Welcome to your essential guide to visiting Dublin for the first time! Here, you’ll find everything you need to know before visiting Dublin for the first time, plus answers to top questions to help you plan your trip. My husband and I had an amazing experience visiting Dublin, and I’m excited to share our tips with you!
Section 1: Planning Your Trip to Dublin, Ireland
Ireland and Dublin Background Info
Did you know that Ireland considers itself an island? Yes, it’s true! Ireland is an island located in Northwestern Europe, just west of Great Britain. It’s important to note that the Republic of Ireland is NOT part of the UK, although Northern Ireland is. Ireland boasts a rich and complex history marked by centuries of cultural, political, and religious struggles. From ancient Celtic tribes to Viking invasions and Norman conquests, Ireland’s past is intertwined with various influences.
Dublin, the capital city, is located on the east coast of the island along the shores of the Irish Sea. This city has a history spanning over a thousand years, with Viking settlements, medieval fortifications, and British colonial rule shaping its heritage. Dublin is famous for its captivating blend of rich history, vibrant culture, and warm, friendly atmosphere. My husband and I were charmed by its character and were so glad we visited!
How Many Days in Dublin?
To see most sights, 2-3 days in Dublin is perfect. We went for a weekend adventure, but if you want to explore more of the island, add an extra day or two.
Best Time to Visit Dublin
The best time to visit Dublin is typically from May to September when the weather is warmer and there are plenty of outdoor events and activities. Spring and autumn are also lovely, with picturesque parks and mild, yet crisp, chilly weather. Winter has its charm too, especially during the festive season with Christmas lights and events.
Here is a quick summary of the season, average temperature highs and lows, and average rain in Dublin.
| Season | Months | Temperature | Rain |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spring | Mar – May | High: 54°F (12°C) | Average days: 18 |
| Low: 41°F (5°C) | Rainfall: 2.2 inches (56 mm) | ||
| Summer | Jun – Aug | High: 66°F (19°C) | Average days: 16 |
| Low: 51°F (11°C) | Rainfall: 2.0 inches (50 mm) | ||
| Autumn | Sep – Nov | High: 59°F (15°C) | Average days: 19 |
| Low: 45°F (7°C) | Rainfall: 2.8 inches (71 mm) | ||
| Winter | Dec – Feb | High: 48°F (9°C) | Average days: 21 |
| Low: 37°F (3°C) | Rainfall: 2.7 inches (69 mm) |
As you can see, the weather barely reaches 70 degrees in the summer, is typically 50-60 degrees Fahrenheit year round, and rains more days in the month than not. To plan well for a trip to Dublin, always check the weather before you leave. I recommend dressing according to the season:
- Spring: Layered clothing (wool, thick cotton, or cashmere base layer), a jacket, an umbrella, sturdy walking shoes
- Summer: Light layers, sunscreen, and a light rain jacket.
- Fall: Warm layers, a waterproof jacket, and sturdy shoes.
- Winter: Heavy coat, thermal layers, scarf, hat, gloves, and waterproof boots.
Essential Travel Information
- Time Zone: Dublin follows Greenwich Mean Time (GMT).
- Visa: No visa is required for US citizens.
- Currency: The currency in Dublin is the Euro. Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted, though American Express is less so. If you primarily have AmEx cards, definitely bring a few other cards as a backup. Cash is handy but not essential.
- Language: Contrary to popular belief, the official language of Ireland is Irish (not Gaelic). When navigating the city, I was surprised to see Irish written on every major road sign, I learned this is a requirement and during your visit you’ll see Irish written on road signs with English translations underneath. However, nearly everyone speaks English.
Is Dublin Expensive to Visit?
The answer honestly depends on your budget. Dublin can be as affordable or as luxurious as you want it to be. I found the food and drink prices to be on par with the U.S. The price of accommodations is a bit higher, in my opinion…but as always there are deals to be found! For example, my Hun and I flew to Dublin from the Washington D.C. area for $364 per person, direct, round trip on Are Lingus (Ireland’s national airline)!
How did I find this deal? I received an amazing fare alert through my premium subscription to Going, which is a custom flight alert service that notifies me with the details of the great deal from my home airports.
Tickets are usually around $8-900 per person round trip, so the the $50 I pay per year for the premium membership FAR outweighs the $350-400 we saved PER PERSON just by taking advantage of this one alert. Keep in mind this blog is NOT sponsored by anyone – the links support the blog. I’m using this as an illustration to show how you can plan a trip to Dublin for less than what people normally think. Continuing on, I’ll share options for every budget in this blog to help you plan well, have fun, and travel to Dublin!
