Dublin Travel Guide - Complete Guide to Ireland's Capital City

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Travel Notes: Destinations: Ireland - Dublin Travel Guide.

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Travel Guide For Visitors to Dublin

Whether planning a weekend city break or an extended Irish adventure, our Dublin travel guide covers everything you need to know about the capital of Ireland. Share on Facebook

A Capital City That's Pure Genius

Dublin isn't just another European capital, it's a city where medieval cobblestones meet Silicon Valley innovation, where world-class museums sit alongside legendary pubs, and where you can trace the footsteps of Joyce and Wilde between sips of perfectly poured Guinness.

Driving Distances in Europe

Driving to Dublin.

Why Visit Dublin?

A Visit to Dublin - The Irish Capital That Has It All

Dublin punches well above its weight for a city of just over one million people.

This compact capital serves up an intoxicating blend of history, culture, and craic (that's Irish for fun, if you're wondering).

From the Book of Kells at Trinity College to the bustling Temple Bar district, Dublin manages to feel both intimate and cosmopolitan; a rare combination that keeps visitors coming back for more.

Getting to Dublin - Your Gateway to Ireland

Dublin Airport (DUB)

(DUB)

Dublin Airport sits about 10km north of the city centre and welcomes flights from across Europe, North America, and beyond.

The Dublin Bus routes 747 and 757 run regularly to the city centre (€3-4), while the Airlink Express offers a faster service to key locations including Trinity College and Grafton Street.

Airport Transfers

Pre-book your airport transfer online for better rates, or consider the Dublin Leap Card for seamless public transport throughout your stay.

Ferry Connections

If you're travelling from the UK, Dublin Port and Dún Laoghaire offer ferry services from Liverpool, Holyhead, and other British ports.

It's a scenic way to arrive, especially if you're bringing a car to explore the wider Dublin region.

When to Visit Dublin - Weather and Seasonal Highlights

Best Time to Visit Dublin

May to September offers the warmest weather and longest days, with temperatures ranging from 15-20°C.

Dublin's cultural calendar means there's always something happening.

March - St Patrick's Festival transforms the city.

June - Bloomsday celebrations for Joyce enthusiasts.

September - Culture Night opens museums and galleries for free.

December - Christmas markets and festive atmosphere.

Dublin Weather Guide

Pack layers regardless of season, as Dublin weather can be changeable.

A waterproof jacket is essential year-round, but don't let the possibility of rain put you off.

Some of Dublin's cosiest experiences happen when it's drizzling outside.

Where to Stay in Dublin - Best Areas and Neighbourhoods

City Centre (Dublin 1 & 2)

Perfect for first-time visitors wanting to walk everywhere.

Stay near Grafton Street for shopping and dining, or Temple Bar if you want to be in the heart of the nightlife action.

Best for: Sightseeing, restaurants, nightlife. Budget: €80-300+ per night.

Docklands (Dublin 4)

Dublin's gleaming financial district offers modern hotels with river views.

It's quieter than the city centre but still walkable to major attractions.

Best for: Business travellers, modern amenities. Budget: €100-250 per night.

Smithfield (Dublin 7)

An up-and-coming area with boutique hotels, excellent restaurants, and easy tram access to the city centre.

Best for: Authentic local atmosphere, foodies. Budget: €70-180 per night.

Top Things to Do in Dublin - Must-See Attractions

Historical Dublin Attractions

Dublin Castle

Once the seat of British rule in Ireland, Dublin Castle now hosts state functions and offers fascinating tours through 800 years of Irish history.

The Chester Beatty Library in the castle grounds houses world-class collections and offers free admission.

Kilmainham Gaol

This former prison tells the story of Irish independence through guided tours of cells where many nationalist leaders were held.

It's sobering but essential for understanding modern Ireland.

Address: Inchicore Road, Dublin 8. Tours: Advance booking essential.

Trinity College and the Book of Kells

No Dublin visit is complete without seeing the Book of Kells, a 9th-century illuminated manuscript housed in Trinity College's stunning Old Library.

Book timed entry tickets online to avoid queues.

Address: College Green, Dublin 2. Opening hours: Monday-Saturday 9:30-17:00, Sunday 12:00-16:30. Admission: €16 adults.

Cultural Attractions in Dublin

Guinness Storehouse

Love it or loathe it, the Guinness Storehouse remains Dublin's most popular paid attraction.

The seven-floor experience culminates in learning to pour the perfect pint in the gravity bar with panoramic city views.

Address: St James's Gate, Dublin 8. Opening hours: Daily 9:30-19:00 (extended summer hours).
Admission: From €20 (book online for discounts).

Jameson Distillery Bow St.

Whiskey enthusiasts shouldn't miss this interactive experience in the original Jameson Distillery.

Guided tours include tastings and cocktail-making workshops.

National Museum of Ireland

Spread across four locations, the National Museum showcases everything from Viking artifacts to contemporary Irish art.

The Archaeology branch on Kildare Street houses Celtic treasures including the Ardagh Chalice.

Dublin Food Scene Where and What to Eat

Traditional Irish Food in Dublin

Gallagher's Boxty House (20-21, Temple Bar)
Specialising in 'boxty' (traditional Irish potato pancakes), this Temple Bar restaurant offers authentic Irish comfort food with a modern twist.

The Brazen Head (20 Bridge St. Lower, Usher's Quay)
Dublin's oldest pub (established 1198) serves hearty Irish stews, fish and chips, and bangers and mash in atmospheric surroundings near the Guinness Storehouse.

Modern Dublin Dining

Chapter One (18-19 Parnell Square N, Rotunda)
This Michelin-starred restaurant near Parnell Square showcases contemporary Irish cuisine using local ingredients. Book well ahead for dinner.

