Suggestions for excursions to Dublin's surroundings

Visit coastal villages, archaeological sites, parks and gardens around the famous city of Dublin

Dublin is ideal for city breaks as well as starting point for a trip on the road to the rest of Ireland, all the way to the West Coast, Kerry Peninsula, Cliffs of Mohair, Galway, Connemara, Donegal and more!

If you only have a couple of days off and don't have time to rent a car, Dublin's surroundings are a great getaway for day trips and excursions. Get on the Dart, the local train connecting Dublin to the coastal villages or a local Bus Éireann to have a glimpse of Irelands' natural scenery.

Coastal villages

The coastline from Malahide to Bray is dotted by small and picturesque must-visit villages. Pencil Malahide into your itinerary, 16 Km North of Dublin and easily accessible by train (visit the castle and the park or take a stroll along the beach) and Howth, an old fishing village on Howth Head.

When in Howth, check out the trekking path (you don't need any special gear and they are totally child-friendly) taking to the Baily Lighthouse and Ireland’s Eye, a small inhabited island visible from the coast.

If you decide to visit the coast south of Dublin, stop in Dalkey and ask the locals how to get to Coliemore Harbour, a picturesque small harbour where you can spot dolphins and seals at times. There is a nice trekking path between Dalkey a Killiney, another fishing village on the coast, reach the Obelisk on Killiney Hill and, weather permitting, you might be able to enjoy a great view all the way to Dublin.

Dún Laoghaire is instead recommended for seafood lovers: fishmonger sell the catch of the day directly in their shops on the pier and it's ideal for trying the famous and traditional “fish and chips”.

There is also the village of Bray, always reachable by the Dart: head up on Bray Head for more great views of the bay or relax with a stroll along the Victorian promenade on the beach.

Archaeological sites

Do you like history and archaeology? Explore Tara Hill with its Coronation Stone of Tara, an archaeological complex in County Meath that according to tradition was the seat of the High King of Ireland, and Newgrange, a complex of Megalithic sites dating back to the Neolithic period. Visit it during the winter solstice (December 21s) when even their inside is lightened up.

Gardens and parks

Wicklow is also called the Garden of Ireland: indeed, the best gardens of all Ireland are to be found right here. The lovely country mansion of Powercourts Estate, in particular, is surrounded by endless gardens (one is Japanese and one Italian), lakes, caves, waterfalls and fountains. You can easily get here by bus from Dublin.

If you're keen about mountains, not far from Dublin is Wicklow National Park, where there are heaps of paths you can hike on. If you have all the necessary equipment we recommend the Wicklow Way; if you're looking for something more relaxing, visit Glendalough with its monastic settlement and park.

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