The Irish Road Trip

24 Best Things To Do In Dublin In 2024

By Author Keith O'Hara

Posted on Last updated: January 30, 2024

24 Best Things To Do In Dublin In 2024

This guide to the best things to do in Dublin is filled with places that I’ve been to 15+ times over the years and that I’m  confident  you’ll love.

You’ll find the ‘old reliables’ , like the Guinness Storehouse, the Howth Cliff walk and many of the best places to visit in Dublin for first-time-visitors.

But  you’ll also find ‘hidden’ gems, like Marsh’s Library, that many Dubliners have yet to discover .

This guide on what to do in Dublin is a collection of places that I’ve been to and, more importantly, have kept going back to, during the 35 years that I’ve spent living in Ireland’s capital . Dive on in!

Table of Contents

The best things to do in Dublin, Ireland

what to do in Dublin map

Click to enlarge map

Deciding on what to do in Dublin can be tricky. If you’re only visiting for a day, see our 24 hours in Dublin itinerary or our 2-day Dublin itinerary if you’re here for the weekend.

Right – I’ll stop yammering on. Here are our  favourite places to visit in Dublin at any time of year!

1. Kilmainham Gaol

Kilmainham Gaol

Photos via Shutterstock

Kilmainham Gaol opened in 1796 as the County Gaol (prison) for Dublin City and the wider county. It was within its walls that leaders of the 1798, 1803, 1848,1867 and 1916 rebellions were detained.

Many members of the Irish Republican movement during the Anglo-Irish War (1919-21) were also held in Kilmainham Gaol.

The tour is immersive, enlightening and, at times, harrowing and the guides are knowledgable and entertaining in their delivery.

Handy tip: Book ahead! A visit to Kilmainham Gaol is one of the top things to do in Dublin – it’s often booked out days in advance.

2. The Dublin Mountains

best dublin walks

Click to enlarge

If you’re looking for fun things to do in Dublin this weekend that’ll take you away from the hustle and bustle, point your nose in the direction of the Dublin Mountains .

It’s here that you’ll find some of the best walks in Dublin ! Located to the south of the city, the Dublin Mountains are actually an extension of the Wicklow Mountains .

They’re around a 30-minute spin from the city and there’s heaps of walks to tackle here. Our favourites are:

  • The Hell Fire Club
  • Cruagh Wood  
  • Tibradden Wood
  • Ticknock  
  • Carrickgollogan Forest

3. Marsh’s Library

Marsh's Library

Photos by James Fennell via Failte Ireland

You’ll find one of the most unique places to go in Dublin just behind St Patrick’s Cathedral .

Founded in 1707, Marsh’s Library holds roughly 25,000 books and over 300 manuscripts and it is the oldest library in Ireland.

As you wander around Marsh’s, keep an eye out for holes in the bookcases, which were made during the Easter Rising when the hotel next door was being occupied.

Handy tip: Make sure to check out the visitor ledger. You’ll see the signatures of Bram Stoker, James Joyce and more

4. The Howth Cliff Walk

Howth Cliff Walk

The Howth Cliff Walk is hard to beat when the weather’s good. You can get a DART directly from Dublin City Centre to Howth and the 5 trails kick-off from the village.

The trails range from 1.5 to 3.5 hours and vary massively in difficulty level. Each treats you to glorious coastal views throughout.

When you’ve finished your stroll, there’s plenty more things to do in Howth , or you can just take it handy with a post-walk-feed.

There are plenty of  hikes near Dublin , but this one tends to be the most popular, so try and get here early if you can to avoid the crowds.

5. Trinity College

Trinity College

Arguably one of the best things to do in Dublin if you like to go off review scores online, Trinity College is well worth nipping into.

Trinity College was created by royal charter from Queen Elizabeth I in 1592 with the goal of ‘bringing prestige’ to Ireland at a time when many other European countries were also founding important centres of education.

Take a saunter around the grounds (free) and then head in to see the incredible Long Room Library and the ancient Book of Kells .

Related read: Check out our guide on where to stay in Dublin (a guide to the different areas)

6. St Patrick’s and Christ Church Cathedral

Christ Church Cathedral

St Patrick’s Cathedral and Christ Church Cathedral are both well worth a visit (it helps that it’s a 7 minute walk between the two!).

St Patrick’s was founded in 1191 but construction on the current cathedral didn’t kick-off until around 1220 and took a good 40 years to finish!

Founded by the first bishop of Dublin and Sitriuc, Norse king of Dublin, Christ Church Cathedral dates back to around 1030.

Both structures are packed with history and they’re a handy option if you’re wondering what to do in Dublin when it rains!

7. The Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour

Dublin bus tour

Photos via GetYourGuide

The Hop-on Hop-off Tour of the city (affiliate link) is widely regarded as one of the best things to do in Dublin by visiting tourists.

It’s a handy way to get around without a car and it takes in many of the most popular attractions in Dublin, like St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Ha’penny Bridge , Temple Bar and the Guinness Storehouse.

You can grab a 24 or a 48-hour ticket and it’ll set you back around €30. The reviews speak for themselves.

Fancy exploring on foot for free? Follow our self-guided walking tour of Dublin !

8. The Guinness Storehouse

Guinness Storehouse

Photos © Diageo via Ireland’s Content Pool

Another attraction that’s widely considered to be one of the best things to do in Dublin by visiting tourists is the world-famous Guinness Storehouse .

You’ll find it standing proudly at St James’s Gate on the site where Arthur Guinness set up shop with a 9,000-year lease in 1759.

There are several tours that you can head off on here but, if you can, opt for the guided tour as you’ll get a better insight into the history of the factor.

The tour finishes with a pint in the Gravity Bar where you’ll be treated to a superb view over the city.

9. Dublin Castle

Dublin Castle

Few castles in Dublin are as impressive as the  very  central  Dublin Castle , which is based just off buzzy Dame Street.

The tour here, which is very often overlooked by those of us living in the capital, is arguably one of the best things to do in Dublin.

On it, you’ll listen as the experienced guides tell countless tales about everything from underground chambers to Medieval towers. 

Dublin Castle was developed as a medieval fortress under the orders of King John of England and construction began in 1204 following the invasion of 1169.

10. Dublinia

Dublinia

Photos courtesy Dublinia via Ireland’s Content Pool

If you’re wondering what to do in Dublin to discover the city’s Viking past, look no further than the Dublinia Tour. The tour here is one that has been recommended to me time and time again.

Those that embark upon it will meet the Vikings face to face while learning about life during the Medieval period in Dublin.

Visitors will discover what life was like on a Viking battleship, learn about the long and treacherous voyages and discover the skills needed to be a Viking warrior.

If you’re looking for fun things to do in Dublin this weekend, the Dublinia tour is well worth doing. You can visit nearby Christ Church Cathedral when you’re done.

11. Dublin’s whiskey distilleries

dublin distillery tours

If you’re looking for places to visit in Dublin with a group of friends, there are a handful of whiskey distilleries in Dublin who’s tours have racked up rave reviews online over the years.

While the best known is arguably the Jameson Distillery on Bow St., the  Pearse Lyons Distillery , the Roe and Co Distillery and the Teeling Distillery are all worth a visit.

If you’d prefer a pint, the likes of the world-famous Guinness Storehouse and the often-missed Rascals Brewing Company in Inchicore are worth checking out, too.

12. The Phoenix Park

Wellington Monument

The Phoenix Park is one of the better known of the many parks in Dublin . It’s the largest park within any European City and there’s plenty to see and do.

If you fancy a day out with a difference, you can rent bikes at the main entrance of the park and zip around all of the various attractions.

You can stop off for coffee over at the Hole in the Wall pub, see the Papal Cross and admire Áras an Uachtaráin from afar.

If you’re on the hunt for places to go in Dublin a stone’s throw from a plethora of other attractions, get yourself here. Some other parks in the county work visiting are:

  • Marlay Park
  • Newbridge House
  • Ardgillan Castle
  • Iveagh Gardens
  • St. Catherine’s Park
  • St Anne’s Park

13. Killiney Hill

Killiney

The Killiney Hill walk is another peach of a ramble that has an option to suit both fit and unfit walkers.

If you fancy a mini-hike, follow the 30-minute trail outlined here . If you want to avoid as much incline walking as possible, drive up to the main car park. The ‘summit’ is a short walk from there.

The views from Killiney Hill on a clear day are outstanding and you’ll be given a good eyeful of the surrounding city and county.

14. Historic pubs

Dublin Pubs

Dublin’s nightlife is hard to bate, once you know where to look (if you’re new to the city, try our self-guided Dublin pub crawl – you’ll visit some mighty old-school pubs).

In our guide to the best pubs in Dublin , you’ll find loads of old-school pubs worth nipping into.

If you fancy something a bit different, there’s everything from nightclubs to rooftop bars on offer. Here’s some guides to hop into:

  • Pubs that do the best Guinness in Dublin
  • 7 of the oldest pubs in Dublin
  • The swankiest cocktail bars in Dublin
  • The liveliest nightclubs in Dublin
  • The coolest rooftop bars in Dublin
  • The best beer gardens in Dublin

15. Malahide Castle

Malahide Castle

Malahide Castle is a handy 30-minute spin from Dublin City on the DART and the area is a great spot to spend a day.

The castle here dates to the 12th Century and it’s construction was ordered by Richard Talbot after he was given the land by King Henry II.

You can take a tour of the castle, explore the beautifully maintained grounds and then head into the village – there’s plenty of things to do in Malahide and there are heaps of great pubs and restaurants dotted around its village.

Related read: These are 27 of the best things to do in Dublin with kids

16. Beautiful beaches 

beaches in dublin

Some of the best places to visit in Dublin are the sandy stretches (and the ‘hidden’ swimming spots) that are dotted along its magnificent coastline, as you’ll discover in our guide to the best Dublin beaches .

From tourist favourites, like Dollymount Strand and Sandycove Beach , to lesser-know spots, like Burrow Beach , there’s something to tickle every fancy. Here are our favourites:

  • Seapoint Beach
  • Donabate Beach
  • Portmarnock Beach
  • Howth Beach
  • Killiney Beach
  • The Forty Foot

Don’t fancy the sand? There’s plenty of swimming pools in Dublin too!

17. Botanic Gardens, Glasnevin Cemetery and Gravedigger combo

Glasnevin Cemetery

So, this is a bit of a random combo, but bear with me. Out in Glasnevin, a stone’s throw from Dublin City Centre, you’ll find a fine way of whittling away an afternoon.

Kick start your visit with a saunter around the glorious National Botanic Gardens . The story of the gardens begins at the end of the 18th century and, nearly 200 years later, they’re still delighting locals and tourists alike.

When you’ve finished up, you’re a short ramble away from Glasnevin Cemetery , where you can discover the stories of 1.5+ million people on one of several tours (you could also do the nearby Croke Park tour , if you fancied).

To round off your visit to the area in style, take the short walk from Glasnevin to the Gravediggers – it’s here you’ll get some of the best Guinness in Dublin .

Related read: Check out our guide to 32 of the best things to do in Ireland in 2024

18. The Viking Splash

Viking Splash Tour

Photos via Viking Splash on FB

The Viking Splash Tour is one of the most popular fun things to do in Dublin City Centre, and you tend to see it (or hear it!) as you walk around the city.

The Viking Splash provides a nice quirky way to explore Dublin City from the comfort of a WWII amphibious vehicle.

These vehicles can travel on land and water, which means you’ll be spending the first half of the tour driving around the city and the second, yep you guessed it, on the water.

Related read: Check out our guide to the best free things to do in Dublin today (a mix of outdoor attractions and museums)

19. Poolbeg Lighthouse walk

Poolbeg Lighthouse walk

The Poolbeg Lighthouse walk is another good option if you’d like to escape the hustle and bustle of the city for a bit without having to stray too far off-the-beaten-path.

You’ll find the little red Poolbeg Lighthouse on the Great South Wall where it has been since 1768. 

There are two different trails here – a long one, which kicks-off at Sandymount Strand (2.5 hours) and a short one, which starts from the car park on Pigeon House Road (1 hour).

The walks take you right out into Dublin Bay and offer some lovely coastal views (warning: dress sensibly – it gets  very  windy!).

Related read: Check out our guide to the best 5 star hotels in Dublin (from historic accommodation to modern and boutique hotels in Dublin )

20. Dublin’s coastal towns

Howth Dublin

Dublin’s home to plenty of lovely seaside towns and villages that make a great day-trip-destination if you fancy getting away from the city.

Although the likes of Howth , Malahide and  Dalkey tend to attract a lot of the footfall, there’s plenty of other scenic towns to explore.

Places like Killiney , Skerries , Dun Laoghaire and Clontarf are just some of the other areas worth nipping out to, as they’re home to plenty to do and lots of places to eat and drink.

Don’t limit yourself to the various things to do in Dublin City, hop on the DART and head off to one of the many towns and villages nearby. They might surprise you.

21. Mighty museums

Chester Beatty

Photos courtesy of Chester Beatty via Ireland’s Content Pool

Dublin City gets a bad aul rap. Sure, there’s plenty of areas to avoid in Dublin but, for the most part, the city’s a fine spot for a day out, especially when it comes to museums.

Although it’s the EPIC museum , that tends to get a lot of the attention online, there’s plenty more that’ll come in handy if you’re wondering what to do in Dublin when the weathers poor.

Here are our favourites:

  • 14 Henrietta Street
  • Little Museum of Dublin
  • National History Museum
  • The National Gallery of Ireland
  • Irish Museum of Modern Art

22. Tourist favourites

what to do in Dublin with kids

There’s endless tourist activities in Dublin, as you’ve probably guessed, and you could easily spend a week working your way around them

If you’re still struggling to decide what to do in Dublin, here are some final suggestions for you:

  • O’Connell monument
  • St Stephen’s Green
  • The Famine Memorial
  • Molly Malone statue
  • Parks in Dublin
  • Mini golf in Dublin
  • Dublin architecture
  • Art galleries in Dublin
  • Merrion Square  
  • Dalkey Island
  • Dublin Bay Cruises
  • Bohernabreena Reservoir
  • Ireland’s Eye
  • St Michan’s Church
  • The Marino Casino
  • Sorrento Park

23. A very overlooked food scene

the best restaurants in Dublin City

If you’re wondering what to do in Dublin after a day spent exploring, or if you fancy a tasty breakfast or lunch, you’re in luck.

There’s countless great restaurants in Dublin , from Michelin Star restaurants and places for bottomless brunch to dive cafes and more. Here’s some guides to nip into:

  • Bottomless brunch in Dublin
  • Afternoon tea in Dublin
  • Best breakfast in Dublin
  • Best brunch in Dublin
  • Michelin Star restaurants in Dublin

24. Day trips from Dublin

the spinc hike Ireland

If you’ve ticked-off the various activities in Dunlin mentioned above and below and you fancy exploring some places near the city, you’ve loads to choose from.

There’s  heaps  of day trips from Dublin that you can head off on (either solo or via an organised tour – more info here ). Here are some of our favourites near the city:

  • 30 mighty things to do in Wicklow
  • 16 lovely walks in Wicklow
  • 29 adventurous things to do in Meath
  • 41 of the finest things to do in Louth

What to do in Dublin: Where have we missed?

I’ve no doubt that we’ve unintentionally left out some brilliant places to visit in Dublin in the guide above.

If you have a place that you’d like to recommend, let me know in the comments below and I’ll check it out!

FAQs about what to see in Dublin

We’ve had a lot of questions over the years asking about everything from ‘What are the most unique things to see in Dublin?’ to ‘I’m wondering what to do in Dublin at night?’.

In the section below, we’ve popped in the most FAQs that we’ve received. If you have a question that we haven’t tackled, ask away in the comments section below.

What are the best things to do in Dublin this weekend?

Our favourite places to visit in Dublin are the Dublin Mountains, Dalkey and/or Killiney, Howth and Dublin City, as there’s plenty to see and do.

What are the most unique places to visit in Dublin?

If you’re looking for fun things to do in Dublin this weekend, the likes of the kayak tours to Dalkey Island, St Michan’s Church and the Bohernabreena Reservoir are worth a look.

What are the best things to do in Dublin for free?

If you’re wondering what to do in Dublin for free, the various parks, the walks and the free museums mentioned above are a good start.

ireland places to visit in dublin

Keith O’Hara has lived in Ireland for 34 years and has spent most of the last 10 years 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.

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Wednesday 4th of May 2022

Thanks. This was very helpful. I’d lived here before but hadn’t been back for awhile and it’s given me new things to go see

Friday 27th of December 2019

Hi! Thank you so much! I thought I'd seen everything in Dublin and was planning day trips to other cities but this made me stay here for the rest of the holiday!

23 of the best things to do in Dublin

Dec 1, 2023 • 17 min read

A young, mixed-race couple laughing together in Temple Bar, Dublin

From pub crawls and trad music to history lessons and culture, there's lots to keep you busy in Dublin © davidf / Getty Images

A small capital with a huge reputation, Dublin is a multicultural, artistic city brimming with incredible architecture, beautiful green spaces, and great opportunities for entertainment.

While traces of Ireland's Viking past have been largely washed away, the city is a living museum of its history since then, with medieval castles and cathedrals on display alongside beautiful examples of 18th-century architecture. As an added bonus, Dubliners are warm and welcoming hosts – a charismatic bunch with compelling souls and sociability.

Make the most of your visit to Dublin with our favorite top things to do in and around the city.

1. Discover why Temple Bar is on everyone's itinerary

Temple Bar , one of Dublin's most famous areas, was burdened for years with a reputation for drunken debauchery and not much else. Visit these days and you'll find a fun neighborhood with plenty to occupy your days as well as your nights. Its excellent, quirky boutiques appeal to fashionistas who flock to Siopaella and Folkster for some unique threads.

To indulge your cultural side, explore the fantastic street murals of the Icon Walk, or see a performance at the Project Arts Centre . A bar tab in Temple Bar is more expensive than other areas, but unusual venues like the Vintage Cocktail Club or a great pub like the Palace Bar are worth your time and money.

Planning tip: This area is also a haven for great food , both local and international.  Temple Bar Food Market runs every Saturday and it’s easy to while away an hour or two there, sampling the delights.

Explore Temple Bar effortlessly with GetYourGuide.  Book your tour today .

A vast library packed with books in Trinity College, Dublin

2. Take a stroll through elegant Trinity College

Located in the heart of Dublin, Trinity College is Ireland's most prestigious university and well worth a visit. Founded in 1592, it's the alma mater of writers like Swift, Wilde and Beckett, and its 19 hectares (47 acres) are an oasis of aesthetic elegance. The biggest draw is the barrel-vaulted Long Room in the Old Library . It’s the home of one of Ireland's greatest cultural treasures, the Book of Kells , the beautifully illuminated Gospel manuscript that dates back to the 9th century.

Planning tip:  Other attractions include the neo-Gothic Museum Building, home to the Zoological Museum (a top place to visit if you're traveling with kids ), and the beautiful wildflower meadows that make for a delightful place to wander.

3. Learn about Ireland's emigration at EPIC the Irish Emigration Museum

Visitors interested in learning the story of Ireland's emigrants should put EPIC the Irish Emigration Museum on their to-do list. This award-winning, high-tech museum explores emigration and its effect on Ireland and the 70 million or so people spread throughout the world who claim Irish ancestry. 

Highlights include the music section, where you can put your feet to work following the steps of the world-famous Riverdance, and the Rogues’ Gallery, where you can practice your quick-draw with a motion detector Irish outlaws quiz. For those interested in tracing their ancestry, there are professional genealogy service partners at the Irish Family History Centre.

Two pints of Guinness, a distinctive dark beer with a white top, stand on a bar as another is being poured straight from the pump

4. Drink a properly poured pint at the Guinness Storehouse

The most popular attraction in Dublin is the multimedia homage to Guinness, the Guinness Storehouse , one of the world’s most famous beer brands. An old fermentation plant in the St James's Gate Brewery has been converted into the seven-story Storehouse, devoted to sharing the company’s history and showcasing how the beer is made.

The top-floor Gravity Bar offers panoramic views of Dublin city. You can test your pouring power and drink a pint here, and maybe stick around for lunch at the excellent restaurant on the floor below.

Planning tip:  The Storehouse offers a range of experiences, including the Guinness Brewery Tour, which brings visitors to parts of St James's Gate that were previously off-limits to the public.

Transform your visit to Guinness Storehouse by  booking with GetYourGuide.

5. Get to know the city through a Talking Statues tour

If you're looking for a walking tour with a difference, Talking Statues Dublin is a very entertaining way to explore the city while listening to its story. There are plaques at ten of Dublin's most famous statues containing QR codes that you scan with your phone. This triggers a call to your phone and each one features a famous Irish actor reciting a monologue written by a current Irish author given from the perspective of the statue in question.

You can get a call back from James Joyce whose monologue is voiced by Gabriel Byrne, Wolfe Tone (Brendan Gleeson), Oscar Wilde (Andrew Scott), Fidelity on the O'Connell Monument (Ruth Negga), and James Larkin (Stephen Rea). Some approaches are dramatic, others are humorous, and some include flights of pure fantasy.

a herd of fallow deer (dama dama) in the phoenix park

6. Enjoy the rich greenery of the Phoenix Park

The hugely impressive 707 hectares (1747 acres) that comprise the  Phoenix Park has a lot to offer visitors. Attractions include Dublin Zoo , Áras an Uachtaráin , home of the Irish president, the official residence of the US ambassador, and the Papal Cross , where Pope John Paul II said mass to a million people in 1979. Visitors are always entranced by the large herd of fallow deer that call the park home.

The park also contains the opulent Farmleigh House , the Irish government's official guesthouse, a fine Georgian-Victorian pile that was originally part of the Guinness estate. It offers a guided tour that takes in the fantastic library and glass conservatory. The vast surrounding grounds, with their lake and walled gardens, are a delight to stroll.

Planning tip:  There's a farmers market on the grounds of Farmleigh House at the weekends.

Explore Phoenix Park effortlessly with GetYourGuide.  Book your tour today .

7. Learn some recent history at Kilmainham Gaol

An imposing grey building built in 1796, Kilmainham Gaol played a huge role in the Republic of Ireland's painful path to independence from British rule, and even today, it still has the power to chill. Sometimes referred to as The Bastille of Ireland, it was the forced temporary home of many rebels and revolutionaries. The Gaol was decommissioned in 1924 and is now a museum with an enthralling exhibit on the history of Irish nationalism.

Browsing the museum will give you excellent context and access to some of the former prisoners' personal belongings and letters. The enthusiastic guides provide a thought-provoking tour of the eerie prison, the largest unoccupied building of its kind in Europe. The highly memorable visit finishes in the yard where the leaders of the failed 1916 Easter Rising were executed.

People stand in an art gallery looking at the paintings on the wall

8. See major artworks at the National Gallery of Ireland

The National Gallery of Ireland showcases artworks spanning six centuries in 54 separate galleries. You’ll find big names including Goya, Rembrandt, Caravaggio and Van Gogh throughout its four wings, along with impressive paintings by luminaries such as Orpen, Reynolds and Van Dongen. The collection is full of Irish art, and there are high-quality pieces from every major European school of painting.

Planning tip:  General admission is free and free tours can be booked in advance. There is an audio tour and several self-guided tours aimed specifically at families with children.

9. Travel to the suburbs to see the National Botanic Gardens

The National Botanic Gardens are an oasis of calm and beauty and, as an added bonus, entry is free. Founded in 1795, the gardens are located in the suburb of Glasnevin and are famous for the exquisitely restored historic glasshouses by Richard Turner that date from 1843 to 1869. The 19.5-hectare (48 acres) gardens contain important collections of plant species and cultivars from all over the world.

Planning tip:  Other lovely things to see include sculptures, two sundials, a bandstand built in 1894, and a Viking house, but for an in-depth background to all of the garden's features, book in advance for a daily guided tour. Refreshments are available at the Garden Tearoom.

A stone archway leading to the courtyard of the Brazen Head pub in Bridge Street, Dublin.

10. Explore the historic Liberties

Most visitors pass through the Liberties to visit the Guinness Storehouse but it's well worth staying around to explore what is one of Dublin’s more historic and interesting neighborhoods . Step into the ancient St Patrick's Cathedral to see where the country's saint reputedly got his hands wet baptizing the locals, and continue to Christ Church Cathedral , the most photogenic of Dublin's three cathedrals as well as one of its most recognizable symbols.

Literary types will love Marrowbone Books , a cute, independent bookstore selling pre-loved paperbacks and hosting intimate music gigs. You’ll find Dublin’s antique quarter on Francis Street, broken up by tiny art galleries, while newer additions to the area include a couple of whiskey distilleries, Teelings  and the Pearse Lyons Distillery , which offer excellent tours.

The Brazen Head , the oldest pub in Dublin, is located here, and Arthur’s is the best place to continue sipping Guinness after a Storehouse visit – the crackling fire makes it ideal on a winter's evening.

11. Hear stories from the past at Malahide Castle and Gardens

Located 9km (6 miles) from Dublin Airport, the magnificent medieval Malahide Castle  set on 105 hectares (260 acres) of beautiful parkland has a dramatic 800-year heritage. You can hear the stories of the Talbot family who have called Malahide Castle home for generations on a guided tour, which includes exploring the private rooms and collections.

The gardens can be visited separately and are a hugely popular tranquil retreat, containing rare trees from all over the world. The Walled Garden encompasses Isobel Talbot’s pond, the blooming Rose Garden, and the famous Victorian Conservatory. It is also home to the Butterfly House, where over 20 species of butterflies live.

Planning tip:  If you're traveling with children, make time for the interactive Fairy Trail, which is full of magic and fun.

Two men chat as they wheel a bike through St Stephens Green in Dublin

12. Eat a picnic in St Stephen's Green

One of the city’s best green spaces, St Stephen’s Green , is a popular meeting spot for Dubliners and a great place to have a picnic. Although surrounded by iconic Georgian architecture, the layout of the park is Victorian, with tree-lined avenues, a duck pond, ornamental gazebos, and a bandstand that is still used in summer.

Statues and public artworks are found at every turn, and there is a playground and garden designed especially for people who are visually impaired.

Planning tip: The   Grafton Street shopping area and The Little Museum of Dublin  are both located right beside the park and are well worth a visit.

13. Visit the free National Museum of Ireland

The artifacts of the nation are to be found in this eminent institution, which opened to the public in 1890 with a fine collection of coins, medals and Irish antiquities, now split across three separate museum buildings. The National Museum of Ireland – Archaeology  is the primary repository of the nation's cultural and archaeological treasures.

You'll find stunning Celtic metalwork, Ireland's most famous crafted artifacts such as the Ardagh Chalice and the Tara Brooch, and a collection of mummified bodies from the Iron Age, preserved to a disturbingly perfect degree by Ireland's peat bogs.

The National Museum of Ireland – Decorative Arts & History's exhibits include a treasure trove made up of everything from silver, ceramics and glassware to weaponry, furniture and folk-life displays. Then there's the Museum of Natural History , which is also a fascinating place to visit, particularly if you have family members who will appreciate stuffed beasts and skeletons.

A stone statue of a man marks a grave site in a cemetery

14. Pay your respects at Glasnevin Cemetery

The tombstones at Ireland's largest and most historically important burial site read like a who's who of Irish history, as most of the leading names of the past 150 years are buried here, including great Irish parliamentarians Daniel O'Connell and Charles Stewart Parnell. Glasnevin Cemetery was established in 1832 by O'Connell as a burial ground for people of all faiths and as a response to the Protestant cemeteries' refusal to bury Catholics.

The social and political story of Ireland is told in wonderful detail in Glasnevin Cemetery Museum . The City of the Dead  covers the burial practices and religious beliefs of the 1.5 million people who found their final resting place at the cemetery, while the Milestone Gallery features a digitally interactive timeline outlining the lives of its most famous residents.

Planning tip:  Combine a visit here with a trip to the Botanic Gardens next door.

15. Enjoy the small but perfectly formed Little Museum of Dublin

Located in a handsome Georgian house, the Little Museum of Dublin is a charming place that tells the story of Dublin over the last century via memorabilia, photographs and artifacts donated by the general public. The impressive collection includes a lectern used by John F Kennedy on his 1963 visit to Ireland and an exhibition that tells the story of Ireland's many influential women throughout history.

There's a whole room on the 2nd floor devoted to the history of the band U2, and the museum hosts a treasure hunt that allows visitors to discover 1000 years of history in less than 60 minutes. There are always new exhibitions and fascinating tours on offer including the award-winning Green Mile tour, which is a very popular walking tour of St Stephen’s Green that begins outside the museum.

A boat sailing in Dun Laoghaire, Dublin.

16. Walk the pier at Dún Laoghaire

Take the DART (Dublin's electric rail service) to the elegant south Dublin port town of Dún Laoghaire and stroll along the famous pier down to the lighthouse, where children line up to peer through the public viewing telescopes.

When you've worked up an appetite, enjoy a picnic in the People’s Park, which has been open to the public since 1890 and hosts a popular farmers market every Sunday. It features fine examples of Victorian architecture with the Gate Lodge and the Tea Rooms, a bandstand with the original gaslight standards, and a playground.

Ireland’s National Maritime Museum is housed in the 180-year-old Mariners Church, and no visit to Dún Laoghaire would be complete without a trip to Teddy's Ice Cream  for a 99 cone.

Planning tip:  While you're out that direction, the James Joyce Tower & Museum  in Sandycove features Joyce memorabilia and gives a fantastic view of the coast and the surrounding countryside.

17. Do a Dublin pub crawl

Leopold Bloom mused in James Joyce's Ulysses that a good puzzle would be to cross Dublin without passing a pub. Even in these times of green juices and fitness apps, the pub remains the alpha and omega of social interaction in Dublin. The city's relationship with alcohol is complex and conflicted but, at its very best, a night out in the pub is the perfect social lubricant and one of the highlights of a visit to Dublin.

Every Dubliner has their favorite haunt, from the never-changing traditional pub to whatever new opening is bringing in the beautiful people. With more than 1000 spread throughout the city, you're spoilt for choice.

Planning tip:  Temple Bar may be famous for its pubs, but it’s just the start: leave its well-trodden streets to discover some of Dublin’s best-loved drinking holes like John Mulligan's , where John F Kennedy paid his respects in 1945.

18. Appreciate contemporary artists at the Irish Museum of Modern Art

This former 17th-century hospital – built in the Anglo-Dutch style and inspired by Paris’ Les Invalides – is now the  IMMA , home to the country’s foremost modern art gallery. The blend of old and new comes together wonderfully, and you'll find contemporary Irish artists including Louis le Brocquy, Sean Scully, Barry Flanagan, Kathy Prendergast and Dorothy Cross, as well as a film installation by Neil Jordan. The permanent exhibition also features paintings from heavy-hitters Pablo Picasso and Joan Miró and is topped up by regular temporary exhibitions.

Planning tip:  There's a good cafe on the grounds. When you’re finished touring the cutting-edge collection, stroll around the building and the beautiful surrounding gardens.

A two-man gig at the Temple Bar in Dublin

19. Listen to some live music

You're likely to stumble across live music on many streets and throughout pubs in Dublin, with Grafton Street being a particularly good spot for excellent – and sometimes famous – buskers. Once the sun sets, catch a gig at the Button Factory or head to Whelan's , the city's most beloved live music venue.

Pop to The International Bar for very authentic, often local, music. One of the city's best comedy venues is also upstairs if you fancy a laugh. Locals' favorite, The Workman's Club , features everything from acoustic warblers to electronic harmonizers. It costs nothing to enjoy the nightly traditional sessions in  O’Donoghue’s , where folk and trad legends, The Dubliners, cut their musical teeth in the 1960s.

