A Visitor's Guide to Dublin
Hiya and welcome to my Visitor's Guide to Dublin! In celebration of living in Dublin for over a year, I wanted to compile a list of all the fun things Dublin has to offer. A city divided in two by the River Liffey, Dublin is rich in history and the people are some of the best in the world. Some people will tell you to skip Dublin if you are visiting Ireland, and I think that would be a huge mistake. There is plenty of craic to be had from free museums to Viking history to an unbeatable pub culture. It is worth your time to explore this city and dig a little deeper into its charm and history.
I put together this list as a means for you to decide what interests you. There is no ranking, or Top 10; it's simply a guide so that you can choose your own adventure. I have personally visited every place, either with Chris, or visitors, so I can say with confidence that each offers its own unique experience. It would be quite the challenge to undertake all of these in just a few days time, so pick a couple things, or pick lots, and enjoy this city. This list is not exhaustive by any means, and I will be adding to it as I continue to explore this city. [Vintage Tea Tours, Dublinia, and the Dublin Zoo are coming soon!]
Everything on this list is located in city centre, with the exception of a few, but everywhere is accessible by foot, lightrail, train, or taxi. There is a map with markers for you to easily find each place and get a sense of what is near what, so you can plan your days.
I have also included possible day trips you can take from Dublin, a list of pubs, our favorite restaurants, and a few insider tips about Dublin.
With that, tuck in, grab a pint of Guinness, and enjoy reading about all the things you can see and do in Dublin. And don't forget to start planning your trip to visit this cultural capital city!
THINGS TO DO IN DUBLIN
I. TOURS
Dublin Free Walking Tour
Start your trip to Dublin by acquainting yourself with the city and seeing all the highlights with the South Side Tour. The guides are very knowledgeable and take you on a fun journey through the city, teaching you about its history, culture, and buildings. Highlights include Trinity College, Dublin Castle, and St. Patrick's Cathedral. This group also offers a daily North Side tour featuring 1916 Easter Rising history and a pub tour.
Grab fish 'n chips at the legendary Leo Burdock's after the tour.
Website: https://www.dublinfreewalkingtour.ie [pre-booking not required]
Cost: Free + tip
Location: Meets at the Spire [pictured above] on O'Connell Street; ends at St. Patrick's Cathedral
Tour Times: Daily at 11:00 a.m.
Duration: Approximately 2 hours, 45 minutes
Viking Splash Tour
If you're looking for an alternative way to explore Dublin, why not try the boisterous Viking Splash Tour? Taking place on a bright yellow duck boat in the shape of a Vikings ship, you'll first drive around Dublin and then stay onboard as the vehicle turns into a boat and sets sail into Grand Canal, all while hearing fun facts about Dublin and yelling the occasional "argh!" at passersby.
*Bonus* You get to wear Vikings hats!
Website: http://www.vikingsplash.com [pre-booking advised]
Cost: €25 [January-June; September-December]; €27 [July & August)
Location: Departs from St. Stephen's Green North
Tour Times: Tours run daily several times per day; check website for details
Duration: Approximately 1 hour, 15 minutes
City Kayaking
Want to see the city from the River Liffey? City Kayaking offers a unique view of Dublin's bustling riverside with a two-hour trek up and down the river. With two to a kayak, it's not a strenuous excursion, but it can get your heart pumping if you want it to!
The tour guide will share facts at stopping points along the way and take pictures of the group in action.
Website: http://citykayaking.com [pre-booking recommended]
Cost: €33
Location: Right next to the Jeanie Johnston on North Wall Quay in the IFSC
Tour Times: Usually runs two tours daily; check website for details
Duration: 2 hours
II. MUSEUMS
Archeology Museum
Have you ever seen the preserved torso of a 2,000 year old man? Oh you haven't? Head to Ireland's Archeology museum to see the veins and fingernails of the bodies found perfectly preserved by the surrounding bogs. The museum also has exhibits on Pre-Historic Ireland, Viking Ireland, and Medieval Vikings, along with other temporary exhibits worthy of visiting.
Website: https://www.museum.ie/Archaeology
Cost: FREE
Location: Kildare St, Dublin 2
Opening Hours: Tuesday to Saturday 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.; Sunday 2:00 p.m - 5:00 p.m.; closed on Mondays
Duration: This can vary by person, but I would plan for 90 minutes
National Gallery of Ireland
If it's art you're interested in, make sure to head to the National Gallery of Ireland, which displays a collection of European art spanning from the 14th to 20th century. I personally enjoyed the paintings by Irish artists, but the museum does have a Monet, Rembrandt, and Picasso as well. If you go, don't forget to check out the courtyards for sculpture pieces.
Website: https://www.nationalgallery.ie
Cost: FREE
Location: Merrion Square West, Dublin 2
Opening Hours: Monday - Saturday: 9:15 am. - 5:30 p.m.; Thursday: 9:15 a.m. - 8:30 p.m.; Sunday: 11:00 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.
