Dublin is where Ireland’s magic comes to life with its blend of centuries-old history, vibrant energy, and a warmth you’ll only find in Irish hospitality. I was so excited to be able to revisit and explore more of Ireland as I thought it would be the perfect way to end our almost 6-week trip through Germany, Bulgaria, Greece, Romania, and Italy. Dublin was our first stop in Ireland, and with its cooler, more comfortable temperatures than we’d experienced in the other countries at the peak of summer, it was the perfect place to start slowing down before we headed back home to Toronto, Canada. We enjoyed colorful cobblestone streets filled with cozy pubs, iconic landmarks, and stories waiting to be uncovered around every corner – and the charm doesn’t stop at the city limits. Beyond Dublin, Ireland opens up into lush green landscapes (hence being nicknamed the Emerald Isle), medieval castles, and postcard-perfect villages that feel like you just stepped into a fairytale. Whether you’re after a few pints of Guinness, a walk along a cliffside to see the roaring sea below or a peek into Ireland’s storied past, this itinerary has it all, mixing city vibes with scenic escapes that capture the heart and soul of this country, plus a few nearby road trip options to take you beyond the city and into Ireland’s unforgettable countryside.
When To Visit Dublin, Ireland
Dublin is a city you can enjoy year-round; it all just depends on your personal preferences of course. Spring is from March to May and has milder temperatures making it ideal for exploring without the summer crowds and you get to experience the St. Patrick’s Day festivities in the homeland. Summer is from June to August and it is peak tourist season (so make sure to make reservations and book ahead of time) with longer days and very comfortable temperatures making it easy to explore, especially on foot. Fall is from September to November when the temperature starts cooling down and you’ll see beautiful fall colors and fewer tourists, making it ideal for a more relaxed sightseeing experience in Dublin. Winter is from December to February and is the slow season with colder weather and occasional rain.
Both times I visited Dublin was during the end of summer and I got lucky with perfect and very comfortable weather.
How To Get To Dublin, Ireland
Dublin, Ireland is accessible by land, sea, and air, depending on your start location – but arriving by plane might be your best option especially if you’re coming from North America, Asia, or other parts of Europe. Dublin Airport (DUB) is the main international airport and is only about 10 kilometers north of the city center with direct flights from major cities around the world.
Once you arrive, you can either have a rental car ready, or take one of the taxis out front or opt for public transportation to your hotel. There is the public bus where you can take the Dublin Bus Routes 16 and 41, or the airport bus services Aircoach (24/7 express bus service) and Dublin Express (a direct bus service with stops near key landmarks which we took). Ride-sharing services like Free Now are available (unfortunately Uber and Lyft is not currently) and are priced similar to taxis.
Where To Stay In Dublin, Ireland
For first-time visitors or those looking for a convenient location to get around but also see the best sites in this city, here are four prime areas to consider staying in Dublin:
Temple Bar – right in the heart of Dublin’s cultural and entertainment district, this is a lively way to see the city and be in the middle of it all. You’ll also be close to major sites and plenty of pubs, restaurants, and shops. However, it can get noisy at night, especially on weekends, so if you prefer a quieter night’s sleep, look for accommodations on the edges of Temple Bar.
St. Stephen’s Green And Grafton Street – this area provides the perfect balance of the busy city life and green spaces while offering some of the best shopping in Dublin, and being near attractions.
O’Connell Street Area – North of the river, it is still a central area with many restaurants, shops, and key sites. It’s a great location for exploring both sides of the river and public transportation is easily accessible.
The Docklands And Grand Canal Dock – This is a modern area of Dublin offering a more upscale and quieter alternative that has waterfront views, are close to cultural sites, and offers a relaxed vibe. We stayed at the Maldron Hotel Pearse Street, not too far from the Grand Canal and is only about a 16-minute walk to Trinity College. I think having somewhere closer to the city center would be better, especially if you’ll be getting back to your hotel later in the night, but we also chose this location because it had parking and we rented a car as we were going to visit multiple cities across Ireland after our first stop in Dublin.
