The Ultimate Dublin Itinerary for First Time Visitors

Kick off your trip to Ireland by spending a few days in Dublin, Ireland’s capital city! Dublin offers a wide variety of things to do for any traveler. Plan your perfect Dublin itinerary with this Dublin travel guide.

If you want to explore Ireland’s literary history, soak in pub culture, shop, or even get outside, Dublin has something for you.

Two to three days in Dublin is the perfect amount of time to see the main attractions in the city, a few local gems, and even take a day trip! 

I used to tell people I didn’t like Dublin that much, but I just returned from a weekend there, and my opinion has changed dramatically! I saw a different side to Dublin on this trip and will share ways to get out of the tourist part of town.

In this post, I share the best things to do in Dublin so that you can create your own Dublin itinerary that reflects what you want to get out of your Dublin visit. 

This post contains affiliate links, which means that, at no additional cost to you, I will earn a tiny bit of income if you decide to make a purchase or booking.

 

Ireland travel resources

• Book your flight to Ireland with Skyscanner
• Get reliable travel insurance with World Nomads
• Find awesome accommodation with booking.com or Hostelworld
• Check out this awesome Galway Food Tour
• Must haves for your trip to Ireland: my favorite waterproof booties, this power bank to stay connected, and a reusable water bottle

This is the fourth post in the Ireland Travel Series. Here is the complete 6 part series:

Ireland Travel Series

Itinerary: Discover the Best of Ireland with this 7 Day Ireland Itinerary without a Car

Travel Tips: What Not To Do In Ireland: Avoid These Tourists Mistakes in Ireland

Packing Tips: The Only Ireland Packing List You Need for Any Season

Cliff Walks: A Day Trip from Dublin: The Bray to Greystones Walk

The Wild Atlantic Way: Top 3 Day Trips from Galway Ireland

The Best Time of Year to Visit Dublin

The best time to visit Dublin largely depends on your personal preferences. Each season offers its unique charm, and there’s always something exciting happening. Whether you’re drawn to summer’s warmth or winter’s coziness, Dublin welcomes visitors year-round.

Spring in Dublin: March to May

Spring is a magical time to visit Dublin. The days are getting longer, the temperatures are rising, and the city’s parks and gardens burst into life with colorful blooms.

Fun things to do in Dublin in the Spring

• St. Patrick’s Day Parade: Dublin’s most famous festival occurs on March 17th, featuring a vibrant parade, live music, and a festive atmosphere that’s unmatched. It’s a celebration of Irish culture you won’t want to miss.
• Dublin Zoo: Spring is the ideal time to visit the Dublin Zoo when animals are active, and the zoo’s lush vegetation is in full bloom.
• Phoenix Park: Explore Europe’s largest city park, Phoenix Park, as it becomes a sea of daffodils and other spring flowers. Rent a bike or take a leisurely stroll through this urban oasis.

Summer in Dublin: June to August

Dublin comes alive in the summer, with longer daylight hours and warmer temperatures. The city’s vibrant energy spills out onto the streets, offering a range of outdoor activities and cultural events. 

Summer is high tourist season for Dublin, so be prepared for higher accommodation prices and larger crowds.

Fun things to do in Dublin during the Summer

• Picnicking in St. Stephen’s Green: Grab some delicious Irish snacks and have a picnic in the heart of Dublin at St. Stephen’s Green. It’s a tranquil escape from the urban hustle and bustle.
• Dublin Port Riverfest: If you visit in early June, you can catch the Dublin Port Riverfest, featuring thrilling water sports, food markets, live music, and a stunning parade of boats.

Autumn in Dublin: September to November

As the leaves change color, Dublin takes on a cozy, romantic atmosphere in the autumn. This season offers a more relaxed pace for travelers who prefer cooler weather and fewer crowds.

Fun things to do in Dublin in the Fall

• Dublin Theatre Festival: In September and October, immerse yourself in Dublin’s rich theater scene with a diverse lineup of shows and performances.
• Dublin’s Literary Attractions: Discover the city’s literary heritage by visiting the Dublin Writers Museum the James Joyce Centre, and retracing the steps of famous authors like Oscar Wilde and W.B. Yeats.

