Dublin Travel Guide
Read our travel guide on Dublin in Ireland. Includes best things to do and see, tips on how to get, where to stay, or when to go.
With so much to see and do, it's no wonder Dublin is one of the most exciting cities you can visit in Europe.
Dublin is the cultural, historical, and political capital of Ireland. With centuries of history, lively pubs, vibrant culture, warm hospitality, craic, pulsing nightlife, and a renowned festival, Dublin is truly a tourist magnet.
If you love exploring European cities, Dublin won't disappoint.
Furthermore, Dublin is the first place many travelers visit on their journey around Ireland. Or a place where they bid farewell to Emerald Isle.
Depending on how they planned their Ireland road trip itinerary.
The good news is that a visit to Dublin is very straightforward. Here is everything you should know about Dublin before you go.
Whether traveling around Ireland on a tight budget or looking for fun things to do, we've got you covered.
Best Things to Do in Dublin
Dublin is the largest city on Emerald Isle, meaning there is always something going on.
No matter when you visit and what your interests are, there are tons of things to see and do in Dublin.
The experience spans from sightseeing to pub crawls, from shopping to fine dining, and from whiskey tasting to museums and relaxing walks.
Here is your guide to fun activities, things to do, and iconic places to visit in Dublin.
Book Your Tickets in Advance
Before we start, there are two important things on our minds.
Firstly, some of the most popular attractions, such as the Book of Kells and Guinness Storehouse, are recommended to book in advance.
You will not only avoid disappointment but usually skip the line.
As usual, it really depends on when you go, as the peak season will differ from the off-season.
Dublin Pass
Secondly, if you decide to explore Dublin extensively, you should consider getting the Dublin Pass.
This sightseeing pass for tourists includes some of the most popular places in Dublin and, with a little planning, saves a lot of money.
City passes are expensive but can end up being a great deal. As usual, whether Dublin Pass is a good deal or not depends on how you use it.
See the Book of Kells
Situated in a small museum at Trinity College, the Book of Kells is one of the most popular attractions in Dublin.
Without exaggeration, this illuminated manuscript of the four Gospels of the Bible is often described as Ireland's greatest treasure.
At the beginning of the tour, you will step inside a small museum packed with information on the manuscript.
You will learn who made it, why it is decorated, its purpose, and why it is so important today.
The next room contains the Book of Kells itself, and it's the highlight of this museum.
Book of Kells's experience also includes entry to Long Room, a stunning library with towering shelves and more than 200,000 books.
Keep in mind that you need to book the Book of Kells experience in advance through the official website.
Explore Trinity College Dublin
As mentioned above, the Book of Kells and the Long Room are housed at the museum at Trinity College Dublin.
As the tickets are relatively expensive, some budget-conscious travelers decide to skip this experience.
As budget travelers ourselves, we can only respect this decision.
Still, we do recommend Trinity College in your Dublin itinerary. The college campus is absolutely stunning and free to visit.
This is the oldest university in Ireland, and history is oozing from every stone.
The grounds are well-kept, and the buildings featuring neoclassical architecture are a sight to behold.
On top of that, there is also a small but free museum containing modern art and many sculptures and statues scattered around the complex.
As you can clearly see, there are several reasons to visit Trinity College.
Shop at the Grafton Street
Situated between St. Stephen's Green Park and Trinity College, Grafton Street is one of the main shopping streets in central Dublin.
If you do a lot of shopping when traveling, Grafton Street offers a variety of fantastic shopping experiences.
If you need a break from traditional attractions, you've come to the right place.
There are shops everywhere, ranging from conventional high-end brands to small quirky stores.
You can also explore the local pubs and cafes or listen to street musicians. Grafton Street is often crowded, making it a great place for people-watching.
Just make sure that your wallet is safely kept out of reach of pickpockets.
Explore Phoenix Park
Phoenix Park is a huge urban park and a popular place to visit in Dublin when you need to escape the city's noise.
This green oasis is home to Dublin Zoo, Aras an Uachtarain, which is the neoclassical home of Irelands' president, Wellington Monument, Ashtown Castle, many trees, and even deer.
Speaking of which, Phoenix Park was originally founded as Royal Hunting Park in the 17th century.
