best day tours ireland

Multi & Single Day Tours in Ireland

From dublin's leading day tour company, discover the beauty of ireland, with wild rover tours.

Cliffs Of Moher, Atlantic Edge Ocean Walk & Galway City Day Tour From Dublin

Kilkenny, Wicklow Mountains, Glendalough Day Tour From Dublin. (Includes Sheep Farm & Dog Trials)

Giants Causeway & Belfast City Day Tour from Dublin

Cliffs of moher, bunratty castle & ennis town, special offers.

10% Off. Cliffs Of Moher & Galway + Giant’s Causeway & Belfast (2 x Tours)

10% Off. Cliffs Of Moher & Galway + Wicklow & Kilkenny (2 x Tours)

10% Off. Belfast & Giant’s Causeway + Wicklow & Kilkenny (2 x Tours)

12.5% Off: 3 Tour Saver. Cliffs of Moher (with Bunratty) + Belfast + Wicklow

Visiting dublin, we've got you covered, dublin attractions discounts, hop on/hop off bus tours, private tours, the best adventures lead to great stories., start your adventure with wild rover tours, ireland’s #1 tour company..

2023 TripAdvisor Travelers Choice Award for Northern Europe – Wild Rover Tours listed in the Top 20 Activities and the only tour company to be awarded this honour.

2020 TripAdvisor Travelers Choice Award for the World – Wild Rover Tours listed as the 2nd Best Day Tour in the category Best Cultural Experiences

2013 – 2023 TripAdvisor Travelers Choice Award for Ireland – Every year for 11 consecutive years Wild Rover Tours has been reviewed and rated as the Best Tour Company in Ireland.

Ireland is a country of people well known as the land of poets, storytellers, musicians, actors, myths, legends and of course “CRAIC”. At Wild Rover Tours we know that a good tour is not a good tour without a good guide. A tour guide to bring variety and entertainment to you while out on the road. At Wild Rover we are the only day tour company in Ireland to employ a dedicated driver that ensures your safety and a dedicated tour guide that ensures you have a fun interesting day out. Our guides are experts in Irish history, folklore,culture. A lot are musicians who perform live on tour. Entertainment is guaranteed as we travel to Ireland’s top attractions.

At Wild Rover Tours, we put our customers first. That means we don’t accept any ‘soft commission’ from low-interest tour stops. We guarantee the maximum time at each of our attractions, and unlike other tour companies, entry to the attractions, a free walking tour is always included in the price. We also guarantee that you will find the best value here on our website, you can’t book our day tours or private tours cheaper anywhere else.

Book your preferred day tour from Dublin online now. There is no risk, we have a free cancellation policy, up to 24 hours in advance. So reserve your seat today!

Multi-award winning day tours

Reviewed no 1 tour operator in ireland. tripadvisor - 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020 & 2023, what our clients love, about wild rover tours, wild rover tours.

Shopping Centre, Day Trips & Tours Ticket Kiosk, Saint Stephen's Green, Dublin 2

• Alexandra McDonald ★★★★★ 3 weeks ago What a fantastic and professional tour company! This Wild Rover tour from Dublin to the Cliffs was the perfect choice for my 7 year old and me. We were visiting Dublin for a long weekend and the Cliffs had been a bucket list item, and not stressing about driving was my main reason for booking. I reserved on their website directly (a fair price!) and went to the meeting point that day at 7am. They have … More large, comfortable coaches with their logo. The Cliffs are magnificent and a must-see! The driver Garry and our guide Rory were so professional and entertaining. Rory pointed out landmarks as we drove, gave us a comprehensive history of Ireland, and had such a lovely personality all day! We made a rest stop on the route there and back (no WC on the bus). We returned back at 7:30pm and it was such a great (albeit long) day. Furthermore, Rory came through the cabin as we were arriving back in Dublin to answer any personal questions we had about the area, and took a few minutes to recommend local restaurants, pubs, and experiences that we would find useful. Absolutely recommend!!
• Bob Carey ★★★★ ☆ 3 weeks ago Our tour guide Barbara was great. She was very entertaining and informative. The Giants Causeway was beautiful and breathtaking. My only disappointment was the Black Cab tour. Our driver was not aware of our passengers, at one point we had to get back in the cab to go no more than 150 feet…. He presented the time of the Troubles from his perspective as a youth growing up. Otherwise, I highly recommend … More Wild River.
• Chang Liu ★★★★★ 2 weeks ago We did the Cliffs of Moher and Galway tour with Kiera and had the best time. Kiera was simply one of the best tour guides we’ve ever had! She explained the Irish history so thoroughly and clearly; she might as well be a history professor! She’s also very funny and so, so friendly. All the shops and restaurants she recommended in Galway were spot on. The tour’s organization was quite smooth and we can’t … More complain a thing. Highly recommend wild rover tours.
• Sara Mouyass ★★★★★ a week ago Absolutely informative and lovely tour to the Cliffs of Moher! Both our driver and guide were really nice people, and respectful of our morning tiredness! Our guide, Yvonne, gave absolutely useful and historical info as well as fun stories/facts when that was needed. I'd recommend Wild Rover anytime if you'd like to spend an amazing journey across Ireland! 😊 Thank you!
• Brenda Burrows ★★★★★ a week ago We went on the Giant’s Causeway and Titanic museum tour and can thoroughly recommend it. Great driver (Krishnan) and excellent tour guide (Una). Good mix of Irish history, folk lore and culture served up with humour and practical tips. Beautiful coastal scenery.
• Michelle Calheiros ★★★★★ 2 weeks ago I went to Ireland in April '24 and booked two day tours leaving from Dublin; one to the Cliffs and another to Wicklow. Both tours were amazing, truly! I never really leave reviews but felt compelled to share my positive experience because I traveled solo and felt safe and entertained the entire time. I made friends on the trip and got to experience some amazing places, some really good food, and … More a lot of cool stories thanks to the guides. The day to Wicklow was with Liam, he was extremely funny and very passionate about the locations we visited. The day tour to the cliffs was with Ciara and Steven, both very helpful, fun, and professional. Overall, I had an amazing experience, and I would recommend Wild Rover to anyone looking to see Ireland and learn about the beautiful country while having a lot of fun.
• Mary Norton ★★★★★ 4 weeks ago We truly enjoyed this tour! The driver and host were so knowledgeable and entertaining. The visit to Kilkenny was grand. The experience in the mountains, holy land and sheep farm were all beautiful and lovely! You need to do this tour!
• Joshua ★★★★★ a month ago We found this trip well worth the price to experience and see some of "real" Ireland. Kilkenny was a great little city with plenty of shops, restaurants, and history to explore. Glendalough was such a fantastic time. From the history, to exploring the grounds, to the picturesque walk to the upper lake, it was perfect! The sheep farm was a great experience as well, the whole family enjoyed … More it! We were three adults, a 13 year old, a 5 year old, and a 2 year old. All enjoyed it and had fun! Tour operators Elisa and Peter were great!
• Christina McElroy ★★★★★ 3 weeks ago We had the most amazing trip to the Cliffs with Yvonne and Steven. She was so funny and knowledgeable, I would follow her anywhere!! Such a wonderful tour and tour guide. Truly enjoyed our visit. Eventho it was foggy it was still beautiful 😍

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19 best ireland tours: dublin, giant's causeway & more.

Make the most of the stunning scenery in Ireland and Northern Ireland with the help of knowledgeable locals.

19 Best Ireland Tours

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Whatever attracts you to Ireland – the verdant landscape, the ancient castles and cathedrals or some of its famous manufactured goods – these tours will help you make the most of your time here. With the help of expert and traveler input, U.S. News determined that these tours in Ireland (and a few in Northern Ireland) are the best on offer. While the tours take differing approaches, ranging from boats and buses to horse-drawn carriages, they all have guides well-versed in local history and lore. Indeed, the guides' storytelling skills are often cited as highlights of these outings, which may last as little as an hour or as long as an entire day.

Lally Tours – Galway to Connemara and Kylemore Abbey Full Day Tour

Price: Adults from 50 euros (about $54); kids from 40 euros (about $43) Duration: 7.5 hours

Explore the west coast of Ireland, where the Irish language (Irish Gaelic) remains prevalent, on this daylong bus trip. In addition to learning about the various sights, you may acquire a few words of the local lingo from the onboard guides, whom tour-takers find enthusiastic, knowledgeable and entertaining. The route on this excursion winds through the photogenic Twelve Bens mountain range. Among the stops are a scenic mountainside village and the extravagant Kylemore Abbey, a 19th-century abbey featuring a Victorian walled garden and a neo-Gothic church.

The fee includes admission to Kylemore Abbey & Victorian Walled Garden, but does not include lunch. Outings depart Galway daily at 10 a.m. Hotel pickup is available for no additional charge. Lally Tours also offers full-day excursions to the Cliffs of Moher, among other destinations.

Check prices & availability on:

Irish Day Tours – Blarney Castle Day Tour From Dublin

Price: Adults from 85 euros (about $92); kids from 42.50 euros (about $46) Duration: 12 hours

Blarney Castle, which dates back to the 1400s, ranks as one of the most popular attractions in Ireland. The medieval stronghold, which stands approximately 5 miles west of Cork, houses the legendary Blarney Stone – purported to bestow the gift of eloquence on those who kiss it. In addition to visiting the famed castle, this tour stops at another highly popular destination, the Rock of Cashel and its cluster of medieval buildings, including Cormac's Chapel (which contains Romanesque frescoes) and the Hall of Vicars. The trip also includes a visit to Cahir Castle, a 13th-century defensive structure constructed on an island on the River Suir. Those who've taken the tour report enjoying the impressive castles, as well as the guides' amusing commentary. Many reviewers said this was a long day, but worth it to see and hear more about Irish history.

Tours depart daily from Dublin at 6:50 a.m. and return to central Dublin around 7:30 p.m. Irish Day Tours offers a variety of day trips, including excursions to Wicklow, Connemara and more.

Deros Tours – Ring of Kerry Coach Tour

Price: Adults from 38 euros (around $41); kids from 23 euros (about $25) Duration: 6 hours

Observe the unique landscape of the Iveragh Peninsula, including Ireland's highest mountain, on this half-day bus tour. Stops include the villages of Glenbeigh, Waterville and Sneem. From March to October, coaches also stop for a demonstration of how dogs are trained to herd sheep. A high point – literally – is a visit to Moll's Gap, which affords views of MacGillycuddy's Reeks, including its tallest peak, Carrantuohill, which stands more than 3,400 feet high. Another highlight is the Ladies View (named in honor of Queen Victoria and her retinue) at the Killarney Lakes. Tour-takers sing the praises of the witty, attentive guides and the many photo stops. Others were pleased they opted for tour instead of trying to drive the Ring of Kerry themselves.

Buses leave from Killarney at 10:30 a.m. daily and return around 4:30 p.m. Deros Tours also operates tours of the Gap of Dunloe as well as the Dingle Peninsula, among others.

Midleton Distillery Experience

Price: From 26 euros (about $28) Duration: 75 minutes

See how world-renowned Jameson Irish Whiskey is produced on this tour of the original Midleton distillery, which is located about 15 miles east of Cork. Along the tour, your guide will show you several of the distillery's buildings, where you'll have the opportunity to observe the distilling process. The tour ends with a tasting flight of three whiskeys. Travelers offer high marks for the engaging, well-informed guides. Reviewers also appreciate the whiskey samples and say this is a fun activity even if you're not a whiskey fan thanks to the incredible history and architecture on display.

There are also guided tours of the Jameson Bow St. Distillery in Dublin.

Game of Thrones Tours – Iron Islands & Giant's Causeway from Belfast

Price: From 49 euros (about $53) Duration: 10 hours

"Games of Thrones" fans can visit some of the spots where pivotal scenes of the series were filmed on this full-day excursion to the Glens of Antrim. Highlights include the Giant's Causeway, the Cushendun Caves (where Melisandre births a dark spirit), a beach that served as Dragonstone and the Dark Hedges, an avenue of beech trees where Arya Stark made her escape. Guides, who served as extras on the show, share information about the various sights as well as some behind-the-scenes scoop from the set. Reviewers report finding the passionate guides' commentary insightful and appreciate the small group size. Others took advantage of the costumes and props to snap some memorable photos.

Tours depart from Belfast, Northern Ireland, on Wednesday and Saturday at 7:30 a.m. year-round; additional Sunday departures are available in select months. Be aware that this tour involves some walking on uneven ground and that children younger than 12 are not permitted due to the adult content featured in the tour. The company also offers tours that depart from Dublin, among other locales.

Yellow Umbrella Tours – Traditional Pub Tour

Price: From 42 euros (about $45) Duration: 3 hours

If you've come to Ireland hoping to experience its lively pub culture, then this Dublin tour is for you. With a local leading the way, you'll visit three pubs on the north side of the river, away from the tourist crowds. Samples of Irish beer, whiskey and gin are included, and you'll have the option to purchase traditional Irish dishes, if you're feeling peckish. After visiting the pubs, you'll end the tour listening to live music. Reviewers say guides are friendly, entertaining and share lots of history about the drinks and Dublin. Participants also said the pubs featured on the tour are interesting and fun.

Tours are generally offered daily at 6 p.m.; they meet at The Spire on O'Connell Street. If you're traveling with kids and looking for a more family-friendly experience, consider the company's two-hour Dublin history walking tour.

Irish Day Tours – Cliffs of Moher

Price: Adults from 80 euros (about $87); kids from 40 euros (about $44) Duration: 13 hours

Travel west from Dublin to marvel at the Cliffs of Moher and enjoy panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean on this full-day bus trip. In addition to the nearly 400-foot cliffs, this tour visits the village of Doolin for lunch and the flower-filled Burren National Park, as well as the city of Galway before returning to Dublin. Tour-takers typically appreciate both the remarkable scenery and the astute and entertaining guides. Many reviewers said this is the best thing you can do while visiting Dublin.

