City Break in Dublin: Your Ultimate Guide
Last Updated: August 12, 2026
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Experince The City of Guinness and Song
History, culture, stories, myths and legends have all risen from these fair shores, and Dublin is at the heart of that. Whilst the culture of Ireland may have moved out of the city, the history and the stories haven't, and that's important.
Dubliners are passionate people, and they love to tell these stories, often in the form of song and dance and, of course, over a pint of thick, creamy Guinness. Ultimately, no city break in Dublin would be complete without either, but luckily, you cannot miss them once here. Music booms across the city, and alcohol flows at its very heart along the Liffey.
You're in for a treat.
I've been lucky to have visited Dublin on multiple occasions, with my latest trip coming in August 2023. Hence, I've packed a lot into this guide, providing you with the best information on what to do and what not to do during your city break in Dublin.
I will talk you through some of the best spots for food, blinding nights out and all the top attractions, including three epic tours around the Jameson's Distillery, the Guinness Storehouse and Kilmainham Gaols.
Likewise, we will delve into Dublin's turbulent past and learn about those who lived through it. Once you scratch the surface of this fair city, you'll find a lot to see and do in Dublin.
Now it's your turn to create a story, a myth, a legend. Are you ready?
What's Dublin Like?
If you look no further than the surface, Dublin is a simple, busy city, with people scurrying across its often wet and slippery streets. Trams toot and roll on past, cars stand in queues as they attempt to manoeuvre the one-way systems and homelessness and begging are rife. The majority of the city's buildings are drab and grey. You couldn't even call it a pretty city.
Frankly, you could easily spend four days in Dublin and come away wondering what all the fuss is about, and at times, I have.
But... When the weather is on your side, there are pockets of beauty and colour to rival Barcelona and Rome.
The beating heart of the city is Temple Bar, which is awash with laughter, music, excitement and drunken, slurred joyfulness.
The sounds of defiance and tunes spill from the pubs, and the smells of exquisite foods fill the cobbled streets.
Groups gather to take photos of the fragrant picturesque hanging baskets, floral displays and pub exteriors as tour guides chatter in the background about the city's dark history. It's now that you realise a city break in Dublin was the right choice.
Hidden in the streets are the real people of Dublin, and I don't mean the living locals. Statues of famous Dubliners carve out the city's history for us, such as James Joyce, Oscar Wilde, Phil Lynott, James Connolly, and, yes, Molly Malone. Consequently, these people are Dublin, and when you unveil their story, you will find Dublin a truly fascinating city to visit.
How to Get To Dublin
Getting to Dublin couldn't be easier. If you arrive, as most of you will, at Dublin Airport, you have two main options.
Firstly, via taxi, which costs around €25 depending on traffic, which is expensive if you're visiting Dublin alone.
Secondly, buses. Several companies run daily services between the airport and the city centre. I took the Dublin Express, which costs €10 return, online. You can buy an open-ended ticket at the booth for €13.50 return. Click here to book and to view the bus routes and stops.
Once you arrive in Dublin, you will find getting about an absolute doddle. All the main attractions, bars and restaurants are walkable, but if you don't fancy the stroll or the infamous Irish weather strikes, public transport is efficient, easy to use and extremely cheap.
If you want carefree travel in Dublin throughout your stay, buy a TFI Leap card (travel top-up card), and you're good to go.
Trams called Luas (pronounced Lewis) run on two lines, the green, north to south, and the red, east to west. Between the two, they stop at almost every major attraction in Dublin, and if they don't, they will be close by. You must buy tickets before you get on. Every stop has a machine, and they're simple to use.
Similarly, buses dart around the city, covering the areas that the Luas cannot reach, and are even cheaper. You cannot pay on the bus with a visa, debit or credit card. However, you can buy a ticket with cash.
If you arrive via train, both the Buses and Luas link up with the train stations of Connolly and Heuston. So, no matter which station you reach, you'll effortlessly get a connection to your central destination.
Timing your Trip
How Long Should You Spend on a City Break in Dublin?
As I mentioned, there are a lot of attractions to squeeze in here in Dublin, and you don't want to feel rushed. Therefore, I believe a minimum of four days is needed.
