Ireland is known as one of the most beautiful places in the world, with the Cliffs of Moher being one of the most stunning locations within it.
Known as the “8th wonder of the world”, these completely vertical cliffs have a more than 700-foot drop! With their gorgeous Atlantic Ocean vistas and imposing coastal landscapes, if you’re going to be in Dublin you have to make the trip to see them.
However, with so many tours available you want to make sure you’re getting something that’s worth your time and money. We have them all the top Cliffs of Moher tours right here!
Be sure to see our reviews of Blarney Castle tours.
Best Cliffs of Moher Day Trips
Cliffs of Moher Premium Tour with Boat Cruise | Private Cliffs of Moher Luxury Car Tour From Dublin | Cliffs of Moher Tour Including Wild Atlantic Way & Galway City | |
---|---|---|---|
Best Day Trip w/ Boat Cruise | Best Private Day Trip | Best Value Day Trip | |
Departure: | Molly Malone Statue, Suffolk St, Dublin 2, D02 KX03 | Hotel pickup included | Hotel pickup (select hotels only) |
Start: | 7:15 AM | 8:00 AM or 9:00 AM | 6:55 AM |
Duration: | 12 to 13 hours | 8-12 hours | 13 hours |
Includes: | Air-conditioned vehicle, all activities, professional guide, live commentary on board | Professional driver/guide, luxury vehicle, private tour | Professional guide, guided walking tour Galway City, entrance fees, free wifi on coach |
Quick Answer: The 7 Best Rated Cliffs of Moher Tours From Dublin
- Cliffs of Moher Premium Tour with Boat Cruise
- Private Cliffs of Moher Luxury Car Tour From Dublin
- Cliffs of Moher Tour Including Wild Atlantic Way and Galway City from Dublin
- Cliffs of Moher, Burren and Galway Bay Rail Tour from Dublin
- Dublin: Cliffs of Moher, Kilmacduagh Abbey, Wild Atlantic way and Galway
- Cliffs of Moher Day Tour from Dublin: Including The Wild Atlantic Way
- Cliffs of Moher Day Trip from Dublin
Cliffs of Moher Tour Reviews
1. Cliffs of Moher Premium Tour with Boat Cruise
- Duration: 12 to 13 hours
- Departure: Molly Malone Statue, Suffolk St, Dublin 2, D02 KX03
- Departure Time: 7:15 am
- Includes: Air-conditioned vehicle, all activities, live commentary on board, professional guide, pickup and drop-off from the designated meeting point
Our next tour is a bit more of a unique way to explore this amazing site! The Cliffs of Moher Premium Tour with Boat Cruise is all that and more! Lasting 12 to 13 hours depending on traffic, you’ll be able to take in some of the best views of the cliffs and take some incredible photo ops!
Your tour will start off with you and the rest of your group meeting at the Molly Malone statue located on Suffolk Street. Hop on board their comfortable, air-conditioned coach and get settled in their spacious seats.
The guide is one of the best out there, and is obviously very knowledgeable in the local area and history. As you make your way out of Dublin, you’ll head through all kinds of charming little villages, bright green countryside, and may even get to see some castle ruins!
Your first stop of the day is Caherconnell Stone Fort and the sheepdog demonstrations! This well-preserved stone Celtic ringfort were built during the Bronze age, up until around the year 1000.
As you can imagine, they have quite a bit of history behind them! Designed to provide shelter for both families and animals, it is a blast to the past in how people lived back then. You’ll also get to check out a fascinating sheepdog demonstration!
By now you’ve surely worked up an appetite, so head over to the gorgeous village of Doolin for lunch accompanied by some traditional music. Full of brightly-colored homes and green, rolling hills, there’s a lot to see.
Next up, you’re going to board your vessel at the Cliffs of Moher! This boat is a blast, taking you for an hour around the breathtaking cliffsides that rise hundreds of feet above you and the rest of your crew! You’ll also get to take a wonderful clifftop stroll, seeing this wonderful place from another vantage point.
