If you are comparing hotels near Dublin Airport for your first night in Ireland, look a little further north instead of into the city. The Boyne Valley is about 45 minutes from the airport on the M1 motorway, with no city traffic, free parking and Ireland’s oldest monuments on the doorstep. You can land, pick up your car and be somewhere quiet and green before jet lag catches up with you.
Why not stay in Dublin on your first night?
Most transatlantic flights land early in the morning. If you are touring Ireland by car, driving into Dublin means city traffic and expensive parking straight off an overnight flight, often before your hotel room is ready. Then you have to drive back out again the next day.
Heading north instead puts you on the motorway right away and points you towards the start of most Ireland road trips. Dublin is easy to see later as a day trip by train or bus, or at the end of your holiday once the car is returned.
How far is the Boyne Valley from Dublin Airport?
Tower Lodge at Monasterboice is about 45 minutes from Dublin Airport, almost all of it on the M1 heading north towards Belfast. You leave the motorway near Drogheda, and the last few minutes are on quiet country roads. It is a gentle first drive on the left-hand side, with no city centre to navigate. Rather not drive straight after a long flight? Transfer Me’s Dublin Airport transfers can bring you to the lodge, with flight tracking so your driver is waiting when you land.
What can you do on your first day?
Keep day one easy. The best cure for jet lag is daylight and fresh air, and the Boyne Valley has both within minutes.
- Walk to Monasterboice. The round tower and high crosses are right beside the lodge, free and open at any time. Read our Monasterboice visitor guide before you go.
- Visit Newgrange. The 5,000-year-old passage tomb is about 20 minutes away. Tours run from the Brú na Bóinne Visitor Centre and must be booked ahead. See our guide to visiting Newgrange.
- Have an early dinner in Drogheda. The nearest town, with restaurants and pubs a short drive from the lodge.
Where to go next from the Boyne Valley
The Boyne Valley is the natural first stop in Ireland’s Ancient East. From here you can head south through Meath to Kilkenny and Cashel, west to the midlands, or north to the Mourne Mountains and Belfast. Many visitors stay two or three nights to see Newgrange, Slane and Trim before moving on. Our guide to the best things to see and do in the Boyne Valley has a full list.
Is it a good last night before your flight home?
Yes. With the airport about 45 minutes down the motorway, the Boyne Valley works just as well for your last night. You avoid city traffic on the morning of your flight and can return your rental car without driving through Dublin.
Stay at Tower Lodge
Tower Lodge is a restored barn beside the Monasterboice round tower, sleeping four in a king room and a twin room, with a full kitchen so you can eat when your body clock wants to. It suits couples, families and friends starting or ending an Ireland road trip.
Frequently asked questions
How far is Tower Lodge from Dublin Airport?
About 45 minutes by car, almost all on the M1 motorway heading north.
Do I need a car to stay in the Boyne Valley?
Yes, a car is the practical choice. Public transport between the heritage sites is limited, and most visitors pick up a rental car at Dublin Airport.
Can I visit Newgrange on the day I land?
Yes, if you book a tour in advance through Heritage Ireland. Newgrange is about 20 minutes from Tower Lodge, so an afternoon tour fits well after a morning arrival.