Winter in Dublin: December to February

Dublin in winter is a delightful mix of festive cheer, historic charm, and cozy vibes. While temperatures may be brisk, the city shines with holiday lights and cultural events.

Fun things to do in Dublin during the Winter

• Christmas Markets: Explore Dublin’s Christmas markets, like the one in St. Stephen’s Green, for artisanal gifts, festive foods, and a warm holiday spirit.
• Temple Bar TradFest: Experience Ireland’s rich music traditions during the Temple Bar TradFest, where you can enjoy live folk and traditional music in intimate venues.
• Museums and Galleries: Escape the winter cold at one of Dublin’s cultural institutions, like the National Gallery and the Guinness Storehouse.

What to Pack for Dublin

Packing for a trip to Dublin requires balancing practicality and preparedness for the city’s ever-changing weather. While also looking cute! Here’s your essential Dublin packing guide to ensure you’re ready for any weather Dublin might throw your way while looking cute!

1. Layers, Layers, Layers: Dublin’s weather is as varied as its rich history. Even in summer, you might encounter a chilly evening. Pack light, breathable layers you can pile on or peel off as needed. Think versatile cardigans, scarves, and light jackets that can be mixed and matched. I like to pack at least one sweater that I can wear with various bottoms.

Dublin attire is casual. You can wear a nice pair of jeans to the pub for dinner or a night out. Throw on a cute overcoat like this one, and you’re good to go.

2. Rain Gear: The only thing predictable about Dublin weather is that you’ll encounter a rain shower or two. A sturdy, compact umbrella and a lightweight, waterproof jacket are essentials. Don’t forget waterproof footwear, too – comfortable. Waterproof boots are a Dublin essential, stylishly blending form and function. I love these boots! They’re so comfortable to walk around the city in and keep my feet warm and dry.

3. Comfortable Walking Shoes: Speaking of comfortable footwear, Dublin is a city meant to explore on foot. Bring comfortable, waterproof walking shoes that can withstand a day of wandering through historic streets and lush parks. Your feet will thank you.

4. Adapters and Chargers: Ensure you have the right adapters and chargers for your electronic devices. There’s nothing worse than a drained camera battery when trying to capture the beauty of Dublin’s landscapes or the energy of its festivals. Don’t forget a portable charger for when you’re out exploring and using your phone for navigation and photography.

5. A Compact Day Bag: Dublin’s attractions are best explored with your hands free. Pack a small, secure day bag to carry your essentials – camera, water bottle, umbrella, and rain jacket. 

6. Lightweight, Quick-Drying Fabrics: Regardless of the season, packing clothes made from lightweight, quick-drying fabrics is a smart choice. They’re easy to wash and dry overnight, ensuring you’re always ready for your next Dublin adventure, rain or shine.

7. Sunglasses and Sunscreen: A sunny day in Dublin is a dream! Remember to pack your sunglasses and good-quality sunscreen. I’ve been loving Peter Thomas Roth for my face recently. 

8. Reusable Water Bottle: Dublin’s tap water is safe to drink, so bring a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the day. Many cafes and restaurants are happy to refill your bottle, saving you money and reducing plastic waste.

9. A Sense of Adventure: Remember to pack your sense of adventure and curiosity. Dublin is a city that invites you to explore its hidden corners, engage with its friendly locals, and immerse yourself in its rich culture. Be open to new experiences, and you’re sure to have a memorable time.

How to Get from Dublin Airport to Dublin City Center

Getting to Dublin by Bus

The bus is the cheapest way to get to Dublin City Center from the Airport. Once you clear customs and gather your luggage, follow signs for buses, specifically the Dublin Express. You can purchase your ticket online or from the person working at the kiosk.

Simply tell them your destination, and they’ll tell you the closest bus stop. They may not know your exact accommodation, so have a general idea of where you need to get in the city, and they’ll get you there.

A single ticket costs €9, and a return costs €11.

