re a nature lover, a history enthusiast, or simply seeking an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, the Wicklow and Glendalough Tour promises an unforgettable adventure that will leave you in awe of Ireland’s natural wonders and rich cultural heritage.

“Great half day trip. Beautiful location and enough time to walk around by ourselves which is much better than with a group. Driver was very informative on the way up and back.” acarrier1106 on Viator

2. Glendalough & Wicklow Mountains Half-Day Afternoon Tour from Dublin

⭐️ Rating: 4 / 5 | ⏰ 5 hours (approx.) | ✔️ Flexible Booking ↳ CHECK PRICING AND AVAILABILITY HERE

If you prefer to take your tour in the afternoon, check out this tour with the same company as the first!

“Thoroughly enjoyable tour and at a bargain price. Helped that is was a beautiful, sunny spring day. Our guide, Calem(sp?) was outstanding. Provided very interesting commentary in Irish history as we motored. Our driver (sorry, don’t know name) was par excellence in his own right, deftly navigating the narrow country roads. In all, a thumbs-up experience. Enthusiastically recommend.” Thimas_B on Viator

3. Afternoon Mountain Pub Tour

⭐️ Rating: 5 / 5 | ⏰ 5 hours (approx.) ↳ CHECK PRICING AND AVAILABILITY HERE

If you’re in search of a truly unique and unforgettable experience in Dublin, look no further than the Sunday Afternoon Dublin Mountain Pub Tour. This half-day adventure takes you off the beaten path and into the breathtaking landscapes of the Dublin Mountains, where you’ll discover hidden gems nestled amidst the stunning scenery.

Picture yourself sipping a pint of Guinness in traditional Irish pubs tucked away in picturesque villages, surrounded by panoramic views. Immerse yourself in the warm and inviting atmosphere as you mingle with locals, listen to lively traditional music, and share stories over a pint.

This tour is not just about the pubs; it’s about embracing the spirit of Ireland and its rich cultural heritage.

“Shane was our guide and he made our trip unforgettable. One of the most enjoyable experiences we’ve ever had. We are so grateful to our friends who recommended this tour!” Terry on Viator

4. Glendalough Night Hike and History Tour

⭐️ Rating: 5 / 5 | ⏰ 4 to 5 hours (approx.) | 🏅 Badge of Excellence | ✔️ Flexible Booking ↳ CHECK PRICING AND AVAILABILITY HERE

For adventurous souls seeking a magical experience, the Glendalough Night Hike is an absolute must-do. You will embark on a twilight adventure through the mystical beauty of Glendalough, as the sun sets and the stars begin to twinkle.

This half-day tour from Dublin offers a chance to explore the ancient monastic site under the enchanting cover of darkness, adding an extra layer of mystery and allure to the journey. As you traverse the moonlit trails, guided by the soft glow of your headlamp (provided by your guide), you’ll uncover the secrets of this sacred place and its rich history.

This unique nighttime adventure allows you to connect with nature, star gaze in the tranquil Irish countryside, and witness the beauty of Glendalough in a whole new light. The Glendalough Night Hike is the perfect blend of adventure, history, and natural beauty, offering a one-of-a-kind experience that is not to be missed.

“Absolutely magical hike. It’s a stunning location but having the opportunity to experience it well into the evening is absolutely unique and unforgettable. The animals become more active and relax as the evening sets and you really feel one with nature. Mark & Reece were brilliant with their commentary, support and encouragement throughout the hike. I went home with such a happy feeling, I would do this again in a heartbeat.” A Tripadvisor Reviewer

Howth Half-Day Tours:

Just a short trip away from Dublin lies the charming coastal town of Howth , and it’s an absolute gem waiting to be explored (my personal favorite day trip destination!). A trip to Howth offers a delightful escape from the bustling city, immersing you in natural beauty, seaside charm, and delicious fresh seafood.

With its stunning cliff walks, picturesque harbor, and panoramic views of the Irish Sea, Howth is a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. From scenic hikes along the dramatic cliffs to leisurely strolls along the charming village streets, there’s something for everyone.

Seafood lovers will be delighted by the abundance of renowned seafood restaurants, where you can savor the freshest catch of the day. And those who enjoy shopping will be impressed by the adorable Howth Weekend Market which features organic produce, freshly baked goods, jewelry, clothing, antiques, and more.

5. Howth Coastal Half-Day Bus Tour from Dublin with Live Guide

⭐️ Rating: 4 / 5 | ⏰ 4 hours (approx.) | ✔️ Flexible Booking ↳ CHECK PRICING AND AVAILABILITY HERE

This captivating tour takes you on a scenic exploration of one of Ireland’s most breathtaking coastal regions. Feel the refreshing sea breeze as you journey along the rugged cliffs, offering awe-inspiring views of the Irish coastline. Marvel at the picturesque fishing village of Howth, where traditional fishing boats bob in the harbor, and colorful houses line the streets.

As you meander through the charming village, you’ll have the opportunity to sample the freshest seafood delicacies in local restaurants, tantalizing your taste buds with the flavors of the sea. Nature lovers will be captivated by the wealth of wildlife and stunning landscapes, including the famous Howth Head with its panoramic vistas.

With informative commentary from knowledgeable guides, you’ll learn about the rich history, folklore, and maritime heritage of this coastal treasure. The best part about this tour is you can explore on your own and go at your own pace, without having to worry about the logistics of how to get to and from Howth.

“Excellent half day tour to a quaint fishing village just outside Dublin. Great places to eat. Our tour guide was amazing. He was funny, friendly and engaging.” Nan_M on Viator

6. Dublin Coastal Craft Beer and Seafood Trail with a Local

⭐️ Rating: 5 / 5 | ⏰ 3.5 hours (approx.) | 🏅 Badge of Excellence | ✔️ Flexible Booking ↳ CHECK PRICING AND AVAILABILITY HERE

Beer enthusiasts and food lovers – this one is for you! Get ready to embark on a tantalizing journey of flavors and culinary delights with the Craft Beer and Seafood Trail in Howth. This half-day excursion is a dream for those seeking an immersive experience in the vibrant craft beer and seafood scene of Dublin.

Accompanied by a knowledgeable local guide, you’ll be led on a delectable trail through hidden gems and iconic establishments, sampling the finest craft beers and freshest seafood that Howth has to offer. From charming traditional pubs to stunning views and attractions, each stop unveils a new taste sensation and a fascinating story behind the brews.

You’ll have the opportunity to savor perfectly paired beer and seafood dishes, discover unique flavor combinations and indulge your senses in the rich culinary heritage of Ireland. Along the way, your guide will regale you with captivating tales of Howth’s history, culture, and brewing traditions, offering a deeper understanding of the city’s thriving beer scene. Cheers to a truly unforgettable experience!

“OUTSTANDING!!!!! This is a must if you are a foodie snd a beer snob! Mark is an absolute gem! He is funny, knowledgeable, delightfully non-PC, and just a blast to be around. We even got to meet Missy, Mark’s King Charles who accompanied us to the Harbor Bar. The food is off the charts and the beer is well paired. The video you get at the end of the tour is awesome. If going to Howth, this is a 20000% must.” Michael_B on Viator

If you prefer to explore Howth on your own, you can check out my guide here for how to get to Howth and what to see and do:

Adventurous and Unique Half-Day Tours From Dublin

7. dublin panoramic e-bike tour with howth adventures.

⭐️ Rating: 5 / 5 | ⏰ 3 hours (approx.) | 🏅 Badge of Excellence | ✔️ Flexible Booking ↳ CHECK PRICING AND AVAILABILITY HERE

With the Howth Panoramic e-Bike Tour, you’ll experience the perfect blend of adrenaline-pumping adventure and breathtaking scenery. Hop on your electric bike and effortlessly glide along the rugged cliffs.

The e-bike makes it a breeze to conquer the hilly terrain, allowing you to focus on the incredible sights and immerse yourself in the natural wonders of Howth. Your knowledgeable guide will share fascinating stories and local insights, enhancing your journey with their expertise. This tour is designed to cater to all skill levels and ensures an unforgettable adventure for everyone.

“Conor was the best guide, bar none! We had a truly magical experience–our ride took us around the entire peninsula including breath-taking vistas, lovely neighborhoods, and lush expanses of green grass, so nice after being in the city! We couldn’t have asked for anything more. :)” Ellen_C on Viator

8. Dublin Bay Seal Kayaking Safari at Dalkey

⭐️ Rating: 5 / 5 | ⏰ 3 hours (approx.) | ✔️ Flexible Booking ↳ CHECK PRICING AND AVAILABILITY HERE

Enjoy a kayaking experience like no other with the Dublin Bay Kayaking with the Dalkey Island Seals tour. Picture yourself gliding through the crystal-clear waters of Dublin Bay (which is a UNESCO biosphere), surrounded by breathtaking coastal scenery and the playful company of curious seals.

This half-day excursion offers a unique opportunity to explore the stunning Dalkey Island, known for its rich wildlife and charming landscapes. Paddle your way along the coastline, soaking in panoramic views of cliffs, caves, and secluded beaches. As you approach the island, keep an eye out for the adorable seals that inhabit these waters, as they curiously swim alongside your kayak, creating unforgettable moments.

Led by experienced guides, you’ll receive all the necessary instruction and safety briefings, ensuring a fun and worry-free adventure. Whether you’re a seasoned kayaker or a beginner, this tour caters to all skill levels, making it an accessible and thrilling experience for everyone.

“It was an amazing experience! The team were so friendly and knowledgable and we got to see about 30 seals! I would 100% recommend this experience, it was so worth it and something you’ll never forget 🙂 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️” Georgia_W on Viator

9. Half-Day Guided Rock Climbing Above Dublin City

⭐️ Rating: 5 / 5 | ⏰ 3.5 hours (approx.) | ✔️ Flexible Booking ↳ CHECK PRICING AND AVAILABILITY HERE

This exhilarating half-day adventure offers a unique opportunity to conquer the cliffs and ascend to breathtaking heights above Dublin. Led by expert guides, you’ll be equipped with the necessary gear and receive professional instruction, ensuring a safe and thrilling climbing experience.

Rock climbing outside of Dublin was one of my personal favorite experiences. The views over the bay from up on the rock face are just incredible! Plus, I love seeking out new adventures that most people don’t do while they’re traveling – and this is definitely one of those experiences.

“Mark was very professional yet still chilled, we had great fun and learnt a load about rock climbing equipment, safety and how to rock climb properly!! Would definitely recommend this for beginners and experienced climbers alike. Thanks Mark!!” Georgia_W on Viator

Private Half-Day Tours From Dublin

Do you prefer the intimacy and personalization of a private tour over a group tour? Here are a handful of the best PRIVATE half-day tours from Dublin.

10. Newgrange and Hill of Tara Private Guided Tour From Dublin

⭐️ Rating: 4.5 / 5 | ⏰ 6 hours (approx.) | ✔️ Flexible Booking ↳ CHECK PRICING AND AVAILABILITY HERE

Delve into the ancient wonders of Ireland with the Newgrange and Hill of Tara Private Guided Tour from Dublin. This captivating journey takes you on a voyage through time, visiting two of Ireland’s most extraordinary archaeological sites.

Accompanied by a knowledgeable private guide, you’ll unravel the mysteries of Newgrange, a Neolithic passage tomb that predates the pyramids. Step into the intricate stone chamber adorned with ancient artwork and witness the awe-inspiring alignment with the winter solstice.

Next, venture to the Hill of Tara, the mythical seat of the High Kings of Ireland. Explore the ancient earthworks, ancient burial mounds, and standing stones that whisper tales of ancient Irish heritage and royal power.

Your guide will share fascinating stories and historical insights, transporting you back in time to an era of ancient rituals and legendary rulers. This private tour allows for a personalized experience, ensuring your questions are answered and your curiosity is satisfied.

“This was our first stop in Ireland & I can’t even describe how beautiful this tour was, our guide David was very knowledgeable, kind & helpful, he was AWESOME! Such a beautiful country & everyone there was so friendly, this tour was totally worth it!!” espee71, on Viator

11. Private Tour of Glendalough, Wicklow & Powerscourt Gardens

⭐️ Rating: 5 | ⏰ 6 hours (approx.) | ✔️ Flexible Booking ↳ CHECK PRICING AND AVAILABILITY HERE

Accompanied by a knowledgeable private guide, you’ll explore the monastic ruins of Glendalough, nestled amidst tranquil lakes and lush greenery. Discover the rich history and legends surrounding this sacred site as you wander through the peaceful ruins.

Additionally, this tour takes you to the magnificent Powerscourt Gardens, recently voted No.3 in the World’s Top Ten Gardens by National Geographic. With the flexibility of a private tour, you’ll have ample time to soak in the beauty of these natural wonders, capture memorable photos, and embrace the tranquility of the Irish countryside.

“We (my father-in-law and I) were in Dublin for three days in May and wanted to do something outside the city but without spending too much time on the road. The tour was perfect for that and it was a great experience! Noel is a super relaxed guide who had a lot of interesting information at hand and always accommodated our pace and individual wishes. We can absolutely recommend the tour, many thanks Noel!” Markus_W on Viator

12. Private e-Bike Tour in Carlingford and The Cooley Peninsula

Carlingford and The Cooley Peninsula are absolute gems that should be on every Ireland traveler’s itinerary. Nestled along the picturesque east coast of Ireland, about a 1.5-hour drive from Dublin, this region offers a captivating blend of natural beauty, rich history, and coastal charm.

Stepping foot in Carlingford is like being transported to a medieval town, with its narrow streets, stone buildings, and ancient ruins, creating a timeless ambiance. The Cooley Peninsula, on the other hand, boasts breathtaking landscapes, from rolling hills and lush green valleys to rugged cliffs and pristine beaches.

The area is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a wide range of activities such as hiking, cycling, water sports, and birdwatching. The region is also steeped in history and folklore, with legendary tales of knights, fairies, and ancient battles adding an air of mystique to the surroundings.

Explore the area on your own, or take this captivating tour that promises an unforgettable experience filled with stunning coastal views, charming villages, and a touch of adrenaline. Hop on your electric bike and effortlessly pedal along the picturesque coastline, soaking in the beauty of the Irish countryside.

“Such an amazing and wonderful experience! Such a kind and interesting couple and an informative tour! Even the pouring rain did not stop the fun! Would highly recommend this if you want a fulfilling tour around the historic Carlingford and the surrounding area! Really defined classic Irish hospitality! p.s. ask about concrete ships!” A Tripadvisor Reviewer

13. City Explorer: Howth Private Day Trip

Did the charming coastal village of Howth catch your attention? Embark on this private day trip to experience the captivating beauty of Howth, just a short distance from Dublin. Discover the rich history of Howth Castle and its magnificent grounds, where tales of ancient nobility come to life. Immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of Howth’s natural surroundings as you stroll along scenic walking trails, breathing in the fresh sea air.

With the flexibility of a private tour, you’ll have the opportunity to customize your experience and immerse yourself in the sights and attractions that pique your interest.

“Ben was an amazing guide. The tour was relaxing, we took our time and we were able to enjoy the scenery, the history and the stories. Highly recommend this tour.” Nicole_C on Viator

Half-Day Tours in Dublin

14. dublin private walking tour.

⭐️ Rating: 5 | ⏰ 3 hours (approx.) | 🏅 Badge of Excellence | ✔️ Flexible Booking ↳ CHECK PRICING AND AVAILABILITY HERE

If you decide those tours are too long, or you don’t have enough time to head outside the Dublin city limits, this private walking tour is an excellent quick, fun thing to do with half a day. Led by a knowledgeable guide, this tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the heart and soul of the city on foot.

As you wander through the historic streets, you’ll uncover Dublin’s fascinating history, rich culture, and iconic landmarks. Marvel at the grandeur of Trinity College and its famous Book of Kells, soak in the lively atmosphere of Temple Bar, and learn about the influential figures who shaped the city’s literary heritage.

Stroll along the River Liffey, crossing its iconic bridges, and admire architectural wonders like Dublin Castle and Christ Church Cathedral. Along the way, your guide will share captivating stories, hidden secrets, and local insights, bringing the city’s past and present to life. This walking tour allows you to truly immerse yourself in Dublin’s charm, interact with locals, and discover the lesser-known corners that make the city so unique.

