11 Things to Do in Dublin Ireland You Don’t Want to Miss

Are you planning a trip to Ireland and looking for things to do in Dublin? If you're in Ireland, chances are you're probably visiting Dublin as you enter or leave the country.

Dublin is the capital of Ireland, located on Ireland's east coast at the mouth of the River Liffey. There are many things to do in the city of Dublin for visitors of all ages.

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Something for Everyone in Dublin

Whether you travel with friends, family, or kids or find yourself solo traveling, there is something for everyone in this incredible city.

Dublin is home to delicious foods, beautiful parks, fascinating museums, architecture, and much more, so there's plenty to do and see in this fascinating city.

Today on the blog, I'm sharing some of the best things to do and the top attractions in the city of Dublin. You'll definitely want to add these to your list of best places to visit on the emerald isle!

If you plan on visiting multiple museums, a guided tour, or other popular tourist attractions, consider signing up for the Dublin Pass. You'll be able to save on entry fees. I've included a mix of options to help you truly dive into Irish culture and experience the city of Dublin for the first time.

The Little Museum of Dublin

If you enjoy museums, you must visit the Little Museum of Dublin—no trip to the city is complete without it.

This museum is a local history museum chronicling the history of Dublin in the 20th century.

The Little Museum of Dublin - Image Credit

Immerse yourself in what life was like during the 20th century. You can learn little tidbits of information about some of Dublin's literary greats like Oscar Wilde, James Joyce and Bram Stoker. Ulysses, one of the greatest novels of all times, was set in Dublin.

This little museum is located in St. Stephens Green, Dublin, in an 18th-century Georgian townhouse owned by Dublin City Council.

Kilmainham Gaol Museum

Another great museum worth visiting while you're in the city is the Kilmainham Gaol Museum.

Though this one has a darker history. Kilmainham Gaol was once a prison.

Today they offer guided tours of the prison to teach tourists about the harsh treatment of inmates and the politics of the time. Although saddening, booking a tour here will give you a deeper understanding of Irish history.

Tickets are relatively cheap, around 4 Euros per person for a 40-50 minute tour of the abandoned prison.

Trinity College Library

Many go here just to view the architectural wonder and room that will have any bookworm falling head of heels. Trinity Library is the largest library in all of Ireland.

Plus Trinity is Ireland's oldest university, located right in the heart of Dublin city centre.

It is also home to The famous Book of Kells. The manuscript is also known as the Book of Columba. It contains each of the four gospels from the New Testament along with other texts.

The main library is, unfortunately, only open to staff and students of the college. However, tourists are welcome to visit the Old Library, located within its quarters.

While you're there, you might want to wander around the college campus. Trinity college is considered one of Europe's elite institutions and has a stunning campus. The college green is worth seeing if you're in the area.

St Stephens Green

Ready to enjoy some time outdoors? Take a walk in the park! St. Stephens Green is a garden square park located in the city centre of Dublin.

With 27 acres of elegant gardens and beautiful artwork, it's the perfect place for a lovely stroll or people-watching. Dubliners love to enjoy picnics in St Stephen's Green, especially when the sun shines.

The park is surrounded by gorgeous Georgian architecture right in the Dublin city center. You won't regret adding this stop to your Dublin itinerary!

The Spire of Dublin

If you're looking for the perfect opportunity for a photo, stop by The Spire of Dublin.

This monument towers 120 meters above ground, standing in the center of O'Connell Street.

It truly looks like a needle reaching toward the sky.

Whether you want a photo or not, it's something to add to your list of sights to see in Dublin. It's truly impressive.

Ha'penny Bridge

You've probably seen photos of this monument before. Named after the toll people once ad to pay to cross (half a penny), this bridge is a beautiful piece of the city.

Best known as the first pedestrian bridge to allow people to cross over River Liffey, it's a must-see.

Did you really visit Dublin if you didn't see the Ha'penny bridge?

Plus the Ha'penny Bridge leads to Merchant's Arch, the gateway to Temple Bar and some of Ireland's best pubs for enjoying traditional Irish music. Just remember prices are a little high in Temple bar - it's a well known tourist trap.