This is one of Europe's largest enclosed city parks, so it's best explored on bike or foot.
By the way, this park is about twice the size of New York's Central Park.
Phoenix Park is only a short walk from Heuston Station, or you can walk there in 30 minutes along River Liffey from the city center. Phoenix Park is open all year round and free to enter.
If the park is too far for your taste, visit St Stephen's Green, which is much smaller but located right in the city center.
Tour the Dublin Castle
Dublin Castle offers a fantastic opportunity to learn about the history of Dublin's rulers.
This 13th-century castle was built upon the site of a 10th-century Viking fortress to help protect the city against invaders and as a seat of the British Government's Administration in Ireland.
Today, Dublin Castle is one of the most popular attractions in Dublin. Also, this structure role has been one of the most important castles in Ireland.
Obviously, it still functions as a place that houses Irish government offices and hosts foreign officials or private events.
You can either explore Dublin Castle's grounds for free or take one of the guided tours this historic landmark offers.
Some of the most popular experiences combine the Dublin Castle Tour and the Book of Kells.
Hang Out in the Docklands
For us, Dublin's Docklands was one of the most interesting neighborhoods we had a chance to explore while there.
Due to recent developments, Docklands can be described as where the old meets the new.
It's a neighborhood full of new and modern buildings that are in striking contrast with 19th-century historic buildings and River Liffey.
Not long ago, Docklands also became home to many major tech companies. You can find plenty of restaurants or cafes within this area if you're tired of sightseeing.
Some of the most notable places you can see here are Bord Gais Energy Theatre, The Marker Hotel, Convention Centre Dublin, Samuel Beckett Bridge, Bolands Mills, Jeanie Johnston Ship, and the Grand Canal itself.
You can easily reach Docklands on foot from the city center.
Have a Beer in Temple Bar
Coming from Prague, we couldn't pass up the opportunity to try one of the local beers. When you're in Dublin, you're spoilt for choice.
Still, Temple Bar is one of the most popular places to visit in Central Dublin, at least for first-time visitors.
This famous neighborhood sprawls between River Liffey and Dame Street and is pretty much on every Dublin itinerary.
It's packed with bars, pubs, and restaurants and always buzzing with life.
The iconic stout Guinness is always a solid choice for a casual beer fan, though you can also try some locally craft-brewed beers.
We don't need to mention that this is not the only place to sample an Irish beer. In fact, some people find Temple Street too crowded and packed with tourists.
Don't worry; you can always find a nice, cozy pub without hordes of tourists in Dublin.
Meet Travel Buddies on a Pub Crawl
We are not leaving Temple Bar just yet. Dublin's Temple Bar is known for pub crawls if you're feeling a bit more adventurous.
No matter what you think of them, joining a Dublin Pub Crawl is an easy way to explore the local pub scene, taste some local beers or drinks, and even meet same-minded travelers along the way.
Just take it easy and know your limits.
Visit the National Museum of Ireland
If you love museums, the National Museum of Ireland will be one of the highlights of your Dublin visit. A small warning, though.
There are technically four museums, each focusing on a different element. Three museums are located in Dublin, while the Country Life branch is in County Mayo.
As this is a guide to Dublin, we'll stay within the city limits.
In fact, the Archaeology and Natural History branches are situated between Trinity College, Merrion Square, and St. Stephen's Green.
From a grand dome monopolizing the entrance hall to fascinating exhibitions, the National Museum of Ireland - Archaeology is well worth a visit.
Arguably, it's the best national museum in Dublin, though that depends on your preferences. This museum offers a great insight into Ireland and its past.
The National Museum of Ireland - Natural History is located in the adjacent building. It's nicknamed the Dead Zoo, and as soon as you enter, you will quickly understand why.
The museum looks like it is from Victorian times and features a nice collection of taxidermied animals, minerals, and fossils.
The Decorative Arts & History Museum is located about two kilometers west of the city center and can be easily reached on foot as well.
The museum is housed at beautiful Collins Barracks and contains small artifacts, furniture, costumes, and even weaponry.
All four sites of the National Museum of Ireland are free.
Learn About Dublin's History
Hands down, one of the best ways to get familiar with a new city is to take a Dublin Historical Walking Tour.
