Dublin, Ireland: 7 Best Things to Do and See

Only have a few days in Dublin and want to see as much as possible without spending unnecessarily? Then you’re in the right place. In this guide, “Dublin, Ireland: 7 Best Things to Do and See”, we’ll share tips on where to go in Dublin and how to save money. And if you read to the end, you’ll find out where the best place to stay is and how much our entire trip cost.

So let’s take a look together at what to visit in Dublin.

When to Visit Dublin: Weather in Dublin

Dublin has a mild oceanic climate, which means the weather is relatively humid and unstable year-round. The warmest months are June to August with average temperatures around 15–20 °C. Winters are mild, with temperatures around 5–10 °C, but it often rains and is windy. The best time to visit is spring (April–June) or autumn (September–October), when the weather is relatively stable and the city isn’t overcrowded with tourists.

How many Days to Spend in Dublin

Dublin is an ideal destination for a weekend trip, but if you want to enjoy the city at a relaxed pace, we recommend at least 3–4 days. In two days, you can see the main sights like Trinity College, Guinness Storehouse, and Temple Bar. If you have more time, you can take a trip to Howth, visit Phoenix Park, or explore the beauty of the Irish countryside.

How to get from Dublin Airport to the City Center

Dublin Airport is located about 10 km from the city center and offers several transport options:

• Bus – The cheapest and most convenient option is Aircoach or Dublin Express, which run continuously and the journey takes around 30 minutes.
• City Bus (Dublin Bus) – A cheaper alternative, but less comfortable as buses stop at more locations.
• Taxi – A trip to the city center costs around 30–40 € and takes approximately 20–30 minutes.
• Car Rental – If you plan to travel outside Dublin, you can rent a car at the airport (we recommend RentalCars).

Dublin Accommodation: where to Stay in Dublin

Academy Plaza Hotel was our sanctuary throughout our stay. The hotel is a ten-minute walk from the center, with a bus stop from the airport right in front of it, and Hop-on Hop-off buses stopping around the corner. We used to buy dinner at Lidl around the corner and were satisfied. If you’re a fan of excellent breakfast and a fitness center in the hotel, this is a good choice.

Accommodation in Dublin is generally expensive, and you might be able to find a better option. We ourselves found other hotels at lower prices, but they were booked far in advance. Therefore, we recommend arranging accommodation well in advance.

Dublin, Ireland: 7 Best Things to Do and See

If you’re heading to the capital of Ireland, then our article might come in handy. We’ve put together 7 tips for you on what to see and do in Dublin.

1) save with the DoDublin Card and Try the Hop-on Hop-off Bus

If you’re in Dublin for three days, the DoDublin card is worth it (available on GetYourGuide). It costs 49 euros and includes:

• Airlink – transport from and to the airport
• Hop-on Hop-off buses
• Public transport
• Free ticket to the excellent Little Museum
• Free Walking Tour
• 1+1 free meal at one of the city center restaurants

The Hop-on Hop-off buses were absolutely great. In fact, you don’t need to use any other line, as these green sightseeing buses will take you to all the tourist spots. Moreover, if the weather is bad, you can comfortably tour the city center with them, and if you understand English well, you’ll also have a good laugh. Sometimes the drivers even sang for us. 🙂

2) Guinness Tour (It’s Expensive, but Definitely Worth it)

We’re not big beer drinkers. However, it’s said that you get to know Irish culture best with a glass of dark beer. So, we decided to experience Irish traditions and customs at the Dublin brewery where the legendary dark beer with a bitter taste and thick foam was first brewed in 1759.

And we also followed the reviews on TripAdvisor, where they praise the Guinness visit to the skies. And there’s a reason why. Ultimately, it was the best experience in all of Dublin. We spent three hours there and weren’t bored for a single moment.

It often resembles an art installation more than a brewery. Everything is thought out to the smallest detail. Don’t expect anything boring.

The tour guides you through the entire beer-making process, one floor is dedicated to Guinness advertisements, and another to tasting. If you want, they’ll even teach you how to pour a beer. And on the top floor, there’s a very pleasant bar with a view of the entire city.