Check routes and timetables here.

Purchase your ticket online here. 

Getting to Dublin by Taxi

If you prefer to take a taxi to the city center, follow the signs for taxi ranks, which can be found outside of Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. The taxi will cost between €25 and €30 and take approximately 35-45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

Find more information about airport taxis here. 

How to Get Around Dublin

There are multiple transportation options in and around Dublin.

Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour

A great way to see all of the exciting places in Dublin quickly is by purchasing a hop-on-hop-off bus ticket. This bus has stops within the city center that include the Guinness Storehouse, Temple Bar, and Trinity College, as well as attractions a bit further out, such as Kilmainham Gaol and Phoenix Park. 

You can combine this ticket with your airport bus transfer ticket. 

Get your hop-on-hop-off bus pass here.

Luas Lightrail

I love the Luas Lightrail! It gets you everywhere you need to go in Dublin when you’re tired of walking! Two tram lines, the Red and Green Line, make stops at St. Stephen’s Green, Trinity College, and others. The Luas also connects to Heuston, Busaras, and Connolly transit stations for trains and buses to other cities in Ireland.

DART

The third option for getting around Dublin County is the DART system. DART connects Dublin to smaller towns just outside the city center, like Howth and Bray. Both of which make excellent day trips from Dublin.

If you plan to rely on public transportation in and around Dublin, I suggest the Visitor Leap Card for unlimited rides for a specified time period.

Renting a Car in Dublin

If you’re planning to rent a car during your time in Ireland, do so after your two days in Dublin. Driving in the city is a challenge and you really don’t need a car until it’s time to leave. I recommend returning to the airport to pick up your rental car and continuing on your Ireland adventure.

Fun Things to Do in Dublin, Ireland

Now that we’ve got some of the logistics out of the way, let’s get into the best things to do in Dublin so you can start planning your Dublin Itinerary.

Visit the Book of Kells Exhibit & Trinity College

The first stop on your Dublin adventure is Trinity College, to visit the spectacular Book of Kells and the famous Old Library’s Long Room. The Book of Kells is an ancient religious text with intricate designs preserved over the centuries. 

Leading up to witnessing the book with your own eyes is an exceptionally well-done exhibit that details the design and construction of the Book as well as its role in Irish history.

After the Book of Kells, the tour continues into Trinity College’s Old Library’s Long Room. Here, you’ll find thousands of books filling the shelves of this two-story room. The bust of a famous author bookends each aisle, and in the middle of the room, you’ll also discover Ireland’s oldest harp.

A fun fact about this library section is that students and scholars can still check these books out! I’m not sure they can leave the library with them. They probably just have to take them to a specific reading room and peruse with white gloves. But still – that’s cool. I’d do it just to say I did it!

Pro Tip: This is a top-rated attraction in Dublin, so plan ahead. In high tourist season, book your tickets online to skip the line. Additionally, consider visiting first thing in the morning as the tickets are cheaper and likely less busy as other people are still nursing hangovers.

Learn about Ireland’s Religious History at St. Patrick’s Cathedral

St. Patrick’s Cathedral plays a central role in the history of Ireland and has served as a site for religious and political needs throughout the centuries. The grounds outside are beautiful to walk through. You can pay a small fee to enter the church as well. A tour is included in the price of admission if you wish to take one. Or you can walk through at your own pace. 

Have a Pint at Guinness Storehouse

The Guinness Storehouse is a fun way to acquaint yourself with another facet of Ireland’s history. The self-guided tour walks you through the history of Guinness the brewing process, and allows you to taste it along the way. 

The tour includes a pint at the rooftop Gravity Bar with panoramic views of Dublin. 

This is definitely a touristy thing to do, but it’s also a fun way to kick off your trip to Dublin. And yes, as someone who hated Guinness until my sip at the Storehouse, it definitely tastes better in Ireland.

Pro Tip: I recommend purchasing a ticket in advance online. This is a very popular attraction, and a line of tourists will be waiting to get in. Who wants to spend time waiting in line during their two days in Dublin?!

Pass them by with your pre-purchased ticket.