Trips depart from the statue of Molly Malone on Suffolk Street daily at 6:50 a.m. and return to the city center around 7:30 p.m. Note: Fees do not include the cost of lunch. Be sure to bring headphones if you want to listen to the commentary on Irish Day Tours' multilingual mobile app. The company also offers tours to the Giant's Causeway, Blarney Castle and more.

Belfastology Walking Tours – Eclectic Belfast Walking Tour

Price: Adults from 20 pounds (about $25); kids from 12 pounds (about $15) Duration: 2.5 hours

Admire Belfast's architecture and hear about the city's history on this jaunt around town. Highlights include City Hall, the Cathedral Quarter, Waterfront Hall and the Albert Memorial Clock – one of Belfast's top landmarks. Reviewers applaud the enthusiastic guides' well-informed commentary; they also appreciate that the tour can be tailored to suit groups' particular interests.

Tours are typically offered multiple times a day starting at 10:30 a.m. Belfastology Walking Tours also offers themed tours, such as political murals and street art and music.

Galway Tour Company – The Aran Islands & the Cliffs Cruise

Price: Adults from 70 euros (about $76); kids from 65 euros (about $71) Duration: 10.5 hours

Experience both the Aran Islands and the Cliffs of Moher on this daylong outing. Buses leave Galway at 9 a.m. and travel along the Wild Atlantic Way south to the fishing village of Doolin. From there, tour-takers ride an express ferry to the smallest of the three Aran Islands, Inisheer, where – for at least two hours – they can explore cafes, castles, churches, lighthouses, shipwrecks, pubs and other attractions. After lunch, the journey continues by coach to the incredible cliffs. Travelers praise the guides' amusing and educational commentary and call the views phenomenal.

Buses typically return to Galway around 7:30 p.m. Tickets include admission to the Cliffs of Moher, but not lunch or any optional activities on Inisheer. Note: This tour is available daily from the beginning of March to the end of October. Galway Tour Company also take visitors to Connemara and the Kylemore Abbey, among other popular destinations.

Wild Atlantic Way Day Tours – Connemara and Connemara National Park Day Tour from Galway

Price: Adults from 45 euros (about $49); kids from $43 Duration: 9 hours

Take in the sights of Connemara on this day trip from Galway. Traveling both the Wild Atlantic Way and the Sky Road, this bus ride passes through the picturesque villages like Barna, Furbo and Spiddal, and makes stops at locales like Pines Island and the town of Clifden. The excursion also includes a three-hour visit to Connemara National Park or Kylemore Abbey (you get to choose). The views along the drive are often deemed a high point, and guides win kudos for their knowledgeable narration and skilled driving of the narrow roads. The route winds through the Maumturks and Twelve Bens mountains on the way back to Galway, where the trip usually ends around 6:30 or 7 p.m.

Tours depart from the Kinlay Hostel on Merchants Road at 9:30 a.m.; they are offered daily year-round. Fees do not include lunch, but do include the entry fee for Connemara National Park. The company also offers tours that depart from Limerick and Ennis.

Wild Rover Tours – Kilkenny, Wicklow Mountains, Glendalough Day Tour from Dublin

Price: From 43 euros (about $47) Duration: 10 hours

Spend a day learning about the history and folklore of eastern Ireland on this combination walking and coach tour. Take a guided stroll through the cobblestone streets of Kilkenny and then explore the city on your own, possibly opting to visit Kilkenny Castle, which dates to the 12th century. Then, traverse the photogenic Wicklow Mountains, where scenes from movies – including "Braveheart" – were filmed. The outing's visit to Glendalough, known for its glacial valleys and lakes, includes a guided tour of its monastic city, which was built circa A.D. 600. The trip also features a stop at a working sheep farm. Both the scenery and the guides' expert commentary and recomendations consistently win praise from travelers.

Tours are available daily all year, but the order in which you visit attractions varies seasonally. Pickups from a trio of Dublin locales occur between 8:10 and 8:30 a.m.; tours conclude back in the city around 6:20 p.m. Note: Prices do not include lunch or any attractions in Kilkenny. Wild Rover Tours also offer "Game of Thrones"-themed outings, as well as day trips to the Cliffs of Moher.

LetzGo City Tours – Skip the Line: Guinness Storehouse & Jameson Irish Whiskey Experience Tour

Price: From 112 euros (about $122) Duration: 4 hours

If you're hoping to visit the Jameson Distillery and the Guinness Storehouse on your trip to Dublin, consider this half-day tour, which includes skip-the-line access to both attractions, as well as expert commentary from a local guide. You'll start at the Jameson Distillery Bow St. to learn about and, of course, sample some celebrated whiskey. Then head over to the Guinness Storehouse, a seven-story monument to Ireland's renowned stout, and ascend to its Gravity Bar, a rooftop bar boasting unrivaled views of Phoenix Park, the Wellington Monument, the Wicklow Mountains and more. Along the way, hear about the city's brewing and distilling history from guides. Reviewers typically find the guides' stories entertaining, as well as educational. They also enjoyed the photo stop outside the oldest pub in Ireland, which dates back to the 11th century.

Skip-the-line tours are generally offered several times daily starting at 10:45 a.m. The company also hosts pub and city tours, as well as skip-the-line access to the Book of Kells and Dublin Castle.

McComb's Coach Travel – Giant's Causeway Tour

Price: From 35 euros (about $38) Duration: 10 hours

Take a scenic drive to Northern Ireland's famed Giant's Causeway, the sole UNESCO World Heritage Site in Northern Ireland, on this daylong tour. Along with its World Heritage Site status, Giant's Causeway is also a site of geological significance comprising approximately 40,000 hexagonal basalt columns. Other stops along the Causeway Coastal Route include Carrickfergus Castle, the Dark Hedges and Dunluce Castle, as well as a pub for lunch. Tour-takers generally appreciate the good humor and insights of the drivers/guides.

Coaches depart Belfast daily at 8:30 a.m. and return around 6 p.m. Note: This outing involves some walking on uneven surfaces. McComb's Coach Travel offers a variety of other tours, including a "Game of Thrones" tour.

House of Waterford Crystal – Factory Tour

Price: Adults from 17.50 euros (around $19); kids from 9.50 euros (about $10) Duration: 1 hour

Get a behind-the-scenes look at how world-famous Waterford Crystal is made on this tour, which visits the factory's blowing, mold-making, cutting, sculpting, engraving and inspection rooms. Visitors consistently find the crystal-making process fascinating and the guides informative and friendly. If you're in the Waterford area, many reviewers called this the No. 1 thing to do.

Tours are available year-round multiple times on most days, though there are none on Saturday and Sunday from November through February. Start times are determined upon your arrival at the plant in its namesake city, so be sure to check hours of operation, which vary by season. If you like what you see being crafted and want some crystal to take home, you can stop at the factory's retail store after the tour.

DC Tours – A History of Terror

Price: From 22 pounds (about $28) Duration: 2.5 hours

Learn about some of the most contentious moments in Northern Ireland's decades-long ethno-nationalist conflict (known as the Troubles) on this walking tour of Belfast. Tours start outside Belfast City Hall daily (barring some holidays) at 10:30 a.m. and conclude on the banks of the River Lagan. Stops along the way include Donegall Place, site of a 1972 bombing; Cathedral Quarter, the city's cultural district; and the Spirit of Belfast, a sculpture often called "The Onion Rings." History buffs generally find the passionate and engaging guides' commentary both informative and entertaining. Reviewers also say you don't need to know much about the Troubles to enjoy this tour.

This tour entails walking for about a mile and a half and is not recommended for children younger than 12. If you're looking for more of an overview of the city, DC Tours also conducts a three-hour "Best of Belfast" tour, among other experiences.

Taste & Tour – Belfast Food Tour

Price: From 67 pounds (about $85) Duration: 4 hours

Sample the Belfast dining scene on this four-hour stroll in the center of the city. After starting in St George's Market, the tour proceeds to various area bars and shops, as well as a restaurant in the Cathedral Quarter. Food and drinks sampled along the way should be sufficient for both breakfast and lunch, according to Taste & Tour. Foodies enjoy the ample food and beverage offerings as well as the friendly guides' culinary wisdom.

Tours typically depart from St. George's Market at 10:15 a.m. on Fridays and 10 and 10:45 a.m. on Saturdays. The company also offers tours that explore the city's cocktail and craft beer scene.

DoDublin – Hop-On Hop-Off

Price: Adults from 30 euros (about $33); kids from 10 euros (about $11) Duration: 2 hours

Explore multiple Dublin attractions at your own pace on this hop-on, hop-off bus tour – or stay on board and see the sights. The tour's route includes EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum, the Guinness Storehouse, the Little Museum of Dublin, St. Patrick's Cathedral and much more. Drivers provide running commentary about the city's sights (and recorded narration in nine languages is available). Tourgoers applaud the drivers' witty remarks and recommend taking this tour at the start of your Dublin visit to familiarize yourself with the city.

Bus tours operate daily and depart every 20 to 30 minutes (depending on the day), with the first departing 59 Upper O'Connell St. at 9 a.m. and the last at 5 p.m. DoDublin offers both single- and two-day tickets for its hop-on, hop-off tours. For each adult ticket purchased – regardless of duration – a child younger than 15 can ride for free. Moreover, the fees include admission to the Little Museum. In addition to its hop-on, hop-off tours, DoDublin also operates a nightly ghost bus tour.

Killarney Jaunting Cars – From Park to Castle Tour

Price: Adults from 65 euros (about $70); kids from 10 euros (around $11) Duration: 1 hour

On this hourlong horse-and-carriage ride, you'll travel to both Killarney National Park and Ross Castle, passing sights like St. Mary's Cathedral and MacGillycuddy's Reeks along the way. Why a carriage ride? This mode of transportation allows visitors to see parts of the park where motor vehicles are not allowed. Travelers consistently describe the guides as humorous and well-versed in area culture and history. Reviewers also say the ride is relaxing; many called the tour the highlight of their trip.

Carriages depart from the Great Southern Killarney hotel several times daily, with the first usually heading out at 9:30 a.m. and the last at 5:15 p.m. Killarney Jaunting Cars also offers a variety of combo tours, in addition to a five-hour tour to the Gap of Dunloe.

Killarney Lake Tours – Killarney Water Bus Tour

Price: Adults from 15 euros (about $16); kids from 8 euros (about $9) Duration: 1 hour

See the sights of Killarney from Lough Leane, the area's largest lake, on this hourlong boat ride. Water buses launch from and return to Ross Castle and pass attractions, such as Innisfallen Island's monastic ruins and O'Sullivan's Cascade; cruisers also get an eyeful of the nearby mountains. Tour-takers say this activity is reasonably priced and enjoy the guides' anecdotes and historical observations. They also rave about the views.

Trips are available multiple times daily with standard departure times of 11 a.m. and 12:30, 2:30 and 4 p.m.; additional times may be added in the summer. Water bus tours can also be combined with a horse-drawn carriage (aka jaunting car) ride around Killarney.

You may also be interested in:

• The Best Dublin Tours
• The Best Places to Visit in Ireland
• The Best Travel Insurance for Europe

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13 Best Day Trips from Dublin (Tried + Tested for 2024)

By Author Keith O'Hara

Posted on Last updated: December 29, 2023

In this guide, you’ll find 1, the best day trips from Dublin for those of you with a car and 2, some great day tours from Dublin for those of you without a car .

While there are plenty of things to do in Dublin , it’s well worth exploring the wealth of attractions that lay a short distance away.

And, although the likes of Wicklow tends to be the ‘go-to’ of the Dublin day trips, there’s plenty more on offer!

Below, you’ll find organised Dublin day tours for those of you looking for someone else to do the driving and some mighty day trips from Dublin for those of you with a car.

Table of Contents

The best day trips from Dublin by car

Click to enlarge

If you’re driving, there’s countless places to visit near Dublin by car, once you know where to look.

Below, you’ll find the ‘old favourites’ like Glendalough and Newgrange, but you’ll also find some often missed Dublin day trips, like the Cooley Peninsula and more.

1. Wicklow (55-minute drive)

Photos via Shutterstock

Also known as the ‘Garden of Ireland’, Wicklow is one of the best day trips from Dublin for good reason! Well-known for its outstanding natural beauty, the county is blessed with glittering lakes and monastic villages and ruins.

I’ve been taking half day trips from Dublin to Wicklow for years and the itinerary that I tend to use is this one:

• Head to Glendalough, first, as the car park can be a pain
• Pick one of the Glendalough walks , e.g. the Spinc Loop
• Get a post-hike lunch at the brilliant Wicklow Heather
• Head up and do the Sally Gap Drive
• Stop at Lough Tay , Ballinastoe Woods and Glenmacnass Waterfall

If you’re looking for slightly different Dublin day trips, tackle one of the longer Wicklow walks over the course of a morning and afternoon!

2. The Cooley Peninsula (1.5-hour drive)

Photos by Tom Archer via Tourism Ireland

The Cooley Peninsula is one of the more overlooked Dublin day trips. There’s plenty of things to see and do here and there’s a clatter of great places to eat.

Depending on whether or not you want to include a hike in your trip, here’s a suggested itinerary:

• Pick a walk (options – Ravensdale Forest Walk , Annaloughan Loop Walk or the Slieve Foye Loop )
• Spin into the town for breakfast/lunch (Liberty Cafe and Ruby Ellen’s are solid options)
• Take a tour of the castle or rent a bike and spin along the Carlingford Greenway)

There are heaps of other things to do in Carlingford if the options above don’t tickle your fancy!

3. Meath (35-minute drive)

County Meath is another of the best day trips from Dublin by car. It’ll take you around 35 minutes by car to reach and there’s an endless number of things to do in Meath to keep you busy.

