Dublin Top Attractions

After spending a few weeks in Dublin, I can undoubtedly say this vibrant city is packed with charm, history, unforgettable experiences... and lots of rain! Nestled along the River Liffey, Dublin's compact city center is an ideal getaway, offering everything from live music and great food to iconic landmarks and hidden gems. Thanks to its mild weather (and an umbrella), Dublin is a year-round destination for anyone seeking culture, adventure and Guinness!

In this guide, I've rounded up the top Dublin attractions, including must-see tourist spots, cultural highlights and plenty of free things to do in Dublin. Whether you're planning your first visit or returning for more, these experiences will help you make the most of your time in Ireland's capital.

1. Explore Dublin on a Walking Tour

One of the best ways to kick off your trip is with a Dublin walking tour. These tours are perfect for getting your bearings and diving into the city's rich history and culture. Guides usually provide great stories and historical facts about wherever I have just landed. Whether you're into historical landmarks, haunted tales, or whisky tastings, there's a themed tour for everyone -- including popular Dublin pub crawls and historic folklore tours. For budget travelers (like me), several free walking tours are available through Guru Walk (just remember to tip your guide!). Sign up for a walking tour early to ensure you get a spot and a great start to your Dublin adventure.

What tourist traps should I avoid in Dublin? Molly Malone Statue

While it's a popular selfie photo, there's not much to it beyond the photo. If you join a walking tour, they will likely stop and provide a little context. But I recommend enjoying other landmarks along Dublin's streets.

2. Discover Free Museums in Dublin

Let's face it -- Dublin weather can be unpredictable. But that's no reason to stay in! Plus, the Irish seem to get joy from a rainy afternoon. If you find Dublin cold, rainy or windy, enjoy one of Dublin's free museums. My personal favorite is the National Museum of Ireland – Archaeology, where you can see eerily well-preserved bog bodies from the Iron Age. Incredible!

There are several others, such as the Natural History Museum (aka the "Dead Zoo") or National Gallery of Ireland, both offering free admission and fascinating exhibits. These cultural gems are ideal for travelers looking for free things to do in Dublin.

3. Warm Up at Butler’s Chocolate Cafe

No trip to Dublin is complete without indulging in a treat from Butler’s Chocolate Cafe. This beloved local chain is famous for its decadent hot chocolate. Each drink order comes with a complimentary chocolate of your choice, so don’t be shy when they ask if you would like one. The chocolate is melted and hand mixed, making it super thick and creamy. You'll find Butler's Cafe locations across Dublin, but my go-to is the one on Dawson Street. Whether you're craving a mocha, a classic hot chocolate, or just a sweet break, this is one of the tastiest Dublin attractions for food lovers.

4. Take a Scenic Day Trip to Howth

Looking for a refreshing escape from the city? A day trip to Howth is one of the best things to do near Dublin. Just a 40-minute ride on the DART from central Dublin, this charming seaside village offers stunning coastal views, fresh seafood and a peaceful change of pace. The Howth Cliff Walk, a 7 km loop, takes you along the peninsula's edge with breathtaking views of Ireland's Eye, the lighthouse and the vast Irish Sea. The Dart station is surrounded by many restaurants, including the famous Leo Burdock for fish and chips. If you're feeling brave, take a dip in the nearby swimming bay. Howth is a top Dublin day trip you won't regret.

5. Cross the Ha’Penny Bridge

The pedestrian bridge built in 1816 over the River Liffey used to be a half penny to cross, thus the “ha’penny” bridge. Today, it's free to walk and sees around 30,000 people crossing daily. The Ha'Penny Bridge Dublin experience is more than just a photo op -- it's a step into the city's history. Once you cross to the Northside, get lost in the lesser-known streets and discover a different side of Dublin. It's a simple yet memorable way to connect with the city's past and present.

6. Visit the Iconic Guinness Storehouse in Dublin

No list of things to do in Dublin is complete without a visit to the world-famous Guinness Storehouse. Located at St. Jame's Gate Brewery, where Arthur Guinness signed a 9,000-year lease in 1759, this seven-story experience is a must for beer lovers and curious travelers alike. Today, it is the largest brewery in the world and Guinness has become synonymous with Ireland. You can take a self-guided tour of the Guinness Storehouse, which details their rich history, brewing process and cultural impact of Ireland's most iconic stout.

