21+ Best Day Trips from Dublin: A Local’s Guide
Ireland Travel Planning contains affiliate links and is a member of the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. If you make a purchase using one of these links, I may receive compensation at no extra cost to you. See my Disclosure Policy for more information. Ireland Travel Planning also uses both personal and paid stock photos to illustate posts
Planning a trip to Ireland for the first time can be a scary and overwhelming experience. Especially when your time is limited. It's common for tourists to stay in Ireland's capital city, Dublin and not venture further afield. And while there are many things to do in Dublin, Ireland has so much more to offer from roaring coastlines, ancient ruins and beautiful hiking trails. The good news is, one of the best things about Ireland is the Country's small size. This means that tourists can visit some of the most famous attractions in under three hours. This post will highlight some of the best day trips from Dublin.
Now, don't get me wrong, I am not recommending basing yourself in Dublin for the duration of your Ireland Trip. However, if you are limited on time and only have 3/5 days to explore the beauty of the Emerald Isle, perhaps having Dublin as your base may not be a bad idea.
As an Irish girl, I want to show you some of the best Dublin Day Trips on offer. Ensuring you can catch a glimpse of Ireland's Beauty in a short time frame.
Before you visit Ireland, here's some quick recommendations…
📞 International roaming can be expensive, honestly eSims are the way to go! Airalo offers some pretty affordable cell phone plans that work seamlessly across Ireland, this one is best for travel within the Republic of Ireland and these deals work in both the Republic and Northern Ireland.
🏨 Hotel prices can go up and down, I always like to compare pricing by using site such as Booking.com or Hotels.com
🚌 Actives and Experiences is what makes an Ireland trip that extra bit special! Like did you know you can design your own Claddagh Ring? (one of my favourites). I typically find the best experiences by using the likes of GetYourGuide or Viator.
🚘 Renting a car is one of the best ways to explore the beauty of Ireland, but the pricing can be very competitive, that's why it is always best to check out site like Discover Cars to compare rental prices.
✈️ You never know what airlines may be offering Ireland flight deals, they can go down by 100's in a day, I always like to turn on price tracker on Skyscanner so I never miss a deal!
🏥 I can't stress this enough but travel insurance is an absolute must! Thankfully SafetyWing have some pretty affordable plans.
1) Cliffs of Moher, County Clare
The Cliffs of Moher are Ireland's leading tourist attraction, visited by over 1.5 million people each year.
The Cliffs stand 390ft above sea level and are home to over 20 species of birds, including Puffins. –
Visitors can enjoy a scenic walk along the cliff edge, explore the interactive visitor centre and watch the Wild Atlantic Waves crash beneath them.
Many people make the mistake of just checking out the view point at O'Briens Tower. Personally, I think turning left (passed the visitor centre) and walking for 20/30 minutes reveals the best view – as photographed.
Now, given the cliffs popularity, it is only natural for them to be high on the bucket list of most first time visitors to Ireland.
And despite the fact that they are located on the complete opposite end of the country. There are still plenty of ways to see them as a day trip from the capital.
Let's break down some of the best options available to you 👇
| BY DRIVING | GROUP DAY TOURS | PUBLIC TRANSIT | PRIVATE TOURS |
|---|---|---|---|
| ✔ | ✔ | ✘ | ✔ |
The Best Cliffs of Moher Day Tours from Dublin
By far, the most popular and convenient way of getting to the Cliffs of Moher from Dublin is by booking onto an organised day tour. The problem is everyone and their mother is offering this day trip option, and let's just say by no means are all tours offering the same value for money.
There are few things I noticed while researching the best option, some tours list locations, let's say the Burren for example as an additional visit, when in reality, all they are doing is simply driving by…
So, I have decided to do all the hard work for you, by summing it down the best options depending on your ppersonal preference.
If you are looking for something simple, not too rushed and affordable, then this tour is the one to go for, it's starts at €75 per person, has an incredible 5 Star Rating and includes both admission into the Cliffs of Moher and a guided tour of Galway City [find out more info here].
If value for money or a small group size is something you are after, then this tour is the perfect. Not only do you get to visit the Cliffs of Moher, you will also stop off in Doolin, where you will have the option to see the Cliffs from the water (this comes at an additional cost). After leaving the cliffs behind, the tour stops off at Bunratty Castle (included in tour price). What I particularly like about this tour is the group size, with the max number of participants being 25 people, which is much smaller than most other options [find out more info here] .
If you are not a big fan of bus transportation, then this tour may be of interest to you. While there is no way of completely avoiding a buses due to the Cliffs location, this particular tour uses train travel when possible. They also include some considerable time in Bunratty Castle and Galway city, so it is a fantastic option it both places are on your bucket list!
Finally, if you are looking for something a little bit different, this tour may be a good option, not only do you visit the Cliffs of Moher, you can also take a boat ride beneath them, visit the Aillwee Caves and the Burren Birds of Prey Centre. The tour holds a 4 star rating, and while 4 stars is by no means bad it is lower than most other options, so I would make sure to read the reviews before deciding if the ‘uniqueness' off ways the cons.
The final verdict?! Well, if I was to choose one from the many Cliffs of Moher tours on offer it would be the one below. I feel like it really stands out in terms of offerings and value for money.
