A Seaside Escape from Dublin: Howth Day Trip Guide

Updated on 02/06/2025 ｜ Published on 02/06/2025

Looking for a light day trip from Dublin without spending hours on the road? Howth is a popular weekend getaway for locals, offering a charming mix of harbour markets, iconic lighthouses, dramatic sea views, and the freshest seafood. Whether you fancy a scenic walk, a delicious meal, or a photo session by the sea, this coastal village has it all.

Ireland Content：Trinity College Book of Kells｜Guinness Storehouse｜Irish Whiskey Museum｜Kilmainham Gaol｜Howth

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Is Howth Worth Visiting?

Just a 30-minute ride from Dublin city centre, Howth is a laid-back harbour town full of local charm. Unlike typical tourist spots, it’s never too crowded but still lively with its weekend market, serene lighthouse trail, and irresistible seaside eats. It’s perfect for slow travellers who love to explore at their own pace.

If you’re spending more than three days in Dublin, a day trip to Howth is highly recommended to experience the relaxed rhythm of a local weekend.

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How to Get to Howth from Dublin

Hop on the DART (Dublin Area Rapid Transit) coastal train from Connolly, Tara Street or Pearse stations. The journey takes about 30 minutes and drops you right in the heart of Howth. Try to go early on weekends to avoid crowds and enjoy the market and seafood at a more leisurely pace.

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Howth Market｜A Weekend-Only Treat

The best way to feel the energy of Howth is to start at its weekend market. Open only on Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays, this small yet vibrant market sits perfectly between the train station and the harbour—an ideal first stop for a snack before your coastal stroll.

• Market Highlights：A mix of handmade crafts, local produce, natural soaps, candles, and lifestyle items
• Recommended Bites：Sausage rolls, freshly blended smoothies, made-to-order crêpes or hot food boxes—not only comforting but also highly Instagrammable
• Atmosphere Tip：A few tables and chairs beside the open-air stalls let you sit down and relax—perfect for browsing slowly, snacking, and snapping photos

Visiting on a weekday? While most stalls will be closed, a few permanent shops—like cafés, gelato stands, souvenir stores and artisan boutiques—remain open. With fewer tourists around, it’s a more peaceful, slow-paced experience. Even without the weekend buzz, Howth still has plenty to offer.

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Howth Harbour & Lighthouse｜A Classic Seaside Stroll

A short walk from the market leads you to the harbour, where you can follow the coastal path all the way to the lighthouse—one of Howth’s most iconic sights.

• Trail Difficulty：Flat and easy to walk—ideal for a pre-meal or post-meal stroll
• Photo Spot Highlight：The red-and-white lighthouse stands proudly at the end of the harbour—a postcard-perfect icon in countless travel shots
• Surprise Moment：If you’re lucky, you might spot seals popping their heads up along the harbour!

No gear needed for this walk—just relax, snap some pictures, and soak up the sea breeze.

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Seafood Feasts & Local Brews｜A Taste of Howth

No seaside town visit is complete without fresh seafood. Howth’s waterfront is lined with seafood restaurants and outdoor food stalls. Whether you’re in the mood for a sit-down meal or a quick bite, you’ll be spoilt for choice.

Favourites include: Fresh oysters, mussels, crab legs, smoked salmon, and of course, classic fish and chips. Pair it with a chilled pint of Irish craft beer and enjoy the flavours of the sea with a view of the waves.

Whether you’re tucked into a cosy window seat watching the harbour or standing by the pier with a steaming paper-wrapped fish and chips, the Howth food scene always hits the spot.

Staying at an Airbnb with a kitchen? Head to the local fish market to pick up some fresh catch and try your hand at cooking—it’s a lovely way to enjoy Howth from a different angle.

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More to Explore｜Optional Add-Ons for Nature Lovers

If you’re not rushing back to the city, Howth has a few more gems worth exploring:

• Short Cliff Walk：Starting near the lighthouse, take a brief walk along the cliffs for stunning coastal views—perfect for photos
• Howth Castle Grounds：While the castle itself isn’t open for tours, you can wander the paths around its grounds. It’s a quiet, off-the-beaten-path place to unwind

If you’re looking to take a break from Dublin’s city buzz, a half-day or full-day trip to Howth is a brilliant option. This charming harbour town brings together the bustle of markets, the calm of the lighthouse, and the deliciousness of fresh seafood—all in one relaxing escape.

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