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10 Best Things to do in Dublin

South Great Georges Street Dublin – By William Murphy – https://www.flickr.com/photos/infomatique/14152162397/in/photolist-nyzwPX-C6RhZi-dFoZ7y-dy7ndy-hpk1mU-hpk55o-2bDroaB-dy7nps-F6ZztL-hpjVh5-nR4mag-F4jR4H-9ECEQe-9nwgoo-9EFNDm-9ED41t-9EAsDn-2f2NbzL-9ED4Wz-ZfX5Yx-bkr7qJ-21BpzZz-GzDri1-hpk5yu-2eEjpw1-c5VjV9-29Y3wMJ-HBf6RZ-5nXvJC-c5V4qd-GzDpHs-9DPY4z-9EFztS-24fWxvZ-NqZpMK-v6fws-hpjBo8-9EDJFw-GJtD36-9EE8pY-bRyGtH-9EBCae-4dN5Lh-9EBXhZ-9EDHsh-9EDyzy-9ECyrW-9EBvCc-Pv9wV9-p9CgWv, CC BY-SA 2.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=114979160

If you are headed to Ireland for a long weekend, month-long vacation, or simply an overnight trip to experience the magic of the Emerald Isle, there are plenty of things to do! Whether you are here for a quick stopover or you are seriously contemplating marrying an Irish lad and getting citizenship here, the number of activities in Ireland is endless.

Plus, there are tons of things to do inside — after all, it DOES rain a lot here. No, that’s not a rumor. 

Fortunately for you, you can enjoy the rare sunny days by taking a stroll by the river, walking around the vintage shops, or visiting the open-air markets on the weekends. If it is pouring rain, head inside to one of the many pubs, restaurants, or cafes to get a feel for what Dubliners eat and drink during their breaks from work.

Let’s check out the best things to do in Dubin during your upcoming holiday — and why you’ll want to stay longer!

Guinness Storehouse

Guinness Storehouse exterior – By Steven Lek – Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=51039263

This one is kind of cliche, but we have to add it. Although it is on every single tourist’s list of “things to do ” when they get to Dublin, there is a reason for that! The cool history of learning how Guinness was made, the extensive views from the top of the tower, and the perfect pour of Guinness are enough to even make locals head here on a random weekday. We recommend heading here on a weekday to get an unfettered view of the city and avoid the throngs of tourists pressing their noses up the glass to get the best views. 

Temple Bar

Temple Bar Dublin – By Trevah – Own work, Public Domain, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=6422735

Typically the most crowded part of the city, Temple Bar is always filled with locals and tourists alike — and for good reason! With live music, great Guinness, and a bit of craic, it is no wonder that the first place most foreigners go after they get off the coach bus from Dublin Airport is the Temple Bar area. 

Stephen’s Green

St. Stephen’s Green ist ein Park im Zentrum der Stadt Dublin. Das Bild wurde im “Indian Summer” im Oktober aufgenommen – By Dronepicr (edited by King of Hearts)Edit corrects CA and sharpens image – File:Dublin Stephen’s Green-44.jpg, CC BY 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=52447595

Known as one of the best open spaces for Dubliners to sit back, relax, play a board game, read a book, or converse with friends, St. Stephen’s Green is also one of the most picturesque spots in the city. Reminiscent of Victorian times, this beautiful square is the ideal spot to hang out, people watch the locals, and remember the things of times past. 

Jameson Distillery

Dublin Jameson Distillery – By Nialljpmurphy – Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=110181540

Maybe you’re not a Guinness fan. That is a big mistake if you come to Ireland, but that doesn’t mean you can’t have a little tasting room fun. We recommend heading to Jameson Distillery on Bow Street to try some of the best whiskeys in the country. You can pay for an inclusive 40-minute tour that provides you with an entire history, tasting, and a drink on the house! Stay for a few at the downstairs bar, JJ’s Bar, for a full night out in Dublin.

Trinity College

Trinity College, Dublin, Ireland – By Ajay Suresh from New York, NY, USA – Trinity College – Campanile & Parliament Square, CC BY 2.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=87179953

If you are a history buff — or you just appreciate beautiful things — you will love the Old Library at Trinity College in Dublin. This 18th-century library is one of the most incredible buildings in Ireland, known for its historic quarters, manicured estate, and astonishing art exhibitions. 

The Winding Stair

Georgie Yeats – By Lady Ottoline Morrell (died 1938) – one or more third parties have made copyright claims against Wikimedia Commons in relation to the work from which this is sourced or a purely mechanical reproduction thereof. This may be due to recognition of the “sweat of the brow” doctrine, allowing works to be eligible for protection through skill and labour, and not purely by originality as is the case in the United States (where this website is hosted). These claims may or may not be valid in all jurisdictions.As such, use of this image in the jurisdiction of the claimant or other countries may be regarded as copyright infringement. Please see Commons:When to use the PD-Art tag for more information., Public Domain, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=6961158

Known as Dublin’s famous bookstore, The Winding Stair is also a popular spot for those who like the classics, picking up thick books written by infamous authors like Yeats. Plus, you can grab a book and walk upstairs to get incredible views of the river Liffey, have a pint of Guinness, and slurp on a hot Irish stew during the winter months. 

St. Patrick’s Cathedral

st Patricks Cathedral – By Diliff – Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=42293155

Another incredible spot to get a glimpse of the history of Dublin, and ogle at the architecture, is St. Patrick’s Cathedral. This colossal structure is one of the most visited in the entire country due to its turrets, high ceilings, and brightly-colored stained-glass windows. 

Wicklow Mountains

Glendasan River – By Joe King – Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=15814846

This requires a bit of planning, but taking a day trip from Dublin to the Wicklow Mountains is great to get outside, get some fresh air, and see the beauty of Ireland’s mountains. Take a coach bus from the city center of Dublin for a full-day trip.

Howth Cliff Walk

Howth postcard – By Library of Congress, Prints and Photographs Division, Washington, D.C. 20540 USA – https://www.flickr.com/photos/library_of_congress/4427427596/, Public Domain, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=18345153

Another great way to feel one with nature is to head to the nearby seaside area of Howth. Just a little bit of a trek from the city center of Dublin, Howth can be easily reached via public transportation, making it a fun sunny-day activity.