Malahide, Ireland is one of the fun places to visit on a day trip from Dublin. The top things to do in Malahide are visiting the impressive Malahide Castle, strolling the gorgeous shoreline and dining in the quaint village.
With our tips for what to see in Malahide in one day, you can plan your perfect trip!
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10 Best Things To Do in Malahide, Ireland
Our list features what to see in Malahide in a day. In order to visit all the attractions, you will need to plan for a full day adventure and get a relatively early start.
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#1 Explore Malahide Castle
Without a doubt, the top thing to do in Malahide is to visit the majestic Malahide Castle and Garden. Built in the 12th century, the castle was owned by the Talbot family for nearly 800 years.
As one of the oldest castles in Ireland, it is the town’s must-see sight – and some visitors make the trip to Malahide Village just to see it. Although we think it’s well worth sticking around to see the other top sights!
What To Do in Malahide Castle Dublin, Ireland
The only way to visit Malahide Castle is on a guided tour. Visitors get to see the interior and learn about the history, Talbot family heritage and a tale or two about resident ghosts.
There are a few tours to choose from – including a classic tour, a kid-friendly tour and a whiskey tasting tour.
Malahide Castle Tour tickets include entry to the Walled Garden, Botanical Gardens, Fairy Trail and Butterfly House (open seasonally). Be sure to consult the official website for current price and opening times prior to your visit.
How To Get to Malahide Castle from Dublin
There is no direct train or bus to Malahide Castle from Dublin. That said, the Malahide train station and closest bus stop are just a short 10-to-20-minute walk from the castle.
Malahide visitors looking for the most direct way to get from Dublin to Malahide Castle should consider driving or taking an Uber or FreeNow taxi.
#2 Spend Time in the Malahide Castle Gardens
Strolling around the expansive castle gardens is one of the best things to do in Malahide, Ireland – especially if it is a warm and sunny summer day. The estate encompasses 260 acres of land, which is now named the Malahide Demesne Regional Park.
The park at Malahide Castle is inclusive of trails, forests, a cricket pitch, tennis courts, golf course, dog park and the fantastic Malahide Castle playground.
While getting inside the castle requires a ticket, it is completely free to visit the vast estate and Malahide gardens.
Pro Tip: Want more Ireland budget travel tips? Use our guide to the Free Things To Do in Dublin!
#3 Eat Lunch at a Malahide Park Café
Before leaving the castle grounds, grab a light lunch at one of the park cafes: Avoca or The Garden House.
The Avoca Malahide Café features a self-service area, as well as a food market, where they sell quiche, sandwiches, soups and delicious baked treats (try the brownies, they are truly divine!). Visitors can dine inside or on the outdoor terrace.
The Garden House Malahide Café is another dining option near the castle. The garden center (where they sell BBQs, patio furniture and plants) also doubles as an eatery with an all-day brunch menu.
Alternatively, pack your own picnic lunch and bring it with you. There are plenty of places on the grassy field to spread out and enjoy a picnic lunch with a castle view. We actually think it is one of the top things to do in Malahide Castle for travelers on a budget!
#4 Walk along Malahide Beach
One of the best Malahide attractions is the sandy shoreline! The coastal village is bounded to the north by the Malahide Bay Estuary and to the east is the Irish Sea (Muir Eireann), creating a lengthy and incredible coastline.
Visitors can kick off their shoes and walk barefoot over the sand and rocky shore – or follow the paved coastline path.
Either way, the panoramic vistas are sure to please. Views stretch across the inlet to Corballis Bay Beach and over the sea to Lambay Island.
It is important to note, however, that the small beach in Malahide changes drastically with the tide. The dramatic tide swing and strong currents make swimming in Malahide quite dangerous.
Only fit and experienced swimmers should enter the ocean and it’s best to go in at Low Rock or High Rock (but always with caution and at your own risk).
#5 Visit the Malahide Cows
The Highland Cows are one of the odd Malahide tourist attractions, but one of our favorites. Grazing on a patch of land just across the street from the beach, the long-haired Highland Cattle are a must-see!
The friendly cows often greet guests and pose for photos. In addition to the hairy cows, there are sheep that graze on the grass, as well.
Visitors can get a good view of the animals from the stone wall – or anywhere along the iron fence if the cows are further up the land.
#6 Hike Robswell Park Hillside
The small hill that rises behind the grazing cows is Robswell Park – and it’s a fantastic place to take in spectacular views!
