18 Incredible Things To Do In Historic Dublin, Ireland (2023)

Dublin, the capital and largest city of Ireland, established on the banks of the River Liffey and the lesser-known River Poddle, more than 1,000 years ago, spans both centuries and miles of history.

Like 10 percent of Americans, I’m part Irish. With each visit, I find something new about Irish life. The deep history of the country leaves plenty to explore.

1. Trinity College, Dublin

The Book Of Kells

When most people think of historic Dublin, they think of the Book of Kells. Kept within the same building as Trinity’s Long Hall, this attraction can take you 3 hours or more if you read all the signage.

The illuminative manuscript contains the four gospels and is thought to have been created around 800 A.D.You can find a digital version here.

Once done, go up another flight of stairs to one of my favorite places in all of Ireland:

The Long Room

This library has 51 marble busts lining either side of the path that holds one of the few remaining copies of the 1916 Easter Rising freedom declaration

2. Dublin City Hall

Now restored to its original splendor, the architecture of City Hall impresses with its sheer size and sumptuous fittings. The spectacular entrance hall and rotunda are the perfect setting for weddings as well as city and state events.

Look down on the lower levels, and you’ll find “vaults” filled with multimedia exhibits that highlight key elements of the history of Dublin, from poster presentations to architectural models to film presentations.

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3. Dublin Castle

Erected on the site of a Viking settlement in the early 13th century, Dublin Castle served as headquarters of English, and then British, administration in Ireland. In 1922, following Ireland’s independence, Dublin Castle became an Irish government complex and key tourist attraction.

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When you find the nearly hidden entrances to this extensive estate, you’ll be impressed by the courtyard, the tower, the stateliness of its own private Chapel Royale, the underground portions that reveal part of the River Poddle and, of course, the physical presence of the castle itself.

During the tour, you’ll see the public dining room and St. Patrick’s Hall where a change of government administrations and other state ceremonies continue today.

And behind the castle, you’ll find a secret garden that encompasses the Garda Memorial, an exhibit building, and the entrance to the world-renowned Chester Beatty Library.

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4. Dublinia

Dublinia, the Viking and medieval museum, is attached to Christ Church Cathedral across the skywalk.

Here, you can visit a Viking house on a Viking street, a medieval merchant’s house, and the medieval fair — even costumes to try on. Artifacts from the battle of Clontarf, death, and disease are all explored in the museum.

Take the time to climb the 96-step medieval St. Michael Tower for awesome city views. Then walk across the sky bridge and down the stairs to enter Christ Church Cathedral.

5. Christ Church Cathedral

At the beginning of Dublin’s walled city status, Christ Church Cathedral was within the wall, St. Patrick’s outside. That’s how there are two cathedrals in one city. Now both Anglican, the archbishop’s chair remains at Christ Church. The cathedral was saved fromruin in the 19th century by the Roe Distillery’s Henry Roe.

At one point, the crypt was used as a marketplace and bar. Now it’s used for tours and sometimes for TV shows like The Tudors. The most important document in the crypt must be Ireland’s copy of the Magna Carta.

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6. St. Patrick’s Cathedral

The other famous religious tourist attraction, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, is about a 10- minute walk from Christ Church. Built in honor of Ireland’s patron saint, it stands adjacent to the famous well where tradition says Saint Patrick baptized converts on his visit to Dublin.

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Included within this grand cathedral are 39 stained glass windows and three statues representing St. Patrick. Legend has it that he used the shamrock to represent the Holy Trinity — Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. There’s no evidence that snakes ever existed on Irish shores, but their absence is also attributed to him.

Multiple altars, a new organ up a winding staircase, and a change in architectural style was agreed to when Sir Benjamin Lee Guinness, grandson of Arthur Guinness, made his financial support for renovation conditional upon his being able to design it.

One of the stained-glass windows on the very forward chapel is an image of his daughter, Anne. She married one of the ministers here, but it always struck me as clever that hers says “Let them have drink” — very appropriate for a Guinness lass.

7. The Chester Beatty Library

Containing the widest collection of religious manuscripts, this library is world-renowned for its excellence and scholarship. Chester Beatty was an American, a mining engineering expert, who toured Europe, Africa, and Asia and collected religious manuscripts. He ultimately emigrated to Ireland where he became the first non-Irish citizen to receive citizen status and a government burial at Glasnevin cemetery.

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8. Kilmainham Gaol

This former prison, Kilmainham Gaol remains one of Dublin’s most popular tourist attractions.

It’s most famous, perhaps, for the imprisonment of so many who fought for Irish freedom in the 18th, 19th, and 20th centuries.