While there is a huge variety of Dublin Tours you can choose from, guided walks focusing on history will offer the most comprehensive background on fascinating Dublin's past.
By learning about the past, you will get a chance to see the city and its iconic landmarks from a completely new perspective.
If history is not your thing, you can take a Dublin: Highlights and Hidden Gems Tour or Dublin Afternoon Tea Vintage Bus Trip.
By the way, if you visit Ireland on a budget, most hostels provide free walking tours that are awesome as well.
Take a Guinness Storehouse Tour
If you're into beer, Guinness Storehouse is a must-do while in Dublin.
Founded in 1759 by Arthur Guinness, the classic Irish stout represented by a harp logo is one of the most iconic beers in the world.
Take a guided tour to learn about how beer is produced, the ingredients used, and the overall story of the brewery.
Once you reach the modern rooftop Gravity Bar, you will get the opportunity to have a Guinness pint or two.
This is one of the most popular places in Dublin, and reserving your Guinness Storehouse Tickets in advance is highly recommended.
The property is located two kilometers west of Trinity College, and you can easily get there on foot.
Climb on Board the Jeanie Johnston
When a blight affected the potato crop in the middle of the 19th century, Ireland was hit by starvation and disease.
From 1845 to 1852, it's estimated that between 1 and 1.5 million people died, and another 1 million were forced to leave. This grim period is known as The Great Famine.
Jeanie Johnston's Experience tells the grueling story of those who decided to leave Ireland.
The passengers on their grueling journey to North America across the treacherous waters of the Atlantic Ocean had to endure storms, filth, starvation, seasickness, and overcrowding.
Similar to Kilmainham Gaol, this is a very moving experience.
This is a great place to start if you want to learn about Irish famine, migration, and human endurance.
The guided tours take about 50 minutes.
Celebrate St. Patrick's Day
Throughout the year, Dublin is home to several interesting festivals. But there is one that is particularly unique to Ireland.
St. Patrick's Festival is one of the most famous festivals in the world. Even if you don't know much about Ireland, there is no way you haven't heard about St. Patrick's Day.
This religious and cultural holiday commemorating the arrival of St. Patrick to Ireland is held annually on the 17th of March.
The celebrations involve parades, music sessions, wearing green attire and shamrocks, festivals, and much more.
The city is packed with people, and everything gets kind of crazy in Dublin. If you want to experience a green madness in its purest form, then you should fit St. Patrick's Day in your itinerary.
If crowded events don't interest you, avoid being in Dublin during the middle of March.
Tour Kilmainham Gaol
If you love history and prison tours, Kilmainham Gaol is a must-do.
The former prison was first opened in 1796 and transformed into a national monument in the first half of the 20th century. Today, Kilmainham Gaol is managed by OPW and retells the story of criminals convicted of serious crimes but also political prisoners.
Guided tours offer great insight into the jail's history and bring Irish history alive.
As you will learn on your tour, many detained prisoners were from one of many rebellions or movements during the War of Independence and the Civil War.
You can access Kilmainham Gaol only by a well-narrated guided tour, which is, unfortunately, often sold out. Therefore, make sure to pre-book your Kilmainham Gaol Ticket in advance to avoid disappointment.
If the tour is sold out, check the official website around 9 AM on the day you plan to go.
Drink Irish Whiskey
Dublin is one of the best places in Ireland to learn how traditional whiskey is made.
The dramatic events of the past centuries have seen the rise and fall of Irish whiskey, with resurgence being the last development in the story.
We toured the Teeling Whiskey Distillery, and it was a fun experience during which we learned the basics of whiskey production and the story behind the distillery.
Dublin is also home to the renowned Jameson Distillery, the largest whiskey producer in Ireland.
Jameson is always a safe bet if you're unsure which distillery you should visit. Roe and Co, Pearse Lyons, or Dublin Liberties Distilleries are other whiskey distilleries you can visit in Dublin.
By the way, most Irish whiskey distilleries also offer an option to bottle your own whiskey, though this experience is more expensive.
See Dublin from The River Liffey
No matter if it was the Atlantic Ocean or River Liffey, water always played an important role in Dublin's history.
The narrated River Liffey Sightseeing Cruise offers a unique way to see Dublin's iconic landmarks and tell the story of Dublin's most important waterway.
