Dublin

What are the most recommended things to do in Dublin?

  • Visit Trinity College and see the Book of Kells, an illuminated manuscript from the 9th century.
  • Explore Dublin Castle and its historic State Apartments.
  • Take a tour of the Guinness Storehouse and enjoy a pint at the Gravity Bar with panoramic city views.
  • Walk along the River Liffey and cross the iconic Ha’penny Bridge.
  • Visit St. Patrick’s Cathedral and Christ Church Cathedral.
  • Stroll around Temple Bar for pubs, live music, and nightlife.
  • Relax in St. Stephen’s Green or Phoenix Park.
  • Explore museums like the National Museum of Ireland and the Irish Museum of Modern Art.

Introducing Dublin

Dublin is the capital and largest city of the Republic of Ireland, and the political, economic, cultural, tourist, and transportation center of the country. It is located very close to the center of the east coast of the island of Ireland, at the mouth of the River Liffey in County Dublin, in the heart of the Dublin region.

Dublin expanded rapidly in the 17th century, becoming the second-largest city in the United Kingdom after London. Following Irish independence in 1922, Dublin became the capital of the Irish Free State, now the capital of the Republic of Ireland. Today, Dublin's urban area and satellite towns have grown significantly, with a city population of 1,345,402 and a metropolitan area population of 1,904,806 (2016).

Dublin, straddling the River Liffey, is a cultural capital. It boasts numerous universities, academies of science, and art galleries, with buildings dating back centuries. Many renowned writers, such as Yeats, Oscar Wilde, and George Bernard Shaw, were born and raised here. Dublin also boasts Europe's oldest library, and the Guinness Brewery in the southwest of the city is renowned for its stout.

Climate and best time to travel

March, May and June are the best months to travel to Dublin.

March marks Ireland's National Day each year, and during this time, you can witness numerous unique street performances, offering a truly immersive experience of Irish customs and culture. May and June are the sunniest months of the year, with an average of 5-7 hours of sunshine. At this time, Dublin's lawns are soft and lush, drenched in morning dew, creating a vibrant rural atmosphere. The shimmering waters of the river offer a unique experience, offering a unique perspective on the city from a boat.

Dublin is green year-round, and you can also enjoy the natural beauty of Ireland, the "Emerald Isle," during other seasons. Snow rarely falls in winter, but it does rain, which creates a gray, solemn, and awe-inspiring Dublin.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Trinity College Dublin

Ireland's oldest college, founded by Queen Elizabeth I, is a prestigious institution of higher learning, boasting numerous Nobel Prize winners. The college's buildings consist of two square courtyards, surrounded by ancient walls and stone-brick buildings. The cobbled paths, lush lawns, and towering clock tower create a campus that exudes both a rich cultural atmosphere and natural splendor.


Guinness Storehouse

Guinness is the Irish's favorite beer. This beer-themed exhibition hall spans eight floors, offering a detailed and engaging introduction to the history of Guinness, from the brewing process to the company's history and product displays. After the tour, visitors can learn how to brew their own stout. Enjoy complimentary beer while enjoying a 360-degree view of Dublin from the rooftop.


Phoenix Park

Europe's largest urban park and royal deer park, covering nearly 1,750 acres, boasts straight avenues, extensive lawns, and clusters of ancient trees. Its fresh air and breathtaking scenery make it a favorite destination for residents and tourists alike. Originally established in 1663 by the then-Governor, the Duke of Ormond, the park was intended to curry favor with the restored King Charles II and other prominent Dublin residents. Despite centuries of transformation, it retains the characteristics of a 17th-century deer park.

The deer are free-range and can be observed up close on the south side of the central avenue. This newly built park once became a luxurious place of enjoyment for kings, but later returned to the rule of the people and brought joy to tens of thousands of tourists.


