From eye watering hotel prices to a number of pricey tourist traps, I’ll admit that Dublin isn’t a city with the greatest reputation as far as tourism is concerned.

But hey, it has the biggest international airport in the country… and it’s the capital! So most visitors pass through here at some point. And honestly, though Dublin isn’t as majestically grand as some other European capitals, I’ve enjoyed all three of my visits there, and think it all comes down to getting your expectations right.

If you’ve come to Ireland in search of rolling green hills, idyllic landscapes & pristine rainbow-backed photo opps, Dublin will probably disappoint you. As Ireland’s largest city, it comes with the usual big city drawbacks – traffic, trash and troubled areas.

But as a city break, it’s good fun – there’s tons of pubs, live music, and the rumours are true – Guinness here truly tastes better than anywhere else in the world. Plus, many of the main attractions are actually pretty great, so long as you embrace some shameless cheesiness.

So read on for an honest overview of things to do in Dublin, from touristy classics like Temple Bar and the Guinness Storehouse to lesser known picks. At the end of the day, I think there’s plenty to do in Dublin for a day or two, so I hope these suggestions are helpful!

First: Consider Getting a City Pass

Dublin attractions are expensive, so if you plan to do many of them, getting a city pass like this one could really save you a lot of money.

Long story short: this pass gives you access to most of Dublin’s paid attractions for one set cost, which can often end up saving you a lot of money.

Of course, this only makes sense if you plan to do a large amount of paid sights. To ensure this pass actually makes sense financially, I’d recommend looking at the list of included attractions, picking the ones you want to see, and then totalling up their cost to compare it with the cost of the pass. This would be the only way to know for sure!

Of all the many fun things to do in Dublin, this is the most touristy… but if you’re a fan of Guinness in the slightest, I really think it’s a must-do!

Dublin’s Guinness Storehouse isn’t a typical brewery tour – it’s a true seven-floor Guinness wonderland, where you learn everything you need to know about the world-famous ‘black stuff’, from the brewing process and history of the company to all its marketing efforts over the years.

The ticket is pricey, but you get a lot for it, including a lesson on how to pour your own perfect pint of Guinness, a free pint of course, and entry to the Gravity Bar up top which has panoramic views of the city. You can even get your face printed on a Guinness, if that’s your kind of thing.

Honestly, as someone who loves cheesy over-the-top attractions, I loved it here, and definitely feel like their brainwashing tactics worked on me – I’m not a major Guinness fan, though I’ve never been able to find a place abroad where it tastes nearly as good as here. You’ve been warned.

2. Tour Trinity College and marvel at the Book of Kells

For book nerds, the Old Library in Dublin is an image you’ve probably drooled over countless times, so naturally that’s another Dublin experience to put on your bucket list.

Trinity College was founded in 1592 and is today known as the best and most beautiful university in Ireland, so much that it has become a tourist attraction in its own right, with key attractions like…

• The Book of Kells and Old Library Experience: A beautiful library that houses the 1,200 year old manuscript known as The Book of Kells (though beware, it’s very very very busy)
• Trinity Trails: Tour often led by current students to learn more about the University and see other parts of the buildings
• The Douglas Hyde: A contemporary art gallery on campus that’s free to visit
• Restaurants, cafés and accommodation: You can have a fancy meal or even stay overnight (during the summer university holidays) at Trinity College!

Granted, if you don’t explore any of its attractions, you may feel like a bit of a weirdo just skulking around a school campus, but the buildings are beautiful and well worth a look.

IMPORTANT: Be sure to book your tickets in advance! All of these aspects of exploring Trinity College are very popular and need to be booked on the official website here.

3. Visit Dublin Castle

Steeped in over 800 years of history, Dublin Castle is a treasure trove of architectural styles and history, and while today it’s much more of a palace than a typical Irish castle (so don’t come here expecting overly fairytale vibes), I still think it’s a great Dublin attraction for history buffs… since, you know, a lot of significant events have taken place here.