20. Take a brisk walk at one of the city's beaches

Whether you're looking for a family day out, some cold water immersion in the open sea, or just a long stretch of sand to stroll while listening to a good podcast, you're never too far from a beach in Dublin .

Sandycove Beach is very popular with young families, thanks to its shallow waters for paddling. Swimmers and divers can tackle the Forty Foot Pool, which was made famous by Joyce's Ulysses.  Irish weather isn't exactly tropical, but hardy Dubliners come here all year round to swim in the Irish Sea.

Also drawing year-round swimmers is Seapoint Beach, between Blackrock and Monkstown on the south side of the city. Located in Clontarf, Dollymount Strand is a popular spot with dog walkers and joggers, as well as swimmers, paddleboarders, and kite surfers. The 5km-long (3 miles) stretch is set to the backdrop of Dublin's Poolbeg Chimneys and Howth Head.

Planning tip:  Dollymount Strand is surrounded by the North Bull Island Nature Reserve, which is great for urban wildlife watching.

Viewpoint over O'Connell street, Dublin

21. Shop on O'Connell Street

O’Connell Street is Dublin's main thoroughfare and it houses numerous sculptures, monuments, shops and historic buildings. One of the widest streets in Europe, it is home to The Spire (Monument of Light), a large needle-like monument that stands 120m (394ft) high and is the city's most visible landmark. Notable statues include those of political leaders Daniel O’Connell, Sir John Gray, James Larkin and Charles Stewart Parnell.

The General Post Office (GPO) building is where the Proclamation of the Republic was read and it is at the heart of Ireland's struggle for independence. The GPO served as command HQ for the rebels during the 1916 Easter Rising and has become the focal point for all kinds of protests, parades and remembrances, as well as home to the interactive GPO Witness History visitor center.

22. Go on a themed city tour

Dublin isn’t that big, so a straightforward sightseeing tour is only really necessary if you’re looking to cram in the sights or avoid blistered feet. What is worth considering, however, is a specialized guided tour, especially for those with a culinary, historical or literary bent.

The excellent 1916 Rebellion Walking Tour is led by Trinity graduates, who give you the lowdown on where, why, and how the 1916 Rising took place. Then there's the Dublin Literary Pub Crawl , where actors escort you through a selection of the city's most renowned literary boozers – with plenty of hilarious bits acted out for good measure. Music fans will enjoy the Dublin Musical Pub Crawl , which explores the history of Irish traditional music and its influence on contemporary styles in a number of Temple Bar pubs.

Planning tip:  Just want to put your feet up and see the sights? Dublin Bus Tours  has routes with hop-on-hop-off options, and there's the semi-amphibious  Viking Splash Tours , which explores the city center before taking a plunge into the Grand Canal Dock.

23. Travel through the past at 14 Henrietta Street

Opened in September 2018, 14 Henrietta Street is a relatively new addition to the Dublin museum circuit but has been very well received. Visitors get to explore behind the facade of one of Dublin's famous Georgian townhouses, carefully restored to gently peel back layers of complex social history over 300 years.

Originally built in the 1720s for wealthy Dublin families, by 1911 over 850 people lived on Henrietta Street, and over 100 of those were in number 14.

Part museum, part community archive, the museum covers the magnificent elegance of upper-class life in the 1700s to the destitution of the early 20th century when the house was a tenement with its occupants living in near squalor.

It gives visitors an insight into the stories of the people who passed through the house, examining their changing circumstances, their experience of family life, and the impact of politics and world affairs on their circumstances.

This article was first published April 2018 and updated December 2023

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PlanetWare.com

23 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Dublin

Written by Andrew Birbeck and Meagan Drillinger Updated Dec 27, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Famous for its cultural attractions and charming hospitality, Dublin has always been one of the most popular cities in Europe to visit. But nowadays, in addition to its centuries-old traditions and historic roots, Dublin has grown into its own as one of the top cosmopolitan cities of Europe.

The ancient capital of the Emerald Isle, Dublin has been written about for centuries. The River Liffey, which flows into the harbor, has been vital to life and civilization here from the beginning. Today it's one of the city's focal points, slicing Dublin in two and creating one of the busiest commercial hubs in the country.

Dublin's history goes way back. Pre-independence from Britain, Dublin was once the second city of the British Empire. You can find evidence of English influence all over the city, from the Georgian architecture to picturesque parks. You'll also find the relics of the country's violent struggles for independence, and monuments that serve as reminders of how hard the Irish fought for freedom over hundreds of years.

A cultural capital, Dublin has given the world renowned literary figures such as Beckett, Joyce, Shaw, and Wilde. It was dubbed a UNESCO City of Literature in 2010, but Dublin's written traditions stretch back to as early as 800 CE with The Book of Kells, now on permanent exhibition at Trinity College.

Dublin sprawls rather than soars, but the historic city center is very easy to explore on foot Still, a light rail system, buses, and ample taxis allow travelers to get wherever they want to go.

Find the best places to visit with our list of the top attractions and things to do in Dublin, Ireland.

1. Trinity College and College Green

2. shop on grafton street, 3. take a stroll around st. stephens green, 4. the little museum of dublin, 5. explore kildare street museums and houses of parliament, 6. national museum of ireland: archaeology, 7. explore irish art at the national gallery of ireland, 8. visit merrion square, 9. epic the irish emigration museum, 10. gpo witness history museum, 11. learn about ireland's greatest writer at the james joyce centre, 12. national museum of ireland - decorative arts and history (collins barracks), 13. take the kids to phoenix park and dublin zoo, 14. go to jail: kilmainham gaol, 15. christ church cathedral, 16. st. patrick's cathedral, 17. dublin castle and the chester beatty library, 18. visit the irish museum of modern art, 19. the irish rock 'n' roll museum experience, 20. take a side trip to dalkey/killiney, 21. take a day trip to the cliffs of moher, 22. stroll o'connell street, 23. catch a match at croke park, where to stay in dublin for sightseeing, dublin, ireland - climate chart, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to dublin, editor's tips, map of attractions & things to do in dublin.

Trinity College

Trinity College is probably the best spot to kick off your Dublin tour. It's located in the heart of the capital, packed full of incredible history, and it's the oldest university in Ireland having been founded in 1592 by Queen Elizabeth I.

Occupying an enviable 40-acre site, Trinity retains some of its ancient seclusion of cobbled squares, gardens, and parks and is famed throughout the world for its collection of great treasures. These include, on permanent exhibition, the 9th-century illuminated manuscript, the Book of Kells , the Books of Durrow and Armagh, and an ancient Irish harp.

The priceless artifacts are displayed in the Treasury and the awe-inspiring 18th-century Long Room, which houses more than 200,000 of Trinity's oldest books and hosts regular literary exhibitions. Book the Early Access Book of Kells Tour to avoid the long lines. It also includes a trip to the exterior of Dublin Castle.

Trinity College and College Green

Trinity is a haven in an otherwise bustling area. Alumni over the centuries include such figures as Jonathan Swift (most famously known as the author of Gulliver's Travels ), Oscar Wilde, Bram Stoker (author of Dracula), and playwright Samuel Beckett. Entering through a timber-tiled archway, you are instantly brought back in time. The immaculate green lawns, 18th- and 19th-century buildings, and cobbled pathway are reminiscent of a more gentile age and ooze a sense of hushed academia.

It's best to time your visit strategically, as buildings open to the public can become crowded during peak season. As well as taking in the must-see sights, do make time to relax and simply enjoy the atmosphere. Opposite the college on College Green is the old Irish Parliament building now a branch of the Bank of Ireland.

Address: Trinity College, College Green, Dublin 2

Official site: www.tcd.ie/visitors/

Trinity College of Dublin - Floor plan map

A short southerly stroll from Trinity College takes you down towards Dublin's premier shopping location, Grafton Street. A statue of Molly Malone sits at the bottom of the street, so it's impossible to miss.

This eclectic stretch buzzes morning, noon, and night and is a magnet for buskers, from classical quartets to traditional fiddle players and singer-songwriters. Many famed bands and musicians have given impromptu performances here, including Bono of U2.

Flowers for sale on Grafton Street

Aside from buskers, you will find a broad range of boutiques, jewelers, and department stores, including upmarket Brown Thomas . Many would say that the jewel in the crown is Bewley's Oriental Café , a Dublin institution at this location since 1927.

If you're on a shopping spree, it's well worth taking a slight diversion to the arty Powerscourt Townhouse Centre, with its designer shops and trendy places to eat.

Official site: http://graftonstreet.ie/

St. Stephens Green

After eating your fill at Bewley's Oriental Café, an easy stroll to the top of Grafton Street brings you to Fusilier's Arch , the main entrance to St. Stephen's Green (Faiche Stiabhna). Georgian buildings surround "the Green" (as it's known locally), although some sadly fell by the wayside during redevelopment, mainly in the 1960s, 70s, and 80s.

The 22-acre park is a Dublin treasure and an oasis of calm away from the hustle and bustle of downtown city life. When weather permits, you should do as the locals do and stretch out on the grass for some rest and relaxation, or grab a picnic lunch. Immaculate flowerbeds fringe the lawns.

Also in the park is an ornate fountain at its center, a bridge over a duck pond, and a children's playground. Incidentally, the park was the scene of bitter combat during the 1916 Uprising, however it was agreed by both sides that hostilities should cease while the park-keeper fed the ducks.

The Little Museum of Dublin

The Little Museum of Dublin is a hidden gem tucked in a charming space amid all the city's historical sights. A couple of minutes' stroll from Fusilier's Arch, at the top of Dawson Street, it is a must-see for those interested in how Dublin and its people lived their lives and evolved over the past century.

James Joyce once famously said, "in the particular is contained the universal," which neatly sums up the ethos of this treasure trove. In the minutiae of people's belongings, history is indeed writ large.

Opened in 2011 following an appeal for mementos and artifacts, the museum has gone from strength to strength and now hosts an array of temporary exhibitions and events, as well as permanent installations, including a U2 retrospective with exhibits donated by band members. Other treats include the lectern used by John F. Kennedy when he addressed both houses of the Irish Parliament (Oireachtas) in June 1963.

Address: 15 St. Stephen's Green, Dublin 2

Official site: www.littlemuseum.ie

The Dail Government Building

From the Little Museum of Dublin, a saunter past the legendary hotel The Shelbourne Dublin will take you to the top of Kildare Street, home to the Irish Parliament (Dáil Éireann) on the left hand side.

The parliament building was once known as Kildare House after James Fitzgerald, the Earl of Kildare, who commissioned its construction in 1745 and set out to create a grand Georgian mansion to reflect his lofty social status. When he became Duke of Leinster in 1766, the house was renamed Leinster House .

Houses of Parliament in Dublin

If you're interested in literature, you should visit the National Library close by, which has a permanent W.B. Yeats exhibition.

Address: Kildare Street, Dublin 2

Sign at the Museum of Irelands: Archaeology

Located on Kildare Street near the National Library, the National Museum of Ireland: Archaeology is certainly worth spending time exploring. The museum features outstanding permanent exhibitions. Highlights include Ireland's Gold, Prehistoric Ireland, and the impressive Viking Collection.

It's also worth visiting for the Treasury collection, which includes the magnificent Ardagh Chalice . Widely regarded as one of the top things to do in Dublin for free , this world-class museum also offers tours and a rich program of workshops and educational events.

Address: Kildare St, Dublin 2

Official site: www.museum.ie/en-IE/Museums/Archaeology

The National Gallery of Ireland

A right turn at the end of Kildare Street will bring you to the National Gallery of Ireland, with entrances on Clare Street and Merrion Square West. Housing the finest collection of Irish art in the world alongside an outstanding collection of European art from the Middle Ages to the present day, this is a must-see while in the capital.

The gallery opened in 1864 with wings being added in 1903, 1968, and most recently, 2002. Collections include the Yeats Museum, seven rooms devoted to Irish art, Italian Painters, the Shaw Room, and Baroque Room.

The gallery, which is spread over four levels, regularly hosts impressive temporary exhibitions, and there's an excellent café popular with locals and visitors alike.

Address: Clare Street & Merrion Square, Dublin 2

Official site: www.nationalgallery.ie

Aerial view of Merrion Square

Exit the National Gallery's main portal, and you're on Merrion Square. Made up of stately private houses and offices, this is arguably Dublin's grandest Georgian square and stars in countless images and postcards of the city. At its center is a pretty park with a vibrant statue of that most colorful writer and renowned Dublin wit, Oscar Wilde .

An amiable stroll around the square is a journey back in time to the Georgian era. You may notice that the top windows in many buildings are smaller than those lower down. This was done in order to create an optical illusion of the houses being taller than they really are. At weekends, local artists line the perimeter of the park and display their paintings on the railings.

EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum

Ireland has long been an exporter of people. Scratch the surface of America's East Coast, and you'll find the influence of the Irish everywhere. Dublin's superb EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum is aptly situated in the city's docklands area, the scene of many a sad farewell.

Established in 2016, this fascinating museum offers an in-depth – and often moving – account of Irish emigration over the centuries. All told there are more than 20 separate themed galleries to explore, dealing not just with the history of Irish migration, but also the influence this dynamic people have had in the places they settled.

If you've got the time, be sure to visit the Irish Family History Centre for tips and advice – along with resources – to track your family history.

A nearby related attraction is the Jeanie Johnston: An Irish Famine Story . The centerpiece of this excellent museum is an accurate replica of the fabled Jeanie Johnston , a sailing vessel from Canada that was built in 1847 and which transported untold numbers of Irish across the Atlantic.

Address: The Chq Building, Custom House Quay, North Dock, Dublin 1

Official site: https://epicchq.com/

GPO Witness History Museum

O'Connell Street, Dublin's main thoroughfare, is home to the iconic GPO (General Post Office) built in 1814. The failed 1916 Uprising began here, and bullet holes still dot the Neoclassical portico. Inside, the city's newest attraction, the GPO Witness History Museum, is a must-visit for those wanting to gain a better understanding of this pivotal event in Irish history.

GPO Witness History Museum

While focusing predominantly on the period leading up to the uprising and the uprising itself, there's plenty of information on hand via interactive displays about other key events, including the Irish War of Independence right up to the Northern Ireland peace process. Guided tours are available, and come highly recommended.

Address: O'Connell Street Lower, North City, Dublin 1

Official site: www.gpowitnesshistory.ie

The James Joyce Centre

Around an eight-minute walk from the GPO, in a beautiful Georgian house, is the James Joyce Centre founded by Irish Senator, one-time Presidential Candidate, and renowned Joycean scholar, David Norris.

The museum is dedicated to all things Joycean, and although the writer never lived in the property, he had a connection to it through a real-life character featured in Ulysses , Prof. Denis J. Maginni, who ran a dance academy here. The building was condemned in the 1980s, but was ultimately saved and restored through a campaign spearheaded by David Norris.

If you're in the mood to learn more about Dublin's literary heritage, be sure to pay a visit to the Dublin Writers Museum . Located in an attractive 1700s home in Parnell Square, this interesting museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives of a number of great Irish authors, and their most important works. In addition to numerous artifacts and memorabilia, the museum houses a collection of paintings and portraits.

Address: 35 North Great George's Street, Dublin 1

Official site: http://jamesjoyce.ie/

National Museum of Ireland - Decorative Arts and History (Collins Barracks)

Originally an army barracks, the National Museum of Ireland - Decorative Arts and History opened in 1997. The collections include silver, ceramics, jewelry, furniture, Irish haute couture fashion, and exhibitions exploring Irish military history.

There are several other permanent exhibitions, including a retrospective of modernist designer Eileen Gray; Irish Silver dating from the 17th to 20th centuries; Asian Art; Irish Country Furniture; and Soldiers and Chiefs, which displays historic military artifacts and uniforms.

Another branch of the National Museum of Ireland worth exploring, the Natural History Museum was established in 1856 and remains little changed since, a fact that has led to its being known as a "museum of a museum" (or, less flatteringly, the "Dead Zoo"). Highlights include exploring the museum's large collections of specimens from countless species, fossils, and dioramas – all for free.

Address: Collins Barracks, Benburb Street, Dublin 7

Official site: www.museum.ie/en-IE/Museums/Decorative-Arts-History

Phoenix Park and Dublin Zoo

An 18-minute walk from Collins Barracks is Dublin Zoo in Phoenix Park. This is the largest enclosed urban park in Europe, some 1,750 acres, which is surprising given that Dublin is a relatively small capital city. Hundreds of deer roam the parkland, and the President of Ireland's official residence (Áras an Uachtaráin) is here along with Deerfield, a beautiful 18th-century property home to the American Ambassador to Ireland.

There's a visitor center located close to a 17th-century tower house, Ashtown Castle, for those wishing to find out more about the park and its environs. At the far Castleknock Gate end and on some 78 acres stands stately Farmleigh House , dating from the 1800s and purchased by the Irish state from the Guinness family in 1999.

For generations of Dubliners and those coming from abroad, the main draw is Dublin Zoo, which attracts more than one million visitors annually, dates back to 1830, and is the second oldest zoo in Europe. A trip to the zoo is a day out in itself.

Among other rare and exotic animals, there are Asian lions, Asian elephants, a Reptile House, an orangutan enclosure, sea lions, tigers, hippos, bats, and penguins. Facilities include restaurants, kids' play areas, and a family farm.

Official site: www.dublinzoo.ie

Kilmainham Gaol

The forbidding Kilmainham Gaol (jail), dating from 1789, truly is a notorious site in the history of Irish nationalism. It was here that the leaders of the 1916 rebels were first incarcerated and then executed for what was seen as an act of high treason.

The exhibition in a modern hall gives a taste of what conditions were like and outlines the struggle for Irish independence. There are excellent guided tours throughout the rest of the jail, which cover Irish history from 1796-1924. The Stonebreaker's Yard is sure to send shivers up the spine, as this is the spot where the leaders of the uprising met their grisly fate.

Address: Inchicore Road, Dublin 8

Official site: https://kilmainhamgaolmuseum.ie

Christ Church Cathedral

Restored in the 19th century and dominating the surrounding area, Christ Church Cathedral is built on the site of Dublin's first church, which was founded in 1028 and made of timber.

The Great Nave has magnificent early Gothic arches, and here you can see the 14th-century replica of the tomb of legendary Norman conqueror Strongbow, who is buried elsewhere in the cathedral. The fragment that lies alongside is said to be part of the original tomb and has the nickname, "Strongbow's son." Parts of the vast crypt, which runs the length of the building, date from the 13th century.

Also worth a visit is Dublinia , a first-rate historical recreation of life and scenes from the time of the Vikings to the medieval period that's located in the cathedral's Synod Hall. Highlights include costumed characters demonstrating period traditions and activities, various buildings, and authentic street scenes.

Address: Christchurch Place, Dublin 8

Official site: https://christchurchcathedral.ie

Christ Church Cathedral - Floor plan map

An easy seven-minute walk from Christ Church Cathedral, St. Patrick's Cathedral is the national cathedral of the Church of Ireland. Tradition has it that here, St. Patrick baptized converts to Christianity in AD 450.

Like Christchurch, the original edifice was timber. In 1192, another church was founded and constructed of stone. Just over a century later, another reconstruction took place and its status was raised to that of cathedral.

Over the centuries, much embellishment has occurred, chiefly in the mid 1700s, when the steeple was built, and during the late 1800s, when there were substantial renovations. Gulliver's Travels author and satirist Jonathan Swift (1667-1745), who was Dean of St. Patrick's for 35 years, is interred in a tomb to the right of the entrance beside his long time love "Stella" (Hester Johnson 1681-1728).

Address: St. Patrick's Close, Dublin 8

Official site: www.stpatrickscathedral.ie

Dublin - St Patrick's Cathedral - Floor plan map

Dublin Castle was the site of central administration during 700 years of British rule until 1922. The castle has seen many guises: medieval fortress, vice-regal court, and function of government. In 1534, Irish rebel Silken Thomas (so named for his fine clothes) launched an attack and besieged the castle.

Currently, the castle is mainly used for ceremonial occasions, exhibitions, and even concerts. The ornate state apartments are open to visitors, and there are a number of museums to explore including the Chester Beatty Library and Gallery.

The museum, founded in 1953 by an American living in Dublin, Chester Beatty, features a fine collection of oriental art and several collections of manuscripts, books, and ancient texts. Among the treasures are French Books of Hours of the 14th and 15th century and a prayer book that belonged to Philip II of Spain, works of Far Eastern art, Islamic prints, Sanskrit manuscripts (12th to 13th century), Indian miniatures, and Babylonian clay tablets (2,500 to 2,300 BC).

There are also European medieval and Renaissance manuscripts, Egyptian papyrus texts, and copies of the Qur'an, and the Bible. Buddhist paintings and Turkish and Persian miniatures are also on display, as are woodblock prints from Japan and Chinese dragon robes.

Address: Dame Street, Dublin 2

Official site: www.dublincastle.ie

Dublin Castle - Floor plan map

Since it opened in 1991, the Irish Museum of Modern Art (IMMA) has built a reputation as one of the country's top galleries. With a focus on modern and contemporary art, the museum offers frequently changing exhibits and displays of works from its own collections, as well as from across Ireland and the globe.

The building itself is beautiful. Erected in the late 1600s as a hospital, it serves as the perfect backdrop to the modern art that adorns its walls, as well as for the artists' studios located here. Highlights of the museum's permanent collections include some 3,500 works (some Irish, some by overseas artists) from the post-war period. Guided tours are offered, along with fun programs for the kids (there's also a café).

Address: Royal Hospital Kilmainham, Military Rd, Kilmainham, Dublin 8

Official site: https://imma.ie

The Irish Rock 'n' Roll Museum Experience

Music fans won't want to miss the opportunity to visit the Irish Rock 'n' Roll Museum Experience , which focuses on the top musical acts to have come out of Ireland. Highlights of this immersive, one-hour tour experience include the chance to "catch" acts like U2 and Thin Lizzy in various stages of their careers, either in the studio or performing on stage.

Along the way, you'll see a wide variety of artifacts and memorabilia from these and other leading Irish acts, and be exposed to their music and anecdotes about the music-writing and touring process.

Another quirky sightseeing opportunity can be enjoyed at the National Leprechaun Museum (honest!). Opened in 2010 in its location on Jervis Street, this fun museum features fascinating exhibits and displays relating to these mythical beings, Along the way, your tour guide will explain the importance of this folklore in Irish culture, as well as its impact on everything from Disney to Hollywood.

Address: Curved Street, Temple Bar, Dublin, D02

Official site: https://irishrocknrollmuseum.com

View from Killiney Hill

A must-see and, surprisingly, just a 25-minute southbound trip on a DART (Dublin's light rail network) from the city center is Dalkey, and one stop farther along, Killiney, although both areas can easily be explored from Dalkey town.

It's recommended to disembark at the earlier stop, as there's an excellent visitor center at Dalkey Castle, which includes information about the area, historic and cultural exhibitions, and best of all, live theater performances as part of a fun guided tour that scales the heights of the castle ramparts.

Dalkey was once the main trading post on Dublin's east coast, and the harbor at Coliemore Road was the place where medieval cargo ships could off-load their wares. Opposite the harbor is breathtaking Dalkey island, and an uphill stroll of around 15 minutes brings you to Vico Road with stunning views out over Killiney Bay.

For more panoramic vistas, continue up to the top of Killiney Hill, a public park that is home to many species of wildlife and birds.

Address: Castle Street, Dalkey, Co. Dublin

Official site: www.dalkeycastle.com

Cliffs of Moher

Relax in a luxury coach and see one of Ireland's most breathtaking natural attractions on a guided full-day Cliffs of Moher Day Trip . This excellent value excursion takes you through the stunning countryside of County Clare and also includes an opportunity to explore the charming town of Doolin, with its great traditional music and country inns. It also includes entrance to the Cliffs of Moher and Burren National Park.

In addition to the services of a professional tour guide to share details of the region's unique geology, you'll have ample opportunity to enjoy a leisurely stroll to take some great snapshots of some of the best views in Ireland. A stop at the city of Galway is also included.

Spire of Dublin on O'Connell Street

One of the most famous bridges in Dublin is the O'Connell Bridge that leads directly onto the broad, beautiful O'Connell Street. Here is where you'll find historic sites like the General Post Office, and more modern monuments like the Spire of Dublin. It's one of the most popular and well-trafficked streets in the city.

The original name of O'Connell Street was Drogheda Street, later renamed Sackville Street. In 1924, it was renamed O'Connell Street for Daniel O'Connell, who was one of the primary nationalist leaders in Ireland in the struggle to gain independence from England.

Croke Park

North of the city center is the largest sports venue in Ireland – Croke Park. Croke Park is the home of Ireland's Gaelic Athletic Association and has capacity for 82,300 spectators. Here is where you'll find everything from rugby and soccer to American football, Gaelic football, and hurling.

In addition to sports, Croke Park is one of the largest venues for music performances and has hosted some of the biggest names in entertainment, from U2 to Billy Joel, Elton John, Ed Sheeran, and many others.

Address: Jones' Rd, Drumcondra, Dublin 3, Ireland

If you're visiting Dublin for the first time, the best area to stay is in the city center. Most of the top tourist attractions lie within a short stroll of each other in this compact and easily walkable area, including Trinity College, St. Stephen's Green, and Grafton Street. Here are some highly rated hotels in this convenient and central location:

Luxury Hotels:

  • A short stroll from Grafton Street, The Merrion Hotel , with a day spa, swimming pool, and two-star Michelin restaurant, resides in four lovingly-restored Georgian townhouses.
  • The Radisson Blu Royal Hotel , just meters from St. Patrick's Cathedral and Dublin Castle, strikes a modern note with its sleek interior design and spacious guest rooms.
  • In the heart of the city and across the street from St. Stephens Park is the Fitzwilliam Hotel Dublin . Irish hospitality comes alive with the wonderful staff. Understated luxury is found everywhere in the property's decor.

Mid-Range Hotels:

  • In Dublin's heart, within walking distance of all the major tourist attractions, The Morrison, a DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel overlooks the River Liffey and has a bright, contemporary interior.
  • Across the river, in a trendy location near Grafton Street, the boutique Drury Court Hotel offers cozy rooms, and the apartments in an adjacent building are great for families.
  • Sleekly furnished and streaming with light, The Gibson Hotel is a little farther out from the city center, but public transport is nearby, and it's a great choice if you're planning to catch a concert at the adjacent 3Arena.

Budget Hotels:

  • A short stroll from Grafton Street and St. Stephen's Green, Dublin Citi Hotel offers great-value rooms with comfortable beds near a cluster of lively entertainment venues.
  • About a 15-minute walk to the city center, the family-run Dergvale Hotel has small but sparkling clean rooms, and the Celtic Lodge Guesthouse offers compact, clean rooms a short hop from all the city sights.
  • Bus Tour: One option is the one- or two-day Dublin: Hop-On-Hop-Off Tour , which gives independent travelers more freedom in their selections.
  • Amphibious Tour: Kids of all ages will love the 75-minute Dublin Viking Duck Tour. Travel the city on both land and water in a remodeled amphibious World War II vehicle.
  • Blarney Castle and Cork Day Trip : You can visit some of Ireland's other top attractions on the Blarney Castle and Cork Day Trip , which takes you in a luxury coach through the lush countryside and includes an experienced driver and guide, as well as entrance to the Blarney Stone and Rock of Cashel.
  • Northern Island Day Trip: On the Northern Ireland Day Trip from Dublin: Belfast Black Taxi Tour and Giant's Causeway , you can learn all about Belfast's tumultuous history and see a World Heritage-listed geological wonder. Professional guides, pickup and drop off from your hotel, and entrance fees to the key attractions are all included.
  • Three-Day Tour: For a more in-depth tour of Dublin's surrounding attractions consider the 3-Day Cork, Blarney Castle, Ring of Kerry, and Cliffs of Moher Rail Trip . This great-value package includes a host, entrance fees to the attractions, coach and rail travel with reserved seats, and two nights accommodation with a full Irish breakfast.

Malahide Castle

Of course there's plenty more to see and things to do in and around Dublin. The Discover Ireland Centre on Suffolk Street (just off Grafton Street) dispenses handy information on the city's tourist attractions. Although it may sound like a cliché, Ireland's capital really is its people. Unexpected conversations and snippets of Irish "banter" are most likely some of the strongest memories you will take away with you.

Dubliners are a sociable, knowledgeable, and, quite often, an opinionated bunch, so don't be afraid to have a chat and ask their advice about where to go and what to see. In particular, taxi drivers love to talk and will often regale anybody who'll listen with views on everything from politics to history and current affairs.

If staying in the capital for a few days, the DART (Dublin's light rail network) is a leisurely way to explore the coastline. The village of Howth, at the far extremity of Dublin's north side is well worth a visit. Here, visitors will find a range of restaurants, many serving fresh seafood, as Howth remains a fishing village, albeit an upmarket one these days. The views from Howth Head are spectacular.

Also on the north side, and on the DART line is Malahide , a quaint village with a beautiful castle open to the public. Day trips from the city should include magical Glendalough , home to a ruined medieval monastery, breathtaking lakes, and forest walks. Spectacular Powerscourt House and gardens , adjacent to the pretty village of Enniskerry is a must-see for those with a little extra time on their hands. There's a terrific restaurant, craft shops, and superb grounds to explore at your leisure.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

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More of Ireland: Visitors will find Ireland is a wonderful country for road trips. After exploring Dublin, visit Waterford, roughly halfway between the capital and Cork . Explore the sights surrounding the city with our article on the top day trips from Dublin , including the magnificent Cliffs of Moher, and if you want to cast a fishing line, check out our list of the best fishing destinations in Ireland .

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16 Best Things to Do in Dublin

By Melissa Kravitz Hoeffner

16 Best Things to Do in Dublin

Ireland's capital is a city both haunted and inspired by its rich literary tradition, its green and aquatic surroundings, and its pivotal role in European history. Comparable to Paris for the romantic, walkable River Liffey splitting the center in two; to London for its pub culture; and to Chicago for its notably friendly residents, Dublin melds the best of world cities into fewer than fifty square miles. From more than one whiskey-dedicated museum to a foray into a massive antique library, to visiting the spectacular St. Patrick's Cathedral, these are the best things to do in Dublin, Ireland.

Click the link to read our complete Dublin city guide .

Guinness Storehouse Ireland Dublin

Guinness Storehouse Arrow

The headquarters of Ireland's most famous beer adds a bit of culture and history to your vacation drinking, giving you some depth beyond throwing back a pint in a pub (not that there's anything wrong with that). Three bars, three restaurants (all with bars), classes, and tastings all are on offer here, and although the public can't tour the brewery itself, this is the closest Guinness enthusiasts can get to the makings of the dark beer. The Storehouse's restaurants serve fresh food designed to pair with Guinness. And although you wouldn't come here specifically to eat, once you've downed a pint or two, you'll be glad to have options. Also, advance tickets come with a complimentary pint in the Gravity Bar when you complete your tour.

St. Stephen's Green Ireland Dublin

St. Stephen's Green Arrow

St. Stephen's Green, an exquisitely manicured park in Dublin City Centre , dates back to a time when open space and fresh air were at a premium: Victorian Ireland, 1880. Today, the green lawns and ponds are surrounded by a thick wall of trees, creating a true respite from urban life inside a neat, perfectly ordered rectangular park. It's a fantastic spot to people watch and get a glimpse of daily life for Dublin locals.

