Photo Credit : Shutterstock
You’ve 24 hours in Dublin – what to do? Stick with the most-visited tourist attractions? Go off the beaten path? We suggest a bit of each. Thankfully, Dublin offers a microcosm of Ireland, making it easy to get a feel for the Irish culture and cuisine, even within a limited timeframe. Listen to a tin whistle performance on Grafton Street, cheer for a rugby match while hoisting a pint of Guinness or take a boat ride on the River Liffey. Here’s a selection of the top things to do with one day in Dublin – we suggest six or seven that appeal to you most, so as not to overwhelm the day.
Photo Credit : Shutterstock
Soak Up the Ambience of Grafton Street
Often the best way to spend one day in a new city is simply to go where the locals go. You’ll feel the hum of daily life and get a feel for the culture that you may not otherwise get if you’re simply bopping from one sightseeing venue to the next (though, you’re sure to want to include some of those as well!). For soaking up the Dublin ambience, we suggest a couple hours on Grafton Street, known as one of the most upscale shopping thoroughfares in the city, but also the liveliest. There are the usual entertaining buskers and from here, it’s easy to end up in pretty St. Stephen’s Green, in the famous Temple Bar for a pint, at the statue of Molly Malone or at Trinity College.
A second option for shopping – though of a more quirky, vintage brand – is George’s Street Arcade on South Great George’s Street. This shopping area first opened in 1881 as South City Markets, and still today attracts those seeking vintage clothing, accessories, books and collectibles to its Victorian redbrick building. This is where to find one-of-a-kind souvenirs.
Often the best way to spend one day in a new city is simply to go where the locals go. You’ll feel the hum of daily life and get a feel for the culture that you may not otherwise get if you’re simply bopping from one sightseeing venue to the next (though, you’re sure to want to include some of those as well!). For soaking up the Dublin ambience, we suggest a couple hours on Grafton Street, known as one of the most upscale shopping thoroughfares in the city, but also the liveliest. There are the usual entertaining buskers and from here, it’s easy to end up in pretty St. Stephen’s Green, in the famous Temple Bar for a pint, at the statue of Molly Malone or at Trinity College.
A second option for shopping – though of a more quirky, vintage brand – is George’s Street Arcade on South Great George’s Street. This shopping area first opened in 1881 as South City Markets, and still today attracts those seeking vintage clothing, accessories, books and collectibles to its Victorian redbrick building. This is where to find one-of-a-kind souvenirs.
Dublin Castle
You didn’t think we’d skip Dublin Castle, did you? Even if you’re pressed for time, take a few moments at least to explore the castle grounds. If time allows, sign up for a guided tour to see the interior State Apartments. You can also visit the Chester Beatty Library, where you’ll find a fascinating collection of rare books and ancient artifacts that belonged to 20th-century mining mogul Sir Alfred Chester Beatty (it’s actually the only Irish museum to ever win the title of European Museum of the Year).
If you want to save time, but get that “castle feel,” stick to the Dubh Linn Gardens behind the castle. Walk around and admire the modern sculptures, gravel-etched Celtic design and serene gardens.
You didn’t think we’d skip Dublin Castle, did you? Even if you’re pressed for time, take a few moments at least to explore the castle grounds. If time allows, sign up for a guided tour to see the interior State Apartments. You can also visit the Chester Beatty Library, where you’ll find a fascinating collection of rare books and ancient artifacts that belonged to 20th-century mining mogul Sir Alfred Chester Beatty (it’s actually the only Irish museum to ever win the title of European Museum of the Year).
If you want to save time, but get that “castle feel,” stick to the Dubh Linn Gardens behind the castle. Walk around and admire the modern sculptures, gravel-etched Celtic design and serene gardens.
Photo Credit : Shutterstock
The Book of Kells/Trinity College
Trinity College and the Book of Kells is an excellent starting point for a day in Dublin. Its location in the heart of the city allows you to branch off easily to other sightseeing destinations. The university is the country’s oldest, founded in 1592 by Queen Elizabeth I. There’s an enviable air of seclusion on the 40 acres of ground – a nice respite from the grit of the city – and its cobblestone squares, gardens and park spaces. In the Old Library’s Treasure Room, you’ll find the Book of Kells, sitting under glass. The Gospel manuscript was written in Latin by 9th-century monks and then illustrated in color. Within the Long Room, you’ll find 200,000 of Trinity’s oldest books in handsome oak bookcases.
