Dublin is a great city with lots to do and lots to see. Nevertheless, you might also want to explore what’s around it. And there are plenty of great places to visit within under 2 hours from the capital – perfect for a day trip! Find some of the best day trips from Dublin in this blog post.
Howth
The sea town Howth is probably one of the first recommendations you’ll get when asking for day trips from Dublin. Why? Because it’s only about 30 minutes by DART from the city. Because it’s a beautiful village by the sea with great hiking opportunities close by. And because you’ll find great seafood here. Walk the Howth Cliff Walk or stroll along the pier, try some fish and chips, and look out for seals, which can occasionally be seen from the shore.
Kilkenny
This medieval city is perfect for everyone who loves history or good beer. Only about 1.5 hours from the capital by train or bus, stunning medieval architecture awaits you. Wander through small and cobbled streets with colourful houses, or visit Kilkenny Castle, St. Canice’s Cathedral, or the Black Abbey. And if you need a break from all the sightseeing, stop for a pint of Kilkenny or Smithwicks. While the first brand moved its brewery to Dublin, you can visit Smithwick’s Experience in Kilkenny and learn more about the red ale’s brewing process.
Wicklow Mountains & Glendalough
After staying in the city for a while, you need more nature around you? No problem! Wicklow Mountains National Park is only about an hour from the capital by car or bus. Or you can take the train to the sea town Bray and then start your adventures into the Wicklow Mountains. The area is perfect for outdoor lovers just as well as history buffs. The monastic settlement Glendalough is located right in the middle of the national park, next to two beautiful lakes. And on the way there, you can also stop by Powerscourt Estate or one of Ireland‘s highest pubs, Johnnie Fox’s.
Malahide Castle and Portmarnock Beach
Why not combine sightseeing and history with a relaxing afternoon at the beach? Only 30 minutes from Dublin by train, Malahide is ideal for a day trip from Dublin. In the small town, you can find artsy and colourful shops, cozy cafés and the impressive Malahide castle. Parts of the castle are more than 800 years old and can be visited during guided tours through the castle and gardens. And after your history lesson you can easily extend your day out with some relaxing hours on nearby Portmarnock Beach.
Belfast
Yes, also the capital of Northern Ireland is not too far from the Irish one. In about two hours by train or bus, Belfast can be reached during a day trip from Dublin. Here, you can explore the capital and go shopping. Or you’ll learn some more about the troubles during a black cab tour. And of course, you can also visit the Titanic museum – a thrilling, interesting, and sometimes heavy experience.
If you’re into fantasy and especially Game of Thrones, the Game of Thrones Studio Tour in Banbridge might be the perfect place for your day trip. Located near Belfast, you can reach the attraction in one and a half hours by car or shuttle bus from Dublin.
Explore Ireland with day trips from Dublin
Those are some of the day trips from Dublin that you can easily organize yourself. Many places in the country are accessible by public transport in under two hours. However, if you’ve got the right vehicle, almost any area in Ireland can be reached in a day (– even though we’d advise to take more time exploring the island). Just take a rental car, for example, or book a day trip by bus to the Cliffs of Moher, Connemara and more.
Image Sources
Header: K. Mitch Hodge on Unsplash
1) Joseph Kelly on Unsplash
2) Kat Kelley on Unsplash
3) Elliot Voilmy on Unsplash
4) Jacek Politowski on Unsplash
5) K. Mitch Hodge on Unsplash
(01) 907 3265
hello@hoponhopoffdublin.ie
Fox House, 37 College Green, Dublin, D02 W599
Menu
Home
Tours
Bus stops
About us
Contact
Follow us
Terms of Use and Sale
Privacy policy
Terms and conditions
2025 Ei travel gorup – All rights reserved.
Web site developed by Ei Travel group
0 Comments