More Information & Tour Booking
100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience
Other Dublin Experiences You May Enjoy:
2. Private Cliffs of Moher Luxury Car Tour From Dublin
- Duration: 8-12 hours
- Departure: Hotel pickup included
- Departure Time: 8:00 AM or 9:00 AM
- Includes: Professional driver/guide, luxury vehicle, private tour
This is one all-day tour that really packs it full of adventure and excitement! The Private Cliffs of Moher Premium Tour from Dublin is a “hidden gem” that exhibits over 330 million years of geology and history, along with the gorgeous Cliffs of Moher. If you’re wanting the private luxurious way to see the Cliffs of Moher, you have to give this tour a go!
Start your tour by being picked up in a Mercedes or equivalent car. Your entertaining tour guide/driver will fill your mind with interesting facts and funny anecdotes as you drive along the picturesque Ireland coastline.
Along the way to your first stop at the beautiful coastal village of Kinvarra. You will have about 30 minutes here to see the town and take some photos.
After which you will then head to the Burren region with its unique rocky landscapes, and unusual plantlife. This area has been designated by the E.U. as a Special Area of Conservation and has thousands of archaeological sites under excavation.
Head to the enchanting Bunratty Castle in the village of Bunratty. This classic example of an Irish castle was built in the 15th-century. You will have 20 minutes or so here to explore and take some photos.
If you like chocolate you are in for a treat with a stop at the Hazel Mountain Chocolaterie Farmhouse. Here you will have some time to try some of their famous Irish chocolate, you are sure to find something delicious here and a souvenir to take home. You guide will give you all the history and details of the shop. It’s really quite fascinating.
After refueling, head to the Cliffs of Moher, you will head to the main attraction. When you get there, it feels like you’re on the edge of the Earth. Stretching for miles along the coast, if the weather is clear enough, you’ll get to see just how far they span.
You can also enter the interpretive center, filled with interesting photos and historical accounts. You guide will tell you the history and how the cliffs were formed.
Keep in mind since this is a private tour, it is fully customizable! Want to sty longer at a stop, no problem. Or if you would like to change up where you stop, just discuss that with your guide, they are more than willing to accommodate your wishes.
More Information & Tour Booking
100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience
Search For Other Top Rated Dublin Experiences You May Enjoy:
3. Cliffs of Moher Tour Including Wild Atlantic Way and Galway City from Dublin
- Duration: 13 hours
- Departure: Hotel pickup (select hotels only)
- Departure Time: 6:55 am
- Includes: Professional guide, guided walking tour Galway City, entrance fees to all attractions, free unlimited 4G wifi available on coach
Let’s start things off on the right foot with the Cliffs of Moher Tour including Wild Atlantic Way and Galway City from Dublin! This 13-hour tour is incredibly comprehensive, and if you’ve never been to Ireland before, is a wonderful way to see a lot in a short amount of time.
From the comfort of a luxe coach, you don’t have to worry about organizing transport as everything is taken care for you by professional and experienced staff.
Hotel pickup is included within the city center, so all you have to worry about is making it to your hotel lobby on time.
Leaving before 7 am, you’ll have all day long to explore these amazing sights and still make it back in time for dinner! Your guide will greet you upon pickup, and welcome you into the comfortable, air-conditioned touring coach!
While everyone gets settled, you’ll listen to your guide as they tell you and the rest of your group all about what to expect on the tour as well as interesting facts about the area as you see them. The coach does come with free 4G wi-fi as well, so you can keep in contact with loved ones and share photos as you please!
Bunratty Castle and the charming village of Lahinch is your first stop. You’ll learn about the area, the castle’s importance, and have the chance to take some photos here. It’s a great way to break up the travel time and stretch your legs, too!
Next up, is the Cliffs of Moher! You’ll arrive a bit before 11 am, before the crowds really start arriving. Each passenger will receive a ticket to enter the Visitor Center which is also quite interesting!
Here, you’ll take a break to grab some food and take a rest before heading out to walk along the famous Atlantic Ledge. Choose the restaurant you like, as most of them include stunning views out over the ocean!
