Things To Do
in Swords
Swords is a charming town located in County Dublin, Ireland, just a short drive away from Dublin City. The town boasts a rich history, with landmarks such as Swords Castle dating back to the 13th century. Swords is a bustling hub with a range of shops, restaurants, and cafes for visitors to explore.
Additionally, the town is well-connected with efficient public transportation, making it easy to travel to and from Swords.
- "Dia dhuit" - Hello
- "Slán" - Goodbye
- "Le do thoil" - Please
- "Go raibh maith agat" - Thank you
- "Conas atá tú?" - How are you?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $70 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $40
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2.50 - $4
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Visit Swords Castle and take a guided tour to learn about its rich history. Enjoy a walk around the exterior gardens for a refreshing start to your day.
Have lunch at a local café nearby, trying some traditional Irish fare. Then, explore the shops in the town center for unique souvenirs.
Dine at a cozy restaurant, savoring the local cuisine. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll through the historic streets of Swords.
Begin your day at the Fingal County Archives to explore the local history of Swords. Engage with helpful staff to learn more about significant historical events.
Enjoy lunch at a bistro, featuring farm-to-table options. Then, visit the nearby Malahide Castle for more history and beautiful gardens.
Settle in at a local pub for dinner and enjoy some live traditional Irish music. Unwind with a pint of Guinness and enjoy the warm atmosphere.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Proximity to Dublin, making it an ideal location for commuters.
- A rich history with several historic sites, including Swords Castle.
- Access to various amenities, including shops, restaurants, and schools.
- A community-focused atmosphere with various social activities and events.
- Beautiful parks and green spaces for outdoor activities.
- Can be crowded, especially during rush hours due to its proximity to the capital.
- Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
- Public transport can sometimes be less frequent than desired.
- Housing prices may be high due to demand from nearby Dublin.
- Traffic congestion can be an issue, particularly on main routes.
Best Activities in Swords
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful estate, gardens, and historic castle in the nearby town of Malahide.
Visit the historic castle in Swords and take a leisurely stroll around its grounds.
Enjoy a relaxing day at the beach, soak up the sun, and take a stroll along the coastline in Portmarnock.
Enjoy birdwatching, scenic walks, and the peaceful surroundings of Swords Estuary.
Tours
Uncover the best of Swords with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Swords
Visit one of these nice places.
The medieval castle provides a stunning backdrop for photos and offers panoramic views over the surrounding area.
The estuary area along the Broadmeadow River offers picturesque views and great photo opportunities, especially during sunset.
A hike up Brackenstown Hill provides breathtaking views of the town and its surroundings, making it an ideal spot for photography enthusiasts.
Food in Swords
Swords Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty dish featuring lamb or beef, potatoes, carrots, and onions, often enjoyed with a side of soda bread. Find delicious Irish Stew at The Old Schoolhouse Restaurant.
Must-Try!
A traditional Irish potato pancake that can be filled or served with various toppings. Don't miss the delectable Boxty at The Cock Tavern.
Rich and creamy soup brimming with local seafood such as salmon, cod, and mussels. Enjoy a fantastic bowl of Seafood Chowder at The Brass Fox.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Swords better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Visit the Swords Farmers' Market for a variety of fresh, locally sourced produce, baked goods, and artisanal treats. You can also savor tasty street food from different vendors offering everything from gourmet burgers to vegan delights.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
It is important to show respect for the Irish language, known as Gaeilge, and its cultural significance in Swords. Even if you don't speak Irish, using simple phrases like 'Dia dhuit' (hello) and 'Go raibh maith agat' (thank you) can be appreciated by the locals.
In Swords, people generally appreciate politeness and friendliness. It is customary to greet others with a smile and maintain a respectful and upbeat demeanor in social interactions.
When visiting homes or attending social gatherings, it is polite to observe social etiquette such as removing your shoes when entering someone's home and offering a small gift or bringing food to share at social events.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Swords with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Swords
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping in Swords, Ireland is generally discretionary. It is common to tip around 10-15% in restaurants if the service is good, but it is not obligatory. Tipping in bars is not mandatory, but rounding up the bill or leaving small change is appreciated. In hotels, it is customary to leave a small tip for housekeeping staff.
