Top 5 Day Trips from Dublin
If you are planning a trip to Dublin—or even better, if you are already there—you might be aware that the capital of Ireland is brimming with countless places to enjoy your getaway. However, if "the luck of the Irish" is on your side and you have a few extra days, what we are about to share will surely pique your interest. Discover the five best excursions from Dublin, including how to undertake them either independently or on a tour.
⭐ Don't forget to check out our Dublin guide, packed with top advice and recommendations.
In Ireland, enchanting locations often seem to leap from the pages of Celtic mythology: lush meadows, endless cliffs, waves crashing onto pebble beaches, and, of course, castles. After exploring all that Dublin has to offer, including some of its free tours in Spanish, lace up your comfortable shoes, pack a snack in your backpack, and let’s head out to some of the most breathtaking getaways from Dublin!
Excursions from Dublin
Dublin serves as an excellent base for discovering some of Ireland's most stunning landscapes and historical sites. Whether you are seeking natural beauty, rich history, or cultural experiences, there's an excursion waiting for you. Here’s a closer look at the top five excursions that you cannot miss.
1. The Cliffs of Moher
Who hasn’t seen a breathtaking image of Ireland’s landscapes? Chances are that one of those stunning snapshots belongs to the Cliffs of Moher, a must-visit destination and one of the most beautiful places in the country. Stretching for eight kilometers and soaring up to 214 meters high, these cliffs provide an awe-inspiring view, complemented by a small castle designed specifically for taking in the spectacular panorama. For the nature enthusiasts, there are also lovely walking trails to explore.
Visiting Independently:
Renting a car in Ireland is the most convenient way to reach the west coast and the Cliffs of Moher. Expect about three hours of driving from Dublin, so setting an early alarm is advisable if you plan to visit in one day. Download a navigation app, like maps.me, to help you navigate once you veer off the well-maintained highways into the sometimes tricky backroads.
- The cliffs are part of the scenic Atlantic Way, a 2,500 km route along Ireland's western coastline. If time permits, take the opportunity to explore more of this famous drive.
- Alternatively, you can easily reach Galway by train from Dublin, which takes about two hours with tickets priced around €20. Once there, you can rent a car or take a bus to Doolin, the nearest village to the cliffs.
- Keep in mind that visiting the Cliffs of Moher from Dublin can take more time than you might expect. Spending a night nearby allows for a more relaxed experience at this iconic location.
2. Belfast and the Giant’s Causeway
Why not travel from one capital to another in a single day? Visiting Belfast from Dublin means crossing the border into Northern Ireland. Although the city has calmed down significantly over the years, some areas still bear visible scars from political and religious conflicts.
Revitalized in recent years, Belfast boasts numerous attractions, including the Titanic Museum (where the famous ocean liner was built), historic docks, the grand City Hall, and lively pubs. While Belfast is worth a trip in its own right, combining it with the Giant's Causeway makes for an unforgettable day.
Visiting Independently:
The car is again the best option. If you plan to visit both Belfast and the Giant's Causeway in one day, start your journey early. The drive from Dublin to Belfast takes just under two hours, and it’s about another hour to reach the Causeway.
- Alternatively, you can take a train from Dublin’s Connolly station to Belfast, a great option if you only want to explore Belfast. The trip takes about two hours, with tickets costing around €18.
- Bus services, such as Translink or Aircoach, offer daily connections between the two capitals, taking about two hours and costing around €20 each way.
On a Tour:
A fantastic way to experience Belfast and the Giant's Causeway in one day is by taking this complete tour with a Spanish-speaking guide. For those eager to explore more of Northern Ireland, this two-day excursion will take you to Belfast, the walled city of Derry, the Antrim Valley, Dunluce Castle, and some filming locations from the famous series Game of Thrones, alongside the Giant's Causeway. This package includes transportation, accommodations, and a guide.
3. Wicklow Mountains and Glendalough
The stunning landscapes of Ireland are best exemplified by the Wicklow Mountains National Park, located just a short distance from Dublin. Known as the “Garden of Ireland,” this area is a paradise for hikers and nature lovers, making it one of the top excursions from Dublin.
Featuring glacial lakes, rolling mountains, and historical monuments, the highlight of the journey is Glendalough and its impressive medieval monastic settlement dating back to the 6th century.
Visiting Independently:
The best way to appreciate the beauty of Wicklow National Park is by exploring it with your own vehicle. You can reach the park in less than an hour from Dublin, traversing dreamlike landscapes, and you’ll have the freedom to stop as often as you like to stretch your legs and take photos. Be sure to visit the park information office for tips on how to make the most of your visit.
On a Tour:
If you prefer to be guided, this one-day tour with a Spanish-speaking guide is affordable and comprehensive. You’ll only need to focus on enjoying Wicklow, the neoclassical mansion of Powerscourt, and of course, Glendalough, the beautiful valley of two lakes featuring the famous Celtic monastery founded by St. Kevin in the 6th century.
4. Newgrange and Other Treasures of Celtic Ireland
Within the Brú na Bóinne complex, located about 40 kilometers from the capital, lies the Newgrange burial chamber. This fascinating site, shrouded in mystery (akin to the pyramids of Egypt, but even older), is the most famous archaeological site in all of Ireland, boasting an impressive 5,000 years of history!
This monumental mound, astronomically aligned, has a shape reminiscent of a spacecraft, and inside it opens an 18-meter passage connecting to a 6-meter-high burial chamber. It’s a must-see!
Visiting Independently:
The easiest and quickest way to reach Newgrange is by car. Alternatively, you can take the train from Dublin to Drogheda and then catch the bus 163 or a taxi for the last 10 kilometers to the Brú na Bóinne complex. Trains from Dublin to Drogheda depart from Connolly station, taking just over half an hour and costing between €8-11.
On a Tour:
If you want to learn about one of the most significant and revered places in early Irish history alongside Newgrange, this tour that also takes you to the mystical Hill of Tara is perfect for you.
If Newgrange and the Hill of Tara don’t seem like enough wonders, consider adding the impressive High Crosses of Ireland in Monasterboice to your itinerary with this comprehensive bus tour that includes all entrance fees at a great price.
5. Howth and Malahide Castle
While the Cliffs of Moher are indeed a breathtaking sight, if you lack the time (or the desire) to venture to the far side of the country, don’t worry—another stunning Irish landscape lies just a stone's throw from Dublin.
In the Howth peninsula, you can explore varied trails with stunning views of the cliffs while also enjoying the beautiful inland meadows. Furthermore, the quaint fishing village of Howth is a great spot to refuel with some delicious local cuisine.
Visiting Independently:
There’s no need to rent a car; you can reach Howth quickly and conveniently by train from the capital. A good number of trains connect Dublin and Howth, taking about 30 minutes and costing around €7 for a round trip. More information can be found here.
These are just five proposals for discovering stunning corners of Ireland, which we believe are the best excursions from Dublin. Have you tried any? Which one is your favorite?
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