> ## Content Index > Fetch the complete content index at: https://www.jetsetteralerts.com/llms.txt > Use this file to discover other available public pages before exploring further. # 9 Popular Day Trips From Dublin: Exploring Ireland - URL: https://www.jetsetteralerts.com/popular-day-trips-from-dublin-exploring-ireland/ - Published: 2024-09-15T06:08:03.000Z - Updated: 2025-04-07T21:59:20.000Z - Description: Take day trips from Dublin, to fill your itinerary. Whether you're looking to dive into rich Irish history, enjoy scenic landscapes, or visit charming villages, here are 9 popular day trips from Dublin that will enhance your vacation experience. - Author: Jetsetter Alerts - Tags: Explore Ireland, Travel Blog **Dublin** is an excellent base for exploring some of **Ireland’s top attractions**. With its central location, you’re just a **short drive** or **train ride away** from castles, coastal cliffs, ancient sites, and picturesque towns. Let's dive into this list of 9 of **the best day trips from Dublin.** ## **Howth** ![Howth](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/5a/b25ae1cc-57ff-42d2-b189-680f1dd95ffc/content/images/2024/09/Howth.png) ****Howth** Just a short **30-minute train ride** from Dublin, Howth is a small fishing village that [offers incredible coastal views](https://www.gonomad.com/85666-howth-ireland#:~:text=Howth%20is%20the%20Perfect%20Small%20Village%20for%20a%20Break%20from%20the%20City&text=Howth%20Harbor%20is%20home%20to,notice%20it%20everywhere%20you%20go.) and rich history. Known for its hiking trails and seafood restaurants, it's a favorite among locals and visitors alike. - **Distance:** Approximately 15 kilometers (9 miles) - **Time to Get There:** 30 minutes by train or 30-40 minutes by car - **How to Get There:** - **Train:** Take the DART (Dublin Area Rapid Transit) from Dublin City Center to Howth Station. - **Car:** Drive via the R105 road. ### Activities and Attractions: - **Howth Cliff Walk:** Take a scenic walk along the cliffs for breathtaking views of Dublin Bay and the Irish Sea. - **Howth Castle:** Explore the medieval Howth Castle and its gardens. - **Seafood Dining:** Sample fresh, local seafood at one of the village’s renowned restaurants. - **Howth Market:** Browse through this local market filled with artisanal products and crafts. ✈️ Not A Member? Save Up To 95% On Flights! Our airline mistake fare and cheap flight alerts will turn this world into your personal playground. [See Past Airfare Alerts](https://www.jetsetteralerts.com/mistake-fare-examples/) --- ## **Glendalough** ![fall colors in a valley with ancient ruins surrounded by trees a the historical Glendalough site](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/5a/b25ae1cc-57ff-42d2-b189-680f1dd95ffc/content/images/2024/09/Glendalough.png) Located in the Wicklow Mountains National Park, [Glendalough is a magical monastic site](https://glendalough.ie/) dating back to the 6th century. This peaceful valley is perfect for history lovers and nature enthusiasts. - **Distance:** Approximately 50 kilometers (31 miles) - **Time to Get There:** 1 hour 15 minutes by car or 2 hours by public transport - **How to Get There:** - **Car:** Drive via the M50 and N11 roads. - **Public Transport:** Take the St. Kevin's Bus from Dublin City Center directly to Glendalough. ### Activities and Attractions: - **Monastic Ruins:** Explore the ancient monastery, round tower, and stone churches. - **Wicklow Mountains Hike:** Enjoy trails that take you through scenic landscapes, forests, and lakes. - **Glendalough Visitor Centre:** Learn more about the area's historical significance. --- ## **Powerscourt Estate and Gardens** ![waterfall with lots of trees at Powerscourt Estate and Gardens](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/5a/b25ae1cc-57ff-42d2-b189-680f1dd95ffc/content/images/2024/09/Powerscourt-Estate-and-Gardens.png) Powerscourt Estate and Gardens Located just **40 minutes south of Dublin**, Powerscourt Estate is known for its [stunning gardens, mansion, and waterfall](https://powerscourt.com/). It’s one of the most popular estates in Ireland for a good reason. - **Distance:** Approximately 30 kilometers (19 miles) - **Time to Get There:** 40 minutes by car or 1 hour 30 minutes by bus - **How to Get There:** - **Car:** Drive via the M50 and R117 roads. - **Bus:** Take the Bus Éireann 44 from Dublin City Center to Enniskerry Village, then walk to the estate. ### Activities and Attractions: - **Powerscourt Gardens:** Wander through the beautifully landscaped gardens, including Italian, Japanese, and rose gardens. - **Powerscourt Waterfall:** Visit Ireland’s highest waterfall, located within the estate grounds. - **Powerscourt House:** Tour the elegant mansion and enjoy the Avoca café. --- ## **Malahide Castle** ![Malahide Castle](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/5a/b25ae1cc-57ff-42d2-b189-680f1dd95ffc/content/images/2024/09/Malahide-Castle.png) Malahide Castle A visit to Malahide Castle offers a mix of [history, architecture, and beautifully maintained