Planning a trip to Dublin and wondering how to explore the rest of Ireland without renting a car? You're in the right place! Dublin is not only full of charm, culture and craic, but it also works brilliantly as a base for discovering Ireland’s top sights. Whether you crave wild coastal landscapes, ancient castles, peaceful lakes or a breath of fresh sea air, there’s a perfect day tour just waiting for you.
As someone who’s called Dublin home for years, I’ve tried and tested the most scenic, fun and hassle-free ways to explore Ireland without needing to drive. From guided day tours to flexible day trips by train or bus from Dublin, you’ll find loads of easy, budget-friendly options to suit every pace and adventure style.
Why take a day tour from Dublin?
Booking an adventure from Dublin or planning a day trip by public transport means you get to soak up iconic sights and hidden gems with zero stress. Think: cosy train rides, dramatic coastlines and vibrant local towns (all just a short hop from the city centre).
Wild Rover Tours are hands-down one of Ireland’s most highly rated tour companies. Their guides are friendly and informative, their coaches are modern and comfy (ideal for naps between stops!) and their itineraries cover Ireland’s most spectacular highlights in a single day. From the Cliffs of Moher tour to the Giant’s Causeway, they’ve got it covered.
Prefer something more flexible or looking to save a few quid? Ireland’s public transport network is surprisingly handy. You can hop on a train from Dublin Connolly or Heuston Station, or take a Bus Éireann service to explore further afield.
Howth coastal walk (by DART or bus)
Hop on the DART from Dublin city centre to the seaside village of Howth. Walk to the cliff path loop, grab fish and chips or fresh oysters at the harbour and take some gorgeous photos at the lighthouse. Sundays are perfect for the farmers' market too.
Blarney Castle & Cork (by train)
This one combines public transport with a guided experience. You’ll take the train from Dublin’s Heuston Station to Cork and then join a local tour group to see Blarney Castle, kiss the Blarney Stone and explore Cahir Castle. It’s a fab mix of comfort and flexibility.
Bray to Greystones (by DART)
Start your walk in Bray, just 45 minutes by DART. The cliff walk to Greystones is one of Ireland’s most scenic seaside trails, with sea views on one side and lush cliffs on the other.
Kilkenny, Glendalough & Wicklow Mountains
If you love medieval charm and peaceful lakes, this one’s for you. Kilkenny’s medieval charm is off the charts and the nearby Wicklow Mountains are some of the most scenic spots in the country.
With Wild Rover Room, you'll get a walking tour of Kilkenny, time to explore Glendalough’s monastic ruins and even a sheepdog demonstration in the hills. What’s not to love? But if you prefer go on your own, take St. Kevin’s Bus and wander through ancient monastic ruins plus forested trails in the heart of the Wicklow Mountains.
Malahide Castle & Gardens (by DART)
Just a short DART journey north of Dublin, you’ll find Malahide Castle, surrounded by lovely gardens and woodlands. The nearby village is perfect for a quiet stroll and a cuppa.
Cliffs of Moher & Galway
This one’s a classic. The Cliffs of Moher tour from Dublin is probably one of the most popular day trips in Ireland (and for good reason). With Wild Rover Tours, you’ll be picked up in the city centre and taken through the Burren and past Ireland’s wild west coast.
You’ll get time to explore the cliffs, take in the Atlantic views, then continue to Galway City for some live music, cobbled streets and all the Galway charm.
Newgrange & Brú na Bóinne
Fancy a bit of Irish mythology and ancient history? You must visit the UNESCO site of Newgrange, as well as the Hill of Tara and scenic Boyne Valley. It’s like stepping back thousands of years. Take the train or bus to Drogheda, then the official shuttle to these 5,000-year-old tombs. Definitely a must-go for history lovers.
Giant’s Causeway & Belfast
Hop on a comfy Wild Rover coach and head north! This full-day trip brings you to Northern Ireland, where you’ll visit the Giant’s Causeway, the Dark Hedges, Dunluce Castle and even explore Belfast. There’s an option to do a black taxi political tour or visit the Titanic Experience Museum, both are top-notch.
If you’re on a budget or prefer public travel, just catch the Enterprise train from Dublin to Belfast (2 hours), then do your own thing or book a walking tour. Don’t miss the Titanic Quarter, St. George’s Market and the Black Cab tours.
Waterford & Kilkenny (by train + Local tour)
Take a morning train to Waterford and explore the home of the famous Waterford Crystal. Then head to Kilkenny for a wander through its medieval lanes, castle grounds and quirky cafés. There are local day tours that include both towns and are perfect for first timers.
Bushmills, Carrick-a-Rede & Giant’s Causeway
Another Wild Rover gem, this one includes a visit to the Bushmills Distillery, the thrilling Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge and of course, the Giant’s Causeway. It’s a great way to see the full Northern Ireland coastal route in a day, with zero planning stress.
Handy tips before booking your day trip from Dublin
Best days for day trips: Weekdays are quieter at attractions, while Sundays are perfect for Howth’s farmer’s market.
Where to depart: Most tours pick up in central Dublin (near O’Connell Street or Temple Bar).
What to bring: Comfortable shoes, layers, and snacks for longer trips.
When to go: Tours run year-round but always check weather and booking availability.
Staying local? If you're staying at hostels like Gardiner House Hostel or Garden Lane Backpackers, you'll be just a short walk from most departure points. If you are going to the countryside, discover County Arms Hotel.
Whether you're short on time, don’t fancy driving on the left or just want to sit back and enjoy the views, these guided day trips from Dublin are perfect for making the most of your stay. Wild Rover Tours makes it incredibly easy to see top attractions like the Cliffs of Moher, Belfast and the Wicklow Mountains without any stress. And for the more independent types, combining Irish Rail with local tours is a smart and budget-friendly way to explore.
Dublin is more than just Guinness and live music, it’s an ideal home base to experience all the magic of Ireland in bite-sized, unforgettable adventures. Whether you book a guided day trip from Dublin with Wild Rover Tours or set off on your own by train or bus, you’re guaranteed to come back with stories, photos and maybe a little rain in your hair!
Discover the best of Dublin with All-Inclusive Pass for 2 days or 3 days. Let your Irish adventure begins and don’t forget: sometimes the journey is just as stunning as the destination. Sláinte!
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