Best Day Trips from Dublin, Cork, and Galway: Complete Guide

Living in or near Ireland’s major cities provides excellent opportunities to explore the country’s diverse landscapes, historic sites, and charming towns without requiring overnight stays. Day trips offer affordable ways to experience Ireland’s beauty while maintaining the convenience of city-based accommodation. This guide covers the best day trip destinations from Dublin, Cork, and Galway, with practical information on transportation, timing, and what to see.

Day Trips from Dublin

Glendalough and Wicklow Mountains

The Wicklow Mountains lie less than an hour south of Dublin, offering dramatic mountain scenery, ancient monastic ruins, and excellent hiking opportunities. Glendalough, meaning “Valley of Two Lakes,” represents Wicklow’s premier attraction with its 6th-century monastic settlement founded by St. Kevin.

The monastic site includes a remarkably preserved round tower, stone churches, Celtic crosses, and atmospheric cemetery. Walk the lakeside paths, explore the ruins, and absorb the peaceful valley atmosphere that has drawn pilgrims for over 1,400 years. The visitor center provides historical context, though the site itself requires no admission fee.

Beyond Glendalough, the Wicklow Mountains offer numerous hiking trails ranging from easy lakeside walks to challenging mountain ascents. The Wicklow Way, Ireland’s oldest waymarked trail, passes through the area. Even if serious hiking doesn’t appeal, simply driving through Wicklow’s mountains rewards you with stunning scenery including the Sally Gap and Glencree Valley.

Getting There: Drive via M11 and R755 (approximately 1 hour). Public transport options include St. Kevin’s Bus Service from Dublin (€20 return), which operates twice daily. Tour companies offer guided day trips combining Glendalough with other Wicklow attractions.

Time Needed: 4-6 hours including travel allows comfortable exploration of the monastic site and some walking. Full-day trips can incorporate additional Wicklow attractions or longer hikes.

Newgrange and Brú na Bóinne

Newgrange, a 5,000-year-old passage tomb predating Stonehenge and the Egyptian pyramids, represents one of the world’s most significant prehistoric sites. The massive circular mound, constructed with white quartz stones, contains a passage aligned with the winter solstice sunrise. While solstice access requires winning an annual lottery, daily tours allow you to enter the passage and experience a simulated solstice sunrise effect.

The surrounding Brú na Bóinne complex includes two additional major passage tombs (Knowth and Dowth) and numerous smaller monuments. Knowth, with its elaborate stone carvings, rivals Newgrange in significance. The visitor center provides essential context about Neolithic Ireland before shuttle buses transport visitors to the monuments.

Getting There: Drive north via M1 and local roads (approximately 50 minutes). Public transport requires taking a bus to Drogheda then taxi to the visitor center, making driving or tours more practical. Various tour companies offer Newgrange day trips from Dublin.

Time Needed: 3-4 hours minimum. Book tickets online well in advance, particularly in summer, as daily visitor numbers are limited. Tours run every 30-45 minutes.

Pro Tip: Combine Newgrange with the nearby Hill of Tara, ancient seat of Irish High Kings, for a full day of Irish prehistory and mythology.

Howth and Coastal Walk

For those wanting scenery without long journeys, Howth offers dramatic coastal landscapes just 30 minutes from Dublin city center. This fishing village on a peninsula provides excellent cliff walks, harbor atmosphere, and fresh seafood restaurants.

The Howth Cliff Walk (approximately 6km loop) follows the peninsula’s edge with spectacular views over Dublin Bay and, on clear days, toward Wales. The route passes a historic martello tower and navigates rocky headlands. The walk requires moderate fitness but rewards effort with stunning coastal scenery accessible as public transport day trip.

After walking, explore Howth village with its working harbor, seafood restaurants, and traditional pubs. The daily fish market near the harbor offers the freshest possible seafood. If time permits, visit Howth Castle grounds (the castle itself is private, but grounds are accessible).

Getting There: DART (Dublin’s commuter rail) to Howth station (approximately 30 minutes from city center, €3-6 depending on origin). Very frequent service makes spontaneous visits easy.

Time Needed: 3-4 hours for the cliff walk and village exploration, or full day if combining with leisurely lunch and extended village wandering.

