Dublin, the capital of Ireland, has so much to offer that it’s almost impossible to see everything in just one visit. But if you’re short on time and still want to explore the city and its surroundings, taking a day trip is a perfect solution. In this post, we’ve curated the top 5 best day trips you can take from Dublin. These trips will take you to charming coastal towns, ancient monasteries, stunning national parks, and of course, some of the best pubs in Ireland. So pack your bags, put on your walking shoes, and let’s explore the best day trips in Dublin together.

The 5 Best Day Trips in Dublin

1. Dublin: Full-Day Wicklow Mountains Tour with Lunch
2. Dublin Surrounds Day Tour: Killiney Hill & Dalkey Castle
3. From Dublin: Cliffs of Moher and Galway City Full-Day Trip
4. Ireland: 5-Day Escape to the Southwest Tour
5. 3-Day Cork, Blarney Castle, Ring of Kerry and Cliffs of Moher Rail Tour

The 5 Best Day Trips in Dublin

1. Dublin: Full-Day Wicklow Mountains Tour with Lunch

This full-day tour takes you on a journey through the stunning Wicklow mountains just outside of Dublin. Your guide will provide a briefing about St. Kevin’s monastic site in Glendalough, followed by a leisurely walk around the National Park’s beautiful lakes. Along the way, you’ll learn about the legends surrounding the Celtic cross and St. Kevin’s monastery.

You’ll also have the chance to explore the award-winning gardens at Powerscourt, which include a pet graveyard, Japanese garden, winged horses, and a Rapunzel tower. After a day of outdoor exploring, indulge in a traditional Irish stew at Johnnie Fox’s pub, hidden deep within the Wicklow mountains.

The tour includes a choice of soup or salad for a starter, followed by Irish stew or vegetarian options as the main course. It’s the perfect way to escape Dublin for the day and immerse yourself in the natural beauty and legends of County Wicklow.

2. Dublin Surrounds Day Tour: Killiney Hill & Dalkey Castle

Take a luxury coach from Dublin city centre and travel out the coast to the outskirts of Dublin to experience Dalkey Castle with its costumed guides. The living history guides and actors will take you back in time to Tudor days, while you learn about life in the castle in the 1500s. If you’re feeling energetic, climb to the battlements and take in magnificent views of sea and mountains. After the tour, stroll through Dalkey town and visit artisan bakeries, book shops, cafés, and Dalky Tramyard Market.

Back on the coach, take a short but breathtaking drive up the coast road to Killiney Hill. Pass by Enya’s castle residence and enter Killiney Hill Park, a small public park overlooking both Dalkey and Killiney villages. It boasts spectacular views over the surrounding areas, including Dublin to the northwest. Enjoy lunch and shopping in Avoca Handweavers before returning to Dublin city centre. This Dublin Surrounds Day Tour: Killiney Hill & Dalkey Castle is the perfect way to escape the city and experience two unique gems of Dublin’s surroundings.

3. From Dublin: Cliffs of Moher and Galway City Full-Day Trip

This full-day trip from Dublin takes you to two of Ireland’s most famous destinations – the Cliffs of Moher and Galway City. You will be picked up from your accommodation in Dublin in the morning and driven through the Irish countryside, passing quaint towns and beautiful landscapes.

Your first stop will be at the Cliffs of Moher, one of Ireland’s most popular natural attractions. You will have plenty of time to explore the site, walk along the edge of the cliffs, and take in the breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean.

Afterwards, you will head to Galway City, a charming and vibrant town on Ireland’s west coast. Here you will have free time to explore the city at your leisure. Visit the colorful houses in the Latin Quarter, stroll along the River Corrib, or enjoy some traditional Irish music in one of the city’s many local pubs.

At the end of the day, you will be driven back to your accommodation in Dublin, with plenty of memories from your day out in the Irish countryside.

4. Ireland: 5-Day Escape to the Southwest Tour

Discover the scenic splendor of southwest Ireland on a comprehensive 5-day tour of The Burren, the Dingle Peninsula, and the fabled Ring of Kerry. Walk the dramatic cliff top trails of the Cliffs of Moher, explore the lunar limestone landscape of The Burren, and drive the 100-mile Ring of Kerry. Learn about the monks of Skellig Michael, visit the family home of Daniel O’Connell, and go to Blarney Castle. Trek to Torc Waterfall, stay in the lively town of Killarney, and sample fresh seafood in little fishing villages. Enjoy dramatic views from the Cliffs of Moher and stroll along the vast stretch of Inch Beach watching the local surfers. Transportation is by small minicoach with accommodation in quaint bed and breakfast guesthouses for a more intimate experience. Depart Dublin and head west through the farmland and peat bogs of Kildare and Offally counties. Stop at historic castles and monasteries and wander the colorful fishing villages to sample fresh seafood.