The Best Cliffs of Moher Tour
⭐️ 4.5 Stars | ⏰ 13 hours | 💰 From €129.00 | Book Here |
✔️ Small Group Size (25 People Max)
✔️ Best Value for Money
✔️ Excellent Reviews
Can you get Private Day Tours to the Cliffs of Moher from Dublin?
Yes, if you are looking to visit the Cliffs of Moher on a day trip from Dublin but have complete control over your itinerary for the day then booking onto a private tour is the best way to go.
I had a browse at some of the options available, and this tour seems to be the best value for money. You can travel with up to six people, and the price doesn’t increase when you add extra passengers (unlike most other tours I came across).
At the time of writing, the tour costs €1,100. So, for those travelling in a group of 6 people, it would come in at €183 each. And seems far more enjoyable than standard tours which average at 55 people per group.
Plus, they offer hotel pick-up and let you set the pace—stop whenever you want, take in the stunning views, and enjoy the experience without feeling rushed. Seems like a great option for those looking for a little bit more of a private experience.
Getting to the Cliffs of Moher by Car from Dublin
Can you drive to the Cliffs of Moher on a day trip from Dublin? Yes, but can and should are two very different things.
The beauty of day tours is everything is done for you! There is no stress in planning, or navigating your way around the Irish roads.
If you do decide to drive, allow 3/4 hours to get there. There is onsite parking, but you will need to pay €7 per person to use it (which also includes entrance into the visitor centre). Or, alternatively, you can park at Hags Head, in a family run car park which will only set you back €6 per car. Please note that it is one of the places where you will need cash in Ireland.
2) Wicklow National Park & Glendalough
Next on the list is one of my favourite places in all of Ireland, Wicklow National Park.
This is the perfect place for anyone looking to go on a Dublin Day Trip within close distance to the city centre.
Wicklow is located just a short 1-hour drive from Dublin City and is home to some insanely beautiful hiking and walking trails.
County Wicklow is known as the Garden of Ireland and with famous locations such as Glendalough and Powerscourt, it is easy to see why.
| BY DRIVING | GROUP DAY TOURS | PUBLIC TRANSIT | PRIVATE TOURS |
|---|---|---|---|
| ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
The Best Wicklow Day Tours from Dublin
There seems to be an array of tours available for those planning on visiting Wicklow National Park from Dublin. The problem is much like the Cliffs of Moher tours, not all of them offer the same value for money. So, I did a little digging to help you decide what tours is best suited for your individual needs.
If you are looking for a tour that is short and sweet, and on the more affordable side, then this tour is a great option for you. It lasts just 5 hours, has a whopping 4.5 star ratting and prices start from €33 per person. Now, in saying that it only tends to focus on Glendalough, with a breif stop off at Lough Tay. So, it's a great option for those who maybe have even plans in Dublin, and don't want to waste the entire day exploring Wicklow.
This particular tour, focuses on exploring the beauty of Glendalough and attending a sheep dog demonstration, which seems to be a concept that is high on the list for a lot of international visitors. The tour is also rather affordable, starting at €40 per person, and has a 4.5 star review status.
If you are looking for the best value for money then I would go with this tour. For starters, it dedicates 1 hour and 30 minutes to explore Sally's Gap. Which is amazing as there are so many places to stop along this route. Guest are also treated to a guided tour of Glendalough Monetary, and a walk up Killiney Hill in Dublin (which is unique to just this tour). I was quite surprised to find it only costs €55 per person, which is rather good considering the additional stops on the itinerary and paired with a flawless 5 star rating it's pretty much a no brainer [find out more info here].
Now, if that all sounds good to you but you would sooner swap Killiney Hill with Powerscourt Gardens, then this tour is also great value for money, the only downside is…the entrance into the Gardens comes at an additional cost (€10 per adult at the time of writing).
If you are looking for something a little bit different and love the idea of horse riding through the Wicklow hills then this is the tour for you! You will still get to tick off the highlights such as Glendalough and Sally's Gap, but all while adding a little bit of extra fun to your day! [The tours reviews speak for itself].
One of the best things to do in Wicklow is go for a hike, so if you are reading this list and thinking to there is not much time to get your steps in then this tour may be worth checking out! It follows much of the same route as the other Wicklow tours, stopping at sites such as Lough Tay, Sally's Gap and Glendalough but it also includes a guided hiking tour of the Scalp's which is one of the most underrated places to visit in the Dublin/Wicklow Mountains.
And then if you want to make the most of your time you can combine your Wicklow Day Trip with a Kilkenny one…which I am not gonna lie…surprised me a lot because I think both places deserve their own individual day but it is a great option for those stuck for time.
There are a few Wicklow/Killkenny tours to choose from all offering slightly different spins, this one only really visits Glendalough and briefly stops in Sally's Gap before making it's way to Kilkenny. Whereas this one takes virtually the same route but also includes a sheep dog demonstration, has a slightly better rating and is more affordable but you will have slightly less time at each stop.
The final verdict?! Well, if I was to choose one from the many Wicklow day tours on offer it would be the one below. I feel like it really stands out in terms of offerings and value for money.
The Best Wicklow Day Tour
⭐️ 5 Stars | ⏰ 8.5 hours | 💰 From €55 | Book Here |
✔️ Great Value for money
✔️ Good duration at each stop
✔️ Unique Offerings
Can you visit Wicklow by Private Tour from Dublin?
