Learn about Ireland's rich heritage at these historical landmarks in Dublin

From Christ Church Cathedral to Malahide Castle, these are the historic hotspots you can't miss...

Top 10 Historical Landmarks in Dublin

<p>A city that can trace its roots back more than 1000 years, Dublin has undergone plenty of cultural changes in its history, from a Viking trading port to being under English Royal control, the Easter Rising to the modern cultural hub it is today. Discover some of the most iconic and important historical landmarks in Dublin with our guide below!</p>


<p>As one of Dublin&#39;s most important historical sites, this 13th-century castle has served many purposes as a royal seat of power, fortress, prison, and more. The city of Dublin derives its name from the black pool on its grounds - called &#39;Dubh Linn&#39; in Gaelic. Today, <a href="https://gocity.com/en/dublin/attractions/dublin-castle" target="_blank">Dublin Castle</a> is a frequently visited tourist attraction with public access to the State Apartments, Medieval Undercroft, and Chapel Royal available.</p>


Dublin Castle

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<p>Famine and immigration are a key part of Ireland&#39;s history, defining the 19th century and shaping the future of Irish descendants. The <a href="https://gocity.com/en/dublin/attractions/jeanie-johnston-tallship-famine-museum" target="_blank">Jeanie Johnston Tallship</a>, a mid-1800s wooden ship that transported Irish immigrants to Quebec, New York, and Baltimore, has been restored to its former glory and transformed into an exploration of Ireland&#39;s past through its rich exhibits.</p>


Jeanie Johnston Tallship and Famine Museum

<h3><strong>Casino Marino</strong></h3>

<p>Cast aside thoughts of gambling, Casino Marino hearkens back to the original root of the word &#39;casino&#39;: meaning &#39;little house&#39;. This stunning neo-classical building on the Marino House estate is a huge change from the stark stone castles around Dublin and remains an important part of Irish architectural history, dating back to 1775.</p>

<h3><strong>Trinity College Dublin</strong></h3>


<p>Not only is this institution one of the most respected universities in the world, it&#39;s also an important cultural landmark in Dublin. With a stunning library that aches with history, its shelves are lined with thousands of age-old texts including an exhibit dedicated some of Dublin&#39;s most famous illustrated 9th century manuscripts: the Book of Kells and Book of Durrow.</p>


<h3><strong>Kilmainham Gaol</strong></h3>


<p>Step into the past and learn about the rebellions and civil war of Ireland&#39;s past at this notorious prison, where revolutionary leaders like Anne Devlin, Henry Joy McCracken and Robert Emmett were detained and executed. Closed in 1924, it has since been given a new lease on life as a museum detailing Ireland&#39;s tumultuous past and struggle for independence.</p>


<p>Meet some of Ireland&#39;s oldest residents at Glasnevin Cemetery, where Dublin&#39;s ancestors have been buried since 1832. With the graves of iconic figures like Irish politicians Daniel O&#39;Connell and Michael Collins housed on its hallowed grounds, the cemetery&#39;s museum also tells the story of modern-day Ireland in an interactive exhibition.</p>

<p>Once visitors have finished paying their respects, the National Botanical Gardens is nearby and open to the public, full of lush greenery and plants.&nbsp;</p>


Glasnevin Cemetery Museum

<p>Religion and Ireland go hand in hand, making <a href="https://gocity.com/en/dublin/attractions/christ-church-cathedral" target="_blank">Christ Church Cathedral</a> one of Dublin&#39;s most important cultural landmarks as the spiritual center of the city. People of all faiths are welcome to roam its halls and explore its rich history as Dublin&#39;s oldest building, through a detailed exhibition and journey through its medieval crypt.</p>

<p>Check the church schedule and find out when Evensong is to watch Dublin&#39;s best church choir sing their hearts out - there are usually performances four times a week.</p>


Christ Church Cathedral

<p>Located a little further out, <a href="https://gocity.com/en/dublin/attractions/malahide-castle">Malahide Castle</a> is a stunning coastal structure by a charming seaside village. Built in the 12th century by the Talbot family, it has since been preserved and hosts a permanent exhibition following its long history and involvement in the Battle of the Boyne. With a number of rooms open for explorers and portraits from the National Gallery of Ireland hanging in its halls, this Irish heritage castle is steeped in culture.</p>


Malahide Castle

<p>Built in honour of Ireland&#39;s patron saint, <a href="https://gocity.com/en/dublin/attractions/st-patricks-cathedral" target="_blank">St Patrick&#39;s Cathedral</a> is built on top of a site said to be where St Patrick would baptise new converts to Christianity. With over two hundred religious relics housed within its walls, it traces Ireland&#39;s religious past through the years. It&#39;s also a stunning architectural site with vibrant stained glass windows, an impressive altar and a cathedral tower.</p>


St Patrick's Cathedral

<p>This stark castle is one of several in Dalkey, a humble port town to the south of Dublin&#39;s bustling city centre. In previous years, it was crucial as a place of protection for imported goods, as Dalkey&#39;s port used to be the heart of Dublin trade. Since then, it&#39;s turned a new leaf as a popular historical attraction with a stunning 6th-century church and graveyard, as well as exhibits celebrating Irish literary figures and Dalkey through the years.</p>


A city that can trace its roots back more than 1000 years, discover Ireland's rich heritage with our guide to the best historical landmarks in Dublin

Top 10 Historical Landmarks in Dublin | Go City®

Before you reach for your next pint, learn more about Ireland's famous tipple. 

From Guinness' unknown origins to its real color, here's all the tantalising trivia you need to know.  

Top 10 Facts about Guinness We Bet You Didn’t Know

<p>Drinking a pint of Guinness will be at the top of any tourist to-do list you&#39;ll find in Dublin - and with good reason. Before you grab a pint of the black stuff or head off to the&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/attractions/guinness-storehouse">Guinness Storehouse</a>&nbsp;</strong>for an immersive experience, here are some Guinness facts to see you through.</p>


<p>And today in unnecessary but absolutely cool trivia, somebody over at Guinness did the maths and figured out that if you filled the glass atrium up with the dark stuff - it would hold 14.3 million pints of Guinness. That&#39;s over 8,126,000 litres of alcohol.&nbsp;Sl&aacute;inte!</p>


If you filled the glass atrium at the Guinness Storehouse, it would hold 14.3 million pints of Guinness

<p>Don&#39;t freak out. Due to the specific way that Guinness processes its barley, the stout comes out a deep, dark red and it&#39;s much more noticeable if you hold it up to a light. Even though you&#39;ll hear people shouting for a pint of the black stuff over at the pub, it&#39;s not actually true.</p>


Guinness isn't black

<p>We have Sir Hugh Beaver, a former managing director of Guinness, to thank for the most impressive book of human accomplishments. Back in the 1950s at a shooting party, he got into a debate about which game bird was the quickest in Europe and when they couldn&#39;t find the answer in any of the books, he decided to create one.</p>


Yes, Guinness is behind that Guinness Book of World Records.

<p>According to the team over at Guinness, there&#39;s a perfect way to pour your pint. True connoisseurs will pour for 119.5 seconds at a 45-degree angle (nobody wants to wait for three inches of foam to die down before jumping straight in!)</p>


The perfect way to pour Guinness has been calculated - down to the exact second

<h3>Guinness wasn&#39;t originally called Guinness</h3>

<p>The original name dates centuries back to when Guinness was still called Porter, then later renamed Stout Porter. It&#39;s a name that was popularised because it was popular with (you guessed it) porters, specifically train porters.</p>


<h3>Guinness has a long human rights record</h3>

<p>Arthur Guinness, the original founder, was a widely generous humanitarian. Guinness was involved with everything from housing the poor to supporting Irish troops during the world wars, ensuring that there were jobs in the brewery for returning soldiers. They also played a part in preserving Irish culture, by working on conserving Saint Patrick&#39;s Cathedral.</p>


<h2>Save on admission to the Guinness Storehouse and other Dublin attractions</h2>

<p>Regular admission to The Guinness Storehouse plus many other Dublin attractions is available on the Go City<a href="https://gocity.com/en/dublin/passes/explorer" target="_blank"> Explorer</a> and <a href="https://gocity.com/en/dublin/passes" target="_blank">All-Inclusive</a> passes. Choose as you go from <a href="https://gocity.com/en/dublin/attractions">20+ Dublin attractions</a> and save on combined admission vs paying at the gate.&nbsp;</p>


<p>We&#39;re not even joking. Back in 2000, a study found that overall men with bushy moustaches lost 162,719 pints to their bristles a year. It might be time to reconsider that shave if you want to save a couple of quid. We don&#39;t have the statistics on bearded men, unfortunately.</p>


A UK survey found Guinness drinkers with a moustache were at a disadvantage

<h3>The white ball in your Guinness can is crucially important</h3>

<p>Deemed worthy of a Queen&#39;s Award for Technological Achievement, the white ball in your can (known specifically as a &#39;widget&#39;) is what keeps them frothy. Filled with nitrogen-infused Guinness, the change in pressure pulling the tab creates causes it to fizz up and give you that refreshing draught-tap experience, wherever you are.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


<p>Though the Guinness Storehouse is in Dublin, the main centre of operations has since moved on. Since the Guinness Corporation merged with another company to create Diageo, they&#39;ve moved their headquarters out to London and all the big decisions are made there.</p>


Guinness isn't actually based in Dublin

Before you reach for your next pint or pay a visit to the historic Guinness Storehouse, check out some of these incredible facts about Guinness!

Top 10 Facts about Guinness We Bet You Didn’t Know | Go City®

Learn all about Ireland's famous tipple...

From its true origins to the unique distillation process, here are some fun facts we bet you didn't know!

Our Favourite Facts About Jameson Irish Whisky

<h2>Partial to a snifter of whisky? You&#39;ll want to know some of these fascinating facts about Jameson Irish Whisky!</h2>


<p>If you&#39;re keen on a tumbler of whisky after a hard day&#39;s work, there&#39;s no place better than Ireland to enjoy it. Jameson whisky is undeniably the most famous brand in Ireland - if not the world - but there&#39;s a lot of misconceptions about it. Before you head to the&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/pass-dublin/en-us/dublin-attractions/old-jameson-distillery-tour">Jameson Distillery Bow St.</a>, check out some little known facts about Jameson Irish Whisky.</p>


<h3><strong>Jameson was actually a Scottish creation</strong></h3>

<p>Don&#39;t bring this up with a local, the British rivalries run deep. The founder of Jameson Irish Whisky was a Scottish lawyer called John Jameson, who married into an Irish family that owned a Dublin distillery. The rest is history.</p>

<h3><strong>On the same thread, Jameson is now owned by a French company</strong></h3>

<p>This whiskey&#39;s having a bit of a cultural identity crisis. Pernod Ricard, the same liquor company that owns Absolut and Chivas Regal, bought the brand in 1988 however Jameson is still made in Cork, Ireland.</p>

<h3><strong>The Jameson motto &#39;Sine metu&#39; and coat of arms was a national honour</strong></h3>


<p>The Jamesons were a ferocious bunch and drove off pirates bothering villages along the coast of Scotland in the 1500s. To honour them, they were granted a distinctive coat of arms with the text &#39;Sine Metu&#39;, which translates to without fear. You can find it on all the Jameson labels.</p>


<h3><strong>Before 1968, Jameson was only sold by the cask</strong></h3>

<p>Casual whisky drinkers would&#39;ve found buying a bottle of Jameson a little difficult before the 60s, as it was sold by the cask. It wasn&#39;t until 1968 that you could stroll into a corner shop and pick up a bottle, ending a 200 year old tradition.</p>

<h3><strong>Only 10% of Jameson stays in Ireland</strong></h3>

<p>After Pernod Ricard bought Jameson, they aggressively started exporting its iconic whisky overseas and raised its international profile considerably. Out of the millions of cases of Jameson crafted, 90% of it is sent off to greener pastures and foreign bars.</p>

<h3><strong>Jameson was the only producer of whisky in Ireland in the 70s</strong></h3>

<p>The Irish economy took a pretty hard hit in the 1970s when prohibition kicked in in the United States, meaning that liquor company sales plummeted. In an act of self-defense, the big four whisky brands merged and Jameson came out on top.</p>

<h3><strong>Jameson is the most popular Irish whisky globally</strong></h3>


<p>With such high export rates, it&#39;s no surprise that Jameson&#39;s a big international brand. However the number of bottles sold annually is mind-boggling - 31 million bottles are sold and 70% of all Irish whisky sales in America belong to Jameson. Pernod Ricard really helped turn things around.</p>


<h3><strong>The distillation process is what makes Jameson so special</strong></h3>

<p>Most standard whiskies you&#39;re going to get are going to be at a push twice-distilled, however Jameson goes a step further by adding another step to the distillation process. It&#39;s all triple-distilled for a super rich, smooth taste.</p>

<h3><strong>It&#39;s all in the wood</strong></h3>

<p>Jameson experts travel all over the world to look for the perfect wood for their oak barrels every year, to help give the liquor its distinctive taste. Unfortunately good old Irish wood is out of the equation after the number of oak trees dropped significantly in the 1800s, so most of their barrels are made using materials from the US, England and Spain.</p>

<h3><strong>People ran into a burning building to save Irish whisky</strong></h3>

<p>When a fire took a whisky distillery in 1875, people ran straight into the fire to steal as much booze as they could. Apparently, people wound up being hospitalised and four even died after drinking boiling hot whisky.</p>


Jameson whisky is undeniably the most famous brand in Ireland - if not the world, check out some of our favourite facts about Jameson Irish Whisky!

Our Favourite Facts About Jameson Irish Whisky | Go City®

Dublin offers many activities and attractions catering to teenagers. Find out why it's an excellent choice for families.

From castle-hopping to TV tours, here's what on offer for teens in Dublin...

Things to do in Dublin for teens

  <h2>Teen-Friendly Dublin: Top Attractions in the Capital for Teenagers </h2> <p><em>by Mia Russell</em></p> <p><a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Dublin</a> offers many activities and attractions catering to teenagers' interests. It's a city that beautifully blends history, culture, and modern attractions, making it an excellent destination for families with teenagers. </p> <p>Dublin offers a range of activities tailored to teenagers' interests. Whether it's visiting the <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/dublin-zoo" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Dublin Zoo</a>, exploring <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/dublinia" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Dublinia</a>, or tackling an escape room challenge, there's always something exciting to do. </p> <p>The city’s history is both fascinating and deeply ingrained in the city's fabric. For teenagers with an interest in history, historic sites like Kilmainham Gaol, <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/dublin-castle" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Dublin Castle</a>, and Trinity College offer a chance to learn Ireland's past and its role in shaping the modern world. </p> <p>For outdoor adventures, Phoenix Park, one of the largest urban parks in Europe, is perfect for picnics, cycling, and wildlife spotting. Nearby coastal towns like Howth offer fantastic hiking and water activities. The <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/murder-trinity-college" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Temple Bar</a> area is bustling with street art, galleries, and street performances, making it a vibrant cultural quarter for exploration and shopping on Grafton Street is a must! </p> <p>Let’s look at the best ways to keep teens on the go in <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Dublin</a>. </p> <h2>Embark on the Game of Thrones Studio Tour </h2> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/dublin/Costume-Gallery-scaled-2.jpg" alt="Image of Stage, Dress, Boy, Child, Male, Person, Adult, Bride, Female, Woman, " loading="lazy"><p>Teens, brace yourselves for an epic journey into the fantastical world of Westeros! The <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/game-thrones-studio-tour" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Game of Thrones Studio Tour</a> is a thrilling adventure specially crafted for fans of this legendary TV series. </p> <p>Step into the actual sets used for filming Game of Thrones. Wander through iconic locations like the King's Landing Courtyard and the Throne Room. It's like being transported to the Seven Kingdoms. Marvel at the authentic costumes and props from the show. Ever wanted to see Jon Snow's cloak up close or Cersei's crown? Now you can. </p> <p>Engage with interactive displays that reveal the behind-the-scenes magic of the series. Learn about the intricate costume design, prosthetic makeup, and special effects that brought the world of Westeros to life. </p> <p>Channel your inner Arya Stark by trying your hand at archery. Test your accuracy and skill, just like your favorite characters. Don't miss the chance to sit on the Iron Throne and rule the Seven Kingdoms, at least for a photo or two. </p> <p>If time allows, consider pairing your Game of Thrones Studio Tour with a visit to Dublin Castle, just a short distance away. It's a delightful blend of fantasy and history. </p> <p>Remember to use your pass to enjoy this fantastic <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/game-thrones-studio-tour" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Game of Thrones Studio Tour</a> for free! </p> <h2><strong>Discover Dublin Castle </strong></h2> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/dublin/V19A6443.jpg" alt="Image of Road, Tarmac, Path, Sidewalk, Person, City, Car, Handbag, Street, Urban, " loading="lazy"><p><a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/dublin-castle" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Dublin Castle</a>, steeped in history and architectural grandeur, offers an enriching experience perfect for teenagers. With roots dating back to the medieval era, Dublin Castle symbolizes Ireland's history and places where centuries of Irish heritage and global events intersect. </p> <p>The castle's beautifully landscaped gardens provide a tranquil escape from the city's bustle and offer picturesque relaxation or stroll spots. The castle's State Apartments showcase impressive art, décor, and architecture that reflect Ireland's heritage and global connections. The ornate State Apartments, adorned with historic treasures, offer a glimpse into Ireland's past. Use your pass for free admission to <a href="https://ukc-word-edit.officeapps.live.com/we/%5Bhttps://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/dublin-castle" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Dublin Castle</a> and its beautiful gardens. </p> <h2>Step into a World of Wonders at the National Wax Museum Plus </h2> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/dublin/pages/Wax2New.jpg" alt="Image of Costume, Person, Adult, Female, Woman, People, Baby, " loading="lazy"><p>Teens, if you're on the hunt for a unique and entertaining experience in Dublin, the <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/national-wax-museum-plus" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">National Wax Museum Plus</a> is your ticket to a world of wonders. </p> <p>Get up close and personal with your favorite celebrities, historical figures, and fictional characters, all immortalized in incredibly life-like wax figures. From movie stars to superheroes, you'll feel like you're meeting the stars themselves. </p> <p>If you're a fan of spine-tingling tales and the macabre, the Chamber of Horrors will pique your interest. Encounter infamous criminals and explore the dark side of history in a thrilling yet safe environment. </p> <p>The museum isn't just about wax figures; it also boasts interactive science and discovery exhibits that are both educational and engaging. Dive into the world of fascinating experiments and hands-on learning. </p> <p>Capture fun and memorable selfies with your favorite wax figures. It's a chance to show off your creative photography skills and create lasting memories. Test your wits in the Wax World Escape Game, an adventure that requires teamwork, problem-solving, and quick thinking to solve puzzles and escape within a set time limit. </p> <p>Join a behind-the-scenes tour to learn about the art of wax figure creation. Gain insights into the meticulous craftsmanship that goes into making these life-like sculptures. Don’t forget to use your pass to get free entry to the <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/national-wax-museum-plus" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">National Wax Museum Plus</a>. </p> <h2>Explore Phoenix Park </h2> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/dublin/406A7437.jpg" alt="Image of Animal, Zoo, Adult, Female, Person, Woman, Elephant, Mammal, Wildlife, Male, Man, Field, Grassland, Nature, Outdoors, Fence, " loading="lazy"><p>Phoenix Park, Dublin's sprawling green oasis, is not just a park – it's a vast playground of possibilities to explore. </p> <p>Discover the official residence of the President of Ireland, Áras an Uachtaráin. While you can't enter the house, you can admire its beautiful exterior and the stunning formal gardens. Explore Ashtown Castle, a charming medieval tower house nestled in the park. It's a step back in time, offering insights into Ireland's rich history. </p> <p>Use your pass to rent a bike from <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/Lazy-Bike-Tours-Half-Day" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Lazy Bike Tours</a> to explore the park's lush landscapes. Watch out for the park's wild deer population, especially during early mornings and late afternoons. </p> <p>Pack a picnic and enjoy it in one of the park's many designated picnic areas. It's a great way to relax, soak up the sun, and savor delicious food. </p> <p>Roam with the Wild at Dublin Zoo </p> <p>While in Phoenix Park, visit the <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/dublin-zoo" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Dublin Zoo</a>. Home to a diverse range of animals from around the globe, the zoo promises jaw-dropping wildlife encounters with various animals, from bears to bobcats. </p> <p>Learn about wildlife conservation and zoos' critical role in preserving endangered species. It's an educational experience that's both eye-opening and inspiring. Explore the zoo's various habitats, including the African Savanna and the Kaziranga Forest Trail. These immersive environments make you feel like you've been transported to different corners of the world. </p> <p>Attend keeper talks and animal feeding sessions to get up close with the animals and better understand their behaviors and habitats. Remember to use your pass for free access to <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/dublin-zoo" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Dublin Zoo</a>. </p> <h2><strong>Dive into Adventure at the SEA LIFE Bray Aquarium </strong></h2> <p>Teens, if you're looking for an aquatic adventure right in Dublin, <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/sea-life-bray-aquarium" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">SEA LIFE Bray Aquarium</a> is the place to be. </p> <p>Prepare to be amazed by the diverse marine life on display. From graceful seahorses to fearsome sharks, you'll encounter creatures from local waters and exotic oceans. Walk through the incredible underwater tunnel, surrounded by sharks and rays swimming above and around you. It's like being in the heart of the sea. </p> <p>Explore the mesmerizing world of jellyfish in their colorful and tranquil habitat. It's an experience that's both relaxing and captivating. SEA LIFE Bray offers interactive touch pools where you can get hands-on with some of the marine life. Feel the texture of a starfish or anemone and learn fascinating facts from marine experts. </p> <p>Dive deeper into marine conservation efforts and discover how you can make a difference in protecting our oceans and their inhabitants. Don’t forget to use your pass to explore the <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/sea-life-bray-aquarium" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">SEA LIFE Bray Aquarium’s</a> wonders for free. </p> <p>Since SEA LIFE Bray is in the charming coastal town of Bray, consider combining your visit with a stroll along the scenic Bray Promenade or a hike up Bray Head for breathtaking views of the Irish Sea. </p> <h2><strong>Discover Medieval Dublin at Dublinia </strong></h2> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/dublin/attractions/184818761_newdublinia4.jpg" alt="Image of Adult, Male, Man, Person, Face, Head, " loading="lazy"><p>Step back in time and explore medieval Dublin and the age of Vikings at <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/dublinia" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Dublinia</a>. This museum transports you to medieval Dublin, where you'll walk through recreated streets and buildings, looking at life in this fascinating era. </p> <p>Dive into Viking history with exhibits that reveal their influence on Dublin. Explore their settlement customs and dress up as Viking warriors. Discover the darker side of history through the Crime and Punishment exhibit. Learn about medieval justice, prisons, and punishments that will send shivers down your spine. </p> <p>Engage with interactive displays that make history come alive. From trying your hand at medieval games to deciphering ancient runes, it's an adventure of learning and fun. Become an archaeologist for the day by participating in the Dig It! activity. Unearth artifacts and learn about the science behind archaeological discoveries. </p> <p>Don't miss the chance to dress up in Viking or medieval costumes. It's fun to immerse yourself in history and capture fantastic photos. Use your pass to enjoy complimentary access to <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/dublinia" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Dublinia</a>. </p> <h2><strong>Unearth Dublin's Secrets on the Murder by Temple Bar Mystery Tour </strong></h2> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/dublin/temple%20bar-2.jpg" alt="Image of Christmas, Christmas Decorations, Festival, Urban, " loading="lazy"><p>Get ready to unravel mysteries and explore Dublin in a unique way with the <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/murder-trinity-college" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Murder by Temple Bar</a> self-guided Murder Mystery Tour. </p> <p> Begin your adventure in the vibrant Temple Bar district, known for its cultural flair and cobblestone streets. It's the perfect backdrop for a thrilling mystery. Along your journey, you'll encounter historic sites and landmarks, adding depth to your Dublin experience while following the trail of clues. </p> <p>This self-guided tour isn't just about solving a murder mystery; it's an interactive challenge that engages your detective skills. Follow the clues, examine the evidence, and piece together the puzzle. Gather your friends or family for a team effort. Working together to crack the case adds an element of camaraderie and fun to your adventure. </p> <p>While the tour isn't long, having some snacks and water with you is a good idea so you stay energized throughout your adventure. Don't hesitate to ask locals for help or hints if you get stuck on a clue. Dubliners are known for their friendly nature and may offer valuable insights. </p> <h2>Final Thoughts </h2> <p>Dublin is not just a destination; it's an experience. It's a city where teenagers can immerse themselves in history, culture, and adventure while creating lasting memories. From exploring ancient castles to sampling international cuisines and enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of this bustling capital, Dublin offers teenagers an enriching and unforgettable travel experience. </p> 

Dublin offers many activities and attractions catering to teenagers' interests. It's a city that beautifully blends history, culture, and modern attractions, making it an excellent destination for families with teenagers. 

