Day trip from Dublin
Howth
Harbour charm and spectacular coastal walks
Approximately 30 minutes from Dublin
Why visit
Howth feels wonderfully removed from the city despite being only a short journey away. Fishing boats fill the harbour, seafood restaurants line the waterfront and the cliff path opens onto sweeping views across Dublin Bay and Ireland's Eye.
Top things to see
- Howth Harbour and its working fishing fleet
- Howth Cliff Walk for panoramic sea views
- Howth Castle and the village streets
- Ireland's Eye from the harbour
- The local market and waterfront seafood restaurants
Suggested one-day plan
Take the DART from central Dublin, explore the harbour and follow the lower section of the Howth Cliff Walk while the paths are quiet.
Return to the waterfront for fresh seafood, then browse Howth Market and the village shops.
Continue toward Howth Castle and its grounds, or take a short boat trip around Ireland's Eye when conditions allow.
Enjoy a final harbour stroll before taking the DART back to Dublin.
DART trains run regularly from central Dublin stations to Howth in about 30 minutes. The harbour and village begin immediately outside the station, while the cliff walk trailhead is a short walk away.
A relaxed half day works well, but allow 6–8 hours for a longer cliff walk, lunch and the castle grounds.
- Cliff paths can be muddy and exposed, so wear suitable shoes and bring a light waterproof layer.
- Some longer cliff-walk loops involve steep and uneven sections.
- Seafood restaurants are busiest at weekends; book ahead for a specific venue.