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Did you know Dublin was founded by the Vikings? They settled here in the 9th century and called it the “Norse Kingdom of Dublin.”
Now Ireland’s capital city is beautiful and a hotbed of history and culture. So you can be pretty sure your Irish adventure will be a whole lot of fun.
Ready to prep your Dublin itinerary?
Let’s dive in.
1. Take a walking tour of Dublin
No better way to kick off your trip than going on a walking tour. The tours typically start from O’Connell street and are of about a couple of hours. On your tour you’ll walk past many historical buildings and even discover a bunch of hidden gems in the city. You’ll also familiarize yourself with the routes to take, transport options, and the best places to grab some grub.
2. National Museum of Ireland
The National Museum of Ireland is a fascinating journey into Dublin’s history. Here you’ll find wonderful examples of medieval and Celtic art as well as Viking artifacts. You’ll also get a glimpse into how the Vikings lived in the area and witness the finest collection of prehistoric gold artifacts in Europe.
Apart from that, the museum’s collection of documents and art also reveal a whole lot about the churches and other historic buildings in Dublin.
Visit the museum Tuesday-Saturday between 10 AM and 5 PM.
3. Little Museum of Dublin
This museum is a wonderful place to learn about Dublin life and culture. The three floors have almost 5000 exhibits, all crowd sourced from Dublin residents. The 1916 Rising is the most prominent one while other quirky stuff include pictures, posters, letters, and documents.
They also have a room dedicated to U2!
4. Irish Emigration Museum
This is a lovely interactive museum that unfolds the narrative of Irish people worldwide. Here, you’ll go beyond stereotypes and learn what it is to be Irish and why is Irish culture celebrated all over the world. Expect this museum to be a highlight of your trip, especially if you’re part Irish!
5. Dublin Castle
If you take a walking tour of the city, you’re sure to come by Dublin Castle. We definitely recommend setting a day aside to tour the grounds and visit the Chester Beatty library. Even though it’s a complex of administrative buildings now, the interiors and the artifacts all over the castle are a testament to its changing roles in Ireland’s evolution. From functioning as a fortification castle for the Normans to courts of law, the richly decorated interiors have been a witness to it all.
6. Chester Beatty library
Don’t forget to visit the Chester Beatty library after touring the castle. The “library” is actually a museum located on the castle grounds.
The museum houses everything mining tycoon Chester Beatty amassed during his travels around the world. In fact, the museum, which earned the prestigious European Museum of the Year award in 2002, is said to have one of the most exclusive oriental and Islamic manuscripts and artifacts ever gathered by a private collector. From stamps to Chinese snuff boxes, you’ll see a rich variety of exhibits here.
7. National Gallery of Ireland
A nation’s art is always indicative of the various stages of its development. And it’s no less different at the National Gallery of Ireland. The museum houses prominent pieces of Irish and west European art. The entry to the permanent exhibit is free, but you may need a ticket for some of the temporary special displays.
8. St. Patrick’s Cathedral
St. Patrick’s Cathedral is the largest church in Ireland – you’ll immediately be in awe of the majestic spires and the astounding overall architecture. Established in 1191, the cathedral has been witness to the evolution of Ireland’s rich culture and history for 800 years now! It’s also the final resting place of the author of Gulliver’s Travels – Jonathan Swift.
9. Christ Church Cathedral
Christ Church Cathedral, formerly the Church of the Holy Trinity, is another medieval architectural marvel in Ireland. You may have to pay a fee to admire the interiors though as this cathedral is not state aided.
Be sure to tour the crypts as well, which is among the largest in Ireland.>/p>
10. Ha’penny bridge
Named after the fee pedestrians had to pay to cross the bridge, this is structure is one of the most iconic in Dublin now. In fact, this dainty white-picketed bridge was the first pedestrian bridge to be ever built over the Liffey river.
11. Phoenix Park
Located in downtown Dublin, Phoenix Park is a sprawling green ground ideal for one of those lazy days when you’d rather relax on your holiday. Pack a picnic and you’re good to go for the day. And, you may spot a few wild deer or two if you’re lucky!
The park has many historical monuments and is also home to a sports field and Dublin Zoo.
12. Dublin Zoo
If you’re traveling with a little one, make your way to Dublin Zoo after your picnic at Phoenix Park. The sprawling zoo is home to over 400 animals, including endangered species.
13. Guinness Storehouse Factory
Who doesn’t love a creamy pint? Visit the Guiness Storehouse Factory for a fun tour of the 50-acre brewery. The tour is both fun and educational and it’s totally a legit excuse to grab a pint. Even better when the tour wraps up and you can chill with one at the rooftop bar.
You can also learn how to pour the perfect pint and even get a certificate to show to your friends and family!
14. Jameson Distillery
If whiskey is more your jam, you can head over to the Bow Street Jameson Distillery. Learn all about the fine art of whiskey distilling and taste some delectable special flavors while touring the facilities.
Both the Guinness and Jameson experience are best when you get skip the line tickets!
15. Have Beef stew and some pints at The Church
Formerly St. Mary Church which closed down inn 1964, partying at The Church is a truly a unique experience you shouldn’t miss in Dublin. It was restored and reopened as a modern pub in 2007 and is a party hotspot in Dublin. The island bar is magnificent, the evenings are lively when the DJ is in, and it’s always brilliant to end the night with some of their signature beef stew.
16. The Temple Bar
Bright red and located in central Dublin, this iconic bar is hard to miss. A part of Dublin’s pub scene since the 1800s, a night of partying at The Temple is a quintessential Irish experience.
The live music contributes to the joyful vibe and makes it a great spot to grab some stiff Irish whiskey with your pals.
17. Kilmainham Gaol
Kilmainham Gaol has a dark history – many Irish revolutionaries and leaders of the 1916 Easter Rising were imprisoned and executed here.
Now, this abandoned prison has been restored and you can tour the once-nightmarish facilities to learn all about this foreboding period of Irish history.
18. Dublin flea market
Love shopping for knick knacks? Make your way over to Dublin flea market if your trip coincides with the last Sunday of a month. This spacious area has over 70 stalls and you’ll love shopping for some quirky items that are on sale here, from antiques to clothes to furniture.
19. Admire the colorful doors of Dublin
The story behind the colorful doors in Dublin is both hilarious and practical.
The 1700s saw a building boom in the city, and it is said that many a drunk Irishman would barge into the wrong house after a night of revelry.
So, the residents decided to paint their doors in bright colors to nip this issue in the bud.
Admire the beautiful doors and magnificent Georgian architecture in Baggot Street, Leeson Street, Fitzwilliam Square, and Merrion Square.
20. Gaelic Games
Gear up for a day of authentic Irish sporting experience at Gaelic Games. This place is a must visit if you’re planning to do something out of the ordinary with your friends and family. Learn all about the history of two of Ireland’s most prominent sports: soccer and “hurling,” which is pretty much hockey, soccer, and basketball all rolled into one.
21. Day trip to Wicklow Mountains
Wrap up your Irish holiday with a day trip to Wicklow Mountains where you can admire the beautiful countryside and take in some crisp fresh air. Make sure to rope in the trip to the Glendalough Monastery as well. You’ll love the open trails, views of the ocean, and the windy gust once you reach the top of the mountain.
You can choose a trail based on your fitness level and hiking experience. Plus, don’t forget to wear the right shoes and layer appropriately for the whimsical Irish weather.
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