If you are lucky enough to visit Ireland, you are most likely going to start in Dublin. Here are our recommendations for the top things to do in Dublin taken from our four different visits to one of our favorite cities on earth.
Things to do in Dublin
Dublin Ireland Street near St. Stephen's Green
Updated: March 2019
Dublin is the nation's capital city and it is a town filled with culture, beauty, and history.
We've been to Dublin four times and plan to go back again!
The first visit to Dublin was to kick off drive along the Wild Atlantic Way and the last was the start of our Northern Ireland road trip.
We never tire of the energy and culture of the city and are always looking for new and unusual things to do in Dublin. This list will help you make the most of your next visit to Irelan'ds capital city.
What to do in Dublin:
1. Guinness Storehouse
Visit the Guinness Storehouse
A trip to Dublin wouldn't be complete without the taste of an authentic Guinness.
It really does taste better in Ireland!
The Guinness Storehouse is number one when it comes to places to visit in Dublin. Literally. Millions of visitors have toured the brewery and enjoyed more than a pint or two. And it lives up to the hype!
It took us a couple of visits before finally going and we should have done it sooner.
Covering 50 acres, the Guinness factory is a major part of Dublin and its history.
It's amazing to walk through the area to learn that Guinness provided housing and jobs for much of the residents of Dublin.
The tour is very interesting to learn of how Guinness is made, but more importantly, it ends with a full pint of beer at the rooftop bar that offers one of the best views of Dublin.
See our step by step guide to visiting the Guinness Storehouse
2. Learn to Pour a Perfect Pint
While you are at the Guinness Storehouse, upgrade your tour to the Guinness Experience where you will learn how to pour the perfect pint of Guinness in the Guinness bar and tasting room.
Once you have poured the perfect cascade you'll get a certificate to prove you are Guinness certified and you get a delicious pint of Guinness to boot!
It really is a must do in Dublin. It will make you a Guinness snob at pubs around the world for the rest of your life!
You can order Guinness Skip the line and Signature Experience with Tasting Tour at Viator
3. Little Museum of Dublin
Dublin Ireland Things to do - Little Museum
The Little Museum of Dublin is a great orientation to Dublin.
We usually aren't big on museums, but we loved this little one. I'd put it on my list of must-see Dublin museums.
It houses a crowd-sourced collection donated by Dublin resident.
Take a walk through its four floors of Dublin history that are quirky and unique.
It has everything from old news articles from the original Irish independent office (that's there too!) to portraits of famous Irish celebrities and politicians to antique phones, record players and typewriters.
There's even a floor dedicated to U2. And guess what? U2 visited the museum once!
4. Sweny's
Sweny's apothecary is a really cool store with medicines, photographs, and prescriptions from the turn of the 19th century.
This pharmacy is the actual pharmacy featured in James Joyce’s Ulysses. They have daily readings of James Joyce and they sell the famous lemon soap that made the shop famous.
If you are looking for more of the more nontouristy things to see in Dublin, this is it. I felt like a cool hipster going into the store to talk about all things, Joyce.
The volunteers can tell you a lot of stories about Joyce, Dublin's history, and you can buy a cool souvenir to take home.
4. Newman University Church
Newman University Church Interior
Take a walking tour to find hidden gems of Dublin.
Our guide took us to a hidden gem that even many Dubliners don't know about but it really is something you must see in Dublin.
The Newman University Church is a small yet beautiful and tranquil church. It's filled with colorful motifs, lattice work, and paintings.
As a non-religious person myself, I have a difficult time explaining what I see in a church and I am no different from Newman University Church.
All I know is that it was beautiful and a lovely stop on our walking tour. See more at the University Church.
6. Gaelic Games Museum
One of the best ways to immerse in Irish culture is to get involved with their national sports!
At Croke Park, the Gaelic Games museums is a walk through the history of Gaelic games.
It's also one of those Dublin attractions that make you feel like a kid again.
The immersive museum is a lot of fun too as you try your hand at skills and learn to play the game of hurling.