Duration: This can vary by person, but I would plan for 90 minutes
Natural History Museum
Affectionately nicknamed the "Dead Zoo," that's exactly what this place is. It is a collection of taxidermied animals ranging from the tiniest of insects to birds to those native to Africa. It is honestly a bit creepy, but it's free and worth popping into because you won't believe your eyes.
Website: https://www.museum.ie/Natural-History
Cost: FREE
Location: Merrion Street, Dublin 2
Opening Hours: Tuesday to Saturday 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.; Sunday 2:00 p.m - 5:00 p.m.; closed on Mondays
Duration: This can vary by person, but I would plan for 30 minutes
Little Museum of Dublin
Have 29 minutes to spare? Visit Dublin's tiniest museum dedicated to showcasing Dublin's history through the decades. Located right next to St. Stephen's Green in a beautiful Georgian building, the 29-minute guided tour is the perfect way to get an abbreviated sense of Ireland's capital city.
Website: https://www.littlemuseum.ie
Cost: €10
Location: 15 St. Stephen's Green, Dublin 2
Times: Open 7 days a week from 9:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Last entrance is at 4:45 p.m., except on Thursdays, when last admission is at 7:00 p.m.
Duration: 29 minutes, plus time afterwards to enjoy the museum's two floors of pictures
EPIC - The Irish Emigration Museum
Located in the Docklands, this is one of Dublin's newer museums, telling the story of the 10 million Irish who have emigrated from the island. It is probably my favorite museum in all of Dublin because it has a bit of everything -- political history, cultural history, sports, music, and celebrated artists. It has state-of-the art interactive galleries that make it a unique and fun experience and you walk away feeling like you learned a lot. It's completely worth the visit -- even Prince Harry and Meghan made a stop here on their official visit to Dublin.
Make sure to take your shot at learning a little River Dance!
Website: https://epicchq.com
Cost: €14
Location: CHQ Custom House Quay, Dublin 1
Opening Hours: Open 7 days a week from 10:00 a.m. - 6:45 p.m. Last entry at 5:00 p.m.
Duration: Approximately 90 minutes
Irish Museum of Modern Art
Located in the old Royal Kilmainham Hospital is the IMMA, a beautiful museum dedicated to contemporary life and art. Through 2021, they have a special exhibit featuring works from Lucian Freud, Sigmund Freud’s grandson, that is worth the visit and even better if you are there for one of its guided tours.
The museum is right across from Kilmainham Gaol, so it is an easy place to see before or after a jail tour.
Website: https://imma.ie
Cost: FREE
Location: Royal Hospital Kilmainham, Military Rd, Kilmainham, Dublin 8
Opening Hours: Tuesday - Friday from 11:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.; Saturdays from 10:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.; Sundays from 12:00 p.m. - 5:30 p.m.; closed on Mondays
Duration:
Hugh Lane Gallery
Believed to be the first modern art gallery in the world, the Hugh Lane Gallery opened in 1908 and houses collections by contemporary Irish artists and renowned French art, including Renoir’s The Umbrellas. Most interestingly, there is an exhibit entirely dedicated to Dublin-born Francis Bacon, whose London art studio was carefully dismantled and reconstructed in the gallery in 2001.
Afterwards, visit the Writer’s Museum right next door, or relax in the Garden of Remembrance across the street.
Website: http://www.hughlane.ie
Cost: FREE
Location: 22 Parnell Square North, Dublin 1
Opening Hours: Tuesday - Thursday from 9:45 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.; Fridays from 9:45 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.; Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.; Sundays from 11:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.; closed on Mondays
Duration: 60 minutes
III. DRINKING
Guinness Storehouse
Interested in having a pint of the black stuff? No better place to imbibe than the storehouse itself. Different than a brewery tour, Guinness' Storehouse is set up more like a museum with floors dedicated to the brewing process, Guinness family, and my favorite, the advertising floor. Once you get to the top, drink in that pint at the Guinness' Gravity Bar and enjoy 360º views of Dublin.
For anyone who doesn't drink alcohol, Guinness has a non-alcoholic beer option and it’s very tasty.
Website: https://www.guinness-storehouse.com/en
Cost: €18.50 - €25 [pre-booking not required, but highly suggested]
Location: St. James's Gate, Ushers, Dublin 8
Opening Hours: Open 7 days a week from 9:30 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Last admission at 5:00 p.m. Late opening during July and August from 9:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. Last admission at 6:00 p.m.
Duration: This tour is self-guided, so it can be as short or long as you want. I would plan at least 90 minutes.
Jameson Distillery Bow Street
A visit to Dublin would be incomplete without trying a little Irish whiskey and the Jameson Distillery is the perfect place to do it. Take the 40-minute guided tour to learn about Jameson's history, the distilling process, and partake in a whiskey taste testing. At the end of the tour, enjoy the daily grog, your free drink included with the tour. And DON'T forget to try one of the artisan cocktails at JJ's Bar. They are the best cocktails I have ever had. Ever.
