When you meet an Irish person, one of the first things they may suggest is to get out of Dublin. Don’t take this advice!
With Ireland’s stunning landscapes — lush green fields, tree size rhododendrons, and sheep outnumbering people — Dublin can seem a tad underwhelming by comparison.
Its name, which comes from the Irish word for “black pool,” was bestowed by its Viking founders. The city is bustling with tourists, business people, and students. It’s pricier than the rest of the country and a tad bit gritty.
But here’s the thing: Dublin only gets a bad rap simply because the countryside is so idyllic.
In reality, Dublin is a cool city full of fascinating history, historic pubs, charm, and surprisingly great eateries.
You don’t need to spend all your time here.
But Dublin is definitely worth a few days, if just to recover from jet lag and learn some of the history of Ireland.
To help you make the most of your visit, I’ve put together my recommended 3 days in Dublin itinerary itinerary.
It covers the must-see sights and ensures you’ll enjoy some authentic Dublin experiences (including a few proper pints along the way).
Snapshot Of 3 Days In Dublin Itinerary
Here’s what you can see with this itinerary:
- Day 1: Trinity College, Book of Kells, St. Stephen’s Green, Grafton Street, Merrion Square, National Museums, Dublin Castle, Temple Bar
- Day 2: St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Christ Church Cathedral, Kilmainham Gaol, Museum of Modern Art, Guinness Storehouse, Jameson Distillery, Smithfield
- Day 3: EPIC, GPO, O’Connell Street, Glasnevin Cemetery, Phoenix Park
To avoid disappointment, there are a few things you should really book in advance, especially if you’re traveling in high season:
- Kilmainham Gaol ticket
- Book of Kells tour
- Guiness Storehouse ticket
- historic pub tour (just loved this!)
- guided walking tour
- guided food tour
- Dublin Pass
I’d also like to give you some quick advice on pubs.
You won’t be able to stroll though Dublin without finding loads of pubs and who would want to. The main concentration is in Grafton Street area, Temple Bar, and North Dublin.
Here are some authentic ones to pop into for a pint, lunch, or dinner:
- Auld Dubliner (trad music & Irish lamb stew)
- Brazen Head (oldest pub in Dublin with live music & Irish food)
- Gravediggers (scratched up wood paneling, first rate pints & snugs)
- The Oval Bar (Victorian decor & legendary Guinness stew)
- The Stag’s Head (beautiful Victorian pub with trad music)
- O’Donoghue’s (popular spot for musical Dublin)
- Mulligan’s (JFK haunt, lots of nooks and crannies)
- Hairy Lemon (a bit touristy, but cool interior & good pints)
- The Cobblestones (great trad music every night from 7:00 pm)
- Palace Bar (fave of Dubliners with a whiskey bar upstairs)
I would prolly skip Temple Bar itself, as you’ll be smashed in like sardines with other tourists and it’s quite pricey.
3 Days In Dublin Itinerary
Day 1: South Dublin
Start your Dublin itinerary at Trinity College. It’s Ireland’s oldest university and the place to see the world’s most famous illuminated manuscript, the Book of Kells or take a guided tour of the campus.
You’ll find the library just to the right of Library Square behind the Campanile. It holds over 5 million books!
The most beautiful bit of the college is the Long Room. This amazing space is lined with over 200,000 books and considered one of the most magnificent libraries in the world.
Among other treasures, it contains the original Proclamation of Independence, the 15th century Brian Boru Harp (the symbol of Ireland), and a mass of sculptures of philosophers and authors.
You can also see two original pages of the Book of Kells, an illuminated page and a page of text. They are swapped out frequently, rewarding frequent visits.
To learn more about the famous book, buy a ticket and step into the Book of Kells Experience next door.
The exhibition includes interactive displays, educational panels, and high-quality replicas of some of the most famous pages from the Book of Kells.
The most important page is the Chi Rho page, also known as the Chi Rho Monogram.
