Top 21 Experiences in Dublin

Although it ranks among the smallest capital cities globally, Dublin compensates for its size with a rich variety of activities. As you wander through its streets, you’ll encounter stunning cathedrals, eerie spots, historical museums, lush urban parks, and, of course, lively pubs with an exciting live music scene. There’s a plethora of enjoyable things to do in Dublin—all you need to do is explore.

What are Dublin's must-do activities?

While many online lists suggest that the best experiences in Dublin lie off the beaten path and away from major attractions, we believe that the popular Dublin landmarks are beloved for a reason. Visiting them is essential to truly understanding Ireland’s capital.

The key is to balance the lively spots with the serene ones. In this guide, we’ve blended the essential sights with some of our personal favorites—the markets, museums, parks, and pubs that give Dublin its unique charm. Looking for a comprehensive overview of Ireland’s capital? Check out our Dublin City Guide.

1. Discover Jonathan Swift at St. Patrick’s Cathedral

Dublin boasts two renowned cathedrals within walking distance of each other. We’ll delve into Christ Church Cathedral later, but our first stop is the larger one, St. Patrick’s Cathedral.

Built in 1260, the celebrated writer and poet Jonathan Swift served as dean of the cathedral for over 30 years and is interred there. During his time as Dean, he penned some of his most notable works, including Gulliver’s Travels. The best way to delve into its history is to join a free guided tour. Inquire at the front desk upon arrival to catch the next tour.

2. Recharge at the Tram Café in St. Patrick’s Park

Head to the charming Tram Café located in St. Patrick’s Park. Enjoy a cup of coffee and a slice of homemade cake, then relax on one of the benches to recharge after your visit to the cathedral. A stroll through the cathedral’s beautifully maintained grounds, flowerbeds, and central fountain will allow you to appreciate its architectural grandeur.

3. View the Book of Kells at Trinity College

Ireland’s premier university is also one of its most stunning, featuring a maze of cobbled streets and historic architecture right in the heart of Dublin. Among its many treasures, the Long Room in the Old Library stands out as the main attraction.

Its beautifully crafted wooden barrel-vaulted ceiling, adorned with marble representations of notable philosophers and writers, is one of Dublin’s most photographed spots.

Trinity College also houses the renowned Book of Kells. This remarkable illuminated Gospel manuscript, spanning over 680 pages, dates back to the 9th century and is celebrated worldwide. You can reserve a specialized Book of Kells guided tour online, often with ample availability on short notice.

4. Embrace your inner Viking at Dublin Castle

Established on the grounds of an ancient Viking settlement around 1200 AD, Dublin Castle served as the center of British governance in Ireland until 1922. Both self-guided and guided tours allow you to explore every area of the castle, from the underground Viking defenses to the beautiful Dubh Linn gardens on the premises.

Be sure to check the vibrant event calendar, featuring everything from exhibitions to concerts, before your visit. If you feel hungry, head over to the Chester Beatty Museum (a delightful destination in its own right), where the fantastic Silk Road Café serves delicious Middle Eastern dishes.

5. Discover why Temple Bar is thriving once more

Once tarnished by its reputation as a hotspot for stag and bachelorette parties, the Temple Bar area has undergone a transformation. Today, this collection of cobbled pedestrian streets along the river is filled with lovely fringe boutiques, unique cafés, and eclectic bars and pubs.

Join the artist collective Icon Factory on their open-air Icon Walk, dubbed “the greatest story ever strolled,” to discover Ireland’s legendary figures. Don’t miss the fantastic Project Arts Centre, and afterwards, enjoy a drink at the historic Palace Bar or the chic Vintage Cocktail Club (make sure to reserve a table for the latter).

Dinogo top tip: the southern end of Temple Bar (heading toward Cow’s Lane) features some lovely, less touristy independent shops and cafés. Our top picks include the contemporary menswear shop Indigo & Cloth, known for its great coffee, and Scout, which offers stylish womenswear and unique gifts.

