Visiting Dublin: The Best Day Trips from the Irish Capital

Most people who make it to the Emerald Isle only make it as far as Dublin. Sure, the Irish capital is great; you’ve got some mighty experiences here, from the Guinness Storehouse to the infamous Temple Bar. However, to see the true side of Ireland, you need to get yourself out of Dublin.

Since Ireland is such a small country, you can pretty much visit most of the main cities and tourist attractions on a day trip from Dublin. After you disembark the plane at Dublin International Airport, you’ve so many options available: head further west to see Ireland’s cultural side in Galway or stay within the province for some hiking in Wicklow.

Need some inspiration? Let’s show you our all-time favorite day trips from Dublin.

Exciting Day Trips Outside of the County of Dublin

Get Lost in the Charming Streets of Galway

Around a two and a half hour spin from Dublin lies Galway. It’s true when they say Galway is as Irish as it gets; this university city exudes everything you imagine Ireland to be: cozy pubs on every corner, live folk music in Eyre Square, and endless craic down by the Spanish Arch all through the night.

Even if you’re only visiting Galway for the day, you can pack a lot into a short visit. Marvel at the Galway Cathedral, inhale some fresh Atlantic air with a boat ride down the Corrib, and go watch the divers at Salt Hill promenade just before your speedy train ride out of there.

If you’ve got a car, you’ll be able to add some of the other major sites around the county into your plans, including Kylemore Abbey.

Lace-up Your Hiking Boots to Hit the Trails in Glendalough, Wicklow

Glendalough has always been a sweet escape for the outdoorsy lovers in Dublin. It’s worlds apart from the bustle of South William Street, but that’s why the Dubs enjoy it: a pure break in nature.

The ride from Dublin to Glendalough only takes a little over an hour, allowing you to get there at the crack of dawn and return home just in time for tea. Glendalough is a part of the Wicklow Mountains National Park. Here, you’ll find endless peaks, two of the most visually stunning lakes in the country, and as much forest area as you can imagine to get lost in.

Venture up North to See What Belfast is All About

Next, we’re heading up north to the capital of Northern Ireland, Belfast. It’s totally unique to Dublin but equally as exciting. Belfast has seen a transformation in recent years and has a lot of things going for it. The main attraction for many is the Titanic Experience where visitors can see exactly where the famous ship was constructed before it met its faith.

As you’ll be taking the two-and-a-half journey to Belfast, you’ll want to squeeze in as much as you can while you’re there besides going to the Titanic Experience. Why not take a murals tour to learn about the city’s harrowing past or stick around for a few hours in the evening to watch the Friday chaos unfold in the Cathedral Quarter? 

Where Can You Go for a Quick Day Trip Outside Dublin City While Sticking Within the County?

Take a Coastal Walk Through Dun Laoghaire

Just under an hour away from the capital is Dun Laoghaire; people come here for two things, the pier and the grub. It’s tradition for many Dubs to pop out here on the weekends for a nice stroll along the promenade to watch the boats swing by on the odd day when the weather is clear.

The culinary scene here is also pretty stellar; you can indulge in some seriously good freshly made seafood, including fish and chips, at Fish Shack. If you’re not into your seafood, don’t worry; the pub grub at The Purty Kitchen will be right up your street.

Although it can be difficult because of how unpredictable the forecast can be, there are plenty of watersport experiences up for grabs: tackle the waves of the Irish Sea on a sailboat or try your hand at some stand-up paddle boarding.

Go and See Why Everyone Falls in Love with Howth

The magic of Howth never fails. Another coastal settlement to add to your list, Howth, might be a small village, but there’s plenty to see and do here.

First things first, you should try to tackle the Howth cliff walk as early as you can to ditch the crowds, especially if you’re visiting over the weekend. This roughly 7 km route takes you right up over dramatic hills and on the edge of cliffs, where you can sometimes spot some dolphins if you’re lucky.

After you’ve burned off some energy, head down to the town, grab yourself a 99 ice cream, and check out some of the swanky boats in the Marina. A stop at Howth Food Market is a must, too; you can sample some sweeties at Amore Gelato & Crêpes.

Explore Malahide Castle and Gardens

One of the many beauties on the north side of the river Liffey is Malahide Castle and Gardens. The ride here takes just forty minutes, and when you see it, you’ll be wondering how you’ve never heard of this majestic fortress sooner. 

Malahide Castle itself is a medieval structure that dates back to 1185, but seeing how well-preserved the interiors are, you’d think it was only built yesterday. 

Even if castles aren’t your thing, the gardens are as blissful as it gets; you’ll feel at pure peace, meandering through the woods before ending your visit with a stop for a sneaky cappuccino in the Avoca Cafe.

Get Yourself out of Dublin For a While with One of These Short Day Trips

It’s hard to understand why people come all the way to Ireland but never make it past Dublin City Center. There’s no denying it’s a lovely city, but spending your entire vacation there would be a grave mistake when you’ve got gorgeous places like Howth on your doorstep or Belfast a few hour’s drive away.