Things to do in Dublin for Teens | Go City®

Learn the local lingo on your next vacation.

Accents aside, there's more to understanding the Irish on your visit to Dublin. Here's a quick guide.

Talk Like a Local: Our Guide to Irish Slang

<p>When coming to Ireland, it&#39;s easy to get lost in conversations if you&#39;re not keyed into the local slang. Despite the fact that Dubliners speak primarily English, their own culture has made its mark on the language with Gaelic phrases intertwined into greetings and hundreds of new meanings attached to words that would mean something different anywhere else in the world. Here&#39;s some common phrases you should brush up on before you leave below.</p>


<h3><strong>&quot;What&#39;s the craic?&rdquo;</strong></h3>

<p>When somebody says this common Irish greeting to you, they&#39;re asking how you&#39;re doing or to find out if something&#39;s going on. The Gaelic word craic (pronounced &#39;crack&#39;) can mean a number of different things ranging from gossip to a fun event - you&#39;ll probably get a different answer regarding what it means exactly depending on who you&#39;re asking. It&#39;s a very casual way of greeting someone and you&#39;re likely to hear it a few times while in Dublin.&nbsp;<em>Example&nbsp;</em>A: What&#39;s the craic? B: It&#39;s going alright, thanks.</p>

<h3><strong>&quot;It&#39;ll be grand.&quot;</strong></h3>


<p>This one&#39;s a little confusing - grand takes on a slightly different meaning when in Ireland. When someone says something is &#39;grand&#39;, it actually means that whatever they&#39;re referring to is okay or fine.&nbsp;<em>Example</em>&nbsp;A: How was the pub last night? B: It was grand.</p>


<h3><strong>&quot;Sla&iacute;nte!&quot;</strong></h3>

<p>If you&#39;re planning to head to St. Patrick&#39;s Day or want to grab a pint at an Irish pub, this phrase is quintessential. Pronounced slahn-cheh, the word originally means health in Gaelic and is used in a similar to &#39;Cheers!&#39; in English.</p>

<h3><strong>&quot;Your man/Your one&quot;</strong></h3>

<p>Another confusing turn of phrase, your man refers to any man - even if you don&#39;t know them. The same goes for &#39;your one&#39;, but that refers specifically to a woman. Used frequently to refer to somebody in the context of a story, it&#39;s similar to saying &#39;that guy&#39; or &#39;that woman&#39;.&nbsp;<em>Example&nbsp;</em>A: Your man at the counter gave me the wrong change.</p>

<h3><strong>&quot;Give out&quot;</strong></h3>


<p>When someone &#39;gives out&#39; to somebody, it means that they&#39;re telling them off for something they&#39;ve done. You definitely want to avoid being the brunt of the scolding.&nbsp;<em>Example&nbsp;</em>A: My neighbours gave out to me for how loud the party was last night.</p>


<h3><strong>&quot;Scarlet&quot;</strong></h3>

<p>Used to literally describe the colour of a humiliated flush, when someone says that they&#39;re &#39;scarlet&#39;, they&#39;re saying that they&#39;re very embarrassed. If someone you know has done something pretty embarrassing, you can also tell them that you&#39;re scarlet for them.&nbsp;<em>Example&nbsp;</em>A: I was scarlet after I spilled my wine all over him.</p>

<h3><strong>&quot;Got any fags on you?&quot;</strong></h3>

<p>Don&#39;t be alarmed - the word fag takes on a different meaning in Irish slang. Fags refer to cigarettes in Ireland (as well as other parts of Britain) and while occasionally people may use the word in a nastier context, it&#39;s mainly understood to mean cigarettes.&nbsp;<em>Example</em>&nbsp;A: I&#39;ve got a couple of fags left.</p>


Accents aside, there's more to understanding the Irish on your visit to Dublin. Keep this quick guide to Irish slang on hand during your trip!

Talk Like a Local: Our Guide to Irish Slang | Go City®

Learn a little more about Ireland's patron saint...

From his true origins to the real color he wore, these fun facts will blow you away!

10 facts about St. Patrick we bet you didn't know!

<h2>Learn more about the iconic saint behind the national holiday</h2>

<p>While&nbsp;Ireland&#39;s patron saint day is celebrated around the country with parties and parades, what do we know about the man himself? Check out our favourite 10 facts about St. Patrick that you may not know!</p>


<h2>1. St. Patrick wasn&#39;t Irish</h2>

<p>Despite being the patron saint of Ireland, St. Patrick was born in Britain in either Scotland or Wales (accounts tend to vary on that point). His parents, Calpurnius and Conchessa, were both Roman citizens and his mother gave birth to him in 385AD.</p>


<h2>2. Slavery was what brought St. Patrick to Ireland</h2>

<p>As a teenager, St. Patrick was kidnapped by a pirate raiding party and sold into slavery in Ireland. As a slave, he looked after and herded sheep for many years before fleeing to a monastery in England. While there, he became a devout follower of Christianity and was ordained a bishop, after which he returned to Ireland as a missionary.</p>


<h2>See more history and save on admission to top Dublin attractions with&nbsp;Go City&reg;​</h2>


<p>Discover our full line-up of <a href="http://gocity.com/en/dublin" target="_blank">Dublin&nbsp;attractions</a>&nbsp;including&nbsp;landmarks, museums, tours and more.​</p>

<p>🤩 &gt;&gt; If you want to see and do as much as you can,&nbsp;our&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/en/dublin/passes?duration=1" rel="noreferrer" target="_blank">All-Inclusive Pass</a>&nbsp;is for you.&nbsp;&nbsp;​</p>

<p>😎 &gt;&gt;&nbsp;If you want to pick just a few attractions and visit at&nbsp;your own pace, our&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/en/dublin/passes/explorer?duration=3" rel="noreferrer" target="_blank">Explorer Pass</a>&nbsp;is the perfect option.&nbsp;​</p>


<h2>3. The shamrock as an Irish symbol is said to have been popularised by St. Patrick</h2>

<p>As the stories go, St. Patrick supposedly used the iconic three-leafed shamrock to explain the Holy Trinity while preaching. With each leaf representing Christianity&#39;s Holy Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, it was a symbol that showed how they could be three different spiritual entities and yet all part of the same whole.</p>


<h2>4. St. Patrick wore blue, not green</h2>

<p>Although everyone is expected to wear green on St. Patrick&#39;s Day, all surviving artworks of St. Patrick show him wearing blue robes. It&#39;s the reason why through the years, flags, sports uniforms, and coat-of-arms featured the color. As time progressed, green as a national color grew in favor, particularly in the 17th century.</p>


<h2>5. St. Patrick probably didn&#39;t drive all the snakes out of Ireland</h2>

<p>One of the most popular myths about the Irish saint is that he rid the country of snakes, but modern science has since ruined that belief for everyone. As Ireland has always been an incredibly cold country, scientists have said that it&#39;s highly unlikely that there were any snakes to begin with and there are no fossils to disprove the theory.</p>


<h2>8. ...and Patrick wasn&#39;t even St. Patrick&#39;s given name</h2>

<p>St. Patrick&#39;s given name was Maewyn Succat. It wasn&#39;t until he became a priest that he adopted a new name - Patrick, after Patricius (which relates to the Latin root meaning father).</p>


<h2>6. St Patrick&#39;s Day is held on the day he passed away</h2>

<p>In the Catholic tradition, the day a saint passes away is considered a holy day to celebrate their ascension into heaven. St. Patrick passed away on March 17 and it continues to be when St. Patrick&#39;s Day is held annually.</p>


<h2>7. St. Patrick isn&#39;t technically a saint...</h2>

<p>While he&#39;s been given the title in popular lore, St. Patrick was never actually officially canonized as a saint. However many still recognise his contributions to the Catholic church and he remains a spiritual figure to this day.</p>


<h2>9. &#39;Drowning the Shamrock&#39; is said to have started with St. Patrick</h2>

<p>The tradition of drinking to celebrate St. Patrick&#39;s Day is said to have started with the saint himself, who announced that everybody should have a drop of the hard stuff&#39; after an innkeeper was less than forthcoming with a bottle of whiskey. While there was a brief period where drinking on St. Patrick&#39;s Day was banned, the tradition has since returned in full force.</p>


<h2>10. Legend has it that St. Patrick&#39;s walking stick grew into a tree while he was preaching</h2>

<p>Another popular tale regarding St. Patrick tells the story of how he left his ashwood walking stick in the ground, while he went off to try and convert the villagers of a small town to Christianity. The effort took so long that the walking stick became an ash tree which the town takes its name from - Aspatria, Cumbria, in the north of England.</p>


Learn more about Ireland's patron saint. Before you head to Dublin, check out these facts about Saint Patrick that you may not know.

10 facts about St. Patrick we bet you didn't know! | Go City®

Halloween in Dublin - Top Events, Festivals and More

<p>Historical architecture, dark times and colourful characters - Dublin is a city basically built for October 31st. Halloween&#39;s not the only spooky holiday on the cards as Samhain Festival crosses over with the festivities, celebrating the end of the harvest season and Dublin really turns it to eleven for the season. Here&#39;s the best things to get up to this&nbsp;<strong>Halloween in Dublin</strong>.</p>


Spook yourself out this Halloween in Dublin

<h3><strong>Murder Mystery Hunt</strong></h3>

<p>Whodunit? Well, that&#39;s exactly what you&#39;re going to find out at&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://gocity.com/pass-dublin/en-us/dublin-attractions/national-wax-museum-plus">Dublin&#39;s National Wax Museum&nbsp;</a></strong>where a murder&#39;s taken place and imposing Viking Joe is a major suspect. Help him prove his innocence by following the clues (in costume of course) to discover what really happened. A great one if you&#39;ve got kiddos in tow.</p>


<p>Take a step into Ireland&#39;s dark past at&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://gocity.com/pass-dublin/en-us/dublin-attractions/dublinia">Dublinia</a></strong>, where the entire space will be transformed into medieval Dublin at the height of the Black Death. Dubliners will be roaming the halls, looting corpses for treasure as they share their stories about the plague, clutching at healing herbs to keep them healthy as they pass. Crafted by the Delig Inis theatre group, it&#39;s an immersive theatre experience designed to be enjoyed by the entire family.</p>


Halloween at Dublinia

<p>Every year,&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://gocity.com/pass-dublin/en-us/dublin-attractions/dublin-zoo">Dublin Zoo&nbsp;</a></strong>gets in on the festive fun and decks out its sprawling enclosures with Halloween-themed decor. With a long list of fun activities including a monster disco, spooky arts and crafts and face painting for all those who want to up their fancy dress game, one of the highlights of the season is watching the elephants play with masses of pumpkins, joyfully smashing them to pieces.</p>


Spooktacular Boo!

<p>There&#39;s nowhere eerier than a graveyard and Dublin&#39;s iconic&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://gocity.com/pass-dublin/en-us/dublin-attractions/glasnevin-cemetery-museum">Glasnevin Cemetery&nbsp;</a></strong>is a prime location for Halloween. This Halloween, they&#39;ll be running a number of horrifying tours where they delve into the unsavoury characters buried in the cemetery and its spooky past. Naturally, fancy dress is a must and it&#39;s ideal for younger children right before you delve into the trick or treat circuit.</p>


Ghastly Glasnevin Tours

<h3><strong>Bram Stoker Festival</strong></h3>

<p>While books like&nbsp;<em>Twilight</em>&nbsp;may have ruined our perception of vampires forever, it&#39;s great to remember how terrifying, sensual and complex they once were at the&nbsp;<strong>Bram Stoker Festival</strong>. Held over several days, there&#39;ll be everything from screenings of film adaptations to a Victorian themed amusement park to get you into the mood. Just remember to have a garlicky meal beforehand and bring a vial of holy water with you - you know, just in case.</p>

<h3><strong>Macnas Parade</strong></h3>

<p>Yes, this is technically part of the Bram Stoker Festival, but it deserves a whole category of its own. Held on the 30th, this gigantic parade turns Dublin on its head and brings chaotic revelry to its streets as an eerie monstrous procession navigates its twists and turns. With gigantic monsters and creepy entertainers ruling the capital after dark, it&#39;s a unique way to spend the spookiest time of the year - don&#39;t forget to come dressed the part.</p>

<h3><strong>The Nightmare Realm</strong></h3>

<p>Think you&#39;re brave? Prove your metal at The Nightmare Realm, one of Dublin&#39;s scariest haunted houses. It&#39;s not at all for the faint of heart and best explored with a group, with the house straying firmly away from lame cliches like ghosts in sheets - instead drawing on horror films and the stuff of nightmares to terrify you. One of the top things to do this Halloween in Dublin, it&#39;s been known to be so gruesome and scary that people regularly bow out - you in?</p>


<h3><strong>Horror Expo</strong></h3>

<p>Bram Stoker&#39;s not the only one in town with a convention. The Horror Expo is coming to Dublin and if you&#39;re a fan of the genre, it&#39;s an absolute must. With horror-themed Q&amp;A panels, movie screenings and live paranormal investigations, there&#39;s so much to see and do. If you&#39;re looking to brush up on your fancy dress skills, there&#39;s a few SFX make-up artists ready to share their tips on getting zombified and ready for the monster ball.</p>

<h3><strong>Halloween at the Lighthouse</strong></h3>

<p>All month long, the Lighthouse Cinema will be showing a string of horror flicks including classics like the Creature from the Black Lagoon through to modern day theatre epics like NT Live&#39;s rendition of Frankenstein. While some of the screenings are a part of the Bram Stoker Festival (yes, Dracula&#39;s in there somewhere in the line up), you&#39;ll be able to rock up and make the most of the cinema&#39;s festivities - all with a bucket of popcorn.</p>


From festivals and tours to spooky attractions, celebrations and more, make the most of the city this October and see our guide to Halloween in Dublin!

Halloween in Dublin - Top Events, Festivals and More | Go City®

Top 10 Facts about James Joyce

<h2>Want to learn some interesting facts about James Joyce? You&rsquo;ve come to the right place!</h2>

<p>Born in Dublin in 1882, Joyce was one of Ireland&rsquo;s most influential and celebrated authors. Best known for&nbsp;<em>Ulysses</em>, published in 1922, he combined different literary techniques in one landmark novel that is considered one of the most difficult to read in the English language. The team here at the Dublin Pass have put together their own selection of favourite facts about James Joyce:</p>


<p>1. Bloomsday celebrations take place every year on June 16. The day is named after Leopold Bloom, the chief protagonist from&nbsp;<em>Ulysses</em>, and events take place on the same day as the events of the book itself. Think people in Edwardian dress and marathon reading sessions.</p>

<p>2. What&rsquo;s so special about June 16? It&rsquo;s the day that Joyce had his first date with wife-to-be Nora Barnacle. Poets Ted Hughes and Sylvia Plath later chose June 16th as their wedding day in tribute to the novel.</p>

<p>3. Joyce&rsquo;s works were forbidden in China under Mao, as he was considered decadent and bourgeois. However,&nbsp;<em>Finnegans Wake&nbsp;</em>became an unexpected bestseller in 2013 and&nbsp;<em>Ulysses&nbsp;</em>has also enjoyed Chinese success.</p>


<p>4<em>. Ulysses&nbsp;</em>has inspired the songs &ldquo;Breathe&rdquo; by U2 and Kate Bush&rsquo;s &ldquo;Flower of the Mountain&rdquo;.</p>

<p>5. British war censors, who read a serialised version of&nbsp;<em>Ulysses&nbsp;</em>before the main publication date, apparently thought that it was a spy code, as the text was so bewildering.</p>

<p>6. Physicist Murray Gell-Mann read the word &lsquo;quark&rsquo; Joyce&rsquo;s novel&nbsp;<em>Finnegans Wake</em>&nbsp;and liked it so much, he proposed it as the name of the particle in the 1960s. (The word hadn&rsquo;t previously existed in English, although quark cheese had of course been around in different parts of Europe for a while.)</p>

<p>7. James Joyce was a famous polyglot. As well as learning Norwegian as a teenager in order to read Henrik Ibsen&rsquo;s work in its original language, he studied French at university and spoke Italian with his children. He also studied Irish, German, Greek, Hebrew, Russian, Finnish, Polish and possibly other languages too.</p>


<p>8. The first edition of&nbsp;<em>Ulysses&nbsp;</em>had a print run of only 1,000 copies. In 2009, one of these copies sold at auction for &pound;275,000.</p>

<p>9. Molly&rsquo;s monologue in&nbsp;<em>Ulysses&nbsp;</em>consists of 4,391 words. However, it no longer holds the record of &lsquo;longest sentence in the English language&rsquo; &ndash; Jonathan Coe&rsquo;s novel, The Rotters&rsquo; Club, has one with 13,955 words!</p>

<p>10. Joyce died in Zurich in 1941. His final words are said to have been &ldquo;Does nobody understand?&rdquo;. You can find out more fascinating facts about Joyce at the&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://gocity.com/pass-dublin/en-us/dublin-attractions/james-joyce-centre">James Joyce Centre</a></strong>&nbsp;in Dublin, with organised events, exhibitions and literary walking tours. Alternatively, why not check out his books at your local library?&nbsp;<em>&quot;There is no past, no future; everything flows in an eternal present.&quot; James Joyce</em></p>


Born in Dublin in 1882, Joyce was one of Ireland’s most influential and celebrated authors. Learn more about the man with our top 10 facts about James Joyce

Top 10 Facts about James Joyce | Go City®

When the Sun Goes Down - Things to Do in Dublin at Night

<h2>The Irish capital comes to life once the sun sets! Find out things to do in Dublin at night with our comprehensive guide!</h2>

<p>As any night-owl knows - once the sun goes down is when a city really heats up and Dublin is no different! From cultural evenings and delicious local produce to toe-tapping Irish tunes, pub crawls and more, we&#39;ve got the low-down on the best after-dark activities with our favourite things to do in Dublin at night.</p>


<h3><a href="https://gocity.com/pass-dublin/en-us/dublin-attractions/an-evening-of-food-folklore-and-fairies"><strong>An Evening of Food, Folklore and Fairies</strong></a></h3>


<p>Suspend your disbelief and believe in magic for a little bit at Dublin&#39;s oldest pub, The Brazen Head. Run daily, these evening sessions are run by Irish storytellers that take you through the history of Ireland and how its mythology is intertwined with its culture. Enjoy dinner over candlelight and live traditional Irish music&nbsp;<em>Dublin Pass holders receive 10% off</em>.</p>


<h3><a href="https://gocity.com/pass-dublin/en-us/dublin-attractions/the-abbey-theatre"><strong>The Abbey Theatre</strong></a></h3>

<p>See the best that Dublin&#39;s theatre scene has to offer at the country&#39;s national theatre, where some of the greatest stories by Irish playwrights such as JM Synge and Brian Friel have been performed. Discover what&#39;s on in their events calendar&nbsp;<a href="http://www.abbeytheatre.ie/wakingthenation">here</a>.&nbsp;<em>Dublin Pass holders receive 10% off.</em></p>