After about 45 minutes, you’ll reach Devil’s Bay, where your spelunking efforts can be rewarded with a snorkel, swim or float in the pristine water. Later, you can spelunk your way back to the main beach or take the direct path back up to where you arrived.
Trinity College and the Book of Kells is an excellent starting point for a day in Dublin. Its location in the heart of the city allows you to branch off easily to other sightseeing destinations. The university is the country’s oldest, founded in 1592 by Queen Elizabeth I. There’s an enviable air of seclusion on the 40 acres of ground – a nice respite from the grit of the city – and its cobblestone squares, gardens and park spaces. In the Old Library’s Treasure Room, you’ll find the Book of Kells, sitting under glass. The Gospel manuscript was written in Latin by 9th-century monks and then illustrated in color. Within the Long Room, you’ll find 200,000 of Trinity’s oldest books in handsome oak bookcases.
After about 45 minutes, you’ll reach Devil’s Bay, where your spelunking efforts can be rewarded with a snorkel, swim or float in the pristine water. Later, you can spelunk your way back to the main beach or take the direct path back up to where you arrived.
Cruise on the River Liffey
By now, you may want to rest your legs a bit, so hop aboard a sightseeing passenger boat on the River Liffey. You’ll get a front-row seat to Dublin’s gracious architecture and a guided narrative of the city’s history, from the Viking era more than 1,000 years ago to modern-day Dockland developments. You’ll glide past the Monument of Light (the “Spire of Dublin”) and see where Oliver Cromwell landed in 1649.
By now, you may want to rest your legs a bit, so hop aboard a sightseeing passenger boat on the River Liffey. You’ll get a front-row seat to Dublin’s gracious architecture and a guided narrative of the city’s history, from the Viking era more than 1,000 years ago to modern-day Dockland developments. You’ll glide past the Monument of Light (the “Spire of Dublin”) and see where Oliver Cromwell landed in 1649.
Photo Credit : Shutterstock
Grab a Beer at Porterhouse
Head to Temple Bar, established in 1840 and home to more than 450 different varieties of rare whiskey, but pay closest attention to Porterhouse Brewery, tucked within the red building and holding claim as Dublin’s oldest micro brewpub. This is where you’ll find Ireland’s largest selection of global beers, plus a really great in-house brew. For lovers of light, go with Chiller lager; for those who like dark, stick to the bittersweet Wrasslers WWWW stout.
Head to Temple Bar, established in 1840 and home to more than 450 different varieties of rare whiskey, but pay closest attention to Porterhouse Brewery, tucked within the red building and holding claim as Dublin’s oldest micro brewpub. This is where you’ll find Ireland’s largest selection of global beers, plus a really great in-house brew. For lovers of light, go with Chiller lager; for those who like dark, stick to the bittersweet Wrasslers WWWW stout.
National Gallery of Ireland
If you’re an art lover, head to the National Gallery of Ireland to view the massive collection of Irish and European art from the 13th to 20th centuries. The museum has been around since 1864 and includes a collection of Irish art by Jack B. Yeats, Sarah Purser, Louis le Brocquy and the like. There are Turner watercolors and a collection gifted by the Dowager Countess of Milltown and her Russborough House in 1897.
If you’re an art lover, head to the National Gallery of Ireland to view the massive collection of Irish and European art from the 13th to 20th centuries. The museum has been around since 1864 and includes a collection of Irish art by Jack B. Yeats, Sarah Purser, Louis le Brocquy and the like. There are Turner watercolors and a collection gifted by the Dowager Countess of Milltown and her Russborough House in 1897.
Photo Credit : Shutterstock
St. Patrick’s Cathedral
Be sure to put eyes on St. Patrick’s Cathedral during your 24 hours in Dublin. This Gothic-style National Cathedral of the Church of Ireland is the country’s largest church building and was founded in 1191. Notice the Door of Reconciliation – it’s here that two feuding Irish families in the Middle Ages made their peace and ended their 1492 dispute. Jonathan Swift is interred in a tomb here – he was Dean of St. Patrick’s for 35 years.