Major Events Throughout the Year
Dublin hosts various events such as St. Patrick’s Day celebrations (in the future, this may be expanding from one to multiple days – stay tuned to the news) in March, the Dublin Theatre Festival in fall, and the Dublin Fringe Festival in September. Research upcoming events and plan your visit accordingly to make the most of your time in Dublin.
Safety Tips
Is Dublin safe? From my experience, Dublin is generally safe, but like all major cities, it’s wise to watch your surroundings and personal items. Be mindful late at night if you’re visiting Dublin for the first time, especially around pubs where people may be drinking and engaging in tomfoolery. There is teenage group mischief and we saw a few people on drug highs on the street, but compared to other U.S. and European cities Dublin felt safe to us.
If you find yourself in an emergency, dial 112 or 999 to reach the police, fire department, or an ambulance. In Ireland, the police are called “An Garda Síochána” or simply, “the Gardaí”. Also note the Irish Tourist Assistance Service (aka- “ITAS” or “Tourist SOS”) provides immediate assistance to tourists who become victims of crime or experience other traumatic events. This service is free, confidential, and available 7 days a week.
Section 2: Arrival and Transportation in Dublin
Getting from Dublin Airport to the City Center
Dublin Airport is 8-10 miles (13-16 km) from the city center. From the airport, you can take taxis, airport shuttles like Aircoach or Dublin Express buses, or public transportation options like the Dublin Bus. Taxis typically cost around €30 and take 30-45 minutes to reach the city center, while buses offer more budget-friendly options with varying travel times up to 1.5 hours during heavy traffic.
Transportation Options in Dublin
Dublin is incredibly walkable, so grab your walking shoes, a coat, and have fun exploring like a local! Dublin’s public transportation system is user-friendly and efficient, making it easy to navigate for sightseeing and exploring. You can plan your routes using online journey planners or mobile apps.
Dublin offers an extensive public transportation network, including buses, DART trains, Luas trams, and DublinBikes. Visitors can purchase Leap Cards for convenient access to buses, trains, and trams, or opt for taxi services like Free Now or Uber for shorter trips within the city. Tickets range from €2 per adult per ticket up to €35 for an unlimited pass for the week.
I could go on and on about public transportation – y’all know me! For the sake of time, for detailed information on getting around Dublin, including specific prices, hours of operation, and how to get to/from the airport to the city center, check out my How to Get Around Dublin on a Budget blog.
Where to Stay in Dublin for First-Time Visitors
If you’re visiting Dublin for the first time, the best areas to stay in are the City Center or the Temple Bar area, right on or south of the River Liffey. These locations are within a 5-15 minute walk to major sites. We stayed in the City Center, right next to the river. Book your accommodation at least three months in advance, especially during the peak summer months, and even more in advance if you plan to visit during one of the major events. This ensures you have a variety of options and can secure your preferred location and price range. We booked six months ahead (September for a March trip) and stayed at the lovely The Morrison Hotel Dublin, which was sold out when we arrived!
Section 3: Exploring Dublin, Ireland
Must-See Attractions in Dublin
Dublin is packed with must-see attractions for the entire family (with most offering discounts for seniors, students, and families and free admission for kids under 4 years old). Check out the list below and my curated list of 29 of the best things to do in Dublin. See pricing and availability, read reviews, and use this list to help create your Dublin itinerary after learning about the attractions below!
Trinity College and the Book of Kells
Delve into one of the world’s most beautiful manuscripts at Dublin’s oldest, prestigious university. The Book of Kells is an illuminated manuscript Gospel book, created by Celtic monks around 800 AD, renowned for its intricate and colorful illustrations and Latin text. It is housed at Trinity College in Dublin, Ireland, and is considered one of the greatest masterpieces of medieval art. Note that most of the exhibits include large, magnified copies of the book on the walls for your viewing pleasure. However, if you decide to visit the Book of Kells, you may only see a page or two on actual display. I thought this was a fabulous way to see the book, but don’t be like me and accidentally hit your forehead on the glass-covered display while trying to get a closer look, haha! Included in your ticket is a separate building called the “Book of Kells Experience” that boasts a beautiful, visual display showcasing select pages of the book.
Trinity college also houses the famous Long Room Library, which may or may not be in the process of restoration during your visit (ie – most of the books are off the shelves). The Long Room at Trinity College in Dublin is a majestic library hall, stretching nearly 213 ft (65 meters) in length and adorned with marble busts of notable figures. It houses over 200,000 of the library’s oldest books and manuscripts, including the world-famous Book of Kells.