If you’re looking for a day-out in the Boyne Valley, here’s a mini itinerary to tackle:

• Book tickets for Newgrange in advance and do the tour
• Grab lunch in nearby Inside Out in Slane
• Take a ramble around the trails in Slane Castle
• Visit the ancient Old Mellifont Abbey

Or, of you fancy seeing more of Meath, check out the Hill of Tara , one of the most important archaeological sites in the country or Trim Castle , the best-preserved of the many Anglo-Norman castles in Ireland . 

4. The Mournes (2-hour drive)

One of the more impressive places to visit near Dublin by car are the Mourne Mountains in County Down.

Now, you’ll need to do a bit of planning if you opt for this Dublin day trip, as there’ll be a fair bit of walking involved.

If you’re visiting the area for the first time, I’d  strongly  recommend heading into Tollymore Forest Park (above) and then heading for lunch in Newcastle followed by a stroll on the beach.

Or, if you fancy a hike, there’s  heaps  of Mourne Mountain walks to tackle, like the tough Slieve Donard hike .

5. The Ring of Gullion + Newry (1.5-hours)

© Tourism Ireland photographed by Brian Morrison

One of the best day trips from Dublin that’s very regularly overlooked is the trip that takes in both the Ring of Gullion and a glorious corner of Rostrevor.

Start your road trip with the Slieve Gullion Drive or walk, depending on how you’re feeling (the walk is steep). Head into nearby Gather and Brew after for a bite-to-eat!

When you’re ready, take the spin out to Kilbroney Park – it’s here that you’ll find the Cloughmore Stone and the aptly named Kodak Corner.

If you’re looking for day tours from Dublin with plenty of walks, this one is hard to beat!

6. Kilkenny ( 1.5-hour drive)

Another of the best day trips from Dublin is Kilkenny. Now, while there are  plenty  of things to do in Kilkenny , many people make the mistake of think that there’s only the castle.

Head for the supposedly haunted Dunmore Cave , first, and take the tour. Then spin into the city and you have everywhere from the Smithwick’s Brewery and the castle to the Medieval Mile to choose from.

Food wise, there’s plenty of options in the city. If you need a reccy, both foodworks and Aroi Asian Fusion are worth a bash. Round off your day with a visit to Jerpoint Abbey . 

7. Options that require 2.5-hours+ driving

Although we’ve tackled several places to visit near Dublin by car above, there’s endless day tours from Dublin if you’re open to driving a bit further.

One of the more popular road trips from Dublin is to Cuilcagh (above) in Fermanagh. It’s around a 2.5-hour spin.

If you’re not afraid of a bit of driving, you could visit Waterford ( Coumshingaun Lough’s a tough but rewarding hike), Wexford and plenty more.

The best day tours from Dublin (organised / guided tours)

The second section of our guide is for those of you without a car and it contains a handful of carefully selected half day tours from Dublin with great reviews online.

If you don’t fancy taking an organised tour, we have a guide to some great day trips from Dublin by train , too.

Note: if you book a tour through one of the links below we  may make a tiny commission that helps us keep this site going. You won’t pay extra, but we really do appreciate it.

1. Cliffs of Moher, Kilmacduagh Abbey + Galway

I’m going to kick things off with arguably one of the best day tours from Dublin when it comes to reviews (it has 4.8/5 from 8,900+ reviews at the time of typing).

If you’re looking to escape the capital and explore a chunk of the west coast, this day tour from Dublin takes in the Cliffs of Moher , Dunguaire Castle , the Burren and plenty more.

Key info on the tour:

• Starts at: 6:45 AM
• Length:  13 hours
• Reviews: 4.8/5 from 8,900+ reviews
• Cost:  From €83 p/p

2. Giants Causeway, Dark Hedges, Dunluce + Belfast

Next up is another of the best day tours from Dublin when it comes to reviews (it has 4.8/5 from 4,000+ reviews at the time of typing).

This is a half day trip from Dublin that takes in some of the top attractions on the Causeway Coastal Route , like Dunluce Castle , The Dark Hedges and the Giant’s Causeway along with a 1.5-hour stop in Belfast City.

• Length:  12 hours
• Reviews: 4.8/5 from 4,000+ reviews
• Cost:  From €88 p/p

3. Kilkenny, Wicklow + Glendalough with Sheepdog Show

If you’re looking for short day trips from Dublin, this organised tour requires much less travelling than the previous two, and it currently has 4.8/5 from 1,400+ reviews.

This is one of the more popular half day trips from Dublin and it takes in Glendalough , the ancient city of Kilkenny and a very impressive sheepdog demonstration.

• Starts at: 08:00 AM
• Length:  9 hours
• Reviews: 4.8/5 from 1,400+ reviews
• Cost:  From €40.80 p/p

Read more + buy tickets

4. Rock of Cashel, Cahir + Blarney Castle

The next of our half day tours from Dublin is going to appeal to those of you looking to visit some of the most impressive castles in Ireland .

This is a 12-hour tour that includes the entrance fees to each of the attractions.

And, while there’s a good bit of driving involved, it’s broken up with the stops at Blarney Castle (the home of the Blarney Stone ), the Rock of Cashel and Cahir Castle.

• Starts at: 06:50 AM
• Reviews: 4.6/5 from 350+ reviews
• Cost:  From €85 p/p

5. Newgrange and the Boyne Valley

Another of the best one day trips drom Dublin takes you into the heart of the brilliant Boyne Valley to explore counties Louth and Meath.

You’ll take the tour of Newgrange, explore the Battle of the Boyne Visitor Centre and see the ancient Monasterboice which is home to some magnificent Celtic Crosses .

• Starts at: Check when booking
• Length:  8 hours
• Reviews: 4.6/5 from 230+ reviews
• Cost:  From €75 p/p

6. Connemara Dublin Day tour

The last in our guide to the best day tours from Dublin is the Connemara tour – and it’s a busy one!

This Dublin day tour takes you across Ireland, past the Maumturk Mountains and on to Killary Harbour for a 1.5 hour boat cruise of the fjord.

It then continues on to Kylemore Abbey one of the more imppressive buildings in Ireland, before heading to Galway City where you can ramble around for just over an hour.

• Reviews: 4.2/5 from 467+ reviews

Dublin day trips: Which ones have we missed?

I’ve no doubt that we’ve unintentionally left out a brilliant day trip from Dublin (or 7!) from the guide above.

If you have a place that you’d like to recommend, let me know in the comments below and I’ll check it out!

FAQs about the best short day trips from Dublin

We’ve had a lot of questions over the years asking about everything from ‘day trips in Ireland by car from Dublin? to ‘What are the most unique places to visit outside Dublin?’

In the section below, we’ve popped in the most FAQs that we’ve received. If you have a question that we haven’t tackled, ask away in the comments section below.

What are the best day trips from Dublin?

In my opinion, the best day tours Dublin has to offer are Wicklow, Meath and Louth as they’re 1, close and 2, home to endless things to do.

What is the best organised one day trip from Dublin?

It depends. There are endless Dublin day trips to tackle. The tours above, particularly the Wicklow one and the Galway one, are worth checking out.

Keith O’Hara has lived in Ireland for 35 years and has spent most of the last 10 creating what is now The Irish Road Trip guide. Over the years, the website has published thousands of meticulously researched Ireland travel guides, welcoming 30 million+ visitors along the way. In 2022, the Irish Road Trip team published the world’s largest collection of Irish Road Trip itineraries . Keith lives in Dublin with his dog Toby and finds writing in the 3rd person minus craic altogether.

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Welcome to Irish Day Tours

WELCOME TO IRISH DAY TOURS

DAY TOURS AROUND IRELAND – DAY TRIPS FROM DUBLIN

Irish day tours is Ireland's leading day tour company. Our one-day trips depart daily from Dublin 364 days a year to some of the most iconic locations in Ireland & Northern Ireland . We currently operate seven one-day trips, by coach from Dublin, which includes;

Cliffs Of Moher 

Giant’s Causeway

Blarney Castle 

Cliffs of Moher Premium tour

Celtic Boyne Valley 

Premium Wicklow & Glendalough tour

Wild Connemara

All of our trips are fully led by our legendary guides who will bring the tour to life with wonderful stories from Irish history and folklore. 

We pride ourselves on our customer service and have a 98% satisfaction rating on Tripadvisor with an overall rating of 5 stars.  

You can buy tickets for your one-day trip by making the booking online or calling one of our Tourist Offices in Dublin, located at 37 College Green and 69 O'Connell Street.

Check out one of our day tours?  

Other services we offer

Natural Wonders

Culture & Castles

Recent blog posts

Destinations

Cliffs of Moher

• [email protected]
• (US / Ca) 011 353 21 237 9006
• (EU) 00 353 21 237 9006

Find Your Tour:

• England, Ireland and Scotland Tours
• Ireland Castle Tours
• Tour for max. 8 guests
• Tours for Solos
• Adults Only Tours
• Wild Atlantic Way
• Ireland's Ancient East
• Ireland Tours from Dublin
• Wild Atlantic Way Tours
• Ireland's Ancient East Tours

Arrange a Tour:

• Private Tours
• Private Tour Attractions
• Example Itineraries
• Genealogy Tours & Family Tree
• Golf Vacations
• Garden Tours

2024 Tour Packages:

• All Ireland Tours & Vacations
• Iconic Britain & Ireland Tour 18 Days | From €4390 | 2024 | Max 26 ppl.
• Iconic Britain Tour 10 Days | From €2490 | 2024 | Max 26 ppl.
• Iconic Ireland & Scotland Tour 14 Days | €3690 | 2024 | Max 26 ppl.
• 14-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland 14 Days | From €2890 | 2024 | Max 26 ppl.
• 10-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland 10 Days | From €1690 | 2024 | Max 26 ppl.
• 8-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland 8 Days | From €1590 | 2024 | Max 26 ppl.
• 6-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland 6 Days | From €990 | 2024 | Max 26 ppl.
• Deluxe Irish Castles Tour 10 Days | From €2790 | 2024 | Max 26 ppl.
• Historic Irish Castle Tour 7 Days | From €1790 | 2024 | Max 26 ppl.
• Ancient Ireland & Scotland Tour 13 Days | From €5390 | 2024 | Max 8 ppl.
• Ancient Ireland Tour 8 Days | From €3390 | 2024 | Max 8 ppl.
• Discover Northern Ireland 6 Days | From €995 | 2024 | Max 26 ppl.

2025 Tour Packages:

• Iconic Britain & Ireland Tour 18 Days | From €4590 | 2025 | Max 26 ppl.
• Iconic Ireland & Scotland Tour 14 Days | €3990 | 2025 | Max 26 ppl.
• Highlights of Ireland & Scotland Tour 9 Days | €2490 | 2025 | Max 26 ppl.
• 14-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland 14 Days | From €2990 | 2025 | Max 26 ppl.
• 10-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland 10 Days | From €1990 | 2025 | Max 26 ppl.
• 8-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland 8 Days | From €1690 | 2025 | Max 26 ppl.
• Deluxe Irish Castles Tour 10 Days | From €2890 | 2025 | Max 26 ppl.
• Ancient Ireland & Scotland Tour 13 Days | From €5690 | 2025 | Max 8 ppl.
• Ancient Ireland Tour 8 Days | From €3290 | 2025 | Max 8 ppl.
• Discover Northern Ireland 6 Days | From €1090 | 2025 | Max 26 ppl.
• Tour Guides / Drivers
• Reviews of our Tours

Further Information

• Frequently Asked Questions
• Travelguide

About tour packages

• Choosing a Tour
• The Tour Hotels
• The Tour Buses

About private tours

• Arranging a Tour
• Private Tour Accommodation
• Private Tour Vehicles

Ireland Tours 2024 & 2025

Looking to customize a bespoke vacation? Check out our Private Tours

We are still Ireland's best-reviewed tour operator, with 97.3% five-star reviews.

Our UK & Ireland Tour Packages

Scroll through our Britain and Ireland tour packages for 2024 & 2025. Alternatively, you can also see what's available on your preferred dates .

Iconic Britain & Ireland Tour

• 34 attractions
• Max. 26 ppl

Experience a once-in-a-lifetime 18-day adventure as you behold the most famous and captivating attractions that Ireland, Northern Ireland, Scotland, and England have to offer.

Iconic Britain Tour

• 14 attractions

Embark on a unique and unforgettable 10-day journey as you explore the most renowned and captivating attractions that England and Scotland have to offer.

6-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland Tour

• 13 attractions

Experience the true essence of Ireland in under a week. Ireland's unmissable destinations and the Wild Atlantic Way in one unforgettable hub-and-spoke tour.

Deluxe Castle Tour

• 22 attractions

Live like royalty for 10 days across Ireland, staying in real Irish castles and country manors. Enjoy the finest all-inclusive tour Ireland has to offer.

Historic Irish Castle Tour

• 15 attractions

A truly unique tour of Ireland. Visit the must-see attractions whilst discovering unique experiences beyond the tourist trail. All woven together by Ireland's historic castles.

14-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland Tour

• 25 attractions

Discover the Island of Ireland, North and South with this unforgettable 14-day tour. Spend 4 days in Ulster, and 10 more in Eire.

Iconic Ireland & Scotland Tour

Discover the best of Ireland and Scotland with this unforgettable 14-day tour. Compare the cultures of these historic Gaelic nations during a magical fortnight.

10-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland Tour

Experience all that is Ireland in this 10-day adventure. Ireland's best-loved attractions and its best-kept secrets, including the Wild Atlantic Way.

8-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland Tour

• 17 attractions

Take in the essence of captivating Ireland as you embark on an unforgettable 8-day adventure, immersing yourself in the Emerald Isle's beauty and charm.

Highlights of Ireland & Scotland Tour

Explore the wonders of Ireland and Scotland on this remarkable 9-day tour. Immerse yourself in the rich cultures of these historic Gaelic nations as you embark on a captivating journey.