<p><a href="http://sweny.ie/site/readings"><strong>James Joyce Reading Groups</strong></a></p>


<p>If you&#39;re a massive literature buff, this reading group held in Sweny&#39;s Pharmacy is your chance to flex your creative smarts. Dedicated to uncovering the mysteries of Irish poet James Joyce&#39;s masterworks who popularised the space in his epic Ulysses, they have multiple evening classes on Thursday (Ulysses), Saturday (Ulysses in French) and Sundays (Finnegans Wake).</p>

<h3><a href="https://www.dublinsightseeing.ie/Ghostbus/index.aspx"><strong>Ghostbus Tour</strong></a></h3>


<p>Discover the terrifying history behind some of Dublin&#39;s most haunted landmarks on a Ghostbus, which will take you to the city&#39;s scariest sites. Running for two hours, this guided tour is full of creepy folklore including the Lady in White, violent Dr. Clossey&#39;s bloody history and a visit to St Kevin&#39;s Graveyard, which used to be a haven for graverobbers.</p>


<h3><a href="http://slamsunday.com/"><strong>Slam! Sunday</strong></a></h3>

<p>Ireland has been home to some of the world&#39;s most prolific storytellers and that tradition continues to this day in modern Dublin. Slam! Sunday is a monthly slam poetry competition in which twelve poets face off against one another in a creative battle, after which audience judges choose who wins a cash prize. Poets can sign up at the door and twelve names are randomly selected to compete on the night.</p>

<h3><strong>Temple Bar Pub Crawl</strong></h3>


<p>Round up your mates and head out to the bustling Temple Bar district, where the lights are on all night and the beer flows a little too freely. With a number of fantastic bars and pubs to discover, must-visits include the eponymous Temple Bar and Bad Bobs - a mix between a bar and a nightclub perfect for wrapping up the night.</p>


<h3><strong>Temple Bar Night Market</strong></h3>

<p>If you happen to be around in the summer, the streets of Temple Bar are transformed into a vibrant market full of gorgeous handicrafts and art. Held every Wednesday evening starting from late April to August, it&#39;s the perfect place to pick up a unique Irish souvenir made by some of the city&#39;s creative talent.</p>

<h3><a href="http://restaurantpatrickguilbaud.ie/"><strong>Patrick Guilbaud</strong></a></h3>

<p>As Ireland&#39;s only two Michelin starred restaurant, Patrick Guilbaud is representative of the best of Dublin fine dining. Perfect for an extra special date night, the most discerning diners in the capital have been eating here since 1981 and it continues to amaze with dishes such as lobster ravioli and a wine list to die for.</p>

<h3><strong>Dawn2Dusk Guided Photography Tours</strong></h3>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Practice your photography skills with some of the city&#39;s local photographers, who cater to hobbyists and professionals looking for their perfect shots. With a special night tour that spans the most beautiful sites along the River Liffey, it&#39;s a great way to spend a few hours enjoying the city.</p>

<h3><strong>Bernard Shaw</strong></h3>

<p>Ready to dance your heart out? One of Dublin&#39;s biggest nightlife teams Bodytonic continues to run fantastic events at their sweetheart club, The Bernard Shaw. With both international DJs and local musicians tearing up the decks, there&#39;s always something on to help you while the dark hours away.</p>

<p>Hopefully that gives you a few good ideas on things to do in Dublin at night.</p>

<h2>Save on Admission to Popular Attractions</h2>

<p>Regular admission to a number of historical Dublin attractions is available on our Dublin Go City products. Choose as you go from 20+ Dublin activities and save on combined admission vs paying at the gate.&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us" rel="noopener" target="_blank">See all available passes and Dublin-based attractions here.</a></p>


From cultural evenings to toe-tapping Irish tunes and pub crawls, we've got the low-down on the best things to do in Dublin at night!

Things to Do in Dublin at Night | Go City®

Dublin Christmas Markets

<p>​Christmas; some say it&#39;s the most wonderful time of the year; others are&nbsp;<em>wrong</em>. And one such event that makes Christmas so magical is the Christmas market scene. With the perfect blend of things to do, stalls selling all manner of festive offerings, and a great big dollop of community spirit, nothing quite beats a good Christmas market. So, if you&#39;re visiting Dublin in the run-up to the big day, why not check out our picks of the best Christmas markets in the city and go see what all the fuss is about?</p>

<p><strong>Including:</strong></p>

<ul>
	<li><strong>Does Dublin have good Christmas markets?</strong></li>
	<li><strong>How is Dublin in December?</strong></li>
	<li><strong>Is Dublin fun at Christmas?</strong></li>
	<li><strong>The best Christmas Markets in Dublin</strong></li>
</ul>

<h3>Does Dublin have good Christmas markets?</h3>


<p>Indeed it does, fellow traveler! As you&#39;ll see below, there are a ton of festive offerings all over Dublin that&#39;ll scratch your Christmas itch in no time. Take a look down below and find the perfect Christmas Market for you!</p>


<p>You&#39;ll need to wrap up, because December in Dublin is a cold one. Average highs hit around 46&deg;F, and average lows tend to be around 41&deg;F. So, no matter the weather, you&#39;ll need to wear plenty of layers - pack accordingly!</p>

<p>It&#39;s also worth mentioning that it rains an average of 23 days in December, so a warm waterproof or a decent umbrella should be the first items in your luggage!</p>


<h3>Is Dublin fun at Christmas?</h3>

<p>Of course it is, you silly goose! Dubliners know how to have a good time, and with a mix of Christmas markets, winter events, and more, it would be hard&nbsp;<em>not</em>&nbsp;to enjoy yourself!</p>

<h3><a href="https://www.dublincastle.ie/christmas-at-the-castle-2019/#:~:targetText=The%20historic%20courtyard%20of%20Dublin,atmosphere%20with%20evening%20carol%20singing." rel="noopener" target="_blank">Dublin Castle Christmas Market</a></h3>


<p>Dublin Castle Christmas Market is one of the youngest markets on this list, which opened its doors in 2019. Yes, that was only four years ago. It feels longer than that, doesn&#39;t it?</p>

<p>Step inside its welcoming walls, and you&#39;ll find more than thirty stalls selling all manner of artisanal goods, warm Christmas drinks, and plenty of good food to warm your belly. All of your adventuring is accompanied by live music, stuff for the kids, and plenty of Christmas cheer!</p>

<p>Typically, the market opens in the first two weeks of December and then shuts the weekend before Christmas itself,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.dublincastle.ie/christmas-at-the-castle-2022/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">but it&#39;s worth keeping an eye on their website so you know when to go</a>. And, while entry is free, you do need to book a 1.5-hour timeslot to get in. The slots ensure the market doesn&#39;t burst at the seams, and you&#39;ll have plenty of time to see it all.</p>


<h3><a href="https://swordscastle.events/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Swords Castle Christmas Market</a></h3>


<p>While many Dublin Christmas Markets have risen and fallen in recent years, it seems the castle-based ones are doing pretty well for themselves. It must be those castle walls and ramparts coming in clutch. Another is Swords Castle Christmas Market, which doesn&#39;t boast the turnout our choice available at Dublin Castle Christmas Market, is a great local event where you can pick up some goodies, sample local food, and even get your picture taken with the big man - if you&#39;re a child, at least. We&#39;re not sure Santa will be happy with a full-grown adult taking a pew on his knee.</p>

<p>Typically, the market opens its doors over two weekends between the end of November and the beginning of December, but, as above,&nbsp;<a href="https://swordscastle.events/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">keep an eye on official opening times when they&#39;re released</a>.</p>


<h3><a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/guinness-storehouse" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Guinness Storehouse Winterfest</a></h3>


<p>You could hardly expect Guinness not to be part of the proceedings. It&#39;s Dublin, after all. Calling it Christmas Market might be somewhat disingenuous, but they still have stalls selling Guinness-themed goodies, and plenty of photo ops both within the storehouse and without, thanks to those iconic Guinness doors.</p>

<p>Artist collaborations have become quite common over the years, and this year, Irish visual artist GRIF is joining the fray. Expect to see a digital Christmas Tree installation because, of course, grab a mulled Guinness, which could either be terrible or amazing, and take a wander!</p>


<h3><a href="https://www.giftedfair.ie/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Gifted &ndash; The Contemporary Craft &amp; Design Fair</a></h3>

<p>The market formally known as the Contemporary Craft &amp; Design Fair, Gifted - The&nbsp;<em>Contemporary</em>&nbsp;Craft &amp; Design Fair is a fantastic place to pick up some artisanal wares in the run-up to Christmas. And yes, while it might not be a Christmas-themed market, you&#39;ll fill plenty of stockings with the items on offer!</p>

<p>Inside, you&#39;ll find endless stalls selling all manner of handcrafted delights, from clothes to jewelry and even ceramics and metalwork. If you need to pick up something unique in a pinch, you won&#39;t find many better places in Dublin. But when we said &quot;endless stalls&quot;, we meant it. There must be hundreds of the devils spread out throughout. As such, you&#39;re best off putting a few hours aside to see it all.</p>

<p>Gifted tends to run for a week between the end of November and early December, but it is best to check ahead online for official dates and times.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.giftedfair.ie/pages/tickets" rel="noopener" target="_blank">You can also buy your tickets online, so it&#39;s worth keeping an eye on their site</a>.</p>

<h3><a href="https://thefumbally.ie/christmas-market/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">The Fumbally Christmas Market</a></h3>

<p>If the weather&#39;s a worry, and, let&#39;s be honest, Dublin&#39;s winter can be an unpredictable, wet, ice-cold beast, then you might seek shelter from the elements. Thankfully, the Fumbally Christmas Market lets you get your fix without enduring the wrath of the weather gods, as it&#39;s one of the only indoor Christmas markets in the city.</p>

<p>Stall-wise,<a href="https://thefumbally.ie/christmas-market/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">&nbsp;it&#39;s a mix of handcrafted clothes, furniture, jewelry, and beauty products, alongside locally sourced foodstuffs, confectionaries, and other knickknacks</a>&nbsp;that&#39;ll easily fill a stocking.</p>

<p>And, while there aren&#39;t any stalls selling cooked meals or drinks, you can grab something at the Fumbally Cafe, which will open throughout the market&#39;s run.</p>

<p>And those were our picks of the best Christmas Markets in Dublin! If you&#39;re planning to stay in the city for more than a couple of days, level up your Christmas vacation with Go City! With our&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/products/all-inclusive" rel="noopener" target="_blank">All-Inclusive Pass</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/products/explorer" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Explorer Pass</a>, you can see all of Dublin&#39;s best bits for one low price!</p>


If you're visiting Dublin in the run-up to the big day, why not check out our picks of the best Christmas markets in the city and go see what all the fuss is about?

Dublin Christmas Markets| Go City®

Shop the Stalls: Guide to the Best Dublin Markets

  <h2>Find the perfect souvenir and explore the best Dublin markets.</h2> <p>Venture away from shopping malls and chain stores and discover what Ireland's artisans have to offer at Dublin's best markets. Regardless of the weather, the scene continues on with both indoor and open-air markets delighting visitors with antiques, books and clothing. Find out where to go below and don't forget to grab a piping hot meal from one a street food stall to end your day on a high note.</p> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/dublin/blog/temple-bar-book-market.jpg" alt="Image of Book, Publication, Shop, Adult, Male, Man, Person, Reading, " loading="lazy"><p><em>Image via <a href="https://uk.pinterest.com/pin/408983209881883558">Pinterest</a></em></p> <h3><strong>Temple Bar Book Market</strong></h3> <p>This weekend market takes over the streets of the Temple Bar district and lovers of literature can get their fill at its numerous stalls. Running from 11am-6pm, there's a wide range of titles including new, second-hand and vintage books lining its shelves. Vinyl heads will also be able to find the occasional stall to beef up their collection. Spend some time exploring the area and its wide collection of street art, then grab a pint of Guinness at the iconic Temple Bar to catch your breath. <em>Open Saturday - Sunday, 11am - 6pm.</em></p> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/dublin/blog/liberty-market.jpg" alt="Image of Plant, Potted Plant, Flower, Petal, Flower Arrangement, Garden, Nature, Outdoors, Flower Bouquet, Purple, " loading="lazy"><p><em>Image via <a href="https://www.facebook.com/LibertyMarketDublin">Liberty Market Facebook</a></em></p> <h3><a href="http://www.libertymarket.ie"><strong>Liberty Market</strong></a></h3> <p>As one of Dublin's older markets, Liberty Market has made a name for itself as one of the capital's most popular shopping destinations. Beginning every Thursday morning and running through to the weekend, it has a diverse range of stalls that cover everything from organic food to handicrafts. With the motto 'Why pay more?' at its core, even the thriftiest shopper will be sure to find something in their price range. <em>Open Thursday - Sunday, 10am - 4pm.</em></p> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/dublin/blog/dublin-flea-market.jpg" alt="Image of Adult, Female, Person, Woman, Shopping, Accessories, Bag, Handbag, Shop, People, Male, Man, Indoors, " loading="lazy"><p><em>Image via <a href="https://www.facebook.com/DublinFleaMarket">Dublin Flea Market facebook</a></em></p> <h3><a href="http://dublinflea.ie"><strong>Dublin Flea Market</strong></a></h3> <p>This monthly market is held indoors at the Co-op in Newmarket Square, which makes it a great activity for when a bad spot of Dublin weather inevitably hits. With over 60 stalls selling all manner of goods including secondhand bikes and homemade baked treats, live music plays throughout the day and adds to the vibrant atmosphere. <em>Open on the last Sunday of the month, 11am - 5pm.</em></p> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/dublin/blog/hapenny-market.jpg" alt="Image of People, Person, Adult, Female, Woman, Male, Man, Boy, Teen, Bazaar, Market, Shop, " loading="lazy"><p><em>Image via <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pg/HapennyMarket">Ha'Penny Flea Market facebook</a></em></p> <h3><strong>Ha'Penny Flea Market</strong></h3> <p>Hang out with the cool kids at Ha'Penny Flea Market, where its wide range of stalls veer towards vintage clothing and handmade quirks. Hosted in the Grand Social, visitors are guaranteed to lay their hands on a unique fashion find at a bargain. <em>Open every Saturday, 12 - 6pm.</em></p> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/dublin/blog/blackrock-market.jpg" alt="Image of Bazaar, Market, Shop, Accessories, Bag, Handbag, " loading="lazy"><p><em>Image via <a href="https://www.facebook.com/BlackrockMarket">Blackrock Market facebook</a></em></p> <h3><strong>Blackrock Market</strong></h3> <p>Held in a seaside district of Dublin, Blackrock is an old hand at the Dublin market scene and remains a popular choice for locals and visitors alike. While it's slightly smaller than the other spots on the list, it's worth the picturesque visit to Blackrock and has a diverse selection ranging from 19th century furniture to African art. <em>Open Saturday - Sunday, 10:30am - 5:30pm.</em></p> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/dublin/blog/howth-market.jpg" alt="Image of Cake, Cream, Cupcake, Dessert, Food, Shop, Icing, " loading="lazy"><p><em>Image via <a href="https://www.facebook.com/howthmarket">Howth Market facebook</a></em></p> <h3><strong>Howth Market</strong></h3> <p>Forego a sit-down meal at a restaurant and head to Howth Market, where international street food and fresh organic produce reigns supreme. Held beside a stunning Dublin harbour, it's a great place to pick up some freshly made soda bread at its many bakery stalls and take a chance on new cultural cuisine. <em>Open every Sunday, 10am - 5pm.</em></p> <h6><em>Main image via Dublin Flea Market facebook</em></h6> 

Venture away from shopping malls and chain stores and discover what Ireland's artisans have to offer at the best Dublin markets around the city.

Shop the Stalls: Guide to the Best Dublin Markets | Go City®

Famous Irish Historical Figures

  <h2>Meet the famous Irish historical figures who shaped a nation</h2> <p>Ireland is renowned for many things - its rich culture, global citizens and so on - and a lot of that comes down to the Irish people. Meet some of Ireland's most famous Irish historical figures and learn more about their stories at<strong><a href="/pass-dublin/en-us/dublin-attractions/epic-irish-emigration-museum"> EPIC: The Irish Emigration Museum</a></strong> below.</p> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/dublin/blog/historical-irish-figures_james-joyce.jpg" alt="Image of Face, Head, Person, Photography, Portrait, Adult, Male, Man, Hat, Mustache, Accessories, Formal Wear, Tie, " loading="lazy"><h3><strong>James Joyce</strong></h3> <p>Ireland has birthed some of the world's most adventurous and accomplished literary figures and James Joyce definitely fits the bill. Best known for <em>A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man</em> and <em>Ulysses</em>, his modernist works were truly experimental and while controversial at the time, his writing (spanning novels, short stories, poetry and more) is now held up as some of Ireland's best. Just don't ask us to explain it to you.</p> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/dublin/blog/historical-irish-figures_oscar-wilde.jpg" alt="Image of Face, Head, Person, Photography, Portrait, Coat, Adult, Female, Woman, Finger, Hand, Lady, " loading="lazy"><h3><strong>Oscar Wilde</strong></h3> <p>The original dandy, Oscar Wilde was one of the world's first rockstar writers with a colourful personality and even more colourful writing (but only just). He didn't hang around in Ireland for long, drawn to vibrancy of cities like London and Paris, and his works like <em>The Importance of Being Earnest </em>and <em>The Picture of Dorian Gray</em> skyrocketed him to fame. While his life had its incredible ups, it also had pretty harrowing downs and he was was outed as a homosexual after a particularly harrowing and public trial, for which he was arrested and changed the course of his life and writing forever.</p> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/dublin/blog/historical-irish-figures_jfk.jpg" alt="Image of Accessories, Formal Wear, Tie, Adult, Male, Man, Person, Sitting, Head, Face, Photography, Portrait, Furniture, Bracelet, " loading="lazy"><h3><strong>John F. Kennedy</strong></h3> <p>John F. Kennedy, or J.F.K. as he's perhaps better known, was the first Irish-Catholic man to become the American president. Back in the 1900s, his family did as many other Irish families did and migrated to the US from western Ireland to escape the famine and made Boston their new home. He was president during one of the tensest periods of modern American history - the Cold War - and was publicly assassinated during a procession in Dallas, to the horror of people all over the world.</p> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/dublin/blog/constance-markievicz.jpg" alt="Image of Lady, Person, Adult, Bride, Female, Wedding, Woman, Chair, Necklace, " loading="lazy"><h3><strong>Constance Markievicz </strong></h3> <p>An unlikely revolutionary hero in the 1916 uprising, Constance Markievicz was born in London and raised on a wealthy Anglo-Irish estate in Sligo. However, she soon identified with Irish nationalism and played a major role in the Irish Citizen Army. She fought at St. Stephen's Green in 1916 and fought on the Republican side in the Irish Civil War, eventually becoming the Minister for Labour in the first Irish government, making her only the second woman in Europe to have a government ministerial role.</p> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/dublin/blog/historical-irish-figures_shakleton.jpg" alt="Image of Face, Head, Person, Photography, Portrait, Adult, Male, Man, " loading="lazy"><h3><strong>Ernest Shackleton</strong></h3> <p>Ernest Shackleton, a resident of Kildare, left Ireland behind for even colder climates in the early 20th century to launch a highly ambitious (and dangerous) Antarctic expedition.Over the course of his life, he travelled there four times in a number of unfortunate journeys in which he grew gravely ill, was shipwrecked and wrote long detailed logs of his journey. While he wasn't the first to make it to the South Pole (a Norwegian explorer just edged him out of that glory), his dramatic tales of survival against all odds enamoured public imagination.</p> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/dublin/blog/george-bernard-shaw.jpg" alt="Image of Face, Head, Person, Beard, Photography, Portrait, Adult, Male, Man, " loading="lazy"><h3>George Bernard Shaw</h3> <p>A Nobel Prize winning playwright born in Dublin on 26 July 1856, George Bernard Shaw was an Irish/British playwright and political activist whose influence on theatre, culture and politics extended through his lifetime and beyond. Best known for his play <em>Pygmalion, </em>which was famously adapated for stage and screen with actresses Julie Andrews and Audrey Hepburn bringing the Eliza Doolittle character to life, Bernard Shaw wrote more than 60 plays in his lifetime. He has been rated a second only to William Shakespeare among many English-language dramatists given his extensive influence on subsequent generations of playwrights.</p> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/dublin/blog/historical-irish-figures_st-patrick.jpg" alt="Image of Art, Stained Glass, " loading="lazy"><h3><strong>St Patrick</strong></h3> <p>Whatever your religious affiliations, there's no denying that St Patrick is probably <em>the</em> most iconic figure in Irish history. While he was technically Welsh, he was enslaved in Ireland and later became a Christian missionary that changed the course of Irish culture forever. Numerous myths surround him including tales of how he chased all the snakes out of Ireland and baptised many at a well where St Patrick's Cathedral in Dublin now stands. And of course, he's the patron saint of Ireland and celebratory figure behind the most Irish of holidays - St Paddy's Day.</p> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/dublin/blog/bram-stoker.jpg" alt="Image of Face, Head, Person, Photography, Portrait, Beard, Formal Wear, Suit, Adult, Male, Man, Coat, Accessories, Tie, " loading="lazy"><h3>Bram Stoker</h3> <p>Best known for his 1897 Gothic novel Dracula, Bram Stoker was born in Dublin on 8 November 1847. His popular novel paved the way for gothic lore and horror in popular culture and in his lifetime he wrote 12 novels as well as collections of short stories. A freelance contributor to The Daily Telegraph in his earlier career, he was also known as the business manager to the actor Henry Irving of the Lyceum Theatre in London. A lifelong lover of art, he founded the Dublin Sketching Club in 1874 and became friends with fellow Irish writers Oscar Wilde and William Butler Yeats.</p> 

Ireland is renowned for many things from its rich culture to global citizens and more. Meet the famous Irish historical figures who helped shaped a nation!

