We absolutely adore our capital but, just like in every relationship, we sometimes need a little break. Feel the same? Read all about the ten best day trips from Dublin you can do today.
Cliffs, beaches, lakes, and haunted castles; Dublin’s surroundings have it all, and while they certainly deserve more attention, it’s entirely possible to get a glimpse at the rest of Ireland even in just one day. Why not take one of these numerous day trips from Dublin to see more?
If you only have a few days in our country – or are a Dubliner looking for a change of scenery – we suggest taking these trips to see what else our beautiful island has to offer. You might end up writing down a bucket list for your next visit!
Not sure where to go and what to do? Check out our list of the ten best day trips from Dublin you can do today – and tell us which one you liked best!
Tips and advice for taking day trips from Dublin
Booking.com – the best site for booking hotels in Ireland
Best ways to travel: Hiring a car is one of the easiest ways to explore if you have a limited amount of time. As the capital, Dublin is the most well-connected place in Ireland, so you should easily enjoy day trips from the city using services such as the DART, Irish Rail or Dublin Bus. However, travelling by car will give you much more freedom when planning your own journey and day trips. Alternatively, you can book guided tours that will take you to all the best things to see and do, according to your preference.
Hiring a car: Companies such as Avis, Europcar, Hertz, and Enterprise Rent-a-Car offer a range of car rental options to suit your requirements. Cars can be picked up and dropped off at locations around the country, including at airports.
Travel insurance: Ireland is a relatively safe country. However, it is important to make sure you have appropriate travel insurance to cover unforeseen circumstances. If you’re hiring a car, it’s also important to ensure that you’re insured to drive in Ireland.
Popular tour companies: Booking a guided tour is a great option if you want to save some time planning. Popular tour companies include CIE Tours, Shamrocker Adventures, Vagabond Tours, and Paddywagon Tours.
10. Malahide, Co. Dublin – visit the most haunted castle in Ireland
Total drive time: 40 minutes (17.6 km / 11 miles)
Just a short trip north from Dublin, Malahide makes a great day trip destination for history lovers and beach fans. The town centre is easily walkable, and you are never far from the marina, so bring your swimming suit if you visit in the warmer months.
- The main attraction in town is the medieval Malahide Castle, where the Talbot family lived for 800 years. Besides checking out their private rooms and some stunning pieces of art, you might also see a ghost. Rumour has it that Malahide Castle is the most haunted building on the Emerald Isle – the guides will happily fill you in on all the legends. Ghost sighting or not, make sure to leave some time to explore the beautiful gardens all around Malahide Castle!
- If you have an extra hour or two, hop off the DART in Clontarf on the way to or back from Malahide for a relaxing beach walk and a great view of the legendary Poolbeg Chimneys.
Where to eat
Breakfast and lunch:
- Déjà vu: Serving delicious French cuisine, Malahide’s Déjà vu is known for its excellent brunch and vegetarian options.
- Gourmet Food Parlour: This popular Irish chain is always a safe bet for a delicious breakfast or lunch.
- The Greenery: This popular neighbourhood eatery is a popular choice for breakfast and lunch in Malahide.
Dinner:
- Kajjal: Serving unforgettable Asian cuisine and fantastic cocktails.
- Old Street Restaurant: A Michelin recommended restaurant using locally sourced ingredients to create a fantastic menu.
- SALE e PEPE: A must-visit for delicious seafood.
Where to stay: Grand Hotel Malahide
This iconic four-star Malahide Hotel is the perfect place to stay in this coastal village. With luxurious and classically decorated rooms, fantastic onsite restaurants and bars, and a leisure centre and swimming pool, you can’t go wrong.
9. Belfast, Co. Antrim – explore the story behind the Titanic
Total drive time: 2 hours 10 minutes (166 km / 103 miles)
Whether you are a history buff, a Titanic fan, or just enjoy exploring cities, you certainly can’t go wrong with Northern Ireland’s capital city, Belfast. The city capital is only two and a half hours by train or bus from Dublin, making it one of the ten best day trips from Dublin you can do today.
