Things to do in Dublin; Have Fun Exploring the Captial City of Ireland

Updated On: April 18, 2024 by   Sara Lynch

Dublin is the capital city of Ireland and is a vibrant city with a rich history and culture. From historic castles and cathedrals to its vibrant nightlife, there is plenty to do and see that’s suited to a range of different interests and hobbies.

In this article, we’ll explore some of our favourite places to visit and things to do in Dublin. It’s a very charming city and you can pack a lot of sightseeing in just one day. Whether you’re visiting Dublin on a family trip, as a romantic escape, or even as a solo traveller, the city has a range of things on offer to make it a memorable visit. 

What to do in Dublin for Family Days Out

Grab the family and head to one of these family-friendly destinations for a great time spent in Dublin. 

St Stephen’s Green

St Stephen’s Green is a historic park and garden, located in the centre of Dublin City, Ireland. It’s one of Dublin’s main Georgian garden squares and a popular escape from the bustle of city life.

It features a beautiful Victorian layout with extensive lawns, tree-lined walks, and a beautiful ornamental lake that provides a habitat for waterfowl. The park is also home to several monuments and sculptures that commemorate Ireland’s history and its influential figures. 

Phoenix Park and Dublin Zoo

Phoenix Park is one of the largest city parks in Europe, home to Dublin Zoo and the official residence of the President of Ireland. The zoo is one of the oldest zoos in the world and is a key attraction for families to explore wildlife. 

Within the park is also, Farmleigh House, an Edwardian mansion and the official Irish State guest house. It regularly hosts visiting dignitaries and royals and is also open for public tours. Other notable attractions in the park include; The Papal Cross, erected for the visit of Pope John Paul II in 1979, and The Wellington Monument, which is the tallest obelisk in Europe. 

If you’re bringing the family here also be sure to visit the Victorian People’s Flower Gardens, which boasts ornamental lakes, a children’s playground, picnic areas, and a variety of flower beds and shrubberies.

Grafton Street

Grafton Street is a bustling shopping street offering a range of high-street and luxury options. It’s also known for its lively atmosphere with many street musicians and performers, making it a vibrant and entertaining place for both locals and tourists. 

Halfway up Grafton Street, you’ll find the Stephen’s Green Shopping Centre, an impressively designed indoor shopping complex, which contrasts with the historic character of the street. Just off Grafton Street is also the beautiful Powerscourt Centre, a shopping centre set in an elegant Georgian house, which offers designer boutiques, antiques, jewellery and fine dining.

Unique things to do in Dublin 

Dublin is a unique city, with lots of unique things to do, check them out below!

Trinity College 

Trinity College is the oldest university in Ireland and one of the oldest in Europe. Located in the heart of Dublin, the university’s campus is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Its historic buildings and cobbled pathways provide a stark contrast to the bustling city streets outside. The campus spans 47 acres and boasts historic buildings dating back hundreds of years.

Perhaps the most famous attraction within Trinity College is the Old Library, which houses the Book of Kells, a 9th-century gospel manuscript famous throughout the world. The Old Library itself is worth a visit for its impressive architecture and the Long Room, which is a  stunning 65-meter-long chamber housing around 200,000 of the library’s oldest books.

Dublin Castle

Dublin Castle, located in the heart of Dublin City, is one of the most important historic sites in Ireland. The castle has been a central part of Ireland’s history since it was first built by the Normans in the 13th century, following their invasion of Ireland.

One of the most notable features of Dublin Castle is the Record Tower, which is the last intact medieval tower in all of Ireland. Inside, the castle’s State Apartments are richly decorated and hold collections of Irish art and antiquities. The former throne room, St. Patrick’s Hall, is now used for state receptions.

Today, Dublin Castle is a major tourist attraction, offering guided tours that take visitors through its history and its beautifully furnished rooms. It also houses the Chester Beatty Library, with its collection of manuscripts, rare books, and other fascinating items from Asia, the Middle East, North Africa, and Europe.

Guinness Storehouse

Dublin is synonymous with Guinness, and a visit to the Guinness Storehouse is often on visitors’ itineraries. It offers a tour that shows the brewing process, along with a rooftop bar that provides panoramic views of the city. Check out the video below for exploring more distilleries and breweries in Ireland.

Things to do in Dublin Alone

If you’re on a solo adventure, be sure to check out these things to do in Dublin and treat yourself to a wonderful time in the city. 

Kilmainham Gaol

Kilmainham Gaol is one of the most significant historical sites in Dublin. Opened in 1796 and decommissioned as a prison in 1924, it’s now a museum open to the public. This Gaol has played a central role in Irish history, as many leaders of Irish rebellions were imprisoned here and some even executed.

Among the famous prisoners were Robert Emmet, Charles Stewart Parnell, and leaders of the 1916 Easter Rising, including Padraig Pearse and James Connolly. The leaders of the Rising were executed at the prison by firing squad, making the jail a symbol of Irish nationalism.

Since its restoration and opening to the public in the 1960s, Kilmainham Gaol has been one of Dublin’s most visited tourist attractions. Visitors can take guided tours, which include an audio-visual show. The tours provide insights into the political and penal history of the prison and its restoration.

Visit museums 

If you would explore more museums in Dublin, check out the video below. 

Hop On Hop Off

Take a Hop On Hop Off bus tour within Dublin and pack as much as you can into your adventure. 

Things to do in Dublin at Night

Dublin is known for its vibrant nightlife, check out what you can get up to below!

Temple Bar

Temple Bar is a lively, vibrant area on the south bank of the River Liffey in central Dublin. It is known for its bustling nightlife, cobblestone streets, and cultural attractions, it’s a must-visit destination for anyone spending time in Dublin.

The Temple Bar, along with other neighbouring bars, often features live traditional Irish music sessions. There is also the annual TradFest (a traditional music and culture festival) and the Dublin Dance Festival.

If you happen to visit on a Saturday, you’ll also be treated to The Temple Bar Food Market: an outdoor food market offering a variety of fresh, local produce, artisan cheeses, baked goods, and more.

Want to Explore More Things To Do in Ireland? 

Check out these articles:  Things to do in Mayo | Things to do in Antrim | Things to do in Derry | Things to do in  Fermanagh | Things to do in Armagh | Things to do in County Down | Things to do in Monaghan | Things to do in Roscommon | Things to do in Northern Ireland for Couples | Things to do in Donegal | Things to do in Sligo  | Things to do in Leitrim  | Things to do in Louth  | Things to do in Cavan | Things to do in Longford | Things to do in Meath | Things to do in Westmeath | Things to do in Galway.