The execution of the 1916 Easter Rising leaders here led to the change in American and British sentiment that led to Ireland’s independence.

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9. Guinness Storehouse

One of the most popular tourist experiences is a visit to the Guinness Storehouse. The story of Olivia and Arthur Guinness and their creation and expansion of this most popular beverage embrace the heart and soul of Ireland’s entrepreneurship. In 1759, Arthur signed a 9,000-year lease and began to brew ale.

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The process has been improved with modern technology, but the essence of the formula remains intact.

10. Farmleigh

The official Irish State guesthouse, built in the late 18th century and purchased by Edward Guinness in 1873, first Earl of Iveagh, and great-grandson of Arthur Guinness, Farmleigh holds important art collections and the Benjamin Iveagh collection of rare books.

The estate covers 32 acres and includes walled and sunken gardens, with scenic lakeside walks.

11. Richmond Barracks

In Dublin 8, Richmond Barracks played a key role in the lives of soldiers and civilians who passed through over the past 200 years. The 1916 Rising rebels were held here before being transferred to Kilmainham Gaol.

Take the time to stroll through the War Memorial Gardens. The names of nearly 50,000 soldiers are contained in the granite book rooms in the gardens.

12. The Four Courts

Home of Irish Law, the Four Courts were originally housed in Christ Church Cathedral. Outgrowing the site, James Gandon designed the building that houses the Supreme Court, the High Court, and the Dublin Circuit Court.

During the 1916 Easter Rising, it was used as the headquarters of Commandant Ned Daly and the 1st Battalion during some of the most intense fighting. Much of the building was destroyed during the Civil War in 1922.

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13. Ha’Penny Bridge

Built in 1816, crossing the River Liffey is a walk across history. This pedestrian bridge earned its name from William Walsh, a ferryman who built the bridge and charged a ha’penny toll to travelers who wanted to cross. This toll existed for 100 years.

14. Daniel O’Connell Monument

Daniel O’Connell referred to as “The Liberator,” or “The Emancipator,” was an Irish political leader in the early 19th century who campaigned for Catholic Emancipation. His work returned the rights of Catholics to enter politics and become Members of Parliament.

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15. Glasnevin Cemetery Museum and Guided Tours

Ireland’s largest cemetery, over 1.5-million people are buried in Glasnevin. From Daniel O’Connell and Chester Beatty to other dignitaries and solid citizens, this Victorian garden cemetery covers 124 acres and is attached to the Botanical Garden.

Stop at the gravediggers’ bar. Sharing a common wall with part of the cemetery, legend had it the gravediggers would knock on the wall for a pint. There is no “window” from the graveyard to the Kavanaugh’s Gravediggers Pub, but it’s a minute’s walk from the Prospect Square entrance.

16. The Famine Statues and the Jeanie Johnston

The Famine statues on Custom House Quay sculpted by Roan Gillespie in 1997 are placed where one of the first voyages of the Famine period departed from this quay in 1846. To see what life was like on board at this time, visit the Jeanie Johnston famine ship located near this memorial and take a guided tour of a replica ship from this period. You’ll learn the history of this very successful ship and learn of the lad with 26 names.

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17. EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum

This leading European tourist attraction covers the history of Ireland and the positive impact Irish emigration has had across the globe. It’s an interactive experience so no one will be bored. It features personal stories of adventure and adversity, love, loss, and triumph.

18. The Custom House

The Custom House is the most stunning building on the north bank of the River Liffey. A neoclassical 18th-century building, it now houses Irish Government departments. Designed by James Gandon in 1781, it was burned down during the War of Independence in 1921 and restored after the Anglo-Irish Treaty.

While exploring Dublin, investigate these other interesting Ireland destinations:

  • 8 Fantastic Daytrips From Dublin, Ireland
  • Sean’s Bar Is The Oldest Pub In Ireland, And Possibly The World
  • How To Visit The Cliffs Of Moher From Dublin

FAQs

What is the #1 attraction in Dublin Ireland? ›

1. Guinness Storehouse. As Ireland's most-visited attraction for years, there's no escaping the might of the Guinness Storehouse. Make no mistake, it's a seven-storey exhibition rather than a working brewery (that's nearby but off-limits).

