Traveling to Dublin for the first time and not sure where to start? Planning a trip to Dublin might be challenging indeed and especially so if this is your first time in the city. How long do I need to spend in Dublin? When to visit? What are the best places to stay in Dublin? How to save time and money and still see the best that Dublin has to offer? From castles and beaches to windmills and lighthouses, here are some clever Dublin travel tips and tricks you should know before you go.

To help you plan your first trip to Dublin, I’ve put together some of the best tips for visiting Dublin. This no-nonsense practical guide will not only help you plan your Dublin trip, but will also show you how to make the best of your trip, time, and budget. Find out!

Dublin Travel Tips. A Complete Guide for Visiting Dublin

If you want to know how to prepare for a trip to Dublin you’ve come to the right place. This is a wonderful city to visit for the weekend. With a vibrant nightlife, rich pub culture and friendly people, there is always something to discover. While it’s no secret that Dublin is one of the best cities to visit in Europe, it can be pretty expensive.

You know the truth – the best things in life are free. You can visit Dublin on a budget if you drink less, use the advantages of free attractions and hit the supermarkets. Keep in mind that most people only spend a few days here before hitting the countryside.

Things To Know Before Visiting Dublin

Dublin History

Dublin or “Dubh Linn” comes from the Gaelic word, meaning “black/dark pool. The city was founded by the Vikings in the mid 9th century. Irish Gaelic is spoken as a first language and English is the dominant spoken language.

Dublin is the capital and by far the largest city of the Republic of Ireland. The republic encompasses most of the island of Ireland, the westernmost country of the British Isles. It contains twenty-six counties. The six counties in the northeast make up Northern Ireland – a part of the UK. The two neighbors are very different in ambience and infrastructure.

Read Next: How to Spend 2 Days in Berlin

Ireland has been an independent republic since 1922, after prolonged uprisings and discontent with British rule. Many of the insurgencies took place in Dublin and on my travels in the city, I saw the references and old photographs, which celebrate the hard-fought struggle for independence. An example is the 1916 Easter uprising at the General Post Office in O’Connell Street. This is commemorated in several locations, including the statuesque building itself.

Dubliners are very proud of the rich culture associated with the city and it has produced many world-renowned poets, authors, artists, and musicians. Every time I wandered through Dublin I discovered some unknown references to the city’s famous sons and daughters – Oscar Wilde, James Joyce, WB Yeats, Francis Bacon, Iris Murdoch to name but a few.

Dublin is irrevocably linked to Ireland’s turbulent history. It is a port city and from here, many poor emigrants left during times of hardship – such as the potato famine of the 1800s – to settle in faraway places including England, the United States, Australia, and South Africa. Ireland has a current population of nearly five million – two-fifths of whom live in the Greater Dublin area. There are also countless millions of folk living all around the globe. They are proud and celebrate their Irish roots.

Don’t Expect to Party All Night

Despite Dublin’s reputation of being a city that’s fond of a pint (or two), don’t expect huge crowds and wild parties like you would expect in other European cities. On weeknights, most pubs close their doors at 11:30 PM. On weekends, it’s 2:30 AM. Off licenses and supermarkets don’t sell alcohol after 10 pm, while public drinking is illegal in Dublin. However, you can hit Coppers or Diceys if you really want to keep the party going.

How Safe Is Dublin for Travel?

Even if you may have heard about bombs and riots, Dublin is a very safe city to visit. Of course, as with any big city, certain petty crimes do occur in Dublin, but most of it is non-violent. Avoid the empty streets late at night when drunk people express violent behavior. Depending on your interests, there are, however, few areas you should refrain from visiting late at night (Ballyfermot, Clondalkin, Dolphin’s Barn).

How to Get to Dublin

Dublin International Airport is located about 10 kilometers north of the city and has direct links with North America, Europe, Africa the Middle East and Hong Kong. It is the headquarters of Ireland’s flagship carrier Aer Lingus and has frequent flights to major cities in Ireland and the UK.

