Howth: Day Trips and Tours from Dublin

Discover coastal paths and scenic views on a Howth day trip from Dublin. Tour the Howth Peninsula and see a wild natural landscape of woodlands, caves and cliffs. Look for seals, porpoises and dolphins along the coast, as you explore this UNESCO biosphere reserve.

Visit the village of Howth and check out its fascinating museums and lively pubs, just a stone’s throw from Dublin. Uncover the ancient myths and legends of the region, and historic sites that date back thousands of years.

How to get to Howth from Dublin?

The village of Howth is located just north of the city of Dublin on the Howth Peninsula which juts out into Dublin Bay. It is around 16 kilometers from the center of the city and can be reached in under an hour by car or public transport.

From Dublin to Howth by car

Traveling from Dublin to Howth by car usually takes around 25 to 50 minutes depending on traffic, and covers around 17 kilometers. Take the R803 from the city center to Fairview, then follow the R105 for around 13 kilometers until you reach Howth.

From Dublin to Howth by bus/train

You can travel from Dublin to Howth by bus or train, and services run regularly throughout the day. The H3 bus departs Dublin Abbey Street every 30 minutes and the journey takes just under an hour.

Alternatively, you can take Dublin’s local DART train, which departs Dublin Connolly twice every hour and takes about 25 minutes to reach Howth.

Guided tour to Howth from Dublin

Try a Howth day trip and discover the region’s history, culture and most stunning attractions with a local guide. Most tours start at a meeting point in the village of Howth.

What is the typical itinerary of a day tour to Howth from Dublin?

On a typical Howth day trip, you will travel the short distance from Dublin city center to meet your tour guide in the village of Howth. Most Howth day trips include a walking tour of the Howth Peninsula which will take you around the coastal trails and to important historic and cultural sites.

Visit the remains of a megalithic portal tomb and pass by Howth Castle. Walk through a landscape that has long inspired artists and writers, including W.B Yeats and H.G Wells, and see the dramatic coastal views from Howth Head.

Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife, including dolphins and seals, which live around the coastline, as you explore the coves and cliffs. Learn about the local culture and legends from your guide before returning to the village of Howth, which you can then explore on your own.

What kinds of tours are available to go to Howth?

There are a few different ways to explore Howth on a day trip, including by land on a hiking trip and by sea on a small boat coastal cruise.

Guided tours to Howth from Dublin

Take a group walking tour of Howth village and the Howth peninsula to see the sights with a local guide. Learn about the history of the area and discover ancient myths and tales, as you visit the woods and cliffs around Howth Head and Baily Lighthouse.

Most guided tours begin and end in Howth village, so you will have to make your way there by bus or car, or on the local DART train.

Boat tours to Howth from Dublin

See the Howth Peninsula from a new perspective on a coastal cruise. These hour long jaunts begin at Howth West Pier and visit some of the coastlines best sights, including Howth Head and Baily Lighthouse.

Private tour to Howth from Dublin

Try a private tour around the village of Howth and the coastal paths of the Howth Peninsula. Learn about the area and its history and enjoy a more exclusive experience with your own personal guide to show you around.

Take a private group tour with friends or family or a couples tour with a photographer to snap those magic moments. Tours start in Dublin where you will meet your guide and also include transport fees.

Day trip to Howth plus Malahide Castle from Dublin

Visit both Howth and Malahide Castle on a day trip from Dublin. Tour the attractive coastal village of Howth to discover its clifftop walks and scenic views. Travel to Malahide Castle, which dates from the 12th century, to explore its huge gardens and lavishly decorated rooms.

How much does a tour to Howth from Dublin cost?

The price of a Howth tour from Dublin costs from around €30 to €50 per person for a group tour. Private tours are a little more expensive and cost in the region of €100 to €160 per person.

Boat tours along the coastline cost €30 per person and, if you want to extend your day trip to visit nearby Malahide Castle, prices range from €40 to €50 per person.

What will you see and do in Howth?

Howth is one of Ireland’s most picturesque and lively fishing villages. It is a popular weekend destination for Dubliners looking to escape the city for some fresh sea air.

The village has some fun museums which are worth checking out such as the National Transport Museum and the Hurdy Gurdy Museum of Vintage Radios.

Some of the best things to do in Howth are outdoors, and hiking is top of the list. Visitors are spoiled for choice with a range of excellent hiking routes all around the village. The trek through the Howth Hills to Howth Summit, for example, offers wonderful views of the Dublin Bay and Baily Lighthouse.

On a walking tour of the peninsula you will pass by rocky hills and rugged cliffs, grassy moors and verdant woodland, a castle, ancient ruins and even a deer park. The small islet known as Ireland’s Eye is visible just off the coast and seals, dolphins and other wildlife are commonly spotted in the area.

What’s more, Howth day trips offer visitors the chance to hear the stories, legends and history of the region from a professional local guide. Discover the culture of the area and be thoroughly entertained at the same time.

When is the best time to visit Howth?

Any time of year is a great time to visit Howth. The summer offers the warmest weather and, in the spring and autumn months, the landscape is bursting with color. Even winter offers the chance to wrap up warm and take a invigorating walk along the coastal paths, perhaps followed by a cozy drink in a local pub.

Travel tips

• Book your Howth day trips from Dublin in advance, so you can be sure they are available during your stay.
• Pack a light jacket and umbrella even in the summer months, as the weather here can be unpredictable.
• If you are meeting your guide in Dublin, be sure you are on time, especially if you are traveling by train.
• Wear comfortable shoes as there will be lots of walking during these tours.
• Bring along water and snacks to enjoy along the way.