Tourists and locals jostle on Dublin’s cobbled streets, seeking a pint of Guinness in a traditional pub, soaking up its culture, from live Celtic music to a literary tour, or shopping on Grafton Street. Ireland’s capital has a distinctly cosmopolitan vibe that ensures visitors are guaranteed a good time.
Things to do over a weekend in Dublin
Dublin nightlife
Dubliners know a thing or two about partying, and one of the highlights of visiting the city is the nightlife. Head to Temple Bar for a raucous night on the tiles or, for something a little quieter, The Stag’s Head off Dame Street is a quaint boozer. If you’ve been inspired by Riverdance and want to see the Irish fiddle in action you’ll find most pubs have live music nights. Try Sean O’Casey’s in Marlborough Street or, for the real thing, head to the Irish Cultural Institute in Monkstown, easily accessible by the DART train service.
Guinness Storehouse
Take a tour of the home of the black stuff at the Guinness Storehouse. Don’t miss out on sipping a pint and taking in the city views in the brewery’s Gravity Bar.
Chow down
You don’t have to settle for stodgy potato-laden pub grub in Dublin. Take your pick from a wide range of restaurants, many of the best are located on the south side of the city. For a spot of afternoon tea, bag a seat at Queen of Tarts on Lord Edward Street. The Baileys cheesecake is delicious.
Park life
If the bustle of Ireland’s capital becomes too much, take time out in St Stephen’s Green and Merrion’s Square. Stroll along the River Liffey and take in the views from Dublin’s bridges.
City of learning
Head to Trinity College and take in the tranquil setting of this revered university. Admire the illuminated pages of one of the world’s oldest manuscripts, the Book Of Kells. Retrace the steps of famous writers James Joyce, Samuel Beckett and Oscar Wilde on a literary tour of the city, or walk the hallowed halls of Trinity College.
Retail therapy
Grafton Street is home to Irish designers selling chic clothes and jewellery. Discover Dublin’s more ethnic neighbourhoods near O’Connell Street or browse the markets on the cobbled streets near Temple Bar.
Out of town
Take a trip along the coast using the DART service. Go south to the pretty seaside village of Dalkey or north to Howth, a popular destination for day trippers from Dublin.
Fact box: Dublin
When to go
Any time or go for the St Patrick’s Day party on March 17.
Getting there
Many budget airlines fly into Dublin Airport. From the airport take a taxi (about €20, around 20 mins) or a bus. The Dublin Bus is €3 but takes a while. Other shuttle services, including Aircoach (between €6-€8 one-way), are quicker.
Currency
Euro
Getting around
The Dublin Bus service runs throughout the city. You need the exact fare for boarding. DART train services run to the coast and the outer suburbs.
Going out
A pint is €5.
Accommodation
Hostel dorm beds from €10 a night, private rooms from €22. See TNTCrashpads.