Be sure to put eyes on St. Patrick’s Cathedral during your 24 hours in Dublin. This Gothic-style National Cathedral of the Church of Ireland is the country’s largest church building and was founded in 1191. Notice the Door of Reconciliation – it’s here that two feuding Irish families in the Middle Ages made their peace and ended their 1492 dispute. Jonathan Swift is interred in a tomb here – he was Dean of St. Patrick’s for 35 years.
Guinness Storehouse
OK, OK, you know you can’t leave Dublin without a quick stop at the Guinness Storehouse, one of the capital city’s most iconic attractions. There are seven stories to explore, including the panoramic Gravity Bar (your tour includes a complimentary pint). When you’re standing in the atrium, you’re actually standing at the bottom of the world’s largest pint glass. Learn about the Guinness heritage, history, production, ingredients, recipe and brewing process.
OK, OK, you know you can’t leave Dublin without a quick stop at the Guinness Storehouse, one of the capital city’s most iconic attractions. There are seven stories to explore, including the panoramic Gravity Bar (your tour includes a complimentary pint). When you’re standing in the atrium, you’re actually standing at the bottom of the world’s largest pint glass. Learn about the Guinness heritage, history, production, ingredients, recipe and brewing process.
Teeling Distillery
Whiskey more your style? Visit the Teeling Whiskey Distillery in Dublin, which has been voted “World’s Best Whiskey Visitor Attraction” at the World Whiskies Awards. Tour the fully operational distillery and learn how it’s produced, from grain to glass, then enjoy a custom-made cocktail by The Bang Bang Bar’s mixologist.
Whiskey more your style? Visit the Teeling Whiskey Distillery in Dublin, which has been voted “World’s Best Whiskey Visitor Attraction” at the World Whiskies Awards. Tour the fully operational distillery and learn how it’s produced, from grain to glass, then enjoy a custom-made cocktail by The Bang Bang Bar’s mixologist.
Dublin Writers Museum
Literary fans won’t want to miss the Dublin Writers Museum across from the Garden of Remembrance. Discover Dublin’s rich literary background in the museum, full of first editions, letters, portraits and personal items of such writers as Swift, Sheridan, Shaw, Wilde, Yeats, Joyce and Beckett. There’s a replica Book of Kells here, in case you don’t have time to see the real deal, Samuel Beckett’s phone, programs from opening night of Oscar Wilde’s “An Ideal Husband,” an 1804 edition of Jonathan Swift’s Gulliver’s Travels and first edition of Gram Stoker’s Dracula.
Literary fans won’t want to miss the Dublin Writers Museum across from the Garden of Remembrance. Discover Dublin’s rich literary background in the museum, full of first editions, letters, portraits and personal items of such writers as Swift, Sheridan, Shaw, Wilde, Yeats, Joyce and Beckett. There’s a replica Book of Kells here, in case you don’t have time to see the real deal, Samuel Beckett’s phone, programs from opening night of Oscar Wilde’s “An Ideal Husband,” an 1804 edition of Jonathan Swift’s Gulliver’s Travels and first edition of Gram Stoker’s Dracula.
National History Museum
Round out your day by immersing yourself in the history of Ireland and Dublin at the National History Museum. You’ll find exhibits on Vikings, English rule, Michael Collins, the IRA and independence, as well as an archaeology wing devoted to Ireland’s Gold, Prehistoric Ireland and the impressive Ardagh Chalice in the Treasury.
Round out your day by immersing yourself in the history of Ireland and Dublin at the National History Museum. You’ll find exhibits on Vikings, English rule, Michael Collins, the IRA and independence, as well as an archaeology wing devoted to Ireland’s Gold, Prehistoric Ireland and the impressive Ardagh Chalice in the Treasury.
Photo Credit : Shutterstock
St. Stephen’s Green
Take a time out from your whirlwind sightseeing tour of Dublin at St. Stephen’s Green. Follow Grafton Street to Fuisilier’s Arch and you’re there. Wander and picnic throughout the park’s 22 acres, enjoying the ornate fountain, duck pond and playground.
