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Tips for first-time visitors to Dublin

With its walkable streets, compact city centre and abundance of things to see and do, Dublin is an ideal getaway destination. But when you visit any city for the first time, it can be a bit overwhelming.

That’s where this guide comes in. While it’s good to allow for spontaneity, some forward thinking is always useful, whether you’re plotting your route from the airport or working out which restaurants you want to book.

If you’re planning your first visit to Dublin and want to ensure you’re making the absolute most out of your time, this handy ‘cheat sheet’ has all the information you need...

Best time to visit

Dublin isn’t a city of extreme temperatures , so there’s no bad time to visit. From May to September, the weather is warmer and there’s plenty happening in the city, from outdoor gigs to special events. In spring and autumn, the city’s parks are at their most picturesque, and the mild weather makes exploring easy and pleasant.

It’s generally colder between November and February, but both the city and the attractions are a little quieter. It’s also the cheapest time for hotel accommodation. Winter in Dublin is particularly charming, and the city does Christmas in style, with festive lights and elaborate shop window displays.

Before you go

It’s best to have a loose idea of what you want to see and do ahead of arriving in Dublin, as some activities and accommodations need to be booked further in advance than others. This timeline will help you get organised…

• Three months before: Now’s the time to book your hotel accommodation (especially in summer), as well as any major live gigs you want to attend. If you want to eat in the city’s Michelin starred restaurants , you’ll need to book now.
• Up to three weeks before: If you’re visiting in low season you can book your accommodation now, alongside any theatre tickets , or weekend reservations to the city’s most popular restaurants as well as tickets to timed entry attractions like Kilmainham Gaol .
• A week before: Make any weekday restaurant reservations and book your guided tours, or tickets for the bigger tourist attractions like the Guinness Storehouse , the Book of Kells or distillery tours .

All entry points to Dublin are close to the city, so getting into town is generally quick and simple…

• By Air: Dublin Airport is 10km from the city centre. Taxis (around €30) take 30 – 45 minutes. Aircoach buses run to the city centre, Ballsbridge, Leopardstown and some southern suburbs as far as Greystones in Wicklow between 5:55am and 1.25am (€10/every 15 minutes). Dublin Express buses run along the River Liffey to Heuston station between 4am and 12:35am (€8, every 30-60 minutes). Dublin Bus Nos 16 and 41 also serve the city centre (€3.30); the 41 runs 24 hours a day. All bus journeys takes around 45 minutes to get to the city.
• By Ferry: Buses run from the port to the city centre between 7am and 7pm, or 6pm on Sundays (€2, hourly) and take 20 minutes. The Luas Red Line is over the road at The Point, with trams serving the city centre, Smithfield and Heuston rail station.
• By Train : Dublin has two intercity train stations, Connolly and Heuston, both of which are on the Luas Red Line and served by numerous Dublin Bus routes. 
• By Bus : The main bus depot is Busáras, close to Connolly Station. This is the arrival point for all Bus Éireann services. Private coach companies generally stop along the quays.

The River Liffey divides the city into the Northside and the Southside, with the city centre straddling the two. Though the centre of Dublin is fairly small, the broader city is made up of a series of villages , from the central neighbourhoods like Portobello and the Docklands, to the coastal districts of Sandymount and Clontarf. To the north, you’ll find two of the city’s oldest neighbourhoods, Stoneybatter and Smithfield , with cool coffee shops and gastropubs. In the south, the suburbs of Rathmines and Ranelagh are great for café hopping, brunch and people watching in the Georgian squares.

It’s also worth noting that the city is divided into numbered postal districts, from 1 to 24. All even numbered districts are south of the Liffey and odd-numbered ones are to the north. So Dublin 1 is the area around and including O’Connell St, while Grafton Street and the south city centre are in Dublin 2. The sole exception is Dublin 8, which extends from the Liberties to north of the river and includes part of the area around the Phoenix Park.

Where to stay

Whether you’re looking to save your pennies in a hostel or splash out on a luxury stay, there’s a wide range of accommodation to fit the bill in Dublin. The majority of the budget accommodation is found around Temple Bar and on Gardiner Street, near Connolly Station, with the mid-range and luxury hotels generally in the vicinity of Stephen’s Green and the surrounding streets. When choosing a place to stay, don’t discount the neighbourhoods outside of the city centre – you can find great hotels in places like Ballsbridge, Donnybrook and the Liberties , which are easy to reach on foot or by bus, DART and Luas. There are also more traditional B&Bs in the northern suburb of Drumcondra, for a dose of old school charm.

Where to eat

There’s a vibrant food scene in Dublin, from quick and tasty budget eats to multi Michelin starred restaurants . In the city centre, there are a wide range of places to eat, like pubs serving traditional Irish food, cafés for light meals, brasserie style restaurants and a huge variety of authentic international cuisines. Walk around Capel Street and you’ll find casual Asian restaurants where you can get an excellent meal for under €10, from Korean fried chicken to Vietnamese pho or bánh mì. The Liberties and Portobello are regarded as foodie hotspots, with popular brunch cafés and neighbourhood style bistros. Stoneybatter has some great ramen and Italian restaurants.

Wherever you eat, it’s best to book restaurants in advance, particularly at weekends. However it’s always worth trying your luck at the last minute – keep an eye on restaurant social media accounts to snag a cancelled table at the eleventh hour. Or phone them directly, as online reservation systems aren’t always kept up to date. There are plenty of restaurants that serve food all day, though some do close between lunch and dinner. One thing worth noting is that dinner service generally starts at around 5pm and runs until 10pm.

Famous pubs

Dublin is well known for its pubs , and there are certainly plenty to choose from. The following are some of the best known pubs in the city...

• The Temple Bar : One of the most photographed pubs in Dublin, with live music every day.

• The Brazen Head : The oldest pub in Dublin, dating back to 1198.
• Toners : A traditional pub with a beer garden, this was an old haunt of WB Yeats.
• Kehoes: Over 200 years old, this is a popular Dublin watering hole with a charming living room upstairs and outdoor seats that are always filled on sunny days.
• Mulligans: Originally an unlicensed ‘shebeen’, this is one of the oldest pubs around and a favourite among Dublin writers.  
• The Cobblestone : With trad sessions every day and talented musicians at the forefront, this is one of the best spots for traditional music in Dublin. 

As well as historic bars and pubs for traditional music , there are plenty of cocktail joints and wine bars around the city. There are also numerous distilleries and places to enjoy a good local whiskey .

Getting around

Dublin is a fairly compact city, and easy to navigate on foot – you definitely don’t need a car. Unless you’re visiting some of the attractions outside of the city centre (like the Phoenix Park , Guinness Storehouse or Kilmainham Gaol ) you can generally walk wherever you need to go. If you plan on exploring a little further afield, there are four main public transport options:

• Dublin Bus : The bus network covers the city and the suburbs, and most services run from 5am to midnight, with a Nitelink service running until 4am on Friday and Saturday nights. Eight bus routes run 24 hours a day , including the 41 that serves Dublin Airport. If using a Leap card (see below) then tell the driver your destination when you board and tap your card – you don’t need to tap out at the end. Otherwise, you’ll need the exact change to buy a ticket.
• DART : Dublin Area Rapid Transit trains serve the city centre and the coastline. You can buy tickets at every station, or use a Leap card to travel.
• Luas : There are two lines of Dublin’s tram service. The red line runs from east to west through the Northside of the city, and the green line runs north to south. You can buy a ticket at the station or use a Leap card, but you must tap on and off at the machines.

• DublinBikes : Dublin’s bike sharing scheme allows you to rent a bike at any of the 115 stations around the city, from 5:00am to 12:30am (One/three day ticket €3.50/€5 – first 30 minutes free, then from 50c an hour)
• Taxi: You can hail a taxi on the street, but it’s easier to use the Free Now app, where you can instantly book a licensed taxi. An alternative is Uber , though it’s not as commonly used in Dublin.

Tipping in restaurants is not expected, but it is customary to add 10% to the bill for good service, or up to 20% if you see fit. You don’t need to tip when buying drinks in a pub or bar, but if someone buys you a drink you’re expected to buy one back – that’s known as a ‘round’.

There are plenty of bike lanes in Dublin, so cycling is a viable way to get around the city. Get an account with DublinBikes and you can use it as a cheap mode of transport, as the first 30 minutes of a journey are always free.

If you really want to fit in with the locals, carry a tote bag around with you. There is a levy for plastic bags (though some provide paper ones), so they’re handy for any groceries or souvenirs you might buy. 

Discount cards

If you’re planning to visit multiple attractions, or will be using public transport, there are discount cards available that will save you money…

• GoCity All-Inclusive Pass (1-5 days, €69 – €115): This provides unlimited entry to top attractions in Dublin and beyond.
• DoDublin Days Out Card (€55): This gives you a 25% discount on entry to six attractions in Dublin.
• Leap Card : The prepaid travel card for all public transport in Dublin. Available in most shops, you pay a €5 refundable deposit and top it up with any amount you choose. All you have to do is tap it on the sensor when you board a bus. If travelling on the DART or Luas you will have to tap at the platform when you get on and once more when you get off. The Leap Visitor Card (1/3/7 days, €8/€16/€32) grants unlimited travel on Dublin Bus, Luas, DART and Commuter Rail. It can be purchased in the city and at Dublin Airport, or ordered online and delivered to your home in advance of your trip.
• DoDublin Freedom Ticket : (72 hours, €48): This 72-hour travel pass combines all the benefits of the Leap Visitor Card with a 48 hour hop-on hop-off tour. 

There are several hop on, hop off buses that stop at all the major tourist attractions and also offer discounts and walking tours.

Accessible Dublin

Dublin is very accessible – in 2019, it was voted the most wheelchair-accessible city in Europe by the Alpharooms Travel Blog. All the major museums and attractions are accessible, and there are plenty of adapted hotel rooms throughout the city. On the TFI website , you plan your route on public transport via accessible stations. If you have an invisible disability, you can get a “Please Offer Me a Seat” badge from bus and rail stations within Dublin.

LGBTQ+ Dublin

There’s a vibrant LGBTQ+ scene in the city, from long running gay bars and club nights to sea swimming clubs and hiking groups. The Dublin Pride Festival is held over a five day period during Pride Month in June and includes a huge parade through the city, as well as community events and celebrations. The LGBTQ+ film festival GAZE takes place once a year, and the International Dublin Gay Theatre Festival runs in May, featuring talent from Ireland and around the world.

• Dublin is a very walkable city, but make sure you wear comfortable shoes so you can stay on your feet all day.
• A lot of the city’s top restaurants offer a lunch menu that’s much cheaper than dinner, and daytime reservations are usually easier to get than dinner bookings. Some restaurants also offer an ‘early bird’ menu, with a discounted meal available for the earlier sitting, e.g. 5pm – 6:30pm.
• If you’re using a regular Leap card, rather than the Visitor Card, the TFI 90 Minute Fare applies to journeys made by Dublin Bus, Luas and most Dart trains. Any journey less than 90 minutes (including transfer times) costs €2.

What to do in Dublin

Looking for ideas of where to go, what to see and places to eat? Our comprehensive guide to Dublin has plenty of ideas.

12 of the best things to do in Dublin

Apr 10, 2024 • 10 min read

From distillery tours and pub hopping to art galleries and ancient books, there's lots to keep you busy in Dublin © Yohan LB / 500px

Ireland’s capital and largest city by far, Dublin is one of those places that you either get straight away or spend a lifetime trying to figure out. It’s not the prettiest city, but Dubliners will remind you that pretty things are as easy to like as they are to forget…before showing you the showstopper Georgian bits to prove that Dublin has a fine line in sophisticated elegance.

There’s a collection of museums as fine as you’ll find in any European capital and one of the world’s most beautiful university campuses. There’s incredible food and a collection of authentic pubs that have spawned imitators from Miami to Mongolia.

There’s whiskey and old prisons, ancient books and beautiful monuments. In Dublin, you’ll find something that will tickle your fancy. And when you’re done, there’s always the world’s greatest beer, brewed right here for the last 300 years.  

Whether it’s your first visit to Dublin or your 20th, this is a city that keeps on giving. Here are a few ideas to get you started.

1. Spend some time in a traditional Dublin pub

In all likelihood, you don’t need us to tell you that the pub is a quintessential Dublin experience , but here we are. It’s where you’ll meet Dubliners at their convivial, easy-going best and get a sense of what makes this city tick. There are few Dublin institutions so fawned over and written about as the traditional pub – probably because so many of the city’s best-known writers were regulars in them.

In Ulysses , Leopold Bloom muses that 'a good puzzle would be to cross Dublin without passing a pub,' to which the only logical answer is that it can be done…by going into everyone you see. Given that there are around 800 of them spread about the city it’s probably not the wisest thing to do if liver function is important to you, but there are a bunch of them that will make your Dublin stay all the more memorable. One of my favorites is  John Mulligan of Poolbeg Street, which was also a favorite of Leopold Bloom’s creator, James Joyce.  

2. Walk the cobbles of Trinity College

Since its foundation in 1592,  Trinity College has become one of the world’s most famous universities; it's the alma mater of Swift, Wilde and Beckett; it's where you'll find the most beautiful library in the whole country and the home of the world’s most famous illuminated Gospel, the Book of Kells. The library’s 200,000 books have been removed as part of a landmark restoration project, but the consolation prize is an enhanced digital experience that tells the story of the Book of Kells in dramatic, impressive detail. Trinity’s 16 hectares are an oasis of aesthetic elegance, its cobbled quadrangles lined with handsome neoclassical buildings that lend an air of magisterial calm to the campus, evident as soon as you walk through Front Arch.

Local tip: If you’re visiting during the summer – ie outside of term time – you can stay in student accommodation for a fraction of the cost of a hotel on the other side of the walls. See visittrinity.ie .

3. Peruse modern art and messy studios at the Dublin City Gallery – the Hugh Lane

Hanging on the walls of a magnificent Georgian pile is arguably the city’s finest collection of modern and contemporary art, which runs the gamut from impressionist masterpieces (Degas, Monet, Manet et al) to Irish artists such as Dorothy Cross and Sean Scully as well as a collection of stained-glass windows by Harry Clarke. The  Dublin City Gallery (aka the Hugh Lane, after its founder)’s most visited installation, however, is Dublin-born Francis Bacon’s actual London studio, brought over piece by piece and painstakingly reassembled in all its glorious mess – you can't step inside it but you can observe exactly how the artist lived and worked, down to the minute details.

Check out these budget-friendly tips for Dublin .

4. Dive into Dublin’s distilleries

Did you know that Dublin was once the epicenter of the global whiskey industry? The industry went kaput throughout the 20th century, but it’s slowly making a major resurgence, not least in the Liberties, once known as the Golden Triangle for the number of distilleries in operation there. Today, there are four:  Teeling Distillery, the first new producer in the city for 125 years;  Pearse Lyons Distillery , in an old church; the Dublin Liberties Distillery in a 400-year-old former mill and tannery; and the return of  Roe & Co, which was once the world’s largest producer of whiskey, inside the old Guinness Power Station. On the other side of the Liffey, the old  Jameson Distillery is now one of the city’s most popular attractions, while if you want to do some pretty serious tastings, there’s the  Irish Whiskey Museum near Trinity College.

5. Explore the exquisite collection at the Chester Beatty

Alfred Chester Beatty was a mining magnate with exceedingly good taste, and the fruit of his aesthetic sensibility is gathered in this remarkable museum. Books, manuscripts and scrolls were his particular love, and his collection includes the world's second-oldest biblical fragment and a collection of Qurans from the 9th to the 19th centuries that is considered among the best example of illuminated Islamic texts in the world. Other treasures include ancient Egyptian texts on papyrus, intricately designed little medicine boxes and perhaps the finest selection of Chinese jade books on the planet. Keep an eye on the calendar of events – it regularly runs qigong workshops on the rooftop garden, as well as sound baths and meditation sessions.

6. Drink a Guinness where it’s made

You didn’t think we’d ignore arguably the world’s most famous brewery and the number one tourist attraction in the city, did you? Guinness is more than a beer, and you’ll get a pretty good sense of how much more it is during a visit to the seven-story  Guinness Storehouse . Along the way you’ll learn how the beer is made (there are a couple of add-on, hands-on experiences to really deepen that knowledge), the role of the company in Dublin’s fortunes and how it became the global brand it is today.  The top floor is an atrium bar, where you put the theory to the test and drink a pint; just below it is an excellent spot for lunch.

Local tip: The Guinness in the atrium bar is excellent, but the best Guinness comes with atmosphere; you’ll find the best of it in a traditional bar (see above).

7. Go to prison to uncover Ireland’s struggles

Ireland’s struggle for independence was a bloody and tempestuous journey, and this forbidding prison on the western edge of the city played a role in it for nearly 150 years, as the forced temporary home of many a rebel and revolutionary. Unoccupied since 1924, Kilmainham Gaol is now a museum with an enthralling exhibit on the history of Irish nationalism. The guided tour of its grim cells and corridors is highly memorable and it finishes in the yard where the leaders of the failed 1916 Easter Rising were executed.

Planning tip: Book your tickets online to avoid being disappointed by sold-out tours; also best to book for an early morning tour as you’ll be waiting for less time.

8. Learn the history of Dublin…from Dubliners

With a collection donated entirely by the general public, the award-winning  Little Museum of Dublin on St Stephen’s Green is a surprising blockbuster. The memorabilia is quirky enough – it includes a lectern used by JFK during his visit in 1963 and the fateful letter given to the Irish delegation during the negotiations that ended Ireland ’s War of Independence in 1921 (and whose inherent contradictions led indirectly to the Civil War the next year) – but it’s a brilliant way of getting a potted history of the city. There’s even a whole floor dedicated to U2. Visits are by guided tour only, but they’re great fun.  

Planning tip: The museum runs great tours beyond its walls, including a daily walking tour of St Stephen's Green, as well as a themed weekly tour telling the story of Ireland's influential women.

9. Immerse yourself in culture at the National Museum of Ireland

Ireland’s most important cultural institution is the National Museum of Ireland, which has four branches nationwide – three of which are in Dublin. The  National Museum of Ireland – Archaeology on Kildare Street is the most significant, with an extraordinary collection of Celtic and early Christian gold as well as the macabre ‘bog bodies’ – four Iron Age figures in various states of preservation. On the other side of the Liffey, just off the quays, is the  Decorative Arts & History branch , housed in a beautiful 18th century barracks. On Merrion Square is the  Natural History Museum , affectionately known as the ‘Dead Zoo.’  

10. Eat your fill and go back for more in Dublin’s dining scene

The choice of restaurants in Dublin has never been better. Every cuisine and every trend – from doughnuts on the run to kale with absolutely everything – is catered for, as the city seeks to satisfy the discerning taste buds of its diners. From Neapolitan style pizza at  Sano to Michelin-starred feasts at  Chapter One , you’ll find something for every mood and budget. One of the more popular trends in 2024 was for KFC – no, not that kind, but Korean Fried Chicken – with a bunch of authentic spots opening up all over town. One of my favorites is White Rabbit on Capel St, not-so-hidden in the back of a Korean grocery store.  

Planning tip: It can be pretty tough to get a table at the trendiest spots in town, so book well in advance – two weeks if possible, but months if you’re looking for a Michelin-starred meal.

11. Get thee to Howth

Dublin is on the sea, and some of the city’s loveliest neighbourhoods are standalone villages worth exploring, not least the fishing village of Howth, at the end of the DART train line to the north. The village itself is gorgeous, built around a busy pier and packed with restaurants serving the freshest of fresh catch, but the real treat is the Howth Cliff Path Walk, a 6km (3.7 mile) loop that takes you over the  headland for gorgeous views over the grassy slopes to the sea. If you want to do a proper hike, there are longer routes that lead to the Baily Lighthouse and back over rough, mountainous terrain.

Local tip: On weekends and bank holidays, the  Howth Market sells a huge selection of organic produce and baked goods as well as handicrafts.

Navigate like a local with these tips for getting around .

12. Time travel at Marsh’s Library

OK, so the Book of Kells and the Old Library are way more famous, and way more visited, but that makes Marsh’s Library – on a side street by St Patrick’s Cathedral , all the more worthwhile. The magnificently preserved scholars' library founded by Archbishop Narcissus Marsh in 1701 has barely changed a jot since then: atop its ancient stairs are beautiful dark-oak bookcases filled with 25,000 books from the 16th century to the early 18th century, as well as maps, manuscripts (including one in Latin dating from 1400) and a collection of incunabula (books printed before 1500).

Local tip: When you walk from the first hall into the second, strike up a conversation with the resident librarians. They can tell you their personal theories (or experiences) of the resident ghost and show you the spines of the books bearing bullet holes from the 1916 Easter Rising.

This article was first published April 2018 and updated April 2024

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Your ultimate travel guide to Dublin

• Dublin, the capital of Ireland, is an iconic city teeming with pubs, historic landmarks, and more.
• Insider's Dublin travel guide includes the best places to stay, cool activities, and hidden gems.
• Visit Insider's hub for travel guides, tips, and recommendations .

Dublin teems with historic landmarks, friendly residents, and the craic — Ireland's sociable nature and deep-rooted culture, which are at their strongest and most authentic in the capital. It's no wonder people refer to the luck of the Irish.

From crumbling ancient walls and centuries-old pubs to the Georgian architecture brought in by the ruling British, remnants of its long (and often troubled) history dot the city, sectioned into north and south by the River Liffey. 

But it's the ever-evolving contemporary side that you'll fall in love with first. The city's vibrancy comes partly thanks to the influx of tech giants (Google, Facebook, and LinkedIn are among the companies with European headquarters here), as well as its community-minded residents who keep the city busy and creative. Phenomenal street art and inventive shops and bars are testaments to that. 

Brimming with novelty, Dublin offers enduring charm in the curiosities you'll stumble upon, as well as serendipitous encounters with local characters – both best paired with a pint of properly poured Guinness.

Check out Insider's guide for planning your next trip to Dublin.

→ How to get to and around Dublin  

→ where to stay in dublin, → where to eat in dublin, → what to do in dublin  , → important advisories for dublin.

• Main content

The Complete 2 Days in Dublin Itinerary

If you’re headed off to explore the Emerald Isle, there’s a (very) good chance that your plane is going to touch down in Ireland’s capital city–and there’s no better way to kick off a trip to Ireland than by spending 2 days in Dublin.

While Dublin may not have the romantic beauty of Paris or the grandiosity of Rome, it is a compelling–and in places gorgeous–city that is packed with interesting things to do.

No, you shouldn’t plan a trip to Ireland and base yourself for weeks in Dublin, but spending a couple of days in Dublin before you take off for green pastures and dramatic coastlines is definitely an excellent idea.