7. Croke Park Sky Walk
If you are wondering what to do in Dublin, Ireland that offers a bit of adrenaline and excitement, the Croke Park Skywalk is the perfect tour for you,.
Croke Park is the third largest stadium in all of Europe and you will climb way up to where only the technicians usually dare to go for a tour of its scaffolding walkway and roof.
The rooftop walk takes you 44 meters high for a bird's eye view of the hurling field and great panoramic city views of Dublin Ireland.
Plus, you get a behind the scenes peek at the athlete's lounges, private boxes and you even get to go onto the field.
If you are looking for something adventurous, this is the place to be! Book your tour with Get Your Guide.
8. Ha' Penny Bridge
Dublin's Ha'Penny Bridge
The Ha'Penny Bridge is a pedestrian bridge connecting the two sides of the River Liffey.
You really can't miss it when walking along the river. The River Liffey cuts through Dublin City and the Ha'Penny Bridge has long been considered a Dublin must see.
When it was originally built, it only cost half a pence to cross, hence the name Ha' Penny Bridge.
Before this bridge was built, people used to cross the river using ferries.
Today there are many bridges crossing to each side, but this was the original and most significant historically.
Check out: 27 Photos that will Make You Want to Discover Ireland Now!
9. Temple Bar
One of the things you have to do when you are in Dublin is to visit the Temple Bar district.
Temple Bar isn't just a bar, it is a lively area on the South Bank of the River Liffey. It's party time here with several pubs and clubs waiting to serve you a good time.
Talented street musicians perform and play tunes and it is always busy and crowded. Don't make the mistake of staying in the area, you'll never get a good night's sleep.
But there is more to Temple Bar than just a party, many of Dublin's cultural institutions have set up shop here including the Irish Film Institute, The Irish Photography Centre, and Even the Irish Stock Exchange.
Get around Dublin with the Hop on Hop Off Card Delivered before you arrive through Get Your Guide
10. Painted Doors
See the painted doors on Baggot Street and Leeson
In the 1700s, a building boom started in Dublin and the painted doors are one of those interesting points of interest in Dublin that you wouldn't even notice if you didn't know the story.
Construction began and the Georgian period was born. There is one street that still has the longest Georgian style architecture in Dublin.
It is said that back in the day, many a drunk Irishman walked into the wrong house after a night at the pub.
This led to people painting their doors in different bright colors to distinguish from each other. How smart is that?
Best places to view the painted doors - Merrion Square, Baggot Street, Leeson Street, Fitzwilliam Square
Read: 5 Ways to Experience Guinness in Dublin
11. National Gallery
Visit the National Gallery
Make sure to include museums and galleries in your Dublin itinerary.
Admission to the National Gallery is free. If if you like art, you will enjoy this.
It houses an extensive collection of Irish and European art, and it's located right in the heart of the city. For more information visit the Dublin National Gallery.
Other museums to check out include the National Museum, Irish Emigration Museum and the Irish Rock 'N' Roll Museum.
Giant's Causeway/Carrick-a-Rede
Take a tour from Dublin to the Giant's Causeway, Game of Thrones Filming locations including and the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge
Cliffs of Moher Day Trip from Dublin
Leave Dublin for a day of exploring the stunning Cliffs of Moher standing at 214 metres (714 feet) for dramatic views of the Atlantic Ocean
Blarney Castle and Cork Day Trip from Dublin
Take a tour from Dublin to Kiss the Blarney Stone on this Cork Day Trip. Plus tour Cahir Castle and the Rock of Cashel.
12. Tour the Jameson Distillery
You cannot miss touring a distillery in Ireland and the old Jameson Distillery in Dublin takes you back in time to see the traditional methods of distilling Whisky.
This is the birthplace of Irish Whisky in Ireland dating back to 1780.
You can choose from some different tours like learning to blend your own Irish whiskey, doing a premium whiskey tasting experience, and blending your own cocktails.