5. 3-Day Cork, Blarney Castle, Ring of Kerry and Cliffs of Moher Rail Tour

Discover the natural and cultural highlights of Ireland on an unforgettable 3-day tour of Cork, Blarney Castle, Ring of Kerry, and Cliffs of Moher. This tour will take you through stunning natural scenery and iconic attractions like Blarney Castle and the UNESCO-listed Cliffs of Moher. Delve into the rich culture of Cork with a guided city tour and enjoy the warm hospitality of Killarney during two overnight stays. This tour is ideal for travelers who want to experience the best of Ireland’s natural beauty and culture with the convenience of transportation by both rail and coach. Don’t miss the chance to kiss the famous Blarney stone and marvel at the stunning views along the Ring of Kerry. Join us on this 3-day adventure through some of Ireland’s most iconic destinations.

Most Frequently Asked Questions About Dublin

If you’re traveling to Dublin or planning a trip to the city, you may have some questions you need answers to. In this blog post, we’ve compiled a list of some of the most frequently asked questions about Dublin. From the best time to visit the city to the top attractions, we’ve got you covered.

What is Dublin known for?

Dublin is known for a lot of things. It’s the capital and largest city of Ireland, known for its rich history, culture, and famous landmarks. Dublin is also famous for its literary heritage, being the birthplace of many famous writers, including James Joyce, W.B. Yeats, and Samuel Beckett. The city is also famous for its nightlife, with its lively pubs and bars, where you can enjoy traditional Irish music and dance.

When is the best time to visit Dublin?

The best time to visit Dublin is during the summer months from June to August when the weather is mild and the streets are bustling with tourists. However, this is also the busiest period, so be prepared for long queues and high prices. If you want to avoid the crowds, you may want to consider visiting in the shoulder season months of April, May, September, and October, when the temperatures are still mild, and the crowds have thinned out.

What are the top attractions in Dublin?

Dublin has a lot of top attractions that are all worth visiting. Here are some of the most popular ones:

1. Guinness Storehouse

The Guinness Storehouse is a seven-story museum that tells the story of Ireland’s most famous drink. The museum takes you through the brewing process and history of the drink, and you can even learn how to pour the perfect pint of Guinness.

2. Trinity College Dublin

Trinity College Dublin is Ireland’s oldest and most prestigious university. It’s world-famous for its stunning architecture, cobbled squares, and the Book of Kells, a 9th-century gospel manuscript.

3. Temple Bar

Located in the center of Dublin, Temple Bar is a lively neighborhood famous for its live music, street performers, and vibrant nightlife.

4. Dublin Castle

Dublin Castle is a historic fortress that has been standing since 1204. The castle complex includes several museums, gardens, and exhibits that showcase the history of the building and the Irish capital city itself.

5. St. Patrick’s Cathedral

St. Patrick’s Cathedral is one of the most famous cathedrals in Ireland. It’s a beautiful building with Gothic architecture and is the final resting place of Jonathan Swift, the author of Gulliver’s Travels.

What is the currency used in Dublin?

The currency used in Dublin, as well as in the rest of Ireland, is the Euro. If you’re traveling from outside the Eurozone, you may want to exchange your currency at the airport or in a local bank.

What is the best way to get around Dublin?

Dublin has a well-connected public transportation system, including buses, trams, and trains. You can also easily walk around the city center as most of the attractions are located in a compact area. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also available.

Is Dublin a safe city for tourists?

Dublin is generally a safe city for tourists, but as in any large city, visitors should take precautions, especially when walking alone at night or carrying expensive items. It’s also important to be aware and cautious of pickpocketing in crowded areas.

What is the weather like in Dublin?

Dublin has a moderate oceanic climate, with mild winters and cool summers. The average temperature in winter (December-February) is around 7°C (45°F), while in summer (June-August), it’s about 20°C (68°F). Be prepared for rain at any time, as it can be quite unpredictable in Dublin.

What is the food in Dublin like?