Trying to put together a 2 day Dublin itinerary and not sure where to start?

Here’s what to do with a couple of days in Dublin.

Table of Contents

How We Structured This 2 Day Dublin Itinerary

Day 1 in dublin: trinity college, dublin castle, temple bar + beyond, day 2 in dublin: guinness, st. stephen’s + more, where to stay in dublin, how long to stay in dublin, how to get around during 2 days in dublin, the best time to visit dublin.

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

This Dublin itinerary is designed for a (potentially jetlagged) traveler touching down in the capital city before leaving to explore more of the Emerald Isle and is intended to give a nice overview of the best things to do in Dublin while maintaining a lowkey pace that won’t exhaust you before you get to Ireland’s biggest natural treasures.

However, if you’re taking a short city break or planning a weekend in Dublin, this guide to spending 2 days in Dublin can work for you too–though you could also condense, say, 65% of this Dublin itinerary into one day and spend your second day in Dublin on a day trip outside the city, and that would be our recommendation!

Start your sightseeing at the General Post Office. 

Dublin’s General Post Office (or GPO) may seem like a strange place to kick off your 2 days in Dublin–but with impressive Georgian architecture, a prominent location on O’Connell Street, a beautiful interior, and a compelling history that involves playing a role in Ireland’s 1916 Easter Rising, it’s actually the perfect place to start.

The GPO is still a working post office, so during business hours, you’re welcome to take a peek inside–but if you want to learn more about the building’s 1916 history, we recommend visiting its Witness History exhibit.

While you’re in the area, be sure to check out the nearby James Joyce statue as well!

Book your ticket for the Witness History exhibit today!

Cross the Ha’Penny Bridge. 

Built in the early 19th century, the Ha’Penny Bridge earned its nickname (it’s technically called the Liffey Bridge) for a very simple reason: for the first 100 years of its existence, a ha’penny–or half pence–toll was charged to cross it.

Today, crossing the bridge is one of the many fun free things to do in Dublin , and is a great way to grab some views of the River Liffey.

Before crossing, book lovers may want to duck into the beautiful bookshop right across the street from the bridge: The Winding Stair.

Head to Trinity College.

Located in the center of the city and dating to the 16th century, Trinity College is Ireland’s most prominent university–and it’s also a beautiful place to visit.

Head over to campus and admire its beauty while making your way to what is arguably one of the prettiest and best-known libraries in the world: the Long Room.

Step inside the Long Room and check out the Book of Kells. 

The Long Room at Trinity College holds around 200,000 volumes, is around 65 meters long, and dates to the 18th century–but honestly, all of those facts fade away very quickly when you’re confronted with the beauty of the room itself (at least for bibliophiles like us!).

Truthfully, the Long Room has been on my list of must-see literary locations for years, and while the crowds (because there are definitely crowds!) definitely ensure that it feels more like the tourist attraction that it is than a peaceful library, it is an incredible sight, and well worth experiencing during your 2 days in Dublin.

Perhaps less well-known to foreign visitors but at least as interesting is the Book of Kells, which you’ll also gain access to with your ticket to the Long Room: this 9th-century illustrated copy of the Gospel is written in Latin and is incredibly beautiful and well-preserved.

Say hi to Molly Malone.

The legend of Molly Malone is a short, sad one.

Molly Malone was said to be a fishmonger (possibly from the 17th century), who sold cockles and mussels in a wheelbarrow… and then died of a fever. In some versions of the legend, she was also a prostitute.

Molly Malone’s legend and the song commemorating it are connected to Dublin–and on your walk from Trinity College to Dublin Castle, you’ll come across a statue dedicated to her.

Pay a visit to Dublin Castle. 

As compared to what you’ll find in Ireland’s smaller towns and countryside, it’s fair to say that Dublin Castle doesn’t look all that much like, well–a castle. Not in the traditional sense, anyway!

However, Dublin Castle has been an important government site in Ireland for most of its existence (the castle dates to the 13th century), including the present, and is absolutely worth visiting.

If you’re in a hurry or simply jetlagged, you may want to merely check out the exterior–but if you’re interested in learning some Irish history, it’s best to head inside on a guided tour, which will take you behind-the-scenes to parts of the castle you can’t otherwise access.

Once you finish up in the castle itself, consider stopping by the nearby Castle Gardens or the beautiful Chester Beatty Library that is located right next door!

Check out the Christ Church Cathedral.

There are few cities with two cathedrals–but Dublin is one of them.

While St. Patrick’s Cathedral is perhaps the more recognizable of the two, Christ Church Cathedral is equally compelling, and actually predates St. Patrick’s Cathedral by more than 100 years.

The crypt is one of the most interesting parts of the cathedral, in part because of the mummified cat and rat that are on display there, famous for being mentioned by James Joyce in Finnegans Wake. You can also find Ireland’s first copy of the Magna Carta here!

Head over to the Temple Bar district.

The Temple Bar district is undoubtedly touristy, not to mention expensive (even by Dublin’s pricey standards), but it’s also quite beautiful, and can be a fun way to introduce yourself to the city!

Even if you’d rather stray further off the beaten path to eat and drink on your first night in Dublin, we still recommend at least walking through the Temple Bar district and admiring its cobblestone streets and decked out, colorful buildings.

If you are looking for something to eat in the area, nearby Leo Burdock’s is famous for serving up tasty and affordable fish and chips.

Kick off your day in Dublin with a full Irish breakfast. 

There’s nothing quite like the delight of a full Irish breakfast (full as in complete, but also full as in, “you’ll be so incredibly full after eating one that you won’t be able to eat for hours”).

Boasting a fried egg, sausage, Irish bacon/rashers, beans, black and white pudding, mushrooms, grilled tomato, and occasionally potatoes, eating at least one full Irish breakfast is a must-have experience during your 2 days in Dublin.

For this Dublin itinerary, we can absolutely recommend the delicious breakfast at Beanhive Coffee , which is just a stone’s throw from your first sightseeing stops of the day.

Digest with a walk through St. Stephen’s Green.

There’s no better place to walk off your heavy breakfast than lovely and peaceful St. Stephen’s Green, a quiet and leafy public park that dates back hundreds of years (though its current layout was developed in the 19th century).

It’s a beautiful place for a morning walk in Dublin’s city center !

Duck inside the Stephen’s Green Shopping Centre.

You don’t need to spend much of your 2 days in Dublin inside a shopping center , but as this center at the top of popular Grafton Street is right next door to St. Stephen’s Green Park, it’s worth ducking into for a quick look at its stunning interior–just look at that light!

Stroll to St. Patrick’s Cathedral. 

Founded in 1191, St. Patrick’s is arguably the best-known church in Dublin–and it’s certainly one of the most impressive!

As the National Cathedral of the Church of Ireland, St. Patrick’s Cathedral is insanely beautiful, both inside and out, and is open to visitors.

Come to admire the Gothic architecture, to check out the Door of Reconciliation, or, for literary fans, to see where author Jonathan Swift is buried.

There’s also an incredible peaceful park right next door, so if you’d like to rest your feet a bit (or watch cute dogs–definitely a big selling point for us), feel free to settle on a bench for a few minutes.

Buy your entrance ticket to St. Patrick’s Cathedral today!

Head to the Guinness Storehouse for the ultimate Dublin experience.

Dublin and Guinness go hand-in-hand, and a visit to the Guinness Storehouse is the perfect way to enjoy the famous brew!

Learn some of the history of the iconic brand, learn how to pull your own Guinness, go for a taste test, and take a walk through the brewing process (in theory, that is–the beer is no longer brewed on the premises).

You can also c heck out some cool vintage Guinness advertising campaigns (one of my favorite parts of visiting), and top it all off by soaking in some of the best views of Dublin with a cold one in hand.

As someone who takes a casual-at-best interest in beer, the views another one of the highlights for me: you can see all across Dublin and right over to the Wicklow Mountains from the lounge at the top of the Guinness Storehouse.

Your ticket includes a drink, with Guinness, of course, being the most popular choice, but soft drinks available for under-18s and the non-drinkers among us.

Fair warning, though: the Guinness Storehouse gets packed.

Be prepared to share the space with plenty of other visitors!

Book your skip-the-line ticket to the Guinness Storehouse (pint of beer included) today!

Finish your 2 days in Dublin with dinner at an Irish pub. 

Visiting an Irish pub for an evening of tasty food and (hopefully) some live music definitely deserves to be part of your 2 day Dublin itinerary!

There are plenty of pubs to choose from in Dublin, so whether you’re looking for a touristy good time at Temple Bar, a quiet, offbeat experience, or something in between, you’ll find one suited to your taste.

If you like chasing history, consider a stop at Brazen Head, which purports to be Dublin’s oldest pub and boasts live music every night!

Abbey Court Hostel — Located right across the street from the River Liffey and less than a 5-minute walk to the Ha’Penny Bridge, Temple Bar, and more, you can’t ask for a better place to stay on a budget in Dublin than Abbey Court Hostel.

We stayed here during our first trip to Dublin, and while the accommodation and included breakfast were nothing to write home about–it’s a hostel, after all–we had no complaints and were thrilled with the location.

Check rates & book your stay at Abbey Court Hostel!

Hotel St. George — We stayed at Hotel St. George on our most recent trip to Dublin, and were completely happy with the experience!

The location allowed us to comfortably walk to most of Dublin’s major sites, the room was clean and quiet, the lobby beautiful, and the customer service excellent. We would be happy to stay here again!

Check rates & book your stay at Hotel. St George!

The Wilder — If you’re looking for a luxury experience in Dublin that lends itself to a bit of peace and quiet, the Wilder is the place for you.

Boasting impeccable reviews and an excellent location near St. Stephen’s Green, The Wilder is within easy reach of all of Dublin’s top sights, while also being far removed from the noise, hustle, and bustle of places like the Temple Bar District.

Check rates & book your stay at The Wilder!

While Dublin is a fun city, and spending a couple days in Dublin definitely enhances a trip to Ireland, be cautious of allotting too many of your precious days in the Emerald Isle to the city: outside of the large cities (large being a relative term, of course) is where Ireland really shines.

Two days in Dublin is the perfect amount to get a taste of the city if you’re spending roughly 10 days to 2 weeks in Ireland. With only a week or so on the island, we’d recommend spending only one day in Dublin. With three weeks or more, you could consider dedicating more time to the city.

If you do have more than 2 days in Dublin, consider paying a visit to the Kilmainham Gaol, visiting the mummies at St. Michan, or touring one of the many fascinating museums in Dublin, from meaningful spots like the Irish Emigration Museum and Irish Famine Museum, to more lighthearted options like the Leprechaun Museum.

If you book a centrally located hotel in Dublin, you’ll find most of the destinations on this 2 day Dublin itinerary fairly accessible by foot–on our most recent visit to the city, we only used alternate transportation to get to and from the airport, and to get back to our hotel after visiting the Guinness Storehouse.

However, if you would like to use Dublin’s public transportation system, you’ll find plenty of public buses available (exact change only, or you can purchase a transportation pass ), as well as some trams.

Taxis and Uber are also both available in the city.

There’s no doubt that if you’re hoping to see the sunshine or avoid bundling up, summer is the best time to visit Ireland, and that includes Dublin as well.

However, this 2 days in Dublin itinerary works for any time of the year, so don’t shy away from the city if your opportunity to visit falls outside of June, July, and August–just be prepared for the distinct possibility of less-than-ideal weather, and to dress accordingly!

If you are interested in spending a weekend in Dublin during the St. Patrick’s Day festivities, expect high prices, plenty of tourists looking to have a rowdy time, and for the River Liffey to be green –whether that sounds fantastic or terrible to you is absolutely a matter of preference. If you want to go, though, be sure to book your hotel way in advance.

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

17 thoughts on “The Complete 2 Days in Dublin Itinerary”

Best Dublin/Ireland blog I’ve come across! Thank you for helping us plan our trip!

So happy to hear, that Ariel! Hope you guys have an amazing trip to Dublin!

Any thoughts on EPIC? We are debating if this museum is worth the visit as we only have 2 days in Dublin.

We haven’t been yet personally, but we’ve heard good things about it! It’s supposed to be very well done.

Would always recommend tourists go to Kilmainham prison to learn the history of Dublin

My daughter and I went. The guide was amazing we really enjoyed the tour!

I highly recommend the National Gallery. A large portion is free and the exhibits are fantastic.

Have you driven through City Center at all? We went ahead and booked a car at the airport for convenience sake and now im wondering if learning to drive on the left side of the road in a busy city center is smart! We’re staying at a hotel in Temple Bar district.

Yes, once or twice. It’s not our favorite thing to do in Ireland, LOL.

The Temple Bar district is very dense, and I’d recommend picking up your rental car as you get ready to leave Dublin if at all possible!

If not, make sure you have a good GPS and be very careful navigating to a parking garage.

What a great post! Some of the Dublin spots I want to make sure I get to, but laid out in such a concise way with some great tips and recommendations! Going next yr. thank you!

Thanks so much! That’s exactly our goal. 🙂

This was really great thank you!

You’re welcome!

This is exactly what we needed. A blog like this with great and important details… the best Ireland travel blog… We loved because of the step by step- it gives you a sense of a planned full day…

Thanks, Sammy! Enjoy Dublin.

We used your itinerary last September – very useful – it was great to have all your info and we knew exactly what we could accomplish in our two days. Easy, walkable city. We added Dublin at the end of a European trip and did not rent a car. We used public transportation to and from the airport – easy to book and pay on-line with the company we used. Once we were in Dublin, it was all walking and we loved every minute.

That’s fantastic to hear, thank you Connie! Really appreciate you taking the time to share. 🙂

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Dublin Travel Guide: Is Dublin Worth Visiting in 2023?

· everything you need to know about planning a trip to dublin, ireland in 2023, including the top things to do, how to get there, and how to stay safe. ·.

Irish culture and heritage spread far beyond the borders of this little Atlantic island. In fact, there are more Irish citizens living outside of the country than ones living within its borders! This post is going to take a look at Ireland’s biggest city and economic hub, Dublin.

I’ll outline the best things to do in Dublin and how to get to Dublin, and then I’ll provide a couple of pointers that will help you plan your trip to Dublin.

This post contains affiliate links through which we may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. I only recommend products I would use myself and all opinions expressed here are my own.

Best Things to Do in Dublin

Dublin is the biggest city in Ireland, and you can definitely feel it. While many people come looking for the countryside charm found in many places throughout Ireland, Dublin undeniably has its own flare and appeal. This city has no shortage of cool experiences to check out, is packed with great restaurants and pubs, and is a great place to base yourself for day trips around the country. Here is my list of the best things to do in Dublin.

1. Have a Pint and Tour the Guinness Storehouse

Guinness is one of the world’s most successful brands of beer, and it is beloved in Ireland more than anywhere else. This legendary brewery is one of the most successful companies to come out of Ireland, and I believe a tour of the Guinness Storehouse is the best thing to do in Dublin. I have been on brewery tours all over the world, and I can confidently say that the Guinness Storehouse tour in Dublin is the best one I have ever been on.

The brewery is set up like a museum, and you work your way up from the bottom floor all the way seven floors up to the top. Tickets are cheap, as they only cost €24 and include the price of admission and a beer from the Gravity Bar on the roof. You can buy your tickets online here.

The bar has really great views of Dublin, and making it to the top is a lot of fun. They say that Guinness tastes better in Ireland than anywhere else in the world, but I’d take that statement even further; Guinness at the Storehouse tastes better than the rest of Ireland! The brewery and the tour are amazing, but the highlight for me was the perfectly poured Guinness in the Gravity Bar.

Sipping on that Guinness while talking to a friend and overlooking the city is easily one of the best things to do in Dublin.

2. Go on a Day Trip to the Cliffs of Moher

The Cliffs of Moher are one of the most beautiful natural landscapes I have ever seen, beating out the Cerro de Los Picachos in Panama, the Grand Canyon , and Big Sur in California. This stretch of the Atlantic coastline ends abruptly with sudden cliffs that are 700 feet above the water.

There are no barriers to protect you from falling, and you can walk (or crawl) right up to the edge and look down. I do not advise this, as it is extremely dangerous and the winds tend to be very strong…but I’m sure you will see people doing it!

Getting to the Cliffs of Moher is pretty simple. While they are located on the completely opposite side of the country, Ireland is pretty narrow, and making a day trip to see them is perfectly doable. I wrote an entire post about taking a day trip from Dublin to the Cliffs of Moher , and I break down every possible way you can get there and other logistics for your visit.

Visiting the Cliffs of Moher is easily one of the best things to do in Ireland, and coupling it with a stop in Galway makes the day even better.

3. Grab a Drink at the Temple Bar

The Temple Bar has been around for centuries – closer to a millennium, really. This bar has been open since the 1300s and continues to serve both Irish locals and tourists as one of the most popular establishments in the city. Its most distinguishing quality is its red exterior, and the Temple Bar’s central location makes it one of the best places to be when the evening rolls around.

This place will be packed with people, and most of them will be tourists. While I tend to prefer non-touristy things and roll with locals, a quick stop into the Temple Bar is a must, if not only to be able to say you did it. The drinks are moderately priced and there was live entertainment when we visited. If you’re ready to party, one of the best things to do in Dublin is a long night out at the Temple Bar! When in Ireland, right?

Temple Bar has been open since the 1300s.

4. Take a Tour of the Abandoned Prison of Kilmainham Gaol

Kilmainham Gaol is a really interesting place to visit, and it carries a long and storied past within its walls. It gives me major Alcatraz vibes, for those who have visited the infamous island prison off the coast of San Francisco.

The prison has held some of the most notorious criminals, rebels, and enemies of the government that Ireland has ever seen, and many of them were even executed within its walls.

Nowadays, the prison of Kilmainham Gaol is run by the Office of Public Works, and they have turned it into a very informative and reflective museum that has become one of the best things to do in Dublin. The people who were housed inside this prison were usually not treated very well, and while the prison housed some high-profile names, most of its inmates were regular people who got caught committing petty crimes.

The museum costs only €8 for an adult to enter, and you must make a reservation in advance. Entrance is permitted by the time slot on your ticket, so be sure to pick a time that you will be available!

5. Learn About Ireland’s Long and Rich History at the National Museum of Ireland

The National Museum of Ireland is spread out over a few different museums, including Decorative Arts and History, Country Life, Natural History, and Archaeology. As the most prestigious museum in Ireland, you could spend days pouring through the information that is available here.

While each of the museums is fantastic, I personally recommend the Museum of Decorative Arts and History. The Country Life Museum is unfortunately not located in Dublin and is a significant drive away from the city.

The National Museum of Ireland is free.

These museums are all great, but what sets them apart even further is their price of admission, which is nothing. The National Museum of Ireland is free to visit, and the information on display is worth much more than nothing! Take advantage of this, as visiting the National Museum of Ireland is definitely the best free thing to do in Dublin.

6. Sip Some Irish Whiskey and Tour the Old Jameson Distillery

The Irish really love their drinks, and you can’t blame them. They’ve got it down to a science over the years! A visit to the Guinness Storehouse tops my list of the best things to do in Dublin, but no trip to Dublin is complete without a visit to the Old Jameson Distillery .

While the Old Jameson Distillery hasn’t actually been actively distilling anything since 1970, seeing the infrastructure of the building and the distillery process is really cool and educational.

The distillery also goes by the name of Bow St. Distillery, and there are a handful of cool experiences that can be booked to do while visiting. From Whiskey blending sessions to tours and bottling your own whiskey. Tickets can be bought online, and I advise doing so to make sure you have a slot! The Bow St. Experience, which includes a tour, tasting, and more, costs €25 per person, and tickets can be bought here.

How to Get to Dublin

Dublin is served by only Dublin International Airport (DUB) , which is one of the busier airports in Western Europe. As a result, there are probably going to be plenty of affordable flight options to bring you right into Dublin from anywhere in the world. There really is no other airport I advise looking into, as Dublin will be the best option 999 times out of 1000. There really isn’t a better option.

For some tips on saving a little money on your flight, I’d recommend that you check out my detailed guide to finding cheap flights . Dublin International Airport is also served by several great budget airlines, which is a huge plus if you are looking to save money. If you are skeptical about flying on budget airlines or want to know how to get around their sneaky fees, be sure to read my budget airline guide.

READ OUR CHEAT SHEET

Once you arrive at the airport, you have three options to get downtown.

Use a Private Transfer

The best way to get from the airport to your hotel in Dublin is by booking a private transfer with our partners at Welcome Pickups .

Welcome Pickups offers personalized, private, comfortable rides from the airport into the city for about the same price as a standard taxi. They monitor your flight status while you are in the air, and a driver will be waiting for you holding a sign with your name on it as soon as you arrive.

Secondly, you can take a bus, which costs about €10 per person per way. If you are traveling alone, I highly recommend this as it will be the cheapest option for you and the buses are very nice and comfortable. However, if you are traveling with at least one other person, you will want to take a taxi. I am very partial to Uber, and I use it as my first choice all the time when public transportation isn’t a good option.

Take a Taxi or Uber

I am very partial to Uber, and I use it as my first choice all the time when public transportation isn’t a good option.

However, in Ireland Uber can only be used to hail official taxis. I would first check the Uber app to see what the cost of an Uber taxi would be, and then compare it to the going rate of €20-30 that airport taxis charge. The odds are that a taxi for two people will cost about the same as a bus for two people, so you might as well go for the taxi.

How to Get Around Dublin

BUS | COASTAL TRAIN | TRAM | TAXI

Getting around Dublin is very easy thanks to its extensive public transportation system. While there is no subway system, there is a great bus network, a coastal train, and a tram system that connect the city to the suburbs. While you always have the option of a taxi and can hail them from the Uber app, I personally found that I was just fine using public transportation to get everywhere I needed to go.

Remember that Ireland doesn’t allow private vehicles to be used for Uber, so calling an Uber will just result in a ride from a regular taxi.

If you are staying for a few days, I recommend purchasing a LEAP card. This is a public transportation card that can be used on all of Dublin’s bus, train, and tram lines. In fact, LEAP cards can be used in other cities around the country, too!

All of the information you could possibly need can be found here , but in summary, you can use an app on your phone in lieu of a physical card and you can top up the balances from your phone whenever you need. Each ride of under 3km costs €1.60, and anything further than 3km costs €2.30.

If you’re staying in Ireland for a few days we recommend purchasing a LEAP card.

Safety in Dublin

You may find yourself wondering, “is Dublin safe to visit?” This is a valid question, as it is a major city and is fairly densely populated. The good news is that generally speaking, Dublin is a very safe city to visit. It is the most dangerous city in Ireland, yes, but Ireland as a whole is a very safe country.

