The capital of Ireland, Dublin is one of the most important cities in Europe’s history. Land of medieval castles, grand cathedrals, and spectacular museums – it is a mélange of art and culture, that charms every visitor.
This entirely walkable cosmopolitan city with an intriguing history, unique character, and opulent old-world architecture exudes a small-town vibe. With hundreds of bars overflowing with whiskey and live music, friendly locals are always ready to share with you a couple of stories and lots of laughs.
And even though Dublin has a lot to offer, we have compiled for you a list of 30 unmissable things to do in Dublin that answers “What to do in Dublin, Ireland?” in 30 different ways!
Here are the 30 best things to do in Dublin, Ireland:
Eat the famous Leo Burdock’s Fish & Chips
What’s a trip to Dublin without indulging in some traditional fish and chips? The legendary Leo Burdocks has been in this business since 1913 and has weathered two World Wars and the Easter Rising of 1916.
In fact, Leo Burdocks is so popular that many famous celebrities have visited their shops across Dublin over the years. Made using the freshest catch every single day, Leo Burdocks has served generations upon generation of Dubliners.
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Address: Multiple locations | Timing: The timings may have changed owing to the pandemic, please check the website https://www.leoburdock.com/ for the latest timings.
Choose from more than 400 Whiskies at Temple Bar
When in Dublin, do like the Dubliners do and immerse yourselves in Dublin’s nightlife at the Temple Bar! Drink a glass (or two, or more!) of Irish whiskey and sway to some great live music into the wee hours of the night.
During the day, experience the iconic Temple Bar neighborhood by exploring the food markets, art galleries, and shop for some vintage souvenirs.
By Svein-Magne Tunli, CC BY-SA 4.0, Link
Address: 47-48, Temple Bar, Dublin 2, D02 N725, Ireland | Timing: Temporarily closed for dine-in, For Deliveries & Takeaways:, Monday – Wednesday: 10:30 am to 01:30 am, Thursday – Saturday: 10:00 am to 02:30 am, Sunday: 11.30 am to 01:00 am Google Maps Location: https://goo.gl/maps/4oGqQJG1qWjNkDwo6 | Phone: +35316725286
Visit the Jameson Distillery Bow St.
When “What to do in Dublin” is the question, Jameson’s Irish whiskey is the answer!
Go on an informative and interactive 40-minute-long guided visit of the famous Jameson Distillery, makers of the finest and the best-selling Irish whiskey in the history of the world.
Oh, and did we mention? The tickets include tasting, where you can drink some fine Irish Jameson whiskey at the bar and compare it with bourbon and scotch.
By Hans-Peter Eckhardt, CC BY-SA 2.0 de, Link
Address: Bow St, Smithfield, Dublin 7, D07 N9VH, Ireland | Timing: The timings may have changed owing to the pandemic, please check the website https://www.jamesonwhiskey.com/ for the latest timings. | Google Maps Location: https://g.page/jameson-distillery-bow-st-?share | Phone: +35318072355
Take a tour of the Guinness Storehouse
Guinness Storehouse is one of the most interesting places to visit in Dublin. A visit to the now non-functional Guinness brewery gives you a deep insight into the making and history of the popular Guinness beer.
And at the end of your Guinness Storehouse visit, drink a perfectly chilled pint of Guinness (included in your ticket) at Gravity Bar on the rooftop with enthralling views of Dublin in distance.
Pro-Tip: Jump the queue by pre-booking your Guinness Storehouse tickets online.
Address: St. James’s Gate, Dublin 8, D08 VF8H, Ireland | Timing: The timings may have changed owing to the pandemic, please check the website https://www.guinness-storehouse.com/en for the latest timings. | Google Maps Location: https://g.page/guinnessstorehouse_d8?share | Phone: +35314084800
St. Patrick’s Cathedral
The Church of Ireland’s National Cathedral, St. Patrick’s Cathedral is one of the most popular Dublin attractions.
