This is part of my series exploring the best places to stay in Ireland for day trips. This time we're using Dublin as our base to see just how many places you can comfortably explore without changing accommodations.

See the video & article at: https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/dublin-base-explore-… This is part of my series exploring the best places to stay in Ireland for day trips. This time we're using Dublin as our base to see just how many places you can comfortably explore without changing accommodations.

See the video & article at: https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/dublin-base-explore-ireland/planning-your-irish-vacation/itineraries/

Using my Ireland Travel Compass, I'll show you day trip options around Dublin, what falls within a reasonable travel radius, and places you may not have considered when planning your Ireland itinerary.

Destinations recommended in this video:

• Boyne Valley

• Athlone

• Kilkenny

• Wicklow

• Belfast

And what about those popular day tours from Dublin to the Cliffs of Moher and Giant's Causeway? Yes, they can be done. We'll look at why possible doesn't necessarily mean recommended, especially when you consider how much of your day will be spent getting there and back.

Everything I'm using to explore these locations is inside my Ireland Travel Compass. The interactive planning map includes hundreds of places to see, things to do, and experiences around Ireland, along with the tools and advice to help you build a realistic itinerary.

Ireland Travel Resources:

- Car Rental & Driving Guide: https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/drive

- DIY Ireland Travel Planner: https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/compass

- Expert Ireland travel advice by email: https://ifv.kit.com/51952569c5 more

Do you actually need a Leap Card when visiting Dublin or traveling around Ireland? Maybe, but the Leap Visitor Card isn't automatically the best choice just because you're a visitor.

Dublin city centre is compact and very walkable, and I rarely use public transportation when I'm exploring the city.… Do you actually need a Leap Card when visiting Dublin or traveling around Ireland? Maybe, but the Leap Visitor Card isn't automatically the best choice just because you're a visitor.

Dublin city centre is compact and very walkable, and I rarely use public transportation when I'm exploring the city. Depending on your plans, individual fares or a Standard Leap Card may cost less than a Visitor Leap Card.

Full article for indepth info & links: https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/leap-card-ireland/ireland-travel-tips/

In this episode I'll explain:

• The difference between a Standard Leap Card and Leap Visitor Card

• How much the Leap Visitor Card costs

• Whether a Leap Card can actually save you money

• Where you can use a Leap Card in Dublin and around Ireland

• Where Leap Cards aren't accepted

• Why you may not need a Leap Card at all

• How and where to purchase one

Planning to take the DART to Howth? I'll also show you a real-world fare comparison that may make you rethink the €8 one-day Visitor Card.

Additional information mentioned in the episode:

- How to get around Ireland: https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/travel-ireland-bus-car-train/planning-your-irish-vacation/

- How to use your mobile phone in Ireland: https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/tips-using-mobile-phone-ireland/ireland-travel-tips/

- WifiCandy: IrelandfamilyVacations.com/wifi (use code IFV10 for discount_

- Ireland Itinerary Review: irelandfamilyvacations.com/review

Ireland Travel Resources:

- Car Rental & Driving Guide: https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/drive

- DIY Ireland Travel Planner: https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/compass

- Expert Ireland travel advice by email: https://ifv.kit.com/51952569c5 more

Landing at Dublin Airport doesn't mean you need to get behind the wheel immediately.

If your Ireland vacation begins in Galway, Cork, Killarney, Kilkenny, or another destination beyond Dublin, driving after an overnight flight may not be the safest choice.

Full show notes + video: https://irelandf… Landing at Dublin Airport doesn't mean you need to get behind the wheel immediately.

If your Ireland vacation begins in Galway, Cork, Killarney, Kilkenny, or another destination beyond Dublin, driving after an overnight flight may not be the safest choice.

Full show notes + video: https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/dublin-airport-transportation/ireland-travel-tips/

In this episode I'll explain:

• Why I recommend limiting arrival-day driving to about 90 minutes

• When it makes sense to hire a private driver

• Why a direct airport coach is often the easiest option

• When taking the train is worth considering

I'll also share my recommendations for reaching popular destinations, including Galway, Cork, Killarney, and Kilkenny, so you can choose the transportation that best fits your budget, travel style, and energy level. more

A chance meeting in Dublin led to a lively catch-up about how travel in Ireland is changing – and how visitors can experience so much more than the usual highlights. Custom Food and Whiskey Tours in Ireland What started as a Dublin food tour has grown into something much bigger. Gráinne, owner of Fl… A chance meeting in Dublin led to a lively catch-up about how travel in Ireland is changing – and how visitors can experience so much more than the usual highlights. Custom Food and Whiskey Tours in Ireland What started as a Dublin food tour has grown into something much bigger. Gráinne, owner of Flavour Trails,...

