What to do in Dublin on your Irish vacation
There is a huge host of activities to while away the hours in Ireland's bustling city of Dublin.
Ireland’s colorful city is known for its lively pubs and literary history. From the Guinness Storehouse to whiskey tastings and St. Patrick’s Cathedral, you’ll be in for an unforgettable adventure in delightful Dublin, Ireland.
Best things to do in Dublin
Guinness Storehouse
The Guinness Storehouse is home to the most iconic of Irish drinks and a rite of passage for most visitors to the capital. It’s Ireland’s most visited attraction.
The Storehouse is located in the original building leased by Arthur Guinness who signed a 9,000-year lease in 1759.
The tour takes you through the multi-level storehouse and the entire production process, of course ending with a well-earned pint of the dark stuff.
Dublin Castle
Vikings commandeered the castle in the 13th century and this fabulous estate offers a glimpse into another life and time.
For centuries Dublin Castle was the headquarters of the English and British administrations in Ireland. In 1992 it was handed back to Ireland and is now home to government departments as well as being an intriguing tourist attraction.
There are artefacts including artworks and fashions and a guided tour is recommended. Enjoy a sneak peek into the interior apartments and private quarters.
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Trinity College Dublin
This is Ireland’s oldest university founded in 1592. The Old Library is particularly special with many historical manuscripts including the Book of Kells, a manuscript of four gospels created by monks in the 9th century.
It’s quite the place. The Long Room is home to over 200,000 books. It’s also where a copy of the 1916 Proclamation of the Irish Republic is kept. Ireland’s national emblem has a starring role here too; the Brian Boru harp is Ireland’s oldest version of the instrument.
Howth
Blow the late-night-partying cobwebs away with a trip to the pretty fishing village of Howth. Take a breather as you traverse one of the most scenic trails in Ireland- a four-mile walk around Howth Head.
It winds along the edges of the peninsula’s precipitous cliffs and has incredible views across Dublin Bay to Dun Laoghaire.
Teeling Distillery
Take a fully-immerse tour of the Teeling Distillery. You’ll be taken through the distilling process. It’s the only operating distillery in the city located in the historical Liberties area. Afterward, there are plenty of tastings and the end of the tour.
St Stephen's Church
Don’t miss this stupendous church built in a Greek St Revival temple style in 1824. It was one of the last constructed as part of the series of Georgian churches built by the Church of Ireland.
It is especially famous due to its distinguished parishioners including the Duke of Wellington, Oscar Wilde and William Butler Yeats.
It’s also featured in many films and videos for the likes of U2 and Westlife.
Hugh Lane Gallery
Dublin’s Municipal Gallery was founded in 1908 but has just been renamed in honour of its founder. It is home to the town's impressive contemporary collection.
There are also many works by the Dublin-born painter Francis Bacon. After his death, his London studio was packed up and reassembled here.
It’s a fascinating insight into an artist’s temperamental tendencies. Part of the display features 100 canvases that Bacon slashed.
Delicious Dublin
Dublin may be synonymous with whiskey and Guinness rather than food but the food scene is a delightful pleasure.
French food blogger Ketty Quigley founded Delicious Dublin Tours in 2015, to show locals and tourists alike, the rich culinary offerings of the capital.
Her three-hour ‘Delicious Dublin Tour’ offers a great introduction to the food scene. You’ll stop at award-winning eateries and food shops, enjoying six to eight different tastings.
Irish music
It’s no secret that the Irish love live music and love to dance. It’s an integral part of life and is central to Dublin’s cultural history.
Whelan’s, which opened in 1989 is an institution. Both a pub and music venue, it’s hosted performances by the likes of Australian singer/songwriter, Nick Cave, Jeff Buckley, and Ed Sheehan has played here.
There are three bars and two stages so for music lovers, it’s the ultimate place to listen to live music.
Shopping
Most visitors stumble onto Grafton Street at some point during their stay. This pedestrianised area is known, not only for great shopping but as the spot to listen to buskers who are really rather good.
George’s Street Arcade is a beautiful Victorian arcade to wander through and is home to more handicrafts stalls and individual producers.
Hodges Figgis, with its rare curved-glass windows, is Ireland’s oldest bookshop. Given its proximity to Trinity College, it’s fair to say it's well-stocked with academic books. Its Irish section features books on everything from nature to folklore and literature.
Little Museum of Dublin
On the edge of beautiful St. Stephen’s Green, this unique museum gives you an overview of Irish history. There are an array of quirky exhibitions including one that charts the success of Ireland’s most famous musical export, U2.
Temple Bar
No matter how touristy you think Temple Bar is, you’ll find yourself gravitating towards this lively area. There may be Irish pubs galore but there are some hidden gems here. The Vintage Cocktail Club is a refined 1920s-style speakeasy.