There is no major safety risks in Dublin other than petty theft.

There are no major risks or threats to consider, and the worst thing that is likely to happen is a run-in with a pickpocket or petty thief. These occurrences themselves are also rare, and as long as you take normal precautions, don’t stumble around too late at night, and don’t carry wads of cash with you everywhere you go, Dublin is a very safe city to visit.

What Is the Best Time of the Year to Visit Dublin?

Dublin is in Ireland, and while Ireland is not a part of the United Kingdom, it is geographically pretty much the same. England is known for its dreary weather, so you can probably infer the same about Ireland, right?

Well, yes and no. It is true that there is a not-so-pretty season in Ireland, and that runs from November to late March. Ireland gets pretty cold, rainy, and snowy during those months, and the wind can make your visit a little bit less pleasant.

Don’t visit during St. Patrick’s Day. You will be very disappointed just as I was.

While this rules out a visit during St. Patrick’s Day, you’re not missing out on anything. St. Patrick’s Day is celebrated in the United States and is a wholly American holiday – in Ireland, it is not a giant party. Been there, done that.

There is a cool parade and some happy people, but alcohol sales were actually banned for the whole morning of St. Patrick’s Day while we were there because the country wants to keep the sacred aspects of the holiday intact. It is a saint’s feast day, after all.

The best time of the year to visit Dublin depends on what you are looking for, but generally, there are two windows of time to consider. The best weather and the most lively events in Dublin occur during the summer months, from June to August. The sun is shining, people are outside having fun, and the country is gorgeous.

This is when most people choose to go to Dublin, and typically crowds know best. The drawback to visiting in the summer, though, is that the prices will all be higher for the peak season and all of the attractions and restaurants will be fuller. If you are fine with waiting in lines and paying more for your hotel, this is the best time to visit.

Personally, I am not into that. I like smaller crowds, paying less for accommodation, and generally being freer to explore the city at my own pace. If this is you, you probably want to visit during the spring shoulder season, which is April and May.

Either visit Dublin in the summer or during the shoulder months.

All of the prices during this time are a bit lower, the crowds are much smaller, and the city feels much more like its normal self rather than just a tourist destination. Regardless, if you visit between April and August you are bound to have a great time!

Is Dublin Worth Visiting?

Despite its small size, Ireland is a very popular country to visit, and its capital city is also its main gateway. Most people who visit Ireland pass through Dublin on their way to anywhere else they go in the country, and the vast majority of them spend a day or two in Dublin before venturing further out into Ireland.

Personally, I highly recommend this. While there are certainly other cities and towns in Ireland with more charm, nowhere in Ireland is quite like Dublin. From the iconic brewery and distillery, to the free museums, to the wide range of things to check out, Dublin is absolutely worth visiting.

After all, Dublin has been the center of culture and life in Ireland for a very long time, and many of the most important aspects of Irish history and culture stem from Dublin. While you may be tempted to skip right over it and head elsewhere, I highly recommend a visit to Dublin while you’re in Ireland.

That’s all we have for you about vacationing in Dublin in 2023! Hopefully, this Dublin Travel Guide helps you to plan the perfect trip and gives you a better idea of the best things to do in Dublin.

If you’re planning a trip to Dublin, let us know! We’d love to chat ahead of time and answer any questions you have.

Hi, I'm Greg. I'm an avid traveler who has traveled to over 50 countries all around the world with my wife and kids. I've lived in Italy, Mexico, China, and the United States, and I dream of moving abroad again in the future. With this blog, I provide my audience with detailed destination guides to my favorite places and pro-tips to make travel as stress-free as possible.

Hamish Wilson

I’m considering making Dublin my next backpacking destination, being from Scotland I find it mad that I’ve never made the trip. I think what has put me off Ireland is that it looks way too similar to my home country. I suppose this post has given me some inspiration for what I’ll do when I go there.

I’m so happy to hear that! Dublin is an amazing place. I hope you thoroughly enjoy it! Next time I’m headed to Scotland I’ll need your tips!

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Dublin   Travel Guide

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22 Best Things to Do in Dublin, Ireland

Locals might say Dublin is full of "craic" (good times), with a healthy mixture of history and little debauchery that can be found on nearly every street corner. Start in the north at Phoenix Park and head south to the River Liffey, cross the famous

• All Things To Do

Trinity College and The Book of Kells Trinity College and The Book of Kells

Note: The Old Library is undergoing a massive restoration and conservation effort. While the Old Library will remain open for visits until construction begins in 2025, all books have been removed from the shelves. The Book of Kells is still on display and there will be a new exhibit about this important manuscript.

U.S. News Insider Tip: This must-see attraction is worth the (typically) long wait. The gift shop is a particularly good spot to pick up inspiring gifts and souvenirs to commemorate your trip. – Rachael Hood

St. Patrick's Cathedral St. Patrick's Cathedral

U.S. News Insider Tip: After seeing the sights, take a short walk to the cozy Brazen Head pub, said to be the oldest pub in Dublin. Come for the fish and chips but stay for the live music. – Elizabeth Von Tersch

St. Patrick's Cathedral is the largest cathedral in Dublin and the national cathedral of the Church of Ireland. Built on the site where St. Patrick is said to have baptized converts some 600 years earlier, this massive cathedral was erected between 1220 and 1259 with major restorations beginning in the 1860s. It remains one of the few buildings still standing from medieval Dublin.

Chester Beatty Library Chester Beatty Library free

Widely known as one of the mote notable museums in Europe, the Chester Beatty Library is often overlooked by tourists. The library is home to an extensive collection of rare books, manuscripts and drawings dating back to 2700 B.C. The museum includes religious and artistic collections from across Asia, the Middle East, North Africa and Europe.

The library's namesake comes from the American mining millionaire and collector, Sir Alfred Chester Beatty, who donated his immense collection to Ireland when he passed in 1968. Works include Babylonian clay tablets, the Biblical Papyri and more than 250 different manuscripts of the Quran.

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St. Stephen's Green St. Stephen's Green free

This beautiful park (known for remaining green throughout the year) is a great place to spend a day outside without leaving central Dublin. It's been enjoyed by locals and visitors since 1880 when Arthur Edward Guinness re-opened it as a public park after it served as a private community for the wealthier residents of Dublin for more than century.

These days, the park is maintained by the Office of Public Works and includes a playground and garden for people with blindness or low vision. The green space is also home to several monuments dedicated to some of Ireland's most important figures, including James Joyce and Arthur Edward Guinness. Past visitors appreciated the peaceful grounds and described it as a great place to relax in the middle of the city. Reviewers also praised the park's cleanliness and recommended future visitors pack a picnic to enjoy the tranquil atmosphere.

EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum

This interactive museum details 1,500 years of Irish history, with stories of the 100 million people who left Ireland, how and where they lived, and their impact on the rest of the world. State-of-the-art interactive exhibits feature touch screens, quizzes and audio and video recordings, which bring Irish history to life. Everything from Irish music and dance to Irish literature to touching letters home, reveal the Irish emigrant experience from multiple points of view.

Recent visitors called the museum highly educational and informative and said it's a must-see for anyone of Irish descent.

Phoenix Park Phoenix Park free

When the hustle and bustle of the city gets to be too much, seek refuge in Phoenix Park, one of the largest enclosed parks in a European capital. Encompassing more than 1,700 acres, Phoenix Park features plenty of lush green lawns, shady wooded areas and cool, clean lakes. Once upon a time, it was the royal hunting park (in the 1600s) and opened to the public in 1747. To this day, visitors can encounter fallow deer.

Travelers can start out at the park's Visitor Centre & Ashtown Castle to learn about the history of the park and tour the medieval tower that dates back to the 17th century. The park is also home the 78-acre Edwardian estate, the Farmleigh House , which still acts as a working farm as well as a Victorian walled kitchen garden. Recent visitors called the park beautiful, clean and peaceful.

Kilmainham Gaol Kilmainham Gaol

U.S. News Insider Tip: While a prison may not be the most uplifting place to visit, a tour here really provides insight into the lives of the Irish people and the hardships they endured. – Rachael Hood

According to many, this gaol , or jail, gives its visitors one of the most unique looks into the darker side of Irish history. Occupied from 1796 to the 1920s, the prison housed many famous figures in the fight for Irish independence, including Thomas Francis Meagher and James Connolly, and was also the site for more sinister executions and hangings. Additionally, the prison acted as a transportation point for approximately 4,000 prisoners to Australia – then a penal colony – in the early 19th century. The gaol was known for the harsh treatment of its inhabitants, with no segregation by gender until 1861 when men were transferred to the newly built East Wing. It was later abandoned in 1924 and reopened as a museum in 1966 (though remodeling and updates have taken place since).

National Gallery of Ireland National Gallery of Ireland free

If you're an art lover, make sure to save some time for this extensive (and free!) museum, which has housed Ireland's national art collection since 1854. Here you'll find numerous works by such renowned artists as Caravaggio, Vincent van Gogh and the French impressionists. But the main attractions are works from some of Ireland's masters, with an impressive collection of works by notable residents such as Jack B. Yeats and Helen Mabel Trevor. The National Gallery also hosts notable traveling exhibitions as well as concerts and lectures.

Recent visitors called the museum outstanding and well worth a visit. If you're a fan of the arts, previous travelers recommended you set aside several hours to tour the museum. You'll also want to grab a map at the entrance as its collections are spread out.

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Dublin Castle Dublin Castle

Right in the heart of the city, the site of the Dublin Castle has played a part in Ireland's history since the land was used by Vikings to build a fortress in the 900s. Parts of the castle were built and torn down through the ages, but the oldest remaining structure, the Record Tower, dates back to the 13th century.

In addition to having been a stronghold against foreign attacks on the city, the castle and its grounds have also been home to a prison, an office of record, a water station, a seat of parliament, a royal court for entertainment and a military residence – all before 1850. The castle grounds were also the site where the Easter Rebellion of 1916 began, and after five years of fighting, where the treaty that granted Irish independence was signed. Many previous visitors recommended taking the guided tour, which they say is more extensive and informative that the self-guided tour.

Christ Church Cathedral Christ Church Cathedral

Formally known as the Cathedral of the Holy Trinity, the Christ Church Cathedral has been visited for almost 1,000 years. Originally a Viking church founded in 1030, Archbishop Laurence O'Toole (the future patron saint of Dublin) merged it with the Irish Church in 1152. The Romanesque gothic church is known for its magnificent architecture and its famous bells (one of which is from 1738). This church also holds the largest and oldest crypt in Ireland and is full of historical objects of worship. Among the items stored in this church is a royal plate given by King William III, a rare 14th-century copy of the Magna Carta Hiberniae, and the heart of St. Laurence O'Toole. There's even a morbid oddity of a mummified cat and rat, better known as Tom and Jerry, frozen in eternal pursuit on display for all to gawk at.

Past visitors declare that it's a must-see attraction when visiting Dublin and it's quite affordable as well. Self-guided audio tours – included in your ticket fee – are available and recommended to get an experience filled with hidden facts and stories. Others say it's still a great place to wander about without the audio.

Jameson Distillery Bow St. Jameson Distillery Bow St.

Did you know that in Irish, whiskey is called  uisce beatha  and literally translates to "the water of life"? Chronicling the history of the Jameson family and the "water" they're known for, the Jameson Distillery no longer makes the hard stuff (that's done elsewhere) though it does offer tours that provide insight on just how to do it. Whiskey drinkers hail the 45-minute guided tour (and the included tastings) as informative and fun, with energetic guides and a beautiful refurbished facility.

Whether you're a fan of whiskey or not, learning about the history is sure to entertain anyone. Even non-drinkers say they enjoyed the informative tour. Learning that the founder of the most famous Irish whiskey, John Jameson, was actually a Scotsman is a favorite tidbit. Or that the Latin on the bottle's label,  Sine Metu , means "without fear."

Guinness Storehouse Guinness Storehouse

Like the Jameson Distillery , the Guinness Storehouse is no longer a functioning brewery, but it will give you an insider's view into the history and process behind the storied stout. Take the self-guided tour through the former brewery's seven floors to learn about the history of the one-of-a-kind beer, from the ingredients used in the brewing process to the iconic advertisements seen around the world. At the top, you'll be treated to a complimentary pint and city views from its rooftop Gravity Bar.

The best part of the tour for some visitors? The complimentary pint at the end along with the rooftop views. Even non-beer drinkers enjoyed the storehouse for its interactive and multimedia exhibits, but noted that during peak times they can be crowded. Other comment that tickets are a bit pricey. To make sure you get in at your preferred time, book your tickets online in advance. If you sign up for one of the best Dublin tours , you'll likely also visit the storehouse.

The Little Museum of Dublin The Little Museum of Dublin

To discover Dublin, head on over to The Little Museum of Dublin to learn about the city's illustrious history in approximately 30 minutes. Located in a quaint 18th-century Georgian townhouse near St. Stephen's Green , this charming museum was founded in 2011, with more than 5,000 artifacts donated by Dubliners. You'll find items from Queen Victoria's visit, a copy of James Joyce's "Ulysses" and tokens from the Abbey Theatre's long history. There's even an exhibit on the top floor dedicated to the rise of U2 featuring signed albums, photographs, and gig tickets.

Being that the museum is so small, it's best to book a tour in advance as tickets sell out quickly. You can walk around on your own, but a guided tour is highly recommended and should not be missed, according to travelers. Museumgoers routinely praise the lively guides who left everyone – even small children – mesmerized.

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Grafton Street Grafton Street free

U.S. News Insider Tip: If you're looking for something special to bring home from your trip, head to Weir & Sons for fine Irish jewelry, Brown Thomas is a lovely department store to peruse and Avoca on nearby Suffolk Street has Irish-made Avoca Mill Handweavers wool goods. For a treat, tuck into Bewley's Cafe for coffee or tea and a scone. – Rachael Hood

When you need a break from all the museums and historical sites, head to Grafton Street. This pedestrian street – which runs from  Trinity College to  St. Stephen's Green  – is Dublin's premier shopping district. Here, you'll find everything from familiar brands to more unique items like quirky shoes and used books. There are also two shopping centers in the area, the Stephen's Green Shopping Centre and the upscale Powerscourt Centre. So, if you're looking for a place to exercise your credit card, this would be it.

Temple Bar Temple Bar free

Often compared to Bourbon Street in New Orleans , this neighborhood is Dublin's famous party hub. During the day, this district thrives on artistic vision, featuring numerous independent galleries and performance art venues. At night, dozens of pubs (including one with the same name as the district) open their doors to those looking to share a pint of Guinness and click their heels to spirited Irish music.

Many visitors say the district has become more of a tourist trap than an authentic representation of Dublin's pub culture, but while in Dublin it is a sight one must see. Pull up a chair, order a (likely overpriced) pint and enjoy the music. For help navigating the crowds, sign up for one of the best Dublin tours , many of which stop in the area.

Abbey Theatre Abbey Theatre

U.S. News Insider Tip: Be sure to check out the nearby National Leprechaun Museum . It may sound a little cheesy, but this museum is dedicated to preserving Irish folklore and myths about the fair folks plus other Irish heritage tales through the art of oral storytelling. – Yolanda Evans

Although the Abbey Theatre looks quite contemporary, even swanky with its glass front and the theater name bathed in blue light, the performance venue has turn-of-the-century origins. Famed poet, W.B. Yeats, along with another Irish writer, Lady Augusta Gregory, opened the national theater in 1904. It's since been rebuilt and now features 620 seats between  the Abbey and Peacock auditoriums and a continuous playbill of Ireland's most promising playwrights.

Wicklow Mountains National Park Wicklow Mountains National Park free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Spend time in Glendalough  exploring the ancient ruins of the Christian settlement nestled in between two beautiful lakes. Then pick up a bottle of Glendalough whiskey or gin with the image of Saint Kevin plastered on the bottle to remind you of your visit. – Yolanda Evans

Just south of Dublin, Wicklow National Park is one of Ireland's largest parks consisting of more than 20,000 hectares (more than 50,000 acres) of winding mountain paths, bogs, lakes and breathtaking views for all that venture to the park. There are plenty of hiking trails – like the Wicklow Way – for outdoorsy travelers who want to spend more time in nature. For less adventurous visitors, you can seek out historical sites such as the old mine ruins or take a drive around the Great Military Road for a stunning view of the mountains. Also, be sure to check out Glenmacnass waterfall for photo for your Instagram!

Dublin Zoo Dublin Zoo

The biggest attraction within Phoenix Park is the Dublin Zoo. Opened by the Zoological Society of Ireland in 1831 with just four acres, this zoo is one of the oldest of its kind in Europe. The zoo's first collection included monkeys, lions, bears and parrots; an elephant and rhinoceros later joined the collection as rentals (though London gifted the zoo an elephant in 1835). Today, Dubin Zoo spans nearly 70 acres and is home to more than 400 animals in a variety of large habitats. Popular exhibits include the Humboldt penguins and western lowland gorillas. Recent visitors praised the zoo for its size, cleanliness and obvious commitment to the care of its animals. Others note that the zoo can get extremely busy, especially in the peak summer season. After you leave, you can keep a keen eye on the animals via webcam.

The zoo is open every day starting at 9:30 a.m. and closing at 6 p.m. Admission costs 22.50 euros (about $24) for adults and 17 euros (about $18) for children ages 3 to 15. Family tickets and tickets or visitors who need additional assistance are also available. If you book online, you'll save a few euros. Learn more on its website .

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Farmleigh House & Estate Farmleigh House & Estate

U.S. News Insider Tip: After wandering the estate grounds soaking up the history, treat yourself to a little snack and drink at the on-site restaurant, The Boathouse, for Italian and Irish cuisine. Located along the beautiful lake, it's the ideal setting for rest and relaxation. – Yolanda Evans

Once the home of the famous Guinness family, Farmleigh was purchased in 1999 by the government to house visiting dignitaries. This lavish Edwardian estate is nestled on 78 acres that includes the main house, a walled and sunken garden, a beautiful lake and the famous clock tower. Then there's the large collection of art as well as a rare collection of rare books and manuscripts in the library that remained in the house to be on display for visitors. Also on-site is the charming Cowshed theater where artists and performers can showcase their craft. As a bonus, there's a food and craft market behind the Gallery on the first Sunday of the month from Easter Sunday to December.

Glasnevin Cemetery Glasnevin Cemetery free

U.S. News Insider Tip:  After visiting the cemetery, stop by  John Kavanagh – better known as "The Gravediggers" – for a pint. This bar's nickname was coined because gravediggers used to visit this pub after completing their shift. – Yolanda Evans

Opened in 1832, Glasnevin Cemetery was once one of the few places where Irish Catholics could be buried. It was founded by Daniel O'Connell, who largely helped remove restrictions on Irish Catholics in the early 1800s. Not only is Glasnevin the final resting place for O'Connell, but it's also the burial location for other famous Irish icons like politician Charles Stewart Parnell; the co-founder of the Irish Republican Army Michael Collins; and politician and first female cabinet minister in Ireland, Countess Markievicz. In fact, more than 1.5 million souls are buried in this cemetery. The tombs are also a great work of art, as many are adorned with Irish symbols such as the harp and clovers. There are also indoor exhibits exploring the cemetery's history and burial practices from around the world. With so much to offer, it's little wonder that Glasnevin is Ireland's national cemetery.

St. Michan's Church St. Michan's Church

Located about a block from the Old Jameson Distillery , St. Michan's Church was founded in 1095 and is the oldest church on the north side of the River Liffey in Dublin. Rebuilt in 1686 by William Robinson, this church has a stunning vaulted ceiling and a large pipe organ. In fact, the organ is rumoured to be the one that George Friedrich Handel played when performing "Messiah" for the first time. Besides the history and architecture, the main draw to this church is its famous, yet eerie, crypts that contain the mummified remains of Dublin's most notorious residents dating back to the 17th century. Among the dead in the vaults are Irish rebels John and Henry Sheares, Earls of Leitrim, and Wolfe Tone. There are also four mummified corpses on display without lids, famously called the Unknown, the Thief, the Nun and the Crusader.

Travelers say visits to St. Michan's Church were still interesting due to their engaging tour guide who entertained them with the historical facts and spooky tales. 

National Museum of Ireland – Natural History National Museum of Ireland – Natural History free

Note: The National Museum of Ireland – Natural History is undergoing extensive renovation. At this time, only the ground floor is open to visitors.

Nicknamed the "Dead Zoo" due to it being a zoological museum, the National Museum of Ireland on Merrion Street was opened in 1867. It features exhibits of animals native to Ireland like badgers, golden eagles, mussels, trout and insects (Ireland is home to some 12,000 of them!). Also available is the Wonder Cabinet, a take on the Victorian curiosity cabinets that showcases about two million scientific specimens of mammals, birds, and insects. This unique space also doubles as a filming location – it was featured in an episode of "Ripper Street" and "Penny Dreadful" – due to its charming architecture.

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Dublin Travel Tips: 21 Essential Things to Know Before You Go

Getting around Dublin is it’s own adventure.  A typical evening trying to cross the street goes something like this: The cars are going the wrong way, crossing the street when the street sign says “walk” is your number one safety risk, and there’s bubble bath overflowing from a nearby fountain. Everything will be explained, and you can take advantage of these Dublin travel tips to have an amazing experience in Ireland’s capital.

Once you get the hang of things, this city is enchanting and full of places to discover. I enjoyed 3 days in Dublin on my visit. In this post, I’ll pass on some hard earned wisdom (and by that, I mean misjudged “walking distance”) for getting around. You can focus on taking in the sights!

These Dublin travel tips will take you deep in to the city centre and far out to surrounding areas, and save you time and money! 

Dublin Travel Tips

1. get a great deal on public transportation.

These transportation Dublin travel tips will save you money. One of Dublin’s best-kept transportation secrets is the Leap Visitor Card . The card comes in 1, 3, and 7 day increments. No more trying to load exactly the right amount of cash on to your card to get around Dublin during your visit, or trying to calculate how many zones you’ll cross each day.  I think there’s still money on my Oyster Card from London!

Where to buy a Leap Visitor Card: the easiest way is to pick up a Leap Visitor Card in the airport on arrival. You will be all set to ride the bus, DART, rail, and Luas around Dublin. Check out the Dublin Bus website before you travel and map out a few key roots from wherever you’re staying to hubs like O’Connell Street and Trinity College. 

You’ll be amazed at how far you can get on the DART! Go on a cliff walk in Howth or walk the harbour in  Dún Laoghaire by taking the DART 20 minutes out of Dublin.