The journey ends with a pint at the rooftop Gravity Bar, offering panaromic views over Dublin's skyline. You can also upgrade your ticket to include a "Stoutie" – a selfie printed on the foam of your own smooth Guinness. I gotta say, Guinness just taste better in Dublin! Even if you aren’t usually a stout drinker, the Guinness Storehouse Dublin is one of the most unforgettable things to do in Dublin.

7. Wander through Trinity College & Old Library (Book of Kells)

If you’ve done any research on Dublin, then it’s likely the Book of Kells has showed up on your search. But what is the Book of Kells and is it worth seeing? This 9th-century illuminated manuscript of the Christian Bible, created by Irish monks, is celebrated for its intricate artwork and historical significance. But, I think it’s important to manage your expectations. Housed in the Old Library, the Book of Kells is displayed in a dimly lit room where one page is turned daily -- so you'll only see a single illustration during your visit.

In the summer, it’s a bit like herded cattle to view the small book behind thick glass. Your tickets include a self-guided tour of the Book of Kells and access to the Long Room, a chamber lined with ancient books and wooden shelves. Note: Many of the books have been removed for conservation and restoration, but the space is awe-inspiring, making it a top attraction in Dublin for history lovers.

8. Explore Temple Bar District in Dublin

Many first-time visitors think Temple Bar refers to just one famous pub -- but it's actually the name of an entire cultural quarter in the heart of Dublin city centre. The Temple Bar district is a lively maze of cobbled streets filled with pubs, restaurants, galleries, and quirky shops.

You can stop in for a drink at THE Temple Bar Pub, but warning: as the day goes on, a pint gets more expensive. If you want to stop by this tourist spot, I’d suggest going earlier in the day for some live music and a photo, but don't stop there. Take time to wander the whole neighborhood. There is always something happening in Temple Bar Dublin.

Pro Tips for Exploring Dublin:

If you want to go beyond the typical tourist trail, these insider tips will help you experience the best of Dublin's local culture.

The Cobblestone is a beloved spot for authentic Irish trad music. It is definitely a pub meant for friendly chat and live music, so put your phone away and soak up the local culture.

Word on the street – not all Guinness is created equal. Proper nitrogen levels and fresh keg lines matter, so if you are looking for the best pint of Guinness in Dublin, head to Kehoe’s or The Duke.

9. Treat Yourself to Murphy’s Irish Ice Cream

For a sweet break, head to Murphy’s Irish Ice Cream, a must-visit for foodies in Dublin. Handmade in Dingle using milk from the native Kerry cows, this ice cream is ultra creamy and full of flavor. They offer some unique flavors like Irish Brown Bread and Dingle Sea Salt, making it a standout among Dublin dessert spots. Bonus: They weigh the ice cream, so even a “single scoop” could have three different flavors for small, yummy bites of different tastes! Don't miss the Irish Cream flavor made with Micil Distillery spirits -- it's a local favorite.

10. Shop Local at George’s Street Arcade

If you are looking for unique shopping in Dublin, make your way to George's Street Arcade. I love this shopping centre in the heart of Dublin's city centre. The enclosed Victorian market is packed with boutique stalls offering vintage finds, trendy jewelry, funky music and local art. It's a great place to pick up souvenirs or just enjoy the creative energy of Dublin's artisan scene. With several cafes and restaurants inside, it's also a cozy spot to grab a bite while exploring.

Whether you're checking off top attractions in Dublin, hunting down the best pubs or indulging in local treats, this city has something for every kind of traveler. For even more activities, check out Get Your Guide, my go-to source for booking Dublin tours and experiences! You can easily spend several days checking off top attractions in Dublin. There are almost endless things to see and explore, but don't forget to slow down and enjoy a pint at a local pub. If beer isn’t your thing, head to Peruke & Periwig on Dawson Street for a craft cocktail while soaking up the charm of Dublin.

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