Howth Cliffs & Village: Half-Day Bus Tour from Dublin

Summary

Sea cliffs walks, village flavors and local stories in Howth

You’ll ride out from Dublin to salty-aired Howth Summit for a cliff walk with a local guide who actually knows every twist of the path. Then you’ll get time to explore Howth Village your way — grab seafood by the docks or just watch boats bobbing around. It’s simple, real Ireland with all transport sorted for you.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect the wind to taste salty before we even saw the water — but that’s Howth for you. We left Dublin behind on this half-day bus tour, and within maybe 30 minutes or so (I lost track chatting with our guide, Aisling), we were already winding up towards the summit. She pointed out a pub where her uncle still plays trad music on Sundays. The bus windows fogged up a bit from everyone’s breath, which made me laugh — Irish weather is like that, never quite sure what it wants to do.

The main thing I remember is how suddenly the cliffs of Howth just appear — one minute you’re in green fields, next you’re staring down at foamy waves smashing rocks far below. Our group walked along the cliff path together, and Aisling told us about seals (we didn’t spot any, but I swear I heard something splash). There was this wild garlic smell drifting up from somewhere. I kept stopping to take photos but honestly none of them really caught how wide open it felt. If you book this day trip from Dublin to Howth Summit, bring a jacket — even if it’s sunny when you leave.

Afterwards we had free time in Howth Village. It’s all fishing boats and little shops, gulls yelling overhead. I found a place by the harbor for fish and chips — burning my tongue because I couldn’t wait for it to cool down. Some locals were arguing about hurling scores nearby; one of them winked at me when he caught me listening in. So yeah, not everything went perfectly (I dropped a chip), but I still think about that view from the cliffs sometimes when I’m back in noisy Dublin.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Howth Coastal Tour and Village Visit

• Travel by bus from Dublin to Howth
• Join guided walking tour of Howth Summit cliffs
• Enjoy free time exploring Howth Village
• Try seafood or fish and chips in Howth

Top questions

How long does the Howth Coastal Half-Day Bus Tour take?

This is a half-day tour with morning or afternoon departures available.

Is pickup included from Dublin?

The tour includes bus transfer from Dublin to Howth Summit and back.

Do I get free time in Howth Village?

Yes, after the guided walking tour you have free time to explore Howth Village at your own pace.

Is there a live guide during the tour?

Yes, a live guide leads the walking tour along the cliffs of Howth.

Are meals included on this day trip?

No meals are included, but you’ll have free time to buy seafood or fish and chips in Howth Village.

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes, transportation and all areas are wheelchair accessible.

Can infants join this tour?

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller during the tour.

Are service animals allowed?

Yes, service animals are permitted on this tour.

What’s included

Your half-day includes return bus transfer from Dublin to Howth Summit, a guided walking tour along those famous cliffs (with plenty of stories), plus free time to wander around picturesque Howth Village before heading back — no need to worry about logistics or missing out on fresh seafood if that’s your thing.