Discover Northern Ireland Tour

• 8 attractions

Northern Ireland's natural beauty awaits on this six-day fully-inclusive tour of Ulster. Picturesque towns, untamed coastlines and friendly locals await.

Ancient Ireland Tour

• 19 attractions

An exclusive tour capped at max. 8 guests, travelling through the idyllic scenes of The Wild Atlantic Way. Including an overnight stay in an Irish castle.

Ancient Ireland & Scotland Tour

• 24 attractions

Embark on a unique and intimate journey through the Celtic heartlands of Ireland and Scotland on this exclusive tour designed for a maximum of 8 guests.

Hello from everyone here at My Ireland Tour

Welcome! We are thrilled that you are interested in visiting our country. We're proud to say that we're still an independent family-run business, based right here in Cork. We offer a range of Britain and Ireland vacation packages , as well as our bespoke private customised tours . We're looking forward to chatting with you and showing you what makes Ireland such a magical place.

Eric O'Gorman, Founder & Director

What are you looking for?

We offer various types of tour to suit all ages, interests and group sizes. What kind of vacation suits you best?

All our Ireland Tours

Ireland's best-loved destinations and its best-kept secrets, all on one magical tour.

Private Custom Tours

Custom private tours, crafted uniquely for you. All group sizes from two people to 100.

Castle Tours

Live like royalty, staying in real Irish castles steeped in history and tradition.

UK & Ireland

Tour Ireland and Britain at the same time with a tour that shows you the best of England, Ireland and Scotland.

Scotland & Ireland

Two great celtic nations, one unforgettable experience. Visit Scotland and Ireland in one trip.

Three unique tour collections

It's now even easier to find your perfect vacation. We have grouped most of our tour packages into three unique collections. Whatever your interests, whatever your budget, we have the perfect range of Irish tours for you and your group. We also offer our popular Discover Northern Ireland Tour (6 days). Alternatively, you can even customize your own bespoke private tour , just for you and your group.

Iconic Scenes Tours

Discover Ireland's best-loved attractions and its best-kept secrets. All with unbeatable value, while staying in some of Ireland's best four-star hotels.

• Compare all Iconic Scenes Tours
• 18-Day Tour (Ireland, England & Scotland)
• 14-Day Tour (Scotland & Ireland version)
• 14-Day Tour (Ireland-only version)
• 10-Day Tour (England & Scotland)
• 10-Day Tour
• 9-Day Tour (Scotland & Ireland version)

Ancient Luxury Tours

Get closer to the action on a tour which is limited to max. eight guests. On these luxury tours, you will be staying in four- and five-star hotels and castles.

• Compare our Ancient Luxury Tours
• 13-Day Tour (Ireland & Scotland)

Luxury Castle Tours

Live like royalty on a tour that is steeped in the rich history and traditions of the Emerald Isle. Stay in Ireland's best four- and five-star hotels and castles.

• Compare our Castles Tours
• 7-Day Historic Irish Castle Tour
• 10-Day Deluxe Irish Castles Tour

Made in Ireland, by us

We are not a reseller or an agent. We only sell our own tours, designed with care in our family office here in Cork, Ireland.

No Middleman

You will not find our tours on any other website. And with no middleman, we can provide unrivalled value with a much more personal experience.

We're here for you

On the phone, you can chat to Eric, Kristel, Shannon, Shauni, Keith or Catriona. We will be delighted to help with any questions you may have.

Britain & Ireland Tours

Why not add England and Scotland to your Irish tour experience? A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to compare and contrast these unique but interconnected cultures. Experience a rich and overlapping history, told from three singular perspectives. Three distinct outlooks, three separate national identities — one friendly welcome. Compare the royalty and pageantry of London with the very different majesty you will find in the rolling glens, lochs and highlands of Scotland. Of course, we think that Ireland holds the crown, with a landscape, a culture and a heritage that puts the Emerald Isle among the jewels of all European travel.

Customize your own tour

Looking for something truly unique? Why not arrange a bespoke private tour exclusively for you and your group? Our private tours can be customized to suit any group size, from two guests to a party of 100 or more. We will work with you to create the perfect tour itinerary for your group, taking away all the stress and leaving you with an unforgettable vacation experience that works for everyone. Certain destinations you want to visit? We can make it happen. Want to stay in a castle or on a working farm? Just say the word.

Stay in real castles

Experience the rich history of Ireland first-hand when you stay in some of the Emerald Isle's most enchanting castles and stately manors. That's right — with our Irish castle tours, you not only visit real Irish castles, you get to stay overnight in them, too. Choose from four castle tour vacation packages , crafted for you by our Irish-born team of tour experts. Whichever tour you choose, you can expect to live like nobility for the duration of your time with us here in Ireland.

Our small groups guarantee Never more than 26 guests per tour

We always keep our tour group sizes small. That's because we want every guest to get the comfort, space and service they deserve. Although many other companies squeeze in groups of up to 50, even the largest of our tour packages are strictly limited to just 26 guests. That leaves empty seats on the coaches. So why do we limit our tours to such small group sizes? Here are six reasons.

Superior Service

Guests consistently list our small group sizes as a top reason why they would book with us again. See our reviews...

More focus on you

With a smaller group, our tour guides have more time to get to know you and your interests.

We deliberately leave empty seats on our coaches, so you can relax and spread out.

Experience each attraction up-close and personal, with more time to ask questions and see what interests you.

Speedier Check-Ins

Compared with many of our rivals, our smaller group sizes make checking in and out of the hotels a breeze.

More Relaxed Pace

Experience Ireland at your own pace. No rushing to keep up and no waiting around for large groups to assemble.

You might also be interested in...

• Sample Itineraries
• Transport Options
• Genealogy Tours

2024 Tour Packages

• Iconic Britain and Ireland (18 Days)
• Iconic Britain Tour (10 Days)
• Iconic Ireland and Scotland Tour (14 Days)
• 14-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland (14 Days)
• 10-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland (10 Days)
• 8-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland (8 Days)
• 6-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland (6 Days)
• Deluxe Irish Castles Tour (10 Days)
• Historic Irish Castle Tour (7 Days)
• Ancient Ireland & Scotland Tour (13 Days)
• Ancient Ireland Tour (8 Days)
• Discover Northern Ireland (6 Days)

2025 Tour Packages

• Iconic Ireland & Scotland Tour (14 Days)
• Highlights of Ireland and Scotland Tour (9 Days)

Adare Village and Thatched Cottages

About Adare Village and Thatched Cottages

Adare is a small town in Co. Limerick, known for its quaint and colourful thatched cottages. Adare is considered to be one of Ireland's most beautiful towns so stop and take in the view. Don't forget your camera today - the perfect chance to capture the essence of old Ireland.

Explore Adare Village along the Wild Atlantic Way .

Black Taxi Tour Belfast

About Black Taxi Tour Belfast

Take a journey through this once troubled city. See the murals of the Loyalist Shankill Road & Nationalist Falls Road. The Troubles took their toll on the economic life of Belfast, but the past ten years of peace have returned much prosperity while the genuine friendliness of the city never left.

• Blarney Woollen Mills

About Blarney Woollen Mills

Originally built in 1823, Blarney Woollen Mills was mainly used for the spinning and weaving of wool. After it closed in 1973, it reopened in 1975 — as an Irish heritage shop.

Visit their website...

Culloden Battlefield

About Culloden Battlefield

The Culloden Battlefield Visitor Centre commemorates the last pitched battle fought on British soil, in April 1746. Learn more about the Jacobite intent to overthrow the House of Hanover and return the House of Stuart to the British throne.

Glenveagh Castle

About Glenveagh Castle

Located within Glenveagh National Park, Glenveagh Castle was built by Captain John George Adair between 1870 and 1873. Having made his fortune through land speculation in America, Adair return to Ireland and began large amounts of land in County Donegal. The castle was built in the Scottish Baronial style and is surrounded by a garden and commands stunning views of the nearby mountains, lakes, woodlands and valleys.

Highland Folk Museum

About Highland Folk Museum

About Highland Folk Museum is a museum and open-air attraction located in the Scottish Highlands. It is designed to showcase the domestic and working lives of the early highland people.

King John's Castle

About King John's Castle

Located alongside the River Shannon in County Limerick, on King's Island. Dating back to 922, to a time when Vikings were the inhabitants of the island (Thormodr Helgason, the Viking sea-king, built the first settlement here. The castle itself was built in 1200, under the instruction of King John of England.

About Moriarty's

Located close to the Killarney National Park, Moriarty's is an Authentic Irish Gift Store and Restaurant. Hand crafted Irish jewellery, Waterford Crystal and classic and modern tweed fashions and furnishings are all on offer at the gift store. The restaurant is an 85 seater offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Mount Congreve Gardens

About Mount Congreve Gardens

Mount Congreve Gardens. Located in Kilmeaden, County Waterford, Mount Congreve Gardens is an 18th century Georgian estate and mansion. It was designed by the same architect that created both of Waterford's cathedrals, John Roberts.

Mount Stewart House & Gardens

About Mount Stewart House & Gardens

Recently recognised as being one of the top 10 gardens in the world, Mount Stewart is a rich tapestry of planting plant life and stunning walking trails. The house dates back to the 19th century, and was the Irish seat of the Vane-Tempest-Stewart family.

Muckross House

About Muckross House

Located on the grounds of the expansive and idyllic Killarney National Park. Muckross House, and its 11,000-acre grounds, was donated to the Irish state in 1932.

Muckross House Traditional Farms

About Muckross House Traditional Farms

Located on the grounds of the picturesque Muckross House and its impeccable gardens. Take a step back in time and see the Irish farming lifestyle of the 1930s and '40s. A time when the horse was responsible for much of the labour and the weather was the be all and end all in terms of production.

The Quiet Man Museum

About The Quiet Man Museum

The Quiet Man Museum. A reproduction of the quaint thatched cottage from the John Wayne starring, John Ford directed movie of the same name. all costumes, artefacts and furnishings have been recreated in precise detail, to reflect the setting of the 1952 classic. Located in the picturesque village of Cong, County Mayo.

18-Day Iconic Britain & Ireland Tour

• Free time in London
• Shakespeare's Birthplace
• Manchester River Cruise
• Tour of York City
• York Minster
• Jedburgh Abbey
• Tour of Edinburgh City
• Holyrood Palace
• Tour of Glasgow City
• Tour of Belfast City
• Titanic Belfast
• Giant's Causeway
• Kylemore Abbey
• Cliffs of Moher
• Ring Of Kerry
• Blarney Castle
• Irish Emigration Museum
• Christ Church Cathedral
• Guinness Storehouse
• Departure flight home

10-Day Iconic Britain Tour

• Roman Baths
• Broadway to Cheltenham Railway
• Afternoon Tea at Broadway Hotel
• Chatsworth House
• Edinburgh Castle
• Stirling Castle
• Loch Lomond Cruise
• Glasgow City

14-Day Iconic Ireland & Scotland Tour

• Arrival at Edinburgh Airport
• St. Andrews Golf Club
• Kingsbarns Distillery Tour
• Loch Ness cruise
• Glasgow Cathedral
• Belleek Pottery
• Sheepdog Demo
• Blind Piper Pub
• Rock of Cashel

14-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland

• Trim Castle
• Belfast City
• Belfast Murals
• Hillsborough Castle & Gardens
• Bushmills Distillery
• Derry City Walls
• Lough Erne Cruise
• Devenish Island
• Jameson Distillery Midleton

10-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland

• Dublin Airport
• Clonmacnoise
• Free time in Galway City
• Killary Fjord
• Free time in Cork City
• Charles Fort
• Irish National Stud
• Traditional Farm Lunch

8-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland

• Mikey Ryan's Bar
• Killarney National Park
• Hazel Mountain Chocolate Factory
• Galway City
• Free time in Dublin City
• St Patrick's Cathedral

6-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland

• Glendalough Monastic Site
• Ring of Kerry

• Dublin Airport arrival
• Waterford Crystal
• Kilkenny Castle

• Arrival in Edinburgh Airport
• Edinburgh City tour
• Dalwhinnie Distillery
• Eilean Donan Castle
• Isle of Skye
• Glasgow City tour
• Belfast City tour
• Derry City tour
• Dublin City tour

• Lough Eske Castle
• Derry City Tour
• Free time in Derry City

• Pearse Lyons Distillery
• Traditional Music Night

• Derry City walking tour
• Ulster American Folk Park

9-Day Highlights of Ireland & Scotland Tour

• Cruise Loch Lomond
• Clydeside Distillery Tour
• Glasgow City Tour
• Ferry to Belfast
• Belfast City Tour
• Glenshane Country Farm
• Giants Causeway
• Hillsborough Castle
• Carlingford Lough Ferry
• Farewell dinner and show

My Ireland Tour:

My Ireland Tour is a family business based right here in County Cork. Thanks for visiting our website: we're thrilled that you're interested in visiting the country we call home. As an independent Irish business, we're proud that we can give each guest the kind of service that has made us Ireland's top-rated tour operator. We hope to offer you a real Irish welcome soon. Our family business (My Ireland Tour Limited) is registered in Ireland, Company Number 547775.

Contact Us:

• 5 Church Hill  Carrigaline  Co. Cork  P43 X376  Ireland

Useful Links:

• My Ireland Tour Home
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• Singles Tours of Ireland
• Ireland Travel Guide
• Terms and Conditions
• Sustainability Policy
• Book a Tour

THE 10 BEST Day Trips from Dublin

Day trips from dublin.

