short trip dublin bus

• Click to open search
• Open the main navigation

The best bus tours in Dublin

Go sightseeing in Dublin on a city bus tour, and see all the landmarks in one day.

If you’re short on time, a bus tour is a great way to see Dublin. You can tick off all the major sights in one fell swoop, without your step counter going through the roof.

Whether you want to pack in as much as you can, or simply see the sights from the comfort of a double decker bus, these tours will show you the best of Dublin.

• 1 . Hop On Hop Off Tour by DoDublin Tours
• 2 . Big Bus Dublin
• 3 . City Sightseeing
• 4 . Vintage Tea Trips
• 5 . What to see in Dublin

Seeing the city by bus means you don’t need to decide between visiting Kilmainham Gaol or the Phoenix Park , because you can do it all in one day, hopping on and off at your leisure. Better still, you’ll often be accompanied by a tour guide who can point out the local hotspots as you sail on past.

It's also a cost-effective way to see the city, particularly if tickets to museums or other attractions are thrown into the mix. As a general rule, you can expect to pay around €30 for a 24-hour hop on, hop off tour, or around €35 for a two-day ticket. On most of the tours, at least one child goes free per adult, making family tours even better value.

But bus tours aren’t just for seeing the city. Nearby attractions are also at your fingertips, on tours that take you all around Ireland without you having to hire a car or navigate public transport. You can head off to places like the Cliffs of Moher or the Giant's Causeway and be back in the city by nightfall.

Hop On Hop Off Tour by DoDublin Tours

You’ll spot these bright green buses all over the city. Their hop on, hop off tours take in all the major sights, including the Guinness Storehouse, Trinity College and EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum . But they also stop off at the smaller attractions, like Teeling Whiskey Distillery in the Liberties and Marsh’s Library , right next to St Patrick’s Cathedral . A ticket also includes entry to the Little Museum of Dublin and a Pat Liddy's walking tour . Buses depart from O’Connell Street regularly.

Guinness Storehouse

If you want to get out of the city, they also run tours south to Wicklow and Glendalough, or north up to Belfast and the Causeway Coast. They also offer a Ghostbus tour of Dublin, where you’ll visit a medieval vault and a city graveyard, accompanied by some fairly theatrical characters. While their original tour is most definitely not for kids, they’ve now created a version for children aged between 7-14.  

Big Bus Dublin

This bus tour takes in 25 stops around Dublin, with a guide pointing out all the sights of the city, or a pre-recorded commentary available in eight languages. As well as all the locations set in the middle of the city, the tours head out to Dublin Zoo in the Phoenix Park, as well as Kilmainham Gaol and Richmond Barracks . Even if you don’t hop off and explore those sights, the trip will give you a broader sense of Dublin’s geography away from the city centre. The regular tours kick off from O’Connell Street, check Big Bus Tours Dublin for up-to-date departure times.

All tickets include a walking tour, and there’s free Wi-Fi on the bus, too — so you can plot out your next move, or post a video of the on-board singalongs to Instagram. They also offer a night tour , so you can see all the landmarks illuminated after dark, like the lights of St Patrick’s Cathedral or the buildings that line the River Liffey. There’s also a deluxe package available, which includes the hop on, hop off ticket for three days, a night tour and a half day coastal tour to the fishing village of Howth .  

City Sightseeing

There are more than 30 stops on the City Sightseeing hop on, hop off tour, including Jeanie Johnston , a replica famine ship on the River Liffey, and the Irish Museum of Modern Art in Kilmainham. Buses run every hour, departing from Trinity College.

As well as the included stops in the city, you can get picked up in the morning from bus stops around Ballsbridge, which is handy if you’re staying in that neighbourhood and want to see the more central sights without getting separate transport into town. 

They also offer a river cruise along the Liffey, giving you a unique perspective of the city from the water. Starting at Bachelor’s Walk, you’ll sail under O’Connell Bridge and past the 18th-century Custom House, all the way to the glass and steel architecture of the Docklands. 

Irish Museum of Modern Art (IMMA)

Vintage tea trips.

This isn’t a traditional bus tour. Instead of hopping off at various spots, you’ll stay on the vintage bus for the duration of your journey, passing the highlights of the city as you tuck into afternoon tea accompanied by the sounds of 1950s jazz. You’ll see sights like Trinity College, the Phoenix Park and Christ Church Cathedral , with freshly made sandwiches, desserts and pastries on the table in front of you.

What to see in Dublin

Planning your hop off points? Our guide to the great things to see in Dublin will get you started, with most of them included on the bus tours above.

Take These 7 Easy Dublin Day Trips By Rail, Bus Or Tram

Staying in Ireland's capital city? Don't miss Deirdre's easy day trips from Dublin, all within easy reach by public transport.

Dublin Day Trips & Public Transport In A Nutshell 🥜

🚞 I Love These Charming Day Trips  Around Dublin

🚉 Dublin's Rail  And Tram Systems Cover Most Of The City

🚏 For Everywhere Else, Hop On A Dublin Bus

🤑 Save Money & Hassle With This Travel Card

Deirdre Keogh is Sales & Marketing Manager at Vagabond Tours. Born and raised in Dublin, she knows Ireland’s capital inside out. You’ll love her expert travel tips about Dublin whether you’re taking Vagabond and Driftwood tours or merely visiting the city.

How's it going, I'm Deirdre 👋

Nestling on a bay, ringed by mountains, Dublin has to be one of the world's most beautifully-located cities.

More importantly, it's my home city!

It's high time you knew how affordable and easy it is to take day trips from Dublin via the city's extensive public transit system.

Hopefully you've already absorbed our list of quirky, non-touristy things to do in Dublin  and also our favourite traditional pubs . If not, you know what to do!

Now, read on intrepid Dublin daytripper!

You'll soon see how scenic the coast and suburbs of Dublin are!

🚉 The Rail System In Dublin Explained

⬇️ South: The Bray and Greystones line

⬆️ North: The Malahide line

↗️ Northeast: The Howth line

If you're touring with us, take note of the location of the Grand Canal Dock station .

This is the best stop for the Grand Canal Hotel , our tour pick-up and drop-off pointin central Dublin.

It's only a 2 minute suitcase-trundle away!

🚊 Dublin's Tram System Explained

The tram system in Dublin is called the LUAS. It runs on the streets amid car and bus traffic.

Listen out for its distinctive beep-beep sound are you explore the city!

The Red LUAS line runs roughly east-west and the Green LUAS line runs north-south.

The Cross City line (blue in the image below) connects the other two lines and then extends northwards to Broombridge.

💡 ATTENTION FACT FANS! LUAS means 'speed' in Irish.

🚏 Dublin's Bus Network Explained

For all the places that Dublin's rail and tram lines don't  reach — like Dublin airport — there's an extensive public bus network available to you.

Dublin Bus is the main provider.

You'll notice the distinctive blue and yellow, double-decker buses everywhere around Dublin.

Remember that, in Dublin, you have to hail an approaching bus to make it stop. Just stick out your arm and give a wave.

Another hot tip? It's a long-held tradition that people in Ireland always thank their bus driver when exiting.

Just spreading the love!

🤓 Build Your Dublin Knowledge Even More by taking our FREE 6-Part Ireland Email Course

What’s The Best Way To Get Around Dublin?

Before delving into a few of our favourite easy day trips from Dublin, let us tell you that one of the best, cheapest and easiest ways to experience Dublin is using the Visitor Leap Card .

The Leap Card is a pre-charged swipe card that gives you access to Dublin public tranport.

For €10 a day, this touch-on, touch-off card will give you unlimited use of all the buses, trains and trams mentioned above.

Hop on a Dublin Bus, DART or LUAS in Dublin city centre.

Then hop off as many times as you like!

Easy Day Trips From Dublin By Public Transport

1. malahide.

This is the last station along the northern Malahide DART line. It's hard to miss!

When in Malahide, visit beautiful 12 th century Malahide Castle. Owned by the same family for 800 years, the castle has a long and interesting history.

There are a few good ghost stories too! Learn about the castle and see the wonderful gardens on a guided tour.

The 2024 admission price is €16 (€11 for seniors).

Other things to do in Malahide

🛍️ Stroll Malahide village for chic boutiques and coffee shops.

🍺 Gibney’s in the town centre is a great traditional Irish pub.

⛵ Malahide is located on the coast. A seaside wander around the marina and estuary is well worth your time!

Howth is the last stop on the northern Howth DART line.