Kilkenny City

Medieval Kilkenny, approximately 90 minutes southwest of Dublin, deserves its nickname “Ireland’s Medieval Capital.” The well-preserved city center features narrow streets, medieval architecture, Kilkenny Castle, and numerous craft workshops and galleries.

Kilkenny Castle, magnificently restored and sitting above the River Nore, offers tours of lavish state rooms and extensive parkland. The castle represents Norman power in medieval Ireland and remained occupied until 1935. The adjacent Butler Gallery showcases contemporary art in the castle’s former servants’ quarters.

Beyond the castle, explore St. Canice’s Cathedral with its round tower you can climb for city views, the Medieval Mile connecting major historic sites, and numerous craft workshops. Kilkenny Design Centre highlights contemporary Irish craft in a beautifully renovated building. The city’s compact size makes it easily walkable.

Getting There: Drive via M9 motorway (1.5 hours). Trains run regularly from Dublin Heuston station (1.5-2 hours, €20-30 return). Buses provide cheaper alternatives (€15-20 return).

Time Needed: 5-7 hours allows castle tour, cathedral visit, and lunch. Full day provides time for craft workshop visits and more leisurely exploration.

Bonus: Kilkenny’s numerous excellent pubs and restaurants make it appealing for later returns. The city has strong craft beer scene including Kilkenny Irish Beer by Smithwicks.

Belfast and Northern Ireland

While technically outside the Republic of Ireland, Belfast and Northern Ireland attractions make excellent day trips from Dublin. The troubled history, recent peace process, and distinct cultural atmosphere provide fascinating contrast to the Republic.

Belfast’s Titanic Quarter and museum tell the story of the ill-fated ocean liner built in Belfast shipyards. The museum’s multimedia exhibits and replica rooms create immersive experience. The city’s murals, particularly in Catholic and Protestant neighborhoods, provide powerful visual history of the Troubles. Black taxi tours led by locals who lived through the conflict offer personal perspectives on Belfast’s history.

The Giant’s Causeway, while technically possible as day trip from Dublin, involves considerable driving (5+ hours return). Consider staying overnight in Belfast or Northern Ireland to experience the Causeway, Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge, and North Antrim coast properly.

Getting There: Bus Éireann and Translink operate frequent Dublin-Belfast buses (2-2.5 hours, €15-25 return). Enterprise trains provide comfortable alternative (2-2.5 hours, €25-35 return). Driving via M1/A1 takes similar time.

Time Needed: Minimum 8-10 hours for meaningful Belfast visit. Earlier departures and later returns maximize time. Consider this a long day trip.

Border Note: While crossing from Ireland to Northern Ireland involves no border checks, different currencies (euro vs. pound sterling), mobile networks, and driving regulations apply. Bring sterling or cards for purchases in Northern Ireland.

Day Trips from Cork

Blarney and Blarney Castle

Blarney Castle, just 8km from Cork city, draws visitors worldwide to kiss the famous Blarney Stone and gain the “gift of the gab.” Beyond the tourist ritual, the medieval castle and extensive gardens merit visits.

The castle itself, while partially ruined, remains impressive with towers you can climb and rooms to explore. Kissing the Blarney Stone requires lying on your back and leaning backward over a drop (with safety measures), creating memorable photos and stories. The surrounding Blarney Castle Gardens include poison garden, fern garden, rock close with ancient rock formations, and woodland walks.

Blarney village offers craft shops, woolen mills, and traditional Irish goods. The Blarney Woollen Mills represents Ireland’s largest craft shop with extensive clothing, crystal, and souvenir selections.

Getting There: Bus Éireann operates frequent buses from Cork city (20 minutes, €7-10 return). Driving takes 15 minutes via N20. Numerous Cork tour companies include Blarney in half-day tours.

Time Needed: 2-3 hours for castle and basic garden walk, 4-5 hours for extensive garden exploration and village shopping.

Cobh and Spike Island

Cobh (pronounced “Cove”), a colorful harbor town 25km from Cork, served as the Titanic’s last port of call before its tragic maiden voyage. The town’s deep harbor made it Ireland’s primary emigration port, with millions departing for America during the Famine and beyond.