Initially built as a medieval fortress by the Anglo-Normans in the 12th century, Dublin Castle has played a central role in the country’s political, social, and cultural life, witnessing key historical events such as the Easter Rising of 1916 and the handover of power to the Irish Free State in 1922.

Today, Dublin Castle is a major tourist attraction, offering visitors the chance to explore its historic buildings, magnificent gardens, and state apartments, as well as to learn about its fascinating past through guided tours and exhibitions.

Highlights include…

• Chester Beatty Library, which holds an extensive collection of rare manuscripts, books, and art from various cultures
• The State Apartments, richly decorated rooms that were once used by the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland
• The Chapel Royal, a gothic revival church which was designed by Francis Johnston and opened in 1242
• The Garda Museum, a small museum about the history of law enforcement in Ireland

4, Frolic around Temple Bar

If I were to pick the most photographed sight in Dublin, it would probably be the gorgeous flower-decked pubs and cobblestoned streets of Temple Bar.

This cultural and entertainment district can be found in the heart of Dublin, offering a vibrant atmosphere, lively pubs, and an eclectic mix of restaurants, art galleries, and quirky shops… plus crowds, and lots of them.

Haters will say that Temple Bar is a tourist trap, but I don’t necessarily see it that way – the pubs are pretty, the vibes are good, and sure it’s a more touristy experience than many other parts of Dublin, but I don’t necessarily see that as a bad thing.

Make no mistake: a pint at Temple Bar will mean a pricey pint amidst a sea of your fellow tourist brethren, but the area is still a charming one that’s worth checking out at least once.

5. Visit pubs outside of Temple Bar

Of course, after the mandatory pint at Temple Bar, you might want to set your sights on other pubs… just to round out your Dublin experience!

After all, many locals avoid Temple Bar like the plague…. so there’s bound to be many other great pubs to visit in the city, right?

I honestly believe in just roaming the streets and ducking into pubs that seem like they have a good vibe. This is how I inadvertently ended up at The Brazen Head, one of the oldest pubs in the country (though it’s a fairly touristy spot too).

If you’re looking for a more guided experience, I’ve heard great things about this pub crawl.

6. Explore Dublin’s food scene

One of Dublin’s best assets is (in my opinion) its food scene, which has lots to offer from fresh produce in markets and hearty Irish pub grub to international options from around the world. So, if you still have space in your stomach after all those heavy pints of Guinness, then be sure to take some time to enjoy the city’s food culture as well.

Here are some ways to enjoy this side of Dublin:

• Visit a food market: Irish Village Markets pop up all over the city during the week and sell dishes from all over the world, from paella to poké bowls. There’s also an excellent Temple Bar Food Market on Saturdays that has everything you might need to pack a picnic. And on the first Sunday of the month there’s the Farmleigh food market in Phoenix Park with stalls selling local produce like cheese, chutneys, vegetables, meat and fish.
• Do a food tour: Joining a food tour like this one will ensure you have a local guide to take you to all the best places and try a wide variety of yummy Irish dishes!
• Try traditional Irish food: Classics include Irish stew, steak and Guinness pie, a full Irish breakfast, boxty (a traditional Irish potato pancake) and street eats like chicken fillet sandwiches and spice bags (bags of fries tossed with spices)
• Visit the city’s top restaurants: I usually look at local food blogs for this, as they’ll have better recommendations than standard travel guides.

 7. Do a whiskey experience

Similarly, I’d say a whiskey experience of some kind is another must-do when in Dublin.

The origins of the name Whiskey comes from the Irish word isce beatha, which means ‘water of life’. So if you’re not already getting a sense of this tipple’s importance, then let me aggressively confirm – whiskey is a big deal in Ireland.

… Oh and remember: it’s spelled with an e here. As I mention in my Scotland travel tips post, ‘Whisky’ is Scottish.

So, how can you best enjoy whiskey in Dublin? There are plenty of ways, ranging from pricier, most tourist-oriented experiences like museums and tours to more DIY approaches like engineering your own pub crawl full of tasters.