See the 10 best Views of the Irish Coast
13. Kilmainham Gaol
Tour the infamous jail known as Kilmainham Gaol. This creepy tour takes you inside the horrific conditions that prison inmates faced.
The jail can only be toured by a guided tour and it moves fast.
Grab your pictures ASAP because before you know it, you're moving on and they are not happy with stragglers.
It's worth seeing and gives insight into Ireland and Dublin's history as prisoners from the rebellion of 1798 to the 1922 Irish Civil War were housed here.
Also, members of the Irish Republican army were detained here during the Anglo-Irish War and the prisoners of the 1916 Irish rebellion were rounded up and executed here.
14. Trinity College
Trinity College makes for a beautiful stroll. If you are looking for things to do on your own, this is a lovely way to spend the afternoon.
Dating back to 1592, Trinity College is Ireland's oldest university.
It is considered to be one of the world’s most beautiful university campuses and taking a stroll through the grounds is a must. We find ourselves always going back to Trinity College and finding something new.
The historic buildings, gardens, and monuments are worth a visit.
15. Book of Kells
Library and Book of Kells - Ireland Dublin
Trinity College is most famous for is its library housing the Book of Kells.
The Book of Kells was written in 800 AD by a group of monks and was buried in the ground for safekeeping against the Vikings.
In the 1600s it was rediscovered and sent to Trinity College where it has been ever since.
The library itself is amazing. The long room houses 200,000 books. It is said that the books act as the foundation to the library and it would collapse should the books be taken away.
Take a Heritage Walking Tour to learn about Trinity College and other historical sights in Dublin.
16. Botanical Gardens
Botanical Gardens
For serenity, a visit to the Botanical Gardens. It is located just 3 km outside the city is another pleasant afternoon idea.
Entrance if free and the gardens are famous for the wrought iron glass houses.
Read: Kiss the Blarney Stone for the Gift of the Gab
17. Oscar Wilde's House
Visit Oscar Wilde's House
At the address of No. 1 Merrion Square you'll see the childhood home of Oscar Wilde.
Be sure to look in the park across the street to see the statue of the famous writer and poet, Oscar Wilde. He's relaxing while looking back at his home. It's quite serene.
Buy: The Complete Works of Oscar Wilde
See where Oscar Wilde is Buried at our post - Famous Cimitiere Pere La Chaise
18. Oscar Wilde Memorial Statue
The Oscar Wild Memorial Statue is located across the street from Wilde's childhood home.
Located in Merrion Square, the memorial actually consists of three statues. There is also a sculpture representing Dionysus and his wife Constance Lloyd.
An interesting fact is that his colorful clothing isn't painted, it is made up of three different stones. Green jade from British Columbia, and pink thulite and blue pearl granite from Norway.
19. Go to the Pub
Go to a Pub when visiting Dublin
If you really want to get a feel for Dublin, you must visit one of the many historic pubs.
Pubs are the heartbeat of the city. Life unfolds in the pubs and if you don't go to one, you'll really be missing out.
Sit back, listen to some traditional Irish music and let the night unfold.
Enjoy a pint of beer and have a chat with the locals. You'll feel that you have stepped back in time and it will leave you with a warm a fuzzy feeling all over.
Ireland is also known for its whiskey, try a whiskey tasting tour while you're in Dublin.
20. Grafton Street
Speaking of pubs, a popular spot for locals and visitors alike is Grafton Street. It has been the heart of Dublin for more than a century.
This is a lovely walking street for shopping, lunch, cafes and pub life.
If you are looking for areas to see day or night in Dublin, this is the place to head to.
21. O'Donoghues
Not far from St. Stephen's Green, O'Donoghues has been a staple in Dublin since 1934.
It became popular in the 1960s when the famous Irish Folk group The Dubliners began performing.
Anyone who's anyone in Irish music played this pub and it continues to operate to today!
And it is definitely one of the bars you must see in Dublin.
