people in the rain

Things to do in Dublin when it rains

By Go City Expert

Rainy Day Rescues: Dublin's Best Indoor Activities to Brighten Your Day

by Mia Russell

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 Guinness Storehouse, and the Temple Bar district, Dublin beckons travelers from around the world with a promise of unforgettable experiences.

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.

So, grab your umbrella, slip on your raincoat, and dive into Dublin's rainy-day adventures.

Raise a Glass at the Guinness Storehouse

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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 Guinness Storehouse 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.

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.

Attractions and Activities:

  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • Interactive Experiences: The Guinness Storehouse is brimming with interactive experiences, from pouring the perfect pint to learning how to craft a Guinness cocktail.

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!

Delve into Dublin's History at Dublinia

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Journey back in time with an immersive historical experience at Dublinia. 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.

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 Dublinia. Explore the Viking and medieval periods with lifelike exhibitions and hands-on displays.

Attractions and Activities:

  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.

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.

Go Gallery-Hopping at These Rainy Day Havens for Art Lovers

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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.

So, when Dublin's skies weep, let these art galleries be your haven for inspiration and discovery.

  • National Gallery of Ireland: 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.
  • Hugh Lane Gallery: Situated on Parnell Square North, this gallery features modern and contemporary art and the relocated studio of Irish artist Francis Bacon.
  • IMMA (Irish Museum of Modern Art): 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 IMMA (Irish Museum of Modern Art) and discounts in the IMMA shop.

Meander Around Dublin’s Museums

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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.

  • 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.
  • National Museum of Ireland – Archaeology: 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.
  • National Museum of Ireland - Decorative Arts & History: Nestled within the historic Collins Barracks, the National Museum of Ireland - Decorative Arts & 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 & History Guidebook.
  • EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum: 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.
  • National Print Museum: 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 – Guided Historical Tour
  • Chester Beatty : 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.

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.

Top Tips for Visiting Dublin on a Rainy Ray:

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:

  • 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.
  • Waterproof clothing: A good raincoat or waterproof jacket with a hood will keep you dry and comfortable.
  • Check Weather Updates: Keep an eye on weather forecasts and radar updates to plan your activities accordingly.
  • 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.
  • 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.

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!

Go City Expert
Go City Travel Expert

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Shop the Stalls: Guide to the Best Dublin Markets

Find the perfect souvenir and explore the best Dublin markets. 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. Temple Bar Book Market 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. Open Saturday - Sunday, 11am - 6pm. Liberty Market 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. Open Thursday - Sunday, 10am - 4pm. Dublin Flea Market 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. Open on the last Sunday of the month, 11am - 5pm. Ha'Penny Flea Market 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. Open every Saturday, 12 - 6pm. Blackrock Market 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. Open Saturday - Sunday, 10:30am - 5:30pm. Howth Market 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. Open every Sunday, 10am - 5pm.
Megan Hills
Dublin
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Talk Like a Local: Our Guide to Irish Slang

Accents aside, there's more to understanding the Irish on your visit than you might think. When coming to Ireland, it's easy to get lost in conversations if you're not keyed into the local slang.
Megan Hills
Guinness drinkers toasting in Dublin.
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Things to do in Dublin in Winter

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: Temple Bar pubs Whiskey distillery tours The Guinness Storehouse Christmas markets Dublin winter festivals Game of Thrones tours Winter walks in Phoenix Park Visiting Dublin in Winter 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. 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. 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. 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 pass from Go City 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. Things to do in Dublin in Winter 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. 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 EPIC Irish Emigration Museum and Jeanie Johnston Tallship explore how the Great Famine forced thousands of desperate Irish citizens to flee in search of a better life in North America. 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 studio tour that takes in iconic sets and costumes from Game of Thrones. Want more? There are several day trips out of Dublin that visit classic Game of Thrones locations. Raven-eyed fans are bound to recognize Westeros in sites that include Tollymore Forest Park, Ward’s Castle and Inch Abbey. 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 Jameson or Teeling whiskey distilleries 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 Guinness Storehouse for a perfect 119.5-second pour of the black stuff. What’s on: Dublin Winter Events 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. 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. 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. Save on things to do in Dublin Save on admission to Dublin attractions with Go City. Check out @GoCity on Instagram for the latest top tips and attraction info.
Stuart Bak
Stuart Bak

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