Website: https://www.jamesonwhiskey.com/en-IE/visit-us/jameson-distillery-bow-st
Cost: €20 for the Bow Street Experience tour
Location: Bow St, Smithfield Village, Dublin 7
Opening Hours: Daily from 10:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Duration: Approximately 45 minutes; plus make time to enjoy a cocktail before and/or afterwards
Temple Bar
Considered Dublin's "Cultural Quarter," Temple Bar is the city's liveliest area filled with pubs, live music, and really good restaurants. Beyond the hen parties, crowds of drunk people, and overpriced pints, Temple Bar is a place to be appreciated for its murals, street entertainment, and food. For a list of our favorite pubs, scroll down below!
Website: None
Cost: None to walk around and enjoy the chaos; average cost of a pint is €6.50
Location: Dublin 2, walk across the Ha'Penny bridge, under the Merchant's Arch, down the narrow alleyway, and find yourself in a whole new world
Opening Hours: All day long; Irish pubs typically don't have set closing times, but a lot of them close between 1:00 a.m. - 2:00 a.m.
Duration: Up to you!
IV. HISTORY
Dublin Castle
Dublin Castle is a place that I had overlooked for quite some time since it is probably one of the most understated castles I have ever seen. That being said, I was blown away by the guided tour and I am so happy I did it. We went underground to see the original castle foundation from medieval times in the 13th century, toured the royal chapel, and saw the regal State Apartments that were way fancier than I would have ever imagined. My favorite thing that I learned was that during medieval times, the castle would put the heads of traitors on spikes displayed on the castle wall, and when archeologists excavated the grounds where the old moat existed, they found human skulls they believe to have been those heads that had fallen into the moat.
Website: http://www.dublincastle.ie
Cost: €10
Location: Dublin Castle, Dame St, Dublin 2
Opening Hours: Daily from 9:45 a.m – 5:45 p.m. Last admission 5:15 p.m.; Tours run on the hour
Duration: Guided tour is approximately 70 minutes
GPO Witness History
Perhaps one of the most important buildings in Dublin is the General Post Office, known to Dubliners as the GPO, for it was the headquarters for the 1916 Easter Rising rebels. It was here that Pádraic Pearse read aloud the 1916 Proclamation declaring Ireland a sovereign independent Republic. The rebels would keep this garrison until its emblazoned roof fell victim to the attacks by the British and collapsed. This would effectively bring the rebels to surrender after a week of fighting. This fateful week was not fought for nothing as it would help lead to Ireland’s independence in 1922.
The GPO Witness History is a self-guided, immersive look into Ireland’s fight for independence in the 20th century. This coupled with a visit to Kilmainham Gaol would give you a great sense of what went down in 1916.
Website: https://www.gpowitnesshistory.ie
Cost: €14 at the door; €12 if pre-booked online
Location: O’Connell Street Lower, Dublin 1
Opening Hours: Monday - Saturday from 10:00 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. [last admission at 4:30 p.m.]; Sundays from 12:00 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. [last admission at 4:30 p.m.]
Duration: Approximately 60 minutes
Glasnevin Cemetery
With 1.6 million people buried in Glasnevin Cemetery, there is no doubt that it is filled with history. Take the cemetery’s guided tour to learn about some of its most famous inhabitants, most notably Irish heroes, Daniel O’Connell and Michael Collins, and revel at the rows and rows of Celtic crosses. I can’t express enough how much we enjoyed this tour.
After the tour, pop over to the National Botanical Gardens, or go enjoy a pint at the famous Kavanagh’s Gravedigger’s Pub, which is in its original state from 1833.
Website: https://www.glasnevinmuseum.ie
Cost: €13 for the tour; €7 to go up the round tower [price if you took the tour]
Location: Finglas Rd, Botanic, Dublin 11 [take the 40 bus from O’Connell Street straight to Glasnevin]
Opening Hours: Guided tours run M-F at 11:30 and 2:30; Saturday & Sunday at 11:30, 2:30, and 3:30
Duration: Guided tour is 90 minutes, but plan more time to explore the area
Walk across Ha'Penny Bridge
Built in 1816, Ha'Penny is the River Liffey's oldest pedestrian bridge. Its official name is the Liffey Bridge, but its nickname comes from its history. Before the bridge existed, a man by the name of William Walsh ran ferries back and forth for anyone looking to cross the river. The ferries were in rough shape, so Walsh was told to either fix them up or a bridge was going to be built. He chose the bridge option, but in return, was granted permission to charge a "half penny" toll for 100 years for anyone who crossed the bridge. Thus, giving the bridge its nickname. This toll lasted until 1919 and I'm sure glad it's gone!
Website: None
Cost: Nothing ANYMORE :)
Location: Bachelors Walk, Dublin. If you're on the North side, walk towards the Winding Stair to find the entrance. If you're on the South side, walk towards the Merchant's Arch to find the entrance.
Opening Hours: 24/7
Duration: Cross as many times as you want. Pro tip, don't take your picture on the bridge because a) people will glare at you; and b) you won't see the bridge. Take your picture on the sidewalk with the bridge in the background.