If you get hungry, don’t worry, they also have restaurants and cafes. And the tour price? 17-23 euros, depending on when you go. Buy your tour online and get a discount.

3) the Highly Recommended Trinity College Library

You definitely shouldn’t miss the Trinity College campus itself. The library at Trinity College is number one on TripAdvisor. It really is magnificent. But be careful. Don’t expect to spend ages there for those 11-14 euros.

They won’t let you go among the books, and everyone takes the same photo there, just like we did. The view is magnificent, but we had somewhat hoped to wander through the aisles like Hermione and Harry Potter. The price also includes an exhibition about the Book of Kells. However, that didn’t particularly impress us. If you’re on a budget, nothing will happen if you skip the library.

4) Have a Beer at Temple Bar

Where to go for a beer in Dublin? To Temple Bar. But be careful, Temple Bar is not just a bar, but primarily a district with many typical Irish pubs where live music plays and it’s lively. Temple Bar itself is one of Dublin’s icons. And that’s where we headed too.

However, if you’re not just going for one small beer and want to have more. Try a few streets away. Here, a smaller Czech-sized beer will cost you 3.5 euros.

5) the Little Museum of Dublin

This unconventional museum, located in an 18th-century Georgian house, will guide you through the history of Dubliners. It has only four rooms, which are filled with items donated by locals. Nevertheless, you won’t get bored. Wait for the guided tour. It only lasts 45 minutes.

6) Colorful Doors for Drunks

Definitely head to Merrion Square to see the colorful Georgian doors. And why are they colorful? A very popular story circulates in Dublin about the writers George Moore and Oliver St. John Gogarty, who were neighbors on Ely Place.

Gogarty reportedly often came home drunk and knocked on Moore’s door. Moore therefore painted his door green so his neighbor wouldn’t confuse them. And then Gogarty painted his red. Now Dublin is a city of colorful doors. You’ll find pink, purple, green, blue, and even orange ones there.

7) Phoenix Park

If you visit Dublin in good weather, you must go to Phoenix Park. Rent a bike there and ride through the endless greenery. But if the weather is bad, hop on a Hop-on Hop-off bus and at least let it take you around.

Dublin Day Trips

Dublin is a great starting point for interesting day trips around Ireland, so let’s take a look at what to see in Dublin and its surroundings.

• Cliffs of Moher – These famous cliffs are among the most beautiful places in Ireland. They are located about a 3-hour drive from Dublin and offer breathtaking views of the Atlantic.
• Kilkenny – A medieval town with a beautiful castle, narrow streets, and traditional pubs. A perfect trip for history lovers.
• Howth – A charming fishing village just a short distance from Dublin. A great choice for those who want some fresh air and to walk coastal paths with sea views.
• Wicklow Mountains & Glendalough – A national park with magnificent mountains, lakes, and monastery ruins. Ideal for hiking enthusiasts.
• Guinness Storehouse & Jameson Distillery Midleton – If you’re interested in the history of Irish beverages, these excursions will take you through the world of beer and whiskey.

Dublin with Kids

Dublin is a welcoming city for families with children. You’ll find entertainment centers, parks, and interactive museums that will excite children.

• Dublin Zoo – One of the oldest zoos in Europe, where you can see elephants, lions, and hippos. It’s located in the beautiful Phoenix Park.
• Explorium – An interactive science museum where children can try various experiments and have fun learning.
• Jeanie Johnston Tall Ship & Famine Museum – A replica of a historic ship that once transported emigrants to America. A great way to introduce children to a piece of Irish history.
• Phoenix Park – One of the largest urban parks in Europe, where you can see wild deer or have a picnic.
• Tayto Park – An amusement park a short distance from Dublin with roller coasters, children’s attractions, and a zoo.

What to Taste in Dublin

Dublin offers a great combination of traditional Irish cuisine and modern gastronomy. If you want to taste the best the city has to offer, don’t forget these specialties:

1. Irish Stew

A traditional stew made with lamb or beef, potatoes, onions, and carrots. A simple but hearty meal that will warm you up, especially on colder days.

2. Fish and Chips

A popular classic – fried fish in crispy batter with chips. You’ll find the best fish and chips in traditional pubs or at stalls, for example, at Leo Burdock.