Yes, and honestly if you are on the fence in terms of going with a group tour or a private tour I personally think the private tours seems like a much better option. Now, obviously they are more expensive so it really comes down to your own personal budget.
I like that the private tours divide the time out well, and they also seem to be the only tour options that allow guests to visit Powerscourt Waterfall. A lot of people do not realise that Powerscourt Gardens and Powerscourt Waterfall are two different places!! It's also important to note, that admission into both is generally not included in the tour price as they are located on private property.
This private tour of Wicklow seems to be a great choice, it has excellent ratings, and includes great allocated time for each stop, the Gardens, Waterfall, Glendalough and Guinness Lake (sally gap area). The only downside is it is limited to 4 people.
So, I did continue looking for alternative options for those travelling in slightly larger groups and came across this private Wicklow day tour that can accommodate up to 7 guests. It doesn't seem to include Powerscourt Waterfall but I am sure you could ask as generally speaking private tours can be tweaked according to the guests preference.
Getting to Wicklow by Car from Dublin
If you are planning on renting a car when in Ireland then driving from Dublin to Wicklow is the best way to explore the national park at your own pace.
The good news is, the driving route is fairly straightforward, however, in saying that you do need to determine what part of Wicklow you would like to visit.
The park is pretty big, and hitting all the beautiful spots in the one day is virtually impossible. However, I do have a detailed guide on things to do in Wicklow to help you better decide.
However, I am almost certain you will choose to visit Glendalough, and I came across two pretty cool experiences that I wanted to share with you!
The first is a guided walking tour through the monastery, but there is a rather unique twist, as your will be accompanied by a Irish musician as you explore. It thought that was a pretty cool concept, and something I want to try myself the next time I visit.
I also found this guided hiking tour, which is a great option for those wanting to explore a little bit beyond the monastery and the foot of the upper and lower lake. The tour part at sunset, where you will hike one of Ireland's most beautiful trails all while listening to it's history from your guide. There is also an opportunity to star gaze upon night sky as the tour comes to an end.
Getting to Wicklow from Dublin by Public Transport
When it comes to getting public transport to Wicklow National Park, your options are pretty limited to just visiting Glendalough.
By Direct Bus: St. Kevin's bus service offers a direct route to Glendalough that runs daily at 11.30am, and arriving in Glendalough by 12.50pm costing €23 for a return ticket.
The bus departs Glendalough at 4.30pm, which leaves passengers with very limited time to explore. Personally, I think it makes more sense to take part in a day tour like this one for an additional €10, and enjoy other parts of the National Park and Kilkenny too.
By Public Transport: It is possible to reach Glendalough by public transport however there is no direct route options. Instead you would need to hop of the 133 bus to Ashford and then transfer onto the 183 bus to Glendalough (see Google Maps for route details).
This return journey costs €16.50 without a Leap Card or €13.40 with one. The last bus departs Glendalough at 18:50 (or 23:15 on Fridays and Saturdays), providing much more time to hike and fully experience what Glendalough has to offer. You may also be interested in the music and history tour that I mentioned above.
🚗 Planning on renting a car in Ireland? Then I highly recommend keeping an eye on the rental prices ahead of time.
Much like flights, they can go up and down quite frequently. I love checking out Discover Car to find the best prices on the market.
You never know when you may snag a deal on your Irish car rental!
3) Giants Causeway, County Antrim
In terms of the most popular day trips from Dublin, the Giants Causeway comes in pretty close to the Cliffs of Moher.
Again, it is over a 3-hour drive from Dublin, but it is still the number one choice of many! All hoping to catch a glimpse of it's rather unique landscapes.
And honestly, I can understand why, getting to walk across the interlocking basalt columns for yourself is quite the experience.
It blows my mind that they where created by an ancient volcanic eruption. Something that seems so foreign to the Ireland we now know today!
Although, Irish Myths and Legends will somewhat contradict the believed formation of the columns. As the story goes, the causeway was created by Fionn mac Cumhaill (Finn McCool) an Irish Giant as a bridge to Scotland to confront his rival, the Scottish giant Benandonner.
When Fionn realised that Benandonner was much larger than he was he ran back to Ireland in fear. His wife decided to disguise him as a baby so that when Benandonner saw the him he would panic, thinking the father must be three times the size. It worked, Benandonner was terrified and fled back to Scotland, tearing up the causeway behind him to prevent disputes.
And while this story is subject to Irish Myths and Lengend, rather similar basalt columns can be found in Fingal's Cave on the Isle of Staffa off the coast of Scotland. Take from that what you will, but I think there has to be some element of truth to it 😉
💡 Local Tip: The Causeway Coast is in Northern Ireland, so you may need to get a ETA visa depending on you nationality.
| BY DRIVING | GROUP DAY TOURS | PUBLIC TRANSIT | PRIVATE TOURS |
|---|---|---|---|
| ✔ | ✔ | ✘ | ✔ |
The Best Giants Causeway Day Tours from Dublin
It is rare to have a day trip just purely to the Giants Causeway from Dublin. Generally speaking, the tour includes some additional stops.
And much like other day tours, the description can be misleading, making it seem like the tour stopping in all of these incredible places when in reality they are either ‘driving by' or staying max 15 minutes.