Dating back to the 1200s, the Cathedral is believed to be built where Saint Patrick himself baptized Christianity converts.
St. Patrick’s Cathedral is a medieval architectural marvel that attracts over five million visitors annually. The Lady Chapel is particularly stunning with its intricately designed high ceilings. You can either self-guide or join guided tours of the Cathedral being held throughout the day.
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By Tony Webster, CC BY 2.0, Link
Address: St Patrick’s Close, Dublin 8, A96 P599, Ireland | Timing: The timings may have changed owing to the pandemic, please check the website https://www.stpatrickscathedral.ie/ for the latest timings. | Google Maps Location: https://goo.gl/maps/9ywg6nNSXGamp68x6 | Phone: +35314539472
The Spire of Dublin
The Spire of Dublin, standing tall on O’Connell Street is a rather easy to spot monument. This unique stainless-steel structure was built as an elegant link between art and technology. It is 120 meters tall and has a base diameter of 3 meters, while the top is only 15 centimeters wide.
During the day sunlight glistens off its polished surface and during the nights, it is softly illuminated by the twinkling city lights. The top is lit with an in-built light and the Spire is aptly nicknamed the Monument of Light.
Address: O’Connell Street Upper, North City, Dublin, Ireland | Timing: 24/7 | Google Maps Location: https://goo.gl/maps/Hz9LH6KMhxGYZsVg8
Walk across 2 centuries old Ha’Penny Bridge
Built over the Liffey River and officially named the Wellington Bridge, it got nicknamed the Ha’Penny after the half a penny toll paid by locals to cross it. Over the next two centuries, the striking white picket-like structure became synonymous with the city and today it appears on several Dublin and Ireland souvenirs and memorabilia.
Walk across the historic pedestrian bridge, or better yet, get on a boat or go kayaking under the bridge, and witness a stunning sunset on the river.
By Katina Rogers, CC BY 2.0, Link
Address: Bachelors Walk, Temple Bar, Dublin, Ireland | Timing: 24/7 | Google Maps Location: https://goo.gl/maps/gu3xPkFi6Xbu9jbZ6
Make a stop at the historically important Dublin Castle
Built in the 1200s, the Dublin Castle, served as the British Empire’s stronghold for over 700 years. Its curtain walls have witnessed several important events in Ireland’s history.
The castle grounds that once formed a part of a Viking fortress, are also the site where the Irish independence treaty was signed in 1922.
Join a guided tour to get a deeper insight into the castle’s long and winding history.
By J.-H. Janßen, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link
Address: Dame St, Dublin 2, Ireland | Timing: The timings may have changed owing to the pandemic, please check the website https://www.dublincastle.ie/ for the latest timings. | Google Maps Location: https://goo.gl/maps/hLqGkT3Nv4RxobsU8 | Phone: +35316458800
Chester Beatty Library
Named after mining millionaire Sir Alfred Chester Beatty, the Chester Beatty Library is among the best museums in Europe. Sir Alfred donated his wide collection of artifacts from around the world to Ireland upon his passing in 1968, which is now housed at the Chester Beatty Library.
The collection itself is quite unique with rare books, Islamic and Christian religious scriptures, ancient clay tablets, Japanese paintings, and a lot more. What’s more, the Chester Beatty Library has free admission!
By Ken Eckert, CC BY-SA 4.0, Link
Address: Dublin Castle, Dublin 2, D02 AD92, Ireland | Timing: The timings may have changed owing to the pandemic, please check the website https://www.chesterbeatty.ie/ for the latest timings. | Google Maps Location: https://goo.gl/maps/XuDwRhxwpmtJuQ6m7 | Phone: +35314070750
EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum
At the Irish Emigration Museum, you can learn about the lives of millions of Irish Emigrants that became famous artists, scientists, poets, and even politicians and how they helped shape the world.
