Dublin, the capital of Ireland, is a vibrant city where history, culture and Irish charm come together. Whether you're planning a quick city break or a long weekend, this travel guide helps you make the most of your time with iconic sights, scenic parks, traditional pubs and incredible food.
So, grab your rain jacket, charge your phone and get ready to dive into a trip full of historic gems, cosy vibes and warm welcomes from friendly locals.
How to Get to Dublin
By Air
Dublin Airport is only 10km from the city centre. Airport buses like Aircoach and Dublin Express are quick, reliable and budget friendly. Taxis and ride apps like Free Now are also available though slightly more expensive.
By Ferry or Train
Travelling from the UK? Ferries arrive at Dublin Port and it’s just a short bus or taxi ride to the centre. Within Ireland, Irish Rail offers direct routes to Dublin from cities like Cork, Galway and Limerick with Heuston and Connolly as the main stations.
By Car
Ireland’s motorway network makes Dublin easy to reach but once you're in the city it’s best to walk or use public transport. Traffic and parking can be tricky in the city centre.
Best Time to Visit Dublin
Dublin is a year-round destination and each season offers a different experience:
Spring (March to May)
Parks in bloom, fewer crowds and a festive buzz around St. Patrick’s Day.
Summer (June to August)
Warm evenings, lots of outdoor events like Pride Parade and lively pubs.
Autumn (September to November)
Cosy pubs, beautiful autumn colours and fewer tourists.
Winter (December to February)
Magical Christmas Winter Lights, quieter attractions and fireside Guinness pints.
1 Day in Dublin: Quick but Iconic
Morning
Begin your day at Trinity College, one of the most historic spots in Dublin. Make sure to visit the famous Book of Kells and walk through the Long Room library (it's truly impressive). After that, stroll along Grafton Street, known for its lively street performers, high-street shops and charming atmosphere. Before lunch, take a peaceful break at St. Stephen’s Green, a lovely park right in the city centre.
Midday
From there, walk over to Dublin Castle, where you can learn about the city’s political and royal history. Just behind the castle, don’t miss the Chester Beatty Library (a hidden gem with art and manuscripts from around the world!). For lunch, head into the Temple Bar area. Yes, it’s touristy, but it’s full of life and colour and a great place to soak up the city’s buzz.
Afternoon
In the afternoon, visit the Guinness Storehouse, one of Dublin’s most iconic attractions. You’ll learn how the famous stout is made and finish with a pint at the Gravity Bar, where you’ll have a panoramic view of the city. Before the evening, take some time to visit Christ Church Cathedral, one of Dublin’s most historic religious sites.
Evening & Night
Wrap up your day with dinner in a cosy Irish pub. Look for one with live music, friendly staff and traditional dishes like Irish stew or fish and chips. Bad Bobs, Fitzsimon's Temple Bar and Buskers are really good options. If you still have energy, enjoy a short walk through the cobbled streets of the city centre under the lights.
2 Day in Dublin: Dive into Culture
Morning
Begin your second day with a visit to Kilmainham Gaol. This former prison played a key role in Irish history and the guided tour is both emotional and informative. After that, walk over to the Irish Museum of Modern Art, located in a former hospital nearby. The exhibitions are bold and creative, and the peaceful gardens are perfect for a short break.
Midday
Have lunch near the museum or on your way to Phoenix Park. This massive park is one of the largest in Europe and offers plenty of open space for a walk or bike ride. If you’re lucky, you might even spot some of the wild deer that live there.
Afternoon
Continue your cultural journey with a visit to the National Museum of Ireland – Archaeology on Kildare Street. You’ll see fascinating objects from prehistoric Ireland including Viking artefacts and bog bodies.
Evening & Night
Spend your evening at O'Donoghue’s Pub, where you can enjoy live traditional Irish music in an authentic setting. For dinner, explore the Creative Quarter. This area is full of independent restaurants and cool bars, perfect for a relaxed and tasty night out.