And what good is 15 minutes in Belfast city?! So, I have spent hours researching the best Giants Causeway tours from Dublin. Let's break down the varies options available to you.
Ok, so if you are looking to get the best value for money I would probably go with this tour, it is quite different in terms of offerings as it includes admission into the Giants Causeway, 30 minutes to explore Dunluce Castle and then a black taxi cab tour around Belfast which is one of the most highly rated things to do in the city. Not only that, the tour has a whopping 5 star rating and prices start from €83 per person which is quite competitive compared to other tours. The black taxi cab is the selling point for me [Check out the unreal reviews here].
🏆 Best Value for Money 🏆
⭐️ 5 Star Rating | ⏰ 13 hours | 💰 From €85 | Book Here |
ℹ️ Main Inclusions: Giants Causeway -> Dunluce Castle -> Black Taxi Tour
If you where hoping to find a tour that combined both the Causeway and Belfast together then this tour is the best option for you! It's the only tour that I could find that dedicates a decent amount of time to the city and also includes the Titanic Museum. Guests will have the option to spend 1 hour and 45 minutes in Belfast at their own leisure or opt into taking a black taxi tour at an additional cost [Read more about it here].
For those of you interested in Irish Whiskey, why not take a look at this tour, not only will you spend the day exploring the incredible sites of the Causeway Coast you will finish it off with a tour and tasting of the Titanic Distillers. I like that this tour offers something different to the rest, it has a full 5 star review rating and previous guests have nothing but good things to say about their experience.
If you are not a fan of bus travel, then this tour brings you to the Giants Causeway by mainly train transport. Personally, I would only opt into this this tour if you really do not want to travel via bus, as it is far more expensive with nowhere near as many stop included. Nonetheless, it is the perfect option for some.
The final verdict?! Well, if I was to choose one from the many X tours on offer it would be the one below. I feel like it really stands out in terms of offerings and value for money.
The Best Giants Causeway Tour from Dublin
⭐️ 5 Star Rating | ⏰ 13 hours | 💰 From €85 | Book Here |
✔️ Great online ratings
✔️ Nice Time Allocated per stop
✔️ Includes Black Taxi tour of Belfast
Can you visit the Giants Causeway by Private Tour from Dublin?
Yes, if you are travelling as part of a large family or a group this may be the best option for you. For starters it gives you far more flexibility to plan your itinerary as you wish. Dedicating more time to the attractions that matter the most to you.
I also noticed that the organised group tours no longer go to the likes of the Carrick a Rede rope bridge which is a real shame but with a private tour it is still possible.
This private tour has a full 5 star rating, it can accommodate up to 6 guests and the price does not change when you add on more people!
Now, it is important to note that a lot of the private tours do not seem to include admission into the actual attractions, I couldn't find any that did. This is not a issue for the likes of the Giants Causeway as you only have to pay in if you would like to park or access the visitor centre. The Causeway itself is Free to visit. However, if you you do want to visit the likes of the Carrick a rede rope bridge, the Bushmills Distillery and the Titanic Museum I would advise factoring them into the cost.
Getting to the Giants Causeway from Dublin by Car
Can you visit the Giants Causeway on a day trip from Dublin by car? Yes, it's possible, would I advise it…not really.
I did it once, back in my college days and it was INTENSE to say the least. I really wish we had opted into booking a room for the night.
The problem is we did not rush, we took our time, enjoyed the sights which was great at the time…but as a result we didn't get back to Belfast till 11.00pm. And we where left desperately looking for food spots that where still open. Which wasn't as easy as you may think. Then we had car trouble which I won't get into but nonetheless, the 2 hour drive back to Dublin was by no means fun.
Now, that is not to say you can't do it, the drive to the Giants Causeway takes 3 hours in total. I advise heading straight to the Causeway and then driving back along the coastline towards Dublin.
That way you could aim to reach the Causeway at say 10am, spend 2 hours there and maybe another 6/7 hours checking out the other sites. Providing you visit in the spring/summer months. I don't really see the point in a Giants Causeway day trip from Dublin when there is reduced daylight hours.
4) Blarney Castle, County Cork
Blarney Castle and Gardens is arguably one of the most popular things to do in County Cork. In fact, it might just be the most famous castle ruins in the country!
So, naturally, it make sense for it to be a popular day trip destination from Dublin.
Now, you have been warned it is over a 3 hour drive away, I do think it is worth the visit but choose your method of transport wisely!
The castle is known for being home to the Blarney Stone which is said to give those who kiss it the Gift of the Gab, aka, skills of flattery.
Although kissing the stone sounds like an easy task I can ensure it does not come without it's challenges. The stone is not located in a easy spot, to reach it you have to dangle head first over the edge of the castle and reach for the stone with your lips?! With just castle staff holding onto you your legs for support.
The first time I gave it a shot I failed miserably (You can see my attempt in this Youtube Video). But in true determination I reached it on my most recent visit. Although most of my family and friends said the last thing they want is for me to be able to talk more than I already do. God love them, I haven't shut up since 🤣
Even if you opt-out of kissing the stone, a trip to Blarney is a must. It's a beautiful place to explore and relax for the day.
| BY DRIVING | GROUP DAY TOURS | PUBLIC TRANSIT | PRIVATE TOURS |
|---|---|---|---|
| ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
The Best Blarney Castle Day Tours from Dublin
Thankfully there are plenty day tour options from Dublin that include a visit to the famous Blarney Castle. I found 3 that are highly rated yet all offer alternative additional stops to each other which means there is something for everyone depending on your travel desires.