6. Savor a true pint of Guinness at the Guinness Storehouse

If there’s one must-do experience in Dublin, it’s enjoying a pint of expertly poured Guinness. The best place to do this is at the Guinness Storehouse. In 1759, Arthur Guinness signed a lease for the St. James’s Gate Brewery in the heart of Dublin, creating the brew that has come to symbolize Ireland.

Today, the brewhouse is consistently one of Ireland’s top tourist attractions, with tours that narrate its history, brewing process, and significance in Irish culture. On the seventh floor, you’ll discover the 360-degree Gravity Bar, where you can enjoy a pint of Guinness and raise a glass to Arthur for all he’s contributed to the drinking community of Ireland and beyond.

7. Experience modern art at the Irish Museum of Modern Art

The Irish Museum of Modern Art, or ‘IMMA’, is a prominent institution featuring an ambitious program located within the historic Royal Hospital Kilmainham. IMMA showcases a range of commissions, exhibitions, and projects by leading artists from Ireland and around the globe.

The National Collection boasts over 3,500 artworks, displayed not only within the former 17th-century hospital but also throughout its beautiful grounds. Please note that the museum is closed on Sundays.

8. Discover Ireland’s tumultuous history at Kilmainham Gaol

Close to IMMA lies another remarkable Dublin site: Kilmainham Gaol. Stark, haunting, and strangely beautiful, this prison, built in 1796, has played a significant role in Ireland’s struggle for independence from British rule.

The captivating guided tours vividly recount the story of Irish nationalism through the experiences and belongings of its many inmates, spanning from the 1798 rebellion to the 1916 Easter Rising, where many of the leaders were executed within these walls.

Open throughout the year, be sure to book your ticket in advance, as entry is available only via guided tour.

9. Enjoy a day at Phoenix Park

As one of Europe’s largest urban parks, Phoenix Park offers 709 hectares of natural beauty and is one of the best places to spend a day in Dublin. It attracts local dog walkers and picnickers, is home to a herd of wild fallow deer, features Dublin Zoo, and houses the Irish President’s official residence at Áras an Uachtaráin.

Open 24/7 all year round, the park also hosts various events and exhibitions, so be sure to check its event calendar to find out what’s happening.

10. Embrace creativity at the Little Museum of Dublin

Housed in a Georgian townhouse adjacent to St. Stephen’s Green, the Little Museum of Dublin demonstrates that size truly matters. The smaller, the better. Charming and incredibly engaging, it explores Dublin’s history through surprising and entertaining exhibits.

Along your journey, you’ll encounter everything from the letter that sparked the Irish Civil War to a dedicated room for U2. The variety of tours is equally imaginative and captivating. The Big Little Treasure Hunt will guide you through St. Stephen’s Green, while the After Hours Tour spices things up with wine and cheeky humor.

11. Satisfy your thirst with a Dublin pub crawl

Dublin has a rich history with alcohol, and its pubs serve as the vibrant heartbeat and social core of the city. With over 1,000 pubs scattered throughout its streets, there are countless options to explore beyond the popular Temple Bar area.

If you’re unsure about navigating a self-guided tour, the Dublin Literary Pub Crawl infuses some culture into your drinking experience. This unique form of street theater features actors who traverse Dublin’s iconic bars, reciting quotes from literary giants like James Joyce and Oscar Wilde along the way.

Dinogo top tip: If pints aren’t your preference, Dublin offers a variety of wine bars to choose from. Some of our favorites include Franks Natural Wine Bar, Loose Cannon, and the wine cellar at Fallon & Byrne.

12. Explore the Old Jameson Bow Street Distillery

This is the very location where John Jameson established his renowned whiskey in 1780. Today, the Old Jameson Bow Street Distillery stands as a tribute to Irish Whiskey.

A variety of tours guide you through the distillation process, concluding with an opportunity to enjoy a whiskey-tasting session. You can even customize and fill your own bottle straight from the barrel. If you're still craving more, the Irish Whiskey Museum on Grafton Street offers additional tours and tastings.