Best Foods To Try In Dublin, Ireland
While you can find delicious Irish dishes throughout the country, there are certain foods that you may want to try while you’re in Dublin which reflect the local culture and their culinary traditions:
Local Irish Breakfast – Dublin-made sausages, black (blood sausage) and white (spices and oatmeal) pudding, and rashers (thicker and less fatty bacon) make Dublin’s version of the Irish breakfast unique to the city
Dublin Coddle – Dating back to the Famine era, this is a hearty and historic dish featuring sausages, rashers, onions and potatoes simmered together.
Boxty – This is a traditional Irish potato pancake and has been a staple Irish dish since the 1700s.
Fish And Chips – While fish and chips are also a staple across Ireland, there are 2 famous restaurants renowned for offering some of the best in the country: 1) Beshoff Bros – there’s also a location in Howth that we visited and I highly recommend the scampi and chips! 2) Leo Burdock – opened in 1913 and is Dublin’s oldest chipper.
Seafood Chowder – This rich soup dish features fresh seafood caught locally and leverages Dublin’s coastal location.
Gur Cake – also known as Chester cake, it has a deep connection to the city’s working-class heritage and started as an affordable treat made by bakers who took leftover or stale bread and cakes and mixed them with dried fruit, spices, and syrup, and then sandwiched the mixture between layers of pastry.
Best Things To Do In Dublin, Ireland
I’ve split up the best things to do in Dublin into a 2-day itinerary as it is possible to see it all if you’re short on time or just simply ambitious, but 3 days is an ideal amount of time to explore Dublin, Ireland if you prefer a more relaxed pace. As usual, feel free to break up the itinerary below into multiple days if you’d rather take your time and have a more leisurely experience. If you’re planning to visit a majority of the top sites in Dublin, I highly recommend getting the Dublin Pass, which gives you up to 50% off unlimited entry to 40+ attractions in the city.
First Day In Dublin – Exploring Central Dublin’s Classics
Dublin is a compact and walkable city, making it incredibly easy to navigate. Most of the city’s top attractions are within walking distance of each other, allowing you to see a lot in a short amount of time. The charming side streets and narrow lanes add to the city’s character, and walking is the most convenient way to immerse yourself in Dublin’s vibrant atmosphere.
Grafton Street
Time Spent – 1 hour
Why You Should Visit – Grafton Street is Dublin’s premier shopping street, which is lined with luxury boutiques, trendy shops, cafés, and restaurants. This street was first made popular in the 1980s when it was internationally known for street entertainment such as busking. With the many artists, musicians, and entertainers, you can feel Dublin’s energy here.
Trinity College Library – Book of Kells Experience
Time Spent – 1 to 1.5 hours
Why You Should Visit – Trinity College is Ireland’s oldest university, founded in 1592 by Queen Elizabeth I, and it has a timeless charm with its grand Georgian architecture and cobblestone paths, with much to explore here on these stunning campus grounds. But the true gem is the historic Trinity College Library, home to 200,000 rare books. The highlight of this visit will be the Book of Kells Experience, where you’ll see one of the world’s most treasured Latin manuscripts of the four Gospels created by monks over 1,200 years ago. This exhibit will guide you through this ancient book’s history, artistry and symbolism. Note: When I visited, they were working on a redevelopment project in the library because these books have been there for over 400 years and pollution and dust have accumulated. To improve fire protection and environmental controls, each book is being cleaned and reallocated to a climate-controlled facility. So make sure to check if this project is completed so that you can see all the books in their glory because it isn’t exactly cheap to visit either. Also, book your ticket ahead of time as it sells out very quickly!
Irish Whiskey Museum
Time Spent – 1 hour to 1.5 hours
Why You Should Visit – If you love whiskey, you need to visit this museum and learn all about the fascinating history of all kinds of Irish whiskey through a guided tour, tasting sessions, and interactive exhibits. There are four different rooms and each is themed to represent a different period in Irish history. There are a few different tours you can take and the museum’s whiskey experts will help you find the perfect whiskey suited to your taste and preferences.
Temple Bar
Time Spent – 1 to 2 hours
Why You Should Visit – No visit to Dublin is complete without experiencing the colorful Temple Bar area known for its lively pubs and cobblestone streets. It’s the perfect place to experience Dublin’s nightlife and soak in the city’s energetic vibe. Don’t forget the iconic red exterior of Temple Bar Pub, a landmark that’s become a symbol if the buzzing atmosphere.