Explore the rich and diverse Irish history – music and dance to literature and culture – from an outside-in perspective through state-of-the-art motion-activated exhibits, interactive quizzes, and several audio and video recordings.
By Epicchq, CC BY-SA 4.0, Link
Address: The CHQ Building, Unit 32 /33, N Wall Quay, North Wall, Dublin 1, Ireland Timing: The timings may have changed owing to the pandemic, please check the website https://epicchq.com/ for the latest timings. Google Maps Location: https://g.page/epicmuseumchq?share | Phone: +35319060861
Watch a Grafton Street Busker in action
If you want to experience everyday Dublin in all its glory, make a beeline to the famous Grafton Street.
There’s something for everyone at Grafton Street – right from upscale shopping centers to more eclectic shops selling unique and quirky bits and baubles. But even if you’re not out to shop, some free entertainment from the popular buskers serenading passersby is guaranteed!
Address: 101-3 Grafton Street, Dublin, Ireland | Google Maps Location: https://goo.gl/maps/51Wthc3vHbpEFt1G9
The Book of Kells (Trinity College)
Every bibliophile’s dream, the Old Library at Dublin’s prestigious Trinity College is home to the Book of Kells – an ancient manuscript vividly illustrating the New Testament’s four gospels in brilliant vibrancy and impeccable calligraphy.
Founded in the late 1500s, the Trinity College is the alma mater of famous authors from Irish history such as Jonathan Swift and Oscar Wilde. Today, travelers from far and wide flock in to explore the Old Library, lush campus, and Gothic high halls of the college.
Address: Trinity College, College Green, Dublin 2, Ireland | Timing: 09:30 am to 05:00 pm | Google Maps Location: https://goo.gl/maps/M9eVnyW3X2rPBm5GA | Phone: +35318961000
Wicklow Mountains
If you are a nature lover, Wicklow should top your list of places to visit in Dublin. You can plan a multi-day wild camping trip at the greater Wicklow Mountains National Park and spend your days hiking up the several trails around your campsite.
But if raw wilderness is not your thing, visit the ruins of the ancient Glendalough monastery in the picturesque Glendalough Valley – views of the Irish countryside here are simply breathtaking!
By J.-H. Janßen CC BY-SA 3.0, Link
Address: Powerscourt Mountain, Co. Wicklow, Ireland | Timing: 24/7 | Google Maps Location: https://goo.gl/maps/ekACrX2nycc1dGrC8 | Phone: +35340445800
Kilmainham Gaol
The Kilmainham prison offers a peek into the devastatingly darker side of Irish history. One of the most interesting Dublin attractions, this abandoned prison was once a symbol of oppression where several Irish prisoners were inhumanely housed, mercilessly tortured, and executed.
The entry is only by means of guided tour tickets booked online that offer a deep insight into the prison’s history through several exhibits, and a short movie show at the Old Chapel.
By Velvet, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link
Address: Inchicore Rd, Kilmainham, Dublin 8, D08 RK28, Ireland | Timing: The timings may have changed owing to the pandemic, please check the website http://kilmainhamgaolmuseum.ie/ for the latest timings. | Google Maps Location: https://goo.gl/maps/kn8ejoqDxjUkCLsQ9 | Phone: +35314535984
Visit the movie famous Cliffs of Moher:
Located along the scenic Wild Atlantic Way, just a three-hour drive from Dublin, are the astounding Cliffs of Moher.
Witness the pristine beauty of 700 feet tall cliffs rising out of the ocean, waves thrashing against the rocks at the bottom and cold wind blowing up top. To say the Cliffs of Moher are dramatic would be an understatement. This legendary natural landmark is Ireland’s favorite visitor attraction and rightly so.