3 Day in Dublin: Explore Like a Local
Morning
Start your third day at the Little Museum of Dublin, located beside St. Stephen’s Green. This small but brilliant museum tells the story of the city in a fun and personal way. Then, head to Merrion Square to see the statue of Oscar Wilde and explore the quiet Georgian park where locals go to read and relax.
Midday
Leave the busy centre behind and head to Ballsbridge for lunch. This elegant neighbourhood is home to lovely cafés and more local spots, making it a great place for a calmer midday break.
Afternoon
In the afternoon, you can choose between a visit to the Aviva Stadium, especially if you’re a sports fan, or a trip to the EPIC Emigration Museum (my favourite!) in the Docklands. EPIC offers a highly interactive look at the history of Irish emigration and the global influence of Irish people.
Evening & Night
As the sun sets, take a peaceful walk along the Grand Canal. This is a favourite among locals for its calm and beautiful views. For your final dinner in Dublin, book a table at Chapter One or La Gordita, two of the city’s top Michelin-starred restaurants. End your night with a cultural experience. Catch a performance at the Abbey Theatre or a show at the Bord Gáis Energy Theatre for a memorable close to your Dublin adventure.
More Than 3 Days in Dublin: One Week to Explore Deeply
If you have a full week in Dublin, you can enjoy the city at a slower pace and discover both popular sights and local gems. Here’s a simple plan with ideas for each day to help you get the most from your trip.
Local Neighbourhoods and Relaxation
Spend time exploring charming neighbourhoods like Stoneybatter and Ranelagh. Both areas have cosy cafés, independent shops and a laid-back atmosphere. Perfect spots for brunch or a quiet afternoon coffee. You can also visit the Dublin Zoo in Phoenix Park, great for families and nature lovers.
Museums and Arts
Visit the National Library of Ireland and the Museum of Literature Ireland (MoLI) to dive into Ireland’s rich literary history. The Hugh Lane Gallery is ideal for modern art lovers. In the evening, catch a live show at a smaller theatre like the Project Arts Centre or the Irish Film Institute. Explore the museums here.
Day Trip to Howth
Take a short train ride to Howth village. Walk the scenic cliff paths, visit Howth Castle and enjoy fresh seafood at local restaurants. The harbour and sea air offer a peaceful break from the city bustle.
Nature and History in Wicklow
Take a trip to Glendalough in the Wicklow Mountains. Explore ancient monastic ruins, beautiful lakes and peaceful walking trails. It’s a perfect way to experience Ireland’s natural beauty just outside Dublin. You can book your tour here.
Foodie Days: Markets and Classes
Spend some time visiting food markets like Temple Bar Food Market or the Dublin Flea Market for fresh produce and handmade goods. Join a cooking class to learn how to make traditional Irish dishes or go on a food tour to sample the best local flavours.
Evenings in Dublin
For your nights, try new pubs and bars outside the busy Temple Bar area. Check out places like The Cobblestone for traditional music or The Bernard Shaw for a lively crowd and craft beers. If you want to dance, visit clubs like Dice Bar or Copper Face Jacks for a true Dublin nightlife experience.
Hidden Gems in Dublin
Dublin is full of hidden gems that offer a special touch beyond the usual tourist spots. One quiet escape is Iveagh Gardens, a peaceful green space tucked behind the National Concert Hall, perfect for a relaxing stroll. History lovers will enjoy Marsh’s Library, an 18th-century gem that feels like stepping back in time. For a quirky and fun experience, the National Leprechaun Museum brings Irish folklore to life in a unique way. Just 30 minutes by train, Howth Village offers stunning cliff walks and delicious fresh seafood by the sea. If you love markets, the We Love Markets is a treasure trove of vintage items, handmade crafts and tasty street food.
Visit the Little Museum of Dublin for a charming look at the city’s past. The Blessington Street Basin is a peaceful water-filled park perfect for a quiet break. Meanwhile, the Pearse Museum offers insight into Ireland’s revolutionary history. For art lovers, the Hugh Lane Gallery houses an impressive collection in a beautiful setting. Don’t miss the Winding Stair Bookshop, a cosy place for book and tea lovers. Finally, the Royal Hospital Kilmainham, with its stunning architecture and gardens, is a calm spot often missed by visitors.
