How to Plan a Trip to Dublin for First-Timers

Planning a trip to Dublin, but not sure where to start? This Dublin city guide has got you covered. After living in Dublin for over a decade, I’ve explored nearly every corner of this historic city and know it inside out. I’ve poured all my best tips and advice into this guide to help you plan the perfect trip to Ireland’s vibrant capital.  

Discover the best time to visit Dublin, must-see attractions, where to stay, how to get around the city and more. I’ll also share my favourite (and reliable) booking and planning resources. Everything—well, almost everything—you need to kick-start your Dublin adventure is right here!

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When to Go | The Best Time to Visit Dublin

The warmest months—June through August—are a great time to explore Dublin’s vibrant city centre. With temperatures occasionally soaring to a surprising 25°C or higher, it’s a good idea to pack light tops and short sleeves to remain comfortable as you wander the streets of Dublin.

While you might catch Phoenix Park’s green turning golden during an unexpected heatwave, summer also brings a surge of tourists. Popular spots like Temple Bar and Grafton Street can feel uncomfortably crowded, and hotel prices often skyrocket. If you’re seeking a more relaxed and affordable experience, summer might not be the best choice for you to visit Dublin after all.

Dublin’s famously unpredictable weather can make planning a bit tricky, but the shoulder seasons—April to June and September to October—are, in my opinion, the best times to visit. As a local, I find Dublin particularly charming after a rain shower and overall more enjoyable during these months. Temperatures are pleasantly moderate, and while you’ll still want to pack a rain jacket, dry spells are frequent enough to enjoy the city’s many outdoor attractions without ending up soaking wet.

Spring also comes with the added bonus of longer daylight hours, giving you plenty of time to explore highlights like Dublin’s Botanic Gardens or the scenic cliffs of Howth without feeling rushed.

For budget-savvy travellers or those craving a quieter vibe, the shoulder seasons are ideal. Dublin’s tourist season kicks off with a bang during the St. Patrick’s Festival in March, and by the time August arrives, the city is in full swing. Visiting in April, May, June, September, or October gives you breathing room to appreciate Dublin’s top heritage sites and museums without the hustle and bustle of summer crowds. Plus, hotel rates are more reasonable, and the city feels less hectic.

Transportation | How to Get to Dublin

What are your options for getting to Dublin from abroad ?

Flying to Dublin

With many airlines offering direct flights to Dublin International Airport from nearly all European capitals, travelling to Dublin has never been easier. Low-cost Ryanair is the first airline that comes to mind when planning a trip to Dublin. However, don’t overlook other carriers like Aer Lingus or Air France/KLM, which often offer very competitive prices if you book your trip early.  

Direct intercontinental flights to Dublin from America or Asia are less common but still available. From Asia, airlines such as Emirates and Qatar Airways provide direct routes to Dublin. Travelling from the United States is also relatively straightforward, with Aer Lingus and American Airlines offering transatlantic flights.

If you can’t find direct flights to Dublin from your nearest airport, the next best option is to fly to London, UK, and take a short connecting flight to Dublin from there.

Travelling from Belfast to Dublin

If you are located in the UK, flying to Belfast in Northern Ireland could be an appealing alternative, thanks to cheap easyJet flights. From Belfast, you can then easily reach Dublin by train in about 2.5 hours. Currently, no security or identity checks are required to cross the border into the Republic of Ireland (at least for now).  

For a more budget-friendly option, several bus companies, such as Aircoach and Dublin Express, offer regular departures from Belfast city centre. Bus tickets can sometimes cost half as much as train tickets, and the travel time is roughly the same.  

Dublin by Ferry

Thought about travelling to Dublin by ferry? You can board a ferry from Holyhead in Wales to Dublin, with a sailing duration of just a few hours. Dublin is also connected by ferry to Cherbourg in France, but be prepared for an overnight journey at sea. Here you can bring your car to Ireland from the continent and hit the road after exploring the capital. 

