While Dublin’s museums, beautiful Georgian doorways, and craft beer scene could certainly fill an entire trip, we can think of some good reasons to venture beyond Ireland’s capital city. There are many great getaways from Dublin close by. Glistening lakes, rugged filming locations, and scenic coastal drives are just a few reasons to get out of town.
Luckily, most of the country’s charms are just a car, train, bus or taxi ride from the city center.
Here are some of the best weekend trips from Dublin.
Galway
Just 90-minutes from the Cliffs of Moher is Galway, a Western harbor city. Of all the cities in Ireland, Galway is said to have the best live music, so get ready to hit Quay Street and visit Tigh Neachtain, a popular go-to venue. Operating for over 120 years, live music, beer on tap and a warm fire are always on at this historic pub.
Galway is incredibly charming and extremely walkable, so you can put your legs to work, grab a map at your hotel and take a self-guided tour of top city sights including the Galway Cathedral, Latin quarter, Spanish Arch, and Galway Bay. If you are looking to purchase Irish jewelry, Galway is the place to do it as this is the birthplace of the traditional Claddagh ring, representing love, loyalty, and friendship. Galway is also known for its silver and you’ll find a great collection of jewelry featuring Celtic designs at the shops along Quay Street.
- Best Time to Go: May or June for the best chance at sunshine
- How to Get There: Irish Rail or taxi service
Howth
Just 40 minutes outside of Dublin, Howth is a world away from the capital city’s hustle and bustle. This small fishing village is a hiker’s dream with the picturesque trails of Howth Head walk that overlook the glassy sea. Popular attractions here include Howth Castle, Howth Market, St. Mary’s Abbey and two lighthouses — Howth and Bailey. Seafood lovers won’t want to leave without stopping in at one of the local restaurants for the fresh catch of the day.
- Best Time To Go: Howth is great at any time of year – just pack layers and dress for the weather
- How to Get There: DART from Dublin’s city center or taxi ride
Blarney Castle and Limerick
Timeless Blarney Castle is the sight of one of Ireland’s most well-known tourist attractions – the Blarney Stone. Set atop the castle, visitors can bend over backward to give this special slab of stone a kiss. Legend has it that if you kiss this stone you’ll gain the gift of gab. Even if kissing a stone isn’t your thing, the castle is still worth visiting for its beauty and well-maintained architecture. On the grounds of the castle, you can also visit druid stones and learn more about pre-Christian Celtic culture with exhibits and ruins.
After visiting Blarney Castle, use the city of Cork as your overnight base. Referred to by locals as the “real capital of Ireland,” Cork is full of traditional Irish charm with quaint pubs and a lively nightlife scene.
- Best Time to Go: Time of year is not as important as arrival time. Be sure to arrive early for shorter lines
- How to Get There: Rent a car for easier access and freedom
Belfast
The capital of Northern Ireland since 1921, Belfast has achieved fame for being the site of construction of the Titanic, and of violent sectarian conflicts between Protestants and Catholics. But there is so much more to Belfast than many realize. With incredible architecture, enthralling history and sites like the serene Victorian Botanic Gardens, this city has emerged from its darker periods as a beacon of hope and a rapidly developing metropolis, with venues like the relatively new stylish Bullitt Hotel near the river accommodating a corresponding influx of new visitors.
If you’re interested in getting to know more about the city’s deep and turbulent history, a Black Taxi Tour is a great place to start.
- Best Time to Go: Time of year is not as important as arrival time. Be sure to arrive early for shorter lines
- How to Get There: Rent a car for easier access and freedom
The Best Weekend Getaways From Dublin Whatever your interests are, there are plenty of choices for great day trips from Dublin that will allow you to get out of the capital and explore the countryside.
This was a sponsored post. All opinions are my own.