If you want a more organized experience though, here are some popular Dublin picks:

• Jameson Whiskey Distillery: Take a guided tour of the Jameson Distillery followed by tastings – this is easily the most famous Irish whiskey after all!
• Dublin Liberties Distillery: This tour of one of the newest Dublin distilleries is also very interesting, and starts with a delicious Dubliner Honeycomb Liquor welcoming drink.
• Irish Whiskey Experience: This one takes place at the Irish Whiskey Museum and includes tastings as well as the opportunity to try your hand at blending your own whiskey.
• Whiskey Tasting Tour: And this one is perfect if you just want to visit some great pubs for whiskey tasting with a knowledgeable guide!

8. Get a nice view

While Dublin’s skyline isn’t as built up or recognizable as other major European cities, I still think getting a nice view of the city is a fun thing to do, especially if you can do so with a drink in hand!

So, if you’re someone who likes to get their bearings with a high-up view, here are some of the nicest viewpoints in Dublin:

• Skyview Tower Dublin: Located at the Dublin Generator Hostel, the Skyview Tower was once a chimney for the Jameson Whiskey Distillery and now offers 360-degree views of Dublin.
• The Marker Rooftop Bar & Terrace: This rooftop bar and restaurant on top of the Marker Hotel is a lovely spot for dinner or drinks with a view.
• Sophie’s Rooftop Restaurant: Sophie’s is a glasshouse rooftop restaurant which serves breakfast, lunch and dinner with a side of gorgeous views.
• Kellogg’s Skyline Croke Park: If you’re really adventurous you can even climb Croke Park stadium, which has a rooftop walkway 17 storeys high – making it the highest open-viewing platform in the city!

9. Take a quick jaunt over Ha’penny Bridge

Dublin doesn’t have a ton of iconic sights, but I would say its adorable Ha’penny Bridge is one.

This picture-perfect pedestrian bridge dates back to 1816 and is so-named after the toll that was once required to cross it (a halfpenny). The bridge’s distinctive appearance and central location make it a perfect spot for photos and a leisurely walk along the River Liffey… so be sure to put it on your list.

10. See the Spire of Dublin

Again, Dublin is a relatively small city, with not too many big landmarks to see.

… A notable exception though being the controversial Spire of Dublin, found on the main pedestrian thoroughfare of O’Connell Street. This prickly stainless steel sculpture reaches 120m (394 feet) up into the sky, making it the tallest sculpture in Ireland. There’s not a ton to do with it apart from gawk and go “huh. that IS tall”, but it’s still one of the main sights of Dublin, so you might as well check it out!

NOTE: Many Dublin guides speak about O’Connell Street like it’s the main must-see shopping street in Dublin, but to be honest, it’s not the most exciting place – it’s mainly full of fast food shops and chain retailers, so just temper your expectations a bit.

PS: From here, you’re about a five minute walk from the world’s first ever Primark (known in Ireland as Penney’s). You can find it on 47 Mary St.

11. Hop on a boat ride

For a more relaxed Dublin activity, consider hopping on a river cruise like this one, that takes you along the Liffey River down to Dublin Port with a local guide to give you the scoop on all the sights. You’ll also learn all about Dublin’s history, from Viking landings over 1,000 years ago to the recent redevelopment of the Docklands area.

For a more hands-on Dublin experience, you can also hop in a kayak. There’s this really cool tour I found where you can paddle on the river in a kayak, and then listen to musical performances under the bridges! Definitely something to consider if you’re looking for a really unique Dublin activity.

12. Visit Dublin’s churches

There are a number of beautiful churches to visit in Dublin, so if that’s your kind of thing, then be sure to add a few to your itinerary.

The most popular one to visit is St. Patrick’s Cathedral, the largest cathedral in Ireland and a significant historical site best known for its famous choir, the oldest in Ireland, which you can catch a performance of on weekdays during school terms. The cathedral was built where the Saint Patrick apparently baptised local Celts and is also the final resting place of Jonathan Swift, author of Gulliver’s Travels and a former dean of the cathedral.

