12 Best Day Trips from Dublin: Cliffs of Moher, Giant’s Causeway & Hidden Gems
Using Dublin as your home base for exploration is a brilliant strategy. You get the energy of a capital city combined with easy access to Ireland’s most iconic sights. Day trips are perfect for travelers who want to maximize their experience without the hassle of constantly repacking and changing hotels.
Your main options for getting around are organized tours, which handle all the logistics, or renting a car for ultimate flexibility. Public transport is viable for some closer destinations. My general tip is to book everything in advance, especially during peak season, and always pack a rain jacket—this is Ireland, after all!
Natural Wonders
1. Cliffs of Moher
Located in County Clare, the Cliffs of Moher are about a three-hour drive from Dublin. These majestic sea cliffs stretch for 14 kilometers and soar up to 214 meters above the Atlantic Ocean. The journey itself through the Burren region is part of the experience.
The best viewing points are O’Brien’s Tower for panoramic vistas and the southern end for a view of the cliffs curving toward Hag’s Head. Don’t miss the Atlantic Edge Ocean Walk for a different perspective. The modern visitor center is built into the hillside and offers excellent exhibits, a cafe, and essential facilities.
2. Giant’s Causeway
This UNESCO World Heritage site in Northern Ireland is a geological marvel of about 40,000 interlocking basalt columns. Legend says the giant Finn McCool built it to cross the sea to Scotland. The reality of its volcanic origin is just as cool.
Logistically, it’s a long day from Dublin—about a three-hour drive each way, not including the border crossing. The best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon to avoid the biggest crowds. I highly recommend a guided tour that combines the Causeway with other Northern Irish highlights to make the long drive worthwhile.
3. Wicklow Mountains
Affectionately known as “The Garden of Ireland,” the Wicklow Mountains National Park is a breathtaking escape less than an hour south of Dublin. The star here is Glendalough (Glen of the Two Lakes), a serene valley with a rich history.
The highlight is the ancient monastic site founded by St. Kevin in the 6th century, featuring a perfectly round tower and stone crosses. The area is crisscrossed with walking trails around the two lakes, suitable for all fitness levels. Just remember, the weather in the mountains can change rapidly, so dress in layers regardless of the season.
Historic Cities and Towns
4. Galway City
Galway is the cultural heart of the West of Ireland. This vibrant, bohemian city is bursting with energy, from its cobbled streets filled with buskers to its famous Latin Quarter. The shopping here is fantastic, with a focus on unique crafts and local designs.
The local food scene is a major draw, especially for seafood lovers. Think fresh oysters and hearty chowder. For a day trip, my advice is to take a tour that pairs Galway with the Cliffs of Moher—it’s a long but incredibly rewarding day.
5. Belfast City
The capital of Northern Ireland has undergone a phenomenal transformation. Its recent political history is palpable, especially in the Falls and Shankill neighborhoods, where political murals tell a powerful story. The Titanic Quarter is a must-see; the museum where the ship was built is utterly compelling.
The city center is compact and walkable, with a great Victorian pub scene. The main cross-border consideration is that you’ll be moving from euros to pounds sterling, so have some cash on hand.
6. Kilkenny
Kilkenny is a beautifully preserved medieval city that feels like a step back in time. Its narrow streets are lined with historic buildings, and the crown jewel is the stunning Kilkenny Castle, which offers fascinating tours.
The local craft scene is strong, with excellent breweries, pottery shops, and design studios. It’s an easy and direct drive or train ride from Dublin (about 90 minutes), making it a perfectly manageable and delightful day out.
Castle Experiences
7. Blarney Castle
Blarney Castle is world-famous for the Blarney Stone, which is said to grant the gift of eloquence (or the “gift of the gab”) to those who kiss it. The ritual involves leaning backward over a drop while a staff member holds you—it’s quite the experience!
The castle grounds and gardens are arguably the real treasure, with sprawling paths, poison gardens, and mystical rock formations. The castle itself has a deep history dating back to before 1200. Many tour packages from Dublin combine a visit here with the city of Cork.
8. Dunluce Castle
Perched dramatically on a cliff edge in Northern Ireland, Dunluce Castle is the picture of romantic ruin. Its coastal location is breathtaking, with parts of the castle having fallen into the sea below over centuries.