The Titanic Experience Cobh museum occupies the original White Star Line ticket office where Titanic passengers processed before boarding. Exhibits explore the ship’s Cork connection and the experiences of Irish passengers. Cobh Heritage Centre documents Irish emigration history, providing context for millions of Irish diaspora worldwide.

Spike Island, accessible via ferry from Cobh, functioned as monastery, fortress, and prison over centuries. The restored island includes prison cells, fortifications, and exhibitions about its varied history. Guided tours illuminate the island’s role in Irish history from Viking times through Irish independence.

Cobh’s steep streets and colorful houses create photogenic scenes. St. Colman’s Cathedral, dominating the town’s skyline, offers tours and spectacular harbor views from its elevated position.

Getting There: Trains from Cork Kent Station reach Cobh in 25 minutes (€7-10 return). Buses provide alternatives. Driving via N25 and R624 takes similar time.

Time Needed: 4-6 hours allows Titanic Experience, cathedral visit, and possibly Spike Island (check ferry schedules). Full day needed for comprehensive exploration including Spike Island tour.

Kinsale

Kinsale, approximately 25km south of Cork, represents Ireland’s gourmet capital with exceptional restaurants, charming streets, and significant history. This colorful seaside town combines food culture, maritime heritage, and artistic atmosphere.

The town’s narrow streets climb hillsides above the harbor, with brightly painted buildings housing restaurants, galleries, and craft shops. Charles Fort, a 17th-century star-shaped fortress overlooking Kinsale harbor, offers tours and dramatic coastal views. The fort played roles in various conflicts including the Williamite War and Irish War of Independence.

Kinsale’s restaurant scene punches well above its small-town weight. Fishy Fishy, Bastion, and numerous other establishments emphasize fresh local ingredients, particularly seafood. Wine bars and gastropubs complement fine dining options. The Kinsale Food Festival (October) celebrates the town’s culinary excellence.

Beyond food and history, Kinsale provides coastal walks, sailing opportunities, and access to Old Head of Kinsale with its dramatic cliff scenery and golf course.

Getting There: Bus Éireann operates frequent Cork-Kinsale buses (45 minutes, €10-15 return). Driving via N71 takes 35-45 minutes depending on Cork traffic.

Time Needed: 4-6 hours for Charles Fort, town exploration, and lunch. Food enthusiasts could happily spend full day sampling restaurants and exploring food shops.

West Cork and Bantry

West Cork’s rugged coastline, artistic communities, and slower pace provide excellent day trip contrasts to Cork city. While West Cork deserves multiple days, focused day trips can sample its appeal.

Bantry, approximately 90km from Cork, sits at the head of Bantry Bay with Bantry House and Gardens as its premier attraction. This stately home contains impressive art collections and antiques gathered by the Earls of Bantry. The Italianate gardens descend in terraces toward the bay, offering spectacular views.

En route to Bantry, stop at colorful villages including Skibbereen and Clonakilty. The latter, famous for its black pudding, offers attractive streetscapes and good pubs. Time permitting, detour to Mizen Head, Ireland’s most southwesterly point, where a suspension bridge leads to a signal station visitor center with dramatic cliff views.

Getting There: Drive via N71 (1.5-2 hours to Bantry). Public transport to Bantry exists but limits flexibility for exploring West Cork’s scattered attractions.

Time Needed: Full day (8-10 hours) needed to reach Bantry and explore meaningfully. Consider this a long day trip or overnight excursion.

Ring of Kerry (partial)

The famous Ring of Kerry circuit typically requires full day or overnight trips, but Cork residents can sample portions as day trips. Kenmare, the southern Ring of Kerry town, makes an achievable Cork day trip combining mountain and coastal scenery.

The drive from Cork to Kenmare (approximately 1.5 hours) passes through scenic countryside. Kenmare itself offers attractive streetscapes, quality restaurants, and access to nearby attractions including Kenmare Bay and Moll’s Gap. From Kenmare, brave souls can continue toward Killarney via Moll’s Gap and Ladies View, experiencing spectacular mountain and lake scenery before returning to Cork via different route.

Getting There: Drive via N22 and N71 (1.5 hours to Kenmare). No practical public transport for day trip purposes.

Time Needed: Full day (8-10 hours) for Kenmare visit with Ring of Kerry sampling. Serious Ring of Kerry exploration requires overnight stay or starting from closer bases.

