Things to Do in Dublin
The museum has a total of four branches, with three branches in Dublin and one in County Mayo. In the Kildare Street branch, you can see many archaeological exhibits and artefacts dating to prehistoric times in Ireland. For the history lovers, there is the Decorative Arts and History Branch in Collins Barracks which has a fine representation of the country’s decorative arts and their political, social and economic history. In the Natural History Museum, you can see various specimens collected by Irish scientists during the 19th century. Apart from offering a delightful lesson in history, the museum hosts many educational activities which you can enjoy with friends and family along with seasonal crafts, self guided activity booklets and interactive exhibits.
Location: Kildare St, Dublin 2, Ireland
Timing: Tuesday to Saturday 10am - 5pm. Sunday and Monday 1pm - 5pm
One of the notable features of this place is the Yeats Archives with works of Jack B Yeats and paintings like ‘The Meeting On Turret Stairs’ painted by Frederic William Burton in 1864. Some of the facilities which you can enjoy here are a shop, restaurant, telephones and cloakrooms. You can also avail a free audio tour guide along with many Sunday activities and family drawing books. Counted among the must visit tourist places in Dublin for art lovers, the National Gallery of Ireland reserves a place in all tourist itineraries.
Location: Merrion Square W, Dublin 2, D02 K303, Ireland
The public garden in Dublin where you can admire the breathtaking architecture and the city’s aristocracy. Built in 1726, the garden is renowned for its design and boundary of Georgian buildings. The green spaces at Merrion Square will entice the nature lover to enjoy the sunny days and take a short stroll. If you are an art lover, this is a place where you can watch out to display various art works on Sundays.The foodies can also street food from 11:30 am to 2:30 pm on Thursdays.
Location: Merrion Square, Dublin
Timing: 10 am to 8:30 pm
If you are Irish, you can try to find out your ancestry by going through the Family History Centre here. Located in the 200-year-old Georgian warehouse, EPIC is a lively attraction to enjoy many cultural events along with recreation, retail therapy and food outings. Some of the popular places to visit in Dublin along with this museum are the Famine Memorial Sculptures, Jeanie Johnston Famine Ship, The Custom House, Dublin Convention Centre etc.
Location: The Chq Building, Unit 32 /33, N Wall Quay, North Wall, Dublin 1, Ireland
Timing: 10.00am to 6.45pm (last entry 5.00pm)
Entry Fee: Euro 12 to 14
Location: O'Connell Street Lower, North City, Dublin 1, D01 F5P2, Ireland
Timing: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
Entry Fee: Euro 15
Often called Collins Barracks, the museum was named in honor of Michael Collins, a freedom fighter in Irish struggle for independence who was killed in the Civil War. The museum is replete with many amazing artefacts which range from silver, ceramics, glassware, weaponry, furniture and folk like displays.
Some of the interesting exhibits which you can see here is the Way We Wore displaying clothing and jewellery from 250 years of Ireland, the Soldiers and Chiefs exhibit showcasing the history of Irish military from 1550 to the current times. One of the eye-catching exhibits to see here is the Proclaiming a Republic: The 1916 Rising which is dedicated to showcasing the events of Rebellion along with many artefacts on the same. There is also the famous Curator’s Choice exhibition where you can see hand picked 25 items that are picked by curators and exhibited with an account of the same.
Location: Collins Barracks, Benburb St, Stoneybatter, Dublin, D07 XKV4, Ireland
Timing: Tuesday - Saturday: 10am-5pm, Sunday - Monday:1pm-5pm
One of the prominent art collections to watch out for here is the Freud Project, which is a popular exhibition by Lucian Freud, one of the notable realist painters of the 20th century. It is known to have more than 3500 pieces which are attributed to many Irish and international artists. The museum offers many gallery based tours and workshops where everyone can participate along with many talks, seminars and artist led events. Some of the works of popular names like Marina Abramović, Joseph Cornell, and Roy Lichtenstein can be seen in the art collection at IMMA.
Location: Royal Hospital Kilmainham, Military Rd, Kilmainham, Dublin 8, Ireland
Timing: Tuesday – Friday: 11.30am – 5.30pm, Saturday: 10.00am – 5.30pm, Sunday: 12noon – 5.30pm*
You will get an all areas access pass to find yourself in the backstage of Button Factory. Music lovers here can see all the recording studios where the famous artists like Christy Moore, Rihanna, Will I Am and The Script have recorded many award winning tracks. The experience is a delightful getaway to know more about the Irish music industry which has developed over the past 30 years. It also boasts of having the largest sound deck in the country that is also called Apollo Studio. For the lovers of vintage things, there is a plethora of memorabilia of many old guitars, musical equipment, handwritten lyrics and tour jackets worn by Michael Jackson. Other highlights of the Museum include the Irish Wall of Fame, The U2 Exhibition and Thin Lizzy Experience.