Learn about the first Vikings who reached the shores of Ireland and the city's rapid development during the 18th and 19th centuries to modern-day redevelopment.
Here, you can reserve the River Liffey Sightseeing Cruise in advance. The departure point is located at Sean O'Casey Footbridge.
Free Things to Do in Dublin
Dublin has a reputation of being one of the most expensive cities in the world.
The good news is that there are tons of free things to do in Dublin, so you don't have to worry that a trip to the capital will break the bank.
We've got a few tips and tricks that'll help you see everything the city has to offer, so make sure to read our guide on free things to do in Dublin.
In a nutshell, you can visit Dublin on a budget, especially if you can secure a good deal on accommodation.
Best Day Trips from Dublin
Dublin has plenty of great day trips, from monastic sites, megalithic monuments, historical castles, and seaside towns to stunning mountains.
If you ever get tired of crowds, there are tons of amazing places within a short drive from Dublin.
Some places on this list can be reached by public transport, though renting a car or taking an organized tour is usually more convenient.
So what are the best day tours from Dublin?
Howth
The seaside town of Howth is one of the most popular day trips from Dublin for multiple reasons.
Firstly, this little town is on the DART line, meaning it's well-accessible from Dublin Pearse or Connolly Station in central Dublin.
Secondly, the town is fairly charming and has some cool piers that can be explored on foot.
Unless you arrive on market day, there is not that much to see and do in the village. Still, you will find there a few nice restaurants serving a cold pint and tasty seafood.
The main draw is the Howth Cliff Walk, though.
You can choose between a 6-kilometer and 10-kilometer loop walk that includes some really nice views of the Atlantic Ocean, Baily Lighthouse, or Ireland's Eye.
If you don't have time to drive across the whole island to see Kerry Cliffs or Slieve League, the cliffs of Howth are a nice alternative.
On the way to Howth Cliffs, you can also spend some time chilling on Balscadden Bay Beach, at least on a sunny day.
If you still have time, you can walk to the ruined Howth Castle or take a boat to uninhabited Ireland's Eye.
Wicklow Mountains
Less than a 45-minute drive from central Dublin, you can escape to the stunning Wicklow Mountains, one of Ireland's best national parks.
This national park is home to many great trails, scenic roads, and amazing scenery.
Our favorite hike was the moderately challenging Spinc Loop starting from Glendalough, though there are trails for all levels.
While you can get to Glendalough by bus, we suggest taking a road trip along the iconic Old Military Road, including Sally Gap, sweeping vistas, and rolling hills.
Or just take a Wicklow Mountains Tour.
Glendalough Monastic Site
There are several reasons to visit the small village of Glendalough. As we mentioned above, it's a starting point for some of the finest hikes in the Wicklow Mountains National Park.
Two stunning lakes are nestled between mountains and are accessible to all types of travelers.
On top of that, this valley carved out by a glacier during the Ice Age is also home to Glendalough Monastic Site.
Founded by St. Kevin during the 6th century, Glendalough was once one of Ireland's most important monastic sites.
The monastic site has a rich, fascinating history, and together with Clonmacnoise, it used to be the cradle of early Irish Christianity.
Simply put, this is one of the most interesting places in County Wicklow.
There is no entry fee to the Glendalough Monastic Site, meaning this whole area is perfect for budget travelers.
Here you can reserve a Glendalough and Kilkenny Tour.
Clonmacnoise
Located about 130 kilometers west of Dublin, Clonmacnoise is one of the top attractions in County Offaly.
Sitting on the left bank of the River Shannon, this monastic site is known for its ruined cathedral and temples, high crosses, and historical manuscripts.
Clonmacnoise is a great day trip from the capital city for those interested in monastic history.
The monastery was founded by St. Ciaran in the 6th century CE. By the 9th century, the monastic site became one of the most important centers of religion and learning in Ireland.
Clonmacnoise is easily accessible from Dublin via M4/M6 by car.
If you have time, you can also visit nearby Birr Castle.
Powerscourt
Located less than 30 kilometers south of Dublin's city center, Powerscourt Estate and Gardens is well worth a visit.
The well-landscaped gardens with easy trails provide an ideal retreat from the crowded streets of the capital city.
