Ireland, the Emerald Isle, captivates visitors with its dramatic coastlines, ancient castles, vibrant cities, and legendary hospitality. From the rugged Cliffs of Moher to the lively pubs of Dublin, Ireland offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, rich history, and Celtic culture that enchants travelers year-round.
Top day trips
Handpicked excursions within easy reach.
Cliffs of Moher and the Burren
Highlights: Cliffs rising 214 metres above the Atlantic - one of Ireland's most iconic natural sights · O'Brien's Tower at the highest point with panoramic Aran Islands views · The Burren's alien limestone karst landscape with rare Arctic-Alpine wildflowers · Doolin village with excellent traditional music pubs
Kilkenny City
Highlights: Kilkenny Castle - 12th-century Norman fortress with beautifully restored state rooms · The Medieval Mile Museum in the 13th-century St. Mary's Church · Smithwick's Experience - Ireland's oldest operating brewery · Medieval lanes, artisan craft shops, and excellent restaurants
Glendalough and Wicklow Mountains National Park
Highlights: 6th-century monastic settlement founded by St. Kevin in a glacial valley · Two mountain lakes surrounded by ancient oak woodland · Round tower and ruined medieval churches · Multiple waymarked trails from 30-minute strolls to 5-hour mountain hikes
Newgrange and Boyne Valley
Highlights: Newgrange passage tomb - older than Stonehenge and the Egyptian Pyramids (3200 BC) · Knowth and Dowth megalithic tombs nearby · Winter solstice chamber illumination (lottery entry required) · Hill of Tara - ancient seat of Irish High Kings
Galway City
Highlights: Latin Quarter cobbled streets with traditional music pubs and seafood restaurants · Galway Market on Saturdays with local produce and crafts · Spanish Arch and the medieval city walls · Gateway to Connemara's dramatic bog and mountain scenery
Trips by distance
How far you can go in a day.
Getting there
Transport options for day trips.
- Tours
- Organised day tours from Dublin to Cliffs of Moher €50-70, Newgrange €45-65, Giant's Causeway €55-75; book through Dublin Tourism or Paddywagon Tours
- Private
- Car hire from €35-60/day gives maximum flexibility; essential for Ring of Kerry, Connemara, and Wild Atlantic Way sections
- Public
- Irish Rail and Bus Éireann serve major cities (Kilkenny, Galway, Cork, Waterford) with multiple departures daily; less frequent to smaller destinations
- Rental
- Car rental from €35/day (economy manual) from Hertz, Enterprise, or Sixt at Dublin Airport; automatic transmission costs extra but recommended for narrow rural roads
Day trip tips
Make the most of your excursions.
Start early — the Cliffs of Moher and Glendalough are vastly more enjoyable before 10AM when coach tours arrive
Book Irish Rail tickets in advance online for savings of up to 50% on intercity routes
A car is essential for properly exploring the Ring of Kerry, Connemara, and Wild Atlantic Way scenic routes