Famous Irish Historical Figures | Go City®

Things to Do in Dublin this Autumn: Events, Festivals and More

  <h2>One of our favourite times of the year, find out why you should visit Dublin this Autumn!</h2> <p>As the leaves change, so does Dublin's events calendar and cultural festivals come to the fore. While you'll have to wait till the spring for the likes of St Patrick's Day, the autumn brings theatrical and literary festivals as well as brand new artistic exhibitions specifically for 2017. Get inspired with our list of highlights below.</p> <h3><strong>Have a drink at one of Dublin's oldest pubs</strong></h3> <p>Grab a pint of the black stuff at one of Dublin's local watering holes, where you'll be able to wash your drink down with a dash of history. Whether you're stopping off at The Gravediggers after checking out Glasnevin Cemetery or basking in the Victorian era Stag's Head establishment, join in the centuries old tradition of unwinding at a pub and <strong><a href="http://blog.dublinpass.com/guide-dublins-oldest-pubs">check out our full list of oldest pubs to see what's nearest you.</a></strong></p> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/dublin/blog/dublin-autumn-guinness.jpg" alt="Image of Alcohol, Beer, Beverage, Glass, Adult, Female, Person, Woman, Stout, " loading="lazy"><h3><strong>Guinness Storehouse</strong></h3> <p>While a visit to the <strong><a href="/pass-dublin/en-us/dublin-attractions/guinness-storehouse">Guinness Storehouse</a></strong> isn't restricted to just the autumn months, it's well worth going to see the secrets behind the iconic stout. With several floors to explore and an in-depth exhibition spanning everything from their founder Arthur Guinness' life to its modern day incarnation, it's worth stopping off at the sky-high Gravity Bar afterwards for some gorgeous views over the city.</p> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/dublin/blog/dublin-autumn-national-gallery.jpg" alt="Image of Art, Painting, Adult, Female, Person, Woman, " loading="lazy"><h3><strong>Frederic William Burton: For the Love of Art</strong></h3> <p><strong><a href="/pass-dublin/en-us/dublin-attractions/national-gallery-of-ireland">The National Gallery of Ireland</a></strong> is the region's most important artistic venues, providing a rich look at the world and history of Irish creativity and international artists. Beyond the Caravaggios and Vermeers of the permanent collection, there's an entire exhibit dedicated to Frederic William Burton, an accomplished Irish watercolour artist that would go on to work as director of London's National Gallery. The exhibit opens on October 25 and bookings are recommended.</p> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/dublin/blog/dublin-this-autumn-freud.jpg" alt="Image of Art, Art Gallery, Adult, Female, Person, Woman, Accessories, Bag, Handbag, " loading="lazy"><h3><strong>New exhibitions at the Irish Museum of Modern Art</strong></h3> <p>If Renaissance and more traditional art isn't your thing, the newer works over at the <strong><a href="/pass-dublin/en-us/dublin-attractions/irish-museum-of-modern-art">Irish Museum of Modern Art (IMMA)</a></strong> might be more up your street. With a long and exciting list of exhibitions and cultural events packed into their calendar, this year's Lucien Freud (starting from October 21) and Coast-lines (starting from October 13) exhibitions are definitely worth a visit.</p> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/dublin/blog/dublin-autumn-theatre-fest.jpg" alt="Image of Boy, Child, Male, Person, Adult, Female, Woman, Baby, " loading="lazy"><p><em>Image via <a href="https://www.facebook.com/DublinTheatreFestival/photos/a.177540798713.155133.130211058713/10155952259933714/?type=3&amp;theater">Dublin Theatre Festival</a></em></p> <h3><strong>Get cultural at the Dublin Theatre Festival</strong></h3> <p>See what the brightest of the Irish theatrical scene has to offer at Dublin Theatre Festival, an eighteen day cultural extravaganza. Running from September 28 - October 15, there's everything from <em>Hamnet</em>, an eleven year old's personal exploration of Shakespeare and actual Shakespeare with <em>Venus and Adonis. </em>There's also going to be a stage production of <em>Ulysses</em>, one of Ireland's most seminal literary works, so that's a great way to get insight into the country's heritage.</p> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/dublin/blog/dublin-autumn-bram-stoker.jpg" alt="Image of People, Person, Crowd, Adult, Bride, Female, Woman, " loading="lazy"><p><em>Image via <a href="https://www.facebook.com/BramStokerDublin/photos/a.1361972650504407.1073741854.473798935988454/1361973177171021/?type=3&amp;theater">Bram Stoker Festival</a></em></p> <h3><strong>Bram Stoker Festival</strong></h3> <p>Now here's something you might not have known - <em>Dracula</em>'s author Bram Stoker was actually a through and through Irishman. Abraham 'Bram' Stoker was a Dublin native and he's being honoured October 27-30 with a four day festival, which will celebrate the best Gothic literature has to offer. Spend a day at Stokerland, a Victorian fun park that'll take you way into the past, take a pen and paper to a number of talks delving into Stoker's canon and celebrate the end of the festival with an incredible parade.</p> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/dublin/blog/dublin-autumn-history-festival.jpg" alt="Image of Road, Tarmac, Person, Walking, College, People, " loading="lazy"><p><em>Image via <a href="https://www.facebook.com/DublinFestivalofHistory/photos/a.1535433463144786.1073741834.1393675037320630/1598364003518398/?type=3&amp;theater">Dublin Festival of History</a></em></p> <h3><strong>Dublin Festival of History</strong></h3> <p>History buffs, this one goes out to you. For the fifth year running, the Dublin Festival of History brings a diverse range of talks, lectures and more to the capital to uncover the past in an engaging way until October 14. Beyond being totally free, some of its events are going to be held in <strong><a href="/pass-dublin/en-us/dublin-attractions/dublin-castle">Dublin Castle</a></strong> including a themed version of Question Time - what better venue to soak in centuries of history than a bonafide castle?</p> 

As the leaves change, so does Dublin's cultural festivals come to the fore. Check out our guide to the best things to do in Dublin this Autumn!

Things to Do in Dublin this Autumn: Events, Festivals and More | Go City®

Go City Acquires The Dublin Pass to Expand Ireland Offerings

  <p><em>The Dublin Pass joins the company's portfolio of over 25 destinations worldwide, as Go City initiates further expansion into the country. </em></p> <p>DUBLIN, March 29, 2022 -- Go City®, the world's largest multi-attraction pass business, has purchased The Dublin Pass from Fáilte Ireland (Ireland's National Tourism Development Authority) by way of open market sale. Recently recognized in the Sunday Times Top Track 250, Go City plans to continue to expand its offerings in the market, leveraging its app-based technology to deliver a more enhanced customer experience. </p> <p>The Dublin Pass grants visitors discounted and flexible entry to the top attractions, museums and tours in Dublin. It was created in 2004 as a collaborative project between Dublin Tourism and key industry partners to promote and sell the Dublin experience to sightseers. Ownership of the pass moved to Fáilte Ireland after it merged with Dublin Tourism in 2012.</p> <p>While Go City has managed The Dublin Pass operation under a concession agreement on behalf of Fáilte Ireland since 2015, this move will see Go City own The Dublin Pass in its entirety.</p> <p>Go City operates in more than 25 of the most iconic cities in the world, and delivers approximately 12 million paid attraction visits annually, worldwide. The Dublin Pass includes 35 of the city's most popular attractions, tours and experiences, including the Guinness Storehouse, Saint Patrick's Cathedral, and many more. This acquisition will broaden the company's offerings in Ireland and provide Dublin's attraction partners with a wider range of marketing capabilities and technology solutions.</p> <p>"We are delighted to welcome The Dublin Pass into the Go City portfolio of passes to the world's best cities. Customers love the savings, flexibility and wide variety of experiences that The Dublin Pass offers, allowing them to unlock the city. Our aim is to build on that success and expand our offerings further into Ireland," comments Jon Owen, CEO of Go City.</p> <p>Paul Keeley, Fáilte Ireland's Director of Regional Development adds, "The Dublin Pass will continue to be an important product for Dublin in the future, as it helps visitors access the city's unique attractions, and experience Dublin's rich history, heritage and culture."</p> <p>Go City will continue to work closely with the local community of attraction partners and Fáilte Ireland to deliver incremental visitation to Dublin, opening up exciting opportunities for the year ahead. </p> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/dublin/160412_GUINNESS%20STOREHOUSE%20DAY%20044997_Medium%20Res.jpg" alt="Image of City, Road, Street, Urban, Pants, Person, Walking, Path, Adult, Female, Woman, Male, Man, Jeans, Cobblestone, Bag, Handbag, Gate, " loading="lazy"><p><strong>ABOUT GO CITY</strong></p> <p>Go City is the most popular multi-attraction pass in the U.S and operates in over 25 cities across the globe. Partnering with over 1,000 attractions, tours and activities worldwide, Go City allows customers to experience everything a destination has to offer, while attraction partners receive incremental visitation and revenue.</p> <p>Offering choice, convenience and savings, Go City enables customers to lock in savings ahead of travel, while retaining flexibility to make plans as they go. All delivered digitally, the Go City app provides contactless entry at attractions by scanning the pass straight from a smartphone device. Go City transforms the way people experience the world's greatest destinations. They simply scan and enjoy, all at their own pace for a fraction of the retail cost.</p> <p>For more information, or to experience Go City please visit <a href="https://c212.net/c/link/?t=0&amp;l=en&amp;o=3485101-1&amp;h=195252421&amp;u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.gocity.com%2F&amp;a=www.gocity.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.gocity.com</a>.</p> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/dublin/scan-1%20(1).jpg" alt="Image of Electronics, Phone, Mobile Phone, Adult, Male, Man, Person, QR Code, " loading="lazy"><p><strong>ABOUT FÁILTE IRELAND</strong></p> <p>As the National Tourism Development Authority, Fáilte Ireland's role is to support the long-term sustainable growth in the economic, social, cultural and environmental contribution of tourism to Ireland. Tourism is of critical importance to the national economy and to regional development and employment. Pre-coronavirus, the sector generated revenue of €7.5billion annually and supported 260,000 jobs nationwide while contributing €1.7billion to the Exchequer.</p> <p>Fáilte Ireland works in partnership with Government, State agencies, Local Authorities, representative groups and industry, to develop tourism across Ireland by creating destination development plans and networks, investing in infrastructure, activities, visitor attractions and festivals. Fáilte Ireland also provides consumer and buyer insights, mentoring, business supports and training programmes' and buyer platforms to help tourism businesses innovate and grow.</p> <p>In addition, Fáilte Ireland supports Business Tourism, managing the bidding for and securing of larger conferences, meetings, and events to be hosted in Ireland.</p> <p>Fáilte Ireland is also responsible for domestic holiday marketing across its four regional experience brands: Dublin, Wild Atlantic Way, Ireland's Ancient East, and Ireland's Hidden Heartlands.</p> 

The Dublin Pass joins the company's portfolio of over 25 destinations worldwide, as Go City initiates further expansion into the country. 

Go City Acquires The Dublin Pass to Expand Ireland Offerings | Go City®

Getting around Dublin

  <p>If you're heading to Dublin this year and wondering how you'll be getting around the city, wonder no more. In this guide, we'll highlight all of the best ways to get around Dublin so you can make the most of your trip!</p> <p><strong>Including:</strong></p> <ul><li><strong>What is the easiest way to get around Dublin?</strong></li> <li><strong>Is Dublin easy to get around without a car?</strong></li> <li><strong>How many days do you need to see Dublin?</strong></li> <li><strong>Getting around Dublin: Public Transport</strong></li> </ul><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/dublin/Shutterstock_1305346504.jpg" alt="Image of Light, Person, Walking, Adult, Female, Woman, Traffic Light, Pedestrian, Bag, Handbag, Male, Man, Car, Bicycle, Coat, " loading="lazy"><h3>What is the easiest way to get around Dublin?</h3> <p>Walking is arguably the easiest and best way to get around Dublin. It's a relatively small city that is more than traversable by foot. But we'll get into that more down below!</p> <h3>Is Dublin easy to get around without a car?</h3> <p>Yes! Alongside the aforementioned walking, there are a ton of other ways to get around the city or even out of it. From trams to buses to national trains, you'll never be far from quick and affordable public transport. If you're traveling to Dublin from the States or another part of the world, we recommend you take a break from driving and let public transport do its thing. </p> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/dublin/Shutterstock_2219666241.jpg" alt="Image of Adult, Female, Person, Woman, Alcohol, Beer, Beverage, Fun, Party, Head, Face, Happy, Laughing, Dining Table, " loading="lazy"><h3>How many days do you need to see Dublin?</h3> <p>It depends on how many things you want to do in the city! If you have a concert or other event to attend, <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us" target="_blank" rel="noopener">or like the look of a number of Dublin attractions and experiences</a>, you may want to spend 3-4 days in the city to make the most of it. If you want to travel outside of Dublin and see Ireland' natural beauty in all its splendor, maybe add a day or two to that. </p> <p>So, let's talk about getting around Dublin and the different forms of public transport you can take! </p> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/dublin/Shutterstock_1554876818.jpg" alt="Image of Arch, Water, Waterfront, Office Building, Car, Vehicle, Bus, " loading="lazy"><h3><a href="https://www.dublinpublictransport.ie/dublin-buses" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Getting around Dublin: <strong>Buses</strong></a></h3> <p>You'll see Dublin's bright yellow buses all over the city, and they're easily one of the best ways of getting around Dublin. Buses run from the city center to the outer suburbs and vice versa from around 6AM until around 11PM, depending on the route. </p> <p>If you see any large blue or green lollipops sprouting from the ground, you've just seen a bus stop. There, you'll find maps, routes, and any other info you need to know. </p> <p>Cost-wise, journeys are determined by travel distance, so the longer you go, the more you pay. However, if you get a Leap Card, you can travel whenever and wherever you want without worrying about that. But what is a Leap Card? </p> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/dublin/Shutterstock_1751995274.jpg" alt="Image of Baby, Person, Text, " loading="lazy"><p><em>Image courtesy of <a href="https://www.shutterstock.com/g/AJNizzetto">EternalMoments</a>/Shutterstock</em></p> <h3><a href="https://about.leapcard.ie/dublin" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Getting around Dublin: Leap Cards</a></h3> <p>Leap Cards allow unlimited travel on all buses or trains for a specific period of time. You buy a card for either 1, 3, or 7 days, depending on the length of your stay, and then tap it whenever you get on a bus or go through train gates to board any vessel. </p> <p>A 1-day ticket costs €8, a 3-day ticket costs €16, and a 7-day ticket costs €32. So, the more days you plan to use it, the less the daily cost. </p> <p>To pick one up, there are a couple of options to consider. Firstly, you can <a href="https://www.leapcard.ie/en/NavigationPages/CardPurchase.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener">simply order it online</a>. However, it does get delivered to your home address, so you need to book it far enough in advance of your trip to ensure it arrives in time! Alternatively, if you're reading this on the plane ride over, you can pick one up at the airport. Head to the T1 arrivals lounge and go to Wright's Airport Convenience Store. </p> <p>While it works on most forms of travel, it won't work on attractions like <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/Dublin-Hop-on-Hop-Off-Bus-Tour" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Dublin's Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour</a>. But don't worry, <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us" target="_blank" rel="noopener">we've got you covered</a>! </p> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/dublin/Shutterstock_2065199096.jpg" alt="Image of Terminal, Railway, Train, Train Station, Vehicle, " loading="lazy"><h3><a href="https://www.irishrail.ie/about-us/iarnrod-eireann-services/dart-commuter" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Getting around Dublin: DART</a></h3> <p>DART stands for Dublin Area Rapid Transit, which is <em>very</em> clever when you think about it. While you may not use DART much if you're planning on spending most of your time in the city center, it's still an easy and affordable way to get around if you need to make longer journeys. </p> <p>DART serves over 30 stations, <a href="https://www.irishrail.ie/about-us/iarnrod-eireann-services/dart-commuter" target="_blank" rel="noopener">but you'll need to check ahead</a> to see if it reaches a stop near you or your destination. If you're heading to the coast, DART is a quick and easy way to do it! DART trains run every 10 minutes from most stops, from 6AM - 12AM Monday - Saturday, and 9.30AM - 11PM on Sundays.</p> <p>Like buses, DART trains determine their cost by distance, so it's hard to talk about without knowing how far you're traveling. But, with a Leap Card, you needn't worry. </p> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/dublin/Shutterstock_147556199.jpg" alt="Image of Person, Railway, Train, Vehicle, " loading="lazy"><h3><a href="https://www.luas.ie/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Getting around Dublin: <strong>LUAS</strong></a></h3> <p>LUAS is Dublin's tram service, which is arguably the best way of getting around Dublin if you want to sightsee as you go! There are two lines, Red Line and Green Line, but since Dublin is so small, it's enough to get most people to where they're going. </p> <p>Trams run from 5:30AM - 12.30AM Monday to Friday, 6.30AM - 12.30AM on Saturdays, and 7AM - 11.30PM on Sundays. </p> <p>And guess what? Yes, repeat after us: your journey time determines the price. <a href="https://www.luas.ie/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Look online if you want to buy single tickets</a>, or pick up a Leap Card and throw caution - and worry - to the wind. </p> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/dublin/Shutterstock_664200427.jpg" alt="Image of Terminal, Railway, Train, Train Station, Vehicle, " loading="lazy"><h3><a href="https://www.irishrail.ie/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Getting around Dublin: <strong>Irish Rail</strong></a></h3> <p>You'll only use Irish Rail if you're traveling out of Dublin, so bear that in mind. If you <em>are</em>, you'll be leaving from Dublin Connolly (which serves North Ireland and <em>Northern Ireland</em>, or Heuston, which serves the south. </p> <p>Ticket prices depend on distance, shocker, but just get a Leap Card and be done with it!</p> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/dublin/Shutterstock_1648821688.jpg" alt="Image of Face, Happy, Head, Person, Smile, Cap, Hat, Adult, Female, Woman, Coat, Photography, Portrait, Selfie, " loading="lazy"><h3><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Walking" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Getting around Dublin: Walking</a></h3> <p>And finally, perhaps most importantly, Dublin is a very small city. So small, in fact, that walking is arguably the best way to get around. If you're not familiar with walking, it's when you put one foot in front of the other until you reach your destination. It's a great way to burn off those Guinness calories while breathing in what scientists call "fresh air". </p> <p>Try it today and see the benefits for yourself!</p> <p>And that's everything you need to know about getting around Dublin! If you want some vacation inspiration to level up your visit, check out Go City! With our <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/products/all-inclusive" target="_blank" rel="noopener">All-Inclusive Pass</a> and <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/products/explorer" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Explorer Pass</a>, you can see all of Dublin's best bits for one low price!</p> 

If you're heading to Dublin this year and wondering how you'll be getting around the city, wonder no more. In this guide, we'll highlight all of the best ways to get around Dublin so you can make the most of your trip!