After all, I expect a couple of mornings will start a little later than you'd hoped, as I'm sure you'll be slightly worse for wear after a raucous night out.
The Best Time Of The Year For A City Break in Dublin
The weather in Ireland is infamous and unsurprisingly plays havoc at any time. Consequently, you want to increase your chances of not being caught in the rain.
As a result, you should avoid the colder, wetter winter months. Aim for May to September, but if you book for July or August, allow for the increased crowds. It gets busy.
Where to Stay During Your City Break in Dublin
Being a capital city, Dublin is awash with all kinds of accommodation, from fancy hotels to thirty-six-bed dorm hostels. Yes, that's right, thirty-six-bed dorms.
No matter your style and standards, Dublin has the place for you.
That said, Dublin epicentres on the Temple Bar area of the city, running along the southern banks of the Liffey. It is home to bars and restaurants, Dublin Castle, Trinity College and the legend that is Molly Malone.
Thus, it is where you'll spend a lot of your time, hence my advice is to stay within walking distance of this area. Furthermore, it has excellent transport links to the docks, train stations, airports and further-out attractions.
Below, I have given a rundown of where I stayed in August 2023 and thoroughly enjoyed my time there.
Point A Hotel
- What: A cosy, friendly, Budget hotel chain.
- Where: Ten minutes walk north of the river and only twelve minutes from Temple Bar. (map)
- Why: In short, great showers, clean and comfy rooms, and friendly staff. Plus, it's only a short walk to the centre.
- Why Not: On the whole, the rooms are very compact, and some of the streets near the hotel appear a bit edgy.
This was my third stay in a Point A hotel, and I've loved them all.
Admittedly, this was the more compact of the three, but the rooms had super comfy beds, a hairdryer (which I only used to dry clothes after a downpour), a kettle and a supply of tea, coffee, sugar and milk. The en-suits were clean and fully stocked with fresh towels, soap and shampoo, and the showers were clean, large, and powerful.
The decor and style of the reception, breakfast and bar area is very much from the Point A catalogue, and I think it's sleek and stylish. And as for the bar, wow, that's stocked up.
Every member of staff we spoke to was friendly, kind, funny and when we returned from our day or night out, they were genuinely interested in what we had done and experienced. This was one of the friendliest places I've ever stayed at.
If I couldn't find a cheaper hostel closer to the Temple Bar area, this is where I'd stay on my next city break in Dublin.
In August 2023, I paid £585.58 for two people for four nights.
Further Accommodation
I have stayed in a couple of other locations in Dublin, but unfortunately, I couldn't recommend them. Point A is the only place that I can recommend. However, if Point A doesn't float your boat, I have three more links that could tickle your fancy.
Airbnb - For all your city-wide apartments, Hostelworld, for those searching for hostels, such as the ideally located Abby Court and Clink i Lár and finally, the hotel giants, Booking.com.
Best Things to do on a City Break in Dublin
Having been to Dublin several times and crisscrossed the city on more than one occasion, I have found some fantastic things to do. I have also found some of the most bizarre, wild and whacky.
So, I am going to give you this bit of advice for free and trust me, I don't do this often, as I don't want to put things down that people have poured their heart and soul into, but... Do not go to the leprechaun museum. It is a total waste of money.
Anyway, moving on, anyone who considers themselves to be 'fairly fit' should find a city break in Dublin relatively easygoing.
Most of the city's best attractions are within a few minutes of the Temple Bar area, and those that aren't, such as the Guinness Factory and Kilmainham Gaol, can be got to via bus, tram or are themselves only a twenty-to-thirty-minute walk from Temple Bar.
As mentioned, if you aren't able or don't want to walk anywhere, public transport is superb and is reasonably priced. Get yourself a TFI Leap card (travel top-up card), and you'll be grand.
Now that's out of the way, let's look at what I think are the best things to do on a city break in Dublin.
