Dublin packs a lot into a small, walkable city: medieval cathedrals, Georgian squares, world-class museums (many of them free), lively pubs, and coastal walks just a short train ride away. Whether you're visiting for a weekend or using the city as a base for exploring Ireland, here are the best things to do in Dublin, from the famous sights to hidden gems most visitors miss.
Top Things to Do in Dublin
1. Trinity College and the Book of Kells
Founded in 1592, Trinity College is Ireland's oldest university. Its main attraction is the Book of Kells, a beautifully illustrated manuscript of the Gospels created by monks around the year 800. The visit also includes the Long Room of the Old Library, a breathtaking hall lined with ancient books. Book tickets online, as time slots sell out.
2. Temple Bar
Temple Bar is Dublin's lively cultural quarter, with cobbled streets, colorful pubs, live traditional music, and street performers. It's touristy and drinks are pricey, but it's worth a wander, especially in the evening. For a more local pub experience, head to nearby streets.
3. Guinness Storehouse
Ireland's most visited attraction tells the story of Guinness across seven floors at St. James's Gate Brewery. The tour ends at the Gravity Bar, where you can enjoy a pint with 360-degree views over the city.
4. Dublin Castle
For centuries the seat of British rule in Ireland, Dublin Castle now hosts state events. Tour the elegant State Apartments and the medieval Undercroft, and visit the Chester Beatty, an outstanding free museum of manuscripts and art from around the world, located in the castle grounds.
5. Kilmainham Gaol
This former prison played a key role in Irish history. Leaders of the 1916 Easter Rising were held and executed here. Guided tours are moving and fascinating. Book well ahead, as they often sell out.
6. St. Stephen's Green and Grafton Street
Relax in St. Stephen's Green, a beautiful Victorian park in the city center, then stroll along pedestrianized Grafton Street, Dublin's main shopping street, famous for its buskers. Nearby, the quieter Iveagh Gardens are a peaceful, hidden retreat.
7. Walk Along the River Liffey
The River Liffey divides Dublin into north and south. Cross the iconic Ha'penny Bridge, built in 1816, and walk along the quays to see landmarks such as the Custom House.
8. Phoenix Park
One of the largest enclosed city parks in Europe, Phoenix Park is home to a herd of wild fallow deer, Dublin Zoo, and Áras an Uachtaráin, the residence of the President of Ireland. Rent a bike to explore.
9. Christ Church Cathedral and St. Patrick's Cathedral
Dublin's two medieval cathedrals are both worth a visit. Christ Church has a remarkable medieval crypt, while St. Patrick's, Ireland's largest church, is where the writer Jonathan Swift was dean.
10. National Museums and Gallery
Many of Dublin's best museums are free. The National Museum of Ireland – Archaeology displays Celtic gold and preserved bog bodies, while the National Gallery of Ireland includes works by Irish and European masters.
11. The Little Museum of Dublin
On St. Stephen's Green, this small museum tells the story of the city in the 20th century through objects donated by Dubliners. The guided tours are entertaining and full of local humor.
12. Glasnevin Cemetery
Ireland's national cemetery is the resting place of many important figures, including Daniel O'Connell and Michael Collins. Guided tours bring Irish history to life.
13. Irish Whiskey Distilleries
Visit the Old Jameson Distillery on Bow Street, or smaller working distilleries such as Teeling in the Liberties, for tours and tastings.
14. Howth Cliff Walk
Take the DART train to the fishing village of Howth, about 30 minutes from the city center. Walk the cliff path for sweeping sea views, then enjoy fish and chips by the harbor.
15. Markets and Shopping
Browse fruit and flower stalls at Moore Street Market, Dublin's oldest food market, and shop for vintage finds, records, and quirky gifts at George's Street Arcade.
Hidden Gems in Dublin
- Marsh's Library: Ireland's first public library, opened in 1707, with dark oak bookcases and reading cages where readers were once locked in with rare books.
- St. Audoen's Church and the city wall: See a surviving section of Dublin's medieval walls and one of its oldest churches.
- Museum of Literature Ireland (MoLI): Celebrate Ireland's great writers, including James Joyce, in a beautiful Georgian building next to the Iveagh Gardens.
- A drink in a former church: Several bars and restaurants in Dublin are set in old church buildings with stained-glass windows and organ pipes.
- The Forty Foot: Join locals for a year-round sea swim at this famous bathing spot in Sandycove, south of the city.
Tips for Visiting Dublin
- Get around: The city center is easy to explore on foot. Use the Luas tram, DART trains, and buses for longer trips, and pay with a Leap card or contactless bank card.
- Book ahead: Popular sights like the Book of Kells, Guinness Storehouse, and Kilmainham Gaol sell out.
- Pack for rain: Showers are common in every season.
- Take day trips: Explore the coast, Wicklow Mountains, or Newgrange. See our day trips from Dublin.
Planning a longer trip? Read our Ireland travel guide and find out the best time to visit Ireland.
Stay Connected in Dublin
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FAQs: Things to Do in Dublin
What is Dublin best known for?
Dublin is known for its pubs and traditional music, the Book of Kells, the Guinness Storehouse, its literary history, and its friendly atmosphere.
How many days do you need in Dublin?
Two to three days is enough to see the main sights, with an extra day for a coastal trip to Howth or a day tour outside the city.
What are the best free things to do in Dublin?
Visit the National Museum, National Gallery, Chester Beatty, St. Stephen's Green, Phoenix Park, and walk along the River Liffey.
Is Dublin walkable?
Yes. The city center is compact and easy to explore on foot, with trams, trains, and buses for longer distances.