• 1 day (24 hours) – €10.00
• 3 days (72 hours) – €19.50
• 7 days (168 hours) – €40.00

2. Order a Taxi in Dublin (but not on Uber)

There’s an app for that , but it’s not Uber in Dublin. If you want to skip public transport, you will have to call a taxi. The taxi services in Dublin do have their own apps, that allow you to instantly request a taxi, or to book one for a upcoming date and time.

I order a taxi a day in advance using the NRC Taxi App and, happily, the driver pulled up 5 minutes before the specified time!

3. Take the Hop on and Off Bus Strategically

While most of the things that you want to see in Dublin are with in one area, some are a little further away. The majority of the tourist attractions are within walking distance of Trinity College, with some exceptions. Glasnevin cemetery, the zoo, the Guiness Storehouse, and Kilmainham Gaol are out of the way, and too far to walk . Public transit is definitely an option, but it’s even easier to get between these sites with a Hop on and Off Bus pass. The Hop and Off Bus pass can be purchase on it’s own, or as part of the Dublin Pass .

Navigating the  Streets of Dublin

4. watch out for the lack street signs .

The street signs, or lack thereof, was one of the first things that I noticed in Dublin. Streets names are often painted on the sides of buildings, so they fade overtime or get covered by plants or construction. If you’re used to looking for street signs out by the road, like I am, you might find you’re just not quick enough to spot the streets that are labelled.

A valuable strategy for finding your way around Dublin is landmarking and pubs . This is what many locals suggest themselves on forums like Reddit, and it did help me find my way around!

5. Crossing the Street in Dublin

You’re an adult, you know how to cross a street. Stand at the corner, wait for the walking man to light up, and cross, right? Nope. This Dublin travel tip is a little bit unique, but it’s honestly important for safety. If you wait for the walking man and cross at the proper light in Dublin, it is somehow, inexplicably, more dangerous than jay-walking. It doesn’t make sense, but that’s the way it is.

When you jay-walk along with the Irish, you arrive safely at the other side. When you wait for the walking man to cross the street like a good Canadian, you find yourself sprinting for the curb as a truck lurches towards you. Trust the locals. They have a sixth sense specifically for crossing the street. You will feel most comfortable if you go with the flow of pedestrians.

6. Where to find Adapters

Successfully forgot all of your international outlet adapters at home, or brought the wrong one? The tourism centre on O’Connell Street has you covered.

7. Where to score free Wifi

If you’re really in need of wifi, buses and Starbucks are a couple of the easiest ways to get online. Dublin City buses are all equipped with free wifi, so even standing near a few buses can get you online for long enough to figure out your next move. For longer stretches, make your way to a Starbucks location. Within the touristy areas, there’s one just down the street from the main entrance of Trinity College.

Dublin Attractions

8. buy the heritage pass.

History lovers will love this Dublin travel tip. Get access to all Office of Public Works attractions in Ireland with the Heritage Pass . It’s one of the most affordable entry passes there is. Student and family pricing is available, and it gives you access to historical sites all over the country. Dublin Castle, Kilmainham Gaol, Phoenic Park, and the Botanical Gardens are just a few of the sites included in the pass. You can purchase the Heritage Pass in Dublin, at various pass locations.

9. Wake up Early to have Dublin to yourself

Dublin, like many cities, is quietest first thing in the morning. Early means something different anywhere, and in Dublin it’s around 8AM. Things that have no line up or crowds then will have lines down the block and around the corner by noon. This includes the Book of Kells , Temple Bar area, and Stephen’s Green.

10. Get the Dublin Pass for a Day

The Dublin Pass includes entry to many of Dublin’s iconic attractions, and free use of the Hop on and Off bus to get around. The pass goes on sale frequently, so buy online in advance if you think you’ll make good use of your pass. The Dublin Pass  includes the Guiness Storehouse, the Jeannie Johnston Tallship (highly recommend), the Glasnevin Cemetery, and multiple castles and museums. I love including a city pass + hop on and off bus tour in any city I visit, because it lets you get around easily and see a lot!

11. Plan Ahead (but don’t over plan)

There are some attractions in Dublin that you will have to plan ahead to enjoy. This includes some of the walking tours , like Kilmainham Gaol which typically to be booked at least 3 days in advance. You can see a lot of the highlights with as little as 2 days in Dublin if you plan ahead.

There’s a lot to discover in Dublin, too. When planning my trip I decided to leave a couple an afternoon. This was perfect, because it gave me time to return to areas that I wanted to spend more time in, and to add in activities that I only learned about while already in Dublin.

Food and Dining

12. no napkins or straws.

Dublin is a wonderfully environment-oriented compared to Canada and the United States. On my visit, I quickly noticed less of things like napkins and straws (yay!) You will also notice relatively little trash and litter. That said, if you eat a crumbly muffin with a gooey centre, you will want to clean your hands. Pack some hand wipes ( check out these eco-friendly ones ) or napkins and keep them in your bag. If you really prefer drinking out of straws, there are plenty of reusable straw options available for order before you travel.

13. Vegetables & Cheap Meals

Dublin is famous for it’s beer and all things potato based. Believe it or not, you might just find yourself craving vegetables while you’re here.

The best (and cheapest) place to get your leafy greens and vitamin D on the go is Chopped . Pay €4.50 for a smoothie packed full of fruit, vegetables, or both, or try a salad or wrap for around €6.50. There is a Chopped location just down the street from Trinity College and the Bank of Ireland, on Westmoreland street and you will find many other locations around the city.

Enjoying an evening out and looking to splurge and have a great meal? Check out one of these places .

14. Bring Reusable Bags

On the same note as there not being many napkins or straws around, many stores don’t give out plastic bags. Bring your own reusable bags. I’ve been bringing reusable shopping bags on trips with me for years, and they always come in handy. 

( Browse fold-up reusable bags here . )

15. Tipping in Ireland

This is not just for Dublin, but most of Ireland. Tipping exists and is welcome, but staff are not dependent on your tips for their wages. It’s appropriate to leave a tip for good service, typically around 10%.

On day tours and walking tours, it’s appropriate to tip the tour guide. Dublin’s free walking tours, in particular, are purely-tip based. Please at least $10 per person!

Day Trips from Dublin

17. plan day tours in advance.

If you’re planning on an organized tour, this is something that you will want to book in advance. I like to book day tours through sites like Viator and Expedia  because there are typically lots of honest reviews available on the site and detailed information about the tours. If you choose to rent a car and drive yourself, here are some helpful tips !  There’s so much to see in Dublin, but you’re definitely going to want to get out of the city to see Ireland’s incredible landscapes, too. I wrote a guide to my favourite day trips  here.  

The day tours leaving from Dublin typically all start from the same place, just down the street from the main entrance of Trinity College. 

18. Take the DART out of Dublin

Dublin is more expansive than most people realize, and it has smaller communities branching off from it that are absolutely beautiful. Most day tours involve a few hours of driving, but you can escape the city with a brief train ride too.

Take the DART from central Dublin, to outlying areas like Howth, Dún Laoghaire, and Greystones. These areas are completely different than central Dublin, and have incredible views of the ocean. Hiking in the cliff walk in Howth was one of my favourite parts of my Ireland trip!

19. Ride the bus to Belfast

Belfast is the capital of Northern Ireland, and worth exploring on your own time. I took M1 bus from Dublin to Belfast and it was way easier than I expected. The drive is only 2 hours, and a return ticket is 20 euros. If there are any other cities you want to explore on your time, I’m sure the bus can get you there too!

Preparing for the elements

20. ireland’s weather.

Throughout the day you will experience sunshine, rain, and skies of grey. On my visit there were only a couple of truly rainy days, but it rained for at least a few minutes every day. Carry a rain jacket or umbrellas with you, or step in to a shop to wait it out.

It’s not particularly hot in Ireland (usually, there are exceptions to this) and it can actually be surprising chilly even on warm days, if the sun is hidden.

21. What to wear in Dublin

Mostly, regular outfits like jeans and t-shirts are just fine in Dublin. Don’t take up space in your suitcase with cute sundresses, because you likely will not wear them very much. 

• Footwear: wear flat shoes that you walk in. There are a lot of cobblestones in Dublin, and uneven brick roads everywhere. I love Keds , and wore them every day that I was in the city.
• Rain jacket: while you don’t necessarily have to bring it everyday, definitely have it packed for days where the forecast is calling for rain.
• Light sweater: a sunny day can turn cloudy very abruptly, so it’s nice to have a light sweater with you in case it gets chilly. My go-to place for sweaters and light cardigans is usually Gap .
• Pants/ jeans:  if I were going to Dublin again, I don’t think that I would even bother to pack shorts or capris. The weather is just too unpredictable if you’re out all day. Jeans are a safe go-to for a range of temperatures, and you can layer t-shirts and sweaters.

Matador Original Series

9 Things I Wish I Knew Before Visiting Dublin

W hat comes to mind when someone says “Dublin”? Guinness, St. Patrick’s Day, pubs? Literary legends like James Joyce and Oscar Wilde? Maybe one more Guinness? Ireland’s capital definitely has all of the above (and then some), but there’s so much more to this city that teeters on the edge of Europe.

Here are 9 things I wish I knew before visiting Dublin.

1. You need to get out of the city.

This might seem like a strange tip to start with, but compared to some of its neighboring capital cities like London or Berlin, Dublin is small. All of the major sights are within walking distance — after two days or so, you’ll have some time on your hands. Less than an hour away from the city center are the Wicklow Mountains, fishing villages like Howth, and historic mansions like Powerscourt House, all of which are unmissable. Get out there and explore!

2. You won’t be partying all night.

Despite Ireland’s reputation of being a country that’s fond of a drink (or three), Dublin is not a city that never sleeps. On weeknights, pubs close their doors at 11:30 PM. On weekends, it’s 2:30 AM. It’s against the law for supermarkets and off-licenses (liquor stores) to sell alcohol after 10 PM, too. If you really want to keep the party going try some of the city’s big nightclubs — Coppers or Diceys are always popular spots and stay open until at least 3:30 AM.

3. But you will make friends easily.

Even in the bustling capital city of Ireland, the locals still make time to smile and say hi. If you’re a solo traveler, you won’t be flying solo for long in Dublin. Take a seat at any bar and someone will start up a friendly conversation before you’ve finished your first drink. If you’re waiting for a bus or in a queue, same deal. Dubliners love to chat. Guaranteed conversation starters include the weather, Bono’s ego, and pretty much everything in between! Also, people from Dublin are overly protective of tourists. If you are told to avoid a certain part of the city because it’s unsafe etc, take heed.

4. Museums are free and fantastic.

In plenty of other European capitals, visitors pay through the nose for their culture hit. Not so in Dublin. The city has some seriously superb museums that are completely free, seven days a week. The National Gallery has works by Monet, Vermeer, and Picasso; The National Museum has 3,000-year-old bog bodies and exquisite Celtic jewelry collections (among plenty of other treasures), and the Chester Beatty Library is consistently rated as one of the best museums in Europe and holds free workshops. See it all without spending a penny.

5. Don’t go near Temple Bar.

With cobblestone streets, brightly painted pubs, and on-street traditional music sessions, Temple Bar is often at the top of visitors’ “must see” lists for Dublin. In reality, this cultural quarter is probably the least authentic part of the city. Apart from a select few establishments, Temple Bar is considered tourist territory by Dubliners, who stay away from its overpriced pints and souvenir shops. If that’s your kind of thing, great. But if you want to mingle with the locals, head elsewhere. Also if you are visiting on St. Patrick’s day, this holiday, for locals, is not about binge drinking on the streets or at the parade, it’s a day for chilling out with family and friends.

6. Come prepared to eat well.

Dublin’s food scene is the city’s most underrated attraction. A far cry from bacon and cabbage (although you can get that, too), the streets are teeming with really great restaurants. Sushi bars such as Yamamori Izakaya , falafel at Umi , the best burger joint in town — Bunsen — debunks the myth and Ireland’s food is dull.

7. Getting around can be… interesting.

Dublin was built by medieval Vikings in the 10th century. They didn’t exactly plan for a population of over one million people, or for, you know, vehicles. Many of the city center’s streets are narrow and are usually lined with double-decker buses, taxis, trams, and cyclists. Public transport can be a challenge, too — buses take exact change only and timetables are sometimes mere guidelines. Avoid it all by walking, or pedal your way around with the Dublin Bikes bike sharing scheme.

8. Heading to the Guinness Storehouse? Go, but go early!

The Guinness Storehouse is the home of Ireland’s most famous drink and is also the number one tourist attraction in the entire country. It welcomed over 1.7 million visitors in 2017 and regularly sees thousands of people pass through its doors every day. You know what that means? Queues. At popular times of the year like St. Patrick’s Day, waiting in line for at least an hour is a given. It is worth visiting — not only for a pint with a view but for some background history on the city. Also, there are no tall buildings in the city center to get a really good view — except here. Come early and even better, book your ticket in advance and jump to the top.

9. Do not underestimate the weather.

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Dublin On A Budget: Here’s How To Do It

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Dublin is one of our favourite cities, we bloody love it. It is however also one of the most expensive cities in Europe. So on a recent weekend in Dublin we were determined to do Dublin on a budget.

Dublin On A Budget

So here we’re going to share all our best Dublin travel tips to help you with planning a trip to Ireland on a budget. We’ll include the cheapest way to get to Dublin, the cheapest time to travel to Ireland and cheap places to stay in Dublin.

Plus cheap and free things to do in Dublin, how to get around Dublin on the cheap, Dublin cheap eats and lots more helpful information about visiting Dublin on a shoestring.

How to place cheap Dublin breaks – here we go!

What Does A Trip To Dublin Cost?

For 2 nights and 3 days in Dublin, we managed to keep our trip to Dublin cost down to just £250 GBP / $350 USD. Pretty good right?

And that’s including everything. Flights to Dublin, accommodation in Dublin, eating out in Dublin and all the Dublin activities we did.

We had a cracking time as usual in Dublin, proving that even while on a mission do Dublin on a budget you don’t have to scrimp on the fun. 

Cheapest Way To Get To Dublin

Obviously the cheapest way to get to Dublin is very dependent upon where you are travelling from. But we’ll cover all the different ways here and how to find the cheapest tickets.

And whichever method of travel you choose to get to Dublin Ireland, you will always get the most reasonable prices the further in advance you book.

And also by being as flexible as you can with dates and times. Generally speaking it will always be more expensive to take a weekend trip to Dublin rather than go mid-week.

Bus and Train Travel in Ireland

Being a small country, if you’re travelling to Dublin from within the country, you’re best option is to just jump on a bus or a train. We always use Omio.com to find the best prices. 

Flights to Dublin

If you’re arriving from Europe, there’s several low cost airlines that fly into Dublin airport from most major cities. Irish owned, Ryanair typically have the most frequent and cheapest flights to Ireland. But Easyjet, Flybe and Aer Lingus also have plenty of flights to Dublin.

If you’re travelling from further afield we recommend comparing the best prices through a flight comparison site. We always use Kiwi.com . Because if you miss a connecting flight they guarantee to put you on the next one.

The cheapest time to fly to Ireland is generally outside of peak times. So midweek on early or late flights. However if you book flights to Dublin far enough in advance you can get some great weekend deals.

For example, we booked our flights around 3 months in advance and found return tickets to England with Ryanair for just £45 GBP ($63USD) each.

Another way to save money on your flights to Dublin is to travel carry on luggage only.

Ferry To Dublin

Your other alternative for cheap travel to Dublin from outside the country is to take a ferry to Ireland. From mainland Britain, there are two ports from which you can take a ferry to Dublin. 

Holyhead in Wales and Liverpool in England.

The crossing from Holyhead to Dublin is around 3 hours and services from Holyhead port are operated by Stena Line and Irish Ferries.

The Liverpool to Dublin ferry is operated by P&O ferries and will take around 8 hours. 

Depending on how far in advance you book, a return passenger ticket will typically cost around £65 GBP ($91USD). You can compare prices for specific dates here .

Don’t forget that you need to factor in the cost of getting the ferry port. If you’re not nearby, Rail & Sail tickets are good options for Dublin budget travel. 

These include train travel to Holyhead port from UK mainline train stations, and the ferry trip over to Dublin Port. Depending on how far in advance you book you can find deals for less that £40 GBP ($52 USD) one way.

Obviously this method of travel Dublin will take longer than flying.

But these are especially good options for if you do want to take pets or more than carry on luggage. Stena Line ferries don’t have any luggage limitations and Irish Ferries allow two 22kg suitcases per person. 

You can find out more about Rail & Sail tickets here .

Still trying to choose your backpack? Look no further! The Osprey Farpoint 70 Travel Backpack is perfect for big trips. It’s lightweight but durable, incredibly comfortable, super spacious and even has a detachable daypack.

Cheapest Time To Travel To Ireland

The timing of your visit will play a big part in how much your trip to Dublin costs. 

Winter is by far the cheapest time to travel to Ireland. However it is also the coldest time and by cold, we mean crap grey rainy weather. The most popular time to visit is in summer during July and August. This is when prices for everything are at their highest.

We suggest therefore that Spring or Fall are good times to travel to Dublin on a budget.

Dublin has quite a few festivals happening throughout the year so do check ahead for those too, because accommodation especially will shoot up around those times. 

And as with flights to Dublin, you will generally find better deals on accommodation by visiting Dublin during the week as opposed to Dublin weekend breaks

Cheap Places To Stay In Dublin

Exactly the same as with transport options for getting to Dublin, you will always be more likely to find cheap Dublin accommodation deals if you book well in advance.

Now when it comes to cheap places to stay in Dublin, hostels are always going to come up trumps. But if that’s not your travelling style, don’t worry because you can nab some great deals on cheap Dublin B&B’s and budget Dublin hotels too.

Here’s our pick of the bunch when it comes to where to stay in Dublin on a budget.

Cheap & Cheerful Dublin Hostels

If you haven’t stayed in a hostel before some people can be put off by this cheap accommodation Dublin thinking it’s just for the young un’s who like to party. But not so, all of these Dublin hostels also have private rooms too.

Generator Dublin

Located next door to the Jameson Distillery, in the trendy neighbourhood of Smithfield with Dublin Castle, the Guinness Storehouse and Temple Bar all less than 15 minutes walk away. 

There’s comfortable and spacious dorm rooms, private rooms or family rooms, a delicious traditional breakfast for a small extra cost and a 24 hour reception and lounge with good WiFi. 

Abigail’s Hostel

Situated on Aston Quay and overlooking the River Liffey, Temple Bar, Trinity College and Grafton Street are just a few minutes walk away from this Dublin hostel.

There’s private and dorm rooms, each of which have an en-suite shower and toilet. There’s a well equipped self catering kitchen and multiple communal chill out areas with good WiFi. 

The Times Hostel 

Tucked down a side street next to St Stephen’s Green, this cheap Dublin accommodation is just 10 minutes walk from the centre of the action in Temple Bar and Grafton Street.

There’s dorm and private rooms. good WiFi, 24 hour reception and a communal lounge equipped with a TV and board games. Plus a continental breakfast is included in the price. 

Affordable Hotels Dublin

When it comes to budget hotels Dublin, there are a number of good quality. However the ones within walking distance of the city centre get booked up well in advance.

Dergvale Hotel

Conveniently located, this 2-star family-run Dublin budget hotel is a 20 minute walk from Dublin points of interest such as Temple Bar, Dublin Castle and Grafton Street. 

There’s single, double, twin and triple rooms, a licenced bar to relax in and for a small additional cost, you can start each day with a traditional Irish breakfast in the dining room.

Jurys Inn Dublin Parnell Street

Just around the corner from O’Connell Street, this comfortable and affordable Dublin hotel is centrally located with a less than 15 minutes walk to the Temple Bar District. 

All rooms have en suite bathrooms with complimentary toiletries and tea and coffee making facilities. Plus a full Irish hot and cold breakfast buffet is included in the price. 

Portobello Hotel

Overlooking the Grand Canal and located on a direct link bus route, this affordable Dublin hotel is also less than a 25 minute walk to Temple Bar, Grafton Street and Dublin Castle. 

Spacious rooms feature TVs, hairdryers, tea/coffee-making facilities, ensuite bathrooms with free toiletries and a good breakfast is included in the price. 

Getting Around Dublin On The Cheap

Dublin airlink express.

From the airport into Dublin city centre there’s a really easy and cost effective public bus called Airlink Express, which costs €12 Euro (£11 GBP/$15 USD) for a return ticket.

It runs two routes, the 747 to Heuston Station and the 757 to Camden, both of which go through Temple Bar. You can check the routes, times and buy tickets in advance here.

As Dublin Airport is located just 6 miles from the city centre of Dublin, the journey’s pretty quick and you’ll be there in around half an hour.

Depending on where you are staying in Dublin, the city is quite small so it’s quite manageable to explore most of it on foot. For serious budget travel in Dublin, that’s going to be your best bet.

However there are a few popular Dublin attractions such as Kilmainham Gaol, Phoenix Park, Glasnevin Cemetery and The National Botanic Gardens that are just outside the city centre.

Or may also just prefer to maximise your time by getting around points of interest in Dublin more quickly than you can by walking.

In which cases your best option for saving money in Dublin is to get yourself a DoDublin card.

DoDublin Card

The DoDublin Card basically an all-in-one sightseeing and transport ticket that lasts for 72 hours.

It includes transfers from Dublin Airport on the Airlink Express, access to the DoDublin hop-on hop-off tour bus with guided tours and rides on all Dublin public buses.

You get free entry to the excellent Little Museum of Dublin and a Free Pat Liddy Walking tour of Dublin included. Plus discounted access to the Guinness storehouse, Jameson Distillery, EPIC Irish Emigration Museum and GPO Witness History Visitor Centre.

Obviously the free and discounted access to those Dublin attractions will only save you money if you were planning on visiting them anyway. But if you are it’s such a good deal if you’re after visiting Dublin on a budget.

But it does also include discounts at a few pubs and restaurants. Plus if you fancy getting out of Dublin City Centre you can jump on the bus to the pretty Irish village of Howth.  

TFI Leap Card Dublin

Alternatively if you know you’re interested in accessing any of the free or discounted Dublin attractions that comes with the DoDublin Card you can just pick up a regular travel card.

You can pay by exact cash on the Dublin public transport System, however using a Leap Card is upto 31% cheaper than cash single tickets.

You can buy TFI Leap Cards online in advance and have them delivered to your home address. Or there’s authorised vendors at both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 of Dublin airport and multiple places throughout Dublin City. Just look out for the ‘Leap Card’ logos.

There’s a €5 refundable deposit required for each card and a minimum top up of €5 per card. And you should download the Transport For Ireland Journey Planner App . 

Handily if you’re travelling elsewhere in Ireland they can also be used on in Galway, Cork, Limerick and Waterford too. 