Howth is the name for both a village and a peninsula. The peninsula is located at the northern curve of Dublin Bay.

Howth village is a popular spot on a sunny day. In fact, it's popular at the weekend no matter what the weather is like!

Howth harbour is ideal for a short stroll and a chance to soak up some coastal atmosphere. Watch fishing trawlers mingle with yachts and dinghies.

Hike Around Howth Head

Looking for stunning views of Dublin Bay? Howth is yer only man!

Walk around Howth head, starting directly from Howth DART station. The views from Howth Head are some of the best in Dublin.

Look north to Lambay Island. On a clear day, you may even be able to make out the Mourne Mountains on the horizon in Northern Ireland.

As you round the headland, Dublin Bay opens up to the south and west, with the city and the Wicklow Mountains coming into view to the south.

Other Things to Do in Howth

🦐 Head to Howth harbour for amazing seafood restaurants down on the marina. Go fancy with fresh lobster. Or try Irish fish and chips!

🍦 Tuck into delicious ice-cream while strolling on Howth pier. Just watch out for hungry swooping seagulls!

3. Killiney

Heading south from Dublin on the Bray/Greystones DART line, you'll find the charming little village of Killiney.

Killiney Bay has been compared to Italy’s Bay of Naples for its beautiful curving contours and mountainous backdrop.

Enjoy panoramic vistas of Dublin Bay to the north; the Wicklow mountains to the south.

On a clear day, you might even spy the mountains of Snowdonia in Wales, 50 miles away across the Irish Sea.

Other Things to Do in Killiney

🐚 The pebble beach in Killiney is ideal for a picnic, walk or even a refreshing swim.

👀 Hike up to the top of Killiney Hill Park for the best views. The park was gifted to the state in 1887 by Prince Albert Victor of Wales, for Queen Victoria’s Jubilee.

😎 Go Bono-spotting. The U2 frontman lives locally. You never know who you might bump into!

Dalkey has culture, history and craic in abundance.

Head south on the Bray/Greystones DART line to reach Dalkey.

Dalkey boasts not one but TWO medieval Norman castles.

A visit to Dalkey Castle is a must. It's located right on the main street.

Actors from a local theatre comapny passionately recreate the story of Dalkey from early Christian era right via up to the medieval heyday of the Normans and towards modern times.

✍️ While you're at Dalkey castle, meet the many writers who have passed through the area at the Writers' Gallery .

They include James Joyce, Samuel Beckett, Maeve Binchy, and even Bono.

Other Things to Do in Dalkey

🐐 Meet wild goats on Dalkey Island. You can kayak your way  to this tiny piece of rock lying just offshore. Or hitch a lift with ferryman Ken .

🧗 Feeling energetic? Go rock climbing in Dalkey quarry.

🍻 Now that you've built up an appetite, head over to one of the various traditional pubs on Dalkey's main streets for good food, friendly conversation and superb beer.

Bray is a scenic Victorian seaside resort town. It's the penultimate stop on the southern Bray/Greystones DART line.

Start your Bray day on the seaside promenade. This mile-long walkway offers magnificent views of Bray Head, towering above the town.

The promenade dates back to Victorian times when Bray attracted holidaymakers and daytrippers from Dublin city.

Other Things To Do in Bray

🏰 Take a short taxi ride up to Kilruddery House and Gardens.

As well as regular events, there's a farmer's market here on Saturdays.

Believe it or not, Kilruddery has been in the hands of the Brabazon family since 1618.

☂️ If the weather isn’t behaving, check out Platform Pizza or the Harbour Bar for lunch. Both full of 'delish grub'. Both towards the north end of Bray promenade.

6. Greystones

This charming harbour town is the last stop along the southern Bray/Greystones DART line.

Greystones is known for its quirky shops and great dining. Try any of the following for amazing eats:

• The Happy Pear  - Vegan-friendly meals, healthy treats and outstanding hot chocolate.
• Chakra  - Upmarket Indian restaurant and takeaway.
• Fat Fox - Best coffee in Greystones, allegedly.

Other Things To Do In Greystones (apart from eating)

🍹 Funky cocktails and retro styling make Mrs Robinson's bar on the main street stand out from the crowd.

😀 Meet our founders! Rob and Amy Rankin live in Greystones. Keep an eye out for Rob, painting his boat at the harbour, or for Amy while she is swimming on the South Beach

7. Dún Laoghaire

Dún Laoghaire (pronounced dun-leery ) is a suburb of Dublin - but it's also a small city in itself.

It lies only 11km (7 miles) south of Dublin on the Bray/Greystones DART line.

The story of Dún Laoghaire is all about the sea.

Its harbour was built in 1817. The town then sprouted up around it.

The original Victorian architecture features strongly here; from grand red brick buildings to 19th-century bandstands.

🚶‍ The classic Dún Laoghaire activity is a stroll along the pier. There are two piers; east and west. The wind whips in off the sea here, so wear layers!

Other Things To Do In Dún Laoghaire

🍦 Dubliners love to grab an ice cream from the famous Teddy’s stall on the west pier before stretching their legs.

📖 Bookworm? You may enjoy the James Joyce Tower and Museum . This is a genuine Napoleonic Martello Tower that featured in Joyce's masterpiece, Ulysses.

🏊‍ Feeling brave? People take a dip all year round at the 40 Foot swimming spot in Sandycove. Ah, go on, it's only a bit of snow!

Read more about Dublin and some of the best cities in Ireland

Share This On…

Blog Categories…

• About Ireland
• Competitions
• Ireland Travel Tips
• Tour Highlights
• All Our Blog Posts
• Top 10 Blog Posts

Related Articles

❄️💰 PRICE FREEZE:  Book your 2025 active Vagabond Tour and benefit from our Price Lock Guarantee .

Public transport in Dublin

Although the bus stops are not clearly marked, the routes aren’t well explained and the bus maps are quite confusing, Dublin's urban buses are usually the best way to get around the city .

There are over 100 bus lines in Dublin, including the standard, the express (xpresso service – buses that have an x after their number), and the night bus network (nitelink – buses with an n after their number).

Exact Change

Keep in mind that passengers must have the correct change to pay their ticket. Bus drivers do not give change nor do they accept banknotes. If you don’t have the exact change, you'll be given a receipt that you must take to Dublin Bus headquarters (Upper O’Connell Street 59). Do not forget to show your original bus ticket.

These restrictions don’t apply to the Airlink Express (buses 747 and 757) that connect Dublin Airport with the city centre.

Buses in Dublin do not have a single rate. The fares depend on the number of stops between the first stop and the destination stop. Travellers can calculate the fares on a free Fare Calculator available on the  official Dublin Bus website . Otherwise, they will have to ask the driver.

• Short zone (centre): € 1.70 ( US$ 1.90)
• Long zone (outskirts): € 2.60 ( US$ 2.90)  

Xpresso buses:

• Ticket: € 3 ( US$ 3.40)  

10-trip ticket

• 10x 90-minute ticket: € 25 ( US$ 27.90)

If you wish to use Dublin’s public transport system to get to the city’s various attractions, we suggest purchasing the Leap Visitor Card . In this case, we recommend buying it at the Airport Tourism Information Centre (open every day from 8 am – 10 pm), so that you can use it to get to the city centre.

Timetable and Frequency

Although each line has its own timetable, normally buses run from 7 am to 11:30 pm . Some routes begin as early as 5 am.

Nighttime Buses

Dublin has 24 night-bus lines called Nitelink. These run every Friday and Saturday between midnight and 4 am .

This journey costs 3 EUR . If you haven’t purchased a ticket before getting on the bus (for example at a supermarket), you must pay in coins .

You may also be interested in

Compared to other European capital cities, Dublin’s public transport system is quite inefficient, difficult to work out, uncomfortable to pay and very expensive.

Dublin’s Light Rail Tram system is called the Luas. Presently, it has two routes, one green line and one red line.

New Product Alert! We're now combining the EPIC Museum with our Hop-On Hop-Off City Tour to create one fantastic ticket. Read More

Hop-On Hop-Off Tour

Dodublin are the no.1 hop-on hop-off tour provider in dublin city. enjoy an open-top city sightseeing tour like no other..

New The Docklands Tour is back, and it's Free with every Hop-on hop-off ticket!

The DoDublin city sightseeing tour has been Dublin's No.1 tour for over 35 years with more 5-Star Reviews on Tripadvisor than any Hop-on hop-off tour in the World!