The historical background includes tales of sieges and a kitchen that collapsed into the ocean during a storm. It’s a photographer’s dream, especially at sunset. You’ll almost always visit this site on a combined tour to the Giant’s Causeway, as they are very close to each other.
Hidden Gems
9. Connemara
For a raw, untamed landscape, head to Connemara. This region is defined by its sprawling bogs, dramatic mountains like the Twelve Bens, and countless lakes. The cultural heritage is strong here, being a Gaeltacht (Irish-speaking) area.
Exploring the local villages like Roundstone and Clifden is a joy. Seasonal activities range from hiking and fishing in the summer to cozy pub sessions by the fire in the winter. It feels a world away from Dublin.
10. Howth Peninsula
Howth is a charming fishing village just a 30-minute DART train ride from Dublin city center. It offers some of the best coastal walks in the area, with stunning cliff paths offering views of Dublin Bay, Ireland’s Eye, and even the Wicklow Mountains.
The harbor is lined with fantastic seafood restaurants—get the fish and chips here, it’s legendary. The easy access makes it a perfect half-day trip if you need a break from the city hustle.
11. Malahide
Another delightful coastal village north of Dublin, Malahide, boasts a beautiful castle set in extensive parklands. The castle and gardens are well worth a visit, with a fascinating history spanning nearly 800 years.
The village itself has a lovely, bustling main street with great cafes and shops. It’s incredibly family-friendly, with a large playground, a beach, and a marina. It’s a relaxed and easy escape.
12. Newgrange
Newgrange is a prehistoric passage tomb older than Stonehenge and the Egyptian pyramids. This ancient burial site is a testament to incredible astronomical and engineering skill, designed to illuminate the inner chamber at the winter solstice sunrise.
Its archaeological significance as a UNESCO World Heritage site cannot be overstated. Visitor access is by guided tour only from the Brú na Bóinne Visitor Centre, and booking in advance is essential as tickets sell out quickly.
Practical Information
Planning Your Day Trips
The best booking practice is to reserve tours and rental cars weeks, if not months, ahead during the summer. Seasonal considerations are key; summer has long days but big crowds, while winter offers shorter days but a more atmospheric experience at many sites.
Cost comparisons show that tours can be a great value as they include transport and expert guides, while self-driving offers freedom. My top time management tip is to prioritize one main attraction per day to avoid being rushed.
Transportation Guide
Several tour operators like Wild Rover Tours offer reliable, all-in-one options. Public transport is best for closer spots like Howth and Malahide. Self-driving gives you the most flexibility but requires navigating narrow, rural roads.
The choice between group and individual travel depends on your style; tours are social and easy, while going alone lets you set your own pace.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most popular day trip from Dublin?
The Cliffs of Moher is arguably the most famous and popular day tour. It combines stunning natural beauty with a trip through the unique Burren landscape and often includes a stop in the charming city of Galway.
Can you do a day trip to Northern Ireland from Dublin?
Yes, it is entirely possible. Tours to the Giant’s Causeway and Belfast are long but very well-organized day trips. They handle all the logistics of crossing the border between the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland.
What are the best day trips from Dublin without a car?
Excellent options exist without a car. Organized tours are the best bet for far-flung places like the Cliffs of Moher. For closer destinations, use the train or DART to visit towns like Howth, Malahide, or even Kilkenny directly.
Is Blarney Castle worth a day trip from Dublin?
It depends on your interests. If you love history, gardens, and don’t mind a longer drive, then yes. However, it is a significant journey. Most people find it more rewarding to visit when touring the south of Ireland rather than as a rushed day trip from Dublin.
How many days in Dublin is enough?
I recommend spending at least three to four days in Dublin itself to see the major sights at a relaxed pace. This also allows you to dedicate another two to three days for taking the best day trips from Dublin to experience the wider country.
What should I pack for a day trip in Ireland?
Pack for all weather conditions, even on a sunny day. Essential items include a waterproof and windproof jacket, comfortable walking shoes, layers of clothing, a phone charger, and a reusable water bottle.
From the raw power of the Cliffs of Moher to the ancient mystery of Newgrange, the variety of day trips from Dublin is astounding. My seasonal recommendation is to aim for late spring or early autumn for the best balance of good weather and smaller crowds. No matter which adventures you choose, you’re in for a memorable experience. Now go out there and see it for yourself!