“Pasquale was a great tour guide. He focused the tour on our interests and really helped us understand the city and it’s history. Also gave us ideas of other areas to visit during the rest of our stay. Great tour!!!” Michael_L on Viator

15. Dublin’s Best Kept Secrets Tour

⭐️ Rating: 5 | ⏰ 3 to 4 hours (approx.) | 🏅 Badge of Excellence | ✔️ Flexible Booking ↳ CHECK PRICING AND AVAILABILITY HERE

Here is one more fantastic, half-day tour option in Dublin. If you want a true local’s take on the city with hidden gems and unique attractions – this is the absolute best tour! You will learn about Irish culture, history, music, literature, art, games, and tastes through this guided, interactive tour.

“The most unique and memorable walking tour I’ve ever been on. Just book it! You learn a bit about Irish history and culture and have fun doing it.” Andree_P on Viator

Should You Rent a Car in Dublin?

When it comes to renting a car in Dublin, it ultimately depends on your travel plans and preferences. Within the city itself, public transportation options such as buses, trams, and trains are widely available and efficient. Dublin is a compact city with many attractions within walking distance, so a car is not necessary for exploring the city center.

However, if you’re interested in taking day trips or exploring the countryside beyond Dublin, renting a car can provide the most convenience and flexibility. It allows you to venture into remote areas and visit attractions at your own pace.

Alternatively, joining organized tours like those mentioned above can be a hassle-free way to explore the surrounding areas without the need to drive. Many tour operators offer a variety of day and half-day trips from Dublin, providing transportation and expert guides to enhance your experience.

If you decide to rent a car, I recommend DiscoverCars . They are an affordable and reliable service, I once had a client save over $1,200 when she rented her car in Dublin from DiscoverCars over another provider!

10 Additional Half-Day Trips to Take From Dublin

16. the curragh racecourse.

Distance from Dublin: 33mi (54km) | ~45 minutes

Located in County Kildare, Ireland’s equestrian heartland, The Curragh is steeped in racing history and renowned for its prestigious events. The racecourse proudly hosts Ireland’s esteemed Classics, the country’s top five flat races.

From the end of March to late October , racing enthusiasts can revel in the thrill of 23 action-packed race days throughout the year. Even on non-race days, the racecourse makes for a nice half-day trip from Dublin to explore the venue and gain fascinating insights through guided tours.

Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of race day, with spectators cheering on their favorite horses and jockeys. Explore the expansive grounds, which offer picturesque views of the surrounding countryside. Take a stroll through the parade ring, soak in the excitement of the betting ring, and indulge in delicious food and drinks available at the various facilities.

17. Kilkenny

Distance from Dublin: 80mi (128km) | ~ 1 hour and 20 minutes

Kilkenny, Ireland, is a must-visit destination for those seeking a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. This charming medieval city offers a captivating experience with its well-preserved heritage, picturesque streets, and vibrant atmosphere. Explore the magnificent Kilkenny Castle , a symbol of the city’s grandeur and history, and wander through the charming medieval lanes of the city center, discovering hidden gems at every turn.

Art enthusiasts will be enthralled by the array of galleries and craft studios, showcasing the creativity and craftsmanship for which Kilkenny is renowned. Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of traditional pubs, where you can enjoy live music and savor locally brewed beers.

Nature lovers can escape to the tranquil surroundings of the River Nore and stroll along its scenic banks. Additionally, Kilkenny hosts numerous festivals throughout the year, ranging from arts and culture to food and drink, adding an extra layer of excitement to your visit.

18. Dundrum Town Centre

Distance from Dublin: 6mi (10km) | ~25 minutes

For a quick and easy half-day trip from Dublin, shopping enthusiasts will love exploring the Dundrum Town Centre . Located in the southern suburbs of Dublin, this premier shopping center offers a plethora of world-class brands, boutiques, and specialty stores.

It is  Ireland’s largest shopping center with over 169 retail outlets, including fashion, beauty, electronics, and more. Indulge in a day of retail therapy as you explore the spacious and stylish mall, discovering the latest fashion trends, unique designer pieces, and a wide range of products to cater to all tastes and budgets.

The center also boasts a fantastic selection of restaurants, cafes, and eateries, providing ample opportunities for relaxation and refueling during your shopping spree. From high-street brands to luxury labels, Dundrum Town Centre offers a diverse range of options to satisfy every shopper’s desires. And once you’ve shopped to your heart’s content, treat yourself to relaxing spa treatments at Edvard and Pin.

19. Mount Usher Gardens

Distance from Dublin: 39mi (62km) | ~55 minutes

A visit to Mount Usher Gardens is a treat for nature lovers and garden enthusiasts. Located in County Wicklow, this enchanting garden is renowned for its tranquil beauty and serene atmosphere. As you meander through the winding paths, you’ll enjoy meticulously landscaped grounds, featuring a remarkable collection of trees, shrubs, and flowers from around the world.

The garden’s design follows the principles of the Robinsonian style, emphasizing a naturalistic and harmonious approach. Take a leisurely stroll along the banks of the River Vartry, which gracefully winds through the garden, adding an extra touch of serenity.

Discover hidden corners, charming bridges, and peaceful seating areas where you can relax and soak in the beauty of your surroundings. Mount Usher Gardens also offers a delightful plant nursery and a charming tearoom where you can enjoy a delicious meal or a cup of tea amidst the picturesque setting.

20. Waterford

Distance from Dublin: 103mi (166km) | ~2 hours

Waterford is a unique destination that offers a wealth of reasons to visit. Immerse yourself in the city’s medieval past by exploring the iconic Waterford Viking Triangle, where you can visit the impressive Waterford Museum of Treasures and discover the city’s Viking heritage. Marvel at the architectural beauty of Waterford’s landmarks, including the majestic Waterford Crystal Factory, where you can witness the intricate craftsmanship firsthand.

Take a leisurely stroll along the charming streets, lined with colorful Georgian houses, quaint cafes, and traditional pubs. Nature lovers will be delighted by the nearby scenic wonders, such as the stunning Copper Coast Geopark and the picturesque Comeragh Mountains, offering opportunities for hiking, biking, and breathtaking views.

Food enthusiasts can indulge in Waterford’s culinary delights, including delicious seafood and traditional Irish fare. Don’t forget to explore the lively cultural scene, with festivals, music, and arts events that showcase the city’s creative spirit.

21. Dollymount Strand

Distance from Dublin: 5mi (8.5km) | ~20 minutes

Dollymount Strand is a destination in Dublin that should not be missed, especially for beach lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. This expansive sandy beach, stretching along the northern shore of Dublin Bay, offers a refreshing escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.

With its wide coastline and sweeping views of the Irish Sea, Dollymount Strand provides a picturesque setting for relaxation, leisurely walks, and various outdoor activities. Take a peaceful stroll along the shore, listen to the soothing sound of the waves, and breathe in the invigorating sea air.

The beach is also popular among kite surfers and windsurfers, offering thrilling water sports opportunities. If you’re a bird lover, keep an eye out for a variety of seabirds that call this area home. Additionally, Dollymount Strand is conveniently located near the iconic Bull Island, a designated nature reserve known for its diverse flora and fauna.

22. Emerald Park

Distance from Dublin: 18mi (29km) | ~30 minutes

Emerald Park is an amusement park with an array of exhilarating rides and attractions, ranging from roller coasters to family-friendly adventures. Thrill-seekers can experience the adrenaline rush of high-speed coasters, while younger visitors can enjoy gentle rides and interactive play areas.

Emerald Park isn’t just about rides – it’s also home to an impressive zoo, where you can encounter a diverse range of animals, including rare and endangered species. Take a walk through the animal habitats, witness captivating animal shows, and learn about conservation efforts.

The park also offers a variety of dining options, allowing you to indulge in tasty treats and refreshments. With its thrilling rides, fascinating zoo, interactive experiences, and a sprinkle of Irish charm, Emerald Park guarantees a day of non-stop fun and entertainment for the whole family.

23. Maynooth

Distance from Dublin: 16mi (26km) | ~30 minutes

There are several reasons why visiting Maynooth should be on your itinerary for half-day trips from Dublin. Firstly, the town is home to the prestigious Maynooth University, known for its beautiful campus and academic excellence. Take a leisurely stroll through the university grounds and appreciate the architectural wonders and serene atmosphere.

Maynooth is also steeped in history, with its notable landmark being the Maynooth Castle. Explore the ruins of this medieval fortress, which once served as the seat of the Fitzgerald family, and imagine the stories it holds.

Additionally, Maynooth is known for its vibrant arts and music scene. Catch a live performance at one of the local venues or immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage by visiting the nearby Rye River Brewing Company, where you can learn about the craft of brewing and sample delicious Irish beers. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the lush green spaces surrounding Maynooth, including the stunning Carton House Estate with its picturesque gardens and scenic walking trails.

Distance from Dublin: 41mi (66km) | ~1 hour

Embark on a half-day trip to the enchanting town of Kells in Ireland and discover a treasure trove of history, culture, and scenic beauty. Start your exploration by visiting the iconic Kells High Crosses, remarkable Celtic stone crosses adorned with intricate carvings that tell tales of ancient Ireland.

Next, delve into the rich history of Kells at the renowned Kells Heritage Centre, where you can immerse yourself in the town’s fascinating past through interactive exhibits and displays. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the impressive Kells Round Tower, an ancient stone tower that offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

A visit to St. Colmcille’s House and the Abbey he founded, where the famous Book of Kells was believed to have been written, is a must. End your Kells adventure with a leisurely stroll along the charming streets, dotted with traditional pubs, quaint shops, and friendly locals.

25. Skerries

Distance from Dublin: 19mi (30km) | ~ 37 minutes

Skerries, a coastal town in Ireland, is a hidden gem waiting to be explored on a half-day trip from Dublin. Offering a delightful blend of natural beauty, rich history, and a vibrant community with a little bit of something for everyone.

Immerse yourself in the stunning coastal scenery as you stroll along the sandy beaches, marvel at the rugged cliffs, and breathe in the fresh sea air. Discover the town’s fascinating history through its well-preserved landmarks, including the iconic Skerries Mills, which provides a glimpse into Ireland’s milling heritage.

Explore the picturesque Skerries Harbour, where colorful fishing boats bob on the water, and indulge in fresh seafood at one of the local restaurants. For adventure seekers, Skerries offers thrilling water activities such as kayaking and paddleboarding.

Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the beautiful Ardgillan Castle and its sprawling gardens with views over the Irish Sea and of the Mourne Mountains and Lambay Island. Skerries also boasts a lively community spirit, with charming shops, lively pubs, and regular cultural events and festivals that showcase the town’s vibrant personality.

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FAQs About Half-Day Trips From Dublin

No, a day trip from Dublin to London is not feasible as it requires crossing the Irish Sea and traveling a considerable distance. The journey by plane or ferry alone takes several hours, making it impractical to visit London and return to Dublin in a single day.

Yes, Belfast can be a day trip from Dublin. The journey takes around two hours by train, bus, or car. Visitors can explore key attractions such as the Titanic Belfast museum , the historic city center, and the stunning Giant’s Causeway , before returning to Dublin in the evening.

Yes, a day trip to Cork from Dublin is possible. The journey takes approximately 2.5 hours by train, bus, or car. Visitors can explore attractions such as the English Market , Cork City Gaol , and the Blarney Castle , before returning to Dublin in the evening.

The best months to visit Dublin are typically May, June, and September. These months offer milder weather, fewer crowds than the peak summer months, and longer daylight hours, making it ideal for exploring the city’s attractions, enjoying outdoor activities, and experiencing cultural events and festivals.

CONCLUSION: Best Half-Day Tours and Trips From Dublin

Dublin offers a plethora of incredible half-day trips and tours that allow visitors to explore the diverse beauty and rich history of Ireland. Whether it’s admiring the breathtaking landscapes of the Wicklow Mountains and Glendalough, immersing in the coastal charm of Howth, indulging in craft beer and seafood delights, or embarking on thrilling adventures like kayaking or rock climbing, there is something for everyone.

These well-crafted tours provide a perfect balance of exploration, entertainment, and relaxation, ensuring that every moment spent outside the bustling city of Dublin is filled with unforgettable experiences. So, step out of the urban streets and embark on one of these captivating half-day trips to create lasting memories and discover the wonders that surround the Irish capital.

Related Post: Is the Guinness Storehouse Tour Worth It? Reviews and Tips Top 27-Day Trips From Galway Best Castle Hotels in Ireland

☘️ Ireland FAQs ☘️ ✈️ Where Can You Find the BEST Flight Deals to Ireland? 1. Scott’s Cheap Flights – FREE flight deals alert, works best if you can be flexible 2. Skyscanner – FREE search engine, great for budget flights + deal ❗ Is Travel Insurance Required in Ireland? No, it’s not. However, it’s always recommended to have travel insurance any time you travel in case of injury, accident, lost luggage, missed flight, etc. The best and most affordable travel/expat insurance is Safety Wing . >>> CLICK HERE FOR INFO ☔️  When Is the Best Time to Visit Ireland? Summer (June-August) – is the warmest and rains the least but you will have the most crowds. Spring (March-May) or Fall (September-November) – are cooler and have more rain but you will beat the crowds and see some incredible wildflowers ( spring )/greenery (fall). 🏠 Where Should You Stay in Ireland? Hotels, hostels, vacation rentals, and house sitting are all available in Ireland for accommodation. My top recommendations for each are: • Booking.com • Hostelworld • Vrbo (usually better options than Airbnb in Ireland) • Trusted Housesitters (watch a home/pets in return for a FREE place to stay) ☘️ Where Can You Find Tours? I found incredible tours in Ireland >>>HERE for private and guided group tours of both the most popular attractions and ones that fit your specific interests. 🚘 Should You Rent a Car in Ireland? I always tell my friends and family to  rent a car  in Ireland so that they don’t miss out on the gorgeous scenery and wonderful things to do in between the big cities! However, if you plan to stay only in the cities, then you should be fine getting by with buses and walking. >>> What to know about driving in Ireland >>> The best car rental in Ireland 🍻 Make sure to try out the pubs ! Even if you don’t drink, the atmosphere, live music, and friendly people are very uniquely Irish.

Janelle Axton is a travel consultant and owner of Make the Trip Matter, a service dedicated to helping people create a lifestyle around frequent travel and extended time abroad. She grew up in California and spent time living abroad in Ireland in addition to traveling to over 25 countries.

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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 Mar 2, 2016 and updated Apr 15, 2024.

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

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

Here’s why.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Check rental car prices with Discover Cars now!

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

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

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

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

Book your day trip to Howth + Malahide Castle today!

Kilkenny (+ Cashel)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Wicklow Mountains

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

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

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

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

Familiar with Waterford Crystal?

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

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

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

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

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

Grab tickets for the Waterford Crystal Factory tour now!

Hill of Tara

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

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

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

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

Hook Peninsula

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Book your day trip to Belfast today!

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

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

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

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

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

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

Cliffs of Moher

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

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

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

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

Giant’s Causeway + Causeway Coast

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

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

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

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

Blarney Castle + Cork

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

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

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

Book your day trip to Blarney Castle today!

About Kate Storm

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

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

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The 10 best day trips from dublin, ireland.

Last updated on February 29th, 2024 at 02:10 pm

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

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

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

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

Ireland travel resources

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

Getting Around and Out of Dublin

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

Getting to Dublin City Center from the Airport

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

Getting to Dublin By Bus

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

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

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

Getting to Dublin By Taxi

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

Walking in Dublin

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

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

Renting a Car in Dublin

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

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

Getting Out of Dublin to the Rest of Ireland

Ireland by bus.

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

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

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

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

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

Ireland by Train

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

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

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

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

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

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

Ireland by Tour

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

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

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

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

Best Day Trips from Dublin, Ireland

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

Ready? Let’s go!

Day Trip from Dublin: Howth

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

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

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

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

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

Getting to Howth from Dublin

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

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

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

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

Day Trip from Dublin: Malahide

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

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

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

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

Getting to Malahide from Dublin

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

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

Day Trip from Dublin: Bray

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

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

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

Getting to Bray from Dublin

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

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

Day Trip from Dublin: Powerscourt Estate and Gardens

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

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

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

Getting to Powerscourt from Dublin

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

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

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

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

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

Day Trip from Dublin: Dun Laoghaire

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

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

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

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

Getting to Dun Laoghaire from Dublin

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

A return way ticket costs €5. 

Day Trip from Dublin: Wicklow

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

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

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

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

Getting to Wicklow from Dublin

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

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

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

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

Day Trip from Dublin: Newgrange and the Hill of Tara

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

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

Getting to Newgrange from Dublin

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

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

Day Trip from Dublin: Kilkenny

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

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

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

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

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

Getting to Kilkenny from Dublin

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

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

Day Trip from Dublin: Galway & Cliffs of Moher

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

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

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

Getting to Galway from Dublin

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

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

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

Day Trip from Dublin: Northern Ireland

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

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

Getting to Northern Ireland from Dublin

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

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

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

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

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

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The 5 best day trips from Dublin

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

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

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

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

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

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

Best day trips from Dublin

1.  howth.