- Titanic Belfast is the city’s most famous attraction. At this six-floor, nine-gallery interactive museum on Queen’s Island, where you can explore the story behind the world’s most famous ship (and James Cameron’s movie starring Leonardo DiCaprio and Kate Winslet). Book your ticket and entry slot before you head off to Belfast to avoid wasting time in the waiting queue.
- Then, either take a stroll through the city centre or a black taxi tour to check out the sights and murals of The Troubles.
- If you are up for a pint, we suggest Kelly’s Cellars, one of the oldest, most popular, and most authentic pubs in town.
- If you’re planning a full-day tour, we also recommend checking out Crumlin Road Gaol and Belfast City Hall.
Where to eat
Breakfast and lunch:
- the pocket: For a delicious and creative start to your day, grab a delicious breakfast at the pocket, one of the best coffee shops in Belfast.
- Maggie May’s: Cheap and cheerful is Maggie May’s speciality. You can’t go wrong with a delicious breakfast or lunch here.
- Harlem: For bohemian vibes and delicious food, we recommend checking out Harlem.
Dinner:
- Holohan’s Pantry: Traditional Irish food cooked to perfection is what can be expected from Holohan’s Pantry.
- Coppi: Modern Mediterranean cuisine and an ambient atmosphere make Coppi one of the best places to eat in Belfast.
- Home: Catering for various dietary requirements, Home is known for its fantastic food and locally sourced menus.
Where to stay: Grand Central Hotel
Towering above the city, the impressive Grand Central Hotel is the tallest hotel in Belfast. Lie back in comfortable rooms and enjoy fantastic food and drinks from the wonderful onsite restaurants.
8. Cliffs of Moher, Co. Clare – take a walk along Ireland’s famous cliffs
Total drive time: 3 hours 15 minutes (270 km / 168 miles)
A trip from Dublin to the Cliffs of Moher is great if you don’t mind getting up early (and coming back late). The trip to the Cliffs of Moher is doable within a day. You can also pass through Galway so you don’t need to miss out and decide Dublin vs Galway.
- The Emerald Isle’s most famous cliffs are located on the west coast, roughly 270 km (168 miles) from Dublin, and draw more than 1.5 million visitors annually. Up to (700 ft) 213 m high and 14 km (8.7 miles) in length, you can marvel at the Aran Islands in Galway Bay, the Twelve Pins and the Maumturks in the north, and Loop Head in the south from their peak.
- The easiest way to access the attraction is the Cliffs of Moher Visitor Experience. However, if you have a little more time to spare, we recommend one of the Cliffs of Moher hiking trails. And, just in case you are wondering, yes, Harry Potter was filmed here!
- As one of the ten best day trips from Dublin, numerous guided tours are available from the capital, some even offering a hotel pick-up. If you prefer to go on your own, it’s about a three-hour drive.
- The weather at the cliffs can change from sunshine to storm, rain, and even hail within minutes, wear comfy shoes and pack everything from shades to a water-proofed jacket.
- Paddywagon Tours operate a full-day tour from Dublin to the Cliffs of Moher. Along the way, you will pass through the picturesque Irish countryside, stop off at quaint villages like Kinvara and enjoy coastal views at Galway Bay. Then, you can discover ancient sites at the Burren and enjoy some lunch in Doolin before enjoying the fantastic views from the Cliffs of Moher, one of Ireland’s most popular tourist attractions.
Where to eat
Breakfast and lunch
- The Ivy Cottage: This old-world cottage in Doolin is known for its fantastic breakfast and lunch menu.
- Wild at the Cave: For coffee, cake, and light lunches, Wild at the Cave is a must-visit.
- Stonecutters Kitchen Family Restaurant: Located just north of the Cliffs of Moher, Stonecutters Kitchen is a fantastic bistro-style eatery.