Address: Lislorkan North, Co. Clare, Ireland | Timing: The timings may have changed owing to the pandemic, please check the website https://www.cliffsofmoher.ie/ for the latest timings. Google Maps Location: https://goo.gl/maps/tmboNBrZGTCuXDcK9 | Phone: +353657086141
The very popular Dublin Zoo
Take a break from local sightseeing and visit the popular Dublin Zoo at Phoenix Park. One of the world’s oldest zoos and the largest in Ireland, it is home to over 400 animals from around the world including meerkats, okapis, giraffes, hippos, several species of monkeys, penguins, and the elusive snow leopards.
While on your way, you might also encounter the wild herd of deer grazing in the lush meadows of the Park!
By Aligatorek , CC BY-SA 3.0, Link
Address: Phoenix Park, Saint James’, Dublin 8, Ireland | Timing: The timings may have changed owing to the pandemic, please check the website https://www.dublinzoo.ie/ for the latest timings. | Google Maps Location: https://goo.gl/maps/q9vDRGLrd28PUyVSA | Phone: +35314748900
National Gallery of Ireland
National Gallery of Ireland houses over 16,000 artworks from world-renowned artists such as Picasso, Monet, Van Gogh, and Caravaggio, to name a few. Particularly noteworthy are the exhibits that showcase the paintings of famous Irish artists like Jack Butler Yeats and William Leech.
If you are an admirer of the arts, make sure to set aside half a day to fully enjoy everything the National Gallery of Ireland has to offer.
By Kaihsu Tai, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link
Address: Merrion Square W, Dublin 2, D02 K303, Ireland | Timing: The timings may have changed owing to the pandemic, please check the website https://www.nationalgallery.ie/ for the latest timings. | Google Maps Location: https://goo.gl/maps/DANCWZ6JAHfBopnf9 | Phone: +35316615133
Dublin Flea Market
The Dublin Flea Market has been running every Sunday, from April to September every year, since 2008 and is easily one of the most fun things to do in Dublin.
Every enthusiastic shopper’s paradise, this Flea Market is loved by visitors and the locals alike. It has everything from high-quality preloved collectibles to retro and vintage antiques such as vinyl records, rustic furniture, rare books, and fashionably quirky clothes.
Just put on your most comfortable shoes and prepare to have the time of your life!
Address: 12 Newmarket, The Liberties, Dublin 8, D08 P3Y2, Ireland | Timing: The timings may have changed owing to the pandemic, please check the website http://dublinflea.ie/ for the latest timings. | Google Maps Location: https://goo.gl/maps/Xu4TrmqqoGJ3oTB46
Croke Park – Home of Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA)
Discover Hurling – a thrilling Gaelic sport and Gaelic football at the home of Gaelic Athletic Association and the largest stadium in Ireland – the Croke Park.
But even if there are no ongoing tournaments, you can opt for a tour package and explore the stadium. Follow it up with a visit to the interactive museum for a lesson in the history of Gaelic sports and try your hand at them.
By Kristian Strobech , CC BY 2.0, Link
Address: Jones’ Rd, Drumcondra, Dublin 3, Ireland | Timing: The timings may have changed owing to the pandemic, please check the website https://crokepark.ie/ for the latest timings | Google Maps Location: https://goo.gl/maps/uMSy2xLFySMVRGwk8 | Phone: +35318192300
Glasnevin Cemetery Museum
A visit to the Glasnevin Cemetery and Museum is a fascinating, albeit offbeat, way to better understand the history of Ireland and its people.
The Glasnevin Cemetery has served as the burial grounds for many famous personalities from Irish history including poets, authors and, musicians, Irish independence warriors, and politicians. The museum at the cemetery tells the stories of how these prominent historical figures steered the course of Irish history through many interactive exhibits.
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By William Murphy, CC BY-SA 2.0, Link
Address: Finglas Rd, Glasnevin, Dublin, D11 H2TH, Ireland | Timing: The timings may have changed owing to the pandemic, please check the website https://www.glasnevinmuseum.ie/index.cfm for the latest timings. | Google Maps Location: https://goo.gl/maps/RBb4Km2b3u441pY7A | Phone: +35318826550
Tour the Dublin’s National Botanic Gardens
Dublin’s National Botanic Gardens hold international significance and are nature’s oases amidst the busy city.
