Things to do in Dublin when it rains

By Go City Expert
Published: July 18, 2024
people in the rain

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!

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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, socks, 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
Friends celebrating St Patrick's Day in Dublin, Ireland.
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Things to do in Dublin in Spring

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: The National Botanic Gardens Picnics on St Stephen’s Green St Patrick’s Day festivities Long walks in Phoenix Park The Guinness Storehouse Foodie walking tours of Dublin Dublin Dance Festival Visiting Dublin in Spring 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. 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! A pass from Go City 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. Things to do in Dublin in Spring 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 Guinness Storehouse, 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 National Gallery of Ireland and the Museum of Literature Ireland (MoLI). 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. 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 National Botanic Gardens 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. 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 walking tour of the city’s top foodie hotspots. Should the mood take you, you can also be out of the city and into the countryside in no time at all. Join a bus tour to the charming seaside village of Howth, 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. What’s on: Dublin Spring Events 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. 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. 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
Wooden Guinness barrel.
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4 Days in Dublin

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: Christ Church Cathedral Dublin Castle Malahide Castle Trinity College Temple Bar St Stephen’s Green EPIC Irish Immigration Museum The Guinness Storehouse Grafton Street Day 1: Dublin: A Brief History 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. 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. 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. Day 2: Dublin’s Best Museums and Booze 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 National Gallery, and explore the best of contemporary local art at the Irish Museum of Modern Art (IMMA). Delve into the city’s storied history at the, well, epic EPIC Irish Emigration Museum and discover how desperate Irish citizens fled the Great Famine aboard the Jeanie Johnston Tallship in the 19th Century, in search of a better life in North America. 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) Jameson and Teeling, as well as in pretty much any Irish bar worth its salt. Prefer books to booze? Get yourself down the Writers Museum and Museum of Literature Ireland, where exhibits celebrate the great and good of Irish wordsmithery, from Shaw to Sheridan, Joyce to Wilde. A Game of Thrones studio tour and a National Leprechaun Museum offer further fantastical japes and prove beyond all doubt that there really is something for everyone in Dublin! Head full of dragons, poetry and folklore, mosey on down to the Guinness Storehouse 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. Day 3: Day Trip to Malahide Castle 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 magnificent medieval Malahide Castle, 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? 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 Casino Marino, 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. Day 4: Medieval Dublin 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 Christ Church Cathedral, 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. Continue your religious pilgrimage at nearby St Patrick’s, named in honor of Ireland’s snake-chaser-in-chief. Or pop just next door to the excellent Dublinia experience, where immersive and interactive exhibits take you back to the Dublin of Viking and medieval times. Last but by no means least, Dublin Castle 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. 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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