22. Take a Lazy Bike Tour
Take a Lazy Bike Tour Through Dublin
One of the most fun things to do in Dublin was to take a Lazy Bike Tours. You can book a tour with them on an e-bike through Get Your Guide. For a tour on a regular bicycle, check out this one.
Dublin is a lovely city that we found to be best enjoyed on foot. Walk along the River Liffey, get lost in the maze of streets and enjoy the atmosphere and energy.
Watch our Video for more great ideas of what to do on your trip to Dublin!
Get your Lonely Planet Travel Guide to find your way around Dublin.
23. Le Cool Dublin Experience
The Le Cool Dublin experience gives visitors to Dublin a glimpse into local life. It changes regularly depending on what is going on.
Lead by locals, it follows the happenings of the day taking you to local businesses, pop-ups, and markets.
This is an excellent introduction to Dublin to help you decide what to see and where to go next!
24. Dublin Castle
Things to see in Dublin Ireland - Dublin Castle
Chances are if you take a walking tour or lazy bike tour of Dublin, you'll stop at the Dublin Castle.
The Dublin Castle is one of Dublin's most famous medieval castles. It is now a government building, but that doesn't stop the tourists from coming.
There are two museums and cafes but most people come to hang out in the gardens and on the huge lawn.
We didn't go inside, but apparently, the Chester Beaty Library is one of the best museums in Dublin.
- Note to self, we'll be hitting that up when we go back!
25. Christ Church Cathedral
The Christ Church Cathedral was founded in 1028 and is one of Dublin's top attractions.
If you go inside, be sure to visit the Crypt which is the. largest in Ireland and has a mummified cat and rat!
25. Saint Patrick's Cathedral
St. Patrick's Cathedral is another of the popular things to see in Dublin.
It was St. Patrick himself who baptized Christians 1500 years ago right near this site. It has been a place of Christian spirituality ever since.
Dave and I always tend to "find our religion" when visiting
Well, maybe not, but we are fascinated by the old churches and cathedrals dating back centuries in the big cities.
Morrison Hotel
5 minute walk to Temple Bar, close to everything but still quiet enough to relax
Check out Availability & Prices
The Westbury Hotel
Superb Location near Grafton Street. Contemporary rooms in a grand hotel
Check out Availability & Prices
Fitzwilliam Hotel
5 Star hotel in City Centre with a Michelin Star restaurant. We loved it
Check out Availability & Prices
Marker Hotel
Located in the Dublin business district on Grand Central Square. Rooftop lounge.
Check out Availability & Prices
Enjoy this article? Be sure to pin it to reference what to do in Dublin.
So there you have it, those are our suggestions for the best things to do in Dublin.
Did we miss anything? Do you have a suggestion for what to do Dublin? Leave them in the comments below.
DNN says
Ireland looks like a very royal place to live. I’m quite confident you had a great time and a grand finale there. 🙂
Deva says
Nice post thanks for sharing
Damien McGuigan says
A nice list, I would also add Kilmainham Gaol to it
Dave and Deb says
Thanks for the addition, I didn’t know about Kilmainham Gaol. I just googled it and I wish I went. It looks like a great experience.
[email protected] The British Berliner says
Ooooo! I love Dublin but it’s been years since I’ve been to Ireland. The last time I went there I travelled from Belfast to Dublin and all around Ireland including to a wonderful little island called the Aran Islands. And the best thing about Dublin or any other Irish town? The live music. Everywhere you go!
Colin says
Excellent. Dublin is a cute wee city perfect for a weekend escape and I am proud to call it home.
Mstraveltipsy says
I love Dublin and I love Ireland. Love it so much that I had to marry an Irishman 🙂 Dublin is my favourite city in Europe and I am actually in the process of writing my top 10 list for Dublin. Have written about Dublin and Ireland a few times before as well.
Dave and Deb says
Congratulations on marrying an Irishman 🙂 Make sure to let us know about your top Dublin list! We’d love to see your suggestions as we love the city too and would love to try a more local experience next time.
Shobha says
I went to Dublin over Christmas and I missed all of these except Trinity College. Just means we have to go back!