This page marks the beginning of the Gospel of Matthew’s account of the Christ’s birth and is highly celebrated for its intricate design and craftsmanship.
Next, head to St. Stephen’s Green, a historic park in the heart of the city.
This lush, peaceful space is perfect for a leisurely walk. And it’s full of statues and monuments commemorating Ireland’s rich history and colorful figures.
Just outside the park, Grafton Street beckons. It’s got good buzz, high-end shops, plenty of eateries, and talented street performers.
After your stroll, make your way to Merrion Square.
This bit is famous for its colorful Georgian doors and architecture from the 18th century. You can also admire the Oscar Wilde statue in the park. It’s playfully nicknamed the “Fag on the Crag.”
If you want a bite for lunch, I liked Hugo’s or Bewley’s in this area.
Hugo’s is both cozy and refined with a focus on fresh local ingredients and a great wine list.
Bewley’s is a historic pub with great food and beautiful stained glass windows created in 1931. For something healthy, grab an acai bowl at Oakberry.
If you’re interested in art, stop by the National Gallery of Ireland.
It houses works by Irish and European artists. And there are some stand out pieces by luminaries such as Vermeer, Titian, Caravaggio, and Monet.
Or, if you are a history buff, pop into the National Museum of Ireland for a look at Ireland’s most renowned archaeological treasures.
It opened way back in 1890. And you’ll find precious Celtic metalwork and gold, the creepy bog bodies, and artifacts from the Viking, Iron, and Bronze ages.
After exploring the area, visit Dublin Castle, a key site in Irish history. Once the seat of British rule in Ireland, it’s now used for state events and exhibitions.
You will walk into a massive courtyard and can see the statue of Lady Justice turning her back on the people of Ireland.
If you want to go inside, you can admire the state apartments and the royal chapel. Then, lounge in the gardens.
The nearby Chester Beatty Library is an absolute delight! It received the prestigious European Museum of the Year Award in 2002.
It’s considered one of Europe’s hidden gems, and showcases a remarkable collection of manuscripts, miniature paintings, rare books, and artifacts from around the world.
Now, it’s time for a stroll through the Temple Bar area. This buzzy spot is full of colorful pubs, adorned with more flowers than you’ve ever seen.
For dinner, I’ve had some delicious meals at these spots: Note, Camden Kitchen, Kari, Pickle, and Fig. For a splurge, head to Chapter One.
I advise making reservations for everything on Fork or calling ahead.
Day 2: Cathedral & West Dublin
Begin your day with a visit to St. Patrick’s Cathedral.
This cathedral, named after Ireland’s patron saint, has stood tall since the 12th century.
Legend holds that St. Patrick himself baptized people here with water from a nearby well, marking a key moment in Ireland’s Christian history.
With its towering spires and stained glass windows, the cathedral is filled with stories from the past. Inside, the stone walls and echoes of ancient hymns make you feel like you’re stepping back in time.
>>> Click here to pre-book a ticket
Then, head down the road to Christ Church Cathedral.
It’s one of Dublin’s most iconic landmarks, with a history dating back nearly 1,000 years.
Its stunning architecture, including a striking stone nave and beautiful stained glass windows, offers a glimpse into Ireland’s medieval past.
Inside, you’ll find centuries of stories, from Viking history to religious traditions that have shaped the city.
And the oldest and largest crypt in Ireland with “Tom and Jerry,” a mummified rat and cat.
When you’re finished, it’s time for a visit to Kilmainham Gaol, an evocative site deeply tied to Ireland’s fight for independence.
You can hop in a taxi or walk 30 minutes there
Kilmainham housed many of the leaders of the 1916 Easter Rising. Its tour provides a poignant look at this chapter of Irish history.
Wander through the cells and corridors where these historical figures were held, and learn about the complex story of Ireland’s struggle for freedom.
Across from Kilmainham Gaol is the Irish Museum of Modern Art (IMMA), located in the former Royal Hospital Kilmainham.