There are daily car ferries from Liverpool in England and Holyhead in North Wales. I also took advantage of an extensive motorway system within the country with links to other Irish cities and Belfast in Northern Ireland.

Ireland uses the Euro, making it easy for travelers who are coming or going to other parts of Europe. Although the airport is not connected to the city center by rail, there is an express coach. There are several buses running to the city center, but Aircoach provides direct service to the central parts of town and its stops include Kildeer Street, O’Connell Street.

Getting Around Dublin

Getting around Dublin is an adventure of its own. There is no metro in Dublin but there are buses, the DART (Dublin Area Rapid Transit) regional train service, and LUAS light rail system. LUAS was opened in 2004 and currently, there are two lines and 67 stations with plans for further extensions. Dublin has an extensive bus network and a railway line, which follows the coast and can bring you on a scenic coastal journey to visit Howth, Dalkey, Dún Laoghaire, Skerries and Malahide.

Metered taxis are plentiful and taxi services have their own apps, that allow you to instantly request a taxi, or to book one for an upcoming date and time. Take a closer look at the NRC Taxi App. There is also a very successful bike hire scheme (Dublinbikes) in operation in the city. Motorists drive on the left and the driving standard is good. If you plan to travel further afield in this fascinating country, car hire is a viable option.

If you want an easier time getting around Dublin, I would recommend buying a SIM card with data and have a salesperson install it for you. I got a Lycamobile Ireland SIM card the last time I went and it worked great for me. Some mobile carriers allow you to use data in other countries, which will be useful for your Euro trip. There is a great complimentary WiFi at the airport and Dublin City buses are all equipped with free Wifi.

Get a Good Deal on Public Transportation

If you’re visiting Dublin on a budget, you should definitely know that there is the Leap Visitor Card. It was one of my primary money-saving tools in Dublin. Depending on how long you plan on staying in Dublin, you can choose from a number of days. This way, you always know exactly how much you spend on topping up your Leap Visitor Card. Pick up your Leap Card in the airport on arrival and you’ll be set to ride the buses, DART, rail, and Luas around Dublin.

Dublin Travel Tips | The Best Time to Visit Dublin

Dublin’s weather is not its biggest asset and summer temperatures average only about 17 or 19 degrees Celsius (63-69°F). The warmest month is July. The winters are mild by Northern European standards – January at 5 degrees being the coolest. It rarely snows but it does get more than its fair share of rain. The climate can be unpredictably changeable and locals know that. That said, even if you’re traveling to the Irish capital city during the summer months, you can expect at least a shower or two during the course of your visit. This leads me on to my next point.

Essentials You Need to Pack for Dublin

Wind-Proof Umbrella

Did you know that in Dublin it rains up to 255 days per year?! Fret not though, just make sure to pack a travel umbrella that can withstand the weather or get one as soon as you arrive in Dublin.

Wind-Proof Jacket

Right after you pack your travel umbrella reach for a rain jacket. You’re going to need an Irish raincoat or jacket that will keep you warm and dry. No matter the season a rain jacket is always essential for visiting Dublin. I have a rain jacket made by Patagonia. It is durable, lightweight, packable, waterproof, and windproof. A wind-proof jacket doesn’t have to be expensive, so any rain shell will do. But the top-dollar ones will hold up and help in nasty weather.

Universal Adapter

Unless you live in the United Kingdom, this device is something worth investing in. You’ll absolutely need one if you plan to charge any electronics at all in Dublin, as the outlets are not the same as outlets in continental Europe. Ireland uses the same British “Type G” power outlets and plugs. A quality universal travel adapter is key because super cheap adapters tend to be glitchy and can damage your device.

Dublin Travel Tips | Top Places to Visit

Dublin’s Temple Bar District

The city center is relatively compact and I visited many places of interest in one day by walking. A good central starting point is O’Connell Bridge, which crosses the River Liffey, and is unusual for being wider than it is long. Nearby is the famous Temple Bar area. This is a pedestrian-friendly area of pubs, restaurants and quirky clothes shops. I had a great time exploring the area and listening to some of the Irish Traditional Music in many of the pubs and by buskers in the street. The area really comes to life at night.