Glasnevin Cemetery Dublin Ireland

Glasnevin Cemetery Arrow

Dublin is a city built on history. Famous activists, politicians, artists, writers , and thinkers all shaped the city as we know it today, and many of them are buried at Glasnevin Cemetery. The mood here isn't light—this is a cemetery, after all—but the fresh air and the moving tribute to influential Irish figures will help enrich your understanding of Dublin. For swift entry into the expansive green space, buy tickets online ahead of time.

Jameson Distillery Bow St. Dublin Ireland

Jameson Distillery Bow Street Arrow

Empty Jameson bottle chandeliers hang from wooden rafters and illuminate the large bar of this whiskey emporium. Remodeled just in time for St. Patrick's Day in 2017, this historic distillery–turned-museum is an attraction for all whiskey lovers . The museum stands at the site of Jameson's original distillery, dating back to 1780, though the brand's major production now takes place in Cork. The 40-minute distillery tour includes a comprehensive Jameson history, a comparative tasting, and a drink on the house at JJ's Bar, the downstairs whiskey bar that's seemingly always rowdy. 

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The Old Library of Trinity College Dublin Arrow

With two levels of floor-to-ceiling wooden shelves packed with books, many only reachable by a sliding ladder, this immense university library , which dates back to the early 18th century, is a book lover's paradise. In the daytime, light pours into the stacks, which look even more dramatic under the coffered ceiling. You're not here to check out just any ol' book; instead, buy advance online tickets to peek at the legendary Book of Kells. Busts of famous thinkers and scholars also adorn the space. If you hate reading plaques and pamphlets, this library is your spirit attraction, for it specifically encourages unadulterated admiration instead of an onslaught of facts and trivia. Just be sure you're phone's charged—after all, the dramatic space is highly Instagrammable.

Dublin Castle

Dublin Castle Arrow

Dating back to the early 13th century, when Vikings established their headquarters here, this medieval structure stands as a relic of British rule over Ireland. Today the well-preserved estate offers a glimpse into the way previous generations lived and hosts exhibits on art, fashion, and other Irish history artifacts. Tickets for guided tours are recommended, especially if you're eager to see the interior apartments and historic quarters. Whether or not you're headed to the Irish countryside to see Game of Thrones –style castles , the Dublin Castle is a must-see.

The Winding Stair Dublin TTD

The Winding Stair Arrow

The Winding Stair is Dublin's beloved bookstore with a restaurant upstairs. UK and European editions of contemporary literature, as well as classics like Joyce and Yeats, are easy to find on the shelves. If you're stumped finding your next read, ask the clerk behind the desk to help curate a list of titles for you, preferably something that may help you remember your trip or enrich your time in Ireland. Grab a good book and head above for views of the River Liffey and an upscale, traditional Irish meal like seafood chowder, smoked haddock, or potato dumplings. Don't be shy about asking for wine pairings off the lengthy list.

St. Patrick's Cathedral Dublin Ireland

St. Patrick's Cathedral Arrow

You don't have to be an expert in religious architecture —or even personally religious—to appreciate St. Patrick's, Ireland's largest cathedral and the headquarters of the Church of Ireland. The massive structure is impressively, overwhelming ornate, with intricate tiled floors, vaulted ceilings, grand graystone turrets, and multicolored stained-glass windows. Those visiting for religious reasons can freely walk in and attend a mass or pray independently, but sightseers are asked to donate a small fee. You can also explore the grounds and gardens without stepping foot inside.

Moore Street Market Dublin Ireland

Moore Street Market Arrow

This open-air produce and flower market was long ago eclipsed by grocery stores, but it's still worth wandering through—even if only for nostalgia's sake. Vendors lining both sides of the cobblestone street peddle local produce and meat, as well as imported items like tropical fruits. If you've got access to a kitchen, do as the locals do: stock up on dinner ingredients, which range from Irish products to goods from Asia and Africa. Moore Street Market will help you envision Old Dublin as it once was and begin to understand Ireland's immigrant culture. Those intrigued by farm-to-table—well, everything—will also love seeing the day's stock and conversing with vendors, some of whom have been selling here for decades.

Whiskey Museum Dublin

Irish Whiskey Museum Arrow

The Irish Whiskey Museum is exclusively for tourists , whether they're Irish or visiting from abroad. But that's okay—it's all part of the experience. Housed in a historic building near the city center, the museum is comprised of an extensive whiskey bar, historic exhibits, a tasting room, and a well-stocked souvenir shop. Unlike several other booze-themed attractions in Dublin, the Irish Whiskey Museum is totally independent—meaning it's not sponsored by a whiskey brand.

Grafton Street Dublin

Grafton Street Arrow

One of Dublin's two main pedestrian shopping areas , Grafton Street is a car-free area paved with charming bricks. The thoroughfare, which is broad and not the least bit claustrophobic, is particularly known for its famous—or soon-to-be-famous—buskers, who give wonderful live-music performances. If you don't have time to walk up and down the entire street, navigate to the section near St. Stephen's Green, where you'll have a great shot at people watching.

Temple Bar Book Market

Temple Bar Book Market Arrow

Every Saturday and Sunday, vendors display new and used novels, art books, rare biographies, and other treasures at this outdoor market. Lovers of independent bookstores will adore spending the morning here for its European charm alone, which is reminiscent of the vendors lining the Seine in Paris (the River Liffey is just a two-minute walk away). Entry is free, though bring some cash if you intend to buy anything.

The George Dublin Bar

The George Arrow

Portraits of queer icons lining the walls identify The George Bar, bilevel pub and dance club, for what it is: a gay haven . You're never more than a few feet from a rainbow flag or a few loose sequins—debris from the night before. Leave the mixology at the door—this is a place to drink quickly poured Guinness beer, slid across the dark bar. If you're an obvious tourist, expect to wait a few minutes for your drink and be decisive with your order. Everyone has their own reasons for drinking at The George, whether it's to absorb a bit of queer history, drink alone in a safe space while traveling solo, dance, or play in the legendary Sunday night drag bingo show.

The Irish Dance Party Dublin Ireland

The Irish Dance Party Arrow

If observing Irish culture from afar isn't getting you into the Dublin spirit, this interactive show—really, a giant party—will have you on your feet and moving like an Irish dancer, in no time. Big groups (family reunions, bachelorette parties ) will particularly enjoy the structured event, which features live music and jig performances. Expect to see plenty of folks roll into The Irish Dance Party after throwing back a few rounds at a bar, and if you're planning on mastering the jig, wear comfortable shoes.

This image may contain Confectionery Food and Sweets

George’s Street Arcade Arrow

Located in the Creative Quarter , a hub for shopping and art, George's Street Arcade dates back to the late 19th century, when it was called South City Market. Although it's Ireland's oldest market, it resembles a current-day flea market, with stalls selling everything from wood-fired pizza to New Age jewelry. A respite from traditional boutiques and shopping centers, the covered market packs in vendors and is certainly worth a walkthrough.

Pat Liddy's Walking Tours of Dublin Docklands  The New Old Dublin

Pat Liddy's Walking Tours of Dublin: Docklands - The New Old Dublin Arrow

This walking tour shows a lesser-known part of Dublin and explains why geography—including its location on the water —is so essential to Dublin's identity and infrastructure. Native Dubliner and historian Pat Liddy trains guides to lead small groups to pivotal parts of the city that demonstrate why Dublin is his favorite place in the world. By revealing not-often-seen parts of Dublin, including former shipping docks, a U2 recording studio, and the headquarters of contemporary tech giants like Google, this tour illustrates how the city's past and present are intertwined.

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11 amazing places to visit in Dublin

Ha'penny Bridge at night.

You may think you know Dublin, but how much of it have you really uncovered? It’s time to make the most of the unique blend of culture to be had in the capital. Walk in the footsteps of literary giants, visit secret rooftop gardens and experience the city in new ways.

Get out and explore, starting with these 11 amazing places to visit in Dublin.

  • 1 . Museum of Literature Ireland (MoLI)
  • 2 . Windmill Lane Recording Studios
  • 3 . Chester Beatty
  • 4 . Marsh’s Library
  • 5 . Jameson Distillery Bow Street
  • 6 . EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum
  • 7 . Croke Park Stadium Tour, Skyline Tour & GAA Museum
  • 8 . National Print Museum
  • 9 . Glasnevin Cemetery Museum & National Botanic Gardens
  • 10 . Hugh Lane Gallery
  • 11 . James Joyce Centre

Museum of Literature Ireland (MoLI)

Delve into Dublin's literary history and get better acquainted with giants like W.B. Yeats, James Joyce and Oscar Wilde. A trip to the Museum of Literature Ireland (MoLI) on St Stephen’s Green is a great way to learn the tales behind the writers and their work. Roam the interactive displays, download an audio guide to explore at your own pace, or book a 50 minute guided tour. 

The museum building was once University College Dublin’s Newman House where Joyce himself studied, and you can see the first copy of 'Ulysses' here. Get a feel for Joyce's student days as you stop at the Commons Café in the original dining halls, and pause with a cuppa as he would have.

ireland places to visit in dublin

Windmill Lane Recording Studios

Head to Windmill Lane Recording Studios in Ringsend for a slice of local musical history. A familiar name in the world of music, the Rolling Stones recorded 'Voodoo Lounge' here, Lady Gaga laid down tracks for 'Born This Way', and Kylie Minogue worked on 'Fever'.

Best of all, you can tour this space that’s been hosting musical greats since 1978. See how the magic happens, as you watch a recording session and hear stories of the studios' history. Round off the day nicely with a takeaway treat from 3FE Coffee nearby on Grand Canal Street. 

ireland places to visit in dublin

Chester Beatty

On the grounds of Dublin Castle , Chester Beatty is a museum and library that will take you on a global journey. You’ll see Asian paintings, North African costumes and Middle Eastern manuscripts as you hop across continents and centuries of cultural tradition. American mining engineer Sir Alfred Chester Beatty left this amazing collection to Ireland after his death in 1968.

Stop by the stunning rooftop garden to find a peaceful haven in the city centre, then head downstairs for Middle Eastern food from the Silk Road Café. After, take a walk through Dublin Castle’s courtyard and drop into an exhibition at the Coach House Gallery . 

ireland places to visit in dublin

Marsh’s Library

Lose yourself in Ireland’s oldest library, where regulars included famous writers like Bram Stoker and Jonathan Swift. As you gaze upon the 25,000 rare books at Marsh’s Library you can easily imagine days gone by, with many still in the spot where they were first placed in the 1700s. Come midnight, the ghost of Archbishop Narcissus Marsh is said to rummage through the bookcases.    Walk over to St Patrick’s Cathedral mere steps away to admire the spectacular architecture. If you time it right, you might catch one of the incredible choral performances that take place regularly. You can get a joint ticket to enjoy both of these neighbouring experiences.

ireland places to visit in dublin

Jameson Distillery Bow Street

Crowned the World’s Leading Distillery three years in a row, Jameson Distillery Bow Street has been a staple of Dublin culture since opening in 1780. Just off Smithfield Square, the operation covered five acres by 1886 and grew into a ‘city within a city’.    These days you can enjoy a tour of the historic building, learn how their world renowned whiskey is made and even blend some yourself at the Black Barrel Blending Class. After all that hard work, kick back with a cocktail in JJ’s Bar. This is great for groups, so get some friends together and plan to make an afternoon of it. 

ireland places to visit in dublin

EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum

Make your way to the striking CHQ Building overlooking the Liffey to immerse yourself in the experiences of Irish emigrants. At EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum , you'll discover the past as it’s brought to life through imaginative visual displays and interactive experiences. Explore Ireland’s struggle for independence, and witness the letters of thousands of Irish emigrants lost to the Great Famine. You can even trace your own ancestry at the museum’s Irish Family History Centre. 

A short walk around the neighbouring Dublin Docklands will reveal other iconic landmarks including The Jeanie Johnston Famine Ship , Custom House , Samuel Beckett Bridge and Convention Centre. 

ireland places to visit in dublin

Croke Park Stadium Tour, Skyline Tour & GAA Museum

Go behind the scenes at Croke Park , the home of Irish sport. On the Stadium Tour you'll venture pitchside, to Hill 16 for amazing views and beyond. Snap a selfie on the team bench and soak up the heritage of this iconic arena. You can take your visit to new heights with a Skyline Tour to see jaw dropping views as you move along a rooftop open air walkway. Experienced guides point out the Spire and Dublin Bay as you see the capital from a new perspective and look out over the field from the viewing platform.    Entry to the GAA Museum is included in both tours, and sporting fans can marvel at the 3000 year history of Gaelic games. Once you've checked out the exhibits and Hall of Fame, test your own hurling and football skills in the Interactive Game Zone.

ireland places to visit in dublin

National Print Museum

Discover Ireland’s only print museum and celebrate an art form that changed the world. At the National Print Museum , modern exhibits from names such as Annie Atkins and Damn Fine Print reveal the power of the printed message. Reaching into the past, the permanent collection includes an original 1916 Proclamation of the Republic (declaring Ireland's independence from the United Kingdom).

You can explore the layout of an old Dublin printshop, see classic machines at work from letterpress to Linotype, and browse original prints to take home. Pop into the bright PRESS café onsite for a Cloud Picker coffee and if you’re visiting at the weekend, try the delicious brunch menu. 

ireland places to visit in dublin

Glasnevin Cemetery Museum & National Botanic Gardens

Glasnevin Cemetery Museum is Ireland’s oldest cemetery. Some of Irish history’s most important figures are buried here including revolutionary leader Michael Collins and former Irish president Éamon de Valera. A choice of walking tours are on hand to guide you through its story stretching back nearly 200 years. But before you head inside the gates stop into John Kavanagh’s pub , more commonly known as The Gravediggers, for some refreshments. 

Through a shared wall, a linking gateway from the cemetery leads to the immaculate National Botanic Gardens . Stroll through the picturesque rose gardens, enjoy the tropical atmosphere of the Great Palm House and wander among the 15,000 plant species that inhabit the grounds.

ireland places to visit in dublin

Hugh Lane Gallery

The Hugh Lane Gallery is a must for art lovers, with one of Ireland's most exciting collections of modern and contemporary work. Impressionist paintings by Monet and Pissarro keep company with the creative mess of Francis Bacon’s reconstructed studio, donated after the painter’s death and relocated from London. Even the dust was catalogued and carefully put in its proper place.

Make time to visit the Stained Glass Room to marvel at intricate work by Harry Clarke, and meet some famous Irish personalities face to face in portraits including W.B. Yeats. 

ireland places to visit in dublin

James Joyce Centre

Dedicated to the literary icon, the James Joyce Centre should be on the 'to do' list for any fan of the written word. Get involved with the interactive display of his most well known work 'Ulysses ' as it brings the novel to life. There’s lots of Joycean artefacts on show including the original door from No. 7 Eccles Street, the home address of 'Ulysses ' lead character Leopold Bloom.

Free audio tours are available, and walking tours take you outside to streets which provided the backdrop for so many of Joyce’s stories. Every year on June 16, the Centre also organises the Bloomsday Festival, a global celebration of 'Ulysses ' , its author and his place in world literature.   

ireland places to visit in dublin

Experience Dublin  

Dublin is jam packed with incredible things to see and do. Don't stop at this list, check out what’s on in Dublin and start planning your Dublin City break. 

ireland places to visit in dublin

The Crazy Tourist

Home » Travel Guides » Ireland » 25 Best Things to Do in Dublin (Ireland)

25 Best Things to Do in Dublin (Ireland)

If the ‘luck of the Irish’ is on your side and you find yourself in the infamous city of Dublin, there will be countless things for you to do and see while you’re there. Not only is Dublin deeply rooted in their incredible history, culture and – well, booze – the people of Dublin are all such characters, as well.

Whether they are sharing long-winded stories, singing local songs or telling the odd joke here and there to make you laugh, the locals never fail to put a smile on your face. And, because the city is located right on the east coast, day trips and excursions to the mountains or cliff sides are just a bus ride away, where you can witness some of the most vast and beautiful sceneries in all of Ireland .

Here’s a list we compiled of the top 25 things to do in Dublin :

1. Party like the Irish at The Temple Bar

Temple Bar, Dublin

The Temple Bar is quite possibly one of the most iconic bars in all of Dublin, with tourists flocking from all over the world to have a drink inside its famous walls.

Although the history of the bar dates back to the early 1300s, it still remains popular to this day due to its famous red exterior, its great location in the heart of the city, as well as being a huge part of Dublin’s central nightlife scene.

At present, The Temple Bar is the most popular bar frequented by young tourists – and even some locals alike – looking to have a glass (or two, or three) of strong Irish whiskey and enjoy a hell of a night.

2. Drink Inside a Restorxed Cathedral at The Church

The Church Bar, Dublin

One of the most unique and beautiful bars in the city, The Church is not what its name may make it seem. In fact, The Church used to originally be called St. Mary’s church; however, it closed in 1964 and was eventually restored and converted into a popular bar and nightclub in 2007.

On the main floor, you can find a magnificent island bar that almost spans the length of the church, complete with booths, tables and bar stools for guests and a small stage that plays live traditional Irish music from 7pm – 9pm on Sunday – Wednesday. Downstairs, you can find the nightclub – open every Friday & Saturday night from 10pm until 3am – with a resident DJ that plays all the latest popular music and Rn’B tracks.

3. Visit the Guinness Storehouse Factory

Guinness Storehouse Factory

Located in the heart of St. James’ Gate Brewery, the Guinness Storehouse is one of the most popular tourist attractions in all of Ireland. In fact, the interior is designed to look exactly like a pint of Guinness itself and is known to be the largest pint in the world.

A ticket to the Guinness factory will take you on a tour through seven floors of Irish brewing history, where you will learn all about the Guinness family, as well as how the beloved stout beer is meticulously crafted to perfection. At the end of the tour, you will be dropped off at the Gravity Bar on the 7th floor, where you can enjoy a refreshing pint of Guinness with a 360 degree view of the Dublin skyline.

Book online : Guinness Storehouse: Entrance Ticket

4. Take a Tour of the Old Jameson Distillery

Old Jameson Distillery, Dublin

Another historical gem is the Old Jameson Distillery, located just off Smithfield Square. This location previously used to be the original site where Jameson whiskey was manufactured and distilled until it stopped production in the early 1970s.

A tour of the old distillery will take you through the history and process of creating the refined whiskey, along with the unique opportunity to take part in a comparative whiskey-tasting experience.

At the end of the tour, you will be given an exclusive Whiskey Taster Certificate to officially certify your knowledge in traditional Irish whiskey that you will be able to show off to your family and friends back home.

Book online : Jameson Whiskey Distillery Tour with Tastings

5. Take a photo with The Spire of Dublin

The Spire of Dublin

One of the easiest monuments to spot from afar, The Spire stands proudly in the center of O’Connell street towering approximately 120 meters above ground. This completely stainless-steel structure is about 3 meters in diameter at the base and 15 centimeters at its apex.

On sunny days, you can notice its exterior being gently illuminated by the sun – lighting up the monument for all to see. The tip of the structure is also lit up by an external light source at nighttime in order to act as a beacon in the night sky.

6. Marvel at the Beauty of St. Patrick’s Cathedral

St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Dublin

Known as the largest church in all of Ireland, St. Patrick’s Cathedral is actually one of two cathedrals that were built on Dublin soil.

However, St. Patcrick’s Cathedral still remains the most popular of the two when it comes to tourists.

The cathedral was originally founded in 1191 and is rife with over 800 years of Irish history and culture.

A brilliant architectural wonder, its beauty can be noticed both inside and out. It is also the final resting place of Jonathan Swift, author of Gulliver’s travels and Dean of the Cathedral.

7. Go Back in Time to Dublin Castle

Dublin Castle

Take a trip back to prehistoric Dublin by visiting the famous Dublin Castle.

With over 800 years of Irish memories encapsulated within its walls, this incredible structure has borne witness to some of the most pivotal events in all of the country’s history.

Spanning an area of over 11 acres, the Castle stands proudly on the highest ridge in the locality and offers self-guided and guided tours of the grounds, including the Castle’s many rooms, gardens and museums such as the Chapel Royal, the Chester Beatty Library, the Garda Museum and the Revenue Museum.

Recommended tour : Fast-Track Access Book of Kells and Dublin Castle Tour

8. Take a Walk over Ha’penny Bridge

Ha’penny Bridge, Dublin

A strikingly unique white-picketed beauty, the Ha’penny Bridge is famously known as the first pedestrian bridge to span over the river Liffey.

Its name was derived from the price pedestrians had to pay (a “halfpenny”) to cross the bridge back when it was built in 1816.

Today, it has become one of the main “monuments” or structures that identify Dublin – appearing on postcards, tourism brochures, books and memorabilia.

9. Visit Christ Church Cathedral

Christ Church Cathedral, Dublin

The second of Dublin’s medieval cathedrals, Christ Church Cathedral, is yet another of Dublin’s architectural wonders.

More formally known as The Cathedral of the Holy Trinity, this fully-operational church is the cathedral of the United Dioceses of Dublin and Glendalough.

Although it is open to tourists who wish to marvel at its Romanesque interiors, the staff of the cathedral do charge admission and ticketing fees, as the building receives no support from the state.

However, the fee is definitely worth the visit and will help contribute to maintaining this beautiful piece of Irish history.

Tickets are available here : Christ Church Cathedral Entrance Ticket & Self-Guided Tour

10. Have a Picnic in Phoenix Park

Phoenix Park, Dublin

A humongous walled park (about 1,700 acres) that lies just about 2 miles from downtown Dublin, Phoenix Park is more than just your ordinary park.

In fact, aside from the long stretches of green and multitude of incredible trees and plants, it is also home to the Dublin Zoo, a sports field, the Wellington Monument, and both the Presidential and US Ambassador’s Residences.

With so much to do and see, you can easily spend the entire day relaxing, sightseeing or simply roaming the grounds.

11. Read a Book at Trinity College Library

Trinity College Library, Dublin

An incredible architectural wonder, and a room most bibliophiles would only dream of finding themselves in, the Trinity College Library is the largest library in all of Ireland.

It is also home to the famous Book of Kells – an ornate, beautifully-illuminated manuscript containing all of the four Gospels of the New Testament that’s over 1000 years old.

Its most famous section, known as The Long Room, has been known to resemble the Jedi Archives in Star Wars.

Unfortunately, the main library is only open to staff, graduates and students of the university, but that doesn’t stop tourists from taking a gander at the Old Library that’s open to visitors and located within its quarters.

12. Go for Lunch at Avoca Wool Shop & Café

Avoca Wool Shop & Café

Aside from the stout beer and whiskey, one of the finest (and most famous) goods that come out of Ireland is their wool and mohair products made from the local sheep scattered around the hills and valleys of Ireland.

Although the actual wool mill is located just outside of Dublin in the small town of Avoca, the company also sells their wool at various Avoca shops around Dublin.

For those who can’t get out of the city, stop by the shop near the Dublin City Center to purchase some original handwoven luxurious scarves, sweaters or blankets made out of local Irish mohair. Make sure you go upstairs to visit their café, where you can enjoy a light lunch, tea or dessert of local Irish cuisine.

13. Learn about the Abandoned Prison of Kilmainham Gaol

Abandoned Prison Of Kilmainham Gaol

An absolute must-see destination for all history lovers, Kilmainham Gaol is an abandoned prison that offers guided tours of its restored quarters.

With a cheap ticket fee of €4 per person, each tour includes a 45-50 minute tour of the facilities where your knowledgeable guide will take you through the history of the jail, detailing the extremely poor treatment of inmates during that time, along with countless other interesting facts about the politics and restoration of the prison.

You will leave this tour with a much broader understanding of this devastating time in Irish history.

14. Go on a Trip to Wicklow Mountains

Wicklow Mountains National Park

One of the best day trips out of the city – and a must-see during your trip to Dublin – is a tour of Wicklow Mountains.

Famously known for the filming location of the popular romance film, P.S. I Love You, this unbelievably beautiful landscape looks even more magnificent in person than it does on-screen.

Recommended tour : Day Tour of Wicklow Mountains National Park

15. Visit the Dublin Zoo

Red Panda at Dublin Zoo

Located within Phoenix Park, the Dublin Zoo is an excellent addition to your day.

With a huge variety of animals to see and a very well laid-out map, this excursion is great for individuals or groups of all ages. Not only are the animals at the zoo incredibly cared-for, but they all have spacious habitats for them to roam and play, making each encounter as close to the real thing as possible.

Be sure to visit the Meerkat Café, where you can look at the meerkats up close while you are enjoying a drink or bite to eat.

Included in : The Dublin Pass with Entry to Over 35 Attractions

16. Take a Day Trip to The Cliffs of Moher

Cliffs Of Moher

Another spectacular trip that awaits you just beyond the city is a tour of the marvelous Cliffs of Moher.

These natural wonders have also been used for various film shoots, such as Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince and The Princess Bride, and are an absolute breathtaking experience to view in person.

You can visit any tourism center in Dublin to arrange a day tour to the Cliffs of Moher, which will cost anywhere between €15 to €40. A must-see.

17. Discover the Unique Doors of Dublin

Unique Doors of Dublin

Since most of the housing complexes are built to look the same (and each individual house has little room in between each other), most home owners will paint their door an original color in order to set them apart from their neighbor’s house.

Although it was previously used to identify the home, it has now become a significant characteristic of Dublin itself. Photos of these colorful, unique-looking doors can be found on postcards and calendars in souvenir shops around the city.

Related tour: Walking Tour of Dublin

18. Wander through the Graveyards at Glasnevin Cemetery Museum

Glasnevin Cemetery Museum

Rated #1 on TripAdvisor’s list for Top Things to Do in Dublin, the Glasnevin Cemetery Museum is an atypical, but thoroughly interesting way to take in some Irish history.

During your tour, you’ll get to wander through some of the various graveyards of famous Irish political figures, poets, writers and other people of interest, along with hearing some very informative commentary about each person, and the political history of Ireland.

Tickets range from €6 to €25, depending on the type of package.

19. Learn to Play the Irish Way at Experience Gaelic Games

Gaelic Games

Another incredibly unique and fun way to experience the true Irish culture and heritage is to take part in Experience Gaelic Games’ traditional Irish recreational sports lessons.

Located just 10 minutes away from Dublin City Center, Experience Gaelic Games gives you the opportunity to learn some of Ireland’s most famous sporting games – such as the world-famous stick and ball field sport, “hurling” or Gaelic Football (a combination of soccer, rugby, basketball all rolled into one), and many more.

Great for groups, this experience is incredibly team-building and is a skill you can take home with you for life.

Book online : Gaelic Games Experience

20. Relax at St. Stephen’s Green

St. Stephen’s Green, Dublin

Another popular Dublin park to relax in is St. Stephen’s Green, filled with lush green grass, a variety of plants and flowers and some marvelous bodies of water.

If that’s not enough, there are even some monuments scattered around for you to see and many paths for you to walk, bike or jog.

Bring a book, a packed lunch, or stop at a café before heading to St. Stephen’s Green to enjoy a brisk, beautiful day at the park.

Book the tour : St Stephen’s Green Park Walking Tour

21. Stop to Smell the Roses at Dublin’s National Botanic Gardens

Dublin National Botanic Gardens

The National Botanic Gardens is such great place to visit – both with families or as a solo traveler.

With so many plants, flowers and other special things to see, you can easily spend an entire day getting lost roaming throughout these lush gardens.

Make sure to bring your camera, as some of the most beautiful parts of your visit includes a sculpture garden, a vegetable garden designed to look like an old castle or the glass houses.

Entry is completely free to visitors, but a guided tour is €5.

22. Visit the Little Museum of Dublin

Little Museum of Dublin

The Little Museum of Dublin is the perfect way to get a little bit of all types of history mashed up into one excellent and informative tour.

As most of the artifacts and ephemera are donated by people in Dublin, every object in the museum has its own unique story.

Admission to the museum costs €7, with exhibitions ranging from films to music to politics, history and culture.

Although the museum may be ‘little’, it is definitely packed with enough knowledge and history to stand up to one of the bigger museums in the city.

Skip the line :  Skip-the-Line Little Museum of Dublin Ticket

23. Have a History Lesson at the National Museum of Ireland

 National Museum of Ireland

One of the best free museums in all of Dublin is definitely the National Museum of Ireland.

Some of the most notable exhibits in the museum include the Viking exhibit, the exquisite gold artifact display or the remarkable collection of “bog men” – bodies found and recovered from bogs all over Ireland.

Each body comes with a story that will give you spectacular insight into the lives of these men who once lived in the country and have now become a permanent part of Irish history.

Recommended tour : Irish History & Treasures Tour with National Museum

24. Drink in the Knowledge at the Irish Whiskey Museum

Irish Whiskey Museum, Dublin

A great combination of Ireland’s best traits – history and booze – the Irish Whiskey Museum has everything you could possibly want in one great place.

Located in the popular Grafton street area, the museum tour gives you a detailed history of all types of whiskey (not just Jameson).

At the end of the tour, you get to taste three unique types of whiskey as celebration.

Plus, if you purchase the VIP package, you get an exclusive 4th whiskey and a unique shot class to take home with you.

25 Best Things to Do in Dublin (Ireland):

  • Party like the Irish at The Temple Bar
  • Drink Inside a Restorxed Cathedral at The Church
  • Visit the Guinness Storehouse Factory
  • Take a Tour of the Old Jameson Distillery
  • Take a photo with The Spire of Dublin
  • Marvel at the Beauty of St. Patrick’s Cathedral
  • Go Back in Time to Dublin Castle
  • Take a Walk over Ha’penny Bridge
  • Visit Christ Church Cathedral
  • Have a Picnic in Phoenix Park
  • Read a Book at Trinity College Library
  • Go for Lunch at Avoca Wool Shop & Café
  • Learn about the Abandoned Prison of Kilmainham Gaol
  • Go on a Trip to Wicklow Mountains
  • Visit the Dublin Zoo
  • Take a Day Trip to The Cliffs of Moher
  • Discover the Unique Doors of Dublin
  • Wander through the Graveyards at Glasnevin Cemetery Museum
  • Learn to Play the Irish Way at Experience Gaelic Games
  • Relax at St. Stephen’s Green
  • Stop to Smell the Roses at Dublin’s National Botanic Gardens
  • Visit the Little Museum of Dublin
  • Have a History Lesson at the National Museum of Ireland
  • Drink in the Knowledge at the Irish Whiskey Museum

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Europe , Ireland , Travel

40 most iconic things to do in dublin (in 2024).

ireland places to visit in dublin

As the capital of the Republic of Ireland, the city of Dublin is a must-see on your next visit. This vibrant city is full of history, beauty, and life! Discover the most iconic things to do in Dublin.

ireland places to visit in dublin

We love Ireland so much! We had the opportunity to live there several years ago and it holds a special place in our hearts. Since we were living on the eastern side of the island, we had many opportunities to visit Dublin. I wanted to share some of my favorite secret spots but also the most iconic places in Dublin that you should see.

ireland places to visit in dublin

Famous for its welcoming locals, rich literary heritage, and thriving nightlife, Dublin is one of the most popular European cities to visit. It doesn’t hurt that it has a busy international airport and is in a convenient location between the edge of Europe and the North Atlantic Ocean, too!

Ireland’s capital sits on the east coast of the country straddling the River Liffey. Once a port city but now a cultural hotspot, there are plenty of amazing things to do in Dublin, Ireland for everyone.

No Dublin itinerary is complete without strolling through one of the city’s spacious city parks, learning about Irish history at the museums, and sampling the local cuisine. And that also includes Ireland’s liquid cuisine!

This is a full list of all the best things to do Dublin, Ireland so you can choose what appeals to you. No matter what you end up doing when you visit Dublin, you’re sure to have an exciting and memorable vacation in the capital of the Emerald Isle.