13. Marvel at the grandeur of Christ Church Cathedral

The magnificent 12th-century Christ Church Cathedral is nestled in the heart of Medieval Dublin. Featuring stunning flying buttresses, vaulted ceilings, a Medieval tiled floor, and a lovely bridge connecting to Dublinia, it’s one of the most breathtaking sights in Dublin.

Join a tour of the nave and crypt, and keep an eye out for treasures like the rare edition of the Magna Carta and the mummified rat and cat (yes, really).

14. Plan a day trip to Dún Laoghaire

The coastal suburb of Dún Laoghaire is a beloved destination in Dublin’s south, easily accessible via the DART rail line. Walk along the East Pier and grab some locally sourced fish and chips for the full experience (watch out for the seagulls!). Finish off your meal with a 99 from Teddy’s, a local favorite since the 1950s.

While you’re there, make sure to visit the National Maritime Museum located in a 19th-century sailors' church. If you’re feeling adventurous, stop by the nearby James Joyce Tower before dipping your toes in at the Forty Foot.

15. Experience a wild swim at the Forty Foot

This rocky outcrop and swimming area at the southern end of Dublin Bay has been a favorite spot for adventurous locals since the 18th century. Although the origin of its name is unclear, the allure of the Forty Foot is unmistakable. Historic, untamed, and breathtaking, it attracts swimmers to its frigid waters throughout the year.

Once an exclusive spot for men and popular among nudists, it’s now open to all—though caution is advised as the rocks can be slippery and the water is often very cold. Be mindful that tradition dictates you should never make a sound while you dive in, lest you reveal yourself as a newcomer to the Forty Foot.

Dinogo top tip: for another swimming adventure, take the DART to Killiney, hike up Killiney Hill, and brave a dip at Vico, then reward yourself with a pint at Finnegan’s.

16. Encounter Iron Age individuals at the National Museum of Ireland

Comprising three museum buildings focused on Natural History, Decorative Arts and History, and Archaeology, the National Museum of Ireland narrates the nation’s story.

The Archaeology section boasts the most remarkable exhibits. Uncover Viking relics, Celtic jewels like the Tara Brooch, and the Iron Age bog bodies—mummified remains perfectly preserved for centuries by Ireland’s peat bogs. Open daily, though hours may vary, and admission is free.

17. Experience EPIC at the Irish Emigration Museum

Recognized as Europe’s top tourist attraction at the World Travel Awards from 2019 to 2021, EPIC truly lives up to its reputation. Through innovative technology and engaging interactive displays, EPIC explores the influence of Irish emigrants on the global stage. Writers, actors, scientists, politicians, and outlaws are all honored.

The Irish Family History Centre even provides a genealogy service, allowing you to discover if you are among the 70 million descendants of Irish ancestry. With so much to explore, tickets allow for two separate visits within a 30-day period.

18. Stroll among the spirits at Glasnevin Cemetery

While visiting a cemetery might seem grim, Glasnevin Cemetery serves as a vital link to Ireland’s history. Wandering through its graves feels like reading a roll call of the nation’s key figures from the past 150 years, including the crypt of ‘The Liberator’ Daniel O’Connell.

The ‘Extra-ordinary Lives’ exhibition highlights the stories of 20 residents of Glasnevin, weaving together the narrative of the nation. Guided tours are offered, or you can explore the grounds at your own pace. If you're up for it, continue your walk through the special gateway leading to the adjacent National Botanic Gardens.

Described as a “little piece of heaven” by the late Anthony Bourdain, the nearby pub John Kavanagh The Gravediggers is a fantastic stop when visiting the area.

19. Enjoy a stroll at the National Botanic Gardens

The tranquil National Botanic Gardens of Ireland blend leisure, recreation, and education in a serene setting. Spending an hour or two at Dublin’s Botanic Gardens is the perfect way to unwind after a visit to Glasnevin. Open year-round, with free admission.

The 19.5-hectare gardens boast numerous natural and scientific wonders, many showcased in the stunning glasshouses restored by Richard Turner in the mid-19th century. When you need a break, treat yourself to coffee and cake at The Garden Tearoom.