Say Hi to Molly Malone

Across the street from O’Neill’s is the Molly Malone statue with her cockles and mussels made for the famous song “Dublin’s Fair City” which became Dublin’s unofficial anthem. 

Visit a Museum

Acquaint yourself with various aspects of Irish history and culture by spending an afternoon in one of Dublin’s museums. Here are some must-visit museums that offer unique insights into the country’s art, history, emigration, and the famed Irish whiskey tradition.

National Gallery of Ireland: The National Gallery is a haven for art enthusiasts, featuring an impressive collection of European and Irish masterpieces, including works by renowned artists like Jack B. Yeats and Caravaggio. The elegant building is a work of art, making it a must-visit for art connoisseurs and casual admirers.

Book your entrance ticket here.

EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum: Dive into the history of the Irish diaspora at The Irish Emigration Museum. This immersive experience tells the compelling stories of the millions of Irish men and women who left their homeland searching for new opportunities and a brighter future.

Book your entrance ticket here.

Irish Whiskey Museum: Ireland is synonymous with whiskey, and the Irish Whiskey Museum pays homage to this beloved spirit. Learn about the history, production, and tasting of Irish whiskey through engaging and interactive exhibits. The tour often concludes with a tasting, providing a delightful and educational experience for whiskey enthusiasts and novices alike.

Book your entrance ticket here.

The Little Museum of Dublin: The Little Museum of Dublin offers an intimate and quirky exploration of the city’s history. It’s a treasure trove of Dublin’s past, showcasing an array of fascinating artifacts and personal stories donated by Dubliners. This charming museum offers a unique perspective on the city’s evolution and character.

Book your entrance ticket here.

Sample Whiskey at a Whiskey Tasting

If you want to do a bit more drinking or beef up your knowledge of whiskey, then check out the Jameson or Teeling Distillery Tours. I’ve done the Jameson tour and quite enjoyed the tour and cocktail at the end. That’s how I learned about Jameson and ginger ale. Teeling is next on my Dublin bucket list. 

Book your Jameson Distillery tour here.

Book your Teeling Distillery tour here.

Take a Day Trip

I can not recommend enough using one of your days in Dublin to take a day trip to a charming coastal village. These three excellent day trip destinations are an easy DART ride from Dublin city center.

Howth: Howth is a small fishing village about 30 minutes outside Dublin city center via DART. The main attraction is the Howth Cliff Walk, which includes stunning views of the Irish Sea, Ireland’s Eye, and Bailey’s Lighthouse. Before or after the cliff walk, explore the charming fishing village with several delicious seafood spots.

Malahide: Also 30 minutes north of Dublin is Malahide. You could actually combine a visit to both Howth and Malahide on the same day if you get an early start and feel particularly ambitious. The main attraction in Malahide is Malahide Castle and Gardens, which you can pay for a guided tour of. Alternatively, explore the picturesque streets of town and enjoy a leisurely stroll along the beach. If you’re feeling brave – go for a swim!

Bray: The train ride from Dublin to Bray is one of the most beautiful train rides as it travels along the coast, offering sea views for almost the entire 45-minute journey. Once in Bray, Enjoy a leisurely walk along the scenic Bray Promenade or Satisfy your hunger with fish and chips at one of the local seafood shacks. My favorite thing to do in Bray is the Bray to Greystones cliff walk, which winds along the cliffside and offers spectacular sea views. You can hop on DART from Greystones back to Dublin.

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Visit One of Dublin’s Parks

Dublin’s parks are a great place to escape the business of the city and get a taste of Ireland’s lush landscapes.

St. Stephen’s Green: A beautiful park located at the top of Grafton Street for a quick respite from the bustle of Dublin. It’s nice to stroll through here on a sunny Irish day or in the Fall as the leaves begin to change.  

Merrion Square Park:  Merrion Square is a lovely area for a stroll. Perhaps that’s why Oscar Wilde lived here (check out the statue of him near one of the park’s entrances). The Georgian buildings surrounding the square are the main draw here for me. I love the architecture and colorful doors! Side Note: My 6-year-old nephew loves the park here. He wanted me to include that 🙂.