Location: Curved St, Temple Bar, Dublin, D02 PC43, Ireland
Timing: 11 am to 5:30 pm
Entry Fee: Starting EURO 10
Location: Dalkey and Killiney, Ireland
Highlights: Nature, history,culture, photography etc.
The reflective stainless steel brings out the abstract design of the spire. The view during the evenings is equally great while the night view dazzles everyone with the light source rising from the tip of the Spire which serves as a beacon of night sky in the city of Dublin.
Location: The Spire, O'Connell Street Upper, North City, Dublin, Ireland
Highlights: Sightseeing, photography, architecture etc.
Apart from that, you can see furniture from the home of Paul Leon, one of the friends of Joyce. There is also the table where Joyce used to sit with friends and supporters and worked on the translation of Finnegans Wake. You can also see many temporary exhibitions which showcase the numerous aspects from the life and work of James Joyce.
Location: 35 N Great George's St, Rotunda, Dublin, Ireland
Timing: 10 am to 5 pm
Entry Fee: Euro 5
Tourists here can enjoy cycling and also opt for many Segway tours which are arranged here for a small fee. Other notable attractions of the park include the Visitor Centre and Ashtown Castle which offers a quick lesson of the park’s history, the 17th century medieval tower and the 78 acre Edwardian estate which offer a slice of serenity for all the visitors.
Location: Saint James' (part of Phoenix Park), Dublin 8, Ireland
Timing: 9:30 to 4pm
Entry Fee: Euro 20
Notable for its exquisite architecture, Christ Church cathedral is well known to be home to the oldest and largest crypt in Britain and Ireland. Dating back to the 12th century, Christ Church Cathedral was built in 1930 by the Sitric King of the Dublin Norsemen. One of the notable places in Dublin, this church was incorporated as an Irish church in 1152 and thereafter led by Laurence O’Toole, the notable Archbishop and patron saint of Dublin.
Some of the most interesting medieval exhibits can be seen here like the manuscripts and artefacts along with many treasures of Christ Church. One of the most remarkable exhibits to be seen here includes the royal plate which was gifted by King William III in 1697 as a thanksgiving gift for his triumphant win in the Battle of the Boyne. Another rare exhibit seen at the Christ Church Cathedral is the rare 14th century copy of the Magna Carta Hiberniae.
Location: Christchurch Pl, Wood Quay, Dublin 8, Ireland
Timing: 2 pm to 4 pm (Sunday closed)
Often celebrated as the national cathedral of the Church of Ireland, St. Patrick’s Cathedral is very famous for its choir that was established in 1432 and still performs. You can opt for a guided tour here or use the free app when you are wandering in the cathedral. In the 5th century, the first church was consecrated here in 1191 and 1270 A.D and in 1311 A.D. the Medieval College of Dublin was founded.
The church underwent major repairs in the 1660s and since then has been hailed as one of the best examples of medieval architecture in Dublin. It is an important place in Ireland for celebrating many state events along with the annual Remembrance Day ceremonies. Some of the popular things to spot at this cathedral include the memorial plaques, busts and mementos, the most famous being the Boyle Family tomb from the 17th century.
Location: St Patrick's Close, Dublin 8, A96 P599, Ireland
Timing: Monday to Friday: 9am - 5:30pm. Saturday: 9am - 6pm
Hailed as one of the only Irish institutions to win the European Museum of the Year award, this place attracts all culture lovers. Chester Beatty was famous as a self made millionaire who earned the name of ‘king of copper’ after making a million dollar business before he was 32. The museum displays the collection of objects that range from stamps, Chinese snuff bottles and ancient relics. The museum has on display the collection of Oriental books and artworks which were gathered during the 20th century. It also has the earliest known copies of the four gospels, more than 200 early examples of Quran, English, French colour plate books along with Old Master prints. One of the popular exhibits here is the Gospel of Mani which has the last remaining artefact of Manichaeism.
Location: Dublin Castle, Dublin 2, D02 AD92, Ireland
Timing: Monday to Friday 9:45am - 5:30pm,,Wednesday 9:45am - 8:00pm, Saturday 9:45am - 5:30pm, Sunday 12:00pm - 5:30pm
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What are the best things to do in Dublin?