gardens](https://www.malahidecastleandgardens.ie/). It’s a great day trip located **just 30 minutes from Dublin** city center. - **Distance:** Approximately 14 kilometers (9 miles) - **Time to Get There:** 30 minutes by train or 20-30 minutes by car - **How to Get There:** - **Train:** Take the DART from Dublin City Center to Malahide Station. - **Car:** Drive via the R107 road. ### Activities and Attractions: - **Castle Tour:** Explore the nearly 800-year-old Malahide Castle, once home to the Talbot family. - **Botanical Gardens:** Stroll through the 260-acre gardens featuring exotic plants. - **Butterfly House:** A family-friendly spot where you can see various butterfly species. --- ## **Newgrange and the Boyne Valley** ![green grass growing on top of a structure Newgrange and the Boyne Valley ](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/5a/b25ae1cc-57ff-42d2-b189-680f1dd95ffc/content/images/2024/09/Newgrange-and-the-Boyne-Valley.png) Newgrange and the Boyne Valley Newgrange, a [UNESCO World Heritage Site](https://www.newgrange.com/), is one of the most significant prehistoric monuments in the world. This ancient burial tomb, dating back over 5,000 years, is located in the Boyne Valley, about an hour north of Dublin. - **Distance:** Approximately 50 kilometers (31 miles) - **Time to Get There:** 1 hour by car or 1 hour 30 minutes by bus - **How to Get There:** - **Car:** Drive via the M1 and R147 roads. - **Bus:** Take Bus Éireann route 163 from Dublin City Center to Drogheda, then transfer to Bus 163 towards Newgrange. ### Activities and Attractions: - **Newgrange Tomb Tour:** Explore this ancient passage tomb, older than the pyramids. - **Boyne Valley:** Discover the surrounding area, rich in history, including the Battle of the Boyne site. - **Bru na Boinne Visitor Centre:** Learn about the Neolithic people who built these tombs. --- ## **Kilkenny** ![Kilkenny](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/5a/b25ae1cc-57ff-42d2-b189-680f1dd95ffc/content/images/2024/09/Kilkenny.png) Kilkenny Kilkenny is a [medieval city about 90 minutes from Dublin](https://visitkilkenny.ie/), offering a perfect mix of history, culture, and charm. Its well-preserved medieval architecture makes it a must-visit. - **Distance:** Approximately 130 kilometers (81 miles) - **Time to Get There:** 1 hour 30 minutes by train or 1 hour 30 minutes by car - **How to Get There:** - **Train:** Take the Irish Rail from Dublin Heuston Station to Kilkenny Station. - **Car:** Drive via the M9 motorway. ### Activities and Attractions: - **Kilkenny Castle:** Explore one of Ireland's most famous castles and its stunning grounds. - **Smithwick’s Experience:** Tour the brewery where Ireland’s oldest beer, Smithwick’s, is made. - **Medieval Mile Museum:** Learn about Kilkenny’s medieval past through interactive exhibits. --- ## **Bray** ![train running through the mountain near the ocean in Bray, Ireland](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/5a/b25ae1cc-57ff-42d2-b189-680f1dd95ffc/content/images/2024/09/Bray.jpg) Bray This seaside town is a popular day trip from Dublin, just **40 minutes by train.** Known for its [long promenade, beach, and coastal cliff walk](https://www.myirelandtour.com/travelguide/our-travel/visit-bray.php), Bray is perfect for a relaxing escape from the city. - **Distance:** Approximately 20 kilometers (12 miles) - **Time to Get There:** 40 minutes by train or 45 minutes by car - **How to Get There:** - **Train:** Take the DART from Dublin City Center to Bray Station. - **Car:** Drive via the M50 and M11 roads. ### Activities and Attractions: - **Bray Promenade:** Walk along the scenic seafront, enjoying views of the Irish Sea. - **Bray Head:** Hike to the top of Bray Head for panoramic views. - **Sealife Bray Aquarium:** A family-friendly attraction featuring marine life exhibits. --- ## **Trim Castle** ![a castle with trees and a river running in front of it](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/5a/b25ae1cc-57ff-42d2-b189-680f1dd95ffc/content/images/2024/09/Trim-Castle.png) Trim Castle Trim Castle is the[ largest Norman castle in Ireland](https://heritageireland.ie/places-to-visit/trim-castle/) and is just over an hour away from Dublin. It’s a must-see for history buffs, as this castle was used as a filming location for the movie *Braveheart*. - **Distance:** Approximately 45 kilometers (28 miles) - **Time to Get There:** 1 hour 10 minutes by car or 1 hour 30 minutes by bus - **How to Get There:** - **Car:** Drive via the M3 motorway. - **Bus:** Take Bus Éireann route 111 from Dublin City Center directly to Trim. ### Activities and Attractions: - **Castle Tour:** Take a guided tour of the castle and learn about its historical significance. - **River Boyne Walk:** Stroll along the river and enjoy views of the castle and surrounding landscape. - **St. Patrick’s Cathedral:** Visit the nearby cathedral with its towering spire. --- ## **The Rock of Cashel** ![The Rock of Cashel](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/5a/b25ae1cc-57ff-42d2-b189-680f1dd95ffc/content/images/2024/09/The-Rock-of-Cashel.png) ****The