If you’re visiting Dublin for the first time, check out Visit Trinity for more information. Admission is €25 for adults and there are discounts for seniors, students, and families. If you are into art, design, architecture, illustration, or history, I highly recommend a visit. While visiting the Trinity College campus is free, admission to the Book of Kells includes access to the see the Book, special exhibit, and Long Room library.
Dublin Castle: As seen on this blog’s cover image, Dublin Castle is a historic landmark in the heart of Dublin, Ireland, showcasing a blend of medieval and Georgian architecture. It has served various purposes throughout its history, including as a fortress, royal residence, and government center. Now, it’s a majestic symbol of Ireland’s rich royal history, and it’s also the site where Dracula was written. Visit Dublin Castle for ticket info. Admission is €8 for adults and there are discounts for seniors, students, and families.
St. Patrick’s Cathedral: St. Patrick’s Cathedral is a magnificent Gothic-style cathedral located in Dublin, Ireland, dating back to the 12th century. It is the largest church in Ireland and is dedicated to Saint Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland. Enjoy its stunning Gothic architecture and storied past. Visit St. Patrick’s Cathedral for details. Admission is €10 for adults, with discounts for seniors, students, and families.
Christ Church Cathedral is a historic landmark in Dublin, Ireland, dating back to the 11th century, featuring stunning Gothic architecture and significant religious artifacts. It serves as both a place of worship and a popular tourist attraction, offering visitors a glimpse into Dublin’s medieval past. Admission to Christ Church Cathedral includes a self-guided tour of the cathedral & crypt, and an audio guide. Admission is €11 for adults, with discounts for seniors, students, and families. Kids under 4 are free.
Dublinia: Explore Dublin’s Viking and medieval history through interactive exhibits. Visit Dublinia for ticket info. Admission is €14 for adults with discounts for seniors, students, and families.
EPIC Museum: Discover the epic story of Irish emigration. If you are interested in history, migration, or have Irish roots and are looking to trace your ancestry, the EPIC museum is the place for you! Visit EPIC Museum for more information. Admission is €21 for adults, with discounts for seniors, students, and families.
The Little Museum of Dublin: The Little Museum of Dublin is a charming museum located in a Georgian townhouse in Dublin, Ireland, offering an intimate look at the city’s history and culture. It features eclectic exhibits curated from donations by locals, showcasing the everyday life of Dubliners throughout the years that capture the essence of the city’s people and culture. We stopped my the Little Museum on our first day and it was entirely worth it! Unlike any other museum experience I’ve had, actors present the history of Ireland and Dublin in a very engaging, interactive 30 minute session. I learned more about Ireland and the city in this 30 minute visit than I have in school, plus it was fun! Visit Little Museum for details. Admission is €15 for adults, with discounts for seniors, students, and families.
Free Things to Do in Dublin
In addition to paid activities, Dublin has many affordable activities. In addition to free walking tours, Dublin’s national museums and public spaces are free to visit:
The National Museum of Ireland: Nestled in the heart of Dublin, The National Museum of Ireland beckons first-time visitors with promises of a captivating journey through Irish history. From ancient Celtic artifacts to contemporary masterpieces, every corner of this cultural gem is a testament to the resilience and creativity of the Irish people. Step inside, and you’ll find yourself transported to another time, where legends were born and history was made. With lively events, interactive workshops, and insightful exhibits, the museum offers a chance to connect with Ireland’s rich heritage in a fun and engaging way.
National Archaeology Museum: Nestled in the heart of Dublin, this treasure trove of ancient wonders promises an unforgettable journey through Ireland’s rich history. From mesmerizing Celtic artifacts to well-preserved bog bodies, every exhibit offers a fascinating glimpse into the island’s past. You can even discover the mysteries of Celtic warriors and Viking invaders! Whether you’re a history buff or just curious about ancient civilizations, this museum has something for everyone. So, grab your curiosity and dive into Ireland’s captivating past at the National Archaeology Museum—it’s an adventure you won’t want to miss!
St. Stephen’s Green Park: Picture yourself wandering through the lush pathways of St. Stephen’s Green, a peaceful oasis right in the heart of the city. With its serene ponds, vibrant flower beds, and charming sculptures, this park is the perfect oasis for a leisurely stroll or a peaceful picnic.
