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10 things to do on Dublin’s Northside

There’s plenty to discover on the Northside of the city, from world class museums to historic landmarks.

With a story to be found around every corner, the Northside is the perfect place to explore when you’re in Dublin. Whether you’re interested in the literary heritage of the city or the sporting legends of Ireland, you won’t be short of things to do north of the Liffey.

• 1 . Jameson Distillery Bow St.
• 2 . Glasnevin Cemetery Museum & Tours
• 3 . EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum
• 4 . GAA Museum and Croke Park Stadium
• 5 . Mountjoy Square
• 6 . James Joyce Centre
• 7 . Dublin City Gallery, The Hugh Lane
• 8 . 14 Henrietta Street
• 9 . Dublin Zoo
• 10 . GPO Witness History Museum

Jameson Distillery Bow St.

With one of the coolest locations in the city and a redbrick tower overlooking the cobbled streets of Smithfield , the Jameson Distillery Bow St . is one of Dublin’s greatest attractions. It’s also been voted the world’s best distillery tour three years in a row at the World Travel Awards. The views may have changed since it opened in 1780, but the whiskey matured on site is as popular as ever. You can take a tour of the maturation warehouse, learn all about the intricacies of whiskey in a tasting workshop and wrap things up with a longer drink. Want to take it to the next level? You can take a blending class or even bottle your own black barrel whiskey.

Glasnevin Cemetery Museum & Tours

More than 1.5 million souls are laid to rest in the Glasnevin Cemetery , including some of Dublin’s most famous characters, from writer Brendan Behan to revolutionary leader Michael Collins. While you’re free to wander around the cemetery alone, the guided tours are excellent and lead you through some fascinating tales from Ireland’s history. You can also climb the O’Connell Tower (the tallest round tower in Ireland) for a great view of the city. The cemetery leads right into the neighbouring National Botanic Gardens through a shared wall. Wander through to admire over 15,000 plant species from the four corners of the globe, stroll peaceful wooded walks and check out the beautifully restored glasshouses.

EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum

The story of the Irish diaspora is fascinating and EPIC the Irish Emigration Museum unravels what it means to be Irish in an engaging and interactive way. You’ll learn all about the different periods of emigration through Irish history and why 10 million people left Ireland. Afterwards, continue the historical theme onboard the Jeanie Johnston , the replica famine ship that’s docked just a few feet away. This moving tour will give you a glimpse of what emigration was like for so many.

GAA Museum and Croke Park Stadium

If you’re a GAA fan, a visit to Croke Park is more like a pilgrimage. But if you visit on a non-match day you’ll get to experience it in much more depth. Take a tour of the stadium and you’ll get to see the sights that are usually off limits, from the dressing rooms to the players’ tunnel. In the GAA Museum you’ll find the original Sam Maguire and Liam MacCarthy cups as well as great interactive displays. Feeling brave? Take the Kellogg's Skyline tour of the top of the stadium for incredible views from 17 storeys high.

Mountjoy Square

Dublin’s Georgian architecture is a joy to behold, and the city’s townhouse lined squares make for a scenic stroll. Mountjoy Square is one of the finest and the only one in the city that’s perfectly symmetrical. Wander around the buildings that surround the park and you’ll be walking past the front doors of famous former residents including James Joyce, Séan O'Casey and W.B. Yeats.

James Joyce Centre

A must for Joyce fans is the beautifully restored Georgian house that now houses the James Joyce Centre . A range of exhibits and memorabilia (furniture from the writer’s Parisian apartment, the original door of 7 Eccles St, Leopold and Molly’s address in Ulysses ) are a great insight into the writer’s life.  An Interactive exhibit of Ulysses lets you explore Joyce’s masterpiece chapter by chapter, breaking down the language and themes into wonderfully accessible sections. 

Dublin City Gallery, The Hugh Lane

The Hugh Lane Gallery is one of the Northside’s most important attractions. You’ll find contemporary artworks from Ireland and around the world displayed in the beautiful light-filled gallery, as well as temporary exhibitions that change regularly. A highlight is the studio of Sir Francis Bacon, which was painstakingly transferred from London and recreated piece by piece in the gallery. This ramshackle space is filled with empty champagne bottles and open tubes of paint, giving a unique insight into the mind of the famous artist. Don’t miss the beautiful stained glass room by the entrance with pieces from Harry Clarke.

14 Henrietta Street

The original Georgian townhouse at 14 Henrietta Street has been meticulously restored and transformed into a museum telling an important story around Dublin’s history. You’ll learn all about this 18th century building, from its beginnings as the luxurious home of Lord Viscount Molesworth to the later years when more than 100 people were crammed into 19 flats.

On the go since 1831, Dublin Zoo is one of the oldest in the world. Set in the beautiful Phoenix Park , you’ll find over 400 animals including Asian elephants, Sumatran tigers and gorillas. Time your visit right and you might just get to see a new addition to the family, as the zoo’s strong conservation efforts mean you can often spot a newborn giraffe or sea lion. In the winter months the zoo comes to life with Wild Lights , where you can stroll around after dark and catch a glimpse of the nocturnal animals and art installations. 

GPO Witness History Museum

During the 1916 Rising the GPO (General Post Office) was the headquarters for the leaders of the rebellion. Now this historic building includes an immersive museum that tells those stories through interactive and stirring exhibits. You’ll experience the events from both sides of the conflict, as seen through the eyes of bystanders caught in the crossfire. 

Explore the city

Gotten a taste of the best sights in the Northside? See what the rest of Dublin has to offer with our guide to great spots to visit in the city .

Dublin   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Peter Unger | Getty Images

22 Best Things to Do in Dublin, Ireland

Locals might say Dublin is full of "craic" (good times), with a healthy mixture of history and little debauchery that can be found on nearly every street corner. Start in the north at Phoenix Park and head south to the River Liffey, cross the famous

• All Things To Do

Trinity College and The Book of Kells Trinity College and The Book of Kells

Note: The Old Library is undergoing a massive restoration and conservation effort. While the Old Library will remain open for visits until construction begins in 2025, all books have been removed from the shelves. The Book of Kells is still on display and there will be a new exhibit about this important manuscript.

U.S. News Insider Tip: This must-see attraction is worth the (typically) long wait. The gift shop is a particularly good spot to pick up inspiring gifts and souvenirs to commemorate your trip. – Rachael Hood

St. Patrick's Cathedral St. Patrick's Cathedral

U.S. News Insider Tip: After seeing the sights, take a short walk to the cozy Brazen Head pub, said to be the oldest pub in Dublin. Come for the fish and chips but stay for the live music. – Elizabeth Von Tersch

St. Patrick's Cathedral is the largest cathedral in Dublin and the national cathedral of the Church of Ireland. Built on the site where St. Patrick is said to have baptized converts some 600 years earlier, this massive cathedral was erected between 1220 and 1259 with major restorations beginning in the 1860s. It remains one of the few buildings still standing from medieval Dublin.

Chester Beatty Library Chester Beatty Library free

Widely known as one of the mote notable museums in Europe, the Chester Beatty Library is often overlooked by tourists. The library is home to an extensive collection of rare books, manuscripts and drawings dating back to 2700 B.C. The museum includes religious and artistic collections from across Asia, the Middle East, North Africa and Europe.

The library's namesake comes from the American mining millionaire and collector, Sir Alfred Chester Beatty, who donated his immense collection to Ireland when he passed in 1968. Works include Babylonian clay tablets, the Biblical Papyri and more than 250 different manuscripts of the Quran.

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St. Stephen's Green St. Stephen's Green free

This beautiful park (known for remaining green throughout the year) is a great place to spend a day outside without leaving central Dublin. It's been enjoyed by locals and visitors since 1880 when Arthur Edward Guinness re-opened it as a public park after it served as a private community for the wealthier residents of Dublin for more than century.

These days, the park is maintained by the Office of Public Works and includes a playground and garden for people with blindness or low vision. The green space is also home to several monuments dedicated to some of Ireland's most important figures, including James Joyce and Arthur Edward Guinness. Past visitors appreciated the peaceful grounds and described it as a great place to relax in the middle of the city. Reviewers also praised the park's cleanliness and recommended future visitors pack a picnic to enjoy the tranquil atmosphere.

EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum

This interactive museum details 1,500 years of Irish history, with stories of the 100 million people who left Ireland, how and where they lived, and their impact on the rest of the world. State-of-the-art interactive exhibits feature touch screens, quizzes and audio and video recordings, which bring Irish history to life. Everything from Irish music and dance to Irish literature to touching letters home, reveal the Irish emigrant experience from multiple points of view.

Recent visitors called the museum highly educational and informative and said it's a must-see for anyone of Irish descent.