24 Hour Hop-on Hop-off Tour

See the best of Dublin City in one day! Choose between a 24 or 48 Hour Sightseeing tour ticket which allows you to hop on and hop off as often as you like and visit the best sites and attractions all around Dublin City.

48 Hour Hop-on Hop-off Tour

Book a 48-Hour ticket for Dublin's No.1 City Tour and as it is a great way to get around the city while hearing live commentary from our guides and seeing all your favourite sites like Guinness, Christ Church Cathedral, The Spire and much more!

Hop-on Hop-off + Guinness

Combine your City Tour with the Guinness Storehouse - Voted Europe's Leading Tourist Attraction 2023! and Save! - Options available for 24 or 48 hour City Tour with this combo deal.

City Tour & EPIC Museum

Combine your DoDublin City Tour ticket with admission to EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum and save €10. Choose between a 24 or 48-hour ticket with a choice of two routes, the original tour route & docklands route which drops you right outside EPIC at Stop D!

Airport Transfer + Hop-on Hop-off Combo - Save €5

Combine your Hop-on Hop-off Ticket with an airport transfer for one great price!

Cruise Passengers Deal - City Tour + Train

For Cruise Ship Passengers arriving at Dún Laoghaire port. Book a 24 hour Hop-on hop-off tour with return train ticket on the DART from Dún Laoghaire to Dublin City Centre - the DoDublin tour has a stop right outside the train station! Save €5!

Live German Tour

DoDublin provides the only Hop-on hop-off tour of Dublin with a live German tour guide. All our German tour guides are native german speakers who live in Dublin and know the city like a local!

Live Spanish Tour

New: DoDublin now provides the open top bus, live tour of Dublin city with a live Spanish guide. All the DoDublin Spanish guides are native Spanish speakers who live in Dublin city.

Days Out Plus Card

Combine the DoDublin Hop-on Hop-off Tour with the Days Out Card and get 48 Hours on Dublin's Best City Tour along with access to six of the best cultural attractions located in the city centre all for one great price. Save 25% off all!

Christmas Tour of Dublin City

We know it is early... but after the major success of our Christmas tour in 2023 that sold out in days we have put extra dates & times on this year! Avoid disappmoint and book your tickets now!

DoDublin is a part of Dublin Bus and our Tour Guides are all Dublin Bus drivers. They know the city like the back of their hands and they're all great entertainers with many insights about Dublin city you won't hear anywhere else. All of our tour guides are also Fáilte Ireland trained,

The DoDublin hop-on hop-off tour operates 7 days a week from 09:00 until 17:00 in Winter and 19:00 in Summer season. There are 25 bus stops on the tour, each one positioned close to a top tourist attraction. They tour route covers the entire city centre so wherever you go, you'll only be a few minutes walk from a DoDublin Hop-on Hop-off bus stop.

DoDublin City Sightseeing tour offers 24 hour & 48 hour tickets. One child (u15) goes free with each adult ticket and there are discounted rates for Students and Senior Citizens. We'll also offer Free entry into the Little Museum of Dublin with every ticket purchased. All of our tour buses are open-top double decker buses so you'll get a great view of the city's landmarks and historic sights as you travel around.

The hop-on hop-off tour lasts approximately 1 hour 45 minutes and starts and finishes on O'Connell Street (Dublin City's main street) Your city sightseeing tour guide will deliver an entertaining and informative commentary throughout the tour, telling you about the city's most important historical sights, architecture, places of interests from cultural centres to shopping districts and much more besides.

Our unique route covers many iconic and hidden Dublin City attractions - Plan your next adventure with us!

The Docklands Tour

The Docklands tour has returned! This 45 minute tour is separate from the Original Hop-on hop-off tour and takes you to visit the beautiful Dublin Docklands, visiting attractions including EPIC, the Irish Emigration Museum, the Jeanie Johnston, Windmill Lane Studios.

All Hop-on hop-off tickets are valid for both tours so our city tour is even better value! The Docklands tour departs five minutes past the hour from 09:05 until last departure at 18:05. The tour departs from the top of Parnell Square (Stop 2 on the Original Tour)

Where should you travel next? Take the free quiz!

These Are the 12 Best Ireland Bus Tours from Dublin

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my links, at no extra cost to you. Please read  full disclosure  for more information.

What better way to explore the Emerald Isle than by hopping on one of these Ireland bus tours from Dublin ?

Ireland is a country that should be on every traveler’s bucket list. Renowned for its lush green landscapes, warm hospitality, and rich history – it’s brimming with reasons to visit. 

I was lucky enough to study abroad in Dublin and was able to take a few bus tours during my time there!

This small island certainly packs a punch, and each region holds unique attractions. This makes it challenging to choose just one area to visit – which is where Ireland bus tours from Dublin come in.

By adding a few bus tours to your itinerary, you can be sure not to miss out on experiencing the real Ireland. 

The many Ireland bus tours on offer boast carefully curated itineraries, encompassing some of the country’s best landscapes and attractions. Choosing a bus tour is a surefire way to get the most out of your Ireland trip.

Table of Contents

Best Bus Tours from Dublin in Ireland

Northern Ireland Highlights Day Trip Including Giant’s Causeway from Dublin

✅ Explore Belfast

✅ Visit Giants Causeway

✅ Visit Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge

Cliffs of Moher Tour Including Wild Atlantic Way and Galway City from Dublin

✅ See the Cliffs of Moher

✅ Drive part of the Wild Atlantic Way

✅ Visit Burren National Park

Kilkenny, Wicklow Mountains, Glendalough, Sheep Dog Trials, Day Trip from Dublin

✅ Visit Kilkenny Castle

✅ Drive the Wicklow Gap

✅ Guided walk of Wicklow Mountains National Park

Ireland Bus Tours from Dublin

⭐️ RATING:  5/5 Stars | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  13.5 hours | ✅   Book it!

Northern Ireland absolutely should not be missed on your Ireland adventure, and this bus tour is a great way of experiencing its highlights. This 13-hour day tour sets off from Dublin and will start by taking you on a 2-hour drive to Belfast.

Here, you’ll jump into a black cab for a Belfast tour led by a guide who grew up in this city during the ‘troubles’ (the Northern Ireland conflict).

The tour will take you through the neighborhoods that were at the heart of the conflict, as well as the famous peace wall, and along the way, you’ll listen to tales of this city’s bloody past. 

There is the option to swap the black cab tour for a visit to the Titanic Dock and Pump House, the site where the ship was constructed before beginning its tragic journey.

The Titanic Experience, situated next door, is a fantastic museum containing artifacts from the ill-fated ship, as well as many interactive exhibitions. 

Next, you’ll head to the UNESCO World Heritage sight of the Giants Causeway. This natural wonder is a true sight to behold, and learning about the mythology surrounding the causeway is fascinating.

Test your bravery by crossing the nearby Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, suspended 100 feet over the fierce Irish Sea. 

All admission costs are included in this trip, and the onboard guides are informative and will keep you entertained throughout the day. 

⭐ Click here to book this tour! ⭐

⭐️ RATING:  5/5 Stars | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  13 hours | ✅   Book it!

The Wild Atlantic Way is a popular trail covering the entire east coast of Ireland, taking in some of the country’s most breathtaking scenery. The road is windy in many parts, and conditions can be treacherous, thanks to Ireland’s unpredictable weather.

This means that driving the Wild Atlantic Way as a self-guided trip can be a stressful experience, and you’re likely to spend more time looking at maps than appreciating the magnificent views. 

There are many Ireland tour packages that cover this route, and a bus tour of the area means all hassle is removed – instead, you can sit back and take in the epic beauty in comfort.

The Cliffs of Moher Tour takes you through the most scenic spots along the Wild Atlantic Way, and you’re given free time to explore the magnificent cliffs at your own pace.

The trip also makes a stop at Burren National Park, famed for its thousands of archaeological sites and rocky landscapes. 

Your final stop will be Galway City, where you’ll enjoy a 30-minute introductory tour before spending a few hours exploring this waterfront paradise on your own accord.

Wandering around Galway’s brightly colored buildings and sampling fresh local cuisine is an experience not to be missed! 

The day trip lasts for around 13 hours, and your local guide will share their knowledge of the Irish countryside as you pass each stop.

There’s even Wi-Fi on board the coach, so you can keep your Instagram followers updated with all the incredible things you see throughout the day. 

Grab the Free Ultimate Ireland Bucket List

Sign up to get access to some of the best things to do in Ireland – perfect for planning your trip!

We respect your privacy. Unsubscribe at any time.