Phoenix Park

This park might deserve an entire day dedicated to exploring it. Yes, it's that big. This park is walled, containing over 1,700 acres of grassy fields. There is much to see.

It is also home to the Dublin Zoo and the Wellington Monument. You can spend the day meandering, taking in the beauty of nature, checking out the sights, and spending some time in the zoo. Phoenix Park is truly something.

You may even catch site of the herds of fallow deer that roam freely in the park.

Dublin Zoo

The Zoo is a great place to bring the kiddos! While at Phoenix Park, make sure to pop over to Dublin Zoo. It's the perfect way to spend the day, especially if you have kids.

Hippos at Dublin Zoo Image Credit

You can spend the day roaming the habitats of well-cared-for animals staying in the Zoo. You'll find much to explore and learn at the Dublin Zoo, a favorite attraction for Irish people.

Irish Whiskey Museum

Fun Fact! Did you know that Irish Whiskey is the fastest-growing spirit in the world? Perfect for a relaxing evening sampling whiskey, you can enjoy guided tours and whiskey tastings at the Irish Whiskey Museum in Dublin.

Irish Whiskey Museum

You'll have a chance to sample from a huge selection of Irish Whiskey, while learning the history and cultural significance of whiskey in Ireland.

Booking a tasting tour is fairly easy. Just pop over to their website. I recommend booking as soon as possible to ensure you get a spot.

If you prefer to experience an actual whiskey distillery, then a tour of the Jameson distillery or Teelings whiskey distillery my be up your alley.

Guinness Storehouse Factory

Would it be a trip to Ireland without enjoying some Guinness? The perfect spot to enjoy a glass of stout, is a trip to the Guinness Storehouse Factory.

It's the perfect brewery experience where you'll learn the history of Ireland's most famous beer and enjoy a pint of Guinness.

Entrance to the Guinness Storehouse in Dublin Image Credit

Located in the heart of Saint James Gate, you can stop by the brewery to enjoy a fascinating history lesson. Or sip a glass of Ireland's iconic beer in their Brewery Yard Bar.

The National Museum of Ireland

Located on Kildare Street, not far from Trinity College and Grafton Street, Ireland's main shopping area, this museum is home to many artifacts of national interest and pride.

Here you'll find the Tara Brooch on display, plus there are many ancient finds from archaeological digs all over Ireland. From golden torcs and jewelry, to stone age axes and pottery, you'll find Celtic artifacts and evidence of Ireland's Viking past.

National Museum of Ireland - Home of the Tara Brooch Image Credit

There's also a very interesting display of bog bodies that are over 2,000 years old. These mummies were found preserved in Ireland's peat or turf bogs. One ancient warrior whose body was partially preserved in the bog was thought to have been over 6 feet tall. That was extremely tall for a man from ancient times.

And finally, here are some bonus recommendations, the first being a day trip a little outside the county.

Bonus Day Trip - Cliffs of Moher

I know Ireland's famous cliffs are not in Dublin at all, but If you're interested in a day trip out of the city, you have to visit the Cliffs of Moher. You can make it there and back from Dublin, all in one day.

The Cliffs of Moher are one of Ireland's most recognizable and visited landmarks. Located on the west coast of Ireland in County Clare, these towering cliffs are one of the most majestic sights along the Wild Atlantic Way.

If you've never been lucky enough to visit the Cliffs of Moher, then, believe me, they truly are a tremendous site, especially on a clear day when the sun is shining and you can look out to the Irish sea!

Here are some other bonus attractions to check out when you're in Dublin...

• Saint Patrick's Cathedral
• Christ Church Cathedral
• Dublin Castle
• Glasnevin Cemetery Museum
• Croke Park - home to Gaelic football and hurling
• Chester Beatty Library
• National Botanic Gardens
• National Gallery of Ireland
• Jeanie Johnston Boat and Museum
• The Epic Museum
• Malahide Castle
• Jameson Distillery
• Temple Bar
• Dublin Literary Museum

These are only a handful of the most popular tourist attractions worth visiting in Ireland's capital city, but still a great start for planning your Dublin itinerary.