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

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

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

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

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

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

If you only do one thing… 

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

2.  Galway

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

3.  Kilkenny

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

4.  Glendalough

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

5.  Belfast

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

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

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

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

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

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

If you only do one thing…

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

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3 Day Tours from Dublin

Irish tours departing dublin for 3 days.

Are you ready for an adventure? The Emerald Isle awaits. Even if you only have a few days in which to explore, our tours are here for you, with our short but sweet 3-day tours from Dublin. Ireland is like a wild horse frolicking in a rugged landscape. What's more, this beautiful land is bursting with historic castles, stunning waterscapes, and sacred Guinness.

And we want to make the most out of your  tour of Ireland . We strive to go beyond the traditional, looking 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.  

Planning Your 3-Day Tour from Dublin

The beauty of a 3-day tour from Dublin is you can find whatever it is you're looking for, even in just three days. 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 to say 'yes' to adventure.

Travel Responsibly from Dublin 

No matter where we travel in this beautiful world, we believe it deserves to be cared for by every visitor. And that’s exactly what we strive to do, in Ireland and beyond. Through our responsible travel initiative , we donate, volunteer, use small mini-coaches and do as much as we can to protect locations for future generations to enjoy. 

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Dingle, Killarney & the Wild Atlantic Way - 3 day tour

Combine serene spiritual locations with wild natural landscapes on this journey to the west of Ireland.

Prices from €359.00

DEPARTING FROM: Dublin

West Coast Explorer - 3 day tour

Discover the soaring mountains, spectacular wildlife, and mystical history of Ireland's West Coast.

Prices from €399.00

Discover Northern Ireland - 3 day tour

Be entranced by the Emerald Isle's historic wonder and majestic scenery.

Blarney Castle, Kilkenny & Irish Whiskey - 3 day tour

Unearth Ireland's most unspoilt corner of beautiful beaches and ancient local history.

County Donegal & the Wild Atlantic Way - 3 day tour

Whether you love history, literature, nature, or a good cosy pub, it's time you had it all.

Prices from €389.00

20 EPIC Day Trips By Train From Dublin

Ireland is an incredible European destination with its medieval castles and rolling green hills, but what makes it truly amazing is the diversity in its regions from modern cities to rural, countryside villages. There are countless day trips by train from Dublin available to travelers that are occasionally overlooked.

In just a few hours, you could go from sharing a pint with a local at the Temple Bar in Dublin to skipping rocks at the Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland.

Many people dream about taking a trip to Ireland one day but aren’t sure which day trips to include on their itinerary.

That’s why I have created this ultimate guide to the best day trips you can take from Dublin so there is no guessing which towns are worth visiting! If you are planning on arriving in the Irish capital, be sure to check out my Perfect Two Days in Dublin Itinerary .

I hope you find the article useful in planning your next Ireland itinerary !

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20 EPIC Day Trips by Train from Dublin

If you’re looking to fit more into your Ireland itinerary but aren’t planning to rent a car, check out these amazing day trips from Dublin by train! They’re easy to plan and affordable to reach, so the whole family can travel together with ease.

They have been put in order from the shortest travel time to the longest, to save you a bit of research, as well!

1. Kilkenny – one of the quickest day trips by train from Dublin!

Kilkenny is a charming town with a beautiful castle located only a 100-minute train ride from Dublin. If you’re short on time, Kilkenny is one of the best day trips from Dublin by train since it will give you the chance to explore the countryside, some castles, and some lovely Irish cobblestone streets.

When walking around Kilkenny, there are a few places to make sure you stop in and see including the Kilkenny Cathedral as well as the Kilkenny Castle .

Both are extremely captivating with their intricate details and medieval style and are by far some of the best buildings to see in Ireland. They tower over the town and create the perfect backdrop for pictures and quintessential wandering!

Afterward, stroll along the Nore River and take a peek inside the dozens of beautiful shops selling homemade artisan crafts. I found my Aran Islands wool scarf in Kilkenny, and it’s still my favorite to this day!

2. Limerick

Limerick can be found on the western coast of Ireland almost directly between Doolin and Dingle. This small town packs a cultural punch with its array of museums, art galleries, ancient cathedrals, stone memorials, and even the infamous King John’s Castle .

Limerick is one of the best places in Ireland to capture a glimpse of what life may have been like in previous centuries while still being surrounded by beautiful scenery and hospitable people.

If you are what I like to call a “museum hopper” (someone who hops from one museum to the next all day long), then Limerick should be included as one of your day trips by train from Dublin.

The Hunt Museum , the Limerick Museum , and the Limerick City Gallery of Art are all well-known for their interesting artifacts and pieces of literature and art, and are well deserving of a visit from any art history enthusiast!

Easily reachable in just 2 hours by train from Dublin, Limerick is an amazing city to choose for your day trips from the Irish capital!

3. Rock of Cashel

The Rock of Cashel is a famous limestone hilltop that is covered in ancient ruins dating back to the 1100s. You can find the old cathedral shown above, an ancient fort, and plenty of medieval artifacts worthy of exploring.

Spend some time walking along the long, stone pathway to the castle, wander some of the halls accessible to visitors, and then make your way up to one of the nearby hilltops .

Why? Because you’ll be rewarded with exceptional views of the entire hilltop and you’ll get to see just how many ancient ruins lie on this plot of Irish soil!

The further back and higher you can get from the cathedral, the better views you’ll get. Yes, it is quite hilly so some walking (and a good bit of endurance) will be required, but I can almost guarantee it will be worth it.

The Rock of Cashel is easily reachable on a day trip from Dublin by train in just over 2 hours (2.75 hours if you have to change trains), so consider it a great addition to your Ireland itinerary!

4. Galway – one of the most popular train trips from Dublin!

Galway is almost directly west of Dublin on Ireland’s far west coastline and is one of the more “city-like” destinations on this list. While it is one of the more popular day trips from Dublin by train, it is far more of a city than it is a charming Irish town.

One of my absolute favorite things to do in Galway is to go see a Trad on the Prom show! This exciting show is full of traditional Irish music and Irish step dancing and makes for one of the best things to do in Ireland, in my opinion.

If you find yourself dancing, singing, or tapping along to the live bands that play in pubs all over the country, then this show is for you. Keep in mind, they aren’t always in Galway so you may need to do some research before planning your trip if you want to include them on your itinerary!

Galway is easily reachable by train from Dublin in just under 2.5 hours, so you could easily check out for just a day or so.

5. Cork – among the most iconic places to visit near Dublin by train

This colorful city also just so happens to be Ireland’s second-largest followed by Louth and is known to be one of Ireland’s best foodie destinations. Just a meager 2.5-hour train ride from Dublin, you can easily include a day trip to Cork city centre in your visit!

Take some time to stroll through the dozens of stalls at the infamous English Market on Princes St. where you’ll find goodies galore! From handmade chocolates to local cheeses and produce, even Queen Elizabeth II said it was a place to explore after her visit in 2011!

Once you’ve had your share of food, you can make your way over to the Blarney Castle to wander its halls and kiss the Blarney Stone for good luck (here are 7 Incredbile Blarney Castle Tours from Cork & Dublin if you’re interested).

Then, it will be time to check out the museum, Cork City Gaol , and learn about the life of the inmates that once walked the prison halls. Both day and nighttime tours are on offer here, but those who wander in at night have told tales of spooky events!

For an in-depth look at accommodations in Cork, check out my full guide on Where to Stay in Cork, Ireland – A County Cork Guide .

6. Killarney

Situated southeast of the Dingle Peninsula in County Kerry, Killarney is a charming town on the borders of the Ireland-famous Killarney National Park .

While you could easily spend days exploring this natural treasure, there are also plenty of other things to do, as well!

Ross Castle surely won’t disappoint with its dominating design and medieval towers, the Muckross House has gardens that span as far as the eye can see along Muckross Lake, and the Killarney House and Gardens provide a wonderful escape from the center of town for those looking to escape modern-day shops and buildings.

For those who swoon over colorful shops and cobblestone streets, the center of town is lined with plenty of charming buildings and colorful, Instagram-worthy spots worth checking out.

And since it’s just 3 hours and 15 minutes by train, this is a great day trip by train from Dublin to consider!

7. Blarney Castle – one of the most beautiful train journeys from Dublin

The infamous Blarney Castle and Gardens can be found about 20 minutes northwest of Cork and offers visitors incredible views from the top. Just a 3 hour and 20-minute train ride from the capital, a visit to Blarney Castle makes for one of the best day trips by train from Dublin you can take!

For the perfect day trip from Dublin, start by exploring downtown Cork, then slowly make your way over to the castle by mid-morning.

Stroll the grounds and surrounding lush gardens, then make your way into the castle which is open year-round. But, if you’re in a bit of a rush, head to Blarney Castle first and leave Cork for later since long lines generally start forming around mid-morning!

Once you get to the top, take in the sweeping views before making your way back down and over to the Blarney Stone.

If you’re up for the challenge, you’ll have to lay flat on the ground on your back and bend over backwards to kiss the Blarney Stone – this is said to bring good luck as it is a tradition that has been going on for centuries.

✔️ Pro Tip : you may want to bring an alcoholic wipe or pad to wipe your mouth off afterwards… hundreds of people kiss that stone every day and in the hours before you, so it’s not exactly sanitary.

8. Cobh – one of the most iconic day trips by train from Dublin!

Ever seen pictures of Ireland in a magazine of multicolored houses descending down a long sidewalk with a majestic cathedral in the background?

Well, that’s Cobh ! It’s about 3 hours and 20 minutes from Dublin by train, so you can try to squeeze it into a day trip from Dublin, or better yet, into a 2-day trip from Dublin.

Cobh is one of the most quintessential places in Ireland and makes for one of the best day trips from Dublin by train. It’s located a mere 30 minute drive southeast of Cork, but provides a completely unique experience compared to other places in Ireland.

Cobh has both modern and traditional Irish parts to it, with some charming streets like the one pictured above to the rustic sidewalks that line the fishing docks.

No matter where you go in Cobh, you’ll be sure to find fresh seafood, colorful buildings, and lively pubs at any time of the day.

9. Cliffs of Moher – easily one of the most popular day trips from Dublin by train!

The Cliffs of Moher are by far one of the most popular day trips from Dublin by train and are included on almost every Ireland itinerary I’ve ever written and seen!

These spectacular cliffs boast steep edges and drops and dramatic views over the Atlantic Ocean. At their highest point, you can stand at over 700 feet (213 meters) while watching the giant waves crash along the rugged coastline below via a stunning cliff walk.

These cliffs are located in County Clare, about 10 minutes south of the popular fishing village of Doolin (also included on this list!) and can be reached via car, bus, train (in around 3.5 hours), or the most popular option is to take a day trip from Dublin.

If you’re traveling with a family, aren’t renting a car, or only have a short amount of time for exploring, I suggest checking out these 7 Top Rated Cliffs of Moher Tours from Dublin ! If you’re interested in day trips, you can also check out any one of these 9 Top-Rated Giant’s Causeway Tours in Ireland .

10. Kinsale

Located in County Cork and forming the beginning of the infamous Wild Atlantic Way , Kinsale is a beautiful town known for its vibrant streets, charming architecture, and shops and pubs galore.

Of the many experiences one can have here, be sure to make a visit to the Desmond Castle . This unique castle was originally built around 1500 and is now home to the International Museum of Wine!

✔️ I can’t think of a better pairing than castles and wine, so this is a win-win in my book.

The Kinsale Museum is another great place to learn about Ireland’s history dating back to the late 16 th century in the center of town, or if you are up for a little bit of walking, there are a few great spots located just outside the town, as well.

All that is left of the coastal fortress, James Fort , dates back to the early 17 th century and offers gorgeous views of Kinsale from across the Archdeacon Duggan Bridge .

Charles Fort is another great spot to witness some ancient Irish ruins for the history buff in your group!

✔️ Kinsale takes about 3 hours and 40 minutes to reach by train, so this may be a lot for the average traveler to do in one day. Instead, opt to visit Kinsale if you have 2 days or more available for your Dublin day trips by train.

11. Doolin – one of my personal favorite day trips from Dublin Ireland by train!

If you have read my other articles about Ireland, you have probably learned by now that Doolin is one of my absolute favorite places in Europe. So, you can probably guess that I’m going to try to convince you to plan one of your day trips by train from Dublin to this quaint fishing village!

But, I have to be honest, Doolin is not home to many major attractions… but, that is what makes it so great! Yes, the Cliffs of Moher are just a mere 10 minute drive away, but most people come for the cliffs then continue on their way.

Doolin is home to one of the best pubs in Ireland, Gus O’Connor’s Pub , which is known for its good food and live music, and the nearby Burren Geopark which forms part of the Cliffs of Moher and offers incredible sights and spectacular views.

But, otherwise, Doolin is just a charming fishing village known for its local pubs, wonderful locals, and traditional Irish culture! It’s reachable from Dublin city centre in just over 4 hours by train making it possible to do in a day, but it’s really best explored in 2-3 days.

If you’re looking for a small-town village feel on your trip to Ireland, Doolin should be at the top of your list!

✔️ Doolin is just over 4 hours from Dublin by train, so this would make for a hefty day of travel. If you have the option, I would recommend staying overnight in Doolin before taking the train back to Dublin the following day.

Situated on the famous Dingle Peninsula, Dingle is one of my favorite places in all of Ireland!

It’s home to dozens of vibrantly colored cottages, scenic outlooks over the Atlantic, and some of the best fish and chips in the country.

While Dingle is a wonderful place for relaxing and strolling through town in search of authentic, Irish-made souvenirs, it’s also a great place for some fun out on the ocean!

You can join a “ seafari “, or sea safari, in search of dolphins, seals, birds native to the area, and more. There are also plenty of opportunities for exploring the harbor on kayaks or taking a boat trip out to the Blasket Islands .

Whether you decide to sit back in an armchair overlooking the harbor from my favorite Dingle accommodation, Pax Guesthouse , in search of the famed Dingle dolphin, Fungie, or you choose to head out onto the water, be sure to include Slea Head drive on your way into or out of town!

It’s one of the most famed roads in all of Ireland and makes this day trip from Dublin extra special.

✔️ You can reach Dingle easily by train, but you’ll be looking at around a 5.5-hour travel time. So, it’s best to only do this if you have a couple of days before you need to return to Dublin, or drive yourself which will only take around 4 hours.

For an intricate look at where to stay in Dingle, read about these 9 Best Dingle Accommodations !

Weekend Trips from Dublin by Train

If you aren’t planning on renting a car in Ireland and want to explore some destinations that may require a little extra planning, check out these amazing destinations below!

Many of them will require 3-5 hours of train travel each way, so I suggest staying overnight before making your return trip to Dublin, if possible.

13. Giant’s Causeway – one of the best two day trip from Dublin by train

The Giant’s Causeway in Bushmills, Northern Ireland is one of the most highly recognized destinations in the country.

This fantastic location boasts thousands and thousands of tall basalt columns that have previously been called the “8th wonder of the world” by tourists and locals alike.

This unique gem is reachable in about 5 hours from Dublin by train, but due to its exotic location on the extreme northern border of the island of Ireland and the need to cross country borders to reach it, you’ll want to plan to have more time at this specific spot.

The area is one of the most scenic in not only Ireland, but also Europe, and is by far one of the best day trips by train from Dublin on this list! It will require several transportation swaps, so it’s best to plan your route in advance.

✔️ Be sure to have personal identification with you… in past years, people typically haven’t been seeing border patrols when arriving in Northern Ireland from the Republic of Ireland, but there is always a chance. Passports may be required to show if you are wishing to board a ferry or plane.

14. Kylemore Abbey

The famous Kylemore Abbey and Victorian Walled Garden is a true wonder in Galway, Ireland. This monstrous castle was built in 1920 as a Benedictine monastery overlooking the Pollacapall Lough.

The area boasts beautiful gardens and free walking tours of the property, as well as a stunning, gothic church, a pottery and crafts studio, a restaurant, and even a tea room.

The monastery is often mistaken for a medieval castle owing to its grand size, dominating location, and middle-aged architecture. But, today, the grounds are often flocked by people touring the inside and outside of the building and are beautiful to visit year-round.

Now, I’m going to be honest… this trip is only for the dedicated train enthusiast . The trip takes around 15 hours and will require a train swap at some point, so Kylemore Abbey should be done in a long weekend or preferable longer if you can manage it!