Getting around Dublin | Go City®

3 Days in Dublin

  <p>Steeped in a history and heritage that takes in the Anglo Saxons, the Vikings and many towering titans of 20th-century literature, Dublin is one of those cities that screams ‘Culture’ with a capital ‘C’. Galleries, gardens and Guinness; castles, cathedrals and craic – Dublin has enough thrilling things to do to keep even the most jaded sightseer happy for days at a time. </p> <p>Dublin is also an eminently walkable city, with a compact center and relatively flat (if occasionally cobbled) terrain. But don’t let that stop you getting your bearings on a <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/attractions/Dublin-Hop-on-Hop-Off-Bus-Tour" rel="noopener" target="_blank">hop-on hop-off bus tour</a>. As well as preserving your feet for bar-hopping in the evening, the tour comes with live commentary that’s full of blarney, and calls at an epic 23 (count em!) Dublin landmarks, including the castle, St Stephen’s Green, Kilmainham Gaol and the Jameson Distillery, to name just a few.</p> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/dublin/dublin%20castle-2-2.jpg" alt="Image of " loading="lazy"><p>Our guide picks out some of the best of these and wrangles them into an almost-manageable itinerary for your three days in Dublin. Dive in for our top recommendations, including:</p> <ul><li>Dublin Castle</li> <li>Christ Church Cathedral</li> <li>The Molly Malone Statue</li> <li>The Book of Kells</li> <li>St Stephen’s Green</li> <li>Temple Bar</li> <li>Jeanie Johnston Tall Ship</li> <li>The Guinness Storehouse</li> </ul><h3><strong>Day 1: Historic Dublin</strong></h3> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/dublin/campanile%20trinity-2.jpg" alt="Image of Grass, Arch, Gothic Arch, Nature, Outdoors, Park, " loading="lazy"><p>Our recommended first stop (whether exploring by bus or on foot) is Trinity College, the esteemed 16th-century Dublin seat of learning which counts such literary legends as Oscar Wilde, Samuel Beckett, Jonathan Swift and Bram Stoker among its alumni. Guided tours of Ireland’s oldest university give you the lowdown on these and other famous students as you stroll its leafy, cobbled squares and admire grand neoclassical buildings including the Campanile (pictured), Provost’s House and Chapel. Step inside the ornate Museum Building to admire its soaring marble columns, domed central hall and extraordinary carvings.</p> <p>On encountering the towering shelves of the Old Library’s atmospheric Long Room for the first time, you might be forgiven for thinking you’ve stepped straight into the pages of a <em>Harry Potter</em> novel. It’s here that you can observe the <em>Book of Kells</em>, a remarkable ninth-century manuscript that details the four gospels of the life of Christ and is the undisputed star of the Trinity College show.</p> <p>No trip to Dublin would be complete without snagging that all-important selfie by the bronze statue of sweet Molly Malone, fictional star of the old ‘Cockles and Mussels’ ballad, as she hawks her wares along Suffolk Street. We challenge you not to find yourself humming the tune to yourself as you head onto Grafton Street. This is Ireland’s premier shopping street, a pedestrianized cornucopia of capitalism that’s chock full of big-brand stores, plus dozens of bars and restaurants at which to pause for refreshment and watch the buskers and street performers. You never know, you might even spot Ireland’s next megastar – musicians including Damien Rice and Bono started their careers right here.</p> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/dublin/st%20stephen%20green-2.jpg" alt="Image of Grass, Nature, Outdoors, Park, Scenery, Person, Autumn, " loading="lazy"><p>After lunch, leave Grafton’s carnival atmosphere behind and make for nearby St Stephen’s Green, an idyllic Victorian oasis of manicured gardens, vibrant flower beds, and all manner of monuments and sculptures. Look out for Henry Moore’s abstract memorial to W.B. Yeats and the imposing bust of James Joyce and. You could even go full Dublin immersion mode and finally get around to tackling <em>Ulysses </em>(or at least a few pages of it) in a quiet spot by the duck pond. If you’re not yet all sightseeing-ed out, you might also consider squeezing in one of the nearby museums, among them the mighty <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/attractions/national-gallery-of-ireland" rel="noopener" target="_blank">National Gallery</a>, Irish Whiskey Museum and <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/attractions/irish-museum-of-modern-art" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Irish Museum of Modern Art (IMMA)</a>. </p> <p>But you came here for the craic as well as the culture, right? In which case, get ready for an evening of rabble-rousing Irish entertainment in the cobbled lanes of the Temple Bar district. The most iconic pub here is the Temple Bar itself, with it’s distinctive red facade, colorful hanging baskets and live bands. But really there are dozens of typical Irish bars to choose from here. We recommend bar-hopping to find the best craic, with an occasional dram of whiskey and/or pint of Guinness to keep your energy levels up!</p> <h3><strong>Day 3: Medieval Dublin and Mmmmore Guinness</strong></h3> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/dublin/christ%20church-2.jpg" alt="Image of Arch, Gothic Arch, " loading="lazy"><p>We’re going to take it a little more easy with a trip to Dublin’s medieval quarter on day two. And, yes, there will be more Guinness in the evening. But first up is <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/attractions/dublin-castle" rel="noopener" target="_blank">13th-century Dublin Castle</a>, with its sumptuous state apartments, ancient Viking defenses, and beautiful castle gardens. Once home to the dark tidal pool (Dubh Linn) from which the city takes its name, the gardens now form an ornamental oasis perfect for strolling or simply watching the world go by.</p> <p>You’ll also want to make a pilgrimage to <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/attractions/christ-church-cathedral" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Christ Church Cathedral</a>, the city’s oldest building at nearly 1,000 years young. There’s loads to see and do inside this medieval gothic masterpiece. Seek out the crypt with its ancient memorials and mummified cat and rat, immortalized in Joyce’s <em>Finnegan’s Wake</em>. Admire the vaulted ceilings and soaring stained glass windows, and pay your respects at the final resting place of Richard de Clare, 2nd Earl of Pembroke aka Strongbow. You can even view a rare copy of the Magna Carta and the heart of 12th-century saint Laurence O’Toole. Fascinating stuff.</p> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/dublin/guinness%20teaser-2.jpg" alt="Image of Alcohol, Beverage, Liquor, Wine, " loading="lazy"><p>Cathedral fanatics can continue their religious experience at nearby <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/attractions/st-patricks-cathedral" rel="noopener" target="_blank">St Patrick’s</a>, named for Ireland’s legendary snake-hater. Or pop just next door to <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/attractions/dublinia" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Dublinia</a> where you can travel back in time to get a taste of what Dublin life was like in Viking and medieval times. Alternatively, having whet your appetite for Temple Bar last night (how’s the head, by the way?) it’s worth returning to for a mooch around its many independent shops, cute cafés and cool galleries.</p> <p>You were promised Guinness, so Guinness you shall now have. Hit up the <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/attractions/guinness-storehouse" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Guinness Storehouse</a> for your fix of the black stuff, accompanied by 360-degree views of the city from its 7th-floor Gravity Bar. You can also stock up on cans in the shop, where other souvenirs of your visit include Guinness coffee, Guinness cookbooks and Guinness apparel.</p> <h3><strong>Day 3: Immerse Yourself in Irish Culture</strong></h3> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/dublin/whisky-2.jpg" alt="Image of Alcohol, Beer, Beverage, Cooking, Food, Pouring Food, " loading="lazy"><p>On your final day in Dublin, it’s time to fully immerse in the city’s rich culture. And no, we don’t mean more Guinness. Today is the day to stop by one of the museums or tours you missed along the way. <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/attractions/national-gallery-of-ireland" rel="noopener" target="_blank">The National Gallery</a>, with its extensive collection of art spanning the last seven centuries, including works by Rembrandt, Vermeer, Caravaggio, Goya and several Irish artists, is particularly good. Then there’s the Irish Whisky Museum – great for understanding Ireland’s long-standing relationship with the hard stuff – and <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/attractions/old-jameson-distillery-tour" rel="noopener" target="_blank">the Jameson Distillery</a>, great for sampling it for yourself. Join a literary walking tour that takes in the Dublin Writers Museum, Gutter Bookshop and a cozy pub like Toners, once frequented by Joyce, Stoker and Patrick Kavanagh. Looking for something a little less... highbrow? Visit King’s Landing and Winterfell and go beyond the wall on <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/attractions/game-thrones-studio-tour" rel="noopener" target="_blank">this studio tour</a> of some of <em>Game of Thrones</em>’ most iconic locations. </p> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/dublin/Costume-Gallery-scaled-2.jpg" alt="Image of Stage, Dress, Boy, Child, Male, Person, Adult, Bride, Female, Woman, " loading="lazy"><p>If you really want to get under the skin of Irish culture, we’d suggest choosing just one of these and pairing it with a visit to the aptly named <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/attractions/epic-irish-emigration-museum" rel="noopener" target="_blank">EPIC Irish Emigration Museum</a> and <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/attractions/jeanie-johnston-tallship-famine-museum" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Jeanie Johnston Tallship</a>. Between them these two fascinating museums peer deep inside Ireland’s soul. Go on a moving and revealing journey through Irish identity and heritage at EPIC and discover the tallship’s critical role in helping thousands of desperate people flee the Great Famine in search of a better life in North America.</p> <h3><strong>Save on</strong><strong> things to do in Dublin</strong></h3> <p>Save on admission to Dublin attractions with <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us">Go City</a>. Check out @GoCity on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/gocity/">Instagram</a> for the latest top tips and attraction info.</p> 

Christ Church Cathedral, the Guinness Storehouse, Grafton Street, Temple Bar, the Book of Kells and more... we round up the very best attractions to visit on a 3-day trip to Dublin.

3 days in Dublin | Go City®

4 Days in Dublin

  <p>Four days is the perfect amount of time to liberally drench yourself in Dublin’s rich heritage, from its medieval center and imposing castle to lively cobbled lanes lined with bars and restaurants, illustrious literary culture, beautiful parks and fine museums. Our guide takes in all of these and more, leaving plenty of time to enjoy the legendary craic and sample the city’s most famous exports: the twin joys of Guinness and whiskey. So, pack your passport, walking shoes and Alka-Seltzer and get ready to say ‘sláinte’ to Dublin! Our guide includes:</p> <ul><li>Christ Church Cathedral</li> <li>Dublin Castle</li> <li>Malahide Castle</li> <li>Trinity College</li> <li>Temple Bar</li> <li>St Stephen’s Green</li> <li>EPIC Irish Immigration Museum</li> <li>The Guinness Storehouse</li> <li>Grafton Street</li> </ul><h3><strong>Day 1: Dublin: A Brief History</strong></h3> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/dublin/shutterstock_589089287-2-2-2.jpg" alt="Image of Book, Indoors, Library, Publication, City, " loading="lazy"><p>One of the best things about Dublin is how compact and easily walkable it is. A well-planned itinerary will mean you never have to stroll far for the next big-ticket attraction. But do wear comfy shoes to tackle the ubiquitous cobbles! Our suggested itinerary kicks off with a handful of Dublin’s must-sees, all within just a few minutes’ walk of each other.</p> <p>Trinity College, Dublin’s stunning 16th-century seat of learning is our first port of call. Here, aficionados of Irish literature can walk in the footsteps of exalted alumni including Oscar Wilde, Samuel Beckett and Bram Stoker, to name-drop just a few. Wander the cobbled quadrangles and admire the grand neoclassical architecture ahead of the main event: a guided tour of the atmospheric Old Library that takes in the extraordinary Book of Kells, easily the most astonishing preserved medieval manuscript in the British Isles, if not the entire planet.</p> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/dublin/molly%20malone-2.jpg" alt="Image of Person, Adult, Male, Man, Art, Bronze, " loading="lazy"><p>Suitably awed, head over to Grafton Street, grabbing a selfie by the statue of Molly Malone – she of the classic ‘Cockles and Mussels’ ballad (known locally (and rather unkindly) as ‘the tart with a cart)’ – on the way. A fine spot for lunch (and a shopper’s paradise), Grafton Street also brims with street performers. Expect to enjoy music, magic and all manner of other sensory delights as you dine. This will no doubt whet your appetite for an evening in Temple Bar, Dublin’s legendary nightlife district, where cobbles, colorful characters and great craic are all but guaranteed. But before all that, make sure to spend an afternoon chilling in the relative peace and tranquility of stunning St Stephen’s Green. Manicured gardens, vibrant flower beds, duck ponds and monuments to James Joyce and W.B. Yeats are the order of the day in this lush Victorian idyll.</p> <h3><strong>Day 2: Dublin’s Best Museums and Booze</strong></h3> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/dublin/Winterfell-Great-Hall-3-scaled-2.jpg" alt="Image of Path, Walkway, Flagstone, Lighting, Floor, Person, Urban, Flooring, " loading="lazy"><p>Dublin’s museums are plentiful, offering myriad methods of getting under the skin of this fine city. You can view timeless masterpieces by some of the world’s greatest ever artists – Caravaggio, Goya, Monet, Picasso, Rembrandt, Turner, Vermeer and more – at the excellent <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/attractions/national-gallery-of-ireland" rel="noopener" target="_blank">National Gallery</a>, and explore the best of contemporary local art at the <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/attractions/irish-museum-of-modern-art" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Irish Museum of Modern Art (IMMA)</a>. Delve into the city’s storied history at the, well, epic <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/attractions/epic-irish-emigration-museum" rel="noopener" target="_blank">EPIC Irish Emigration Museum</a> and discover how desperate Irish citizens fled the Great Famine aboard the <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/attractions/jeanie-johnston-tallship-famine-museum" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Jeanie Johnston Tallship</a> in the 19th Century, in search of a better life in North America.</p> <p>Whiskey connoisseurs will also be in clover in Dublin. Ireland’s complex relationship with the amber nectar is explored in depth at the Irish Museum of Whiskey, and you can sample it for yourself on distillery tours at (amongst others) <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/attractions/old-jameson-distillery-tour" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Jameson</a> and <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/attractions/teelings-whiskey-distillery-tour" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Teeling</a>, as well as in pretty much any Irish bar worth its salt.</p> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/dublin/guinness-2.jpg" alt="Image of Adult, Female, Person, Woman, Alcohol, Beer, Beverage, " loading="lazy"><p>Prefer books to booze? Get yourself down the Writers Museum and <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/attractions/MoLI" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Museum of Literature Ireland</a>, where exhibits celebrate the great and good of Irish wordsmithery, from Shaw to Sheridan, Joyce to Wilde. A <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/attractions/game-thrones-studio-tour" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><em>Game of Thrones</em></a><a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/attractions/game-thrones-studio-tour" rel="noopener" target="_blank"> studio tour</a> and a National Leprechaun Museum offer further fantastical japes and prove beyond all doubt that there really is something for everyone in Dublin!</p> <p>Head full of dragons, poetry and folklore, mosey on down to the <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/attractions/guinness-storehouse" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Guinness Storehouse</a> for a well-deserved pint of the black stuff, accompanied by panoramic views from its space-age 7th-floor Gravity Bar, taking in Dublin Bay, the Wicklow Mountains and everything in between. You can continue the party at Guinness's Open Gate Brewery, an experimental taproom where you can sample the iconic brewer’s newest tipples. </p> <h3><strong>Day 3: Day Trip to Malahide Castle</strong></h3> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/dublin/malahide-2.jpg" alt="Image of Arch, Gothic Arch, Monastery, Castle, Fortress, House, Housing, Manor, " loading="lazy"><p>Sure, there’s stacks more you can be doing in Dublin on day three of your getaway. But what could possibly be more decadent than taking a break from your city break? Banish the specter of last night’s overindulgence on a day trip out to <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/attractions/malahide-castle" rel="noopener" target="_blank">magnificent medieval Malahide Castle</a>, a stunningly preserved stone fortress on the north Dublin coast. Set in 260 acres of glorious parkland, this turreted confection and its grounds promise diversions enough to fill an entire day. We’re talking opulent interiors bedecked with period furniture, carved friezes and huge portraits of the Talbot family, who owned the castle between the 12th century and the 20th. There are also botanical gardens featuring a four-acre walled garden plus several glasshouses (including a Victorian conservatory), a butterfly garden and a fairy trail. Heck, there’s even a cricket pitch in the grounds. How the other half live, eh?</p> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/dublin/trad%20pub-2.jpg" alt="Image of Plant, Potted Plant, Jar, Planter, Pottery, Vase, Flower, Symbol, Text, Number, Geranium, " loading="lazy"><p>If that doesn’t tickle your pickle, alternative out-of-town marvels include the picturesque harbor town of Howth (also with its own castle, natch), and the marvelous 18th-century folly that is <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/attractions/casino-marino" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Casino Marino</a>, a Tardis-like gem of neoclassical architecture just beyond the city limits. A cold pint or three of Guinness awaits the weary traveler on their inevitable return to Temple Bar in the evening – the promise of lively banter, traditional Irish music and cozy pub nooks providing the perfect antidote to sightseeing fatigue.</p> <h3><strong>Day 4: Medieval Dublin</strong></h3> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/dublin/christ%20church-2.jpg" alt="Image of Arch, Gothic Arch, " loading="lazy"><p>Morning! How’s the head today? Delighted to hear it! Because there’s still A LOT to see before we send you off on your merry way. First up on our whistle-stop tour of medieval Dublin is <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/attractions/christ-church-cathedral" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Christ Church Cathedral</a>, where the arresting site of a mummified cat and rat locked in eternal chase should help shake off that biblical hangover of yours. And that’s not all. There are many more weird and wonderful highlights to seek out inside this, the city’s oldest building (around 1,000 years, but who’s counting?). Check out those epic vaulted ceilings and ogle stained-glass windows that rival those of York Minster and Canterbury for sheer scale and vividness. There’s even a rare copy of the Magna Carta for your perusal as well as the inevitable relics, among them the heart (encased inside a heart-shaped casket) of 12th-century saint Laurence O’Toole.</p> <p>Continue your religious pilgrimage at nearby <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/attractions/st-patricks-cathedral" rel="noopener" target="_blank">St Patrick’s</a>, named in honor of Ireland’s snake-chaser-in-chief. Or pop just next door to the excellent <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/attractions/dublinia" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Dublinia</a> experience, where immersive and interactive exhibits take you back to the Dublin of Viking and medieval times. </p> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/dublin/dublin%20castle-2-2.jpg" alt="Image of " loading="lazy"><p>Last but by no means least, <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/attractions/dublin-castle" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Dublin Castle</a> should be considered an essential element of your 4-day Dublin itinerary, if only to secure a selfie in front of its imposing medieval tower. The castle’s sumptuous state apartments, Viking defenses, gothic Chapel Royal, and formal gardens, once home to the dark tidal pool (Dubh Linn) from which the city takes its name, are also well worth a few hours of your time.</p> <h3><strong>Save on</strong><strong> things to do in Dublin</strong></h3> <p>Save on admission to Dublin attractions with <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us">Go City</a>. Check out @GoCity on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/gocity/">Instagram</a> for the latest top tips and attraction info.</p> 

Our guide to spending four days in Dublin includes such varied activities as supping Guinness and whiskey, exploring medieval Dublin and Malahide Castle and hunting out mummified cats and rats in Christ Church Cathedral.

4 days in Dublin | Go City®

Things to do in Dublin in Winter

  <p>Dublin is lively year-round, but rarely more so than in winter, when festive fairy lights illuminate the streets and cozy wood-paneled pubs become the focal point for traditional Irish sing-alongs and spirited Guinness-fueled banter. Sure, it’s a little on the chilly side, but that drop in temperature also (generally) keeps the usual tourist hordes at bay, meaning much shorter queues at attractions and more chance of nabbing a snug nook in even the most popular Temple Bar drinking holes. So wrap up warm and read on for our guide to the best things to do in Dublin in winter, including:</p> <ul><li>Temple Bar pubs</li> <li>Whiskey distillery tours</li> <li>The Guinness Storehouse</li> <li>Christmas markets</li> <li>Dublin winter festivals</li> <li><em>Game of Thrones</em> tours</li> <li>Winter walks in Phoenix Park</li> </ul><h3><strong>Visiting Dublin in Winter</strong></h3> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/dublin/cold%20beach-2.jpg"><p>With the exception of the ever-popular Christmas and New Year period, winter is the cheapest and least busy time to visit Dublin, as bars, restaurants, hotels and airlines slash prices and run competitive promotions to drum up business. As ever, booking well in advance is likely to win you the best bargains. Yes, even for breaks over the somewhat more expensive festive season.</p> <p>Temperatures in Dublin tend to stay on the, shall we say, cool side between December and February. But we’re talking mid 30s to mid 40s, so it’s hardly the Siberian tundra. Even snow and frost are also relatively rare compared to, say, nearby Scotland, but don’t let that fool you. Iit’s the wind chill you have to watch out for here: an icy blast that makes it feel waaaay colder than the thermometers suggest and will have even the hardiest holidaymaker scuttling for the nearest toasty pub or heated indoor attraction.</p> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/dublin/christ%20church-2.jpg"><p>It should go without saying, then, that winter in Dublin is no time for exposed necks and legs (though you may well run into Christmas revelers who appear to disagree). A good, long winter coat, ideally with some degree of waterproofing, should be considered essential. Layer up and accessorize with as many wooly hats, scarves, socks and gloves as you see fit, and bring a decent pair of walking shoes for strolling the ice-cold cobbles and wandering in (potentially snowy) city parks.</p> <p>The great news is that, due to the lack of winter tourists, you’ll find queues at even the most popular attractions to be almost non-existent, meaning less time standing around waiting in the cold. <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us" rel="noopener" target="_blank">A pass from Go City</a> can also save you money while giving you the flexibility to visit as many top Dublin attractions as you like, including bucket-listers like the Guinness Storehouse, Christ Church Cathedral and the EPIC Irish Emigration Museum.</p> <h3><strong>Things to do in Dublin in Winter</strong></h3> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/dublin/Costume-Gallery-scaled-2.jpg"><p>Get yourself out of that chill wind and into the (relatively) warm interiors of some of Dublin’s most famous attractions. You’ll of course want to experience a little of Ireland’s rich heritage, and there are a few ‘must-see’ places that will help you do this.</p> <p>Kilmainham Gaol Museum is essential for any understanding of the darker side of the Emerald Isle’s history, thanks to its role in the Easter Rising executions and Irish War of Independence. Meanwhile, the <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/attractions/epic-irish-emigration-museum" rel="noopener" target="_blank">EPIC Irish Emigration Museum</a> and <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/attractions/jeanie-johnston-tallship-famine-museum" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Jeanie Johnston Tallship</a> explore how the Great Famine forced thousands of desperate Irish citizens to flee in search of a better life in North America.</p> <p>Hit up Trinity College for a flavor of Dublin’s literary heritage (Oscar Wilde, Samuel Beckett, Jonathan Swift and Bram Stoker all studied here) and to see the truly remarkable Book of Kells – a ninth century religious manuscript housed in the college’s Harry-Potteresque Old Library – up close. Connoisseurs of more contemporary cultural phenomena will find much to enjoy on <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/attractions/game-thrones-studio-tour" rel="noopener" target="_blank">a studio tour</a> that takes in iconic sets and costumes from <em>Game of Thrones</em>. Want more? There are several day trips out of Dublin that visit classic <em>Game of Thrones</em> locations. Raven-eyed fans are bound to recognize Westeros in sites that include Tollymore Forest Park, Ward’s Castle and Inch Abbey.</p> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/dublin/phoenix%20deer-2.jpg"><p>Phoenix Park, a 17th-century royal hunting ground, is now one of Europe’s largest enclosed urban parks. Perfect, in other words, for long winter strolls in its wild woodland, spotting fallow deer and impressive monuments along the way. Afterwards, shake off the chill in one of Temple Bar’s friendly pubs, where you’re all but guaranteed traditional live music and some of that legendary Irish craic you’ve heard so much about. It won’t be too long before you develop a taste for the country’s excellent whiskies and stouts. Which is where the local distilleries and Guinness Storehouse come in. Try the <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/attractions/old-jameson-distillery-tour" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Jameson</a> or <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/attractions/teelings-whiskey-distillery-tour" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Teeling whiskey distilleries</a> to find out how the golden nectar is made and, of course, sample a drop or two yourself. And make a beeline for the space-age Gravity Bar atop the famous <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/attractions/guinness-storehouse" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Guinness Storehouse</a> for a perfect 119.5-second pour of the black stuff.</p> <h3><strong>What’s on: Dublin Winter Events</strong></h3> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/dublin/temple%20bar-2.jpg"><p>Christmas is big business in Dublin. So, if you’re lucky enough to be here when the cobbled lanes and cathedrals are all aglitter with fairy lights, you’re in for a treat. The impressive grounds of medieval Dublin Castle are where it’s at for the biggest and best Christmas market in town. Expect twinkling tinsel-festooned trees, a carousel, an open-air bar serving up festive cheer by the bucketload, and all the usual trimmings (roast chestnuts, mulled wine, courtyard stalls brimming with Christmas knick-knacks). And there’s more castle-based Christmas market fun to be had just beyond the city limits, at the atmospheric medieval strongholds in Howth and Swords.</p> <p>Other festive events worthy of your attention in and around the capital include the age-old tradition of the Christmas Day swim. That’s right: every year hundreds of hardy souls don their smalls – and Santa costumes – for a bracing dip in the icy waters of Dublin Bay. The ‘Forty Foot’ at Sandycove is by far the most popular location for this annual folly, but you can also choose to freeze your bits off in the waters at Clontarf, Skerries, Portmarnock and more. Staying in town for New Year? Thaw yourself out and prepare for a three-day extravaganza of lively events, including a torchlit procession to Dublin Castle, light shows over the Liffey, live music, street entertainment and stacks more.</p> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/dublin/folk%20band-2.jpg"><p>And, if you thought things were about to let up in January, think again. Dublin’s busy winter roster blasts away any back-to-work blues with a Temple Bar-based festival par excellence. TradFest kicks off late in the month and runs well into February, bringing the bars and streets to life with traditional Irish folk music and more. We’re talking buskers galore, as well as live shows in several pubs and even performances in the hallowed halls of Trinity College and Christ Church Cathedral. In other words, it’s a great time for fans of fine music, world-class entertainment and, well, good times in general, to visit the Irish capital.</p> <h3><strong>Save on</strong><strong> things to do in Dublin</strong></h3> <p>Save on admission to Dublin attractions with <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us">Go City</a>. Check out @GoCity on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/gocity/">Instagram</a> for the latest top tips and attraction info.</p> 

Christmas markets, ice-cold sea swims, Guinness, whiskey, and deer-spotting in Phoenix Park: our guide to the best things to do in Dublin in winter.