Other notable churches include…

• Christ Church Cathedral: This is actually the oldest cathedral in Dublin and where the Archbishop of Dublin has his seat (as opposed to St. Patrick’s which is seen as the church for Ireland as a whole). A visit to this, the oldest working structure in Dublin, is fascinating – don’t miss out on seeing the mummified cat and rat!
•  St. Michan’s Church: Another one of the oldest churches in Dublin, St. Michan’s is most famous for being home to mummies in the basement. You can view them via a guided tour.
• Whitefriar Street Church: This church is rather unique in that it doesn’t look that much like a church from outside, but inside it houses the relics of Saint Valentine (yes, as in where Valentine’s Day originated). There are actually a few beautiful shrines within this church, making it worth the visit.
• St. Audoen’s Church: The oldest parish church in Dublin and a lovely example of medieval architecture with an exhibition of medieval objects inside.

13. Enjoy Dublin’s Green Spaces

Another great thing about Dublin is just how green it is – with lovely parks all over the city to enjoy.

Some of the most popular ones include…

• St Stephen’s Green: A gorgeous city park which contains an ornamental lake and waterfall, as well as play equipment for kids and a number of sculptures – in particular the Yeats Memorial.
• Phoenix Park: A huge park which also houses Dublin’s Zoo, along with wild deer, Victorian flower gardens and a fort. You could easily spend a whole day just exploring here!
• Iveagh Gardens: Not far from St Stephen’s Green are these delightful restored Victorian gardens, which also contain a pretty little waterfall and a tiny maze.
• Merrion Square Park: A park surrounded by Georgian buildings, this is also where the statue of Oscar Wilde reclines on a rock.

14. Admire Georgian architecture

One of my favourite features of Dublin is its beautiful Georgian architecture.

For context, Dublin was mostly a medieval city (in terms of architecture) until the Georgian era (1714-1830), when it experienced rapid growth and prosperity, leading to extensive building projects. Many of these building projects followed the fashionable architectural style of the time, which was characterized by symmetry, classic proportions, and decorative details. As a result, many of Dublin’s streets and squares were designed and constructed in this elegant Georgian style.

So, if you get a chance, a fun thing to do in Dublin is wandering around and admiring its most beautiful Georgian stretches!

Merrion Square is one of Dublin’s finest Georgian squares, surrounded by elegant townhouses, with an Oscar Wilde statue beloved by tourists for photo opps. This is also where you’ll find many of the famed ‘Doors of Dublin’, colourful doors that are so postcard perfect, they make literal postcards that show them off.

Other nice spots for Georgian architecture in Dublin include…

• Fitzwilliam Square: A few streets away from Merrion Square is this smaller but just as Georgian square with beautiful houses surrounding the green park in the middle.
• Baggot Street Lower: About halfway between the two squares is this intersection which also features some quintessentially Georgian buildings
• The Custom House: Of course, you can’t forget the stunning Custom House building, which is a prime example of Georgian architecture located next to the River Liffey.

15. Explore Dublin’s Docklands

Situated east of Dublin’s historic center along the River Liffey, Dublin’s Docklands were once a bustling port and industrial hub that have since (thanks to revitalization efforts ) become a modern neighbourhood full of striking contemporary architecture and unique attractions.

So, when in Dublin, make sure you venture out to this unique part of town.

Some highlights of Dublin’s Docklands include…

• EPIC the Irish Emigration Museum: This is a very fun and interactive museum which shows the huge influence the Irish people have had all over the world.
• The Jeanie Johnston: Right by EPIC is this museum ship which you can tour. It’s a replica of one of the 19th century ships that took Irish emigrants to America, so you can see what the journey would have been like.
• Windmill Lane Recording Studios: Music fans are sure to love being able to tour this recording studio where the likes of Lady Gaga, Hozier, Westlife, U2, The Cranberries, The Rolling Stones and even Kylie Minogue have made their music!
• Bord Gáis Energy Theatre: If you feel like seeing some live theatre, this cutting edge performance space is the place to go. They’re even showing Hamilton in 2024!