World-famous for its inclusions in movies and books, the region of Kerry on the southwestern edge of Ireland is known for its Ring of Kerry . This ring is nearly 180 kilometers long and offers some of the most stunning views of the Irish coastline anywhere in the country!

If you plan on self-driving any portion of your day trips from Dublin, be sure to combine the Ring of Kerry with the nearby Dingle Peninsula and if you have the time, the town of Killarney and its national park.

This is one of the most scenic areas in Ireland that also offers easy access to great seafood and hospitable people!

You can reach Kerry in under 6 hours by train from Dublin, so you can attempt to squeeze the journey into a weekend, but I would recommend staying 3 nights in Kerry before returning to Dublin, if possible.

16. Connemara National Park – one of the best nature day trips from Dublin by train!

While Connemara National Park can be visited on a day trip from Dublin by train, I highly suggest setting aside at least two days if you can to account for the travel time (about 5.5 hours of train travel each way).

✔️ The journey will also take you many more hours if the high-speed train is booked up owing to numerous stops, so I wouldn’t suggest taking this as just a single day trip from Dublin.

This national park is actually where you’ll find the Kylemore Abbey and the Victorian Walled Garden as well as plenty of hiking and sightseeing opportunities.

If you love to hike, Diamond Hill makes for the perfect day hike that provides sweeping views over the Irish countryside and surrounding mountains. It stands around 442 meters (1450 feet) and offers trails of varying difficulties.

The Connemara Loop is also wonderful for walking and hiking around and may even offer you some exciting wildlife spotting opportunities! It’s particularly beautiful in the winter months , when the possibility of seeing snow is at its annual high.

17. Slieve League – among the best day trips from Dublin by public transport system

While many tourists come to Ireland with the ultimate goal of reaching the almighty Cliffs of Moher, there are actually significantly larger and higher cliffs elsewhere in Ireland.

The Slieve League cliffs in northwestern Ireland in County Donegal are among the most impressive in all of Europe. In fact, the Cliffs of Moher only reach about 700 feet, whereas the Slieve League cliffs reach nearly 2,000 feet!

That is over two and a half times the height of the Cliffs of Moher! These mighty cliffs are also just under 6 hours by train from Dublin, so you could easily fit them in on a weekend trip from the city.

Once you’ve acknowledged how large these cliffs actually are, head into Donegal and look for some handcrafted souvenirs made out of the ancient Donegal tweed .

It’s one of Ireland’s most precious resources and has been used for centuries for its warmth and long-lasting qualities.

Half Day Trips from Dublin by Train

I’ve included a list of a few of the best short day trips from Dublin below, some of which may surprise you!

18. Town of Bray – among the best short day trips from Dublin by train

This coastal town is a meager 45 minutes by train outside the city of Dublin (though it can take much longer to get there if you leave during high-traffic hours). Located 30 kilometers southeast of the city, visitors can find a true beach escape perfect for the summer months.

The primary beach in Bray is lined with a beautiful boardwalk and you have the option of visiting a quaint little town with colorful shops and beautiful rolling hills on either side.

Stop in Bray for the afternoon to look for sea glass and get into nature a little or even just to escape the chaos that comes with Dublin!

19. Wicklow Mountains National Park

Located just over an hour south of Dublin, the Wicklow Mountains are one of the most beautiful day trips by train from Dublin that you can take!

They offer incredible opportunities for hiking, sightseeing, and wildlife spotting, as well as the chance to swim in some beautiful crystal clear lakes.

It is estimated that over one million people visit this national park each year for its remarkable flora and fauna, stunning scenery, and convenient location when coming from Dublin. Reachable in just around 90 minutes by train, there are few better half day trips from Dublin you can take!

20. Belfast – easily one of the best train rides from Dublin

The capital of Northern Ireland, Belfast is a true Irish city living up to its name. This city is one of the liveliest in the country, similar to that of Dublin, boasting hundreds of pubs and outdoor cafes all over the place.

Outside of the main city life, you’ll find the Belfast Castle and the unique Ulster Museum which gives visitors insight into over 9,000 years of Irish history. You’ll also be within an hour and a half of the Giant’s Causeway, making this a great day trip from Dublin.

If you’re looking for another place to spend a night out on the town, Belfast surely won’t disappoint. It’s also a mere hour and 40 minutes away from Dublin by car, so you can easily reach this iconic Irish city for a half day trip!

So, is Belfast a day trip from Dublin? Yes, it absolutely can be!

FAQ: Day Trips by Train from Dublin

In this next section, we’ve answered some of the most common questions about taking day trips from Dublin without a car!

Where do Trains Go to from Dublin?

Trains from Dublin can take you to a variety of destinations! You can explore Ireland’s rich history in Kilkenny, soak in the vibrant arts scene in Galway, or embrace the tranquility of the coastal town of Greystones.

If castles pique your interest, then a trip to Malahide Castle is a must. For a quaint village experience, head off to Howth. There’s so much to discover outside of Dublin, all conveniently accessible by train!

What Day Trips Can You Take from Dublin Ireland?

As for day trips from Dublin, you could visit the bustling markets of Cork City, explore the rolling hills of Wicklow, or enjoy a day on the beach at Bray.

You could also take a trip to the mysterious Cliffs of Moher, experience a traditional Irish night out in Kilkenny, or spend an afternoon strolling around Sligo. The possibilities are endless!

Can You Take Day Trips from Dublin?

It is absolutely possible to take day trips from Dublin , whether it be by the Irish rail, car, or a Dublin bus! From day trips on the train to multi-day car journeys, Ireland has something for everyone.

Can You do a Day Trip from Dublin to Cork?

It is definitely possible to do a day trip from Dublin to Cork . The journey does take about 2 and a half to 3 hours each way, but there are plenty of sights along the way and you can make it an enjoyable experience.

Since it will be a long day of travel, it’s usually recommended to spend at least one night in Cork before returning to the Irish capital.

What are the Best Day Trips from Dublin?

Some of the best and most popular day trips from Dublin include Waterford, Cork, Galway, and the Cliffs of Moher . You could always stick around Dublin to check out the Guinness Storehouse or the Jameson Distillery , but that’s not going to take all week…

These places are easily reachable in just a couple hours, so you can make day train trips out of them quite easily… especially if you opt for a guided tour !

But, in our opinion, there are several day trips from Dublin that top our list, though they may be a little bit difficult to do in just one day.

If you have the option of staying overnight in another town, we would highly recommend visiting Adare, Dingle, Doolin, Kilkenny, and Cobh!

How Do I Get to the Irish Countryside from Dublin?

Getting to the Irish countryside from Dublin city centre couldn’t be easier. Whether you rent a car and drive yourself on a self-guided road trip or you jump on a short train ride, you can be in the Irish countryside in no time!

Many of the most popular towns near Dublin such as Drogheda, Kilkenny, and Waterford all have beautiful countryside to explore in addition to their quaint towns.

Pretty much no matter where you go in Ireland outside of the major cities you’re going to find that ideal Irish countryside!

Ireland is an incredible destination year-round with its hospitable locals, traditional folk music, unparalleled scenery, and heartwarming culture. Although, Belfast doesn’t have a famed Aldi like the rest of the Republic of Ireland.

If you are planning your next trip to Ireland and need some advice on what to pack, be sure to check out my ultimate packing list for Ireland before heading to the airport!

Other Helpful Ireland Resources

Dublin Postal Codes & Zip Codes in 2024 (Map & Diagram!) 10 Outstanding Dublin Food Tours for 2024

I hope this guide helps you plan some fantastic day trips by train from Dublin and inspires you to travel outside of this magnificent country’s capital. I can honestly say this is the best way to explore a new country, but especially in Ireland where the locals will take you in like family.

Hey there! I'm Emily Concannon, a seasoned globetrotter who has backpacked her way across over a dozen European countries, immersing myself in the diverse cultures, languages, and cuisines of the region.

My passion for travel transcends personal experiences; I've spent years learning how to transform my globetrotting knowledge into personalized itineraries for fellow travelers worldwide.

With a tally of 26 countries (and counting!) under my belt, my day job involves extensive research on different countries which often leads me to booking a new adventure every chance I get!

9 Spectacular Day Trips from Dublin Everyone Should Do

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

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

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

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

Jump to a Heading Below

Getting Around Dublin (& Out of Dublin)

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

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

Getting Around Dublin By Bus

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

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

Getting Around Dublin by LUAS & DART

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

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

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

Getting Out of Dublin

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

9 Spectacular Day Trips from Dublin

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

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

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

Getting to Howth from Dublin

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

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

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

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

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

Getting to Glendalough from Dublin

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

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

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

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

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

Getting to Belfast from Dublin

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

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

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

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

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

Getting to Bray/Greystones from Dublin

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

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

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

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

Getting to Athlone from Dublin

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

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

6. Kilkenny Offers the Most Picturesque Day Trip from Dublin

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

Getting to Kilkenny from Dublin

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

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

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

Getting to Powerscourt Waterfall from Dublin

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

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

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

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

Getting to Malahide from Dublin

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

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

Getting to Newgrange From Dublin

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

+ Even More Dublin Day Trips

Blarney Castle

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

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

Cliffs of Moher

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

Ring of Kerry

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

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Ireland Tours from Dublin

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10 best Ireland tour packages from Dublin

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7-Day Great Atlantic Adventure Small Group Tour

The royal atlantic, the celtic voyage - multi-day - small group tour of ireland, 7-day ireland to island small group tour of ireland, 5-day escape to the south west small-group tour from dublin, the wicklow way: self guided 10 day, irish highlights (winter, 7 days), irish highlights (summer, 7 days), south west ireland uncovered (hotel) - 5 days, south west ireland uncovered - 5 days.

“We had a wonderful time, and we loved all the locations. We would definitely choose tourradar for a future vacation.” William Morgan, traveled in June 2024

• Pick up some Gaelic words on the remote Aran Islands
• Discover the lunar landscape of the Burren
• Enjoy bohemian Galway and the rugged sights of Connemara

“Well organized and amazing tour. Hotels were clean and well situated to center cities.” Malika Benfredj, traveled in September 2024

• Sightseeing
• Kiss the Blarney Stone at Blarney Castle
• Tour Connemara's rugged landscapes
• Explore the Cliffs of Moher and Burren

“Wonderful tour and guides. I will defenately recommend them and use them again.” Rosvita Blagojevic, traveled in July 2023

• In-depth Cultural
• Coach / Bus
• Meet the locals and experience tasty seafood in Doolin
• Discover Killarney, Ireland’s first national park
• Explore the remarkable Gaelic culture of Ireland

“Small Bus touring is the way to go!” Bob Krewson, traveled in September 2023

• Hike along the jaw-dropping Cliffs of Moher
• Cycle the majestic Aran Islands and discover Bohemian Galway
• Be one of the few to set foot on Skellig Michael

“Great personality and very knowledgeable on the best deals and sites to see. A truly standup guy.” Theresa Collins, traveled in August 2024

• View Ireland’s highest mountain, Carrauntoohil
• Go shopping in Blarney and explore Blarney castle
• Visit the Cliffs of Moher and the Dingle Peninsula

• Hiking & Trekking
• Self Guided Walking Holidays
• Discover ancient monasteries in Glendalough
• Climb the scenic Spinc overlooking Glendalough
• Walk through Marlay Park's wooded trails

“They went out of their way to make sure every single person on the tour had an enjoyable and memorable experience.” Nicolette Fisher, traveled in December 2023

• Christmas & New Year
• Marvel at the Cliffs of Moher
• Explore Dublin with a Local Specialist

“He was informative, professional, fun and detail oriented. He went above and beyond our expectations!!” Maureen Mays, traveled in July 2024

• Learn the histories and legends of the Emerald Isle
• Indulge in a hearty farmhouse feast in County Wicklow
• Enjoy the craic during an Irish pub evening with the group

“We loved this tour. We have also made very good friends from the group.” Ozlem Kocanaogullari, traveled in August 2023

• Visit Blarney Castle and kiss the stone
• Hike the trails at Cliffs of Moher
• Enjoy live music in vibrant Killarney

“Air B&B's Perfect, great having a 3 night stay in 1place. Along with his knowledge and Happy Irish Personality.” Gary Short, traveled in August 2024

• Enjoy live music in Killarney's pubs

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11 Picturesque Day Trips from Dublin by Train

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my links, at no extra cost to you. Please read  full disclosure  for more information.

Wondering about the best day trips from Dublin by train? You’re in luck; I studied abroad in Dublin and relied heavily on public transportation to get around the country. So, I’ve rounded up all of the best ones for you!

Dublin is a well-connected city with excellent rail links to the rest of the country. Ireland’s rail network is straightforward to use and very reasonably priced – particularly if you book in advance. This makes it easy to escape the chaos of the city for a day and explore more of the magical country of Ireland. 

There is an endless supply of incredible day trips from Dublin by train, and Ireland certainly has no shortage of amazing things to see and do.

Whether you fancy taking an adventurous hike or are more interested in discovering Ireland’s ancient history, these fantastic Dublin day trips mean you can make the most of your time in the enchanting city.

Table of Contents

Dublin Day Trips By Train at a Glance

From Dublin, you can easily reach the cities of Cork, Belfast, and Galway in just a few hours. You can also find beautiful coastal towns, rolling hills, and quaint villages all a short journey away.

With the right itinerary, you can experience the best of Ireland in just one day.

Day Trips from Dublin by Train

🚂 Distance: 35 – 50 minutes, depending on service

🧭 How to get there: DART trains to Bray depart from Dublin Connolly station. Services are operated by Irish Rail and depart every 10 minutes. It’s a direct service, so hop off when you reach Bray Daly Station. 

The quaint seaside town of Bray is one of the best Dublin day trips if you’re craving a taste of salty sea air. The town has a pretty seafront Victorian promenade, excellent for a leisurely stroll and a scoop or two of delicious local ice cream.

Just a short train ride away from the hustle and bustle of Dublin, Bray makes for a relaxing seaside escape. 

The rugged coastline surrounding Bray provides some brilliant walking routes. The Bray to Greystones Cliff Walk is a 4.4-mile route around the crumbling clifftops, boasting some of Ireland’s most scenic views.

It’s short enough to complete in the morning or afternoon, making it an excellent short day trip from Dublin.

Read More: How to Take a Day Trip From Dublin to Bray, Ireland 🚉

If you’re craving an adventure, Bray is an excellent spot. There’s a whole host of watersports on offer in Bray – that is if you’re daring enough to brave the chilly Irish Sea.

You can spend a thrilling afternoon doing a coasteering session – a combination of rock climbing, caving, sea swimming, and cliff diving.

If that’s not your thing, you could opt for kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding instead – whatever activity you choose, there are plenty of ways to make the most of Bray’s wild and beautiful coastline. 

🚂 Book your ticket to Bray here! 🚂

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Dún Laoghaire

🚂 Distance: 30 minutes

🧭 How to get there: This is a popular commuter route, so there are a few different train options, all leaving regularly from Dublin Connolly Station. Take either the DART heading to Bray Daly or Greystones or the InterCity to Rosslare Europort (the InterCity is the route with the least stops). Disembark at Dún Laoghaire Mallin Station. 

The lively little harbor village of Dún Laoghaire is one of the best day trips from Dublin by train, and the journey to get there is quick and easy. Tourists and locals alike love to escape to  Dún Laoghaire for a fun-filled afternoon. 

Dún Laoghaire’s People’s Park is home to one of Dublin’s best markets. The market takes place every Sunday and hosts over 50 vendors selling everything from delicious homemade food to carefully handcrafted jewelry.

You can easily spend a few hours browsing all the stalls and filling up on tasty artisan produce. 

The town has a buzzing drinking scene and is home to some excellent pubs, all of which have a far more local feel than anything you might find in Dublin’s city center.

McLoughlin’s Bar is a great place to catch some live traditional music and has a lively atmosphere most weekends .

Dún Laoghaire is the perfect place to experience Ireland’s famous pub culture, and you won’t struggle to find a cozy retreat from the blustery sea breeze. 

🚂 Book your ticket to Dún Laoghaire here! 🚂

🚂 Distance: 30 minutes 

🧭 How to get there: Take the DART train from Dublin Connolly Station to Howth Station. Make sure to get off at Howth rather than Howth Junction, which is three stops before Howth and is a completely different area! 

Located just 9 miles from the center of Dublin, Howth has maintained a completely separate identity and way of life from the city.

As you exit the train and enter the village, you’ll find it hard to believe how close you are to the city – Howth feels as if it’s located in a far-flung corner of rural Ireland.