• Dublin to Laragh
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• Up to 1 hour
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• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

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• Dublin:Cliffs of Moher, The Burren, Wild Atlantic and Galway tour
• Blarney Castle Day Tour from Dublin Including Rock of Cashel & Cork City
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Experience the Best of the Emerald Isle

Ireland is the land of breathtaking landscapes, friendly people, and once-in-a-lifetime experiences. CIE Tours' vacations to Ireland help you experience the real Emerald Isle, whether you’re raising a pint with new Irish friends at a lively pub, following in the footsteps of your ancestors among the rolling hills and picturesque castles, or enjoying the best of Irish culture through tastings and authentic experiences. You’ll see Ireland in a whole new light.

• Ballintubber Abbey

Elaborately carved Celtic crosses dot the grounds of this ancient church founded in 1216, in Ireland's scenic County Mayo.

O'Brien's Tower

Originally built as a viewing area for 19th Century visitors, O'Brien's Tower sits near the high point of the Cliffs of Moher.

A vibrant arts and culinary scene—and colorful buildings set along medieval streets—make Galway a can't-miss stop.

• Blarney Castle

Kissing the "Stone of Eloquence" may be the reason millions of tourists flock to Blarney Castle every year, but the gardens around it—including its new Poison Garden filled with dangerous and toxic plants—are another reason to add this to your must-do list.

Trinity College & Book of Kells

Ireland's oldest college houses one of the country's most cherished treasures—a beautiful illuminated version of the New Testament Gospels, created by monks in the 9th century. It's one of the essential things to see in Dublin.

Giant's Causeway

Legend has it that the basalt stone columns were set into the sea by giants creating stepping stones—but volcanic activity set these stones in place millions of years ago.

Kylemore Abbey

This 19th century grand manor and its legendary gardens became the home to Benedictine nuns fleeing Belgium during World War I.

• Skellig Experience

Learn about the island of Skellig Michael, where early Christian monks lived in austere conditions. This beautiful and remote location was used in the film "Star Wars VII".

Dublin's Ha'penny Bridge

This cast-iron walking bridge, which spans the River Liffey, was built in the 19th century. Join the 30,000 Dubliners and visitors who walk across Dublin's iconic Ha'Penny Bridge each day.

• Ring of Kerry

The Ring of Kerry offers one of the most scenic drives in the world, with emerald green meadows, stark cliffs and sandy shores dotted with ruins.

• Dingle Peninsula

The Irish mainland's westernmost point features wide, sandy beaches and rocky cliffs along its edges, and dramatic hills and mountains at its center.

Aran Islands Cliffs

These beautiful cliffs rise dramatically along the entire western side of Inis Mor island and yield great views of the Cliffs of Moher across Galway Bay.

Musicians and artists are an integral and vibrant part of fabric of the lively, cultured city of Galway.

Cheesemonger

Ireland's food renaissance includes many artisan producers who take full advantage of its natural bounty.

• Bunratty Castle

This splendid 15th-century tower house in County Clare includes a living reconstruction of the life of Ireland over a century ago.

Get a fascinating glimpse into Ireland's long-practiced art of falconry, the country's traditional "Sport of Kings."

Flavors of the Sea

Ireland abounds with the savors of the sea and the folk who fish it.

Fine Dining

A generation of culinary innovation and exploration has made modern Ireland a foodie's paradise.

In Ireland, fresh seafood is never more than a short swim away.

Merry Ploughboy

Dine at this iconic pub and come alive to the fancy footwork of Irish step dancers and lively traditional tunes.

• Cliffs of Moher

These shale and sandstone cliffs rise 700 feet above the Atlantic, and serve as one of the most iconic pieces of scenery in all of Ireland.

Sheep Herding

Ireland's emerald green pastures are home to countless flocks of sheep. Irish wool is used for the intricately knitted Aran sweaters and other goods.

Ireland Tours

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• 3D Battle Show
• Abbey Tavern
• Achill Island
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• Culzean Castle
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• Dublin Tour
• Dun Aengus Fort
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• Isle of Capri
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• Veliko Jezero
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• Warner Brothers Studio “Making of Harry Potter”
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• Catherine Palace & Park
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• Crumlin Road Gaol
• Culloden Battlefield Visitor Center
• Culross (Outlander)
• Culross Abbey
• Culross Palace
• Daliborka Tower
• Dan O’Hara’s Homestead Farmhouse Visit
• Dartmoor National Park
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• Diocletian’s Palace
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• EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum
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• Foynes Flying Boat & Maritime Museum
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• Giant’s Causeway
• Glamis Castle
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• Glen Grant Distillery
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• Glenfinnan Viaduct (Harry Potter)
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• Golden Circle
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• Government Palace
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• Slieve League Cliffs
• Smallest House in Britain
• Smolny Cathedral
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• St. Anastasia
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Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way

Starting from $2,695

Discover the untamed nature and rich cultural heritage of Ireland’s western coast, with its spectacular ocean vistas, enchanting towns, and craftsmanship deeply rooted in tradition.

​Guided Tours, Guided Small Groups

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Taste of Ireland

Starting from $1,395

This fast-paced, short-and-sweet Ireland tour is the perfect introduction to the Emerald Isle. Taste of Ireland hits all of the "greatest hits" highlights—from Blarney Castle to the Cliffs of…

​Guided Tours, Guided Small Groups, Independent Adventures

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Irish Adventure

Starting from $1,945

Make the most of every moment of your Ireland vacation—you'll discover all the can't-miss Irish scenery and history on this fast-paced tour.

Taste of Scotland & Ireland

Starting from $3,195

The perfect combination of two great countries in one itinerary. Start in Glasgow before exploring the Scottish Highlands with a Loch Ness cruise and whisky tasting. Visit St Andrews and Edinburgh…

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Best of Ireland South

Starting from $1,845

Give us a week, and we'll tour the best of Ireland with you. Thrill at the amazing Cliffs of Moher and the gorgeous Dingle Peninsula on this perfect introduction to the Emerald Isle. 

Starting from $2,545

Take your time on this Ireland tour, which explores the most acclaimed sights in the south and west, including the mountainous beauty of Connemara.

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Irish Odyssey

Starting from $3,395

Explore Ireland's gorgeous scenery and rich history on this comprehensive Irish tour that hits every corner of the island.

Ireland South Daytripper

Starting from $2,345

Turn your Irish vacation into a staycation. Set up your home base in the lovely village of Adare, then set out on day trips to see some of Ireland's top attractions. 

Irish Legends

Starting from $2,745

Delve into Ireland and its past on this tour, which mixes in plenty of hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path sights among the tried-and-true favorites. 

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Irish Classic

Starting from $3,795

Skirt along the entire rugged coastline to see the highlights on this Ireland tour. 

The Scots Irish Tour

Starting from $3,595

This fast-paced Scotland and Ireland tour focuses on their rich history, with plenty of castle tours and museums to help bring the past to life. It's the perfect trip for those interested in…

The Irish Pub Tour

Starting from $2,145

Irish pubs are the hearts of their communities—a source of camaraderie, stories, and song. Raise a glass (or two!) to rich pub culture and history on this guided tour of Ireland, which offers…

Irish Spirit

Starting from $1,995

This leisurely Irish tour covers the spectacular scenery of the countryside and seaside, with plenty of stops in the Emerald Isle's vibrant towns to stop and explore.

Scottish & Irish Dream

Starting from $4,195

This great combination tour covers essential parts of Scotland with dreamy castles, mythical Isle of Skye, historic Culloden, skilled sheepdogs and the capital city of Edinburgh. Your adventure…

Scottish & Irish Gold

Starting from $4,495

This great combination tour covers the same itinerary in Scotland as on the Scottish & Irish Dream with romantic castles, mythical Isle of Skye, historic Culloden, and Edinburgh. In Ireland…

Jewels of Ireland

Starting from $3,995

Enjoy the splendor of every corner on this leisurely Ireland tour of the essential—and the unexpected.

Taste of Britain & Ireland

Starting from $4,445

Get a great introduction to two great countries on this lively trip to England, Ireland, and Scotland. Enjoy a generous helping of the essential must-dos, with a hint of the unexpected. 

Irish Heritage

Starting from $2,395

See all the highlights on this classic tour - and on our 8-day option, luxuriate in a stay at the elegant, five-star Dromoland Castle Hotel.

Southern Gems

Starting from $2,245

Visit many beloved highlights of Ireland: Dublin Castle, Blarney Castle, the Cliffs of Moher. Experience a medieval castle banquet.  Stay in two of Ireland's most charming towns: Kinsale and…

Mystical Ireland

Starting from $2,645

Explore the lesser-known northern half of Ireland, starting in Dublin and ending in Shannon. This itinerary hugs the coastline and visits St. Patrick country, Titanic Belfast, the walled city of…

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Evergreen Ireland North

Starting from $1,145

Scenic wonders, lively cities, and cozy firesides: this winter tour of Ireland showcases the best of the northern half of the island.

Evergreen Ireland South

Starting from $1,195

This spirited tour offers many of Ireland’s must-see highlights, with plenty of time for independent exploration.

Taste of Ireland Self-Drive

Starting from $895

This fast-paced, short-and-sweet Ireland tour offers the potential to see the top Irish highlights. Stay in Dublin, Killarney and Clare on this driving adventure.All our 2024 self-drive…

Best of Ireland South Self-Drive

See many of Ireland’s most amazing landscapes, including the stunningly beautiful Dingle Peninsula. Stay in Dublin, Killarney, and Newmarket-on-Fergus.   All our self-drive Classic…

Irish Gold Self-Drive

Starting from $1,695

Venture to the most acclaimed sights and scenic byways of the West and South of Ireland. Visit beautiful Connemara, stroll Kilkenny’s medieval streets, and drive the Ring of Kerry. All our…

Irish Odyssey Self-Drive

Explore gorgeous scenery and intriguing culture as you drive around the entire Ireland on this comprehensive tour. Enjoy a stay at the luxurious Cabra Castle in Dublin and a dinner with a flight…

Irish Legends Self-Drive

Starting from $1,645

Explore hidden gems along with tried-and-true favorites on this self-drive adventure. Begin with a stay in a beautiful Georgian mansion, visit medieval Kilkenny, friendly Killarney, and buzzing…

Irish Classic Self-Drive

Drive the rugged coastlines and countryside as you explore. See Dublin’s highlights, then head to Belfast as you start your route around Ireland. 

Irish Spirit Self-Drive

Starting from $1,295

See spectacular scenery as you drive this great route, offering castles, cliffs, and coastlines.  All our 2024 self-drive Classic Itinerary tours include your hotel stays, a hop-on bus…

Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way Self-Drive

Starting from $1,795

Drive west to see some of Ireland’s most spectacular Atlantic coastline and enjoy stays in scenic Donegal, charming Westport, pretty Adare, and lively Killarney. Take in Dublin,…

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4 of the best day trips from Dublin

Apr 15, 2024 • 7 min read

Take time to explore beyond Dublin's city center with these top day trips © Marco Bottigelli / Getty Images

The richly layered city of Dublin  – full of culture, community spirit and character – has plenty of things to keep you busy and entertained, with even more beyond the capital that's worth seeing on a day out.

Within a 40km (25-mile) radius of Dublin's center you can travel back in time to the neolithic era, visit grand Georgian estates and explore one of the most beautiful valleys in the country, at the foot of which are nestled the ruins of a 6th century monastic settlement. A little closer to the city are some seaside suburbs, including one that is a popular weekend destination for Dubliners looking for a scenic walk and some of the best seafood around.

Here's our guide to the best day trips from Dublin.

1. Get the DART to the seaside village of Howth

Travel time: around 45 minutes

Tidily positioned at the foot of a bulbous peninsula, the pretty port village of Howth (the name rhymes with "both") is a major fishing center, a yachting harbor and one of the most sought-after addresses in town.

It's an easy hop out of the city – the DART drops you right by the harbor, where you can take a stroll among the fishing boats or pop into  Howth Market for a coffee and a snack. But the real appeal comes a little further afield. Walk about 10 minutes along the coast and you'll be at the start of the Howth Cliff Path Walk, a 6km (3.7-mile) loop that takes you over the headland for gorgeous views of the grassy slopes that run down to the sea. If you want to do a proper hike, there are longer routes that lead to the Baily Lighthouse and back over rough, mountainous terrain.

And when you’re done, there are great restaurants where you can try some of the freshest seafood you’ll find anywhere in the city, including  Octopussy’s for seafood tapas,  Aqua for more elegant fare and, if you like your seafood served deconstructed, the superb Mamó , a modern bistro with an excellent value set lunch.

How to get to Howth from Dublin:  Howth is at the northern end of the DART line.

Fancy seeing more of Ireland on foot? Here's our guide to the country's best hiking routes

2. Visit the neolithic passage tombs of Brú na Bóinne

Travel time: 1½ to 2 hours

The vast neolithic necropolis known as Brú na Bóinne (the Boyne Palace) is one of the most extraordinary sites in Europe. A thousand years older than England's Stonehenge, the tombs, burial mounds and passages here are a powerful testament to the mind-boggling achievements of prehistoric humankind.

All visits begin at the superb visitor center, where you can learn the history of the site as well as get a fascinating insight into the times, complete with a little digital razzmatazz. There’s also a reconstruction of Newgrange’s interior passage.

From here, shuttle buses take you to the passage tombs: the most popular tour takes in Knowth and Newgrange. You can’t go into  Knowth , but the tour covers the collection of megalithic art carved into the exterior slabs of stone: keep an eye out for the depictions of the lunar cycle.

The star of the show is  Newgrange , one of the most remarkable prehistoric sites in Europe. The white quartz walls of the mound are impressive, but that pales in comparison to when you set foot into the passage and make your way to the center. Once there, the guide turns off the lights and a thin shaft of amber light starts to make its way down the tunnel – a simulation of the actual winter solstice ceremony, when on December 21 the whole passageway is illuminated by sunlight piercing its way through the roofbox above the main entrance. Even the simulation is a mystical experience.

