Travelling Around Ireland

Weekend Trips & Day Trips

Ireland is a small country — you can drive from Dublin to Galway in about 2.5 hours. This means incredible day trips and weekend adventures are very accessible, even on a student budget.

Must-Visit Destinations

• Cliffs of Moher (County Clare): Ireland's most famous natural attraction. Dramatic cliffs rising 200m above the Atlantic Ocean. Day trip buses run from Dublin (EUR 30-40 return).
• Galway: A vibrant, bohemian city on the west coast. Known for street performers, colorful pubs, and the best craic in Ireland. Bus Eireann runs regular services (EUR 15-20 return if booked early).
• Killarney & Ring of Kerry: Stunning mountain and lake scenery in the southwest. Best as a weekend trip.
• Giant's Causeway (Northern Ireland): Unique hexagonal basalt columns on the coast. Day trip tours available from Dublin.
• Wicklow Mountains: Just south of Dublin. Glendalough is a beautiful glacial valley with a monastic site. Accessible by St. Kevin's bus from Dublin city centre.
• Cork: Ireland's second city. Known as the "food capital" of Ireland. The English Market is a must-visit.
• Howth: A fishing village on Dublin's coast, accessible by DART train in 30 minutes. Great cliff walk and seafood.

How to Get There

• Bus Eireann / Expressway: The national bus network. Connects all major cities. Book online for the best prices.
• GoBus: Private bus service to Galway, Cork, and Limerick. Often cheaper than Bus Eireann.
• Irish Rail: Train services to major cities. The Dublin-Galway and Dublin-Cork routes are popular. Book in advance for web fares starting at EUR 9.99.
• Tour companies: Paddywagon Tours and Wild Rover Tours offer affordable day trips from Dublin to popular destinations.

Budget Tips

• Book bus and train tickets online in advance — prices can be 50% cheaper than walk-up fares.
• Travel midweek if your school schedule allows — tickets are cheaper on Tuesday-Thursday.
• Hostels in Galway and Cork cost EUR 20-30 per night for a dorm bed.
• Pack a lunch and snacks — food at tourist spots is overpriced.