Phoenix Park Phoenix Park free

When the hustle and bustle of the city gets to be too much, seek refuge in Phoenix Park, one of the largest enclosed parks in a European capital. Encompassing more than 1,700 acres, Phoenix Park features plenty of lush green lawns, shady wooded areas and cool, clean lakes. Once upon a time, it was the royal hunting park (in the 1600s) and opened to the public in 1747. To this day, visitors can encounter fallow deer.

Travelers can start out at the park's Visitor Centre & Ashtown Castle to learn about the history of the park and tour the medieval tower that dates back to the 17th century. The park is also home the 78-acre Edwardian estate, the Farmleigh House , which still acts as a working farm as well as a Victorian walled kitchen garden. Recent visitors called the park beautiful, clean and peaceful.

Kilmainham Gaol Kilmainham Gaol

U.S. News Insider Tip: While a prison may not be the most uplifting place to visit, a tour here really provides insight into the lives of the Irish people and the hardships they endured. – Rachael Hood

According to many, this gaol , or jail, gives its visitors one of the most unique looks into the darker side of Irish history. Occupied from 1796 to the 1920s, the prison housed many famous figures in the fight for Irish independence, including Thomas Francis Meagher and James Connolly, and was also the site for more sinister executions and hangings. Additionally, the prison acted as a transportation point for approximately 4,000 prisoners to Australia – then a penal colony – in the early 19th century. The gaol was known for the harsh treatment of its inhabitants, with no segregation by gender until 1861 when men were transferred to the newly built East Wing. It was later abandoned in 1924 and reopened as a museum in 1966 (though remodeling and updates have taken place since).

National Gallery of Ireland National Gallery of Ireland free

If you're an art lover, make sure to save some time for this extensive (and free!) museum, which has housed Ireland's national art collection since 1854. Here you'll find numerous works by such renowned artists as Caravaggio, Vincent van Gogh and the French impressionists. But the main attractions are works from some of Ireland's masters, with an impressive collection of works by notable residents such as Jack B. Yeats and Helen Mabel Trevor. The National Gallery also hosts notable traveling exhibitions as well as concerts and lectures.

Recent visitors called the museum outstanding and well worth a visit. If you're a fan of the arts, previous travelers recommended you set aside several hours to tour the museum. You'll also want to grab a map at the entrance as its collections are spread out.

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Dublin Castle Dublin Castle

Right in the heart of the city, the site of the Dublin Castle has played a part in Ireland's history since the land was used by Vikings to build a fortress in the 900s. Parts of the castle were built and torn down through the ages, but the oldest remaining structure, the Record Tower, dates back to the 13th century.

In addition to having been a stronghold against foreign attacks on the city, the castle and its grounds have also been home to a prison, an office of record, a water station, a seat of parliament, a royal court for entertainment and a military residence – all before 1850. The castle grounds were also the site where the Easter Rebellion of 1916 began, and after five years of fighting, where the treaty that granted Irish independence was signed. Many previous visitors recommended taking the guided tour, which they say is more extensive and informative that the self-guided tour.

Christ Church Cathedral Christ Church Cathedral

Formally known as the Cathedral of the Holy Trinity, the Christ Church Cathedral has been visited for almost 1,000 years. Originally a Viking church founded in 1030, Archbishop Laurence O'Toole (the future patron saint of Dublin) merged it with the Irish Church in 1152. The Romanesque gothic church is known for its magnificent architecture and its famous bells (one of which is from 1738). This church also holds the largest and oldest crypt in Ireland and is full of historical objects of worship. Among the items stored in this church is a royal plate given by King William III, a rare 14th-century copy of the Magna Carta Hiberniae, and the heart of St. Laurence O'Toole. There's even a morbid oddity of a mummified cat and rat, better known as Tom and Jerry, frozen in eternal pursuit on display for all to gawk at.

Past visitors declare that it's a must-see attraction when visiting Dublin and it's quite affordable as well. Self-guided audio tours – included in your ticket fee – are available and recommended to get an experience filled with hidden facts and stories. Others say it's still a great place to wander about without the audio.

Jameson Distillery Bow St. Jameson Distillery Bow St.

Did you know that in Irish, whiskey is called  uisce beatha  and literally translates to "the water of life"? Chronicling the history of the Jameson family and the "water" they're known for, the Jameson Distillery no longer makes the hard stuff (that's done elsewhere) though it does offer tours that provide insight on just how to do it. Whiskey drinkers hail the 45-minute guided tour (and the included tastings) as informative and fun, with energetic guides and a beautiful refurbished facility.

Whether you're a fan of whiskey or not, learning about the history is sure to entertain anyone. Even non-drinkers say they enjoyed the informative tour. Learning that the founder of the most famous Irish whiskey, John Jameson, was actually a Scotsman is a favorite tidbit. Or that the Latin on the bottle's label,  Sine Metu , means "without fear."

Guinness Storehouse Guinness Storehouse

Like the Jameson Distillery , the Guinness Storehouse is no longer a functioning brewery, but it will give you an insider's view into the history and process behind the storied stout. Take the self-guided tour through the former brewery's seven floors to learn about the history of the one-of-a-kind beer, from the ingredients used in the brewing process to the iconic advertisements seen around the world. At the top, you'll be treated to a complimentary pint and city views from its rooftop Gravity Bar.

The best part of the tour for some visitors? The complimentary pint at the end along with the rooftop views. Even non-beer drinkers enjoyed the storehouse for its interactive and multimedia exhibits, but noted that during peak times they can be crowded. Other comment that tickets are a bit pricey. To make sure you get in at your preferred time, book your tickets online in advance. If you sign up for one of the best Dublin tours , you'll likely also visit the storehouse.

The Little Museum of Dublin The Little Museum of Dublin

To discover Dublin, head on over to The Little Museum of Dublin to learn about the city's illustrious history in approximately 30 minutes. Located in a quaint 18th-century Georgian townhouse near St. Stephen's Green , this charming museum was founded in 2011, with more than 5,000 artifacts donated by Dubliners. You'll find items from Queen Victoria's visit, a copy of James Joyce's "Ulysses" and tokens from the Abbey Theatre's long history. There's even an exhibit on the top floor dedicated to the rise of U2 featuring signed albums, photographs, and gig tickets.

Being that the museum is so small, it's best to book a tour in advance as tickets sell out quickly. You can walk around on your own, but a guided tour is highly recommended and should not be missed, according to travelers. Museumgoers routinely praise the lively guides who left everyone – even small children – mesmerized.

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Grafton Street Grafton Street free

U.S. News Insider Tip: If you're looking for something special to bring home from your trip, head to Weir & Sons for fine Irish jewelry, Brown Thomas is a lovely department store to peruse and Avoca on nearby Suffolk Street has Irish-made Avoca Mill Handweavers wool goods. For a treat, tuck into Bewley's Cafe for coffee or tea and a scone. – Rachael Hood

When you need a break from all the museums and historical sites, head to Grafton Street. This pedestrian street – which runs from  Trinity College to  St. Stephen's Green  – is Dublin's premier shopping district. Here, you'll find everything from familiar brands to more unique items like quirky shoes and used books. There are also two shopping centers in the area, the Stephen's Green Shopping Centre and the upscale Powerscourt Centre. So, if you're looking for a place to exercise your credit card, this would be it.

Temple Bar Temple Bar free

Often compared to Bourbon Street in New Orleans , this neighborhood is Dublin's famous party hub. During the day, this district thrives on artistic vision, featuring numerous independent galleries and performance art venues. At night, dozens of pubs (including one with the same name as the district) open their doors to those looking to share a pint of Guinness and click their heels to spirited Irish music.

Many visitors say the district has become more of a tourist trap than an authentic representation of Dublin's pub culture, but while in Dublin it is a sight one must see. Pull up a chair, order a (likely overpriced) pint and enjoy the music. For help navigating the crowds, sign up for one of the best Dublin tours , many of which stop in the area.

Abbey Theatre Abbey Theatre

U.S. News Insider Tip: Be sure to check out the nearby National Leprechaun Museum . It may sound a little cheesy, but this museum is dedicated to preserving Irish folklore and myths about the fair folks plus other Irish heritage tales through the art of oral storytelling. – Yolanda Evans

Although the Abbey Theatre looks quite contemporary, even swanky with its glass front and the theater name bathed in blue light, the performance venue has turn-of-the-century origins. Famed poet, W.B. Yeats, along with another Irish writer, Lady Augusta Gregory, opened the national theater in 1904. It's since been rebuilt and now features 620 seats between  the Abbey and Peacock auditoriums and a continuous playbill of Ireland's most promising playwrights.

Wicklow Mountains National Park Wicklow Mountains National Park free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Spend time in Glendalough  exploring the ancient ruins of the Christian settlement nestled in between two beautiful lakes. Then pick up a bottle of Glendalough whiskey or gin with the image of Saint Kevin plastered on the bottle to remind you of your visit. – Yolanda Evans

Just south of Dublin, Wicklow National Park is one of Ireland's largest parks consisting of more than 20,000 hectares (more than 50,000 acres) of winding mountain paths, bogs, lakes and breathtaking views for all that venture to the park. There are plenty of hiking trails – like the Wicklow Way – for outdoorsy travelers who want to spend more time in nature. For less adventurous visitors, you can seek out historical sites such as the old mine ruins or take a drive around the Great Military Road for a stunning view of the mountains. Also, be sure to check out Glenmacnass waterfall for photo for your Instagram!