It’s a picturesque harbor village home to the largest yacht club in the country and an abundance of beautiful walking routes. 

Read More: How to Take a Day Trip to Howth from Dublin 🌊

For something different to do, you could visit the Hurdy-Gurdy Museum of Vintage Radio . The museum is a curation of old music memorabilia and broadcast equipment, lovingly curated over the years by its founder, Pat Herbert.

The museum is located in a Martello Tower at the top of a steep hill and contains an incredible collection of vintage finds – it’s a perfect activity for music lovers. 

Balscadden Bay is a real hidden gem in Howth. This little shingle beach is located close to Howth Harbour, and is popular with outdoor swimmers thanks to its generous tide times and beautiful scenery.

The bay is home to a large resident seal population, and if you take a dip in its enlivening waters, you’re likely to see a few heads popping up… sometimes as close as 100 meters away.

The Howth Cliff Walk is an absolute must-do activity and is arguably one of the best walks in the Dublin area . There is a trail for every ability level, offering incredible panoramic views over the heather-carpeted hills and sparkling Irish sea.

After a few hours of rambling in invigorating seaside air, there are plenty of brilliant post-walk pint spots in the village before heading back to the city. 

🚂 Book your ticket to Howth here! 🚂

🚂 Distance: 2 hours and 15 minutes 

🧭 How to get there: Catch the InterCity train from Dublin Connolly to Belfast. This is a direct service leaving every two hours and only makes four stops between the two cities, so it is a comfortable journey. Pre-booking this route is recommended to get the best price. 

Belfast is the birthplace of the Titanic, and a visit wouldn’t be complete without a trip to the Titanic Museum . It’s located about a ten-minute drive from the city center and is connected by excellent bus links.

The museum transports you on a journey through time to discover what life aboard the ill-fated ship was like, and you’ll learn all about its conception and creation. It’s a fantastic interactive experience that perfectly captures the ship’s life story. 

Northern Ireland has had a very turbulent political history, and the city has faced a lot of bloodshed in the not-too-distant past.

A great way of learning about the city’s history is by doing a black cab tour, which takes you through the neighborhoods at the heart of the violence.

During the tour, a guide who lived during the troubles explains life during the political conflict. The tour also normally includes a stop at the Peace Wall, a structure constructed to separate Nationalist and Loyalist neighborhoods.

Since the end of the conflict, local artists have transformed the wall into a gallery of powerful murals commemorating the country’s history and promoting peace and tolerance.

🚂 Book your ticket to Belfast here! 🚂

Portmarnock

🚂 Distance: 20 minutes 

🧭 How to get there: Take the DART train to Malahide from Dublin Connolly Station, disembarking at Portmarnock. 

The suburban coastal village of Portmarnock makes for an excellent day trip from Dublin by train, thanks to the short and easy journey to get there.

Portmarnock Beach is one of Dublin’s best beaches and is an excellent place to spend a sizzling summer’s day.

If you aren’t lucky enough to visit during one of Ireland’s rare heatwaves, fear not – rain or shine, this beautiful beach is a great walking spot where you can traverse the 5-mile strand through the dunes and enjoy picturesque views of Howth and Ireland’s Eye. 

🚂 Book your ticket to Portmarnock here! 🚂

🚂 Distance: 20-30 minutes

🧭 How to get there: There are two services running the route to Malahide, both departing from Dublin Connolly Station. The commuter train to Drogheda Macbride is shorter but leaves less frequently than the DART line to Malahide. Both services offer a direct route, so hop off at Malahide Station. 

Malahide is a brilliant short day trip from Dublin, as it’s located very near to the city and is packed with things to do.

Malahide Castle boasts an impressive 800-year heritage and offers a glimpse into Ireland’s medieval history.

A guided tour around the castle is a brilliant way to discover its vital role in Ireland’s political and social life, and you could spend hours admiring the ancient architecture and beautiful gardens. 

The colorful village is home to a bustling Marina packed with food trucks – Picnic Park is a foodies heaven! Spend an afternoon here eating and drinking your way through the gourmet offerings of each vendor, with everything from fiery Mexican food to freshly baked pastries on offer. 

🚂 Book your ticket to Malahide here! 🚂

🚂 Distance: 1 hour and 30 minutes. 

🧭 How to get there: Take an InterCity train from Dublin Heuston Station heading to Waterford Plunkett and get off at Kilkenny Macdonagh. 

Known locally as ‘The Marble City,’ Kilkenny is a charming ancient city with cobbled streets and incredible medieval architecture.

A trip to this city is one of the best day trips from Dublin by train for history lovers, as it allows you to delve into Ireland’s ancient past. 

The Medieval Mile is a discovery trail running through the city, linking its most interesting historical sites.

Start at the Medieval Mile Museum and discover 800 years of history under one roof. The museum contains remarkably preserved relics from Ireland’s past and offers many exhibitions, best appreciated through the guided tour.

After the museum, follow the signposts and walk the Medieval Mile, stopping at whichever sites take your fancy along the way. 

Don’t be fooled into thinking all Kilkenny has to offer is history – these days, it’s considered one of Ireland’s most buzzing and cosmopolitan cities.

Head to the Butler Gallery to admire some of the country’s most incredible contemporary artwork, or visit the design center, which showcases the artwork of talented local emerging craftsmen. 

🚂 Book your ticket to Kilkenny here! 🚂

🚂 Distance: 35 minutes

🧭 How to get there: Take the DART train heading to Bray Daly, departing from Dublin Connolly Station. Get off at Dalkey Station. 

Dalkey is one of Dublin’s most affluent suburbs and is a lovely place to spend an afternoon. It’s a popular walking spot, and the Dalkey to Killiney Hill walk is one of Dublin’s best walks.

The trail weaves through the village before following the coastline up the hill, providing impressive views over the sea. Along the walk, you’ll spot some spectacular mansions home to some of Ireland’s most famous residents, including Bono and Van Morrison. 

Adrenalin junkies love Dalkey Quarry , a popular spot to go rock climbing in the area, best for only experienced climbers. The exhilaration of reaching the top of your first outdoor rock climb is something special, and this is a fun Dublin day trip if you’re seeking some adventure. 

For a fairly small village, Dalkey boasts an impressive food and drink scene. Sample some freshly caught seafood at The Dalkey Duck , pick up some gourmet homemade bread at Thyme Out , or enjoy locally produced gin at Finnegan’s of Dalkey .

You certainly won’t be short on choices of great food and an even better atmosphere in Dalkey. 

🚂 Book your ticket to Dalkey here! 🚂

🚂 Distance: 2 hours and 30 minutes 

🧭 How to get there: The InterCity line departs from Dublin Heuston and runs directly to Galway Ceannt Station. 

Galway is one of the best train trips from Dublin, as you’ll be treated to spectacular views of rolling green hills throughout the whole journey. The two-and-a-half-hour journey will fly by thanks to the dramatic scenery – just make sure to nab a window seat! 

The beautiful city of Galway is famous for its vibrant atmosphere and magical charm.

Truth be told, you don’t need to plan too much to do in Galway – the best way to spend a day in the city is to wander along its cobbled pedestrian streets, admiring the brightly colored buildings and soaking up the sounds of the talented buskers.

The city has a world-renowned pub culture and is home to dozens of spectacular pubs, all of which offer different atmospheres and their own individual vibe.

Whichever pub you choose to visit, you’ll undoubtedly find a vibrant atmosphere and be welcomed warmly by friendly locals.

🚂 Book your ticket to Galway here! 🚂

🚂 Distance: 2 hours and 45 minutes 

🧭 How to get there: Head to Dublin Heuston Station and catch the InterCity train to Cork Kent Station. This is a direct service. 

Cork is Ireland’s second-largest city, so it has plenty to offer on a Dublin day trip.

The iconic English Market is one of Europe’s oldest and best indoor markets and is an incredibly quaint spot to visit.

Wander around the stalls selling everything from freshly caught fish to locally produced holistic products, and soak up the hustle and bustle of market traders selling their produce. 

The Cork City Gaol is a 19th-century prison that is open today as a museum. Here, visitors are transported back in time and can experience what life would have been like as a prisoner while listening to tales of some of the Gaol’s most notorious guests.

It’s a pretty eerie building – particularly if you choose the self-guided tour option and you visit on a quiet day! 

Three miles east of the city sits Blackrock Castle – a 16th-century castle that was redeveloped in the early 2000s and is now used as an observatory. The observatory hosts an array of exhibitions and events, all of which aim to bring you on a journey to space.

Ireland is a country with a deep connection to the stars – many of its Stone Age monuments show evidence of sun tracking. The observatory is the perfect place to discover Ireland’s link to the stars, and the ever-changing exhibition schedule means there’s always something fascinating to explore. 

Don’t forget to also make a stop at the Blarney Castle and kiss the Blarney Stone. You could spend a whole day exploring the grounds here.

🚂 Book your ticket to Cork here! 🚂

🚂 Distance: 40 minutes 

🧭 How to get there: Catch the DART train from Dublin Connolly Station heading to Bray Daly and get off at Killiney. 

Killiney Village is one of the best day trips from Dublin by public transport and is the perfect place to go if you need to swap the city smog for fresh air. The coastal suburb is home to wild natural beauty and is teeming with attractions. 

Killiney Hill Park is an excellent walking spot, providing views all the way across the Irish Sea to Wales on a clear day.

Even in less fortunate weather conditions, you’ll still be treated to stunning vistas over the whole city of Dublin. Pack a blanket, grab a coffee and sandwich on your way from the train station, and enjoy a picnic in the park. 

A popular thing to do for Killiney’s locals is to take a tip in Vico Bathing Place . It’s dubbed as the Amalfi Coast of Dublin, but don’t be fooled – its waters are freezing.

Locals believe that swimming in ice-cold water provides many health benefits, and the surrounding rugged cliffs mean the area has stunning views. If you don’t fancy braving the ice-cold waters, you can still enjoy the area’s scenic beauty. 

🚂 Book your ticket to Killiney here! 🚂

Final Thoughts: Day Trips by Train from Dublin

There are so many incredible day trips from Dublin by train on offer that your time in the city would be wasted without taking advantage of at least one.

The country’s modern and comfortable rail network makes it easy to escape the city and discover just how much Ireland has to offer. There is truly something for everyone to enjoy – even if you only have a day to spare. 

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KP is the head blogger and founder behind Volumes & Voyages. After studying abroad in Dublin for a semester, KP got bitten by the travel bug. Now, she writes articles to help other travelers in between trips where she chases her wanderlust. KP has lived in many different places, including Boston MA, Denver CO, Las Vegas NV, southern VT, and Dublin IE.

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Easy Day Trips from Dublin

Thursday 19th September 2024

While Dublin has plenty to offer, Ireland’s beauty extends far beyond the capital city. If you’re looking to explore more of the Emerald Isle without straying too far, there are plenty of incredible day trips just a short drive from Dublin. From stunning coastal views to historic castles and charming villages, these easy day trips give you a taste of Ireland’s diverse landscapes and rich culture. With Easirent, you can hit the road and discover the best of Ireland in a day.

Howth (30 minutes away).

Why Visit? Howth is a charming fishing village located just a short drive or train ride from Dublin. Known for its stunning coastal walks, fresh seafood, and picturesque harbour, Howth is the perfect place for a relaxing day out. Take a walk along the famous Howth Cliff Path for breathtaking views of the Irish Sea, explore Howth Castle, or simply enjoy fresh fish and chips by the harbour.

Top Highlights:

• Howth Cliff Walk
• Howth Castle and gardens
• Seafood restaurants at the harbour

Easirent’s Tip: Rent a compact car for easy parking near the harbour and enjoy a leisurely drive along the coastline.

Glendalough (1 hour away)

Why Visit? Glendalough is one of Ireland’s most iconic natural and historical sites, nestled in the Wicklow Mountains. Famous for its serene lakes and ancient monastic ruins, Glendalough is the perfect escape for nature lovers and history buffs alike. Wander the monastic city, take a peaceful hike around the Upper and Lower Lakes, and soak in the tranquil beauty of this scenic valley.

• Glendalough Monastic City
• Upper and Lower Lakes
• Wicklow Mountains National Park

Easirent’s Tip: Book an SUV or comfortable family car for a smooth drive through the Wicklow Mountains, especially if you plan to explore nearby trails.

Newgrange and the Boyne Valley (45 minutes away)

Why Visit? For history lovers, a trip to Newgrange in the Boyne Valley is a must. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is older than the pyramids and Stonehenge, and it’s one of the most significant prehistoric monuments in Europe. Explore the passage tomb, learn about its ancient origins, and visit nearby sites like the Hill of Tara and the Battle of the Boyne Visitor Centre.

• Newgrange passage tomb
• Hill of Tara
• Battle of the Boyne Visitor Centre

Easirent’s Tip: Plan ahead and book tickets for Newgrange in advance, as it’s a popular destination. A comfortable sedan is ideal for the short drive from Dublin.

Kilkenny (1.5 hours away)

Why Visit? Kilkenny, often referred to as Ireland’s medieval capital, is a vibrant city full of history, culture, and charm. Wander through its cobbled streets, visit the stunning Kilkenny Castle, and enjoy a pint at one of the many traditional pubs. Art lovers will also enjoy Kilkenny’s thriving crafts scene, with galleries and shops filled with local artisans’ work.

• Kilkenny Castle
• St. Canice’s Cathedral and Round Tower
• Kilkenny Design Centre

Easirent’s Tip: Rent a mid-sized vehicle for a comfortable drive and make sure to allow time for exploring the local craft shops and eateries.

Powerscourt Estate and Gardens (40 minutes away)

Why Visit? Located just outside Dublin in County Wicklow, Powerscourt Estate is home to some of the most beautiful gardens in Ireland. Stroll through the manicured Italian gardens, visit the stunning waterfall, and explore Powerscourt House, which boasts incredible views of the Sugarloaf Mountain. It’s an easy and relaxing day trip for those looking to escape the city.

• Powerscourt House and Gardens
• Powerscourt Waterfall (Ireland’s highest)
• The Sugarloaf Mountain

Easirent’s Tip: Pick up a family-friendly vehicle for this short drive and bring along a picnic to enjoy in the estate’s peaceful gardens.

Malahide Castle and Gardens (30 minutes away)

Why Visit? A visit to Malahide Castle offers a perfect mix of history, nature, and fun. Tour the 12th-century castle, wander the beautifully landscaped gardens, and enjoy the quaint village atmosphere of Malahide. It’s a fantastic day out for families, as the grounds also have a great playground and plenty of space for kids to run around.

• Malahide Castle tour
• Walled botanical gardens
• Malahide Village and beach

Easirent’s Tip: Opt for a spacious car for the family and make time to explore the nearby coastline after your castle visit.

There’s so much more to explore beyond Dublin, and these easy day trips are perfect for getting a taste of Ireland’s stunning scenery, rich history, and charming villages. With a rental car from Easirent, you can enjoy the freedom to explore these beautiful spots at your own pace and make the most of your Irish adventure.

Ready to plan your day trip book your rental car with easirent today and hit the road to discover ireland’s hidden gems just outside dublin 🚗✨, you might also like....

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Luxury Short Break Holidays

Our luxury city breaks and countryside escapes have been created to feature culturally fascinating destinations that are easily accessible from Ireland. Whether it’s the grandly faded baroque towns of Sicily or the labyrinthine souks and fragrant gardens of Marrakech, our carefully chosen city break destinations offer incredible value for money and beautiful accommodation. OROKO’s luxury city breaks and countryside retreats are tailored to your specific needs and preferences.  

On our luxury short breaks, enjoy half or full day privately guided tours. Your English-speaking, expert local guide will take you to the historic sites of the city as well as to art galleries and museums. After a day of exploring, we’ll book tables for you in some of our favourite restaurants or arrange a night at the opera.  

Browse our selection of luxury short break holidays including city breaks. If you can’t find what you’re looking for, why not try our bespoke trip finder which allows you to modify your search results based on your preferences. Anything is possible with OROKO Travel.  

Top Destinations for Luxury Short Break Holidays  

City Breaks in Florence

On luxury city breaks in Florence, visit the birthplace of the Renaissance as you wander through enchanting cobblestoned streets, laden with candle-lit churches, marble basilicas and world-famous museums, filled with paintings and sculptures by artistic masters like Donatello, Botticelli and Michelangelo. Florence is also a haven of delicious food. We’ll arrange privately guided tours and restaurant reservations at some of our favourite trattorias.   

