Ireland

Things to do in Dublin

Dublin's centre is compact: Trinity College and the Book of Kells, Temple Bar and the Guinness Storehouse are all within a 30-minute walk. Literary and traditional music pub tours fill the evenings, and the Wicklow Mountains, the Cliffs of Moher and the coastal village of Howth make the classic day trips.

  • Book of Kells at Trinity College
  • Guinness Storehouse
  • Kilmainham Gaol
  • Literary pub crawl

Experiences in Dublin

Top-rated experiences in Dublin

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Highlights

  • Book of Kells at Trinity College
  • Guinness Storehouse
  • Kilmainham Gaol
  • Literary pub crawl
  • Cliffs of Moher day trip
  • Howth cliff walk

Best time to visit

May to September has the mildest weather and longest days, though rain is possible in any month. Around St Patrick's Day on 17 March hotels fill up and prices jump.

Getting around

Walk the centre and use the Luas tram and buses for further areas; the DART coastal train reaches Howth and Dalkey. There is no rail link to the airport, so take one of the express coaches, which reach the centre in about 30 minutes.

Local tips

  • Kilmainham Gaol visits are guided only and sell out, so book online several days ahead.
  • Book of Kells tickets are timed; morning slots are the quietest.
  • Temple Bar pubs charge a premium, and you will find live traditional music at lower prices a few streets away.

Day trips from Dublin

  • Cliffs of Moher
  • Glendalough and the Wicklow Mountains
  • Howth
  • Newgrange
Day trips →

Frequently asked questions

What are the top things to do in Dublin?

The most booked experiences in Dublin are Book of Kells at Trinity College, Guinness Storehouse, Kilmainham Gaol and Literary pub crawl.

When is the best time to visit Dublin?

May to September has the mildest weather and longest days, though rain is possible in any month. Around St Patrick's Day on 17 March hotels fill up and prices jump.

How do I get around Dublin?

Walk the centre and use the Luas tram and buses for further areas; the DART coastal train reaches Howth and Dalkey. There is no rail link to the airport, so take one of the express coaches, which reach the centre in about 30 minutes.

Do I need to book tours in Dublin in advance?

For headline sights and small-group tours, yes: popular slots sell out in high season. Most partners offer free cancellation up to 24 hours before.

How many days do I need in Dublin?

Two to three full days cover the main sights, plus one day for each day trip you want to add.

Nearby destinations