Owais Crawford
Dublin Airport is a gateway to stunning natural landscapes, historic sites, and charming towns. The airport is conveniently located just a short drive from the coast, the picturesque town of Swords, and other unique attractions. Dublin, Ireland's capital and largest city, offers a range of experiences, from exploring parks and local pubs to visiting museums and art venues. Here are some notable places to visit and things to do during a layover in Dublin, all easily accessible from the airport.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Distance from the coast | 3 miles (10 minutes by car) |
| Distance from the National Botanic Gardens of Ireland | 20 minutes |
| Distance from the town of Swords | A short drive |
| Public transport options | Dublin Bus, Airlink Express, DART, Luas |
| Activities | Visit the zoo, Jameson Distillery, St Patrick's Cathedral, Swords Castle, Howth Cliff Walk, shopping, museums, local pubs, art venues, Oscar Wilde walking tour, Gaelic Games, water park |
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What You'll Learn
Visit the National Botanic Gardens of Ireland
If you're looking for a peaceful escape from the bustling airport, the National Botanic Gardens of Ireland is the perfect place to visit. Located in Glasnevin, just 3 kilometres from Dublin's city centre, the Gardens are a mere 20-minute trip from the airport. Entry is free, and the Gardens serve as both a tourist destination and a centre for horticultural research and training.
Spanning 19.5 hectares, the Gardens are a living library of flora, housing over 16,000 plant species and cultivars from diverse habitats worldwide. Each step through the Gardens takes you deeper into a lush, verdant landscape, with themed gardens representing different geographical and climatic zones. From the vibrant Mediterranean collections to the exotic orchid houses, your senses will come alive.
The jewel of the Gardens is the exquisitely restored historic glasshouses, including Richard Turner's Curvilinear Range and the Great Palm House. These structures are not just functional but works of art, with award-winning conservation architecture. The Palm House, originally built in 1862, showcases plants from tropical areas, while the alkaline soil of Glasnevin allows for a unique range of calcifuge plants.
The Gardens also have a rich history. Established in 1795, they were Ireland's first botanic gardens, advancing knowledge of plants for agriculture, medicine, and dyeing. During the Great Famine of 1845-1847, research to stop the infection was undertaken here, making the Gardens a significant site in Ireland's history.
Today, the Gardens continue to educate and inspire, with the Teagasc College of Amenity Horticulture offering full- and part-time courses in amenity horticulture. The National Herbarium, housed within the Gardens, boasts a collection of over 20,000 plant product samples, including fruits, seeds, wood, fibres, and plant extracts.
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Explore the town of Swords
If you're looking for a charming town to visit near Dublin Airport, look no further than Swords. Located in north County Dublin, Swords has a long and fascinating history. The town was founded in the 6th century, and its name derives from the Irish Gaelic word 'Sord Cholm Cille', which means 'pure', referring to the holy well of St Columba, which still exists at the consecrated grounds of Wells Road. Swords has a rich medieval history, as indicated by the round tower that remains from the ancient St Columba's Church. The town also has a monastic settlement that dates back to its founding.
One of the must-see attractions in Swords is the historic Swords Castle, built around 1200 AD by the first Norman Archbishop of Dublin, John Comyn. The castle is situated near the Ward River and offers a glimpse into Ireland's medieval past. The adjacent Swords Town Park provides a space for leisure activities, with amenities like tennis courts, and it's dog-friendly too!
For those seeking outdoor adventures, the Newbridge House and Gardens offers a beautiful Georgian mansion to tour, along with a farm and well-maintained grounds with numerous trails to explore. Malahide, an affluent coastal town just a 20-minute drive from Swords, is another excellent option for a day trip. Here, you can visit Malahide Castle and Gardens, stroll along the marina, or enjoy the coastal walk from Malahide Beach to Portmarnock Beach.
If you're travelling with family, Swords has plenty of attractions to keep everyone entertained. From theme parks like Crealy Theme Park and Chester Zoo to golf courses like St. Margaret's Golf & Country Club, there's something for everyone. And with 58 indoor attractions, the weather won't put a damper on your plans!
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Tour the Jameson Distillery
Dublin, the capital of the Republic of Ireland, is a majestic place with numerous picturesque spots to visit and get transported back in time. The Dublin Airport is conveniently located just a short drive from the coast, the charming town of Swords, and other unique attractions. If you're looking for something to do near the airport, consider touring the Jameson Distillery Bow St., a former factory founded by John Jameson in 1780 that has now become a monument to Irish whiskey.
The Jameson Distillery in Dublin offers an immersive experience, providing an insight into the world of whiskey production and the rich history of this iconic brand. The distillery is easily accessible from the airport, located just a short distance from the Smithfield Luas stop, with the nearest car park on Queen Street/Smithfield Square.