The elegant Powerscourt Hotel offers luxurious accommodation for those who don't want to return to Dublin just yet.
Once you're ready to leave the estate, make sure to explore the nearby Powerscourt Waterfall.
This 121-meter-high waterfall is surely one of the most stunning natural attractions just outside Dublin.
If you have a car, you should also see Glendalough and Sally Gap on this day trip. Or book a Powerscourt and Wicklow Mountains Tour.
Bru na Boinne
For us, the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Bru na Boinne was probably the biggest surprise of our Ireland road trip.
The Boyne Valley is home to dozens of megalithic monuments, with some of them being more than 5,000 years old.
The most notable passage tombs within this region are Newgrange, Dowth, and Knowth.
Pre-booking is essential as Newgrange and Knowth can only be accessed by guided tours. Here you can book a Bru na Boinne Tour.
Bru na Boinne is an hour's drive from Dublin city center.
Cliffs of Moher
A tour to the Cliffs of Moher is one of the most classic day trips from Dublin.
Towering more than 200 meters over the Atlantic Ocean, these stunning cliffs are Ireland's national treasure.
Be prepared that the cliffs are located on the opposite side of the country, and you will spend a long day on the road.
The most popular Cliffs of Moher Tour also includes Galway and the Burren on their itinerary.
How Much Time Do I Need
When it comes to travel, one of the hardest questions to answer is how many days you need for a new destination, and Dublin is no exception.
So, let's take a realistic look at how many days you need in Dublin.
Dublin in 1 Day
If you're short on time, one full day in Dublin is more than enough to see the main highlights the capital city of Ireland has to offer.
You will often hear that you need at least three, four, or even five days for Dublin.
We're not saying that having more days in Dublin won't give you more opportunity to really experience the city. On the other hand, it's not a New York.
And not everyone has the luxury to spend so much time in one location.
Spending only a day in Dublin is also a popular option for those who want to take a road trip around the island and explore the famous Irish countryside.
Dublin in 2 Days
With that being said, we recommend spending two days in Dublin, especially if you're a first-time visitor.
Honestly, two days in Dublin are more than enough to tour the most popular attractions.
The main reason why we believe that two days is the ideal amount of time is that you will need to stay in the city overnight.
Dublin is known for its great pub scene and nightlife, and this will give you a chance to stay after dark and see the city from a different perspective.
If you're from Europe, Dublin might be a good tip for a weekend break.
Dublin in 3 Days
For those who prefer taking things slowly, we suggest three days to see the main sights without rushing too much.
As Dublin is fairly compact, you should really be able to soak in everything the city center offers.
With three days in Dublin, you will be able to see almost every major city sight and landmark and even have enough time for museums.
Honestly, we believe you should be able to squeeze in a half-day trip to Howth or Killiney easily.
Dublin in 4-5 Days
With 4 to 5 days in Dublin, you should be able to see most of the major sights and landmarks and even take a day trip or two to explore the surrounding areas.
Obviously, you can easily spend a week in Dublin without getting bored, but that could be said pretty much about every large city in the world.
This is a perfect amount of time for those who want to base themselves in the capital city and explore the Emerald Isle from there.
When to Go
Dublin is a year-round destination. The coastal location and mild, temperate climate mean you can visit Dublin any time of the year.
Remember that even during the summer, there will be a few rainy days here and there. Make sure to have an umbrella or a good rain jacket.
Summer - Peak Season
With warm, long days and almost ideal weather conditions, summer is generally considered the best time to go to Dublin.
The main downside is that this is the busiest season to visit the capital city and the entire island.
Plus, hotels get expensive in the peak season unless you book well in advance.
Spring and Fall - Shoulder Season
We visited Dublin in May, and with a few exceptions, it rained the whole time we were there.
That said, the shoulder season is also a great time to visit Dublin.
The mid to late spring and early fall, consisting of the months of April, May, September, and October, usually have good enough weather, lower prices, and fewer crowds.
Winter - Off-Season
Undoubtedly, winter is the best time to visit Dublin if you want to avoid crowds and get the best hotel deals.
If you bring an extra layer or two, it's an ideal season for museums, pubs, indoor activities, and even city walks.
Visiting Ireland in winter is for those who want to explore mainly the cities and occasionally take a day trip to nearby attractions.
