2-Day trips from Dublin: Northern Ireland including the Giant’s Causeway and Belfast

As one of the most popular 2-day trips from Dublin, this adventure into Northern Ireland is a must for curious travelers. You’ll discover a new side to the famous Emerald Isle, with a visit to Belfast shining a light on the complex heritage of the country.

You will check out some of the “Game of Thrones” filming locations, and of course, set foot on the iconic Giant’s Causeway. Here’s what to expect on your tour.

What is the typical itinerary of a 2-day trip to Northern Ireland from Dublin?

Like many multi-day trips from Dublin, these excursions can be enjoyed by coach or by rail. You will need to make your own way to the departure point.

Day 1 – Monasterboice and Belfast

On these 2-day tours from Dublin to Northern Ireland, you’ll be driven along the “Peace Highway,” stopping at various points along the route. The highlight of the morning is the Monasterboice Monastic ruins where you’ll see ancient towers and Celtic crosses.

In the afternoon, you’ll arrive in Belfast where the Titanic Experience is on the cards. Then there’s some free time to explore at leisure, with options like walking tours and bus sightseeing excursions to consider. Don’t miss visiting Crumlin Road Gaol or Belfast Cathedral. You’ll spend the night in the city.

Day 2 – Dark Hedges, Carrick-A-Rede Bridge, Giant’s Causeway

Today you’ll depart Belfast after breakfast and enjoy a scenic drive through County Antrim toward the north coast. Stop for photos at the Dark Hedges site, made famous as a filming location for “Game of Thrones.”

Then it’s on to the Carrick-A-Rede Rope Bridge for clifftop adventures and birdwatching on your overnight tour from Dublin.

In the afternoon, you’ll head to the mysterious Giant’s Causeway. Walk down to admire the unusual basalt columns up close and learn about the geology with an audio guide. The final point of call is a photo stop at Dunluce Castle before it’s time to return to Dublin.

Which places are seen during a 2-day tour to Northern Ireland from Dublin?

Giant’s Causeway

Probably the most well-known visitor attraction in Northern Ireland, the Giant’s Causeway is a quintessential stop on 2-day trips from Dublin.

Often called the “Eighth Wonder of the World,” this mind-boggling natural landform features a patchwork of hexagonal rocks that lead into the water. You can walk down onto the causeway, just keep your eyes peeled for giants!

“Game of Thrones” filming locations

Carrick-A-Rede Rope Bridge and the Dark Hedges are two of the most recognizable filming locations from “Game of Thrones.” You’ll stop for photos at each.

The Dark Hedges is an avenue of beech trees, where the tangle of branches creates an eerie atmosphere. Meanwhile, the rope bridge spans a deep chasm, connecting the mainland to Carrickarade Island. It’s a fun spot to explore.

Titanic Experience

Learn about the world’s most famous ship at the Titanic Experience in Belfast. This is where the Titanic was designed and built, so it’s a fitting place for a memorial and museum. You’ll hear stories about the construction and launch, as well as the fateful voyage in 1912.

Dunluce Castle

Ireland is famous for its castle ruins, but Dunluce takes the prize for the best setting. Perched up on a rocky headland, this medieval fortress is enshrouded in legend and intrigue.

Which types of 2-day trips to Northern Ireland from Dublin are available?

Coach tours: Most of these jaunts are enjoyed by coach, which is a convenient way to travel between sites.

Combined rail and coach trips: Some 2-day trips from Dublin to Northern Ireland start with a train ride to Belfast. You’ll then enjoy local coach tours before returning by rail.

Group tours: The majority of overnight excursions from Dublin operate on a small-group basis. This is a great way to keep costs down and meet like-minded travelers.

Private trips: These offer a more exclusive experience. You’ll have private transport plus a guide, and the itinerary can be tailored to your interests.

What is the price of a 2-day tour to Northern Ireland from Dublin?

Group tours by coach cost €170 per person, including accommodation, breakfast, transport, guide and entrance fees.

Combined rail and coach trips are priced at €440 which covers travel, accommodation and sightseeing tours.

Private 2-day tours from Dublin to Northern Ireland cost €1,800 for three people, which is for transport only.

2-Day trips from Dublin: Blarney Castle, the Cliffs of Moher and Cork

This 2-day trip from Dublin is an easy and enjoyable way to discover some of Ireland’s best natural sites. You’ll get to stand on the edge of the world at the Cliffs of Moher, as well as explore the strange landscape of The Burren.

There’s history and culture too, with stops at castles and markets sprinkled throughout the tour. It’s the perfect blend of experiences, giving an intimate taste of authentic Ireland.

What is the typical itinerary of a 2-day trip to Blarney Castle, the Cliffs of Moher and Cork from Dublin?

You can enjoy these 2-day tours to the west coast from Dublin by either coach or train.

Day 1 – Rock of Cashel, Blarney Castle and Cork

Today begins with a drive south through the Irish midlands. The first stop is the Rock of Cashel – one of the country’s most impressive archaeological sites. Then you’ll carry on to the city of Cork, for lunch in the traditional English Markets.