Before You Go

ireland places to visit in dublin

Before visiting Dublin, you may want to consider purchasing a Go City Dublin Pass . This pass will cover many of the ticketed things to do in Dublin and will save you some money. You can check out all the activities offered on the Go City Dublin Pass here.

1. Temple Bar

ireland places to visit in dublin

Once upon a time, The Temple Bar was literally the name of just one bar on the southern banks of the river in Dublin city center. Cut to almost 200 years later, Temple Bar is a bustling neighborhood full of narrow, cobbled streets lined with pub after pub after pub.

Yes, Temple Bar is the go-to place for nightlife if you’re looking for cool Dublin things to do. Pubs are crowded with bachelor and bachelorette parties and big groups of friends all hoping to have a wild night out.

Most pubs in Temple Bar will hire DJs to entertain the troops with live music in the wee hours. But earlier in the evening, you can find fiddlers and guitar players playing traditional Irish music.

Oliver St John Gogarty is a great pub that hosts Irish music performers every night, and the original letterbox-red The Temple Bar is always a winner. If you’re seeking a quieter corner of the neighborhood to enjoy your pint without fear of spilling it as you wrestle through the crowds, head to The Auld Dubliner instead.

2. St Patrick’s Cathedral

ireland places to visit in dublin

St Patrick’s Cathedral isn’t just Ireland’s national cathedral, but it’s also Ireland’s largest church. It dates back to 1220 and has an early English Gothic architectural style. While slightly south of Dublin city center, St Patrick’s Cathedral is close to lots of other top attractions like Dublin Castle and St Stephens Green.

Ireland’s largest cathedral measures almost 300 ft/91 meters long and the nave is 56 ft/17 meters high. This massive cathedral is well worth visiting at any time as you’ll also be able to stroll around St Patrick’s Park next-door too. Look up their event schedule ahead of time as there might be a music recital or special performance you can attend.

3. Learn the History of Dublin

ireland places to visit in dublin

Dublin is full of history, both ancient and modern. What’s so fascinating is that the Republic of Ireland is actually a relatively new country. Just around 100 years old. Learning about the revolution and the creation of the Republic is fascinating. Take this amazing History Tour of Dublin and learn about the 1916 Easter Rising and more.

4. Taste the Best Food in Dublin

ireland places to visit in dublin

One of the best ways to experience the culture of Dublin is by trying all the amazing food. Ireland is never listed as one of the top countries for amazing food, but after living in Ireland, I promise you can find good food and I’m not just talking about pub food or fish and chips (although I’m not complaining about either of those). I recommend booking a food tour in Dublin to have a local help you discover some of the best eats in the city.

5. Guinness Storehouse

ireland places to visit in dublin

Without a doubt, the Guinness Storehouse is the number one attraction in Dublin and what many people would say is the best thing to do in Dublin, Ireland, period. It’s a must on any Dublin itinerary! Book your tickets online so you can avoid the long lines outside.

The Guinness Storehouse is the birthplace of Guinness, the world-renowned stout beer. Its history dates back to 1759 when Arthur Guinness leased the property in St James’s Gate at a rate of £45 per year for 9,000 years. This was back when Ireland was ruled by Britain and used the British pound as currency and people were very optimistic about business ventures!

Today, it’s one of the most popular tourist attractions for visitors of all ages. There is absolutely no age restriction so you can take your kids and there’s a good chance they’ll enjoy it too!

The Guinness Storehouse isn’t a guided tour, it’s an interactive experience. You’ll walk through the history, the brewing method, and even old Guinness advertisements. You have the opportunity to learn how to pour your own pint (it’s a lot trickier than you might think!) or have the experts pour one with a shamrock design on top. Kids get a soft drink included in their ticket.

The Gravity Bar at the end of the tour offers panoramic views across Dublin where you can sit and relax with your pint. During festive seasons like St Patrick’s Day, the Guinness Storehouse hires traditional Irish music performers and river dancers which is a unique cultural experience.

6. St Stephen’s Green

ireland places to visit in dublin

Downtown Dublin has lots of small block parks where you can sit on a bench and take a load off for a while. One of the best parks in Dublin has to be St Stephen’s Green.

It’s a square park surrounded by beautiful Georgian townhouses with brightly-colored doors. Perfect for Instagram! In St Stephen’s Green, there’s a small lake and children’s playground with lots of statues and dedications to Irish historical figures.

There’s a memorial to Irish poet W. B. Yeats, Republican Leader Robert Emmet, political figure Wolfe Tone, and Constance Markievicz who was the first elected member of parliament in Europe! St Stephen’s Green is a must-visit on a beautiful summer’s day in Dublin.

7. Dublin Castle

ireland places to visit in dublin

No European capital city is complete without a grand, historic castle. Luckily, Dublin Castle isn’t perched on the edge of the city in an inconvenient location but right in the center. Visiting the castle is one of the top things to do in Dublin, Ireland.

Dublin Castle dates back to 1204 when King John of England built it as a fortress, court of law, prison, and treasury. It was the heart of the British administration in Ireland for over 700 years until Irish independence in the 1920s.

Today, Dublin Castle has two museums, many well-appointed staterooms, a library, a chapel, a café, and beautifully manicured lawns. If you’re a fan of manor houses and stately homes then you’ll love visiting Dublin Castle too!

8. Trinity College Dublin and The Book of Kells

ireland places to visit in dublin

You might know about Dublin’s literary greats like Jonathan Swift, James Joyce, and Oscar Wilde. But did you know that Dublin is also a UNESCO City of Literature and there’s an old library there with one of the most valuable and important books in the world?

Trinity College Dublin is Ireland’s oldest university and a must-do in Dublin city center. It dates back to 1592. One of the university’s most historic buildings is Trinity College Library . No amount of description will do this library justice except that the rows of dusty books and dark wooden shelves resemble something out of Harry Potter.

Known as Ireland’s greatest cultural treasure, Trinity College Library owns a book called The Book of Kells. It’s a religious manuscript created by Celtic monks containing four gospels from the New Testament of the Bible. It dates back to around 800 making it one of the top eight oldest books in existence.

It provides quite the history lesson and the rest of the Trinity College campus is very picturesque too.

9. Irish Whiskey Museum

ireland places to visit in dublin

Guinness isn’t the only alcoholic beverage created in Ireland. Irish whiskey deserves a mention too! And where better to taste a dram or two and learn about the history and distillery process than the Irish Whiskey Museum? It’s one of the most fun things to do in Dublin, Ireland for couples.

At the Irish Whiskey Museum, you will have a tour guide who will take you through the interactive exhibits before trying no less than three whiskeys at the end. Afterward, you’ll be able to understand the differences between Irish, Scotch, and other types of whiskey and the factors that affect the tasting profile.

It’s good to note that the museum stays open until 10 pm on Fridays and Saturdays just in case you didn’t feel like drinking strong alcoholic beverages during the day!

10. Christ Church Cathedral

ireland places to visit in dublin

Dublin has not one but two cathedrals and visiting them both is one of the best things to do in Dublin. Christ Church Cathedral dates back to 1030 when Viking King Sitric Silkenbeard built the first structure. It was rebuilt in grey stone in the 12th century under Norman rule.

This medieval building has a lot of fun quirks that you won’t find in most churches. For example, Christ Church Cathedral has a mummified rat and cat on display after they both got stuck in a pipe organ. You can also explore the spooky underground crypts at Christ Church Cathedral and see the ‘Homeless Jesus’ statue outside on a bench.

11. Grafton Street

ireland places to visit in dublin

Grafton Street is the soul of city life in Dublin city center. At first glance, it looks like any other high street lined with clothing stores that you can find in any Irish or British city. Spend a little more time strolling along the cobbled street and you’ll realize that Ireland’s musical heritage bleeds out of the dark pubs and onto this lane.

Grafton Street has a long tradition of hosting buskers (musicians who play on the street for tips) and many have signed record deals from playing here. Performance venues like The Gaiety Theatre, Bewleys Cafe Theatre, and LoSt LaNe are all located in and around Grafton Street. You’ll also find a statue of Phil Lynott, an Irish member of the band Thin Lizzy, on Harry Street which is just off Grafton Street.

Listening to amazing acoustic music on Grafton Street is one of the top free things to do in Dublin! It’s almost guaranteed that this street will be on any walking tour of Dublin.

12. National Museum of Ireland

ireland places to visit in dublin

Visiting one of the national museums of Ireland is one of the best things to do in Dublin. There are three in total: the National Museum of Archaeology, the National Museum of Natural History, and the National Museum of Decorative Arts & History.

They’re all free museums (as are most museums in Ireland!) all concentrating on a specific part of Irish history. You probably won’t want to visit them all unless you’re staying in Dublin for a long time. Choose whichever appeals to your interests more.

The Archaeology and Natural History museums are right next to each other on Merrion Square Park. The Decorative Arts & History museum is to the west of the city center just north of the River Liffey if that helps you decide.

13. Dublin Zoo

ireland places to visit in dublin

If you’re looking for things to do in Dublin with kids, Dublin Zoo should be at the top of your list. This zoo is the largest in Ireland and it’s home to animals from all over the world including the African Plain, the Arctic, and Asian Forests. In fact, Dublin Zoo is a larger site than London Zoo and boasts more animals.

Dublin Zoo takes its conservation efforts and breeding program seriously. Though it’s one of the oldest zoos in the world (dating back to 1830), it’s an ultra-modern facility providing all animals from elephants to penguins with the best care.

14. Kilmainham Gaol

ireland places to visit in dublin

Kilmainham Gaol is one of the top favorite places in Dublin for people who love dark tourism and delving into the less glamorous side of a city’s past. Dating back to 1796, this jail (gaol is the Irish word for jail and they are both pronounced the same) has housed most of Ireland’s political prisoners. Many were also tortured and executed here too.

It closed in 1924 shortly after Ireland’s independence and has been a national monument since the 1960s. You can join a guided tour around the jail’s facilities and learn more about its gruesome past in person.

This is a top tip you won’t want to forget: buy your tickets online in advance! Kilmainham Gaol is an extremely popular attraction and they only sell a limited amount of tickets for each day.

There’s no lining up at the gates for the jail because they simply won’t let anyone in without a ticket. It’s also a bus journey outside of Dublin city centre so you don’t want to travel there only to turn back around. They release tickets around one month in advance.

15. River Liffey & Bridges

ireland itinerary

When wondering what to do in Dublin, you cannot miss the River Liffey. No, really, you literally cannot miss it because it flows right through the center of Dublin. If you book a walking tour of Dublin then you will no doubt see this bridge many times.

This river is the reason why Dublin is the city it is. Dublin Docklands was built the same year as Kilmainham Gaol and it was an important port for decades. Many unique and interesting bridges cross the Liffey including the cast iron Ha’penny Bridge which was the first pedestrian bridge in Dublin.

Cross the O’Connell bridge and you’ll find a plaque commemorating the life of Father Pat Noise who died by drowning in the river. Except, the plaque is a hoax and no one by that name has ever existed in Dublin. Everyone thought the plaque was amusing when it first appeared overnight in 2004. Even Dublin’s city council! So, it remains.

16. Molly Malone Statue

ireland places to visit in dublin

There must be dozens, if not hundreds of statues and busts around Dublin. The Molly Malone Statue is the only one that makes the list of the best things to do in Dublin.

Her statue is in a prime location close to Temple Bar and Ireland’s oldest university, Trinity College. This statue depicts a female fishmonger pushing a cart of her catch. She’s wearing a 17th-century outfit and revealing her cleavage to support the long-held belief that fishmongering wasn’t all Molly did to make ends meet.

Unfortunately, she’s not an important figure in Irish history. She is the main character in a popular Irish folk song and you should stop by to take a photo with the famous fictional Irish woman.

17. Phoenix Park

ireland places to visit in dublin

Based to the west of central Dublin, Phoenix Park is a sprawling public park that should make your list of Dublin, Ireland things to do. It’s the largest enclosed park of any European capital city measuring over 700 hectares.

Phoenix Park was founded in the 1660s as a Royal deer hunting park but it’s now home to the Dublin Zoo and the Irish National War Memorial Gardens including soldiers who fought in World War I and II as well as for independence. Interestingly, Phoenix Park is also where you’ll find Áras an Uachtaráin – the home of Ireland’s president!

18. Chester Beatty Library & Irish History Museum

ireland places to visit in dublin

Just behind Dublin Castle is one of the quirkier Dublin attractions, the Chester Beatty Library and Museum. Sir Alfred Chester Beatty found huge success in the mining industry at the turn of the 20th century. As with many wealthy people who aren’t sure what to do with their great fortune, he collected books and other artifacts of both religious and artistic value.

His collection is now on display for anyone to see in this museum. It’s fascinating but it’s not a very large exhibit so you’ll be able to squeeze it into your Dublin itinerary alongside your trip to Dublin Castle. Plus, admission is free!

19. Dublin Bay

ireland places to visit in dublin

Being an island country, Ireland has tons of beautiful untouched beaches. While strolling along the sandy shores (with a jacket on, of course) might be one of the top things to do in Ireland, Dublin isn’t the best place for a beach day.

But Dublin does have one! Dublin Bay is a very small, c-shaped inlet which means it’s somewhat hidden in the coastline and avoids the worst of the windy weather.

It is a biosphere reserve and the natural habitat for lots of rare and important bird species such as puffins, gulls, gannets, razorbills, cormorants, and the extremely rare roseate terns.

There’s also a children’s playground and a park next to the bay. It’s only an easy 30-minute bus ride so if this is your only opportunity to see the Irish coastline then you should take it!

20. The Little Museum of Dublin

ireland places to visit in dublin

The Little Museum is not only one of the best things to do in Dublin, but it’s also adorable and one of the most fun ways to learn more about the city’s history and Irish history in general.

Located in a Georgian townhouse just off St Stephen’s Green, the Little Museum resembles a well-organized hoarder’s home. There are photographs, artwork, furniture, memorabilia, and lots of other nick-nacks telling the story of local Dubliners. The Little Museum even has one room entirely decked out in comic book strip-style artwork explaining the 1916 Easter Rising in Dublin!

21. Jameson Distillery Bow Street

ireland places to visit in dublin

If you’re a fan of Irish whiskey then just hitting up the Irish Whiskey Museum during your trip to Dublin isn’t going to cut it. You should also visit the Jameson Distillery on Bow Street for an organised tour and tasting!

Before 1780, this distillery was called the Steins Family Bow Street Distillery. John Jameson was a Scotsman who took over the business and changed the face of Irish whiskey forever.

Jameson distilled whiskey here until 1971. Now, Jameson Distillery is a fun tourist attraction with casks and bottles stacked against every wall and an outside courtyard.

22. Glasnevin Cemetery Museum

ireland places to visit in dublin

Visiting an average cemetery might not be your idea of fun, but Glasnevin Cemetery is something different! This Victorian burial ground is in a beautiful location in north Dublin right next to the National Botanic Gardens and there’s even a gift shop and café.

It’s called Glasnevin Cemetery Museum because it really is like an open-air museum. You can take a guided Glasnevin Cemetery tour and learn about the lives of the weird and wonderful characters buried here.

23. Merrion Square Park

ireland places to visit in dublin

Merrion Square Park is one of the more well-to-do locations of what to see in Dublin. Surrounding this small city park, you’ll find embassies, important historical archives, and small educational institutions.

The park itself is also beautiful. Like St Stephen’s Green, there are statues and memorials to famous Irish faces. You’ll find both the writer Oscar Wilde and revolutionary Michael Collins (Liam Neeson plays him in the movie!). Your kids will love the Giant’s Garden playground here.

24. Viking Splash Tours

ireland places to visit in dublin

Walking tours, food tours, historical tours… There is no shortage of tours you can do in Dublin! But if you’re looking for things to do in Dublin with kids, you should check out Viking Splash Tours .

These bus tours depart from St Stephen’s Green in amphibious boat buses that can travel both on land and sea. You’ll spend part of this informative tour driving around the streets of Dublin before floating on the Grand Basin and seeing the city from a new perspective.

This bus tour is so much fun, and they even give you your own Viking helmet so you can get into the spirit of the experience!

25. EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum

ireland places to visit in dublin

Do you have any Irish heritage? If you’re from the US, there’s every chance that you do.

EPIC, The Irish Emigration Museum , is a relatively new institution located on the northern banks of the Liffey. It’s a must-do for anyone wondering what to do in Dublin who wants to trace and learn more about their Irish ancestors.

Not only are there historical displays detailing when, why, and how Irish people emigrated around the world, but all of the exhibits are interactive. It’s a great place to take kids! Plus, they have archives and facilities to help you locate ancestry too.

26. Croke Park Stadium Tour

ireland places to visit in dublin

Watching a sports game on vacation is such a great way to have an authentic local experience while having fun. And one of the top fun things to do in Dublin, Ireland has to be watching a Gaelic football (that’s soccer!) game.

Croke Park is Ireland’s biggest football stadium and hosts Gaelic sports games from April to September. If you don’t want to catch a game or you’re visiting out of season, you can still take a stadium tour and learn about Ireland’s favorite sports.

27. Learn to Play Some Irish Sports

ireland places to visit in dublin

After touring the stadium, if you want to immerse yourself in the world of Irish sports even more, you can book a Gaelic Games Experience and learn how to play the games and spend some time outside with the locals.

28. The Hungry Tree

ireland places to visit in dublin

One of the most unique things to do in Dublin is this cool photo opportunity. The ‘Hungry Tree’ is literally a majestic, 100-year-old tree that grew so wide and tall that it swallowed up part of the cast iron bench that stands in front of it.

You’ll find it in King’s Inns Park (yet another of Dublin’s city parks) which is a nice spot for family photos.

29. Viking Ruins at Wood Quay

ireland places to visit in dublin

There are lots of museums, memorials, and archives dedicated to Ireland’s history from the early 20th century onwards, but few focus on Ireland and Dublin’s early history. Dublin was founded in the 9th century by Vikings. They were the ones that dubbed it Dubh Linn (no pun intended!) which means Black Pool.

One of the top things to see in Dublin, Ireland is the Viking settlement at Wood Quay. It’s next to Christ Church Cathedral on the banks of the River Liffey. The ruins are out in the open and totally free to visit.

30. Shopping on O’Connell Street

ireland places to visit in dublin

Dublin isn’t short of shopping centers, malls, vintage stores, and tourist souvenir shops. No matter what you want to shop for, you’ll find it on or around O’Connell Street.

O’Connell Street is a huge, pedestrianized road named after a former Mayor of Dublin. He campaigned to give Irish Catholics to right to be Members of Parliament around the turn of the 19th century. There’s a monument to him at the bottom of O’Connell street so even while you’re shopping, you’ll be getting a history lesson!

31. National Gallery of Ireland

ireland places to visit in dublin

As well as the national museums, if you’re an art lover and you’re wondering what to do in Dublin, Ireland then you have to check out the National Gallery of Ireland . It’s next door to the national museums of archaeology and natural history so it’s super convenient for culture vultures.

The National Gallery of Ireland boasts a huge collection of European art from the 14th century to the 21st century. And it also has free admission!

32. Garden of Remembrance

ireland places to visit in dublin

When Queen Elizabeth became the first British Monarch to visit Ireland in over 100 years back in 2011, the first place she visited was the Garden of Rememberance to lay a wreath. It’s a small but important formal garden dedicated to people who gave their lives for Irish freedom.

There are lots of statues in the garden as well as quintessential Irish symbols like the Celtic harp and Celtic crosses.

33. Dublin’s Street Art

ireland places to visit in dublin

Dublin has some amazing street art offering lots of opportunities for Instagrammable photographs. Some of the best spots include the Tivoli Theatre parking lot, 36 Molesworth St, and 41 Aungier St.

You’ll find street art all over the Temple Bar neighborhood too. Love Lane is a highlight!

34. Delahunt Traditional Irish Restaurant

ireland places to visit in dublin

If Delahunt Restaurant is good enough to dine at for Prince Harry and Meghan Markle during their last visit to Dublin then it’s good enough for you! This restaurant is one of the best places in Dublin to eat delicious and traditional Irish cuisine.

This restored tavern is close to St Stephens Green and serves dishes like suckling pig, monkfish, and other locally-sourced dishes. Their tasting menu is currently €80 which isn’t bad for five courses.

35. The Cobblestone Live Music Pub

ireland places to visit in dublin

Whereas people living in Dublin probably wouldn’t be caught dead tapping along to a band in the Temple Bar neighborhood, pubs like The Cobblestone welcome both tourists and locals alike.

If you want to listen to folk music in a more low-key place, this is the place for you! It’s in the trendy Smithfield neighborhood surrounded by flea markets and food fairs on the weekend.

36. Murphys Ice Cream

ireland places to visit in dublin

Ice cream? In Dublin?! Yes, if you’re a fan of Netflix’s Somebody Feed Phil then you’ll have seen his Ireland episode where he visits Murphys Ice Cream and samples their crazy flavors like Irish Brown Bread (my favorite).

They have more kid-friendly flavors too and it’s a delicious, well-loved, Ireland-born company with ice cream made right in Dingle. If you’re visiting in the summer (or even winter), you have to try a scoop of Murphys! There are locations all over Ireland as well, if you happen to miss it in Dublin.

37. Eat an Irish Breakfast

ireland places to visit in dublin

You’ve heard of the full English breakfast or ‘fry up’ but Ireland has their own spin on it. Instead of baked beans, you’ll find fried tomatoes and often fried potatoes too. And instead of black pudding (Google it – it’s not a dessert!), you’ll find white pudding.

One of the best places to order the full Irish breakfast is a quintessential greasy spoon like Lovinspoon . It’s close to the Garden of Remembrance and O’Connell Street.

If a meat heavy breakfast isn’t your thing, you should definitely head to Queen of Tarts, one of my favorite eats in Dublin. They have delicious breakfasts, and amazing cakes. Possibly the best Victoria Sponge I’ve ever had!

38. Eat at a Restored Church

ireland places to visit in dublin

Have you ever dreamed of eating dinner in an old church? No? Well, it’s a pretty cool experience that should definitely be on your bucket list. Eating at The Church one of the coolest things to do in Dublin if you want a unique dining experience.

39. Eat at Avoca Cafe & Wool Shop

ireland places to visit in dublin

Avoca Cafe and Wool was founded in 1723 as a woolen mill and has since expanded to include a cafe and gift shop.

The woolen mill still operates at the same location and produces a range of high-quality Irish wool products, including blankets, throws, scarves, and hats. You can watch the weaving process in action and purchase unique, handmade items.

The cafe at Avoca serves a range of fresh, locally-sourced dishes in a bright and welcoming atmosphere. The menu includes breakfast items, sandwiches, soups, salads, and more, with many vegetarian and gluten-free options available. In addition to the cafe, there is also a food market selling a range of artisanal products, including baked goods, cheese, and chocolate.

Avoca Cafe and Wool is a great destination for anyone looking to experience traditional Irish crafts and cuisine in a modern setting.

40. Take pictures with all the cute Dublin Doors

ireland places to visit in dublin

Dublin is known for its colorful doors. As you’re exploring the city, keep an eye out for all the cute doors and get a picture in front of at least one!

Bonus: Day Trip from Dublin

There are so many great day trips from Dublin. If you’re planning on basing yourself in Dublin for several days, I highly recommend exploring one of these day trip options. Here is just one of my favorites, and probably the easiest day trip to do.

Day trip from Dublin to Howth

ireland places to visit in dublin

If you want to get out of the city for a bit, take a quick day trip to Howth. Howth is a charming coastal village located just a short distance from Dublin, making it an ideal day trip from Dublin. One of the highlights of a visit to Howth is the stunning natural scenery. The village is situated on a peninsula that offers breathtaking views of the Irish Sea and the surrounding coastline. Visitors can take a leisurely walk along the picturesque cliff path, which stretches for several miles and offers panoramic views of the sea and the rugged coastline.

In addition to its natural beauty, Howth is also known for its fresh seafood. The village is home to several excellent seafood restaurants and cafes, where you can sample delicious dishes made with locally caught fish and shellfish. One of the best ways to experience the local seafood is to visit the fish market at Howth Harbour, where you can watch the fishermen bring in their catches and choose from a wide selection of fresh seafood to take home or enjoy on the spot.

Things To Do in Dublin FAQs

What county is dublin in in ireland.

What county is Dublin, Ireland in is a super easy question to answer because it has the same name! County Dublin is one of Ireland’s 32 traditional counties of Ireland.

County Dublin has four local government areas, one of which is Dublin City. The other three are Dún Laoghaire–Rathdown, Fingal, and South Dublin.

Is Dublin a walkable city?

Dublin is a very walkable city. Most popular tourist attractions are concentrated around the River Liffey in Dublin City Center. It’s also a very flat city with almost no hills.

As long as you don’t have any accessibility needs, you’ll be able to get around on foot! Some of the attractions like Kilmainham Gaol or Phoenix Park are a taxi or bus ride away, but these are two of the only exceptions.

What is the best time to go to Dublin?

One of the great things about visiting Dublin is that it’s a big capital city. There’s always plenty to do and see whether you visit in January or June.

Dublin has an oceanic climate which means the winters are long, cold, windy, and wet and the summers are mild-warm. If you want to visit Dublin when it’s warm, book your trip for June – August. Bear in mind that prices will be higher, the city will be busy, and the weather could still be bad!

Visit during the shoulder months of May and September for lower prices and moderately warm weather. March 17th is St Patrick’s Day and it’s a huge event in Ireland, so if you love nightlife and are happy to pay the inflated prices then it’s a lot of fun!

Discover the Best Things To Do in Dublin, Ireland When You Visit

On the surface, it might seem like all the best things to do in Dublin revolve around drinking whiskey, drinking Guinness, and more drinking! But when you visit Dublin, you’ll uncover a rich literary history housed in beautiful Georgian buildings and friendly locals.

Whether you’re visiting as a couple, a solo traveler, or as a family, Dublin will greet you with open arms and tons of fun things to do!

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Home » Europe » Ireland » Dublin

19 BEST Places to Visit in Dublin (2024)

People travel to Dublin for amazing scenery, friendly people, and history and the city doesn’t disappoint. No matter what you enjoy seeing or doing, there are numerous amazing places to visit in Dublin, and once you get a taste of this city you won’t want to leave!

It has everything from castles to green spaces and a vibrant, friendly nightlife that’s famous around the world. From St. Stephen’s Green to Temple Bar, abandoned prisons haunted with the ghosts of Irish Independence to a bloody good night out on the black gold. You’ll never be short of things to do here!

Finding the right places to go in Dublin can be an issue for some people. It’s easy to get lost in the winding streets or end up in completely the wrong area. If you struggle a little to identify and find all the best places to eat, sightsee, and experience in Dublin, we’ve created this guide to help you.

Need a place quick? Here’s the best neighbourhood in Dublin:

These are the best places to visit in dublin, faq on the best places to visit in dublin.

Find yourself a place to rest your weary legs before you start your journey into this magical metropolis by checking out where to stay in Dublin first. Then, scroll on down to enjoy the “craic” below!

If you’re on a budget you’ll be pleased to know there are some great hostels in Dublin , though, don’t expect Southeast Asia prices! Otherwise, if you’re feeling a bit fancy then the Dublin Airbnb offerings are pretty epic.

City Centre, Dublin

City Centre

Dublin’s city centre is bursting with an exciting mix of history and culture. Walk along its twisting and turning cobblestone streets and you’ll be met with stories and legends around every corner.

  • Shop around the Henry Street area, one of the oldest and most famous shopping districts in the city.
  • View the 120 meters high Spire of Dublin, one of the world’s tallest sculptures.
  • Walk across Ha’penny Bridge, a 19th-century bridge that is one of the symbols of the city.

So, here we go! Strap in because there are heaps of epic things to do in Dublin , so you better pack some comfy shoes and get ready for an Irish adventure!

There’s much more to exploring Ireland than drinking, though, let’s be honest, it’s still a pretty important part of the experience… all in the name of culture obviously! Visiting Ireland is a wild ride of intense history, friendly people and beautiful landscapes.

ireland places to visit in dublin

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#1 – Kilmainham Goal – A fascinating educational place to visit in Dublin

Kilmainham Goal

  • A slightly creepy but educational look at the recent past.
  • It’s important that you understand this side of Irish history if you’re going to understand the country.

Why it’s so awesome: Kilmainham Gaol is a former prison that once held rebel leaders and Irish Republicans and it played a powerful role in Dublin’s history and Irish independence. This is one of the most important points of interest in Dublin that should be on every backpacking Ireland travel guide because it’s so closely linked to the present day and the politics and structure of Irish society.

What to do there: This goal is located just outside of the city, so it’s easy enough to get there. Take a tour if you want to hear all the stories about the goal and afterwards you can head up to the Irish Museum of Modern Art, which is nearby. There are also some good food places nearby as well including Union 8 and Storyboard.

ireland places to visit in dublin

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#2 – Temple Bar – For The Ultimate Night Out

George’s Street Arcade, Dublin

  • Temple Bar is the home of nightlife in Ireland’s capital
  • Temple Bar is filled with bars playing live music into the wee hours.

Why it’s so awesome: When you travel to Ireland, you definitely need to indulge in the famous Dublin nightlife. The Temple Bar area of the city is well known as one of the best places not only in Dublin but the world, for a night out. Revel in live Irish music, sample some of the best drinks this country has and engage in a bit of friendly craic! It’s one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city no matter what time of day you find yourself here!

What to do there: You can’t visit Dublin without exploring the pubs of Temple Bar. The whole area is home to some great bars and you can’t go wrong stumbling out on the cobblestones from one to another all night. Just follow the trail of live folk music and lose yourself in the atmosphere. You could, and should, of course, visit The Temple Bar whilst there!

#3 – Iveagh Gardens – A nice non-touristy place to visit in Dublin

Iveagh Gardens

  • The best place to visit in Dublin if you want some peace and quiet in nature.
  • Take a book and your lunch and just relax in this hidden oasis close to St. Stephen’s Green.

Why it’s so awesome: This park is located close to St Stephen’s Green and it’s a hidden park that only the locals know about. It often plays host to concerts and festivals, but mostly it’s a green space where you can sit and relax without lots of people snapping selfies all around you. It’s a real oasis in the middle of Dublin city centre.

What to do there: If you get tired of the city while you’re wandering around then grab a packed lunch and something to read and stake out a piece of grass. You’ll find plenty of other locals enjoying the peace and quiet, so take a page from their book and recharge in this lovely natural space. It’s also much quieter than the nearby St. Stephen’s Green.

#4 – The Dublin Mountains – A perfect place to visit in Dublin if you are on a budget!

The Dublin Mountains

  • You can join a range of hikes in this area from family friendly walks to intense hiking experiences.
  • This is the perfect weekend activity.
  • The Dublin Mountains Partnership offers free guided walks so it’s a cheap activity as well as one that will get you fit!

Why it’s so awesome: If you’re interested in exploring the trails around the Dublin Mountains Way, then a free walking hike is an awesome way to do it. This hike explores a range of trails including Tibradden Wood, known to the locals as the pine forest. You’ll see some amazing scenery with a local guide and get a chance to explore nature and get away from the rush of the city for a while.

What to do there: Contact the Dublin Mountains Partnership for information on their free guided walks. This is the perfect activity for solo travellers as well as families as they have a range of walks to suit almost any ability. Make sure you ask plenty of questions too because the guides love to share their knowledge of the mountains and of their city in general as well.

#5 – St. Patrick’s Cathedral – Possibly one of the most important places to visit in Dublin

St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Dublin

  • St. Patrick’s Cathedral is the largest church in all of Ireland.
  • One of the most popular hotspots in Dublin for tourists.