1. Party like the Irish at The Temple Bar: When it comes to finding the most iconic bars in all of Dublin then the Temple bar hits the chart. This place is so famous that travelers come from all over the world just to have a drink inside this beautiful premise of Temple Bar. Sitting in the heart of the city makes this place easily accessible to the people, it also has a bright right exterior giving it an eye-catching look to the travelers passing by. Not only this, you can enjoy live music entertainment with an electrifying atmosphere vibe which will give you a taste of the hell of a night.
Location: Dublin, Ireland
Price: 7.65 Euro for beer
2. Party at Restored Cathedral at The Church: Don’t get confused with the name, this church was originally named St. Mary’s church but now it is one of the most unique and beautiful bars in the city. This party place is divided into 2 parts i.e bar and nightclub. The main floor holds the magnificent bar which is fully equipped with tables, booths, and barstool along with a stage for traditional Irish music. In the downstairs, you can enjoy the nightclub with the best DJs out there who will make you groove to the latest music and RnB’s track.
Location: Junction of Mary St. and, Jervis St, Dublin 1, D01 YX64, Ireland
3. Explore Guinness Storehouse Factory: Exploring the Guinness storehouse factory is on the top list of things to do in Dublin. This place holds countless exhibitions depicting Guinness history, where you can enjoy the beautifully designed interior that replicates the exact look of a pint of Guinness itself. The artifacts placed in the factory will give you more exposure to the history of Irish brewing where you will learn everything about the Guinness family. The best part is the mesmerizing 360-degree view of the Dublin skyline where you can glance through the beautiful city while taking sip of your refreshing pint of Guinness.
Location: St. James's Gate, Dublin 8, D08 VF8H, Ireland
Price: €25 for adults, €18.5 for students & seniors visitors (over 65 years old), and €16 for children aged between 13 and 17 years old.
4. Tour the Old Jameson Distillery: When talking about historical gems then we can’t miss Old Jameson Distillery. This captivating place is located at Smithfield square which was the original site for Jameson whiskey. You can take a tour of Old Jameson Distillery where you’ll unwrap the history and refinement process of making whiskey. While on your tour, you might get an opportunity to take part in a whiskey tasting activity where you’ll get a deeper insight into the finest Irish brewery. You won’t get bored during your tour as they have different interactive elements and stand-up comedians to make your visit more memorable.
Location: Bow St, Smithfield, Dublin 7, D07 N9VH, Ireland
Price: 20 Euros per person
5. Admire the beauty of Spire of Dublin: The Spire of Dublin is a beautiful architectural masterpiece located in the hotspot area of O’Connell street. This structure is a 120-meter tall monument that gives a fascinating experience with the wind passing by on the top of the tower. With the sun rising, the walls of the monument illuminate giving an eye-catching experience to the locals and travelers. It also acts as a beacon in the night with a small light source at the tip of the structure. Make sure that you add this to your list of what to do in Dublin and make your visit unforgettable.
Location: Dublin, Ireland
6. Visit St. Patrick’s Cathedral: Add St. Patrick’s Cathedral to your list of top things to do in Dublin because this is the largest cathedral in Ireland. This beautifully crafted church holds many historical events within its premises. St. Patrick’s Cathedral is a perfect example of architectural wonder with stunning exterior and intricate interior designs which will surely grab your attention. Get ready to experience a relaxing vibe during your visit to the church where you can enjoy the musical choir with the best vocalist leading the choir.
Location: St Patrick's Close, Dublin 8, A96 P599, Ireland
Price: 7 Euros for adults & 6 Euros for students
7. Fish n’ Chips At Leo Burdocks: Take a bite of traditional Fish n’ Chips at Leo Burdocks and complete your Dublin trip. It is one of the most visited places in Dublin not only by travelers but also by celebrities. Keep in mind to add this in your things to do in Dublin since it has a beautiful organized wall of fame that holds the snaps of different celebrities visiting this place. Make sure that you take the crispy fish bite at Leo Burdocks and enjoy your meal with your friends or families.
