What to do in Dublin, where to stay, where to eat and drink?
Some ideas on what to do in Dublin and where to stay.
These are questions that as a tour guide in Dublin or Ireland you get asked all the time. So, I hope to give you some advice here and give you some suggestions.
Dublin, Ireland’s vibrant capital, is a city brimming with history, culture, and charm. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning traveler, Dublin offers a wealth of activities to explore, comfortable places to stay, and delightful food and drink options to enjoy.
Let me suggest a few……
Accommodation in Dublin:
Dublin offers a wide range of accommodations catering to different budgets. Here are four great places to stay, each offering a different level of budget:
The Shelbourne Dublin (Luxury)
- Overview: A luxurious five-star hotel located on St. Stephen’s Green, The Shelbourne Dublin is an iconic choice for those seeking an upscale experience. The hotel combines historic charm with modern amenities, making it one of Dublin’s most prestigious places to stay.
- Why Stay Here: The Shelbourne offers elegantly appointed rooms, fine dining, and a spa, all in a prime city centre location. It’s perfect for those who want to indulge in a bit of luxury.
The Alex (Moderate)
- Overview: The Alex is a stylish four-star hotel near Merrion Square, offering contemporary accommodations at a moderate price. It’s ideal for travellers looking for comfort and convenience without the high cost of luxury hotels.
- Why Stay Here: The hotel features modern design, a fitness centre, and an on-site restaurant, with easy access to many of Dublin’s top attractions. It’s a great choice for those wanting a balance of quality and value.
Jurys Inn Dublin Christchurch (Mid-Range)
- Overview: Situated in a central location overlooking Christchurch Cathedral, Jurys Inn offers comfortable and affordable accommodations. The hotel is close to many key attractions, including Dublin Castle and Temple Bar.
- Why Stay Here: Jurys Inn provides spacious rooms, a restaurant, and a bar at a reasonable price. It’s ideal for families, business travellers, or anyone looking for good value in the heart of Dublin.
Generator Dublin (Budget)
- Overview: Located in the trendy Smithfield area, Generator Dublin is a budget-friendly option that offers both dormitory and private rooms. It’s a stylish and social hostel known for its lively atmosphere and modern amenities.
- Why Stay Here: Generator Dublin is perfect for budget-conscious travellers who want a fun, vibrant place to stay. It’s close to attractions like the Jameson Distillery and provides great value with its combination of affordability and convenience.
These four options provide a mix of budgets, from luxury to budget-friendly, ensuring you can find the perfect place to stay in Dublin no matter what your budget is.
While in Dublin you can enjoy one of our many day tours from the city center to Wicklow, Powerscourt, Glendalough, Newgrange, the Boyne Valley and more.
Top 4 pubs in Dublin with Live Irish Music
Dublin is known for its vibrant pub scene, especially when it comes to live Irish music. Here are four of the best pubs in Dublin where you can enjoy traditional Irish music:
Whelan’s
- Location: 25 Wexford Street, Dublin 2
- Overview: A legendary venue in Dublin, Whelan’s is renowned for its live music, ranging from traditional Irish tunes to indie and rock performances. The pub has a rich history and has hosted many famous artists over the years. Whelan’s is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the best of Dublin’s music scene.
The Cobblestone
- Location: 77 King Street North, Smithfield, Dublin 7
- Overview: The Cobblestone is one of the most authentic places in Dublin for traditional Irish music. Located in the Smithfield area, this pub offers live music sessions almost every night. It’s a family-run pub with a deep connection to the Irish music tradition, making it a favourite among locals and tourists alike.
O’Donoghue’s
- Location: 15 Merrion Row, Dublin 2
- Overview: O’Donoghue’s is steeped in history and is famous for being the home of The Dubliners, one of Ireland’s most iconic folk bands. The pub has been a hub for live Irish music for decades, and you can still enjoy lively sessions here almost every night.
The Temple Bar
- Location: 47-48 Temple Bar, Dublin 2
- Overview: While it’s one of the more touristy spots in Dublin, The Temple Bar pub is undeniably iconic. Located in the heart of the Temple Bar district, this pub offers live Irish music daily and is perfect if you want to soak in the atmosphere of Dublin’s most famous cultural quarter.