Spend your day marveling at the flowers and getting lost in the verdant greenery of the gardens. And whether you are traveling alone or with family, you can book from the many guided excursions offered by the Gardens to learn more about the plants in their collection.
Glasnevin:
Address: Glasnevin, Dublin 9, D09 VY63, Ireland | Timing: Monday – Friday: 10:00 am to 05:00 pm, Saturday – Sunday: 10:00 am to 06:00 pm | Google Maps Location: https://goo.gl/maps/wB15JXw9sZ6XyHmT8 | Phone: +35318040300
Kilmacurragh:
Address: Kilmacurragh West, Kilmacurra East, Kilbride, Co. Wicklow, Ireland | Timing: 09:00 am to 05:00 pm | Google Maps Location: https://goo.gl/maps/GmJvncR45rCXktCAA | Phone: +35340448844
St. Stephen’s Green
Right at the heart of Dublin’s busy shopping district lies the lush green oasis that is St. Stephen’s Green. Loved by the locals, its long-standing history and Victorian layout are preserved with expansive gardens and shrubbery, beautiful sculptures, an ornamental lake, and waterfalls.
Take a leisurely stroll or pack a picnic, grab a book and spend a lazy day enjoying the free summertime concerts held in the garden.
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By Robert Linsdell, CC BY 2.0, Link
Address: St Stephen’s Green, Dublin 2, Ireland | Timing: Monday – Saturday: 07:30 am to dusk, Sunday & Bank Holidays: 09:30 am to dusk, Christmas Day: 09:30 am to 12.30 pm For exact visiting hours refer to https://heritageireland.ie/visit/places-to-visit/st-stephens-green/#place–opening | Google Maps Location: https://goo.gl/maps/z39af5asgQArkcnV8 | Phone: +35314757816
Abbey Theatre aka National Theatre of Ireland
Founded in 1904 by W. B. Yeats and Lady Augusta Gregory, the Abbey Theatre is known for shedding light on controversial but important subjects.
If you are wondering about what to see in Dublin, indulge in some top-notch theatrical drama with Ireland’s best playwrights being continuously showcased at the theatre or enjoy some exciting behind-the-scenes and backstage visits to the National Theatre and you will not be disappointed!
Address: 26/27 Abbey Street Lower, North City, Dublin 1, D01 K0F1, Ireland | Timing: Timings vary with plays and tours. For more details visit https://www.abbeytheatre.ie/ | Google Maps Location: https://goo.gl/maps/i1dvKnSEbur71dVq8 | Phone: +35318787222
Little Museum of Dublin
Dublin is a remarkable city with an equally remarkable history and the Little Museum of Dublin narrates that history remarkably!
Opened in 2011, it quickly became popular as the “best museum experience in Dublin”. Today, with over 5000 artifacts, the Little Museum chronicles the wave of change brought about by the last century in the lives and lifestyle of Dubliners.
Address: 15 St Stephen’s Green, Dublin 2, Ireland | Timing: The timings may have changed owing to the pandemic, please check the website https://www.littlemuseum.ie/ for the latest timings | Google Maps Location: https://goo.gl/maps/oc8HmXibYFdogaZM7 | Phone: +35316611000
Oscar Wilde Statue
Oscar Wilde is an integral part of the country’s literary history and his life-sized statue in Merrion Square is one of the most visited Dublin attractions.
The Oscar Wilde memorial is a three-part sculpture with the author himself perched on a rock from the Wicklow Mountains, his wife Constance to his right, and the torso of Dionysus, the God of Youth to his left.
Attention to detail in the sculptures is evident from the different stones used in carving different parts of the sculpture. The expressions on Oscar’s half-frowning and half-smiling face are representative of his deeply divided persona.