Dublin Zoo Dublin Zoo

The biggest attraction within Phoenix Park is the Dublin Zoo. Opened by the Zoological Society of Ireland in 1831 with just four acres, this zoo is one of the oldest of its kind in Europe. The zoo's first collection included monkeys, lions, bears and parrots; an elephant and rhinoceros later joined the collection as rentals (though London gifted the zoo an elephant in 1835). Today, Dubin Zoo spans nearly 70 acres and is home to more than 400 animals in a variety of large habitats. Popular exhibits include the Humboldt penguins and western lowland gorillas. Recent visitors praised the zoo for its size, cleanliness and obvious commitment to the care of its animals. Others note that the zoo can get extremely busy, especially in the peak summer season. After you leave, you can keep a keen eye on the animals via webcam.

The zoo is open every day starting at 9:30 a.m. and closing at 6 p.m. Admission costs 22.50 euros (about $24) for adults and 17 euros (about $18) for children ages 3 to 15. Family tickets and tickets or visitors who need additional assistance are also available. If you book online, you'll save a few euros. Learn more on its website .

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Farmleigh House & Estate Farmleigh House & Estate

U.S. News Insider Tip: After wandering the estate grounds soaking up the history, treat yourself to a little snack and drink at the on-site restaurant, The Boathouse, for Italian and Irish cuisine. Located along the beautiful lake, it's the ideal setting for rest and relaxation. – Yolanda Evans

Once the home of the famous Guinness family, Farmleigh was purchased in 1999 by the government to house visiting dignitaries. This lavish Edwardian estate is nestled on 78 acres that includes the main house, a walled and sunken garden, a beautiful lake and the famous clock tower. Then there's the large collection of art as well as a rare collection of rare books and manuscripts in the library that remained in the house to be on display for visitors. Also on-site is the charming Cowshed theater where artists and performers can showcase their craft. As a bonus, there's a food and craft market behind the Gallery on the first Sunday of the month from Easter Sunday to December.

Glasnevin Cemetery Glasnevin Cemetery free

U.S. News Insider Tip:  After visiting the cemetery, stop by  John Kavanagh – better known as "The Gravediggers" – for a pint. This bar's nickname was coined because gravediggers used to visit this pub after completing their shift. – Yolanda Evans

Opened in 1832, Glasnevin Cemetery was once one of the few places where Irish Catholics could be buried. It was founded by Daniel O'Connell, who largely helped remove restrictions on Irish Catholics in the early 1800s. Not only is Glasnevin the final resting place for O'Connell, but it's also the burial location for other famous Irish icons like politician Charles Stewart Parnell; the co-founder of the Irish Republican Army Michael Collins; and politician and first female cabinet minister in Ireland, Countess Markievicz. In fact, more than 1.5 million souls are buried in this cemetery. The tombs are also a great work of art, as many are adorned with Irish symbols such as the harp and clovers. There are also indoor exhibits exploring the cemetery's history and burial practices from around the world. With so much to offer, it's little wonder that Glasnevin is Ireland's national cemetery.

St. Michan's Church St. Michan's Church

Located about a block from the Old Jameson Distillery , St. Michan's Church was founded in 1095 and is the oldest church on the north side of the River Liffey in Dublin. Rebuilt in 1686 by William Robinson, this church has a stunning vaulted ceiling and a large pipe organ. In fact, the organ is rumoured to be the one that George Friedrich Handel played when performing "Messiah" for the first time. Besides the history and architecture, the main draw to this church is its famous, yet eerie, crypts that contain the mummified remains of Dublin's most notorious residents dating back to the 17th century. Among the dead in the vaults are Irish rebels John and Henry Sheares, Earls of Leitrim, and Wolfe Tone. There are also four mummified corpses on display without lids, famously called the Unknown, the Thief, the Nun and the Crusader.

Travelers say visits to St. Michan's Church were still interesting due to their engaging tour guide who entertained them with the historical facts and spooky tales. 

National Museum of Ireland – Natural History National Museum of Ireland – Natural History free

Note: The National Museum of Ireland – Natural History is undergoing extensive renovation. At this time, only the ground floor is open to visitors.

Nicknamed the "Dead Zoo" due to it being a zoological museum, the National Museum of Ireland on Merrion Street was opened in 1867. It features exhibits of animals native to Ireland like badgers, golden eagles, mussels, trout and insects (Ireland is home to some 12,000 of them!). Also available is the Wonder Cabinet, a take on the Victorian curiosity cabinets that showcases about two million scientific specimens of mammals, birds, and insects. This unique space also doubles as a filming location – it was featured in an episode of "Ripper Street" and "Penny Dreadful" – due to its charming architecture.

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Dublin's Seaside Towns and Villages

The most popular of its coastal towns include Dalkey, Dun Laoghaire (pronounced “Done Leery”), Howth, Killiney, and Malahide.

You can get to them easily by taking the DART , Dublin's electric rail system.

You'll see the various routes in green below.

Tickets must be purchased prior to travel, either from specific booking offices or vending machines at stations.

If you intend to travel around Dublin via public transportation, you should purchase a LEAP card , which is essentially a smartcard that pays for journeys on all Luas and Dublin Bus services, all DART trains and other Dublin commuter services, as well as some Bus Éireann bus lines and Wexford Bus services.

Table of Contents

Dalkey is one of the more affluent of Dublin’s seaside towns and villages, home to celebrities like Bono, Enya, Van Morrison, and Irish writer Maeve Binchy.

History of Dalkey

Dalkey was established as a Viking port and was very active economically during the Middle Ages.

It served as the main port leading into Dublin as Dublin City’s port was not adequate enough at the time.

The town had seven castles, but only two remain today.

They include Dalkey Castle (once known as Goats Castle), and another, which is now a private residence.

Most were the homes and storehouses of the wealthy merchants who landed at the port.

At one time, the English kings even imported their wines through Dalkey.

However, by the 17 th century, Dalkey had lost its importance as a port town as the city of Dublin became more accessible to merchants.

What to See and Do in Dalkey

Be sure to take a tour of the Dalkey Castle & Heritage Center , especially its Living History Tour, which is led by costumed actors.

It will give you a fascinating insight into life in Dalkey during the Middle Ages.

Other attractions include the 10 th -century St. Begnet’s Church and cemetery, which is located near the heritage center.

The church is named after St. Begnet, considered the patron saint of Dalkey.

In fact, there are two ruined churches named for St. Begnet.

The other one is located on Dalkey Island.

The Writers Gallery is an important part of the center, giving visitors an insight into the writings of Ireland’s most famous authors, including Samuel Beckett, James Joyce , and Maeve Binchy.

No visit to Dalkey would be complete without visiting Dalkey Island, which can be reached by boat at Coliemore Harbor.

Ken the Ferryman , a native of Dalkey, runs the daily service from April through October (10 a.m. to 6 p.m.). The adult fare is €10. For all others, the fare is €5.

The uninhabited island is the largest of a small group of islands in the area. It is home to lots of wildlife, including seals, birds, and wild goats.

Dolphins can also be spotted in the surrounding waters.

There is a lot of history to be found here, including the remains of a Martello Tower, one of several built by the British in Ireland during the 19 th century as a defense against the French.

See Dublin's Attractions for Less with The Go City Pass

Where to Eat

Dalkey has several restaurants to choose from.

Some of the more popular ones include Finnegan’s and DeVille’s , the winner of TripAdvisor’s Certificate of Excellence 2015-2019.

Check out the reviews here .

If you’re in the mood for a sumptuous Irish breakfast or just a cup of tea and a scone, stop at the Country Bake for some home-cooked deliciousness.

Dun Laoghaire

A seven-minute drive north of Dalkey is the port town of Dun Laoghaire , which was for years the departure and entry point for many emigrants who left Ireland in search of work in England.

You can still travel to England by ferry  from Dun Laoghaire.

Formerly known as Kingstown, it was a popular seaside resort during the Victorian era.

Its well-preserved bandstand is a throwback to that time in history.

Read More: Dublin's Coastal Trail: New Experience for Visitors

History of Dun Laoghaire

The town was once the home of the 5 th -century High King of Ireland, Laoghaire MacNeill, who used it as a base from which to carry out raids on Britain and parts of western and northern Europe.

There was no real town center until the 1800s, however.

The country’s first railway line from Dublin to Dun Laoghaire (Kingstown) opened in 1834, making it an established suburb of the city and a popular Victorian seaside resort.

