Best Day Trips from Dublin By Car

Dublin is one of the most-visited cities in Europe – it’s historic, fun, and has such a friendly vibe. I live in nearby Cork and have visited Dublin countless times. Dublin is awesome – but I understand sometimes you just need to get away from the hustle and bustle and take a breather! Yes, sometimes, the call of the countryside or the allure of a quaint town is too strong to resist.

Which is why I’ve come up with this list of some cool places to escape to, close to the city. And we’ve personally experienced all of them. All of the places listed here are under a 2-hour drive from the city, so they are easily reachable for a day trip from Dublin.

Yep, Dublin is the perfect launching pad for some incredible day trips by car – let’s read about them below.

8 Best Day Trips from Dublin

1. Wicklow Mountains National Park

• Driving Time: 1 hour

First stop: the stunning Wicklow Mountains National Park, also known as the “Garden of Ireland.” Just an hour south of Dublin, this vast expanse of wild beauty is perfect for a day of exploration. Start your adventure at Glendalough, a glacial valley renowned for its monastic ruins (called St Kevin’s) and serene lakes. We suggest hiking along the Spinc trail that offers breathtaking views or walking around the lower lakes. Don’t forget to stop by the picturesque Sally Gap for some epic photo ops!

With its rolling hills, cascading waterfalls, and ancient monastic sites, it’s a place where you can feel the whispers of history mingling with the whispers of the wind. It is, in fact, the largest of Ireland’s National Parks.

2. Howth

• Driving Time: 30 minutes

For a half-day escape, head to Howth, a charming fishing village just a short 30-minute drive from the city center. This is your go-to spot for coastal walks and fresh seafood. The Howth Cliff Path Loop offers stunning sea views and a chance to spot seals basking in the sun. After working up an appetite, treat yourself to a feast of fish and chips or indulge in some local oysters at one of the many seafood restaurants. Wrap up your visit with a wander around the quaint harbor and maybe even a scoop of creamy Irish ice cream.

3. Newgrange and the Boyne Valley

• Driving Time: 1 hour

Step back in time with a visit to Newgrange, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and marvel at this prehistoric passage tomb that predates Stonehenge and the Great Pyramids. Situated in the Boyne Valley, about an hour’s drive from Dublin, this mystical site offers guided tours that reveal the secrets of its ancient builders.

Located in County Meath, it is over 5,000 years old – making it older than Stonehenge and the Great Pyramids of Giza. Every year, during the winter solstice (December 21st), the rising sun illuminates the inner chamber of the tomb through a carefully aligned roof box above the entrance. Or on the longest day of the year – aka the summer solstice- the monument also offers a captivating experience, albeit without the same astronomical precision.

While you’re in the area, explore the Hill of Tara, the ancient seat of the High Kings of Ireland, and soak in the wow-worthy views of the lush Irish countryside.

4. Kilkenny

• Driving Time: 1.5 hours

Make your way to Kilkenny, a medieval gem that’s about 90 minutes from Dublin.

Kilkenny City, often referred to as the “Marble City,” is renowned for its medieval architecture and vibrant arts scene.

My first stop in this charming city would be the Medieval Mile, a mile-long route that stretches through the heart of the city. It links most of Kilkenny’s iconic landmarks, like the majestic Kilkenny Castle and the stunning St. Canice’s Cathedral. And as you stroll along, you will pass by medieval buildings, narrow alleyways, and charming cobblestone streets that transport you back in time.

Later, take a short stroll to the iconic Kilkenny Castle. This majestic structure, dating back to 1195, is a testament to the city’s rich history. You can wander the inside on your own (like we did) or join a guided tour to learn more about the history of the castle and the Butler family, who resided there for centuries. All the rooms are beautifully restored, and the artwork and furniture are phenomenal. We spent around an hour here and a further hour wandering through the castle gardens.

Entry to the castle cost us around 8 euros per adult (it’s more if you want to book a guided tour).

And if you’re visiting with kids, I highly recommend making the 5-minute drive out to Jurassic Newpark – a Jurassic-Park-themed park that’s so much fun! We were surprised by how much there is to do here. Our daughters loved seeing the life-size moving dinosaurs, bouncing around in Jurassic Bounce, and the flying Pterosaurus ride. There are also two playgrounds here and a mini petting zoo.

5. Powerscourt Estate and Gardens

• Driving Time: 50 minutes

A mere 50-minute drive will bring you to the elegant Powerscourt Estate and Gardens in County Wicklow. This stately home is surrounded by some of the most beautifully manicured gardens you’ll ever see, complete with Italian and Japanese influences.

After exploring the gardens, take a short drive to the nearby Powerscourt Waterfall, Ireland’s highest, where the sound of cascading water provides the perfect backdrop for a picnic. End your visit with a delightful afternoon tea at Avoca Café, located within the estate.