Why it’s so awesome: St. Patrick’s Cathedral is over 800 years old and has been witness to changes in Irish culture, politics, and religion over the ages. It’s also an architectural wonder on its own, with a beauty that will remind you why you wanted to visit Dublin in the first place. This Dublin must-see is the final resting place of one of Dublin’s favourite sons, Jonathan Swift, who wrote Gulliver’s Travels.

What to do there: Take your camera and spend some time exploring this popular Dublin landmark. Make sure you pay attention to the inside of St. Patrick’s Cathedral as well as the outside, as there are a number of historical and beautiful features that deserve attention and will look great in photos!

#6 – The Church

The Church

  • A quirky place that isn’t quite what it seems!
  • If you want a drink in beautiful surroundings, this is one of the best places to visit in Dublin.

Why it’s so awesome: This is one of the most popular hotspots in Dublin, and once you go there, you’ll understand why. The venue was a church that closed in 1964 and since then has been meticulously restored and turned into a bar and nightclub. Many of the church’s original features have been preserved, however, which is what makes it such an amazing place to enjoy a drink.

What to do there: This venue holds a range of activities, so make sure you check out what’s on while you’re in the city. There are booths, tables and barstools as well as a small stage, so you can enjoy traditional Irish music on certain nights of the week in comfort. There’s also a nightclub on the lower level with a resident DJ who plays all the latest music that will make you want to dance.

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#7 – Guinness Storehouse Factory

Guinness Storehouse Factory

  • One of the most popular points of interest in Dublin for tourists.
  • You can’t spend time in Ireland without learning about its iconic drink, so buy a ticket and learn about the history of Guinness.

Why it’s so awesome: The interior of this building is designed to look like a pint of Guinness and is often called the largest pint in the world. The rest of the building is seven floors of Irish brewing history which will prove to you just how popular this drink is in Ireland.

What to do there: Buy a ticket for one of the best brewery tours in the world to learn all about the Guinness family and the history of the drink. The history is more interesting than you might think, and afterwards, you’ll end up at the Gravity Bar. This is located on the 7th floor and offers 360 views of the Dublin skyline as well as a chance to enjoy a pint!

#8 – Old Jameson Distillery

Old Jameson Distillery, Dublin

  • One of Dublin’s most popular historical gems.
  • A great place to learn more about this iconic drink and have a tasting too.

Why it’s so awesome: This distillery was the original site where Jameson whiskey was manufactured and distilled until it was closed in the 1970s. That’s why you’ll learn a lot about this iconic drink when you tour this site. It’s also a good way to learn about a different side of Dublin’s culture. When you’re done, you’ll get an exclusive Whiskey Taster Certificate to take home with you to commemorate your knowledge about traditional Irish whiskey. It’s one of the most fun Dublin attractions for sure!

What to do there: You can take a tour through the distillery to learn about its history and about the process that creates Jameson whiskey. The tour also includes a comparative whiskey tasting experience, so make sure you have something in your stomach before the tour or you might need a nap before you go on with the rest of your day.

#9 – The Spire of Dublin

The Spire of Dublin, Dublin

  • The most recognisable and photogenic places in Dublin.
  • Make sure you  take your camera  with you when you head to this area, as the pictures you’ll get will be amazing.

Why it’s so awesome: You can see this monument for miles as it stands in the centre of O’Connell Street and is around 120 meters tall. It’s constructed entirely of stainless steel and is about 3 meters in diameter at the base and 15 centimetres at the top. The spire was commissioned in 1999 as part of efforts to improve O’Connell Street, which had declined because of the proliferation of fast food cops and the destruction of Nelson’s Pillar in 1966 at the hands of IRA members.

The spire demanded the removal of a lot of trees and the Anna Livia monument and so was quite controversial at the time. Now it sits proudly at the heart of Dublin city centre.

What to do there: This spire looks amazing in photographs, so make sure you take plenty while you’re at the site. It looks particularly good on sunny days when the exterior lights up under the sun’s rays. At night, a light at the top acts as a beacon in the night sky, which looks just as good in photos too. It’s one of the newest Dublin attractions but it’s already iconic!

#10 – Ha’penny Bridge – Cross the River Liffey in style!

Ha’penny Bridge

  • The perfect place to get an iconic picture of Dublin.
  • If you’ve seen images of this city in books or on postcards, then you’ll probably recognise this bridge!

Why it’s so awesome: This bridge is one of the most recognisable landmarks in Dublin and you’ve probably seen it in books, on TV, and on postcards. The bridge was the first pedestrian bridge over the River Liffey and its name reflects the price that pedestrians had to pay to cross the bridge back in 1816 when it was built.

What to do there: It’s a wonderful feeling to walk in places that contain hundreds of years of history and you’ll feel that when you walk across this bridge. Today, it’s a bright and pretty-looking white picket structure across the River Liffey, so enjoy the short stroll. Then afterwards, find a place on the bank where you can get a good photograph of it stretching over the water below.

#11 – Christ Church Cathedral – A great place to see in Dublin if you love architecture

Christ Church Cathedral

  • Christ Church Cathedral is another of the city’s architectural marvels.
  • There is an admission fee to go inside Christ Church Cathedral, but it’s worth paying!

Why it’s so awesome: This church is the second medieval cathedral in Dublin and it’s stunningly beautiful. It’s fully operational and is more formally known as The Cathedral of the Holy Trinity. The building is stunning inside and out, with medieval features and Romanesque decorations.

What to do there: Take pictures of this building from the outside, but definitely pay the entrance fee to explore the inside of the Christ Church Cathedral as well. Just try to avoid going on Sundays or other days when there are services, as you don’t want to explore while the congregation stares at you. This is one of the most famous places to visit in Dublin , so take your time to explore and enjoy the artistic design and decorations.

ireland places to visit in dublin

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#12 – Dublin Castle

Dublin Castle

  • One of the best places in Dublin to visit if you want to experience the ancient past.
  • Dublin Castle has seen some of the most important events in Irish history.
  • It also contains a number of displays and buildings that you need to while you’re visiting Dublin.

Why it’s so awesome: Dublin Castle is absolutely iconic and is a must-see. The historical scenes that this building has witnessed were absolutely pivotal to the development of the city that exists today and it’s also a visually striking building that will give you daydreams about medieval times and knights on horses.

What to do there: Dublin Castle has self-guided tours of the 11-acre grounds as well as guided tours. It’s a big place, with a lot of rooms that you should see, so take the guided tour if you want to get a deeper look into its secrets. Make sure that you check out the Chapel Royal, the Garda Museum, and the Chester Beatty Library as well as the stately gardens that surround the area. If you’re a history buff, you’ll froth Dublin Castle!

#13 – Trinity College Library – A great place to visit in Dublin if you love architecture & history

Trinity College Library

  • Trinity College hosts the largest library in Ireland and home to some of the most famous books in Irish history.
  • The main library is only open to staff and students, but you can check out the old library.

Why it’s so awesome: The Trinity College Library is an architectural wonder on its own and it also holds an incredibly varied collection of books. This is what makes it the perfect place to visit in Dublin if you want some quiet time, or if you love books , and is a reason to visit the famous Trinity College all on its own.

What to do there: You can’t visit the main library unless you’re a student, but make sure you check out the old library, located within the main library quarters of Trinity College. Explore the stacks, find a table and read a book, or just take in the age and history all around you in quiet serenity. It’s one of the most popular tourist attractions for a reason!

#14 – The Cliffs of Moher – A must do day trip from Dublin

The Cliffs of Moher

  • An easy and spectacular day trip from Dublin.
  • This is a Dublin must see, so don’t miss out.

Why it’s so awesome: If you have time in your Dublin itinerary for a proper day trip, then this is the one. The Cliffs of Moher are located just out of the city and have been made famous in movies like Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince and the Princess Bride. And they’re just as good in person too, with an absolutely spectacular view over the ocean. This is the Ireland that you really came to see and one of the best places to visit in Dublin for incredible scenery!

What to do there: It’s easy enough to find a day tour provider that takes tours out to the cliffs on a regular basis. Don’t forget your camera either, because the views really are as good as they seem on television and in movies. It’s one of the most popular tourist attractions not only in Dublin but in the whole of Ireland too, the sheer beauty of the landscape here will leave you awestruck.

#15 – St. Michan

St. Michan

  • A creepy look at the history of the church.
  • A chance for you to shake hands with a real mummy!

Why it’s so awesome: The Michan church was built in 1095 to serve the ostracized Vikings who remained after the rest were expelled by the Irish forces in 1014. But it’s the crypt that’s of interest these days because it contains a number of corpses that have remained in good condition over the years. No one is quite sure why they’ve been so well preserved, but whatever causes it has also caused the caskets to pop open. And once they’re open, according to the church’s rules, they can be viewed by anyone. And up until recently, you were even allowed to touch the hand of one of the mummies, known as ‘the crusader’.

What to do there: There are only a few coffins that are open for public viewing, and even fewer after a break in 2019 which saw some pieces of the mummies stolen. Because of this and other incidents, you can still head down there to see the mummies, though you can no longer touch any of them.

Wonder how to spend a weekend in Dublin? Head over to our  insider’s Weekend in Dublin guide !

ireland places to visit in dublin

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#16 – Phoenix Park – A beautiful and scenic place to check out in Dublin

Phoenix Park

  • Phoenix Park is one of Europe’s largest city parks.
  • Once held over a million Irish people who had come to hear a sermon by Pope John Paul II.
  • Phoenix Park is now home to a herd of deer and popular with people who want a natural place to exercise in.

Why it’s so awesome: This is a fairly busy park, so it’s probably not the kind of place where you want to sit and relax. Instead, Phoenix Park encourages activity. So, it’s the perfect place to soak up some nature while you work off some of the heavy foods you’ll eat while in Dublin. It’s also the perfect place to see some animals right in the heart of the city.

What to do there: Green areas in the middle of big cities are essential for the health of everyone, so make sure you put Phoenix Park on your Dublin itinerary. Go for a run if that’s your preferred form of exercise, this park is popular amongst runners and holds the city’s annual marathon. If you don’t like to run, make sure you head in to see if you can catch a glimpse of the herd of deer who call the park home. There’s nothing quite like seeing wild animals in the middle of a city.

#17 – Dublin’s Garden of Remembrance – One of the most underrated places to see in Dublin

Dublin Garden of Remembrance

  • A quiet garden that remembers all those who died in the pursuit of Irish freedom.
  • This landmark is a symbol of some of the most important moments in Irish history, and it’s essential if you want to understand Ireland’s culture.

Why it’s so awesome: Over the years, Ireland has known a lot of strife and unrest, and this garden remembers all of those battles from 1798 to the present day. It was designed by Daithi Hanly and contains a pool in the shape of a non-denominational cross that’s designed to encompass all religions, colours and creeds. The floor of the cross is lined with mosaics picturing shattered swords symbolizing the end of the conflict.

What to do there: This is a lovely and symbolic place to spend some time and contemplate all the lives lost in war. It was built where the Irish Volunteers were founded in 1913 and unveiled fifty years after the successful Easter Rising of 1916. That’s what makes it such an important place in Irish Nationalist history because it’s a symbol of all the strife and determination and it’s also why it deserves some attention and respect.

#18 – The National Gallery of Ireland

The National Gallery of Ireland

  • This gallery contains the best collection of Irish art in the world.
  • There are also some amazing examples of European art from the Middle Ages to the present day.

Why it’s so awesome: Ireland has a strong artistic tradition, and this is probably the best place in the world to explore that long history. Located at the end of Kildare Street, it opened in 1864 and was added to over the years. It has an impressive permanent exhibit of Irish and European art and also periodically houses temporary exhibits.

What to do there: There are a number of amazing exhibitions in this gallery that must be on your Dublin itinerary. The Yeats Museum, Italian Painters and the Baroque Room are especially popular and contain some incredible artwork. And if you have time, check out the Irish art rooms and the Shaw room. When you’re done at the museum, there’s also a great café attached that serves food that’s popular amongst tourists and locals alike.

#19 – Grafton Street – A great place in Dublin if you love to shop!

Grafton Street, Dublin

  • Grafton Street is an eclectic stretch of shops and cafes that could keep you entertained for days!
  • One of the best places to visit in Dublin if you want to spend some money.

Why it’s so awesome: Grafton Street is the centre of culture and activity in modern Dublin and it’s always filled with great things to see and do. You’ll find buskers singing U2, playing traditional fiddles, and singer-songwriters as well as a wide range of boutiques and department stores all the way along the street. And, of course, there are also some great cafes and restaurants where you can rest your feet and give your credit card a break too.

What to do there: You’ll need to put aside most of a day to explore the Grafton Street area. Go shopping for souvenirs, enjoy the friendly atmosphere, and listen to some great free music. When you’re ready for some food, stop by Bewley’s Oriental Café, one of the most popular points of interest in Dublin and an institution since 1927.

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Find out what people want to know about the best places to visit in Dublin

What is the most visited place in Dublin?

The Guinness Storehouse is the most visited place in Dublin.

What is Dublin known for?

Dublin is known for being the capital of Ireland and the birthplace of Guinness.

What is the best place to visit in Dublin as a couple?

For couples, a getaway to The Cliffs of Moher would make any vacation a little more romantic.

Are there any places to avoid in Dublin?

Most of the criminal activity in Dublin happens in residential areas, such as Tallaght, Pearse Street and Blanchardstown.

So, there ya have it! You should have no trouble packing out an action packed trip jam packed with history, architecture and of course… booze! I mean, it’s not a trip to Ireland unless you get absolutely trollied and end up singing Irish Rover at the top of your lungs in Temple Bar! You’ve been warned, pack some hangover supplies to go with your recovery irish breakfast!

ireland places to visit in dublin

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Sophie Steinebach

Sophie Steinebach

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  • 12 Popular Places To Visit In Dublin For A Perfect Irish Vacation

23 Mar 2023

They say you must be riding high on the Luck of the Irish to find yourself in the historic city of Dublin. The capital of one of the most charming island nation in the Norwegian Sea is where you find every other building a true depiction of modern architectures, colorful alleys, booze bars, and a lot of things to explore. The best part about these places to visit in Dublin is that they encompass years, uncountable stories, and magnificent work from different times.

Dublin adorns the east coast of Ireland and the locals here acknowledge your presence with a big welcoming smile. Mountain excursion, city day trip, and coastal attractions are the perfect food for the wanderer in you. If Ireland is on your mind, save dates for Dublin right away and tag these places to visit in Dublin on your checklist. For the kind of place that Ireland is, an extensive city tour would leave you enchanted!

Best places to visit in Dublin exhibiting Ireland’s architectural prowess

1. irish museum of modern art – exhibiting the best from different eras.

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Image Source

Nothing depicts Ireland’s grandeur as beautifully as the Irish Museum of Modern Art! Also known as world’s leading institution for collection and exhibition of modern arts, the IMMA is a place worth your visit. The grand museum is a former royal hospital.

The most noticeable feature of the museum is the extended corridors running along a series of connected rooms. The museum hosts plenty of programs and exhibitions year round. It also encompasses artist’s studios as well.

Popular attractions of Irish Museum of Modern Art: Maze and formal garden, collection by Lucien Freud

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2. St. Patrick’s Cathedral – The most sought-after attraction in Dublin

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One of the most scenic spots to visit also happens to be a highly rated monument in Dublin. The stained colorful glass is the first and the most notable thing at the cathedral that would have your attention. As you prepare to get inside the cathedral you will have to buy a ticket to see the place around.

You can escape the queue by just taking a walk around the periphery and attending the mass that goes on throughout the week. The fact that St. Patrick’s is the tallest and the largest church in Ireland puts it atop the list of must-visit places in Ireland .

Popular attractions of St. Patrick’s Cathedral: Burial site of Jonathan Swift – the literary great and one of the deans of the cathedral in the early 18th century

3. Trinity College – One of the world’s largest libraries

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Ireland’s most popular university is also the place from where renowned alumni like Oscar Wilde, Katie Mcgrath, and Jonathan Swift . Trinity College is more popular for its remarkable library, a place where bibliophiles find their ultimate retreat. And someplace where a book lover would want to find themselves at.

Ireland’s largest library also occurs to be the home to Book of Kells – the 1000-year-old illuminated manuscript that has the four Gospels of the New Testament. The main library is restricted for tourists but Old Library is well within the quarters and open to the public.

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Popular attractions of Trinity College: The Long Room – resembles the Jedi Archives in Star Wars, Book of Kells

4. Dublin Castle – Once a seat of Irish administration

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Once the popular seat of United Kingdom’s administration in Ireland, the Dublin Castle stands as a prominent figure today. The majestic building is certainly the place you would love to visit on a day tour in the glorious city. Quite interestingly the castle had a Black Pool, from where Dublin derives its name as ‘Dubh Linn’. It is now on the site of the present Castle garden.

Popular attractions at Dublin Castle: The State Apartments, Medieval Undercroft and Chapel Royal, and Dubhlinn Tearooms, situated in the State Apartments are open for visitors all days

Note: State Apartments might be closed on special occasions Timings: 9:45 am to 4:45 pm (Monday to Saturday), 12 pm to 4:45 pm (on Sundays)

5. Ha’penny Bridge – Perfect enchantress in the heart of the city

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The beautiful pedestrian bridge over River Liffey in Dublin happens to be a top tourist attraction and a famous place to visit. The bridge was built in 1816, since then it has been grabbing eyeballs of tourists from around the world, especially when it’s the night time and the bridge is lit in the myriad of colors! The bridge also connects Temple Bar with the North of The Liffey. Ha’penny Bridge is a true charmer for the kind of enchanting picture background that it creates.

Popular things to do at Ha’penny Bridge: Carry the love locks and put it at the bridge dedicating it to your beloved, don’t forget to stop by popular Irish Pubs nearby, they play amazing Jazz songs

6. Kilmainham Gaol – Dark and glorious

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Image Source One of the most interesting places to visit in Dublin from the historical point of view, the Kilmainham Gaol prison is famed for its state significance when the political prisoners were held here as captives during the times of the uprising, revolution, and civil war.

The multi-storied design of the prison is worth a mention. Dating back to the 1700s, the prison was a remarkable place during Ireland’s independence and has seen a lot of Ireland’s freedom fighters. A tour of the prison could be an incredible experience which will take you back to the eventful past.

Timings: 9:30 am to 6 pm

Suggested Read: Ireland Honeymoon Guide: All You Need To Know For Celebrating Your Special Vacation The Irish Way

Best places to visit in Dublin exhibit the best of nature & surroundings

7. national botanic gardens – a day amidst the tulips of dublin.

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Image Source The lush green National Botanic Garden located on the banks of Tolka Lake spans 19.5 hectares and is a must-visit attraction in the capital city of Ireland. on the banks of Tolka River. While taking a stroll in the garden area one can spot extensive herbaceous borders along with a multicolored display of flowers. The annual display of decorative plants which also includes the rare Victorian carpet bedding is a popular attraction here.

Popular attractions of National Botanic Gardens: Arboretum, sensory garden, rock garden, and a large pond Timings: 9 am to 5 pm on weekdays, and 10 am to 6 pm on weekends

8. Phoenix Park – More of wildlife and greenery enclosed in the city center

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Located at a walking distance from the city center(3 km), the Phoenix Park is Europe’s largest enclosed park and a wonderful nature retreat that must be visited when you are in Dublin. The urban park located to the north of river Liffey is another notable attraction and one of the popular places to visit in Dublin, as you plan to spend quality time with nature and wildlife. The park also has venturing space for wildlife and people can see them thriving in their natural habitat.

Popular attractions of Phoenix Park: Dublin Zoo, Ashtown Castle, Wellington Monument, President’s House, and Farmleigh House Dublin Zoo timings: 9:30 am to 6 pm

9. Killiney – Coastal delight in Dublin

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For the sake of scenic and tranquilizing nature and outdoors, Killiney is the place worth a visit. The seaside resort area is just perfect for a day trip and one can look forward to spending more time here. Easily reachable by a dart train from the city center, Killiney flourishes in the Dublin Bay, accounting for memorable times on your Dublin vacation. Killiney is a pretty looking coastal town with plenty of attractions and wonderful atmosphere.

Popular attractions of Killiney: Memorable walk from Dalkey to Killiney, Coliemore Harbour, and Killiney Hill Park, Dalkey island – ferry to the island is available year round

Your list of Dublin attractions isn’t complete without exploring these places…

10. the temple bar – the most happening place in dublin.

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Dublin’s most iconic place is located in the vicinity of Ha’Penny Bridge. The bridge is stationed in the midst of the happening riverside town making for a wonderful place to stroll around at night. The clobbered street, lights, and river flowing by makes for an ideal time to visit the Temple Bar.

Also, there are plenty of bars and multicuisine restaurants serving authentic Irish foods. If you stick around here for a while, you will get to experience plenty of live music in the energetic neighborhood. This place is again a must-visit!

Popular attractions at The Temple Bar: Live entertainment and pint of Guinness

11. The Science Gallery – Some learning experience in the backyard of Trinity College

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Image Source Located in the backyard of Trinity College, the Science Gallery could be a quick getaway for people interested in science and technology developments. The fact that entry to the science gallery is free makes it even more exciting. This place could also be a wonderful learning experience for kids.

Timings: 12 pm to 8 pm (weekdays), 12 pm to 6 pm (weekends)

12. Grafton Street – For shopping & spending an eventful day in Dublin

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This is where Irish diaspora heads to when they have to go shopping. If you are still confused about what to do with your free day, then Grafton Street is the perfect filler between the lazy moments. From high-end stores to lots of pubs and brewery, this place has got the right vibes to keep you engrossed all day long. Should you wish to explore the remarkable market streets of Dublin’s one of the most happening localities, this is the place to be!

Popular attractions at Grafton Street: Street performers, Disney Store, and Brown Thomas store

                   Further Read: World’s 20 Best Honeymoon Destinations In September To Revive Your Romance!

A lot said and described, Ireland is an explorer’s delight that swirls amidst those imposing structures from centuries ago. Dublin is a city awaiting you in its true glory.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In Dublin

What can I do in Dublin for a day?

For a perfect day in Dublin, make sure to visit the following places: 1. Grafton Street – Shopping streets 2. Little Museum of Dublin – Informative 3. St. Stephen’s Green – Stroll through the park 4. Guinness Storehouse – Tour the most visited attraction 5. Temple Bar – Enjoy Irish Nightlife

Which are the popular places to enjoy the nightlife in Dublin?

The popular nightclubs to enjoy Dublin nightlife are: 1. Fitzwilliam Card Club 2. Cafe En Seine 3. The Long Hall 4. The Grand Social

Is Dublin expensive for tourists?

Dublin is a fairly small city but quite expensive especially its food and alcohol. However, if you are here for a few days, and plan your expenses well, it won’t burn a hole in your pocket.

Why is the Temple Bar so famous?

Temple Bar is one of the famous pubs in Dublin because of its location and also because it offers Ireland’s largest collection of different kind of whiskies.

When is the best time to visit Dublin?

March to May is an ideal time to visit Dublin as the weather is pleasant during this time and the famous attractions are less crowded.

What are the best things to do in Dublin?

Some of the famous things to do in Dublin are: 1. Experience Dublin nightlife at the Temple Bar 2. Visit the Guinness Storehouse 3. Tour of the Old Jameson Distillery 4. Enjoy Picnic in Phoenix Park

Does Dublin have downtown?

A trip to Dublin will be incomplete without experiencing the city’s downtown. It offers everything from historic architecture to entertainment and shopping activities.

Which are the best places to stay in Dublin?

If you are a party animal, the best area to stay is the Temple Bar. For first-timers in Dublin, the City Centre is the best place to stay. If you are travelling on a budget, stay in Trinity neighbourhood.

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Hapenny Bridge, County Dublin

Dublin city: top attractions

First time in Dublin? Here are some uniquely Dublin attractions you shouldn’t miss.

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First time in Dublin? Here are some uniquely Dublin attractions you shouldn’t miss

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Guinness Storehouse, County Dublin

Guinness Storehouse

1. The Guinness Storehouse

It takes a LOT to become iconic, but Guinness has done it. The “Black Stuff” may be famous the world over, but this slow-settling porter started off life in St James’s Gate at the heart of old Dublin. Back in 1759, an enterprising brewer by the name of Arthur Guinness took out a 9,000-year lease on the brewery here for an annual rent of £45. A couple of centuries later, the Storehouse was born. Built in the style of the Chicago School of Architecture 1904, it was originally used as a fermentation house. Today it’s Ireland’s number one visitor attraction – a gleaming, multimedia exhibition on everything from retro advertising to the craft of brewing, topped off with a pint in the 360-degree Gravity Bar. When you get there, don’t forget to raise your glass to Arthur’s wonderful creation!

3 other ways to try Guinness in Dublin

St Patrick's Cathedral, County Dublin

St Patrick's Cathedral

2. St Patrick's and Christ Church Cathedrals

Ancient, dramatic and intriguing, Dublin’s two cathedrals make a striking pair. Built beside a well where Ireland’s patron saint baptized converts, St Patrick’s dates back to 1220 and is filled with monuments, 19 th -century stained glass and a beautiful Lady Chapel. 

Just a 10-minute walk away, Christ Church has attracted pilgrims for almost 1,000 years, and today one of its biggest attractions is its medieval crypt. There are plenty of other reasons to visit, but some may be fascinated by the Chapel of St Laurence O’Toole… a heart-shaped shrine contains the saint’s embalmed heart.

3 other churches to explore

The Long Room Library, Trinity College Dublin

The Long Room Library, Trinity College Dublin

3. The Book of Kells and Trinity College

With a backstory that includes monks, Vikings and remote Scottish islands, the Book of Kells will make the hairs on the back of your neck stand on end. This glorious Early Christian illuminated manuscript is quite simply a masterpiece. Located within Trinity College’s Treasury, the tour here includes a visit to the Long Room Library , one of Europe’s most magnificent libraries housing over 200,000 of Trinity’s oldest books. 

Afterwards, wander around the charming campus of Trinity, which dates back to 1592 and boasts an impressive list of alumni including Bram Stoker, Oscar Wilde and Jonathan Swift. The Front Square and Campanile are a delight, while the college also houses the modern Science Gallery , and the Douglas Hyde Gallery , with changing contemporary art exhibitions. 

3 more gems to discover

EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum

EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum

4. EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum

Located in the historic vaults of the CHQ Building at Custom House Quay, you'll find the two-time winner of Europe's Leading Tourist Attraction, EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum . The museum delves into the past of Ireland's diaspora in brilliant interactive detail, and the state-of-the-art visitor experience explores the inspiring journeys of over 10 million people who left Ireland's shores throughout history. Fancy learning more about your Irish ancestry? The Irish Family History Centre is also located here, where you can access valuable records, speak with a genealogy expert and join the online community of people on a quest to learn about their Irish roots.

If you're looking for another location laden in lineage,  Glasnevin Cemetery is a treasure trove of records accounting for 1.5million burials – in fact, you could say a visit here will give you an intriguing look into the birth of the nation.

Don't miss...

The Courtyard, Dublin Castle

The Courtyard, Dublin Castle

5. Dublin Castle

Perched on the site of a Danish Viking fortress from 930AD, and with its first stone cast by King John of England in 1230, Dublin Castle’s historical significance did not stop there. Under British rule from that point until 1921 (it was a key target during the 1916 Easter Rising), it has been a court, a fortress, even a site of execution in its time, and its architecture has evolved and grown with each metamorphasis. 

In truth, it feels more like a rambling campus than an actual castle – not many turrets in sight – but it’s the setting for every big state event, including presidential inaugurations. Wander the grounds, or take a guided tour to the state apartments, medieval undercroft and the Chapel Royal.

Did you know?

Kilmainham Gaol, County Dublin

Kilmainham Gaol

6. Kilmainham Gaol

There’s a real “wow” moment that comes with walking into the East Wing of Kilmainham Gaol . Eerie, vast and deserted, the jail is the largest unoccupied prison in Europe and holds countless tales within its thick, cold walls. 

By the time it had closed in 1924, many of Ireland’s foremost political figures had passed through its cells, including Robert Emmet, Charles Stewart Parnell, President Eamon de Valera, and the leaders of the 1916 Rising (14 of whom were executed in the stonecutter’s yard). The tour here gives a dramatic insight into the history of this forbidding prison, with its overcrowding, hardship and brutal conditions. A definite don’t miss. 

History comes to life

The National Gallery of Ireland

The National Gallery of Ireland

7. Dublin's Free Museums

Gaze at one of the largest and most spellbinding gold collections in Europe; come “face to face” with the incredible preserved bodies of Iron Age people; and look in wonder at a 4,500-year-old log boat from County Galway. The National Museum of Ireland  is just one of the city’s must-visit museums, housed within a lovely Palladian building from 1890. 

And it doesn’t stop there. The National Gallery of Ireland includes wonderful European and Irish fine art, with an acclaimed collection of works by Irish painter Jack B Yeats. Soak up the past and see Irish design through the ages at the National Museum of Decorative Arts and History in Collins Barracks, and head to the Hugh Lane Gallery to see the world-renowned Francis Bacon Studio. And the really good news? Admission is free!   

3 more to explore for free

St Stephen's Green, County Dublin

St Stephen's Green

8. City Parks

Whether you want to spend the evening watching a retro film in a leafy Georgian square or potter around a lunchtime farmers' market, Dublin’s parks will fit the bill. Cherished and adored, the city’s green spaces include the hidden oasis of Iveagh Gardens (perfect for afternoon picnics) and the city center gem of St Stephen’s Green , which was used for public executions until the 1770s.

Make like a local by spending an afternoon cycling through the Phoenix Park , one of Europe’s largest enclosed city parks – with a large herd of fallow deer for company; seek out the statue of Oscar Wilde in Merrion Square ; or take time out at Dubh Linn Gardens , tucked just behind Dublin Castle. Urban bliss.

Little Museum of Dublin, County Dublin

Little Museum of Dublin

9. Little Museum of Dublin

Tucked away on St Stephen’s Green is the Little Museum of Dublin , an eccentric collection of fascinating items donated by Dubliners themselves. Intricately curated and thoughtfully displayed, the museum is a delightful place to spend an unhurried afternoon, uncovering a more intimate history of Dublin in the 20 th century through photography, letters, advertising and art. Music fans will particularly enjoy the second-floor exhibition – U2 Made in Dublin, which charts the story of the city’s most famous rock band from 1976 to the present day. Afterwards, head downstairs to the basement kitchen of Hatch & Sons for a hearty lunch of traditional Irish smoked fish. 

Where do you want to go?

Do you feel like tasting wild Atlantic sea spray on your lips? Strolling through vibrant city streets? Exploring ancient ruins? Right this way…

Visiting Dublin: a travel guide for first time visitors

Dublin St Patrick cathedral

Travel guide for visiting Dublin, Ireland. expert travel tips to make the most of your time in Dublin Fair City

Dublin, the beautiful capital of Ireland, is a lovely destination: whether you come to Dublin for a city break, a work meeting or use the city as a jump-off point for visiting Ireland , Dublin has something to offer.

Looking for history? Dublin has museums and a castle for you! In need for a fun night out? Dublin has lovely pubs, music venues and great restaurants 9did you know? Yes, really, it does!). Looking for family activities: Dublin has those too!

I have been calling Dublin home for the last 15 years and, over this time, I have faced all the questions of the visitors and found all the answers as a local!

This is my travel guide to Dublin for first-time visitors.

This post contains affiliate links. Should you make a purchase through them, we might make a small commission, at no extra cost to you.

Table of Contents

How many days in Dublin?