What to See and Do in Dun Laoghaire

There’s plenty to do in Dun Laoghaire, another one of Dublin's seaside towns and villages.

Many people like to walk the town’s mile-long East Pier Walk or stroll through the People’s Park, a formal Victorian garden with a beautiful fountain as its focal point.

On Sundays throughout the year, you’ll find a food and craft market in the park.

The National Maritime Museum of Ireland is a fun place to visit.

Housed in Dun Laoghaire’s 180-year-old Mariners Church, it contains some interesting artifacts.

They include the 10-ton revolving Baily optic immortalized in James Joyce’s “Ulysses,” which was taken from the Bailey lighthouse a short distance away; a Titanic exhibit; a recreated radio room; a replica of the Royal Navy prisoner docks, and much more.

The James Joyce Tower and Museum , mentioned in the opening scenes of Joyce’s Ulysses, is also of special interest to those who love Joyce’s works.

While technically located in Sandycove, the museum is only a 20-minute walk from Dun Laoghaire.

It is free to visit.

If you want to spend some time exploring the town center, there’s no shortage of gift shops to explore.

Bits and Pieces is an affordable Italian restaurant in the heart of the town.

It serves up delicious pizza and other Italian-style meals. There’s an awesome specials menu offering guests two courses for €19.70 or three courses for €23.90.

If you’re looking for something a bit more formal, try Hartley’s located in the original ticket hall of the town’s Victorian railway station, known in the day as the Kingstown Station.

Enjoy a lazy lunch or an early evening dinner on the terrace.

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Howth started out as a small rural fishing village east of central Dublin, but today it is a busy, affluent suburb of the city and another one of Dublin's seaside towns and villages.

It is just under an hour’s journey north by train from Dublin city center.

The History of Howth

After the High King of Ireland, Brian Boru, defeated the Norse in 1014, many of them fled to Howth and stayed there until the middle of the 11 th century.

Howth remained under the control of the Irish and the local Norse forces until the invasion by the Anglo-Normans in 1169.

Howth was a trading port from at least the 14 th century, although the harbor you see today was not built until the early 19th century.

Take the Dublin: Full-Day Howth and Malahide Castle Tour

What to See and Do in Howth

While the interior of Howth Castle is not open to the public, it is free to explore the grounds of this 16 th -century building.

The gardens are known for their rhododendrons, which bloom in May and June, as well as azaleas and a long, 32-foot beech hedge planted in 1710.

The estate was first acquired in 1177 by the Norman noble Sir Almeric Tristram, who changed his name to St. Lawrence.

The castle, up until 2019, had been in the hands of the St. Lawrence family ever since. The investment company that purchased it plans to turn it into a luxury castle-hotel.

In addition to its gardens, you'll also find the ruins of Corr Castle, also built in the 16 th -century, as well as a dolmen called “Aideen’s Grave,” a huge megalithic monument.

According to local legend, it is the burial place of Aideen, the daughter of the ruler of Howth.

Aideen was married to Oscar, a grandson of Finn McCool of the Fianna. When Oscar died in a battle, Aideen was heartbroken and died soon after. The Fianna constructed the tomb where she now rests.

The capstone alone weighs 75 tons and is considered the second-largest portal tomb in Ireland after Browne's Hill dolmen in County Carlow .

It is located behind the Deer Park Hotel (which was demolished in preparation for the construction of a new hotel) on the grounds of Howth Castle.

You’ll also find St. Mary’s Abbey, originally established by the Viking King Sitric in 1042. It is free to visit as well.

The National Transport Museum of Ireland is also housed on the grounds of the castle.

The museum was opened in 1986.

Its collection includes three Dublin trams, a number of old Dublin buses, and other vehicles.

If you like vintage vehicles, then this museum is worth a look.

There are some excellent walks to take in Howth.

They include the Howth Coastal Walk , a 4-hour trek of the area courtesy of experienced guides from Shane’s Howth Adventures.

Be sure to check out the 80 positive reviews that TripAdvisor fans have given this attraction.

You’ll get magnificent views of Lambay Island and Ireland’s Eye , as well as Dublin Bay.

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When in Howth, you must visit Beshoff Bros. Fish and Chips .

Established in 1913 by Ivan Beshoff, a Russian immigrant, the family-run business is known for its quality fish.

It is still baked in a secret batter that has stood the test of time. Delicious hand-cut potato fries (chips) are as popular as the fish.

The Bloody Stream is another great pick if you’re in Howth for the day.

There’s a real old-fashioned feel to the place that includes an open turf fire in the colder months, classic signage on the walls, and other interesting memorabilia.

You can sit outside if the weather is good.

An early-bird menu, available from 2 p.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Friday, includes two courses for €19.95 and three courses for €22.95.

Great food, live music, and a late-night bar make this a popular spot for tourists.  See the reviews on TripAdvisor here .

Killiney is another affluent suburb and part of Dublin's seaside towns and villages.

It is just south of Dalkey.

The History of Killiney

The village grew around the 11 th -century Killiney Church, where a 6 th -century monastery once stood.

The name of the site was called the “Church of the Daughters of Léinín,” referring to Léinín’s seven daughters.

Killiney actually gets its name from the local chieftain. In Gaelic, it was known as “Cill Iníon Léinín.”

By the 19 th century, it had become a popular seaside resort.

What to See and Do

Killiney Hill Park is a small public park that overlooks both the village of Killiney and the neighboring town of Dalkey.

It was dedicated for public use in 1887 by Prince Albert Victor of Wales in memory of Queen Victoria’s Jubilee. At the time, it was called Victoria Hill.

The area is popular with walkers and hikers.

There are spectacular views from the top, where you can see the city of Dublin and the Irish Sea, Bray Head, and the Wicklow Mountains to the south.

You can even see Wales on a clear day.

A popular spot to stop along the way is the Tower Tea Rooms , where you can grab a coffee or tea, bagels, wraps, and more.

The Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel overlooking Dublin Bay is a good choice at any time of day for a bite.

Fancy an afternoon tea after your walk? You may also be interested in the hotel’s set menu from the Mapas Restaurant.

You can get two courses for €24 and three courses for €29, from Sunday through Thursday all evening, and on Friday and Saturday from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m.

The pretty coastal village of Malahide is about 10 miles away from Dublin’s center.

The DART will also take you to Malahide but remember to switch at the Howth Junction station.

 The History of Malahide

While the Vikings landed here in 795, it was the Anglo-Normans who established the town.

From around 1180, the history of Malahide is connected to the Talbot family of Malahide Castle.

Richard Talbot, a knight, was granted the land in the area and developed it extensively.

Over the centuries, Malahide became known for salt harvesting. Its harbor was a busy place taking in coal and construction materials.

The Grand Hotel

By the early 19 th century, it had become a popular resort for wealthy Dubliners.

You’ll see evidence of this in the beautiful Georgian homes in the town and along the seafront.

Malahide is a busy town, with lots of shops, pubs, and restaurants.

The main tourist attraction is Malahide Castle , a 12 th -century building with over 260 acres of parkland.

The Talbot family lived in the castle from about 1185 to the 1970s, except for a brief period in the 17 th century when Cromwellian soldiers seized the land surrounding the castle.

The building at the time was occupied by Myles Corbet, the Lord Chief Baron of Ireland.

The estate was sold to the Irish government in 1975.

It has since been used as a place to host international leaders and others.

A guided tour will take you on a journey throughout the castle, where you'll see its private rooms, along with the furniture and art collections that belonged to the Talbot family.

The gardens and Butterfly House contain 5,000 different types of plants, and the Fairy Trail will delight the youngest of visitors.

Like Dublin's seaside towns and villages mentioned above, Malahide has its fair share of restaurants, too.

The Greedy Goose , perched close to the marina, is a must if seafood is what you crave.

The restaurant has an early bird special.

For three courses, you will pay €25.95 and for four courses, you’ll pay €30.95.

Reviews of the restaurant, which has won the TripAdvisor Certification of Excellence for the past four years, can be found here .

If you want to experience Malahide’s favorite local spot, pay a visit to Gibney’s .

You’ll get excellent pub grub as well as a few pints, or whatever your favorite alcoholic beverage might be.

About Ireland on a Budget

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23 of the best things to do in Dublin

Dec 1, 2023 • 17 min read

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 .

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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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14 Top-Rated Day Trips from Dublin

Written by Barbara Radcliffe Rogers and Meagan Drillinger Updated Jul 26, 2022 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Visitors are often surprised at how easy it is to reach most of the Ireland's top tourist attractions in a single day out of Dublin. You can visit iconic places like Blarney Castle and the Ring of Kerry ; world-class natural wonders, including the Cliffs of Moher and Giant's Causeway ; ancient sites, such as Glendalough and the megalithic tombs of Newgrange; and even the attractions of Belfast, the capital of Northern Ireland, with its impressive Titanic discovery center on the site where the great ship was built.