Things to do in Dublin in Winter | Go City®

Things to do in Dublin in Spring

  <p>Spring is a wonderful time to visit Dublin, as the city shakes off its Christmas hangover and emerges, butterfly-like, from the cold of winter. It’s a time when rising temperatures bring beautiful blooms, fab festivals and a tentative trickle of tourists to the city streets; when mild and often sunny days make for great sightseeing weather. There’s also the not-so-little matter of the world’s biggest St Patrick’s Day street party on March 17, more (much more) of which later. For now, dive in for our guide to the best things to do in Dublin in spring, including:</p> <ul><li>The National Botanic Gardens</li> <li>Picnics on St Stephen’s Green</li> <li>St Patrick’s Day festivities</li> <li>Long walks in Phoenix Park</li> <li>The Guinness Storehouse</li> <li>Foodie walking tours of Dublin</li> <li>Dublin Dance Festival</li> </ul><p><strong>Visiting Dublin in Spring</strong></p> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/dublin/st%20patricks%20cathedral-2-2.jpg"><p>The difference between early and late spring in Dublin is significant. You’ll probably still want a winter coat and umbrella in March, a fairly damp month with temperatures that struggle to get out of the 40s. April is much milder and drier and, as temperatures approach a balmy 60°F, you might even get away with toning down the chunky knitwear and layers of thermal undergarments. Though not quite shorts and t-shirt weather, May is noticeably milder, especially in the afternoons, though mornings tend to remain crisp and cool. Indeed early- to mid-May could just be the ‘Goldilocks’ moment to make your Dublin vacation: the weather is pleasant, hotels have yet to hike prices for the peak summer season and that trickle of tourists is still more of a stream than a surge, meaning queues to get into the big-ticket attractions won’t be too daunting.</p> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/dublin/howth-2.jpg"><p>It’s also a fine time for day trips and long country walks outside of Dublin, as Ireland’s famously picturesque landscapes blaze back into life with vibrant wildflowers, emerald-green fields and gamboling lambs. Don’t forget though that the spring weather can change in a heartbeat here, especially along the coast, so be sure to check the forecast and dress appropriately. Pro-tip: always carry waterproofs with you even if the forecast is for a dry day. You’ll thank us later!</p> <p><a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us" rel="noopener" target="_blank">A pass from Go City</a> can save you money while giving you the flexibility to visit Dublin attractions galore, including the Guinness Storehouse, Teeling Whiskey Distillery, Dublin Zoo, St Patrick’s Cathedral, Malahide Castle and more.</p> <h3><strong>Things to do in Dublin in Spring</strong></h3> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/dublin/irish%20setters%20patrick-2.jpg"><p>March is a good time to tick off some of Dublin’s big hitters, while the weather is cool and the temptation to stay largely indoors remains strong. We’re talking Trinity College, with its legendary Book of Kells; the <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/attractions/guinness-storehouse" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Guinness Storehouse</a>, where your perfectly poured pint (119.5 seconds, fact fans) is complemented by glorious 7th-floor views of Dublin’s skyline; and world-class cultural institutions such as the <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/attractions/national-gallery-of-ireland" rel="noopener" target="_blank">National Gallery of Ireland</a> and the <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/attractions/MoLI" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Museum of Literature Ireland (MoLI)</a>. Then of course there’s St Patrick’s Day (did we mention St Patrick’s Day?). Everyone should spend March 17 in Dublin at least once in their life; there’s truly no better place to celebrate the nation’s snake-chasing patron saint than right here in the capital. Revelers can expect a multi-day sensory extravaganza (usually running from March 15-19) that takes in live entertainment, funfairs, treasure hunts, art workshops, people (and animals) dressed as leprechauns and, of course, gallons of Guinness. The cobbled streets of Temple Bar, with their traditional Irish bars and folk music venues, are at the epicenter of the festivities, and the place to make new BFFs and unforgettable memories – well, at least until the next day when your powers of recall may be somewhat, shall we say, compromised. Don’t miss the huge St Patrick’s Day Parade, which weaves its colorful way along O’Connell Street from Parnell Square at around lunchtime on the 17th.</p> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/dublin/botanic%20gardens-2.jpg"><p>April and May are the time for more sedate pursuits, as the mercury creeps gently upwards and those biblical St Patrick’s Day hangovers become a distant memory. Take a trip to the <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/attractions/national-botanic-gardens" rel="noopener" target="_blank">National Botanic Gardens</a> with their beautifully restored Victorian conservatories, intricate herbaceous borders, and heaven-scent rose gardens. Or picnic on the lush lawns of St Stephen’s Green, a Victorian idyll of manicured pleasure gardens, vibrant flower beds, and sculptures and statues galore. See if you can spot James Joyce, W.B. Yeats and Arthur Guinness as you munch on your Tayto crisps.</p> <p>Spring is a fine time to explore Dublin on foot. Work up an appetite with a hike around fabulous Phoenix Park, home to herds of wild fallow deer, immaculate Victorian flower gardens, a prehistoric burial chamber and an ornamental lake. Afterwards, reward yourself with a <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/attractions/walking-food-tours-food-foot" rel="noopener" target="_blank">walking tour of the city’s top foodie hotspots</a>. </p> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/dublin/cliffs%20of%20moher-2.jpg"><p>Should the mood take you, you can also be out of the city and into the countryside in no time at all. Join a <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/attractions/big-bus-dublin-coastal-tour" rel="noopener" target="_blank">bus tour to the charming seaside village of Howth</a>, where you might spot puffins, gannets and seals, as well as sampling some of Ireland’s finest fish and chips! Spring day trips to the Cliffs of Moher and otherworldly Wicklow Mountains also run regularly from the city center.</p> <h3><strong>What’s on: Dublin Spring Events</strong></h3> <p>Spring in Dublin isn’t just about St Patrick’s Day. In fact there are, to be sure, several more major festivals worthy of your attention. May is particularly busy, with both the Dublin Dance Festival and International Literature Festival to get involved in. The first is an all-singing, all-dancing toe-tapper of an event, spanning nearly three weeks in which the world’s finest dancers and choreographers strut their spectacular stuff on stages across the city. In addition to the many dance showcases – from traditional to contemporary – there are workshops, film screenings and discussions galore, as well as, of course, classes designed to turn you and your two left feet into a pirouetting, pasadoble-ing professional in no time at all.</p> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/dublin/dancers-2.jpg"><p>If you like nothing more than a good page turner, then the International Literature Festival Dublin is sure to be right up your street. And what better place to host the event than the city that bequeathed us such literary heavyweights as Oscar Wilde, Samuel Beckett, Iris Murdoch, James Joyce, Bram Stoker and Maeve Binchy. Bookworms will be in clover thanks to an epic roster of readings, interviews and signings with household-name authors and debates and discussions on genres that run the gamut from children’s fiction to stately poetry.</p> <h3><strong>Save on</strong><strong> things to do in Dublin</strong></h3> <p>Save on admission to Dublin attractions with <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us">Go City</a>. Check out @GoCity on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/gocity/">Instagram</a> for the latest top tips and attraction info.</p> 

Our spring guide to visiting Dublin, including parks, gardens, days out in the country, and events including the Dublin Dance Festival and, of course, the mighty St Patrick's Day celebrations.

Things to do in Dublin in Spring | Go City®

Things to do in Dublin in Summer

  <p>Ok ok, so the Caribbean it ain’t, but summer in Dublin is nevertheless a pleasant season defined by warm, (mostly) dry days, lively festivals and events aplenty, and evenings balmy enough to dine al fresco. Unsurprising, then, that the months of June to August are among Dublin’s most popular. Read on for our guide to visiting Dublin in summer, including Bloomsday and Dublin Pride celebrations, what to expect from the weather and, of course, the best places to sample the black stuff. Our guide includes:</p> <ul><li>The Guinness Storehouse</li> <li>St Stephen’s Green</li> <li>Phoenix Park</li> <li>Dublin bike tours</li> <li>Temple Bar</li> <li>Howth Maritime &amp; Seafood Festival</li> <li>The Wicklow Mountains</li> <li>Bloomsday</li> <li>Dublin Pride</li> </ul><h3><strong>Visiting Dublin in Summer</strong></h3> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/dublin/cliffs%20of%20moher-2.jpg"><p>Dublin’s summers are pleasantly warm affairs with July – the hottest month of the year – having been known to hit (gasp!) the dizzy heights of the high 60s. This is Northern Europe after all, where ‘pleasantly warm’ is a relative term. So if you’ve been picturing sizzling Mediterranean beaches for your summer vacation, move along please, you’ve come to the wrong place. </p> <p>Like the weather here, summer tourism in Dublin is generally mild... with the occasional downpour. In other words, even though May to September is peak season in Ireland, the attraction queues are rarely overwhelming and, though hotel prices have – to be sure – increased with demand, there’s still plenty of affordable accommodation to be had, especially if you’re willing to stay a little outside of the center. However, there will still be occasions when tempers fray due to waiting times at, say, the popular Guinness Storehouse or Book of Kells, just as there will be times you’ll be glad you packed an umbrella and waterproof walking boots.</p> <p>As for what else you should pack for your summer adventure in Dublin, layers are your friend. While you might (just about) get away with short sleeves and bare legs on hotter days, you’ll be thankful for that cardigan and pair of comfy jeans after sunset.</p> <h3><strong>Things to do in Dublin in Summer</strong></h3> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/dublin/dollymount%20strand-2.jpg"><p>Outdoor types rejoice! For Dublin is an adventurer’s paradise, with stacks of al fresco activities to get involved in both inside and outside the city. First up on our hotlist of recommendations is – and bear with us on this one – Dublin Bay’s beaches! Ok sure, it takes a brave soul to take the plunge and dive into the icy Irish Sea without first donning a wetsuit, but the sweeping sandy beaches along this stretch of coastline are perfect for picnics, scenic strolls and, well, just chilling on the sand with a good book and a glass of vino. Hit up Dollymount Strand (pictured) or Sandymount, or head a little further afield for the many #humblebrag Insta opportunities presented by beautiful beaches at Portmarnock, Killiney and Howth.</p> <p>Sticking with the outdoor theme, summer is as good a time as any to <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/attractions/Lazy-Bike-Tours-Half-Day">rent a bike</a> and explore Dublin at your own pace. Pedal your way to big-ticket attractions including medieval <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/attractions/christ-church-cathedral">Christ Church Cathedral</a>, with its creepy crypt and resident (mummified) cat and rat. Wobble riverside to the historic Kilmainham Gaol Museum, famed for its role in the Easter Rising executions and Irish War of Independence, and essential to any meaningful understanding of Irish history and heritage. Don’t forget to stop off at the <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/attractions/guinness-storehouse">Guinness Storehouse</a> for some much-needed refreshment along the way! Many of these attractions and tours are included with a <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us">pass from Go City</a>, meaning you can save money if you plan to visit a few of them.</p> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/dublin/st%20stephens-2.jpg"><p>Dublin’s lush public parks really come into their own in summer. Stroll the seemingly endless pathways of the sprawling Phoenix Park, a former royal hunting ground that’s home to herds of fallow deer, and is almost as big as Dublin itself! And picnic on the lawns of St Stephen’s Green, a verdant Victorian oasis at the end of busy Grafton Street, where a bust of James Joyce, abstract Henry Moore sculpture of W.B. Yeats and imposing statue of brewing magnate Arthur Guinness provide points of interest among the greenery, gardens and duckponds.</p> <p>Day trips to the dramatic Cliffs of Moher and <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/attractions/big-bus-dublin-coastal-tour">charming seaside village of Howth</a> present further opportunities to experience Ireland’s wild, untamed beauty. Ramblers and romantics alike will also get a real kick out of the Wicklow Mountains south of the city, where long walks in otherworldly landscapes dotted with rivers, bogs and neolithic tombs will have you coming over all Bill Bryson.</p> <h3><strong>What’s on: Dublin Summer Events</strong></h3> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/dublin/shutterstock_1190733238-2-2-2.jpg"><p>There’s plenty going on during summer in Dublin. Dublin Pride has been a June fixture in the city for 40 years, promising a rollicking roster of events celebrating LGBTQ+ culture, including queer-history walking tours, hard-hitting theatrical drama, world-class drag acts, lively club nights, live music and more. The festival’s focal point is the colorful Pride Parade, which sees O’Connell Street transformed into party central, as flamboyant floats and extravagantly costumed revelers wobble and weave their way down to Pride Village in Merrion Square.</p> <p>Bookworms will find much to enjoy on Bloomsday, which any James Joyce fan worth their salt will tell you falls on 16th June, as depicted in his novel <em>Ulysses</em>. In fact, Bloomsday runs for several days around the 16th, and features performances, readings and other events, many taking place at the very locations and establishments referenced in the book. Get into the spirit by dressing the part: think Edwardian garb including shawls, frilly blouses and fancy hats for the ladies, and Joyce-style britches, braces and straw hats for the lads.</p> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/dublin/seafood.jpg"><p>Similar in name only, Bloom is Ireland’s largest gardening festival and promises five days of green-fingered fun every June. Expect exquisitely presented gardens spanning some 10 acres of Phoenix Park, with a side order of celeb-chef cookery demonstrations and a difficult-to-resist artisan food market.</p> <p>In August, the Dublin Horse Show canters into town, bringing racing, showjumping and dressage events galore to the eager (and well-dressed) masses, as well as plenty of family fun including kids’ entertainment and pony rides.</p> <p>Last but by no means least, September’s Howth Maritime &amp; Seafood Festival caps off the Dublin summer schedule with a welcome return to the beach. We’re talking two days of family fun in one of Ireland’s prettiest seaside towns. As the name suggests, you can expect some of the finest seafood this fair isle has to offer, as well as funfairs, treasure hunts, circus acts, Irish dancing, boat rides and stacks more.</p> <h3><strong>Save on</strong><strong> things to do in Dublin</strong></h3> <p>Save on admission to Dublin attractions with <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us">Go City</a>. Check out @GoCity on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/gocity/">Instagram</a> for the latest top tips and attraction info.</p> 

Our summer guide to Dublin, including the best beaches, parks and gardens, plus day trips to Howth and the Wicklow Mountains and events including Dublin Pride and Bloomsday!

Things to do in Dublin in Summer | Go City®

Things to Do on New Year's Eve in Dublin

  <p>Dublin is one of those cities that was born to party. St Paddy’s Day, pay day, your nan’s birthday: every one of them a valid excuse for a good time. And New Year’s Eve is no exception, as the city erupts with parties, concerts and fireworks galore. But that’s not all: there’s also plenty to keep you occupied before you make a beeline for Temple Bar in the evening, from Grafton Street’s Boxing Day sales to medieval literary artifacts and bracing walks in the chill winter air. Indeed, Dublin has so many great attractions that there’s absolutely no way you can see them all in one day. With that in mind, here’s our guide to some of the best things you can do on New Year’s Eve in Dublin.</p> <h3><strong>In the Morning...</strong><strong>Trinity College</strong></h3> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/dublin/shutterstock_589089287-2-2-2.jpg" alt="Image of Book, Indoors, Library, Publication, City, " loading="lazy"><p>If you’re only going to tick off one or two of Dublin’s bucket-list landmarks today, make Trinity College one of them – trust us when we say your IG feed will thank you for it. We’re talking atmospheric cobbled quadrangles that once rang with the footsteps of such illustrious alumni as Samuel Beckett, Oscar Wilde, Aisling Bea, Jack Gleeson and, um, Chris De Burgh. Hum <em>The Lady in Red</em> to yourself as you admire the ultra-photogenic neoclassical architecture of the buildings that flank the courtyards and dot the grounds. Buildings like the Campanile, said to portend exam failure for any student who happens to be passing beneath its arches when the bell tolls. And the ornate Museum Building, packed to its rafters with soaring marble columns and eye-popping carvings. A guided tour of the Old Library is pretty much essential while you’re here. Step into a Hogwarts-esque world of towering bookshelves and imposing marble busts of writers, philosophers and scholars that include Jonathan Swift, Ada Lovelace and Mary Wollstonecraft. It’s here you can view the Trinity College harp, an oak-and-willow beauty that dates back to the 15th Century and, of course the extraordinary Book of Kells, surely the most astonishing preserved medieval manuscript on the planet.</p> <h3><strong>Grafton Street</strong></h3> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/dublin/molly%20malone-2.jpg" alt="Image of Person, Adult, Male, Man, Art, Bronze, " loading="lazy"><p>Stop by to say hi to Molly Malone of ‘Cockles and Mussels’ balladry fame, who presides over Suffolk Street (in bronze statue form), then it’s onwards to Grafton Street. This shoppers’ paradise of big brands and iconic Dublin department stores like Brown Thomas and Weir &amp; Sons will be in full Boxing Day sales mode on New Year’s Eve, so it's a great time to pick up that designer handbag or leprechaun fridge magnet you’ve always dreamt of. There are plenty of good lunch spots here, too. Or grab a takeout and eat on the go, catching some of the many buskers along the street on your way – Bono and Damien Rice kicked off their careers right here on Grafton Street dontcha know.</p> <h3><strong>In the Afternoon...</strong><strong>St Stephen’s Green</strong></h3> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/dublin/st%20stephen%20green-2.jpg" alt="Image of Grass, Nature, Outdoors, Park, Scenery, Person, Autumn, " loading="lazy"><p>Exit the festival atmosphere of Grafton Street and make a beeline for the relative peace and tranquility of St Stephen’s Green, one of Dublin’s most celebrated open spaces. This lush Victorian idyll is all manicured lawns, formal gardens and cute duck ponds. Hug a cup of hot chocolate on a bench or wander the park’s 27 acres, spotting statues of Dublin’s great and good along the way: an abstract memorial to W.B. Yeats by sculptor Henry Moore, an imposing bust of James Joyce, and a fittingly grand monument to Sir Arthur Guinness, who bought, drained, redeveloped and landscaped the marshland that became St Stephen’s Green, before bequeathing it to the public. What a guy.</p> <h3><strong>The Guinness Storehouse</strong></h3> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/dublin/guinness%20teaser-2.jpg" alt="Image of Alcohol, Beverage, Liquor, Wine, " loading="lazy"><p>Speaking of Guinness, no trip to Dublin would be complete without sampling a drop of the black stuff on its home turf. Of course, every single bar in Dublin serves Guinness, each accompanied by the bravado claim that theirs is the most perfectly poured pint in town. If you want to cast aside all doubt on that front, hit up <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/attractions/guinness-storehouse" rel="noopener" target="_blank">the Guinness Storehouse</a> on the site of the original St James’s Gate Brewery for a potted history of Ireland’s most famous export and a tipple or two in the space-age 7th-floor Gravity Bar, with its stunning 360-degree city views. But, as you consider that third pint, remember: New Year’s Eve is a marathon, not a sprint. And you haven’t even set foot in Temple Bar yet...</p> <h3><strong>In the Evening...</strong><strong>Temple Bar</strong></h3> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/dublin/temple%20bar-2.jpg" alt="Image of Christmas, Christmas Decorations, Festival, Urban, " loading="lazy"><p>Temple Bar is one of Dublin’s most iconic areas, a dense network of cobbled lanes lined with independent boutiques, cool galleries and rabble-rousing traditional Irish pubs. In terms of how hectic those pubs will be, New Year’s Eve is probably rivaled only by St Patrick’s Day as this neighborhood’s busiest night of the year. The most iconic pub here is the Temple Bar itself, with its colorful hanging baskets and distinctive red facade, but there are dozens of (probably marginally less busy) Irish bars to choose from. Expect welcoming craic, fine indie and folk music shindigs, and lots of hugging come midnight. And try to remain good-humored about the long queues to get a drink. As for getting a table: you’ve got no chance. </p> <h3><strong>National Concert Hall</strong></h3> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/dublin/concert-2-2.jpg" alt="Image of Musical Instrument, Violin, Adult, Female, Person, Woman, " loading="lazy"><p>For a calmer kind of celebration, Dublin’s magnificent National Concert Hall hosts its annual performance from the RTÉ Concert Orchestra on New year's Eve, usually a rousing mix of well-loved pop hits, jazz standards, movie themes, and favorites from the musicals. There will be singing, laughing, hugging and, critically, a complimentary glass of bubbles and <em>Auld Lang Syne</em> sing-along as the clock strikes midnight. Advance booking for this musical extravaganza is, of course, essential.</p> <h3><strong>New Year’s Festival</strong></h3> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/dublin/dublin%20new%20year-2.jpg" alt="Image of Nature, Outdoors, Scenery, Landscape, City, Lighting, Arch, Urban, Metropolis, Fireworks, " loading="lazy"><p>Dublin’s <a href="https://nyfdublin.com/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">New Year Festival</a> seems to grow bigger and better by the year. At time of writing it’s up to four days across three venues, with around 40 acts expected to perform. But you’ll probably want to be at Dublin Castle in the evening on New Year’s Eve, where you can expect live music from some of the biggest names involved, plus food trucks for much-needed sustenance and, of course, bars serving up more of the near-mandatory black stuff (other beverages may be available). It all rounds off with a spectacular countdown to midnight complete with epic firework display.</p> <h3><strong>Save on</strong><strong> things to do in Dublin</strong></h3> <p>Of course the activities and attractions we’ve suggested are a mere snapshot of the myriad things you can do in Dublin on New Year’s Eve. There’s also a medieval castle, two picture-perfect cathedrals, umpteen world-class museums and a glut of whiskey distilleries to explore, as well as literary tours, botanic gardens and much more. Sticking around for a few days? <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us" rel="noopener" target="_blank">A Dublin pass from Go City</a> can save you money when visiting multiple attractions, including many of those mentioned above.</p> 

Our guide to the perfect New Year's Eve in Dublin, including strolls on St Stephen's Green, drinks at the Guinness Storehouse and a night of partying in Temple Bar and at the New Year's Festival.