⭐️ RATING:  5/5 Stars | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  10 hours | ✅   Book it!

This bus tour will take you on a journey exploring Ireland’s mythical folklore and stunning medieval architecture. You’ll start at Kilkenny Castle, an 800-year-old Castle founded soon after the Norman occupation of Ireland.

After spending time exploring this remarkable site, you’ll head to a working sheep farm where you’ll watch sheepdog trials and learn how these dogs heard the farm’s animals.

Getting an opportunity to visit a working Irish farm isn’t part of the usual tourist trail, and this is just one of the things that makes this bus tour a great choice. 

After this, you’ll drive through one of the highest mountain passes in Ireland – the Wicklow Gap. This road is nestled between rugged green hills, and the scenery is breathtaking. Make sure to pack your camera!

This area was used as a filming location for ‘Braveheart’ and ‘P.S. I love you’; it’s one of the most stunning spots in Ireland. 

The nearby Wicklow Mountains National Park is your next stop, and here, you’ll enjoy a two-hour guided walk that takes in impressive views across the dramatic mountain range.

From here, you’ll head to the Glendalough Monastic Settlement. This early Christian settlement was founded in the 6th century, and your guide will walk you through the church ruins and ancient graveyards while recounting folklore tales.

The mystical energy in this place makes it a truly special environment to explore. 

This 10-hour day trip is one of the best Ireland bus tours from Dublin for anyone interested in delving into Ireland’s mystical history while also soaking up some of the country’s best natural wonders. 

Small-Group Wicklow, Powerscourt, and Glendalough Day Tour from Dublin

⭐️ RATING:  4.5/5 Stars | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  8 hours | ✅   Book it!

One of the downsides to bus tours is that traveling in a large group can come with downsides.

Larger queues for attractions, not being able to ask your guide all your questions, and people getting in the way of your pictures – these are all things that sometimes happen in a large group. 

This Ireland bus tour from Dublin is the perfect trip if you’re worried about these problems. With a guaranteed maximum of 16 people, this is a great way of experiencing all the perks of bus tour travel without any of the downsides.

You’ll have plenty of exploration time at each spot, making it the perfect tour for the more independent traveler. 

This 8-hour trip starts and ends in Dublin and makes seven stops. Your first stop is the Molly Malone statue, and then you’ll drive to Powerscourt House and Gardens. These gardens are voted 3rd best gardens in the world by National Geographic! 

Next, you’ll head to the charming Enniskerry Village Square. Traveling as part of a small group means you get to visit more local attractions, and Enniskerry Village Square is somewhere that larger group tours don’t tend to visit. 

Next, you’ll spend an hour driving through the Wicklow Mountains National Park, stopping at all the noteworthy points along the way, such as the Guinness estate and Sally Gap.

You’ll visit the bridge used for filming in P.S. I Love You before heading to the beautiful Lough Tay, also known as Guinness Lake. Guinness Lake is where the series ‘Vikings’ was created, and the view over the lake is one of Ireland’s most spectacular. 

Finally, you’ll head to the Glendalough Monastic Settlement, where you’ll have time to explore the beautiful valley and all its ruins.

This is an excellent Ireland bus tour from Dublin as you get to escape the city for a few hours and explore rural Ireland without having to spend too much time on the road – all of the stops are relatively close to one another. 

Titanic Belfast Experience, Giant’s Causeway, Dunluce Castle Day Trip from Dublin

Game of Thrones fans won’t want to miss this Northern Ireland bus tour. You’ll board the bus in Dublin for a 2-hour drive up to Belfast, where you’ll head straight to the Titanic Belfast Experience.

This world-class attraction delves into Belfast’s role in the Titanic’s history and features nine interactive galleries, where visitors will be immersed in the sights and smells of the ship.

Here, you’ll hear stories of life aboard the Titanic and learn about the people who made her – in the very place you stand. 

Following this, you’ll head to the 500-year-old Dun Luce Castle. This iconic castle is located on a cliff edge, towering high above the wild Atlantic Ocean – making it one of the most dramatic views in the country.

It was used as a filming location in Game of Thrones, and fans of the show will recognize it instantly. 

Your final stop will be at the Giant’s Causeway, one of Ireland’s most famous landmarks. You’ll have 2 hours to explore this magical site before returning to Dublin. 

All entry admissions are included in this bus tour, making it a very convenient day out. The day trip is 13 hours long and suitable for all age groups. 

Celtic Boyne Valley Day Trip from Dublin

⭐️ RATING:  4.5/5 Stars | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  10 hours | ✅   Book it!

This is one of the best bus tours in Ireland for history lovers. Ireland has a rich history, and on this trip, you’ll travel more than 5000 years back in time as you explore some of the country’s most significant historical sites. 

The 10-hour-long tour will start and end in Dublin. Your first stop is the famous Hill of Tara, the most sacred ancient site in Ireland. You’ll have an hour to explore this giant mound, which is where the high kings of Ireland watched and ruled over the country.

A quarter of the country can be viewed atop this hill on a clear day – it’s a pretty special place. 

Next up is Trim, an Anglo-Norman castle that is the largest of its type in Ireland. Admission here is included, and your guide will teach you all about the history and significance of the castle.

It has been remarkably well preserved and is surrounded by stunning scenery, and you’ll spend an hour taking it in in all its glory. 

Following this, you’ll go to Loughcrew Cairns, a passage of 5000 Neolithic burial tombs which are filled with ancient rock art.

The next stop is the nearby Fore Abbey, a fascinating area home to 7 wonders – the monastery in the bog, the mill without a race, the water that flows uphill, the tree that has three branches/the tree that won’t burn, the water that won’t boil, the anchorite in a stone and the stone raised by St Fechin’s prayers. Pretty impressive! 

This is a fantastic day out, offering the chance to delve into ancient Ireland without spending the night away from the city. 

Afternoon Tea Bus Tour in Dublin

⭐️ RATING:  4.5/5 Stars | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  1.5 hours | ✅   Book it!

Vintage Tea Trips offer a bus tour with a twist. This hour-and-a-half-long journey is a unique way to see Dublin while sitting in the comfort of a cozy vintage bus, listening to the sounds of smooth jazz and nibbling on divine freshly baked goods. 

There is no structured commentary on the bus, but the friendly tour escorts create a warm and sociable atmosphere among the passengers. You’ll pass all the best sites in downtown Dublin and listen to the team as they share their favorite Dublin stories. 

This trip is a great way to spend an afternoon and is a fun way to experience this quirky city. 

Blarney Castle Day Tour from Dublin Including Rock of Cashel & Cork City

⭐️ RATING:  4.5/5 Stars | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  12 hours | ✅   Book it!

This is a great bus tour from Dublin that explores the highlights of County Cork and County Tipperary.

The first stop is the Rock of Cashel, famous as one of Ireland’s most important historical sites. This cluster of medieval buildings is home to a vast collection of Celtic artwork, and its medieval architecture is renowned as some of the best in Europe.

The buildings perch atop a hill and overlook quintessentially Irish rolling green hills. You’ll have an hour to spend here, and admission is included in the ticket. 

Next, you’ll have an hour and a half to explore the city of Cork. There is no guided tour here, so you can spend your time as you please, and you certainly won’t struggle to find things to do in Cork!

The buzzing city contains a truly vibrant Irish atmosphere and is a foodie’s paradise. 

After your time in Cork, the next stop is the famous Blarney Castle. This beautiful castle is famous in Irish legend – the Irish have been kissing the Blarney Stone for centuries, and it’s believed that by kissing the stone, you’ll receive the ‘gift of the gab’… otherwise known as seven years of eloquent speech. Maybe there’s some truth in it – the Irish are great storytellers! 

This 12-hour tour is a must for history lovers, as it journeys around some of Ireland’s most impressive historical landmarks. 

Dublin: Cliffs of Moher, Kilmacduagh Abbey, Wild Atlantic Way, and Galway

⭐️ RATING:  5/5 Stars | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  12.5 hours | ✅   Book it!

This West Ireland tour covers the same stops as the above Cliffs of Moher tour, but it also includes an additional stop that is exclusive to this tour operator. Kilmacduagh monastery is a 1000-year-old ruin and graveyard and is one of Ireland’s best collections of monastic buildings. 

During your visit, you’ll spend time exploring the 12th-century round tower as well as the ruins and graveyard. The area is surrounded by Ireland’s famous verdant green hills and here you’ll spot more cows than you will people!

