No time to read? Dublin’s top day trips in a nutshell

Planning a getaway from Dublin? Find the best day trips quickly and easily, all in one place.

Dublin to Cliffs of Moher, Burren & Galway

See Ireland’s west coast wonders on a full-day trip from Dublin. With comfy AC coach transfers, expert guides, and front-row seat options, you’ll visit the Cliffs of Moher, the Burren and lively Galway, with Cliffs Visitor Centre entry included.

From €70

Dublin to Giant’s Causeway & Titanic Belfast

Head north on a full-day trip from Dublin to Giant’s Causeway, Titanic Belfast, Dunluce Castle, and the Dark Hedges. With AC coach transfers, live commentary, and expert guides, this scenic adventure is packed with stories, sights, and standout moments.

From €80

Dublin to Wicklow Mountains, Glendalough and Kilkenny

Take a full-day trip to Kilkenny, Glendalough, and the Wicklow Mountains with walking tours, historic site entries, and live commentary. Travel in luxury coaches with free WiFi, USB charging, and front-row seats. You can also opt for the Sheepdog herding demo!

From €30

Compare top Dublin day trip destinations

DestinationDistanceWhy visitBook now at

Cliffs of Moher

258km

€70

Burren

224km

€70

Galway City

208km

€70

Giant’s Causeway

262km

€80

Titanic Belfast

169km

€80

Wicklow Mountains

38.5km

€30

Glendalough

68km

€30

Kilkenny

123km

€30

Other fun things to do in Dublin

Visitors exploring exhibits at the Guinness Storehouse in Dublin, Ireland.

Guinness Storehouse

Iconic beer cathedral I Gravity Bar views I Brewery heritage experience

Guinness fans, this is for you! Take a tour through the history, brewing process, and enjoy the view from the Gravity Bar with a perfect pint in hand.

Guinness Storehouse tickets
Jameson Whiskey Distillery exterior in Dublin with visitors entering for a guided tour.

Jameson Whiskey Distillery

Triple-distilled whiskey pioneer I Interactive whiskey workshops I Barrel-aged tasting sessions

Fancy a whiskey lesson? Head to the Jameson Distillery to get the inside scoop on how they craft this iconic drink, then enjoy a tasting that’ll make you appreciate it even more.

Jameson Distillery Experience tickets
Dublin Book of Kells exhibit, Dublin Castle courtyard, and Guinness and whiskey tasting tour.

The Book of Kells

Medieval illuminated manuscript I Trinity College treasure I Insular art masterpiece

If you’re into history and art, the Book of Kells is a must-see. Check out the beautifully illuminated pages, and take in the cool vibes at Trinity College’s Long Room.

Book of Kells tickets

Phoenix Park Adventures

Europe's largest enclosed city park I Cycling and picnics I Dublin Zoo home

Phoenix Park is Dublin's outdoor playground. With wide open spaces, a zoo, and plenty of walking trails, you’ll have a blast exploring the city’s green heart.

GPO Witness History

1916 Easter Rising museum I Ireland’s independence exhibits I Historic post office

The GPO Witness History Museum takes you straight to the heart of the 1916 Easter Rising with interactive exhibits and personal stories of those involved in the revolution.

Dublin Writers Museum

Nobel laureates' capital I Literary museum hub

Dublin is home to some of the world’s greatest writers like James Joyce & Oscar Wilde, and the Writers Museum gives you a peek into their lives, works, and inspirations. Perfect for any literary head!

Parqur Warner Madrid tickets

More day trips from Dublin

Howth Harbour

Historic fishing and yachting hub I Gateway to Ireland’s Eye island I Scenic cliff walks

16km away from Dublin

Just a short trip from Dublin, Howth Harbour is known for its lively fish markets, historic lighthouse, and stunning cliffside views of the Irish Sea.

Newgrange

UNESCO World Heritage Neolithic tomb I Older than Stonehenge I Winter solstice illumination phenomenon

60km away from Dublin

Newgrange is an ancient Neolithic monument older than the pyramids, famous for its winter solstice alignment. It’s a must-see UNESCO site, showcasing incredible prehistoric architecture!

Boyne Valley

UNESCO-listed archaeological heartland I Battle of the Boyne historic site

51km away from Dublin

Boyne Valley is a historical treasure trove, home to significant sites like Newgrange, the Battle of the Boyne, and ancient burial mounds. It's a must for history buffs.

Powerscourt Estate

Home to Ireland’s highest waterfall I Filming location for The Tudors I Palladian architecture

26km away from Dublin

Powerscourt Estate combines lush gardens, a historic house, and scenic mountain views. It’s a peaceful spot to explore art, nature, and Irish heritage in one place.

Trim Castle

Largest Norman castle in Ireland I Anglo-Norman military architecture icon I Braveheart filming location

50km away from Dublin

Trim Castle stands as Ireland’s largest Norman fortress. Explore its medieval rooms, towers, and the scenic views of the Boyne River Valley surrounding this iconic historical site.

Drogheda

Medieval gateways and battle sites I St. Laurence’s Gate heritage landmark

55km away from Dublin

Drogheda, located along the River Boyne, offers historical landmarks like St. Laurence Gate and the famous Battle of the Boyne site.

Kildare

Japanese Gardens I St. Brigid’s legacy I Irish National Stud thoroughbred hub

59.7km away from Dublin

Kildare blends equestrian heritage with history, offering attractions like the Irish National Stud and the historic Kildare Cathedral, making it a great spot for culture lovers.

Frequently asked questions about Dublin day trips

How far in advance should I book a day trip?

Booking a couple of days in advance works fine for most places. But if it’s a peak season or you’re going for a popular tour, early booking is a wise move!

What are the best day trips from Dublin?

Kilkenny, Glendalough, and the Cliffs of Moher are top picks. Kilkenny has stunning castles, Glendalough is perfect for history and nature, and the Cliffs of Moher are simply iconic.

What’s the best day trip from Dublin if I’m into history?

If you’re all about history, head straight to Newgrange or the Boyne Valley. These places are older than the pyramids and packed with ancient stories. Get ready for some major time travel vibes!

Is there a day trip option for nature lovers from Dublin?

Yes! Head to Glendalough or the Wicklow Mountains. Both spots offer great hikes, peaceful lakes, and breathtaking views, perfect for a nature fix.

Are there any day trips to do from Dublin that are more off the beaten path?

Definitely! Try the charming town of Drogheda, visit the hidden gems in the Boyne Valley, or check out Trim Castle and its medieval surroundings.

What should I expect from a day trip to the Giant’s Causeway?

It’s a 3-hour drive each way, so it’s a long day. But the hexagonal basalt columns are truly one-of-a-kind, and the coastal views are stunning.

Do I need a guide for the Giant’s Causeway?

Not at all! The Causeway is easy to explore on your own. But if you want an extra layer of history, having a passionate local guide will help you gain deeper insights.

What’s the best way to see Kilkenny’s castle?

Kilkenny Castle is very walkable. You can explore the grounds on your own or book a guided tour to hear the stories behind the historic walls.

Are the Wicklow Mountains worth visiting in winter?

Absolutely! In winter, the Wicklow Mountains are even more magical with snowy landscapes and fewer crowds. Just check for weather updates before you go!

When is the best time to visit Dublin?

The best months to visit are May-June and September-October. You’ll get mild weather and fewer tourists. Winter is quieter, but bring a warm coat, as it can get cold and damp.

What should I wear for a day trip from Dublin?

Comfortable shoes are a must because you will have to walk a lot on cobblestone streets. Bring layers since the weather can be unpredictable. A light jacket and sunscreen are essential.

Top Things to do in Dublin
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