Dublin Castle
Time Spent – 1.5 hours
Why You Should Visit – Dublin Castle was once the heart of British rule in Ireland from 1204 to 1922 and today, it’s a historic site where you can explore the beautifully restored Georgian architecture to the collection of elegant and valuable paintings that visitors have enjoyed since 1813. This is where kings and queens have held court, Irish presidents have been sworn into office, and periods of rebellion and revolution bear testimony to the nation’s turbulent yet resilient past. As you enter the castle, you’ll walk up the grand staircase from 1749 and through the many exhibits showcasing centuries-old paintings, the State Corridor, the gorgeously decorated State Drawing Room, St. Patrick’s Hall, the Throne Room, and more.
St. Michan’s Church
Time Spent – 45 minutes
Why You Should Visit – It is one of Dublin’s oldest churches with history that span over 1,000 years and was originally established in 1096 to serve the Norse community. The main attraction here is that the church holds ancient, naturally mummified remains (due to the limestone walls and dry conditions) that lie in their open crypt underground. It’s also said that the crypts of this church inspired Bram Stoker, the author of Dracula. You can view these mummies as part of a guided tour but unfortunately, when we visited, we weren’t even able to enter the church as it was closed down due to vandalism of the crypts.
Jameson Distillery
Time Spent – 1 hour
Why You Should Visit – If you haven’t had enough at the Irish Whiskey Museum, you can also famous the renowned Jameson Distillery (or choose to visit one or the other). Here you can take a tour and learn about how Jameson whiskey is made, have whiskey tastings, or even join a cocktail-making class.
River Liffey
Time Spent – 30 minutes
Why You Should Visit – You’ll likely come across the River Liffey as it flows through the heart of Dublin and serves as a natural divide between the city’s north and south sides. Along the banks, you’ll find the iconic Ha’penny Bridge, which is a pedestrian bridge that dates back to 1816 and the Samuel Beckett Bridge, which was designed to resemble a harp, one of Ireland’s most iconic symbols. You’ll also get to enjoy views of other modern structures against the contrasting traditional cityscape.
Second Day In Dublin, Ireland – History, Landmarks, And Local Gems
On your second day in Dublin, for part of the day, you’ll venture beyond the city center to uncover historical landmarks and local treasures. To make the most of your itinerary, plan for transportation – whether renting a car, taking a taxi, or using public transit – to reach these must-visit sites.
Christ Church Cathedral (The Cathedral Of The Holy Trinity)
Time Spent – 30 to 45 minutes
Why You Should Visit – This magnificent church has been around for over 1,000 years and it is one of Dublin’s oldest and most historically significant buildings. It was founded in 1030 and the oldest medieval cathedral, showcasing a blend of Gothic and Romanesque architectural styles that leave visitors in awe. Inside, you’ll find the largest crypt in Ireland, which houses fascinating artifacts, including a mummified cat and rat famously nicknamed “Tom & Jerry.” You can also find medieval carvings in the crypt and even a rare copy of the Magna Carta.
St. Audoen’s Gate
Time Spent – 30 minutes
Why You Should Visit – One of the few remaining pieces of Dublin’s medieval city wall is found here and they provide free tours to teach you about the history of Dublin and the church here. This area was once the entrance to the medieval city and you can see the original 13th-century stone archway that formed part of the gate. It is also one of the oldest surviving parish churches in Dublin and has artifacts that include a 15th-century bell.
St. Patrick’s Cathedral
Time Spent – 1 hour
Why You Should Visit – One of Dublin’s most iconic landmarks, this is Ireland’s largest cathedral, which dates back to 1191. Its stunning Gothic architecture and vibrant stained-glass windows are absolutely worth seeing, and it’s also packed with over 800 years of history. It’s also where the author of Gulliver’s Travels, Jonathan Swift, is buried and there are plenty of exhibits that share the cathedral’s role in Ireland’s religious and political past.
Marsh’s Library
Time Spent – 30 minutes
Why You Should Visit – This library is a hidden gem and is one of the oldest public libraries in Ireland, dating back to 1707. This beautifully preserved 18th-century library allows you to step back in time with the thousands of antique books and manuscripts. Known for its rare collection of works in theology, science, and medicine, along with the “cages” where scholars were locked to ensure the precious books were protected while they worked. If you love history and books, this is the perfect place to visit during your trip to Dublin.