Jeanie Johnston
Between 1845-1849, the Great Famine struck Ireland, which was the cause of 1 million deaths, but it also sparked mass emigration from the island. The Jeanie Johnston was one of the ships to take people on the voyage to their new lives. She took her maiden voyage in 1848 and made16 successful voyages across the Atlantic with a 100% survival rate, which was extremely rare in those times. A big reason for this success is the ship's owner kept a doctor onboard every voyage and allowed its passengers to walk around on the deck during nice weather. Learn more about Ireland's famine, emigration, and this incredible ship on the guided tour. *Bonus* There's a touch of Minnesota in its history!
Website: https://jeaniejohnston.ie
Cost: €10
Location: Custom House Quay, Dublin 1
Tour Times: April - October: 10:00, 11:00, 12:00, 2:00, 3:00, 4:00; November - March: 11:00, 12:00, 2:00, 3:00
Duration: Guided tour is 50 minutes long
Kilmainham Gaol
Built in 1796, Kilmainham was Ireland's most modern prison at the time. It played a big part in the housing of beggers and the poor during the famine, but this prison is most infamously known for its part in the 1916 Easter Rising. After the 1916 rebels were arrested, the men were imprisoned here and later 14 of them were executed by firing squad. Their deaths were the turning point for the road to Ireland's independence. Learn more about Kilmainham and its history on the wonderfully guided tour.
After visiting, grab a cocktail at local pub The Royal Oak to bring your spirits back up.
Website: http://kilmainhamgaolmuseum.ie
Cost: €8
Location: Inchicore Road, Kilmainham, Dublin 8
Opening Hours: Tours run daily, every 15 minutes, from 9:00 a.m. - 4:45 p.m. / 5:45 p.m. depending on the month; check website for details
Duration: 1 hour tour, plus add about an hour to explore the museum after the tour
V. PARKS
Merrion Square
Take a stroll through my favorite park, Merrion Square, to enjoy the gardens and visit the statue of one of Ireland's most beloved authors, Oscar Wilde. This statue is more than meets the eye because the artist traveled all around the world to find rare stones that not only come in those colors naturally, but can withstand the wind and rain of Dublin's climate. Merrion Square is also surrounded by the most beautiful Georgian architecture. The colorful doors of Dublin are not to be missed.
Website: None
Cost: Free
Location: Merrion Square, Dublin 2
Opening Hours: The park closes with the daylight, so be sure to visit during the day
Duration: Pop in to see Oscar for 5 minutes, walk around the park for 20 minutes, sit and enjoy for as long as you want
Phoenix Park
Dublin can boast about having the largest enclosed park in a capital city in Europe. Phoenix Park is 1,752 acres and is one of the most beautiful parts of the city. The park is home to the President of Ireland, the United States’ Ambassador to Ireland, the Dublin Zoo, and a herd of fallow deer that have been living in the park since the 1700s… just to name a few! The Pope recently held mass at the Papal Cross [pictured] in the summer of 2018. You could spend an entire day here and still not cover everything. Wear good walking shoes, or rent a bike at the park’s entrance to cruise through this expansive paradise.
Pop into local cozy pub the Hole In The Wall for lunch and a pint.
Website: https://www.instagram.com/frenchies_hugoandvictor/
Cost: Free
Location: Phoenix Park, Dublin 8
Opening Hours: Gates are open 24/7
Duration: However long you want!
St. Stephen's Green
Take a break from shopping on Grafton Street and walk through one of Dublin’s most beautiful parks, St. Stephen’s Green, donated to the City by the Guinness family. Take in the gardens, giant trees, and swans and ducks swimming in the ponds. Just beware of the bold seagulls — no joke. I've seen one grab a full takeaway bag out of a trash can before.
Afterwards, grab a pint at one of my favorite pubs in Dublin, the Dawson Lounge.
Website: http://ststephensgreenpark.ie
Cost: Free
Location: St. Stephen's Green, Dublin 2; just south of Grafton Street
Opening Hours: Monday – Saturday: from 7:30 a.m. – dusk; Sunday from 9:30 a.m. – dusk
Duration: As long as you want
VI. CHURCHES
Christ Church Cathedral
One of two cathedrals in Dublin [and they’re right next to each other], Christ Church Cathedral is a stunner. Viking and Norse King of Dublin, Sitriuc, founded the church in the 11th century. On the guided tour, learn about the church’s history; head down to the crypts to see the infamous “Tom & Jerry,” a mummified cat and rat; and climb the stairs to the belfry where you will get a great view of the city and the chance to ring the cathedral’s bells for all of Dublin to hear.
Website: https://christchurchcathedral.ie
Cost: €7 for a self-guided tour; an additional €4 for the guided-tour [worth it!]
Location: Christchurch Pl, Wood Quay, Dublin 8
Opening Hours: November - January: M-Sa from 9:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.; Sundays from 12:30 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.; March & October: M-Sa from 9:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.; Sundays from 12:30 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. & 4:30 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.; April - September: M-Sa from 9:30 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.; Sundays from 12:30 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. & 4:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Guided tours: Monday - Friday: 12:10, 2:00, 4:00; Saturdays: 2:00, 3:00, 4:00
Duration: 1 hour guided-tour; self-guided can be as short or long as you like
St. Michan's Crypts
UPDATE: Due to a recent robbery of the crypts, the Church has closed its crypts to the public indefinitely.