The tour is 12 and a half hours long and includes all admission fees, as well as fantastic live commentary, which will teach you everything there is to know about Ireland’s wild and enchanting west. 

Dublin Mountain Pub Tour

⭐️ RATING:  5/5 Stars | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  5 hours | ✅   Book it!

Ireland is famous for its pubs, and for good reason – you’d be hard-pressed to find a country with more charming and atmospheric watering holes. 

The best way to experience Ireland’s pubs is by visiting with a local. This Ireland bus tour from Dublin is hosted by a local guide, meaning you can do just that!

You’ll venture into the mountains of Dublin and tour three different pubs, and your guide will share his knowledge and stories with you at each spot. The tour is 5 hours long, so you’ll have ample drinking time in each.

The best part is that you don’t have to worry about being the designated driver as you’re on a bus tour! This trip is a fantastic way to experience Dublin’s pubs. 

The places you’ll visit are real local pubs, rather than the touristy ones you’re likely to find in the city center. Each pub is located in a scenic mountain setting, and you can expect to find live traditional music at each spot.

The Irish are an incredibly friendly and welcoming bunch, so expect to meet some fantastic people and enjoy brilliant conversation along the way. 

Dublin Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

⭐️ RATING:  4.5/5 Stars | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  1 hour 45 minutes | ✅   Book it!

If you’re a seasoned city-hopper, you’ll be no stranger to seeing Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tours. These cheery red double-decker buses can be found in most cities around the world, and they’re an excellent way to see all the sights and learn along the way. 

Dublin has multiple tour providers offering Hop-On and Hop-Off tickets, each of which allows you to explore the city at your own pace.

On board, you’ll receive an audio guide with an informative commentary of each sight you pass, along with interesting facts about the city.

These buses all follow a similar route around Dublin’s most popular attractions, including everything from the iconic National Gallery to the world-renowned Temple Bar. 

Your ticket is usually valid for 24 hours and allows you to get off at each site you want to explore and skip the ones you aren’t interested in.

Many of the tour providers (such as Big Bus Dublin) also include a free walking tour within the ticket, led by a local historian who takes you to some of the lesser-known sites in areas the bus can’t reach.

This bus tour is the perfect way to get the most out of the city without the additional expense and stress of navigating transport yourself. 

Game of Thrones – Winterfell Trek from Dublin

⭐️ RATING:  5/5 Stars | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  11 hours | ✅   Book it!

Thanks to its stunning scenery and out-of-this-world nature, Ireland has been used in countless film and television productions over the years.

Some Ireland tour packages offer trips that bring these cinematic worlds to life, and this Winterfell Trek is an absolute must-do for fans of Game of Thrones. 

The tour starts when you board the bus in Dublin, where you’ll be given a cloak to wear for the tour – you’ll be feeling like a member of House Stark in no time!

Along the way to visit filming locations from the series, you’ll stop at some of Northern Ireland’s most scenic locations, like Tollymore Forest Park and Strangford Lough. 

Then, you’ll arrive at Old Castle Ward, which was the location of Winterfell in series 1. The tour is led by guides who were extras in the series, and they’ll lead you on a walking tour of areas like Walder Frey’s Twins and Robb Stark’s camp in the Riverlands. 

The guides will share tales of their experience during filming, and you’ll even get to watch special behind-the-scenes footage on tablets. The final stop is Inch Abbey, the 12th-century ruins where Robb Stark became king in the North. 

This trip is an incredible experience for fans of the series, and when surrounded by the ethereal forests and medieval ruins of Ireland, it’s impossible not to feel like you’re in Winterfell. 

Final Thoughts: Ireland Bus Tours from Dublin

As you can see, there are multiple incredible Ireland bus tours from Dublin. Traveling in this way enables you to maximize your time in the Emerald Isle and discover all the best sites without the headache of organizing your own tour.

The only problem with bus tours in Ireland is… which one to choose?!

Related Posts

See All Posts →

Where to Get the Best Afternoon Tea in Dublin

Ireland Bucket List: 37 Best Things to do in Ireland

How to Take a Day Trip From Dublin to Bray, Ireland

8 Must-visit Historical Sites in Ireland You Cannot Miss

6 Best Day Trips from Galway, Ireland

10 Fantastic Dublin Food Tours

KP is the head blogger and founder behind Volumes & Voyages. After studying abroad in Dublin for a semester, KP got bitten by the travel bug. Now, she writes articles to help other travelers in between trips where she chases her wanderlust. KP has lived in many different places, including Boston MA, Denver CO, Las Vegas NV, southern VT, and Dublin IE.

Similar Posts

10 Mouthwatering Food Tours in Las Vegas

How to Spend One Day in Venice, Italy

Local’s Guide to the Best Rocky Mountain Tours from Denver

12 Free Things To Do in The Hague

Most Beautiful Cities in Greece: 6 Cities You Can’t Miss

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Privacy Overview

3 Day Tours from Dublin

Irish tours departing dublin for 3 days.

Are you ready for an adventure? The Emerald Isle awaits. Even if you only have a few days in which to explore, our tours are here for you, with our short but sweet 3-day tours from Dublin. Ireland is like a wild horse frolicking in a rugged landscape. What's more, this beautiful land is bursting with historic castles, stunning waterscapes, and sacred Guinness.

And we want to make the most out of your  tour of Ireland . We strive to go beyond the traditional, looking for the hidden gems that could have been buried with their ancestors, lost in plain sight, or even wanting to be kept a secret. There are a multitude of adventures waiting for you when you take a tour from Dublin.  

Planning Your 3-Day Tour from Dublin

The beauty of a 3-day tour from Dublin is you can find whatever it is you're looking for, even in just three days. Whether it’s the coastal paths calling out to the Atlantic, or laying footsteps along the cobbled streets of Northern Ireland , the only way to experience the magic is to say 'yes' to adventure.

Travel Responsibly from Dublin 

No matter where we travel in this beautiful world, we believe it deserves to be cared for by every visitor. And that’s exactly what we strive to do, in Ireland and beyond. Through our responsible travel initiative , we donate, volunteer, use small mini-coaches and do as much as we can to protect locations for future generations to enjoy. 

Select by month

Dingle, Killarney & the Wild Atlantic Way - 3 day tour

Combine serene spiritual locations with wild natural landscapes on this journey to the west of Ireland.

Prices from €359.00

DEPARTING FROM: Dublin

West Coast Explorer - 3 day tour

Discover the soaring mountains, spectacular wildlife, and mystical history of Ireland's West Coast.

Prices from €399.00

Blarney Castle, Kilkenny & Irish Whiskey - 3 day tour

Unearth Ireland's most unspoilt corner of beautiful beaches and ancient local history.

Discover Northern Ireland - 3 day tour

Be entranced by the Emerald Isle's historic wonder and majestic scenery.

County Donegal & the Wild Atlantic Way - 3 day tour

Whether you love history, literature, nature, or a good cosy pub, it's time you had it all.

Prices from €389.00

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.

Explore related stories

Tips & Advice

Aug 7, 2024 • 10 min read

It happens to all of us. We plan the perfect trip, and something somehow goes horribly wrong.

Jul 17, 2024 • 3 min read

Jun 12, 2024 • 12 min read

May 20, 2024 • 12 min read

May 13, 2024 • 13 min read

Apr 19, 2024 • 11 min read

Apr 14, 2024 • 6 min read

Apr 8, 2024 • 6 min read

Apr 3, 2024 • 6 min read

Apr 2, 2024 • 9 min read

13 Best Day Trips from Dublin (By Car, Tour + Train)

By Author Keith O'Hara

Posted on Last updated: August 20, 2024

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, as you’ll see below.

The best day trips from Dublin by car

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 later in the day
• Pick one of the Glendalough walks , e.g. the Spinc Loop
• Get a post-hike lunch at the Wicklow Heather
• Do the Sally Gap Drive
• Stop at Lough Tay , Ballinastoe Woods and Glenmacnass Waterfall

If you’re looking for more active Dublin day trips, tackle one of the longer Wicklow walks over the course of a morning!

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 ( Ruby Ellen’s is hard to beat)
• 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. The Boyne Valley (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 at 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 I’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 trips from Dublin without a car

The second section of this guide is for those of you looking for the best day trips from Dublin without a car.

