Cities close to Dublin

Dublin, the capital of Ireland, is an eye-catching and historical place, and fortunately, the cities near Dublin are also worth visiting. Many things are common in Dublin and its neighboring towns, yet they differ in their ways. Cities’ structure, advancements, living styles, famous places, activities, and many other uniquenesses attract locals and tourists to visit them.

Bray

Bray is a beautiful coastal town near Ireland’s attractive capital, Dublin. This city has a rich and long history where you can find a fantastic blend of urban life and beautiful nature. It is located along the Irish Sea coastline, showing charming hills and sparkling waters. Its stunning location along the County Wicklow coast provides residents with breathtaking views of the Irish Sea and the nearby Wicklow Mountains, offering a serene backdrop for daily life.

Bray’s has a vibrant atmosphere; you have a lot to experience here, from sandy beaches to bustling seafront, natural sites to scenic promenades; all views are breathtaking. It is also home to various historical landmarks, such as Bray Harbour, a hub for fishing and boating. It also has the famous Bray Head, where tourists and locals can enjoy a long walk on a 9.8 km loop trail. 

Despite its suburban charm, Bray benefits from excellent transport links, including the DART train service, ensuring easy access to Dublin city center and beyond. The town boasts a diverse range of amenities, including shops, supermarkets, restaurants, and cafes, catering to residents’ daily needs. Outdoor enthusiasts are drawn to Bray’s long sandy beach, scenic cliff walks, and proximity to the Wicklow Mountains National Park, providing ample opportunities for recreation and relaxation.

Bray hosts many festivals throughout the year; the most renowned festival is Bray Air Display, which showcases spectacular aerial acrobatics at the heart of the stunning coastline. In short, it is a blend of cultural attractions, coastal beauty, and lively community.

Malahide 

Another charming and striking coastline near Dublin is Malahide, whose history goes back to medieval times. Earlier, it was just a tiny town that gradually progressed and gained popularity due to its strategic location and maritime trade. Its history is interconnected with notable people and events, including the historical, oldest, and illustrious Malahide Castle, which the Talbot family owned for almost 800 years. It is the city’s main attraction because of the serene landscape and beautifully designed gardens.

Today, this city has a vibrant community that blends with modern attractions and historical heritage. Malahide’s striking coastline, sandy beaches, and picturesque marinas attract tourists interested in outdoor adventures. Moreover, the awe-inspiring village center has bustling cafes and shops offering delightful culinary experiences. 

Overall, Malahide is a beloved destination close to Dublin because of its rich history, medieval roots, natural beauty, lively community spirit, and artistic venues.

So, if you are planning for your next trip near Dublin, add Malahide to the list and cherish yourself.

Dalkey

You will find another gorgeous coastal line named Dalkey in the South of Dublin. Situated along the shores of Dublin Bay, Dalkey offers residents stunning views of the Irish Sea and the nearby Dalkey Island, making it an idyllic setting for coastal living. Its long history goes back to Medieval times when it served as a busy trading port. You can sense the rich history of this city through ancient ruins, narrow cobblestones, and spectacular medieval castles. 

The village is renowned for its picturesque streets lined with colorful Georgian and Victorian architecture, as well as its lush green spaces and tranquil parks. Whether roaming the streets or being on the beaches, Dalkey will never disappoint you. The enchanting coastline and eye-catching beaches make this city a fantastic tourist spot where they can enjoy outdoor strolls and other adventures. Despite its small size, Dalkey boasts a wealth of amenities, including boutique shops, gourmet restaurants, cozy cafes, and traditional pubs, providing residents with everything they need for a comfortable lifestyle. 

Visitors from across the globe are captivated by the natural beauty, striking views from Dalke Hill, and the peaceful shores of Dalkey Island. Moreover, it hosts diverse events and festivals for all the lovely tourists, the most famous of which are the Dalkey Lobster and Dalkey Book Festivals. Cutting the story short, it is a mixture of scenic places, history, and cultural vibrancy so that you can add it to your bucket with an open heart.

Sandymount

When talking about towns close to Dublin, how can we forget to mention Sandymount? It has a historical background and previously served a large community through the fishing industry. Later on, it transformed into a residential area in the 19th century. Its nearness to Dublin’s city center and astounding coastal location make it a seductive place to live and visit. 

One of the best tourist destinations in Sandymount is its gorgeous beach, which spans along the coast and provides breathtaking views of Dublin Bay and the distinctive Poolbeg Towers. All lovers of beaches, fresh breeze, picnics, and long walks can come to this fantastic seaside to make memories. Another recommended spot for visitors in Dublin is its Martello Tower, built in the early 19th century to save Ireland from the drastic invasion of Napoleon. Today, this tower is a famous museum with unparalleled military history and breathtaking views of the nearby areas. 

It has also been classified as a Special Area of Conservation because of its ecological significance, especially for birdlife. People with a deep connection to the birds can come to this area to observe the vast variety of seabirds, such as translators, waders, and gulls. The Sandymount village offers charming views, and restaurants offer delicious cuisine to all the precious visitors.

Skerries

There are many towns close to Dublin, and one of the most scenic ones is Skerries. It is a charming coastline located north of Ireland’s capital, Dublin. This historical place has a rich history dating back centuries. In the past, it was just a tiny fishing village that gradually evolved into a rushy seaside destination famous for its natural sites, maritime heritage, and diverse community. 

One of the most defining places of Skerries is its coastline, covered with sandy beaches, panoramic views of the Irish Sea, and rocky cliffs. Skerries’ famous harbor is the main point of maritime activities, including sailing, fishing, water sports, and more. The Skerries Mills is a collection of restored windmills showcasing the city’s industrial past. It also has many archaeological sites, including burial mounds and medieval ruins. 

Today, this town has a lot to explore, such as shops, pubs, and restaurants where you can please yourself with fresh seafood, artisanal goods, and enjoy traditional Irish Irish hospitality. Skerries also hosts festivals yearly to celebrate its rich heritage and enhance the tourism industry. In a nutshell, Skerries is a must-visit place for all history lovers.

Dun Laoghaire 

There are many coastal cities close to Dublin, one of which is Dun Laoghaire, pronounced: “Dun Leary.” It was initially a small fishing village that over grew and became an important port and ferry terminal connecting Great Britain to Ireland. All the fishermen or those who hunt for pleasure can come to the stunning harbor of Dun Laoghaire to enjoy the maritime activities. 

Despite its suburban feel, Dún Laoghaire benefits from excellent transportation links, including frequent DART train services connecting residents to Dublin and beyond, as well as a comprehensive bus network. The town offers a range of amenities and services, including shopping centers, supermarkets, restaurants, and cafes, catering to residents’ daily needs. 

Cultural attractions such as the National Maritime Museum of Ireland and the James Joyce Tower and Museum add to the town’s appeal. Outdoor enthusiasts can take advantage of numerous parks, green spaces, and recreational facilities, while Dún Laoghaire Harbour provides opportunities for water-based activities. With a strong sense of community and a vibrant atmosphere, Dún Laoghaire offers an attractive lifestyle close to the amenities of Dublin city center.