An efficient rail service and abundant package day tours from Dublin make it easy to arrange these trips without the need to rent a car or drive on the left. Getting around couldn't be easier. Learn more about the nearby places to visit with our list of the best day trips from Dublin.

1. Cliffs of Moher

2. glendalough and kilkenny, 3. blarney castle and cork, 4. giant's causeway, 5. belfast and the titanic quarter, 6. newgrange and hill of tara, 7. ring of kerry, 8. powerscourt, 9. boyne valley and loughcrew celtic tombs, 10. connemara and galway, 11. howth and malahide, 12. dalkey and killiney, 13. killarney, map of day trips from dublin.

Ireland's most visited natural attraction, the soaring Cliffs of Moher rise to more than 214 meters above the crashing Atlantic in a wild and dramatic eight-kilometer coastline. Take time to walk the trail along the clifftop for views of the Aran Islands, and see displays about the geology and environment of the cliffs at the visitor center.

At the southwestern edge of the Burren, a region in County Clare that includes the wild, rocky landscapes of Burren National Park , the cliffs and the sea stack just off shore are home to thousands of seabirds.

On the way from Dublin you can stop in Kilfenora for a visit of the Celtic High Crosses , or in County Limerick to visit the 13th-century King John's Castle , built on a Viking settlement and considered one of the best preserved Norman castles in Europe.

As well as a drive along Galway Bay for views of the Aran Islands and the 12 Bens, some tours also stop at Dunguaire Castle . On a 13-hour Cliffs of Moher Day Trip from Dublin , you can enjoy the beautiful County Clare countryside from an air-conditioned bus as an expert guide explains the area's geology and history. After a leisurely stroll on the path along the cliffs, you can explore the tiny town of Doolin, known for its music.

Read More: From Dublin to the Cliffs of Moher: Best Ways to Get There

In a glacial valley below the Wicklow Mountains in County Wicklow, Glendalough was one of the most important monastic sites in Ireland. It was founded by St. Kevin in the 6th century and became known as the Monastic City . There are many things to see here, the most impressive being the well-preserved, 30-meter-tall Round Tower .

Near St. Mary's Church is the 12th-century Romanesque Priest's House; a tall granite cross dating to the sixth or seventh century; and the largest church, which dates to the 11th and 12th centuries.

Near Glendalough are two other interesting historic sites: the 11th-century Trinity Church and St. Saviour's Priory, with Romanesque stone carvings. Information at the visitor center will help you find and identify the various landmarks, and you can also follow marked nature trails.

If you're driving to Glendalough from Dublin, stop to admire the scenery of the Wicklow Mountains, including Wicklow Gap and the dramatic Turlogh Waterfall. On a 10-hour Kilkenny, Wicklow Mountains, Glendalough, Sheep Dog Trials, Day Trip from Dublin , in addition to traveling through the beautiful Wicklow Mountain National Park, you'll have a guided tour of the tower and other historic sites at Glendalough.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Kilkenny, Ireland

For many, kissing the famous Blarney Stone is a highlight of their trip to Ireland, and it's easy to combine this with a sightseeing tour of the lush and rolling Irish countryside and visits to the cities of Cork and Cobh.

Even for those not interested in perfecting their Irish eloquence of speech by kissing the stone, Blarney Castle is worth seeing for its beautiful gardens and shopping at the famous Blarney Woollen Mills at the castle, an 1824 mill that has become a center for Irish weaving and knitting.

On the Blarney Castle Day Trip from Dublin , you can not only visit Blarney Castle and kiss the famous stone, but also visit the Rock of Cashel in County Tipperary. This spectacular hilltop medieval complex includes a 13th-century Gothic cathedral, a 12th-century round tower, a Romanesque Chapel with wall paintings, and a 15th-century castle. You'll also have time for some independent sightseeing in Cork City, where your local guide will recommend attractions.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Cork

Northern Ireland's only UNESCO World Heritage Site , the strange polygon columns of basalt known as the Giant's Causeway are the result of a volcanic eruption 60 million years ago. The columns form oversized stairs and stepping stones that legend holds to be the work of the giant Finn McCool when he crossed to Scotland to battle his nemesis, Benandonner. On a clear day, you can see the Scottish shore, several giant steps away.

See more of the dramatic coastal scenery as you cross the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge , suspended high over the sea. If the coast looks familiar, it was the location for filming Game of Thrones, and you may see the avenue of beech trees called the Dark Hedges, which served as the King's Road. Day trips from Dublin can easily include other attractions in Northern Ireland.

The Northern Ireland Highlights Day Trip Including Giant's Causeway from Dublin tour includes a stop in Belfast , Northern Island's capital, for a city tour in a traditional black taxi. After a scenic drive along the Antrim coast, there is plenty of time at Giant's Causeway to learn about the geology of this natural wonder at Visitor Heritage Centre, as well as to walk across the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge.

Address: Causeway Road, Bushmills, Antrim, Northern Ireland

Read More: From Dublin to the Giant's Causeway: Best Ways to Get There

Northern Ireland's capital is a lively, colorful city that has faced its sometimes violent past and is determined to reinvent itself into a cultural capital. The prime tourist attraction is the waterfront Titanic Quarter , where the RMS Titanic was built more than 100 years ago and which was the epicenter of the city's long maritime heritage as the cornerstone of the British Empire's shipbuilding.

The striking star-shaped building of Titanic Belfast is already a city landmark, with state-of-the-art interpretive exhibits that trace Belfast's maritime history and the story of the Titanic with features that include an underwater exploration theater and re-created decks and cabins.

The Titanic Belfast Visitor Experience and Giant's Causeway Day Trip from Dublin combines Northern Ireland's two most popular tourist attractions into a single 13-hour excursion by luxury coach. After learning about the Titanic's voyage in the interactive discovery galleries and visiting the Ocean Exploration Centre to see how ocean behavior is tracked, the tour continues to the Giant's causeway, where there is plenty of time for the Visitor Heritage Centre and crossing the swaying Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge before returning to Dublin.

Address: 1 Queen's Road, Titanic Quarter, Belfast, Northern Ireland

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Belfast

Ireland's most important prehistoric sites lie close to each other, near the River Boyne. Newgrange is a huge passage tomb dating from the Neolithic period. Built around 3200 BC, it predates both Stonehenge and the Egyptian pyramids. The circular mound is supported by a retaining wall of white quartz stones and large stones carved in spiral and other designs. Inside are passages and chambers, and at the Winter Solstice, the rising sun illuminates the interior. Newgrange is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The Hill of Tara plays large in Irish history and mythology as the traditional inauguration place of the ancient high kings. There are several stone structures here, the oldest of which is the megalithic tomb called the Mound of the Hostages , thought to have been built about 3000 BC. Earthworks here include two linked enclosures: a ring fort and a ring barrow.

You can step back in time to Celtic Ireland on this Celtic Boyne Valley Day Trip from Dublin , a full-day bus tour that includes the Loughcre wCeltic Tombs, the Hill of Uishneacht, and the Hill of Tara.

Official site: www.newgrange.com

Scenic drives don't get any better than the 177-kilometer route around the Iveragh Peninsula known as the Ring of Kerry. It offers a non-stop panorama of ocean views, islands, lakes, and mountains, dotted with postcard villages. Day tours from Dublin vary, but most include the magnificent inland Lakes of Killarney and stop at viewpoints for Macgillicuddy Reeks , the 17-kilometer mountain range that includes Ireland's highest peak , Carrantuohill.

These and more are covered on the 15.5-hour Ring of Kerry Rail Trip from Dublin , which begins with a train ride to Mallow, in County Cork, before meeting a local professional guide and traveling by coach to the region's most majestic landmarks.

• Read More: Exploring the Top Attractions of the Ring of Kerry

The 47 acres of Powerscourt grounds were designed so the estate would blend harmoniously with the surrounding Wicklow countryside, especially Sugarloaf Mountain , which is framed as a stunning backdrop. More than 200 varieties of trees, shrubs, and flowers are arranged in formal beds along the promenades of the Italian Gardens and in other settings, including a charming Japanese Garden ; a Rose Garden; and Kitchen Gardens, where herbs and vegetables share the grounds with flowers.

The interior of the former manor house has been converted into an upscale shopping venue for Irish crafts and designs, including an Avcoa shop, one of Ireland's most revered brands. Powerscourt is often included in a scenic day tour of County Wicklow that also visits Glendalough and Wicklow Mountains National Park.

Address: Enniskerry, County Wicklow

Official site: http://powerscourt.com/

If Ireland's ancient Celtic past fascinates you, the Boyne Valley and its environs are the place to go. Set in beautiful Irish countryside are some of the oldest sites in Ireland, including the well-preserved passage tombs at Loughcrew Cairns . You can walk through winding stone passageways inside to see 6,000-year-old stone carvings on the walls. On the River Boyne, Trim Castle was built in the 1170s, and is Ireland's largest Anglo-Norman castle.