The post Explore Ireland Differently: Bespoke Food, Whiskey & Cultural Tours appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations. more

Landing at Dublin Airport is often the first stop in your Ireland journey, but one of the first questions many travelers have is how to get into the city centre. A lot of people immediately look for the cheapest option. That makes sense, but the cheapest option may not always be the best choice depe… Landing at Dublin Airport is often the first stop in your Ireland journey, but one of the first questions many travelers have is how to get into the city centre. A lot of people immediately look for the cheapest option. That makes sense, but the cheapest option may not always be the best choice depending...

The post How to Get from Dublin Airport to Dublin City Centre appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations. more

Hear about travel to Dublin, Ireland, as the Amateur Traveler talks to tour guide Garvan Rushe from DublinTourGuide.ie about the capital and largest city of Ireland.

This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out… Hear about travel to Dublin, Ireland, as the Amateur Traveler talks to tour guide Garvan Rushe from DublinTourGuide.ie about the capital and largest city of Ireland.

This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel here.

Why should you go to Dublin?

Garvan describes Dublin as approachable and human in scale, a capital that feels more like a town than a sprawling metropolis. Visitors often find a sense of connection here, whether or not they have Irish ancestry. The city’s story reflects its complex past: British rule for over 700 years followed by independence only about a century ago, leaving visible traces in architecture, monuments, and institutions.

Practical Orientation

Stay on the south side of the River Liffey for convenience and quieter nights.

Avoid lodging in Temple Bar if you want sleep, though it is worth visiting for nightlife.

Dublin’s small size makes it easy to explore on foot or via guided walking tours.

If arriving on a red-eye from North America, ease into sightseeing with a shorter itinerary.

...

https://amateurtraveler.com/travel-to-dublin-ireland-2/
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices more

Not far beyond Dublin’s busy streets lies a landscape of forest trails, heather-covered hills, and stories that stretch back thousands of years. The Dublin Mountains are closer than most visitors realize – and packed with history, mythology, and unforgettable views. This article is based on podcast … Not far beyond Dublin’s busy streets lies a landscape of forest trails, heather-covered hills, and stories that stretch back thousands of years. The Dublin Mountains are closer than most visitors realize – and packed with history, mythology, and unforgettable views. This article is based on podcast episode 327 featuring Ben Shorten, owner of My Bike...

The post From Fairy Castles to the Hellfire Club: What You’ll Find in the Dublin Mountains appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations. more

Two Ways Across Ireland: Direct and Easy, or Scenic and Story-Filled Traveling between Dublin and Galway might look simple on a map – a straight shot from east to west. And it can be. But this is Ireland, and sometimes the best part of the journey is what happens when you detour off the motorway....… Two Ways Across Ireland: Direct and Easy, or Scenic and Story-Filled Traveling between Dublin and Galway might look simple on a map – a straight shot from east to west. And it can be. But this is Ireland, and sometimes the best part of the journey is what happens when you detour off the motorway....

The post Dublin to Galway (and Why You Might Want to Take the Long Way) appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations. more

Visiting the Museum of Literature Ireland (MoLI) Dublin didn’t earn its UNESCO City of Literature designation by accident. This is a city shaped – physically, culturally, and emotionally – by writers. Their words echo through streets, pubs, libraries, and public spaces, forming part of everyday life… Visiting the Museum of Literature Ireland (MoLI) Dublin didn’t earn its UNESCO City of Literature designation by accident. This is a city shaped – physically, culturally, and emotionally – by writers. Their words echo through streets, pubs, libraries, and public spaces, forming part of everyday life rather than sitting quietly on a shelf. One of...

The post Dublin – A City Shaped by Writers appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations. more

Brent met up in Dublin with Gráinne Lawlor from Flavour Trails last summer where she told Brent about the little rooms in pubs called snugs and the new tours she has planned for her company. Now that those tours are live, Gráinne is back to tell Brent about the storytelling tour and storytelling tra… Brent met up in Dublin with Gráinne Lawlor from Flavour Trails last summer where she told Brent about the little rooms in pubs called snugs and the new tours she has planned for her company. Now that those tours are live, Gráinne is back to tell Brent about the storytelling tour and storytelling tradition, creatures like banshees and the Puca, and Halloween traditions in Ireland. Plus, lots of whiskey recommendations, daytrips to Cliffs of Moher, Donegal, and much more! [Ep 362]

Show Notes:

Destination Eat Drink Foodie Travel Guides

Destination Eat Drink videos

Flavour Trails food and whiskey tours more

In this Traveling in Ireland Quick Tips episode, I walk you through what to expect when picking up your rental car in Ireland. From the rental desk to the car park, I share how the process works at Dublin and Shannon Airports, what to check before you drive away, and a few quick tips for returning y… In this Traveling in Ireland Quick Tips episode, I walk you through what to expect when picking up your rental car in Ireland. From the rental desk to the car park, I share how the process works at Dublin and Shannon Airports, what to check before you drive away, and a few quick tips for returning your car at the end of your trip.