If you don’t fancy taking an organised tour, I 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 15,149+ 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 15,149+ reviews
• Cost:  From €78 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 6,191+ 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 6,191+ 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 1,923+ 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 1,923+ reviews
• Cost:  From €33 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 556+ reviews
• Cost:  From €85 p/p

5. Newgrange and the Boyne Valley

Another of the best one day trips from 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: 4.7/5 from 462+ reviews

Explore Ireland beyond the Dublin day trips

If you’re looking to explore Ireland from Dublin, I have 200+ different options in my Road Trip Itinerary Library .

You can pick trip length, your mode of transport and plenty more.

Still struggling to decide on a one day trip from Dublin? Ask away in the comments below!

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.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

10 Best Small Group Day Tours From Dublin

Posted on November 17, 2023 | Julie J. |

Last Updated on May 15, 2024

Planning a trip to Dublin and want to explore more of the country? We have carefully selected the best small group day tours from Dublin so you can explore Ireland’s highlights .

Luckily, Ireland is a pretty small country and it’s easy to visit the most popular places with just a day trip. If you don’t want to bother with renting a car and if you dislike big bus tours, then small group tours are ideal.

☘️ BEST SMALL GROUP DAY TOURS FROM DUBLIN ☘️

Don’t have time to read the whole article? The hands-down best choice is this Wicklow, Powerscourt, and Glendalough Day Tour with 16 people max and minimal travel time between stops.

I’ve only selected tours with up to 25 people , with good reviews, and from trusted Irish tour companies. I recommend booking from Viator (owned by TripAdvisor), they work with carefully selected local businesses and make booking a tour fast and convenient. I’ve also included a few options from GetYourGuide .

Whether you want to see the Cliffs of Moher, kiss the Blarney Stone, explore the Giant’s Causeway, or hike in the Wicklow Mountains, you’ll find plenty of small group tours that will take you to these must-see places in Ireland.

HELPFUL WEBSITES TO HELP YOU PLAN YOUR TRIP

FLIGHT DEALS

HOTEL DEALS

TRAVEL INSURANCE

VACATION RENTALS

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links, which means that if you click on any links and make a purchase, we’ll get a small commission, at no cost to you.

This Article at a Glance

🥇 Cliffs of Moher, the Burren, and King John’s Castle

⭐️ Rating: 4.5/5 🚶 Group Size: 25 people max ⌛ Duration: 13 hours

🥈 Connemara Peninsula

⭐️Rating: 4.2/5 🚶Small Group ⏳ Duration: 12 hours

🥉 Wicklow, Powerscourt, and Glendalough

⭐️Rating: 4.5/5 🚶 Group Size: 16 people ⏳ Duration: 8 hours

Wicklow, Glendalough, and Horse-Back Riding

⭐️Rating: 4.5/5 🚶 Group Size: 8 people ⏳ Duration: 8 hours

Newgrange & Knowth

Aran Islands and Galway

⭐️Rating: 4.5/5 🚶 Group Size: 10 people ⏳ Duration: 14 hours

Giant’s Causeway and Bushmills

⭐️Rating: 4/5 🚶 Group Size: 25 people ⏳ Duration: 12 hours

Glendalough, Wicklow Mountains, and Kilkenny

⭐️Rating: 4.5/5 🚶 Group Size: 16 people ⏳ Duration: 8,5 hours

Blarney Castle and Rock of Cashel

⭐️Rating: 4.0/5 🚶 Group Size: 25 people ⏳ Duration: 12 hours

Things to Consider Before Booking Your Day Tour

Consider distances and driving time before booking and keep in mind you’ll spend a couple of hours in transportation for most of these day trips.

Weather is often bad in Ireland which can be disappointing. Make sure to pack rain gear and wear layers. You might want to bring snacks and water as well. For some tours, bad weather might require a change of itinerary.

The more places are included in the day tour, the less time you’ll get to spend at each stop, so you might feel rushed.

Make sure to read carefully the itinerary, what’s included, and the reviews, so you know what to expect. I would advise contacting the tour company after booking to confirm your reservation and the itinerary.

Best Small Group Day Tours From Dublin

1 – cliffs of moher, the burren, and bunratty castle.

⭐️  Rating : 4.5 out of 5 Stars | 🚶  Group Size : 25 people | ☘️  Check Rates and Availability

The Cliffs of Moher are simply a must-see when in Ireland. It’s one of West Ireland’s top tourist attractions and you’ll understand why once there. On this tour, you can choose to see the cliffs from above , at the visitor center, or from sea level with a cruise .

If you pick the cruise, there will be an additional fee, and note that the cruises only run from March to October.

On your way there you’ll drive by the Burren along the Wild Atlantic Way, offering some of Ireland’s most striking landscape.

Visiting the Burren was one of the highlights of my trip, the landscape is unique and like nowhere else. While you won’t have time to go for a hike at the national park, you’ll be able to take in the scenery while driving through the region.

“Incredible! Our group ended up just being 4 people so we got an extremely personal experience. Our tour guide, Nick, was great and very knowledgeable!”

– HALEY (READ MORE REVIEWS )

On your way back, you’ll stop at the 15th-century Bunratty Castle and Folk Park where you can have lunch, tour the castle, and have a glimpse of what rural life looked like centuries ago, before making your way back to Dublin.

All entrance fees are included, except if you pick the cruise, and you’re free to bring a packed lunch or have something at the cliffs or at the castle.

The tour is operated by PaddyWagon one of the leading tour companies in Ireland. Their guides and drivers are usually known for making the trip fun and informative.

2 – Connemara Full-Day Small-Group Tour from Dublin

⭐️  Rating : 4.2 out of 5 Stars | ⏳  Duration : 12 hours | ☘️  Check Rates and Availability

The Connemara is one of Ireland’s most beautiful regions. On this small-group day tour from Dublin, you’ll get to drive around the peninsula , seeing its wild landscapes, rugged mountains, and breathtaking lakes.

During the nicer month (April – October), you’ll get to go on a 1.5-hour boat cruise around Killary harbor and the fjords. The rest of the year, you will visit the Killary Sheep Farm where you’ll watch a sheepdog demonstration and be told about life in the Connemara.

“Long but great trip! Our excellent bus driver Jonathan made sure we were happy and content and even entertained us with some beautiful Irish singing”

– HELLEN (READ MORE REVIEWS )

You’ll then stop by the 19th-century Kylemore Abbey where you’ll have time to get lunch (not included) and take some photos. You might have time to visit the abbey but it’s not planned in the tour.

You’re last stop is the city of Galway where you’ll get free time to explore the downtown area. Try to catch a live traditional music performance at one of the pubs if you can!

3 – Wicklow, Powerscourt, and Glendalough Day Tour

⭐️  Rating : 4.5 out of 5 Stars | 🚶  Group Size : 16 people | ☘️  Check Rates and Availability

Just an hour south of Dublin lay the beautiful Wicklow Mountains known for its great hiking trails, stunning scenery, and hidden gems.

If you don’t want to feel rushed and spend many hours in transportation, I recommend booking this tour as the places visited are not too far from Dublin.

You’ll start the tour with a stroll around Powerscourt Gardens , considered some of the most beautiful gardens in the world . You’ll find a cafe and a souvenir shop there as well.

Then you’ll head to the charming Enniskerry Village where you can have lunch and stroll around.

“Very comfortable van for our small group. John gave us a detailed explanation of everything and all the tour activities were on time. The places we visited were stunning.”

– DANIELA (READ MORE REVIEWS )

In the afternoon, the tour will take you through Wicklow Mountains National Park with stops at the “PS I Love you” bridge and Guinness Lake . You’ll take the scenic road (aka the Old Military Road) so you can enjoy the beautiful scenery all around.

Then comes the highlight of this day trip: Glendalough , known for its ancient monastic settlement and the hiking trails up the mountains and around the 2 lakes. You’ll get free time to explore the ruins of the settlement and stroll around the first lake.

You can also just hang out at one of the cafes if you’re not up for a walk, it’s pretty flat though.

The tour does not include lunch and the Powerscourt entrance fee (9 euros).

4 – Wicklow and Glendalough Day Tour with Horse-Back Riding

⭐️  Rating : 4.5 out of 5 Stars | 🚶  Group Size : 8 people | ☘️  Check Rates and Availability

Run by the same company as above, this tour is similar except that the stop at Powerscourt is replaced with horseback riding . You’ll be assessed and then given a horse that matches your skills before heading for a 1,5-hour ride through the beautiful Wicklow’s countryside.

“This was a very great day and the guide was just marvelous! The horses are very well taken care of. The whole trip is smoothly and perfectly planned.”