If you are a little more adventurous and enjoy the spookier things in life, the crypts of St. Michan’s is for you. Located beneath this 1686 church are the crypts, home to 800 year-old mummies perfectly preserved for the eyes to see. You can see their fingernails and learn why some have their hands and feet cut off. The tour guide alone is reason enough to take this tour — take it and you’ll see why. After the tour, get rid of your heebie jeebies with some whiskey at the Jameson Distillery right around the corner.
Website: http://www.cccgroup.dublin.anglican.org/Christ_Church_Cathedral_Group/St._Michans.html
Cost: €6 [cash only]
Location: Church St, Arran Quay, Dublin 7
Opening Hours: March 17 - October 31: M-F from 10:00 a.m. - 12:45 p.m. and 2:00 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.; Sa. from 10:00 a.m. - 12:45 p.m.; November 1 - March 16: M-F 12:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.; Sa. from 10:00 a.m. - 12:45 p.m.
Duration: 15 minute tour; 5 minutes to see the inside of the church; 5 minutes to explore the graveyard
St. Patrick's Cathedral
Probably one of the most famous stops in Dublin is St. Patrick’s Cathedral, founded in 1191 and named for the patron saint of Ireland. During your visit, see 1000 year-old Celtic grave slabs; learn where the phrase “to chance your arm” comes from with the Door of Reconciliation; and not only see where Jonathan Swift is buried, but learn that beyond writing “Gulliver’s Travels,” Swift was the acting Dean of St. Patrick’s Cathedral for more than 30 years.
Website: https://www.stpatrickscathedral.ie
Cost: €7
Location: St Patrick's Close, Wood Quay, Dublin 8
Opening Hours: March - October: M-F from 9:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.; Sa. from 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.; Sun. from 9:00 a.m. - 10:30 a.m., 12:30 p.m. - 2:30 p.m., 4:30 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.; November - February: M-F from 9:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.; Sa. from 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., Sun. 9:00 a.m. - 10:30 a.m., 12:30 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Duration: Plan on 30-60 minutes
VII. LIBRARIES
Chester Beatty Library
You would never guess it, but Dublin is home to one of the most spectacular collections of Asian and Middle Eastern manuscripts in the world. Winner of the “European Museum of the Year,” the Chester Beatty Library is easily one of the best museums in town. Its collections include snuff jars and scrolls from Ancient China, silk paintings from Japan, and gilded gold alphabet books for Ottoman princes. My personal favorite was the Tawara Toda scroll.
Don’t forget to grab a bite to eat in the museum’s Silk Road Café.
Website: http://www.cbl.ie
Cost: Free
Location: Dublin Castle, Dublin 2
Opening Hours: March - October: M-F 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.; Sa. 11:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.; Sun. 1:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.; November - February: Tu-F 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.; Sa. 11:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.; Sun. 1:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Duration: Plan to spend 60-90 minutes
Marsh's Library
Dublin’s first public library is a book lovers’ paradise. This teeny library is over 300 years old and has all of the original leather-bound, linen-paged books sitting on its shelves. In the Old Reading Room, see the very chairs that Bram Stoker and James Joyce sat in as they read literary works. My favorite part of the exhibit was actually the old maps of Ireland dating back to the 1600s. Located just behind St. Patrick’s Cathedral, it’s a little hidden gem of Dublin.
Website: https://www.marshlibrary.ie
Cost: €3
Location: St Patrick's Close, Wood Quay, Dublin 8
Opening Hours: Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, & Fridays from 9:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.; Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.; closed on Tuesdays and Sundays
Duration: Plan on 15-30 minutes
Trinity Library & The Book of Kells
Probably one of the most visited and photographed place in Dublin is Trinity College, the prestigious university founded in 1592 by Queen Elizabeth I. Much of the college is closed off to visitors, but you can visit the very famous Long Hall in the Old Library and the Book of Kells, an illuminated manuscript of the four Gospels and New Testament dating back to the 9th century. There is an entire exhibit dedicated to the Book of Kells, which is largely considered one of Ireland’s greatest treasures.
Website: https://www.tcd.ie/visitors/book-of-kells/
Cost: €14 [I highly suggest booking your tickets online ahead of time — you’ll get a slight discount and be able to skip the queue]
Location: The University of Dublin Trinity College, College Green, Dublin 2
Opening Hours: May to September: M-Sa from 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.; Sundays from 9:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.; October to April: M-Sa from 9:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.; Sundays from 12:00 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Duration: 30 minutes
VIII. SHOPPING
Grafton Street
Located South of the River Liffey is some of Dublin’s fanciest and best shopping on Grafton Street. There is everything from souvenir shops to the likes of Ted Baker, street musicians every 15 feet, and the Brown Thomas windows are something to be admired. There is no shortage of entertainment. If the crowds are too much, dip onto any of the side streets around Grafton for a cocktail or bite to eat at any of the great pubs and restaurants, like O’Neill’s, Pygmalion, or The Hairy Lemon. Keep in mind stores in Dublin close between 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Henry Street
If your nose isn’t stuck up in the air, head to the North side of town for a more colorful shopping experience on Henry Street. Located off of O’Connell Street from the Spire are a bunch of shops, including Dublin’s own, Arnott’s — a department store similar to Nordstrom. This will be a grittier shopping experience than Grafton Street, but it has character and there is bit of history involving the 1916 Easter Rising. Keep in mind stores in Dublin close between 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
IX. OUTSIDE CITY CENTRE
Getting outside of the hustle and bustle of Dublin’s city centre is made easy with the DART, Dublin’s train that runs up and down the coast of the Dublin Bay. I highly recommend hopping on the DART to enjoy the coastal views and see the charm of the seaside villages.