3. Boxty

Irish potato pancakes, served with bacon, salmon, or a creamy sauce. A perfect choice for breakfast or a light lunch.

4. Full Irish Breakfast

A hearty breakfast that includes eggs, bacon, sausages, beans, toast, black pudding, and sometimes hash browns. Ideal for those who want to start the day with a good dose of energy.

5. Dublin Coddle

A hearty dish in which sausages, bacon, potatoes, and onions are simmered. It’s often served in traditional pubs, for example, at The Brazen Head, one of the oldest in Ireland.

6. Shepherd’s Pie

A baked mixture of minced meat with vegetables, topped with a layer of mashed potatoes. A popular homemade dish that you can also enjoy in local restaurants.

7. Soda Bread

A typical Irish bread made without yeast, but with baking soda. It has a crispy crust and a dense interior. It tastes great with butter or as a side dish for soups.

8. Guinness and Irish Whiskey

Dublin is home to the famous Guinness Storehouse, where you can taste original Irish Guinness beer. If you prefer something stronger, try a glass of Jameson whiskey, which you can have at the Jameson Distillery Bow St.

Dublin Fun Facts

Dublin isn’t just about historical landmarks and Irish pubs. This vibrant city hides many fascinating facts and unconventional places worth exploring.

Dublin Has the Largest Urban Park in Europe

Phoenix Park is one of the largest urban parks in Europe, even larger than the famous Central Park in New York. Here you’ll find not only beautiful nature and herds of wild deer, but also the residence of the Irish President.

Dublin: City of Books and Literature

Dublin is one of UNESCO’s Cities of Literature and has given birth to many famous writers, including James Joyce, Oscar Wilde, and Samuel Beckett. A literary atmosphere still prevails in the city’s cafes and bookstores.

An Incredible Amount of Guinness is Drunk in Dublin

Guinness beer originates directly from Dublin, and in local pubs, it tastes completely different than anywhere else. Around 10 million pints are drunk here daily!

Ha’penny Bridge and its History

This iconic bridge over the River Liffey got its name from the original toll for crossing it – half a penny. Today, thousands of people cross it daily, yet few know its original purpose.

Howth – a Piece of Nature just Minutes from the City Center

Although Dublin is a bustling city, just 30 minutes by train and you’ll find yourself in the picturesque fishing village of Howth, where you can enjoy fresh seafood and walks along dramatic cliffs.

Dublin Has its Own Slang

The Irish are known for their friendly nature, and in Dublin, they have their own specific slang. For example, “”grand”” means something is okay, “”craic”” (pronounced “”crack””) refers to fun, and “”gas”” means something is really funny.

The Shortest Street in Dublin

Dublin has one of the shortest streets in the world – Ebenezer Place, which measures just 2 meters! Although you might easily miss it, it’s an interesting record.

What to Watch out for in Dublin

What to watch out for when visiting the Irish capital? We’ve put together some advice for you on what to be aware of in Dublin.

The Weather is Unpredictable

They say in Ireland that you can experience all four seasons in one day. The weather in Dublin changes unexpectedly – a sunny day can turn into a heavy downpour in just a few minutes. Always carry a waterproof jacket and comfortable shoes. Umbrellas often don’t withstand strong winds.

Prices are Certainly not Low

Dublin is one of Europe’s more expensive cities. Accommodation, restaurants, and transport can be surprisingly costly. If you’re traveling on a budget, it’s worth looking for cheaper accommodation outside the city center and eating at local cafes or supermarkets instead of restaurants.

Public Transport is not Ideal

Dublin doesn’t have a metro, so you’ll have to rely solely on buses, trams (Luas), and suburban trains (DART). Buses don’t have a fixed schedule and are often delayed. Be prepared for longer waits, especially during peak hours. If you plan to use public transport, it’s worth getting a Leap Card, which offers cheaper fares.

Nightlife is Very Noisy and Busy

Temple Bar is the most famous area for pubs and bars, but also the most expensive and busiest. If you want to experience an authentic Irish evening, try less touristy places, such as pubs in the Stoneybatter or Rathmines districts. And beware – alcohol in Ireland isn’t exactly cheap either; a pint of beer can cost you up to €8.