16. Check out the National Museum of Ireland

If you want to learn more about Irish culture, history, and heritage, then the National Museum of Ireland is an essential stop during any trip to Dublin.

With its origins dating back to 1877, the museum encompasses four distinct branches, each offering a unique glimpse into Ireland’s past and present. The Archaeology branch, located on Kildare Street, is particularly renowned for its collection of prehistoric gold artifacts, Viking relics, and the famous “Bog Bodies,” which are naturally preserved human remains dating back to the Iron Age.

The Decorative Arts and History branch, housed in the former Collins Barracks, is a sprawling repository of decorative arts, military history, and folk life. This branch presents everything from intricate Irish silverware and period furniture to an extensive collection of military uniforms and weaponry.

The Natural History Museum, affectionately known as the “Dead Zoo,” is a Victorian-era museum that fascinates visitors with its vast array of taxidermied animals.

And the Country Life branch, located in County Mayo, is dedicated to rural Irish life from the 1850s to the 1950s.

While you might not be able to get out to the Country Life branch, all of them are free to visit, with the Natural History and Archaeology branches next door to each other, making them the easiest to visit in one go.

17. Visit the National Gallery of Ireland

If you’re more into art galleries than museums the National Gallery of Ireland is a must-visit in Dublin.

Founded in 1854, this esteemed institution houses an extensive collection of over 16,000 artworks, spanning from the Middle Ages to the present day, with grand halls and intimate galleries ideal for appreciating masterpieces by renowned artists such as Caravaggio, Vermeer, and Monet, as well as an array of Irish art.

One of the gallery’s standout pieces is Caravaggio’s “The Taking of Christ,” a dramatic and evocative painting that draws art lovers from around the globe. The gallery’s collection of Irish art is equally compelling, showcasing works by influential artists like Jack B. Yeats and Sir John Lavery.

PS: This gallery is located next to Merrion Square as well as the Natural History and Archaeology branches of the National Museum. If you’re looking for things to do in Dublin on a rainy day, these three indoor spots would be perfect!

18. Admire the IMMA (Irish Museum of Modern Art)

And if you’re more into modern art, then the Irish Museum of Modern Art (IMMA) may be a great spot to visit. Set in the historic Royal Hospital Kilmainham, this museum was established in 1991, and is considered Ireland’s leading national institution for the collection and presentation of modern art.

Plus its setting – a beautifully restored 17th-century building surrounded by lush gardens – creates a striking contrast between the classical and the contemporary.

Today, IMMA’s collection features works by both Irish and international artists, encompassing a wide range of media including painting, sculpture, photography, video, and installations. Highlights of the permanent collection include pieces by eminent artists such as Louis le Brocquy, Sean Scully, and Marina Abramović… along with gorgeous grounds featuring modern art installations as well.

Best of all? This museum is free to visit too!

19. Stop by Kilmainham Gaol

Looking for Dublin must-dos for history buffs? Why not go to prison?

No – seriously. One of Dublin’s top attractions is indeed a former prison – the Kilmainham Gaol to be precise.

Originally built in 1796, this prison has served as a place of incarceration for political prisoners, rebels, and ordinary criminals throughout its tumultuous history. It gained particular notoriety during the Irish War of Independence and the subsequent Civil War, when it housed many of the leaders of the independence movement.

Today, Kilmainham Gaol stands as a museum and national monument, offering visitors a glimpse into Ireland’s past through guided tours that explore its haunting corridors, cramped cells, and poignant exhibitions. Highlights of the site include the Stonebreakers’ Yard, where many rebels were executed, and the East Wing, which houses an interactive museum detailing the prison’s role in Irish history.

NOTE: Don’t forget to book your tour in advance as it’s a popular attraction. They only release a certain number of tickets 28 days in advance, and you can only visit via guided tour. So make sure you book online as soon as you can if you want to experience this!

