One of the best things about being based in Dublin is just how easy it is to get around Ireland.
The country is small enough that a car ride (or even a short train trip) can take you somewhere
completely new. And the best part is that most everywhere you go, the scenery along the way is
just as beautiful as the destination. Here are a few day trips I found that are actually worth
carving time out for:

Howth
If you want fresh sea air and dramatic coastal views, hop on the DART to Howth. It’s a charming
fishing village with cliff walks, marina, and a castle! Between the views, the seafood, and the
relaxed pace, it’s the perfect coastal escape just outside the city.

Blackrock
Okay, I might be biased since this became my most frequented spot, but Blackrock is one of the
easiest trips from Dublin. The bus picks you up right outside the dorms and gets you there in
just 20 minutes. It’s a seaside town with local markets, cozy cafés, and a train station that leads
up and down the coast.

Galway
If you’ve got a car and a full day to spare, Galway is 100% worth the drive. The city is vibrant,
colorful, and buzzing with live music around every corner. It’s more artsy than Dublin and is
home to Claddagh jewelry!

Belfast
Driving up to Belfast gives you not only a peek into Northern Ireland but also a deeper layer of
history and culture. From the Titanic Museum to political murals, the city has a complex story to
tell. Although it was my least favorite of our excursions, it’s a city to see at least once.

Dalkey
Dalkey is another coastal gem, one easy DART ride away. The sea views are gorgeous, and it
has a quieter, small-town feel that makes it perfect for a peaceful afternoon. Bonus: it’s also
been home to a few famous residents (yes, Bono’s house is here).

Wicklow
If you’re craving nature, head south to Wicklow for some of the best hiking in Ireland. With
rolling green hills, waterfalls, and lakes, it’s basically everything you picture when you imagine
the Irish countryside.

Ireland may be small, but the variety of places you can experience in just a day is incredible.
Whether it’s a seaside town, a lively city, or a mountain trail, these trips prove that Dublin is the
perfect starting point for exploring the best of the country