Nearby, and providing a good photo location, is the excellent Molly Malone statue. Molly was a fictitious shellfish vendor from the nineteenth-century music hall song, which begins “In Dublin’s fair city, where the girls are so pretty.” It is the unofficial anthem of the city.

Explore Trinity College Cobblestone Grounds

A short walk from Molly will bring you to the grounds of Dublin’s famous center of learning, Trinity College. You can wander freely around the grounds of the very impressive buildings and there has been a university on the site since 1592. The current buildings date from the eighteenth century and surround two large quadrangles and playing fields.

The college library contains the Book of Kells, which is the world’s most famous illustrated medieval manuscript of the four gospels from the Bible. It is written in Latin and dates from the 9th Century. For 10 EUR you can view some of the original folios. If avoiding long lines really is your top priority, arrive earlier in the day.

Strolling down Grafton street

From the college, walk along Grafton Street where you are sure to be impressed by the street’s grand and tall Georgian townhouses, many dating from the early 1800s. Now they are mainly used as business premises or professional institutions. They still show the grandeur of days long gone when they were homes of the wealthy, complete with basements and servants’ quarters.

If you plan on doing some shopping, Stephens Green Shopping Centre should be your go-to place. Located at the top of Grafton Street, Stephens Green is a place to shop, eat and admire architecturally luxurious townhouses.

Merrion Square is a small park just off Grafton Street and in one corner, you will find Oscar Wilde’s reclining statue. On the day I visited, there was a display of fine paintings by local artists attached to the railings all around the perimeter of the square.

The Bridges of Dublin

You can’t visit the Irish capital city without exploring its bridges. The River Liffey with many bridges across it flows through the center of Dublin and flows into the Dublin Bay. I believe it is because of the number of lovely bridges, I now remember Dublin as a city of bridges. As you stroll along the Liffey long banks you can find O’Connell Bridge, Samuel Beckett Bridge, Rory O’Moore Bridge, Sean Heuston Bridge and, of course, Ha’penny Bridge. Each one of them has its own history and worth spending some time gazing into the Liffey water. However, my favorite one is the James Joyce Bridge.

James Joyce is one of the most widely read Irish novelists and writers. If you’re a James Joyce fan make sure to pay a visit to his statue near the O’Connell street and the bridge that is named for the writer. One of Joyce’s short stories was set in the house facing the bridge on the south side.

The bridge was opened in 2003. The thing I loved the most is the fact that the bridge has cozy benches along the lane and I spent two hours reading “Ulysses” there. This modern-style bridge somehow reminiscent of Samuel Beckett Bridge, but I think it is organically fit into the urban landscape. It looks even more spectacular at night when the streetlights turn on.

Kilmainham Gaol Prison

This is a notorious site in the history of Irish nationalism and it is an old jailhouse, which dates back to 1796. This is where the leaders of the 1916 Easter Rising were first jailed before they were then assassinated for the act of high treason. You can tour the impeccably restored building and the exhibition here will make you understand the struggles were like before Irish go independence.

An hour’s tour of the old prison takes you through the yard, and the rest of the jail where you will hear stories of the rebel leaders and Irish Republicans once imprisoned in Kilmainham Gaol. You can also visit the Stonebreaker’s Yard where the executions of its famous convicts took place.

Shelbourne Park Greyhound Stadium

Irish people love animals and placing bets. Shelbourne Park Stadium is the only place in Dublin to enjoy the greyhound racing after closing of Harold’s Cross Stadium in 2017. Races are held daily. With a cozy restaurant, it is still better to visit the stadium in a group to save money on food. Booking table in advance is preferable. You can bet starting from one EUR.