Hike the Howth Cliff Walk
Hop on the DART and head North to Howth, the northern peninsula in the Dublin Bay. Head on the road and hike the cliffside to get incredible views of the sea. Keep your eye out for Dublin’s Diving Club and porpoises coming up for air, but also make sure to watch your step! This hike is a little difficult and can be muddy, so make sure to wear the appropriate footwear. Reward yourself afterwards with a pint at the Summit Inn, or fish ‘n chips down in the harbour.
Website: None
Cost: Approximately €10-12 on the DART
Location: Get off the DART, walk down the harbour’s promenade, and ascend the hill to find the cliff path
Opening Hours: I recommend doing this during the daylight!
Duration: Plan a half day
Malahide Castle & Gardens
Also on the Northside is the Malahide Castle and Gardens. Take a guided tour of the 12th century castle that belonged to the Talbot family for 800 years. Revel in the beautifully decorated rooms, learn the origin of the phrase “to save face,” and see the walls that inspired the paint color “Malahide Orange.” Don’t forget to roam around the gardens, which contain plants from all around the world, and walk through the greenhouse filled with fluttering butterflies.
Website: https://www.malahidecastleandgardens.ie/the-castle/
Cost: €12.50
Location: Malahide Demesne, Malahide, Co. Dublin — it’s right outside the DART station, but takes about 5-7 minutes to walk to the ticket desk
Opening Hours: Daily from 9:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.; last tour at 4:30 p.m. April - October and 3:30 p.m. November - March
Duration: Guided tour is approximately 50 minutes; plan for 40-60 minutes to explore the grounds. There is also an Avoca store and a cafe for visitors as well.
Walk from Bray to Greystones
Take the DART South to Bray and walk the 5k cliffside path along the coast to the picture-perfect village of Greystones. The views are breathtaking. This walk is very easy with little elevation, but again, wear proper footwear since the path can be rocky at points. Both Bray and Greystones are lovely seaside villages with cute cafes and restaurants to enjoy before and/or after the walk.
Website: None
Cost: Approximately €10-12 on the DART
Location: Get off the DART, walk down the harbour’s promenade, and ascend the hill to find the cliff path
Opening Hours: I recommend doing this during the daylight!
Duration: Plan at least a half day
I wasn’t able to figure out a way to embed my Google Maps into this space, but if anyone would like me to share my “Visitor’s Guide” map with them, let me know in the comments and I can send it to you!
DAY TRIPS FROM DUBLIN
I recommend everyone who is visiting Ireland to get in a car and roadtrip around the country; however, I understand that isn’t an option for everyone for various reasons. If that applies to you, no worries, there are loads of day trips you can take from Dublin. If you run a Google search, you will be able to find every tour Dublin has to offer, but here are a few that I can personally recommend.
Splendour of Wicklow
Spend the day in the Wicklow Mountains and Glendalough National Park located just over an hour south of Dublin. This tour takes you to see Glencree, a filming location from P.S. I Love You, Guinness Lake, Glendalough, The Meeting of the Waters, and Avoca - home to Ireland’s oldest woolen mills and the nicest blankets ever. I’ve done this tour 3 times and would go on it over and over again.
Website: https://www.darbyogilltours.ie/ireland-day-tours/glendalough-mount-usher-wicklow/
Cost: €25 pre-booking online, which I highly suggest; €30 onboard price
Location: There are several pick-up locations in town, so pick the one closest to where you’re staying
Tour Times: Picks up in the morning between 10:15-11:15 depending on your pick-up spot
Duration: 8-10 hours depending on daylight; I’ve been back in town between 5:30-6:30 p.m. each time
Belfast
The capital of Northern Ireland has seen its hard times, but Belfast is an up-and-coming city filled with history and things to do. It’s only two hours North of Dublin and can easily be visited in a day if that’s all the time you have. There is a direct bus route to Belfast that runs every hour starting very early in the morning. Once you get off the bus, immerse yourself back to the early 1900s and make your way through the interactive and very well done Titanic Museum, located in the ship yard where the very cruise ship was built. Then, grab some of the best seafood chowder you’ll ever have at McHugh’s, located right across from the Albert Memorial Clock. Spend your afternoon learning about The Troubles on a Black Taxi Tour from a cab driver who lived through it and may or may not have participated in it. Then, pick your spirits back up with a cocktail at one of Belfast’s well-known pubs, The Crown, before heading back to Dublin.