What is Dublin Ireland best known for? ›

What is Dublin famous for?
  • Guinness. Nothing beats a pint of Guinness and when it comes to the best places in the world to enjoy a pint of the black stuff – Dublin is obviously top of the list. ...
  • Georgian Architecture. ...
  • Pub Culture. ...
  • UNESCO City of Literature. ...
  • Dublin is a Friendly & Progressive city. ...
  • Excellent Accommodation.
Feb 24, 2020

What should you not say in Ireland? ›

10 Things Tourists Should Never Say in Ireland
  • “I'm Irish”
  • Quizzing about potatoes.
  • Anything about an Irish car bomb.
  • “Top of the morning to you”
  • “Everything is better in… (insert large city)”
  • “St Patty's Day”
  • “Do you know so-and-so from…”
  • “I love U2”
Sep 10, 2017

What's the most Irish thing? ›

  • 1) Guinness. Of course, the number one spot on our list of Irish things just had to go to Guinness! ...
  • 2) The Irish Flag. ...
  • 3) Leprechauns. ...
  • 5) Irish Coffee. ...
  • 6) St Patricks Day. ...
  • 7) Irish Soda Bread. ...
  • 8) The Irish Wolfhound. ...
  • 9) The Shamrock.
Jan 6, 2022

What does Dublin mean in Irish? ›

Dublin, Irish Dubh Linn, Norse Dyfflin (“Black Pool”), also called Baile Átha Cliath (“Town of the Ford of the Hurdle”), city, capital of Ireland, located on the east coast in the province of Leinster.

How much do I need per day in Dublin? ›

You should plan to spend around €112 ($108) per day on your vacation in Dublin, which is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.

How long is the Book of Kells tour? ›

Visit duration

We recommend planning to spend 1 to 2 hours here.

Can you walk everywhere in Dublin? ›

Dublin is a walkable city. It's flat, compact, and friendly. It's an old city, built around the designs of a medieval town where walking and travel by horse and cart were the only modes of travel.

Do you tip in Ireland? ›

It's normal to leave between 10-15% of your bill as a tip after dining in Irish restaurants, bistros, cafés or pubs. Leaving a tip higher than 15% of your bill after dining in Ireland is really only given for outstanding service.

Is Dublin Ireland expensive? ›

Yes, Dublin is an expensive city both for tourists and expats. It is one of the most expensive cities in Europe. The average cost of visiting Dublin for a day ranges from €65-€140 per person. The average cost of living in Ireland for one person per month is €2,500+ (including rent).

What is the most popular street in Dublin? ›

Located in central Dublin, O'Connell Street is the city's main thoroughfare.

What is a little girl called in Ireland? ›

Cailín” means “girl” in the Irish language. A lot of Irish people still use this word even when speaking in English. The plural, “Cailíní,” is also commonly used, for example, “I'm meeting up with the cailíní later on.”

What should Americans not do in Ireland? ›

Don't Mock or Make Fun of the Irish Language

Also, remember that the Gaelic language is a proud heritage of the Irish people. If you don't know it or understand it, don't butcher the language, rather stick to English. Another thing to avoid is the 'typical Irish sayings' that you've heard in the movies.

What is a typical Irish dinner? ›

The traditional Irish food pairs creamy mashed potatoes with cabbage. It can also feature greens like kale, scallions and leeks (its verdant color makes it a St. Patrick's Day classic) and is often served with boiled ham.

What is the coldest month of the year in Dublin Ireland? ›

The cool season lasts for 4.2 months, from November 17 to March 24, with an average daily high temperature below 51°F. The coldest month of the year in Dublin is February, with an average low of 38°F and high of 47°F.

What food is traditionally eaten on St Patrick's Day? ›

Celebrate with comforting classics like corned beef and cabbage, colcannon, Irish soda bread and more.

What gifts is Ireland famous for? ›

Avoca throws and woven items
  • Aran Sweaters. One of the best gifts from Ireland and an absolute must-have is an Aran sweater made right here in Ireland. ...
  • Flat Caps aka Peaky Blinders caps. ...
  • Tara Brooch. ...
  • Whiskey Barrel Ring. ...
  • Connemara Marble Ring. ...
  • My favourite Irish pantry staples. ...
  • Irish Cheese gifts. ...
  • Irish turf.

What do Irish people say? ›

Greetings like "Any craic?" and "How's the craic?" give rise to potential awkward misunderstandings for tourists, because craic is pronounced like "crack." The most straightforward definition is fun or enjoyment, and it can substitute for "How are you?" A typical response is "divil a bit," which means "not much."

What is an Irish flower? ›

A national emblem, the three-leaf clover three-leaf clover, a type of trefoil plant, has been considered the unofficial national flower of Ireland for centuries.

What does Kil mean in Irish? ›

Kil, Killy. A Gaelic word meaning a church. Famous examples include Kildare (Cill Dara) meaning 'the second church', Kilkenny.