- Out of all the tours, this one offers the best value for money in my opinion! It includes a stop at Blarney Castle, where you can kiss the stone and enjoy the gardens but that's not what makes it different.
You will also get to visit the famous Rock of Cashel, one of the most striking ruins in the country and Cahir Castle, which tends to be little under the rather compared to others.
At just €80 per person I find this tour a little bit of a no brainer it’s hard to beat for such a packed itinerary. The tour has a solid 4.5-star rating, and is ideal for those with an extra interest in Irish Castle Ruins [The reviews speak for themselves]. - For those who prefer to avoid too much bus travel, this tour to Blarney Castle might be the one for you. The majority of the journey is by train, with a stop in the picturesque town of Cobh to round out the day.
While it’s pricier at €151 per person, the scenic train ride and relaxed pace make it worth considering. The tour has a 4.5-star rating, this is a great option for anyone who loves unique travel experiences [Read more about it here]. - If you like the idea of a smaller group size then this tour to Blarney Castle is a fantastic choice. The group size is capped at just 40 people, ensuring a relaxed and enjoyable day.
Alongside the iconic castle, you’ll also visit Cork City and the Rock of Cashel, with all entrance fees included.
For me, the smaller group size is what makes this tour the most appealing [You can check out the reviews here].
The final verdict?! Well, if I was to choose one from the many day tours to Blarney Castle on offer it would be the one below. I feel like it really stands out in terms of offerings and value for money.
The best Blarney Castle Tour from Dublin
⭐️ 4.5 Stars | ⏰ 13 hours | 💰 From €80.00 | Book Here |
✔️ Fantastic Reviews
✔️ Include 3 stunning castle ruines
✔️ Competitive Pricing
Can you visit Blarney Castle by Private Tour from Dublin?
Yes, it is possible to visit Blarney Castle from Dublin using private tours. There are a number of ones to choose from, this particular tour does not go up in price when adding additional people and can take up to 7 in a group.
It's new to Viator, but the DM Executive Line who runs it has fantastic ratings on Tripadvisor, the tour brings guest to Blarney, the Rock of Cashel and Cahir.
It could be a great option for larger families or those travelling in a group, however please be mindful that enterance into the attractions come at an additional cost so your would need to factor that into your pricing.
Getting to Blarney Castle from Dublin by Car
If you plan on renting a car when in Dublin, then driving to Blarney Castle is a great day trip option. It give you full flexibility to explore at your own leisure. Stopping off at as many other attractions as you like on the way.
You could start the trip in Blarney, and while making your way back to Dublin explore the likes of the Vee Pass, Cashel and Kilkenny. It would be a lovely road trip route, although some spots may need to take a miss if you are visiting outside the spring/summer month due to less day light hours.
It is also important to note that parking is not included in the price of the ticket for Blarney Castle and gardens. You will need to pay separately, it is a €2 flat fee.
Getting to Blarney Castle from Dublin by Public Transport
Yes, there are a few ways of getting to Blarney via Public Transport. However, it is important to note that this is quite a long journey with 3 hours and 30 minutes being the fastest possible option.
First you will need to make your way to Cork City by either bus or train.
There are 3 bus companies that connect Dublin and Cork, the Aircoach, City Link and Express Way. I tend to use bus bud for booking my tickets as it shows all the options available from all three companies. This way I can swap around providers for the return journey depending on cost or timetable needs. Ticket prices can vary quite a bit, but generally start at around €15 for a single journey depending on how far in advance you book.
Alternatively, you could choose to get the train from Dublin's Heuston Station to Kent Station in Cork, again the prices change quite a bit but generally speaking they range €40-€60 for a return ticket. The earlier you book the cheaper they tend to be.
Once you arrive in Cork, you will need to take the 215 local bus to Blarney, this is a relatively short journey taking around 22 minutes in total and It is possible to use the leap card for this.
5) Boyne Valley, County Meath
I honestly think the Boyne Valley is the perfect day trip from Dublin. It is not too far away and it is one of the most historic places in the country.
The area is packed with incredible landmarks, such as the iconic ancient tombs like Newgrange and knowth, the largest Norman castle in Ireland, Trim and the Hill of Tara.
Words can not describe how amazing it is to visit Newgrange. It's a Neolithic passage tomb that is older than the pyramids of Egypt…which honestly blows my mind each time I visit.
On the Winter Solstice each year, the passage to the chamber is naturally lit up by the sun. And each visitor get to experience an artificial version of that experience on their visit. Honestly, it's not to be missed.
Another highlight of the Boyne Valley is Trim Castle. It’s the largest Norman castle in Ireland, and walking around really puts into perspective how big it actually is! The guided tour is fantastic, giving you all the history while offering incredible views from the top.
