Dublin, the vibrant capital of Ireland, is a city filled with rich history, culture, and nature – and the best part? Many of its most exciting attractions come at no cost! Whether you're exploring on a budget or simply looking to soak up the local charm, there’s plenty to see and do for free in Dublin. From scenic parks to historical landmarks, and fascinating museums, you can experience the essence of Dublin without spending a penny. Here's your guide to discovering Dublin's top free attractions:
Instagram-Worthy Spots
Take a free walking tour around Dublin:
It's always nice to know more about the place you are visiting, especially in a place with so much history like Dublin. I recently took the Generation free walking tour that leaves from The Old Storehouse pub (3 Crown Alley, Temple Bar) every day at 11a.m. The tour is totally free, but you can contribute with whatever amount you want at the end.
During the walk, you will go to Dublin Castle and its gardens, the Trinity College, the Molly Malone statue, and a few other cool spots, like places used as movie locations or related to the years before Ireland’s independence. Throughout the walk, the tour guide explains the story of the places you are visiting and it is amazing to learn about how much has happened in Dublin in the past. You will definitely end the tour seeing the city from a different perspective.
Dublin is a photographer's dream, with its charming streets, historic landmarks, and vibrant culture. If you're keen to capture the essence of the city, these iconic spots will help fill your feed with stunning photos.
Ha'penny Bridge:
One of the most picturesque landmarks in Dublin, this iconic bridge spans the River Liffey and offers incredible views of the city.
Go visit the Trinity College Dublin:
Stroll through the historic campus and enjoy its beautiful architecture and cobblestone pathways. The famous Irish university is one of my favorite places in Dublin and there you will find many things to do, some of them being totally free! The campus of the university is open for everyone, so you can go there to walk around and see the beautiful buildings and landscape, grab a pint from the campus’ only pub, and even watch some cricket matches that happen there during the semester.
You can go visit the Science Gallery while there - the institution aims to explain science in a more fun and easy way for non-scientists, applying it to our everyday life. There are no fees for visiting and you can easily spend a whole hour there to check everything. If you feel like spending a bit, you can pay to visit the Book of Kells, the famous library in Trinity College, tickets are around 18 euros.
Molly Malone Statue:
A famous Dublin landmark and a perfect spot for a quick selfie. According to legend, touching Molly's "boobs" brings good luck!
Take a stroll to the Poolbeg Lighthouse:
If you feel like enjoying a nice walk with gorgeous views my suggestion is to visit the Poolbeg Lighthouse, which can only be accessed by an 800 meters stroll throughout the Great South Wall. The red lighthouse is located on the southside of Dublin Bay, and during the walk, you will be able to see the north side of the city across the sea. My favorite time to visit the place is around sunrise (that in winter can happen quite late, at around 8 AM), and sunset.
O’Connell Street:
Snap photos of Dublin’s historic buildings, including the General Post Office (GPO) and the Spire, the world’s tallest sculpture.
Parks and Gardens
Dublin boasts a wide range of beautiful parks and gardens where you can relax, explore, and enjoy the natural beauty of the city. These green spaces provide a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle, offering everything from tranquil strolls to spots for a picnic.
Spend some time at Stephen's Greens:
Located in the heart of the city, this peaceful park offers scenic walking paths, charming bridges, and lush greenery. It's perfect for a lazy afternoon or a photography session, especially in autumn and winter when the landscape transforms into something magical.
Stephen’s Greens park is one of the most famous attractions in Dublin and has lots of special spots to explore. During the summer and spring the place is perfect for enjoying a sunny day, taking some snacks from home with you, and spending the whole afternoon on Stephen's Greens grasses, always filled with locals and tourists doing the same. Even during autumn and winter, the park is worth a visit, the landscape gets a whole new aesthetic and it's beautiful for taking photos and strolling around, just make sure to get a nice hot chocolate from Butlers - the best in the city and with a shop just outside the park’s gates.
Explore the beautiful Phoenix Park:
As one of Europe's largest enclosed parks, Phoenix Park is perfect for a leisurely walk or cycle. The park is home to a large herd of deer, which you can often spot grazing along the paths. It’s a great spot to escape the city's noise, enjoy nature, or simply admire the stunning views.
Dublin’s Phoenix Park is just a walk or bike-ride away from the city center and can be visited at any time of the day. It’s one of the largest parks in Europe, with more than seven kilometers in length, and has different sights to explore during your visit. One of the coolest things you'll find at Phoenix Park is the deers, which usually are spread around the area in big groups, eating the grass and interacting with the visitors. The landscape changes a lot during the year, so it is worth visiting in all seasons - perhaps get a warm coach and hot drink if visiting it during winter.
Iveagh Gardens:
Known as one of Dublin's hidden gems, these gardens offer peaceful fountains, romantic walkways, and a hedge maze. It’s a beautiful and serene spot to unwind, located just a short walk from St. Stephen’s Green.
Merrion Square:
This Georgian square is known for its lush greenery, vibrant flowerbeds, and the iconic Oscar Wilde memorial. It’s the perfect place to relax, take in the surroundings, and enjoy a little peace in the city.
Royal Hospital Kilmainham Gardens:
Offering stunning views of the historic Royal Hospital, these manicured gardens provide an excellent place to relax and reflect.
Spend an afternoon at the National Botanical Gardens:
Many people don’t know this, but the National Botanical Gardens has free entrance and opens every day from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm - during the week, and from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm, on Saturdays and Sundays. The place is not in the city center (Glasnevin, Botanic, Dublin 9), but to get there you just need to take one bus from town (83 or 83A leaving from Temple Bar) or go cycling. There you can walk through the gardens and go check the greenhouses - there are several and they are all very cool. If you are lucky you might see some squirrels and other cute animals hanging around the place.