Dinner
- Gus O’Connor’s Pub: Serving delicious pub grub and a range of vegan options, this is a great place for dinner in Doolin.
- Glas Restaurant: The fantastic Glas Restaurant at Hotel Doolin is a great spot for an upscale dining experience.
- Anthony’s: With unrivalled sunset views, this new restaurant has quickly become one of the most popular spots for dinner in Doolin.
Where to stay: Gregan’s Castle Hotel
Fancy staying in a castle? If so, book a room at the luxurious Gregan’s Castle Hotel located in The Burren. Reflexology and massage treatments are on offer, and there’s even a wonderful onsite bar and drawing-room. Plus, this eco-friendly hotel is ideal for the sustainably conscious.
7. The Wicklow Mountains, Co. Wicklow – see mystical ruins and crystal-clear lakes
Total drive time: 1 hour (38.2 km / 23.75 miles)
A short scenic drive takes you to one of Ireland’s most beautiful natural splendours of the Ancient East: Glendalough Valley and the Wicklow Mountain National Park. The journey there is quite spectacular, with the scenery changing dramatically just a few minutes outside the city border.
- Glendalough is famous for its glacial lakes, 10th-century monastic sites, moors, forests, and of course, as one of the main shooting locations of Hollywood blockbusters such as Braveheart and P.S. I Love You.
- Before you explore them, head to the visitor centre, where the short film about the attraction gives you the history in a nutshell and makes your stay a lot more worthwhile.
- The Wicklow mountain range is a nature lover’s paradise and options to spend the rest of your day are endless. With stunning stops like Sally Gap, it is really no wonder this is one of the most popular day trips from Dublin.
- Whether you want to go hiking (there are trails for beginners and pros), take a leisurely stroll, chill at one of the many lakes, or shoot some spectacular outdoor photos, we are confident you won’t regret the trip.
- A Wild Wicklow Tour takes you on a full-day trip from the capital, allowing you the chance to enjoy the beautiful countryside, quaint villages, and ancient sites of this fantastic area.
Where to eat
Breakfast and lunch
- Ann’s Coffee Shop: This laidback café is a great spot for a quick breakfast or lunch.
- Picnic: Make the most of the great outdoors and pack a picnic to enjoy in the stunning surroundings.
Dinner
- Glendalough Hotel: Enjoy a traditional Irish meal in stunning surroundings.
- Wicklow Heather Restaurant: This rustic, wood-beamed restaurant is the perfect place for a traditional Irish feed.
- The Coach House, Roundwood: With a traditional open-fire and a traditional menu of home-cooked food, this is a great place to end your day.
Where to stay: Glendalough Hotel
This beautiful luxury hotel at the heart of the Wicklow Mountains offers comfortable ensuite rooms and the fantastic Casey’s Bar and Bistro.
6. Howth, Co. Dublin – take a cliff walk, enjoy a stunning sunset, and eat delicious seafood
Total drive time: 40 minutes (17.6 km / 11 miles)
Whether you are into coastal hikes, walks on the beach, or boat trips, if you love seafood or Instagramming lighthouses, Howth has you covered!
- Just a 30-minute ride by DART, the picturesque fishing village north of Dublin is a must-see and our winner of the ten best day trips from Dublin you can do today.
- Steps from the train station, you will find the Howth Market, independent businesses, and little antique shops. The pier, just a little further down the road, features colourful fishing boats and excellent restaurants serving fresh catch straight from the boat.
- A pleasant walk to the lighthouse gives you postcard-perfect views of the bay, while little boats take off regularly to the nearby island, Ireland’s Eye, home to dozens of birds and seals.
- Another attraction not to be missed is the Howth Cliff Walk, allowing panoramic views over the peninsula while burning some calories.
- Howth Castle is a must-visit for history-lovers. Built in the 12th-century, this is a site of huge historical significance. Today, it is a popular venue for weddings, events, and filming.