Rome City Breaks

Home to some of the world’s most beautiful and iconic buildings, Rome forever emanates a sense of romanticism. This ancient city also promises plenty of breathtaking art and architecture. On luxury city breaks to Rome, stroll through narrow cobblestoned streets, admiring wonderfully preserved vestiges of ancient Roman life and generations of artistic mastery, or take a Vespa through the winding streets to explore like a true local.   

Seville Short Breaks

A treasure trove of Spanish culture and history, with three UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Seville is ideal for a luxury short break holiday. Andalucia’s sun-soaked capital is made for days spent wandering through orange tree-lined streets, visiting historic landmarks and basking in the southern Spanish sun. In the evenings, go from one tapas bar to another, sampling the delicious regional cuisine, as flamenco dancers put on an enchanting show.  

Barcelona Short Breaks

Catalonia’s ornate capital, Barcelona is home to world-famous architecture that spans generations. From Roman-era temples to the quirky and contemporary works of Gaudi, plenty of master creatives have called this city home. On luxury short break holidays to Barcelona, tour magnificent museums and dine on the incredible cuisine, an amalgamation of Spain’s most delicious flavours. In the evenings, experience the city’s buzzy nightlife at seafront cocktail bars and cool jazz bars.  

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15 Blissful Ideas for a Short Break in Ireland

• Isabelle Hoyne
• August 23, 2024

** Disclosure: some of the links on this site are affiliate links and should you make a purchase through these, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for your support!**

Plotting a short break in Ireland and wondering where you should go? In this post, I share some of my favourite (and what I think are the best) weekend escapes, from cosmopolitan city sojourns to classy countryside retreats, to serve as inspiration for your next Irish getaway. 

As a relatively small island, Ireland is blessed with a wide range of diversity when you take into account its small geographical footprint – there is simply so much to see and do.

While the price of accommodation tends to fall on the higher side when compared to some other countries, it is also home to some of the best hospitality in the world.

One of the other great things about Ireland is that it doesn’t really take too long to get anywhere. Irish people might grumble about what we perceive to be a long journey.

Still, we never find ourselves in a position where we’ll have to fly from one place in the country to another and that makes the majority of the island very accessible to anyone driving – although our public transport system is a discussion for another time!

Whether you’re seeking total relaxation and don’t plan on leaving the premises, or are keen to discover the local area and do something active, I’ve included some of my favourites in this post to provide some inspiration for your planning.

You can even combine some of them together to help form a longer Ireland itinerary – the choice is yours.

These weekend (or midweek) getaways are grouped together in themes to help you find what you’re looking for that little bit quicker:

• Relaxing and luxurious hotel stays, where you won’t need to leave the premises
• The best city escapes with suggested itineraries, places to eat and places to stay
• More active options that encompass the outdoors, again complete with things to do, where to eat and where to stay

Quick Links for your mini breaks in ireland

Top-rated tours and experiences in Ireland: ✩ Cliffs of Moher Tour Including Wild Atlantic Way and Galway City from Dublin ✩ Dublin Literary Pub Crawl ✩ Game of Thrones™ Filming Locations and Giant’s Causeway from Dublin ✩ Jameson Distillery Guided Tour with Whiskey Tasting in Dublin Top hotels to stay at in Ireland : Ballynahinch Castle (Connemara) // Cahernane House Hotel (Killarney) // The Shelbourne (Dublin) // Mount Juliet (Kilkenny) // The Ice House (Mayo) // The Driftwood (Sligo) // Killeavy Castle Estate (Armagh) Cultured Voyages top picks: ✩ Best luxury getaway – Killeavy Castle Estate ✩ Best city break – Kilkenny ✩ Best destination for the great outdoors – Sligo

What to keep in mind when planning weekend breaks in Ireland

It’s wise to keep a few things in mind before you start searching and booking in earnest in order to find something that you will actually enjoy when you get there – what’s good for one traveller is not always the same for another.

I’d hazard a guess that many people who complain about a hotel or experience haven’t done their homework in advance.

1 What type of short break are you after?

Have a think about who you are travelling with and what sort of experiences you like to have. For example, is fine dining or a great spa important to you, do you want somewhere that is in nature, or that offers easy access to outdoor activities?

Travelling with others can often throw up a challenge, especially when you all like to do different things. Finding somewhere that caters to everyone (or to everyone’s agreed compromise) is something that you should keep top of mind.

2 How are you going to get there?

Start searching for the areas and hotels accessible to you . If you will be driving, then you have a lot more options.

Train or bus travel will limit you somewhat, but there are still plenty of places that you can reach via public transport for your city break in Ireland. For example, places like Kilkenny and Westport are easily reached by train if you’re travelling from other urban areas like Dublin.

Before you have your heart set on any one location or hotel, check first whether you will be able to access it easily and that you won’t need a car to enjoy it fully.

3 What time of year are you planning your weekend getaway in Ireland?

You can call this one common sense, but any time around school holidays and weekends is going to be busy, as well as more expensive . If you don’t mind paying a bit more, make sure to book well in advance and that goes for things like dining and use of the facilities too.

I recently had to reschedule a night away at a spa hotel as all treatment times were booked out over a month in advance when I phoned to schedule in a massage. I had to push out the booking by another six weeks and even at that, there were slim pickings in terms of what was available then.

Don’t search for the most low-priced hotels for cheap weekend breaks.

Save yourself the headache and book these things when making your reservation, or even better still, if you’re doing something like a spa break, check with the spa first before you book your accommodation.

Popular hotels (especially those that offer a good quality:price ratio) book out way in advance, so make sure to book as far in advance .

Relaxing (and luxurious) getaways – perfect for couples

Escape to the mountains of mourne and killeavy castle estate.

As someone who prides themselves as being in the know about hotels in Ireland, I will hold my hands up and say that I was not aware of Killeavy Castle Estate until I visited on a press stay – and boy was I missing out, as it encompasses everything.

The hotel’s story and setting

Set as centre-stage of a 350 acre estate that encompasses mixed farmland and woodland in County Armagh’s Slieve Gullion, a designated area of outstanding natural beauty, Killeavy Castle Estate is a fantastically sympathetic mixture of old and new.

Opened in 2019, the castle building was painstakingly rescued from dereliction, with a modern hotel building also added to an existing coachhouse structure.

The new building makes fantastic use of picture windows, which look out onto the colourful walled garden and the surrounding pastures and woodland.

Facilities and activities

There is an excellent onsite spa that is finished in a simple, contemporary style. Elemis products are combined with natural ingredients that have been taken from the estate’s garden.

Guests can walk or bike around the estate’s extensive pathways or the adjoining Slieve Gullion Forest Park. Forest Bathing is also on offer.

Food offering

The tasting menu in the fine dining restaurant is exceptional. Based on a farm to fork mentality, much of the ingredients are foraged, produced onsite or purchased from local suppliers. There is also a bistro restaurant and an afternoon tea experience.

Location and getting there

You will need a car to reach Killeavy Castle Estate (or be able to reach Newry and then hail a taxi). Set in Northern Ireland’s County Armagh, Killeavy Castle Estate is 10 minutes’ drive from Newry, and hour from Belfast.

Once you hit the airport area of the M1, it is less than an hour’s drive from Dublin, making it a great choice for many for a weekend break.

Countryside getaway at Mount Juliet Estate

This refined Georgian manor house and country estate holds a special place in my heart, located 5 minutes’ away from my childhood home in Thomastown, Co. Kilkenny. Very much a five star hotel that lives up to its billing, it won AA Hotel of the Year in 2020.

Mount Juliet’s manor house was built by the Earl of Carrick in 1757 and was named in tribute to his wife, Juliet. It sits in a commanding spot above the River Nore, overlooking the elegant thoroughbreds of Ballylinch Stud.

Its most luxurious rooms are situated in the manor house, but there is a plush complex set around the former Hunter’s Yard that holds the majority of Mount Juliet’s bedrooms. The well manicured estate is sprawling, at 500 acres in size.

The type of place you won’t need to leave.

Home to a prestigious Jack Nicklaus golf course, Mount Juliet also boasts a state of the art equestrian centre, archery, falconry, a great stretch of river for fishing on, tennis courts, miles of trails for walking, a fairy garden and playground for the kids, as well as a spa and health club.

The manor house boasts the Michelin-starred Lady Helen Restaurant, as well as the regal but comfortable drawing room where afternoon tea is offered.

Dinner and lunch are also served at the more informal Hound Restaurant at the Hunter’s Yard. There are several bars at Mount Juliet too, in both the Manor house and the Hunter’s Yard.

Thomastown is located 20 minutes’ from Kilkenny by car or bus, or 15 minutes by train. If you’re arriving to Thomastown by public transport, you can arrange a transfer with the hotel.

It’s likely that you won’t want to leave, but nearby is arts-and-craftsy Thomastown, Jerpoint Abbey and the medieval city of Kilkenny and its impressive castle. For a memorable mini break, Thomastown and its surrounding attractions offer a perfect getaway.

Soak in the serene coastal setting at Parknasilla

Parknasilla Resort & Spa was an annual pilgrimage for my family during my childhood.

I can still remember the long car journeys, with the song “ King of the Fairies ” on repeat (my poor parents) and the mounting excitement once we hit the country roads – once you had to start to dodging sheep you knew that you were almost there!

Thankfully, the roads have improved greatly since then and I can confirm, after several return visits in my adulthood, that Parknasilla is every bit as magical 20 plus years on.

Parknasilla Resort & Spa is also a must visit destination that holds cherished memories and continues to enchant visitors of all ages.

A true Irish heritage hotel, Parknasilla has been on the Irish hospitality scene since the late 1800’s and has hosted a range of illustrious guests including Princess Grace of Monaco, General Charles de Gaulle and much lauded Irish playwright, George Bernard Shaw.

Set on its own slice of the Iveragh Peninsula, the resort offers 500 acres of meandering walks through lush vegetation and sublime views of the Atlantic Ocean, with accommodation provided in its atmospheric Victorian manor hotel and sympathetically designed modern extension, together with self-catering Courtyard Lodges and Woodland Villas. 

This is where Parknasilla truly excels. Grab a map and make a dash for the woodland and seaside trails, partake in some falconry, get in a round of golf, go sea kayaking or on a boat tour, go for a cycle, play a spot of tennis, or simply retreat to the library with a good book – the choice is yours!

There is also a fabulous spa at Parknasilla complete with a glorious outdoor seawater hot tub. A relatively recent addition too is an outdoor saltwater pool and a manmade beach.

You can also go sea swimming. Rather charmingly too, there is a Fairy Trail throughout the grounds to mesmerise children both young and old! 

The Pygmalion Restaurant is a large, grand dining room that upholds Parknasilla’s heritage and history – it has been used as the main dining room since the 19th century.

It offers an upscale dining experience, inspired by the ingredients on offer from Ireland’s southwestern coastline.

The Doolittle Bar is a relaxed offering for dining, with live music in the evening. There is also a food trailer onsite at Parknasilla, located close to the lodges.

Parknasilla is set just outside Sneem, right along the Ring of Kerry route . You will need a car to reach the hotel.

Close to the hotel are many of the Ring of Kerry’s best stops , as are the charms of Killarney National Park. Ballaghbeama Gap is also very near for an off the beaten track experience.

Retreat to Ballynahinch Castle in Connemara

Ballynahinch Castle is one of those special places you stay at that has you itching to return. Its setting is iconic – many will be familiar with the image of the castle with its looming, shadowed mountain in the background, even if you never knew where it was until now.

It’s a wonderful choice if you’re planning a romantic weekend.

Few other lodgings encapsulate the landscape of Connemara as does Ballynahinch Castle. Nestled at the foot of the Twelve Bens and set amidst woodlands and alongside the Owenmore River, it’s setting is truly awe-inspiring.

This cosy, welcoming, castle is steeped in history, having counted the famous Irish pirate queen, Grace O’Malley (or Granuaile), as well as an Indian Maharaja as former owners. Today, it offers elegant rooms in a relaxing setting and is the perfect gateway to explore Connemara .

Ballynahinch Castle is set on 700 acres, with 10 miles of walking trails and an on-site walking guide too, who can help you plan your route. There is a beautiful walled garden to sit in or stroll through also.

Onsite at Ballynahinch is some of Ireland’s best fly-fishing, offering a world-renowned salmon and sea-trout fishery.

To round off your Irish countryside experience, you can also partake in some clay pigeon shooting. The hotel also offers an ‘Island and Lobster’ excursion, which is a 3-hour guided boat trip of Roundstone Bay. The only thing lacking is that there are no spa facilities at Ballynahinch.

The dining options onsite are fantastic. Owenmore Restaurant is a beautifully romantic restaurant that serves up carefully crafted fine-dine dishes in a stunning river setting.

The Fisherman’s Pub and Ranji Room is a more relaxed bar set up, offering delicious seasonally inspired dishes such as curried Killary mussels.

Ballynahinch Castle is located in the heart of Connemara close to Recess. You will need a car to get there. It will take a little over an hour to reach the castle from Galway, while the lively market town of Clifden is 15 minutes away by car.

A spa break at the Ice House Hotel, Co, Mayo

The Ice House Hotel is a fairly unique spa getaway in Ireland, offering eclectic lodgings that are predominately submerged below road level along the River Moy in Ballina.

I really enjoyed my stay here – the whole set up has a cocoon like feel and the spa is fantastic.

The original building (and namesake of the hotel) served as an ice house in the late 18th and early 19th centuries, where tonnes of salmon was preserved before being shipped onwards to the markets of Dublin and Liverpool.

Today, a modern extension stretches out under the path that runs alongside the river, reached by heading downstairs in the old ice house, where there are a couple of heritage-style bedrooms.

It’s the new structure that really shines, however. The setting incorporates the natural surroundings of the river and the premises oozes a laid back, cool vibe.

The spa suites are contemporary yet elemental in their design and are reached by walking through the spa itself – you’ll be relaxed before you even reach your room.

The spa is the main call out. Recently refurbished, the Chill Spa utilises Yon-Ka and VOYA products and incorporates a riverside, outdoor ‘Wellness Room’ and thermal area.

If you fancy venturing out, however, the hotel’s positioning in rugged north Mayo means you’re close to Downpatrick Head, the Ceide Fields and Foxford Woollen Mills.

Continuing on the same theme of wholesomeness as the spa, food at the Ice House involves locally caught seafood, foraged wild herbs and locally sourced meat and seasonal produce.

There is both a restaurant and a bar, both serving different menus, that really make the most of the stunning riverside setting.

A tad awkward to orchestrate, but Ballina is reachable by both bus and train from a number of places within Ireland and easily reachable if driving yourself. That makes it a fairly accessible, relaxing Irish mini break for many people.

Ireland city breaks – ideas & suggested itineraries

Sometimes, it’s the buzz of a city that we seek out when looking for our next weekend away in Ireland. Here are some with suggested itineraries, where to eat and where to stay to get you started.

Spend some time in the medieval city of Kilkenny

Kilkenny is the medieval jewel in Ireland’s crown. While known up and down the country for its bustling bars and buzzing nightlife, you’re missing out if you think that’s all Kilkenny has to offer.

Why visit Kilkenny?

Full of cobbled lanes, winding alleyways, a meandering river, imposing churches, a “ medieval mile ”, a brewery and, to top it all off – a Norman castle with extensive grounds that forms its centrepiece – it really is a city that everyone should visit at least once.

Kilkenny is positively bursting with history, character and atmosphere.

What’s more, the city centre is quite compact and can be easily explored on foot, making it the perfect location for a weekend break in Ireland if you’re travelling without a car. 

Curious about what is special about Kilkenny ? The city’s walkable charm and unique atmosphere set it apart, providing a delightful experience for visitors.

Much of Kilkenny’s medieval architecture has been preserved, making it a very unique place to visit. Kilkenny is also famous for its connection to witches, specifically, Dame Alice Kytler, who was the only person in Ireland to be tried for being a witch.

In 1324, Alice was accused of using poison and sorcery against her four husbands, having too amassed a fortune over the course of her lifetime.

Alice quickly fled to England before she could be tried, but her poor maid, Petronella, was flogged and burned at the stake for her association with Alice, having confessed to witchcraft after being tortured – poor Alice. 

The first thing on anyone’s list should be a visit to Kilkenny Castle . Tour the inside of the castle and explore the beautiful and extensive grounds of the Castle Park. Pop across the road afterwards to the Kilkenny Design Centre for a browse and grab a scone and a quick cup of tea to keep you going.

Learn about Kilkenny’s medieval history in the Medieval Mile Museum (I highly recommend that you take a tour if you can to hear Kilkenny’s weird and wonderful medieval history come to life). Shenanigan’s walking tours are also wildly popular as an alternative.