Day Trips from Galway

Cliffs of Moher

The Cliffs of Moher represent Ireland’s most visited natural attraction, drawing over 1.5 million annual visitors to dramatic cliff scenery stretching 14km along the Atlantic coast. The cliffs rise up to 214 meters above the ocean, offering spectacular views and raw natural power.

The visitor center, built underground to minimize landscape impact, provides exhibitions about the cliffs’ geology, wildlife, and history. Paved walking paths extend along the cliff edge with viewing platforms positioned for optimal photography. On clear days, views extend to the Aran Islands, Galway Bay, and Twelve Bens mountain range.

Visit early or late to avoid peak crowds that pack the site mid-day during summer. Spring and autumn offer better chances of quiet experiences, though weather becomes more unpredictable. The cliffs’ exposed location means fierce winds are common—bring windproof jackets regardless of season.

Getting There: Drive via N18 and coastal roads (1.5 hours). Bus Éireann operates direct Galway-Cliffs services (€15-20 return, roughly 2 hours with stops). Numerous tour companies offer day trips, often combining Cliffs with other attractions.

Time Needed: 2-3 hours at the cliffs allows walking, visitor center, and photography. Half-day trip including travel time. Often combined with Burren or Doolin visits.

The Burren and Poulnabrone Dolmen

The Burren, a unique karst limestone landscape covering parts of north Clare, creates otherworldly scenery unlike anything else in Ireland. The name derives from Irish “Boíreann” meaning “great rock,” accurately describing the bare limestone pavement dominating the landscape.

Despite apparent barrenness, the Burren supports rare Arctic and Mediterranean plant species thriving in crevices between limestone slabs. The unusual geology creates interesting cave systems, seasonal lakes (turloughs), and distinctive flora and fauna. Spring brings wild orchids and gentians, creating colorful contrast to gray stone.

Poulnabrone Dolmen, the Burren’s iconic portal tomb, dates to approximately 3,000 BC. The massive dolmen sits exposed on limestone pavement, creating dramatic photos particularly during dawn or dusk. The site is free to visit, though parking requires brief walks.

The Burren Centre in Kilfenora provides context about the region’s geology, archaeology, and ecology. Numerous stone forts, churches, and prehistoric monuments dot the landscape, many freely accessible. Hiking trails including the Green Road offer opportunities to explore the limestone landscape on foot.

Getting There: Drive via N18 and R476 (45 minutes to Poulnabrone). Combining with Cliffs of Moher creates efficient day trip. Tour companies offer Burren-focused trips or combine it with Cliffs visits.

Time Needed: 3-4 hours allows Poulnabrone, Burren Centre, and some exploration. Full day if combined with Cliffs of Moher and coastal villages.

Connemara

Connemara represents Ireland’s rugged west at its most dramatic. Mountains, bogs, lakes, and coastline combine in landscapes that epitomize romantic Ireland imagery. While comprehensive Connemara exploration requires multiple days, focused day trips can sample key attractions.

Kylemore Abbey, Connemara’s premier attraction, occupies a spectacular lakeside setting beneath mountains. The 19th-century building, now operated by Benedictine nuns, offers tours of restored rooms and Victorian walled gardens. The abbey’s reflection in Pollacappul Lough creates one of Ireland’s most photographed scenes.

The route from Galway to Kylemore via Clifden traverses classic Connemara landscape. Stop at viewpoints, explore bogs, and absorb the wild beauty. Connemara National Park near Letterfrack offers hiking trails through bog and mountain landscape. The park’s Diamond Hill walk (7km, moderate difficulty) rewards effort with panoramic Connemara views.

Detours to Sky Road near Clifden provide stunning coastal scenery. This circular route loops around peninsula with Atlantic views and traditional stone walls. Time permitting, explore Clifden town with its restaurants, shops, and working harbor atmosphere.

Getting There: Drive via N59 (1-1.5 hours to Clifden, additional 30 minutes to Kylemore). Bus Éireann operates limited service but driving provides essential flexibility.

Time Needed: Full day (8-10 hours) for meaningful Connemara exploration. Early starts and late returns maximize time. Consider overnight stays for deeper Connemara exploration.