In County Louth are the ruins of the early Christian settlement and famous 10th-century Celtic crosses at Monasterboice . The crosses have biblical inscriptions, and the 5.5-meter Muiredach's High Cross is considered the best in Ireland, covered in intricate Celtic stone carving. Above it stands a round stone tower more than 30 meters tall that protected the monks from Viking raids.

You can visit all of these sites, along with the Hill of Tara (see above) and the town of Drogheda, a Danish settlement in the days of the Vikings, on Ireland's Ancient East Day Trip from Dublin including Boyne Valley . The 10-hour tour travels across the scenic Irish countryside by bus, accompanied by a local guide who relates the history and legends of these ancient sites.

The coast of western Ireland, north of Galway Bay, is an irregular one of bays and tiny inlets with sandy coves, islands, islets, and rocky points. Inland are rugged mountains, lakes, and villages of thatched cottages. At the center of the area is Connemara National Park , south of the scenic loughs (lakes) of Kylemore and Pollacapall, where you'll find the atmospheric 19th-century Kylemore Abbey with its lovely Victorian walled gardens . The coastal towns of Roundstone and Clifden , favorites for artists, are good stopping points for a seafood lunch.

On the Connemara and Galway City Day Tour from Dublin , you can combine highlights of Connemara with a visit to the historic city of Galway, Ireland's major trading port since the Middle Ages. On the included guided walking tour, you can still see reminders of the foreign influences its trade brought, such as the famous Spanish Arch .

If you'd like to spend more time here, the train ride from Dublin takes about 2.5 hours, and you'll find plenty of good places to stay in Galway.

Just north of Dublin, the Howth peninsula is an easy day trip from Dublin by DART train, with plenty of things to do. Along with the tidied-up fishing village itself, you can see Viking ruins and the impressive Howth Castle. If you arrive with an organized tour group, you can tour the castle interior.

On the castle grounds is a Neolithic site , a dolmen with a 70-ton capstone. Views from Howth Head are spectacular, and on very clear days you can see the Dublin skyline. Also in Howth is the boyhood home of the poet William Butler Yeats. The DART train line also runs to Malahide , with a beautiful castle that's open to the public.

Walkers will enjoy the coastal path around Howth Head , with views of Dublin Bay and the Wicklow Mountains, and looking north to Lambay Island and the Mourne Mountains. The trail is easy to find; it begins at the Howth DART station.

South of Dublin, and reached from the city on the Bray/Greystones DART line, the neighboring towns of Dalkey and Killiney lie along the coast of the Irish Sea.

Dalkey once had seven medieval Norman castles, of which one, Dalkey Castle , survives and houses a Heritage Center. State-of-the-art interactive exhibits include fascinating anecdotes of local history, including tales from the time when Dalkey was the port of Dublin.

Just off shore, Dalkey Island was inhabited as long as 6,500 years ago, and has a burial cairn, two holy wells, and other early remains. The island is a short boat ride from either Bulloch Harbour or Coliemore Harbour.

Continuing south on the DART line, Killiney is a town of parks and affluent homes, with views of Dublin Bay and the Wicklow Mountains. A popular seaside resort in the 1800s, Killiney has a pebble beach. For the best views of a panorama that 19 th -century writers compared to Naples Bay (hence the abundant Italian place names), climb the steep hill to the summit of Killiney Hill Park

Official site: https://www.dalkeycastle.com

One of the main highlights of the Ring of Kerry is the bustling town of Killarney. A beginning or end point for the journey, Killarney has some wonderful sites and attractions in and around the city that are worth a visit. But travelers do not have to embark on the entire Ring of Kerry to see the best of Killarney. All they need is to take a day trip from Dublin.

This Kerry Highlights Day Tour from Dublin is a 14-hour jam-packed experience that will make sure visitors see everything Killarney has to offer. Travel along the coastal roads into Killarney National Park, stop by charming villages like Adare, and see the natural beauty of the Lakes of Killarney and Torc Waterfall.

One of the lesser visited cities of Ireland, Sligo Town is absolutely worth a day trip from Dublin. Less than a three-hour drive from the city center, Sligo is a coastal seaport and the capital of County Sligo. It is one of the most historic and culturally significant cities in Ireland and far enough off the tourist trail to have you feeling like you've discovered a secret for yourself.

Sligo sits on the Garavogue River. The centuries-old city has stunning historic architecture, like the medieval Sligo Abbey and the Lissadell House and Gardens. Just outside the city is the Carrowmore Megalithic Cemetery.

Sligo is also the city that gave us W.B. Yeats. Visit the Yeats Society to learn all about this world-renowned poet and author. Yeats is buried at Drumcliffe Church, just outside the city. Sligo also sits in the shadow of Benbulben, a flat-topped rock formation that overlooks the rolling fields of the county. This protected site is one of the most impressive in all of Ireland.

If you decide to visit Sligo, this self-guided eBiking tour can be done in half a day and allows for travelers to get around the city efficiently, taking in much of the historic sites that the city has to offer. Another way to visit Sligo is with this guided Sligo surfing tour . Sligo has some of the best waves in Ireland and this guided tour will take surfers of all levels.

Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Sligo

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

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.

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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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THE 10 BEST Things to Do in North City Centre, Dublin

Top things to do in north city centre.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• South City Centre
• North City Centre
• Phoenix Park
• Rathfarnham
• Budget-friendly
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Good for Kids
• Good for Couples
• Good for Big Groups
• Hidden Gems
• Honeymoon spot
• Adventurous
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Jameson Distillery Bow St.

2. St. Michan's Church

3. National Museum of Ireland - Decorative Arts & History

4. Abbey Theatre

5. O'Connell Street

6. National Leprechaun Museum

7. Henry Street

8. St. Mary's Pro-Cathedral

9. Arbour Hill Cemetery

10. Smithfield Chimney

11. National Photographic Archive

12. Halfpenny Bridge Market

13. Smithfield Square

14. Four Courts

15. D1 Casino Club

16. Blessington Street Park (The Basin)

17. Moore Street

18. King's Inns

19. Anna Livia Millennium Fountain

20. Meeting Place Sculpture

21. Irish Whiskey Corner

22. Dr. Quirkey's Good Time Emporium

23. St. Mary's Abbey

24. ceol - the irish traditional music centre.

25. Slattery's Bar

26. Panti Bar

27. Pat Liddy's Walking Tours of Dublin

28. Butt Bridge

29. The Sackville Lounge

30. Bridge Gallery

What travellers are saying.

Must-Visit Attractions in Dublin, Ireland

As one of the most varied cities to visit in Europe, Dublin packs enough art, culture and character to fill a month-long itinerary and still leave you wanting more. Despite this diversity, the capital of Ireland retains a small-town feel that never fails to charm. Although there are thousands of nooks and crannies to explore in the city, these are the ones you can’t miss.

Did you know – culture trip now does bookable, small-group trips pick from authentic, immersive epic trips, compact and action-packed mini trips and sparkling, expansive sailing trips., jameson distillery bow st.

Founded in 1780, Jameson makes the best-selling Irish whiskey on the planet. Although distilling no longer takes place at this Bow Street building, a slick and interactive tour more than compensates for the lack of working stills. There are videos on the founder, John Jameson, and lab benches showing the progress from barley to bottle. The tour also includes a tasting where you will finally understand the difference between bourbon, scotch and Irish whiskey. Head to the classy downstairs bar for a post-tour cocktail. Whiskey-blending and cocktail-making classes are also available.

Dublin Castle

Built in 1204, Dublin Castle was the seat of power for British rule for more than 700 years. In April 1684, a fire ripped through the castle, destroying much of the structure. A stunning Georgian palace was built in its place. Since 1938, all the presidents of Ireland have been inaugurated in St Patrick’s Hall. The manicured castle gardens are a highlight; a guided tour will explain their history. The tour also includes an excursion to the oldest pub in Dublin, The Brazen Head. The castle regularly hosts special exhibitions and events, which it advertises on its website.

Christ Church Cathedral

This magnificent cathedral was founded in 1030 as a wooden Viking church. While Romanesque and gothic elements were added over the next few centuries, Christ Church Cathedral underwent a major renovation during the Victorian era. A standard ticket covers a self-guided tour of the cathedral, crypt (among the largest in the British Isles) and the Treasures of Christ Church exhibition. The Choir of Christ Church Cathedral has been enchanting visitors since 1493.

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Guinness Storehouse

The most popular tourist attraction in Dublin is an interactive, seven-storey structure that showcases the history and process behind Ireland’s most famous export. To explore the venue, book the Signature Package Tour, which allows you to skip the queue. The tour also includes a memento gift box containing a Guinness Dublin glass and a fridge magnet showing an iconic Guinness advert. At the end of the tour, you get to enjoy a perfectly pulled pint at the Gravity Bar, which has panoramic views over Dublin.