For the beer fans out there, visit the Smithwick Experience to learn how Kilkenny’s famous (and Ireland’s oldest!) ale is brewed. Should the weather be fine during your visit, then you can also take a boat trip along the river Nore for some alternative views of the picturesque city.

If you’re still looking for more things to do, you can also pay a visit to the mightily impressive St. Canice’s Cathedral and round tower, as well as visiting the unique Rothe House and garden, which showcases how a rich merchant would have lived during Kilkenny’s medieval glory days.

Where to eat

For reasonably priced Michelin-starred grub head to Campagne . Another spot that is nice for an occasion is Truffles Restaurant, which offers modern European style cuisine . For a steak dinner, head to Butcher on The Butterslip (one of Kilkenny’s medieval slipways).

For brunch/lunch, head to Aran Artisan Bakery & Bistro and those seeking their coffee fix should make their way to Face2 . Finally, if you fancy a tipple, head to the quirky Bridie’s Bar & General Store .

Where to stay

Butler house.

Set in the former dower house of Kilkenny Castle, Butler House is a great choice when visiting Kilkenny. This elegant manor house is now a four star, boutique hotel and places you in Kilkenny city centre close to everything you could wish to see.

Lyrath Estate

Those who want a country house fix and who don’t mind a short drive (5 minutes) into the centre of Kilkenny should opt instead for Lyrath Estate , a luxury manor house on sprawling grounds which comes complete with a spa and swimming pool onsite.   

A weekend break in Dublin’s fair city

Dublin is a location that many planning the best weekend breaks in Ireland choose as their final destination and for good reason.

Why visit Dublin?

Is it worth visiting Dublin ? As someone who has lived in Dublin for 14 years, there are certain things that I strongly associate with and love about Dublin.

For me, these are its Georgian architecture, its ties to the arts and literature, its stunning coastal views, its thriving food scene and its umpteen parks and green spaces. Tick off these items and you’ll get a good sense of Dublin during a short break. 

Dublin has a long and interesting history spanning many years – from its Viking invaders, undergoing colonialism (one of the effects of which is its unique Georgian architecture), as well a hub during the Gaelic revival and subsequent fight for Irish independence in the 19th/20th centuries.

More recently, Dublin thrived during the Celtic Tiger , was crippled by a recession and has now bounced back into yet another period of economic boom.

Enthusiastic hikers can climb Benbulben itself, while the  Benbulben Forest Walk  is a 5km trail that tracks alongside Benbulben through some beautiful forestry.

This has given Dublin a very unique, lively edge that makes it stand out amongst other cities in Europe. It’s also a distinctly ‘friendly’ city, as cities go! 

I’ve written extensively about this in my 2 days in Dublin itinerary post , but below is a quick summary.

Walk around Merrion Square to soak in some of Dublin’s finest examples of Georgian architecture and relax in the beautiful park in the middle of the square.

If you visit Dublin for a weekend break, there is an open air art market each Sunday, with many beautiful pieces of artwork adorning the railways around the green.

In Merrion Square, you’re right beside the National Gallery (which is free), so I’d highly recommend that you pop in for a bit. After this, take a visit to 14 Henrietta Street for a tour to understand how these once grand townhouses became tenement dwellings for Dublin’s poorest citizens.

Another worthwhile excursion if the weather is good is to hire bikes and cycle around the Phoenix Park , which is the largest enclosed urban park in Europe .  

If you have time, take the DART (the local train network) out to Howth for the famous Cliff Walk – a beautiful coastal trail that offers magnificent views of the Dublin coastline.

For a literary excursion, see what’s on the roster at the Smock Alley Theatre , Dublin’s oldest theatre which has, in fact, been renovated to very modern standards in recent years.

Finally, to soak up Dublin’s buzzy, energetic atmosphere, explore the bars and shops in the area around South William Street , Drury Street and George’s Street . 

Head northside and pay a visit to Mr Fox , a relaxed fine dining restaurant that is located at basement level in one of Parnell Square’s grand Georgian houses.

If you are looking for a more trendy, informal scene, pop into Note on Fenian Street, a wine bar that serves up some quality food . Forrest & Marcy and Bastible are two other wonderful choices.

For lunch/brunch try Pog , the Fumbally , Meet Me in the Morning , or Press Cafe . If you’re looking for coffee, then 3fE , Cloudpicker and Shoe Lane are all stalwarts of the Dublin coffee scene.

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For a stylish and more intimate Dublin townhouse stay, opt for the splendid Number 31 , voted as having the best Guesthouse breakfast in Ireland.

A four star boutique hotel with gorgeous interiors and a quirky style, The Wilder is conveniently located a 5 minute walk from St. Stephen’s Green.

THe Shelbourne

The Shelbourne is a timeless institution in Dublin, occupying a prime piece of real estate right on St. Stephen’s Green, with views onto the park.  

A Northern Irish weekend getaway to Belfast

It’s difficult to begin an introduction to Belfast without reference to The Troubles , but the city has emerged from darker days and has established itself as very much as a modern city that is full of life.

Well connected to many towns and cities across both the North and the Republic of Ireland, it’s one of the best places for a weekend away.

Why you should visit Belfast ?

For a relatively small and compact city, Belfast certainly packs a punch. Easy to navigate and divided into ‘quarters’, each quarter carries its own special character and set of attractions.

You may have already heard of Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter, the buzzy central location that is awash with a plethora of eateries and bars. Indeed, the food scene across all of Belfast is thriving and foodies visiting the city will be thrilled to discover the breadth of restaurants it boasts. 

Belfast has an interesting history that stretches to well before The Troubles, and an industry that was hugely important to Belfast was ship building. One of the city’s biggest claims to fame was that the infamous Titanic was built in Belfast.

Today, visitors can amble to the other side of the River Lagan to the Titanic Quarter.

Here, you can learn all about the doomed ship, as well as the Belfast operations of Harland & Wolffe, the company that built it, at the marvellous Titanic Belfast visitor experience.

South of the city is Queen’s Quarter, home to Queen’s University and the Botanical Gardens, while the fourth quarter is known as the Gaeltacht Quarter and it’s here where you can discover all about Irish language and culture in this part of the island. 

What to do 

Check opening hours (it opens Friday through Sunday), but a place I head to in Belfast without fail is the splendid St. George’s Market , a Victorian covered market that has a very unique atmosphere and a range of vendors selling food, art and crafts. 

Another activity that I highly recommend is taking a Black Taxi Tour, in which you can learn about Belfast’s troubled past from someone who has lived through it. If you’d prefer to learn about Belfast’s recent history on foot, then this walking tour is a superb alternative.

If you’re particularly interested in The Troubles, then you should also try to include a visit to Crumlin Road Gaol , where many political prisoners were held before the prison closed in 1996.

You can’t visit the home of the Titanic without visiting Titanic Belfast,  which is an exceptionally well put together interactive visitor experience that details the story of the ship from construction to sinking and beyond. Book tickets in advance here . 

If you’re visiting during sunnier days, then pay a visit to the Belfast Botanic Gardens , which are free to enter. If you’re looking for the best views of Belfast and an outdoor excursion, then you can head to the Belfast Hills for some glorious vistas of the city below. 

A restaurant that I really enjoyed in Belfast is Ora , a rather cool tapas style restaurant that serves up genuinely unique, original fusion dishes with a great wine list to go with it.

Coppi is also another pick, offering contemporary Italian plates. The Michelin-starred Muddlers Club, named after a secret society, is an industrial style restaurant with simple, modern dishes prepared using home grown produce. 

Fitzwilliam Hotel

I really enjoyed our stay at this sophisticated 5-star. Interiors are art-deco with a modern twist and the hotel has a very international, cosmopolitan feel. 

Bullitt Hotel

A trendy hotel made for city break. Situated in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter, its location makes it the perfect pad for exploring the city from. 

Irish mini breaks for active explorers

Escape to rugged connemara.

The region of Connemara is home to a raw, desolate beauty – one of muted greens and russet tones, where great mountains rear up from peat-filled expanses and where Caribbean-like coves have been bestowed upon a jagged coastline.

While there is much beauty to be found elsewhere in Ireland, there’s nowhere else quite like the region of Connemara.

The region will appeal most to lovers of the great outdoors – offering mountains to climb, endless landscape to admire, lakes to explore and an incredible selection of beaches to languish at, along with more active pursuits that take full advantage of these things, such as fishing, cycling, horseriding and kayaking to name but a few.

Kylemore Abbey should be top of any Connemara itinerary . Located just outside of the town of Letterfrack, you’ll also be close to close to Connemara National Park from there.

Offering phenomenal views of the unspoilt Galway landscape, the park is host to a number of walking trails and hikes, the most popular being Diamond Hill .

Hit the road to discover Connemara’s towns and villages . Try make it to Clifden, Roundstone, Leenane and Cleggan. Connemara is also home to some phenomenal beaches , which include Dog’s Bay, Gurteen Beach, Glassilaun and Mannin Bay. 

You can also pay a visit to Pearse’s Cottage . Located in Ros Muc within Connemara’s Gaeltacht, the Irish revolutionary built a cottage here and today, it’s open to the public, along with a newly developed, state of the art visitor’s centre. 

Killary Fjord and harbour are also greatly worth a visit. Take a walk around the fjord while there, or if conditions allow, hop on a Killary Fjord boat tour . Finally, a short but incredibly scenic drive is the Sky Road , which starts and ends in Clifden. 

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You can discover all of my favourite places to eat in Connemara in this dedicated post .

Foodie spots worth visiting in Connemara include the Misunderstood Heron food truck, The Lamplight Wine Bar  in Clifden, Owenmore Restaurant at Ballynahinch Castle, Good Stuff food truck in Roundstone and Mitchells in Clifden for insanely good seafood. 

Delphi Lodge

A unique former hunting lodge with a (country) house-party atmosphere and its own fisheries, set in stunning surroundings.

Leenane Hotel

A reasonably priced hotel (and Ireland’s oldest coaching inn) set on Killary Harbour, one of Ireland’s most scenic locations.

A retreat to nature outside Clifden, offering a bubble dome pod set in mature woodland and a Scandi-inspired holiday studio.

Retreat to the Ring of Kerry

Set in glorious County Kerry, the Ring of Kerry drive is one of Ireland’s most established and well driven routes.

Circuiting the Iveragh Peninsula, one of Ireland’s – and indeed Europe’s – most westerly points, this bountiful headland boasts an array of things to see that might pique one’s interest.

First up is Killarney National Park, a vast area that spans tens of thousands of acres and holds at its core the waters of three serene lakes. 

Move further along the coastline where you will encounter ancient stone formations, many in locations tied closely to Ireland’s best-known folklore and legends. 

Along with that, are the many dazzling encounters you will have with the wild waters of the tempestuous Atlantic ocean, which has battered itself against the Kerry coastline for millenia and etched it deep with jagged cliffs and enchanting inlets, depositing golden sands on its expansive beaches.

While extremely popular, it’s for good reason and the Ring of Kerry makes for a terrific weekend away in Ireland if you seek out scenery and active pursuits. 

If you don’t want to do too much driving, you can keep it local to Killarney and get to grips with the National Park, the lakes of Killarney and the Gap of Dunloe. Stay somewhere like Cahernane House Hotel (read my review here ), hire bikes and explore at your own pace.

If you want a road trip, then there are many incredible things to see along the Ring of Kerry.

I’d highly recommend driving the Skellig Ring  and also highly recommend stops like Staigue Fort , Moll’s Gap , Derrynane Beach and House, as well as the town of Caherciveen and its glorious stone forts of Cahergall and Leacanabuaile .

I’ve written in detail about the best Ring of Kerry stops in this post.  

In Killarney, check out Rozzers Restaurant and The Lake Room at Aghadoe Heights Hotel . You will also be served up an extremely good meal at Mulcahy’s Restaurant in Kenmare.

The harbour-side O’Neills The Point is a fantastic seafood bar that you’ll want to spend hours in, while you will find great food across the board – seafood, steak, pastas etc – at the superb Quinlan & Cooke in Caherciveen.

Quinlan & Cooke

A boutique townhouse in the market town of Caherciveen with quirky interiors and a fantastic restaurant.

Cahernane House

Country manor

A grand yet relaxed manor house in Killarney, with plush, comfortable interiors and superb service.

Watersedge Guesthouse

A small, spotless B&B in Kenmare with a welcoming hostess and comfortable rooms with views of Kenmare Bay.

Discover Westport and its stunning surroundings

If you wish to stray a little off the beaten tourist track during your Irish mini break, then Westport is a fantastic choice.

A soujourn in Westport allows you the double whammy of experiencing a lively, atmospheric town coupled with convenient access to the raw splendour of Ireland’s countryside and coast. 

Behind a kaleidoscope of traditional building facades are a raft of high quality pubs and places to eat – Westport is a place that does Irish hospitality so very well, whether it’s simply a pint of the black stuff that you seek or a top class meal that fills hungry bellies with the best of Irish provenance.

It’s the setting of Westport that’s a real clincher, however, nestled as it is just back from the shoreline of Clew Bay and its 365 drumlin islands – it’s said there is one for every day of the year.

The area surrounding Westport is positively glorious, with moody mountain ranges, silver-white beaches, picturesque cycling trails and stunning vistas of the gleaming Atlantic Ocean, which glints like a sapphire when the sun bounces its rays upon it.

Westport also lies in the shadow of Croagh Patrick , Ireland’s ‘holy’ mountain, whose presence is a constant, looming presence on the skyline.

The planned town of Westport owes its existence to its ‘big house’, so no visit to the town is complete without a visit to the gorgeous Westport House and gardens. The town is also renowned for its pubs , so make sure to allocate some time to visiting some – try Matt Molloys or McGings. 

The Great Western Greenway offers a stunning cycle route to Achill Island (rent bikes here ), or if you’d prefer a less active dip into the great outdoors, hop on a Clew Bay cruise .

If you’re really feeling lively, one of the best things to do in Westport is to climb Croagh Patrick (read my comprehensive guide here ). On clear days the views from the summit are really something. 

Slightly further afield are some beautiful beaches – Bertra, Old Head, Carrowniskey and White & Silver Strand are all highly worthy of a visit.

If you’re heading as far as Silver Strand, then you absolutely must take a Lost Valley tour, which takes in rugged landscape that includes a ruined famine village and recounts the lasting impact the famine had on this part of the country. 

You can also head out by ferry to nearby Clare Island , to take in Granuaile’s Castle, a 12th century Cistercian abbey and the plethora of sea birds and rare arctic-alpine flora the island is home to.

Finally, if you’re in the mood for a scenic drive, the haunting Doo Lough Valley hits the mark. 

For a solid sambo, check out Christy’s Harvest,  where you can sit street-side and watch the world go by. This Must Be The Place offers up a very decent oat flat white and some tasty food offerings.

An Port Mor Restaurant is an award winning eatery that focusses on classic Irish dishes with a modern twist. Cronin’s Sheebeen is an excellent gastro pub and Cian’s on Bridge Street serves modern Irish cuisine in a relaxed setting – book ahead, as it’s very popular. 

Knockranny HOuse HOtel

An institution in Westport with old school charm and modern amenities including a fantastic restaurant and spa. 

The Mariner

A well priced, light-filled boutique hotel offering good value to those looking for hotels in Westport town centre.

Cycle the Waterford Greenway and discover Dungarvan

Not initially the most obvious of mini breaks in Ireland, but the Waterford Greenway is a marvellous initiative which repurposes the old railway line that runs from the Viking city of Waterford to the picturesque coastal town of Dungarvan.

It’s the perfect choice for those who are searching for getaways in Ireland that are a little more under the radar.

Stretching for 46km, this trail winds its track through endless green fields and woodlands, as well as over, under and through old railway tunnels and viaducts, before making a glorious emergence onto a stunning stretch of coastline that marks the final approach into Dungarvan town.

Although it’s a perfect trip too for those who fancy Ireland weekend breaks that are a bit more active, it’s also ideal for those who are happy to amble along at a slower pace and take in the magnificent scenery – you decide how far you’ll cycle and at what pace.

While the Greenway is well known in Waterford and neighbouring counties, there is still an element to it that remains ‘undiscovered’. It makes for a very wholesome outing where you are free to enjoy the rugged, raw, Irish countryside in her natural state without any gimmicks.

And as long as you have some form of base level of fitness and don’t mind the cycle taking a while, it’s fine for family members of all ages to enjoy.

Pick up your bike in Waterford and make your way to Dungarvan, where you can overnight. You will then be able to get a bus back from Dungarvan to Waterford city.