The afternoon is all about Blarney Castle, where you can explore the fortress and kiss the stone if you wish. Do a spot of souvenir shopping at the Blarney Woollen Mills before leaving.

Return to Cork for dinner in a traditional restaurant or pub, with live music to get your feet tapping. Then it’s time for bed in a hotel here in the city.

Day 2 – Limerick, Wild Atlantic Way and the Cliffs of Moher

Your adventure continues with a scenic drive through the Golden Vale with views of the River Shannon from Limerick. Then it’s on to the coast where beaches and rugged cliffs await. The highlight of the morning is exploring The Burren – a unique geological landscape with limestone fissures and underground rivers.

Lunch is in the traditional village of Doolin, famed for being the birthplace of Irish music. The final stop on your overnight tour from Dublin is the Cliffs of Moher. Admire the coast and seabird colonies before heading back to the city in the evening.

Which places are seen during a 2-day tour to Blarney Castle, the Cliffs of Moher and Cork from Dublin?

Rock of Cashel

This ancient royal site is the highlight of many 2-day tours from Dublin. Perched on a rocky outcrop in the Golden Vale, this cluster of religious buildings dates to the 12th century. The Rock of Cashel was the seat of power for many kings and clans over the years, and today is a popular tourist site.

Blarney Castle

Home to the famous Blarney Stone, this medieval stronghold near Cork is one of Ireland’s best-known attractions. It was constructed 600 years ago by a prominent clan chief and has seen sieges and battles through the subsequent centuries.

You can explore the castle and gardens, as well as kiss the Blarney Stone for the gift of eloquent speech.

Cliffs of Moher

Sprawling for 14 kilometers along the coast of County Clare, the Cliffs of Moher never fail to steal the show. The vertical rock faces plunge into the sea below, where crashing waves add an extra level of drama. Take a stroll along the cliff paths for breathtaking views and seabird sightings.

The Burren

A vast limestone pavement, The Burren is known for its wildflowers and unusual landforms. Scrambling over the rocks you may discover fossils and caves that have been hidden here for thousands of years. There are archaeological sites to explore, and trails to check out during your visit.

Which types of 2-day trips to Blarney Castle, the Cliffs of Moher and Cork are available?

Group tours: These are the most common types of overnight tour from Dublin to the west coast. You will be traveling with others which keeps costs to a minimum.

Private trips: If you want to explore independently with your own driver, then private tours are the best way to get around. They are more expensive, but also more exclusive.

Coach tours: Many 2-day trips from Dublin to the Cliffs of Moher and beyond are by coach with live commentary on board.

Rail and coach trips: Some tours begin with a train ride to the west coast, followed by local coach sightseeing excursions.

What is the price of a 2-day tour to Blarney Castle, the Cliffs of Moher and Cork from Dublin?

Group coach tours from Dublin to Blarney Castle and the coast are €170 per participant. This includes transport, a guide, accommodation and entry fees.

The combined rail and coach trip is €440 with travel, accommodation, and a guide provided.

A private 2-day trip from Dublin to the Cliffs of Moher and the Wild Atlantic Way costs €1,800 for three passengers. This is just for the travel element – you will need to arrange your accommodation separately.

2-Day Trips from Dublin: Galway Bay, Bunratty Castle and Connemara

If you’re looking for overnight tours from Dublin to Connemara and the west coast, these tick all the boxes. You’ll be traveling by rail and coach, through some of the most scenic countryside in Ireland.

Go back in time at Bunratty Folk Park and be awed by nature in Connemara – it’s all part of the adventure. The Cliffs of Moher and Kylemore Abbey make this a well-rounded sightseeing extravaganza.

What is the typical itinerary of a 2-day trip to Galway Bay, Bunratty Castle and Connemara from Dublin?

Day 1 – Bunratty Castle, the Cliffs of Moher and Galway

This 2-day tour from Dublin begins with a train ride to Limerick where you’ll enjoy a guided city excursion. Then it’s on to Bunratty Castle and Folk Park which is home to a “living village” that replicates 19th-century life in Ireland.

Next on the agenda are the Cliffs of Moher – they’re the highest sea crags in Europe! You’ll have free time to explore the trails before continuing to The Burren for a photo stop. Your final destination today is Galway, where you’ll be spending the night.

Day 2 – Connemara and Kylemore Abbey

Today you’ll take a coach tour around the Connemara region, meandering through the Maam Valley to Killary Fjord. Pause for coffee in the rural village of Leenane and soak up the mountain views.

Your journey continues through the traditional settlements of Inverin and Spiddal, where you can shop for souvenirs at the craft village. The final stop of the day is Kylemore Abbey. Enjoy lunch in the picturesque surroundings and visit the abbey and gardens for a small additional fee.

Return to Dublin by train in the afternoon – you’ll arrive in time for an evening meal.

Which places are seen during a 2-day tour to Galway Bay, Bunratty Castle and Connemara from Dublin?