Next, you’ll head onto Calway City and your route is along the beautiful coastline. You’ll have a 30-minute stop at this other-worldly landscape which is great for photo ops. The Burren is known worldwide for its crazy abundance of flora and fauna – kind of like the Australia of Ireland!
From here, you’ll arrive to the Galway City center and stop close to Eyre Square. The tour guides will offer an included walking tour, which is about 30-40 minutes long. You’ll get to learn about and see the Spanish Arch, Lynch’s Castle, and many other popular destinations.
More Information & Tour Booking
100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience
4. Cliffs of Moher, Burren and Galway Bay Rail Tour from Dublin
- Duration: 15 hours
- Departure: Dublin Heuston, Heuston Station Saint John’s Road West
- Departure Time: 7 am
- Includes: Host on trains, information pack, reserved seats on trains, qualified driver-guide on coaches, all travel by rail and coach from Dublin Heuston Station
Next up, we bring you a tour that’s even a bit longer than the one we just covered! The Cliffs of Moher, Burren and Galway Bay Rail Tour from Dublin lasts approximately 15 hours, and includes roundtrip transportation. This is a great way to explore more of Ireland, through some of the most charming locations in the country.
You’ll start off departing from Dublin Heuston Station first thing in the morning, so you get to fit in as much as possible.
Once you get settled, you’ll be able to enjoy a delicious breakfast on board while enjoying the beautiful landscape out the window, which is really a great way to start off the day.
Your first stop will be at Limerick, where you and your group will take a tour and learn that it was once a very important Viking settlement. Bunratty Castle and Folk Park are up next! Bunratty Castle was finished in the early 1400’s, though thanks to its excellent restoration, looks how it once did hundreds of years ago.
Next up is Cliffs of Moher, where you’ll get plenty of free time to take in these incredible sights, fresh air, and take advantage of photo ops. This really is one of the most fascinating places on the planet!
Next, you’ll take the coastal route to Galway, stopping along The Burren national park for some photos and stretching your legs. Meaning “rocky place”, its array of moon-like landscapes of limestone is certainly aptly-named. It’s also known for being home to the vast majority of the flora and fauna within Ireland!
Depending on how traffic is, you may have some free time once you arrive in Galway to grab a bite to eat, check out some shops, and more in Eyre Square.
More Information & Tour Booking
100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience
5. Dublin: Cliffs of Moher, Kilmacduagh Abbey, Wild Atlantic Way and Galway
- Duration: 14 hours
- Departure: The Hugh Lane, Charlemont House, Parnell Square N, Rotunda, Dublin, D01 F2X9
- Departure Time: 6:45 am
- Includes: All other attractions can be seen without extra charges, live commentary/guide on board, air-conditioned vehicle, entrance fee included to the Cliffs of Moher visitor center
If you’re on a budget but still want to see as much of Ireland as possible, we highly recommend this tour! The Dublin: Cliffs of Moher, Kilmacdaugh Abbey, Wild Atlantic Way and Galway tour will take you to all of these sights and more. From the rural countryside to ancient ruins, you won’t even have a second to even think about being bored!
Meet up outside the Dublin City Gallery with the rest of your group at 6:45 am and hop aboard your private coach! The driver is fantastic, knows their way around the area, and always keeps safety at the forefront of the tour.
You’ll first stop at the Kilmacduagh Monastery, which is a 7th-century Augustinian abbey that was the birthplace of the Diocese of Kilmacduagh. With a very full graveyard just outside, it comes with quite the interesting history and lets you see a part of the Ireland from over 1000 years ago.
Cliffs of Moher is up, and the drive there is quite beautiful. However, nothing compares to when you actually get there! With the cool sea breeze and fresh air, it’s a moment to really take in this incredible scenery.
Your guide will help you spot rare birds, and tell you more about the area as you follow the various trails near the cliffside. The Visitor Center is available to all participants, and also offers some interesting facts about them.
The Burren National Park is another stop along the way, with a whopping 1500-ish hectares of uplands. The unusual rocky formations create a very interesting landscape, and make for amazing photos as well! Follow the Wild Atlantic Way and pass legendary landmarks like the Dunguaire Castle!