In Swords, Ireland, most businesses accept major credit and debit cards, and contactless payment methods are widely used. Cash is also commonly accepted, but some smaller establishments may have a minimum spending requirement for card payments. It is advisable to carry some cash for places that do not accept cards. ATMs are readily available for cash withdrawals.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Swords.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Visiting Swords in spring (March to May) is a great time to experience milder weather and see the beautiful blooming flowers and lush green scenery.
Summer (June to August) is when Swords enjoys long daylight hours and warmer temperatures, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the city and surrounding areas.
In autumn (September to November), visitors can witness the stunning fall foliage and enjoy the crisp, refreshing air while taking leisurely strolls or hikes around Swords.
Winter (December to February) gives a different charm to Swords as the city transforms into a cozy and festive atmosphere, perfect for enjoying holiday markets and indoor attractions.
Swords at Night
Hiking in Swords
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic trail along the cliffs of Howth, offering beautiful views of the Dublin Bay and North Dublin coastline. It's suitable for various skill levels and showcases stunning natural landscapes.
A picturesque walking trail that runs along the Malahide Estuary, providing opportunities to observe local wildlife and enjoy the tranquil surroundings. It's a flat, easy walk ideal for families.
Located a bit further out, this park features a variety of trails winding through lush forests, lakes, and historic ruins. It's a perfect spot for a peaceful day out in nature.
A popular hiking destination with panoramic views of Dublin City and the Dublin/Wicklow mountains. There are several trails of varying difficulty, ideal for both casual walkers and serious hikers.
A beautiful park offering various walking paths along the River Liffey, with opportunities to experience local flora and fauna. It's great for a leisurely hike in a serene environment.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Swords through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Swords by plane.
The main airport serving Dublin, located approximately 5 miles from Swords, it is the largest and busiest airport in Ireland, providing international flights to numerous destinations worldwide.
Located about 140 miles southwest of Swords, it is the second largest airport in Ireland and serves as a gateway to Southern Ireland.
Situated around 120 miles west of Swords, Shannon Airport is an international airport that offers transatlantic flights and is known for its preclearance facilities.
Located about 87 miles north of Swords, it is the largest airport in Northern Ireland and offers flights to various destinations across Europe and beyond.
Approximately 90 miles from Swords, this airport is closer to the city center of Belfast and primarily serves regional and UK flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Swords, comprising a significant portion of the population.
Includes other white ethnicities such as British and European.
Includes various Asian ethnicities, primarily from countries such as India and China.
Comprises individuals from African and Caribbean descent.
Includes individuals from mixed heritage backgrounds.
A category that includes less common ethnic backgrounds not otherwise specified.
The Soul of Swords
Discover the essence of Swords through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A traditional Irish team sport played between two teams of fifteen players each, combining elements of soccer and rugby.
A fast-paced field sport of ancient Irish origin, played with a wooden stick called a hurley and a small ball known as a sliotar.
A popular team sport known for its competitive leagues, played with a round ball between two teams of eleven players.
A contact team sport that originated in England, focusing on running with the ball to score tries.
A collection of sporting events that involve competitive running, jumping, throwing, and walking.
A racquet sport played individually against a single opponent or between two teams of two players each, known for its competitive tournaments.
A team sport where two teams, typically composed of five players each, try to score points by shooting a ball through the opposing team's hoop.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Swords.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Swords offers numerous eateries that are happy to accommodate vegetarians with a variety of meat-free dishes, from inventive salads to hearty mains.
Several restaurants and cafes in Swords provide delectable vegan fare, including plant-based burgers, vegan pastries, and dairy-free delights to satisfy vegans' palates.
Those with gluten intolerance can explore the town's eateries for an array of gluten-free choices, from pastries and bread to pasta and mains, ensuring a delightful dining experience.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Swords with these cultural adventures.