Things to do on New Year's Eve in Dublin | Go City®

Things to do in Dublin when it rains

  <h2>Rainy Day Rescues: Dublin's Best Indoor Activities to Brighten Your Day </h2> <p><em>by Mia Russell</em></p> <p>Ireland's vibrant and welcoming capital is a city that effortlessly marries rich history with modern charm. Its cobbled streets echo with tales of literary legends, its pubs resonate with the sounds of traditional music, and its cultural scene captivates art and history enthusiasts alike. With iconic landmarks like Trinity College, the <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/guinness-storehouse" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Guinness Storehouse</a>, and the Temple Bar district, Dublin beckons travelers from around the world with a promise of unforgettable experiences. </p> <p>But what happens when the famously unpredictable Irish weather bestows a rainy day during your Dublin visit? Fret not; Dublin has a wealth of indoor activities and cozy hideaways that transform a rainy day into an opportunity for exploration and relaxation. </p> <p>So, grab your umbrella, slip on your raincoat, and dive into Dublin's rainy-day adventures. </p> <h2>Raise a Glass at the Guinness Storehouse </h2> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/dublin/blog/guinness-facts-4.jpg" alt="Image of Alcohol, Beer, Beverage, Glass, Stout, City, " loading="lazy"><p>What better way to escape a rainy day than with a pint of Guinness? Use your pass to take a tour of the world-famous <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/guinness-storehouse" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Guinness Storehouse</a> and learn about the history and craft of Ireland's most iconic beer. Enjoy a pint in the Gravity Bar with panoramic views of the city, rain or shine. </p> <p>Located in St James's Gate Brewery, the Guinness Storehouse is a seven-story visitor experience and a tribute to Ireland's most famous export – Guinness stout. The brewery itself has a history dating back to 1759, when Arthur Guinness signed a 9,000-year lease for the property. Today, it's an essential stop for anyone seeking to explore Dublin's heritage and indulge in the art of brewing. </p> <p>Attractions and Activities: </p> <ul><li> The Guinness Story: Begin your journey on the ground floor with a history lesson. Learn about the ingredients, brewing process, and the man behind the brand, Arthur Guinness, in a fascinating multimedia exhibition. </li> <li> Gravity Bar: Make your way up to the Gravity Bar on the seventh floor for panoramic views of Dublin. Rain or shine, the vistas of the city are breathtaking. It's the perfect spot to savor a complimentary pint of Guinness, freshly poured, and appreciate the cityscape. </li> <li> The Tasting Rooms: Explore the tasting rooms and discover the diverse flavors of Guinness. You will learn how to savor and appreciate the distinct tastes of this world-renowned stout. </li> <li> Interactive Experiences: The Guinness Storehouse is brimming with interactive experiences, from pouring the perfect pint to learning how to craft a Guinness cocktail. </li> </ul><p>Head to the Guinness Storehouse on a rainy day to uncover the secrets of this iconic brew, savor its flavors, and toast to the charm of a city that shines even when the skies are gray. Sláinte! </p> <h2>Delve into Dublin's History at Dublinia </h2> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/dublin/blog/walking-tour-dublinia.jpg" alt="Image of Arch, Gothic Arch, Building, Cathedral, Church, " loading="lazy"><p>Journey back in time with an immersive historical experience at <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/dublinia" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Dublinia</a>. Nestled in the heart of Dublin's historic city center, Dublinia is a unique attraction that delves into the medieval history of the Irish capital. </p> <p>Dublinia's core focus is on medieval Dublin, offering an interactive journey through the city's past. Use your pass to enjoy free entry to <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/dublinia" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Dublinia</a>. Explore the Viking and medieval periods with lifelike exhibitions and hands-on displays. </p> <p><strong>Attractions and Activities: </strong></p> <ul><li> Viking Dublin: Begin your journey by stepping into a Viking warrior's home, complete with authentic artifacts. Discover the tale of the Viking settlement of Dubh Linn (Dublin) and its impact on the city's development. </li> <li> Medieval Dublin: Continue exploring the medieval era, where you can stroll through a medieval street, visit a medieval merchant's house, and learn about trade, crafts, and everyday life. </li> <li> Medieval Games: Get hands-on with history by playing medieval games and dressing up in period clothing. It is a fun and educational experience for visitors of all ages. </li> </ul><p>Let Dublinia transport you to a time when Vikings roamed the streets, and knights defended the city. It is an engaging and educational adventure that will make your rainy day in Dublin memorable. </p> <h2>Go Gallery-Hopping at These Rainy Day Havens for Art Lovers </h2> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/dublin/national-museum-of-ireland%20(1).jpg" alt="Image of Gate, " loading="lazy"><p>Dublin's galleries often provide insights into Ireland's cultural heritage and contemporary art scene. They are not only refuges from the rain but also gateways to a world of creativity, beauty, and history. Dublin's galleries often provide insights into Ireland's cultural heritage and contemporary art scene. Engage with the art and gain a deeper understanding of Irish culture. </p> <p>So, when Dublin's skies weep, let these art galleries be your haven for inspiration and discovery. </p> <ul><li> <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/national-gallery-of-ireland" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">National Gallery of Ireland</a>: Located in the heart of Dublin on Merrion Square West, this gallery houses an extensive collection of European and Irish art, spanning centuries. Use your pass to enjoy free entry to the gallery along with a complimentary guidebook. Admire works by Rembrandt, Vermeer, Caravaggio, and Goya and a renowned collection of Irish paintings dating from the 17th to the 20th centuries.  </li> <li> Hugh Lane Gallery: Situated on Parnell Square North, this gallery features modern and contemporary art and the relocated studio of Irish artist Francis Bacon. </li> <li> <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/irish-museum-of-modern-art" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">IMMA (Irish Museum of Modern Art)</a>: Nestled within the historic surroundings of the Royal Hospital Kilmainham, the Irish Museum of Modern Art, affectionately known as IMMA, is a cultural gem. The gallery’s collection spans a wide range of contemporary and modern art, featuring works by Irish and international artists. Use your pass to enjoy complimentary admission to the <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/irish-museum-of-modern-art" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">IMMA (Irish Museum of Modern Art)</a> and discounts in the IMMA shop.  </li> </ul><h2>Meander Around Dublin’s Museums </h2> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/dublin/little%20museum%20Dublin.jpeg" alt="default alt tag" loading="lazy"><p>When Dublin's famous drizzle descends and umbrellas fill the streets, do not let the weather dampen your spirits. Embrace the opportunity to explore Dublin's rich cultural heritage by visiting its world-class museums. </p> <ul><li> National Museum of Ireland: Nestled in the heart of Dublin's bustling city center, the National Museum of Ireland stands as a guardian of the nation's history, culture, and archaeological treasures. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an art lover, or simply seeking refuge from the rain, this museum is a must-visit destination. </li> <li> <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/national-museum-of-ireland-archaeology" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">National Museum of Ireland – Archaeology</a>: Use your pass to step into the hallowed halls of the National Museum of Ireland – Archaeology, and you will find yourself on a captivating journey through Ireland's ancient past. Located on Kildare Street in Dublin, this museum is a treasure trove of historical artifacts and archaeological wonders.  </li> <li> <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/national-museum-of-ireland-decorative-arts-history" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">National Museum of Ireland - Decorative Arts &amp; History</a>: Nestled within the historic Collins Barracks, the National Museum of Ireland - Decorative Arts &amp; History beckons visitors to explore Ireland's rich cultural heritage and craftsmanship. Rainy days become the perfect excuse to immerse yourself in this treasure trove of decorative arts and history. Use your pass for free entry and a complimentary National Museum of Ireland Decorative Arts &amp; History Guidebook.  </li> <li> <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/epic-irish-emigration-museum" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum</a>: In the heart of Dublin's Docklands, where tales of emigration and triumph abound, stands EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum. This captivating museum is a tribute to the Irish diaspora, highlighting the incredible journeys and contributions of the Irish people across the globe. Use your pass for free admission to the museum and a discount in the gift shop.  </li> <li> <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/national-print-museum-guided-historical-tour" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">National Print Museum</a>: Nestled within the historic Garrison Chapel in Dublin's Beggars Bush, the National Print Museum Ireland is a hidden gem for enthusiasts of typography, design, and the enduring craft of printing. Regardless of the weather outside, this museum promises a captivating journey into the world of printing. Use your pass to enjoy a National Print Museum – <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/national-print-museum-guided-historical-tour" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Guided Historical Tour</a>  </li> <li> <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/chester-beatty-library" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Chester Beatty</a> : Nestled within the heart of Dublin Castle, the Chester Beatty is a remarkable museum that beckons visitors to embark on a transcendent journey through the world's diverse cultures and artistic traditions. The museum houses a world-class collection of manuscripts, rare books, paintings, prints, and decorative arts from cultures spanning Asia, the Middle East, North Africa, and Europe.  </li> </ul><p>On a rainy day in Dublin, let the city's museums be your sheltered havens of exploration and discovery. As the rain taps on the windows, you'll find inspiration, history, and culture waiting within, ready to turn a drizzly day into an enriching experience. </p> <h2>Top Tips for Visiting Dublin on a Rainy Ray:</h2> <p>Visiting Dublin on a rainy day can still be a delightful experience if you are well-prepared. Here are some top tips to make the most of your rainy-day adventure in the Irish capital: </p> <ul><li> Pack the Right Gear: An umbrella: A reliable, wind-resistant umbrella is a must. Dublin's rain can be unpredictable, so it is better to be prepared. </li> <li> Waterproof clothing: A good raincoat or waterproof jacket with a hood will keep you dry and comfortable. </li> <li> Check Weather Updates: Keep an eye on weather forecasts and radar updates to plan your activities accordingly. </li> <li> Indulge in Comfort Food: Treat yourself to traditional Irish comfort food. Warm dishes like Irish stew, shepherd's pie, or a bowl of seafood chowder can be incredibly satisfying on rainy days. </li> <li> Stay Patient: Dubliners are used to rainy days, and life goes on as usual. Embrace the Irish spirit, and do not let a bit of rain dampen your mood. </li> </ul><p>Remember that rain is part of Dublin's charm and often adds to the city's cozy atmosphere. With the proper preparations and a positive attitude, you can enjoy your rainy day in Dublin to the fullest! </p> 

Ireland's vibrant and welcoming capital is a city that effortlessly marries rich history with modern charm. Its cobbled streets echo with tales of literary legends, its pubs resonate with the sounds of traditional music, and its cultural scene captivates art and history enthusiasts alike.

Things to do in Dublin When it Rains | Go City®

Things to do in Dublin for a birthday

  <h2>Cheers to Another Year: Dublin's Top Picks for Birthday Fun! </h2> <p><em>by Mia Russell</em></p> <p>Another year, another birthday, and it’s time to start planning that celebration again! Whether planning festivities for yourself, a friend, or that special someone, finding a way to make this milestone feel distinct from previous years can be challenging! </p> <p>Sure, you could go the traditional route and arrange a dinner date with your friends, but where's the excitement in that? Dublin has many unique and thrilling activities that can usher in another year of life, and they extend far beyond the ordinary meal at the local Italian restaurant. </p> <p>From sipping afternoon tea while on a guided bus tour to indulging in an axe-throwing extravaganza, these fun ideas for celebrating a birthday in Dublin unquestionably outshine the more typical birthday festivities. </p> <p>So, grab your party hat, and let's explore the best things to do in Dublin designed to help the guest of honor blow out those candles in grand style! </p> <h2><strong>Rock Your Birthday at the Irish Rock 'n Roll Museum! </strong></h2> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/dublin/blog/blackrock-market.jpg" alt="Image of Bazaar, Market, Shop, Accessories, Bag, Handbag, " loading="lazy"><p>If you're a fan of rock 'n roll and looking for a memorable way to celebrate your birthday in Dublin, then look no further than the <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/irish-rock-roll-experience" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Irish Rock 'n Roll Museum Experience</a>. It's a celebration that combines music history, interactive fun, and the thrill of discovering the legends that put Ireland on the global rock 'n roll map. Get ready to sing, dance, and celebrate another year of life in style! Rock on! </p> <p>If you or your friends are into rock music, this place is a treasure trove of iconic rock history. It's like stepping into the shoes of rock legends. You'll explore the lives and music of legendary Irish rock stars like U2, Thin Lizzy, and more. The museum features interactive exhibits, memorabilia, and a recording studio where you can jam with your friends. The highlight is the guided tour led by passionate rock experts who share fascinating stories about the country's music scene. </p> <p>You can't help but feel like a rock star as you explore the museum, interact with the exhibits, and even record a song in the studio. It's an immersive experience that keeps the energy up. Celebrating your special day among rock memorabilia and hearing incredible stories about Irish rock legends adds a unique touch to your celebration. </p> <p>The tour usually takes around 90 minutes, making it a perfect activity for a birthday outing! Remember to use your pass for free entry to the <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/irish-rock-roll-experience" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Irish Rock 'n Roll Museum Experience</a>. </p> <h2>Enjoy a Vintage Tea Trip </h2> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/dublin/People%20solving%20a%20mystery%20(1).jpg" alt="Image of Text, Hat, Adult, Female, Person, Woman, Document, " loading="lazy"><p>Looking for a unique and delightful way to celebrate your birthday in Dublin? Turn back the clock and hop on a vintage double-decker bus for a scenic tour of Dublin's most famous landmarks and a spot of tea! </p> <p>Soak up Dublin’s historic sites like Trinity College, <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/dublin-castle" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Dublin Castle</a>, <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/christ-church-cathedral" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Christ Church Cathedral</a> and learn the rich history of the city as you sip tea and nibble on scrumptious pastries and sandwiches. Starting near the iconic St. Stephen's Green, the tour typically lasts 1.5 to two hours, giving you plenty of time to soak in the city's charm and enjoy your tea! </p> <p>Solve a Thrilling Mystery for Your Birthday with the Murder by Temple Bar Experience </p> <p>Are you looking for a birthday celebration that's out of the ordinary, filled with suspense, and bound to leave you with unforgettable memories? Look no further than <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/murder-trinity-college" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">The Murder by Temple Bar</a>! It's a fun, immersive experience with you playing detective while celebrating your special day. </p> <p>This thrilling experience turns you into a real-life detective as you and your friends work together to solve a gripping murder mystery. The adventure includes exploring Temple Bar's hidden corners, gathering clues, and interacting with costumed characters who bring the story to life. The mystery unfolds unexpectedly, keeping you and your group engaged and, on your toes, - it's like stepping into a suspenseful movie plot and becoming the hero. </p> <p>Head to one of the many restaurants or pubs in Temple Bar after solving the mystery to toast to your successful detective work and enjoy a birthday drink! </p> <p>Use your pass to enjoy free admission to <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/murder-trinity-college" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">The Murder by Temple Bar</a> experience. </p> <h2>Raise a Glass to Your Birthday on a Whiskey Tasting Tour </h2> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/dublin/whisky-2.jpg" alt="Image of Alcohol, Beer, Beverage, Cooking, Food, Pouring Food, " loading="lazy"><p>Toast to another year of life with a fine Scotch on a fun whiskey tour with your friends! Head for the hills of the Wicklow Mountains and enjoy a real taste of authentic Irish whiskey in the beautiful Irish countryside on a <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/powerscourt-whiskey-distillery-tour" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Powerscourt Whiskey Distillery Tour</a>. </p> <p>An hour’s drive from Dublin's city center, Powerscourt Whiskey Distillery is nestled on the spectacular Powerscourt Estate, with a historic mansion and magnificent gardens. This tour takes you on a captivating exploration of the whiskey-making process. You'll learn about the art of distillation, the aging process, and the meticulous craftsmanship that goes into creating fine Irish whiskey. The tour also includes tastings of Powerscourt's signature whiskeys, allowing you to savor the rich flavors of this beloved spirit. </p> <p>The tour is a top choice for celebrating with friends who appreciate learning about the history and craftsmanship of whiskey. Plan for approximately 1.5 to two hours to fully enjoy the tour and tastings. After the tour, explore the rest of the Powerscourt Estate and enjoy dinner at a nearby restaurant to continue your birthday festivities! </p> <p>Remember to use your pass to enjoy the <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/powerscourt-whiskey-distillery-tour" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Powerscourt Whiskey Distillery Tour</a> for free! </p> <h2>Celebrate Your Birthday with a Bang at Dublin's Musical Pub Crawl! </h2> <p>Hey there, birthday star! If you want to have a blast and make your special day unforgettable in Dublin, the Musical Pub Crawl is your golden ticket. It's not just a pub crawl; it's a lively, musical journey through the heart of Dublin that'll have you dancing, singing, and toasting another fantastic year. </p> <p>The Musical Pub Crawl kicks off in the heart of Dublin, typically from a central location like Temple Bar. This unique pub crawl is led by talented musicians who double as your guides. They'll take you to some of Dublin's finest traditional Irish pubs, where you'll enjoy live performances of Irish songs, jigs, and reels. You'll also learn about the history of Irish music, instruments, and cultural significance. </p> <p>The crawl usually lasts around 2.5 hours, giving you ample time to soak in the musical magic and celebrate your birthday in style. The live music is the heart and soul of this experience. It creates an electrifying atmosphere, making it perfect for a birthday celebration. </p> <p>You'll have the chance to explore some of Dublin's oldest and most authentic Irish pubs, meet new people, and connect with fellow travelers. It's a fantastic way to celebrate with your friends in a vibrant, friendly atmosphere. </p> 

Another year, another birthday, and it’s time to start planning that celebration again! Whether planning festivities for yourself, a friend, or that special someone, finding a way to make this milestone feel distinct from previous years can be challenging!  