20. Visit a quirky small museum

Dublin is FULL of random little museums. Locals will dismiss most as tourist traps, but to me, if you’re interested in the subject matter and you know what to expect, they can be a lot of fun.

Some examples include…

• The Little Museum of Dublin: Yes, this is actually what it’s called. Tucked away in a Georgian townhouse on St. Stephen’s Green, with insights into Dublin’s culture, people, and events… and a whole FLOOR dedicated to U2.
• National Leprechaun Museum: Is it a shameless Dublin tourist trap? Oh, absolutely… but I must admit I did really enjoy my time here. It’s a cute little attraction, though kinda pricey… but I enjoyed learning more about the folklore around leprechauns.
• Dublinia: An interactive museum about Viking and medieval Dublin, with lots of multimedia displays and actors in period dress. It’s more catered towards children but the young at heart will enjoy it as well!
• Irish Rock ‘n Roll Museum Experience: An immersive theatrical experience that lets you walk in the footsteps of Irish musical acts like U2, Thin Lizzy and more. You can literally dress up in costumes and rock out with their instruments.
• MoLI – Museum of Literature Ireland: For fans of Irish literature this museum in the historic Newman House includes immersive exhibitions and treasures from the National Library like the original copy of James Joyce’s Ulysses. One for the book nerds!
• National Wax Museum: Dublin’s answer to Madame Tussauds is actually pretty fun, with waxworks dedicated to Irish history which might be more fun for kids to learn from. There’s even a whole room dedicated to the Father Ted sitcom.

21. Explore more libraries and bookshops

Dublin is a true haven for literary nerds. In addition to the Old Library that we mentioned earlier, there are a number of other great book shops and libraries to check out.

Here are some of the most popular ones:

• Marsh’s Library: Founded in 1707, making it one of the oldest public libraries in Ireland with a well-preserved interior, including wooden galleries and original shelving.
• National Library of Ireland: The main library of Dublin often has interesting exhibitions on for free. You can also apply for a reader’s ticket online if you want to visit the reading rooms, you just need to be over 16.
• Hodges Figgis: The oldest bookstore in Ireland and third-oldest in the world is a treasure trove of reading material with lots of Irish authors.
• Ulysses Rare Books: As it says on the sign, this is a great spot to find rare or antiquarian books, often by Irish writers.
• The Winding Stair: This cozy bookshop is also home to a restaurant so you can have something to eat or drink while you read.

22. Take a free tour of the Irish President’s House

No, not joking. This is an actual thing you can do in Dublin.

Known as Áras an Uachtaráin in Irish, this swanky residence can be found in Phoenix Park, set amidst lush gardens and expansive grounds.

Originally built in the 18th century as a private residence for the British Viceroy, Áras an Uachtaráin became the official residence of the President of Ireland upon the country’s independence in 1937. Best known for its elegant Georgian architecture, today it serves as a venue for official ceremonies, receptions, and diplomatic events… as well as tourist glee, for those who manage to get on one of the venue’s free public tours.

These tours take place all year round on Saturdays at 10.00am, 11.15am, 12.30pm, 1.45pm and 3.00pm. These tours are free, but tickets are only issued on a first-come-first-served basis from the Phoenix Park Visitor Centre, so you can’t book them in advance. Find out more info here.

PS: If you weren’t aware, the president of Ireland has some incredible dogs. You might enjoy this clip here.

23. Try a memorable Dublin experience

By now you should know that there are many fairly touristy things to do in Dublin, many of which are great fun. In my opinion though, I think one of the best ways to round out your trip is to book yourself in for an unforgettable Dublin experience.

So, here are some cool ones to look into:

• Forge your own silver rings: Perhaps if you’re visiting Dublin with a significant other and might need some special rings?!
• See an Irish dance performance with a lesson included: If you’ve ever seen Riverdance and wanted to try it out yourself, you can with these interactive classes at a local pub!
• Gaelic games experience: For the athletic visitors, you can even take part in some traditional sports like Gaelic football, hurling, and handball.