Phoenix Park: Phoenix Park is the biggest park in Dublin and one of the largest walled parks in Europe at 1750 acres! It’s quite an undertaking to visit in a short amount of time in Dublin, but if you can check out a corner of this sprawling urban park, do so! 

Tour Kilmainham Gaol

Kilmainham Gaol played a significant role in Irish history, particularly during the struggle for independence in the 19th and early 20th centuries. It is now a museum and a prominent heritage site that provides visitors with a fascinating and poignant glimpse into Ireland’s past. Your ticket includes a tour that offers insight into the harsh conditions endured by prisoners and the events that unfolded within its walls.

I haven’t visited this former jail myself, as each time I try to get tickets, they’re sold out! However, I have heard nothing but good things about people’s experiences here. 

Visiting the jail is one of the most popular attractions in Dublin, so it sells out. I haven’t been able to secure a ticket yet! Book it in advance if this is on your Dublin bucket list.

Book your Kilmainham Gaol tickets here.

Enjoy Drinks in the Temple Bar District

Temple Bar is a very touristy part of Dublin. Its cobblestoned streets are lined with pubs with live music each night. You can definitely pop into any of them and have a good time. It’s kind of a rite of passage for your first trip to Dublin.

However, there are a few other pubs to check out that I’ll mention below.

Where to Eat & Drink in Dublin

Many people think Irish cuisine is just meat and potatoes. And while, that is true, Dublin restaurants offer a wide variety of Irish and international cuisines. Here are a few recommendations for great places to eat and drink in Dublin.

Where to Have Breakfast or Lunch in Dublin

RoCo Cafe: Depending on where you decide to stay in Dublin – you’re likely close to a delicious cafe to start your morning off right. And RoCo is one of them. RoCo is located near Christ Church Cathedral, Dublin Castle, and Trinity College, making it the perfect spot for a light breakfast. They have a wide selection of breakfast pastries and sandwiches, including vegan and gluten-free options.

Plus, their matcha is legit!

Bread41: Bread41 is a popular bakery that offers brunch Wednesday through Sunday in their upstairs eatery. I happened to be in town Sunday through Tuesday, so I couldn’t sample the brunch menu, although it looks delicious. Alternatively, the bakery downstairs is open 7 days a week and makes delicious sweet and savory treats to get your day started! They also have a coffee and tea bar to help with any hangover you may be nursing. 

Laine, My Love: This little cafe was around the corner from my hostel, so I popped in for breakfast before hopping on the train at Connolly Station for a day trip to Malahide. Laine, My Love has a solid breakfast and lunch menu, including a traditional Irish breakfast. I opted for the avocado toast and a cup of tea. If you’re in the area, I highly recommend it!

Cornucopia: I stumbled upon Cornucopia when I needed sustenance after a morning of shopping. This is a vegan restaurant that is cafeteria-style. You order at the counter and take your food to your table. They have a variety of drinks on offer as well, including a great matcha latte. If you’re in need of a lighter, healthier meal, this is a great spot. Their sweet potato soup is 10/10!

Where to Have Dinner in Dublin

The Old Spot: If I could only recommend one place to eat in Dublin for dinner, it would be The Old Spot, especially on Sundays, for their roast. The food is incredible, the ambiance is perfectly cozy, and the staff is incredibly friendly. If you go, grab a seat at the bar and order the roast beef (it sells out, so get it fast!). Ask for Darragh, the bartender! 

Brazen Head: One of Dublin’s best places for drinks and dinner is at Dublin’s oldest pub, the Brazen Head. As you walk through the many rooms of the Brazen Head, you’ll find centuries-old photos and memorabilia, police officer badges from around the world, and dollar bills in various currencies. 

They have an excellent traditional Irish food menu and even better traditional Irish music. Depending on the night you go, you may hear trad, pub rock sing-alongs, or storytelling. You may walk in alone, but you’ll leave with a few friends and stories to tell.