Budget | Is Dublin Expensive to Visit?

Visiting Dublin is a fantastic experience, but like every European capital, it can come with a hefty price tag. From accommodation to dining out, costs can add up quickly, so it’s always wise to plan ahead to snag the best deals. With a little foresight, you can make the most of your trip without breaking the bank.

Accommodation will undoubtedly take the largest bite out of your budget. In spring, expect to pay at the very least 140 euros per night during the week for a decent 3-star hotel in the city centre, like the very central Travelodge, with weekend prices climbing to 200 euros or more. From June onwards, prices skyrocket during peak season, with midweek rates starting at 160 euros and weekend stays easily exceeding 250 euros per night.

Food in Dublin is another expense to consider, but it’s possible to enjoy delicious meals without overspending. Many good restaurants, like Chequer Lane by Jamie Oliver (one of my favourites), offer main dishes for around 20-25 euros, but once you add a glass of wine or dessert, you’re looking at closer to 40 euros per meal.

Fortunately, Dublin’s attractions are relatively affordable and can help balance your spending. World-famous sights like the Guinness Storehouse and Trinity College’s Old Library cost around 20 euros for entry, but many of the city’s best heritage sites are more affordable and only charge 10–15 euros. Better yet, some of Dublin’s top museums, such as the National Gallery of Ireland and the Archaeology Museum, are completely free.

Time | How Many Days to Spend in Dublin

Deciding how many days to spend in Dublin depends on your interests, but if like me, you are history enthusiasts, I’d recommend a minimum of two days to explore the city’s best heritage sites. Dublin’s compact and walkable city centre makes it an excellent choice for a cultural city break, allowing you to visit many of its historic attractions without wasting your time in public transport.

To help you make the most of your trip, I’ve put together a self-guided walking tour of Dublin that covers the city’s main highlights in just a few hours. This itinerary is the perfect starting point, guiding you to must-see spots like Trinity College, St. Stephen’s Green, and the historic Temple Bar district. From there, you can decide which heritage sites—such as St. Patrick’s Cathedral or Dublin Castle—you’d like to visit as you go along.

If you are thinking of adding a third day to your itinerary, I highly recommend taking a short trip from Dublin to explore the surrounding areas. The picturesque landscapes of Glendalough in County Wicklow and the mythical Boyne Valley in County Meath, home to ancient sites like Newgrange and the Hill of Tara, are fantastic options for a day out and about.

The best way to explore Dublin’s surrounding countryside is by renting a car, allowing you to easily visit everything from ruined abbeys to 18th-century manor houses. However, those who don’t wish to get behind the wheel can take advantage of bus tours that conveniently depart from Dublin city centre. They provide access to nearby sites that can otherwise be challenging to reach via local public transport.

Thanks to Ireland’s rail network though, you can venture further afield stress-free and reach other Irish cities in just a few hours. Adding a fourth day to your Irish holiday gives you the perfect opportunity to take a day trip from Dublin by train and discover another side of Ireland. I recommend spending a day in vibrant Galway on the west coast or exploring historic Belfast in Northern Ireland. These side trips are a fantastic way to round out your Dublin adventure and experience even more of what Ireland has to offer.

Accommodation | Where to Stay in Dublin City

Choosing a hotel in a city you’re unfamiliar with can be daunting. Let me give you some pointers to help you plan the best trip to Dublin.

You’ll want to stay as close as possible to Dublin city centre to avoid relying on public transport to get back to your hotel, especially at night when buses are less frequent after 11:30 pm. That said, Dublin city centre is made up of several neighbourhoods, each with its own pros and cons.  

Hotels on the south side of the River Liffey, particularly in the Grafton Street/Creative Quarter and Merrion Square areas, are ideally located. These neighbourhoods are close to the main historic sites, offer a safe environment, and boast some of the best accommodation options in the city—but they can be pricey. If your budget allows, consider staying at the luxurious Merrion Hotel, known for hosting celebrities, or the historic Shelbourne Hotel overlooking the leafy St. Stephen’s Green. These are among the finest places to stay in central Dublin.

