The image captures a scene at the Cliffs of Moher, featuring a robust, square stone tower standing prominently on the edge of the cliffs. The tower, with its battlements, serves as a viewing point for the many visitors visible in the distance. A paved walkway leads to the tower, and a visitor is seen walking towards it. The grass-covered landscape is typical of the rugged Irish coastline, with the grass appearing windswept, hinting at the strong breezes common to the area. The sky is bright with a mix of blue and scattered white clouds, suggesting a clear, fresh day. This setting is iconic for its natural beauty and the sense of history it conveys.
Home » Europe » Ireland » Best Day Trips From Dublin To The Irish Countryside

Best Day Trips From Dublin To The Irish Countryside

ByMaria Dol Updated on

Discover the charm and splendor of Ireland’s countryside with these best day trips from Dublin. Each destination offers a unique glimpse into the country’s rich history, natural beauty, and cultural heritage.

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Newgrange and the Boyne Valley

The photo captures the ancient structure of Newgrange in Ireland, a prehistoric monument dating back to around 3200 BC. The image shows a section of the structure's exterior with its unique white quartz facade, resting atop a retaining wall of rustic grey stones. A lush green mound, indicative of the structure's earth-covered tomb, rises above the stone wall. In the foreground, a well-defined gravel path invites visitors to approach, flanked by verdant grass and occasional standing stones that add to the site's mystique. The sky is overcast with a break in the clouds allowing a soft light to enhance the scene's calm and historical ambiance.
Newgrange

Step back over 5,000 years with a visit to Newgrange, a Neolithic passage tomb older than Stonehenge and the Egyptian Pyramids. Located in the Boyne Valley, a region brimming with ancient history, Newgrange is famous for its winter solstice phenomenon. Beyond Newgrange, the Boyne Valley is home to other historical treasures like the Hill of Tara, offering a profound insight into Ireland’s past.

Howth

The photo shows a bustling harbor scene with a variety of boats, including fishing vessels and a larger blue ship, docked against the concrete quay. The boats display vibrant colors and are equipped with fishing gear, indicating their commercial use. In the background, there's a view of a coastal village with houses and buildings, as well as parked cars and infrastructure related to the fishing industry. The water is calm and reflects the clear blue sky above, suggesting favorable weather conditions. The scene is lively with maritime activity, characteristic of a working fishing port.
Howth Village

A short drive or train ride from Dublin, the picturesque fishing village of Howth is a perfect escape. Renowned for its stunning cliff walks, such as the Howth Cliff Walk Loop Trail, and its sumptuous seafood, Howth combines natural beauty with culinary delights. Enjoy the breathtaking coastal views and perhaps catch a glimpse of local wildlife, including seals.

Corcomroe Abbey

The photo features Corcomroe Abbey, an ancient Cistercian monastery ruin located in County Clare, Ireland. The remains of the abbey are built of grey stone, with sections of the walls still standing, showcasing the traditional Gothic arches and architectural details. Within the ruins, there's a well-kept graveyard with various gravestones, including traditional Celtic crosses and more modern headstones, one prominently labeled "RYAN." The grass around the graves is lush and green, indicating regular care. A statue of a religious figure stands within the grounds, adding a serene and sacred atmosphere to the site. The sky above is mostly clear with a few clouds, suggesting a bright and peaceful day.
Corcomroe Abbey

In the unique karst landscape of the Burren in County Clare, lies the tranquil Corcomroe Abbey. This 13th-century Cistercian monastery offers a peaceful retreat and a window into medieval monastic life. The surrounding Burren landscape, known for its wildflowers and geological formations, adds to the Abbey’s allure.

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Malahide Castle and Gardens

The image features the imposing Malahide Castle in Ireland, a historic structure with grey stone towers and battlements set against a vivid blue sky with fluffy white clouds. The castle is situated amidst a lush green park with well-maintained lawns, trees, and gardens. In the foreground, a circular hedge encloses a sand-filled area, bordered by a black iron fence. Visitors can be seen enjoying the park, with some walking on the central path leading to the castle's entrance. The scene is lively and picturesque, capturing the essence of a sunny day at this heritage site.
Malahide Castle

Just north of Dublin, explore the historical and botanical beauty of Malahide Castle and Gardens. This 12th-century castle, set in extensive gardens, is perfect for a family day out. The castle’s history, spanning several centuries, is complemented by the diverse plant species and thematic gardens, including a walled garden and a butterfly house.

Bunratty Castle

The photo depicts a historical stone castle with a prominent central tower featuring battlements at the top. The structure, appearing to be of medieval origin, has narrow, vertical slit windows typical for defense. An Irish flag flutters at the top of the castle, signaling its location or heritage. A stone wall runs along the road leading to the castle, and the scene is framed by lush green foliage from the surrounding trees. The sky is overcast, with the sunlight managing to softly illuminate the scene, creating a calm yet majestic atmosphere. Shadows from the trees are cast onto the road, indicating that the photo was taken on a day with intermittent sunlight.
Bunratty Castle

Travel to Bunratty Castle in County Clare for a dive into medieval Ireland. Known for its authentic medieval banquets and an adjacent folk park that vividly recreates 19th-century Irish life, Bunratty Castle offers a comprehensive historical experience. The castle’s architecture and the park’s interactive displays provide a deep understanding of Ireland’s past.

Cliffs of Moher

The photo showcases the majestic Cliffs of Moher on the west coast of Ireland, with the Atlantic Ocean churning below. A solitary sea stack stands near the cliff base, separated from the mainland by centuries of erosion. The cliffs rise steeply from the ocean, their stratified layers of rock visible, topped with a lush green surface. Atop the cliffs, a small stone tower or building offers a lookout point for visitors, dwarfed by the scale of the natural landscape. The sky above is a mix of blue with wispy white clouds, indicating variable weather conditions. The powerful waves hitting the cliff base create white foam, highlighting the wild and natural beauty of this Irish landmark.
Cliffs of Moher

The Cliffs of Moher are a must-see natural wonder. These dramatic sea cliffs offer stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and are a testament to the raw beauty of Ireland’s coastline. Though a bit farther from Dublin, the Cliffs of Moher are well worth the journey for their breathtaking vistas and the opportunity to connect with nature.

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Each of these destinations, easily accessible from Ireland’s capital, presents a unique opportunity to get to know Ireland’s diverse heritage and landscapes. Whether you’re interested in ancient history, natural beauty, or vibrant village life, these day trips from Dublin will enrich your Irish adventure.

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Hi, I’m Maria Dol, the independent traveler and photographer behind Map and Camera. I’ve been exploring the world since 2000, visiting more than 40 countries across five continents. Every itinerary and guide here is based on first-hand experience, from Patagonia’s glaciers to Andalusia’s white villages and the timeless temples of Egypt.
My travel stories and photography have been featured in online magazines, and I’ve been a guest on Bulgarian National Radio. I’m also recognized as a Tripadvisor Superstar in Photos, and I share moments from the road with a community of over 15,000 travelers on Facebook.
On Map and Camera, you’ll find detailed itineraries, honest travel tips, and photography inspiration; always tried, tested, and free of sponsored hype.

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