Dublin is one of those cities that feels like home the moment you arrive. It’s walkable, welcoming, and full of stories – some historic, some hilarious, and many told over a perfectly poured pint. Whether it’s your first visit or your fifth, Dublin always manages to surprise you.
If you’re planning a trip and wondering what’s truly worth your time (and your euros), here are my top ten things to do in Dublin, with a good mix of must-see sights and “this is why I love this city” moments.
1. Wander Around Temple Bar (Yes, Really)
Let’s address the elephant in the room: Temple Bar is touristy. And yes, the pints are pricier. But it’s also colorful, lively, and full of that classic Dublin buzz, especially during the day.
Go early, wander the cobblestone streets, pop into the quirky shops, and snap a few photos before the crowds really roll in. If you want the atmosphere without the chaos, daytime Temple Bar is the sweet spot.
2. Visit Trinity College & See the Book of Kells
This one lives up to the hype. Trinity College is stunning, and walking through its historic grounds feels like stepping into another era.
The real showstopper is the Long Room Library, home to the Book of Kells. Even if medieval manuscripts aren’t normally your thing, the room itself, with its towering shelves and ladders, is breathtaking. It’s one of those “wow” moments you’ll remember long after the trip.
3. Tour the Guinness Storehouse
You can’t go to Dublin and skip Guinness – it’s practically the law!
The Guinness Storehouse is more than just a brewery tour; it’s an interactive experience that walks you through the history, culture, and craft behind Ireland’s most famous export. The highlight? A pint at the Gravity Bar, where the views over Dublin are nearly as good as the beer itself.
Guinness really does taste better in Ireland, and I have absolutely no clue why; it just does!
4. Stroll Through St. Stephen’s Green
Right in the heart of the city, St. Stephen’s Green is a peaceful escape when you need a break from sightseeing, or shopping, or pubs!
Grab a coffee, find a bench, and watch the world go by. Locals walk their dogs, musicians play in the background, and somehow the noise of the city just melts away. It’s a perfect reset button during a busy day.
5. Explore Dublin Castle & Chester Beatty Library
Dublin Castle has played many roles over the centuries, and touring it gives you a deeper understanding of Ireland’s complex history.
Don’t skip the Chester Beatty Library, tucked away within the castle grounds. It’s often overlooked, which is a shame, since it’s free and filled with fascinating manuscripts, art, and artifacts from around the world. A hidden gem if there ever was one.
6. Cross the Ha’penny Bridge
It may be small, but the Ha’penny Bridge is one of Dublin’s most iconic sights.
Take a stroll across the River Liffey, pause for a photo, and enjoy the view of the city from the water. On a side note, when I was in my early 20s, my best friend and I went backpacking and ended up in Dublin. Whilst crossing the Ha’penny Bridge on our way to find our youth hostel, a bird decided to do its business, landing directly on her shoulder! But since then, she has had fabulous luck!
7. Spend an Evening in a Traditional Pub
This isn’t about pub-hopping until midnight (unless that’s your thing). It’s about finding a cozy pub with live traditional music, settling in, and soaking up the atmosphere.
Look for places where the music feels spontaneous and locals outnumber tourists. Order a pint or a whiskey, strike up a conversation, and let the evening unfold naturally. Some of my favorite travel memories have started this way.
8. Walk Along the River Liffey
Following the River Liffey is a great way to get your bearings and see different sides of the city.
The walk offers a mix of historic buildings, modern architecture, street performers, and everyday Dublin life. It’s easy, scenic, and perfect if you want to explore without a strict plan.
9. Take a Day Trip to Howth
If you have the time, hop on the DART train and head to Howth, a charming seaside village just outside Dublin.
You’ll find fresh seafood, coastal walks with jaw-dropping views, and that salty sea air that makes everything feel better. It’s an easy escape from the city and one of my favorite add-ons to any Dublin trip.
10. Just Walk (Seriously)
One of the best things to do in Dublin doesn’t require a ticket or a plan: just walk.
Get a little lost. Wander down side streets. Pop into shops that catch your eye. Dublin is a city where the magic often happens in the in-between moments – the unexpected conversation, the street musician you stop to listen to, the café you stumble upon and end up loving. In my opinion, Dublin is one of the most walkable cities in the world, and sometimes there’s no better way to immerse yourself in the culture of a city than by simply strolling around!
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