Dublin is a dynamic European capital with many museums and things to do, however, most of its must-see attractions can be seen and enjoyed in about 3 days

This is not to say that 3 days will be enough to see everything or that you will get bored if you stay any longer.

Rather, it is the amount of time that I believe is ideal for a visitor to get a sense of the city, see some of its main sights and feel they have actually seen the place.

With three days in Dublin, you can have a nice stroll in the city center, enjoy Dublin’s pubs and restaurants, relax in a park, see some museums and even the Guinness storehouse, one of Dublin’s biggest attractions.

Where to stay in Dublin?

Dublin is a surprisingly large city with a compact city center and large residential areas sprawling towards the surrounding counties.

The best area to stay in Dublin for sightseeing is the city center and in particular, the areas around Trinity College, Merrion Square and Christchurch.

These areas are all on the Southside of the river and put you in close proximity to most of Dublin’s main sites and attractions. These are also areas that will allow you to discover most if not all of the city on foot.

The Trinity and Merrion Square areas are a little more expensive while around Christchurch you have more mixed prices.

Another good address I always recommend is the Hilton Garen Inn on the river. Unlike the other areas above, this is a stretch of Dublin on the Northside of the river and while it is not the most atmospheric, it will well connected to the city center and pleasant (it is also where the Epic Ireland exhibition is). This is a good mid-budget option.

Hotels I recommend in Dublin city center are:

  • Merrion Hotel (5 stars) – stunning and right in the city center
  • Hilton Garden Inn Custom House (3 stars) – on the river, close to the center
  • Radisson Blue Royal hotel city center (4 stars) – very well located for sightseeing
  • Clayton hotel Chaerlemont (4 star hotel) – new hotel in an excellent central location

How to budget for a trip to Dublin

Dublin is an expensive city, surprisingly so. How much or how little you spend is always down to own decisions however, to give you an idea, consider that:

  • A good room in a mid-range hotel costs easily between 100 and 200 Euro, closer to the 200 Euro mark
  • A cup of coffee is about 3.60 Euro
  • A beer is about 5.50 euro depending on size/brand
  • A nice dinner for two in a mid-range establishment is around 60 euro
  • Single hop bus ticket is 1.15 to 3.80 euro (depending on your exact journey and if you are paying cash/with leap card) – you can find more info on how to get around Dublin here

The best things to see in Dublin: Dublin must-see attractions

Dublin has many beautiful interesting attractions, most of them in the city center.

Trinity College and the Book of Kells

Trinity College and the Book of Kells, the unique medieval manuscript in its old library, is one of the most if not the most famous attractions in the whole of Dublin.

The College is right in the city center and therefore really easy to reach from almost anywhere in the city: I usually recommend it as the first stop for any Dublin trip both for location, interest and visual impact.

Worth seeing here are both the college grounds, the Library and the Book itself. Crowds can be intense so I do recommend you book tickets in advance.

A good offer is this one , which combines fast track entry to see the book and entry to Dublin castles, down the road from Trinity College and the next attraction on this list.

How to get there: any bus serving College Green, Luas Green Line Colleg Green, walking distance from O’Connell Bridge and Grafton Street.

Dublin Castle

Dublin castle is right in the center of Dublin and while not the most impressive castle you will see in Ireland, it is so significant in Irish history it rightly appears as a must-see place in Dublin.

The inside is also very beautiful and it is still now used for official State functions.

Dublin Castle is a short walk from Trinity College and you can visit both the college and the castle on the same day with this combined ticket here.

If you prefer to visit it separately, you can buy tickets on the official site or get hold of the Dublin Pass, which gives discounted and easy access to many city attractions.

How to get there: bus, walking distance from Trinity College and Christchurch cathedral

ireland places to visit in dublin

The Guinness Storehouse

Another heavyweight among Dublin attractions is the Guinness Storehouse, a place to famous and quintessentially Dublin to make a visit to the city without a stop here almost unthinkable.

The Storehouse is very touristy but also a lot of fun. The space itself is fun (it also has lovely spaces for drinks and events), the tour is fun and the view from the Gravity Bar at the end, where you can taste Guinness with a 360-degree view over the city is special.

Good to know: you don’t need to be a drinker to enjoy the tour. While you can taste a pint at the end, if you do not drink alcohol for any reason (whether you are an adult or a child) you will be offered a soda / juice instead. the tours is fun and informative anyway.

The Guinness Storehouse is very popular: I recommend you book skip the line tickets in advance here .

Jameson Distillery Visit

If you are more into whiskey than beer, then you may like to visit the Jameson Distillery in the area of Smithfield. This is a very fun visit that even I, a non-whiskey drinker really enjoyed.

The distillery itself is lovely and the tour fun (you also learn what makes Irish whiskey different from Scotch): definitely one I recommend! You can find cost and tickets here

St Patrick’s Cathedral

St Patrick’s Cathedral is the National Cathedral of the Church of Ireland and a wonderful place to see when in Dublin. Dating back to the 13th Century, the cathedral is said to be on a well allegedly used by St Patrick’s himself and is beautiful to visit inside and out.

Admissions to the cathedral is ticketed and you can pay the small entry fee on arrival. Tours of the church are available: you can find official info and how to pre-book here

Good to know: beside St Patrick’s Cathedral lies the Marshs’ Library, which is an old library said to be inhabited by a ghost! Make sure you add a stop here when visiting St Patrick’s, it is just around the corner from the main entrance.

Temple Bar is maybe the most famous street in Dublin, a pedestrianized road full of pubs, bars and restaurants. Temple Bar is nice during the day and can be fun at night but you need to know what you are in for, should you decided to go.

During the day and early evenings, you have a buzzy, dynamic atmosphere with lots of places to eat and drink and you have a huge variety of styles and people. later ar night, it becomes party central and you mostly have hen and stag parties.

Good to know both if you want to join them or avoid them!

ireland places to visit in dublin

Ha’Penny Bridge

Close to Temple Bar lies cute Ha’Penny Bridge, one of the most iconic bridges in Dublin. While not as impressive as the newer Calatrava ones farther down the river, the Ha’Penny Bridge is so quintessentially Dublin you simply have to see it and take a photo of its peculiar iron frame!

St Stephen’s Green Park

If you are in Dublin on a sunny day (and yes, you have many!), you may want to have a break in lovely St Stephen’s Green, the large city center park at the top of Grafton Street.

laid out with nice paths, a duck pond and kids playgrounds, this is a lovely place for a romantic stroll or just getting away from the hustle and bustle of the city and hang out with the locals.

EPIC Ireland

A newer and wonderful attraction in Dublin is the EPIC exhibition , the permanent exhibition about Irish Immigration. Hosted in a beautiful dedicated space along the Liffey, this is a place to learn about Irish emigration and find your Irish roots visiting the Irish Family History Centre located right at the exit of the museum

Fun things to do in Dublin

As well as Dublin attractions, there are many fun things to do in Dublin for all types of visitors.

Go to the pub

Dublin has a huge number of pubs and they are so varied in size, style and clientele you are sure to find one to your liking!

Some pubs offer a more traditional experience (no food, slightly older clientele, lots of chatter), some offer cooked dinners and even cater to families, some are more local, some have beer gardens and so on: whatever pub experience you are after, Dublin has one for you! Head to the streets behind Grafton street for the widest selection and just pick any you like

Go on a literary pub crawl

Dublin has a fantastic literary tradition and a wonderful way to learn about it while having a good time is to join a literary pub crawl. This will bring you to some cool establishments and will make you familiarize with Irish writers and writing thanks to the aid of skilled readers and actors. This is a great activity and something pretty special you can do in the city.

Take a hop on hop off bus tour

A hop on hop off bus tour is a touristy activity but a fun one in Dublin. While most attractions in the city center are walking distance from each other, other cool Dublin attractions such as the Guinness storehouse, the zoo and the botanical gardens are not. A hot on hof off tour is a great way to add something a little more off the beaten track to your visit.

You can see exact stops and book your ticket here

See Irish dancing

Another really fun thing to do in Dublin is to go and see Irish dancing, a show that is incredibly energetic, fun and addictive! You can see Irish dancing at the Arlington Hotel , the (wonderful) Johnny Fox’s pub on the Dublin mountains and on selected nights at O’Sullivan’s on 2 Westmoreland St, Temple Bar.

Useful Dublin Travel resources: how to get around Dublin

Dublin has a decent public transport network made of:

  • Tram (the Luas)
  • Light urban railway (the DART)

Bus tickets can be bough on the bus itself and must be paid with coins (no cards accepted): the fair depends on the number of stops you need to reach your destination and has a maximum fare of 3 euro.

If you are staying in the center, you are likely to only need the bus occasionally however, if you are planning on staying in Dublin longer or your hotel is not in the city center, it can be convenient to buy a prepaid visitors card that allows you good saving on individual tickets.

You can find all you need to know about getting around Dublin and how to use Dublin’s public transport here .

ireland places to visit in dublin

Visiting Dublin with kids

Dublin is wonderful to visit with kids. Most main sightseeing attractions are easy to visit with children in tow and, if you need some entertainment that is just for them, Dublin delivers with both indoor and outdoor family activities!

To give you an idea, Dublin offers:

  • Imaginoslity Children Museum
  • Indoor play centers (Jumpzone for trampolining, Climbing walls, Pottery painting studios etc)
  • Many parks and playgrounds
  • Dublinia (the interactive museum of Dublin’s Viking history)
  • Dublin splash tour

You can find my full guide to visiting Dublin with kids here and the best indoor activities for kids in Dublin on our sister site learning escapes here.

What to pack for Dublin

Dublin is a relaxed city and you can be as dressy or as casual as you fancy and be pretty sure you will fit in! The variety of styles in the city is one of my favorite things about it.

However, you always have to deal with the weather and since what you get changes every few minutes, some attires are better than others! I recommend you pack for Dublin your Ireland travel essentials plus:

  • Good walking shoes
  • Short-sleeve tops for the summer / long sleeve tops for the winter
  • LIght sweater for summer /warm woolen sweater for winter
  • Light jacket for summer evenings / warm waterproof coat for winter
  • Scarf, gloves and hat for winter
  • A nicer dress/shirt and shoes for going out
  • Sunglasses for the summer
  • Power bank for phone and all your tech
  • Travel adapter for Ireland (we use a 3 pin sock, like the UK)

You can find Here >>> my full packing list for Ireland, month by month .

What to eat in Dublin

In the last few years, Dublin has grown to become a real foodie destination with excellent restaurants catering to most types of palate. The most traditional food you find here is spring lamb and salmon, but ethnic restaurants now abound too.

While not as popular as you may expect in a city on the sea, seafood can be great in Dublin too. I personally love it in Howth, the coastal area of North Dublin with the fishing port.

I hope you enjoyed this essential guide to visiting Dublin: safe travels!

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Mama Loves Ireland

Céad míle fáilte! A thousand times welcome! I am a travel-loving Italian Mama lucky enough to call Ireland her home. Let my articles help you plan your trip to Ireland and get ready to fall in love with the Emerald Isle, just like I did. With love. M x

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Dublin's 10 Most Historic Destinations That Deserve A Visit

Dublin, itself, is a historic city, and these places within city limits are 100% worth visiting during anyone's first time there.

Dublin is the capital city of Ireland and can be found on the eastern coast of River Liffey. The city is popular for many things and history is one of them. Dublin is a city characterized by castles from the 13th century, churches, parks, and other structures that all carry a great history of the country.

Being the capital of the country, it receives a high number of tourists every year as many people arrive there before going anywhere else. It is also because there are many systems and businesses that attract people. Here are the most historic destinations to find when visiting Dublin.

10 The General Post Office (GPO)

The General Post Office is found on O’Connell street and it is an iconic historic site worth visiting in Dublin. The office was designed during the Greek Revival and it still serves as a post office. It carries a lot of history, especially of Irish volunteers during the Easter Rising in 1916. It also means a lot to the people as it ties to the struggle for independence. Visiting the place is not difficult as one needs to obtain a ticket, then get a guide for one hour to explore and learn.

RELATED: 10 Pubs You Need To Grab A Brew At While Visiting Dublin

9 Dublin Castle

The Dublin Castle is very popular and its construction finished in 1204. It was used as the original Celtic settlement place. The castle has survived so many things over the years and it is still standing strong. However, what is even more impressive is its amazing architecture, decorations, materials used, items inside, and the design that make up its history. When visitors get into the castle, they are able to tour different rooms and learn more about its history. Some of these rooms were used by the royal families.

8 National Museum Of Ireland

For someone looking to get as much history as possible in one place, then the National Museum of Ireland is the best place to visit. It has a total of four branches with three being found in Dublin. These three branches which cover Natural history, decorative arts, and history are a must-visit. Visiting the museum is not only a chance to learn about the culture, rituals, politics, and history of Irish people, but it is also inspiring, enlightening, and entertaining.

7 Kilmainham Gaol

Kilmainham Gaol is known as a prison in the city. It is a great tourist attraction site for the history it holds. The prison was used to host several Irish leaders who served their sentences there in the past. It also has a small museum that showcases the overwhelming realistic fight for independence by the Irish people.

RELATED: The Seaside Town Of Howth Is A Day Trip From Dublin

6 Trinity College Library

Trinity College library is a historic place for Irish people and the whole world. It is considered a center for the history of the country. Additionally, the place has been used by several prominent or rather notable literacy figures such as Jonathan Swift, Samuel Beckett, Oscar Wild, and the former president Mary Robinson. The library is one of the most beautiful ones in the world and it is worth touring. The old library is popular for its amazing collection of books and especially on history. With the library having a unique Long Room, which is considered an architectural wonder, it can hold 200,000 books within a 200 feet space.

5 Christ Church Cathedral

It is the most popular church one will come across in Dublin. For a tourist who is interested in learning about religious history, then this is a good place to visit. It is an imposing-looking structure that has been in the city for so many years. It is also a tourist attraction as it’s the oldest building in the whole city. Due to the architecture, and history of the church, there are guided tours. During the tours, one gets a chance to be admitted to the crypt as well as climb all the way to the belfry.

4 Ardgillan Castle

Ardgillan Castle is yet another popular and interesting castle worth visiting in Dublin. It is located just 20 miles from the city and is worth visiting. It was constructed by the Robert Taylor family in 1738. The castle is magnificent and sits on a 200 acres residence home. It is a castle that takes up country styling in its construction. Today, the castle is a popular destination for many people and is used for several public functions such as weddings.

RELATED: Dublin Castle Is The Best Place To Start A Historic Journey

3 Ha’penny Bridge

Ha'penny Bridge is a worthwhile visit as it’s the most iconic bridge in the city and is found on River Liffey. The bridge takes an elliptical arch design and stretches for 150 feet. The bridge is so beautiful it has become the most photographed in Dublin. It serves to connect the southside and northside of the city. The bridge also has a lot of history as it was first used in 1816. It was used as a footbridge and is still standing to date.

2 National Gallery Of Ireland

This is a must-visit place for people who love art. It is the most popular gallery in the city and full of fine art and culture pieces. The gallery is found in a structure built in 1854 and provides great master paintings for the public to see. The free admission makes discovering cultured art even more worthwhile.

1 Irish National War Memorial Gardens

The gardens are found in Islandbridge in Dubin. They are beautiful gardens that also serve as a memorial for the Irish war. The area is a dedication for around 50,000 Irish soldiers that died during the Great War.

NEXT: The Only Guide You'll Need To Dining (& Drinking) At Dublin's Best Pubs

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Best places to visit in ireland.

Ireland's rich culture, enchanting green landscapes and friendly locals are just a few reasons why so many travelers make the journey to this island country. But with so many cities, charming small towns and countryside wonders to choose from, it may be hard to decide exactly what should be on your Emerald Isle itinerary. U.S. News took into account sights, adventure, food and culture, plus expert opinions and traveler sentiment, to determine the best places to visit in Ireland. If you want to have a say in next year's list, be sure to vote below.

Dingle Peninsula

Cliffs of moher, iveragh peninsula, glenveagh national park, inishowen peninsula, connemara national park, aran islands.

ireland places to visit in dublin

With a stoic castle, wild coastline and great "craic" (fun, entertainment and good company), Donegal checks off many items on an Ireland vacation bucket list. Donegal visitors can see the 15th-century Donegal Castle, grab a pint of Guinness in a traditional Irish bar dating back to the 1700s or revel in one of the town's high-spirited festivals. Meanwhile, Donegal's northwest coast location makes it ideal for driving along the scenic Donegal Bay to the Slieve League cliffs – which are nearly three times as tall as the Cliffs of Moher – or hopping to islands known for their exceptional preservation of the Gaelic language and culture.

ireland places to visit in dublin

Though Dublin is Ireland's hub for politics, culture and music, its approachable and relaxed culture sets it apart from most European capitals. Before making a beeline for the Guinness Storehouse, consider a walking tour to take in popular attractions like Trinity College (and its swoon-worthy library), the 13th-century Dublin Castle and the always exuberant Temple Bar district. Save time to take in the arts, too: Dublin is home to the national theater of Ireland and plenty of festivals and museums dedicated to Irish literary greats. Plus, Dublin offers easy access  to alluring destinations like the fishing village of Howth and Wicklow Mountains National Park.

ireland places to visit in dublin

Located along the country's famous Wild Atlantic Way, the Dingle Peninsula consistently stuns with its otherworldly scenery (think: evergreen cliffs, craggy coastlines and vibrant blue waters). Begin your journey by driving along Slea Head Drive, a scenic route known for its photo-worthy vistas. If you'd rather see the peninsula on foot, head down the Dingle Way, a network of trails that spans the entire peninsula. Or, take a ferry to the Blasket Islands to explore jaw-dropping cliffs, look for wildlife like sheep and dolphins, and visit pristine beaches without rubbing elbows with other tourists.

ireland places to visit in dublin

For the quintessential Irish countryside experience, travel to Killarney. The town is surrounded by evergreen hills and valley on all sides, affording plenty of opportunities to become one with nature. Visitors gravitate toward Killarney National Park, which features Ireland's highest mountain range, MacGillycuddy's Reeks. If you aren't much of a hiker, you can still enjoy the scenic lakes or visit one of Killarney's centuries-old churches or castles.

ireland places to visit in dublin

The Cliffs of Moher are Ireland's most popular tourist attraction, welcoming more than 1 million visitors each year. In fact, the cliffs are so popular that cities situated more than 100 miles away often offer full-day bus tours to the attraction. Once you lay eyes on this sight, you'll understand why so many people travel hours to gaze at it. Measuring more than 8 miles long and 700 feet tall, the cliffs provide breathtaking views of Galway Bay, parts of Connemara National Park and the Aran Islands on a clear day.

ireland places to visit in dublin

This peninsula in County Kerry is best known for featuring the world-famous Ring of Kerry, a 111-mile scenic drive that circles around the entire peninsula. Along the way, visitors will enjoy truly spectacular scenery both on the coast and inland. Can't-miss stops include Ladies View, Rossbeigh Strand, Derrynane beach and the Gap of Dunloe. Travelers should also save time for visiting some of the peninsula's picturesque small towns and castles, which are both developed and abandoned. Be sure to stay at least one night here for a glimpse of the stars in Ireland's first dark sky reserve.

ireland places to visit in dublin

Surrounded by a looming mountain, sandy beaches and charming countryside (dubbed "Yeats Country" after the county's famed poet), Sligo offers something for everyone. If you're up for an adventure, hike the loop around the iconic Benbulben mountain, take a surf lesson in Strandhill or watch the big-wave pros at Mullaghmore Head. Meanwhile, more leisurely travelers can visit Sligo town's popular sites like The Model art center and Sligo Abbey, or take a coastal drive to fine estates like the Lissadell House and Gardens (open seasonally). Just make time for a few stops along the Sligo Food Trail on your way.

ireland places to visit in dublin

After Dublin, Cork is Ireland's largest city. Located at the southern end of the country, this city of more than 200,000 residents is famous for being home to Blarney Castle and its Blarney Stone. According to local legend, the stone will grant you the gift of eloquence, if you dare kiss it. Cork is also where you'll find 18th- and 19th-century churches, the Cork City Gaol (a former prison converted into a museum) and lush Fitzgerald Park, among other noteworthy attractions. When hunger strikes, explore Cork's English Market, where you'll find everything from meat and fish counters to cafes and bakeries.

ireland places to visit in dublin

Located just 17 miles south of Cork, this enclave on Ireland's southern coast charms visitors with rainbow-hued buildings and a "riviera" vibe. Sailing is central to Kinsale, which hosts several regattas throughout the summer, but other water activities like kayaking and surfing hold equal appeal. Those who prefer to stay on land can visit nearby attractions like the scenic Nohoval Cove and historic Charles Fort. What's more, as one of Ireland's top culinary destinations, Kinsale entices foodies with more than 50 delectable eateries and food-centric celebrations like the Kinsale Gourmet Festival and Kinsale Street Feast.

ireland places to visit in dublin

Galway offers the best of both worlds for travelers. City slickers can revel in Galway's relatively light but palpable bustle, while outdoor lovers can venture outside the city to see many natural attractions, including the Salthill Promenade, Wild Atlantic Way and, farther afield, Burren National Park. If you prefer to stay local, stroll through the lively Latin Quarter, then check out historical attractions like the Spanish Arch and St. Nicholas' Collegiate Church.

ireland places to visit in dublin

Situated in the heart of County Donegal, Glenveagh National Park sets a picturesque scene, complete with a lakeside castle and lush mountains. Here, active sightseers can bask in the unspoiled natural beauty of the Emerald Isle, with nearly 40,000 acres that are completely free to access for hiking, biking, fishing and camping. Highlights include the Derryveagh Mountains, the sweeping valleys of the Poisoned Glen and the rugged shores of Lough Inshagh and Lough Veagh. For a small fee, visitors can also take a tour of the Glenveagh Castle, a stately granite structure representing the idyllic highland retreat, and explore its varied gardens and tearooms.  

ireland places to visit in dublin

Situated just northwest of Ireland's border with Northern Ireland, the Inishowen Peninsula is the country's largest peninsula. Its remote location 170 miles northwest of Dublin plus its otherworldly scenery and thatched cottages create a peaceful setting you won't find in Ireland's more tourist-heavy peninsulas. Must-see natural wonders here include Malin Head, Trawbreaga Bay and the Gap of Mamore. If you've always dreamed of seeing the northern lights , be sure to visit in winter when the aurora borealis' beautiful hues are typically visible throughout the peninsula.

ireland places to visit in dublin

Expect awe-inspiring scenery everywhere you turn when you visit this 5,000-acre national park during the warmer months. Connemara National Park is home to the Twelve Bens mountain range, plus woodlands, grasslands, heaths (wild, undeveloped flatlands) and bogs (wetlands) that you can explore via one of several trails. To get a good overview of the park's diverse scenery, hike the Diamond Hill paths and walk the Green Road along Killary Harbour. The latter is where you'll find one of Ireland's few glacial fjords.

ireland places to visit in dublin

Travelers keen on getting a taste of what old Ireland looked and felt like should consider visiting the Aran Islands. Accessible by plane from Connemara or by ferry from Rossaveal, Galway and Doolin on Ireland's western coast, the Aran Islands feature important historical sites, Celtic churches and lots of untouched landscapes (think: the "Banshees of Inisherin," some of which was filmed here). Plus, Gaelic is widely spoken, providing an authentic cultural experience. Though all three islands offer noteworthy sights, plan on spending the bulk of your time on Inis Mór (or Inishmore), where the prehistoric fort of Dún Aonghasa is located.

ireland places to visit in dublin

Kilkenny offers a hearty amount of historical attractions for travelers to explore. This is largely thanks to the town's prior distinction of being the medieval capital of Ireland, a heritage that remains evident today  in the Medieval Mile, Kilkenny's top attraction. Within the Medieval Mile you'll find several interesting sights, such as Kilkenny Castle, St. Canice's Cathedral and the Medieval Mile Museum. This historic part of town is also home to the Smithwick's Experience, where you can learn more about how one of Ireland's most popular ales is brewed.

ireland places to visit in dublin

Head to this small seaport on Ireland's southeastern coast to catch a glimpse of the country's oldest city. Waterford is full of history, and its attractions reflect that. History buffs can learn more about the city's Viking roots at Waterford Treasures' Medieval Museum, Reginald's Tower and Bishop's Palace facilities. Or, they can take a tour of the 18th-century House of Waterford factory to see how the city's world-renowned crystal is made. For travelers who need a break from Waterford's rich history, there's the Waterford Greenway, a nearly 30-mile-long walking and bike path.

ireland places to visit in dublin

Those who plan on visiting Cork should save time for a daytrip to Cobh. This charming small town, which sits on an island in Cork Harbor, is known for its past as both a major departure point for Irish emigrating to the U.S. and as the last port of call for the Titanic. Travelers who want to learn more about these key roles in Cobh's history can visit the Cobh Heritage Centre and Titanic Experience Cobh. Before leaving, take a stroll around town to admire Cobh's striking Victorian-era architecture and brightly colored storefronts and homes.

Vote to Add these Destinations to the Rankings

ireland places to visit in dublin

Wicklow Mountains

ireland places to visit in dublin

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TheTravel

14 Things To Do in Dublin, Ireland On a Long Layover With AerLingus

Utilizing a long layover is one of the best traveler hacks out there. With AerLingus offering most flights with a stopover in Dublin, if you're going to stop there anyway, you might as well leave the airport and get some exploring in. Dublin is a relatively small city, and with even just one day, you can tick a few things off of your Irish bucket list. Here are 10 recommended things to do on a long layover in Dublin with AerLingus.

UPDATE: 2023/05/12 13:37 EST BY KHYATI DAND

More Things To Do in Dublin, Ireland On a Long Layover With AerLingus

It can be very hard to kill time on long layovers but that's not something travelers flying to Dublin have to worry about. With the entire city at one's disposal, long layovers in Dublin are an excellent way to explore the Irish capital. This list was updated to include more things that travelers can do on stopovers in Dublin when flying with AerLingus.

RELATED: 10 Places Perfect For Exploring While On a Long Layover

See The Book Of Kells At The Trinity College Library

The Library of Trinity College in Dublin is one of the oldest libraries in Ireland and nothing will make time fly by quicker than the dark aisles of its 16th-century reading halls. The library has over 7,000,000 volumes of books on its shelves but if there's one thing that visitors must see, it's the Book of Kells -- the four Latin Gospel manuscripts dating back to the 9th century. No matter the time of the year, the library always has at least one volume on display for the public to see.

Catch A Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

Flights can get pretty darn tiring. Oftentimes, there's very little energy left for anything exciting on a layover, let alone exploring an entirely new city . In that case, hop-on hop-off bus tours offer visitors an excellent means through which to see Dublin without much physical exertion on their part. Simply catch an open-top double-decker bus, grab a seat in a corner, and watch Dublin's top attractions pass by as you listen to audio guides for context.

Get A Taste Of Irish Food

What better way to spend a layover in Dublin than to eat your way through the Irish capital? Food blogger Ketty Quigley's Delicious Dublin Tours take visitors on a three-hour walking trip around the city with stops at plenty of famous eateries in between. As local experts tell tales of Dublin's food history, visitors will not only taste the best of local Irish food, but they will also learn of its past and present. These tours operate regardless of the weather in the notoriously temperamental capital.

Hop Onto A Viking Splash Tour

Long layovers in Dublin are one thing if you're alone or in the company of a fellow adult, but finding entertainment can be a far more tedious task when traveling with kids. A Viking Splash Tour is an excellent adrenaline-filled activity -- and an incredibly unique one at that -- for both adults and kids to take part in when in Dublin. The tours take place on a restored World War II amphibious vehicle that functions much like a bus on the roads but transforms into a boat as it mightily glides into the Grand Canal Dock, splashing passengers on board with the cold waters of the canal.

Drink At Temple Bar

What visit to Ireland is complete without a proper pint of Guinness? Head to the place that does it best, and arguably the most famous bar in not only Dublin but all of Ireland: Temple Bar Pub. Not to be confused with the neighborhood that is called Temple Bar, Temple Bar Pub is an infamous landmark pub with the traditional bright red exterior, welcoming you in to have a pint or two.

Related: 10 Pubs You Need To Grab A Brew At While Visiting Dublin

Dublin Castle

Despite popular belief, there's a lot more to do in Dublin than just drinking. Ireland is home to several castles, and Dublin Castle is one of the finest . Having been built in the thirteen century, Dublin Castle has since served as home to English and British administration. In 1922, Dublin Castle was given to the Irish government, where it now serves as a popular tourist hotspot. For an entry fee of about 8 euros, you can head inside and see the collection of art, as well as take in the majestic red velour and gold-plated interior.

Related: 9 Things To Do In Dublin: Complete Guide Beyond The Pubs To This Irish Capital

Chester Beatty

Within the confines of Dublin Castle is what Lonely Planet has described as one of the best museums in Europe: Chester Beatty. Also known as Chester Beatty Library, this museum is home to the collections of Sir Chester Alfred Beatty, a philanthropist and mining magnate who was given the title "King of Copper" due to his fortune. The collections at Chester Beatty include but are not limited to Arabic treatises on religion, Western manuscripts, pieces from Persian poets, and even Japanese art.

Shop At George's Street Arcade

Looking to get a little shopping in on your long layover in Dublin? George's Street Arcade is one of the best places in the city of Dublin to do so. Centrally located close to other major tourist spots, George's Street Arcade has shops ranging from Brazilian-made fashion at Carnaval to Mystic Ireland Crystals. There are also plenty of eateries on site, like the top-rated vegan burgers at Flip Burgers and proper wine and cheese at Loose Canon.

Take A Guinness Brewery Tour

Back to booze because, hey, it is Ireland, after all. Aside from Irish whiskey, the most popular alcoholic beverage in Ireland is Guinness. The Irish take their Guinness seriously. There's a craft behind pouring each one which amplifies the overall taste. If you're curious to know the art behind this extremely popular beer, head to the Guinness Brewery for a tour.

Related: You Need 90 Minutes To See The Guinness Storehouse, And Here's What The Ultimate Self-Guided Tour Looks Like

Visit Jameson Distillery

If you're more into whiskey, or better yet, if you want to add a second boozy adventure to your layover in Dublin, the Jameson Distillery is a great addition to your activities. Learn the history behind one of the most popular Irish whiskeys in the world. Created in 1780 by John Jameson, the long-standing tradition behind making Jameson can now be experienced as a tourist. The tour options range from a simple visit to cocktail classes.

See Local Music At Whelan's

Who doesn't love a good Irish folk band? While you are bound to find live music at pretty much any pub in the city, Whelan's is one of the best. You can check out their calendar on their website to see who's playing, and it's recommended to book a table in advance since this place quickly fills up. Enjoy a beverage while listening to some classical local Irish music.

Drink High Tea On A Vintage Bus

Are you less interested in whiskey and stouts and more interested in feeling posh with a cup of tea in hand? There are many tours to book in Ireland , but one of the more unique experiences in Dublin offered on GetYourGuide is a high-tea tour while riding on a vintage bus . Priced at about $50 per person, a high-tea tour in Dublin is a fun way to experience the city from a double-decker bus that's been refurbished to be its fanciest self. The tour comes with food options, including those that are vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free friendly.

Cross Ha'Penny Bridge

The Ha'Penny Bridge is a pedestrian bridge located in central Dublin. It was built in May 1816 over the River Liffey and remains a popular tourist attraction to this date. Its central location is close to the popular Temple Bar neighborhood, and the best part about ticking Ha'Penny Bridge off of your bucket list during a short layover is that it's only going to take a few minutes to see it.