Phoenix Park: Originally a royal hunting Park in the 1660s and opened to the public in 1747, explore Phoenix Park’s sprawling landscapes, historical monuments, and diverse wildlife. This park is one of Europe’s largest urban parks, boasting sprawling greenery, historic monuments, and even a resident herd of deer!
Unique Things to Do in Dublin
If you’re ready to get off the beaten path while visiting Dublin for the first time, consider these fun, unique things to do in Dublin:
Powerscourt Centre Townhouse
Known as Dublin’s creative quarter with boutiques and design shops showcasing products and merchandise exclusively made in Ireland. The Powerscourt Centre in Dublin is a captivating blend of history and modernity, housed within a stunning Georgian townhouse in the heart of the city. Originally the residence of the Powerscourt family, it has been transformed into a bustling marketplace filled with boutique shops, artisanal cafes, and unique galleries. With its elegant architecture and historic charm, it offers visitors a delightful shopping and dining experience. From handcrafted jewelry to gourmet delights, there’s something to entice every visitor. Whether you’re browsing for treasures or simply soaking in the ambiance, a visit to the Powerscourt Centre is sure to enchant you.
Gaelic Games
Feeling athletic? While in Dublin, you can watch or even learn to play Gaelic games! The Gaelic games are traditional Irish sports and cultural activities that hold deep significance in Irish society. The main Gaelic games are Gaelic football, hurling, camogie (a variation of hurling played by women), and Gaelic handball.
Gaelic football is a fast-paced field game played with a round ball, similar to soccer but with different rules and techniques. Hurling is one of the oldest and fastest field sports in the world, played with a stick (hurl or camán) and a small ball (sliotar), and it’s often described as a mix of field hockey and lacrosse. Camogie is essentially the female version of hurling, with its own rules and regulations. Gaelic handball, played in an alleyway or court, involves striking a small ball against a wall using only the hand or a glove.
These games are not only about sport but also about community, identity, and cultural heritage. They are deeply rooted in Irish history and tradition, with matches often serving as important social events that bring together communities and celebrate Irish culture.
National Soccer or Rugby Matches: Did you know Ireland hosts one of the top five-ranked Rugby teams in the world? See the Irish Rugby team in action – purchase tickets at Aviva Stadium (Dublin Arena) or visit Irish Rugby for more details.
Speakeasies: Dublin is known for its whisky, and as such there is a growing cocktail culture in the city. Why not try a delicious whisky (or other alcoholic beverage) cocktail at a hidden speakeasy such as the Vintage Cocktail Club, The Blind Pig, or The Hacienda bar.
Literary Pub Crawl: Dublin is known for hosting renowned literary masters, such as James Joyce (wrote, “Ulysses”), Samuel Beckett, Oscar Wilde, W.B. Yeats, Roddy Doyle, and Bram Stoker – the author of Dracula. For a fun mix of history, literature, live readings by actors, and pub culture, you can’t miss the engaging Literary Pub Crawl.
Jameson Distillery, Teeling Distillery, and Guinness Storehouse: What’s a trip to Dublin or Ireland in general without trying the national beverages? Enjoy guided tours and tastings of Ireland’s most famous drinks (whisky and beer) by joining a Jameson and Guinness Tour. Dive into the storehouse processes, see some of the best views of the city, and even get a pint made with your face on it! In addition, a Teeling Whiskey Distillery Tour offers a behind-the-scenes look at one of the only operational distilleries in the city. Learn, sip, and sample some of the best beverages Ireland has to offer.
Recommended Neighborhoods for Activities in Dublin
Dublin’s diverse neighborhoods offer unique experiences:
- Temple Bar: Known for its vibrant arts and entertainment scene.
- Grafton Street and St. Stephen’s Green: Popular for shopping and dining.
- Smithfield, Rathmines, and Portobello: Offer a mix of cultural attractions, trendy cafes, and local charm.
For souvenirs, consider Irish whiskey or Guinness (properly sealed in your checked luggage or purchased at the airport). Irish wool clothing makes a great gift too! I picked up a beautiful (yet kind of pricey) green-plaid merino wool scarf at Trinity College and wool socks from Galway during the Cliffs of Moher tour, but there are a number shops in Dublin to grab Aran Islands’ famous wool. Hats, scarves, gloves, and beautifully knit sweaters for men, women, children, and even dogs await!