Then there’s the Hill of Tara, personally, it's my least favourite of the Boyne Valley ‘highlight's' don't get me wrong I understand the significance of it but without seeing from the air it is kind of hard to fully enjoy it in my opinion. It's nice to see if it is included in a tour but I wouldn't rushing to visit purely for the sake of it. Tad bit controversial, but I would prefer to be honest.
| BY DRIVING | GROUP DAY TOURS | PUBLIC TRANSIT | PRIVATE TOURS |
|---|---|---|---|
| ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
The Best Boyne Valley Day Tours from Dublin
While searching for the best Boyne Valley tours from Dublin I came across two highly rated options, both offer something slightly different depending on you wants and needs.
If Newgrange is a none negotiable for you then I highly recommend booking this tour, the admission is included in the ticket which is amazing because it is known to sell out quickly!
You will also get to visit Knowth, which is one of my favourite elements of the Newgrange experience. Not only that, the tours max group size is 16 people, which makes it that extra bit special and it includes additional stops such as the Battle of the Boyne Visitor Centre and Monasterboice Monastic Site. Safe to say it is excellent value for money. Which is easy to see with it's 4.5-star rating on Viator.
Alternatively, if you are looking to explore the likes of the Hill of Tara, Trim Castle, Loughcrew Cairns, and Fore Abbey then this tour is for you! Sadly, Newgrange is not included in the itinerary, but you will have the opportunity to explore some of the area's less visited locations. The tour scores a 4.5-star rating on Viator, and is ideal for those who want to get a deeper insight into Ireland's history [You can check out more about the tour here].
The final verdict?! Well, if I was to choose one day tour of Boyne Valley from Dublin it would be the one below. I feel like it, not being able to see Newgrange is a bit of a deal breaker for me. It's one of my favourite attractions in the country.
The Best Boyne Valley Tour
⭐️ 4.5 Stars | ⏰ 8 hours | 💰 From €85 | Book Here |
✔️ Includes Newgrange Admission
✔️ Small Group Size
✔️ Amazing Reviews
Can you visit Boyne Valley by Private Tour from Dublin?
Yes, there are plenty of private tour options to choose from when exploring the Boyne Valley from Dublin, this tour has an impressive 5 star rating with glowing reviews from previous guests so it could be a great option to go with!
I like that it doesn't just focus on the highlights, you can also explore some of the area's more underrated gems such as Monasterboice Monastic Site, Mellifont Abbey and
Four Knocks passage tomb. Also the beauty of a private tour is you can explore what is of more interest to you, communicating the options with your guide beforehand.
Getting to Boyne Valley from Dublin by Car
Honestly, if you are planning on renting a car when in Ireland, then that is the best way to see the Boyne Valley from Dublin on a Day Trip.
Having your own mode of transport makes it so much easier to explore at your own pace, check out the Hightlights such as Newgrange and Trim but also spend some time in the likes of Slane too.
Getting to Boyne Valley from Dublin by Public Transport
I have great news it is possible to visit Newgrange, Trim and Slane from Dublin using public transport, however, I would advise choosing one location at a time rather than trying to do them all in the one day. I think that is too messy while trying to navigate public transport.
Getting to Newgrange: The most care free way of getting to Newgrange from Dublin by public transport is by first getting the train from Connolly Station (Dublin) to Drogheda (MacBride). This will take an hour in total, costing €20 for a return ticket. You will then need to use the 163 local bus the Newgrange (leap card is accepted here). Here is a Google Maps link to the journey.
💡 Local Tip: If you want to visit Newgrange by public transport I highly recommend booking a your entrance tickets far in advance. As the 163 bus timetable is fairly limited and Newgrange time slots book out all the time. Failing to do this could leave you waiting 2/3 hours for the next bus to come.
Getting to Trim: Getting to trim (Google Map Link) is far more straight forward as the 111 local bus will bring you straight there. Again, it is possible to use a Leap Card for this service.
Getting to Slane: If you are looking to do something a little less known in the Boyne Valley then visiting Slane is a great option. I love walking up the Hill of Slane (short and not too difficult) for 360 views of the area, or visiting the Slane Distillery for a Whiskey Tasting. Thankfully, Slane is relatively easy to visit (Google Map Link) using the 980 commuter bus route which costs €19 (or 50% off if you use a Leap Card) for a return ticket.
6) Belfast City (The Titanic Experience or Black Taxi Tour)
Belfast is quite a popular day trip option from Dublin, as both cities are just over a 2 hour drive from each other.
It is a fantastic visit for those interested in learning about Ireland's troubled past, the creation of the Titanic or those wanting to enjoy the new modern side of the city.
By far, one of the most popular things to do when in Belfast is take part in a Black Taxi Cab tour. Where you will learn about the cities troubled history from an unbiased tour guide.
Or if walking is more your vibe then there are plenty of walking tours to choose from, including the well know ‘A History of Terror tour‘, ‘If Buildings Could Talk Tour‘ or the ‘Walls and Bridges tour‘. All three sharing the history of the ‘troubles' in their own unique way, they have all received a full 5 star rating so picking the one to do really comes down to personal preference.
Alternatively, if you are stuck for time you could opt into taking the hop on hop off bus tour, although it will have no where near as much of a personal touch to it.
And no trip to Belfast is complete without visiting the Titanic Museum, walk along the foot prints of the where the tragic ship was built and learn about it's history.
| BY DRIVING | GROUP DAY TOURS | PUBLIC TRANSIT | PRIVATE TOURS |
|---|---|---|---|
| ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Getting to Belfast from Dublin
Thankfully getting from Belfast from Dublin is fairly straight forward, with plenty of options to choose from.
