Nestled along the coast and at the heart of Ireland’s main thoroughfare, Dublin is the perfect starting point for a variety of day trips. Whether you’re craving tranquility in serene woodland paths, the refreshing sea air at a charming coastal getaway, or the chance to discover a new town with its own unique traditions and cuisine, exploring from Dublin couldn’t be easier. Just don’t forget to pack some snacks for the road, map out your route, and set off on your adventure!
Steeped in green glory, twisting trails and a fairytale like atmosphere, a visit to Glendalough is a wonderful way to get a well deserved breath of fresh air just under two hours drive from Dublin by car or take the designated St. Kevin’s Glendalough bus route. Situated within the Wicklow Mountains National Park, Glendalough means ‘the valley of the two lakes’ and the Upper Lake is just a short stroll from the nearby car park. From there you can easily head out on one of the many walking trail loops that will lead to the other lake, taking in many of the wonders of this glaciated valley as you go. And of course, don’t forget to stop by the early Christian monastic settlement dating from the 6th century for which Glendalough is renowned
Why not take the car (or hop on the DART) to explore Howth, one of Dublin’s charming coastal towns. Under an hour’s drive from the city centre (or under an hour on the DART), Howth is the perfect recipe for a convenient yet absorbing day trip. Being within reach of such rugged wilderness tends to preclude fine dining options. But not in Howth. Doing the cliff walk trail will take approximately two and a half hours and afterwards you can feast on fresh seafood expertly prepared in one of the many seafront establishments. A winning combination.
In just under one hour and thirty minutes from Dublin city centre, you can arrive in the Marble city otherwise known as Kilkenny. An ideal day trip whether you’re visiting from abroad and hoping to soak up as many sights as possible or are seeking some new experiences in old haunts. There’s always activities and events taking place in Kilkenny no matter what day of the week you decide to hit the road. Some year round highlights include Kilkenny Castle and the Smithwick’s Experience Kilkenny. Alternatively, reserve a seat on Irish rail and get to Kilkenny in under 2 hours by train.
Off the well beaten path of nearby Dublin destinations, for the explorer looking for something a little different Ardgillan Castle offers a welcome reprieve and over three hundred years of history to get absorbed in. Take in the beautiful gardens and parklands, tour the castle and uncover its past, or take your pick of afternoon tea in the Castle Tearooms, a visit to the open art studios or art gallery. There’s plenty to enjoy on this day trip approximately a thirty minute drive from Dublin City Centre. Or if you’d prefer public transport, a short train ride will take you most of the way with Dublin Bus covering the remainder of the journey
An ambitious but achievable day trip from Dublin by car is the Cliffs of Moher. After a (roughly) three hour drive from Dublin (or avail of the daily service from Bus Eireann), taking in the breadth of the country as you go, you’ll find yourself met by the magnificence and magnitude of these stunning cliffs. Imbued with a sense of mystery and legend, the Cliffs of Moher were believed to be home to mythical creatures and the site of many Celtic myths. You’ll see why their name continues to reverberate to this day and have the chance to traverse them to your heart’s desire before heading back on the road.
With a car park situated at its doorstep and a short walk from Heuston Station, a visit to The Guinness Storehouse is an ideal way to complement any trip. Take in seven floors full of discoveries and satisfy your cravings with a delicious meal and coffee - all on site!