You’ll also drive through charming little villages and see incredible Atlantic views! You’ll then arrive in Galway, with plenty of time to explore and learn about their local tribes! It’s a very artsy city bustling with live music and fun!
Tour Information & Booking
100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience
6. Cliffs of Moher Day Tour from Dublin: Including The Wild Atlantic Way
- Duration: 13 hours
- Departure: Tourist Information Centre O’ Connell St, O’Connell St Tourist Information Centre, 14 Upper O’Connell Street Upper, North City, Dublin, D01 WP59
- Departure Time: 7:50 am
- Includes: All taxes, fees and handling charges, live commentary on board, air-conditioned vehicle, Cliffs of Moher entrance included (€8.00 value), free Wi-Fi on board
Our next tour is another one of the most popular in Ireland. It’s also a great option to consider if you’re looking for a high-quality, comprehensive experience on a budget. If that sounds interesting to you, then let’s check out the Cliffs of Moher Day Tour from Dublin: Including The Wild Atlantic Way!
Grab your camera, some comfy clothes, and your favorite walking shoes and let’s explore some of Irelands most incredible natural wonders! It’s much more than just a tour to Cliffs of Moher. You’ll get to see all kinds of important pieces of history, as well as marvel at the natural landscapes along the way.
Early in the morning, you’ll meet up with the rest of your group in central Dublin. As you drive along, make sure to check out the beautiful scenery!
The winding route along the coastline of the legendary Wild Atlantic Way is certainly a breathtaking experience. Stop at Dunguaire Castle for some photos first! Built in the 1500’s, the castle in itself is quite beautiful, and its location only adds to that!
Then, you’ll head to the charming fishing village of Doolin to enjoy some lunch while overlooking the Atlantic! Once you’re full, you’ll head out to the midlands while your tour guide tells you all about the area, intriguing stories, and even some songs! We appreciated the little coffee stop along the way!
You’ll reach yet another little fishing village: this time, Vinvara. Known for its bright and colorful buildings, it’s great for some photo ops! Everyone will then hop back into the transportation and head through the Burren. The Burren is infamous for its wide array of flora and fauna, along with its unique Limestone rock formations.
The next stop is the Cliffs of Moher, where you can get out, take a walk around, and enjoy these jaw-dropping views! Their Visitor Center is also quite stunning, and contains all kinds of interesting photos, exhibits, and stories that everyone loves hearing about!
After you get to see everything you want, you’ll head over to the village of Bunratty where you’ll be able to take some photos of their Bunratty Castle, which was the place to be in medieval times
More Information & Tour Booking
100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience
7. Cliffs of Moher Day Trip from Dublin
- Duration: 13 hours
- Departure: Molly Malone Statue, Suffolk St, Dublin 2, D02 KX03
- Departure Time: 6:50 am
- Includes: Air-conditioned vehicle, driver/guide
Our guide wouldn’t be adequate if we left off this next tour. The Cliffs of Moher Day Trip from Dublin tour takes you from the wild landscapes of Ireland to the bustling cities full of art and chatter. It’s a great way to see all the different kinds of environments that make up this culture-rich country.
You’ll start out early in the morning to meet with the rest of your group! Your coach will arrive, where you’ll hop on and settle in to your comfy, well-padded seats.
The coach is air-conditioned as well, so it’s one of the most pleasant ways to travel, no matter the time of year. Make sure to listen to the guide’s stories and watch out the window, as there are plenty of wonderful views outside to admire.
You’ll first arrive to the Cliffs of Moher, where you’ll walk along the coastal paths until you get to the 700-foot summit! The panoramas are impressive, with the amazing vantage point from the top!
Watch waves crashing, see if you can spot interesting birds, and take some photos. The Visitor’s Center has a lot of cool photos, exhibits, and stories as well.
After walking around the cliffs, you’re sure to have burned off some calories, so it’s time to replenish with lunch in the little village of Doolin. This fishing village is known for its traditional Irish music, and comes with fantastic views as well.
