The DART train from Dublin Connolly Station to Howth is hands down one of the best travel deals in Ireland. For just €6.60 return, you're transported from the city centre to dramatic cliff-top paths with jaw-dropping coastal views — Way better value than those overpriced €45 bus tours that hit the same spots.

The Howth Cliff Path loop takes about 2.5 hours and is absolutely free. Start from Howth DART station, head towards the harbour, then follow the well-marked purple arrows along the cliff edge. The trail passes the Baily Lighthouse and offers incredible views across Dublin Bay to the Wicklow Mountains. On clear days, you can see all the way to the Isle of Man.

After your hike, hit Howth harbour for some of the freshest seafood outside of Cork. Skip the obvious tourist spots and head to Octopussy's (trust me on this name!) for their legendary fish and chips, or splurge at King Sitric for their famous Dublin Bay prawns — These aren't your average tourist trap joints, locals actually eat here. The crab claws at King Sitric are genuinely some of the best I've had anywhere.

The DART runs every 15-20 minutes and the journey itself is scenic as hell, hugging the coastline past Clontarf and Bull Island. Go on a clear day for the best views, and bring layers — It gets windy up there even when Dublin city centre is calm. Exit Howth station and follow signs to 'Cliff Walk' — You literally can't miss it.