Things To Do
in Dublin
Dublin is a compact, spellbinding capital where Georgian elegance meets a modern, friendly energy. The Liffey divides the city into historic and contemporary quarters, each with its own character from cobbled lanes to riverfront promenades. Visitors are quickly drawn to its pubs, museums, literary heritage, and welcoming locals.
In just a few days you can taste traditional fare, explore ancient sites, and enjoy vibrant nightlife along the riverbanks.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a hearty Irish breakfast at a local café, savoring traditional dishes like black pudding and eggs. After breakfast, stroll to Dublin Castle, where you can explore its stunning architecture and lush gardens. Don't forget to visit the Chester Beatty Library for a dose of culture and history.
Head over to the nearby Christ Church Cathedral, one of Dublin's oldest landmarks, and take in its impressive stained-glass windows and medieval crypt. For lunch, pop into the bustling Temple Bar area, where you can enjoy a delightful meal at one of its many restaurants. After lunch, visit the Dublinia exhibition to learn about the Viking and medieval history of the city.
As the sun sets, make your way to the lively Temple Bar district, known for its vibrant nightlife and traditional Irish music. Enjoy dinner at a local pub, where you can try some Irish stew or fish and chips while listening to live music. Finish your evening with a leisurely stroll along the River Liffey, taking in the illuminated bridges and vibrant atmosphere.
Start your day with a visit to the Dublin Writers Museum, where you’ll gain insight into the lives of famous Irish authors like James Joyce and W.B. Yeats. Afterward, take a leisurely walk to the historic Trinity College to see the Book of Kells, an exquisite manuscript dating back to the 9th century. Don’t forget to explore the stunning Long Room of the Old Library, filled with thousands of ancient books.
Post-lunch, delve into the world of literature at the Oscar Wilde Center, where you can learn about the life and works of this iconic playwright. Head over to Merrion Square to see the colorful Wilde Memorial sculpture and enjoy a peaceful afternoon in the park. As you reflect on Wilde’s wit and charm, consider picking up a novel by one of Dublin’s famous authors at a local bookstore.
In the evening, attend a play at the Abbey Theatre, known as Ireland’s National Theatre, to experience the rich tradition of Irish drama. After the show, join a literary pub crawl to visit famous pubs frequented by writers and enjoy readings of their works. Conclude your day with a pint of Guinness in hand, soaking in the atmosphere and stories of Dublin's literary past.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-15 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $3-5 |
| 🍺Pint of beer | $6-9 |
| 🧃Bottle of water | $1-2 |
| 🍽️Meal at mid-range restaurant | $20-35 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich history and literary heritage
- Vibrant pub culture and nightlife
- Compact city center that's easy to walk
- Good access to day trips in Wicklow and the coastline
- Warm, friendly locals
- Can be expensive, especially in dining and nightlife
- Crowded in peak season and touristy areas
- Weather can be changeable and wet
- "Dia dhuit" - Hello (Irish Gaelic)
- "Sláinte" - Cheers
- "Go raibh maith agat" - Thank you
- "Le do thoil" - Please
- "Conas atá tú?" - How are you?
Places to Visit in Dublin
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic iron pedestrian bridge spanning the Liffey, with reflective water and city viewpoints.
Gothic façade and grand interiors; compelling exterior shots and sacred interior spaces with permission.
City green with lakes, seasonal blooms, and genteel pathways—great for portraits and landscape shots.
Elegant Georgian streets and historic courtyards with a cinematic atmosphere.
Tall stainless-steel spire on O'Connell Street providing a modern urban silhouette against the skyline.
Food in Dublin
Dublin Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A slow-cooked mixture of lamb or beef, potatoes, carrots, and onions, often found in traditional pubs.
Must-Try!
A potato pancake typically served with goodness like sour cream, smoked salmon, or Irish bacon.
A comforting mix of sausages, bacon, onions, and potatoes slowly cooked together.
A creamy soup featuring fresh Irish seafood such as salmon, cod, and prawns, often thick with potatoes.
Dense, hearty bread leavened with baking soda; great with butter and jams in cafes and pubs.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic market hall with fresh produce, prepared foods, and casual bites in Dublin 2.
Weekend market with street food stalls offering global and local snacks and drinks.
Coastal market offering fresh seafood, artisanal goods, and waterfront vibes (weekends).
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Respect queues and avoid loud behavior in quiet spaces; greetings like 'hello' and 'thank you' go a long way.
Friendly banter is common; small talk about weather or sports is typical; modestly avoid controversial topics in initial interactions.
Safety
Tipping in Dublin
Ensure a smooth experience
Service charges are sometimes included; if not, 10-15% in restaurants is common; rounding up at pubs is appreciated.
Cash and contactless cards are widely accepted; tips can be paid by card where applicable; ATMs are plentiful.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long daylight hours, mild to warm temperatures, and lively outdoor scenes; occasional showers require a light rain jacket.
Pleasant temperatures with colorful foliage; comfortable for long strolls and photography; variable rain.
Cool and damp conditions with short daylight; outdoor plans shift to indoor museums and pubs; layer up.
Milder days, budding greenery, and increasing outdoor activity; rain gear recommended for intermittent showers.
Dublin at Night
Hiking in Dublin
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic coastal loop with dramatic sea views and photo opportunities just north of the city.
Hiking trails in the Dublin Mountains with varying lengths and elevations close to the capital.
Airports
How to reach Dublin by plane.
Main international gateway located about 10-12 miles north of the city center; accessible by the Airlink bus (747), other buses, taxi, or private transfers; typical travel time 20-40 minutes depending on traffic.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Large student population from Trinity College and nearby institutions; diverse international students.
Many graduates and expats working in tech, finance, education, and creative sectors.
Local families and visitors exploring heritage sites and parks.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Traditional Irish sports (Gaelic football and hurling) with games at local clubs and big venues like Croke Park.
Premier League and European football popular in pubs and at Aviva Stadium for international matches.
Rugby Union matches and club play; Aviva Stadium hosts international fixtures and domestic games.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Dublin.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Look for veggie mains and sides; many pubs and restaurants clearly mark vegetarian options and can adapt dishes on request.