6. Belfast

• Driving Time: 2 hours to Belfast

Ready for a bit of a longer drive? Set your sights on Belfast, Northern Ireland’s vibrant capital, just two hours away. Discover the city’s rich history with a visit to the Titanic Belfast museum, or join a Black Cab tour to delve into Belfast’s complex past.

I’d start off at the Titanic Belfast Museum. This museum tells the story of the Titanic and Belfast’s shipbuilding past. And you’ll get some interesting insights into the city’s history here.

After that, I’d wander over to the Cathedral Quarter. This lively spot is packed with charming cobblestone streets and awesome street art. It’s full of pubs, cafés, and little shops. Finally, I’d walk past the historic Belfast City Hall. The building itself is a stunner, and from late November to the end of December there’s a lovely, large Christmas Market that’s held out in front of it.

If time allows, continue your journey to the Giant’s Causeway, about another hour’s drive from Belfast. This natural wonder, with its unique basalt columns, never fails to impress. It’s a long day, but the beauty and intrigue make it truly worthwhile.

7. Malahide Castle and Gardens

• Driving Time: 30 minutes

For a quick getaway, Malahide Castle is only a half-hour away from Dublin. This 12th-century castle is steeped in history and surrounded by 260 acres of parkland. Take a guided tour to learn about the Talbot family who lived there for over 800 years, and don’t miss the Fairy Trail, perfect for families with young explorers. The nearby village of Malahide offers charming shops and cafes, ideal for a relaxed afternoon.

8. Carlingford and the Cooley Peninsula

• Driving Time: 1.5 hours

Finally, head north to Carlingford, a medieval town nestled in the Cooley Peninsula. Just 90 minutes from Dublin, it’s a place where legends and natural beauty collide. Wander through the town’s narrow streets, explore King John’s Castle, and enjoy the stunning views of Carlingford Lough. Outdoor enthusiasts can try their hand at kayaking or hiking in the nearby mountains. Afterward, refuel with some local mussels and a pint at a cozy pub.

Renting a Car in Ireland

When it comes to driving in Ireland, choose a vehicle that suits your travel needs. If you’re planning to explore rural areas or rugged landscapes, consider renting a compact or four-wheel-drive vehicle, which will handle narrow, winding roads more efficiently. Be sure to book your rental car well in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to secure the best rates and availability.

The cost of renting a car in Ireland can be expensive. However, there are some ways you can save money. We tend to always book our rental car through Discover Cars. This is a search engine for rental cars and allows you to filter by price if you’re on a budget or by vehicle type if there’s a specific car you’re after.

• Generally speaking, you can expect to pay around €300 per week for a manual (stick shift) economy car; this will rise to around €350 during the peak months of June, July and August.
• Try to rent your vehicle from major cities such as Dublin, Cork, Galway, Belfast, and Limerick. That’s because car hire companies in smaller cities tend to have fewer and more expensive options.
• Book as small a car as you can manage!
• We highly recommend selecting fully comprehensive car insurance. The roads and car parking spaces in Ireland are narrow, so it will quell your fears of getting a bump or scratch. Check if your credit card insurance covers this (some do!)

Renting a Campervan in Ireland

Exploring Ireland by campervan is an adventure that offers an intimate glimpse into the island’s breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. Renting a campervan allows you the freedom to explore at your own pace, uncovering hidden gems far from the usual tourist trails.

Renting a campervan in Ireland is relatively straightforward, with numerous rental companies offering a range of motorhomes tailored to different needs and budgets. So, no matter if you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a family, there’s a perfect campervan for you.

Options range from compact vans ideal for navigating narrow country roads to larger motorhomes with ample space. It’s crucial to consider factors like vehicle size, driving experience, and the level of comfort you desire before making your booking.

You will likely need to pick up your campervan in major cities like Dublin, Cork, or Belfast, or at the larger airports like Dublin Airport and Belfast Airport.

I will also add that campervan rentals tend to sell out quickly during the busy summer season (from June through to September).

🚙 Where to rent a campervan in Ireland

• West Coast Campervans – pick-up locations at Dublin Airport and Newry, Northern Ireland
• Motorhome Republic – a comparison and booking site for campervans
• Craic n Campers – pick-up locations in Roscommon and Greystones, Wicklow
• Bunk Campers – pick-up locations in Dublin and Belfast
• Indie Campers – pick up from Dublin
• Retro Camper Hire – pick up from Dublin
• South Coast Motorhome Hire – pick up from Bandon, Cork

Some or most companies can meet you at a different location for an extra fee, but make sure to ask them about this in advance.

Slainte!

There you have it – the perfect lineup for the best day trips from Dublin that are a hop, skip, and a jump away from the city. Whether you’re craving history, nature, or a slice of Irish culture, these destinations offer an unforgettable escape.

While you’re here, you may also like to read –

Things Not to Do in Ireland (My Advice to You as a Local)

Best Souvenirs & Things to Buy in Ireland

15 of the Prettiest Towns and Villages in Ireland

Best Time to Visit Ireland (Comparing all the seasons)