Websbite: Bus: https://www.dublincoach.ie/timetables-fares/M1-bus-belfast-dublin-city.php
Titanic Museum: https://titanicbelfast.com
Black Taxi Tour: https://www.belfasttours.com — make sure to book in advance
Cost: Bus: €20 for a return trip
Titanic Museum: £18.50
Black Taxi Tour: 1-2 people = £35; 3+ people = £35 + £15 per extra person
Location: Bus: Custom House in Dublin
Titanic Museum: 1 Olympic Way, Queens Road, Titanic Quarter, Belfast BT3 9EP
Black Taxi Tour: You get to choose your pick-up and drop-off location(s)
Hours: Bus: 5:30 a.m. - 8:35 p.m.
Titanic Museum: check website for seasonal hours
Black Taxi Tour: 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Duration: Bus: 2 hours
Titanic Museum: Plan on 2 hours
Black Taxi Tour: Tours run for 90 minutes
Cliffs of Moher + Galway
A visit to ireland is not complete without getting out to the West Coast. If renting a car and driving on the left-side of the road isn’t your thing [but really, you can do it!], there are several day trips that you can take from Dublin to see the Cliffs of Moher and Ireland’s cultural city, Galway. You will get to appreciate the beautiful, green countryside of Ireland along the way before getting to see one of Ireland’s greatest treasures, the Cliffs of Moher. You will end the tour in Galway with a 30-minute walking tour and have time to grab a pint in one of Galway’s many lively pubs. It’s a long day, but a great option for those using Dublin as a base.
Website: https://wildrovertours.com/activity/cliffs-of-moher-atlantic-edge-ocean-walk-galway-city/
Cost: €45
Location: Several differnt pick-up points in Dublin City Centre
Tour Times: Pick-up is at 7:00 a.m. and arrival back into Dublin is around 7:30-8:00 p.m.
Duration: Tours run for approximately 12 hours
FAVORITE PUBS & RESTAURANTS
Pubs:
O’Donoghue’s — Merrion Row, Dublin 2
Fun atmosphere, has small beer garden
Dawson Lounge — Dawson Street, Dublin 2
Dublin’s smallest pub
Cobblestone — King Street North, Dublin 7
Traditional Irish music, “best pint of Guinness”
Doheny Nesbitt — Baggot Street Lower, Dublin 2
Great for watching matches, good food
The Oak — Parliament Street, Dublin 2
A fancier spot with great cocktails and a beautiful bar
The Brazen Head — Bridge Street Lower, Dublin 8
Ireland’s oldest pub dating back to 1198, serves a great Irish stew
Mulligan’s — Poolbeg Street, Dublin 8
A traditional Irish pub, sit in the same spot as James Joyce, President John F. Kennedy, or Judy Garland
The Long Hall — South Great George’s Street, Dublin 2
Small pub and favorite of Bruce Springsteen when he’s in town
The George & Panti Bar
LGBTQ favorites
The Stag’s Head — Dame Court, Dublin 2
Old pub known for its hospitality, but it’s located on a picture-perfect street
Jameson Distillery — Bow Street, Dublin 7
The best cocktails in Dublin hands down
These pubs are just some of our favorites. There are literally hundreds of pubs in Dublin and each one has its own charm. Just promise me you won’t get sucked into the Temple Bar pubs that will charge you €7 for a pint of Guinness.
Restaurants:
When people think of Ireland, they don’t normally associate it with great food, but Dublin’s restaurant scene is booming. If it’s traditional Irish food you’re looking for, Dublin has it. If it’s modern and trendy, Dublin has it. Because of Dublin’s international makeup, you can get any kind of cuisine your heart desires. I’m not kidding when I say I love the food here. My caution about Temple Bar goes away when it comes to food. Below are some of our favorites:
The Seafood Café — Fownes Street Upper, Temple Bar, Dublin 2
Lobster roll heaven, fresh oysters, great bloody marys, and my personal favorite
The Fish Shop — Queen Street, Dublin 7
3-, or 4-course meal with the best fish in town
Bunsen — several locations
Quick, messy, best burger in town
Herbstreet — Grand Canal Dock, Dublin 2
Fantastic brunch with comfort food favorites
Osteria Lucio — Grand Canal Quay, Dublin 2
trendy Italian, great pizzas
Brother Hubbard — Capel Street, Dublin 1
Innovative, Mediterranean-Irish fusion, brunch
Boxty House — 20-21 Temple Bar, Dublin 2
Modern Irish
The Ramen Bar
Traditional ramen
The Winding Stair
Traditional Irish with a modern flair
Featherblade
Rory McIlroy’s steakhouse at a reasonable price
Elephant & Castle
Great sandwiches, salads, and wings
San Lorenzo’s
Very good brunch with NYC vibes
777
Modern Mexican, trendy
GENERAL TIPS
Beyond where to go, what to see, and what to eat and drink, there are other facets of traveling that can be challenging. To help you maneuver your way through Dublin like a local, here are a few general tips for getting around and making it through the day with as few hiccups as possible.