Aran Islands

The three Aran Islands—Inis Mór (largest), Inis Meáin, and Inis Oír (smallest)—preserve traditional Irish language and culture in dramatic Atlantic settings. Stone walls divide tiny fields, prehistoric forts crown clifftops, and Irish remains the daily language.

Inis Mór, most visited of the three, makes the best day trip. Ferries from Rossaveal (30km from Galway) or Doolin reach Inis Mór in 40 minutes. Alternatively, small planes fly from Inverin in just 8 minutes, offering spectacular aerial views.

On Inis Mór, rent bicycles or take minibus tours to explore the island. Dún Aonghasa, a prehistoric stone fort perched on 100-meter cliffs, represents the island’s highlight. The semicircular fort has no seaward wall—just sheer drops to crashing waves below. Other attractions include smaller stone forts, early Christian churches, and traditional thatched cottages.

The island’s main village, Kilronan, offers restaurants, craft shops, and basic services. Sweater shops sell traditional Aran wool sweaters, though prices are higher than mainland. Irish language signage and overheard conversations emphasize the islands’ Gaeltacht (Irish-speaking) status.

Getting There: Ferries from Rossaveal port (bus connects from Galway) or Doolin. Aran Islands Ferries and Doolin Ferry Company operate services (€25-35 return). Aer Arann Islands operates flights from Connemara Airport (approximately €45-60 return).

Time Needed: Full day needed. Ferries typically allow 4-5 hours on island—sufficient for highlights but rushed for comprehensive exploration. Flights, while more expensive, save 1-2 hours of ferry time.

Killary Fjord and Leenane

Killary Harbour, Ireland’s only fjord, cuts 16km inland between Connemara’s mountains. The dramatic inlet creates Norwegian-like scenery with mountains rising steeply from dark waters. Leenane village sits at the fjord’s head, surrounded by mountains including Mweelrea, Connacht’s highest peak.

Killary Fjord boat tours operate from Nancy’s Point near Leenane, offering 1.5-hour cruises along the fjord with mountain and coastal views. Commentary covers local history, mussel farming visible in the fjord, and the area’s role in film locations including “The Field.”

The area offers excellent hiking for energetic visitors. The Western Way walking trail passes through the area, offering options from easy valley walks to challenging mountain ascents. The Killary Adventure Centre provides outdoor activities including kayaking, rock climbing, and zip-lining.

From Leenane, roads climb through dramatic mountain passes. The route to Louisburgh via Doolough Valley passes one of Ireland’s most spectacular drives—a narrow valley flanked by steep mountains with dark lake waters below. Stop frequently for photos and to absorb the dramatic landscape.

Getting There: Drive via N59 (1.5 hours to Leenane). No practical public transport for day trips. Often combined with Kylemore Abbey visits as both lie along N59.

Time Needed: 4-6 hours allows fjord cruise and drive through the area. Full day if combined with hiking or Kylemore Abbey visit.

Practical Day Trip Planning

Transportation Considerations

Driving: Provides maximum flexibility for day trips, particularly to areas with limited public transport. However, Irish roads can be challenging with narrow lanes, sharp bends, and sometimes inadequate signage. Country roads often lack center lines and squeeze two-way traffic onto single-lane width.

Allow more time than GPS estimates, particularly on small roads. Irish drivers navigate narrow roads confidently, but this takes experience. Don’t feel pressured by faster drivers behind you—pull over safely to let them pass.

Car rental requires full driving license held for at least two years. Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 25 (some accept 23 with young driver surcharge). Insurance coverage varies—understand what your rental agreement includes.

Public Transport: Buses and trains serve major destinations but limit flexibility. Services may be infrequent, particularly on weekends or outside summer season. Check current schedules on Bus Éireann and Irish Rail websites before planning trips dependent on public transport.

Organized Tours: Eliminate transportation logistics and often provide expert commentary. However, tours follow fixed itineraries with limited flexibility. Popular tours book weeks in advance during summer. Prices typically range €25-70 per person depending on destination and inclusions.

Weather and Seasonal Planning

Irish weather impacts day trips significantly. Rain can occur any day of the year, with Atlantic exposure making western destinations particularly vulnerable. Check forecasts but prepare for changes—Irish weather’s unpredictability is legendary.