Fish Shop: The Fish Shop is a cozy and cute restaurant in the Smithfield neighborhood is a great place to sample fish and chips. You need a reservation as it is a tiny space, or you can get it to go. As someone who generally finds fish and chips heavy, this one was light, fluffy, and freakin’ delicious.

Where to Drink in Dublin

Once you’ve done your thing in Temple Bar, it’s time to check out some other pubs, perhaps more traditional Irish pubs in Dublin.

The Cobblestone: Every night of the week, you’ll hear music at The Cobblestone. The crowd here is a 50/50 mix of locals and tourists, but the vibes are perfect. You can grab a seat at the bar to be close to the music or head around the back for a table if you want to have a conversation. 

Walsh’s: Just up the road from the Cobblestone is Walsh’s. This pub was recommended to me by a few locals at the Old Spot the night before. Walsh’s was quiet on a Monday night but still had live music and was 90% local. The bartenders were friendly, and the people I chatted with while sipping my Guinness were incredibly charming.

The Celt: Again, I stumbled The Celt on my way home from the Smithfield area as it was around the corner from my hostel. The music was blaring from the speakers outside. Naturally, I had to check it out. Inside was a large but cozy pub with a musician in the corner playing traditional Irish pub rock and sing-a-long songs. A large room in the back is quieter if the music is too loud for you. This pub lends to having a good time with a good mix of people!

Where to Stay in Dublin

If you’re wondering where to stay in Dublin, this section is for you! One lovely thing about Dublin is it’s a relatively compact city, so no matter which neighborhood you choose as your base, you’re just a short walk or Luas ride away from the city’s attractions.

Budget Accommodation in Dublin

Jacobs Inn Hostel: Jacobs Inn Hostel is a vibrant and budget-friendly option, offering comfortable dormitory-style and private rooms, a lively atmosphere, and modern facilities in the heart of Dublin, just steps from Connolly Station.

Check rates and availability here.

Generator Hostel: The Generator Hostel is another budget-friendly option with a modern, trendy design. It features comfortable dormitories and private rooms, an on-site bar, and a relaxed communal space. The Smithfield location offers easy access to the Jameson Distillery and Dublin’s vibrant nightlife. Plus, it’s just across the River Liffey to many of Dublin’s best things to do.

Check rates and availability here.

Mid Range Accommodation in Dublin

Sonder: Sonder offers stylish, mid-range suites in Dublin, with contemporary design and a central location near key attractions like Temple Bar and Trinity College. Multiple locations throughout the city will suit what you need, no matter how long you stay there. 

Check rates and availability here.

The Morrison Doubletree by Hilton: Use those Hilton points, baby!! The Morrison offers a chic and contemporary experience with comfortable rooms, an excellent restaurant, and a beautiful riverside location. It’s close to Temple Bar, Trinity College, and many of Dublin’s cultural attractions.

Check rates and availability here.

Luxury Accommodation in Dublin

Wren Urban Nest: The Wren is a luxury boutique hotel in Dublin that features elegantly designed rooms, a central city center location, and personalized service. A restaurant and bar are on-site, right in the heart of Dublin. The hotel offers a sophisticated yet intimate atmosphere, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a high-end experience in the heart of Dublin, with top-notch amenities and a focus on guest comfort and satisfaction.

Check rates and availability here.

The Shelbourne Autograph Collection: ​​The Shelbourne is a historic and opulent luxury hotel offering lavish rooms and suites with views of St. Stephen’s Green. It boasts a range of dining options, a renowned afternoon tea service, and a central location for easy access to Dublin’s cultural and shopping districts.

Check rates and availability here.

Now that you’ve spent 2 days in Dublin, it’s time to get outside the city and discover other beautiful places in Ireland. I highly suggest going west to discover Galway, my favorite Irish city. Or you could head south to Killarney to explore the National Park. Perhaps head North and discover the Game of Thrones filming locations on the Giants Causeway. 

With this Dublin travel guide, you’re well prepared to fully enjoy everything this remarkable city offers. Sláinte (cheers) to your upcoming Dublin adventure!