Day Trips From Dublin

Katie Camille

If you're staying in Dublin, these day trips were my favorite way to explore Ireland while keeping Dublin as our home base. We booked through Paddywagon Tours, but if you feel comfortable driving on the left side of the road then you can easily rent a car and drive it yourself! Looking back, I wish we drove it ourselves but we were on a time crunch so we couldn't afford to get lost. You'll be back just in time to grab a pint of Guinness from a local pub.

Carrick-A-Rede Rope Bridge, Giant's Causeway, The Dark Hedges, Cliffs of Moher, Glendalough, Wicklow Mountains

  • Carrick-A-Rede Rope Bridge, United Kingdom

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    • katie

      Break a quick sweat and make your way from the visitor's center up to the rope bridge! Be warned: it will close down if it's too windy that day and they're currently only allowing a few people across at a time due to COVID-19. Regardless, it's worth heading there for the views. Seriously, they're amazing.

  • Giant's Causeway, United Kingdom

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    • katie

      If you're visiting Ireland, definitely add Giant's Causeway to your must-see list. While there's folklore surrounding the story of the creation, it's hard to believe that it isn't man made.

  • The Dark Hedges, United Kingdom

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    • katie

      Hey Game of Thrones fans! You'll recognize The Dark Hedges as The King's Road (featured in season 2, episode 1). While this technically is in the UK, you can head here on your way to Giant's Causeway!

  • Cliffs of Moher in Ireland, Ireland

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    • katie

      While this isn't a quick drive (think 3-4 hours of driving), it's definitely able to be done in just one day from Dublin. Get on the road around 7am and you should be there with plenty of time to explore! Stop in Galway for lunch on your way for some fish and chips or Irish stew, and of course, a pint of Guinness.

  • Glendalough in Ireland, Ireland

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    • katie

      Located in the Wicklow Mountains, Glendalough is every photographer's dream. With marked walking trails, you can spend the rest of the day passing by ancient monastic sites, lakes, and you might even see some wild goats! There are a few food stands located near the entrance and public toilets located at the Monastic Site visitor center.

  • Wicklow Mountains in Ireland, Ireland

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    • katie

      Hop in your car (or bus) and take the 45 minute drive to the mountains! The drive itself is breathtaking, but once you see Guinness Lake (Lough Tay) you'll need to catch your breath all over again. Bring a packed lunch and set up shop at the top of the mountain's car path for a perfect picnic.