20. Discover literary giants at Marsh’s Library

Tucked away behind St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Marsh’s Library is a hidden treasure in Dublin. Dating back to 1707, it is Ireland’s oldest library and holds around 25,000 books and manuscripts. A glance at the visitor ledger reveals signatures from notable figures like Bram Stoker, Jonathan Swift, and James Joyce who frequented this space.

Scarred by the infamous Easter Uprising of 1916, Marsh’s Library still displays the bullet holes in its bookcases. It operates for limited hours from Tuesday to Saturday.

21. Experience fine dining on the streets of Dublin

Dublin’s top attractions extend beyond Guinness pubs and historic landmarks. The city boasts an array of fine dining options – not just upscale dinners but also delightful streetside eateries.

At the forefront of Dublin's fine dining scene is Chapter One, recently rejuvenated by Finnish chef Mickael Viljanen. Equally impressive, Pickle showcases the finest North Indian cuisine right on Dublin’s cobblestones. Both places require advance reservations – the sooner, the better.

For a more laid-back vibe, One Society on Lower Gardiner Street is hard to beat. From lavish breakfasts to delectable pizzas and pasta, plus refined wine and tapas evenings, everything is served with flair. If you’re a seafood lover, Fish Shop near Smithfield offers a sophisticated twist on traditional fish and chips.

Are you inspired by the numerous activities in Dublin? Check out our ultimate Dublin guide for LGBTQ travelers, highlighting the vibrant gay scene in one of the friendliest cities globally.

What criteria did we use to select the 21 best things to do in Dublin?

When you visit Dublin, you’ll quickly discover it’s a place to forge connections. The warm and friendly locals are eager to answer your questions and share the best experiences their city has to offer. Many of the recommendations in this guide stem from those very conversations.

These local insights, along with suggestions from my Dinogo colleagues around the globe, create a perfect balance with Dublin’s major tourist attractions. Spend a few days in Dublin, blending the well-known with the hidden gems, and soon you’ll feel the city’s enchanting allure too.

Do I need a car while in Dublin?

If you’re staying in the city, not at all. Dublin boasts an efficient public transport network. Dublin Bus serves the city extensively, while the LUAS light rail and DART systems provide easy access to charming coastal towns nearby.

To use these services, you’ll need prepaid cards, readily available at stations, tourist offices, and newsagents throughout the city. Dublin Bus also accepts coins, but make sure they are exact change in Euros. Although taxis can be pricier than public transport, they are quite affordable — just download the FREE NOW app for hassle-free booking.

What’s the best time to visit Dublin?

Dublin experiences a range of seasons and often contends with chilly, rainy weather. Fortunately, this unpredictable climate doesn’t diminish its allure. The peak summer months from June to August offer the finest weather but also attract the largest crowds and highest prices.

Spring and autumn present a blend of conditions but are perfect for bundling up and discovering the stunning natural landscapes just outside the city. Winter is best for cozy, romantic weekends by the fireside in historic pubs.

And don’t forget, March 17th is St. Patrick’s Day, one of the most widely celebrated festivals globally, but nowhere embraces it quite like Dublin.

How much time should I allocate for my visit to Dublin?

Dublin is compact enough to discover in a weekend, yet offers plenty to entice you to stay longer. Many visitors use the city as a launching pad for a few days immersed in culture before venturing into Ireland’s picturesque countryside to uncover its other treasures.

Is Dublin a safe destination?

Recognized as one of Europe’s safest capital cities, Dublin is perfect for new travelers, whether solo or in a group. The locals are friendly and eager to assist if you need any guidance.

As with any large city, pickpockets and scammers can be found, so it’s advisable to steer clear of darker areas like the major parks after dark. Use common sense, and you should encounter no issues.

Are there tourist passes available in Dublin?

The TFI Leap Card can help you save on transportation expenses. A three-day pass provides access to buses, DART, and rail services, offering a more economical option than paying for individual trips. For a single day, consider the Dublin Pass to enjoy discounts at select attractions and to use the Hop On and Hop Off bus service.