Free Walking Tour

One of the best ways to quickly explore any city while learning a bit about its history is by taking a free walking tour . Explore Dublin by foot, see plenty of major tourist hot spots, and learn the history through a local tour guide, all for zero cost. The tour is offered several times a day, meaning it's likely you can fit it into your Dublin layover regardless of what time you land.

14 Things To Do in Dublin, Ireland On a Long Layover With AerLingus

17 Best Cities in Ireland to Visit in 2024

Written By: The Planet D

Updated On: March 4, 2024

We have had the privilege of visiting Ireland several times, and when visiting the ‘Emerald Isle,’ its cities are some of the best places to embrace Irish culture. Irish cities are magical, full of local history, myths and legends, art galleries, pubs, and friendly locals. Whether you visit Dublin for major attractions like the Guinness Storehouse and the Book of Kells, or you head to Galway for traditional music and street art, you will fall in love with the lively cities in Ireland.

Table of Contents

Best Cities in Ireland

In this guide, we’ll introduce you to the best cities in Ireland and Northern Ireland. These are the places where you will make lasting memories during your stay.

The best way to get around Ireland is by renting a car. You can compare car rental prices here. We have taken road trips along the Wild Atlantic Way, on Ireland’s west coast, with island day trips, cobbled streets, and live music and along the Causeway Coast to see some of Northern Ireland’s most awe-inspiring attractions. We have explored lesser-visited cities in Ireland and each one is just as memorable as the last.

Dublin is Ireland’s largest city and the capital of the Republic of Ireland. We recommend spending at least three days in Dublin before traveling to the different cities in Ireland. Located on the River Liffey, Dublin has hundreds of attractions at your fingertips.

Top attractions in this popular Irish City are endless including a visit to the famous Kilmainham Gaol, the GPO Museum, Dublin Castle, and the Guinness Storehouse (read more about our experience  here ).

Dublin Castle is one of the most famous  medieval castles  in the world, dating back to the 13th century. It is now a government building, but that doesn’t stop tourists from coming to see it.

Trinity College, the Book of Kells, and the famous Temple Bar. Dublin is easily one of the best cities in Ireland for history lovers, with stories of the Easter Rising in 1916 to ancient stories within the pages of the Book of Kells. It’s also a city of academia; Dublin is officially Yeats country and houses Trinity College, which educated the likes of Oscar Wilde .

There are so many  things to do in Dublin , and if you want to visit Ireland for  St Patrick’s Day , you will want to be in Dublin. If you want to escape the city, Dublin is just a hop skip, and a jump from the Wicklow Mountains where you can go hiking or horseback riding.

When visiting Dublin, pick up a  Dublin Pass . The Dublin Pass is an excellent way to save money on Dublin attractions giving you entrance to 35 attractions including the Dublin Hop-on Hop-Off Big Bus Tour, Guinness Storehouse, James Joyce Centre, Saint Patrick’s Cathedral (where Saint Patrick himself St Patrick baptised Christians) and many more. Details here .

Plan Your Dublin Vacation

  • 35 Best Things to Do in Dublin, Ireland
  • Where to Stay in Dublin, Ireland: Best Areas and Hotels for Every Budget
  • Guinness Storehouse in Dublin – The Ultimate Tasting Tour

2. Cork City

As the second largest city in Ireland, it once had a reputation as the capital of ‘Rebel Country.’ Cork natives sometimes claim they are the real ‘capital of Ireland.’ We love this city located in the South of the Emerald Isle, and others agree, Cork is a much-loved tourist destination.

If you haven’t visited Cork, you are truly missing out. The best things to do in Cork include day-tripping to Blarney Castle to Kiss the Blarney Stone. The Blarney Stone may be what has attracted tourists to the area for the gift of the Gab, but Blarney Castle is an excellent destination in its own right.

In Cork City proper, you can ring the Bells of Shannon, visit the English Market is a fantastic place for organic and locally produced food, and check out the history at Elizabeth Fort, a 17th-century old city fortress. You should also head down to the small towns around Cork Harbour, the second-largest natural harbor in the world. It’s near Cork Harbour, where you’ll find beautiful Cobh, a colorful seaside town and the Titanic’s last port of call in 1912.

Plan Your Trip to Cork

  • The Best Things to do in Cork, Ireland
  • Kiss the Blarney Stone for the Gift of the Gab

3. Galway City

Galway City is impossible not to love. If you are looking for the best cities in Ireland, look no further than the fifth-largest city.

Despite its growing size, Galway retains an authentic charm that has inspired the likes of Ed Sheeran to write a song about it. Make sure to add Galway to your Emerald Isle Itinerary to really enjoy traditional Irish music and friendly locals.

The real hive in Galway is its colorful old town, lined with cobbled streets and boldly painted independent shops. The city is undoubtedly the best place to visit in Ireland for creatives or anyone looking to get a ‘small town experience.’

Galway City is split in half by the River Corrib and sits on Ireland’s west coast, overlooking Galway Bay. It is a brilliant spot for an Irish road trip.

Galway is located directly on the Wild Atlantic Way, with many of the  route’s beautiful viewpoints  – like the Cliffs of Moher- just a short drive away. You can also use Galway as a base to take day trips to the gorgeous west coast islands. This is also the jumping-off point for the Aran Islands.

Book a cruise to see the Aran Islands here. However, if you can, we highly recommend spending two nights on one of the Aran Islands. We spent 3 days on the Inis Mór – Fun Fact, the Colin Farrell Movie, the Banshees of Inishmore was filmed on the Aran Islands.

Plan Your Trip to Galway

  • 22 Best Things To Do In Galway, Ireland
  • Cliffs of Moher: The Ultimate Guide To Visiting Ireland’s Top Attraction

Make sure to visit the Latin Quarter, which is Galway’s ‘old town’ and full of cobbles and street art. For those who know their Irish history, it’s also worth stopping by Saint Nicholas Collegiate Church, a 14th-century church visited by Oliver Cromwell. Meanwhile, for less morbid history, you can appreciate the 16th-century city walls by visiting the Spanish Arch.

Finish your days in Galway with visits to its many art galleries, and of course, check out its live music scene after dark.

4. Limerick City

Limerick is another of Ireland’s largest cities, but this time, it has a reputation for Viking and Medieval history. It was a walled city established by Vikings, making it one of Ireland’s oldest and current largest. It is located on the southwest coast, near the mouth of the River Shannon.

This location once made it a prime target for Viking settlers. But, for modern-day tourists, its location now makes it a great city break just off the Wild Atlantic Way’s path. Limerick is ideally located for a day trip to natural beauty like the Cliffs of Moher. However, it’s also a solace of urban sightseeing amongst tiny country lanes and five building villages.

Top attractions in Limerick include the Treaty Stone, the Hunt Museum for Art and Archaeology, the medieval fortress of King John’s Castle, and the spectacular International Rugby Experience. To embrace the characteristic Viking history in the city, you can walk the Limerick Medieval Trail, taking you through the medieval buildings of English Town with fifteen different points of historical interest. This self-guided walking tour is a great way to see Limerick through early Viking eyes.

It’s the Viking history that really solidifies Limerick as one of the best cities in Ireland. Limerick is also a fantastic city in the southwest, providing an  excellent place to stay on the Wild Atlantic Way  for an urban break.

5. Waterford

Waterford is another Viking-created city on the island. Founded in 914 AD by Ragnall, Waterford is Ireland’s oldest city and has some unusual claims to fame. It has had its fingers in a few different pots, particularly once known as Ireland’s wine and glass-making capital.

Its coastal location has meant Waterford has remained a trading hub, typical of a port city. It has picked up numerous different industries and has an underlying production-minded subculture. You can still find Waterford Crystal in shops around the city center and at the House of Waterford Museum. As for Waterford wine, you can visit the 15th-century Mayor’s Wine Vault at the Medieval Museum.

Attraction highlights of Waterford include Reginald’s Tower, the Irish Museum of Time, Bishop’s Palace, and Waterford Nature Park. We had to add Waterford to this guide, partly because of its busy production mindset, which makes for some great historical sightseeing, and partly because of its title as Ireland’s oldest city. If you want to learn more about Ireland’s unique production industries and earliest days, Waterford is a compact city you can happily sightsee on foot.

Small Sligo may be a town, but in our eyes, it’s special enough to justify a position amongst the best cities to visit in Ireland. City status means nothing when you check out Sligo’s literature history, and it has tons to offer tourists in the way of sightseeing.

Sligo sits on the Northwest Coast of Ireland, near the magical site of Queen Maeve’s Cairn, a megalithic tomb atop a Knocknarea mountain, and Carrowmore Megalithic Cemetery – the largest of its kind in Ireland.

Sligo is an ideal place to stop for a few nights on a road trip, and it’s easy to see why it inspired so much literature. The town is surrounded by ancient architecture, and its pretty town center is scenically sliced by the gentle Garavogue River. You should definitely visit the Yeats Society, Sligo Country Museum, and Sligo Abbey in the town itself.

Sligo is shrouded in ancient mystery, dramatized by its extensive literature history. We love its proximity to some of Ireland’s most beloved megalithic tombs, and it’s a beautiful place to visit in Ireland for an insight into this darker history.

Athlone is a chronically overlooked city to visit in Ireland but trust us, if you stop here, you will love it. Ahlone dates back to the Bronze Age and was even involved in the Jacobite Rising; you’ll find tons of lesser-known historical sites and quiet archaeological sites . It is also a popular stop on bus tours to visit the oldest pub in the world! During our River Shannon Cruise, we parked right in front of Sean’s Bar to enjoy a pint in the world’s oldest pub.

Athlone is a beautiful city split in half by the River Shannon and located right next to Lough Ree. We loved spending two nights in this historic city and visiting the 6th-century site of Clonmacnoise. Read about it here.

8. Kilkenny City

Kilkenny is one of our favorite cities in Ireland. It is a treasure trove of historical and cultural riches. Nestled in the heart of Ireland’s Ancient East, Kilkenny City boasts a stunning medieval landscape, complete with cobbled streets, ancient stone buildings, and the iconic Kilkenny Castle.

This city is not only steeped in history but also thrives as a center of contemporary arts, hosting numerous festivals throughout the year that showcase the best in Irish craft, design, and music.

The bustling streets of Kilkenny are lined with artisan boutiques, inviting cafes, and traditional pubs where one can savor the local cuisine and enjoy the renowned Irish hospitality. Whether you’re exploring the well-preserved Kilkenny Castle, wandering through the enchanting Rothe House and Garden, or simply soaking up the vibrant atmosphere, Kilkenny offers a uniquely enriching experience that captures the essence of Ireland’s cultural and historical splendor.

There’s also St Mary’s Medieval Mile Museum, Rothe House and Garden, St Mary’s Cathedral, and St Canice’s Cathedral. Smithwick’s Experience is a must, too, guiding you through a multi-sensory tour of how Ireland’s oldest ale came to be formed.

Wexford is easily one of the best cities to visit in Ireland. The major city sits on Ireland’s east coast, which, as you already know, was predominantly founded by Viking settlers. It has an excellent maritime heritage and stunning sandy beaches, many of which are designated Blue Flag Beaches for their cleanliness and safety. It is less industrial than Waterford, with more of a lingering historical atmosphere. You can enjoy condensed culture in its extremely walkable center or use it as a day trip launchpad – more on that in a second.

The best inner-city attractions in Wexford are the National Opera House, Wexford Harbour, and the ruins of Selskar Abbey, where the first Anglo-Irish treaty was signed. Wexford has many medieval lanes and narrow streets in its modern-day shopping quarter. It’s a fun place for some retail therapy with a historical backdrop, one of the main reasons we added it to this guide.

The second reason is Wexford’s day trip potential. It is less than a 10-minute drive from the incredible Irish National Heritage Park, which tells the story of Irish settlement over 9,000 years with recreated houses and costumed guides over 35 acres.

10. Tullamore

Beautiful Tullamore is one of Ireland’s best cities to visit, with fewer tourists than other cities. Located in County Offaly, one of the central counties in Ireland, it has excellent access to the almost tourist-free Slieve Bloom Mountains.

As if this peaceful, off-the-beaten-track setting wasn’t good enough, Tullamore is also known for its whiskey, and you can take guided whiskey tours at the Tullamore DEW Distillery.

The Grand Canal splits the center and has beautiful waterfront views. You should prioritize visits to Shra Castle, Charleville Castle, and the Clara Boardwalk, which treats you to gorgeous views over one of Offaly’s famous bogs. Bogs are crucial to rural culture, historically providing peat to heat homes and that peaty flavor in certain Irish whiskies, like Tullamore Whiskey.

Tullamore is a great place to visit in Ireland to get an insight into rural culture. It provides the perfect springboard for bog tourism and ancient castles, plus, of course, the chance to sample some of the tastiest Irish whiskey.

The small port city sits on the western Dingle Peninsula, you guessed it, right on the beautiful Wild Atlantic Way’s path; so it’s a must-stop-off if you decide to  road trip the Wild Atlantic Way . Dingle has an inspiring relationship with nature and is a much quieter version of Galway Bay. We just had to add it to our list of the best cities in Ireland.

Dingle is children’s book worthy, having piggybacked its fame from the tale of Fungie the Dolphin, a famous lone dolphin that used to call Dingle Harbour home. Now, you can still take  boat tours to go dolphin spotting  or visit the Fungie statue in the harbor – which immortalizes everyone’s favorite Dingle resident.

In addition to dolphin spotting, you should also check out the Dingle Distillery and Kingdom Falconry. And if you have time for day trips, take a boat tour to the Blasket Islands.

What Adare lacks in city status, it makes up tenfold in character. Its buildings are so aesthetic and it holds so much culture that we just had to include it. It is so beautiful that it is a designated heritage town, with a mixture of colorful traditional terraces and white-washed cottages with thatched roofs. Adare is no hidden gem, but if you can visit off-season, you won’t find it overcrowded. It is like a time capsule, whisking you back to 12th-century Ireland.

When visiting, you must see the thatched cottages, now turned into gift shops like Lucy Eridge, and restaurants like the gorgeous Blue Door Restaurant. You should also visit Adare Castle and the Augustinian Friary. Adare is all about atmosphere and stunning traditional aesthetic.

Adare is the ideal addition to a city break in Limerick. If you have a long weekend, we suggest spending a night there before driving back to Limerick for its airport and major city amenities.

13. Donegal

Introducing Donegal: one of the most popular cities in Ireland. Donegal is set in its same-named county, County Donegal, nicknamed Ireland’s Forgotten County. Dramatic sea cliffs and barren moorland surround the city, and it’s where to visit if you want plenty of day trips into nearby wilderness. Donegal is a brilliant stop-off for a few nights if you follow the Wild Atlantic Way’s route down the west coast.

Donegal Castle and the Railway Heritage Museum are other must-visits in the city. However, Donegal is far from surrounded by natural beauty and happy-go-lucky history. It’s also a harrowing city to learn about the impact of the famine. The Great Famine hit in the mid-19th century and  led to the death of approximately 25% of the Irish population . A visit to Donegal’s Famine Graveyard is a must to help comprehend the tragedy of the conflict-driven famine.

Donegal is a great place to visit and experience a huge spectrum of Irish history, culture, and nature in a tiny area. With a beautiful location and lots to teach tourists, it is an easy addition to our list of the best cities to visit in Ireland.

14. Killarney

Killarney is beautifully located on the outskirts of Killarney National Park in County Kerry. County Kerry is located smack dab in the middle of two of Ireland’s most iconic scenic drives: the Wild Atlantic and the Ring of Kerry. It’s the perfect base to go on  horseback rides  or explore waterfall trails and forests on foot in the Killarney National Park, heading back for a cozy pub dinner in Killarney in the evenings. And if you want to experience Ireland’s ‘deep south’, this is your choice.

Killarney itself has a neo-Gothic architectural style and a small center. You can take a tour by  horse and carriage , visit Killarney House and Gardens, and test your tastebuds at the Irish Whiskey Experience. Killarney is also ideally located on a day trip to some  unique things to do along the Wild Atlantic Way , like Skellig Michael.

We love its strong sense of character and profoundly traditional atmosphere, and its proximity to the national park is just the ultimate addition.

Best Cities in Northern Ireland

Of course, the island of Ireland is split into two countries: Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. While Northern Ireland is much smaller, it has some fabulous cities to visit, so we had to give it a special mention in this guide.

Visiting both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland in one trip is super straightforward – you can just drive across the border or catch a shuttle service, especially if you’re traveling between Belfast and Dublin. If you can, combine the two in a single trip. These are some of the best Northern Irish cities that should definitely find a way onto your itinerary.

15. Derry / Londonderry

Derry / Londonderry is a city that goes by two names. You can find out why  here , but in short, it is because of sectarian tensions. Protestants referred to the city as Londonderry, while Catholics called it Derry. Nowadays, you can usually use either without controversy; to be polite, when talking to Northern Irish people, you can just take their lead in how they reference the city.

It goes without saying that a city with such a backstory behind its name makes for a fascinating tourist destination. There’s tons of political and social history to unpack behind Derry City, and you can stop by attractions like murals and the Museum of Free Derry and walk the Derry Walls. Derry is compact and walkable, making it a great city break. And for any Derry Girls fans, you can spot plenty of filming locations, which is a fun extra.

We had to add Derry City to this list, as it is one of the most complex and interesting cities in Northern Ireland. If you like your history, Derry is a must-visit.

Beautiful Bangor is a small Northern Irish city just a 30-minute drive outside Belfast. It is a seaside city with sandy beaches and a great place to experience the coastal pace of life in Northern Ireland. In summer, Bangor comes alive with a slightly cheesy seaside resort atmosphere. But if you catch it out of season, it has a really romantic, wistful appeal and a much slower pace.

You can walk the 10-mile Holywood to Bangor section of the North Down Coastal Path or just enjoy having beaches like Ballyholme Beach at your beck and call. Bangor’s waterfront is scenic, an attraction in itself, lined by colorful terraces painted blues, greens, and pinks. Stroll along the water and stop by independent coffee shops like the quirky cafe The Bearded Goat. If you want to get historical in your sightseeing, head to the North Down Museum.

17. Belfast

The Northern Irish capital of Belfast is a fascinating mix of friendly locals and a web of complex history. Belfast is a modern city with a gritty undertone, with city maps still segmented into sectarian neighborhoods despite its now – mostly – blended communities. It’s most famed for its Troubles, a period of political unrest that lasted from 1968 to 1998 before the signing of the Good Friday Agreement. For history buffs, the opportunity to learn about this unrest is a huge draw, usually through  black taxi tours of the murals and Peace Wall .

This singular stereotype of Belfast and the tourism it offers is reductionist, though. There’s everything from cozy pubs and bars in the buzzy, cobbled Cathedral Quarter to the Titanic Belfast museum and a trail commemorating the east Belfast-born singer Van Morrison. It’s also a fantastic place to use as a launchpad to visit the Mourne Mountains, Dark Hedges, or the Causeway Coast.

If you want to understand Northern Ireland, head to Belfast. Northern Ireland has an entire culture of its own. Belfast will introduce you to the politics, subcultures, and traditions behind that – all while situated in an ideal place for a day trip to areas of natural beauty.

Best Cities in Ireland: FAQs

Now you know which cities to visit in Ireland, we need to help narrow down your new collection of choices. After all, it is a tough choice. How do you pick between Galway City and Dingle? Or Limerick and Cork? Or Belfast versus Derry? In this section, we’ll look at the most commonly asked questions to see if we can help you pick your top two or three cities in Ireland.

Where is the most beautiful city in Ireland?

The most beautiful city in Ireland is undoubtedly Galway City. The old town is the most authentic place to experience local culture, and out of all the Irish cities, Galway retains a rustic, windswept settlement quality.

What are the 5 largest cities in Ireland?

In the Republic of Ireland, the five largest cities are Dublin, Limerick, Cork, Galway, and Waterford. The largest cities on the island of Ireland, including the Republic and Northern Ireland, are Dublin, Belfast, Limerick, Galway, and Derry/Londonderry.

What is the main town in Ireland?

Dublin is the capital city of Ireland and

I don’t think I would agree with this. I would say it is Dublin. Can you re-write this.

What is the best city to go to in Ireland?

It is a tough call, but Galway is the best city to go to in Ireland. We’d suggest Galway because it is closest to the Wild Atlantic Way and has easy day trip access to the striking west coast islands like the Aran Islands, Skellig Michael, and the Inishmore Islands. It also has the most authentic character, and while Dublin is incredible if you want a luxury hotel, formal museums, and buzzy drinks at Temple Bar, Galway offers more of an immersion into traditional Irish music and culture.

Cities in Ireland We Love

Wherever you choose to visit in Ireland, you’ll find an amazing string of cities offering a different experience and outlook. You can head to Northern Ireland for the brilliant city of Belfast or the sleepy seaside town of Bangor with all its sandy beaches. You can head to Ireland’s west coast for the iconic cities along the Wild Atlantic Way, like Killarney and Galway City. The central cities along the River Shannon, like Athlone, are surrounded by the beautiful bog country. The south offers intense culture in cities like Cork and Limerick city, while the east coast houses Dublin and Ireland’s oldest city, Waterford.

There are some awe-inspiring cities in Ireland. These 17 best cities in Ireland should keep you well entertained during your stay.

Remember to check out some of the smaller towns and villages in Ireland as well. It isn’t known as the ‘Emerald Isle’ for no reason – heading out into the countryside will give you some amazing experiences and perspectives of Ireland. Start in the best cities in Ireland and then branch out to its smaller treasures. Have an incredible stay.

Plan Your Next Trip to Ireland With These Resources

  • How To Visit the Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

  • Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
  • Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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About The Planet D

Dave Bouskill and Debra Corbeil are the owners and founders of The Planet D. After traveling to 115 countries, on all 7 continents over the past 13 years they have become one of the foremost experts in travel. Being recognized as top travel bloggers and influencers by the likes of Forbes Magazine , the Society of American Travel Writers and USA Today has allowed them to become leaders in their field.

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11 beautiful destinations to visit in Ireland beyond Dublin

Lori Zaino

As we celebrate St. Patrick's Day this week, we've got Ireland on the brain. Dublin is an easy and obvious choice for a visit, with short, nonstop flights from the East Coast. However, don't limit yourself to the country's most famous destination. There are so many other incredible spots on the Emerald Isle just waiting to be explored.

These alternative spots aren't necessarily off the beaten path. The names are familiar and you may have seen them in the Harry Potter films or on Game of Thrones . However, none are major tourist traps — no Blarney Stone, for example.

Here are some of our favorite places outside Dublin, from quiet villages and cliffside beaches to cool castles and delightful foodie spots (yes, Ireland has a food scene well beyond Guinness and pub grub).

Don't miss TPG's Ireland hub — it has everything you need to know about visiting this beloved European country.

The Cliffs of Moher. (Photo by George Karbus Photography/Getty Images)

For more TPG news delivered each morning to your inbox, sign up for our daily newsletter .

The Aran Islands

The three Aran Islands , Inis Mor, Inis Oirr and Inis Meain are traditional Gaelic havens, where the roughly 1,200 locals still speak the language while enjoying the mild climate and lush agriculture (the islands have one of the longest growing seasons in the country).

ireland places to visit in dublin

Less than an hour's ferry ride from Galway City, the Aran Islands are home to many forts and castles dating back to the Bronze and Iron ages. If history is your interest, this is your place.

Related: The best ways to get to Europe using miles and points

Only 15 miles south of Cork, this village is known as one of Ireland's most popular foodie hubs, so head there and start chowing down. Thanks to Kinsale's food festival each year in October, visitors can sample everything from traditional Irish fare and Atlantic seafood specialties to the country's most delicious wine and beer.

ireland places to visit in dublin

Even if you don't visit during the festival, you can still enjoy Irish and international gastronomy at Kinsale's numerous wine bars, pubs and restaurants. Burn off a delicious lunch by exploring the town's yacht-filled harbor, walking the charming narrow streets or visiting the many boutiques and art galleries.

Galway City

You may first feel a modern vibe from this energetic city (it was Europe's Capital of Culture in 2021). The streets are lined with boho-chic bookshops, vintage boutiques and lively pubs, but there's a long history in its old buildings and many castles. Galway was once inhabited by 14 family tribes who helped it flourish and grow.

Galway, Ireland. (Photo by Education Images/Universal Images Group/Getty Images)

Don't miss St. Nicholas Collegiate Church, one of the largest medieval churches in Ireland. It dates back to 1320 and is still active today. Galway City is also the perfect place to hear traditional Irish music, with many venues offering concerts as well as workshops where beginners can learn the basics.

Connemara National Park

Covering about 8 square miles, Connemara National Park is an expansive rural park filled with verdant nature: mountains, swamps, grasslands and wooded forests. It's also home to a graveyard, 4,000-year-old court tombs and Kylemore Abbey, a stunning monastery on the grounds of Kylemore Castle.

Related: TPG readers' best tips for visiting Europe on points and miles

Kylemore Abbey in Connemara National Park. (Photo by Michael Runkel/Getty Images)

Keep an eye out for sheep, rabbits, foxes, shrews, bats and Connemara ponies as you take in its picturesque landscape. A visit to Connemara is the perfect day trip from Galway City — it's only about a 90-minute drive.

The Cliffs of Moher

Rising 400 to 700 feet above the Atlantic, the Cliffs of Moher run for about 5 miles on Ireland's western coast. If you're not convinced by the photo below, perhaps some Hollywood glitz will win you over: The cliffs have been used as a backdrop in "Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince," "The Princess Bride" ( Vizzini's Cliffs of Insanity) , "Ryan's Daughter" and "The Guns of Navarone ."

ireland places to visit in dublin

Birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts can discover more than 30 different bird species that live and fly around the cliffs. Even if you aren't into the wildlife, the quiet magnificence of these rocky precipices awe-inspiring. The entrance fee — 7 euros ($7.68) for adults, free for children under 12 — covers parking, access to the visitor center and is used to help conserve the cliffs.

Related: Second Cities: Destinations to add on to a trip to Dublin

If you seek that Irish small-town experience, Clifden's your spot. The town is nestled along the Atlantic coast in the expansive green countryside of County Galway and boasts live music, a thriving food and pub scene, and a myriad of outdoor excursions like fishing, horseback riding and cycling.

ireland places to visit in dublin

Explore the rolling hills behind the village that lead up to Clifden Castle, a roofless manor house dating back to 1818 that's slowly returning to the mossy, green pasture on which it sits. You can also drive along the Sky Road that rises 500 feet above the sea and offers stunning views of the ocean, castle and the Irish countryside. Clifden is close to Connemara National Park, so you can easily visit both destinations in one trip.

The Skellig Islands

The Skellig Islands are two rocky isles — Skellig Michael and Little Skellig — that jut above the Atlantic a few miles off the coast of southwest Ireland. Skellig Michael, also known as Great Skellig, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for a sixth-century monastery that teeters on a cliff about 1,500 feet above the ocean.

ireland places to visit in dublin

Though it's a steep climb, visitors can hike up to see the remains of the monastery, where monks went to worship in isolation. If this scene seems mildly familiar, there's a reason: It served as the secret hiding place of Luke Skywalker in "Star Wars: The Force Awakens." Because of inclement weather and rough seas, access to the islands is usually limited from May through September.

Related: How to go to Europe — just for the weekend — from the East Coast

Killarney National Park

A UNESCO biosphere reserve, Killarney National Park is one of the most protected parks in the country, with almost 26,000 acres of diverse flora and fauna. Home to massive natural wonders like the Macgillycuddy's Reeks mountain range (some of the highest peaks in Ireland) and the Lakes of Killarney, the park also has some of the largest oak forests in all of Europe. Torc Waterfall is worth seeing, as is Ross Castle, a 15th-century regal ruin at the edge of the park.

ireland places to visit in dublin

The park showcases fauna such as native red deer and flora such as oakwood and evergreen trees, all of which flourish at Killarney thanks to its mild environment.

Glens of Antrim

For those who want to venture into Northern Ireland, the Glens of Antrim are nine deep, narrow valleys near the coast. The rolling green hills of the glens are intermixed with craggy cliffs and monolithic rock formations.

Glenariff Forest Park in Northern Ireland. (Photo by Nicola Ferrari/Getty Images)

Cruise the winding, harrowing roads to visit the glens via the Causeway Coastal Route. Glenariff is one of the most beautiful, with a cascading waterfall and the Glenariff Forest Park. All the glens are particularly suited for tranquil walks and hikes, with viridescent pastures, rolling hills, tree-covered backwoods and more.

County Antrim

County Antrim in Northern Ireland has several must-see sites besides the Glens. Stop and admire Giant's Causeway, made up of thousands of connected basalt columns formed in an ancient volcanic eruption. The blustery coastal village of Ballycastle along the Antrim Coast is particularly quaint, especially if you love coastal walks. From Ballycastle, you can hop a ferry to Rathlin Island, Northern Ireland's most northern point.

Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge. (Photo by James Kerwin/Getty Images)

Dark Hedges, a mystical tunnel of beech trees, is also a popular sight -- you may recall it from Season 2 of Game of Thrones . Thrill-seekers should walk across the teetering Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge suspended 100 feet above the sea. The bridge links Northern Ireland with the teeny island of Carrickarede.

Lough Tay: The Guinness Lake

Guinness is not just a drink to sip or a factory to tour in Dublin. It's also the name of a lake in County Wicklow, Ireland. Although the formal name of the lake is Lough Tay, it allegedly holds the nickname Guinness Lake for a number of reasons. The lake sits on an estate owned by the Guinness family and the shape of the lake looks like a pint of Guinness. The white sand shore even resembles the foam on top of the pint.

ireland places to visit in dublin

The lake is private, so visitors can't swim or hang out near its waters. However, you can take in a panoramic view of the lake and its hilly surroundings. The best spot to see the pint-shaped lake is from up above at Military Road.

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Dublin/Kilkenny/Waterford/Cork/Kinsale/Killarney/Galway - Ireland Forum

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' class=

Is it realistic to see all of these places in five nights?

What would you cut?

What size would you recommend?

What hotels would you recommend?

What bars or restaurants would you recommend?

We are nine people likely traveling in two vans.

Thanks in advance!

4 replies to this topic

' class=

"Is it realistic to see all of these places in five nights?"

Only if you charter a helicopter.

With only 5 days, you would be hard-pressed to visit three -- and that's STILL on the hectic side!

ireland places to visit in dublin

Ha! Thanks for the reality check.

Any recommendation for lodging, restaurants, or bars, in cork or kinsale?

Thanks for the reality check. Any recommendations for lodging, restaurants, or bars, in cork or kinsale?

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Weather warning: Heavy rain and melting snow result in ‘dangerous travel conditions’ for motorists

Status yellow ice warning for entire country in effect until 9am saturday; snow earlier today caused widespread disruption.

Snow falling in Dublin this morning. Photographs: Tom Honan, Brian Lawless, Leon Farrell, Colin Keegan, Sasko Lazarov

Many areas of Ireland were covered in an unexpected blanket of snow on Friday, a weather event forecasters in Met Éireann said took them by surprise.

There has been disruption to transport and a series of weather warnings remains in place for Friday and into Saturday.

