Dublin offers a perfect blend of rich history, bustling streets, and warm hospitality. Planning a weekend getaway to the Irish Capital is a great choice and there’s plenty to do and see. With its fascinating attractions, lively pub culture, and delicious restaurants, the city has something for everyone. In this guide, we'll take you through the best recommendations for where to go, what to visit, and the best places to eat in Dublin. Take a look!
Dublin tours that are worth your time and money:
Walking tour around Dublin
A great way to learn about Dublin’s history is by taking a walking tour around the city. Embark on a guided journey through the city’s historic streets and landmarks, such as Trinity College, Dublin Castle, and Temple Bar while learning about the local culture, architecture, and famous figures.
Dublin Literary Pub Crawl
Immerse yourself in Dublin's rich literary heritage with a unique pub crawl that combines literature and drinks. Led by professional actors and writers, this entertaining tour takes you to iconic pubs frequented by famous Irish writers like James Joyce and Oscar Wilde. Enjoy live performances of literary works and anecdotes while enjoying a pint or two along the way.
BigBus Dublin - Coastal Tour
A half-day excursion to Howth, a pretty seaside village on the Howth peninsula, a short way out of Dublin. This charming fisher village has bitches, pubs, restaurants, and cliff walks, being the perfect place to spend a sunny day.
You can also spend some of your time in Dublin exploring its free museums and parks, going for a walk around the famous Grafton Street and St Stephen’s Green, or visiting the Guinness Storehouse. You can check our “tours” page for more ideas of things to do.
Where to eat in Dublin during a weekend getaway
Dublin has options for food in all price ranges, whether you're seeking traditional Irish dishes, international cuisine, or fusion flavors, the city has something to satisfy every palate. The best places to grab brunch include the One Society Cafe (Canbe customers get a 10% discount), Wuff Cafe for a traditional Irish Breakfast, Tang for sweet and savory options, and Two Boys Brew, one of Dubliners’ favorite spots.
For lunch and dinner, the options are endless, some of the best places to look for a restaurant are Fade Street, South William Street, Capel Street, Camden Street, and the Temple Bar area. Here are some to try: Wasabi Bar & Grill for traditional Brazilian food and sushi (Canbe customers get a 15% discount), MASA for tacos, Marrakesh for Moroccan dishes, Sano Pizza, and Cornucopia for a full vegan meal.
The best pubs in Dublin
One of the best parts of visiting Dublin is getting the chance to experience its nightlife, live music can be found in traditional Irish pubs all around the city, and there are more than 300 to choose from. If you need some help deciding where to go we suggest The Stag’s Head, The Cobblestone, Devitts, Grogan’s Castle Lounge, Kehoes, and The Long Hall, Bad Bobs, as well as the famous Temple Bar (but keep in mind drinks can be overpriced in the more touristic areas).
When visiting Dublin look for accommodations in the city center
Picking the right place to stay during your Dublin getaway is key to ensuring a smooth experience. Opting for a central location means you can stroll to the city's iconic landmarks, best restaurants, and legendary pubs, saving you precious cash and time.
The Gardiner House Hostel, on the north side of Dublin city’s center, has a large shared kitchen, an outdoor terrace where you will find parties and barbecues happening over the summer, and a newly-added jacuzzi. It is within walking distance of some of the best restaurants and pubs in the city and has a 24-hour reception.
Another good option is the more intimate hostel Garden Lane Backpackers, on the lively hood of The Liberties and just a stone’s throw away from the world-famous Guinness Brewery. It has a shared kitchen and rooftop where you can connect with other travelers and watch the sunset over Dublin’s skyline. Both hostels have options for shared and private rooms, catering to all types of travelers.
We can’t wait to welcome you to an unforgettable weekend getaway in Dublin City. If you have any additional questions or need further information, feel free to reach out to us before your arrival or simply ask our friendly staff members at the reception desk. See you soon, and get ready for an amazing time! :)
Don't forget to check out our Attractions Map here (sync to Google Maps) :)
