Dublin
Western Europe · Ireland
Did you know?
- Kilmainham Gaol is a former prison turned museum.
- The Book of Kells is displayed at Trinity College.
- Luas trams and DART trains share the city's public transport network.
See also
Dún Laoghaire
Ireland53.30°N 6.14°W · 24 m
Overview
Dublin combines the role of Ireland's capital with a lively nightlife scene. Historic attractions give daytime explorations a different pace.
Languages: English, Irish
Why go?
Dublin, the capital of Ireland, is a vibrant city with world-renowned nightlife and historic attractions. It is the most popular entry point for visitors, with a population over 2 million. The city is walkable in the centre, with a mild climate year-round.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0
Getting in
Dublin Airport (DUB) is 10 km north of the city centre, with extensive flights from the UK, Europe, North America, and the Middle East. Aircoach bus 700 runs to the city centre every 15–30 minutes, single fare €10. Train connections arrive at Connolly Station (north/east) and Heuston Station (west/south). Ferries from the UK dock at Dublin Port, with connecting buses.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0
Getting around
Much of the city can be seen on foot. Public transport includes buses, LUAS trams, and DART trains. Taxis are also available but expensive.
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When to go
Dublin has a mild climate, seldom freezing in winter and cool in summer, with frequent light showers. Average annual rainfall is 732.7 mm. It is a year-round destination, but summer is the busiest season for tourism.
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Things to do
Dublin is packed with attractions: the Book of Kells at Trinity College (€26), Dublin Castle, St Patrick's Cathedral, Kilmainham Gaol (€8), and the Guinness Storehouse (€26). Many museums are free, such as the National Gallery and National Museum of Ireland – Archaeology. For entertainment, enjoy walking tours (€10–12), literary pub crawls, live music at Temple Bar, and theatre at the Abbey or Gaiety.
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Food and drink
Dublin has a wide range of eating places, though considered overpriced by European standards. Cuisines include Indian, Chinese, and the unique 'Spice Bag'. Vegetarian and vegan options are readily available. Pints cost around €6, more in Temple Bar. Pubs generally open Su–Th to 23:00, F–Sa to 01:00 or later. The tap water is clean from the Wicklow Mountains.
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Where to stay
Accommodation ranges from hostels (bunks from €35–40 per night) to budget B&Bs (double from €130) and mid-range hotels (double from €150). Cheaper options are north of the Liffey. University accommodation is available May–September.
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Stay safe
Dublin is safe by day but be cautious at night. Emergency number 999 or 112. Traffic is congested; avoid driving. Street life includes buskers and drunks; a polite 'sorry' works. LGBTQ+ travellers are generally safe but there has been a rise in hate crimes. Rough areas at night include Boardwalk, Lower Abbey St, and near Connolly station; avoid Ballymun entirely.
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Connect
As of July 2024, all of the city has 5G from all Irish carriers. Over 20 public libraries offer free WiFi and internet access, but registration is required.
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Day trips
Great day trips from Dublin include Howth (cliff walks, boat trips to Ireland's Eye), Dun Laoghaire and Dalkey (seaside suburbs), and Malahide (castle). Further afield, Brú Na Bóinne in County Meath has megalithic tombs, while County Wicklow offers Powerscourt Gardens in Enniskerry and the monastic village of Glendalough.
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Go next
Almost all of Ireland is within 2–3 hours from Dublin. Direct trains and buses connect to Cork, Galway, Belfast, and beyond. Ferries sail to Holyhead, Liverpool, and Douglas (Isle of Man).
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0
Field guide adapted from Wikivoyage contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0. Text has been adapted and organized for this guide. About our sources.
Places to know
A few starting points from the guide. Check current hours and prices before you go.
- do
Abbey Theatre
Opened in 1904, and always at the centre of the Irish drama scene, the Abbey is a good venue for catching local playwrights' work but with a global repertoire. It's intended to replace the current building with two new theatres fronting onto the Liffey. This will mean a lengthy closure, but the work has not started.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors
- drink
Against the Grain
Owned by a Galway brewery, this has a wide variety of Irish micro-brews and world beers. No generic commercial beers on tap. A vibrant pub with an eclectic clientele.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors
- buy
Arnott's
A large department store with a long history.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors
- do
Bord Gáis Energy Theatre
The theatre offers a wide range of shows featuring ballet, musicals, family shows, drama, concerts, comedy and opera. With a 2100-seater auditorium, the building was designed by Daniel Libeskind and completed in 2010.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors
- drink
Bowe's Lounge Bar
Victorian pub with a huge selection of whiskey.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors
- buy
Brown Thomas
Dublin's best-known and expensive department store.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors
- drink
Bruxelles
Lively pub founded in 1886. Spread over 3 bars the music is loud and the atmosphere is buzzing. Outside is a statue of Phil Lynott, from Irish rock band Thin Lizzy. For metal, rock and indie music go downstairs.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors
- drink
Bull and Castle
Gastropub and beer hall with a large selection of micro-brewed and international beers. Part of Buckley Steakhouse chain.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors
Before you go
Connectivity
5G coverage from all carriers. Free WiFi available in many public libraries (registration needed).
Culture
Pubs are central to Dublin culture; note that smoking is banned indoors but many have outdoor areas. Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated – round up or leave 10% in restaurants.
Health
Tap water is safe to drink. No special vaccinations needed. Pharmacies widely available.
Local transport
Leap Card for buses, Luas, and DART; available at newsagents. Single rides €1.50-3. Taxis are expensive; use ride-hailing apps.
Money
Dublin is not cheap; visitors from outside the EU can get a VAT refund of 23% on eligible goods.
Safety
Emergency number 999 or 112. LGBTQ+ travellers are generally safe; see Outhouse centre for support.
Transport
Airport bus (Aircoach) costs €10 single to city centre. Taxis are plentiful but expensive.
Visa context
Visa rules depend on passport; check current entry requirements before booking.
Water
Tap water is fresh and clean from the Wicklow Mountains.