I was a complete novice but the waitress helped me a lot and explained how to bet. The race is fun indeed! If you go there on a low budget, expect to get extra fun as the race results usually determine if you get another Guinness. Despite the fact that greyhound racing is a bit of gambling, you will notice that locals come here with kids to get some family fun. Don’t forget your student ISIC card to get an extra discount.

Tour Historic Dublin Castle

Built in the early 13th century, Dublin Castle is an impressive building sitting in the middle of the city. It offers amazing insights into Irish history, so chances are you’ll eventually find yourself here at some point of your trip. The castle is now a government building, but you can still visit it on self-guided and guided tours.

There are museums like Chester Beatty Library, Chapel Royal, Revenue museum, cafes and many rooms to explore. However, most people come to hang out in the gardens and on the huge lawn.

Iveagh Gardens

Located not far from St.Stephen’s Green Park, Iveagh Gardens is a place of tranquility and serenity. During my stay in Dublin, I found it to be less crowded than St.Stephen’s Green park because the Gardens are almost completely surrounded by buildings so it takes more effort to notice it. That is the reason why you should visit it at least once, and if you are lucky enough to see the rose blooming.

There also was a lawn near the Earlsfort Terrace entrance, a lovely waterfall and a maze with a sundial in the center. I would totally recommend going there if you want to unwind from the hustle and bustle.

Where to Go Shopping in Dublin

There are plenty of Irish souvenir shops in Dublin. Favorite locally produced goods include linen, tweed, crystal glass, and whiskey. A lucky Irish leprechaun (elf) is a favorite keepsake. For the best shopping experience, visit Creative Quarter that is home to a bunch of galleries, shops, and restaurants. Make sure to explore George’s Street Arcade, South William Street and Dame Street.

Another place not to miss is the Powerscourt Townhouse Centre. Located not far from Molly Malone statue, this re-purposed mansion is now turned into a shopping mall with piano music playing Irish songs.

Where to Stay in Dublin

Best Luxury Hotels in Dublin

The Shelbourne | The Merrion | The Fitzwilliam

Best Boutique Hotels in Dublin

The Mont | The Wilder | The Morrison Dublin

Best Cheap Hotels in Dublin

Barnacles Temple Bar House | McGettigans Townhouse | Generator Dublin

Best Hostel in Dublin

Ashfield Hostel

Food in Dublin

Dubliners are cosmopolitan people and there are restaurants of many cuisines in the city. If you want to try some hearty local food, however, I recommend Irish stew, boxty (potato pancake) and coddle. This has layers of meat and vegetables and was a traditional way of using up leftovers. When in Dublin you must try a pint of its most famous beer – Guinness. It was invented in the city in 1759. You can find that food in Dublin can be a little expensive.

Where to eat and drink in Dublin

Let’s face it, a big part of traveling to Ireland is finding places to eat. All of the suggestions below are great for those traveling to Ireland for the first time, and they won’t dent your food budget too much. Here are some Dublin travel tips on where to find the best food in the Irish capital city and save money:

Breakfast places in Dublin: Tang Cafe; Brother Hubbard North; Keoghs Cafe; Laine, My Love; The Pieman Cafe

Lunch restaurants in Dublin: Oxmantown; El Grito; Umi Falafel; Govinda’s Restaurant

Cake and coffee in Dublin: Dwarf Jar Coffee, Beanhive Coffee, Stage Door Café, Legit Coffee Co

Dinner restaurants in Dublin: The Ramen Bar, Cirillo’s, Featherblade, Shouk

I am very fond of Dublin. It is an enchanting and friendly city where it is easy to break into conversation with the locals, who are well known for their wit and conversation skills. I have also discovered that Dubliners are among the friendliest people in Europe.

So, these are the essential practical tips you should know when traveling to Dublin for the first time. Do you have any questions or maybe want to share your experience when visiting Dublin? Don’t hesitate to leave a comment below.

PIN FOR LATER!

UP NEXT

Things To Do in Seville

Best Things To Do in Barcelona Spain

Exciting Things to Do in Belfast