Top 5+ Best Things To Do In Dublin

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Dublin is the capital city of Ireland and is one of the most interesting and vibrant cities in all of Europe. This sprawling metropolis is a melting pot of culture and is filled to the brim with historic attractions, stunning architecture, serene green spaces and venues for nightlife and entertainment. Dublin offers many things to do to keep you occupied for weeks, regardless of where your interests lie.

With so much to see, it can be challenging to come up with an itinerary when visiting this Irish capital. Whether you’re into art, nature or even booze, there’s something here to satisfy your needs. While there are literally hundreds of activities that you can try while in the city, the following are some of the absolute best things to do in Dublin that you simply can’t miss.

Pro tip: For a convenient and hassle-free day exploring, look for a Dublin luggage storage locker where you can safely deposit your shopping purchases and other belongings. Lighten your load and pick them up before returning to your accommodation.

Learn about Irish history at the Kilmainham Gaol :

If you are a history lover and would like to get a better understanding of Ireland’s colorful past, you should definitely make time to visit the Kilmainham Gaol. Built in 1789, this abandoned prison has become a symbol of the country’s long and dark road to independence. It is here where some revolutionaries and rebel leaders, such as Eamon de Valera and Patrick Pearse, were imprisoned, some of whom were even tortured and executed.

The Kilmainham Gaol was decommissioned in 1924 and underwent a major restoration in 1960; it was then reopened as a tourist attraction and a monument to Irish nationalism. Visitors can only enter the building by way of guided tours; these tours not only take you through the different sections of the prison but also provides you with in-depth stories about the notorious treatment and the atrocities that took place inside its four walls. Visiting the Gaol is definitely among the most eye-opening and unique activities that you can do while in Dublin.

Take a stroll at the historic Trinity College campus :

The Trinity College in Dublin is Ireland’s oldest and most prestigious college and a landmark that is worth visiting during your time in the city. Founded by Queen Elizabeth I in 1592, the university has an impressive list of alumni, including world-renowned writers Oscar Wilde, Bram Stoker and Jonathan Swift. It is not just an educational institution attended by the best of the best, Trinity College is also a famous tourist attraction that draws visitors from all over the world.

While the lovely 40-acre campus and the Gothic-style halls in the building are more than enough reasons to check out the place, most tourists come to Trinity College to visit its historic Old Library. That’s because it is home to what is considered Ireland’s most significant artifact – the Book of Kells. Created around 800 A.D. by Celtic Monks, the Book of Kells is an illuminated manuscript written on calfskin that details all four Gospels of the New Testament and details the life of Jesus Christ.

Sample some beer at the Guinness Storehouse :

Guinness is widely regarded as Ireland’s most popular export and it’s only right that you learn more about it during your stay in the capital by visiting the Guinness Storehouse. A popular tourist attraction, this seven-story building provides guests with an interactive experience while showcasing the history and process of creating the most beloved beer in Ireland.

Open seven days a week, the Guinness Storehouse offers tours that will take you through the beer-making process as well as a background on how the brand came to be – from the ingredients used to brew Guinness to the various marketing and advertisements involving the brand. The best part is that, at the end of the tour, you will be brought to the Gravity Bar on the 7th floor, where you can enjoy a complimentary pint of Guinness while taking in a panoramic view of Dublin.

Go on a night out at the Temple Bar district :

No visit to Dublin would be complete without spending a night drinking and socializing at the Temple Bar district, located south of the River Liffey. For the uninitiated, Temple Bar is both the name of a prominent pub as well as Dublin’s party hub that’s filled with bars, pubs and night clubs.

Similar to New Orleans’ famous Bourbon Street, the district is the go-to spot for both locals and tourists looking to have a good time and of course, down a few pints. Although it is best known for its drinking spots, the neighborhood of Temple Bar is also filled with hidden gems; the area is filled with creative venues and independent art galleries.

Visit the iconic Dublin Castle :

Situated right in the heart of the city, Dublin Castle has been around since the early 13th century and was an important part of Irish history during British rule, having once served as the headquarters of the Vikings. Although some parts of the castle have been destroyed and rebuilt over the years, the Record Tower has been preserved and untouched since the building’s inception.

At present, the Dublin Castle serves both as a tourist attraction and a venue for several events, including art and fashion exhibitions as well as state dinners. The castle is also home to the famous Chester Beatty Library, which houses an impressive collection of books, oriental art, ancient texts, manuscripts and more.

Spend a relaxing day at St. Stephen’s Green :

Dublin has no shortage of beautiful green spaces but perhaps the most impressive one is St. Stephen’s Green. Known as “the Green” among locals, this 22-acre urban park provides both Dubliners and foreigners a serene escape right in the middle of the busy city. The sprawling park is covered by lush greenery and various plant species as well as ponds filled with ducks. There is also a playground where children can play and a picnic area where anyone can enjoy a quiet lunch out.