Ha’penny Bridge

When William Walsh’s passenger ferries began to deteriorate, he saw the opportunity to commission the first pedestrian bridge in Dublin. The Wellington Bridge opened in 1816, with officials extracting a half-penny toll from anyone wishing to cross. This toll was dropped in 1919, but the “ha’penny” moniker stuck. Constructed by the Coalbrookdale Foundry in Shropshire, England, the bridge retains around 85 percent of its original decorative ironwork. A great way to see the Ha’penny Bridge – and the other sights along the Liffey – is from a boat tour.

The Book of Kells

Possibly Ireland’s most important artefact, this remarkable ninth-century manuscript details the four gospels of the life of Jesus Christ in astounding calligraphy. The book’s 340 folios are made from prepared calfskin (vellum). Artists used mineral pigments such as red lead, lapis lazuli and copper to create symbols representing the Four Evangelists: Matthew, Mark, Luke and John. A guided tour leads you into the Old Library at Trinity College Dublin to see the manuscript before everyone else arrives. Afterwards, your guide will take you to tour the grounds of Dublin Castle.

The Teelings Distillery

Irish whiskey was once the most popular spirit in the world – more popular than scotch, even in Scotland. This changed when the Scots adopted the Coffey-still method of manufacturing, increasing production exponentially. Prohibition in the United States, the Anglo-Irish Trade War and the Great Depression followed, and the industry collapsed. However, renewed interest in Irish whiskey began in the 1990s, and Teelings Distillery opened in 2015 as the first new distillery in Dublin in more than 125 years. Guided tours include a tasting of three whiskeys or a handcrafted whiskey cocktail.

Kilmainham Gaol

A visit to Kilmainham Gaol is essential to understand Ireland’s long road to independence. Leading figures in Irish history have been interned here, including Henry Joy McCracken (a founder of the United Irishmen), Easter Rising revolutionary Patrick Pearse, and Éamon de Valera, who later became the President of Ireland. The torture and execution of rebels also occurred on the prison grounds. Closing in 1924, the gaol underwent restoration in 1960, becoming a monument of Irish nationalism. Entrance is by guided tour only, which includes a visit to the Irish National War Memorial Gardens.

The Silicon Docks

An amalgamation of Georgian and modern architecture, Dublin Docklands is also known as Silicon Docks due to the vast number of tech firms making their home here. Regardless, it’s still full of character and interesting sights, including EPIC, the Irish Emigration Museum, and the contemporary Waterways Ireland Visitor Centre, affectionately known as the Box in the Docks.

For a taste of fresh sea air, head northeast to Howth, a popular day-trip destination from Dublin. This ancient fishing village is brimming with quality seafood restaurants, and there are plenty of handicraft and vintage wares to peruse at Howth Market. Hikers and nature-lovers are in luck as seals, eagles and guillemots are visible from the many coastal trails of the region.

Named after Archbishop Croke, one of the first patrons, Croke Park is the third-largest stadium in Europe and the centre for Gaelic sport in Ireland. Tours are available, which will give you the chance to try hurling and Gaelic football in the interactive museum. You can also visit the team dressing rooms, VIP area and the stadium itself. For the particularly brave, there is a Ericsson Skyline tour that takes you up 17 storeys to a platform suspended over the stadium, for views of the city beyond.

St Patrick’s Cathedral

Legend has it that a well once stood on this site, where Saint Patrick baptised people into Christianity. Today, baptisms still take place in St Patrick’s Cathedral, constructed between 1220 and 1260. Archbishop Luke, the building’s architect, was blind by the time of its completion, so he tragically never saw his idea come to fruition. Famous deans of the cathedral include Jonathan Swift, author of Gulliver’s Travels . His grave is here, as well as a collection of his early works. Visits to the cathedral are self-guided.

Abbey Theatre

The cutting-edge shows of the Abbey often tackle controversial subjects, which is unusual for a national state theatre. WB Yeats and dramatist Lady Gregory opened the theatre in 1904, with a manifesto “to bring upon the stage the deeper emotions of Ireland”. It certainly did that – Abbey productions triggered riots in 1907 and 1926. In the second instance, Yeats leapt onto the stage to scold the audience. Things have calmed down these days, but you can still enjoy top-class Irish theatre or a backstage tour.

National Gallery of Ireland

The National Gallery opened in 1864 and is now home to more than 16,000 works of art, representing all the major European schools. Monet, Rembrandt, Turner and Picasso can all be admired here. Hibernophiles (fans of Irish culture) will love the works of Jack Butler Yeats, one of Ireland’s most important 19th-century painters. Yeats was known for his romantic portrayals of Irish urban and rural life. One artistic highlight of his that hangs in the gallery is The Liffey Swim , a lively expressionist depiction of Dublin’s annual sporting event. The Yeats Archive contains his sketchbooks and journals, plus writings and artworks by other members of his gifted family.

National Museum of Ireland

The National Museum of Ireland comprises four museums, one of which is in County Mayo. The three Dublin buildings are the Museum of Archaeology, the Museum of Decorative Arts & History and the Museum of Natural History (also known as the Dead Zoo for its vast range of taxidermied animals). All are free to enter and contain a wealth of historical artefacts, costumes, zoological models and more. One thing you can’t miss is the collection of exquisite Irish metalwork in The Treasury permanent exhibit at the archaeology museum.

Chester Beatty

American mining engineer Sir Alfred Chester Beatty was a man of great wealth and taste, using his fortune to collect rare objets d’art from around the world. He left his collection to the Irish state upon his death, and it’s now housed in the Chester Beatty Library. You can expect to see Japanese paintings, Islamic manuscripts, Chinese snuff bottles and many more extraordinary artefacts. What’s more, entrance is free, though donations are always welcome. The centre runs art-oriented workshops for kids, teens and adults.

St Stephen’s Green

This delightful urban park was once a marshy patch of land. After its conversion to a public park in 1663, St Stephen’s Green became a fashionable place for high society to meet, take a stroll and indulge in gossip. The park was returned to private landowners in 1814, a widely unpopular move, but in 1877, Sir Arthur Guinness (the politician, not the brewer) bought the land and returned it to the people. His statue now stands in the park, which retains many of its original Victorian features. Take a picnic and enjoy one of the lunchtime concerts held during the summer.

Irish Whiskey Museum

The one-hour tours of this Grafton Street museum are an enjoyable, interactive romp through the history of Irish whiskey. Engaging guides illuminate the Irish people’s deadly first attempts at distilling and explain the rise and fall of the whiskey industry in a faithfully recreated Irish bar. Tours finish with a tasting that will educate novices and experts alike. Tongue-in-cheek jokes are a hallmark, and Scottish guests can expect to be good-naturedly teased about their “inferior” product. If you want to take your experience to the next level, pair your tour with a whiskey-blending class.

Phoenix Park

Phoenix Park stretches over 7sqkm (3sqmi), making it the largest park in any European capital. Inside is the acclaimed Dublin Zoo (established in 1831, it’s one of the oldest zoos in the world) and the home of the President of Ireland. Free guided tours of his home, Áras an Uachtaráin, are available on Saturdays on a first-come, first-served basis. A great way to navigate the park is by hiring a bicycle from the stand at Heuston Station (register with Dublinbikes first). If you’re lucky, you may even get to see the native deer.

National Concert Hall

Despite the impressive facade, this concert hall offers possibly the best-value tickets in town. It’s the performing home for the state-funded RTÉ National Symphony Orchestra and Concert Orchestra, who delight audiences several times per week with crowd-pleasers such as Ravel’s Boléro and the film scores of John Williams. Since 1865, the building has been many things, including an exhibition venue and a university. The current hall opened in 1981, dedicated solely to music for the first time. And what a hall – with acoustics this good, it doesn’t matter where you sit.

Where to stay

Dylan hotel, for a cosy spot by st stephen’s green.

Dylan Hotel is down Baggot Street only a short walk from the lovely St Stephen’s Green and a few minutes from the city centre. Bedrooms are light, airy and homely with Victorian-style decor combined with modern amenities. Get cosy in the outside Nursery Terrace with a cup of frothy coffee or head to Ruby Room for an Irish-themed cocktail served by a waistcoated bartender.

The Westbury Hotel, for an arty retreat near Grafton Street

Just a stone’s throw from the lively Grafton Street, The Westbury Hotel is an ideal base for exploring the main attractions in Dublin. Keep your eyes peeled for pieces by local artists on the walls and furniture created by the renowned furniture designer George Smith. Hungry? Traditional Irish recipes and carefully chosen dishes from around the world are served for breakfast, lunch and dinner in the hotel restaurant, Wilde.

Start planning your adventure in Ireland today. This article is an updated version of a story created by James Hendicott .