The Bow St. Experience Tour, hailed as the world's leading distillery tour, invites guests to explore the intricacies of whiskey crafting. Visitors can participate in cocktail-making classes, indulge in premium whiskey tasting sessions, or even learn the art of blending their own whiskey. The distillery also houses an Irish whiskey museum, where you can delve into the history of this beloved spirit and discover what sets Jameson apart.
The distillery's tour schedule varies seasonally, with different opening hours and tour times on weekdays and weekends. Due to alcohol regulations in Ireland, it's important to note that no alcohol is sold in the gift shop or bar before 10:30 am Monday through Friday and before 12:30 pm on Sundays. So, plan your visit accordingly if you wish to purchase any alcoholic beverages as souvenirs or enjoy a drink at the bar.
The Jameson Distillery Bow St. is a must-visit destination for anyone passing through Dublin Airport, offering a unique cultural experience and a chance to savour the finest Irish whiskey. Whether you're a whiskey connoisseur or simply curious about Irish heritage, this distillery tour promises an enriching and memorable experience.
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$49.99
Take a walk along the pier in Howth
If you're looking for a refreshing break from the bustling airport environment, consider taking a walk along the pier in Howth, a charming fishing village known for its stunning coastal scenery and vibrant local culture. Located just a short distance from Dublin Airport, Howth offers a tranquil escape that will leave you feeling rejuvenated and energised during your layover.
As you stroll along the East Pier, you'll be greeted by the crisp sea breeze and breathtaking views of Dublin Bay. The pier stretches towards the old lighthouse, providing a picturesque backdrop for a leisurely walk. Along the way, you'll find an array of seafood restaurants, such as King Sitric Seafood Bar, where you can indulge in local specialities like crab claws and lobster. For a more casual dining experience, Beshoff Bros offers delicious fish and chips that you can enjoy by the harbour.
If you're feeling adventurous, continue your exploration by hiking the various trails on Howth Head. These paths wind up along the cliffs, revealing dramatic vistas of the bay below. The Cliff Path Loop, at 6km, offers a moderate challenge while treating you to rich heathers, stunning cliffs, and the captivating Balscadden Bay. For a more relaxed experience, wander through the village of Howth, where you can discover hidden gems, including the Ye Olde Hurdy-Gurdy Museum of Vintage Radio, housed in a Martello Tower, and the National Transport Museum, showcasing rare vehicles.
Howth also boasts a thriving market culture. On Saturdays, Sundays, and bank holidays, Howth Market comes alive with local producers, bakers, and artisans offering organic produce, freshly baked goods, jewellery, clothing, and antiques. It's the perfect place to find unique souvenirs or indulge in some local flavours. With its mix of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and culinary delights, a walk along the pier in Howth is sure to enrich your time near Dublin Airport.
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Experience Gaelic Games
The experience gives you an insight into the history and heritage of Gaelic Games, which are the national sports of Ireland. You will learn about the importance of these games to Irish culture and get an understanding of why every parish in Ireland has its own Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA) club. You will also learn the basics of the rules and techniques of the games, including how to pass, kick, solo and score.
Gaelic Football is played by two teams of 15 players who are trying to kick or hand-pass a leather ball between two posts joined by a horizontal bar. Scores under the bar are worth three points, while scores over the bar are worth one. The game has some similarities to soccer, but players are allowed to carry the ball in their hands, and they must bounce the ball or 'solo' it every three steps or so. Gaelic football is a more physical game, with shoulder barging and ball-stripping allowed, alongside straightforward tackling. Hurling is another popular Gaelic game, along with Ladies' Football, which is the women's version of Gaelic Football, and camogie.
The Experience Gaelic Games activity takes place at the Na Fianna GAA Club on Saint Mobhi Road in Glasnevin, Dublin. The club has all-weather pitches and shower facilities, and participants need to bring their own towels.
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Frequently asked questions
There are plenty of things to do near Dublin Airport. If you're looking for some nature, you can visit the National Botanic Gardens of Ireland, which is just a 20-minute drive from the airport. Alternatively, you can check out Santry Demense, a park that offers something for everyone, just a 10-minute drive from the airport.
Dublin has a rich history and culture, with many castles and medieval ruins to explore. You can visit the 12th-century Malahide Castle, the 15th-century Howth Castle, Swords Castle, and the medieval ruins of St Mary's Abbey.
Yes, there are several museums near Dublin Airport, including the Irish Whiskey Museum, the EPIC Irish Emigration Museum, the Little Museum of Dublin, the Kilmainham Gaol Museum, and the Teeling Whiskey Distillery.
There are several transportation options available to get around Dublin. The Dublin Bus operates various routes connecting the airport to the city and surrounding areas. The Airlink Express service provides direct links to key city centre locations. You can also use the DART, Dublin's electric train system, or the Luas, the light rail system.
Dublin offers a range of unique experiences. You can take a silent disco tour, try an escape room on a boat, or play traditional Gaelic games such as Gaelic football, handball, and hurling.
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