Next, you’ll head to the lunar-like landscape of the Burren. It’s seriously like taking a walk on the moon (with gravity, of course), with the odd limestone formations. However, it’s accessorized with all kinds of flora and fauna! It contains over 70% of all species of plants and animals in all of Ireland!
You’ll then drive by the stunning Galway Bay and the Bohemian city of Galway. Galway is an absolute blast, with its friendly locals, colorful pubs, live music, charming cafes, and rich history. There’s no shortage of things to do or buy here, with little boutique shops selling all kinds of handcrafted jewelry, clothes, and more.
More Information & Tour Booking
100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience
Why Should I see the Cliffs of Moher?
Historical Significance: The Cliffs of Moher were created over 350 million years ago. They are named after an ancient fort that was on the southern end of the cliffs.
Cultural Heritage: The Cliffs of Moher are part of the Irish culture and identity. Many artists writers and musicians such as W.B. Yeats, J.M. Synge and The Chieftains say they have been inspired by their beauty. If you have seen the movie The Princess Bride or Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince the Cliffs of Moher were featured in them.
Wildlife Diversity: The Cliffs of Moher have a variety of birds that nest there. 35 species of bird’s nest on the cliffs. You can see puffins, razorbills, guillemots, fulmars and kittiwakes. The cliffs are also a special protection area for birds and wildlife under the EU Birds Directive.
Geological Wonder: The Cliffs of Moher are part of the Burren and Cliffs of Moher Geopark, a UNESCO-recognized geotourism destination. The cliffs are formed from layers of shale and sandstone from ancient rivers and seas over millions of years. They also reveal fossils of marine life from different geological periods.
Ireland Travel Guide
Getting There –
Ireland is actually one of the most convenient European countries to travel to! With various US airlines offering nonstop flights, we recommend flying out of Atlanta, JFK (New York, Chicago, Philadelphia, Boston, Orlando, San Francisco, or Los Angeles. If flying from the east coast, you can expect your flight to be around a mere 6 hours!
As our tours all originate in Dublin, you’ll likely want to fly into this city. Keep in mind that there aren’t always direct flights to Dublin, and may be only available to Belfast. If that’s the case, there are plenty of excellent train services that run from Belfast to Dublin, and takes just a bit over 2 hours to get there.
Getting Around –
So, on these tours you’ll have all transportation covered. However, as you’re going to be staying in Dublin and won’t be on tours all of the time, you’ll need to know how to best get around. Thankfully, the city has made it incredibly easy to do!
Bus – Their public bus network is a budget-friendly, reliable way to get around as it covers the city and suburbs very well. You can pay with cash, but you must pay with exact cash and only coins. No change is given. Prepaid tickets are less stressful for many, and are just quicker and more convenient.
Tram – The Luas trams are quick and also very convenient. However, you will have to get a valid ticket before boarding. Leap Cards are ideal for longer stays, and you can reload your balance at the vending machines! Just make sure your ticket is valid in the zones you’re traveling in. Check out the Journey Planner on their website to plan this out ahead of time.
Bike – Dublin is a very bike-friendly city, and being such, there are tons of places to rent bicycles. Just keep in mind that it’s often pretty wet, so make sure you’re comfortable with biking on wet surfaces.
Walking – Walking is one of the best ways to see the city, as some of the best sites in Dublin are all located within a pretty compact space. People tend to be pretty friendly overall, and we found it to be safe in our experience. Again, be prepared for rain or drizzle at any time of year!
Where to Stay –
Keep in mind when making your plans for accommodation that if you’re taking a multi-day trip that your hotels/B&Bs will be taken care of during these days. Just don’t double book! Now, let’s take a look at the best areas of the city to stay in.
Smithfield – Located on Dublin’s northside, it used to be a little bit sketchy a couple decades ago. However, since then, it’s become much safer and offers tourists an insight into local lifestyles. Its big cobblestone plaza is so charming and is full of locally-owned restaurants and artisan cafes that are perfect for foodies and coffee lovers. Depending on the time of year, you may see some family-friendly festivals going on. Oh, and if you’re a raver or enjoy a good beer then you’ll love the array of warehouse clubs and packed pubs in the area.