Ireland Road Trip
In a nutshell, whether you visit Dublin in summer or winter, we believe you'll enjoy the experience.
However, Dublin is usually only part of the bigger picture. If you want to explore the whole island, you should determine when is the best time to visit Ireland, not Dublin.
While the Ireland road trip is an incredible experience, the weather will have a big say on how you will enjoy it.
While the weather in Dublin may be decent, it will be a whole other story on the Ring of Kerry or Fanad Peninsula.
Holidays
By the way, St. Patrick's Day attracts a huge crowd to Dublin. And by huge, we mean huge.
You will most likely be shocked if you're unaware of this holiday. The stunning parade draws more than half a million people to watch the procession on the city's main streets.
Ireland's most famous holiday annually celebrated on the 17th of March, is complete madness, so you can expect that everything is pretty busy in Dublin's city center.
For some, this could be an incredible experience, but it could also be a great reason to leave all this chaos and find some peace in places such as Mizen Head or the Burren.
What to Pack
If you're planning your trip to Ireland, you're probably wondering what to pack and what to wear in Dublin. With a mild climate but unpredictable weather, packing right is the key to the success of your trip.
For starters, we need to say that you should keep it simple and don't overthink it.
Secondly, it's important to realize that the summer in Dublin is usually pleasant and not too hot, with averages around 20° Celsius.
On the other hand, the winter temperatures usually stay between 2° to 7° Celsius. As you can see, the difference is probably not as big as you would expect.
In winter, it's recommended to layer up with jeans, a long-sleeved shirt, a sweater, and a light winter coat. We would probably use a quality rain jacket instead, though.
While we love down jackets, they aren't usually the best choice for use in damp environments.
If you decide to stay in the city, a compact travel umbrella might be a good alternative.
When it comes to footwear, go for a comfortable pair of walking shoes. Rainproof shoes may come in handy here.
In summer, keep it simple. Use sun protection and sunglasses, and don't forget a comfortable daypack.
When it comes to spring and fall, you really need to prepare for anything. Once again, think of layers, and you should be fine.
If you want to know more about this topic, here you will find our complete Ireland packing list.
How to Get to and From Dublin
Getting to and from Dublin is easy, even for first-time visitors.
Whether you're coming for a weekend getaway, an extended road trip, or a business trip, there are several options for getting to Dublin, including by plane, car, train, bus, and boat.
Train
Irish Rail is the national passenger railroad of Ireland.
When staying in the city center, you can either use Heuston Station or Connolly Station. Both stations are within walking distance from Dublin's core.
Connolly Station is in the north and links the capital city with Ireland's southeast and Northern Ireland.
Heuston Station is located in the west and links Dublin with the western part of the country.
Trains are one of the most popular ways of intercity travel in Ireland.
Taking a train is a good option if you want to travel to Cork, Limerick, Galway, or even Belfast.
Bus
If you want to rely on public transport in Ireland, taking a bus from Dublin to your next destination is an easy and relatively cheap option.
Busaras is the main bus station in Dublin city center for national and regional bus services.
Busaras Luas Stop is conveniently located just in front of the bus station. Connolly train station is only a short walk from here.
Bus Eireann is Ireland's national bus company that provides a transport service throughout Ireland.
You can catch a bus from Dublin to Limerick, Galway, Waterford, Cork, etc.
One of the main reasons to choose the bus over the train is that the bus network covers pretty much every corner of Ireland.
With a little bit of effort and spare time, you can even reach relatively remote places such as Portmagee or Ballinskelligs.
Ferry
Dublin is situated on the east coast of Ireland, and you can also get there by ferry from the UK or France.
The most popular route connects Dublin and Holyhead in Wales, UK, and is serviced by Irish Ferries and Stena Line.
P&O Ferries travel between Dublin and Liverpool. You can also take a ferry from Cherbourg, France, to Dublin with Irish Ferries.
There is also a ferry from Dublin to Douglas on the Isle of Man.
Dublin Airport
Air travelers arrive in Dublin at Dublin Airport, the busiest airport in Ireland.
The easiest way to get from Dublin Airport to Dublin city center is by taxi, though this option is the most expensive.
If you want to save some money on transportation, consider taking the Airlink Bus that connects the international airport with downtown.