IMMA showcases contemporary art in a stunning setting, offering a mix of exhibitions from Irish and international artists.
The building itself is an architectural treasure, with lovely grounds to explore.
Next, head to the Guinness Storehouse, one of Dublin’s most famous attractions.
>>> Click here to pre-book a must have timed entry ticket
As you explore seven floors dedicated to the history of this iconic Irish drink, you’ll learn about the brewing process, Guinness’s marketing campaigns, and its global influence.
You can grab some Guinness-laced food, learn how to draw a pint, and do some taste testing. All amidst a very splashy, theatrical setting.
The highlight of the tour is a pint of Guinness at the Gravity Bar. This where you drink your free pint and enjoy 360 degree views of Dublin from the top of the city.
You could also book a ticket for the Jameson Distillery, which opened to the public in 1780.
This restored distillery also offers guided tours where you can learn about the whiskey-making process and enjoy tastings of their signature blends.
You can round off your visit at JJ’s Bar. Try expertly crafted Jameson whiskey cocktails, sample different whiskey varieties, or even have a classic neat pour of Jameson.
The surrounding Smithfield Square is a great place to explore, with trendy restaurants and quieter pubs offering a more local atmosphere.
For dinner, consider the Fish Shop. As its name suggests, it’s a seafood restaurant serving up oysters, crab, and various fresh fish, paired with a carefully curated wine list.
Day 3: North Dublin
Start your morning with a visit to the EPIC Museum, located in the beautifully restored CHQ Building on the River Liffey.
This interactive museum focuses on the stories of Irish emigration and showcases how the Irish diaspora has shaped the world. It’s a fascinating and immersive way to dive into Irish history and culture.
Next, head over to O’Connell Street, Dublin’s grand boulevard. Begin at the Spire of Dublin, a striking 400 feet tall monument.
It will take more than 5 minutes for your guide or an Irishman to tell you all of its nicknames! The most frequently used sobriquet is the “Stiffy on the Liffey”
And walk past the James Joyce statue, a tribute to the city’s most famous literary figure. This one is called the “Prick with the Stick.”
Continue along to the General Post Office (GPO), one of the most historically significant buildings in Ireland. The GPO served as the rebel headquarters during the 1916 Easter Rising.
Inside, you can visit the Witness History exhibit to learn more about this pivotal moment in Irish history.
>>> Click here to pre-book a GPO ticket
Before you leave O’Connell Street, stop at the O’Connell Monument, a tribute to Daniel O’Connell. He was a 19th century political leader known as “The Liberator.”
Surrounding the statue are four figures, including Courage, which still bears bullet holes from the Easter Rising.
From here, head to the James Joyce Centre, where you can explore the life and works of one of Ireland’s greatest writers. The museum offers insights into Joyce’s complex works, including Ulysses, and features exhibits related to his life and writing process.
Practically next door is the Hugh Lane Gallery. This is truly one of Dublin’s best-kept secrets if you are an art lover. It features an impressive collection of modern and contemporary art.
Among its highlights are works by Irish artists like Jack B. Yeats and renowned international figures such as Manet and Monet.
My favorite was the recreation of Francis Bacon’s chaotic studio, offering a rare insight into the workspace of this influential painter.
Next, make your way to Glasnevin Cemetery, Ireland’s largest burial ground.
This is where many of the country’s most significant figures, such as O’Connell and Michael Collins, are laid to rest. The cemetery offers guided tours and a museum that bring Ireland’s turbulent past to life.
In the afternoon, if you have nay time left, relax with a visit to Phoenix Park, one of Europe’s largest city parks.
You can visit Dublin Zoo, take a leisurely walk, gawk at formal Victorian gardens, or bike ride through the park’s vast grounds.
Don’t miss the chance to see the President’s Residence. It’s an elegant Georgian house and guided tours are available on Saturdays.
Finally, cap off your day with a quiet dinner at a local pub in North Dublin.