Things to do in Dublin for a Birthday | Go City®

Free things to do in Dublin

  <h2><strong>Dublin on a Dime: 10 Fabulous Free Things to Do in the City </strong></h2> <p><em>by Mia Russell</em></p> <p>Effortlessly blending history, culture, and good old-fashioned Irish charm, Dublin, the lively capital of Ireland, has something for everyone! On a budget? Don’t despair! You can still experience the vibrant spirit of Dublin without breaking the bank. </p> <p>From world-class museums and art galleries to centuries-old landmarks and beautiful beaches, you can still soak up the city’s culture and charm without spending a cent. </p> <p>Let’s look at some of the top free activities in and around Dublin that promise to captivate! </p> <h2>1. Explore Phoenix Park </h2> <p>Escape the hustle and bustle of the city at the beautiful urban oasis of Phoenix Park. Nestled just west of the city center, Phoenix Park stretches over 1,750 acres, making it one of the largest urban parks in Europe. Established in the 17th century as a royal deer park, it's now a beloved recreational haven for locals and visitors alike. </p> <p>Visit the official residence of the President of Ireland, Áras an Uachtaráin. While the interior requires pre-booked tours, the exterior, and its beautiful gardens are open to the public and free to enjoy. Admire the picturesque People's Flower Gardens, featuring vibrant flowerbeds, fountains, and ornamental lakes. It's an ideal spot for a leisurely stroll or a tranquil picnic. </p> <p>Miles of scenic walking and cycling trails are perfect for enjoying the outdoors. Use your pass to rent a bike from <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/Lazy-Bike-Tours-Half-Day" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Lazy Bike Tours</a> to explore the park's lush landscapes. Watch out for the park's wild deer population, especially during early mornings and late afternoons. </p> <h2>2. Discover Dublin's Free Museums </h2> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/dublin/Archeology%20Museum%20Dublin.jpeg" alt="default alt tag" loading="lazy"><p>Step into Dublin's rich history, art, and culture without spending a dime—thanks to its array of free museums that promise to captivate your imagination. Discover a wealth of knowledge, creativity, and heritage as you explore these cultural gems. </p> <ul><li> <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/national-museum-of-ireland-archaeology" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">National Museum of Ireland – Archaeology</a> Situated on Kildare Street, this museum is a treasure trove of Ireland's ancient history. It houses artifacts that span thousands of years, offering a glimpse into the country's past. Remember to use your pass to receive a complimentary guidebook.  </li> <li> National Museum of Ireland - Natural History: Known fondly as the "Dead Zoo," this museum on Merrion Street offers an eclectic collection of natural specimens. </li> <li> <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/national-museum-of-ireland-decorative-arts-history" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">National Museum of Ireland - Decorative Arts &amp; History</a>: Found at Collins Barracks, this museum provides insight into Ireland's material culture and history. Use your pass to receive a complimentary National Museum of Ireland Decorative Arts &amp; History Guidebook.  </li> <li> <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/national-gallery-of-ireland" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">National Gallery of Ireland</a>: Located in Merrion Square, the National Gallery of Ireland has been a cornerstone of Dublin's cultural scene since its establishment in 1854. It houses a remarkable collection of artworks spanning centuries and styles. Use your pass to gain free admission to the museum's temporary exhibitions.  </li> <li> <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/chester-beatty-library" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Chester Beatty Library</a>: Located in Dublin Castle, the Chester Beatty Library is the legacy of Sir Alfred Chester Beatty, an avid collector who amassed a remarkable assortment of rare manuscripts, artifacts, and artworks from around the world. Use your pass to receive a complimentary Chester Beatty publication or a set of greeting cards during your visit.  </li> </ul><p>Other museums that offer free admission include: </p> <ul><li> Glasnevin Cemetery Museum </li> <li> Dublin City Gallery Hugh Lane </li> <li> National Library of Ireland </li> <li> Áras an Uachtaráin </li> <li> <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/irish-museum-of-modern-art" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Irish Museum of Modern Art (IMMA)</a>  </li> <li> Science Gallery Dublin </li> <li> Pearse Museum </li> <li> National Photographic Archive </li> <li> Revenue Museum </li> </ul><h2>3. Tour the National Botanic Gardens of Ireland </h2> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/dublin/botanic%20gardens-2.jpg" alt="Image of Grass, Nature, Outdoors, Park, Garden, Gardening, " loading="lazy"><p>Discover a world of vibrant flora and tranquil serenity at the <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/national-botanic-gardens" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">National Botanic Gardens of Ireland</a>. Situated just a short distance from Dublin's city center, these lush gardens offer a respite from the urban hustle and a chance to connect with nature's splendor. </p> <p>Wander through exquisite glasshouses that house diverse plants, from tropical rainforest species to delicate alpine blooms. Marvel at majestic heritage trees that have stood the test of time, including a yew tree believed to be over 800 years old. Explore themed gardens that showcase Ireland's diverse flora and highlight conservation efforts. </p> <p>Join the free guided tours led by knowledgeable guides to learn fascinating insights about the gardens, their history, and the botanical treasures they hold. Pack a picnic and relax on the grassy lawns, surrounded by the fragrance of blossoms and chirping birds. </p> <p>Use your pass to receive a complimentary guidebook to the <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/national-botanic-gardens" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">National Botanic Gardens of Ireland</a>. </p> <h2>4. Picnic and People-Watch on St Stephen's Green </h2> <p>St. Stephen's Green is a verdant oasis in the heart of Dublin that offers a serene escape from the urban rhythm. Dating back to the 17th century, it’s the grandest Georgian park in Dublin and spans 22 acres of lush greenery. </p> <p>Pack a picnic and enjoy a leisurely meal on the well-maintained lawns, soaking in the peaceful ambiance. Admire the park's sculptures, including those of literary icons like W.B. Yeats and James Joyce, and monuments that honor historical figures. Wander through vibrant flowerbeds that change with the seasons, offering a kaleidoscope of colors and fragrances. </p> <p>5. Meander Along Dún Laoghaire's East Pier and Take a Swim </p> <p>Dún Laoghaire's East Pier is a picturesque waterfront escape that beckons you to soak in the fresh sea breeze and revel in the beauty of the Irish coast. This beloved pier is more than just a walkway—it's a tranquil sanctuary offering spectacular views and a serene atmosphere. </p> <p>Stretching gracefully into the Irish Sea, Dún Laoghaire's East Pier has been integral to the town's maritime history since the 19th century. It's located in the charming coastal town of Dún Laoghaire, just a short distance from Dublin. </p> <p>Stroll along the pier's well-maintained path, enjoying panoramic views of the sparkling sea and the distant horizon. Reach the pier's end to find the charming East Pier Lighthouse, an iconic landmark that adds character to the coastline. </p> <p>Continue to walk south along the shore to tiny Sandycove Beach, or head around the corner to the Forty Foot Pool, Ireland's most famous swimming spot, for a bracing dip! </p> <h2>6. Wander the Grounds of Dublin Castle </h2> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/dublin/dublin%20castle-2-2.jpg" alt="Image of " loading="lazy"><p>One of the city’s most iconic landmarks, Dublin Castle is a captivating symbol of the city's rich history and cultural heritage. Dating back to medieval times, the castle has played pivotal roles in Ireland's history, from royal residence to government hub. </p> <p>While guided tours will cost you, you can roam the beautiful gardens for free and admire the striking castle from the outside. Take in the architectural beauty of the Chapel Royal, which features intricate carvings and stunning stained-glass windows. </p> <p>If you want to explore further, use your pass to gain free admission to <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/dublin-castle" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Dublin Castle</a> and see the magnificent State Apartments and the original Viking fortress. You can also upgrade your ticket to include a guided tour at a discounted rate! </p> <h2>7. Wade out to Shenick Island </h2> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/dublin/pages/SkerriesNew1.jpg" alt="Image of Outdoors, Windmill, " loading="lazy"><p>Escape the city and enjoy an adventure of a different kind! Head to the picturesque seaside town of Skerries in north Dublin to chase the tide. During low spring tide, pop Wellington boots on and cross the mud flats to reach Shenick Island. </p> <p>Admire the isolated Martello Tower, an ancient defensive fortress that keeps watch over this sanctuary for wildlife. Look for nesting gulls, cormorants, and basking seals who call the island home. Embark on a leisurely coastal walk around the island, reveling in breathtaking sea views and a sense of solitude. Discover the ancient well that lends the island its name and hear stories of its curative properties. </p> <p>Pack a picnic and relish a meal amid the island's peaceful surroundings while soaking in the sea breeze. Just be sure to head back before the tide comes in! </p> <p>While you’re in Skerries, use your pass to visit the historic <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/skerries-mills" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Skerries Mills</a>, take a guided tour of the 16th-century mills, and enjoy scones and tea. </p> <h2>8. Explore Trinity College </h2> <p>Wander around the beautiful campus of the esteemed Trinity College. Nestled in the heart of Dublin, Trinity College is a bastion of learning with a legacy dating back to 1592. Its iconic Library, home to the Book of Kells, is a testament to the enduring value of education and culture. </p> <p>Visit the Long Room Library and admire a breathtaking collection of books, manuscripts, and sculptures. Roam the historic campus, admiring its architecture, courtyards, and vibrant student life. </p> <h2>9. Soak up Some Art and Music </h2> <p>Head to the Hugh Lane Gallery on Sundays (excluding July and August), where you can enjoy free concerts in the Sculpture Gallery by Irish and international performers. Admission to the Hugh Lane Gallery is free, so you can take in some fantastic art at the same time. </p> <p>Based in an imposing Georgian mansion on Parnell Square, this cultural gem is named for the celebrated art dealer and gallery director who founded it. Expect a diverse collection that spans centuries and styles, ranging from Monet to Monet and more. </p> <h2>10. Cross the Ha'penny Bridge </h2> <p>Cross the iconic Ha'penny Bridge and capture the essence of Dublin. Connecting both sides of the River Liffey, the bridge symbolizes Dublin's charm and historic spirit. Built in 1816, the Ha'penny Bridge earned its name from the half-penny toll pedestrians once paid to cross. </p> <p>Stroll along the bridge and admire the panoramic views of the river and the surrounding cityscape, capturing the essence of Dublin's character. </p> <p>Capture the bridge's iconic arches and the lively scenes around it, creating memories that encapsulate Dublin's essence. Arrive during sunset for a truly magical view of the city lights. </p> <p>After crossing the bridge, explore both sides of the river—the vibrant streets of Temple Bar on one side and the charming tranquility of Northside on the other. </p> <h2>Final Thoughts </h2> <p>From the vibrant streets to the serene corners, Dublin offers a wealth of experiences that won't dent your wallet. From hidden gems, beautiful parks, and cultural treasures, Dublin's fabulous free activities promise to delight! Remember, the charm of Dublin lies not just in its landmarks, but in the moments you share with its people, its history, and its soul. Slán go fóill! </p> 

Effortlessly blending history, culture, and good old-fashioned Irish charm, Dublin, the lively capital of Ireland, has something for everyone! On a budget? Don’t despair! You can still experience the vibrant spirit of Dublin without breaking the bank.  

Free things to do in Dublin | Go City®

5 days in Dublin

  <h2>Dublin in Five Days: A Journey Through Ireland's Capital </h2> <p><em>By Mia Russell</em></p> <p>Ireland's vibrant and historic capital beckons with a rich tapestry of culture, history, and unforgettable experiences. Five days in this captivating city may sound like a brief escape, but it's the perfect amount of time to savor the essence of <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Dublin</a>, immerse yourself in its storied past, and revel in its vibrant present. </p> <p><strong>Why Five Days in Dublin? </strong></p> <p>Dublin offers an all-encompassing journey through its diverse neighborhoods, cultural treasures, and lively traditions. Whether you're a history buff, a literature enthusiast, a foodie, or simply seeking the warmth of Irish hospitality, this city has something special to offer. Five days will be just enough to take it all in! </p> <p>What to See and Do </p> <p>During your stay, you'll explore Dublin's historic core, wander through its lush parks, and sample its delectable cuisine. You'll uncover the secrets of the Book of Kells, relish a pint of Guinness at its birthplace, and stroll along charming streets steeped in literary history. Dublin's attractions are as varied as they are enthralling, promising an unforgettable journey. </p> <p>What to Expect </p> <p>Anticipate enchanting tales of Irish folklore, cozy pubs resonating with traditional music, and a city that effortlessly bridges its storied past with its vibrant present. Expect to be greeted with warmth and enthusiasm by the locals, who are proud to share their culture and heritage. </p> <h2><strong>Day 1: Exploring Dublin's Historic Core </strong></h2> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/dublin/blog/national-gallery-ireland.jpg" alt="Image of Indoors, Museum, Art, Painting, Floor, " loading="lazy"><p><strong>Morning </strong></p> <p>Begin your Dublin adventure with a hearty Irish breakfast at a local café. Afterward, head to Trinity College to visit the iconic Book of Kells, a beautifully illuminated manuscript dating back to the 9th century. Step inside the historic Library at Trinity College to admire this incredible artwork, renowned for its intricate illustrations and vibrant colors. As you turn the pages, you'll be transported back in time to a world where craftsmanship and creativity knew no bounds. It's a must-visit for anyone seeking to delve into the rich cultural heritage of Dublin and Ireland as a whole! </p> <p>Pop across the road to the <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/national-gallery-of-ireland" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">National Gallery of Ireland</a> to admire its exquisite collection that spans centuries and continents. As you explore the gallery's hallowed halls, you'll encounter works by renowned artists such as Vermeer, Caravaggio, and Monet, alongside captivating exhibitions showcasing Ireland's vibrant artistic heritage. Use your pass to receive complimentary admission to the museum's temporary collections and a free guidebook. </p> <p>If you have time, another great museum to explore nearby is the <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/the-little-museum-of-dublin" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Little Museum of Dublin</a>. It may be small in size, but it packs a big punch when showcasing Dublin's history and spirit. Located in a charming Georgian townhouse on St. Stephen's Green, this museum offers a delightful glimpse into the city's past. Its eclectic collection features an array of artifacts, photographs, and memorabilia that tell the story of Dublin's evolution throughout the 20th century. </p> <p>The museum's intimate setting and engaging exhibits make it a must-visit for those seeking a deeper understanding of Dublin's character and culture. Remember to use your pass to enjoy free entry to the museum. </p> <p><em>Lunch: </em>enjoy a leisurely lunch at a traditional Irish pub. Savor classics like fish and chips or a hearty stew and pair with a pint of Guinness. </p> <p><strong>Afternoon </strong></p> <p>Stroll along Grafton Street, Dublin's premier shopping street. Admire the street performers and browse the boutiques. Nestled in the heart of Dublin, Grafton Street has a delightful mix of high-end boutiques, department stores, street performers, and charming cafes. It's the perfect place to immerse yourself in Dublin's vibrant atmosphere. Whether searching for the latest fashion trends, hunting for unique Irish gifts, or simply strolling along, Grafton Street offers a delightful urban experience that captures the essence of this dynamic city. Don't forget to pause and enjoy the talented buskers adding a musical soundtrack to your shopping adventure. Stop by St. Stephen's Green for a peaceful walk in the park. </p> <p><strong>Evening </strong></p> <p>Dive into Dublin's literary history with a visit to the <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/MoLI" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Museum of Literature Ireland (MoLI)</a>. The museum is a literary haven that celebrates the city's illustrious literary heritage. Housed in the historic UCD Newman House, it's a place where the words of James Joyce, W.B. Yeats, and other literary giants come to life. As you wander through its elegant Georgian rooms, you'll discover an enchanting world of books, manuscripts, and interactive displays that delve into the literary genius of Ireland's most celebrated writers. </p> <p>MoLI is not just a museum; it's a vibrant testament to the enduring power of storytelling and a must-visit for anyone with a passion for literature. Use your pass to gain free entry to the museum. </p> <p>For dinner, dine at one of Temple Bar's charming restaurants and experience the city's vibrant nightlife. </p> <h2>Day 2: Dublin's Cultural Treasures </h2> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/dublin/dublin%20castle-2-2.jpg" alt="Image of " loading="lazy"><p><strong>Morning </strong></p> <p>Start your day at the <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/national-museum-of-ireland-archaeology" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">National Museum of Ireland – Archaeology</a>, where you can explore Ireland's rich history through fascinating artifacts. </p> <p>The National Museum of Ireland - Archaeology in Dublin is a treasure trove of Ireland's ancient history and archaeological wonders. Nestled on Kildare Street, this captivating museum houses an impressive collection of artifacts that span millennia. From the meticulously crafted Celtic artifacts to the hauntingly beautiful bog bodies, you'll embark on a journey through time as you explore Ireland's rich past. Whether you're fascinated by Viking-age relics, ancient gold hoards, or the enigmatic Ardagh Chalice, this museum is a captivating window into Ireland's archaeology and heritage. Receive a free guidebook with your pass! </p> <p><em>Lunch: </em>head to the nearby Queen of Tarts for a delicious lunch and sweet treats. </p> <p><strong>Afternoon </strong></p> <p>Spend the afternoon at <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/dublin-castle" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Dublin Castle</a>. Located in the heart of the city, Dublin Castle is a historic gem that encapsulates centuries of Irish history and culture. Originally constructed as a medieval fortress, it evolved into a symbol of British rule in Ireland and later transformed into a government complex. Today, its elegant architecture and beautiful gardens make it a captivating destination for visitors. </p> <p>Explore the State Apartments with their opulent interiors, witness the iconic Record Tower, and stroll through the tranquil Dubh Linn Gardens. Dublin Castle is a living testament to Ireland's complex past and enduring spirit, inviting you to delve into its rich tapestry of heritage. Be sure to use your pass for free admission to the castle. </p> <p>Explore the <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/chester-beatty-library" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Chester Beatty Library</a> and its exceptional collection of books and manuscripts from around the world. Nestled in the heart of Dublin Castle, the library is a hidden gem with a world-class collection of art and manuscripts from around the globe. Established by Sir Alfred Chester Beatty in the early 20th century, this unique library and museum offer a remarkable journey through the realms of Eastern and Western culture. </p> <p>As you explore its galleries, you'll encounter exquisitely illuminated manuscripts, ancient texts, and beautiful artworks. Whether you're an art lover or simply curious, the <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/chester-beatty-library" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Chester Beatty Library</a> promises a captivating experience that celebrates the beauty of human creativity and heritage. </p> <p><strong>Evening </strong></p> <p>Enjoy dinner at a riverside restaurant in the Temple Bar district, then catch a traditional Irish music session at a nearby pub. </p> <h2>Day 3: Dublin's Southside Charms </h2> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/dublin/blog/guinness.jpg" alt="Image of Alcohol, Beer, Beverage, Glass, Adult, Male, Man, Person, Cup, Stout, " loading="lazy"><p><strong>Morning </strong></p> <p>Visit the iconic <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/guinness-storehouse" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Guinness Storehouse</a> and learn the art of brewing. Located in the heart of Dublin at the St. James's Gate Brewery, the Guinness Storehouse is a shrine to Ireland's most iconic export – Guinness beer. </p> <p>Housed in a historic building that once functioned as a fermentation plant, this immersive attraction takes you on a journey through the brewing process, the history of Guinness, and its impact on Irish culture. As you ascend through seven floors shaped like a giant pint glass, you'll learn about the ingredients, craftsmanship, and the art of pouring the perfect pint of Guinness. The tour culminates at the Gravity Bar, offering panoramic views of Dublin, where you can savor a complimentary pint while drinking in the cityscape. Use your pass for free entry to the museum and discounts at the 1837 Bar &amp; Brasserie. </p> <p><em>Lunch:</em> dine at the on-site Guinness restaurant or head to a nearby eatery. </p> <p><strong>Afternoon </strong></p> <p>Make your way to the outskirts of Dublin to explore the historic Kilmainham Gaol, a former prison with a pivotal role in Irish history. A poignant reminder of Ireland's turbulent past and struggle for independence, this former prison, with its somber stone walls, has witnessed key moments in Irish history and housed many political prisoners. </p> <p>Today, it offers a profound insight into Ireland's fight for freedom. As you explore its corridors and cells, you'll hear the stories of the brave men and women who fought for independence, making Kilmainham Gaol a powerful and emotionally charged destination for history enthusiasts and those seeking to understand Ireland's past. Be sure to book your tour in advance. </p> <p><strong>Evening </strong></p> <p>Enjoy a leisurely walk along the Grand Canal, followed by a sumptuous dinner in one of the fine dining restaurants near Baggot Street. </p> <h2>Day 4: A Day by the Sea </h2> <p><strong>Morning</strong> </p> <p>Use your pass to take a <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/big-bus-dublin-coastal-tour" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Big Bus Dublin Coastal Tour</a> to the coastal town of Howth. Enjoy an hour-long guided tour of the charming village, stroll along the picturesque harbor, and enjoy a seafood breakfast at one of the lovely cafés. </p> <p><em>Lunch:</em> hike or take a cliff walk to the Howth Summit, where you'll be rewarded with breathtaking views of Dublin Bay. </p> <p><strong>Afternoon </strong></p> <p>Explore the historic Howth Castle and its beautiful gardens. This historic castle, dating back over 800 years, is still a private residence today, but its enchanting grounds and gardens are open to the public. Stroll through the beautifully landscaped gardens, enjoy scenic views of Dublin Bay, and explore the charming rhododendron gardens. Howth Castle offers a delightful escape from the city, inviting you to immerse yourself in Irish history and savor the tranquility of its lush surroundings. </p> <p><strong>Evening </strong></p> <p>Return to Dublin and dine at a seafood restaurant along the River Liffey. </p> <h2>Day 5: Dublin's Northside Wonders </h2> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dtljonz0f/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto/v1/gc-v1/dublin/epic%20museum%20dublin.jpeg" alt="default alt tag" loading="lazy"><p><strong>Morning </strong></p> <p>Begin your day at <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/epic-irish-emigration-museum" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum</a>, celebrating Ireland's diaspora and global influence. You’ll find the museum in Dublin's vibrant Docklands that offers a one-of-a-kind journey that unfolds the remarkable stories of the Irish diaspora. </p> <p>This interactive museum celebrates the impact and achievements of Irish emigrants around the world. As you explore its engaging exhibitions, you'll discover the Irish people's struggles, triumphs, and contributions across generations and continents. EPIC offers an immersive experience that connects you with Ireland's global legacy, making it a must-visit destination for anyone curious about the intricate tapestry of Irish history and culture. </p> <p><em>Lunch: </em>head to the nearby Woollen Mills for a traditional Irish lunch. </p> <p><strong>Afternoon </strong></p> <p>Discover the historic <a href="https://gocity.com/dublin/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/old-jameson-distillery-tour" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Jameson Distillery Bow Street</a> with a guided tour and whiskey tasting. Nestled in the heart of Smithfield, the distillery is a hallowed place for whiskey aficionados and those looking to savor the essence of Ireland's most famous whiskey. </p> <p>This historic distillery, nestled in the heart of Smithfield, has been at the forefront of Irish whiskey production since 1780. A visit here offers you a unique opportunity to delve into the art and craft of whiskey-making. Explore the distillery's rich history, witness the whiskey-making process, and even enjoy a tasting session led by expert guides. It's an immersive experience that allows you to appreciate the complexity and flavor of Jameson whiskey, making it a memorable stop for any Dublin visitor. Remember to use your pass to enjoy a free guided tour! </p> <p><strong>Evening </strong></p> <p>Savor your last Irish meal at a restaurant in the Smithfield Square area. Conclude your Dublin adventure with a visit to a local pub for live music and a pint of your favorite Irish brew. </p> <p><strong>Final Thoughts </strong></p> <p>Dublin's charm lies in its rich history, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality. This five-day itinerary perfectly blends historic sites, cultural treasures, scenic adventures, and culinary delights. Whether you're exploring the city center, the coastal towns, or the cultural attractions, Dublin promises an unforgettable experience that will leave you longing to return. Sláinte! </p> 

Ireland's vibrant and historic capital beckons with a rich tapestry of culture, history, and unforgettable experiences. Five days in this captivating city may sound like a brief escape, but it's the perfect amount of time to savor the essence of Dublin, immerse yourself in its storied past, and revel in its vibrant present.  

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