The Burren: Day Trips and Tours from Dublin

Explore one of Ireland’s most ecologically diverse landscapes on a Burren day trip from Dublin. Visit the Burren National Park and discover a dramatic terrain of rocky coastline, dense woodland and barren moorland.

Glimpse some of the rare plant life which survives in this unique and moonlike environment, and see the many ancient tombs and dolmens that dot the landscape. A Burren day trip is an essential excursion when visiting Dublin.

How to get to The Burren from Dublin?

The Burren is located in County Clare on the west coast of Ireland. The journey will take you across the entire country, from east to west, which can be done by car in under three hours.

From Dublin to The Burren by car

The journey time will vary because the area known as “The Burren” is very large. On average, it should take around two hours and 45 minutes to reach from Dublin, and covers around 240 kilometers.

Take the N4 from Dublin to the M4 motorway. Stay on the M4 until it changes to the M6 and then take the M6 to Athenry. Follow the M18 south and then take the R460 all the way to The Burren.

Guided tour to The Burren from Dublin

A Burren day trip from Dublin is a great solution for those who don’t have their own transport. These trips depart from Dublin city center and often include hotel pickup and drop-off, a local tour guide, and all transportation for the day.

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

A Burren day tour from Dublin will often also visit other top tourist attractions on Ireland’s west coast. This area is part of the popular scenic drive known as the “Wild Atlantic Way” which encompasses the Cliffs of Moher, one of the country’s most popular and magnificent landmarks.

A typical day tour will begin with pickup at your hotel where you will meet your tour guide and begin the journey to The Burren by minivan or private car. Explore the west coast by road, calling in at some of its most interesting places, which may include Galway, Limerick, Bunratty Castle and the Cliffs of Moher.

Stop for photos to capture the visually unique environment of The Burren and grab some lunch in a seaside restaurant. Learn about the ancient history of the region from your guide and enjoy the scenery on a drive through the very heart of Ireland.

What kinds of tours are available to go to The Burren?

If you are looking to explore Ireland’s picturesque west coast on a day trip from Dublin, you have a variety of options available to you.

Guided tours to The Burren from Dublin

Take a day-long jaunt to discover some highlights of the Wild Atlantic Way. Travel by minivan and visit the rocky landscape of The Burren and the dramatic Cliffs of Moher.

Tour a choice of other key places on the west coast, including Bunratty Castle and King John’s Castle, and the medieval cities of Limerick and Galway.  These tours include a local guide and all transport for the day.

Guided rail tours to The Burren from Dublin

Meet your guide in Dublin and travel by rail to Ireland’s wild western shores. Take a coach trip along the coastline and see its most impressive attractions, including The Burren and the Cliffs of Moher.

Enjoy the scenic views as you travel and learn local history from your guide. These trips include transportation, a tour guide and entrance fees to some attractions.

Private tour to The Burren from Dublin

Book a private tour of the Burren and enjoy the benefits of your own personal transport and tour guide. Travel in a group of up to five people and visit The Burren, the Cliffs of Moher and much more.

Learn about the region from your guide and visit only the places you want to on these personalized and customizable trips.

7-Day tour to The Burren from Dublin

Explore Ireland in detail on a 7-day tour from Dublin. Visit The Burren and many other popular sites, including the Cliffs of Moher, the Wild Atlantic Way, Blarney Castle and the Rock of Cashel.

These thorough trips visit the highlights of Ireland with plenty of time for fun along the way. Tours include a professional local guide, transport, accommodation and some meals.

How much does a tour to The Burren from Dublin cost?

A Burren day trip costs from around €70 to €130 per person for a guided group tour by rail or bus. Private tours are more expensive and cost in the region of €900 for a group of up to five people.

If you want to take a 7-day journey through Ireland, the cost is around €1,500 per person, and this includes all transport, accommodation and select meals.

What will you see and do in The Burren?

Some of Ireland’s most popular attractions are located right near The Burren on the country’s "Wild Atlantic Way."

The Burren

One of Ireland’s most unique and atmospheric landscapes, The Burren is a must-see destination on the west coast. The word “Burren” literally means “a rocky place” and is an apt description of the sometimes moonlike landscape in this part of Ireland.

Though, at first glance the region is visibly sparse and almost barren, it is actually one of the most ecologically rich areas in the country. Around 75% of Ireland’s plant species, including rare species that are usually found in the Mediterranean, can be found in this 360-square-kilometer region.

Cliffs of Moher

Just south of The Burren is one of Ireland’s most popular tourist attractions, the Cliffs of Moher. The sheer cliffs run for around 12 kilometers along the west coast and reach heights of up to 214 meters.

County Clare

There are also plenty of interesting sights to see along the way, including castles, caves and megalithic monuments. The Doolin Caves, for example, are home to what’s thought to be the largest stalactite in Europe and the third largest in the world.

History lovers will enjoy a tour of Bunratty Castle and a trip to the megalithic tomb of Poulnabrone, which is said to be over 5,000 years old.

When is the best time to visit The Burren?

Without a doubt, the best time to visit The Burren is throughout the summer months. This is when the weather is at its finest and the countryside is in full bloom. Visit in the months of May and September if you prefer to avoid the crowds.

Are there any tours to The Burren from other cities in Ireland?

Yes, there are other tours departing from other cities in Ireland:

• Day tours to the Burren from Galway

Travel tips

• These tours are popular, so be sure to book your excursions to The Burren well in advance, so you don’t miss out during your trip to Dublin.
• Bring plenty of snacks and water as these tours usually take all day.
• Wear comfortable shoes as there will be some walking involved on the trip.
• Bring an umbrella and waterproof jacket at all times of the year, as the weather on the coast can be unpredictable.