Things To Do
in Navan
Navan is a historic market town in County Meath, Ireland, positioned at approximately 53.6528°N, 6.6814°W along the River Boyne. It blends centuries of heritage with a lively, modern town center of pubs, cafés, and markets. Its gateway to the Boyne Valley makes it a convenient base for exploring Neolithic sites and megalithic tombs nearby.
With friendly locals, traditional music, and a compact, walkable center, Navan offers a warm Irish welcome.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by wandering through the historic streets of Navan, where you can visit the local artisan shops and cafés. Don't miss the Navan 2,000 Year Old Mound, which offers an intriguing glimpse into the area's ancient history. Enjoy a hearty breakfast at a local café, fueling up for a day of exploration.
Visit the Navan Shopping Centre for some retail therapy, where you can find a mix of high street brands and local boutiques. Take a leisurely stroll along the Boyne River, savoring the picturesque views and fresh air. Stop for lunch at a charming pub, where you can enjoy traditional Irish fare.
As dusk settles, head to one of Navan's live music venues for a taste of local culture and entertainment. Savor dinner in a cozy restaurant, where you can experience authentic Irish dishes. Wrap up the night with a relaxing walk, soaking in the ambiance of the town.
Drive or take a short bus ride to the historic Hill of Tara, the seat of ancient kings and a site of incredible archaeological significance. Explore the various ancient monuments amidst the lush landscapes and learn about Ireland's Celtic history through informative signage. Capture stunning views from the hilltop, providing a great backdrop for your morning memories.
After your exploration, have lunch at a nearby café, enjoying dishes made with local ingredients. Spend the afternoon exploring the nearby Trim Castle, an impressive Norman fortress that offers fascinating guided tours. Walk the grounds of the castle and immerse yourself in the medieval atmosphere.
Return to Navan for dinner at a banquet-style restaurant, relishing in the heart of Irish hospitality. Enjoy a laid-back evening with friends or family, sharing stories from your day. If you're feeling adventurous, seek out a local pub known for its lively atmosphere and traditional music sessions.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🚖Taxi starting fare | $4-6 + $1-2 per km |
| 🛍️Weekly groceries for one | $40-60 |
| ☕Coffee to go | $3-5 |
| 🎬Movie ticket | $12-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact, walkable town with easy access to the Boyne Valley and Newgrange
- Friendly locals and traditional Irish atmosphere
- Diverse day trips (prehistoric sites, hill country, river activities)
- Relatively affordable compared to major cities
- Limited high-end nightlife scene
- Some rural services may require a short drive
- Public transport options can be limited compared to larger urban areas
- Weather can be changeable and rainy
- "Dia dhuit" - Hello
- "Slán" - Goodbye
- "Le do thoil" - Please
- "Go raibh maith agat" - Thank you
- "Conas atá tú?" - How are you?
Places to Visit in Navan
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful market facades and early-morning activity with soft light over the town center.
Calm water, bridges, and riverside parks ideal for reflection shots.
Panoramic views over rolling Meath countryside, especially striking at sunrise or sunset.
Ancient earthworks and reconstructed structures provide dramatic landscape photography.
Food in Navan
Navan Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Irish potato pancake often served fried with bacon or as part of a hearty breakfast.
Must-Try!
A slow-cooked lamb or beef stew with vegetables, a comforting staple in cold weather.
Mashed potatoes with scallions and butter, a popular side dish at many local pubs.
Dense and crusty bread made with baking soda instead of yeast; great with soups.
Seasonal lamb dishes highlighting Meath’s prized farming produce.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market in Market Square offering local produce, cheeses, baked goods, and artisanal treats.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Irish people value punctuality and orderly queuing; wait your turn in shops and on public transport.
A friendly greeting like hello/hi and a wave or handshake is common; Gaelic phrases are appreciated but not required.
Safety
Tipping in Navan
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary but not obligatory; around 10–15% in restaurants if service charge isn’t included. A small tip for bar staff or cafe servers is appreciated.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long days with mild, comfortable temperatures; occasional rain showers—carry a light layer and a compact umbrella.
Golden countryside and harvest festivals; cooler evenings and more frequent showers.
Cold, damp days with shorter daylight hours; layering and a waterproof coat are essential.
Milder weather with blooming hedgerows and countryside colors; good for outdoor walks and photography.
Navan at Night
Hiking in Navan
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Accessible hills with expansive views over Meath—great for a half-day hike.
Scenic estate grounds near Slane with woodland paths and garden areas suitable for easy hikes.
Scenic trails around Newgrange and the Boyne River for a gentle to moderate hike.
Airports
How to reach Navan by plane.
Main international gateway serving Ireland; about a 1–1.5 hour drive from Navan depending on traffic; accessible by bus, rail connections via Dublin, or taxi.
Regional airport serving Ireland west; approximately 2.5–3 hours by car from Navan; limited international connections.
Northern Ireland gateway; about 2.5–3.5 hours by road and rail mix from Navan.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many families have lived in Navan for generations, with good schools and parks.
A sizable portion of residents commute to Dublin or other towns for work.
Nearby educational institutions attract students and youth culture.
A steady presence of retirees enjoying the countryside and quiet town life.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Locally popular with clubs and amateur matches; part of Irish community life.
Club rugby scenes in Meath and neighboring counties.
Local amateur and academy teams contribute to a growing football scene.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Navan.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many places offer vegetarian options; look for veggie mains or request seasonal salads and veggie-friendly dishes.