Ah, Dublin! The Irish city where you’ll find music and laughter tumbling out of the doors on pub corners, colours parading the cobblestoned streets and the infamous dark, foam-topped liquid tipple. With ample things to do in Dublin as well as hearty food and drink offerings to satiate your hungry palette, it’s no wonder that tourists flock here in every season. Dublin truly is Ireland’s beating heart and we're going to help you discover Ireland's capital for yourself.
Getting Around the City
Dublin is super accessible and has tons of public transport routes running through it - so, whether you choose to drive yourself, take a bus or the train into the centre, you can be sure to get around without any problems. Or, pop on some comfy shoes and cover ground the old fashioned way to really drink in Dublin’s cultural scene!
As you make your way between attractions, make sure to make a beeline for some of the city’s famous landmarks - St Stephen’s Green, the stunning park that allows you to take a break from the hustle and bustle of city life. You’ll also want to hit Ha’Penny Bridge - Dublin's oldest pedestrian crossing over the river Liffey. Plus, don’t miss the famous O’Connell Street - there’s plenty going on here and it’s a major tourist attraction so definitely on the list of things to do in Dublin.
Top Things to Do in Dublin
Historical & Cultural Discoveries
As we begin our tour, we’re going to start by covering some of Ireland’s heritage - because, by going back in time, you can truly learn Dublin’s story.
The Historical Walking Tour
Whether you’re a history buff or simply an avid visitor keen to learn more whilst you’re on your trip to Ireland, the Historical Walking Tour is a great place to start on your list of things to do in Dublin. During the two hour tour you can visit various landmarks dotted across this great city, including; the famous Trinity College - where the likes of Oscar Wilde and Samuel Beckett spent their years studying, a trip to Dublin Castle and a jaunt to the Wood Quay Amphitheatre - plus there's tons more on their itinerary. Or, if you’d prefer to go at your own pace - visit each of these places individually but, with the walking tour you have the added bonus of a local tour guide who can answer any of your questions along the way.
Book of Kells
Within Trinity college, you can visit one of Dublin’s most visited attractions - the Book of Kells.
The Book of Kells is Ireland’s greatest cultural treasure, being one of the most famous and exquisite illuminated manuscripts in the world. You’ll find it within Trinity College’s stunning library where the book can be viewed with “your eyes only” - aka, no photographs or images can be taken of the book, so savour the moment.
National Museum of Ireland
Continuing our historical theme of things to do in Dublin, take a trip to Ireland’s National Museum to discover their natural history collection, see the artefacts and take a tour through their displays - all housed in the beautiful Georgian building. With free admission, you can stay all day long if you want!
Food and Drink Discoveries
Now that you’ve worked up an appetite, let’s consider all the things to do in Dublin that are a feast for the eyes as well as your stomach.
Temple Bar District
No trip to Dublin is complete without a visit to the Temple Bar District. Here, you’ll get a true taste of Dublin’s pub scene, being the heart of the city’s nightlife. Meander through the cobblestone streets, discover live musicians, and sip on a refreshing pint of Dublin’s finest nectar - the good ol’ pint of Guinness.
The Guinness Storehouse
Talking of Guinness, no list of “things to do in Dublin” is complete without a visit to The Guinness Storehouse. Learn the story of Guinness and how Arthur Guinness himself came to create the world famous ale. You can explore the storehouse in around two to three hours, where you can quench your thirst with taste testing experiences. And then, at the end of your tour, round off your visit with a nice cold pint of the good stuff at Gravity Bar - an iconic spot housed atop the Guinness Storehouse itself where you can drink in 360 degree views across the city. What better way to enjoy your drink of choice.
Local Delicacies
Dublin is famous for more than its ale - it’s also got some local delicacies that, if you’re visiting, should definitely be on your list of things to do in Dublin. Here’s our top picks.
Dublin Coddle
For a true taste of Dublin, you’ve got to taste this city’s speciality dish. As far as the food and drink scene goes, it doesn’t get more authentic than this. This heartwarming stew is made from a mixture of bacon, sausages, potatoes and onions. You can find this dish in most great pubs across Dublin, so take your pick and tuck in.
Dublin Bay Prawns
If you’re a seafood lover, you’ll want to put this one at the top of your food and drink hitlist whilst you’re in Dublin. Dublin Bay prawns, or shrimps, are a delicacy in the city and you can sample them at The Winding Stair - where this restaurant-come-bookshop (yep, you read that right!) offers up a unique and delicious dining experience.
Soda Bread
When in Dublin, you’ve got to sample some of the famous Irish soda bread - a staple in Ireland’s food and drink heritage. Find it in local bakeries dotted across the city - serve with traditional Irish butter and, for a sweet kick, a dollop of jam. Simple but very, very effective.
So, why wait to book your trip to Dublin? The city’s friendly residents will welcome you to their hometown with open arms and dulcet Irish tones. Visiting Dublin is a feast for the heart and soul - simply walking through this city you can enjoy the true Irish heritage that this city so warmly encapsulates. But, with so many things to do in Dublin, and all the food and drink offerings the country’s capital has to offer, you’ll be spoilt for choice. So, as the Irish like to say, "May your heart be light and your travels be bright!". Enjoy your stay.
Dublin - Your Q&A’s
Question: Is Dublin expensive to visit?
Answer: Dublin is relatively expensive compared to some European destinations, especially during peak season. However, there are ways you can save money on your trip:
- Visit in off peak seasons (April-May, September-October)
- Book in advance
- Utilise free attractions
- Look for budget friendly dining options and happy hours
- Stay outside of the city centre.
Question: What is Dublin famous for?
Answer: One of Dublin’s biggest claims to fame is the Guinness Storehouse. Although with the likes of Trinity College and the Book of Kells, there is far more to Dublin that it’s beer heritage.
Question: What documents do I need to travel to Dublin from the UK?
As a British National, you can visit and remain indefinitely in Ireland without a visa. All you need is a valid passport for entry.
Question: How many days are needed to visit Dublin?
Generally, 3-4 days is usually considered enough time to visit Dublin. This allows you to explore the main sights and attractions that Dublin has to offer, as well as also being able to go at a fairly leisurely pace.
Question: What currency is used in Dublin?
Answer: The currency in Dublin is the Euro, being part of the Republic of Ireland.
Question: Do I need cash in Dublin?
Answer: Cash is still accepted in Dublin and it’s certainly handy to have cash on hand for certain situations such as - tipping in restaurants/pubs, food trucks or farmers market stalls. Although the predominant payment method is now credit and debit cards.
Question: How much money do I need per day for visiting Dublin?
Answer: The average cost-per-day during your visit to Dublin will vary depending on the type of trip you’re looking for and the type of traveller you are. To help, we’ve broken this down into three brackets which include travel, accommodation, transportation, food and activities per day:
- Budget travellers - approximately €130 per person, per day.
- Mid-range travellers - approximately €225 per person, per day.
- Luxury travellers - approximately €355 per person, per day.