Tips for cycling the Waterford Greenway

• Stop off in Kilmacthomas at Coach House Coffee , located in a former Famine Workhouse, for sustenance along your journey. It marks a good halfway point along the route.
• It’s very straightforward to hire bikes ( check the link here for some options ). Many providers offer a pick up service if you only want to cycle one direction and not have to make the return journey by bike – i.e. you can hire a bike in Dungarvan and deposit it at a depot in Waterford.
• It is also possible to split the route in smaller portions and to cycle a shorter distance along a section of the Greenway (you could, for example, start at Dungarvan and cycle to Kilmacthomas and back). 
• If you’re wondering what the most beautiful section of the Waterford Greenway is, in my opinions it’s the stretch from Kilmacthomas to Dungarvan.

Where to eat in Dungarvan, County Waterford

Located in a former leather factory, The Tannery packs some hefty credentials, being owned and operated by famous Irish chef Paul Flynn and his wife Máire.

Located in the seaside town of Dungarvan, The Tannery services up a constantly changing menu that reflects seasonal ingredients and top quality, local produce.

Its location in Dungarvan at the end of the Greenway makes it the perfect spot to guiltlessly indulge in dinner (and have allll of the courses), having worked up an appetite during the day’s cycle.  

The Tannery

Rather conveniently, The Tannery also offers reasonably priced boutique townhouse accommodation in Dungarvan. Once you’ve had your fill for the evening, you can easily plod the few steps to your room without ever having to leave the building!

Revel in the seascapes & mythology of Co. Sligo

There is something exceptionally special about Sligo – it is a mythical, magical place. W.B. Yeats certainly agreed, so much so that it inspired much of his writing.

Not many counties in Ireland get to boast either that they are the burial place of a famous warrior queen, but at the summit of Knocknarea is a giant cairn, said to be the final resting place of Queen Maeve, a character who graces the pages of some of Ireland’s best known mythological tales.

Sligo’s oldest human roots stretch back some 7,000 years to Carrowmore, the largest megalithic cemetery in Ireland, as well as one of the most important in Europe to boot.

Littered with ancient tombs and blessed with a wild landscape that gives off an appearance that you could never tame it, it’s easy to see why Sligo assumed an important place in Ireland’s folklore.

Sligo also lays claim to an exceptional stretch of coastline. Not only is it beautiful, but it is also home to some of the best waves in Ireland attracting surfers from all around the country (and world).

You don’t have to be a surfer, however, to appreciate the incredible stretches of sand that lie in the shadows of majestic mountain ranges.

A totally underrated county, a short break to Sligo offers a complete retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and an opportunity to be wowed by Ireland’s rugged beauty at her best.

Those who want to surf should head to Strandhill , where strong currents create wild waves – note that you cannot swim here. If you’re after more leisurely pursuits in Strandhill, then I can highly recommend a visit to the VOYA seaweed baths , a traditional seaweed bathhouse.

Close to Strandhill is Knocknarea , which is highly worth hiking to see Queen Maeve’s Cairn and the astounding views of the surrounding countryside from its summit. A little bit strenuous but not too long, most should be able for the ascent.

If you’re keen to explore Ireland’s ancient past, then the Carrowmore Megalithic Cemetry and Carrowkeel complexes offer fantastic places to do so. If you’re extremely keen, you can also explore Creevykeel Court Tomb .

One of Sligo’s most emblematic icons, Benbulben and its surrounds offer the chance to explore the county’s rugged landscape.

Enthusiastic hikers can climb Benbulben itself, while the Benbulben Forest Walk is a 5km trail that tracks alongside Benbulben through some beautiful forestry.

When you’re done, head to the awe-inducing Gleniff Horseshoe .

Head to Mullaghmore , a remote seaside village, to seek out the best views of Classiebawn Castle. You can also take to the W.B Yeats trail, starting with Drumcliffe Church , where you’ll find Yeats’ grave and an interesting audioguide.

For fancier fare, head to Eala Bán in Sligo town. Shells Cafe in Strandhill is a delight and you can grab an ice-cream from the famous Mammy Johnston’s when you’re finished.

At Rosses Point, The Driftwood serves up delectable meals at all times of the day and if you’re a seafood fan, I’d go as far as saying that Fish & Bean is unmissable. In Mullaghmore, Eithne’s By The Sea is an institution.

The Driftwood

This lovely boutique hotel is appended to a buzzing restaurant in the serene seaside surroundings of Rosses Point. Many rooms look onto the bay and Coney Island and its location is a wonderful spot from which to explore Sligo.

I really enjoyed our stay here – its a fine example of what a small hotel with character can do within a small community.

Hook Head Peninsula in the Sunny South East

This isn’t so much of a challenge really as it is a statement – it’s well known that the South East gets some of the best weather in Ireland and so it is the perfect destination for a short breaks in Ireland, be it midweek or on a weekend.

On sunny days in summer, I have great memories from my childhood of being bundled into the car and packed off to Baginbun Beach , a beautiful cove located on the Hook Head Peninsula in Co. Wexford.

While great for a day at the beach, the area is also a wonderful spot for a weekend getaway in Ireland as there is plenty to keep you occupied in the surrounding area.

Building sandcastles on the beach aside, no trip to the Hook Head Peninsula is complete without a visit to Hook Lighthouse , a distinct beacon with black and white stripes that is the oldest operational lighthouse in the world.

Stop off in the visitor centre and take in the views from the lighthouse. On your way back from the lighthouse, if your nerves allow it, stop off at Loftus Hall , which is famous for being Ireland’s most haunted house! 

The house previously ran tours, but is now being redeveloped as a luxury hotel by the Press up Group so you may have to gaze upon it from afar.

Tintern Abbey should also be on the itinerary. Built on at the turn of the 13th century, this is a beautiful ruined Cistercian Abbey.

Accessed also from the Abbey are a range of woodland trails that feature panoramic sea views, as well as the Colclough Walled Garden , which is a restored Georgian Walled Garden located beside the Abbey.

The area around Hook Lighthouse is also a wonderful spot for diving, with the Hook Sub-Aqua Club located at Slade Harbour. There are clear waters and plenty of shipwrecks, which make for interesting dives!

Should you choose to base yourself at Dunbrody House during your Ireland short breaks in Wexford, the hotel is home to The Harvest Room Restaurant, an award-winning restaurant where much of the produce in the restaurant comes from the kitchen garden. 

Other options for food include Roches Bar , a traditional Irish pub (and one of the oldest on the Hook Head Peninsula) which is located just across from Duncannon Beach, as well as the Hollow Bar and Seafood Restaurant , where the menu centres on Irish seafood caught locally that is situated in Ramsgrange.

Dunbrody House

Dunbrody Country House Hotel is a beautiful Georgian pile that is situated on 300 acres of garden and woodland. A luxury boutique hotel, Dunbrody House is located in Arthurstown, making it a perfect base from which to explore the Hook Head Peninsula.

For the foodies amongst you, the hotel is in fact owned and operated by celebrity chef Kevin Dundon and comes with a cookery school onsite which offers a range of 1, 2 & 5 day cooking courses. 

Hide away in the woods in Ireland’s lake district

Cabü by the Lakes is a rustic retreat that is nestled deep within Killykeen Forest Park, occupying also a prime position by the waters of County Cavan’s Lough Oghter.

It’s a destination that is absolutely perfect for those wanting to connect with nature during a weekend away in Ireland.

In what is quite a novel concept to Ireland, 28 individual cabins (each hosting a range of 2-6 people) are spread out along the shoreline, scattered among several central, communal buildings.

These include amongst them the Sitooterie – an outdoor, gaucho style eatery complete with firepits and a fully licenced bar – and Cabü Corner, a comprehensively stocked corner store where you can pick up any essential items that you may have forgotten (including underwear!).

What to do at Cabü by the Lakes 

Resplendent rustic interiors aside, this is where the real beauty of Cabü by the Lakes lies. Set on a private 100-acre site, it will be hard to run out of things to do during your stay.

Nature lovers will enjoy getting lost in the woods and there are kilometres of walking and mountain biking trails to enjoy in adjoining Killykeen Forest Park. Lough Oughter is home too to many little islands. Commandeer a boat from the jetty onsite and explore the lake to your heart’s content.

You can also go hiking, or partake in some fishing lessons.

For those for which utter relaxation is their main priority, there is also a spa on premises, boasting several cabins which include a sauna and hot tubs, along with treatment rooms (which are currently in use as changing rooms due to Covid-19 measures).

Things to do that are nearby to Cabü by the Lakes

If you feel the urge to explore further afield, Cabü is an hour away from the Cavan Burren (yep, there’s more than one Burren in Ireland!) a geopark that is home to the Marble Arch Caves .

Make sure to book a visit to the caves well in advance as they have limited amounts of tickets daily.

Beside the caves and just over the border in County Fermanagh is the aptly named ‘Stairway to Heaven’ and Cuilcagh Boardwalk – and quite possibly what is one of the most Instagrammable locations in Ireland. 

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Final tip for planning a short break in Ireland

All of my above suggestions for short breaks to Ireland have been pulled together with weekend breaks in mind.

That being said, if you travel for midweek breaks in Ireland, you will get better nightly hotel rates and any attractions you want to visit or activities you want to do will also be less crowded.

Staying somewhere midweek is often the best way to get a cheaper deal, especially on luxury hotels so if you can, book that time off work and make the most of midweek deals!

Short breaks Ireland: FAQ

Can i visit ireland for a short break.

Absolutely! Ireland is a fantastic destination for a short break. With its stunning landscapes, rich history, vibrant cities and warm hospitality, Ireland offers a wide range of experiences that can be enjoyed even during a short visit – especially as the island is quite small in the grander scheme of things.

How many days should I plan for a short break in Ireland?

The duration of your stay in Ireland depends on your preferences and the places you wish to visit. However, a duration of 3 to 5 days would be ideal for exploring some of Ireland’s popular destinations and experiencing its unique culture.

With 3-5 days to spend, I’d recommend that you focus on 1 or 2 areas as a maximum and get to know that area well.

How much does a short break in Ireland typically cost?

Based on my personal experience, a short break in Ireland usually costs from €500 per person. However, guided tours can be a great way to save overall costs.

I highly recommend exploring tour options that include multiple attractions, transportation, and accommodations. It’s a fantastic way to make the most of your budget and create unforgettable memories in beautiful Ireland.

What are some must-visit places during a short break in Ireland?

All of it (but I’m biased!). Ireland has numerous attractions that are perfect for a short break.

Some of the must-visit places include Dublin, the capital city known for its historic landmarks and vibrant nightlife, the stunning Cliffs of Moher, the picturesque Ring of Kerry, the cultural city of Galway, and the ancient site of Newgrange, among others.

These are the best known, however, and I’ve featured a different variety in this blog post.

What activities can I enjoy during a short getaway in Ireland?

During your short getaway in Ireland, you can engage in a variety of activities.

You can explore historical sites and castles, take scenic drives along the coast, hike in national parks, enjoy traditional Irish music and dance performances, sample delicious local cuisine, visit museums and galleries, and even participate in outdoor adventures like surfing, kayaking, or golfing.

Are any guided tours or day trips available for a short break in Ireland?

There are fantastic guided tours and day trips available for a short stay in Ireland. I highly recommend exploring a city on a delightful hour-long tour or embarking on a scenic cruise to the Aran Islands .

For a unique experience, indulge in a guided whiskey tasting at James Distillery.

How should I plan my itinerary for a short break in Ireland?

To make the most of your trip, it’s advisable to plan your itinerary in advance. Research the destinations and attractions you want to visit, consider travel times between locations, and prioritise your must-see places.

Be sure to allocate enough time for relaxation and spontaneity, allowing yourself to immerse in the unique charm of Ireland.

I’m visiting from abroad – what is the best time to visit Ireland for a short break?

Ireland’s mild climate makes it a year-round destination, but the summer months (June to August) are particularly popular for short breaks due to longer daylight hours and generally pleasant weather.

Spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October) also offer mild weather and fewer crowds, making them great options for a peaceful visit.

Personally, my favourite times in Ireland are May and September, when I feel the country is at its most beautiful.

Kids are also in school during these months, which make them less busy than the summer months, when the world and its mother descends on Ireland’s most popular destinations.

Do I need a visa to visit Ireland for a short break?

The visa requirements for visiting Ireland vary depending on your country of citizenship. Citizens of the European Union (EU) and the European Economic Area (EEA) do not typically require a visa.

However, visitors from other countries should check with their nearest Irish embassy or consulate to determine the visa requirements for their specific nationality.

What is the currency used in Ireland?

The currency used in Ireland is the Euro (€). It is advisable to have some cash on hand for smaller establishments and some taxis, although since the advent of the pandemic literally everywhere takes card.

I tap everywhere I go, to the point that I’ve forgotten my pins! ATMs are readily available in most towns and cities for convenient currency exchange, should you need to withdraw cash however.

Can I rent a car for exploring Ireland during a short break?

Yes, renting a car is a popular option for exploring Ireland during a short break. It provides flexibility and allows you to venture into the countryside at your own pace. Just make sure you’re comfortable with driving on the left side of the road, as this is the side we drive on in Ireland.

Renting a car gives you the freedom to visit remote areas, picturesque villages, and hidden gems that may not be easily accessible by public transportation.

Additionally, it allows you to customise your itinerary and make spontaneous stops along the way – which to me, is what travelling in Ireland is all about.

Lots of car rental companies operate in Ireland, and you can book a car in advance or upon arrival at major airports and cities.

As with anywhere, I recommended that you check the specific requirements, including driver’s license validity and age restrictions, before renting a car in Ireland.

Where to go in Ireland for a weekend?

For a romantic weekend getaway, Ballynahinch and Connemara are ideal choices. Ballynahinch, located in County Galway, offers a serene and picturesque setting.

You can indulge in romantic walks through the stunning Connemara countryside, enjoy a romantic dinner at the Ballynahinch Castle Hotel, and even go fishing together in the nearby rivers.

For active explorers, Sligo is a fantastic option. With its rugged landscapes and outdoor activities, Sligo offers endless opportunities for adventure.

You can hike the majestic Benbulben Mountain, surf the Atlantic waves at Strandhill Beach, explore ancient megalithic sites like Carrowmore, and even try your hand at stand-up paddleboarding on Lough Gill.

If you’re looking for a city break, Kilkenny is a perfect choice. Known for its medieval charm, Kilkenny offers a vibrant cityscape with a rich heritage.

You can visit Kilkenny Castle, explore the winding streets lined with traditional shops and cafes, discover the historical St. Canice’s Cathedral, and enjoy the lively atmosphere of the Kilkenny Arts Festival if you’re visiting during the summer months.

Are there any specific festivals or events to experience during a short break in Ireland?

Besides the renowned Kilkenny Arts Festival, there are many other vibrant festivals and events to experience during a short break in Ireland.

From the lively Galway International Arts Festival to the festive St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, there’s always something exciting happening to immerse yourself in Irish culture and entertainment.

Travelling to Ireland? You might also like:

• WESTPORT, CO MAYO | Things To Do In Westport, Ireland – An Irish Heritage Treasure
• CONNEMARA GUIDE | The Best Things To Do In Connemara – A Local’s Guide
• DUBLIN ITINERARY | Best 2 Days In Dublin Itinerary – A Local’s Guide To Dublin’s Fair City
• IS DUBLIN WORTH VISITING  |  Is Dublin Worth Visiting? A Local’s 17 Pros (+ 5 Cons)
• DUBLIN FOOD GUIDE  |  Insider’s Guide: The Best Restaurants In Dublin For Foodies
• IS KILKENNY WORTH VISITING |   Is Kilkenny Worth Visiting? A Local’s 16 Pros (+5 Challenges)
• KILLARNEY | A Curated Guide Of The Best Things To Do In Killarney Ireland
• KILLARNEY HOTEL REVIEW | A Boutique Bolthole in Killarney, Ireland – Cahernane House Hotel Review
• KILLARNEY AIRBNBS | The Best Airbnb Killarney Holiday Rentals
• IRELAND ITINERARY | 7 Day Ireland Itinerary – A Local’s Guide To Discovering The REAL Ireland
• IRELAND   SHORT BREAK IDEAS |  7 Blissful Ideas For A Wonderful Short Break In Ireland
• IRELAND CASTLES TO RENT | The Best Castles For Rent In Ireland On Airbnb

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Hi there! I'm Isabelle, aficionado of immersive travel experiences and unique, luxurious hotels. You'll most likely find me camera in hand, or nerding out on research in advance of my next trip. A major foodie, history and scenery lover, nothing makes me happier than soaking in the atmosphere and culture of the destination I'm visiting.

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