Dublin Food Markets

Temple Bar Food Market
Every Saturday (9:00-16:30), Meeting House Square transforms into a foodie paradise with artisan producers, international street food, and local specialities.

Dublin Nightlife - Pubs, Bars, and Entertainment

Best Traditional Pubs in Dublin

Kehoe's (9 Anne St S)
This Victorian pub near St Stephen's Green has remained virtually unchanged for decades, offering an authentic Dublin pub experience without the crowds.

The Cobblestone (77 King St N)
Skip the touristy Temple Bar spots and head to The Cobblestone in Smithfield for authentic traditional Irish music sessions and a proper local atmosphere.

The Long Hall Pub (51 South Great George's Street)
With its ornate Victorian interior and excellent Guinness, The Long Hall on South Great George's Street epitomises the classic Dublin pub.

Dublin Live Music Venues

The Olympia Theatre (72 Dame St)
For bigger names and theatrical performances, The Olympia in Temple Bar hosts everything from international touring acts to comedy shows.

Whelan's (25 Wexford St, Portobello)
This intimate venue has launched countless Irish acts and continues to showcase both emerging and established musicians across all genres.

Dublin Shopping - From High Street to Boutique

Grafton Street Shopping

Dublin's premier shopping street houses everything from Brown Thomas (Ireland's answer to Harrods) to Bewley's Oriental Café (perfect for afternoon tea).

Powerscourt Centre

This converted Georgian mansion houses designer boutiques, antique shops, and the excellent Powerscourt Centre Restaurant under a stunning glass roof.

Temple Bar Markets

Beyond the weekend food market, Temple Bar hosts various artisan markets selling everything from vintage clothing to handmade crafts.

Day Trips from Dublin - Exploring Beyond the City

Glendalough

This ancient monastic site in the Wicklow Mountains, known as the Garden of Ireland', makes for a perfect day trip combining history, hiking, and spectacular scenery.

Distance: 65km south of Dublin. Travel time: 1.5 hours by car or coach tour.

Howth Peninsula

Just 30 minutes by DART train, Howth offers cliff walks, seafood restaurants, and stunning coastal views.

The cliff walk to the lighthouse takes about 2 hours return.

Newgrange

Older than Stonehenge and the Egyptian pyramids, Newgrange is a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring a Neolithic passage tomb.

Advance booking through the Brú na Bóinne visitor centre is essential.

Dublin Transport - Getting Around the City

 Dublin Public Transport

Dublin Bus
The extensive Dublin Bus network covers the entire city and surrounding areas.

A Leap Card offers the best value for multiple journeys.

DART and Dublin Rail

The DART (Dublin Area Rapid Transit) connects the city centre with coastal suburbs like Howth and Dún Laoghaire, while Dublin Rail serves inland destinations.

Luas Tram System

Two Luas lines (Red and Green) connect the city centre with suburbs and provide a quick way to travel between major attractions.

Dublin Taxi and Ride-sharing

Taxis are readily available but can be expensive.

Free Now (formerly MyTaxi) and  Uber operate in Dublin and often offer competitive rates.

Walking in Dublin

Dublin's compact city centre makes walking the best way to explore.

Most major attractions lie within a 2km radius of Trinity College.

Dublin on a Budget - Money-Saving Tips

Budget Eating in Dublin

Leo Burdock - Dublin's most famous chipper (fish and chips shop).

Supermarkets - Dunnes Stores, Tesco, and SuperValu offer meal deals and ready-made options.

Zaytoon - Excellent Middle Eastern food with generous portions.

Dublin City Pass

Consider the Dublin Pass for multiple attractions.

It includes fast-track entry to top sights and can offer significant savings for busy itineraries.

Go Dublin - Save up to 50% on Dubin attractions.

Free Things to Do in Dublin

Chester Beatty Library - Stunning manuscripts and artifacts.

Dublin Castle State Apartments - Free on certain days.

National Gallery of Ireland - World-class art collection with free admission.

Phoenix Park - Europe's largest enclosed park, perfect for picnics.

St Stephen's Green - Beautiful Victorian park in the city centre.

Practical Dublin Travel Information

Dublin Currency and Payments

Ireland uses the Euro (€).

Card payments are widely accepted, but carry some cash for traditional pubs and market stalls.

Dublin Safety Tips

Dublin is generally very safe for tourists.

Exercise normal precautions in busy nightlife areas and keep valuables secure in crowded spaces.

Dublin Tipping Guide

Hotels - €1-2 per bag for porters.

Pubs - Not expected, but round up for table service.

Restaurants - 10-15% for good service.

Taxis - Round up to nearest euro.

Planning Your Dublin Itinerary

Dublin in 2 Days

Day 1: Trinity College, Book of Kells, Dublin Castle, Temple Bar.

Day 2: Guinness Storehouse, Kilmainham Gaol, St Patrick's Cathedral.

Dublin in 3 Days

Day 3: Add a day trip to Howth, Phoenix Park, and take in a traditional music session.

Dublin For a Week

Include day trips to Glendalough, Kilkenny, or the Cliffs of Moher, plus include more time for museums, shopping, and experiencing Dublin's café culture.

Why Dublin Should Be Your Next Destination

Dublin manages to be both deeply rooted in tradition and refreshingly modern; a city where you can explore 1,000 years of history in the morning and enjoy cutting-edge cuisine in the evening.

From the medieval streets around Christ Church Cathedral to the gleaming Docklands district, Dublin reveals new layers with each visit.

Whether you're drawn by the literary heritage, the legendary hospitality, or simply the promise of a perfectly poured pint, Dublin delivers experiences that linger long after you've returned home.

So pack your sense of adventure, along with a waterproof jacket, and prepare to fall under the spell of Ireland's irresistible capital.

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