Pubs like The Oval or the Gravediggers offer a more relaxed atmosphere, far from the busy tourist areas.
Day 3 Alternative: Day Trip to Glendalough & Wicklow Mountains
A great alternative to spending day 3 in Dublin is to hop in your car or take a guided day trip to Glendalough and the Wicklow Mountains.
Just an hour south of the city, this scenic area is known for its stunning landscapes, ancient monastic ruins, and peaceful hiking trails.
You can explore the Glendalough Monastic Site, with its iconic round tower, or take a stroll along the beautiful lakes.
The Wicklow Mountains offer breathtaking views, making it a perfect escape from the city. It’s ideal for nature lovers and those interested in Ireland’s ancient history.
Tips For 3 Days In Dublin
How To Get To Dublin
The fastest and most common way to reach Dublin is by flying into Dublin Airport, located about 16 miles north of the city center.
Here are your options to get into the city:
- Aircoach: Offers 24 hour service between the airport and various city locations.
- Dublin Bus: Routes 16 and 41 run between the airport and the city center.
- Taxis: Readily available outside the terminal and typically take about 20-30 minutes to the city center.
- Private transfer: Someone will wait for you to chauffeur you to your hotel.
How To Get Around Dublin
Dublin is a highly walkable city, especially in its central areas.
Many of the key attractions, landmarks, and popular neighborhoods are located within a relatively compact area, making it easy to explore on foot.
You can also hop on an e-bike tour, a walking tour, or take the hop on hop off bus.
Taxis and Uber are also both available in the city.
Dublin Pass
To save money on sightseeing in Dublin, I recommend getting a Dublin Pass. It’s great for a 3 day visit that includes several attractions — the savings can really add up.
As of July 2024, a two-day Dublin Pass costs € 124.
If you visited all the attractions listed above that are covered by the pass, plus used the Hop-On Hop-Off bus , you’d save around € 30, plus not have the hassle of standing in line for tickets.
Where to Stay In Dublin
Dublin’s most famous hotel is The Shelbourne.
It’s a historic Victorian building in Merrion where both Irish rebels and fancy celebrities gathered. Inside is the famous Horsehoe Bar, which got a mention in James Joyce’s Ulysses.
A classic five-star hotel located in the heart of Dublin, The Merrion is known for its Georgian architecture, beautiful gardens, and Michelin-starred restaurant, Patrick Guilbaud.
Located just off Grafton Street, The Westbury offers contemporary luxury with chic interiors and a prime location. It’s known for its sophisticated afternoon tea in The Gallery and the glamorous Wilde restaurant.
A beauty on St. Stephen’s Green, The Fitzwilliam combines modern design with comfort. It’s known for its stylish rooms, personalized service, and the Michelin-starred Glovers Alley restaurant.
A more moderate, but still very nice option, is the Hyatt Centric. It’s a new hotel well located and has a range of rooms and suites. It’s close to St. Patrick’s Cathedral and Temple Bar.
When To Visit Dublin
Dublin’s weather is pretty mild year round, so there’s no “perfect” time to visit.
Summer is the busiest season. But if you want sunshine and lighter layers, it’s your best bet.
For fewer crowds, try spring or fall. Keep in mind that some attractions and hotels are shut down in winter.
Anytime of the year can be cold and rainy. Everyone likes to say you can get all four seasons in one day.
If you want to visit for the St. Patrick’s Day Parade in March, you can see the Liffey River turn green. But you should expect massive crowds and high prices.
I hope you’ve enjoyed my 3 days in Dublin itinerary. You may find these other Ireland and UK guides useful:
- Dublin bucket list
- 2 days in Dublin itinerary
- beautiful places to visit in Ireland
- what not to do in Ireland
- 1 day in Belfast itinerary
- 3 days in Northern Ireland itinerary
- guide to St. Patrick’s Cathedral
- 3 days in London itinerary
- 5 days in London itinerary
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