The park features vast meadows that are crisscrossed by paved paths and nature trails. Popular with families, joggers and dog walkers (it’s where we took the puppy we were pet sitting), the park is located on the site of the original Malahide settlement.
Visitors can follow the trail up to the highest point (marked on the Malahide, Ireland Map below) for an excellent scenic viewpoint. The panoramic view encompasses Malahide Estuary, the Irish Sea, Lambay Island, Ireland’s Eye Island and Howth Head.
#7 Trek along the Malahide to Portmarnock Walk
After taking in the views from Robswell Park, set off on foot along the Malahide-Portmarnock Coastal Walk. Highlights of the stroll are the stellar sea views, the historic Martello Tower (which has been renovated into a residence) and Portmarnock Beach.
The beach in Portmarnock – called the Velvet Strand – is a 3 mile (5km) stretch of shoreline that is a fabulous place to walk, build sandcastles or go for a swim.
The beach also holds a spot in aviation history, as Charles Kingsford Smith departed on the second east-to-west Atlantic crossing from Portmarnock Beach in 1930.
To get back to Malahide, visitors can retrace their steps from Portmarnock to Malahide or hop on Dublin Bus 102 or H2.
#8 Discover Malahide Village
The heart of Malahide Village paints quite a pretty picture – especially in the summertime, when flowers are in full bloom and the sky shines bright overhead.
Main Street Malahide runs east-west, with smaller streets breaking off to the north towards the harbor and south into residential areas.
The quaint lanes in the village center are lined with the best restaurants and shops in Malahide. In fact, one of the best things to do in Malahide, Dublin is to go shopping.
We recommend popping into one of the boutiques in Malahide (like Neola), a Malahide bookshop (like Manor Books) or a gift shop (like Robyn’s Nest).
#9 Eat at the Best Restaurants Malahide
Wind down your day in Malahide with a delectable meal. Malahide is home to an abundance of eateries that cater to a variety of tastes – from local eats to international fare. Furthermore, many of the Malahide restaurants offer special weekday and early-bird pricing.
Bon Appetit
A highly recommended restaurant in Malahide, Ireland, Bon Appetit is a classy French brasserie housed in a historic Georgian house.
The Greedy Goose
The Greedy Goose is a Malahide Marina restaurant that features tapas and other types of shared plates along with a full wine list.
Sale Pepe
For a taste of surf and turf, there is no better restaurant in Malahide than Sale e Pepe. The eatery has been a local favorite since it opened in the early 1990s.
Scotch Bonnet Grill and Pizza
A casual eatery featuring a menu of pub favorites (think burgers, wings, ribs and pizza), Scotch Bonnet Grill is a good option for families and groups of friends visiting Malahide.
Kajjal Pakistani and Indian Restaurant
Kajjal gets rave reviews for both the exquisite food and the overall dining experience. The beautiful atmosphere is ideal for couples out on a date night in Malahide.
Jaipur Indian Restaurant
Another Indian restaurant in Malahide, Jaipur offers classic Indian fare in a contemporary space.
Al Fresco
A Malahide Italian restaurant, Al Fresco is located on a pedestrian-only street with outdoor seating. The menu features upscale Italian – including lasagna, seafood pasta and chicken dishes.
Coffee Shops Malahide
Sure, there is a Starbucks in Malahide, but we recommend going to a local café. The Insomnia Coffee Company, located on Main Street, is an Irish coffee chain – but Seomra Tae Café Malahide is a locally-owned shop offering coffee along with breakfast and lunch.
#10 Raise a Pint in Malahide Pubs
At the end of the day, partake in one of the top things to do in Malahide: Drink a pint of beer at a pub! The best pubs in Malahide are on New Street – the car-free lane where tables spill out onto the sidewalks.
Gibney’s of Malahide Pub
Without a doubt the best pub in Malahide, Gibney’s is an Irish institution. A village pub since the 1800s, the deceptively large space features cozy rooms, a beer garden and a rooftop patio.
Pro Tip: We enjoy the atmosphere at Gibney’s so much that we include it on our list of the Best Pubs in Dublin!
Fowler’s Malahide
Just across from Gibney’s is Fowler’s, a classic Irish pub complete with sports on the television, honest banter from the bartenders and two outdoor spaces – one along the pedestrian zone in front and one in the garden out the back.
Gilbert and Wright Malahide
Gilbert and Wright is a lively bar that offers a great spot for a cocktail and live music on weekends.