- In a romantic mood? Howth’s sunsets are always a catch, and you will find plenty of locals and visitors gathering around the pier or on the beach for an evening walk. Make sure to get the lighthouse in the picture for a cliché Instagram shot.
Where to eat
Breakfast and lunch
- The Grind Howth: A must-visit for a delicious breakfast in this seaside town, Grind serves delicious coffee, pancakes, smoothies, and more.
- Bodega Coffee: This Howth Market eatery is known for its amazing coffee and delicious pastries.
- PÓG Howth: This popular Dublin pancake spot has a Howth branch. Here, you can make your very own tasty pancake stack.
Dinner
- Aqua Restaurant: For a classy dining experience with fantastic sea views, Aqua Restaurant is a must-visit.
- The Oar House: For delicious, freshly caught seafood in a quaint fisherman’s cottage, we recommend dining at the Oar House.
- Octopussy’s Seafood Tapas: This popular eatery offers plenty of choices, delicious seafood, and a fun atmosphere.
Where to stay: King Sitric
Located above a popular seafood restaurant, King Sitric offers comfortable seaside rooms conveniently located in the heart of Howth.
5. Lough Tay, Co. Wicklow – for amazing lake views
Total drive time: 1 hour (58.6 km / 36.4 miles)
This natural wonder is located in the Wicklow Mountains National Park, on the shores of a private property. Locals often refer to the freshwater lake as ‘Guinness Lake’ because it somewhat resembles a pint of Guinness, with its dark, black body and a white foamy ‘head’.
- There is a private beach with stark white sand (offering this dynamic contrast). Up until recently, the Guinness family were still proud owners of the lake and the nearby estate and house.
- Lough Tay lies between the Djouce and Luggala mountains. As it is private, it is most often observed at a height from the Wicklow Way route or the road R759.
- It is said that the best way to enjoy the beauty of this lake is from above, looking down on the breathtaking Irish countryside while enjoying a can of Guinness.
- However, please do not drink and drive; doing so is not only illegal but also even more dangerous than usual on Wicklow’s challenging and sometimes treacherous roads.
Where to eat
Breakfast and lunch
- Kavanagh’s Vartry House: For a delicious, light lunch near Lough Tay, check out Kavanagh’s Vartry House.
- Picnic: If it’s a sunny day, there’s no better way to enjoy the view than having a picnic in the great outdoors.
Dinner
- Byrne and Woods Bar and Restaurant: Serving award-winning Michelin Pub Guide food, this Roundwood restaurant is a great place to stop for a tasty bite to eat.
- La Fig: Located in Oldtown, La Fig is a must-visit for a delicious pizza takeaway.
- The Coach House, Roundwood: With a traditional open-fire and a traditional menu of home-cooked food, this is a great place to end your day.
Where to stay: Tudor Lodge B&B
If you’re looking for a cosy stay on a budget, then book a room at the ever-popular Tudor Lodge B&B. Guests can enjoy comfortable rooms with ensuite bathrooms and tea and coffee making facilities.
4. Blessington, Co. Wicklow – for charming garden strolls
Total drive time: 50 minutes (36.8 km / 22.9 miles)
Blessington is not only one of the best day trips from Dublin within a one hour drive, but it is also perhaps one of the most beautiful places in the entire country.
- Situated in the ‘garden of Ireland’, Blessington sits along the River Liffey and is a great place for a full-day trip adventure.
- Russborough House is one of the most sought-after destinations in Blessington, and the stately home offers charming garden paths and woodland wanders. You can also enjoy indoor artist workshops, art collections, exhibits, house tours, and even a quaint tea room for light refreshments and lunch.
- A walk along the neighbouring Poulaphouca Reservoir is the perfect way to top a day off in Blessington before returning to the Republic of Ireland’s capital city.
Where to eat
Breakfast and lunch
- Crafternoon Tea: This wonderful café and craft shop is the perfect place for a fantastic breakfast or lunch in the area.