Driving to Belfast: The drive between both cities is a little over 2 hours, and is motorway 90% of the journey. Just be mindful that there are a few toil roads and once you hit the North the speed limit will change from Kilometre to Miles (I explain more about the driving differences in this guide).
Getting Public Transport to Belfast: You can either opt into getting a bus or train to Belfast from Dublin. When looking up bus times, I tend to use bus bud as it shows both bus providers the Dublin Express and the Aircoach. For train options, you can check out the Irish Rail website for trains leaving from Connolly station.
Day tours from Dublin: If I am being honest, I don't see the point into using a day tour to get to Belfast. It's far to easy to make you own way there, giving you complete free to explore at your own leisure. Unless you are hopping to combine Belfast with the Causeway Coast, this tour is the best option as it includes a black taxi tour. Giving you a quick insight into the city in a short period of time. Or, alternatively, I did find this tour which focuses only on the Titanic Museum and Belfast itself, but with the price of €69, I don't really see the value in it.
7) Galway City
Galway is by far one of my favourite cities in Ireland, it has such an amazing vibe to it and is a must visit for any first time visitors.
I do think the best way to get to know the city is by going on a walking tour with a local guide. Or perhaps you are looking to get a sample of the cities culinary scene with a food tour.
But, one thing is certain, no trip to Galway is complete without taking in some of the cities live musical performances, whether it is listening to the buskers on the street, the local bands playing in the pubs or booking tickets to the iconic Trad on the Prom show.
Oh! and don't forget to check out the wonderful sites such as Eyre Square, The Spanish Arches and Salthill while you are there! You may even be brave enough to go for a swim in the Irish waters 😉
Getting to Galway from Dublin
I have some good news getting from Galway from Dublin isn't all too difficult and there are plenty of options to choose from.
Driving to Galway: The drive from Dublin to Galway can take anywhere from a little over 2 hours to 3 and a half hours. You really have to time it right as both cities can see their fair share of traffic at rush hour, which can quite literally set you back by an hour or more at times. With that being said, the route is fairly straight forward, motorway 90% of the way but you will need to be mindful of toll roads. For those renting a car when in Ireland I reccemnd checking out my rental guide to make things easier for you.
Getting Public Transport to Galway: You have the option to take either a bus or train from Dublin to Galway. When checking bus schedules, I usually use Busbud, as it displays both bus providers, City Link and Expressway. For train options, you can visit the Irish Rail website to view trains departing from Connolly Station.
Day tours from Dublin: Much like Belfast, I don't really see the point of visiting Galway on a day tour unless you want to combine it with a trip to the Cliffs of Moher. In that case, this tour is one of the best options with a decent amount of time allocated to the city. Otherwise, I think it is far nicer to make your own way there either by driving or public transport. That way you can explore at your own leisure and enjoy the beauty of Galway without any time restraints.
9) Cobh, County Cork
Next on our Dublin Day Tours list is one of my favourite towns in Ireland, Cobh. This stylish little town is located in County Cork and is famous for being the final port call for the Titanic.
It's weird but this cute little Irish town has an uncanny resemblance to the famous US city, San Francisco. Cobh is home to the deck of cards houses that resemble the painted ladies, Spike Island which has a similar past to Alcatraz and the town is rather hilly in places ?
Cobh is a lovely place to spend the day soaking up Irish History, eating in the many beautiful cafes/restaurants or venturing out to explore spike island. No matter what you decide to do you will love exploring Cobh.
11) Kilkenny
Kilkenny is another one of Ireland's charming cities and walking around it will make you feel like you have stepped into a real-life fairytale. The city is home to one of the countries most iconic castles and beautiful grounds. It's common for locals and tourists alike to sit down on the grounds and watch the world go by.
The wider county of Kilkenny also has a lot of places that are just waiting to be explored. Some of my favourites include Kells Priory, Jerpoint Abbey, Inisteogue and Woodstock Gardens. Unfortunately, I don't know of any tours that visit the wider county. Therefore, a car is needed to visit these attractions.
12) Howth, Dublin
Now, while the next destination on the list is still technically in County Dublin. It is far enough away from the City Center to be considered a day trip. Howth is a fantastic place to visit for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city without having to travel too far.
The stunning coastal town is accessible via public transport and is only a 30 minute DART ride from the City Center.
Those visiting Howth typically enjoy taking part in the coastal cliff walk, going for a stroll down the pier or visiting the nearby Malahide Castle. While an organised day tour is not needed to visit Howth there are a number of tours available for those who would sooner have their day trip preplanned.
13) Bray, Wicklow
Another popular destination for those looking to day trip from Dublin is Bray in County Wicklow. The seaside town known for being starting point for the popular Bray to Greystones Cliff Walk.
If you don't feel like walking 15km you can opt into hiking Bray Head instead. Although, it is a much shorter walk but more on the challenging side as the trail consists of a steady incline for about 30 minutes.
Bray is also a popular spot for those looking to grab a bag of chips and go for a coastal walk down the promande.
Bray is easily accessible via public transport and it takes 40 minute to reach for the city center.
Self-Drive Dublin Day Trips
The next few spots on our Dublin day trip list are unfortunately best visited by car due to poor levels of public transport or lack of day tours on offer. As a result, many of these spots are lesser known.