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24 Best Things To Do In Dublin (A Dubliners Guide)

By Author Keith O'Hara

Posted on Last updated: March 26, 2024

I’ve lived in Ireland’s capital for 35 years. Below, you’ll find what I  think are the best things to do in Dublin, with a mix of hikes, museums and hidden gems.

This Dublin guide focuses on two areas:

• Dublin City: Boasting a ‘Viking past’, the city is steeped in history with the likes Kilmainham Gaol a ‘must do’
• County Dublin: Which is home to the Dublin Mountains, a glorious coastline and countless walking trails.

Read on to discover what to do in Dublin at any time of year. Cheers!

Table of Contents

The best things to do in Dublin

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.

It’s worth taking 30 seconds to look at the map above as it’ll give you the lay-of-the-land quickly. It has the various places to visit in Dublin below plotted!

1. 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. St Patrick’s and 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!

3. The Dublin Mountains

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

4. 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

5. The 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.

6. 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)

7. The Hop-on Hop-off 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

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

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

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

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

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

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’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 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 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Now you know what to do in Dublin, it’s time to explore nearby

Now that we’ve covered what to see in Dublin, it’s time to see what there is to do close by!

There’s  heaps  of day trips from Dublin that you can head off on. 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

Keith O’Hara has lived in Ireland for 35 years and has spent most of the last 10 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!

5 Paid Attractions To Visit in North Dublin

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I’m not the best for writing blog posts in a timely manner. Two years ago I wrote about some free museums in Dublin I loved visiting when I lived there (it’s been 5 years since I was last in Ireland). Still, St. Patrick’s Day is coming up so it’s time to talk Ireland. I spent a lot of my time in Ireland in “poor mode” and doing a lot of free/cheap things (walks in parks, free museums, etc). Eventually I got a bit of money coming in and was able to visit some paid attractions though I only paid full price for a few of them. One of these I visited with my parents when they were in Ireland and they insisted on paying. A few others I got a deal through Groupon and/or a bus tour. Those some deals may not be available now (although it doesn’t hurt to check).

Similar to my free museum post I have made a Google Map of these attractions with nearby train or luas stations (the luas is the above-ground tram). While you could take the bus to some of these most are not too far walking distance from either a train or luas stop (sometimes both).

Covid seems to have changed how many museums and attractions operate. If you really want to visit an attraction it’s advisable to book tickets online in advance, especially if its really popular.

Unlike my free museum post that I did in one big post I’m splitting this post into two parts. This post is about paid attractions on the north side (north of the Liffey river). The next post is about paid attractions to visit in south Dublin (still centrally location), which you can read here.

Jameson Distillery

I went on a tour of the Jameson Distillery with my parents when they came to visit me for a few days (a.k.a I didn’t pay for this one). The tour is about 45 minutes. You get to taste a few different whiskeys, learn about Jameson, and you get a drink at the end (I went with Jameson and ginger ale). The tour costs €26. With this being a distillery with alcohol this isn’t the type of attraction to bring kids (drinking age in Ireland is 18). I’m not a huge whiskey drinker, but I did enjoy this tour and getting to try some different whiskeys. If you’re interested they also have tours where you can learn to make whiskey-based cocktails.

The Jameson Distillery is located at Bow Street in Smithfield, Dublin 7. If you’re taking the Luas it’s about a 2-miute walk from the Smithfield stop on the Red Line. There isn’t a train station close by, but Heuston Station is about a 17-minute walk. This station is located south of the river so you’ll have to cross the river at either the James Joyce Bridge or the Mellows Bridge.

I wrote about this in my post Five Attractions I Didn’t Plan To Visit (Because I Didn’t Know About Them) so I won’t go into too much detail here. The GPO is actually at the General Post Office on O’Connell Street, but isn’t about stamps. This was one of the sites of the 1916 Easter Rising and was a important site in Irish history. The Museum isn’t too big, an hour or two will be enough time to see everything. I did get a Groupon for this museum, but that deal is long gone. Visit their website to see admission rates and hours of operation.

The GPO Museum is located at O’Connell Street Lower, Dublin 1. If you’re taking the Luas it’s just across the street from the O’Connell Stop on the Green Line. If you’re taking the train it’s a 10 minute walk from Connolly Station just head down Talbot Street toward the Spire.

GAA Museum at Croke Park Stadium

Croke Park Stadium is the national stadium of Ireland that hosts many Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA) matches including the All Ireland Finals for Gaelic football, and hurling. Other events and concerts are also held at Croke Park. I went on a tour of the GAA Museum at Croke Park with the work abroad program I did. I found the tour and museum visit really interesting, even though I’m not much of a sports person (didn’t really know much about GAA games either). There is an interactive part of the museum where you can try your skills at some of these game, plus you get to to to the top of the stadium for some nice (albeit cloudy) views of Dublin. I also learned there are GAA clubs not just in Ireland, but in Canada too. Go Edmonton Wolf Tones! Stadium Tours can be booked by going to their website.

The GAA Museum is located at Croke Park Stadium St Joseph’s Ave, Ballybough, Dublin 3. There isn’t a luas nearby, but the closest train station is Drumcondra which is a 10 minute walk away.

EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum

EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum was definitely my personal favourite paid attraction I did in Dublin. I did get a discount for this museum with a hop on hop off bus tour (it was the yellow bus and I also got a Groupon deal for that tour). This museum goes into detail that Irish emigrants (that is people who’ve left Ireland to live in other countries) have had on the world. From movie starts to politicians to inventors and more this museum is really well done, and definitely worth spending a few hours in. If you have Irish ancestry there is a genealogist that you you book a consultation with (this costs extra). Just be warned you’ll want to do some preliminary research ahead of time (don’t just show up and say your great-grandfather was from somewhere in County Galway or maybe County Mayo). Visit the EPIC museum website for their admission and hours of operations.

EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum is located at Custom House Quay, North Dock, Dublin 1. If you’re taking the luas it’s about a 5-minute walk from George’s Dock stop on the red line. The closest train station is Connolly, which is about a 6 minute walk away.

The Jeanie Johnston: An Irish Famine Story

The Jeanie Johnston is a docked ship that once transported Irish emigrants during the Great Famine that occurred from 1845 to 1852 and completely changed the country (killing a million people). Another one million emigrated from Ireland went to England or the US or Canada. I visited part of this museum for free during Riverfest (which happens in June during the bank holiday). It’s not a huge museum, but it’s close the EPIC museum and both are about the stories of Irish people emigrating from Ireland so doing both of these museums in one day sticks with a similar theme. Visit their website for admission and hours of operation.

The Jeanie Johnston is located at Custom House Quay, North Dock, Dublin 1. If you’re taking the luas it’s about a 4-minute walk from George’s Dock stop on the red line. The closest train station is Connolly, which is about a 7-minute walk away.

Bonus – 2 Attractions I Wished I Visited in North Dublin

I think I saw a good amount of the paid attractions in the north Dublin city centre, but I didn’t see everything. When I go back to Dublin I’d like to visit 14 Henrietta Street, which is a tour led tenement museum. Technically this museum hadn’t quite opened when I lived in Dublin. And while it might sound strange I’d also like to visit Glasnevin Cemetery. This is where many historic Irish figures are buried and they have history tours and a museum. I know this one is a bit further out of the city centre so I’d suggest a cab to get here.

Be sure to read my next post about my favourite paid attractions in south Dublin. And if money is tight (those pints can add up fast) check out my post about some of the free museums in Dublin.

Things To Know If you’re planning to visit Dublin you can book your hotel here. If you’ll be in Dublin for a few days and are looking for a day trip consider taking the train to the small coastal town of Donabate.

Have you been to any of these attractions in north Dublin?

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THE 10 BEST Things to Do in North City Centre, Dublin

Top things to do in north city centre.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• South City Centre
• North City Centre
• Phoenix Park
• Rathfarnham
• Budget-friendly
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Good for Kids
• Good for Couples
• Good for Big Groups
• Hidden Gems
• Honeymoon spot
• Adventurous
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Jameson Distillery Bow St.

2. St. Michan's Church

3. National Museum of Ireland - Decorative Arts & History

4. Abbey Theatre

5. O'Connell Street

6. National Leprechaun Museum

7. Henry Street

8. St. Mary's Pro-Cathedral

9. Arbour Hill Cemetery

10. Smithfield Chimney

11. National Photographic Archive

12. Halfpenny Bridge Market

13. Smithfield Square

14. Four Courts

15. D1 Casino Club

16. Blessington Street Park (The Basin)

17. Moore Street

18. King's Inns

19. Anna Livia Millennium Fountain

20. Meeting Place Sculpture

21. Irish Whiskey Corner

22. Dr. Quirkey's Good Time Emporium

23. St. Mary's Abbey

24. ceol - the irish traditional music centre.

25. Slattery's Bar

26. Panti Bar

27. Pat Liddy's Walking Tours of Dublin

28. Butt Bridge

29. The Sackville Lounge

30. Bridge Gallery

What travellers are saying.