Summer (May-September) offers longest days and warmest temperatures, making it prime day trip season. However, summer also brings crowds to popular sites and higher prices. Booking accommodations and tours well in advance becomes essential.

Shoulder seasons (April-May and September-October) balance decent weather, smaller crowds, and lower prices. Spring wildflowers and autumn colors enhance landscape beauty. However, weather becomes more variable and some attractions may have reduced hours.

Winter (November-March) offers cheapest prices and smallest crowds but also shortest days, coldest temperatures, and worst weather. Some attractions close or operate reduced schedules. However, winter light can create spectacular photographic conditions, and you’ll often have sites nearly to yourself.

Budgeting for Day Trips

Day trip costs vary dramatically based on transportation method, destinations, and activities. Typical expenses include:

Transportation: €15-40 for public transport day trips, €30-60 for car rental and fuel, €25-70 for organized tours.

Admission Fees: Most natural attractions (Cliffs of Moher, Burren landscape) charge €6-10 or are free. Heritage sites typically cost €8-15. Combination tickets sometimes offer better value.

Food: Budget €10-15 for lunch, more for dinner. Pack snacks and water to reduce costs. Small towns may have limited restaurant options.

Extras: Parking (€2-5), ferry crossings (€25-50), activity bookings (varies widely).

Total day trip costs typically range €30-100 per person before food, more for expensive activities or distant destinations.

Packing Essentials

Regardless of season or weather forecast, bring:

• Waterproof jacket (essential, not optional)
• Layers—Irish weather changes rapidly
• Comfortable walking shoes (many sites involve uneven ground)
• Sun protection (UV intensity surprises people even on cloudy days)
• Snacks and water
• Fully charged phone
• Camera
• Cash (small towns may have limited card acceptance)

For coastal trips, expect wind. For mountain areas, prepare for temperature drops with elevation. For isolated areas, ensure adequate fuel—petrol stations can be sparse.

Maximizing Limited Time

Day trips involve trade-offs between travel time and destination time. Some strategies help maximize experiences:

Start Early: Leaving Galway at 8 AM provides two more usable hours than departing at 10 AM. Early starts also mean smaller crowds at popular sites.

Combine Destinations: Cliffs of Moher and the Burren sit close together. Glendalough and Wicklow mountains form natural combinations. Planning efficient routes maximizes what you see.

Prioritize Ruthlessly: Trying to see everything results in seeing nothing properly. Choose 2-3 highlights per trip and explore them thoroughly rather than racing through endless destinations.

Check Opening Hours: Heritage sites often close at 5-6 PM. Knowing closing times helps plan arrival times to avoid disappointment.

Be Realistic: An attraction listed as “1.5 hours from Galway” takes 2+ hours when accounting for navigation, stops, and Irish road realities. Buffer time prevents stress and allows flexibility for discoveries along the way.

Moving Forward

Ireland’s compact size makes day trips remarkably accessible from major cities. The landscapes, history, and culture packed into small areas mean you can experience dramatic coastal cliffs, ancient monasteries, medieval castles, and vibrant towns without requiring overnight stays or extensive vacation time.

However, day trips represent appetizers rather than full meals. Many destinations deserve longer visits, and rushing through attractions to check them off lists diminishes their impact. Use day trips to discover places you want to return to, then plan longer stays to explore properly.

Balance popular destinations with less-visited gems. The Cliffs of Moher deserve their fame, but quieter locations offer equally rewarding experiences without crowds. Ask locals for recommendations, explore beyond guidebook suggestions, and remain open to unexpected discoveries.

Day trips also provide breaks from urban living without requiring major planning or expense. Weekend drives through countryside, spontaneous coastal visits, or afternoon castle explorations add variety to Irish life and help you appreciate the incredible diversity packed into this small island.

Remember that exploring Ireland doesn’t require extensive itineraries or perfect planning. Some of the best experiences come from spontaneous detours, unexpected conversations with locals, or simply pulling over to absorb beautiful views. Embrace flexibility, remain curious, and let Ireland’s landscapes, history, and people reveal themselves gradually through repeated exploration.

For more information on exploring Ireland’s broader geography and attractions, see our guide on Irish Holidays and Traditions and Building a Social Life and Making Friends.