How to get to Brú na Bóinne from Dublin:  If you’re driving, Brú na Bóinne is 50km (31 miles) north of Dublin; take exit 9 off the M1 and follow the signs. The easiest way to get there by public transport is to get the train or bus to Drogheda and then hop on the  Local Link 163 (40 minutes; three times daily) which goes from the train station and the Spar opposite the bus station. Alternatively, you can get there by organized tour from Dublin; one of the better options is  Mary Gibbons Tours (€75), which operates full-day tours with plenty of historical knowledge.

3. Walk around the monastic ruins of the beautiful Glendalough

Travel time: around 1 hour

It’s only about an hour south of the city, but  Glendalough feels like a place lost in time. This gorgeous valley (the name Glendalough comes from the Irish, Gleann dá Loch, meaning "Valley of the Two Lakes") is one of the most beautiful corners of the whole country and the epitome of the kind of rugged, romantic Ireland that probably drew you to the island in the first place.

At the heart of it are the ruins of a monastic settlement established by St Kevin around 498 CE. These include a 1000-year-old round tower, a ruined cathedral and the tiny church known as St Kevin's Kitchen.

The substantial remains of this important monastic settlement are certainly impressive, but an added draw is the splendid setting: two dark and mysterious lakes tucked into a long, glacial valley fringed in forest that have some great walking trails and a couple of hikes up the surrounding mountains. It is, despite its immense popularity, a deeply tranquil and spiritual place, and you will have little difficulty in understanding why those solitude-seeking monks came here in the first place.

If you've got your own car, one of the most scenic drives in Ireland is along the Military Rd between Laragh (1.5km/0.9 miles from the car park at Glendalough) and Glencree, on the road to Enniskerry. The road, so-named because it was built in the early 19th century by the British Army, traverses the beautiful Glenmacnass Valley (and a fabulous waterfall) and the Sally Gap, where a slight detour will bring you to a gorgeous viewpoint overlooking Lough Tay. Another detour by the Glenmacnass Waterfall car park takes you to a scenic spot over heart-shaped Lough Ouler.

How to get to Glendalough from Dublin:  Glendalough is tucked into the Wicklow Mountains 68km (42 miles) south of the city center. To get there by car, follow the N11 south and take the R755 at Kilmacanogue; the narrow road winds its way through the mountain. A popular alternative is to take the bus:  St Kevins Bus departs from the bus stop on St Stephen's Green North in Dublin at 11:30am, with the latest return bus leaving Glendalough at 4:30pm.

Exploring Ireland by road? Here are the country's best driving routes

4. Pore over the grandeur of the Powerscourt Estate

Travel time: 45 minutes to 1 hour

Wandering through the exquisite formal gardens of the 64-sq-km (25-sq-mile)  Powerscourt Estate should give you an idea of how extravagantly the 18th-century artistocracy lived – and the stunning views of the surrounding countryside they enjoyed. At the heart of Wicklow’s most visited attraction is a beautiful Palladian mansion, which was designed by Georgian architect Richard Castle between 1730 and 1741.

Most of the 68-bedroom house is not open to the public, but there's a fine cafe and several gift and homewares shops, while the grounds are home to two golf courses, a garden center and the best  hotel in Wicklow. If you’re driving (or part of a tour), about 6km (3.7-miles) south of the house brings you to  Powerscourt Waterfall , the tallest in Ireland and a popular picturesque spot that is best enjoyed after heavy rainfall.

When you’re done in the estate, a short walk down the hill brings you to the village of Enniskerry, which was established for the estate workers but is now a nice spot for a bit of lunch.

How to get to Powerscourt Estate from Dublin:  Powerscourt is off the M11/N11, 27km (17 miles) south of the city center. Get off the N11 at Exit 7 and loop around, rejoining the N11 going northward and take the first exit toward Enniskerry Village.

Dublin Bus No 44 and  Local Link 144 go from the city center to Enniskerry village taking between 45 minutes and 1 hour). From here, the walk to the house should take about 20 minutes (the main entrance to the estate is 0.5km/0.3 miles up the hill from the village). You can also get the 185 bus in Bray, which is on the DART train line.

This article was first published Mar 2, 2016 and updated Apr 15, 2024.

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An in-depth encounter with the Best of Ireland awaits, from spectacular sights like the Cliffs of Moher and Ring of Kerry to the past and present showcased in Dublin, Galway and pretty Adare. You’ll learn all about Irish famine history, former kings and how to embrace the craic.

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Explore Dublin with a Local Specialist

Discover Waterford, Killarney, Limerick and Galway

Visit  the Dunbrody Famine Ship in New Ross, the crystal showroom at Waterford, Blarney Castle to kiss the stone and gain the 'gift of the gab', Adare, Bunratty Folk Park, Cliffs of Moher, Connemara and Kylemore Abbey

View King John's Castle in Limerick and the Marian Shrine in Knock

See  St. Mary's Cathedral in Limerick and Galway Cathedral

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The Best 4-Day Tours of Ireland from Dublin

Posted on November 9, 2023 | Julie J. |

Last Updated on November 9, 2023

Planning a trip to Ireland and only have 4 days? Discover below the best 4-day tours of Ireland from Dublin that will take you through the country’s breathtaking scenery, quaint towns, and archaeological wonders.

I’ve included booking options from Viator and GetYourGuide , usually, prices are the same, but it’s worth checking out. Both are trusted companies that I regularly use to book tours and activities when I travel. All tours selected have good reviews and are offered by established Irish tour companies .

There are not many options available, which should make picking one easier. They all kind of cover the same places, with stops at the most popular sites in Ireland , so you’re sure to see the highlights.

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What to Expect on a Multi-Day Tour of Ireland

Before booking, make sure to read everything so you know what to expect, especially what’s included and what isn’t, to avoid surprises.

Once you’ve booked your tour, you will receive a confirmation from Viator or GetYourGuide. If the tour operator doesn’t contact you within a few days, you might want to send them an email to confirm your booking as well as the itinerary, departure time, and meeting point.

Reading reviews from the tours listed below, you’ll notice that many people were a bit surprised to spend many hours in transportation between places and felt rushed at some of the stops. If you’re familiar with these types of group tours, you’ll know this is pretty standard, otherwise, be ready for that, there’s no other way to see so many places in so little time.

Also, some people were disappointed by the weather , unfortunately, Ireland is a rainy country . I’d say the best time to go to Ireland is in June when it’s sunnier and there’s less crowd compared with July and August. In any case, be ready for rain and bad weather.

4-Day Tours of Ireland from Dublin

1 – 4-day ring of kerry, limerick, cliffs of moher, galway and connemara rail tour.

⭐️  Rating : 4.5 out of 5 Stars | 🚶‍♀️Max. 53 people | ☘️  Check Rates and Availability

Using a blend of buses and trains , your local guide will take you to some of the best places to visit in Ireland along the southern and western coastlines . You’ll spend 2 nights in Killarney and 1 in Galway.

All transportation, the guides and drivers, entrance fees, and accommodation with breakfast are included.

What I like about this 4-day tour: ✔️travel by train which saves time and allows you to witness the beautiful Irish countryside ✔️highly rated ✔️good itinerary ✔️everything is included apart from lunch and dinner.

“This tour covers some of the most beautiful scenery in the country and stops in lovely villages to get a feel of real Ireland.”

– POWELL (READ MORE REVIEWS )

On the first day, take the train to Cork City , and from there visit Cobh and Blarney Castle . Finish the day with a scenic train ride to Killarney , where you’ll spend the next 2 nights.

On day 2, you’ll take the bus around the gorgeous Ring of Kerry and Killarney National Park, with plenty of stops to enjoy the views and see the highlights of the peninsula.

On day 3, you’ll head to Limerick and tour Bunratty Castle before heading to the spectacular Cliffs of Moher . On your way to Galway, where you’ll spend the night, you’ll drive through the beautiful Burren National Park, known for its otherworldly landscape.

On your final day, visit the beautiful Connemara region, with a stop to visit the famous Kylemore Abbey  before returning by train to Dublin.

2 – 4-Day South West Ireland Tour from Dublin

⭐️  Rating : 4.5 out of 5 Stars | 🚶‍♀️ Max. 56 people | ☘️  Check Rates and Availability

On this 4-day tour from Dublin, explore Ireland’s West Coast from Galway to Cork, with stops at some of the best places to visit in the country. Spend the 3 nights at Galway, along the Dingle Peninsula, and Killarney with free time in the evening to explore at your leisure.

You can pick between hotels and B&Bs depending on the level of comfort you want, B&Bs are more typical of Irish hospitality while hotels will provide more modern amenities.

Everything is included (guide, travel by bus, accommodations, 2 breakfasts, and entrance fees) apart from lunches and dinners.

“I would definitely book this trip again. It was well organized, fun, and covered a lot of ground without feeling overly rushed. The tour guides/drivers were amazing.”

– SHANE (READ MORE REVIEWS )

On the first day, you’ll drive around the stunning Connemara region known for its rugged beauty and remote feel, you’ll finish the day in Galway where you’ll get enough time to explore the downtown area. Try to catch a live traditional band at one of the pubs if you can!

On day 2, start by exploring the beautiful Burren Region before heading to the Cliffs of Moher . On your way to the Dingle Peninsula , stop by Adare, a historic town known for its thatched cottages.

On day 3, you’ll keep on visiting the Dingle Peninsula, driving through the famous Slea Head Drive with a stop in Dingle. Your next stop is Killarney where you’ll spend the night.

On your last day, you’ll have some time to explore Killarney National Park before heading to Blarney Castle , one of the most beautiful castles in the country. On your way back to Dublin, you’ll stop by the Rock of Dunamase ,

3 – ‘Luck of the Irish’ Tour

⭐️  Rating : 5 out of 5 Stars | 🚶‍♀️ Private | ☘️  Check Rates and Availability

If you can afford it, booking a private tour is a great option . It gives you the flexibility to make your own itinerary if you want and to spend as much or as little time as you want at every stop. You also save time as you don’t have to wait for everyone to be ready in the morning or wait for others to be dropped off/picked up.

“Our personal driver Gerard was amazing and took us to locations the average tourist only reads about. Hed never disappointed with lunch recommendations and his historical knowledge gave us great insight into the breathtaking scenery”

– BILLY (READ MORE REVIEWS )

This private tour can be customized depending on what you want to see and do or you can just follow along the recommendation of your licensed guide . Main stops include Killarney, Cork, the Cliffs of Moher, and Galway.

This tour has perfect ratings with an emphasis on how fun and knowledgeable the guide is. It can accommodate up to 6 people.

The tour starts in Cork so you’ll need to take the train from Dublin, your guide will meet you at the Cork Train Station.

Food and accommodations are not included so you can freely pick where you want to eat and the type of accommodation you prefer.

4 – 4-Day Guided Tour to Discover Ireland and Dublin

⭐️  Rating : 5 out of 5 Stars | 🚶‍♀️ Max. 50 people | ☘️  Check Rates and Availability

This is not exactly what you’d call a 4-day tour, however, it can be a good option if you only have 4 days in Ireland. This package includes three day trips from Dublin and a day to tour Dublin.

This can work really well as Ireland is not that big. Still, expect to spend a couple of hours each day on a bus.

“Fantastic way to see a little bit of everything there is to see in Ireland. Punctual, great tour guides, and the quality of the experience was very good. Great value for your money. Will highly recommend these day tours.”

– ANNELIEN (READ MORE REVIEWS )

On your first day, explore the West of Ireland with stops at the Cliffs of Moher, Kilmacdough Abbey, the Burren, and Galway City.

On the next day, explore Glendalough, the Wicklow Mountains, and Kilkenny City.

Day 3 is a more relaxed day in Dublin and you’re more on your own. There’s a walking tour , entry tickets to the Guinness Storehouse and the Jameson Distillery , and a day pass for the Dublin hop-on-hop-off tour bus included.

On your last day, head to Northern Ireland and visit the Giant’s Causeway, the Dark Hedges, and the Titanic Belfast exhibition.

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Discover the Side of Ireland That Only a Few Ever See

Explore lesser-known gems (plus stay in distinctive and new hotels) when you go off the beaten path on this seven-day trip along coastal ireland to belfast and beyond..

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Mizen Head in Cork County

Rory Hennessey/Unsplash

Whether you’ve visited Ireland many times or not at all, traveling outside of popular destinations (such as Dublin and Galway) has many rewards. Venturing further afield offers different, pristine landscapes to explore with fewer crowds and other exceptional experiences.

On this adventure, you’ll see the cultural wonder of iconic sparkling crystal being made and the natural wonder of bioluminescence, plus taste smoky flavors in spirits as well as food. Quiet sounds and scenic views in serene forests and bogs balance the exciting bustle of cities. In addition to staying in classic castle hotels, sleep among trees in Cork City, under stars in County Fermanagh, and in a boutique hotel that channels the spirit of Belfast.

Trip Highlight

Kayak in bioluminescent seas.

Trip Designer

Tourism ireland.

Historic buildings stand alongside modern architecture throughout Ireland’s oldest city, Waterford.

Courtesy of Waterford Museum of Treasures/Tourism Ireland

Day 1: Tour Waterford

An aerial view of County Cork

Courtesy of Tourism Ireland by Joshua Hannah

Day 2: Visit a Distillery En Route to Cork

Old Head Lighthouse near Kinsale, County Cork

Courtesy of George Karbus/Tourism Ireland

Day 3: James Turrell’s Sky Garden and Celtic Sea Kayaking

The Rock of Cashel, a historic site for over a millennium, looms over the Golden Vale.

Courtesy of Tourism Ireland/Tipperary Tourism

Day 4: Afternoon Tea and Castles in the Midlands

A wide view of the thick green forest of the Slieve Bloom Mountains, Ireland

Courtesy of Kevin Dowling/Tourism Ireland

Day 5: Hike in Kinnity

Enniskillen

Courtesy of Tourism Ireland/Erne Water Taxi

Day 6: Explore the Lakelands of County Fermanagh

Belfast City Hall

Courtesy of K. Mitch Hodge/Unsplash

Day 7: History and Art in Belfast

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Exploring Scotland & Ireland

About this tour.