Museums and Cultural Attractions
Dublin is home to many world-class museums, and the best part is that many of them are free to visit! You can immerse yourself in Ireland's history, art, and culture without reaching for your wallet.
Check out the National Gallery:
A must-visit for art lovers, this gallery features an impressive collection of works, including masterpieces by Vermeer, Caravaggio, and Ireland's own Jack B. Yeats. Dublin’s National Gallery is one of the coolest museums I have visited to this day. I love going there during the year to check out their new exhibitions, go visit my favorite pieces, and just be amazed by all the beautiful rooms in the place.
There you can see incredible works from sundry artists around the world, the famous Caravaggio is definitely worth a visit, as well as the “Still Life with a Mandolin'' by Pablo Picasso. As you probably already guessed at this point, the gallery has no entrance fee and you can spend as much time there as you like. Want to make it even better? It is located in the heart of Dublin City, just across the road from Merrion Square and The Trinity College (Merrion Square W, Dublin 2, Ireland).
The best part? Admission is completely free!
Irish Museum of Modern Art (IMMA):
Located in the historic Royal Hospital Kilmainham, IMMA is a contemporary art museum offering an inspiring collection of modern art exhibitions. It's free to enter, allowing you to appreciate the creativity of both Irish and international artists.
National Library of Ireland:
A treasure trove of literary history, this library houses exhibitions showcasing Ireland’s rich literary heritage. The stunning reading room is a peaceful retreat for book lovers and history enthusiasts alike.
Dublin Markets
No visit to Dublin is complete without experiencing its bustling markets. From fresh produce to unique crafts, Dublin's markets offer a vibrant slice of local life – and many are completely free to explore.
Visit the Temple Bar Street Market:
A weekend favourite, this market is packed with artisan crafts, local food, and entertainment. It’s a great place to explore and soak in the lively atmosphere.
Every Saturday at Meeting House Square 10.30am to 4pm you can find the Temple Bar Food Market, filled with food trucks with the most varied options. It costs nothing to check it out, and many of the stalls often offer samples for free, you can also try some local treasures such as the Irish oysters. It is definitely a nice way to save some money you would probably spend in a restaurant, and get a chance to enjoy a truly Dubliner experience when visiting the city.
Moore Street Market:
A historic outdoor market offering everything from fresh produce to local delicacies. It's an iconic part of Dublin, and you’ll find it bustling on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. A historic outdoor market buzzing with vendors offering fresh produce and local delicacies. Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays.
We Love Markets:
A curated market showcasing Dublin’s independent creators at the Digital Hub.
George’s Street Arcade:
This historic covered arcade offers quirky shops, vintage finds and endless charm. A covered market that dates back to the late 19th century, it’s full of quirky shops, vintage finds, and character. Perfect for browsing, it’s a great place to discover unique treasures.
Historical Sites and Churches
Dublin is rich in history, and its churches and cathedrals are architectural wonders in their own right. These historical sites offer an insight into Dublin’s past and provide a peaceful escape from the urban environment.
St. Patrick's Cathedral:
Ireland’s largest cathedral, with breathtaking architecture and tranquil grounds. It’s a wonderful place to visit, with no charge to enjoy the beauty of the surrounding park.
Christ Church Cathedral:
A medieval masterpiece with an impressive crypt, stunning Gothic details, and a rich history dating back to the 11th century. It’s a fascinating visit for history and architecture enthusiasts.
St. Ann’s Church:
Often overlooked by tourists, this peaceful church is known for its intricate stained-glass windows and cosy atmosphere. It’s a perfect place to step inside, take a quiet moment, and admire the beauty of the building.
Live Music
Dublin’s music scene is legendary, and the best part is that you can enjoy live performances in pubs and venues around the city, often without paying a cover charge. Enjoy a pint and listen to traditional Irish tunes or discover local talent in intimate venues.
Oliver St. John Gogarty’s:
A renowned literary pub offering traditional Irish music almost every night.
Fitzsimons:
Located in the heart of Temple Bar, this spot is a go-to for lively performances and a great atmosphere.
Bad Ass:
For a more intimate experience, this venue offers relaxed gigs and an eclectic vibe.
The Bad Bobs:
Known for its eclectic music lineup and vibrant vibe.
Day Trips from Dublin
If you're looking to escape the city for a while, Dublin is surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and charming villages, all within a short distance. Best of all, many of these destinations can be enjoyed without spending much.
Howth:
A beautiful fishing village just a short train ride from Dublin, Howth offers stunning coastal walks, delicious seafood, and picturesque views.
Glendalough:
An ancient monastic site nestled in the Wicklow Mountains, Glendalough offers stunning hikes and scenic views of the lakes and surrounding forests.
Kilkenny:
A medieval town filled with charm, history and the iconic Kilkenny Castle.
Hellfire Club:
A hike with panoramic views and intriguing legends about its haunted past.
Forty Foot:
A beloved spot for a refreshing dip in the Irish Sea.
Dublin proves that you don’t need a hefty budget to enjoy all that the city has to offer. From free walking tours to stunning parks, vibrant markets, and historic sites, the Irish capital is brimming with things to do at no cost. To make the most of your adventure, check out our Interactive Dublin Attractions Map and start planning your free Dublin experience today! Now you just have to plan your days in the city and decide which of these places you will want to visit first. Enjoy!
Dublin proves that unforgettable experiences don’t have to come with a price tag. Whether you’re wandering through picturesque parks, diving into history at a museum or uncovering hidden gems, the city offers endless opportunities for free fun. To make the most of your adventure, check out our Interactive Dublin Attractions Map — just click here!
Enjoy 15% OFF booking at Canbe Hostels
