Ireland’s capital city is certainly worth exploring. As the epicenter of pub culture and the home of Guinness, with lots of Georgian architecture and a designation as a UNESCO City of Literature, Dublin is absolutely a worthwhile travel destination.
But what if you’ve already visited the fantastic museums, spent time in the pub, toured the famous brewery, and poked around the city’s magnificent churches? The answer is to venture beyond the city limits into the beautiful countryside and surrounding towns.
One thing that doesn’t go with hiking the Irish countryside and hopping on and off trains and buses is extra luggage. Before you head out on a day trip from the city, visit a luggage storage location in Dublin to store anything you don’t immediately need. It will make your travel and any subsequent activities so much easier.
Read on for some ideas of where to go outside of Dublin on an exciting day trip.
Glendalough: A journey into Ireland’s past
Distance from Dublin: approximately 45 miles
Our first day trip takes us to mystical and historic Glendalough, which means “Valley of the Two Lakes.” Nestled in the Wicklow Mountains, this monastic settlement is a testament to Ireland’s rich Christian heritage. The site features the stunning Round Tower, several churches, and a tranquil, picturesque lake. The lakes and attractions are open all year, so you can visit this intriguing gem anytime you want.
Aside from checking out the monuments here, bring your hiking shoes and plan to get outside. The Derrybawn Woodland Trail is ideal for those seeking a moderate excursion. It typically takes about two hours to complete, depending on how often you stop to take in the views. You’ll definitely want to spend some time at the Poulanass Waterfall and take a break once you get up into Derrybawn Mountain.
The Derrybawn Woodland Trail is just one of many scenic walks you can do here. The Green Road Walk is one of the more leisurely strolls you can attempt, and for added difficulty, tackle the strenuous Spinc and Glenealo Valley Walk, which is almost 10 km long and can take up to four hours.
Howth: A coastal escape
Distance from Dublin: approximately 10 miles
A short journey from Dublin, Howth is a charming coastal village that offers a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Known for its stunning cliff walks and picturesque harbor, Howth provides that seaside atmosphere you’ve been craving. Plus, since it’s so close to Dublin, this can be an afternoon or morning-only trip if your time is limited.
Stroll along the scenic Howth Cliff Path Loop, offering panoramic views of the Irish Sea and the quaint village below. Explore Howth Castle and its beautiful gardens, or enjoy a fresh seafood meal at one of the village’s renowned restaurants. Howth’s charm and accessibility make it a delightful day trip for those who need a taste of coastal Ireland.
Kilkenny: A medieval gem
Distance from Dublin: approximately 80 miles
For a day trip that encompasses both history and culture, consider a visit to the medieval city of Kilkenny. This charming town is known for its well-preserved medieval architecture and lively arts scene, and its setting on the River Nore doesn’t hurt, either.
It will take a little under two hours to drive here, though we recommend taking the train. It’s the same amount of time, but the journey will be much more pleasant.
Once you arrive in town, your itinerary should include Kilkenny Castle. Dating back to the 13th century, its current state preserves the Victorian remodeling of the site and stages rooms that would fit if we traveled back in time to the 1830s. Check out the nursery, tapestry room, and picture gallery to get a real sense of what life was like for the elite of the time.
The Medieval Mile Museum is a fantastic place to learn about the city’s history, while the vibrant streets are lined with shops, galleries, and cozy pubs (of course!). Kilkenny’s rich history and lively atmosphere make it a day trip destination that offers something for everyone.
Malahide Castle and Gardens: A touch of elegance
Distance from Dublin: approximately 12 miles
Malahide Castle, located in the coastal town of Malahide, is a beautiful medieval fortress surrounded by lush gardens and woodlands. This historic site is one of the oldest castles in Ireland and boasts an impressive collection of furniture, artwork, and period costumes.
Explore the castle’s elegant rooms, each with its own unique character, and afterward, take a wander through the extensive gardens featuring exotic plants and peaceful pathways.
Once you’ve seen how the other half used to live, consider heading to the beach or Malahide Harbour for a meal or a few drinks. Since this destination is so close to Dublin, there’s no need to rush back before dark. That’s Amore is a tasty Italian restaurant complete with red and white checkered tablecloths, as is Sienna’s (also Italian) by the Old Pier. It’s not like Dublin doesn’t have its fair share of great restaurants, but sometimes a change of scenery is nice.
Newgrange: An ancient wonder
Distance from Dublin: approximately 30 miles (48 kilometers)
Are you interested in the Neolithic era? If yes, Newgrange should be on your short list of Dublin day trips. This prehistoric monument is as old (or older, depending on who you ask) as Stonehenge and the Great Pyramids of Giza. This ancient passage tomb is renowned for its remarkable engineering and alignment with the winter solstice.
Visitors can explore the fascinating Stone Age site, especially the passage that leads to a central chamber. The chamber is illuminated by sunlight during the winter solstice, creating a truly awe-inspiring experience. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a must-visit for history and archaeology enthusiasts.
Conclusion
These are just a few of the amazing day trips available when you don’t mind leaving Dublin for a few hours. Lots of history, scenic walks, great restaurants, and so much more await you when you head away from the big city.