Take a time out from your whirlwind sightseeing tour of Dublin at St. Stephen’s Green. Follow Grafton Street to Fuisilier’s Arch and you’re there. Wander and picnic throughout the park’s 22 acres, enjoying the ornate fountain, duck pond and playground.
Merrion Square
If you admire great architecture, look no further than Merrion Square, right outside the doors of the National Gallery. Marvel at the square’s grand Georgian facades, stately private home and public offices. Snap a photo of the Oscar Wilde status in the park at the center of the square. Notice, in particular, how the top windows in many of the Merrion Square buildings are smaller than the lower windows. This was done on purpose to create the illusion that the houses are taller than they actually are.
If you admire great architecture, look no further than Merrion Square, right outside the doors of the National Gallery. Marvel at the square’s grand Georgian facades, stately private home and public offices. Snap a photo of the Oscar Wilde status in the park at the center of the square. Notice, in particular, how the top windows in many of the Merrion Square buildings are smaller than the lower windows. This was done on purpose to create the illusion that the houses are taller than they actually are.
EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum
The Irish have long been emigrating around the world, and this fabulous museum pays homage to those with an adventurous spirit. Set in the docklands area, where many of these emigrants bid a sad farewell to loved ones before setting off in search of a better life, EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum provides an insightful look at the live of an Irish emigrant. Follow the story of Jeanie Johnson, who emigrated to Canada during the famine. Track your own family history in the Irish Family History Centre and learn about the lives of emigrants once they settled and flourished in their new homes around the world.
The Irish have long been emigrating around the world, and this fabulous museum pays homage to those with an adventurous spirit. Set in the docklands area, where many of these emigrants bid a sad farewell to loved ones before setting off in search of a better life, EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum provides an insightful look at the live of an Irish emigrant. Follow the story of Jeanie Johnson, who emigrated to Canada during the famine. Track your own family history in the Irish Family History Centre and learn about the lives of emigrants once they settled and flourished in their new homes around the world.
Irish Rock ‘n’ Roll Museum Experience
Fans of U2 and Thin Lizzy might – or rock ‘n’ roll, in general – will love the Irish Rock ‘n’ Roll Museum Experience, a behind-the-scenes VIP, all-access tour of one of Dublin’s top music venues and recording studios. Explore the Museum and Studios, then record your own demo track. Go backstage at the renowned Button Factory and see the studios where Christy Moore, Rihanna and Will.I.Am have recorded. Along the way, you’ll see memorabilia from leading Irish music acts and read stories about their music careers and touring years.
Fans of U2 and Thin Lizzy might – or rock ‘n’ roll, in general – will love the Irish Rock ‘n’ Roll Museum Experience, a behind-the-scenes VIP, all-access tour of one of Dublin’s top music venues and recording studios. Explore the Museum and Studios, then record your own demo track. Go backstage at the renowned Button Factory and see the studios where Christy Moore, Rihanna and Will.I.Am have recorded. Along the way, you’ll see memorabilia from leading Irish music acts and read stories about their music careers and touring years.
National Leprechaun Museum
Spend a fun hour at this quirky museum on Jervis Street. You’ll find all manner of exhibits and displays associated with mythical leprechauns and learn about their importance in Irish folklore culture.
Spend a fun hour at this quirky museum on Jervis Street. You’ll find all manner of exhibits and displays associated with mythical leprechauns and learn about their importance in Irish folklore culture.
Kilmainham Gaol
This silent prison was built on the gallows in 1787 and housed rebellious men, women and children until 1924. For some Irish resident, life on the streets was so much harsher than what they would face when imprisoned that they would willingly break the law to be sentenced there – at least it meant regular meals. Today’s visitors can take a guided tour and explore the three-floor museum with a huge exhibit on the prison’s history and restoration. Learn about Irish Nationalism and hear the last words from leaders of the 1916 rebellion. Access is by guided tour only.
This silent prison was built on the gallows in 1787 and housed rebellious men, women and children until 1924. For some Irish resident, life on the streets was so much harsher than what they would face when imprisoned that they would willingly break the law to be sentenced there – at least it meant regular meals. Today’s visitors can take a guided tour and explore the three-floor museum with a huge exhibit on the prison’s history and restoration. Learn about Irish Nationalism and hear the last words from leaders of the 1916 rebellion. Access is by guided tour only.