Dublin Bike Scheme

Another popular way of getting around Dublin other than on foot is to take advantage of the Dublin Bike Scheme. Visitors to Dublin can grab a three day ticket. 

Dublin Bike Scheme offers a three-day ticket for visitors for just €5. The first 30 minutes of your rides are free then €0.50 for an hour, €1.50 for 2 hours, €3.50 for 3 hours and €6.50 for 4 hours.

However if you’re canny and going further than a 30 minute ride you can just switch the bike out for another at one of the many bike stations situated around the city.

Here’s the list of bike stations , the ones marked with asterixis are credit card enabled so you’ll need to head to one of those first to buy your card. 

Dublin Hop On Hop Off Buses

You can also buy 24/48 hour tickets separately for the Dublin Hop On Hop Buses, if you’d prefer to do that.

You can choose from either a 24 hour (classic), a 48 hour (Premium) or 72 hour (Deluxe) Hop On Hop Off Bus Ticket . The premium option includes a Panoramic Night Tour and the deluxe that plus a half-day coastal tour to scenic Howth Summit and its fishing village.

Dublin Cheap Eats

There’s no doubt that eating out in Dublin can be expensive. However Dublin travel tips at the ready, there are also plenty of Dublin cheap eats to be found in the city.

One of our best tips for doing Dublin on a budget is not to eat out at restaurants 3 times a day.

If the place you’re staying has brekkie included, you’re already quids in. But even if it’s extra it’s often cheaper to add to it on, than eat out elsewhere. 

Plus if you have a substantial breakfast you likely won’t want three big meals. In which case you can nip into a supermarket and grab something to take away for a few quid for one meal.

There’s an Aldi on Parnell Street, three Lidl’s and numerous Tesco’s. All of which sell good quality fresh produce at low prices. Lidl and some Tesco’s have great bakery sections too.

Then for another meal treat yourself to one of our fav cheap places to eat in Dublin.

Beanhive Cafe : You definitely won’t be hungry for a good while after breakfast at this busy cafe at the side of St Stephen’s Green. 

Gerry’s Cafe : A no frills kinda place, the owner here not only knows how to cook a good fry up but his stews are legendary too. As is the price for such a central Southside location. 

White Moose Cafe : This controversial cafe in Phibsborough does some of the best and most reasonably priced brunches in Dublin. You just might want to leave your morals at the door.

Umi Falafel : With a few locations all over Dublin City, this spot for cheap eats in Dublin is great for a filling and healthy lunch. 

Eatyard : When Northside of the city from 12pm Thursday to Sunday you’ll want to check out this permanent street food market. 

Generator Hostel : If you’re Smithfield way and fancy an award winning yet seriously good priced burger check out the restaurant in this hostel. 

777 : Head to this Mexican Cantina & Tequila Cocktail Bar in Temple Bar on Sundays when all the dishes are a bargain price of  €7.77. 

Madina : Not only does this Northside restaurant boast some of the best curries in Dublin, you can also get one for just over a tenner. 

Green 19 : After a reasonably priced Irish Sunday roast? This Southside place near St Stephen’s Green definitely makes the best cheap eats Dublin list. 

Beshoff : Another of the best cheap restaurants in Dublin is this Northside fish and chip gaff. Pick up one of their hearty fish burgers for a great lunch.

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Free Things To Do In Dublin Ireland

Okay so you’ve got your cheap transport booked, scored a great price on accommodation and scoped out where you fancy eating. Now to plan what to do in Dublin.

So how expensive is Dublin? Well unfortunately, very, if you don’t go with a plan. I ordered a pint of Guinness in one pub and my jaw nearly hit the bar when I was asked for €8 Euro (£7 GBP/$10 USD).

The good news is there are lots of things to do in Dublin for free. Ready for more Dublin travel tips?

Self-Guided Dublin Street Art Tour

Dublinwalls.com has four different Dublin street art routes of varying length to explore including artists such as Banksy, KinMx, Dan Leo, James Earley and Bordalo. It’s one of the best fun free things to do in Dublin. 

Dublin’s Talking Statues

Download the map and make your way around 10 of Ireland’s most influential historical figures. Such as Daniel O’Connell, the prominent Catholic rights campaigner and Oscar Wilde, the famous Irish poet and playwright.

At each statue simply scan the QR code and you’ll receive a call from the statue to tell you their role in Ireland’s history. Sightseeing in Dublin for free, tick.

Stroll Around The Parks

If the weather’s nice enough during your budget trip to Ireland, there’s some cracking outdoor space to enjoy. Our favourites are St Stephen’s Green, Merrion Square and The Botanical Gardens and Phoenix Park. All are free to enter.

But The Botanical Gardens has free guided tours on Sundays at 12pm or 2.30pm. The rest of the time they are €5 Euro* (£4.40 GBP/$6.20 USD) per person.

[* = covered by The Dublin Pass – more on that in the next section]

And you can also score a free tour of the President’s residence in Phoenix Park on Saturdays from 10.30am, every hour, until 3.30pm. You can’t book ahead, it’s a first come first served basis and you’ll need ID.

Ashtown Castle in Phoenix Park is free to explore too, making Phoenix Park a double whammy when it comes to what to do in Dublin for free.

Grafton & O’Connell Streets

Grafton Street is Dublin’s main shopping street and is lined with buskers belting out tunes, it has a beautiful energy. Although this is one of the things to do in Dublin for free, if you stick around to listen be sure to chuck the musicians a couple of quid – especially if you film them. 

O’Connell Street is the main thoroughfare of Dublin running north from Temple Bar, over the River Liffey and past many of the most popular free attractions in Dublin.

You’ll see the General Post Office, with its bullet holes from Ireland’s fight for independence in 1916, and the Millennium Spire. Also nicknamed locally as the Stiletto in the Ghetto or Stiffey in the Liffey, the 120m high, pin like monument waves around in the wind.

Another pretty of the places to visit in Dublin Ireland for free is nearby Henrietta Street. The houses are simply gorgeous. 

River Liffey & Its Bridges

There are a number of bridges that cross the River Liffey which runs through the centre of the city, but the most picturesque has to be the Victorian Ha’penny Bridge.

There’s an ongoing battle between Dublin council and tourists trying to claim it as a love lock bridge. So depending on when you visit you’ll find a varying number of padlocks on it.

Trinity College & The Book of Kells 

An elaborate and ornate collection of beautiful buildings. Trinity College is part of a trilogy of prestigious universities that include the University of Cambridge and The University of Oxford in England.

You can just go in and wander around the grounds for free and see the Campanile of Trinity College, one of Ireland’s most famous landmarks. It’s not free to go inside however because the Book of Kells is here, in the gorgeous Trinity College Library.

You can check prices and book tickets online here.

Dublin Castle

It’s free to wander around the outside of the Dublin Castle complex and pretty Dubh Linn Garden. The buildings, all added at different times, range from medieval to Georgian and are a mismatch of natural stonework and brightly coloured render.

Absolutely one of the best free things to do in Dublin.

Dublin Cathedrals

Originally a viking church and more than 1000 years old, the grand medieval Christ Church Cathedral is another of Dublin’s signature must see buildings.

In the crypt there’s a rather peculiar exhibition of a mummified cat and rat, known locally as Tom & Jerry. The story goes that the cat chased the rat up an organ pipe and become stuck.

There are self guided* tours, or alternatively you can go in when there’s a public service for free. But not into the crypt though.

Then there’s St Patrick’s Cathedral , founded in 1191. With it’s 43 metre spire it’s the tallest church in Ireland. Same deal, if you want to add it to free places to visit in Dublin, you’ll need to go during a service. Outside of that admission is €8. 

Dublin Markets

Even if you’re budget doesn’t allow for much shopping, Dublin’s market are still great places to have a wander around and take in the culture of the city.

The Temple Bar Book Market that takes place every weekend and is great for bookworms and vinyl music fans. The much larger Dublin Flea Market that takes place on the last Sunday of each month is also worth a look at. It has live music, food stalls and plenty of bargains. 

George’s Street Arcade is an enclosed Victorian market with over 50 stalls ranging from tarot reading to freshly cold pressed juices. And then you have the Designer Mart at Cow’s Lane stocked with bespoke pieces from independent Irish and Ireland-based designers.

Sandemans Free Walking Tour

This is kind of falls under the free stuff to do in Dublin, but not really. There’s no fee upfront, but the tour guides work on a tip basis so you pay them for what you think the tours worth. 

I’ve been on two now and really enjoyed them because they give you a much deeper insight to the city than you’ll get from just wandering around on your own.

I gave a tip of €10 Euro (£9 GBP/ $12 USD) which I think is more than reasonable for a good quality 3 hour tour. You can reserve your spot here .

Unless you’ve gotten a DoDublin Card that is, then don’t because you already have a walking tour included in that package.

Free Museums in Dublin

When it comes to free stuff Dublin, Museums in the Irish capital have got it going on because most of the popular have no charge. And there’s a huge variety too so you’ll definitely find something to match your interests. 

Chester Beatty Library

Just outside Dublin Castle this free Dublin museum is one of the best in the whole of Europe. It houses the beguiling collection of Sir Alfred Chester Beatty, it’s definitely worth stopping by.

Dublin Science Gallery

Part of Trinity College Dublin, this museum always has fascinating and interactive exhibitions.

The Irish Museum of Modern Art (IMMA)

Located inside the stunning 17th-century Royal Hospital Kilmainham, this museum houses over 3,500 international pieces of modern and contemporary art.

Plus every Wednesday at 1.15pm and Saturdays/Sundays at 2.30pm there’s a free 30 minute tour general.

The National Gallery of Ireland

With over 16,000 artworks stretching back to the 14th Century, there’s a lot of history here. And there’s a free audio tour that will walk you through the permanent collections, including influential Irish pieces. 

The National History Museum 

Also known as the Dead Zoo. From tiny insects to huge whales there are 10,000 displays over 4 floors. Including some of Ireland’s most endangered and extinct species.

The National Archaeology Museum 

This museum has a collection dating back to the prehistoric era with the most fascinating being the mummified bodies that were preserved in Ireland’s peat bogs.

Howth Hill Walking

If you have enough time and fancy getting out of Dublin City, a trip onto the Howth Peninsula. Howth is a beautiful village and there’s some cracking views from the hills overlooking the Irish Sea and Dublin Bay.

There’s also a cracking market there open everyday. Plus if you’ve nabbed yourself and DoDublin card your transport there and back is covered. 

Cheap Things To Do In Dublin

Before we get into this section here is a good time to mention the Dublin Pass . Valid for 1-5 days it includes skip the queue entry to 33 of Dublin’s top attractions, discounts in some restaurants, a 24-hour ticket for Dublin hop-on hop-off bus tour, a map and guidebook.

If you are planning on visiting many of the Dublin activities on it’s list it will definitely be worth your while. To help you decide if it’s for you, we’ll mark the things to do in Dublin on a budget that we mention below with an asterix if they are included.

From the last section on free attractions in Dublin, it’s worth noting that the Dublin Pass covers the cost of the Christ Church Cathedral and National Botanic Gardens tours. 

EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum*

Located in Dublin’s Docklands this new museum provides an interaction connection with Ireland’s history and culture. Covering the emigration of Irish people to other countries, it was voted Europe’s leading tourist attraction in 2019.

Dublin Writers Museum*

Ireland’s literature is renowned the world over and in this magnificent 18th century mansion you’ll find works from all the Irish literary greats spanning 300 years. So if Irish literature interests you this will be a must for your cheap things to do in Dublin itinerary. 

Glasnevin Cemetery & Museum*

This historical tour through Dublin’s most prestigious cemetery, will give you a dynamic interpretation of Ireland’s history told through the lives of the high profile people buried here. 

You can of course just go on your own for free if your budget prefers, but you’ll miss the dramatic backstories.

Little Museum of Dublin*

The number one museum in Ireland, not just Dublin, this place, located in an 18th-century Georgian town house really does bring the history of Ireland to life.

If you have got a 72 hour DoDublin card remember entry to the Little Museum of Dublin is included in that. 

Guinness Storehouse*

Of course you might just be planning a trip to Dublin for the Guinness and who could blame you.

We certainly done that before! And whilst it isn’t the cheapest, the Guinness Storehouse is high up on most Dublin visitors itineraries – but you do get a free pint with a cracking view.

Old Jameson Distillery*

Likewise if you’re a whisky fan it will be hard to pass up stopping by the Jameson Distillery on Bow Street. The original Jameson Distillery, a visit here includes a tour of the premises and a complimentary whiskey or whiskey cocktail. 

The Bow Street Distillery was established in 1780. But after nearly 200 years, in 1975, Jameson expanded their operation and moved it to Midleton in County Cork. If you’re down that way you can alternatively visit the Midleton Distillery .

Teeling Whisky Distillery Tour*

Another for the whiskey fans, this Dublin Distillery is relatively new, having only opened in 2015. But they’re not new to the craft, in fact they’ve been making whiskey since 1782. But interestingly this is the first new distillery to have opened in Dublin in 125 years.

If you know that you definitely want to visit a handful of these, especially the Guinness Storehouse or the Whiskey experiences, your best option for doing Dublin on a budget will be to get yourself a Dublin Pass . 

Kilmainham Gaol 

Many Irish revolutionaries, were imprisoned in this former prison, now a museum. If you want to learn about the intense and turbulent and quite frankly violent history between Ireland and England, this is the place to be, with much of the history written within these walls.

Just make sure you book ahead because it is the number one thing to do in Dublin on Tripadvisor right now and everyone and their dog wants to experience it. You can book your tickets online here.

GPO Witness History Museum

Another good place to learn more about the war for independence is the iconic General Post Office on O’Connell Street. Used as the headquarters for the leaders of the 1916 Easter Rising, it is now a working post office.

So you can go inside for free, but discovering the tumultuous history of the building through the interactive visitor attraction in the basement is one of the best cheap things to do in Dublin.

Powerscourt Centre

Just off Grafton Street, this mansion turned Boutique mall in Dublin’s Creative Quarter with it’s independent shops is one of the best spots for picking up some unique souvenirs. 

Dublin Comedy Show

One of the best things to do in Dublin on a budget is go to a comedy show and recommend Chaplins Comedy Club . For €10 Euro (£9 GBP / $12.50 USD) you get a two hour show. It’s an excellent price and the compere is seriously hilarious. 

A quick google search will bring up a tonne of alternative comedy clubs though. If there’s one thing that Dublin loves as much as its live music, it’s comedy.

Listen To Live Music

Speaking of live music you’ll be hard pushed to avoid it in Dublin. It. Is. Everywhere. And. It. Is. The. Best. It’s a toss up between the music and the Guinness as to what is my favourite thing about Dublin. It’s probably a combination of both, at the same time to be fair.

Here’s some recommendations to start you off, The Porterhouse on Parliament Street, BadAss and The Old Storehouse on Crown Alley, The Brazen Head on Lower Bridge Street and Whelan’s on Merrion Row. They are all fantastic.

Smock Alley Theatre

Dublin’s oldest theatre, this intimate space in Temple Bar always puts on a good show at reasonable prices. Tickets usually cost €10 Euro (£9 GBP / $12.50 USD) are there’s wide range of shows with some great actors. You can check listings and book tickets here .

Recommended Ireland Guide Books

Travelling elsewhere in ireland.

You might find some of our other Ireland city guides helpful:

• Your Complete Guide To Killarney
• Why Include Sligo On Your Irish Itinerary
• All The Best Things To Do in Derry
• 33 Stellar Things To Do In Galway

Ireland Travel Insurance

Even though Ireland is one of the safest countries in the world, we don’t recommend travelling anywhere without a good quality travel insurance in place.

Our go to travel insurance provider is World Nomads. They have a no bullshit approach to policy wording & you can even buy a policy even if you’ve already set off on your travels.

Get a no obligation quote here:

Pin Me For Later…

Yorkshire born & bred, Sarah is a professional blogger who loves to travel. Pushing her boundaries with new adventures is her jam, so you likely won’t find her in one place for too long. Also a serious Marmite addict. 

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Hi, we’re James & Sarah

Full time backpackers turned vanlifers.

We’re here to provide you with valuable travel tips, kickass destination guides & serious vanlife inspiration to help you get your travel adventures off the ground!

Where To Stay In Dublin (The Best Areas And Neighborhoods)

By Author Keith O'Hara

Posted on Last updated: March 21, 2024

Wondering where to stay in Dublin, Ireland?! You’ll find everything you need to know below ( I’ve lived here for 35 years – I promise you’ll find this useful!).

If you’re spending 2 days in Dublin or even just 1 day in Dublin , you need a good, central base in/near the city .

While there is no one best area to stay in Dublin, there are plenty of very nice neighborhoods in Dublin to stay in during your visit.

Below, you’ll find a number of different Dublin areas worth considering – I know each area well so you can rest assured that I’m confident you’ll love any of the places recommended below.

Table of Contents

Some quick need-to-knows about where to stay in Dublin

Click to enlarge map

Before looking at where to stay in Dublin, take 20 seconds to scan the points below as they’ll save you time and hassle in the long run:

1. If you pick a central base, Dublin is walkable

Many guides on the best places to stay in Dublin talk about the city like it’s NYC or London – they’re generally doing this because they have limited knowledge of the area. Our city is small – once you pick one of the central Dublin areas, you can walk to most places .

2. There is no one great area for nightlife or restaurants

Many travel guides lead you to believe that Dublin has ‘main’ restaurant or bar areas. Yes, some places have more pubs and places to eat than others but, as the city is compact, you’re never (and I mean never) far from places to eat and drink .

3. The pros and cons of staying outside of the city

Many of the best neighborhoods in Dublin lay outside of the city centre. Places like Dalkey, Howth and Malahide are a train ride away. While you won’t be at the heart of the hustle and bustle, you’ll see a very different side to Dublin than those who stay in the city.

4. The pros and cons of staying in the city

Arguably the best places to stay in Dublin are the areas at the heart of the hustle and bustle; you’ll be a short walk from most major attractions and you won’t need to take public transport . The main disadvantage of staying in the city is that hotels in Dublin charge an arm and a leg!

The best places to stay in Dublin City Centre

Photos via Shutterstock

OK, so, the first section of our guide is packed with the best area to stay in Dublin if you want to 1, be at the heart of the action and 2, be within walking distance of many of Dublin’s top attractions .

Note: if you book a stay through one of the links below we may make a tiny commission that helps us keep this site going. You won’t pay extra, but we really do appreciate it.

1. Stephen’s Green / Grafton Street

St Stephen’s Green sits at the top of Grafton Street and both areas are home to plenty of shops, pubs and restaurants.

These are two of the more high-end Dublin areas and you’ll find many of the top 5-star hotels in Dublin located in their surrounds.

Temple Bar, Trinity College and Dublin Castle are all no more than a 15-minute walk from Stephen’s Green and there’s also a handy LUAS tram stop on the Green’s west side.

It’s for good reason that we reply to most ‘where to stay in Dublin City Centre’ emails advising people to stay in and around The Green. The location here is hard to beat.

The pros and cons to staying here

• The pros:  Close to the likes of Trinity, Dublin Castle and all major attractions
• The cons:  As it’s very central, expect hotel prices to be at their highest here

Recommended hotels

• Budget:  None
• Mid-range:  The Green and The Marlin  
• High-end:  The Shelbourne and Stauntons on the Green 

2. Merrion Square

Dublin’s Merrion Square , the former home of Oscar Wilde, is a historic oasis of calm right in the heart of the city.

Another of the best neighborhoods to stay in Dublin if you’ve a lofty budget, here you’ll discover Georgian architecture hidden in plain sight along with some of Dublin’s most colourful doors! 

Although it’s feet from the hustle and bustle, its location makes you feel like you left the city behind you.

Within a 10-minute walk you have everywhere from the National Gallery of Ireland and the Book of Kells to Grafton Street and more.

• The pros:  Very central yet it’ll feel like you’re outside of the city centre
• The cons:  Expensive. Very expensive
• Mid-range:  The Mont
• High-end: The Merrion and The Alex

3. The Liberties

Photos via Ireland’s Content Pool

One of the best neighborhoods in Dublin for visitors looking to sample Irish beers and Irish whiskey is The Liberties.

Those that stay here will immerse themselves in Dublin’s past and present in an area that’s steeped in history.

Once the heart of Dublin’s industry, it’s now a cultural hotspot that’s home to the likes of the Roe & Co Distillery and the Guinness Storehouse .

You also have the likes of Marsh’s Library and St. Patrick’s Cathedral a short ramble away. Few Dublin areas are as up-and-coming as The Liberties tourism-wise.

• The pros:  Central, lots of accommodation options and plenty to see and do
• The cons:  None
• Budget: Garden Lane Backpackers 
• Mid-range: Aloft
• High-end: Hyatt Centric

4. Smithfield

Smithfield is another of the best places to stay in Dublin when it comes to proximity to the city centre and the cost for a room for a night.

Located a 15-minute stroll from the Storehouse and 20 minutes from O’Connell Street, Smithfield is very central without being smack bang in the middle of the city.

The beauty of this is that you get a much better bang-for-your-buck when it comes to accommodation.

• The pros:  Short walk from most main attractions. Good value on accommodation
• The cons:  If you have mobility issues the walk might be laboursome
• Mid-range:  McGettigan’s Townhouse and The Maldron
• High-end:  None

5. Temple Bar

Many guides on where to stay in Dublin list  the Temple Bar district at the top spot thanks to its nightlife.

Now, don’t be fooled into thinking it’s here that you’ll find the city’s finest bars – the best pubs in Dublin are  most definitely not in Temple Bar.

With that being said, there are some great pubs in Temple Bar, especially if you’re after live music. Temple Bar is also  very central  so if you stay here you won’t have to walk far to reach the main attractions.

Temple Bar is arguably the best area to stay in Dublin if you’re looking for a  very  lively base to explore the city from.

• The pros:  Very central
• The cons:  Very pricey for hotels and pints
• Budget:  The Apache Hostel 
• Mid-range:  Temple Bar Inn and The Fleet 
• High-endish:  The Clarence and The Morgan

6. O’Connell St.

If you’re wondering where to stay in Dublin for the first time, O’Connell Street is a good option. Located on the north side of the city, it’s a short walk from all major attractions.

Now, my one major gripe with recommending O’Connell Street as a base is that it’s dodgy here at times (see our guide to ‘ Is Dublin Safe? ‘).

I’ve lived in Dublin my entire life and have spent a lot of time in the city in recent years – one of the Dublin areas I’d dodge, especially late in the evenings, is O’Connell Street.

With that being said, many tourists stay here due to how central it is and most have no negative encounters.

