6 Fun Things to Do in Dublin
Whether you are visiting Ireland for the first time or simply stopping in the capital, there are plenty of fun things to do in Dublin that make the city worth exploring.
From the iconic Guinness Storehouse and the historic Book of Kells to Irish dancing, walking tours, and the powerful history of Kilmainham Gaol, Dublin blends culture, music, storytelling, and history unlike anywhere else in Europe.
This guide covers the best things to do in Dublin, including:
Must-see attractions
Historic landmarks
Unique Irish experiences
Walking tours
Local favorites
These are the experiences that made Dublin one of the most memorable cities we visited in Ireland.
Why Dublin Deserves a Spot on Your Itinerary
Although Ireland is known for quaint towns and countryside landscapes, Dublin is not to be overlooked.
It's rich with history, music and storytelling.
You can experience this trinity of Irish culture within the city limits before trekking to the next stop in what I consider to be the friendliest country I have traveled.
Its quite likely that if you are traveling from outside of Europe you will fly into Dublin, so take advantage of this cobblestoned city with whatever time you have.
Our recommendations come from the lasting memories we made in Dublin, so see if you can do them all!
1. EPIC Emigration Museum
Dublin’s Emigration Museum offers a unique way for you to learn about your own personal Irish roots and see how many influential people have come from Ireland.
It was fascinating to see the ripples the Irish have made in the world, especially considering what was needed to overcome.
The turbulent 19th century, marked by English oppression and the potato famine, started the great exodus from Ireland that persisted all the way through the 20th century.
You can learn about the movement of Irish people throughout history all the way to the present day.
Located right on the River Liffey in the City Center.
What we loved about this museum was a new take on Irish history; it was inspiring to see where Irish people have traveled, and what they have accomplished.
The coolest aspect of this museum were the genealogy experts.
If you know you are Irish but don’t have all the details of your family’s past you can give the genealogist some details and they will be able to explain your roots to you!
When we spoke to an expert he was able to explain what region I most likely came from considering my ancestors were protestant farmers who settled in Wisconsin.
He was able to also explain what region Andrew came from considering his ancestors settled in New York and why people from certain regions in Ireland moved to certain regions in the US.
Highest recommendation if you have ever wanted to talk about your family history as opposed to scouring the internet. 10/10!
2. Guinness Storehouse
Although we are not beer drinkers I would highly recommend the Guinness Storehouse for its history and its influence.
Arthur Guinness, the father of beer, had an entrepreneurial spirit I think we could all appreciate. He famously signed a 9,000 year lease on the property.
Aside from the museum portion of the facility where you can learn about how the famous black stout is made from farm to glass, you can also enjoy a Guinness pouring class or have a selfie printed on the foam of your drink!
Like I mentioned this company has the entrepreneurial spirit that I think you want a taste of!
With all that being said the gravity bar was the highlight of my time at the Guinness Storehouse.
A 360 degree view of the city of Dublin while toasting with the drink that did so much for the county is one of those moments I would never gate-keep.
Open everyday at 9:30 with varying closing times—check it out for 22 Euro!
3. Learn an Irish Jig!
I always love to dance so this was a core memory from my time in Ireland when I went after I graduated college.
A group of 10 of us had a private dance lesson with a professional Irish singer and dancer and we learned about traditional Irish songs, where they come from and their significance.
Then we sang them as we learned some basic step dances.
No skill required so don’t over think it. Just let loose and have fun.
It’s a great way to meet other tourists and ask your instructor about Irish dance and music.
I can’t recommend it enough. Learn to dance in Ireland? No question.
You can book the Irish Dance Party for about $30 USD and its two hours of storytelling, song and dance.
I'm still humming those tunes 10 years later. Check it out!
4. Kilmainham Gaol
I visited this site when I first went to Ireland way back in 2013 and it left a lasting impact on me.
“Gaol” means jail, and so this is a tour of a major jail in Dublin, erected in the late 1700’s as a solution to poor conditions in other jails.
However this jail succumbed to the overcrowded cells, small food portions and unsanitary practices.
Visiting historic jails usually gives a peek into the lower class life and shows the justice system with hindsight.
In this case it also provides insight on the revolutions that won Ireland its independence as well as providing a portal to how the common person lived and perhaps what social issues pushed them to crime or at least being accused.
As you may have guessed the potato famine played a major role in the increase of crime as people were stealing to survive, sometimes with the hopes of going to jail just to have food and housing provided.
This 90 minute guided tour is well worth your time as you learn about the common man/woman/child (yes there were children in this jail) as well as major political prisoners.
It is necessary you plan ahead because my second time in Ireland tours were sold out for the week.
Tours can be booked 28 days in advance and there is more availability on week days!
Please note this is my number one recommendation in DUBLIN!
5. Walking Tour of Dublin
Why do a walking tour in Ireland? It helps you wrap your head around the layout of the city.
If you do the walking tour on day one, you can check some sites off your list and get an idea of where the hot spots are.
Most likely you will cross off some major attractions like Temple Bar on your first night and then you can decide if it's where you want to spend most of your time.
Tour guides often share some off the beaten path pubs and that's your next night's plans right there.
You can learn so much from these tours and it helps give you a picture of the country’s history so that you can better understand how Ireland became what it is today.
You can take specific tours about food, historical landmarks, jewelry making and the late night pub crawl.
You can find a walking tour that peaks your travel niche and your budget.
Don’t forget to tip your guides!
Here are some great walking tour options!
Viatour (many options!) and Free Walking Tour Dublin
6. Trinity College and the Book of Kells
The Book of Kells is a famous 1,200 year old manuscript that has survived the terrors of the times, this includes viking raids, famine and war.
Written by monks who were copying the Biblical Gospels, this is not just an old book.
Its an ornate relic designed by men who may have only been teenagers.
It was tedious work but what an incredible piece of history to be put on display.
The illustrations are impressive and intricate making this such a special artifact.
The Book of Kells is conveniently located at Trinity College and while you are there you will be able to make your way through the famous Long Room, the most magnificent library I have ever seen.
More like a museum than a library where you check out books, it has some of Ireland’s more prolific works as well as impressive marble busts of Ireland’s most famous figures.
This is a great site to check out for an hour or so and then head to the next attraction.
The price for Trinity College Book of Kells varies but the most affordable option is 22 euro and that is self guided however they do offer guided tours at the price points of $34 and $65 Euros. Book of Kells opening hours are Monday - Friday 9:30 - 4:30 Sat 9:30 - 5:00 and Sun 10:00-4:30
Wrapping Up Your Dublin Adventure
From the strolling the banks of the River Liffey, to touring the famed Guinness Storehouse, to diving into the rich history highlighted at the Book of Kells, Dublin has something to offer travelers of all ancestries and affinities.
The friendly nature of the locals, the beautiful character of the old stone streets, and the colorful sounds of the city of Dublin all make it one of the most congenial capitals in all of Europe.
Even if only in town for a night or two, all tours above are right in the city limits, and an easy 10 minute taxi ride will get you from one end of the town to the other.
Regardless of what you choose, it will be a warm and inviting look into life on the Emerald Isle.