Guinness Storehouse
Time Spent – 1.5 to 2 hours
Why You Should Visit – Here you can dive into Ireland’s beer culture and learn about the fascinating history and meticulous brewing process behind Ireland’s world-famous Guinness beer through engaging exhibits spanning across 7 floors. Ending at the Gravity Bar, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of Dublin while enjoying a perfectly poured pint and maybe even learn the art of the perfect Guinness pour.
Kilmainham Golol
Time Spent – 1 to 1.5 hours
Why You Should Visit – This former prison played a significant role in Ireland’s struggle for independence as it housed many leaders in the Irish rebellion. Make sure to schedule a tour ahead of time so you can walk through the prison cells and hear the stories of famous prisoners and their critical role in shaping Irish history. It is a historical site, a place of remembrance and reflection on Ireland’s fight for freedom and social justice.
Phoenix Park
Time Spent – 1 to 2 hours
Why You Should Visit – If you’re looking for somewhere to wind down in the busy city of Dublin, Phoenix Park is one of the largest enclosed parks in Europe and it’s also home to the Dublin Zoo and other cultural sites with plenty of green spaces and herds of wild deer. It is a peaceful escape from the city hustle with beautiful landscapes and historic features as well.
Drimnagh Medieval Castle
Time Spent – 1 hour
Why You Should Visit – Another hidden gem in Dublin, this beautifully preserved Norman castle is the only moated castle left in Ireland and it is fed by a local river. It now serves as a heritage site in the middle of the city and you should book your guided tour ahead of time to get the opportunity to explore the castle and its beautiful gardens.
Scenic Day Trips Under A 2-Hour Drive Near Dublin, Ireland
Starting your Ireland journey in Dublin not only offers convenience but also sets the stage for scenic day trips that showcase Ireland’s stunning landscapes and rich history. From the city, you can easily access breathtaking destinations that allow you to experience the country’s enchanting landscapes, other major historical landmarks, quaint villages, and picturesque coastal views. Here are some of the most captivating sights just a short drive from Dublin!
Howth, County Dublin
Drive Time – 30 minutes
Time Spent – 4 hours or overnight stay by the water
Why You Should Visit – Despite being part of Dublin, it gives a completely different vibe as it’s a fishing village known for its coastal views and offers a more tranquil atmosphere than the city. Howth is part of the UNESCO Dublin Bay Biosphere and you can easily visit for a day or even opt to spend a night there to get the full coastal experience if you aren’t visiting other parts of Ireland on your trip. We actually stayed in Howth for 2 nights at the tail end of our trip at the King Sitric Seafood Bar & Accommodation and had an amazing time before we headed back home.
Best Things To Do – 1) Howth Cliff Walk – this scenic loop trail takes 2 hours to complete and offers breathtaking coastal views and panoramic vistas 2) Howth Castle – dating back to the 12th century, it is one of Ireland’s most historic homes the grounds and gardens are a lovely place to explore 3) St. Mary’s Abbey – this historic abbey dates back to the 14th century and you can walk through the ruins that are the last few remnants of Ireland’s monastic history 4) Howth Harbour – enjoy fresh seafood along the harbor as there are plenty of excellent spots to try fresh oysters, Dublin Bay prawns, and fish and chips and of course, visit the friendly seals that can be spotted near the docks 5) Howth Market – open on weekends, you can find handmade crafts, artisanal food, and unique souvenirs 6) Ireland’s Eye – take a short boat ride to this small island known for its seabird colonies and quiet beaches to enjoy nature and the views of Howth from the water
Glendalough, County Wicklow
Drive Time – About 1 hour
Time Spent – 3 to 4 hours
Why You Should Visit – Glendalough – meaning valley of the two lakes – has a historical and spiritual significance, and it is known for its stunning scenery and ancient Monastic Site nestled among the centuries-old gravestones with a spectacular backdrop of the mountains. The site dates back to the 6th century when St. Kevin founded a monastery here. The Round Tower, built around 1100 by monks, stands over 30 meters tall and is one of the best preserved in Ireland. It was used as a place of refuge during raids by the Vikings and to protect their valuables, as the door to the entrance was 6 to 20 feet above the base. In addition, there are easily accessible and scenic trails past the graveyard that leads to the Upper Lake and the viewpoint that overlooks it. Along the shores of the lake, you’ll find St. Kevin’s Bed, a small cave carved into the rock face where he was believed to have lived as a hermit in search of solitude. The park is also home to diverse wildlife, such as deer, rare bird species, otters, and more.