Be Careful in some Parts of the City

Dublin is generally a safe city, but some areas are not recommended to visit after dark. Be cautious around O’Connell Street and Talbot Street, where pickpockets and homeless individuals under the influence of alcohol or drugs may be present. Keep valuables on you and watch your belongings in crowded areas.

Driving on the Left and Confusing Intersections

If you’re renting a car, remember that in Ireland, they drive on the left. For pedestrians, it’s also important – before crossing, look right first, not left! Dublin has many complex intersections and roundabouts, so be extra careful when driving.

Tipping is not Mandatory, but Welcome

In Ireland, tipping is not usually expected, but in restaurants and pubs, it’s common to leave around 10% of the bill if you were satisfied. However, in some establishments, a service charge is already included in the bill.

What to See in Ireland

Ireland is a country of breathtaking nature, mystical castles, and friendly people. If you’re planning a trip to Ireland, here are some places definitely worth visiting.

• Cliffs of Moher: Some of the most beautiful cliffs in Europe, rising up to 214 meters above the Atlantic. They offer breathtaking views and are among Ireland’s most famous natural beauties.

• Ring of Kerry: This famous circuit leads around the Iveragh Peninsula, showcasing Ireland in all its beauty – green hills, wild coastline, romantic villages, and historical monuments.

• Blarney Castle and the Stone of Eloquence: Blarney Castle near Cork is famous for a stone that, if you kiss it upside down, is said to grant you the gift of eloquence. Additionally, it offers beautiful gardens and a mysterious atmosphere.

• Giant’s Causeway: Thousands of perfectly shaped basalt columns on the north coast create one of the world’s most interesting geological formations. According to legend, it is the work of the giant Fionn mac Cumhaill.

• Wicklow Mountains & Glendalough: A short distance from Dublin, you’ll find the Wicklow Mountains National Park, featuring beautiful mountains, lakes, and the historical ruins of Glendalough monastery. A perfect place for nature excursions.

• Aran Islands: These three islands off the west coast are known for their untouched landscape and traditional Irish way of life. The largest, Inis Mór, attracts visitors with the fortress of Dun Aonghasa, offering dramatic ocean views.

• Galway – City of Music and Entertainment: Galway is a vibrant city full of street musicians, festivals, and great pubs. Stroll through its colorful streets and soak up the atmosphere of true Irish life.

• Kilbeggan Distillery – a taste of true Irish whiskey: Ireland is home to whiskey, and Kilbeggan is one of the oldest distilleries in the country.

How much our Three-Day Trip to Dublin Cost Us

Here’s a breakdown of our expenses in Dublin for you:

FAQ

1. What is the best time to visit Dublin?
The best time is from May to September, when the weather is most pleasant. However, keep in mind that it often rains in Ireland throughout the year.

2. How to get from the airport to Dublin city center?
The fastest options are Aircoach or Dublin Express, which will take you to the city center in 20–30 minutes. Alternatively, you can use a taxi or city buses.

3. What is the currency in Ireland?
In Ireland, you pay with euros (€), unlike Northern Ireland, where British pounds (£) are used.

4. Is Dublin an expensive city?
Yes, Dublin is one of Europe’s more expensive cities, especially concerning accommodation and restaurants. However, affordable options can be found, for example, in hostels or by eating at cheaper bistros.

5. How to get around Dublin?
The city operates Luas (trams), buses, and DART trains. If you plan to use public transport frequently, a Leap Card is also worthwhile for cheaper fares.

6. What are the best neighborhoods for accommodation?
The city center (Temple Bar, St. Stephen’s Green) is ideal for tourists, but if you’re looking for a quieter area, we recommend Ballsbridge or Ranelagh.

7. What to taste in Dublin?
Try traditional Irish stew (meat and potato stew), Boxty (potato pancakes), and of course, Guinness. For breakfast, have a typical Full Irish Breakfast.

8. What adapter do I need for Ireland?
In Ireland, Type G sockets are used (the same as in the United Kingdom), so you will need an adapter with three rectangular pins.

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