Dublin is home to a range of traditional Irish dishes, including Irish stew, coddle, and boxty. But the city has become more cosmopolitan in recent years and now has a bustling food scene, with a variety of international cuisines. Vegetarian and vegan options are also widely available.

Conclusion

Dublin is a vibrant and exciting city that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in exploring the city’s rich history, enjoying the vibrant nightlife or trying some traditional Irish food, Dublin has you covered. We hope that this blog post has answered some of your questions and helped you plan your trip to Dublin.

The 5 Best Day Trips in Dublin: FAQs

If you are planning to visit Dublin and are looking to explore more than just the city, day trips to the surrounding areas can be a great way to see more of Ireland’s beauty. Here are the top five frequently asked questions about the best day trips from Dublin.

1. What is the best way to travel to the day trip destinations?

The most common mode of transportation for day trips from Dublin is by coach or bus. Bus tours are offered by various tour companies like Paddywagon Tours, Extreme Ireland, and Dublin Bus. You can book tickets for these tours online or at the tourism offices located in the city center. Another popular way to explore these places is by renting a car which gives you more flexibility and freedom if you want to explore at your own pace.

2. How long does it usually take to reach the day trip destinations?

The time it takes to reach the day trip destinations from Dublin depends on the location and mode of transportation. The average travel time by coach or bus is around 2-3 hours depending on the destination. Some of the day trips like Cliffs of Moher and Giants Causeway take a full day, so it’s recommended to start early in the morning.

3. What is the best time to visit these places?

The best time to visit these places is during spring (March to May) and fall (September to November). During these seasons, the weather is mild and the tourist crowds are less, which makes it easier to explore these places at your own pace. Summers (June-August) are peak tourist season, and the crowds can be overwhelming.

4. What are the best day trip destinations from Dublin?

Here are the five best day trip destinations from Dublin:

a. Cliffs of Moher:

The Cliffs of Moher located on the west coast of Ireland offer stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. The cliffs rise up to 700 feet above sea level and make for breathtaking scenery. You can take a coach tour from Dublin or rent a car to explore the place. The journey takes around 3 hours, and it’s a full-day trip.

b. Giants Causeway:

The Giants Causeway located in Northern Ireland is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is known for its unique geological features. The journey from Dublin takes around 3.5 hours, and the tour usually takes a full day. You can take a coach tour or rent a car to explore the place.

c. Wicklow Mountains:

The Wicklow Mountains located to the south of Dublin are known for their natural beauty and scenic drives. You can explore the mountains on a full-day tour from Dublin or rent a car to explore at your own pace.

d. Kilkenny:

Kilkenny located to the southwest of Dublin is a medieval city with a rich history and culture. The city is known for its cathedrals, castles, and quaint streets. You can take a coach tour or rent a car to explore the place.

e. Howth:

Howth located to the north of Dublin is a charming fishing village known for its seafood and stunning coastal views. You can take a DART (Dublin Area Rapid Transit) train or bus from Dublin to reach the place.

5. What are the must-see attractions and activities in each of these places?

Here are some of the must-see attractions and activities in each of these places:

a. Cliffs of Moher:

– Enjoy the scenic drive from Dublin to the cliffs
– Walk along the cliffs and enjoy the stunning views
– Visit the Cliffs of Moher Visitor Centre
– Explore the nearby Burren National Park

b. Giants Causeway:

– Enjoy the scenic drive along the scenic coastal route from Dublin
– Visit the Giants Causeway Visitor Centre
– Walk along the unique hexagonal basalt stones
– Explore the nearby Dunluce Castle and Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge

c. Wicklow Mountains:

– Enjoy the scenic drive through the Wicklow Mountains
– Visit the Avoca Woolen Mills
– Explore the Powerscourt House and Gardens
– Hike the Glendalough valley and enjoy the stunning views

d. Kilkenny:

– Visit the Kilkenny Castle and learn about its history
– Explore the St. Canice’s Cathedral
– Walk along the Kilkenny Medieval Mile
– Visit the Smithwick’s Brewery Tour

e. Howth:

– Walk along the Howth Cliff Path Loop and enjoy the stunning views
– Visit the Howth Castle and Gardens
– Enjoy seafood at one of the many seafood restaurants in the village
– Take a boat trip to the nearby Ireland’s Eye Island

In conclusion, day trips from Dublin are a great way to explore the beauty of Ireland outside of the city. Whether you are interested in natural scenery, history, or local culture, there is something for everyone in these top day trip destinations from Dublin.