What did the Vikings call Dublin? ›

It was the Vikings who named the spot where the Liffey and the Poddle meet as "Dubh Linn". The name Dublin comes from Dubh Linn or the "black pool". The black pool in question is the junction where the Liffey and its tributary the Poddle meet.

What is an Irish snack? ›

A Tayto sandwich is the ultimate Irish snack- crispy and flavorful chips between two slices of buttered bread.

What is a typical Irish breakfast in Ireland? ›

Bacon rashers, pork sausages, fried eggs (or scrambled), white pudding, black pudding, bread, and fried tomato have traditionally been the most common items in Irish breakfasts. What is this? Baked beans, hash browns, liver, and brown soda bread are occasionally served, as are sauteed field mushrooms.

How many days should you spend in Dublin? ›

Three days in Dublin is the perfect length of time to enjoy the sights, soak up the culture, the cathedrals and the castles. You'll also have plenty of time to explore the pubs and bars the city is so famous for and enjoy the craic.

Is Dublin Castle worth seeing? ›

The Castle houses the magnificent State Apartments, the Chapel Royal, a 13th century Tower and some of its Medieval structures. Dublin Castle is the heart of historic Dublin. It is one of the most important buildings in Irish history.

Do you tip in Ireland? ›

It's normal to leave between 10-15% of your bill as a tip after dining in Irish restaurants, bistros, cafés or pubs. Leaving a tip higher than 15% of your bill after dining in Ireland is really only given for outstanding service.

What is the best month to go to Ireland? ›

The best time to visit Ireland is between March and May, and September to November, when it's not as crowded as it is in summer, or as cold as it is in winter. That said, Ireland has a mild, temperate climate and although it's rainy at times, you can visit all year round.

Is Dublin or Belfast Better to visit? ›

The Size Difference Between Dublin and Belfast

The population of Belfast is a lot smaller also, so you'll find there are smaller crowds and you may just start recognising a few friendly faces as you explore the shops and pubs the city has to offer. Dublin's larger size means there's a lot more to explore.

Is Dublin Ireland expensive? ›

Yes, Dublin is an expensive city both for tourists and expats. It is one of the most expensive cities in Europe. The average cost of visiting Dublin for a day ranges from €65-€140 per person. The average cost of living in Ireland for one person per month is €2,500+ (including rent).

How long does Dublin Castle tour take? ›

Average Length of Visit: Guided Tour 1 hour. Self Guided Tour 30 minutes. Admission is by guided tour with a self guiding option also available.

Are Dublin Castle gardens free? ›

Explore Dublin Castle with Go City®

With us, there are no entry fees on the day – all you've got to do is show your pass. See the magnificent State Apartments, the original Viking fortress, and the splendid castle gardens. Upgrade your ticket to include a guided tour at a special rate.

Is Dublin a walkable city? ›

Dublin is a walkable city. It's flat, compact, and friendly. It's an old city, built around the designs of a medieval town where walking and travel by horse and cart were the only modes of travel. Today walking still is the best way to get around with the added advantage of the Luas.

Can I use American dollars in Ireland? ›

Can I Use US Money iIn Ireland? Simple answer = No. Only euro (€) is accepted in Ireland. Only British pound sterling (£) is accepted in Northern Ireland.

How much cash should I take to Ireland? ›

We advise not bringing too much cash to Ireland. Around €200 Euro is more than enough to get you through your first days in Dublin. On tour, you can withdraw cash from cash machines/ATMs as you need it.

Can you drink Ireland tap water? ›

Is tap water safe to drink. Your water is safe to drink unless you see one of these notices from Irish Water. Know what to do if you receive one.

What is the most Irish thing? ›

  • 1) Guinness. Of course, the number one spot on our list of Irish things just had to go to Guinness! ...
  • 2) The Irish Flag. ...
  • 3) Leprechauns. ...
  • 5) Irish Coffee. ...
  • 6) St Patricks Day. ...
  • 7) Irish Soda Bread. ...
  • 8) The Irish Wolfhound. ...
  • 9) The Shamrock.
Jan 6, 2022

What's an Irish saying? ›

May the road rise up to meet you.

"May the road rise up to meet you/ May the wind be always at your back/ May the sun shine warm upon you face ..." uses everyday images to mean, may God remove obstacles in your journey through life.

What's traditional Irish food? ›

Representative dishes include Irish stew, bacon and cabbage, boxty, soda bread (predominantly in Ulster), coddle, and colcannon. Modern Irish food still uses traditional ingredients, but they are now being cooked by chefs with world influences and are presented in a more modern and artistic style.

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