Car Travel

The easiest and best way to tour Dublin's environs is by car, because many sights are not served by public transportation. What service there is, especially to outlying areas, is infrequent. To visit destinations in the Boyne Valley, follow N3, along the east side of Phoenix Park, out of the city and make Trim and Tara your first stops. Alternatively, leave Dublin via N1/M1 toward Belfast. To reach destinations in County Kildare, follow the quays along the south side of the River Liffey (they are one-way westbound) to St. John's Road West (N7/M7); in a matter of minutes you're heading for open countryside. Avoid traveling this route during the evening rush hour, especially on Friday, when Dubliners are making their weekend getaways. To reach destinations in County Wicklow, N11/M11 is the fastest and most clearly marked route. The two more scenic routes to Glendalough are R115 to R759 to R755, or R177 to R755. All major roads can be congested during rush hours, and like most major cities, Friday afternoon is a busy time to leave the city.