– ANNA (READ MORE REVIEWS )

5 – Celtic History Tour: Newgrange & Knowth

Also a great option if you want to stay close to Dublin and not spend many hours in transportation, this small group day tour will take you to 2 of Ireland’s most important historic sites .

Newgrange is the largest burial site and place of ancient worship in Ireland, aligned with the winter solstice, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site . You’ll start the day visiting it and you’ll get explanations about the site and its history on the ride there.

Right next to Newgrange, you’ll also get to visit Knowth , a smaller site with 17 tombs.

“This was the best tour we did in Ireland. I recommend it to everyone. Our guide, Johnny was a fount of information and brought many historic stories to life. “

– SERINA (READ MORE REVIEWS )

Then you’ll head to Oldbridge Estate where the Battle of the Boyne took place. You’ll learn more about Irish history and the importance of this fight between the forces of the deposed King James II and those of King William III.

The Monasterboice Monastic Site is the last stop of the day. It was founded in the 5th century by St Buithe and today, two churches from the 14th century remain as well as a round tower from the 10th century and many Celtic high crosses.

6 – Aran Islands Scenic Flight and Galway Rail Tour

⭐️  Rating : 4.5 out of 5 Stars | 🚶  Group Size : 10 people | ☘️  Check Rates and Availability

This tour is a great option if you want to see the Aran Islands but only have one day. A 3-hour train ride will take you to Galway where a shuttle awaits to take you to the airport.

The scenic flight is only 10 minutes and will take you to the island of Inis Mor . You’ll then visit the island, with some of the stops requiring a short hike , passing by thatched cottages, sandy beaches, medieval churches, and Celtic stone crosses.

Some of the highlights include the pre-Christian fort of Dún Aonghusa, the Seven Churches, and the charming village of Kilronan.

“The tour was well planned and very informative. We very much enjoyed both the train ride and the flight over to the islands. Frank our guide was so nice and very helpful! All the sights on the island were enjoyable.”

– SANDI (READ MORE REVIEWS )

Before taking the train back, you’ll have some free time to stroll around Galway .

The guide will meet you at the train station in Dublin and travel with you and your group. Meals are not included.

Note that the flight might be canceled last minute, even on your way there, because of bad weather. In this case, you’ll be offered an alternate tour of the Connemara region and a refund for the difference.

7 – Giant’s Causeway and Bushmills Tour

⭐️  Rating : 4 out of 5 Stars | 🚶  Group Size : 25 people | ☘️  Check Rates and Availability

This Northern Ireland day tour from Dublin is a great way to see the country’s highlights when you’re short on time.

Your day will start with a tour of the oldest licensed whiskey distillery in the world, Bushmills Distillery . You’ll get to see the factory at work, sample the beers they produce, and shop for souvenirs.

You’ll then have lunch at a local pub before starting on the Giant’s Causeway , where you’ll get skip-the-line admission to the Visitor Centre, free time to explore, and a visit of the interpretative center.

“This tour was a great way to see two outstanding attractions. We especially wanted a small group and the extra cost is well worth it. Though it is a long day stops along the way and returning to Dublin made the travel just fine. Our guide was informative and upbeat throughout the entire day.”

– TONI (READ MORE REVIEWS )

Travel along the coastal routes through the Glens of Antrim on your way to Belfast before returning to Dublin.

Everything is included except for food.

8 – Glendalough, Wicklow Mountains, and Kilkenny Day Tour

⭐️  Rating : 4.5 out of 5 Stars | 🚶  Group Size : 16 people |  ☘️   Check Rates and Availability

I’ve already listed 2 tours for the Wicklow Mountains but this one also includes Kilkenny, a must-visit during a trip a Ireland.

On this tour, you’ll drive through Wicklow National Park and have some time in Glendalough to visit the ruins and walk around the lake.

Then you’ll spend the afternoon in Kilkenny . Once you arrive you can pick a place to have lunch before meeting back with the rest of the group to go visit the castle .

“Our tour was lovely. It was nice having just a small group along the way. Richard was very friendly and funny, and knowledgeable about the area. The van was comfortable and the drive between the sites was scenic and informative. We had the freedom to explore each site at our leisure and thoroughly enjoyed the day.”

– AMANDA (READ MORE REVIEWS )

The town is really charming with old colorful buildings and paved streets, perfect for a stroll. You’ll get some free time to explore on your own as well.

Lunch and the entrance fee for the castle (8 euros) are not included.

Overall Kilkenny is a nice town to visit and small enough to do so in a short time, but it will add driving time to the day compared to the two other options that include Wicklow.

9 – Blarney Castle and Rock of Cashel Day Tour

If you don’t mind the long drive, and you know you won’t go to Southern Ireland or Cork later on, then this is a great day tour to take. You’ll visit two of Ireland’s most beautiful castles: the Rock of Cashel and Blarney Castle.

Entrance fees to both are included and you’ll have time enough to visit both thoroughly.

“Great trip, driver very knowledgeable”

– CHRISTINE (READ MORE REVIEWS )

The Rock of Cashel is one of the best-preserved medieval buildings in Ireland. There don’t miss the stunning  Cormac’s Chapel  from the 12th century, the  Round Tower , and the  Gothic Cathedral  from the 13th century.

In Blarney, don’t miss kissing the Blarney Stone , believed to give the gift of dab.

Like it? Save it for later:

Related posts:

9 Spectacular Day Trips from Dublin Everyone Should Do

Are you visiting Dublin? If so, you need to check out these spectacular Dublin day trips during your stay. Ireland is not a large country so many visitors base themselves in Dublin with plans to explore the country on day trips. While I do not recommend going as far as Galway or the Ring of Kerry on a day trip, it is certainly doable.

However, what we offer here are some of the best day trips from Dublin for visitors looking to get off the beaten path a bit, experience Ireland as many locals do without spending hours on a bus while also getting in some epic nature scenery, history and food along the way.

After visiting the Dublin and Ireland for the last 20 years, we have made our share of mistakes and have come up with a great list of spectacular day trips from Dublin that will be worth the effort and time.

Disclosure: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, meaning at no additional cost to you, I will earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase.

Jump to a Heading Below

Getting Around Dublin (& Out of Dublin)

If you plan to be only in the city center of Dublin during your visit to Ireland, we highly suggest learning all you can about the local public transport options like the LUAS (street tram), DART (light rail) and the bus system.

For those planning to venture around Ireland, consider renting a car. We love driving in Ireland, but understand that for many visitors it can be scary. While most vehicles are manual shift, automatic cars can be booked for a bit higher price. On my planning a trip to Ireland page, I share all the info on driving in Ireland to help you get going. Consider renting a car after your stay in Dublin has finished as driving in the city is confusing and stressful for many. 

Getting Around Dublin By Bus

The Dublin bus network is extensive and your best bet for journeys outside of the center of town. You can use this  Journey Planner to find the nearest bus stop and plan your route. The biggest negative for taking the bus in Dublin is that passengers need to have exact change for their destination. To get around this, visitors can purchase a Leap Card (valid for 72 hours) which can be purchased at local convenience stores and topped up as needed. 

Children under the age of 5 travel free with a paying adult. Also note that space is limited at rush hour, but buses run quite frequently during this time so you should never have to wait too long.

Getting Around Dublin by LUAS & DART

For those who plan to use public transportation to get out of town, you will want to check out the DART and LUAS. Tickets can be purchased online or from vending machines at stations. Your Leap Card is also valid on the LUAS and DART in Dublin.

The LUAS is a tram that crosses the city. There are only 2 routes, so most visitors won’t find themselves on this unless they are staying one either the Red or Green lines. To find out more on routes check out the map here .

The DART, Dublin Area Rapid Transit, is the train that you will take to get outside of Dublin to the coast. This rail system runs from the northern suburbs of Howth and Malahide, through the City Centre, and onto the outer southern suburbs of Blackrock and Greystones. Again, your Leap Card will also work on this.

Getting Out of Dublin

For the day trips that require you to go further afield, you can check out the Irish rail tickets as well as various bus lines that traverse the country. However, by far the most extensive public transport system around the country is bus. Travel is typically affordable and can be purchased in advance through Bus Eiranne . Connections are available between all major cities and are are reliable and comfortable.

9 Spectacular Day Trips from Dublin

1. howth is a beautiful seaside village dublin day trip.

Another great option for visiting Howth is to get out on the sea by boat . Here you can hire a boat from the west pier from 10 euros (and up) to explore by water or even stop off at some of the islands in the area to hike around.