Show notes + video: https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/rental-car-pickup-return-ireland/ireland-travel-tips/
Renting a car & Driving in Ireland full resource: https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/ireland-car-rental-driving-guide/ more

In this episode, Jody shares a preview of her Craft, Culture & Craic women’s tour - a small-group journey through Ireland’s south and east filled with artistry, connection, and fun.
From making your own Claddagh ring in Dublin to soaking in a seaweed bath in Ardmore, this itinerary blends hands-on e… In this episode, Jody shares a preview of her Craft, Culture & Craic women’s tour - a small-group journey through Ireland’s south and east filled with artistry, connection, and fun.
From making your own Claddagh ring in Dublin to soaking in a seaweed bath in Ardmore, this itinerary blends hands-on experiences with time to relax, explore, and enjoy the rhythm of Irish life.
Jody explains what makes her tours different - the balance of iconic sights, authentic encounters, and small-group camaraderie - and why each itinerary is a one-time experience built around themes she’s truly passionate about.

Learn more about the 2026 Craft, Culture & Craic tour: https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/ireland-tours/women-only-ireland-tour/
Learn more about Traveling in Ireland tours: https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/ireland-tours/ more

Send us Fan Mail A recent survey from Skyscanner highlights everything from emerging travel behaviors to the top 10 trending and best value destinations. So, on this week's podcast travel expert Onanta Forbes will join to me to share what those behaviors and destinations are for 2026. Then we'll hea… Send us Fan Mail A recent survey from Skyscanner highlights everything from emerging travel behaviors to the top 10 trending and best value destinations. So, on this week's podcast travel expert Onanta Forbes will join to me to share what those behaviors and destinations are for 2026. Then we'll head to Dublin, Ireland and chat with Garvan Rushe, the founder of Dublin Tour Guide, to learn all about discovering Dublin through the walking tours they offer. Support the show more

In this Traveling in Ireland Quick Tips episode, I explain when you really need a rental car in Ireland - and when you don’t.
Driving in Dublin isn’t fun, with one-way streets, limited parking, and great public transport alternatives, so a car often isn’t necessary.
I’ll share smart options for trim… In this Traveling in Ireland Quick Tips episode, I explain when you really need a rental car in Ireland - and when you don’t.
Driving in Dublin isn’t fun, with one-way streets, limited parking, and great public transport alternatives, so a car often isn’t necessary.
I’ll share smart options for trimming days off your rental, using buses or trains to begin your trip outside Dublin, and what to check if you’re considering city versus airport pickup.

Full show notes at more

The Medieval City of Kilkenny is an easy trip from Dublin – under 2 hours if you travel direct by car – and is a terrific day trip from Dublin by train. But too many travelers consider Kilkenny as a ‘stop through’ in route to another spot (usually Cork), which often leads to regret, as...

The post … The Medieval City of Kilkenny is an easy trip from Dublin – under 2 hours if you travel direct by car – and is a terrific day trip from Dublin by train. But too many travelers consider Kilkenny as a ‘stop through’ in route to another spot (usually Cork), which often leads to regret, as...

The post Dublin to Kilkenny (and why to stay a while in the Medieval City) appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations. more

Lori-Ann and Nick Mancini transform their daughters' Irish dance opportunity into an unforgettable 20-day family adventure across Ireland, Northern Ireland, Scotland and England, blending cultural experiences with memorable exploration. • Flying direct from Orlando to Dublin before driving through I… Lori-Ann and Nick Mancini transform their daughters' Irish dance opportunity into an unforgettable 20-day family adventure across Ireland, Northern Ireland, Scotland and England, blending cultural experiences with memorable exploration. • Flying direct from Orlando to Dublin before driving through Ireland and Northern Ireland • Discovering the surprising beauty of Northern Ireland, including Tollymore Forest, Giant's Causeway and Silent Valley • Flying to Edinburgh and experiencing Holyrood ... more

In this Traveling in Ireland Quick Tips episode Jody shares her top recommendations in Dublin.
I return to each of these again and again, and they never disappoint. They bring Dublin’s story to life in a way that’s engaging for families, couples, or solo travelers. From ancient artifacts to deliciou… In this Traveling in Ireland Quick Tips episode Jody shares her top recommendations in Dublin.
I return to each of these again and again, and they never disappoint. They bring Dublin’s story to life in a way that’s engaging for families, couples, or solo travelers. From ancient artifacts to delicious bites to castle tales, these experiences show you the very best of Ireland’s capital city in a short time.