Hotels in Temple Bar are also perfectly located with easy access to restaurants and sites like Trinity College, Dublin Castle and Christ Church. But those looking to enjoy a peaceful night’s sleep might think twice before booking their accommodation in Temple Bar, as this area is known for its lively nightlife. You can always pack earplugs though!

If you’re travelling on a budget but still want to stay in a central location, there are several reputable and clean hostels in the city centre. I recommend booking early, as private rooms tend to fill up quickly. Alternatively, hotels on Dublin’s Northside around O’Connell Street or slightly further out in areas like Smithfield can offer more affordable options without sacrificing convenience.

To help you choose the perfect place to stay, check out my in-depth guide on the best neighbourhoods to stay in Dublin!

Activities | Dublin’s Must-See Attractions

Where should you start your exploration of the city? Of course, don’t miss Dublin’s most famous heritage sites! From the Viking invasions in early medieval times to the 1916 Easter Rising, Dublin is steeped in history, with stunning landmarks ready to share their unique stories.

Arguably the most famous is Trinity College’s Old Library, a jaw-dropping space that houses the world-famous Book of Kells, one of Ireland’s most cherished treasures (booking ahead is strongly advised during peak season). Another favourite of mine is Dublin Castle and its opulent 18th century interiors. As a centre of power for centuries, it’s an essential stop to understand Ireland’s complex history under British rule.

Kilmainham Gaol, a former prison with deep political significance in Irish modern history, is another must-see—though booking in advance is highly recommended. Meanwhile, Dublin’s two impressive cathedrals, St. Patrick’s and Christ Church, are stunning architectural marvels that should also be on your list. Pick one if you don’t have time to see both!

A stroll around Temple Bar, Dublin’s most famous and lively neighbourhood, is mandatory for any first-timers. I recommend exploring its cobblestone streets in the morning to avoid the crowds and capture the best photos in front of the iconic red façade of its most famous pub, The Temple Bar.

Ireland is world-famous for its whiskey and beer, so a visit to a distillery or brewery is a must. While the Guinness Storehouse can be a bit overpriced, it offers a fascinating look into the story of Guinness, a company deeply entwined with Dublin’s history.

For whiskey lovers, skip the Jameson Distillery (as no whiskey is produced in Dublin any more) and head to one of the city’s four working distilleries instead. At the Teeling Distillery, you’ll get a tour of the facilities, witness the operation of copper pot stills, and enjoy a tasting—just make sure to have a full meal beforehand to handle the whiskey like a pro!

Finally, take advantage of Dublin’s fantastic free museums. The National Museum of Ireland boasts three branches: Archaeology, Decorative Arts and History, and Natural History. My personal favourite is the Archaeology Museum, with its incredible exhibits of Celtic metalwork. For art enthusiasts, the National Gallery and the Hugh Lane Gallery are Dublin’s top art museums and are definitely worth a visit.

Public Transport | How to Get Around Dublin

From Dublin airport, you can take the Aircoach or Dublin Express shuttle bus to reach the city centre. Book online for a discount. Taxis are also available outside the terminals.

Dublin city centre is fairly compact, and you won’t really need to rely on public transport. You’ll mainly be walking between the city’s main landmarks and museums, so make sure to pack comfy walking shoes.

Getting around Dublin by public transport is relatively straightforward. If you need to travel longer distances, buses will likely be your main option. Consider getting a Leap Card for convenient and cost-effective payment across various transport services. I also recommend downloading the free Transport for Ireland app, which is a great tool for navigating public transport and schedules.

Dublin has expanded its tram network called the Luas, with two lines now intersecting each other. The green line connects the north to the south of the city, while the red line goes east to west, connecting Dublin’s main train stations.