Portobello – This area is full of history, from Eastern European Jews seeking refuge here, to the birthplace of George Bernard Shaw! In more recent times, it’s become the “go-to” area for trendy Dubliners to let loose and have a good time. Restaurants, art galleries, clubs, and more are located here. However, it’s also quite beautiful with trees and walking paths aplenty, along with the Grand Canal.
Merrion Square – A Georgian square located on the southside, it’s been around since 1762 and isn’t too far from the city center. The garden square is perfect for picnicking and is the perfect way to escape the hustle-and-bustle of crowded tourists spots. If you or traveling partner(s) is a history buff, you’ll have to check out the revolutionary landmarks that dot the area. Not only that, but the National Library, National Gallery, and National Concert Hall are all located here.
O’Connell Street – From boutiques and vintage shops to hot clubs and delicious restaurants, it’s all located here. Not only that, but there are all kinds of hotels for any budget. If you want to get right into that busy Dublin center, this is the place to be as O’Connell is the city’s main street.
Restaurants and Eating Out –
Contrary to what many may think, Dublin is much more than potatoes and corned beef! In fact, it has an incredibly diverse food scene that is quite impressive on an international scale.
Chapter One – Melding traditional Irish ingredients with international cooking techniques, it’s a perfectly sophisticated spot to go on a romantic date or simply enjoy delicious eats. We love the fish served atop beets, potatoes, celery, carrots, and mushrooms with a creamy Maltaise sauce to finish it off.
Brother Hubbard – Having been around for over 10 years, it’s perfect for a rainy day (or genuinely any day as it’s that delicious). A modern twist on traditional comfort food along with some of the best coffee in the city. You have to try the Beans and Pulled Pork Special! Keep in mind that there are now 2 locations, but the original one is our favorite and is located on Capel St.
The Winding Stair – Just looking at this restaurant, you can see it’s just the quintessential Dublin spot. Grab one of the countless books available (including UK and European editions of contemporary literature along with many classics), and head up for breathtaking vistas of the River Liffey. Fill up with a traditional Irish meal with a fancy twist. Our favorites were the seafood chowder and potato dumplings.
Lucky Tortoise – Who doesn’t love some good dim sum?! The Lucky Tortoise is just the spot, and is known for its mouthwatering potstickers, savory Japanese pancakes and wine on tap! It’s also an excellent selection if you’re looking for a more budget-friendly restaurant.
The Pepper Pot – Are you a sandwich lover? If so, look no further than The Pepper Pot. If you want a life-changing experience, try the bacon and roast pear sandwich at this lovely restaurant located inside the gorgeous Georgian Powerscourt Townhouse. Their fluffy homemade bread and cheese is incredible, along with their baked desserts!
Cornucopia – If you’re vegan, vegetarian, or simply like eating this kind of cuisine, Cornucopia is a great option. It’s a neighborhood staple and has been for over 2 decades now, serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner!
Nightlife and Entertainment –
Dubliners tend to be a lively bunch who enjoy everything from a good live music venue to bustling pubs to thumping warehouse clubs.
Whelan’s – Many notable bands and artists have begun their careers at Whelan’s, which is known as one of the most reputable live music venues in the country. You can find all kinds of music here, depending on the night! From old-school to indie rock bands, to DJs – there’s really something for everyone.
The Cobblestone – If you’re looking for the ultimate Irish pub and live music spot, this one has to be at the top of your list. Having pumped out Guinness and folk tunes for decades now, it’s a blast and a wonderful way to spend a night out.
Café En Seine – Are you looking for an upscale spot to dress up and enjoy all things glamorous? This cocktail bar is creative, and sports beautiful art nouveau rooms across a whopping 3 floors. Not to mention their outdoor street garden gives serious Parisian vibes.
Peruke & Periwig – What a charming little place this is! If you’re up for kooky cocktails, chill music, and love a throwback, you’ll find that and much more here.
Dublin has much more to offer than just clubs and bars, however, and we’d be remiss not to mention some of them!