24. Glasnevin Cemetery

Okay, this might be one of the more morbid things to do in Dublin, but this unique cemetery is not only the resting place of many notable Irish figures but also an interesting place to explore.

Established in 1832, this expansive cemetery is the final resting place of over 1.5 million people. On the grounds, you’ll find Victorian monuments, Celtic crosses, and meticulously maintained gardens, along with guided tours to learn more about the people buried here.

These tours also often include a visit to the O’Connell Tower, the tallest round tower in Ireland, which offers panoramic views of Dublin.

To learn more about the history of the cemetery, visitors can head to the Glasnevin Museum, which provides a comprehensive look at the cemetery’s history and the lives of those buried within its grounds. Highlights include an extensive genealogy area, where visitors can trace their Irish ancestry, and a poignant section dedicated to the 1916 Easter Rising.

25. Sit on a bench growing out of a tree

Okay, next, here’s a random recommendation that’s probably not worth going out of your way to see, but one of the more unusual things to do in Dublin is a visit to King’s Inns for a look at the “Hungry Tree”, so named for the fact that this 80 year old tree has somehow, over time, begun to swallow a cast iron bench.

Yes, it’s just a cheesy photo opp, but admittedly, a fun one.

RANDOM ANECDOTE: My boyfriend and I accidentally got trapped in here because the tree is located in a gated garden that doesn’t officially open on weekends. We didn’t realize this, and the gate was left open by someone making a delivery so we walked right in. This gate was then shut when we tried to leave, and all the doors were locked. We had to literally knock on someone’s door (luckily, there’s houses on-site) and have them buzz us out. So… be careful that you don’t get stuck when you go, because that was a thoroughly embarrassing experience I’d rather not go through again.

26. Take a day trip out to see the Cliffs of Moher

For visitors to Dublin, one of the most popular day trips is the Cliffs of Moher.

Located on the western coast of County Clare, these sheer cliffs rise to heights of up to 214 meters (702 feet) above the Atlantic Ocean, offering spectacular panoramic views of the rugged coastline and the vast expanse of the ocean beyond.

The cliffs are a designated UNESCO Global Geopark, showcasing millions of years of geological history and providing a habitat for diverse bird species. The views are truly something else, but (fair warning) so is that staggering wind…

I must say: the trip from Dublin to the Cliffs of Moher makes for for a pretty long day, but it’s worth it if you want to see some of that dramatic Irish coastline for yourself. For the most convenient option, you can book a day tour like this one.

27. Venture out to other amazing places in Ireland

Finally, as I mentioned before, Dublin isn’t necessarily the best place to go if you’re looking for the typical ‘postcard Ireland’ filled with rolling green hills, epic landscapes, and dramatic coastline.

Luckily though, it does make a nice base or starting point for further Irish explorations. So, if time permits, definitely make sure you adventure farther out to other Irish destinations!

Here are some of the most popular options for day tours from Dublin:

• Blarney Castle full day tour: Drive through beautiful County Cork on the way to Blarney Castle, where you can kiss the Blarney Stone to get the “gift of the gab!” This tour also includes time to explore the town of Cork.
• Wicklow Mountains and Glendalough tour: Head off for a picturesque tour of the coast, where you’ll get to explore Dublin Bay, the village of Laragh, Avoca Handweavers Kilmacanogue and the ancient monastic site of Glendalough while seeing plenty of stunning natural scenery.
• Giant’s Causeway, Dark Hedges, Dunluce & Belfast tour: See some of the most iconic sites like the Giant’s Causeway, Dark Hedges and Dunluce Castle ruins, as well as the city of Belfast in Northern Ireland.
• Game of Thrones Winterfell locations tour: Live out your House Stark dreams on this tour to filming locations for Winterfell, which includes costumes to dress up in for epic photos!
• Howth Coastal Boat tour: You can even sail around the isthmus of Howth while keeping an eye out for puffins, seals, gannets and guillemots.

Did I miss any of your favourite things to do in Dublin?

Let me know in the comments! I hope you enjoyed this roundup of the best Dublin activities. Happy and safe travels 🙂