- Moody Rooster Café: For good, honest food, we recommend checking out the laidback Moody Rooster Café.
- Brew Twenty One: This Blessington coffee house is renowned for great coffee and even better toasties.
Dinner
- Wild Wicklow House: With everything from burgers to monkfish, steak, and more, you’ll be spoilt for choice at Wild Wicklow House.
- The Ballymore Inn: Using locally sourced ingredients, The Ballymore Inn is a must-visit for an unforgettable dining experience.
- Murphy’s Bar: This friendly pub and restaurant has a large and varied menu that offers something for everyone.
Where to stay: Tulfarris Hotel and Golf Resort
The beautiful Tulfarris Hotel and Golf Resort offers an unrivalled stay in the area of Blessington. With luxurious rooms, majestic lake views, and the onsite Fia Rua Restaurant and Elk Bar, guests will be in heaven with a stay here.
3. Powerscourt House and Estate, Co, Wicklow – for magnificent manor vibes
Total drive time: 1 hour (45.9 km / 28.5 miles)
Powerscourt Estate has got to be one of the most breathtaking natural wonders on the east coast of Ireland. And, as luck would have it, it’s just moments from Dublin city, which is why it’s one of the most popular attractions in Ireland.
- Set in County Wicklow on 47 acres of land, this country estate consists of a great house –originally a 13th-century castle – perfectly manicured gardens, wild woodlands, and a mesmerising waterfall.
- Today, it is a popular tourist destination and a favourite of those looking to get away from the city slog for a day and enjoy the country air. On a warm day, the outdoor options are endless. So, don’t forget to pack your walking shoes and a picnic.
Where to eat
Breakfast and lunch
- Avoca Café: For a delicious lunch, fantastic cakes, and a relaxing afternoon, grab lunch at Avoca Café.
- Picnic: It’s very common for people visiting the area to enjoy a picnic in the expansive Powerscourt Gardens. Join them and immerse yourself in the breathtaking surroundings of the area.
Dinner
- Sika Restaurant: You won’t regret dining at the award-winning Sika Restaurant in Powerscourt Hotel.
- Sugar Loaf Lounge: With white tableclothed tables, floor to ceiling windows, and fine service, the Sugar Loaf Lounge is a must-visit.
Where to stay: Powerscourt Hotel, Autograph Collection
No trip to Wicklow is complete without a luxurious stay at the beautiful Powerscourt Hotel. Located on the breathtaking Powerscourt Estate, this stunning five-star hotel is renowned for its traditional and comfortable rooms and suites, with all the amenities you could need, its phenomenal onsite Sika Restaurant, and its brilliant onsite spa.
2. Glendalough – for valley walks and scenic picnics
Total drive time: 1 hour 20 minutes (69.6 km / 43.25 miles)
Also set in County Wicklow is Glendalough, an ancient 6th-century monastic settlement hidden in a glacial valley.
- Founded by St. Kevin thousands of years ago, Glendalough is an important site of Irish history. Today, it has become one of the most popular tourist destinations on the east coast of Ireland.
- Today, the round tower still stands strong, and the area boasts fantastic hiking and picnicking options for the entire family. Ice cream vendors and fun activities fill the area during the summer months, so keep an eye out for upcoming events.
Where to eat
Breakfast and lunch
- Picnic: Glendalough is another great picnic spot, and with so many picnic benches around, it would be rude not to.
- Glendalough Green: Popular among hikers, Glendalough Green is known for its fantastic light bites and snacks.
- The Conservatory: Serving delicious breakfast, brunch, and lunch, this is one not to miss.
Dinner
- Wicklow Heather Restaurant: This rustic, wood-beamed restaurant is the perfect place for a traditional Irish feed.
- Lynham’s of Laragh: The hotel restaurant is a great option for a delicious meal.