Main points

  • Irish Rail said its Dart, Intercity and Commuter services are now fully operational, though there are likely to be “knock-on” delays
  • There was widespread traffic disruption in the Greater Dublin Area throughout Friday, with collisions reported on the M1, M11 and the M50 being shut for close to an hour on Friday afternoon. Motorists have been advised to be cautious, as the heavy rain and melting snow have resulted in surface flooding and “dangerous travel conditions”
  • As of 4pm, most of Dublin Bus services were back to being fully operational. However, route 44 is operating to and from Kilternan only and is unable to serve Enniskerry and Sandyford Village. The transport operator also advised to allow for possible delays
  • Dublin Airport is “operating as normal”
  • A status yellow ice warning is in place for the entire country as of 6pm this evening until 9am on Saturday. A separate status yellow rain warning for Dublin, Louth, Meath and Wicklow is in place until 3am on Saturday. An earlier yellow snow-ice warning for Carlow, Dublin, Kildare, Kilkenny, Laois, Offaly, Wexford, Wicklow, and Munster has expired
  • Some schools were closed in counties Cavan, Longford and Roscommon earlier today
  • In these pictures , you can see exactly what the country looked like beneath the unexpected blanket of snow
  • Ronan McGreevy looks at how Met Éireann was taken by surprise by the heavy snowfall on Friday

That’s it for today, folks. Thanks for following our live coverage throughout the day. You can read a synopsis of everything that happened, as well as the forecast for the weekend here .

Video journalist Enda O’Dowd spoke to homeless asylum seekers at the International Protection Office in Dublin City Centre.

Dozens of international protection applicants are sleeping rough at the International Protection Office in Dublin.

While there’s been widely acknowledged heavy snow and sleet, there has also been heavy rainfall in some areas around the country.

Rain and sleet still falling in parts of East and South and the Met Éireann station at Shanganagh in Dublin has recorded 42mm today. pic.twitter.com/nhcLXHYwPG — Carlow Weather (@CarlowWeather) March 1, 2024

Here is the latest update on train delays, according to Irish Rail:

🚨 Update: DARTS +50mins regulating back to normal scheduling. Maynooth/Northern Commuter/Belfast +20/25mins (expected to ease) Services out of Heuston +80mins delayed. Sligo/Rosslare services are operating with delays of up to +30mins. -AD — Iarnród Éireann (@IrishRail) March 1, 2024

As much of the snowfall begins to end, and the blanket of white lining our streets begins to melt away, motorists are being advised to be cautious while out on the roads.

According to Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII), there is flooding on the M50 and M1. There is also debris reported on the M7, all of which will affect traffic.

While public transport has largely resumed to full services, operators are warning of potential delays.

The sudden onset of snow and sleet mean many road surfaces are untreated today, resulting in potentially dangerous travelling conditions.

The Road Safety Authority (RSA) has issued advice for drivers in light of the icy road conditions.

Motorists should clear windows and mirrors of any ice, carry a screen scraper and de-icer; and avoid too much steering, harsh braking and acceleration.

The RSA also said it takes longer to stop in icy conditions.

“Manoeuvre gently, slow down and increase your braking distance or ‘safe space’ by leaving an extra distance between you and the vehicle in front,” it advised.

“Use the highest gear possible to avoid wheel spin. Select a low gear when travelling downhill especially if through bends.”

And it’s not just the children who got a day off school who enjoyed the unexpected snow. President Michael D Higgins’ dog Misneach was also a big fan.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by President Michael D. Higgins (@presidentirl)

Four games in the League of Ireland have been postponed due to heavy snowfall, particularly in the east of country, on Friday.

David Gorman has all of the details in this article .

Not many people went to bed on Thursday night expecting to wake up on to a winter wonderland – including the national forecaster.

How did Met Éireann manage to get it wrong? Forecaster Brandon Creagh said they had actually issued a yellow weather warning for eastern counties at 4.48pm on Thursday covering the counties of Dublin, Louth, Meath and Wicklow from 3am on Friday morning to 3am on Saturday morning.

Read the full story by Ronan McGreevy on how Met Éireann was caught by surprise by Friday morning’s cold snap here .

Rail services are now operating fully but there are “knock-on delays”

DART, Commuter & Intercity route services are now fully operating but remain impacted with knock-on delays A difficult day for all travelling today and our crews who continue to work on site to clear areas to ease delays to services. Thank you for your patience #sneachta pic.twitter.com/sK81FlPOVe — Iarnród Éireann (@IrishRail) March 1, 2024

There are now 1,103 international protection applicants without State-provided accommodation, according to the latest departmental figures.

Many of these individuals are sleeping rough on the streets and in tents near the International Protection Office in Dublin city centre. Pictures shared across social media showed many of these tents collapsed in the snow the capital experienced on Friday morning.

Terrible and distressing conditions at the International Protection Office this morning. Tents collapsing under snow and water. We are deeply concerned by this situation. Government and Council response is completely inadequate to respond and resolve this escalating crisis. pic.twitter.com/4C7vNlPFS6 — Irish Refugee Council (@IrishRefugeeCo) March 1, 2024
Avoid upland areas of Wicklow unless you have suitable vehicle. Wicklow Gap has heavy snow falling, snow ploughs are working on the route but some vehicles have gone off the road already. pic.twitter.com/3Ajawtr71v — Carlow Weather (@CarlowWeather) March 1, 2024

Longford County Council has warned that some roads in the county are partially blocked due to the early morning snow.

Snow ploughs are being deployed to these locations on a priority basis, with national and regional routes being addressed first.

The N55 and the R194 appear to be the worst affected by the snow, while the N4 is passable but care is required.

Longford County Council is urging people not to make any unnecessary journeys today, until road conditions have improved and for those who must travel, please proceed with caution and allow extra time for your journey.

ireland places to visit in dublin

Lake in Stephen's green. Photograph: Fiona Keeley

ireland places to visit in dublin

Mini snowmen in Stephen's Green. Photograph: Fiona Keeley

ireland places to visit in dublin

Swans in Stephen's Green. Photograph: Fiona Keeley

Met Éireann senior forecaster Gerry Murphy has said they could in hindsight have issued an orange level snow and ice warning.

The extent of the snow took Met Éireann by surprise. He pointed out that Met Éireann had issued a forecast stating that a band of rain, sleet and snow would move southwards over the country.

The snow was forecast for higher ground only with rain and sleet falling on lower ground, but it became apparent overnight that there would be more snow than anything else. A weather warning for snow and ice was issued at 3am on Friday morning.

“It was very short notice and that wasn’t much comfort for people commuting this morning,” he admitted on RTÉ's News at One programme.

“The magnitude of the snow that did occur was more than was in our warning.”

He explained that an orange level warning would be where three centimetres fell within six hours, five centimetres within 12 hours and higher for 24 hours.

“What we have seen in some places would possibly, on the basis of hindsight, indicates that some places would have warranted a snow warning because a lot of snow fell in a short period of time, but that’s with the benefit of hindsight.”

Mr Murphy reiterated that it was “notoriously tricky” to forecast when there is a mixture of rain, sleet and snow as to what will fall. In some cases yellow snow warnings have been issued which have not materialised.

Dublin Airport says its flights are running to schedule, but one passenger said her flight to Malaga has been delayed by more than three hours because the crew was waiting for the de-icing machine.

#BREAKING ❄️☃️ Met Eireann has extended its snow-ice warning to Co. Wexford until 6PM! More on @SouthEastRadio News at noon. #SERNews — Brónagh Gately (@Bronaaaaagh) March 1, 2024

Met Éireann has now updated its weather warning to include all 26 counties and the weather warnings will last, in most places, until 6pm this evening.

A status-yellow ice warning is in place for the State until 6pm on Friday to 9am on Saturday.

A status-yellow snow-ice warning is now in place for Carlow, Dublin, Kildare, Kilkenny, Laois, Offaly, Wexford, Wicklow and all of Munster. It is place until 6pm.

A status-yellow rain warning is in place for Dublin, Louth, Meath and Wicklow until 3am on Saturday.

To the very kind man in the black BMW near UCD on the N11 who talked me through getting my car up a hill in shocking road conditions, thank you for the knowledge and time taken to keep me on the road. #sneachta — Mary Wilson (@Mary___Wilson) March 1, 2024

Fine Gael election candidate Cllr James Geoghegan has said Met Éireann’s response to getting the forecast wrong this morning has not been good enough.

“Nobody expects our national meteorological service to get it right every time, but when forecasts and warnings are understated, it’s important we learn from it,” Cllr Geoghegan said.

“It’s a bit a glib for Met Éireann to say on the radio this morning that it didn’t have a crystal ball when traffic is at standstill with road and footpath conditions in a treacherous state.

“Snow in Dublin or Ireland generally is a rare event, but it can be as dangerous for road users as the risks of a falling tree from high winds, which is why Orange weather warnings are issued.

“This time, however, we need to acknowledge that the system has failed. Just like freak snow events of recent times, there is chaos on the M50, trains had to be cancelled and there is no grit on our footpaths.”

Snow day ❄️❄️ #sneachta pic.twitter.com/O1naeFWHxc — Croke Park (@CrokePark) March 1, 2024

Dublin Bus says its services are operating, but are subject to delays. There are diversions in a number of places.

Route 44 is operating to and from Kilternan only. Unable to serve Enniskerry, Larkhill and Sandyford Village.

Route 40 is unable to serve Cardiffsbridge Road, diverted via N2 in both directions.

Route 46a Towards Phoenix Park Unable to serve Foxrock Avenue, Foxrock Park, Deansgrange Village and Kill Lane.

Route 123 is operating to and from Ballybough Bridge/Summerhill only. Unable to serve the Marino area.

Series of weather warnings in place

Met Éireann has put a series of weather warnings in place on Friday. In Northern Ireland a yellow snow warning is in place for Armagh, Fermanagh, Tyrone and Derry from 3am on Friday to 3am on Saturday.

ireland places to visit in dublin

A series of weather warnings was put in place by Met Éireann on Friday

Rain, sleet & snow across Connacht & much of Leinster will move southwards across the rest of the country this afternoon, turning increasingly to rain as it does so, except on higher ground🌧️❄️ Hail & isolated thunderstorms are possible too⤵️ https://t.co/lvQFgW8DsS pic.twitter.com/c00j9NuRPn — Met Éireann (@MetEireann) March 1, 2024

ireland places to visit in dublin

Snow falling in Dublin's Dolphin Barn on Friday morning. A yellow warning is in place for Dublin, Louth, Meath and Wicklow until 3am on Saturday. Photograph: Enda O'Dowd

‘It wasn’t clear until this morning’: Forecasters taken by surprise

Met Éireann has admitted it was taken by surprise when Ireland woke to heavy falls of snow in places on Friday morning.

Many parts of the north of the country faced travel disruption with a number of school closures. The problems were most acute in the Greater Dublin Area with long delays on routes into the city and disruption to Bus Éireann and Iarnród Éireann services.

Met Éireann issued a yellow weather warning at 5pm on Thursday for heavy rain with some sleet and snow, but only on higher ground.

“It wasn’t clear until this morning that the snow would be as heavy as it is and as widespread as it is,” Met Éireann forecaster Brandon Creagh told the Today with Claire Byrne Show on RTÉ Radio 1.

“The models had the freezing levels too high up over hills and higher areas, but it turns out that because of the complex dynamics in the upper air that pushed the snow down further and that’s what led to lying snow in many areas.”

“Snow is notoriously the most difficult to predict in Ireland. Maybe if we had a crystal ball we would have issued an orange warning, but if we over-warn, people won’t believe warnings when they come,” said Mr Creagh.

Met Éireann on Friday issued a yellow-level ice warning for tonight and into Saturday morning for all of Ireland

Wicklow County Council wishes to advise motorists to avoid the Wicklow Gap and the Sally Gap due to the adverse weather conditions. #WicklowCountyCouncil #YourCouncil #WicklowMunicipalDistrict pic.twitter.com/7OLJNZhUva — Wicklow County Council (@wicklowcoco) March 1, 2024

March, to quote the well-known weather proverb, has come in like a lion as the (meteorological) season of spring begins. But if you think it’s snowy where you are, have a gander at what it’s like up in the Wicklow Mountains.

There are many pictures of the snow coming in from around the country. Here is a selection of the best ones so far

[  In Pictures: Snow falls across Ireland as March brings a ‘white spring’  ]

The unexpectedly heavy snow caused widespread traffic disruption in the Greater Dublin Area on Friday morning with congestion on all major routes into the city and collisions on the M1 and M11.

Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) spokesman Sean O’Neill said the M50 was particularly congested in the Dundrum area following a road incident. The full winter-maintenance programme has been put into operation.

“This has been primarily an east coast event. It has been very localised,” he said.

The Dart was suspended between Sandymount and Blackrock with Dublin Bus accepting rail tickets, Irish Rail said.

There was also significant disruption to Sligo/Maynooth/Phoenix Park services between Glasnevin and Connolly.

Wicklow County Council said Enniskerry and surrounding areas should be avoided if possible as road conditions were “quite dangerous”, while the R761 Bray-Greystones Road at Windgates was “blocked with stuck traffic”.

Some Bus Éireann services to and from Dublin and Donegal and Cavan were cancelled because of bad weather along with services between Cavan and Dundalk.

There are reports of schools in Cavan, Leitrim and Longford been closed due to the weather.

Motorists have been advised to take extra care on the roads.

The rain, sleet and snow will move southwards across the rest of the country throughout the day falling mostly as rain in the afternoon except on higher ground. It will be cold for the first day of the meteorological spring with temperatures of between 3 and 7 degrees.

#Sneachta Road conditions are poor aa snow begins to fall in Dublin and on high ground 🚘 Drive slowly, steer and brake gently 🌨 Wiper on, lights on ❄️ Braking distances increase ⚙️ Use high gears if possible 📸 Glencullen and South Dublin pic.twitter.com/6rV5uzOUTn — Dublin Fire Brigade (@DubFireBrigade) March 1, 2024

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Ireland weather: Dublin-wide flooding results in major traffic disruptions - Recap

Many areas of the country have woken up to blankets of snow this morning

  • Updated 22:16, 1 MAR 2024

ireland places to visit in dublin

Welcome to Dublin Live's traffic and weather blog in partnership with Dublin City FM .

Many people across the country woke up to blankets of snow this morning after weather warnings kicked in overnight. A number of areas in Dublin are facing flooding as the snow melts.

Dublin Fire Brigade is warning of spot flooding on the N81 inbound neat Tallaght Stadium. The flooding is affecting the Hard Shoulder and Lane One.

Additionally, surface water is causing issues on the M50 at Junction 6 Blanchardstown. The northbound motorway has delays of 15 minutes between Junction 11 Tallaght and Junction 7 Lucan.

The southbound motorway has delays of 45 minutes between Junction 3 M1 and Junction 6 Blanchardstown and from Junction 16 Cherrywood.

We'll bring you the latest weather and travel updates on our live blog below.

For all the latest news from Dublin and surrounding areas visit our homepage .

Join our Dublin Live breaking news service on WhatsApp. Click this link to receive your daily dose of Dublin Live content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don’t like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you’re curious, you can read our Privacy Notice .

  • Join our Dublin Live breaking news service on WhatsApp for all the snow updates 15:17
  • M50 shut at Junction 13 Dundrum 09:58
  • Snow-ice warning extended until 12pm 09:48

Traffic updates

  • Traffic lights are out on Dorset Street at Granby Row.

There is a fallen tree as you exit the N3 outbound at Junction 3 Clonsilla. It's blocking the left lane halfway up the ramp.

The roadworks in Clontarf will be stepping up a gear over the weekend. Lanes will be closed at the Alfie Byrne Road junction, with stop/go boards in place from 8pm tonight until Sunday evening.

If you're in the car, be sure to tune into Dublin City FM for the latest traffic updates.

Flooding in Whitehall

Flooding remains in place on the Santry Bypass, as you head between the Swords Road and the M1.

It's under the Santry Flyover. Traffic is moving cautiously through it.

M50 slips closure

The following slips will be closed this evening 01.03.24 from 10pm-6am:

  • J10 Ballymount S'bound Offslip: Diversion via J11 Tallaght
  • J10 Ballymount N'bound Onslip: Diversion via J11 Tallaght

Traffic lights out on Malahide Road

Traffic lights are out of action on Malahide Road at the junction with Griffith Avenue. Motorists have been urged to take care and leave space for pedestrians.

In other news, the flooding at M50 Junction 6 Blanchardstown has been resolved. Surface water remains on the mainline. Traffic is moving cautiously through the area.

  • A burst tyre on the N7 eastbound after Junction 7 Kill is affecting Lane Two.

All lanes are now open on the M50 southbound, as the broken-down vehicle has been cleared from Junction 5 Finglas. However, there are delays of 25 minutes from Junction 3 M1.

More updates

  • The flooding on the M1 at the entry/exit to Lusk northbound service area is too deep for some vehicles.

There is flooding on the R132 Swords Road by Collinstown Business Park (near the M50 bridge). There is a single alternating line of traffic.

There is a broken down lorry on the M50 southbound. It's blocking the right lane approaching J5 (Finglas). Expect delays on the approach.

  • Spot flooding on the N81 inbound near Tallaght Stadium is affecting the Hard Shoulder and Lane One.

There are reports of flooding on the Santry Bypass as you head between the Swords Road and the M1. It's under the Santry Flyover. Delays of 10 minutes from Drumcondra.

Additionally more flooding is reported on the M1 roundabout at the entrance/exit to Lusk northbound service area.

There is flooding as you exit the M50 southbound at Junction 6 Blanchardstown. It's in the dip on the link to the N3 outbound. Long delays of 30 minutes from Junction 3 M1.

Join our Dublin Live breaking news service on WhatsApp for all the snow updates

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In photos: M50 standstill, joyful pups and St Stephen's Green fun as snow covers Dublin

See all the best pics from today here.

Dublin City Council issue update on "winter maintenance works"

Dublin City Council is carrying out winter maintenance operations in accordance with its Winter Maintenance Plan. Weather forecasts, weather conditions and road conditions, continue to be monitored and assessed.

On foot of a Yellow Rainfall Warning issued by Met Éireann , Surface Water Drainage Crews were on site from early morning to deal with localised flooding issues. Crews are currently still working to address flooding issues as they arise and will do so until the rainfall event subsides. Crews will be on call over the weekend. The rainfall will also be monitored on a 24 hour basis.

Road Maintenance Crews and gritters were mobilised early this morning to spread salt on the City’s main roads. This work is presently ongoing. A plan is in place and crews, plant and machinery are available, to continue gritting operations throughout the day and weekend if required.

As it will not be possible to treat all roads and footpaths, road users are advised to exercise caution over the coming days. Updates on weather forecasts and weather warnings are available at www.met.ie and helpful advice is available at gov.ie - Be Winter Ready (www.gov.ie )

Snow-ice warning remains in place for Dublin and 13 other counties until 6pm

A status yellow snow-ice warning will remain in place until 6pm for Dublin, Carlow, Kildare, Kilkenny, Laois, Offaly, Wexford, Wicklow and Munster.

A band of rain will continue to move southwards, turning to sleet and snow in places.

Heavy snow in Wicklow

Avoid upland areas of Wicklow unless you have suitable vehicle. Wicklow Gap has heavy snow falling, snow ploughs are working on the route but some vehicles have gone off the road already. pic.twitter.com/3Ajawtr71v — Carlow Weather (@CarlowWeather) March 1, 2024

DART services remain suspended between Lansdowne and Blackrock

A tree has fallen on the overhead power lines and crews are working to remove it. Dublin Bus are accepting rail tickets.

Irish Rail intercity cancellations

09:05 Connolly to Sligo has been cancelled.

11:00 Connolly to Sligo will operate delayed.

13:05 Sligo to Connolly has been cancelled.

15:05 Sligo to Connolly will operate.

Met Eireann's latest national forecast for today and tonight

" Rain, sleet and snow across Connacht and much of Leinster will move southwards across the rest of the country this afternoon, turning increasingly to rain as it does so, except on higher ground.

"Hail and isolated thunderstorms are possible too. Drier conditions will spread from the north this afternoon. Becoming blustery too, as fresh to strong and gusty northerly winds develop. Cold, with afternoon highs of 3 to 7 degrees.

"Tonight, remaining rain in eastern counties will become patchy and clear southeastwards overnight. Elsewhere, it'll be mainly dry with clear spells early on, but scattered showers will feed down from the north later, mainly affecting western and northern counties.

"Some of showers may be heavy with a chance of hail. Lowest temperatures of between of -1 and +3 degrees with some frost and icy patches possible. Moderate, occasionally fresh north to northwest winds, will be strong and gusty on western and northern coasts."

Luas Red Line delays

Luas Red Line services are operating with delays due to operational issues. Passengers have been told to allow extra time if you are travelling. Luas apologise for any inconvenience caused.

M50 reopens at Junction 13 Dundrum

The M50 has reopened in both directions at Junction 13 Dundrum. It was shut for over an hour due to bad weather conditions.

Heavy delays remain.

New nationwide ice warning for tonight and tomorrow issued by Met Eireann

Met Eireann have issued a new status yellow ice warning for the entire country.

It will come into effect at 9pm tonight and expire at 9am tomorrow. Met Eireann said: "Cold tonight with ice on untreated surfaces leading to hazardous travelling conditions."

Crash on M50 cleared

The crash on the M50 southbound at Junction 14 has now been cleared.

Crash on M50 southbound

A crash on the M50 southbound at Junction 14 Sandyford is blocking the central median and lane 2.

Irish Rail say there are delays of 80 minutes on Maynooth commuter line

Irish Rail said: "Significant delays to Maynooth Commuter services due to signalling issues. Delays of approximately 80 minutes on some services. 09:50 Connolly to Maynooth has been cancelled."

DART services suspended between Blackrock and Sandymount

DART services have been suspended until further notice between Blackrock and Sandymount due to an issue with the overpower lines. Dublin bus accepting rail tickets.

M50 shut at Junction 13 Dundrum

The M50 is closed in both directions at Junction 13 Dundrum due to heavy snowfall.

Dublin Airport "operating as normal"

Dublin Airport is operating as "normal this morning".

"Our snow & ice teams were on site throughout the night to make sure the busy first wave of flights departed smoothly," Dublin Airport wrote on X.

"A full runway sweep & spray commenced at 8am, ensuring both north & south runways remain operational.

"Passengers are advised to make their way to Dublin Airport as normal today and, as always, should check directly with their airline for updates on their flight."

Snow-ice warning extended until 12pm

The status yellow snow-ice warning for Dublin, Cavan, Monaghan, Kildare, Longford, Westmeath, Leitrim, Roscommon, Sligo has been extended until 12pm.

It was originally due to expire at 10am but heavy snow continues to fall.

Ongoing delays on Maynooth commuter line

Trains were halted for some time but have started moving again. Irish Rail said there are 50-minute delays on some Maynooth/Phoenix Park Tunnel services.

People 'abandon cars' on the M50 at Junction 13 Dundrum

There are major issues on the M50 northbound at Junction 13 Dundrum, LiveDrive on Dublin City FM reports. Motorists can't get up the hill due to poor weather conditions. The road is blocked and drivers are now abandoning their cars.

Snowy weather at the Blessington Basin this morning

ireland places to visit in dublin

List of school closures

Here are some of the schools that have confirmed they are shut today:

  • Ballinamore CS, Leitrim
  • St Mel's College, Longford
  • Royal School Cavan
  • Cavan Institute

Some schools closed due to weather

According to RTE, a number of schools in Cavan, Leitrim and Longford have shut today due to the weather conditions.

  • Met Eireann
  • Dublin Weather
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Where in Dublin does the most crime take place?

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Exploring Dublin: A Travel Photographer’s Guide

As a travel photographer, I have had the opportunity to capture the beauty and essence of numerous cities around the world. One such city that has always fascinated me is Dublin, the capital of Ireland. With its rich history, vibrant culture, and friendly locals, Dublin offers a unique experience to travelers. In this article, I will highlight some of the best neighborhoods to visit, the safest areas to explore, and provide answers to frequently asked questions about safety and crime in Dublin.

Exploring Dublin’s Neighborhoods

When planning your visit to Dublin, it’s important to be aware of the different neighborhoods and their reputations for safety. While some areas may have higher crime rates, this shouldn’t deter you from exploring the city. Instead, it’s essential to be cautious and follow safety precautions.

  • Ballymun district: Located in the north of Dublin, Ballymun has long been considered one of the areas to avoid due to its high crime rates.
  • Darndale district: Another district known for its crime rates, Darndale is also located in the north of Dublin.
  • North Inner City: This area has a reputation for crime, but it is also home to popular tourist spots such as Temple Bar, St. Stephen’s Green, and Grafton Street, which are generally considered safe to visit.
  • Sheriff Street district: This district has had its fair share of criminal activity, and it’s advisable to exercise caution when visiting.
  • Tallaght district: While Tallaght has experienced some crime, it is also home to beautiful parks and attractions worth exploring.
  • Dublin West: This area includes the neighborhoods of Finglas, Clondalkin, Lucan, and Blanchardstown. It has a recurrent crime rate and is not recommended for tourists.

It is important to remember that safety can vary from neighborhood to neighborhood within a city. Dublin, like any other capital city, has its share of crime, but by taking necessary precautions, you can still enjoy all that the city has to offer.

The Safest Areas in Dublin

While it’s essential to be cautious when exploring Dublin, there are also safe areas that are well-patrolled and frequented by locals and tourists alike, especially at night. These areas include:

  • O’Connell Street: Located in the heart of Dublin, O’Connell Street is a well-patrolled area and one of the city’s most emblematic thoroughfares.
  • Ballsbridge district: Known for its affluent residents, Ballsbridge also offers a safe environment for visitors.
  • Donnybrook district: Donnybrook is a safe district with a charming village atmosphere and beautiful Georgian houses.
  • Rathmines district: This area has a reputation for being safe and is home to many shops, cafes, and restaurants.
  • Sandymount district: Sandymount offers a peaceful and safe neighborhood, known for its beautiful beach and proximity to the city center.
  • Drumcondra district: Located just north of the River Liffey, Drumcondra is a safe neighborhood with a mix of residential and commercial areas.

These neighborhoods offer a range of attractions, from historical landmarks to great restaurants and shopping, making them ideal for exploring.

Frequently Asked Questions about Safety and Dublin

1. is dublin safe to walk at night.

Dublin has several safe neighborhoods where walking at night is generally considered safe. Areas such as Temple Bar, St. Stephen’s Green, and Grafton Street are well-patrolled and frequented by locals and tourists even during the evenings.

2. What is the safest area in Dublin?

The safest areas in Dublin include O’Connell Street, Ballsbridge, Donnybrook, Rathmines, Sandymount, and Drumcondra.

3. Where does the most crime happen in Ireland?

Dublin has the highest crime rates in the Republic of Ireland. Ballymun, located on the northside of Dublin, is said to be the roughest area in the country.

4. Is O’Connell Street in Dublin safe?

O’Connell Street has a reputation for being the most dangerous street in Dublin, with a high number of public order offenses reported. It is advisable to exercise caution when visiting this area.

5. Is Dublin safe for solo female travel?

Women can generally travel alone in Dublin without any problems. However, it is always advisable to take necessary precautions and ask for advice from locals or staff members regarding the safety of specific areas.

6. What areas should I avoid in Ireland?

The four most dangerous cities in Ireland are Dublin, Limerick, Waterford, and Cork. While Dublin has the highest crime rate per capita, Limerick has the highest number of sex crimes.

7. How safe is Dublin in terms of crime?

Like any capital city, Dublin has higher rates of crime compared to other parts of the country. Theft and burglaries occur more frequently in the city, according to the Central Statistics Office.

8. What is the most violent city in Ireland?

Dublin has a reputation for being the crime capital of Ireland, with the highest number of offenses per capita compared to other cities in the country.

Despite Dublin’s reputation for crime, it is still a city worth exploring. By being aware of the neighborhoods to avoid, knowing the safer areas to visit, and taking necessary precautions, you can have a memorable and enjoyable experience in Dublin. As a travel photographer, I have witnessed the beauty and charm of this city, and I encourage others to explore its rich history, vibrant culture, and friendly atmosphere.

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  3. Best Places To Visit In Dublin, Ireland

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    You'll find one of the most unique places to go in Dublin just behind St Patrick's Cathedral.. Founded in 1707, Marsh's Library holds roughly 25,000 books and over 300 manuscripts and it is the oldest library in Ireland. As you wander around Marsh's, keep an eye out for holes in the bookcases, which were made during the Easter Rising when the hotel next door was being occupied.

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    A small capital with a huge reputation, Dublin is a multicultural, artistic city brimming with incredible architecture, beautiful green spaces, and great opportunities for entertainment. While traces of Ireland's Viking past have been largely washed away, the city is a living museum of its history since then, with medieval castles and cathedrals on display alongside beautiful examples of 18th ...

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    5. Irish Whiskey Museum. Irish whiskey is fast becoming one of the most popular spirits across the World. The Irish Whiskey Museum, based in the heart of Dublin City in a historic building on Grafton Street, tells the complete and unbiased history of Irish whiskey and its importance in Ireland's turbulent past.

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    See ways to experience (11) 2023. 3. Guinness Storehouse. 48,693. Speciality Museums. Admission tickets from C$46. Say cheers at the Guinness Storehouse in Dublin, Ireland. Housed in an old fermentation plant, the seven-story brewery gives you the lowdown on Ireland's iconic beer.

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    3. Visit the Guinness Storehouse Factory. Located in the heart of St. James' Gate Brewery, the Guinness Storehouse is one of the most popular tourist attractions in all of Ireland. In fact, the interior is designed to look exactly like a pint of Guinness itself and is known to be the largest pint in the world.

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    12. National Museum of Ireland. Visiting one of the national museums of Ireland is one of the best things to do in Dublin. There are three in total: the National Museum of Archaeology, the National Museum of Natural History, and the National Museum of Decorative Arts & History.

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    Best Things To Do In Dublin (2024 Guide) 1. Visit St. Patrick's Cathedral. Inside St. Patrick's Cathedral. Founded in 1191, St. Patrick's Cathedral is the largest church in Ireland, and the National Cathedral. It has been said this is where St. Patrick himself baptized Christian converts over 1500 years ago.

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    Places to visit: Shop around the Henry Street area, one of the oldest and most famous shopping districts in the city. View the 120 meters high Spire of Dublin, one of the world's tallest sculptures. Walk across Ha'penny Bridge, a 19th-century bridge that is one of the symbols of the city.

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    2. St Patrick's and Christ Church Cathedrals. Ancient, dramatic and intriguing, Dublin's two cathedrals make a striking pair. Built beside a well where Ireland's patron saint baptized converts, St Patrick's dates back to 1220 and is filled with monuments, 19 th-century stained glass and a beautiful Lady Chapel. Just a 10-minute walk away, Christ Church has attracted pilgrims for almost ...

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    1. Dalkey Beach. Dalkey Beach is where the Irish Sea meets golden sands. This is one of the most beautiful places in Dublin, offering a tranquil escape from the city's hustle and bustle. The beach is a local favorite, perfect for a day of sunbathing, swimming, or simply soaking in the views.

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    834. Travel guide for visiting Dublin, Ireland. expert travel tips to make the most of your time in Dublin Fair City. Dublin, the beautiful capital of Ireland, is a lovely destination: whether you come to Dublin for a city break, a work meeting or use the city as a jump-off point for visiting Ireland, Dublin has something to offer.. Looking for history?

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    See ways to experience (11) 2023. 3. Guinness Storehouse. 48,697. Speciality Museums. Admission tickets from ₹2,775. Say cheers at the Guinness Storehouse in Dublin, Ireland. Housed in an old fermentation plant, the seven-story brewery gives you the lowdown on Ireland's iconic beer.

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  28. Where in Dublin does the most crime take place?

    Exploring Dublin: A Travel Photographer's Guide As a travel photographer, I have had the opportunity to capture the beauty and essence of numerous cities around the world. One such city that has always fascinated me is Dublin, the capital of Ireland. With its rich history, vibrant culture, and friendly locals, Dublin offers a unique experience …