Day Trips From Dublin
Even though Dublin is located on the east of of the Ireland, that shouldn’t stop you from taking a day trip to any number of locations only a few hours away. If you’re visiting Dublin for the first time, my recommended day trips from Dublin include:
Cliffs of Moher Tour: Visit the majestic, stunning, natural formed cliffs in County Clare, Ireland. Whether you are an outdoors person or not, the Cliffs will stun you with their beauty, scale, and power. We took a Cliffs of Moher Tour that includes roundtrip transportation from Dublin, a drive through the Wild Atlantic Way, and Galway City stop for lunch on our own accord. You can read all about our Cliffs of Moher experience and learn more about what you need to know before visiting in my blog.
Kilkenny, Wicklow Mountains, Glendalough, and Sheep Dog Trials Day Trip: Explore medieval Irish architecture and folklore on a Kilkenny and Glendalough Tour. Journey through medieval Irish architecture and folklore. Explore historic landmarks such as Kilkenny Castle and Glendalough’s ancient monastic settlement nestled within Wicklow Mountain National Park. Additionally, experience the charm of rural Ireland with a stop at the foot of the Wicklow Mountains, where you stop at a sheep farm to witness border collies herding sheep and engage with the local shepherd and his family.
Blarney Castle Day Tour: Travel to Cork to kiss the famous Blarney Stone on a Blarney Castle Tour! Blarney Castle is popular for the Blarney Stone, which is said to grant the gift of eloquence (aka- the gift of gab!) to those who kiss it. Additionally, the castle’s rich history and beautiful gardens attract many visitors. You can stroll in the footsteps of St. Patrick flanked by ruins, Celtic crosses, and round towers. The Rock of Cashel was the traditional seat of the Kings of Munster until they donated the complex to the Catholic Church almost 1,000 years ago for use as a cathedral. It is now one of the best examples of medieval architecture that you can find on a day trip from Dublin.
Exploring Dublin When Pressed for Time
If you’re visiting Dublin for the first time but are short on time, you can still experience the city’s highlights and hidden gems. Here are two fantastic options to help you make the most of your visit:
Dublin Highlights and Hidden Gems Tour
For a comprehensive overview of Dublin’s must-see attractions, consider taking the Dublin Highlights and Hidden Gems Tour. This tour covers key sites such as Dublin Castle, Christchurch Cathedral, Trinity College, Temple Bar area, and the River Liffey, among others. It’s an excellent way to see the essential spots, especially if your schedule is tight. The tour costs approximately $25 per person.
Dublin Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour with Guide and Little Museum Entry
Another fantastic option is the Dublin Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour with Guide and Little Museum Entry. This tour offers live commentary and allows you to hop on and off at major sites throughout the city, providing flexibility and convenience. The tour includes entry to the Little Museum of Dublin, enhancing your cultural experience. The cost is €33 for adults aged 15 and above for a 24-hour ticket, or €39 for a 48-hour ticket, with children 14 and younger traveling for free.
These tours are perfect for those who want to see as much of Dublin as possible in a limited timeframe. Whether you choose the guided walking tour or the hop-on hop-off bus tour while visiting Dublin for the first time, you’re sure to leave with a deeper appreciation for the charm and history of Ireland’s capital city.
Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with the diverse culinary offerings of Dublin! From cozy Irish pubs to high-end dining establishments, the city has something delicious for everyone. Let’s dive into the highlights and must-try dishes and drinks that will make your Dublin experience unforgettable.
Section 4: What to Eat in Dublin
Dublin’s food scene is a colorful mosaic of flavors, showcasing both traditional Irish favorites and international cuisines. Whether you’re craving a comforting bowl of Irish stew or eager to explore the vibrant world of Asian fusion, Dublin has it all. If you’re visiting Dublin for the first time and are hungry for specific insider tips on Dublin’s food scene, pub culture, tipping, popular restaurants, and must-try dishes, be sure to check out my dedicated Dublin food blog.
Must-Try Food in Dublin
When visiting Dublin for the first time, prepare to indulge in some of Dublin’s most iconic dishes, lovingly crafted to perfection over generations. With its lush green pastures and bountiful seas, Ireland is renowned for its beef, dairy, root vegetables, and seafood. I’ll list a few items here to avoid this blog being 5,000,000 words, but don’t miss out on these mouthwatering treats:
- Irish Stew: A soul-warming concoction of tender meat, potatoes, and vegetables, simmered to perfection for a taste of pure comfort.
- Boxty: Crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, these traditional Irish potato pancakes are a delightful savory treat, perfect for any time of day.
- Seafood Chowder: Creamy, rich, and brimming with the freshest catch of the day, seafood chowder is a coastal classic that will transport you to the shores of Ireland.