Unique to Dublin, the city has a railway system called the DART, which connects seaside towns along Dublin Bay, such as picturesque Howth or historic Dalkey to Dublin city centre. It is a favourite means of transport for Dubliners to escape the city for the day, especially during the warmer months. Your Leap Card will also be accepted here.

Nightlife | Where to Go for a Drink in Dublin

Dublin’s nightlife reputation has travelled beyond the borders of the Irish Republic, and many choose Dublin to celebrate…anything! The Irish pub is a quintessential part of life in Dublin, and some will say you haven’t seen the city until you drink a pint in one of its pubs.

What is Dublin’s best pub then? That’s a question people could argue over for days. Everyone has a favourite depending on what they are looking for: the crowd or quiet socializing, modern or traditional (live!) music, Irish beers or foreign. 

Although you can find a pub at almost every corner, let me suggest a few popular neighbourhoods to help you find your own favourite pub:

• Temple Bar and its colourful establishments lining medieval looking cobbled streets lure crowds of tourists looking for an Irish pub with live Irish music. But it’s all a bit overpriced, and you’ll barely meet any Irish at the bar. Expand your search slightly beyond the cobbled streets for a more local crowd.

• Definitely Dublin’s best entertainment district, Camden Street attracts a crowd ready to party until late into the night. Mismatched looking pubs quickly fill up with locals and expats eager to chill out after a long week at work. Pick one and move to the next until you find the right one for you!

• The area roughly stretching from George’s Street to Dawson Street is a maze of streets filled with pubs, bars and clubs. Hotspots include George Street, Dame Lane, South William Street, Fade Street and Dawson Street.

• If you’re looking for a quieter vibe, head to neighbourhoods on the edge of Dublin city centre, such as Rathmines to the south and Stoneybatter to the north, where you’ll find pubs popular with the locals.

You finally found a pub to your liking? Make sure to follow the Irish pub etiquette to blend in and have a great time in Dublin.

Connect | Attend a Festival in Dublin

Dublin hosts festivals throughout the year, so if you happen to be in town during the St. Patrick’s Festival, music festivals, or arts festivals, why not join in! Here are the most popular events to help you plan ahead your trip to Dublin.

In March, the week-long St. Patrick’s Festival culminates with the St. Patrick’s Day parade on March 17th. Many people travel to Dublin to celebrate the Irish national day in the Irish capital. Brace yourself for the crowds and join the green and orange tsunami!

One of the most established music festivals in Dublin is the Temple Bar TradFest, which takes place in January. The event showcases traditional Irish music, often with a modern twist. If you prefer mainstream artists, both Irish and international, consider attending the Forbidden Fruit Festival in June, conveniently held on the grounds of the Irish Museum of Modern Art.

For film enthusiasts, the Dublin International Film Festival usually takes place around February or March, while the Dublin Fringe Festival in September brings an eclectic range of theatrical performances to the Dublin audience. Other arts festivals include the Dublin Dance Festival, Bram Stoker Festival, and more.

Getting Reading | Things to Do Before You Go

Make sure you’ve taken care of all the necessary preparations before heading to the airport:  

• Confirm whether you need a visa or travel authorization to enter Ireland, and ensure your passport is valid for the entire duration of your trip.

• Consider getting travel insurance for your trip to Dublin to cover potential flight cancellations or health issues. Heymondo offers tailor-made travel insurance with a travel assistance app to help you access care while travelling.  

• Check with your phone provider about international roaming charges. To avoid an expensive bill when you return home, consider solutions from Irish company WiFi Candy, which provides eSIM and portable WiFi options for fast and reliable internet throughout your trip.  

Dublin’s history stretches back over a thousand years, making it one of Europe’s oldest cities. As you wander its lively streets, the city’s rich heritage reveals itself at every turn—from centuries-old cathedrals and elegant Georgian townhouses to historic libraries and colourful pubs. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend getaway or a longer stay, Dublin’s distinctive and vibrant atmosphere is sure to charm you. I hope this guide helps you plan an unforgettable trip and that you fall in love with Dublin just as I have!

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