Chez Sara Wine Bar
Located on the quiet Old Street, Chez Sara features the most extensive wine list in Malahide (alongside a full dinner menu!).
Malahide, Dublin Map
Use this Google Map for an online and interactive version of our Malahide, Ireland Map below.
More Malahide Things To Do
We have featured our top picks for the best Malahide, Ireland Things To Do on a Day Trip – but there are more attractions that fellow explorers might wish to add to their travel plans.
Churches in Malahide, Ireland
Visitors interested in architecture and history might want to include visiting a Malahide church in their sightseeing plans. St. Sylvester’s Catholic Church in the town center is the most striking church and has a history that dates to 1845.
The Malahide Abbey, which sits in ruins adjacent to the castle, is older than the castle itself. In addition to the stone skeleton of a church, the cemetery that surrounds it contains burials that date to the 15th century.
Malahide Golf Club
An immaculate and challenging course, the Malahide Golf Club is open to visitors on weekdays with advance booking.
Fishing in Malahide
Chartered fishing tours from Malahide can be booked with Fish and Trips. They also organize Malahide boat trips to Lambay Island, where visitors can spot the resident wallabies and other wildlife!
Afternoon Tea
Guests who want to partake in traditional afternoon tea in Malahide can make a booking at the Pink Bar at Bon Appetit, where they serve sweet and savory bites alongside a selection of teas.
Model Railway Museum
The Casino Model Railway Museum is one of the top things to see in Malahide for train enthusiasts. The museum is housed in a historic thatched cottage that has long served as a landmark in the town.
Malahide Festival
One of the best ways to experience Malahide is during one of the planned festivals. In the past, events range from cricket matches to community BBQs to the Malahide Christmas Market.
Things To Do Near Malahide
Malahide is well situated near other top Ireland sights. We are highlighting a few of the nearby Malahide attractions for fellow travelers to consider.
Swords Castle and Town
Located west of Malahide, the Swords Castle was built around 800 years ago – and admission is absolutely free!
While in Swords, take a stroll along Main Street and consider having a meal or a drink at The Old Schoolhouse.
Donabate to Portrane Cliff Walk
Donabate and Portrane are both on the north side of Malahide Estuary and the two towns are connected by a walking path.
A beautiful Irish coastal trek, the Donabate to Portrane Walk features expansive sea views, powder sand beaches and a historic Martello Tower.
Skerries Mills
Once an industrial city with a bustling fishing port and booming embroidery trade, Skerries is now a pleasant coastal town. Highlights include a wonderful coastline and two restored mills that can be visited on guided tours.
Howth, Ireland
Howth is one of our favorite Irish coastal towns! The top things to do in Howth are walk the coastal paths, dine on seafood and visit one of the classic pubs. We detail what to see and do in our guide for the Best Things To Do in Howth.
Travelers who want to see both Malahide and Howth can combine the two destinations into a single day trip from Dublin.
As a matter of fact, visitors can use public transit (either the DART train or Dublin bus) to get from Malahide to Howth. The Malahide-Howth bus route takes about 40 minutes.
Howth or Malahide? Tough Decision!
If you don’t have time to visit both Howth and Malahide – and can only fit one destination into your trip plans – which should it be?
We have truly enjoyed both of these coastal towns, so it is difficult to choose just one. That said, the two towns are quite different and will likely appeal to different travelers.
Visitors most interested in rich history, impressive architecture and international fare should go to Malahide. Those who enjoy elevated coastal walks, amazing scenic views and the freshest seafood should head for Howth.
Malahide Travel Tips
In addition to our top tips on what to see and do in Malahide, Ireland, there are a few more things you need to know when planning a Malahide trip– such as how to get there, where to stay and what to bring.
Planning a Trip to Ireland
Visitors based in Dublin can also use our guide of Things To Do in Dublin in 3 Days, for more trip planning tips. Furthermore, travelers visiting Ireland from overseas can use our advice for 7 Days in Ireland and Planning a European Vacation.
As you make your plans – whether for a day trip or international travels – it is important to stay on top of the details. Using our Printable Travel Planner can help!
How To Get to Malahide
Travelers have several options for getting to Malahide – including train, bus, taxi and car.
DART Dublin to Malahide
The DART Train from Dublin is the easiest way to get to Malahide. The Dublin to Malahide train departs frequently (every 20 minutes on weekdays).