• The pros:  Extremely central. Hotels generally well-priced
• The cons:  It can be rough here in the evenings so you need to be vigilant
• Budget:  Abbey Court Hostel
• Mid-range: Arlington Hotel
• High-end:  The Gresham

7. The Docklands

Photos left and top right: Gareth McCormack. Other: Chris Hill (via Failte Ireland)

Another of the best areas to stay in Dublin if you’re looking to keep costs down is the Docklands down near Grand Canal Dock .

This area has undergone a complete transformation over the last 10-15 years thanks to the arrival of the likes of Google and Facebook.

The result is a surge in the number of hotels, bars and restaurants. It’s a short stroll from the city centre and it’s one of the best areas to stay in Dublin price wise.

• The pros:  Relatively short walk into city and sometimes  better price-wise for hotels
• The cons:  Very quiet at weekends due to the area being full of offices. It’s also outside the centre of the city
• Mid-range: Clayton Cardiff Lane and Grand Canal Hotel
• High-end:  The Marker

The best areas to stay in Dublin outside of the city

The final section of our guide on where to stay in Dublin contains places to stay outside of the city centre that are worth considering.

Now,  getting around Dublin is pretty easy, so you could stay in one of these Dublin areas and get a bus or train into the city, if you fancy!

1. Ballsbridge

One of the best places to stay in Dublin right next to the city centre is the  very  affluent Ballsbridge .

Now, although it’s outside of the city centre, you’d still walk into the likes of Trinity College in under 35 minutes, so it’s not too far out.

Home to countless embassies, pubs and high-end restaurants, I’d argue that Ballsbridge is one of the safer Dublin areas and it makes an excellent base to explore from.

• The pros:  Nice, safe area a stone’s throw from the city
• Mid-range:  Pembroke Hall and Mespil Hotel
• High-end: InterContinental

2. Drumcondra

I’d argue that Drumcondra is the best area to stay in Dublin if you want to be very close to the city and the airport and you don’t have a huge budget.

This is a leafy little neighborhood that’s home to plenty of expensive housing estates, Dublin’s Croke Park Stadium and lots of pubs and restaurants.

It’s one of the lesser-known places to stay in Dublin amongst visiting tourists, but it’s one we recommend over and over again.

• The pros:  Very close to city centre and plenty of hotels
• Budget:  Double bedroom studios
• Mid-range:  Dublin Skylon Hotel and The Croke Park Hotel

3. Malahide

Full of colour and offering pleasant coastal scenes that are a world away from the action of Dublin City Centre, Malahide is a great spot to spend a few days.

With a totally different speed of life to the city yet still boasting a ton of things to do (especially the 800-year-old Malahide Castle ) and some good pubs and restaurants, Malahide has a lot going for it. 

It’s also well connected with non-stop rail services taking you to Dublin in less than 20 minutes while the slightly slower DART gets you there in under 30 minutes. 

Malahide is arguably the best area to stay in Dublin if you’d like to experience a gorgeous Irish village that’s home to plenty of history and lots of good pubs, food and public transport.

• The pros:  Lovely village with great bars and restaurants
• The cons:  Limited accommodation
• Mid-range:  The Grand Hotel

Situated on the Howth Peninsula, Howth is a scenic little town with lovely views and a ton of great pubs, beaches and superb seafood restaurants.

With Howth Castle and the famous Howth Cliff Walk nearby, there’s plenty to keep you occupied here.

The transport links back to the bright lights of Dublin aren’t bad either, and the DART will get you to Connolly station in around 30-35 minutes. 

If you’re wondering where to stay in Dublin that’ll make you feel like you’re a million miles away from the city, Howth is worth considering.

• The pros:  Gorgeous village, lots of pubs and restaurants and plenty to see and do
• Mid-range:  King Sitric

5. Dalkey and Dún Laoghaire

And last but by no means least in out guide to the best neighborhoods to stay in Dublin are Dalkey and Dún Laoghaire .

These are two  very  affluent coastal towns a short train/bus ride from the city centre that make very scenic bases to explore from.

Both are packed to the rafters with cracking cafes, pubs and restaurants and, if you’re using either as a base for a 2-day+ stay, you can take a number of day trips from Dublin with ease (especially nearby Wicklow).

• The pros:  Beautiful, safe areas
• The cons:  Outside the city so you’ll need to take the bus/train
• Mid-range:  Royal Marine Hotel and Rochestown Lodge Hotel

Frequently asked questions

Our guide to the best neighborhoods to stay in Dublin has been written based on the experience of living in the capital for 32 years. 

However, we’re sure that there are other Dublin areas that pack a punch, too. If you have a place that you’d like to recommend, let us know below.

What is the best area to stay in Dublin for first timers?

If you’re looking for central places to stay in Dublin, Stephen’s Green and Grafton Street are worth a look. Outside the city, Drumcondra and Ballsbridge are good options.

What is the best neighborhoods to stay in Dublin price wise?

If you’re wondering where to stay in Dublin on a budget, I’d recommend looking at Drumcondra, around Grand Canal and (surprisingly) Ballsbridge.

I’m wondering where to stay in Dublin on a 1-day layover?

If you only have 24 hours and you’re wondering where to stay in Dublin during your visit, stay in the city (or near the airport, if you’re flying off the next day).

Keith O’Hara has lived in Ireland for 35 years and has spent most of the last 10 creating what is now The Irish Road Trip guide. Over the years, the website has published thousands of meticulously researched Ireland travel guides, welcoming 30 million+ visitors along the way. In 2022, the Irish Road Trip team published the world’s largest collection of Irish Road Trip itineraries . Keith lives in Dublin with his dog Toby and finds writing in the 3rd person minus craic altogether.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Barbara Batt

Friday 2nd of June 2023

My friend I am traveling with is considering Fitzpatrick Castle, any advice?

Keith O'Hara

Sunday 4th of June 2023

Hey - I've stayed there previously and liked it. If you have a car, it's fine. If you don't it's up a hill, so it might be a tough walk depending on fitness levels.

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Home > Ireland > 34 Things To Do Alone in Dublin: Solo Travel in Dublin

34 Things To Do Alone in Dublin: Solo Travel in Dublin

By Dymphe / January 22, 2023

Looking for amazing things to do alone in Dublin ? If you're traveling alone, there are activities that are lovely for solo travel in Dublin!

Dublin is a very large city in Ireland . It's the capital of the country. The city is an amazing place to travel to. There are many interesting things to see, such as Dublin Castle.

The city is perfect for solo travel. If you want to make new friends in Dublin, there are many ways to do that. Also, there are great activities if you want to be by yourself.

Some of the best things to do alone in Dublin are a music tour, a sightseeing run, or a photography tour. All these activities are very interesting and they are perfect if you want to meet others.

Another very fun thing to make friends is joining a movie lovers group. This is especially fun if you like movies. And if you want to relax by yourself, you can visit the National Botanic Gardens! This is perfect if you love beautiful nature.

Also, if you're looking for unique activities for solo travel in Dublin, there are great ones as well!

One of the most special activities is exploring Game of Thrones filming locations. Furthermore, you can also do a day trip and see the Giants Causeway! And there are many other lovely things to do by yourself in this city.

Table of Contents

1. Do a Guided Bike Tour of Dublin: Great Thing To Do Alone in Dublin To See the City

One of the best things to do alone in Dublin is doing a Dublin guided bike tour .

During this 2.5-hour tour, a guide takes you to all sorts of sights in the city.

You'll visit the most iconic sights, such as Dublin Castle and St. Patrick's Cathedral.

Also, you'll learn about some hidden gems in the city. And you'll learn the city's history and the present of the city. It's very interesting for solo travel in Dublin.

What's great is that you can cover a lot during this tour, because you go around by bike. Compared to a walking tour, you can see much more in the same amount of time. And besides that, it is a lot of fun to ride a bike with a group!

2. Play Tennis Matches Through a Meetup Group

If you like tennis, you can join " The Not-In-A-Club Tennis Group ". Joining this group is one of the best things to do alone in Dublin.

This is a great group through which you can connect with other tennis players.

You can then play tennis matches with others, which is a great way to get active during solo travel in Dublin! Also, you can meet new people and make new friends!

3. Do a Kayaking Tour at Dalkey

The " Dublin Bay Seal Kayaking Safari at Dalkey " activity is great during solo travel in Dublin.

During this kayak tour, you go on the waters of Bullock Harbor. Here you can kayak along the seals that live near Dalkey Island.

It's one of the most amazing things to do alone in Dublin if you want to be active.

Furthermore, there are many birds that you can also spot here, which is awesome!

4. Take Part in a Music Tour: Fun Thing To Do Alone in Dublin If You Like Music

The " Music Tour & Cool Stuff Guide " is a lovely experience for solo travel in Dublin.

During this tour, you learn all about the music industry of Ireland and Dublin.

A guide takes you to some iconic music locations. You'll visit places where Irish musicians were in the past. And you'll learn about their stories, which is very interesting! It's definitely one of the most interesting things to do alone in Dublin.

Also, you'll discover bars, clubs, and other places you'll see along the way when you walk from one stop to the next.

5. Take a Tour of Dublin Castle

Dublin Castle is one of the most iconic landmarks in the city of Dublin.

The castle dates back to the year 1204, which is very interesting and incredible!

It is amazing that you can still see the castle in the present day.

Throughout history, the building played a major role in the country's history.

What's great is that you can do a tour of Dublin Castle. A tour of Dublin Castle is one of the best things to do alone in Dublin.

There are daily guided tours where an expert shows you around and gives you a lot of information. Moreover, it is great to see the inside of the castle during these tours.

What's great is that you can also do a self-guided tour of Dublin Castle. So if you want to explore the castle all by yourself, that's possible too!

6. Do a Sightseeing Run in Dublin: Active Thing To Do Alone in Dublin To Learn More About the City

Doing a sightseeing run in Dublin is another one of the best activities for solo travel in Dublin.

During this experience, you do a guided run through the city center of Dublin. This is such a unique activity!

Along the way, you see some of the highlights of the city, which is awesome.

For example, you'll visit the Guinness Storehouse and River Liffey.

7. Explore Game of Thrones Filming Locations

If you like Game of Thrones, you'll like this activity for sure. You can do a Dublin Game of Thrones tour .

During this one of the best things to do alone in Dublin, you'll visit some Game of Thrones filming locations.

You'll travel by air-conditioned coach. And a guide gives you a lot of information on the places that you visit.

Also, you'll visit some other notable sights, such as The Dark Hedges.

And what's great as well is that you do this tour together with other people. So if you want to socialize during this day tour, you can do so!

8. Do a Photography Tour in Dublin: Great Thing To Do Alone in Dublin If You Love Taking Photos

If you like photography, this is one of the best activities for solo travel in Dublin for sure.

The " From the Hip… " experience is great to do!

During this experience, you'll walk through the city for about 2 hours together with an expert.

You'll visit some amazing places that are great to capture. And you start out at Dublin Castle.

Furthermore, what's great is that you can take part in this photography tour with both a camera and a phone. Thus, this tour is very accessible for everyone!

9. Do a Tour of the Giants Causeway, Dark Hedges, and Belfast

Another one of the best things to do alone in Dublin is doing this day trip. A day trip from Dublin to the Giants Causeway, Dark Hedges, and Belfast is incredible!

The Giant's Causeway is a unique sight of nature that you have to see when you go to Ireland! You find here all kinds of stone columns that look very unnatural but are in fact natural!

The Dark Hedges is another amazing place you visit during this tour. It is a street with large beech trees next to it. These trees look very impressive, and the whole place is amazing to see.

Furthermore, you also spend some time in the city of Belfast. This is another great city with a lot of great sights as well. If you want to explore another city when you are in Dublin, this is a great tour!

Besides that, the tour covers some other smaller sights as well, which is great! Your day will be great for sure if you join this tour!

10. Join the Dublin Independent Movie Lovers Group

If you love independent movies, this is one of the best activities for solo travel in Dublin for you.

You can join the " Dublin Independent Movie Lovers " Meetup group.

Through this group, you can meet up with others to see films with a group.

After the film, you can discuss it and have a drink at the same time.

This is a lovely way to experience film. And you can socialize with others, which is a lot of fun as well! It's one of the best things to do alone in Dublin to make friends.

11. Explore the City’s Food During a Food Tour in Dublin

Another one of the best solo activities in Dublin is the " Dublin: Local Food Tour ".

Through this tour, you'll get to know the city's food! You'll find out about the best places where the locals of the city have food and drinks.

In total, you'll visit 8 stops together with a local guide. At each stop, you can sample something different, which is awesome!

Also, along the way, you can learn about Irish history and culture. That's because you walk through the city while going from one venue to the next, and a guide tells you a lot.

What's also great about this activity during a solo trip is that you do this tour together with other people. So you have food in the company of others, which is lovely.

12. Do a Street Art Walking Tour: Amazing Thing To Do Alone in Dublin If You Like Street Art

Another one of the best things to do alone in Dublin is doing a Dublin street art walking tour .

There is a lot of great street art in the city of Dublin at various places! But where can you find this street art?

With a tour, a local guide takes you to the best places in the city for this, which is awesome!

In total, you'll visit about 15 places with street art in about 1 to 2 hours.

And what's great about this as well is that you walk through the city with a group. This group experience is lovely during a solo trip to Dublin!

13. Take Part in a Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Tour

Doing an open-top Dublin hop-on hop-off bus tour is also great during solo travel in Dublin.

During this tour, you ride through the streets of Dublin where you can learn more about all the city's sights.

There is live commentary while riding the bus, such that you can get information at every sight.

Some of the sights you visit are Nassau Street, Merrion Square, and the Temple Bar.

What's great is that there are many stops where you can leave the bus to explore the different places. So if there is a spot you want to know more about, you can hop off the bus.

When you decide you want to explore the city further, you can hop on the bus again, which is great! This makes it one of the best things to do alone in Dublin to see the sights.

That way it is very easy to explore the city with this bus tour! This is also very convenient when you are doing a solo trip!

Furthermore, one ticket allows you to take as many trips as you like in 24 hours. This is plenty of time to get to know the city, but you can get even more extensive passes.

14. Play Soccer Together With a Group of Other People in Dublin

If you like playing soccer, you can join a Meetup group where you can play soccer together with other people.

The " Ballsbridge Soccer - Tuesdays " is a Meetup group for this. It is a great one for everyone in the Ballsbridge area, a neighborhood of Dublin.

During the meetups, you can play soccer together which is a lot of fun.

You can get active through this group, and you can connect with others. So you might also make new friends when you go to these meetups.

15. Do a Tour of the Guinness Storehouse

One of the best things to do alone in Dublin is to go to the Guinness Storehouse .

The Guinness brand is such a famous brand that you have to learn more about it.

What's great is that you can do a tour of the Guinness Storehouse. During this, you can learn everything there is to know about Guinness.

Furthermore, you can see the process of making Guinness. And at the end of the tour, there is a possibility to try out some Guinness, if your age allows you to!

If you like Guinness or if you want to know more, this is a great tour for sure during solo travel in Dublin!

16. Make Your Own Silver Ring: Lovely Thing To Do Alone in Dublin To Learn Something New

One of the most unique solo activities in Dublin is making your own silver ring.

You can do so during a silver ring-making workshop in Dublin .

During this experience, you learn about everything there is to know for this!

You learn about all the processes that go into making a silver ring. So you start with the silver base material that you transform to make a ring.

An expert is around to help you out with everything!

Furthermore, what's great is that this is a group experience. This means that you do the workshop together with other people, which allows you to socialize. This is fun to experience during solo travel in Dublin as well!

17. Take Part in a Pub Crawl

If you like to explore the nightlife of Dublin, this is one of the best things to do alone in Dublin.

You can take part in " Dublin: Generation Pub Crawl ".

This is a lovely pub crawl through which you can experience iconic Irish bars. And at these bars, you can have a lot of fun!

Besides that, you take part in this pub crawl with other people, which is fun as well. This is a great way to make new friends in the city.

18. Go for a Walk at Saint Stephen’s Green

Saint Stephen's Green is a beautiful park that you can find in Dublin. Going here is great for solo travel in Dublin.

There is a lot of beautiful nature here. For example, there are colorful flowers, a diverse number of trees, and there is a beautiful lake.

Also, there are walking paths in the park.

This makes the place ideal for a relaxing stroll on your own!

Furthermore, you can sit down at one of the benches while you watch nature, which is great too!

19. Cycle With a Group of Other People: Perfect Thing To Do Alone in Dublin To Make Friends

Another one of the best things to do alone in Dublin is to join a cycling group.

The " Dublin Cycle Touring " Meetup group is a great one.

This is a group that organizes all kinds of cycling meetups.

Through these meetups, you can explore Dublin and its surroundings by bike. This is a lovely way to see more of the city's area!

Also, what's great is that you do these bike rides together with other people. And thus, you can meet other people through this Meetup group! And you might make some new friends through it, which is great.

20. Join Various Events Where You Learn About History

For those that like history, this is one of the most interesting activities for solo travel in Dublin.

You can join the " Dublin Local History Meetup " group.

This is a group that organizes all kinds of events during which you can learn about history.

For example, the tour organizes guided tours of certain places in the city. And there are also exhibitions you can visit or historic houses that are open to the public.

If you like learning about the city's or country's history, this group is for you for sure! I recommend checking out scheduled events to see if there's one when you are in Dublin.

21. Tour Kilmainham Gaol

One of the most notable sights to see during solo travel in Dublin is Kilmainham Gaol .

This is a former prison that dates back to the year 1796. Many Irish revolutionaries were prisoners at this facility. And the prison closed down in the year 1924.

Nowadays, you can find here a museum where you can see the prison from the inside and where you can learn more about it.

Furthermore, you can take part in guided tours of the prison. During these, you can learn more about the facility. And this makes it one of the best things to do alone in Dublin as well.

22. See an Art Exhibition at the National Gallery of Ireland

At the National Gallery of Ireland , you find the country's national collection of art. There is Irish art here, and art from other parts of Europe.

What's great is that there is no admission fee for this gallery, so this is a great activity for everyone!

Besides the beautiful permanent collection, you can also often find here temporary exhibitions. These exhibitions are at the gallery for only a limited amount of time.

And these rotating exhibitions focus on a particular artist or a particular style of art. So these exhibitions allow you to learn even more about something specific.

When you visit these exhibitions all by yourself, you can focus on the art. There is no one to distract you from the art, which gives you a great experience!

Also, it can be very relaxing to walk past all the art of the gallery!

23. Visit the National Botanic Gardens: Wonderful Thing To Do Alone in Dublin If You Love Nature

This is a beautiful botanic garden that you can find to the north of the city center of Dublin. Going here is amazing during solo travel in Dublin.

You can find here thousands of plants and there are some impressive greenhouses here.

These greenhouses hold all kinds of plants, which is awesome.

Also, you can find a lot of dried plant specimens here. This is interesting as well.

Going here is very relaxing, as you can see a lot of beautiful nature here! It is only you and the beautiful nature that you can find here!

24. Tour the Malahide Castle & Gardens

Another one of the best things to do alone in Dublin is touring the Malahide Castle and Gardens.

The Malahide Castle is a very old castle with some parts of it dating back more than 800 years old.

Besides the castle, you also find a beautiful garden next to it.

And you can visit this iconic sight when you are in Dublin.

You can do a tour of the castle, during which you can learn about the castle and the story behind it.

25. Join a Walking and Hiking Club: Awesome Thing To Do Alone in Dublin To Meet Other People

A great way to get active during solo travel in Dublin is by walking together with a group of people.

You can do this through " The Walking and Hiking Club " in Dublin.

This is a group that organizes walks in and near Dublin.

Through the group, you can explore this area, get active, and have fun with others. And you might make new friends among fellow hikers!

26. See a Contemporary Art Exhibition at the Irish Museum of Modern Art

If you like modern and contemporary art, you can go to the Irish Museum of Modern Art . Going there is one of the best things to do alone in Dublin.

You can find here about 3500 works of art by artists from Ireland and all around the world.

Besides that, there are many temporary exhibitions at the museum. These exhibitions focus on a particular type of art, which is very interesting!

Going to these exhibitions and the collection all by yourself is a great way to experience the art. That's because there will be no distractions when you go here alone.

27. Do a Self-Guided Tour of Dublin: Relaxing Thing To Do Alone in Dublin To See the Sights

You can also take a self-guided tour of Dublin.

For this, you can download self-guided tours of Dublin from GPSmyCity .

This organization has a variety of walkings tours that all focus on a specific part of the city.

Each walking tour lets you explore interesting and beautiful places. And along the way, you can read about the places that you visit.

One of the best tours is the Dublin Introduction Walking Tour. This tour gives you an introduction to the city's sights! If you are short on time or want to see the highlights on your own, this tour is great.

28. Do a Tour of Howth Castle

Another one of the best things to do alone in Dublin is visiting Howth Castle .

This is another historic castle that is hundreds of years old. It is amazing to visit, and there are guided tours during certain days of the year. The guided tours are perfect for solo travel in Dublin.

During these tours, you can learn a lot about the castle. And you can see the castle from the inside, which is great!

29. Join a Guided Walking Tour of Dublin

Doing a 90-minute walking tour of Dublin is another one of the best things to do alone in Dublin.

During this walking tour, you can see the most famous landmarks in the city.

You'll visit places like O'Connell Street and Trinity College.

Along the way, a guide gives you a lot of information, so you'll learn a lot of new things through this tour. This is very interesting.

Furthermore, this is a group tour that you do with other people. This is fun, as you can socialize during the tour.

30. Go to the Kerlin Gallery and Attend an Art Exhibition

At the Kerlin Gallery , you find a very modern art gallery.

You can find here art exhibitions that are on display for several weeks or months.

If you want to discover new art, this is a great place to visit during solo travel in Dublin!

31. See Dance and Learn to Dance During the Irish Dance Party

" The Irish Dance Party in Dublin " is great if you love to dance!

During this experience, you can see professional dancers perform dances. And you can dance yourself during this afternoon. So that's a very fun experience.

Furthermore, during this experience, you can hear all kinds of stories. These stories allow you to learn more about Irish dance and music!

What's great about this activity is that others take part in it as well. So, you can socialize during the activity, which is awesome!

32. Take Part in a Day Tour to the Cliffs of Moher, Kilmacduagh Abbey, and Galway

A day tour from Dublin to the Cliffs of Moher, Kilmacduagh Abbey, and Galway is a lot of fun. And this is also one of the most amazing things to do alone in Dublin!

These are some beautiful places that are great to see during solo travel in Dublin.

Especially if you are in the city for a longer time, it is great to see places outside of it. And this tour is great for that.

You'll see amazing landscapes through this tour. For example, the Cliffs of Moher are incredible to see in real life!