For those with multigenerational families, there is also plenty to do here in Howth from eating to shopping. We love King Sitric Restaurant , but there are tons of options. Peak in and see what smells the best.

Getting to Howth from Dublin

Howth can be reached easily by car or by train from Dublin. By train, get on the northbound DART from Dublin city center. A day-return ticket costs €6.25. By car, it is approximately 45 minutes from the city center.

2. Glendalough & Wicklow Mountains is the Best Nature Day Trip from Dublin

Even though this area is known for its monastic settlement ruins, the biggest draw is hiking. In less than half a day you can easily hike both the upper and lower lakes loop starting from the visitors center. There are some boggy areas (fun for tourists!), but you shouldn’t need anything too much more than rain jackets, and waterproof shoes with a decent tread. 

After your hike and look around, head to the Glendalough Hotel for simple traditional Irish food and drink to refresh you for your journey home. While here also visit the picturesque Glendalough Cemetery and monastic ruins .

Another unique experience in this area if you have time is to visit the village of Annamoe, located at the foot of the Wicklow Mountains where you can experience a sheppard at work. 

Getting to Glendalough from Dublin

The best way to get to Glendalough from Dublin on a day trip is to go by car. If you don’t have a car, there are several day tour operators that you can join. There are no public bus options, however there is a private bus company St Kevin’s Bus Service that offers daily services between Dublin and Glendalough with a few stops in between. This is a great option if you don’t want a tour and don’t have a car of your own.

On your way to Glendalough or on your way back to Dublin, take the road less traveled through Sally Gap . Here you will see one of the most beautiful roads in Ireland. Keep an eye for the sheep who are sure to be all over the road!

3. Belfast & Beyond – A Great Day Trip from Dublin for City Lovers

Located only 2 hours from Dublin, the capital of Northern Ireland is a fascinating city to visit. Once in Belfast,  you can take a black taxi tour to learn more about “The Troubles” (what the Irish call the separation between north and south that took over the island for many many years), or spend time visiting the beautiful Titanic Belfast museum built on the site of the former shipyard where the RMS Titanic was built.

If going to Belfast isn’t quite enough Northern Ireland for you, you can continue up the Causeway Coast to visit some of North’s most spectacular sights. To do this in a day trip, you will definitely need a tour as it is a long day. 

Getting to Belfast from Dublin

There are a myriad of options for day trips to Belfast from Dublin. This is one destination on our list of day trips from Dublin that I do not recommend taking your own car. Parking in Belfast is expensive and difficult to navigate at times and the train takes almost the exact same time as driving. 

The average travel time between Dublin and Belfast is approximately 2 hours and 9 minutes. The first train leaves Dublin around 7:35 a.m. with the last at 20:45. With 8 trains a day, leaving every few hours, this is a great way to explore Belfast in a day (or more!). Check out the fastest train between the two cities, the Enterprise .

4. Bray to Greystones: A Nature Break on the Coast

Another great coastal day trip from Dublin is Bray and Greystones. This day trip can be combined with a day trip to the Wicklow Mountains for those of you with a car of your own. The main draw for this Dublin day trip is the chance to explore the coast on a lovely coastal cliff walk. Starting in Bray (or Greystones), the Cliff Walk is approximately 7 kilometers, taking about 2 hours for most people. The Cliff Walk offers beautiful views, wildlife sightings and a rich history to explore.

From the Bray promenade, follow the signs in Bray to Bray Head to start the walk. You can also park in the Raheen Park car park which will reduce the walk by 1 kilometer.  Once you arrive to either Bray or Greystones, stop in one of the many pubs for drink and food before driving or catching the train back to Dublin.

Getting to Bray/Greystones from Dublin

Getting to and from Bray and Greystones is very easy from Dublin. You can drive as it is super easy to park in both towns or you can take the bus or train. Check timings and costs from the links above to find out the best option for your journey. Also, note if you have parked on one end and do not want to return by foot, there are several option by bus, train or even taxi to return.

5. Athlone – Visit the Center of Ireland on a Day Trip from Dublin

You can’t visit Ireland without getting out to a traditional village off the beaten path. After visiting much of the country, Athlone is one of my favorite villages. Big enough to offer plenty to do but still traditional and colorful enough for great photo ops. Located about 2 hours from Dublin by train, this is a little long of a day trip, but is a perfect stopping off point if you are heading west towards Galway.

In Athlone you can visit Sean’s Bar , the oldest pub in Ireland according to the Guiness Book of World Records, check out some art at the local (free!) Luan Art Gallery and the Athlone Castle .

Getting to Athlone from Dublin

If you plan your day trip early enough, you can catch a train for around 30 Euro return from Connolly Station. If you are like me and wait until the last minute and train tickets are too expensive, consider the bus. A return bus journey costs around 18 Euro and takes about 2 hours 15 minutes.

For those of you with a car, driving to Athlone is simple and the town offers an abundance of parking. We highly recommend driving if possible as there are a great number of beautiful sights to see on the outskirts of Athlone if you have a car.

6. Kilkenny Offers the Most Picturesque Day Trip from Dublin

Wonder along High Street, Parliament Street and through St. Kiernan’s going through the various slips (connecting alleyways built underneath buildings) for some great shots of the city and to soak up the vibe here.

Getting to Kilkenny from Dublin

Visiting Kilkenny from Dublin is a quick and easy day trip either by car, bus or train. Once you are in Kilkenny you can get around easily without a car, so if your budget allows, take the train as it’s the most comfortable! Check the sites above for the best options on rail and road.

7. Powerscourt Waterfall is the Best Day Trip from Dublin for Families

While you are in the area, you can also make a quick visit to the Powerscourt Gardens.

Getting to Powerscourt Waterfall from Dublin

The only way to get to Powerscourt Waterfall on a day trip from Dublin is by car. However, if you want to go to the Powerscourt Gardens, there are a couple of transport options. To reach the estate, you can take a bus (185 and 44) to Enniskerry village which is about a 25 minute walk from the gardens. DART goes to Bray, where you can then catch a bus to Enniskerry village.

8. Malahide Castle – A Dublin Day Trip Close to Town

Not quite even a day trip, Malahide Castle is located only a few minutes from the Dublin airport, offering one of the easiest day trips from Dublin. Located on over 250 acres of land, Malahide Castle dates back to the 12th century and was build more than 800 years ago. The town of Malahide is quaint and worth the visit. 

When you arrive to town, hop on the Toot train for a wonderful tour of Malahide or go straight to the castle. For the best tour, make sure to make a reservation as you will learn a great deal of Irish history on the tour. Otherwise enjoy the beautiful gardens and butterfly house while cruising around the grounds.

Getting to Malahide from Dublin

The easiest way to get to Malahide from Dublin is via the DART which has a train ending here from Dublin city center. Driving is also easy with ample parking (paid) available.

9. Newgrange & The Hill of Tara is the Oldest Site in the World

Getting to Newgrange From Dublin

Unfortunately the best way to see Newgrange is either with your own personal car or an organized tour. 

+ Even More Dublin Day Trips

Blarney Castle

Blarney Castle is also known as the home of the Blarney Stone. The gift of gab is what you come here for. Kiss the Blarney Stone, explore the castle, eat some food and then head back to Dublin on your day trip here. For a great full day tour, check out this one .

My favorite town in all of the Republic of Ireland is the colorful, art filled town of Galway. This is a quintessential Irish town. The accents are stronger, the pubs are more vibrant and the colors are everywhere. If you can stay for more than a day, you will love it, but see what you can during a short visit from Dublin.

Cliffs of Moher

The Cliffs of Moher is one of the most popular day trips from Dublin even though it is a LONG day. If you can’t make your way here on a larger Ireland tour, plan to visit on an organized tour. The Cliffs of Moher is one of the most spectacular sights in Ireland. For the best of the west, check out this tour that takes in the Cliffs of Moher and Galway .

Ring of Kerry

The biggest draw for many visitors to Ireland is the chance to drive the Ring of Kerry . The biggest reason I don’t recommend doing this on a day trip is because you will spend your entire day driving with little time on the ground. When possible make a stop in Killarney and venture out to the Ring of Kerry from here. If this isn’t an option, here are some great Dublin day tours to check out.

If You Enjoyed This Post, Sign Up To Receive Posts By Email or…

• Join us on  Facebook  for regular updates and related articles
• Check us out on  Instagram  to see what we are up to in photos
• Follow us on  Twitter  for links to great travel articles curated just for you
• Or share this post with others by pinning on Pinterest!

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .