County Wicklow Travel Guide

Gardens, Grand Houses & Glendalough
Just south of Dublin, County Wicklow, known as the ‘Garden of Ireland', is a peaceful blend of manicured estates, monastic ruins, and scenic trails – perfect for day trips or longer stays.

Wicklow Top 5 Accommodations Tours in County Wicklow More Wicklow Tips

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Private Tour of County Wicklow

Explore the Garden of Ireland on a private day trip through Wicklow’s most scenic spots – Lough Tay, the Guinness Estate, Sally Gap, Powerscourt, and Glendalough.
Discover film-famous landscapes, stroll through world-class gardens, and enjoy time in the peaceful Wicklow Mountains.

Tour includes pickup at the location of your choice, vehicle & private guide, and personalized itinerary.

🌐 Book Direct

Top 5 Things to Do in County Wicklow

Round tower at Glendalough. Ireland travel tips | Ireland vacation | IrelandFamilyVacations.com

Glendalough Monastic City

Round tower & church ruins
Walk through one of Ireland’s most significant early Christian sites, founded by St. Kevin in the 6th century. Set between two peaceful lakes and ringed by wooded trails, Glendalough blends history with natural beauty.
TIP: Arrive early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid tour bus crowds.

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Powerscourt Estate

Magnificent gardens
Voted among the world’s best gardens by National Geographic, Powerscourt features ornamental lakes, secret paths, and terraces with mountain views. The estate also includes Ireland’s highest waterfall and a luxury stay at Powerscourt Hotel.
Tip: Enjoy a meal on the terrace (amazing views!).

A deer grazes in the meadow above the Lower Lake in the Glendalough Valley in County Wicklow. Ireland travel tips | Ireland vacation | IrelandFamilyVacations.com

Wicklow Mountains

Stunning scenic drives
Follow the winding route through the heart of the Wicklow Mountains, It's pure drama – peaty bogland, rolling hills, the Sally Gap, and Lough Tay. The views shift with every turn, so plan extra time to stop for photos.
Tip: Map your route before driving into the mountains – connectivity is limited!

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Avoca Handweavers

Ireland's oldest working woolen mill
This picturesque mill in the village of Avoca still weaves textiles on-site. Watch the looms in motion, shop for high-quality Irish goods, and enjoy a fresh lunch from the café in a garden setting.
Tip: This makes a great rainy-day stop and is a terrific spot to buy gifts, souvenirs and other treats.

Welcome to Hollywood. County Wicklow, Ireland. Ireland Vacation tips.

Hollywood (in Ireland)

Film-worthy views & a fun photo stop
Wicklow’s dramatic scenery has starred in blockbuster movies and television series. Drive through cinematic landscapes like the Sally Gap and stop in the cute village of Enniskerry.
Tip: Make a quick stop in the village of Hollywood for a cheeky photo with Ireland’s own hillside sign.

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Best County Wicklow Tours

Explore County Wicklow with a guide or fun activity – these tours are top-rated and easy to fit into your itinerary.

Fat Bike Rentals – with sample itineraries to enjoy off-the- beaten- track adventures.

​Wild Wicklow Day Tour​ (group tour) through the Wicklow Mountains and Glendalough

​Wicklow Shepherd Experience & Sheepdog Demonstration

​Wicklow Mountains Horse Trekking

Avondale Beyond the Trees – Treetop Walk, viewing platform & slide

​Surfing & Stand Up Paddleboarding at Brittas Bay ​

​Russborough House and Parklands – admission & tour

Wicklow Cliff Walk (Wicklow town) – guided walk with castle ruins and picnic

Experience Tipi Camping and other outdoor activities

Walk the Wicklow Way. Tour include accommodations, maps, and luggage transfer. Guided tour or self-guided tour

✨ Need help planning your time in Wicklow – or beyond?✨
Check out my free Ireland itineraries for inspiration, tips, and easy-to-follow routes.

Accommodations

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Powerscourt Hotel

Located on Powerscourt Estate
Spacious rooms, magnificent views, and 5 star service.
Terrific for couples but very nice for families, as well.

Summerhill House

Charming 4* country house in the picture-perfect village of Enniskerry.
Excellent location.
Terrific for couples, groups & families.

Abhainn Ri Cottages

Self-catering farm cottages.
Wonderful location near Wicklow National Park & Blessington Lake.
3 bed – 3 bath cottages perfect for families or small groups.

Woodenbridge Hotel

Historic 17th century coaching house (it's obviously been updated!) filled with charm.
A perfect escape for couples near the Glen of Avoca.

Top Wicklow Tips

Arrival Tips

Transportation In Wicklow