Photo Credit : Shutterstock
Where to Stay in Dublin for Most Convenient Sightseeing
If you have only one day in Dublin, you’ll want to set your home base as close as possible to the sights you’ve put high on your priority list. For that, we suggest a hotel in the city center, from which it’s easy to walk to just about all the must-sees, including Trinity College, St. Stephen’s Green and Grafton Street. If you can, stay close to O’Connell Street, either north or south of the River Liffey. In addition to sightseeing destinations, you’ll have a full range of dining and shopping options to choose from. If you stay near the General Post Office on O’Connell Street, you’ll be close to just above everything.
If you have only one day in Dublin, you’ll want to set your home base as close as possible to the sights you’ve put high on your priority list. For that, we suggest a hotel in the city center, from which it’s easy to walk to just about all the must-sees, including Trinity College, St. Stephen’s Green and Grafton Street. If you can, stay close to O’Connell Street, either north or south of the River Liffey. In addition to sightseeing destinations, you’ll have a full range of dining and shopping options to choose from. If you stay near the General Post Office on O’Connell Street, you’ll be close to just above everything.
Where to Eat During 24 Hours in Dublin
It’s nearly impossible to narrow it down when you have a limited time in Dublin – there are so many pubs to try! Here are a few quick options to have in your back pocket for when you’re on the go for 24 hours in the capital city.
It’s nearly impossible to narrow it down when you have a limited time in Dublin – there are so many pubs to try! Here are a few quick options to have in your back pocket for when you’re on the go for 24 hours in the capital city.
Photo Credit : Shutterstock
Breakfast: Clement & Pekoe
Full up for the day at the Clement & Pekoe flagship café and store at 50 South William Street. People-watch for a bit here in the Creative Quarter, while you nosh on delicious pastries and fuel up with well-crafted coffees and loose-leaf teas.
Full up for the day at the Clement & Pekoe flagship café and store at 50 South William Street. People-watch for a bit here in the Creative Quarter, while you nosh on delicious pastries and fuel up with well-crafted coffees and loose-leaf teas.
Lunch: The Winding Stair Bookshop & Café®
You’ll feel very literary, indeed, at The Winding Stair, named after a Yeats poem. Its namesake winding staircase and perfection location on the River Liffey – with a view of the Ha’Penny Bridge – makes it a popular lunch spot of writers, musicians and artists. Feast on seasonal Irish produce, seated at stripped-wood tables on Bentwood café© chairs. Try the potted Dingle crab with soda bread, the bread-and-butter pudding with whiskey sauce or the char-grilled 28-day dry-age Irish rib-eye steak with Gaelic escargot and Jerusalem artichoke. Be sure to sample from the stellar boutique wine list or local microbrew selection.
You’ll feel very literary, indeed, at The Winding Stair, named after a Yeats poem. Its namesake winding staircase and perfection location on the River Liffey – with a view of the Ha’Penny Bridge – makes it a popular lunch spot of writers, musicians and artists. Feast on seasonal Irish produce, seated at stripped-wood tables on Bentwood café© chairs. Try the potted Dingle crab with soda bread, the bread-and-butter pudding with whiskey sauce or the char-grilled 28-day dry-age Irish rib-eye steak with Gaelic escargot and Jerusalem artichoke. Be sure to sample from the stellar boutique wine list or local microbrew selection.
Dinner: The Pig’s Ear
Celebrate your successful 24 hours in Dublin with a decadent dining experience at The Pig’s Ear. Past winner of a Michelin Bib Gourmand, the restaurant serves wholesome Irish fare with a modern touch. Enjoy roast cod, toasted spelt or BBQ pork belly, followed by chocolate custard or a raspberry and vanilla mille feuille. And, of course, finish off the night with a Bailey’s Irish Cream coffee.
Celebrate your successful 24 hours in Dublin with a decadent dining experience at The Pig’s Ear. Past winner of a Michelin Bib Gourmand, the restaurant serves wholesome Irish fare with a modern touch. Enjoy roast cod, toasted spelt or BBQ pork belly, followed by chocolate custard or a raspberry and vanilla mille feuille. And, of course, finish off the night with a Bailey’s Irish Cream coffee.