Address: Oscar Wilde Monument, Merrion Square, Dublin, Ireland | Timing: 24/7 | Google Maps Location: https://goo.gl/maps/aWvXzHDsC3hcFamx8
Teeling Whiskey Distillery
Given how the Irish (and the whole world, honestly) love their whiskey, it is hardly believable that in 2015, when the Teeling opened its gates, it was the first time in over 125 years a new distillery opened in Dublin!
Witness first-hand the craft of making fine Irish whiskies, followed by tasting some of the greatest whiskies from their range and some fantastic seasonal cocktail drinks at their chic bar.
By William Murphy, CC BY-SA 2.0, Link
Address: 13-17 Newmarket, The Liberties, Dublin 8, D08 KD91, Ireland | Timings: The timings may have changed owing to the pandemic, please check the website https://www.teelingwhiskey.com/ for the latest timings. | Google Maps Location: https://g.page/teelingwhiskeydistillery?share | Phone: +35315310888
St. Michan’s Church
Built in the late 1600s and a part of the Cathedral Group, this unique Victorian-era church is unlike any other church you’ll ever visit.
A guided tour of the Church will lead you to subterranean vaults where mummified bodies belonging to the who’s who of the 17th to 19th century Ireland are buried. Mummies of the famous rebel brothers Henry and John Sheares and Wolfe Tone’s death masks are unmissable curios here.
By Andreas F. Borchert, CC BY-SA 4.0, Link
Address: Church St, Arran Quay, Dublin 7, Ireland | Timing: The timings may have changed owing to the pandemic, please check the website http://www.cathedralgroupdublin.ie/ for the latest timings | Google Maps Location: https://goo.gl/maps/R5Gqj6xTozaCpYR28 | Phone: +35318724154
Go fishing at Howth
For a day trip away from the bustling city, head out to Howth, a quaint little coastal village on the northeastern coast of Ireland.
Spend a day out in the sun, fishing, and hiking at a coastal trail and gorge on some mouthwatering seafood at one of the many seafood restaurants dotting the village. Walk up to the scenic Howth cliff for magnificent views of the sea and if you’re lucky, you’ll also spot some seals!
The Howth market also sells beautiful handicrafts and vintage knickknacks that make for perfect Irish souvenirs.
By William Murphy, CC BY-SA 2.0, Link
Address: Howth, Dublin, Ireland | Google Maps Location: https://goo.gl/maps/bUse3bWzVeFPZkBx5
DoDublin Bus Tour
Explore Dublin in a quintessentially “touristy” way by going around the city with the best hop-on hop-off bus tour –DoDublin.
Visit the popular attractions and discover hidden gems around the city or take interesting day excursions with live commentary from some of the best guides in the city. Choose from the many available options as per your interests and embark on a fun-filled adventure!
Address: O’Connell Street Upper O’Connell Street Upper, North City, Dublin 1, D01 RX04, Ireland
Timing:Monday – Friday: 09:00 am to 05:30 pm, Saturday: 09:00 am to 02:00 pm, Sunday: 09:30 am to 02:00 pm Google Maps Location: https://g.page/DoDublinBusTours?share | Phone: +35318444265
Montpelier Hill aka Hell Fire Club
The Montpelier Hill looks like a sweet, idyllic escape from the hustle and bustle of the Dublin city center but the ruins of the Irish Hell Fire Club atop the mountain tell a different story.
If the bone-chilling, ghoulish tales of Satan worshippers with a side of panoramic views of Dublin in the distance pique your interest, make sure you add a day excursion to Montpelier Hill to your itinerary!
By Cqui, CC BY-SA 4.0, Link
Address: Montpelier, Co. Dublin, Ireland | Google Maps Location: https://goo.gl/maps/qYZS4WzuwEEHpD3z5
The next time your wanderlust takes over, plan an unforgettable trip to Dublin and witness the bygone medieval grandeur of the city. With a history as rich as the Irish, there are so many things to see in Dublin that even a month-long trip will hardly be enough!