Most Popular FAQs for Dublin

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Dublin, the capital of Ireland, dates back over 1,000 years. Founded by Vikings in the 9th century, it became a key medieval trade center and later the political and cultural heart of Ireland. Today, Dublin is known for its Georgian architecture, literary heritage with writers like James Joyce and Oscar Wilde, and its role in Ireland’s independence movement.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

  • Dublin is located on Ireland’s east coast, at the mouth of the River Liffey.
  • From Dublin Airport, you can reach the city center in 30 minutes by Aircoach or Dublin Bus 747/757.
  • Within the city, use Dublin Bus, Luas tram, or DART suburban trains. Taxis and walking are also convenient for short distances.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

  • Most attractions open from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
  • The best time to visit is from May to September when the weather is mild and festivals take place.
  • Early mornings and weekdays are less crowded for major sites.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

  • Many museums are free (e.g., National Museum of Ireland).
  • Guinness Storehouse: around €26, book online for discounts.
  • Book of Kells at Trinity College: around €18, available online or at the venue.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

For popular attractions like the Guinness Storehouse and Book of Kells, booking 1–2 days in advance is recommended, especially during summer or weekends.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Spend at least 2–3 days in Dublin to explore the main attractions, enjoy local culture, and experience its food and nightlife.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

  • Trinity College and the Book of Kells Exhibition
  • Guinness Storehouse Gravity Bar
  • Dublin Castle and Chester Beatty Library
  • Temple Bar cultural district
  • St. Patrick’s Cathedral

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Yes, most attractions offer guided or audio tours in English, French, German, Spanish, and Italian. Walking tours and literary pub crawls are also popular options.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

  • Gravity Bar at the Guinness Storehouse for panoramic views.
  • Ha’penny Bridge and River Liffey for iconic cityscapes.
  • St. Stephen’s Green and Phoenix Park for nature shots.
  • Dublin Castle Courtyard for historic architecture.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

  • Morning: Trinity College → Dublin Castle → St. Patrick’s Cathedral
  • Afternoon: Guinness Storehouse → Phoenix Park
  • Evening: Temple Bar for dinner and music

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Yes, Dublin offers evening ghost walks, whiskey tasting tours, and night pub crawls. Some landmarks like the Samuel Beckett Bridge are beautifully illuminated at night.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

  • Peak crowds occur in summer (June–August).
  • Visit in spring (April–May) or autumn (September–October) for fewer tourists.
  • Early mornings and weekdays are best for visiting popular sites.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Public facilities, cafes, souvenir shops, and rest areas are available near major attractions and parks.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Yes, Dublin’s major attractions are accessible, with ramps, elevators, and family-friendly services available.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cards and mobile payments are widely accepted, though small cash amounts are useful for buses and local markets.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

  • The Woollen Mills (Irish cuisine with modern twist)
  • Queen of Tarts (pastries and brunch)
  • The Church Café Bar (restaurant in a converted church)
  • Bewley’s Grafton Street Café (historic Dublin café)

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

  • Vegetarian: Cornucopia Wholefood Restaurant
  • Vegan: Blazing Salads, Veginity
  • Halal: Umi Falafel, Zaytoon (Middle Eastern cuisine)

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

  • The Shelbourne Hotel (luxury near St. Stephen’s Green)
  • Temple Bar Hotel (mid-range in nightlife district)
  • Generator Dublin (budget-friendly hostel)

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

  • Howth (coastal fishing village, 30 min by DART)
  • Malahide Castle and Gardens
  • Glendalough and Wicklow Mountains (1-hour drive)
  • Kilmainham Gaol (historic prison museum)

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

  • Typical souvenirs include Irish whiskey, Guinness merchandise, Aran knitwear, and Celtic jewelry.
  • Carrolls Irish Gifts and House of Ireland are popular souvenir stores.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

  • Use Heuston or Connolly Station for train travel to Galway, Cork, or Belfast.
  • Dublin Bus and Aircoach for airport connections.
  • Car rentals are available for exploring rural Ireland and scenic routes like the Wild Atlantic Way.