North Dublin coast · 6–7 hours
Malahide Castle & Howth private tour
A castle with 800 years of history, then a fishing village with seals in the harbour and fish and chips on the pier.
A gentle day close to the city. Explore Malahide Castle and its gardens, then head to Howth for the harbour, the seals, a breezy cliff walk and some of the freshest seafood in Dublin. A perfect first day, or a last one before your flight.
Not every day needs to be a marathon. This one is relaxed, close to the city and full of small pleasures: castle gardens, sea air, seals bobbing in the harbour and a long lunch overlooking the water.
Howth is only a short drive from Dublin Airport, so this is a wonderful way to spend your last hours in Ireland before an evening flight. Bring your bags and we'll drop you at departures.
Your day, stop by stop
- 01 Collection from your hotel or address in Dublin.
- 02 Malahide Castle, home of the Talbot family for 800 years: the gardens, the woodland trails and the Butterfly House, with an optional tour inside.
- 03 Coffee at Avoca on the castle grounds, or a wander around Malahide village and marina.
- 04 Howth. Stroll the harbour and look out for seals, then take the East Pier walk or the cliff path.
- 05 Lunch by the water: Aqua for seafood with a view, the Oar House, or classic fish and chips at Beshoff's.
- 06 A scenic drive back along Dublin Bay to your hotel, or straight to the airport.
Good to know
Can we finish at the airport?
Yes. Howth is close to Dublin Airport, so many guests end this day at departures with their luggage in the car.
Will we see seals in Howth?
Very often. Seals are regular visitors to Howth Harbour, especially around the fishing boats.
Is the castle tour included?
The tour of the castle interior is optional. Tell us if you'd like it and we'll plan the timing around it.