- Colcannon: Imagine a creamy blend of mashed potatoes, cabbage or kale, and butter, for a taste of traditional Irish comfort food at its finest.
Must-Try Drinks in Dublin: Sip and Savor
No culinary adventure in Dublin would be complete without sampling some of Ireland’s most iconic beverages. From the velvety smoothness of Guinness to the golden warmth of Irish whiskey, here are some drinks you won’t want to miss if you’re visiting Dublin for the first time:
- Guinness: Raise a glass of Ireland’s beloved stout, with its rich flavors and creamy texture that’s sure to leave you wanting more.
- Irish Whiskey: Savor the smooth sophistication of Irish whiskey, whether enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in a delicious cocktail.
- Coffee: Dive into Dublin’s thriving coffee culture, with specialty coffee shops serving up expertly brewed cups of joe using locally roasted beans.
- Cider: Quench your thirst with a crisp and refreshing Irish cider, perfect for sipping on a sunny afternoon.
- Craft Beer: Explore Dublin’s vibrant craft beer scene, with breweries crafting a wide range of brews to suit every palate.
If you’re like me and want to taste hearty portions of traditional Irish food AND sip Ireland’s great beverages in one sitting, I highly recommend taking the Irish Food Trail – Walking Tour of Dublin. We walked the streets of Dublin with a local food and whisky connoisseur, learning about Irish history as we filled our bellies full of delicious food. Here’s to a culinary adventure filled with flavor and fun in Dublin’s dynamic food landscape!
Section 5: Dublin’s Famous Pubs and Nightlife Scene
Introduction to Dublin’s Famous Pubs and Nightlife
Dublin is renowned for its lively pub culture and vibrant nightlife. Irish pubs are an essential part of the social fabric, offering a glimpse into Ireland’s culture and community spirit. Operating hours typically range from late morning to late evening, with earlier closing times on Sundays. If you’re visiting Dublin for the first time, know that pubs often welcome children until early evening, fostering a family-friendly atmosphere.
The essence of pub culture lies in the concept of “craic” (pronounced “crack”) —the lively banter, entertainment, and camaraderie shared among people. While in Dublin, know that standing or sitting at the bar encourages interaction, while traditional music sessions add to the entertaining atmosphere. Whether a solo traveler or not, engaging in conversation, buying rounds of drinks, and learning a few words of Irish Gaelic are all part of the pub experience.
Iconic pubs like The Temple Bar, The Brazen Head, and Kehoes offer authentic Irish ambiance and live music sessions, while modern cocktail bars and nightclubs cater to diverse tastes.
Tips for Finding Live Music, Traditional Irish Sessions, and Entertainment Options
If you start earlier in the evening, you can experience traditional Irish music sessions in pubs across Dublin, especially in areas like Temple Bar and Merrion Square. Many venues host live music performances, comedy shows, and cultural events, providing ample opportunities for entertainment and socializing.
Not only can you have a pint, you can also eat at some of Dublin’s pubs while visiting Dublin for the first time. Irish pub grub offers hearty comfort food at affordable prices. Ordering drinks and meals at the bar is customary, with tipping (10-20%) based on satisfaction. As I said in my Dublin food blog, don’t be surprised if you have to seat yourself at a pub – it’s totally normal.
When it comes to beverages, Guinness reigns supreme and is poured with precision and patience. Irish pubs also showcase a variety of ales, stouts, and spirits, reflecting the country’s rich brewing heritage. What about smoking in Dublin pubs? Well, in 2004, a smoking ban was introduced in Irish pubs, leading smokers to enjoy their pints outdoors.
Recommendations for evening activities and experiences in Dublin
In addition to pub-hopping and live music, Dublin offers a range of evening activities such as theater performances at Abbey Theater, ghost tours, nightclubs, and literary pub crawls. Feeling funny? Laugh the night away at a comedy club such as The Laughter Lounge or International Bar Comedy Club. When visiting Dublin for the first time, you can also explore illuminated landmarks on nighttime walking tours or enjoy a scenic sunset cruise along the River Liffey.
Should you Visit Dublin?
If you’re considering visiting Dublin for the first time, I can tell you that Dublin is a city rich in history, culture, and charm. Whether you’re exploring its storied past, enjoying its vibrant pub nightlife, or soaking in the beautiful parks, there’s something for everyone. Questions? Leave a comment, below! I truly hope this guide helped you plan well, have fun, and enjoy every moment of your Dublin adventure.
Happy travels!
Antoinette | Frolic & Courage