Bask in the warm Celtic culture and majestic scenery of two remarkable lands. Come to know the regal city of Edinburgh on a panoramic coach tour and by foot. Cruise the famed Loch Ness and explore the ruins of Urquhart Castle. Enjoy a traditional evening of Scottish food and entertainment. Visit the Titanic Experience in Belfast and remember the century-old tragedy that shook the world. Walk the Giant’s Causeway (UNESCO) and soak up incredible views of the Causeway Coast, one of the world’s most breathtaking rail journeys. Visit Ireland’s bustling capital city of Dublin and tour historic St. Patrick’s Cathedral. From rugged natural beauty to vibrant and historical cities, the diverse charms of Scotland and Ireland await.

Your Tour Includes

• 6 Handpicked Accommodations

Included Highlights

• Edinburgh Castle
• St. Andrews
• Loch Ness Cruise

Your Tour at a Glance

11 Breakfasts

Travel Style

Best time for travel, customize your tour.

Optional Excursions

Starting at $80.00

Activity Level

• Level This Tour

For specific details about this tour's activity level and other info to know before you book your trip, click here.

Extension Style

Best time for travel exploring scotland & ireland.

While just about any month is great to visit Scotland and Ireland, there are a few prime times of the year for the Exploring Scotland & Ireland tour. Here are some recommendations from our destination experts.

Spring: Springtime is a wonderful time to visit the region! The countryside comes alive with flowers and shades of green, and the days of sunlight are growing just a bit longer, giving you more time to explore.

Summer: August is the perfect time to visit Edinburgh, as the Military Tattoo and Edinburgh Festival both take place then. It’s crowded, but the city is alive with many cultural events. And generally, it’s good weather (fingers crossed for not too much rain!).

Fall: Daylight hours grow shorter, and the weather is not quite as hospitable as summer, but the changing colors of the landscape are truly lovely. Fewer crowds make it easier to navigate sites and take your time to enjoy them.

Travel Styles

Highlights and inclusions.

Must-See Inclusions:

• Tour the "Fair City" of Dublin with a local guide.

Embark on a scenic cruise on beautiful Loch Ness.

Set out on a walking tour of Derry featuring its medieval city walls.

Cultural Experiences:

Embark on one of the world’s most breathtaking rail journeys along the Causeway Coast.

Explore the Titanic Experience in Belfast.

Discover the heritage of Glasgow with a local guide.

Culinary Inclusions:

Taste apple cider at a family-run farm.

Join in the fun during a night of traditional Scottish food and entertainment.

• Urquhart Castle
• Highland Evening
• Titanic Experience
• Giant's Causeway
• The Causeway Coast Rail Journey
• Cider Farm Tour

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Getting Prepared

Know before you go, travel tips, enhance your tour.

Pre and Post Tour Extensions

Pre and Post Night Stay

Unique Experience

Cultural Experiences

Enhance Your Trip

• Tour Extensions

Start your trip with 3 nights in London – the capital of England and the United Kingdom. Use your included Oyster card to navigate the city with a local expert – hopping on the Tube and taking a walking tour by Westminster, The houses of Parliament, and Buckingham Palace. Your tour will end in Trafalger Square, one of London's most iconic landmarks. Take advantage of your included Tower of London pass. You’ll have ample time at leisure to make your stay in London exactly what you want it to be.Your other option is to book a pre stay? Guided You’re accompanied by a Tour Manager throughout the extension, except for any time that’s set aside for independent discovery.

• Overnight Flight
• You’re on your way to the United Kingdom. Begin in England and enjoy a 3-night stay in London.
• London, England - Extension Begins
• Experience London, the esteemed capital of the United Kingdom. Often described as a world within a city, London is a sophisticated metropolis with a timeless style all its own.
• Navigate the city with a local expert. Using your included Oyster card, hop on the famous underground Tube. Take a walking tour around Westminster, The Houses of Parliament and Buckingham Palace. Your tour will end in Trafalgar Square, one of London’s most iconic landmarks. Enjoy the afternoon to further explore the city.
• Start your day with a visit to the Tower of London to peek into the city’s storied past and uncover the secrets of this 11th-century fortress. The rest of the day is yours to see London your way!
• London - Edinburgh, Scotland
• Wish London goodbye as you take a high-speed train through the English countryside to Scotland.

Hotel-Radisson Blu Edinburgh

Hotel-Herbert Park Hotel

Enjoy a traditional pub lunch at a historic pub where you will soak up the atmosphere of days gone by. After lunch, continue on to the nearby Guinness Storehouse, Ireland's top international visitor attraction. Learn about the brewing process that creates this beloved beverage and discover the technique needed to pour the perfect pint! Classic Guinness ads and memorabilia create a nostalgic ambiance as you indulge in a complimentary pint and learn about a different yet key part of Ireland's history.

Join us for an entertaining evening of tastes, sights and sounds that are classically Scottish. Feast on a banquet prepared from a selection of local recipes. Your taste buds will savor the true flavor and goodness of this distinctive country. Tonight will be filled with entertainment including Highland pipers and dancers who deliver the very best in Scottish music, song and dance. Be prepared for a Scottish night of food, fun and many fond memories!

Explore one of Ireland's best-kept secrets. Enjoy a fun and engaging evening with a local singer/songwriter and discover how the tale of Derry is intertwined with many of Ireland's most important events. Come and experience a three-course dinner at a restaurant serving pub-style food. See first-hand why Derry was named the UK City of Culture in 2013.

Tour the "Fair City" of Dublin with a local guide.

Accommodations

Arrive earlier.

Pre Night: Radisson Blu Edinburgh From $200 per night

Radisson Blu Edinburgh

Best western palace hotel inverness, hilton glasgow.

Maldron Hotel Belfast City

City hotel derry, herbert park hotel.

Nights 10-11

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Post Night: Herbert Park Hotel From $155 per night

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10 Day Ireland Tours & Trips

Filter for departure dates and price to find the right 10 day Ireland tour with TourRadar. Choose from 98 trips with 2,596 customer reviews, that range from 8 up to 10 days.

98 Ireland 10 day tour packages with 2,596 reviews

• In-depth Cultural

10 Day Southern Nooks and Crannies - Small Group Coach Tour

10 Day Wild Irish Experience - Small Group Tour

Our 10 day Irish Experience Tour was fantastic. We really appreciated the service and extra care our guide/driver Lee gave us throughout the tour. We had a group of 16 people and 2 were on the 7 day itinerary the rest were 10 days. We loved the group dinners that Lee organized for us to get to know the other guests. Lee always made the agenda clear and got us to the places we needed to be on time. His driving was very safe and he was able to tell us about the Irish people and scenery while getting us to the beautiful views and attractions. The accommodations were clean and the breakfast were delicious. Lee always gave us recommendations on restaurants and pubs in each town we stayed. Each town was unique and I was glad we were able to stay in several of them for 2 nights. Lee adjusted the times to maximize the good weather and for the group to get the best experience. I highly recommend the 10 day Irish Experience tour with Lee!

• €99 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

• Coach / Bus

Emerald Isle

Very well organized though on some occasions the time spent on the coach was too long.The tour guide,Liz,was very knowledgeable as well as kind and helpful.And the driver Iarik was incredibly helpful and well-mannered!

Countryside of the Emerald Isle (Dublin to Ennis) (2024)

• Christmas & New Year

Iconic Scenes of Ireland

10-Day Ultimate Ireland Small Group Tour

Nick was a terrific guide, the very best. He really knows Ireland and gave us great information, fun stories and he was a highlight all by himself. There were small glitches with a couple of hotels, and it was a big disappointment for me to miss the sheep herding demonstration which was supposed to be the first Wed but got moved to Tues without any of us knowing. I had a cold and missed that ONE late afternoon outing (thinking the others were going to see a couple of villages) which I would never have done, had I known. Ireland is lovely and we hit so many highlights, it was a great experience overall. In hindsight I might have done better on a tour with more hikes and less bus but that is hindsight,

• Hiking & Trekking

The Dingle Way - Self Guided Ireland 10 Day

• Sightseeing

Best of Ireland (10 Days)

Ally was our tour guide and John our driver. Both excellent in their jobs and lovely human beings. Keeping 45 people happy and enthusiastic is no easy feat but Ally and John were masters of their craft. The hotels were great, the luggage organization exceptional and the food provided top notch. There was time at each stop to allow everyone to feel they could explore at a relaxed pace. We saw things that we would never have found if we were on our own. Would not hesitate to take another tour with Trafalgar.

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Shades of Ireland (Dublin to Kingscourt) (2024)

The Wicklow Way: Self Guided 10 Day

Incredible Ireland Group Tours

What a fabulous way to see Ireland! Steve selected wonderful hotels, found interesting "off the beaten path" things to see, as well as the standards (Guinnes Tour, Trinity College, etc.) Our driver, Patrick, was so accommodating. He bent over backwards to make sure we experienced his Ireland! This was a great trip and I highly recommend it!

Iconic Ireland National Geographic Journeys

Wild Atlantic Way | Ireland

Very well organised, all accommodation booked for you. Excellent communication would use again.

• Walking Adventure

Ireland Family Journey: Castles, Folklore & Gaelic Traditions

Scenic Ireland (10 Days)

What people love about 10 day ireland tours.

We had a fantastic time on a 10-day Tour with this company. Our group was only 7 so it was quite comfy and felt very personalized but I know they would make even the largest group feel right at home. Lee our guide was absolutely great and he went out of his way to make the trip as personal as could be and worked hard to either stay ahead of or avoid altogether the bandwagons of hordes that otherwise crowd the the usual spots. Getting to out of the way locations and having benefit of seemingly local-only knowledge contributed greatly to the sense of awe we were left with at the conclusion of the journey. I highly recommend this provider!

Very please with entire tour.

Mike was an excellent guide, informative, very knowledgeable and flexible with the itinerary when necessary

Regions in Ireland

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Other Regions in Ireland

• Southern Ireland 7 day Tours (80)
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• Ireland Wild Atlantic Way 10 day Tours (68)
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• Munster 10 day Tours (30)
• Ireland Wild Atlantic Way 2 week Tours (18)
• Ring of Kerry 10 day Tours (15)
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• Leinster 7 day Tours (8)
• Ireland Wild Atlantic Way 3 day Tours (8)
• Connemara National Park 7 day Tours (7)
• Ring of Kerry 2 week Tours (5)
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• Ireland Travel Guide | All You Need to Know
• Best 7 Day Ireland Itineraries 2024/2025 (with Reviews)
• Best 10 Day Ireland Itineraries 2024/2025 (with Reviews)

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8 Reasons Why May Is The Best Time To Visit Ireland

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Ireland is an island country of Western Europe that is known for its connection to the internationally celebrated St. Patrick’s Day. The country offers travelers grand opportunities to explore rich history, breathtaking scenery and popular local cuisine. The epic mountain views, coastline cliffs and lush greenery of Ireland are just some of its most revered features . In May, travelers will notice that there are less crowds than in the peak months. This means that the abundant natural environment of Ireland can be appreciated to the fullest. Learn why May is the best time to visit Ireland and what travelers can get excited about for their potential travels abroad.

Average Temperature This Time of Year

50-60 Degrees F

Weather 

The weather in Ireland during May is quite pleasant. May is one of the drier months, so travelers will not likely be overwhelmed by rainfall. Light rain is generally the extent of the small bit of precipitation that happens in May. The days are also longer in May. The sunrises are usually around 5:00 am and the sunsets about 9:30 pm. This means that travelers will have plenty of time to enjoy the sunny and flower filled country.

Travel Tip :

Hiking is a popular activity in May due to the nice weather. The Dingle Way and Wicklow Way are some of the most popular places to explore on foot.

Galway Nightlife  

Galway is a great city for travelers to stay in to enjoy nightlife. The city is located on the west coast of Ireland and is popular for its nightlife scene. There are countless bars, clubs and venues for live music that travelers can choose from. In Galway travelers can even enjoy comedy clubs. But the majority of visitors simply enjoy the traditional bars of Ireland during May since there are plenty of parties and pleasant weather. Some of the most popular nightlife spots in the area include Crane Bar, Tig Coili and O’Connors Pub.

For nightlife lovers, there are different hours to consider when planning a visit to the top spots around Galway. The Crane Bar stays open from 3:00 pm (or 4:00 pm) until 11:30 pm while O’Connors opens from 7:30 pm to 11:00 pm (or midnight) on weekends. Tig Coili is generally open from 10:30 am until 12:30 am on weekends.

Tours at Teeling Distillery

The Teeling Whiskey Company was founded in 2015 by an Irish family. Although it is the first new distillery in Dublin for over 125 years, it has won over 20 awards since it opened. It has highly rated tours. The tours generally take about 45 minutes and have an informational portion. Travelers that enjoy the Teeling Distillery whiskey can order it online and have it sent to places other than the US, Canada, Brazil, Russia or South Africa.

At Teeling Distillery in Dublin, Ireland travelers can take a number of immersive tours. The tours even include whiskey tastings. The tasting tour is a fully guided experience where travelers can sample Teeling’s Small Batch Whiskey and a whiskey cocktail. The trinity tour is another fully guided tour but travelers that book this tour can sample the famous trinity pairings, which include Small Batch, Single Grain and Single Malt whiskey. There are even premium experiences where travelers can fill a take home bottle directly from the cask, in addition to the fully guided tour.

One of the best ways to drink Teeling Irish Whiskey is adding cubed ice and topping it off with craft soda before stirring.