Or use the regular bus service instead. It is even cheaper but also slower.
How to Get Around
Dublin is by far the largest city in Ireland. While this fact might seem a bit intimidating, it's really easy to get around Dublin.
In a nutshell, Dublin has a good tram, bus, and train service but no subway.
Walking is the best option, and you should avoid driving in Dublin.
If you want to use Dublin's public transportation extensively, consider getting a TFI Leap Card instead of using single/return/1 Day, etc. tickets.
Here, you will find out more about all the ways you can travel around Dublin.
On Foot
As it turned out, Dublin is a surprisingly walkable city.
In fact, Dublin city center is relatively small and compact, and it's very easy to get around this area on foot.
With a few exceptions, we pretty much walked everywhere we wanted to go.
If you walk around Dublin, you will get the best chance to enjoy the attractions, architecture, people, street life, stores, and pubs.
While walking was our preferred way to get around Dublin, you should know that the public transportation system is pretty good as well.
Bus
Dublin has a great network of public transport. The traditional double-decker buses are one of the cheapest and most convenient ways to travel around the city.
Dublin Bus is the main operator in the capital city and runs buses throughout the entire city.
If you're not familiar with the routes, use the official app with real-time departures.
Buses in Dublin stop only at designated stops. Remember that sometimes you must request a stop to get off/on the bus.
In a nutshell, taking a bus is often the most inexpensive way to reach even the most remote corners of Dublin.
Hop-on-Hop-Off Buses
If you're short on time and want to get a general overview of the top city sights, a Hop-on-Hop-Off Dublin Bus is a good alternative.
These buses follow a designated route that will allow you to see Dublin's top attractions and key landmarks at your own pace.
Tram - Luas
Hands down, our favorite transportation option in Dublin is the tram.
The light rail system is efficient, affordable, comfortable, and fast, although it gets cramped during peak hours.
Dublin tram is known as the Luas, which means 'speed' in Irish. There are currently two lines with frequent stops.
Red Line connects Saggart or Tallaght in the south with Connolly or The Point in the north.
Green Line connects Broombridge in the north with Brides Glen in the south.
With only two lines, Luas is really easy to use, especially compared to buses.
Consider getting a hotel on one of those lines when searching for accommodation.
Train - Dart
If you need to get to and from downtown to the outskirts, consider taking a train.
Dublin Area Rapid Transit, or simply DART, is a great way to get around the wider Dublin area, so it's especially popular among local commuters and day-trippers who want to explore nearby seaside towns and beaches.
DART offers a wide range of tickets, with Single/Return Tickets and Adult and Family Day Tickets being one of the most popular choices among visitors.
If you decide to base yourself in Dublin, DART gives you access to places such as Howth Town and Cliffs, Killiney Bay, Dun Laoghaire Pier, or Malahide Castle.
Bike
Dublin Bikes is a public bicycle rental scheme that offers a fun way to get around the city.
The first 30 minutes are free, which makes this option especially tempting for budget-conscious travelers.
Although Dublin is quite bike-friendly, we still believe this option is more suitable for local commuters who know the cycling routes to avoid traffic.
Phoenix Park and Canal Way Cycle Route are among the most popular places to explore on a bike.
Taxis
Getting around Dublin by taxi is easy and convenient, though fairly expensive. There are tons of taxis in Dublin, so getting one is easy.
You can hail a cab on the street, go to the closest taxi rank (O'Connell Street, College Green, Parnell Square, etc.), use an app such as Lynk, or call a taxi company.
Taxis use a taximeter in Dublin.
Currently, Uber and other ridesharing services are regulated, and it's better to stick with a regular taxi service.
Car
As hinted above, driving in Dublin is not fun.
While you can rent your car at the airport or directly in the city center, you're better off without a car while in the city.
The traffic during the rush hour is horrible, some of the streets are quite narrow, parking is limited and expensive, and you will drive on the left side of the road.
Just use the public transport instead.
On the other hand, renting a car in Ireland is highly recommended as soon as you're ready to leave Dublin.
Travel Resources
When renting a car, we use Rentalcars.com.
Where to Stay
Without any doubt, the best area to stay in Dublin is the city center.