Also, you spend a full day with others that also take part in the tour. This is great as well, and you might make some new friends.

33. Join the Dublin Ladies Book Club: Great Thing To Do Alone in Dublin If You Love Books

The Dublin Ladies Book Club is a great group to join if you like reading or want to read more.

The group reads all kinds of books, so it is a group for everyone. Moreover, you can explore new genres you may never choose yourself!

What's great is that the group comes together during regular meetups. During these meetups, you discuss the book that you all read in the past period and you'll have a fun time! You might make some new friends during this.

34. Relax and Learn with Marbling Art

Turkish Marbling Art is great to do when you are doing solo travel in Dublin. You should definitely do a marbling art workshop in Dublin . This is a very unique experience.

It is a unique way of making art, where you create all kinds of colorful patterns in a unique way!

If you like being creative, this is one of the best things to do alone in Dublin for you for sure!

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Dublin Off the Beaten Path: You Guide to Dublin’s Secrets

March 16, 2023

Explore these secret things to do in Dublin with our inside guide to Dublin off the beaten path.

Dublin Off the Beaten Path: Uncover Dublin’s Hidden Gems

Allow me to show you some of the more unusual things to do in Dublin, the non-touristy things to do in Dublin, the alternative side of Dublin. Quite simply, Dublin off the beaten path.

It’s time to make the most of this garrulous, energetic capital of Ireland.

Disclosure: if you book or buy through any of the links on this page, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Cheers!

What are the must-see attractions in Dublin?

Before we talk about unusual things to do in Dublin, a word of warning: don’t miss the classics like the Book of Kells at Trinity College or the razzamatazz and history at the iconic Guinness Storehouse. You can find all that here in our two days in Dublin itinerary.

But once you’ve dipped into the Jameson Distillery, heard traditional Irish music in Temple Bar and paid some kind of homage to local boys U2, what next?

Travelling with little ones? Check out this article on things to do in Dublin with kids.

Take some hurling lessons

Let’s nip this one right in the bud. Hurling has nothing to do with the city’s, er, reputation for partying. Hurling, in this case, is a field sport.

Hurling’s older than time itself, according to Gareth, one of the owners of the Clash Gaelic Games School, and an avid hurling fan to boot. It’s an All-Ireland Gaelic sport that’s played outside with a stick called a hurley and a ball the size of a tennis ball but without the squidgy impact.

Take the short drive out of town to Portmarnock where Gareth and his brothers will teach you how to play the sport yourself (for women, it’s called camogie.)

To be honest, I dreaded it at first. But after about, ooh, 30 seconds, it morphed into all-absorbing, riveting, fantastic fun.

If you hated sport at school, then this something you should try now. No more humiliation and hideous clothes: the idea is to have fun and learn a few new things. You’ll scoop balls onto hurleys in an impression of a slippery egg-and-spoon race and then pelt them at the wall in a magnificent display of stress relief.

Trust me, if I enjoyed it, anyone can ;-) And after this? Croke Park awaits!

Enjoy an Art Fuelled High Tea at the Merrion

Dublin’s Georgian architecture is a big draw and postcards and Instagrams of fancy doorways flutter across the city. But take the Georgian experience one step further by having afternoon tea at the Merrion Hotel: a luxury experience that offers the “lived in” Georgian experience.

The Merrion also happens to hold Ireland’s largest private art collection, one it brings to life through an innovative sugary experience: art tea.

Along with a glass of bubbles and the obligatory cucumber sandwich, sweet treats arrive that mirror the art collection. Winter sees smoked China tea served besides cosy roaring fires and the concierge can lend you an audioguide to learn more about the works at your own pace if you prefer.

Gorge yourself with literature

Dublin lays claim to an astonishing FOUR Nobel Prize winners for literature, and that doesn’t even include James Joyce and his famed Ulysses.

Your chances to submerge yourself in literary inspiration seem endless, from the clean cafe at the National Library to the quirky gloom of Grogan’s where poets would chatter in verse.

There’s the Dublin Writers Museum and the ornate parchments at the lavish Chestery Beatty Library.

And if you’re in town on 16th June you can throw on a straw hat and join in with Bloomsday. On Bloomsday, Dubliners recreate the day from James Joyce’s Ulysses with key events across the city and surrounding area. When it comes to hidden gems in Dublin, few things come close to discovering people in period dress eating kidneys for breakfast while reading aloud from a book.

Head to the coast or the misty green forests

Yes, despite the frequent pictures of red brick lanes and bridges, the city of Dublin is actually flanked by mountains, scenic coastlines and other such greenery. In fact, you can take so many beautiful day trips from Dublin.

There’s the moss-covered gnarled trees at Malahide Castle, the short drive to the stunning Wicklow Mountains National Park and the seaside towns of Howth (pronouced Hoath) and Sandycove (another link to Ulysses.)

Just remember to dress for the weather. Almost all sorts of weather. Sunshine, rain, wind, hail, snow. In this respect, Dublin really does have it all ;-)

If you’ve a car, it’s easy enough to visit these places yourself, to wander, to get a little lost and off the beaten track in Dublin. Otherwise, you may want to look into taking an organised guided tour to venture outside Dublin city centre.

Switch cosy pubs for cool new bars

Yep, that’s right. Contrary to popular belief, it is possible to have a night out in Dublin without a single drop of Guinness or even a rendition of Danny Boy .

The Dean Hotel is dripping with vintage cool, while new-distillery-on-the-block Teeling’s offers whiskey tasting beneath bright lights and whiter walls.

Then there’s the even newer Roe & Co Distillery. Although admittedly owned by Guinness, it’s an homage to the original which stood on the site. And you can take cocktail classes or walk around the shimmering cool new bar.

Try something different during festival season

As befits an energetic, young capital city (a staggering 40% of inhabitants are under 30) – festivals are all the rage.

As hidden gems in Dublin go, by the end of summer, they all start to blur into one, earning the bland nickname of “festival season.”

Catch students challenging the status quo at the Fringe, gaze at leafy green streetside exhibits on PARKing day and stare up at dinosaurs in the dark on culture night when all the museums in town throw open their doors.

It’s certainly another way to see Dublin off the beaten path, behind the shadow of a T Rex, Guinness in one hand, arts programme in the other.

See what bullets do to books

The Long Room in Trinity College is one inspirational library that everyone knows: the less well-known Marsh’s Library is even more thought provoking. 

Step into the oldest library in Dublin, where Bram Stoker studied, James Joyce researched, and Jonathan Swift scribbled graffiti into text books. Amid the polished wood and ancient pages, you’ll find even more secrets about Dublin, Ireland.

Look out for Dracula, Gulliver’s Travels, the lost skull…and the bullet holes in the books from a world we all hope we never go back to. Wondering what I’m talking about?

I’ve written more about this hidden gem in Dublin over here.

Walk with ghosts at Kilmainham Gaol

On the outskirts of Dublin, but still within reach of the hop-on hop-off bus, lives Kilmainham Gaol. It “hosted” numerous criminals over the years but the most prominent residents were those involved in the 1916 Easter Rising. 

The guided talk is bleak and haunting (the imprisoned revolutionaries were executed here) but the architecture is striking and the events a crucial part of Irish History. It really is one of those unique things to do in Dublin.

Frolic with deer in Phoenix Park

OK, so you don’t need to frolic. A simple walk will be fine. 

Rated as the largest urban park in Europe, Phoenix Park began life as a 17th century hunting ground for the gentry. Today, it encloses several stately homes, beginning with the official residency of the Irish president and moving on to the home of the US Ambassador.

Despite all that, entrance is free to the public, where you can walk or cycle among the fallow deer and pay a visit to Europe’s 4th largest zoo.

The visitor’s centre travels right back to 3500 BC with its tales of Phoenix Park.

Check out the National Leprechaun Museum of Ireland

While this place sounds pretty kitsch, it’s an example of Dublin’s best hidden gems. Sure, inside you’ll find silly things like giant forks and green cloaked leprechauns. But you’ll also find a moving look at Ireland’s oral storytelling history and a perspective that maybe you haven’t seen – or heard – before. Just a short walk from the River Liffey.

Look out for Street Art

Some hidden gems in Dublin aren’t all that hidden. Take street art, for example, which you can find by the Aviva stadium and Lansdowne Road.

Dine in a bank

I love this secret spot right in the heart of Dublin where you can dine inside an old bank. The Bank on College Green  serves both lunch and dinner and it’s a chance to taste Victorian splendour beneath the panelled ceiling and flamboyant sculptures.

Why not bookmark this guide to Dublin off the beaten path on Pinterest for later?

More Travel Articles about Ireland

• The best way to plan your itinerary through Ireland
• 25 best things to bring back from Ireland
• Quirky, fun and unusual things to do in Dublin
• Your perfect itinerary to see Dublin in two days

8 thoughts on “Dublin Off the Beaten Path: You Guide to Dublin’s Secrets”

Very interesting post, shows us Dublin from different perspective and makes me said that I still did not go there. Next year for sure!!!

Hope you get there soon! It’s a truly interesting city…

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The Cost of Travel in Dublin: My 2024 Budget Breakdown

My recent trip to Ireland was a shock.

A financial shock.

I couldn’t believe how much the prices in this city had increased post-pandemic. I mean, sure, I was visiting in July, which is the height of high season, but… €100 for the cheapest dorm bed in a hostel? I’d never seen prices like it.

And so, if you’re planning a trip to Ireland right now, my biggest advice to you is to prepare for the prices. The cost of transportation, food, and activities were actually quite reasonable, but I seriously struggled to find accommodation at a reasonable price.

It had me wondering: is Dublin worth it?

Of course it’s worth it! This is a marvellous city that’s a hell of a lot of fun to spend time in.

Despite Dublin’s big city vibe, its residents are unapologetically welcoming to outside visitors, especially if the encounter happens to take place in a pub. Yes, hanging out in a pub is one of Dublin’s most traditional pastimes. There’s more to this city than its pints, of course, but it’s still an activity I highly recommend.

Away from the alcohol, Dublin is a culture- and literature-infused city that offers up castles, museums, gardens, and a beloved waterway that runs through it all. Grafton Street and Temple Bar are home to a buzzy liveliness, where you can shop, drink, eat, and be merry.

If you like to surround yourself with people, you’ll love basing yourself within these districts, but if you prefer your solitude, you won’t have to go far to find it. Just outside of the city limits, beaches and seaside villages are nestled into Dublin’s stunning coastline. And mountains are every which way, too. I walked the 130 km Wicklow Way this year, which starts in Dublin, and it was amazing .

Here’s a quick breakdown of how much it costs to travel in Dublin, per person per day:

Yes, Dublin is expensive, but there are still plenty of ways to cut your costs and find good value for money. In this in-depth article I’m going to go into the prices of absolutely everything in the city, giving you an accurate look into exactly how much you can personally expect to spend.

So how much does it cost to travel in Dublin? Grab yourself a pint of Guinness, because it’s time to find out!

How to Save Money on the Cost of Accommodation in Dublin

As always with travel, it’s possible to cut your accommodation costs down to zero if you have the time and patience to seek out an offer. And when you see the prices of accommodation in Dublin, you might just be able to find said time!

Couchsurfing  exists in Ireland — and, of course, Dublin — and allows you to stay with a local for free, sleeping on their sofa and enjoying a local’s insight into life in their country. It’s not the most comfortable of living situations, but if your budget is tight and you don’t mind roughing it, it’s worth sending out a few requests to hosts to see if anything comes of it. You can search for potential hosts on the Couchsurfing site .

Housesitting  is another option. This is where you take care of somebody’s house for free while they’re away, and usually look after their pets, too. It’s best for long-term travellers or retirees as you can’t pick and choose dates and destinations, so you need to have a lot of flexibility as to where you go and at what time of year. If you do have that freedom, though, it’s a wonderful way to cut down your travel expenses, soak up some home comforts, and live like a local for a while.  Trusted Housesitters  is the best site for getting started with housesitting — they usually have several dozen housesits available for Dublin at any one time, so it’s well-worth having a look to see if any coincide with your travel dates.

I’m suspecting, though, that for most of you, you’re not interested in the free accommodation and just want somewhere clean, safe, and affordable to rest your head each night. If that’s the case, there are several options available for you.

The Cost of Accommodation in Dublin

The best hostel in Dublin: Jacobs Inn Dublin ( €79 a night for a six-bed dorm)

Jacobs Inn is a Dublin institution; well-known by backpackers who’ve spent time in the city. It’s clean, modern, and in a great location, with both dorms and private rooms up for grabs. There’s also an optional breakfast for an additional €11. The beds are more of a capsule pod set-up, so you do have a little more privacy than your typical dorm. This is going to be your best option if you’re on a tight budget.

The best budget hotel in Dublin: Staycity Aparthotels Mark Street ( €225 a night for a basic double)

For my most recent visit, I chose to stay at the Staycity Aparthotels on Mark Street (my room is pictured above), as it truly felt like it was the only central, well-reviewed, not-crazy-expensive accommodation in the entire city! And it was great! It wasn’t missing anything at all. My room was quiet, the hotel was a five-minute walk from Temple Bar, and the staff were always so friendly! The bed was comfortable, the A/C and heating worked well, and the kitchenette had everything you could need.

The best mid-range hotel in Dublin: The Wilder ( €289 a night for a shoebox-sized double room)

Chic and retro décor are best friends in this lovely Dublin hotel. The Wilder perfectly represents elegance but without being void of personality. Located on Adelaide Road, the local neighborhood is ritzy and beautiful, with oversized trees lining its streets. The Wilder has rooms available in various sizes, from “shoebox” (much larger than they sound!) to spacious suites, each with unique furnishings. The restaurants on-site are great, too: the stylish Gin and Tea Room is exactly what it sounds like while the Garden’s specialty is breakfast, with its mirrors, fireplaces, and greenery creating the perfect ambiance.

The best luxury hotel in Dublin: The Marker Hotel ( €403 a night for a deluxe double room)

Calling all those with bougie tendencies: the Marker Hotel is for you. The rooftop bar is a sight to be seen; in fact, it must be seen. Posted up in Grand Canal Square, it’s in the heart of the business district putting it at a 20-minute walk to the city center, but hey: you might not want to even leave your hotel. The cocktail bar is exceptional while the Brasserie serves locally-sourced Irish cuisine. The award-winning spa is a relaxation haven that offers a variety of body treatments and facials, and don’t forget about the infinity pool and world-class fitness center. For a final touch, rest in savasana high above the cityscape. Yes, yoga on the rooftop is a hit here. It’s luxury at it’s finest. 

The Cost of Transportation in Dublin

Dublin has it figured out when it comes to getting around.

The transportation options here are ample, clean, safe, and — most importantly — inexpensive.

Getting into the city from Dublin’s airport is surprisingly cheap and easy. You’ll pay just €2.60 to take a local bus from the airport to Temple Bar (don’t bother taking the airport express bus, as it takes a similar amount of time but costs €8 ; a taxi is around €30 ). And once you get into the city centre, things only get simpler from there.

If you’ll be staying in Dublin for more than a day, you may want to invest in the Leap Visitor Card : a prepaid travel card that you can use to pay for the local buses, trams, and trains — both within Dublin and the entirety of Ireland. The Leap card makes fares 30% cheaper than buying a ticket on the spot with cash, so if you won’t be walking everywhere, it’s well-worth the investment. You can buy the card in advance from the Leap website and get it delivered to Dublin Airport for your arrival or pick it up from stores once you’re in the city. With it, you’ll pay €1.30 for a single trip or a flat €2 for 90 minutes of rides. 

If you’re in town for a long weekend, you may want to invest in the DoDublin Card . The card gives you 72 hours of unlimited access to the Airlink Airport Bus, the DoDublin hop-on hop-off buses, the public bus network and entrance to the six biggest attractions in the city (including the EPIC Immigration Museum and St Patrick’s Cathedral). At €55 per person it makes for a good deal, especially if you’re happy to hit up tons of tourist activities via hop-on hop-off bus!

When you tire of the roads, it’s time to hit the rails.

DART stands for Dublin Area Rapid Transit — the train — and is the best option for longer trips across the city. With stops located throughout the capital, it’s the fastest way to travel, but its speed doesn’t remain within the city limits. It cradles the Dublin coastline on its way to seaside villages and beaches just outside the energetic hum of the city. The DART is also a good option if you plan to venture to cities like Cork, Belfast, or Killarney.

Luas is Dublin’s tram service and offers up two different lines and a ton of notable stops. You can get pretty much anywhere you want to go (or at least close enough) on Luas. Tickets can be purchased at the street-side vending machines but you can also use the Leap card.

As with any major city, Dublin’s nooks and crannies are best discovered on two feet. It’s actually quite a walkable city and I found I didn’t need to use public transport even once during my most recent two-day visit. Most of the major attractions are concentrated within the city centre, so it’s not too onerous to walk from one spot to the next.

If you’re more of a cyclist, bikes are a popular, green, and cheap way to travel around the capital. Dublin Bikes is the local bikeshare company, with very reasonable prices. Use of a bike for a full day is just €3.50 , while three days of unlimited use is €5 .

If you prefer your transportation private, taxis can be found all over the city — you can hail them on the street or by using the local FreeNow app. Uber does work in Ireland, but it only calls local taxis (as ride-sharing is banned in Ireland) rather than private drivers. Your best bet is to download both apps and see which one is offering the lowest prices for where you need to go.

In terms of taxi prices, you’ll pay a €4.20 initial charge, then €0.46 per minute thereafter. Transport for Ireland has a useful taxi fare estimate tool if you know where you’ll be going in advance.

The Cost of Food in Dublin

Ireland doesn’t have the best reputation when it comes to its food scene, but much of the stereotypes are based on its past. In 2024, Dublin is home to a vibrant array of cuisines that feature far more than meat and potatoes. (Although as somebody who counts potatoes as their favourite food group, I can’t deny that they were particularly good here.)

Still, it’s well-worth dipping into those traditional foods and sampling them while you’re in town. Some of my favourite dishes include a Full Irish breakfast, Irish stew, soda bread, boxty (a mix between a hash brown and a pancake), and colcannon (mashed potatoes with cabbage). Plus, you can’t come to Dublin and not try its Guinness!

There’s lots of international options in the city, too, from Indian to Nepalese; Ethiopian to Japanese; Brazilian to Korean. Budget eats exist, too, like kebabs and pizzas plus other takeaway treats.

Let’s go through some likely options you’ll run into for breakfast, lunch, and dinner — plus the typical prices you’ll pay for food and drink in Dublin.

You’ll never struggle to find a decent breakfast here. I had so many delicious meals while I was in town! If you want to go traditional, look no further than the Irish Breakfast. Similar to the Full English, you’ll be blessed with a sizeable plate of bacon, sausages, baked beans, eggs, mushrooms, tomatoes, black and white pudding, and toast. Yes, it’s a lot, but it can also help you save money, as you’ll likely want to skip lunch after eating one! On average, you’ll pay €15 for the dish.

If you prefer your breakfasts to be lighter, brunchy, or with a hint of hipster, never fear. There’s plenty of cool cafes, too. I mentioned that I stayed in the Staycity hotel in the accommodation section of this guide, and I found that there were so many fantastic cafes around this area (the Temple Bar & Trinity College suburbs).

As an example, I loved the cafe As One , which was located a few minutes from the hotel. There, I paid €14 for the dish pictured above: Irish potatoes, chorizo, spring onions, and two poached eggs, while my partner paid €14 for a breakfast muffin (an English muffin, that is. This was a savory dish, with the muffin filled with sausage, fried eggs, black pudding, cheddar, and with a side of potatoes). At Tang , I paid €10.50 for a shakshuka and my partner paid €12 for fried eggs on toast with a side of chorizo.

Those are pretty average prices for a breakfast/brunch in the centre of town: you can expect to pay €10-15 for a decent-sized meal from a well-reviewed place.

In terms of budget options, you can grab a small bowl of Irish porridge for as little as €5 , toast with butter and jam comes in at €4 , and a croissant or pan au chocolat can be as little as €3 .

What about lunches?

Most cafes offer up sandwiches for a budget lunchtime snack, and I have to give a shout-out to the Pig and the Heifer Deli for producing some of the best I had in the city. I recommend the serrano ham and goats cheese, in particular, for a price of €8.25 , but I was also impressed with the Bavarian sandwich (ham, sauerkraut, cranberry, Wensleydale cheese, mustard, and pickle) for €8.50 .

In Dublin, the pubs aren’t just for dinners, so do pop into a cosy-looking one if you’re hungry and craving a hot meal. Fish and chips are a lunchtime staple and range between €12 and €17 , depending on how upmarket the establishment is. If you’re looking for something light, you can almost always grab a soup for the low price of €7 while a small salad comes in at around €11 . Keep in mind that you’ll pay more for a meal in Temple Bar, as that’s where all the tourists are, so if you’re looking to save money, head outside the area for cheaper eats.

Dinners often take place in pubs, too — we are in Ireland, after all — but there are also plenty of sit-down restaurants featuring diverse cuisines from around the world.

I mentioned the Irish stew in my photo caption above and yes, this is something I highly recommend trying while you’re in town! This was my first meal after arriving in Dublin and I sure chose a good one! I paid €16 for the stew from Lincoln’s Inn — pictured above — which was accompanied by some delicious soda bread. In general, you can expect to pay in the range of €15-25 for a pub meal; burgers and fish and chips will be cheaper, while steak will be up at the top end.

In terms of average costs for international eats, you’ll pay €19 for an Indian curry, €17 for a pizza from a nice Italian restaurant, €14 for nachos, €11 for a lamb kebab, or €9 for a falafel pita.

In terms of alcohol, you can’t think of Dublin without imagining a cool glass of Guinness. A pint of the good stuff will set you back between €5 and €7 , depending on how touristy the pub is. Wines are roughly €7 for a 175ml glass, while cocktails can run between €9 and €13 .

For non-alcoholic options, a latte or flat white is usually priced at around €4 with a cup of tea at €3 . Soft drinks are also priced at around €3 , whether you’re in a pub, cafe, or restaurant.

To summarise, you can expect to spend €12 for a sit-down breakfast, €8 for a lunchtime sandwich, and €18 for a pub dinner, plus around €15 for a couple of drinks throughout the day. This would give you an average daily food and drink spend in Dublin of just over €50 a day.

The Cost of Activities in Dublin

Dublin is densely packed with activities, ranging from day-drinking and folk music to museums and cathedrals.

It was the last item on the list that really blew me away: the cathedrals in Dublin were seriously impressive. I shouldn’t have been surprised; Ireland is a deeply religious country and the architecture only served to reinforce that fact.