14) The Stairway to Heaven Ireland, County Fermanagh
The Stairways to Heaven Ireland has become increasingly popular thanks to social media and it is no wonder as the trail is absolutely beautiful.
The hike begins on a gravel path with a boardwalk later forming and extending into a Stairway. The stairway consists of 450 steps that reach the summit of Cuilcagh Mountain.
The hike takes a total of four hours to complete and offers amazing views of Fermanagh and beyond. Leaving walkers feeling as if they are ON TOP OF THE WORLD.
The stairways are one of my favourite walking trails in Ireland. One I recommend time and time again.
The stairways are just over a 2-hour drive from Dublin, directions can be seen on Google Maps.
* Tours to the Stairway to Heaven have stopped since March 2019. I will update this post if the tours start back up again in the future*
15) Powerscourt Waterfall, County Wicklow
If you are a little stuck for time and are looking for half day trips from Dublin. Why not try Powerscourt waterfall?
Powerscourt is Ireland's second highest waterfall at 398ft and is only a 40-minute drive from Dublin City Centre (Google Maps Directions). The waterfall is the ideal location to capture some picture-perfect images and enjoy nature at its finest. Powerscourt offers many short trails around the waterfall and the Dargle river for visitors to enjoy.
It is also a popular spot for a portable BBQ! This is one of my favourite things to do while at Powerscourt. Lunch with a view, what more can one ask for?
The Powerscourt estates are located nearby and are home to a golf course, beautiful gardens and a stunning view of the great sugar loaf. Please be mindful that it cost 6 euro per adult to enter the waterfall but it is 100% worth it.
Nearby Powerscourt Waterfall lies Crone Woods, this is one of my favourite walks in Wicklow as it delivers an alternative view of the Waterfall and is far less busy than the official grounds.
17) Coumshingaun Lake, County Waterford
Another great day trip from Dublin for nature lovers is Coumshingaun Lake in County Waterford. This stunning trail is not for the faith hearted as it is quite steep and narrow in places. However, if you are will to brave it you will be presented with outstanding views of Coumshingaun and the surrounding Comeragh mountains.
Coumshingaun Lake is a 2 hour drive from Dublin and there is a free car park onsite. Just be mindful that the car park has the tendency to fill up early, especially on bright sunny days.
18) Hook Head, Wexford
I love making my way down to Hook Head in County Wexford. Hook Head is a 2 and a half hour drive from Dublin and is home to stunning coastal views and walks.
It is home to Hook Lighthouse the second oldest operating lighthouse in the world. It is also a common place to go sea kayaking.
If you want to extend your Wexford road trip further than Hook Head consider heading towards Dollar Bay and then onto Tintern Abbey.
19) Carlow
A Road Trip to County Carlow is not something you typically hear people talking about when discussing Dublin Day Trips. However, with Carlow's close proximity to Dublin, it would be a shame to miss out on some of Ireland's hidden gems.
Here are some of my favourite spots in County Carlow:
- Ducketts Grove
- Brownshill Dolmen
- Delta Sensory Gardens
- Carlow Town (for a bite to eat)
- Oak Park Forrest
20) Rock of Cashel, Tipperary
I was surprised to find that there are not any day tours from Dublin to the famous Rock of Cashel in County Tipperary. This is the most famous ruin in all of Ireland and home to a rich historic site.
While visiting consider stopping by nearby Hore Abbey. You could even spin by Kilkenny on the way back to Dublin.
Both attractions are located under a 2 hour drive from the City.
22) The Mourne Mountains, County Down
A hiking trip to the Mourne Mountains is one of my favourite day trips from Dublin. It takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes to reach the Mournes by car meaning you can easily leave the city early in the morning and be hiking in the mountains by mid-morning.
They offer a range of hiking trails suitable for all levels of fitness and experience. From the challenging climb to the summit of Slieve Donard, the highest peak in Northern Ireland, to the more leisurely trails around Tollymore Forest Park, there's something for everyone to enjoy. The stunning scenery, fresh mountain air, and sense of adventure make the Mourne Mountains an unforgettable experience and a great way to recharge your batteries before heading back to the city.
23) Slieve Foye, County Louth
If you're up for an adventure and looking to explore some of Ireland's hidden gems then hiking Slieve Foye is an absolute must! As someone who's always on the lookout for new experiences, I can personally vouch for how amazing this hike is.
The Cooley Mountains are just a 90-minute drive from Dublin, making it a convenient day trip. The hike itself is moderate to difficult, with a number of route options, spanning from 40 minutes (lower loop) to 3 hours but the stunning views from the summit are totally worth it.
From the top, you can see miles of rolling hills, the Irish Sea, and even parts of Northern Ireland and Wales on a clear day. Trust me, this is an adventure you won't want to miss out on!
Have a Ireland Travel Question?
Then join my FREE Facebook Community, I pop in once a week to answer as many queries as possible. Please do not email or DM. It is easier for me to manage everything in the one place 😊
👋 JOIN MY FREE IRELAND FACEBOOK COMMUNITY
🇮🇪🇮🇪🇮🇪
FREE IRELAND FACEBOOK COMMUNITY
✔️ LOCAL ADVICE
✔️ FREE ACCESS TO GOOGLE MAPS PINS
✔️ GROUP DISCUSSION