These pubs each offer a unique experience, making them top choices for enjoying live Irish music in Dublin.
Hilltoptreks Day Tours from Dublin to Wicklow, Powerscourt, Glendalough, Newgrange, the Boyne Valley and more.
4 things to do in Dublin
Dublin is a city rich in history, culture, and vibrant energy. Here are four must-do activities when visiting Dublin:
Explore Trinity College and the Book of Kells
- Overview: Trinity College is Ireland’s oldest university, founded in 1592. It’s home to the famous Book of Kells, an illuminated manuscript dating back to the 9th century.
- Why Do This: Visiting Trinity College offers a glimpse into Ireland’s scholarly history, and seeing the Book of Kells in person is a highlight. The Long Room, a stunning library filled with ancient books, is also a must-see.
Stroll Through St. Stephen’s Green
- Overview: St. Stephen’s Green is a beautiful public park located in the heart of Dublin. It’s a peaceful oasis amidst the hustle and bustle of the city.
- Why Do This: A stroll through St. Stephen’s Green is perfect for relaxing, people-watching, or enjoying a picnic. The park is filled with statues, gardens, and a lovely lake, making it a great spot to unwind.
Visit the Guinness Storehouse
- Overview: The Guinness Storehouse is one of Dublin’s top attractions, offering an interactive experience that delves into the history and brewing process of Ireland’s most famous beer.
- Why Do This: The tour ends with a visit to the Gravity Bar, where you can enjoy a pint of Guinness with panoramic views of Dublin. It’s a must-do for beer lovers and those interested in Ireland’s brewing heritage.
Discover Dublin Castle
- Overview: Dublin Castle has been a key site in Irish history for over 800 years. It has served various roles, from a medieval fortress to a seat of British rule, and now a venue for state events.
- Why Do This: Exploring Dublin Castle offers insight into Ireland’s complex history. You can tour the State Apartments, the Chapel Royal, and the underground remains of the original Viking fortress.
Visit Dublin – Things to do
These activities provide a well-rounded experience of Dublin, combining history, culture, and a taste of the local flavour.
4 places to eat – varied budget
Dublin’s dining scene offers something for every budget, from high-end restaurants to casual eateries. Here are four places to eat, each catering to different budgets:
Chapter One (Luxury)
- Cuisine: Modern Irish
- Overview: Chapter One is a Michelin-starred restaurant known for its exquisite contemporary Irish cuisine. Located in the Dublin Writers Museum, it offers a refined dining experience with a focus on seasonal ingredients.
- Why Eat Here: Ideal for special occasions or a high-end dining experience, Chapter One combines elegant décor with innovative dishes and exceptional service.
The Woollen Mills (Moderate)
- Cuisine: Irish/European
- Overview: The Woollen Mills is a popular spot for hearty, comfort food with an Irish twist. It’s a bustling, casual eatery with a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
- Why Eat Here: Great for breakfast, brunch, or dinner, The Woollen Mills offers a variety of delicious dishes at moderate prices, and its central location makes it easy to pop in during a day of sightseeing.
The Exchequer (Mid-Range)
- Cuisine: Gastropub
- Overview: The Exchequer is a stylish gastropub located on Exchequer Street, known for its relaxed vibe and high-quality food. The menu features a mix of traditional pub fare and more sophisticated dishes.
- Why Eat Here: It’s a great choice for a casual yet refined meal. The Exchequer offers a range of dishes from gourmet burgers to creative small plates, along with a well-curated selection of craft beers and cocktails.
Queen of Tarts (Budget)
- Cuisine: Café/Bakery
- Overview: Queen of Tarts is a charming café and bakery that’s beloved for its homemade cakes, tarts, and light meals. Located in the city centre, it’s a perfect spot for a casual meal or a sweet treat.
- Why Eat Here: It offers a cosy atmosphere and affordable prices, making it ideal for breakfast, brunch, or a mid-day snack. Enjoy their famous tarts and a cup of tea or coffee in a relaxed setting.
These options provide a range of dining experiences, from luxurious to casual, ensuring that you can enjoy Dublin’s culinary scene no matter your budget.