✨ What you’ll discover in this episode:
Why the National Museum of Archaeology is a must-visit
How food tours give you an authentic taste of Dublin
The history and charm of Malahide Castle & Gardens

📌 Plan your Ireland trip county by county: https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/explore
Full show notes & links at: https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/dublin-top-3-experiences/attractions/

// RECOMMENDED TOURS & SERVICES

AFFILIATE DISCLOSURE: Links included in this description may be affiliate links. We participate in the Amazon affiliate program and several other affiliate partnerships. If you purchase a product or service with the links that we provide we may receive a small commission. There is no additional charge to you. Thank you for your support.

Flavour Trails: https://flavourtrails.ie/
Vintage Tea Trips: https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/Vi...
Flytographer: https://flytog.co/TII/ta/tii/ more

In this live episode of the Traveling in Ireland podcast Jody sits down at Iowa Irish Fest with Guinness Ambassador Zach Berger.
You'll hear how Guinness became the #1 draft in the U.S., tips for visiting the Guinness Storehouse in Dublin, and how the brand continues to innovate through American bre… In this live episode of the Traveling in Ireland podcast Jody sits down at Iowa Irish Fest with Guinness Ambassador Zach Berger.
You'll hear how Guinness became the #1 draft in the U.S., tips for visiting the Guinness Storehouse in Dublin, and how the brand continues to innovate through American breweries in Baltimore and Chicago. Learn about the beer’s evolution, the genius behind its advertising, and why it remains a symbol of Irish pride.

🎯 Highlights:
- All Guinness sold in the U.S. is brewed in Dublin
- The surprising story behind the harp logo
- Inside the Guinness Storehouse experience
- Why fruited Guinness beers exist (and where to try them)
- Tips for timing your Storehouse visit just right
- The evolution of Guinness advertising, from zoo animals to global campaigns more

In this episode of the Traveling in Ireland podcast, Jody speaks with Gráinne Lawlor, owner of Flavour Trails in Dublin.
They discuss the charm of Dublin, its culture, and the various attractions that make it a must-visit for travelers. Gráinne shares insights about her food, whiskey, and storytelli… In this episode of the Traveling in Ireland podcast, Jody speaks with Gráinne Lawlor, owner of Flavour Trails in Dublin.
They discuss the charm of Dublin, its culture, and the various attractions that make it a must-visit for travelers. Gráinne shares insights about her food, whiskey, and storytelling tours, emphasizing the importance of local experiences and supporting small businesses. The conversation also covers tips for enjoying Dublin's nightlife, must-visit pubs, and recommendations for dining and attractions, including hidden gems and cultural experiences.

Takeaways
- Free access to museums and galleries makes Dublin unique.
- The Cobblestone and O'Donoghue's are top pub recommendations.
- Glasnevin Cemetery offers a deep dive into Dublin's history.
- Flavour Trails provides immersive food and whiskey tours.
- Duty Free at the airport is a great place to buy Irish whiskey.
- Spice bags are a must-try street food in Dublin.

For full show notes and links visit: more

Granne Lawlor is the founder of food and whiskey tour company Flavour Trails. She shares the best things to eat and drink in Dublin including boxty, a controversial dish called coddle, as well how to pair food with whiskey. Plus, why the Irish traditionally didn’t eat a lot of fish even though it’s … Granne Lawlor is the founder of food and whiskey tour company Flavour Trails. She shares the best things to eat and drink in Dublin including boxty, a controversial dish called coddle, as well how to pair food with whiskey. Plus, why the Irish traditionally didn’t eat a lot of fish even though it’s an island nation and why the Brazilian community has enriched the culture of Dublin. And, how you earn it in an Irish pub with tons of great recommendations! [Ep 334]

Show Notes:

Foodie Travel Guides from Destination Eat Drink

Brent’s Substack

Flavour Trails tours

Gallagher’s Boxty House

John Kavanagh The Gravediggers

O’Donoghue’s

Chapter One

Powers Court

Bean and Goose

The Cobblestone Pub

The Stag’s Head

Darkey Kelly’s

Candlelit Tales

Grogan’s

The Palace Bar

Dame Tavern more