The Library of Trinity College 

The Library of Trinity College Dublin is the largest research library in Ireland. This library is historically significant due to it being a legal deposit library for the United Kingdom (Great Britain and Northern Ireland). It is a major research library with an international reputation for the services it provides. The library contains over 4.5 million books and countless significant archives. There may be many groups visiting the site in May but because it is a library, it is relatively quiet. Also, Dublin celebrates the International Literature Festival every May, around midway through the month. So there are exhibitions, guided tours of the city and talks that discuss the triumphs and challenges of great literature.

Travelers that appreciate unique literary finds should view the Book of Kells, which is housed in the library. The Book of Kells is a 9th century manuscript that is famous worldwide.

Burren perfumery in Ballyvaughan

The Burren perfumery is a small company that produces perfumes and cosmetics. The perfumery offers unique and handmade products. Travelers that appreciate sustainability will enjoy the small batches made in this underrated family owned business. The perfumery, which is located in the Burren Hills, has a full range of products. The naturally made body lotions, soap, herbal tea and more are organic and fragrant. Travelers can even enjoy the tea rooms which are open seven days a week in May from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm. These picturesque spaces offer freshly baked goods and flavors from all over the world. The perfumery is very beautiful in May, especially for travelers determined to learn more about organic scents.

Travelers can order the facial serums and perfumes of Burren Perfumery online with free worldwide shipping over a certain total.

Castledermot

Castledermot is a town on the southern end of Ireland. The inland town has many historically and culturally significant sites that travelers can enjoy. The historic town was formed around an ancient monastery so the medieval history of Castledermot is alive and well. Some of the most popular sites include St. James’ Church and Castledermot Abbey. This town is an underrated cultural gem, so travelers should not face crowds in May.

Travel Tip:

To tour the Castledermot Friary, exploration should take around an hour or two so travelers should take that into consideration for their travel plans.

Cliffs of Moher

This is Ireland’s most popular tourist attraction so travelers will have plenty of sightseeing opportunities. In fact, surrounding cities carry out full day bus tours and the cliffs attract more than one million visitors per year. This sight is so breathtaking that travelers come from near and far to simply gaze at its views. The cliffs overlook the Galway Bay, the Connemara National Park and Aran Islands on days with high visibility. Fans of Harry Potter may have recognized the view at Cliffs of Moher since the Half-Blood Prince was partially filmed there.

In May, since there is not too much rain, there is likely to be less clouds to block the view. The Visitor’s Center offers travelers the opportunity to learn more about the rock formations of the cliffs and local wildlife.

The Cliffs of Moher are over eight miles long and 700 feet tall, so travelers should wear comfortable and durable shoes to move along the terrain and get to the best viewing spots.

Bealtaine Festival 

The Bealtaine (or Beltane) Festival is a Gaelic festival in May. The festival is a marker for the beginning of summer and is usually held on May 1st. This is because it is halfway between the spring equinox and summer solstice. Bealtaine Festival is a national celebration that gathers people of all ages. At the festival travelers can observe (or take part in) traditional dances, workshops and even a communal fire. Much of the festivities involve art in some form, so creatives and nature lovers will love this event.

Fire is a big element of the Bealtaine Festival, so travelers should expect plenty of nature and communal fun.

Overall, Ireland is a very pleasant place to visit in May. With its nice weather, community events and popular places to visit, travelers will not lack things to do. This is especially true since May is a time where nature and the community both bloom in their own ways.

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Why Ireland is the ultimate destination for Star Wars fans

Happy star wars day to find the magic of star wars, you don’t have to journey to a galaxy far, far away – it’s right there in ireland..

To find the magic of Star Wars, you don’t have to journey to a long time ago in a galaxy far, far away – it’s right there in Ireland, where much of The Last Jedi was filmed.

A Star Wars fan since I was gifted a VHS box set of A New Hope, The Empire Strikes Back, and Return of the Jedi for my 9th birthday, I was pretty much beside myself with excitement for the premiere of Star Wars: The Force Awakens back in 2015.

Watching it in a packed theater on opening weekend, I cheered along with the audience when familiar characters like Princess Leia (the late, great Carrie Fisher) and Han Solo ( Harrison Ford ) graced the screen and was dazzled by the new inhabitants of the Star Wars universe like the courageous Rey (Daisy Ridley) and terrifying Kylo Ren (Adam Driver).

But the appearance that filled me with the most joy and awe didn’t happen until the end of the movie, and it wasn’t even a speaking role. No, I’m not talking about Luke Skywalker (Mark Hamill), I mean the Irish island of Skellig Michael, which was the setting for the planet where Skywalker had been hiding.

The Skelligs

Skellig Micheal.

Having spent time traveling Ireland and writing about the Emerald Isle daily, I know full well how majestic, other-worldly, and stunning the Irish landscape is, and with The Force Awakens, I was excited for Ireland to get its prime-time, big screen moment. Sure enough, there were audible gasps and “wow”s when the cameras first panned over Skellig Michael and Little Skellig. Later, talking about the movie with friends, I was proud to tell them that yes, that was in fact a real place, and it was in Ireland.

It seems that Lucasfilm producers and the Star Wars cast were also very impressed, because they spent even more time in Ireland filming the next installment, The Last Jedi, and went to an even greater number of Ireland filming locations in Kerry, Donegal and West Cork.  

During and after filming, neither new director Rian Johnson nor the film’s stars held back one iota when it came to talking about how much they loved being in Ireland.

I 💚 IRELAND That's a wrap on the emerald isle. Thanks to all the lovely amazing people here who have made our shoot extraordinary. — Rian Johnson (@rianjohnson) May 26, 2016

How I will miss IRELAND! Its' Beauty-Its' People-It's...Snack Food ( #MagnificentMillie on alert for #Ep8DietPolice ) pic.twitter.com/klCpbGLQ7w — @HamillHimself (@HamillHimself) May 25, 2016

When they wrapped, they even took out an ads in the Irish Examiner and local papers in Kerry and Donegal thanking the locals and their Irish crew.

Very sound of @HamillHimself & co to take out thank you ad in @kerryman_ie #CeannSibéal #Dingle #StarWars #Classy pic.twitter.com/2M3w55RPJo — Marian O'Flaherty (@dinglenews) June 1, 2016

With The Last Jedi in theaters now, chances are that in addition to attempting to work on your Jedi mind control powers, you might also be yearning for a trip to Ireland to walk in the footsteps of Luke and Rey and see all the stunning filming locations in person.

Whether planning a dedicated Star Wars trip or incorporating these attractions into a larger tour of Ireland’s tremendously popular Wild Atlantic Way coastal route, here’s how to plan the ultimate Star Wars fan trip of Ireland.  

Go mbeidh an fórsa leat! — May the force be with you!

Skellig Michael

Skellig Michael.

This UNESCO World Heritage site off the coast of Co. Kerry in Ireland’s south-west has long been a popular destination, but since its Hollywood close-up in The Force Awakens, interest in this rocky former monastic settlement has sky-rocketed.

Visit Skellig Michael and you’ll be walking in the footsteps of not only the Star Wars cast and crew, but also the monks who lived there and built the stunning steps and beehive huts between the 6th and 12th centuries. The island is accessible only by boat, with local operators and fishermen giving tours. Be sure to book well in advance as space is quite limited and access also depends on the tide and the weather.

Malin Head.

For The Last Jedi, the Star Wars team went all the way to the tippy-top of Ireland, to its most northerly point, Malin Head , on the Inishowen Peninsula in Co. Donegal. It’s the perfect starting point or end point for a Wild Atlantic Way adventure.

The breath-taking cliffs were home to a Millennium Falcon replica for a number of days during filming, but during a typical day on Malin Head, attractions include Banba’s Crown, a lookout tower built by the British in 1805 as a watchpoint for Napoleonic invaders. There’s also a restored “Erie” landscape sign, used in WWII to inform pilots they were flying over a neutral Ireland. At nighttime, Malin Head is one of Ireland’s best spots to catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights. Before or after, grab a drink at nearby Farren’s Pub – Mark Hamill himself was a patron.

Ballyvaughan, Loop Head.

With the Shannon Estuary on one side and the vast Atlantic Ocean on the other, Loop Head Peninsula in Co. Clare offers some of the most gorgeous views – all the better seen from Loop Head Lighthouse, which dates back to 1854 and was renovated and reopened to the public in 2015. You can even spend the night there as part of a special program with the Irish Landmark Trust.

Loop Head is just an hour and a half’s drive from Shannon Airport. Take the Loop Head Drive, or walk the Loop Head Heritage trail. Get to know the charming nearby towns of Kilkee and Kilbaha, or explore the natural wonders with birdwatching or aquatic-focused tours. 

Ceann Sibéal

Ceann Sibéal.

In addition to being a jaw-droppingly beautiful spot in its own right, Ceann Sibéal or Sibyl’s Head on the Dingle Peninsula in Co. Kerry played a dual role for the Star Wars team, filling in as something of a location double for Skellig Michael, which due to its special preservation designations could only host the crew for a limited number of days. Instead, they re-built some of Skellig Michael’s signature beehive huts on Ceann Sibéal.

This proved to be great fun for Mark Hamill and the rest of the Star Wars cast and crew present who got the added bonus of being able to enjoy Dingle, one of Ireland’s most famous and beloved towns. According to local reports, they were patrons of Bean in Dingle, ‘Idás Restaurant, Global Village restaurant, and Dick Mack’s Pub.

The Star Wars cast and crew sure got around Ireland! Not only did they film at Malin Head, the northernmost point, they also set up shop for a few days at Brow Head in west Co. Cork, the southernmost point in all of mainland Ireland.

At Brow Head, not only will you find a surviving British Signal Tower from 1804, but the nearby village of Crookhaven is a popular summer destination, with the year-round population of about 60 inhabitants surging to 400 during the warm months as visitors and vacation home owners flock to enjoy the sunshine. Crookhaven is a two-hour drive from Cork City, with some of the county’s best towns for both history and tourism, such as Cobh, Kinsale, and Skibbereen, along the way.

To find out more about Star Wars , The Last Jedi  and the filming locations in Ireland visit ireland.com/starwars

This post is proudly produced in partnership with Tourism Ireland. Find out more on Ireland.com . 

* Originally published in 2017, updated in May 2024.

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Nick Schroeder’s perfect day includes a show in South Paris and vintage shopping in Biddeford

The communications manager for Space and member of Mad Horse Theatre Company would also make Rockland and several Portland shops part of the itinerary.

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Nick Schroeder, 42, of Portland, is communications manager and multidisciplinary programmer for Space, a nonprofit arts venue in Portland. He’s also an actor, director and ensemble member with Mad Horse Theatre Company in South Portland. A native of Old Orchard Beach, he’s worked as a journalist and editor at several local publications.

As much as I like bopping around the state by myself, I’ll spend my perfect Maine day with my partner, Mallory, and our nearly 3-year-old toddler. The kid’s in the stage of life where she asks why to just about everything, and that question makes for good conversation.

Getting dressed (finding pants, socks, etc. and negotiating their deployment) can take a while in my house, so we’ll put on WMPG to keep the energy loose. I’ll pour a good cup of coffee, Speckled Ax Early Riser preferred , in my clunky travel mug. Then we’ll get things cracking at that one real good climbing tree in the park for a little proprioceptive rinse. The branches are real low to the ground and I don’t have to worry about my kid taking any nasty falls.

The Palace Diner in Biddeford. Shawn Patrick Ouellette/Staff Photographer

Will Zu Bakery still have croissants by now, or is that too much morning meandering? The neighbors tend to swarm the little West End spot – how is it this good? – and it can quickly sell out. If that’s the case, we’ll drive south. Actually, scratch that – Mallory will drive this leg, and I’ll bike. Our destinations will be the same, Palace Diner (in Biddeford). I’ll have the omelet du jour and those great big potatoes, and maybe a bite of my kid’s pancake – the dad handbook clearly states that you must eat your children’s leftovers. We’ll all poke our heads inside Biddeford Vintage Market and see what new vendors they’ve got (my aunt Barb runs the place with some friends) before making a quick spin into Color.Sound.Oblivion to check their newly stocked records.

The Basico – an arepa stuffed with chicken, cheese and pico de gallo – with a side of pan de bono and a cup of verduritas (spicy green sauce) from Maiz in Portland. Ben McCanna/Staff Photographer

With family who live nearby, I’ll be able to ditch the bike and hop into the car, heading north. We’ll stop in Portland to grab a couple of arepas for the road from the outrageously good Colombian food restaurant Maïz, and head to South Paris. In this fantasy, the Celebration Barn has a perfectly timed matinee show, and true to form, it’s equally enchanting for kids and adults.

The Celebration Barn in South Paris. Andree Kehn/Sun Journal

After that, we’ll drive to Rockland (here’s where the kid naps) and head to a beach (any beach) before I pop into Curator , one of few consignment shops that bothers to stock nice stuff for tall fellas. Then it’s over to Rock City Cafe for a refill and a poke around Hello Hello Books behind the cafe. Last time, I found a nice used paperback of a Judy Chicago biography. Will I get this lucky again?

A stack of books at Print: A Bookstore in Portland. Ben McCanna/Staff Photographer

Returning to Portland, we’ll have had our fill of driving and Raffi sing-alongs. It’s time for our A-list East End retail trifecta – Ferdinand  for handmade wonders, Starry Eyes  for snazzy kids’ stuff, and Print: A Bookstore (more books!).

For dinner, the ideal is Asmara , the great Eritrean gem, where we as a family can share big communal plates of colorful food using only our hands as utensils. After we put the kid to bed, I’ll text a friend, and if his kid’s asleep, too, we can sneak out for a little nightcap at the Continental and discuss the news.

How would you spend your perfect Maine day? Send your itinerary, in 500 words or less, with a little about yourself, to [email protected] .

A Belhaven beer, a Negroni and a pint of Guinness at The Continental in Portland. Brianna Soukup/Staff Photographer

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