Where to stay: Lynham’s of Laragh
Located close to Glendalough, Lynham’s of Laragh is the perfect place to stay for those who want to explore this beautifully scenic area. Large ensuite rooms come with all the modern amenities you could need, and the onsite bar, restaurant, and lounge provides the perfect place to chill out after a day spent exploring.
1. Newgrange, Co, Meath – our favourite of the top ten day trips from Dublin
Total drive time: 1 hour (51 km / 31.7 miles)
Newgrange is one of the most famous landmarks in Ireland. If you’re looking for stunning day trips from Dublin within a one hour drive, you can’t miss this one.
This man-made wonder is most popular with tourists for recognising the winter solstice when light from the sun illuminates a passage in this tomb.
- Today a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Newgrange is one of the most interesting historic sites in the Boyne Valley. It is no wonder this historic site is one of the most popular day trips from Dublin.
- The sheer integrity of the infrastructure sheds light on methods of building and tools from a period of over 5,000 years ago. The strength and resilience of its build prove how capable the people of that time were, too.
Where to eat
Breakfast and lunch
- Georges Patisserie: Located in Slane, County Meath, Georges Patisserie is the perfect place for breakfast near Newgrange.
- Sage & Stone: This farm shop and café serves delicious breakfast options like pancakes, porridge, savoury options, and more.
Dinner
- Zucchini’s: Located not far from Newgrange, Zucchini’s is a great place to stop for some delicious food while visiting this ancient site.
- D’Vine Bistro & Tapas Bar: This popular restaurant in Drogheda is the perfect place for a delicious dinner.
- Sorrento’s: Fancy a taste of Italy? Sorrento’s in Drogheda is a must!
Where to stay: Boyne Valley Hotel and Country Club
The opulent Boyne Valley Hotel and Country Club is located in Drogheda, not far from Newgrange. Set on 16 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens, this modern and comfortable hotel boasts stylish ensuite rooms and various leisure facilities, including a gym, swimming pool, and golf course.
Other notable mentions
Above we have listed some of the best day trips from Dublin you simply can’t miss. However, there are plenty more where they came from. Here are some of our other best day trips from Dublin:
Kilkenny City: The medieval city of Kilkenny is a must-visit. In just an hour and a half, you can arrive in this fascinating city, discover medieval ruins, and check out the famous Kilkenny Castle.
The Causeway Coast: Just over three hours from Dublin, you can discover the incredible Giant’s Causeway, Dunluce Castle, and even filming locations from HBO’s hit show Game of Thrones.
Waterford City: Just two hours south of Dublin, you will come to Ireland’s oldest city: Waterford. A must-visit for history lovers, especially those interested in the Viking’s influence on Ireland.
FAQs about the best day trips from Dublin
What is the population of Ireland?
6.8 million people live on the island of Ireland (2020). There are 4.9 million living in the Republic of Ireland and 1.9 million in Northern Ireland.
How many counties are there in Ireland?
There are 32 counties on the island of Ireland. County Louth is the smallest, and County Cork is the biggest.
What temperature is it in Dublin?
Dublin is a coastal city with a temperate climate. Spring sees balmy conditions ranging from 3 C (37.4 F) to 15 C (59 F). In summer, temperatures rise to a range of 9 C (48.2 F) to 20 C (68 F).
Autumn temperatures in Dublin are generally between 4 C (39.2 F) and 17 C (62.6 F). In winter, temperatures are usually between 2 C (35.6 F) and 9 C (48.2 F).
What time is sunset in Dublin?
Depending on the month of the year, the sun sets at varying times. On the Winter Solstice in December (the shortest day of the year), the sun can set as early as 4:08 pm.
On the Summer Solstice in June (the longest day of the year), the sun can set as late as 9:57 pm.
What to do in Dublin?
Dublin is a dynamic city with tonnes of things to see and do! If you’re keen to learn about what to do in Dublin, have a look at the below articles for some inspiration.
If you are visiting Dublin, you will find these articles really helpful:
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