Rock of Cashel** Though a bit further from Dublin (about 2 hours), the Rock of Cashel is worth the trip. This historic site is a [spectacular collection of medieval buildings](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rock%5Fof%5FCashel) set on a hilltop in County Tipperary. - **Distance:** Approximately 160 kilometers (99 miles) - **Time to Get There:** 2 hours by car or 2 hours 30 minutes by bus - **How to Get There:** - **Car:** Drive via the M7 and M8 motorways. - **Bus:** Take the Dublin Coach route 717 from Dublin City Center to Cashel. ### Activities and Attractions: - **Rock of Cashel:** Explore the ancient ruins, including a round tower, cathedral, and high cross. - **Hore Abbey:** Visit the nearby ruins of a 13th-century abbey. - **Views of the Countryside:** Enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside from the hilltop. --- No matter which trip you choose from Dublin, you’re guaranteed a memorable experience. These popular day trips showcase the very best of Ireland’s charm, history, and natural beauty. However, there are so many amazing things to see in Ireland, check out this complete list of [day trips available on GetYourGuide.com](https://www.getyourguide.com/dublin-l31/day-trips-tc172/?partner%5Fid=0FXS3OC&utm%5Fmedium=online%5Fpublisher) \- anything you book can be canceled 24 hours prior to the date of your scheduled day trip. #### Looking for other Dublin Travel Information? - [****Best Museums In Dublin To Visit**](https://www.jetsetteralerts.com/9-best-museums-in-dublin-you-must-visit/) - [****Best Dublin Neighborhoods To Stay In**](https://www.jetsetteralerts.com/best-neighborhoods-in-dublin-for-visitors-to-stay-in/) - [****Free Things To Do In Dublin, Ireland**](https://www.jetsetteralerts.com/free-things-to-do-in-dublin-ireland/) - [****How To Get Around Dublin: Transportation Guide**](https://www.jetsetteralerts.com/getting-around-dublin-complete-public-transportation-guide/) - [****Best Day Trips From Dublin**](https://www.jetsetteralerts.com/popular-day-trips-from-dublin-exploring-ireland/) - [****2-Days Exploring Dublin: 2-Day Travel Itinerary**](https://www.jetsetteralerts.com/layover-in-dublin-explore-the-city-in-2-days/) - [****Dublin Weather and Tourist Seasons**](https://www.jetsetteralerts.com/tourism-seasonality-and-weather-in-dublin-ireland/) ## Frequently Asked Questions ### How far is Glendalough from Dublin? Glendalough is approximately **50 kilometers** (about **31 miles**), or roughly **an hour's drive** south of Dublin, located within the **Wicklow Mountains National Park**. ### Can I reach Howth by public transport? Yes, Howth is easily accessible by **DART (Dublin Area Rapid Transit)**, with a short **30-minute train ride** from Dublin city center, covering about **15 kilometers** (roughly **9 miles**). ### Is there an entrance fee for Powerscourt Gardens? Yes, there is an entrance fee for Powerscourt Gardens. Prices vary for **adults, seniors, students**, and **families**. It's best to check their official website for the latest pricing information. ### What is the best time to visit Malahide Castle? Malahide Castle is open year-round, but the best time to visit is during **spring or summer** when the gardens are in full bloom. It's located just **14 kilometers** (around **9 miles**) from Dublin city center. ### How long does it take to tour Newgrange? A typical tour of Newgrange takes around **2 hours**, including the visit to the Bru na Boinne Visitor Centre and the guided tour of the ancient tomb. The site is located about **50 kilometers** (roughly **31 miles**) north of Dublin. **Related Post** [Tourism Seasonality and Weather In Dublin, IrelandIn this guide we cover Dublin’s tourism seasons and tourism demand, as well as what you can expect the weather to be like for each month of the year.![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/5a/b25ae1cc-57ff-42d2-b189-680f1dd95ffc/content/images/icon/Jetsetter-Club-Logo-JS-Darkmode--4-.png)Jetsetter AlertsTeam![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/5a/b25ae1cc-57ff-42d2-b189-680f1dd95ffc/content/images/thumbnail/Dublin-Ireland---Tourism-Seasonality-and-Weather-Guide.png)](https://www.jetsetteralerts.com/tourism-seasonality-and-weather-in-dublin-ireland/) [Layover In Dublin: Explore The City In 2 DaysIf you are only going to be in Dublin for two days and unsure what you should do, here are my top recommendations on the things to see in during your stay in the city.![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/5a/b25ae1cc-57ff-42d2-b189-680f1dd95ffc/content/images/icon/Jetsetter-Club-Logo-JS-Darkmode--4-.png)Jetsetter AlertsTeam![](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b2/5a/b25ae1cc-57ff-42d2-b189-680f1dd95ffc/content/images/thumbnail/OC_locations_dublin.jpg)](https://www.jetsetteralerts.com/layover-in-dublin-explore-the-city-in-2-days/) [9 Best Museums in Dublin You Must VisitDiscover the best museums in Dublin, where rich history, culture, and art come together. 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