Things To Do
in Finglas

Finglas is a historic suburb of Dublin, located just northwest of the city center. Once a rural village, it now blends residential neighborhoods with parks and local markets. It benefits from easy bus links and proximity to major roads, linking you to central Dublin and beyond.

With a friendly, down-to-earth community, Finglas offers a gateway to both urban life and nearby green spaces.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Historic Finglas Village
morning
:

Start your day with a stroll through the charming Finglas village, taking in the rich history of the area. Visit the historic St. Canice's Church, where you can admire its impressive architecture and learn about its significance in the local community. Enjoy a traditional Irish breakfast at a cozy café nearby, fueling up for a day of exploration.

afternoon
:

After breakfast, head over to the Finglas Heritage Centre to dive deeper into the local history and culture. Engage with interactive exhibits that showcase Finglas's past, from its early settlement to its role in modern Dublin. Take a leisurely walk through the surrounding parks, soaking in the lush greenery and serene atmosphere.

evening
:

As the sun begins to set, find a welcoming pub to enjoy some live traditional Irish music. Savor a hearty dinner featuring local dishes, perhaps a classic Irish stew. Wrap up your day with a pint of Guinness while mingling with friendly locals and sharing stories.

day 2
Nature Walks and Scenic Views
morning
:

Kick off the day with a refreshing walk in the nearby Tolka Valley Park, where you can enjoy the tranquility of nature and spot various bird species. The park’s pathways meander along the river, making it a perfect spot for photography and relaxation. Grab a coffee from a local vendor as you take in the morning air.

afternoon
:

Continue your day with a picnic lunch at the park, surrounded by lush greenery and the sound of flowing water. Afterward, explore the beautiful walking trails, enjoying the diverse landscapes and perhaps even some art installations scattered throughout the area. Don’t forget to stop by a nearby playground if you're traveling with children.

evening
:

Return to Finglas for a delightful dinner at a restaurant known for its locally sourced ingredients. Try some traditional Irish fare while enjoying the warm ambiance of the place. Conclude your evening with a leisurely stroll around Finglas, appreciating the peace of the neighborhood at night.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$12-18
Coffee or tea$3-5
🚆One-way transit ticket$2-4
🛒Groceries (weekly)$60-120
🏨Mid-range hotel per night$90-180

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Close to Dublin city with easy access to green spaces
  • Friendly local pubs and everyday Irish culture
  • Affordable accommodation options relative to central Dublin
  • Some areas experience traffic and slower public transport options
  • Accommodation and dining can be pricier due to proximity to Dublin city center
  • "Dia dhuit" - Hello
  • "Sláinte" - Cheers
  • "Cad is ainm duit?" - What is your name?
  • "Conas atá tú?" - How are you?
  • "Le do thoil" - Please
  • "Go raibh maith agat" - Thank you

Places to Visit in Finglas

Visit one of these nice places.

Ward River Valley Park – Riverside trails

Woodland and river scenery perfect for tranquil nature photos and wildlife shots.

Royal Canal Greenway viewpoints

Long canal paths with bridges and locks offering reflections and light at golden hour.

Finglas Village historic Churchyard

Classic Irish churchyard scenes with old stonework and local architecture for atmospheric portraits.

Culinary Guide

Food in Finglas

Finglas sits within easy reach of Dublin’s vibrant pub culture and traditional Irish cooking, with hearty dishes and fresh produce available in local spots.

Finglas Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Irish stew

A hearty stew made with mutton or beef, potatoes, carrots, and onions, often served with crusty bread in pubs.

Must-Try!

Boxty

Potato pancake baked or fried, commonly found in Irish breakfasts and pubs.

Colcannon

Creamy mashed potatoes with kale or cabbage, a comforting side dish in many Irish homes and pubs.

Dublin Bay prawns

Delicate shrimp often served in seafood restaurants and pubs along Dublin’s coast and nearby areas.

Full Irish breakfast

A classic fry-up featuring eggs, sausages, bacon, black and white pudding, and toast.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Finglas Market

A local market offering fresh produce, baked goods, and ready-to-eat snacks on weekend mornings.

Dublin Farmers Market (nearby)

Seasonal farmers markets with fruit, vegetables, cheese, bread, and street food vendors.

Temple Bar Food Market (city center)

Popular market in central Dublin offering a range of street foods and beverages; a short trip from Finglas.

Climate Guide

Weather

Ireland's temperate maritime climate features mild winters and cool summers with rainfall spread throughout the year; expect changeable conditions and frequent showers.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting and communication

A friendly greeting with a handshake; polite conversation and local small talk are common.

Respect for privacy

Respect personal space in crowds; queue etiquette at shops and markets.

Safety Guide

Safety

Finglas is generally safe but exercise normal city-area precautions: keep valuables secure, stay in well-lit areas at night, and be mindful of traffic when walking near busy roads.

Tipping in Finglas

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is appreciated for good service, commonly 10-15% in restaurants if service charge is not included.

Payment Methods

Cash and cards (including contactless) are widely accepted; tap-to-pay is common in shops and transit.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Mild to warm days with long daylight hours; showers are possible—dress in layers and carry a light rain jacket.

Autumn

Brisk air and autumn foliage in parks; expect rain and wind—layer up and bring a waterproof layer.

Winter

Cool and damp with shorter days; indoor venues and pubs are popular, keep warm footwear handy.

Spring

Milder days with fresh greenery; showers are common but sunny spells frequent—great for outdoor strolls.

Nightlife Guide

Finglas at Night

The Finglas nightlife centers on traditional Irish pubs and casual venues with live music or sports, offering a relaxed, friendly atmosphere rather than a party-focused scene.

Hiking in Finglas

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Ward River Valley Park trails

Accessible hiking and cycling routes along the Ward River with scenic views.

Dublin Mountains Way (short access)

Day-trip hiking segments reachable for varied terrain from Finglas.

Airports

How to reach Finglas by plane.

Dublin Airport (DUB)

Ireland's main international gateway, about 8-12 miles from Finglas; accessible by bus, taxi, or car.

Getting Around

Walkability

Finglas Village is fairly walkable with good footpaths and frequent local services; longer trips into the city center usually rely on buses or taxis.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

A family-friendly suburb with parks and schools.

Working professionals

Commuters who travel to Dublin city or other areas for work.

Students and immigrants

A diverse community with students and new arrivals in the city.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Gaelic football

A popular sport across Dublin with local clubs and community involvement.

Soccer (Football)

Widely played and supported in the region with local clubs and matches.

Transportation

Traffic

Dublin traffic can be heavy during peak hours; local buses and the LUAS tram system are available; allow extra time for trips into the city center.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Finglas.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Vegetarian options are widely available in Finglas pubs and cafes; look for veggie pies, salads, and veggie mains.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare is accessible via Dublin's hospitals and GP clinics; Beaumont Hospital and other major centers (e.g., Crumlin, Temple Street, Tallaght University Hospital) are within reasonable reach.

Discover Ireland

Read more in our Ireland 2025 Travel Guide.

Ireland Travel Guide