Transportation:
Dublin is very walkable. A lot of the sites and restaurants are condensed to city centre on either side of the River Liffey. You can walk from one side of the city to the other in 25 minutes. Walking in Dublin can seem very cut-throat, so here are a few tips for walking around the city:
Dubliners walk fast. Like, racing for the Olympics speed-walking gold medal fast. Not that you need to walk this fast, but it’s not a bad idea to pick up your gait a little bit while making your way around the city.
They don’t walk down any particular side of the sidewalk. When we first moved here, I figured since Dubliners drive on the left side of the road, that they would walk on the left side of the sidewalk. Wrong. There is no rhyme or reason to the sidewalk traffic. It is complete madness out there. Don’t be surprised if you zig-zag your way down the sidewalk, weaving from right to left to down the center.
Don’t walk in the bike lanes. This goes for anywhere in the world, but just be careful to stay out of the marked bike lanes.
Pedestrians don’t seem to have the right-of-way when it comes to walking around town, so there is a chance a driver will not wait to let you cross a street.
Lastly, crosswalks and pedestrian traffic lights are virtually useless to Dubliners. They walk where and when they want and I love it. If you’re visiting, especially from a country that drives on the right side of the road, I advise you not to be as bold as the auld Dubliners when crossing the street since it could result in an accident. Just be safe and double-check before crossing the road.
Dublin City Bikes are available to rent. You’ll see them all over the city. Just be very careful. There are bike lanes on the roads, but streets are tight. Make sure to follow the traffic laws and bike defensively.
LUAS. The LUAS is the city’s lightrail system. There are two lines, the red and green, that run east to west, and north to south, respectively. It’s great for getting around on rainy days and to get to points in the city a little further away.
DART. The DART is Dublin’s train system that runs the coastline of the Dublin Bay. Take the train north to Howth, or south to Greystones.
LEAP card. If you’re going to be in Dublin awhile, it may be worth it to get a LEAP card, Dublin’s public transportation card. Each card costs €5 and then you add money to it as needed. You can use it on Dublin’s buses, the LUAS, and the DART.
MyTaxi. There are plenty of taxis in the city and riding in one may be an experience you can’t miss. Dublin taxi drivers are a chatty bunch and are great for a good laugh and even good recommendations for around town. Download the MyTaxi app onto your phone and you’ll be able to get wherever you want in no time.
Uber exists in Dublin, but is rarely used — MyTaxi is the way to go.
Getting from the Airport to City Centre:
Unlike a lot of other European capitals, there is no express train from the airport to the city centre; however, there is an express bus, and it’s fabulous. The Airlink Express is a double-decker green bus that runs nearly every 10 minutes back and forth from both airport terminals to several stops in Dublin’s city centre. There are two routes — the 747 and the 757. Check the routes and make sure you get on the correct bus, store your luggage in the luggage holding area, and enjoy the drive as you make the 30 minute drive into the city. Buy a return ticket for €12, or a single for €7. Tickets can be purchased online, at the ticket machines at the airport, use your LEAP card, or pay in cash to the driver directly.
You can also take a taxi. There is a continuous line of taxis at the airport. Just hop in the queue and wait your turn. Trips to city centre will run you about €25-28.
Tipping:
If you’re eating at a restaurant, it is customary to tip around 10%. Do not listen to people who say “they don’t tip in Europe” — it’s different in every country.
If you take a taxi, we usually tip 10% if using MyTaxi, or round up if paying with cash.
Cash vs. Card:
Dublin is a modern city and most places take credit or debit cards. It is advised to have some Euros on you for those instances where it’s cash only, or you just need a quick pint at the pub.
If you do pay with credit card, the card machine will ask if you want to pay in your home currency [i.e. USD], or Euros. Pay in Euros! Those card machines are essentially banks and you will get ripped off by its conversion rate. If you pay in Euros, your credit card bank will do the converting and it will be way more favorable, saving you money.
Doors:
Lol, what? I know, right? Why do I have a section on doors? Here’s why:
There are some buildings in Dublin that require you to push an “exit” button or switch in order for the door to unlock so you can leave. One time, I was trapped in a building’s foyer for about 10 minutes and ready to body slam my way out until I saw the exit button.
Locking doors — a lot of doors have two dead bolts and require you to turn the key twice all the way around. You’ll probably see this if you’re staying in an Airbnb.
Unlocking doors — some doors require that you lift up the handle while you turn the key to unlock the door. Again, you might see this if you’re staying in an Airbnb.
Toilets:
I have never had such a tough time flushing toilets than in Ireland. Just a quick tip, hold down the flusher until you see everything go down, otherwise you’ll cut the flush short and have to wait awhile to be able to flush again.
If you hear someone say they’re “going to the jacks,” they are headed to the toilet.
There you have it — my Visitor’s Guide To Dublin! I hope you enjoyed reading about all the great places you can see in Dublin and got some ideas for your own trip. I had so much fun over the last several months playing in my own city and falling in love with it over and over again.
If you are planning a trip to Dublin, make sure to check out my post 10 Words You Need To Learn Before Moving to Dublin!
If you have any questions at all, please do not hesitate to write in the comments! Thanks everyone!
Until next time…
Cheers! xo,