Powerscourt Estate And Gardens, County Wicklow
Drive Time – 45 minutes
Time Spent – 1.5 to 2 hours
Why You Should Visit – Known as one of Europe’s finest gardens, this 47-acre piece of land features terraced Italian gardens, Japanese-inspired areas, and sweeping views of the Wicklow Mountains, making it a luxurious escape into nature and elegance. The estate itself dates back to the 13th century and the Palladian-style mansion was built in the 18th century originally as a medieval castle and is known as an Irish architectural beauty. It is also home to Ireland’s largest pet cemetery, and Triton Lake is the centerpiece, which was inspired by the fountain at Piazza Barberini in Rome. Not to mention, the Powerscourt Distillery is located on-site and offers tours and tastings of its award-winning Irish whiskey. And just a short drive from the gardens is the Powerscourt Waterfall, which is also Ireland’s highest waterfall, standing 121 meters tall.
Newgrange And The Boyne Valley, County Meath
Drive Time – 45 minutes
Time Spent – 1.5 to 2 hours
Why You Should Visit – Newgrange, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the most remarkable ancient structures in the world, predating Egyptian pyramids and Stonehenge. Built over 5,000 years ago during the Neolithic or Stone Age, this burial site is known as a passage tomb and is famous for its winter solstice alignment. When the sunlight lights up the inner chamber for a few minutes at sunrise, the precise engineering of this phenomenon implies that this structure also has a significant spiritual or ceremonial function, rather than just a resting place for the dead. The site also has decorative art that was etched into the stone which offers a glimpse into ancient symbolism and artistry. Located in the Boyne Valley, there is also a rich landscape with other archaeological treasures like the ancient Knowth and Dowth tombs and Tara, the ancient sea of Ireland’s High Kings.
Kilkenny City And Castle, County Kilkenny
Drive Time – 1.5 hours
Time Spent – 3 to 4 hours or consider staying overnight for the nightlife
Why You Should Visit – Kilkenny is known as Ireland’s “Medieval Capital” and like most of Ireland, it is steeped in history and culture. It is known not only for the magnificent Kilkenny Castle, a beautifully restored 12th-century Norman fortress, but also for the vibrant arts scene beyond the castle amongst the narrow streets and historic buildings which gives it a perfect mix of history and contemporary culture.
Best Things To Do – 1) Medieval Mile – this street connects the city’s most historic sites including Black Abbey and St. Canice’s Cathedral, to the late 16th century Rothe House and Hole In The Wall tavern from 1582 and more 2) Smithwick’s Experience – for beer enthusiasts, this is the birthplace of the famous Smithwick’s Ale which has a history dating back to 1710 3) Dunmore Cave – a limestone cave that took millions of years to form with fascinating geological features and a Viking history 4) Kilfane Glen & Waterfall – a picturesque and romantic 18th-century garden with a 30-foot waterfall 5) Jerpoint Abbey – one of Ireland’s most complete Cistercian monasteries from the 12th-century with ruins and insights into medieval life
Rock of Cashel, County Tipperary
Drive Time – 1 hour and 45 minutes
Time Spent – 1.5 hours
Why You Should Visit – One of Ireland’s most famous historical sites, this ancient fortress is a masterpiece of Gothic and Romanesque architecture and sits on a limestone hilltop overlooking the city. It is also known as St. Patrick’s Rock and served as a traditional seat of the Kings of Munster before it was gifted to the Church in 1101. Inside, Cormac’s Chapel has one of Ireland’s oldest surviving frescoes so be sure to book ahead of time as there is limited entry here. At this fortress, you will also find a graveyard with Celtic tombstones and ancient crosses along with panoramic views of the Golden Vale, which is one of Ireland’s most picturesque landscapes.
Whether you’re soaking in the history of Dublin or exploring the breathtaking landscapes nearby, this itinerary promises a trip to remember.
If you want more details on Dublin, I saved my Dublin Instagram stories under Story Highlights – Ireland Part 1. Otherwise, follow my journey to Cobh, Cork County next!