Bunratty Castle and Folk Park

Bunratty Castle is renowned for being one of the most comprehensive fortresses in the country. Built in the 15th century, this imposing tower house overlooks 26 acres of parkland and was the home of many clan rulers.

The Bunratty Folk Park is a “living 19th-century village.” Dwellings, shops and streets have all been recreated to give a feel for life back in the day.

Connemara

Highlights of the Connemara region include Maam Valley, which is home to ancient woodlands and lakes. The Maamturk Mountains keep watch from above, and on their slopes, several prehistoric sites have been discovered.

Up in northern Connemara is Killary Harbour, the only fjord in Ireland. At 16 kilometers long, it’s an impressive sight, framed by high peaks on either side. Meanwhile, down on the coast, the pretty seaside village of Spiddal is known for its traditional crafts like basket weaving, pottery and Celtic jewelry.

Kylemore Abbey

Hidden away in the center of Connemara, Kylemore Abbey is a lesson in history and landscape. Founded in 1920, the abbey has been home to Benedictine nuns for over a century.

You can explore the extensive estate and walled garden, as well as peek into some of the abbey rooms. Don’t leave without visiting the neo-Gothic church or taking a walk on the riverside paths.

What is the price of a 2-day tour to Galway Bay, Bunratty Castle and Connemara from Dublin?

These 2-day trips from Dublin cost €440 per person. This includes round-trip rail and coach travel, accommodation and breakfast. You will have a reserved seat on the train, and there will be a host on board to ensure the journey runs smoothly.

Hotel pickups are not provided so you will need to make your own way to the train station in Dublin to begin your tour.

2-Day Trips from Dublin: Ring of Kerry and Killarney

The Ring of Kerry is the focus of this 2-day trip from Dublin. Your adventure takes you deep into the west by train and coach, stopping at scenic viewpoints to show off rural Ireland at her finest.

The coast features heavily on this overnight tour, but it’s the Irish heritage of this area that will have you captivated. Castles and national parks also make an appearance!

What is the typical itinerary of a 2-day trip to the Ring of Kerry and Killarney from Dublin?

Day 1 – Blarney Castle, Cobh and Killarney

Begin your journey with a train ride to Cork, where you’ll transfer to a coach for a sightseeing tour. Blarney Castle is your first stop, and there will be free time to visit the fortress and explore the grounds. Head over to Blarney village afterward for shopping and a bite to eat.

This afternoon’s delight is the Cobh Heritage Centre, where you will learn about the Great Famine and Irish emigration. You’ll visit St. Colman’s Cathedral too, which enjoys a picturesque setting on the Cork coast.

Continue to Killarney and enjoy some evening leisure time to explore the town. This is where you will be staying the night.

Day 2 – The Ring of Kerry

Today you’ll be exploring the Ring of Kerry by coach, with plenty of photo stops at scenic points. You will be traveling in the shadow of Ireland’s grandest mountains and along the shores of Dingle and Kenmare Bays.

Traditional villages like Glenbeigh and Waterville are also on the cards, as well as a break at Ladies View in Killarney National Park.

After your tour you’ll return to Dublin by train, arriving in the city by the evening.

Which places are seen during a 2-day tour to the Ring of Kerry and Killarney from Dublin?

The Ring of Kerry

The Ring of Kerry is a panoramic drive that takes in some of the most beautiful landscapes in the Irish southwest. Rolling hills and plunging cliffs line the route, while pastoral scenes play out further inland.

You’ll be stopping at multiple sites for photos along the Ring of Kerry during your overnight tour from Dublin. Highlights include Carrantuohill, which is the highest peak in Ireland, and the MacGillycuddy Reeks, which are mountains famous for their geological folds.

Meanwhile, the Bays of Dingle and Kenmare offer a bit of contrast, with untamed nature all around.

Killarney

The town of Killarney overlooks Lough Leane and is a common overnight stop for Ring of Kerry explorers. Here, you’ll discover everything from 19th-century architecture to traditional Irish bars, as well as Killarney National Park.

This wilderness area is packed with rugged peaks and hiking trails and is a favorite spot for wildlife watching too.

Cobh Heritage Centre

The Cobh Heritage Centre is housed in a restored Victorian Train Station. Passengers used to disembark here before heading off on their transatlantic voyages. Today, the station is home to The Queenstown Story, which is a thought-provoking museum that shines a light on the heritage of the town.

You can also learn about the great Irish emigration to British overseas colonies and the United States. Exhibitions reveal what life was like on board the ships, and the tales of those who made the perilous crossing.

Blarney Castle

The historic Blarney Castle is a popular destination on many 2-day trips from Dublin. Here, you can kiss the famous Blarney Stone and explore the gardens at leisure.

What is the price of a 2-day tour to the Ring of Kerry and Killarney from Dublin?

These 2-day rail tours from Dublin to the Ring of Kerry start at €310 per passenger. Accommodation, breakfast, transport and admission fees are included. Other meals are at your own expense.

The excursion begins and ends at the train station in Dublin, so you will need to arrange hotel transfers yourself.