These hidden gems let you see a different side of Dublin, full of stories, beauty and local charm.
Where to Eat and Drink in Dublin
Breakfast
Start your day with a solid breakfast. Dublin offers plenty of cafés and bakeries whether you want a full Irish or something lighter.
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The Bakehouse – A great option for a traditional full Irish breakfast with views over the River Liffey
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Queen of Tarts – Cosy and charming, serving homemade scones cakes and a lovely brunch
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Tang – Healthy options with Middle Eastern twists including porridge bowls flatbreads and fresh coffee
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Two Pups Coffee – A local favourite offering excellent coffee toasties and pastries
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Brother Hubbard – Trendy spot with creative options like shakshuka and breakfast mezze
Tip: Most cafés open from 8 to 9am. Arrive early on weekends to avoid queues at popular brunch spots
Lunch
Midday is perfect for discovering Dublin’s mix of casual and creative lunch spots with everything from Irish produce to international favourites.
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Fallon and Byrne – Stylish deli and wine bar with gourmet sandwiches hot dishes and a welcoming vibe
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The Winding Stair – A classic spot near Ha'penny Bridge known for Irish dishes and literary touches
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Sano Pizza – Affordable authentic Neapolitan pizza perfect for a quick filling meal
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Cornucopia – A vegetarian and vegan favourite serving hearty soups stews and baked goods
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Pho Viet – Tasty and budget friendly Vietnamese dishes like pho and noodle salads
Tip: Look out for weekday lunch specials and meal deals especially around the city centre
Dinner
Whether you are after Michelin-starred cuisine or a casual meal Dublin offers a variety of excellent restaurants for the evening.
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Chapter One – Elegant modern fine dining with Irish ingredients and a refined atmosphere
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The Greenhouse – Sophisticated tasting menus and attentive service in a Michelin-star setting
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The Fumbally – Laid back and ethical with creative seasonal dishes in a cosy setting
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Hang Dai – A unique Chinese restaurant with a lively cocktail bar and fun interiors
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Etto – Known for award winning small plates and natural wines in a relaxed space
Tip: Book in advance as dinner spots can fill quickly especially from Thursday to Saturday
Where to Grab a Pint
No visit to Dublin is complete without enjoying a proper pint. These pubs offer charm character and great atmosphere.
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The Long Hall – Victorian era interior and a classic pint of Guinness
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The Palace Bar – A traditional literary pub with a great selection of Irish whiskeys
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Toners – Known for its historic snug and popular outdoor beer garden
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The Cobblestone – Renowned for nightly live traditional Irish music
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Kehoe’s – A buzzing classic pub often packed with both locals and tourists
Tip: Pubs usually close at 11.30pm on weekdays and 12.30am on weekends unless they have a late licence
Getting Around Dublin
First things first: Get a Leap Card
Once you arrive, the easiest and cheapest way to get around Dublin is with a Leap Card or a Leap Visitor Card. This handy tap card works on buses, trams (Luas) and trains (DART), saving you money compared to paying cash fares. You can top it up at machines or shops across the city, or choose a visitor option for unlimited travel over 1, 3 or 7 days.
You’ll find Leap Cards at the airport, newsagents and online. It's perfect for both short stays and longer visits. You can read more about how it works in this blog post.
Walking
Dublin’s compact city centre makes it perfect for exploring on foot.
Luas and DART
Easy-to-use light rail and coastal train lines. You can pay it with the Leap Card.
Tip: Don't forget to tap-up and tap-out of the Luas.
Bus
Lines that cross all the city. Use a Leap Card for cheaper and easier travel.
Bike
Pick up a Dublinbikes rental from many city stations.
Local Tips
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Most museums close by 5pm.
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The weather can change fast so bring layers and a light waterproof.
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UK and Irish plugs use the same three-pin adaptor.
Dublin is a city that welcomes you with open arms and endless stories. Whether you stay for one day or three, you’ll leave with memories of music, friendly faces, historic streets and incredible food. This itinerary mixes the must-see attractions with local secrets so you can enjoy Dublin without rushing. Sláinte!
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