Venture into Ireland’s Ancient East on a day trip from Dublin to Kilkenny. Over 400 years old, this charismatic town is bursting with attractions and things to do. Patrol the old city walls or tour the refurbished Kilkenny Castle and browse the local crafts at the Kilkenny Design Center. To top off your trip, sip a pint of Smithwick’s after a tour of the brewery, which has been serving the city for over 300 years.

Just about 125 kilometers (77 miles) away, Kilkenny is easy to reach for a day trip. By car, bus, or train the trip should only take about 90 minutes.

Get outdoors with a day in County Wicklow’s majestic and historic Glendalough. In this “valley of two lakes", travelers can get out and tour the structures of a medieval settlement dating back to the 11th Century. Stroll along the dramatic Wicklow Way, and explore The Gateway and The Round Tower. For the more adventurous, the area’s granite hills have been a long-time favorite destination for rock climbers coming from Dublin.

You can make the trip of just over 50 kilometers (31 miles) to Glendalough in about one hour by car. By bus, you will want to plan ahead, as there is only one direct private bus service, which should also take around one hour.

One of the liveliest cities in Ireland, visitors are spoiled for choice on a day trip to Cork. In town, you can admire the gothic Saint Fin Barre’s Cathedral, take in the views from Elizabeth Fort, or simply explore the English Market for some traditional Irish fare. Nearby, you can visit Blarney Castle to follow in the footsteps of countless authors, poets, and politicians and kiss the famed Blarney Stone to receive the “gift of gab" — if you dare.

If you plan ahead, the 254 kilometers (157 miles) from Dublin to Cork is well worth the journey. Driving by car or by bus, you can reach your destination in just under three hours.