Theater – If you didn’t already know, Dublin has a very rich literary history, with the likes of Oscar Wilde, James Joyce, and many others calling this city their hometown. As you can imagine, these performance traditions are still going strong. There are many fantastic theaters to check out, such as: The New Theatre, The Olympia, The Gaiety, and The Abbey Theatre.
Ghost Bus Tour – For us, this is a must-do. The Gravedigger Ghost Bus Tour is fun, interesting, and will surely offer a solid history lesson! As Dublin is 1,000 years old or so, there are plenty of stories and sightings that’ve been retold and many of which are definitely not for the faint of heart!
Comedy – There are tons of great Irish comedians, and if that sounds interesting to you, check out what’s going on at Vicar Street.
Weather –
As we’ve mentioned before, you can feasibly expect to see rain in Dublin at any time of year. However, we highly recommend visiting in April or May, if possible. This time is the perfect balance between smaller tourist crowds and nicer weather. Just remember that St. Patrick’s Day (March 17th) and around Christmas is going to be packed in the city.
The summer months understandably have the warmest weather, though this is also when the crowds will be the largest. It all depends on what you value more: nicer weather or smaller crowds. Regardless, you should always bring a jacket with you as Dublin tends to stay a bit cool throughout the year.
Attractions –
Trinity College – It’s true that there’s almost always going to be a line of people waiting to visit Trinity College. However, it’s absolutely worth the wait! With all kinds of important artifacts, hundreds of thousands of some of the world’s oldest books, the Book of Kells, ancient Irish harps, and more it has to be experienced at least once.
St. Stephens Green – If you want to get out and enjoy some fresh air, take a leisurely stroll around here. The Georgian buildings that surround it are also beautiful, and with 22 acres, it’s a great way to relax and calm the mind.
Kildare Street Museums and Houses of Parliament – The Irish Parliament was once known as Kildare House, which was commissioned in 1745 by James Fitzgerald, Earl of Kildare. The National Library is very close, and comes with all kinds of legendary literature and a permanent W.B. Yeats exhibition.
National Museum of Ireland: Archaeology – If you’re a history buff, you’ll love this one. It comes with jaw-dropping exhibitions of all types. However, some of the crowd favorites are Ireland’s Gold, Prehistoric Ireland, and their Viking Collection.
The Irish Emigration Museum – This museum has all kinds of stories about Irish emigration throughout the centuries. With an impressive 20+ themed galleries to check out, it also talks about how Irish immigrants have influenced the places in which they’ve relocated to.
Kilmainham Gaol – Having been around since 1789, this jail is kind of creepy but very interesting. The 1916 rebels were first held and executed here, so it does have a rather dark history. The guided tours cover Irish history for the last couple hundred of years.
Christ Church Cathedral – As you probably already know, Ireland has absolutely gorgeous pieces of architecture and Dublin is no different. Restored in the 19th century, it was actually built where the city’s first church once stood from 1028! You can also see the replica of the Norman conqueror, Strongbow!
Tips –
- Watch out for street signs. If you’re trying to get around, it can be a bit tricky if you aren’t really looking as some of the signs have faded or are covered by plants, trees, etc. Many locals just use landmarks and pubs for directions to somewhere rather than street names.
- If you’re trying to cross the street, just follow the locals. If you see them jaywalking to the other side, you do the same.
- Wake up early and get out there! If you want Dublin “to yourself” try to get up early! Grab a coffee somewhere and head out to wherever you want! We recommend going to the most tourist-heavy places first as these are less likely to have lines or crowds early on.
- Grab a Dublin Pass, which includes entry to most of the most iconic local attractions. Not only that, but it lets you use the Hop On and Off bus for free! This makes getting around the city so much more convenient and affordable!
- Do some days trips, especially take a tour of the Cliffs of Moher, these stunning cliffs are over 700 feet tall and considered the 8th wonder of the world.
Sites Seen
Tour Guides
Value
The Cliffs of Moher Tour Including Wild Atlantic Way and Galway City from Dublin is our Editor's Choice for the best tour of the Cliffs of Moher