Location: 2 Werburgh St, Christchurch Pl, Dublin, D08 HC82, Ireland
8. Visit Trinity College Library: Be ready to take a tour of book paradise at Trinity college library which has a collection of early 18th-century books to the current date. This place looks stunning because of its white stone texture exterior walls and dramatic coffee color ceiling. You can enjoy a peaceful time within the silence of Trinity college library and if you want to switch book time then you can book online tickets to peek at the legendary Book of Kells, adding to your travel experience
Location: College Street, Dublin 2, Ireland
Price: 13 Euros starting
9. Walk Across Ha’Penny Bridge: Finding what to do in Dublin is no more a tough task as you can make your evening more overwhelming by walking across the Half Penny Bridge. This wonderful architectural design is a perfect example of the historical bridge which is located over the River Liffey. Walking across this bridge will give you a unique experience where you might get a chance to catch the autumn sunset. You can also explore the bridge on a kayak with city kayaking and get a delightful experience.
Location: Bachelors Walk, Temple Bar, Dublin, Ireland
10. Listen To Buskers On Grafton Street: Make yourself ready to explore Grafton street where you’ll feel the perfect traditional soundtrack to your Irish trip. Being the main commercial spot of Dublin don’t miss adding this spot to your things to do in Dublin. It also has boutiques and restaurants along with some amazing street performers. This is a perfect place to carry out your shopping plans and side by side enjoy the lively musical atmosphere with many great artists. Want to get your evening booze ready? Hop into iconic Bewley’s Grafton Street cafe and enjoy your evening time with your friends or families.
Which are the best water sports to do in Dublin?
1. Snorkelling In Dun Laoghaire: Get ready to experience one of the best water sports activities to do in Dublin, Snorkelling is love for people who want to explore coral life. The best part is you can go Snorkelling with your friend and get yourself acquainted with all new marine flora and fauna.
2. Rafting On The Liffey: Thinking about the best Dublin things to do? Then rafting on the Liffey will be the right spot for you. Just navigate through the rushing water and make your blood pump faster in your body while rafting. Many youngsters and sports enthusiasts come here to enjoy the rafting experience and make their trip more memorable
3. Wakeboarding At The Docklands: One of the best Dublin things to do where you can stretch your body and dive into an unbelievable wakeboarding experience at Dublin’s Docklands. It’s Ireland’s first cable wakeboard park where you’ll be attached with a cable and navigate over the mini obstacles. Must give a try to Wake Boarding as it’s once in a lifetime experience which will always stay with you.
Which are the best adventure things to do in Dublin?
1. Take a scenic tour with GreenAer: The perfect way to explore Dublin and its beautiful places is via an electric bike. You can easily book an e-bike and explore various Dublin routes which might lead you to scenic views of beautiful mountains or crowded streets of Dublin. Make sure you get the battery charged full and get them rolling to add an amazing experience to your travel memories.
2. Mountain biking in Ticknock: Mountain biking in Ticknock is one of the most adventurous activities to Do in Dublin which gives you an off-roading experience. This is one of the best ways to hang out with nature and revive your inner enthusiast as it is located in the foothills of the 3 rock mountains. You can take this 13km challenging trail that runs across Dublin bay and add to your experience.
3. Rock climbing in Dalkey Quarry: Get ready to feel the experience of one of the best activities to Do in Dublin i.e rock climbing in Dalkey Quarry. Stumbling with the maze of narrow paths will definitely arouse the sensation of excitement and thrill in your body. Dalkey Quarry is just 30-min DART ride away from the city center which gives you a perfect environment to test your rock climbing skills.
How to reach Dublin from India?
You can reach Dublin via air where you take flights from cities like Delhi or Mumbai and fly via Abu Dhabi and Dubai. Major flight carriers are Etihad, Jet Airways, Air India, and Lufthansa.
What is the best time to visit Dublin?
The best time to visit Dublin is June to August when temperatures are pleasant and warm, giving you a smooth and happy travel experience.
Is Dublin cheap to visit?
No, Dublin is one of the most expensive European cities and you will spend around €112 ($132) per day on your vacation in Dublin. Adding to it, it holds the most expensive places to drink beer in the world. The average cost of a bar is 5.72 Euro which is equivalent to 500 INR.
Is a visa required for Indians to visit Dublin?
Yes, Indians do need a visa to visit Dublin and explore the beautiful places in Dublin. In order to apply for a Dublin visa, just go to the official website and check what type of visa you need, and book an appointment for it. Make sure you carry out all the pre-requisite documents while going for the appointment.
What's Dublin famous for?
Dublin is famous for its brewery and beautiful museums which are located all over Dublin. You can enjoy the exotic life in Grafton Street and spend a delightful evening walk over Half Penny bridge.
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