It costs €9 to enter St Patrick’s Cathedral and €10.50 for Christ Church Cathedral . The landmarks were well-worth the cost of entry, in my opinion — I paid for both entrance fees through GetYourGuide so that I had all of my tickets and tours in one place.

If you love your literature, there’s perhaps no greater city to spend some time than Dublin. So many authors, writers, and creatives have called this city home! Wander through the streets and parks and you’ll stumble across heritage plaques dedicated to these literary heroes. At times, the list of writers felt endless: Oscar Wilde, James Joyce, Samuel Beckett, Bram Stoker, W.B. Yeats, George Bernard Shaw… so many big names!

The Museum of Literature ( €13.50 ) is a great place to start your writer-themed explorations, but the Book of Kells is what’s truly going to excite you. This world-famous manuscript is potentially the oldest book in the world ; it has to be seen to be believed. You can catch a glimpse of the tome in the breathtaking Old Library at Trinity College Dublin — it costs €18.50 to enter and you can buy tickets through the college website .

One activity that’s top of the tourist hit list is, of course, the Guinness Storehouse ( €30 ). This seven-story building is where you’ll learn all about the 250-year history of the world-famous stout. End your tour at the Gravity Bar, where you can enjoy a free pint and take in some of the best panoramic views of Dublin.

For those of you who prefer whiskey, hit up the Jameson Distillery for a €30 tour of the premises. You’ll find out all about the story of John Jameson, learn what goes into the beloved spirit, and get to enjoy a free cocktail at the bar afterwards.

In terms of museums, there’s only one that I consider essential and that’s the award-winning EPIC Irish Emigration Museum ( €19.50 ). It was a fascinating way to spend an afternoon! This museum chronicles the harrowing, inspiring experiences of the millions of Irish emigrants who left their home in search of a better life. It’s immersive, innovative, and 100% worth the entrance fee.

If you’re more of a museum-goer than I am, there’s lots on offer; all with reasonable entrance fees. For example, The Little Museum of Dublin is €13 , the Kilmainham Gaol is €8 , while the Irish Whiskey Museum is €22 .

Dublin is home to plenty of free activities, too, for those of you who are on a tight budget. Wandering around the bustling Temple Bar district provides ample opportunity for people-watching and photo-taking. There, you’ll find some of the most photogenic pubs in the world. Speaking of people-watching, be sure to take a stroll down lively Grafton Street to check out the buskers or kick back and relax in St Stephen’s Green.

The Ha’penny Bridge from 1816 is a scenic must-walk-across, and if you like your city breaks with a side of adventure then head out for a hike in the Dublin Mountains. Dublin Castle is free to explore, while the peaceful Garden of Remembrance was a lovely spot for taking a breather. In terms of free museums, the National History Museum is a particularly good one to go for.

There’s even a free walking tour to jump on.

Finally, regular readers will already know that I love a good day trip. Every time I rock up in a new city, I turn straight to GetYourGuide and filter their activities by day trips . To me, it’s an easy and efficient way to explore more of a country beyond its capital. In Dublin, it was no different — and to my delight, there were so many options for day-tripping this compact country.

There’s three main day trips that are worth doing.

The first goes to the Wicklo w Mountains, Glendalough, and Kilkenny and is priced at €40 . This one’s great for nature enthusiasts, history buffs, and lovers of picturesque towns.

The second takes you to the Cliffs of Moher, the Burren, and Galway for €78 . This is the perfect option for anyone who loves dramatic landscapes, walks in nature, and traditional culture.

Then you’ve got the Giants Causeway, Dark Hedges, Dunluce, and Belfast for €88 . This one is for anyone who’s interested in geological formations, Northern Irish history, and Game of Thrones (Dark Hedges featured in the series).

The Cost of Miscellaneous Expenses in Dublin

A SIM card: If you live in the EU or the U.K., you won’t need to worry about a SIM card, as you’ll be able to use data within Ireland without being charged. If you’re outside this area, however, you’ll have to buy a SIM.

I’m a big fan of Airalo , which sells local eSIM cards for travellers. What that means is that you can buy a virtual local SIM card online  before  you arrive in Ireland, and then as soon as you land in the country, you can switch on your data and start using it. It makes getting connected so easy and now I’ll never go back to physical SIMs.

I paid €9 for 3 GB to use for 30 days in Ireland.

Travel insurance: If you’ve read any other posts on Never Ending Footsteps, you’ll know that I’m a great believer in travel insurance. I’ve seen far too many Go Fund Me campaigns from destitute backpackers who are unexpectedly stranded in a foreign country after a scooter accident/being attacked/breaking a leg with no way of getting home or paying for their healthcare. These costs can quickly land you with a six-figure bill to pay at the end of it.

In short, if you can’t afford travel insurance, you can’t afford to travel.

Travel insurance  will cover you if your flight is cancelled and you need to book a new one, if your luggage gets lost and you need to replace your belongings, if you suddenly get struck down by appendicitis and have to be hospitalised, or discover a family member has died and you need to get home immediately. If you fall seriously ill, your insurance will cover the costs to fly you home to receive medical treatment.

I used  SafetyWing  as my travel insurance provider in Ireland. They provide worldwide coverage, don’t require you to have a return ticket, and even allow you to buy coverage after you’ve left home. I paid €1.50 a day  for this.

How Much Does it Really Cost to Travel in Dublin?

It’s time to tally up all of my travel expenses and share how much it costs to travel in Dublin! I’ll break it down into three budgets: travellers on a tight budget, mid-range budget, and high-end budget.

For budget travellers, you can expect to spend per person:

Accommodation:  €79 per day on a dorm bed in a hostel Transportation:  €3 per day for the local bus to/from airport, then a couple of buses Food:  €28 per day Activities:  €20 per day for entry to the EPIC Museum, Guinness Storehouse and St Patrick’s Cathedral

Total amount for a budget trip to Dublin: €130 per person per day

For mid-range travellers, you can expect to spend per person:

Accommodation:  €125 per day on a well-reviewed, central guesthouse Transportation:  €5 per day for the local bus to/from airport, then occasional buses Food:  €50 per day Activities:  €45 per day for entry to the EPIC Museum, Guinness Storehouse and St Patrick’s Cathedral, plus a day trip

Total amount for a budget trip to Dublin: €225 per person per day

For luxury travellers, you can expect to spend per person:

Accommodation:  €200 per day on the best hotel in town Transportation:  €20 per day for regular taxis Food:  €80 per day Activities:  €55 per day for entry to a couple of museums, the Guinness Storehouse, both main cathedrals, plus a couple of day trips

Total amount for a budget trip to Dublin: €355 a day

Phew! I did warn you that prices in Dublin have skyrocketed this year! So what do you think? Are these prices more or less than what you were expecting?

Other Articles I’ve Written About Ireland 🇮🇪 The Cost of Travel in Ireland: A Detailed Budget Breakdown ☘️ The Absolute Best Things to Do in Dublin, Ireland

Lauren Juliff

Lauren Juliff is a published author and travel expert who founded Never Ending Footsteps in 2011. She has spent over 12 years travelling the world, sharing in-depth advice from more than 100 countries across six continents. Lauren's travel advice has been featured in publications like the BBC, Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and Cosmopolitan, and her work is read by 200,000 readers each month. Her travel memoir can be found in bookstores across the planet.

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Complete Guide to Studying Abroad in Dublin, Ireland

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my links, at no extra cost to you. Please read  full disclosure  for more information.

If you’re looking for a great place to study abroad, then you absolutely have to choose Dublin . It’s one of the greatest cities in Europe, and studying abroad in Dublin is truly an experience you’ll never forget. There’s so much rich history and culture, and everyone in Dublin is so kind! It’s crazy.

In this post, I break down why you should consider studying abroad in Dublin as well as my study abroad Ireland tips.

Table of Contents

Why Study in Dublin?

Believe it or not, but I initially chose to study abroad in Dublin because my best friend wanted to go there. I had always wanted to study abroad in London , but Dublin seemed like a safer choice. It’s smaller and the school that I’d be able to study abroad at there had more interesting classes. It’s also a lot more affordable to study abroad in Dublin than it is in London.

I suggest you look into studying abroad in Dublin because it really is such a historically rich city. There’s history around almost every corner. It’s also a lot more of a foodie city than you might initially think.

I also only ever met kind people in Dublin. I joined the club lacrosse team at University College Dublin (UCD) where I studied abroad, and everyone was just so nice . It’s funny because it’s really not like that back home in the USA, especially in the northeast.

Everyone at home is always busy or stressed out. I think that’s because everyone in Dublin works to live while back home everyone lives to work. It really is a cultural difference, but their way of life makes so much more sense to me.

Plus, there are tons of great historical places to visit right within Dublin, some of which you can even stay in. If your friends or family fly to Dublin to visit you, be sure to have them stay at one of the best Ireland castle hotels !

We put together an entire video of when we first left for dublin.

Transportation

Transportation in Ireland is super easy to use and you’ll also find that it’s actually a lot more reliable and clean than it is in other cities.

Student Leap Card

If you’re a student with a semester abroad in Dublin (or anywhere in Ireland, for that matter), you 100% need to invest in a Student Leap Card. It’s the transportation card that will work on the bus, Luas, and the Irish Rail. Trust me, you will use it so many times.

To get your leap card, you have to show your student ID and pay a fee of €10. This is just an initial fee to get the card printed. You’ll also need to have a headshot of yourself that you can put on the image. When you go to get your card, you’ll also have to fill out an application. The whole process takes about 10 minutes.

You should be able to get one through your school. I easily was able to get one printed right at University College Dublin during Fresher’s Week. Sometimes, you can also get one printed at another university in the city as long as you show your student ID card for the school you’re studying in Dublin.

Another way to get your card is by purchasing it online.

Here’s the real reason while you’ll want it though – the card automatically caps off at €5 a day and €20 a week. That means you’ll never pay more than either of those prices a day or a week if you regularly use your card. This can save you a lot of money in the long run, and it works all over Ireland.

The Dublin bus will probably be your best friend. I found myself riding it almost every other day to get downtown. Yes, there are times that you’ll get stuck in traffic, but to be honest, that’s only during rush hour.

It’s a very quick and easy way to get to and from downtown. If you go to University College Dublin (UCD Ireland) as I did, then you’ll definitely live on the 39A bus. It goes right to UCD’s own stop straight to downtown.

A nice thing about the bus is that it will also bring you to surrounding areas of Dublin, making it super easy to take a day trip to a suburb like Howth or Bray.

The Luas is Dublin’s light rail system. Think of it like a tram!

I never used it much because there isn’t a stop near UCD and it mainly only is set up in the downtown area. However, it is a lot quicker than the bus, so you might find yourself using it every now and then.

The Irish Rail is the country’s train. You can get all over Ireland by riding it! I found myself using it to easily take day trips to Cork and Belfast while I was in Dublin.

Trains in Ireland are super clean and offer some pretty amazing views. They’re also super comfortable. If you ever book a trip and plan on using the Irish Rail, then you 100% want to reserve your tickets ahead of time. Your Student Leap Card will save you money.

Dublin International Airport

One nice thing about Dublin is that it actually has its own international airport ! This makes it super easy to fly around Europe and jet-set off to other countries and cities.

The budget airline RyanAir is also from Ireland, so you’ll always be able to find some good, cheap rates. I recommend checking out Skyscanner to try to find the cheapest rates before you fly. Keep in mind that sometimes these are super early in the morning. I personally found that it was worth it to travel early in the morning to save money! It also gave me that whole first day to explore whatever city I was flying to.

Best places to eat

Of course, there are tons of great places to eat in Dublin , but these are just some of my favorites that I constantly frequented!

Queen of Tarts

Queen of Tarts is hands-down my #1 favorite place to eat in Dublin . It’s the cutest little place to get breakfast, brunch, lunch, or even just a cup of coffee or tea. They have top-notch budget-friendly prices and also have the best chai tea I’ve ever had in the whole world.

This is one of the top breakfast spots to eat at when studying abroad in Dublin.

Nando’s

Okay, I know that Nando’s is a chain all around the UK, but it’s so delicious. You have to try it at least once. Their chicken is amazing and I’m obsessed with their Perinaise. I still order it from Amazon monthly and get it shipped to me since we can’t really buy it anywhere in the US.

Quay’s

Quay’s was my go-to pub in Dublin. It was right in the Temple Bar area, but wasn’t as touristy as the Temple Bar Pub. It was also always a lot less busy. If you ever eat here, you 100% have to order the cajun chicken sandwich. You just have to.

Temple Bar Pub

I’m sorry, but this really wouldn’t be a complete list without having the Temple Bar Pub on here. I know it’s touristy, but I think you have to experience it at least once. I suggest going during lunchtime, because it’s way less busy than it is at night. They also have an extensive sandwich menu and so many amazing beverages.

Definitely stop by the Temple Bar Pub when studying abroad in Dublin!

Best day trips from the city

Dublin serves as the perfect home base for trips around Ireland ! This is because all of the train lines meet right in Dublin city. Here are a few of the best day trips from the city.

Psst… if you have more time, you could also consider a two-week Ireland road trip !

Galway is the arts and culture city of Ireland! It makes for a perfect day trip from Dublin and it’s only about 2.5 hours from Dublin. You could get there by car or bus. While you’re there, be sure to stop by the 2 castles that are still standing in the secret. If you can’t find them, here’s a tip: one of them was converted into a Costa Coffee and the other is a bank!

Cliffs of Moher

The Cliffs of Moher are the top touristy destination in all of Ireland, and it’s for good reason. The Cliffs of Moher (which are one of the best cliffs in Ireland ) are so beautiful and they really make you appreciate nature and the natural beauty of Ireland itself. Countless movies were filmed here too, like The Princess Bride and parts of the Harry Potter series. You can easily visit the Cliffs of Moher from Dublin . The easiest way to visit the Cliffs of Moher is to book a day trip with a tour like Paddywagon Tours or Finn McCools tour s.

Killarney was my favorite town that I visited in Ireland. It’s on Ireland’s west coast and it feels like the quintessential Ireland town. While you’re in the area, you have to be sure to go to Muckross House and Torc Waterfall. They were two of my favorite sights in the area!

If you have extra time and you’re adventurous, you could also consider going on a multi-day Kerry backpacking trip .

Bray is a lovely little coastal town just south of Dublin. There’s a beautiful cliff walk here from Greystones to Bray, or you could do it the opposite way. It provides lovely views of the coast and it feels a lot safer than the Howth Cliff Walk. There’s a fence between you and the coast the whole time, so if you don’t like heights, then you’ll be perfectly fine.

Howth is kind of similar to Bray. It’s just north of Dublin and is also a coastal town, but I loved it even more than Howth. There’s so much to do there. You can take in the views at Howth Harbor, explore Howth Market, or do the Howth Cliff Walk. I recommend all 3! Here’s a complete guide to taking a day trip to Howth from Dublin.

Howth is one of the most underrated day trips to take when studying abroad in Dublin.

Co. Cork is where the famous Blarney Castle is! If you plan on kissing the Blarney Stone, you’ll have to visit Cork. Cork is actually the second-biggest city in the whole country and it honestly feels a lot like Dublin. You can easily get there in about 2.5 hours by using the Irish Rail.

Belfast, Northern Ireland

Did you know you could even take a day trip to another country? Located at the northern tip of Ireland is Northern Ireland, which is a completely different country from the Republic of Ireland. Northern Ireland is actually part of the UK. You can easily take a day trip to Belfast and back . Fun fact: Belfast is where the Titanic was built!

what to do in the city

Of course, there are countless things to do in Dublin , but this is a list of some of my favorite things that I did while in the city. When studying abroad in Dublin, you’ll want to do as much as you can in the city!

Explore St. STephen’s Green

St. Stephen’s Green is the gorgeous central public park in Dublin. You can’t help but see it if you’re ever near Stephen’s Green Shopping Center or Grafton Street. It’s a very peaceful park and there’s an abundance of little park benches that you could sit and read a book or eat on.

Walk Along Grafton Street

I think almost everyone knows about Grafton Street now because of Ed Sheeran! It’s the main shopping street in Dublin. However, I don’t necessarily suggest going there to go shopping, but rather to listen to all of the live music.

There are almost always street performers at a few key spots along the street. You’ll love just standing and listening to them, I promise! They’re always so talented.

Have A Pint at Temple Bar

Temple Bar is actually a whole area of Dublin, not just Temple Bar Pub. There’s a lot of pubs in the area to get a pint at, and I suggest doing it at least once. My go-to’s are Quay’s and Old Mill .

Visit the Guinness Storehouse

Though the Guinness Storehouse is probably seen as one of the most touristic places in Dublin, it’s actually worth visiting. I put off visiting until my last week in the city because I was trying to refrain from doing tourist things, but I actually enjoyed it so much. Remember to purchase your tickets ahead of time.

If you’re interested in learning more about my experience and what it’s like to go, check out my post on the Ultimate Guide to the Guinness Storehouse.

Visiting the Guinness Storehouse is one of the best things to do while studying abroad in Dublin.

Shop at Stephen’s Green Shopping Center

Stephen’s Green Shopping Center is honestly the most beautiful shopping center that I’ve ever been to. The inside is all pastel green and white and there’s a giant clock. Sure, it’s just a shopping center, but whenever I needed something I went out of my way to see if I could get it at one of the shops here.

Where to Get the Best Birds-Eye View of Dublin

I think in order to put a city in perspective, you really need to see it from above. In fact, I have a history of seeing cities that I’ve visited from above!

I’ll let you in on a little secret: the best view of Dublin is actually from the Gravity Bar at the top of the Guinness Storehouse . To get the view , you do have to purchase tickets to the Guinness Storehouse experience , but you get a free pint at the top in the Gravity Bar with your panoramic view of the city !

What it’s Like to Study Abroad at University College Dublin

To be honest, I went to a really small school in Boston, so I was up for a change when I enrolled at UCD.

University College Dublin is actually a huge school – there are over 25,000 students. The experience there was unbelievably great though. I loved all of my professors and found the large class sizes to be a big change from my normal size of classes at home. I’m used to classes with 8-14 people, while at UCD I usually had over 50!

The amount of time spent in class is also a huge difference as an American. I’m used to having at least 3-4 hours of class time for each of my classes, but it’s so different at UCD. I was enrolled in 6 classes and only had a total of 9 hours of class a week. Attendance was mandatory for some of the classes but not others.

Oftentimes, the entire grade for a course is solely based on a mid-term and a final or an essay. One of my classes was literally 100% based on just one single essay at the end. That was a huge change for me, but I found that I enjoyed it more. I didn’t have to worry about a bunch of little homework assignments that wouldn’t have mattered much in the long run.

Keep in mind that grading is a lot tougher in Ireland. I had some Irish friends at UCD tell me that they were used to getting 70’s on papers and exams a lot and that it was a good grade to get. The grading scale is a bit different, so anything from an 80 to a 100 is actually an A, and a 60 to an 80 is a B, and this continues on. All I had to get in a class to pass was a 40, which was crazy for me! In American universities, we need at least a 70 to pass.

If you also study abroad at UCD, I recommend that you join at least 1 club. I am a dual-sport varsity DIII athlete at home, and I play both field hockey and lacrosse. I studied abroad in the spring and therefore missed my junior season of collegiate lax, so I decided to join the club lax team. It was the best decision of my life! Everyone is so fun to play with and you get to travel with the team to different locations around Ireland.

Joining a club while you’re abroad gives you an automatic way to make friends in the country you’re studying abroad in. The Irish are so welcoming, so they’ll definitely want to be your friend and learn more about you!

If you’re wondering where to study abroad in Dublin, consider UCD!

Interested in seeing what a dorm looks like at UCD? We stayed in Glenomena, and put together a video on it.

Student discounts

There is an abundance of places around the city that you can get a student discount at. I recommend always showing your Student ID when you go somewhere. You never know, you might get a student discount this way.

Using Your Student Leap Card

The Student Leap Card actually also gives you some automatic discounts. They change from year to year, so just check on the back of your card to see a full list of all the places you can get discounts at!

Studying abroad in Dublin is truly an experience of a lifetime. If you’re thinking about it, go for it! It’ll be a whirlwind, but the people are so kind and there is so much to do. You won’t regret it!

Frequently Asked Questions About Studying Abroad in Dublin

What’s dublin like.

Well, Dublin is a very historic city with a lot of culture. It is also the capital of Ireland, so it is a very busy city. To me, it was comparable to Boston; I was a student in university at Boston when I studied abroad in Dublin.

What it’s like to study abroad?

It’s unlike anything you’ve imagined. You can delve into new cultures, travel for cheap, meet new people, and truly have the most unforgettable experience.

How to travel around Europe while studying abroad?

Use online search engines for cheap flights, like Skyscanner, to find amazing flight deals. Also, try to use train every once in a while; it can be more affordable. Plan your study abroad schedule so you can have long weekends , as most flight deals aren’t on Saturdays or Sundays.

Why study abroad in Ireland?

There are many reasons why you might want to study abroad in Ireland. The country is known for its stunning scenery, friendly people, and rich culture. And with English as the primary language spoken in Ireland, it’s a great place to study for international students.

What is it like in Ireland?

The Emerald Isle is a land of stunning natural beauty, with rolling green hills, dramatic coastline and friendly people. Ireland is also renowned for its rich history and culture, with ancient castles, traditional music and lively festivals.

Whether you’re looking to relax in the countryside or explore a vibrant city, there’s something for everyone in Ireland.

Save this post for later!

More IRELAND posts

If you’re planning a trip to Ireland, you’re in luck! I studied abroad there and have tons of Ireland posts. Explore them below!

• 17 Best Photo Spots in Ireland for Photographers & Instagrammers
• 18 Superb Dublin Instagram Spots
• Day Trip From Dublin to Kerry With Paddywagon Tours!
• How to Take a Day Trip to Howth from Dublin!
• 13 Prettiest Towns in Ireland
• How to Take a Day Trip From Dublin to Bray, Ireland
• 11 Best Free Things to Do in Dublin, Ireland
• 8 Incredible Cliffs of Moher Tours from Dublin, Ireland
• 6 Best Day Trips from Galway, Ireland
• Ultimate Guide to the Guinness Storehouse in Dublin, Ireland
• Finn Mccools Tours Review: Cliffs of Moher from Dublin
• Top 5 Cheap Eats in Dublin, Ireland
• How to Spend One Day in Dublin, Ireland

KP is the head blogger and founder behind Volumes & Voyages. After studying abroad in Dublin for a semester, KP got bitten by the travel bug. Now, she writes articles to help other travelers in between trips where she chases her wanderlust. KP has lived in many different places, including Boston MA, Denver CO, Las Vegas NV, southern VT, and Dublin IE.

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