It’s about a half hour ride on the DART from central Dublin to the Malahide DART Station, which is the end of the line. You can find current times on the official DART Malahide Timetable.
Bus Malahide to Dublin
Visitors can also take a Dublin bus to Malahide. The Malahide-Dublin Bus Route H2 connects Dublin City Centre to Malahide Village – as does Route 42. We don’t necessarily recommend taking the Dublin-Malahide Bus – as it takes longer than the train.
The bus from Dublin to Malahide makes about 60 stops along the route and takes approximately 50 minutes to an hour. Unless you are staying directly on a Dublin to Malahide Bus Route, it is likely faster to take the train.
Malahide Taxi
FreeNow Taxi and Uber are also available to transport passengers from Dublin City Center to Malahide Village. The ride will take about 30 minutes and cost about 40 euros.
Malahide to Dublin Airport
Need to get from Dublin Airport to Malahide? The convenient 102 bus from Malahide to Dublin Airport is the most economical option.
Where To Stay in Malahide
While we were house sitting during our stay, Malahide can also be a great base for visitors.
However, there are just a few B&B’s and one hotel in Malahide, Ireland. Before you start your search for accommodations, use our tips for Finding Great Prices on Top Hotels.
The Grand Hotel Malahide
The Grand Hotel in Malahide is the only hotel in the village. Located near the shoreline, right off Main Street, the property is well situated for exploring on foot.
The hotel boasts many amenities, such as an indoor pool, gym, sauna, restaurant and bar – as well as an included breakfast. Check availability!
White Sands Hotel Portmarnock
While not technically one of the Malahide, Ireland hotels, the White Sands Hotel is a family run hotel with sea-facing rooms situated in the adjacent town of Portmarnock. Check rates!
Airbnb Malahide, Ireland
Vacation rentals are another option for Malahide accommodation. If you are new to Airbnb, before you book be sure to read our Tips for Airbnb Guests.
What To Bring on a Malahide Day Trip
Now that you are well on your way to planning a day in Malahide, we have a few final tips on the things you will want to bring along.
Comfortable Travel Shoes
While Malahide itself is a small village, the sights – from the castle to the coastline – are not necessarily close. You will want to make sure to wear a pair of durable shoes for their day trip.
I wear everyday trainers and Kris prefers to wear Merrell Trail Shoes. Find more styles and tips in our article, The Best Shoes for Travel.
Irish Weather Gear
The Malahide weather can change in a hurry, so you will need to be prepared. We recommend wearing layers and a lightweight raincoat is always a good idea, as well as a travel umbrella.
If you are visiting Ireland in the summertime, you might also want to bring some sunscreen – as the sun can feel intense, even when the temperatures are mild.
Travel Camera
Malahide is gorgeous! To truly capture the beauty of the area, upgrade to a real camera. We use a Canon Rebel with a 18-135mm lens – which we believe is one of the great cameras for budget travelers.
Versatile Day Pack
Day trippers will want to be sure to bring a bag that can hold all their everyday travel items. We use small backpacks, where we stow our essentials, but it is also big enough to fit a camera and extra layers of clothes. We share more reviews in our article on the Best Day Bags for Traveling.
European Trip Insurance
Travelers visiting Malahide as part of a longer Dublin, Ireland trip may want to consider travel insurance. Not only could it cover costs for unfortunate situations – like Lost Luggage or Delayed Flights – but it may reimburse for injuries or illness while abroad. Check the affordable rates and extensive coverage at World Nomads.
Start planning your trip to Ireland! Search for the lowest airfares, the best accommodations and fun things to do…then start packing! Want more travel advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page!
More Day Trips from Dublin
We have outlined the best way to spend a day in Malahide, but travelers looking for more Dublin day trip ideas can add one of these fun destinations to their itinerary!
Bray: A hip destination with fun eateries, a historic bar, beautiful beach and hilltop walk, Bray is easy to reach by train from Dublin and Malahide. Find all the details in our guide to the Top Things To Do in Bray!
Dun Laoghaire: A coastal town boasting seaside attractions, a historic old town and a handful of museums, visitors to Dublin can easily spend an enjoyable day in Dun Laoghaire.
Dalkey: A posh town off the Irish coast, Dalkey day trippers from Dublin can take in the sea views from Sorrento Park, hop aboard a boat to discover Dalkey Island and experience the grand Dalkey Castle in the heart of the town.
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