Neighborhoods and areas such as O'Connell Street, Trinity College, Temple Bar, St. Stephen's Green, The Liberties, Merrion Square, Docklands, and Portobello have amazing locations close to all major attractions.
They are packed with great hotels for all types of travelers. Alternatively, you can consider staying near the Dublin Airport.
Otherwise, the selection of hotels outside the city center is not that great, though the rooms tend to be cheaper there.
To stay ahead of the game, make sure to book hotels early to get the cheapest price during this season.
Here are our tips on the best hotels in Dublin for all budgets.
Hostel | Jacobs Inn Hostel - Located only a short walk from Temple Bar, this hostel has both affordable, clean dormitories or private en suite rooms, lockers, hot showers, and friendly staff. For a short stay, it's a great place to stay.
Budget | Holiday Inn Express Dublin - Located on O'Connell's Street in the city center, this modern hotel has cozy and quiet rooms, great access to public transport, and complimentary breakfast. Great value for money.
Mid-range | Wren Urban Nest - With a central location, beautiful rooms, modern design, and powered by renewable energy, this hotel has everything you need while on the road. It is one of the best hotels in this price category in Dublin.
Luxury | The Fitzwilliam Hotel - Situated in central Dublin right next to Grafton Street, this 5-star hotel offers accommodation within walking distance of all major attractions. The hotel has a beautiful design, spacious and stylish rooms, and a fine dining restaurant.
Airport | Clayton Hotel Dublin Airport - With comfortable soundproof rooms, a private parking garage, complimentary breakfast, and a 24-hour free shuttle to and from Dublin Airport, this is one of the best hotels in the Dublin Airport area.
Staying Safe
Dublin is one of the safest large cities in the world.
Therefore, it means that Dublin is a safe place to visit. That being said, no place is 100% safe, and Dublin is no exception.
The majority of crime in Dublin is opportunistic. Sometimes, you can just happen to be at the wrong place at the wrong time.
Whether you're a first-time or regular visitor, it's worth taking sensible precautions.
Here are a few tips to help you enjoy Dublin safely.
Leave your expensive valuables at home. Keep your belongings safe.
When using public transport or visiting crowded areas, keep your wallet close to your body, and never leave your phone in your back pocket.
Drink responsibly.
Avoid walking alone at night and keep to well-lit main roads.
While walking at night in Dublin is generally safe, it's often smarter to use a licensed taxi to get safely back to your hotel.
Don't accept drinks from strangers at bars, especially if you're a female solo traveler.
As you can see, these are general safety tips you can apply pretty much in any other major city around the world.
Here, you can check our guide on staying safe in Ireland with even more tips!
The only thing that might be new is that you need to look right to spot oncoming traffic when crossing the street.
It might seem like an obvious thing, but believe us, it takes time to get used to it.
Travel Insurance
We never leave home without travel insurance that was designed to cover our expenses if something goes wrong during the trip.
Travel insurance protects against theft, flight delays, injury, illness, cancellations, and much more.
World Nomads provides travel insurance for travelers to cover their trip essentials, including sports and adventure activities.
SafetyWing is affordable travel insurance for backpackers, long-term travelers, and digital nomads.
Travel smarter and safer!
Is Dublin Worth Visiting?
Dublin is one of the best places to visit in Ireland. There is so much to see and do in Dublin for every traveler that we believe it's definitely worth seeing.
If you're planning your big road trip including the Wild Atlantic Way, Dublin is a great place to kick off or end your adventure.
If you want to visit all major Irish cities, Dublin should be at the very top of your list.
While Dublin won't most likely ever be as popular as top European cities such as Paris or Rome, it's a great place to explore, and we had a great time there.
Travel Resources
Here you can find links to all the travel resources we use and which you might find helpful when planning your next holiday.
Accommodation: When looking for accommodation, we usually search hotels via Booking.com or Hostelworld.
Tours: Although we love to travel independently, some places are better to visit with a guided tour.
We prefer GetYourGuide for its easy-to-use interface and solid reputation. Another great alternative is Viator.
Rental Cars: When going on a road trip, we always use Rentalcars.com, a reliable site for booking a rental car in advance.
Flight Tickets: When looking for flight tickets, you can search Skyscanner to find the best price.
Travel Insurance: World Nomads and SafetyWing cover against risks of travel.