Dublin City Break: The Highlights
- Learn How Guinness is Made at the Guinness Storehouse
- Uncover Ireland's Most Wanted in Kilmainham Gaol
- Understand the 1916 Uprising at the GPO
- Get Some Luck by Touching Molly Malone
- Walk Around Trinity College, the Library and the Book of Kells
- Spot a Masterpiece at the National Gallery of Ireland
- Dive into Dublin Castle
- Discover Ireland's Best Whisky at the Jameson Distillery
Learn How Guinness is Made at the Guinness Storehouse
- Why: Don't quote me on this, but I think the law in Dublin states that you must try Guinness, and where better than where it's made.
- Where: Roughly twenty minutes walk due west of Dublin Castle. (map)
- How long: Give yourself a couple of hours as it's bigger than you think.
- How much: A self-guided tour is €26 (£22.36) per person (seniors and students cost €22 (£18.92).
Honestly, you cannot have a city break in Dublin without a visit to the Guinness factory. Having been to Dublin three times and visited the factory three times, the figures prove that.
Not only do you discover the incredible journey of Guinness, but you encounter the people behind it, what the factory means to them and the city, and how it played a part in historical events such as the world wars and Irish independence.
You run through everything from sowing the seed to pouring of the pint, learning as you go.
The factory is set out in an absorbing and entertaining manner, with rest areas, cafes and fun and interactive experiences throughout.
However, the best moment is saved for the end, when you hit the sky bar, where you get a free pint of Guinness with staggering views over the city and beyond.
Uncover Ireland's Most Wanted in Kilmainham Gaol
- Why: It's the best thing to do in Dublin. You learn so much and hear fascinating stories about those imprisoned over the years.
- Where: A twenty-five-minute walk west of The Guinness Storehouse and slightly southwest of Heuston train station. (map)
- How long: A guided tour takes around an hour and fifteen minutes, but you can stay longer in the museum or shop.
- How much: An adult ticket only costs €8 (£6.88), whilst seniors cost €6 and a student ticket costs a measly €4.
Discover where Ireland's most infamous murderers and political prisoners were housed, lived and met, in some circumstances, their end.
One of the best things about Kilmainham Gaols is that it introduces you to the individuals, and strangely, it leaves you feeling like you know them. You learn about their lives, how they ended up in prison, what happened to them inside, and if they made it out, their lives after prison.
Similarly, you uncover the history of the prison, how it must have felt to be imprisoned there and the types of crimes that meant you'd end up there.
If you organise your tour of Kilmainham and the GPO on the same day, you can follow the history of the 1916 uprising and its leaders, such as Joseph Mary Plunkett.
Personally, the tour is the best thing to do on a city break in Dublin, and I urge you to do it. However, you will have to book well in advance - click here. Luckily, they do have cancellation spots, so check in the morning before you want to go for any re-released tickets.
Understand the 1916 Uprising at the GPO
- Why: Because if you don't learn the significance of this building and what happened here in 1916, you'll never understand Ireland.
- Where: On the main O'Connell street, a few meters up from O'Connell Bridge. (map)
- How long: No more than an hour. It's relatively small.
- How much: A fairly hefty €15 (£12.90) per person, whilst seniors and students get a discounted, but still high price, of €12.
Whilst a bit pricey, this small and informative tour is something you should do on a city break in Dublin. Don't get me wrong, it won't be as memorable as other, more impressive tours, but you'll be able to say you have stood in the building that changed the history of Ireland.
Under the post office, there are videos, artefacts and newspaper clippings from the time of the 1916 uprising. I found it fascinating, but in fairness, I am a history geek.
Again, try and link this tour with a trip to Kilmainham Gaol. But do this first. That way, you learn about the 1916 uprising and the individuals involved before moving on to the Gaols and what happened to them.
Get Some Luck by Touching Molly Malone
- Why: If you touch her, she'll bring you luck.
- Where: At the meeting point of St Andrews Street and Suffolk Street, just around the corner from Trinity College. (map)
- How long: However long you need to touch her and grab a photo.
- How much: My favourite word, and a backpacker's best friend - It's free.
Rumours fly around as to who Molly Malone was or if she was real at all. And whilst romantic, it doesn't matter who she was or if she was all a figure of someone's imagination.
Either way, the famous song about her and her ghost selling cockles and muscles from a wheelbarrow has made her part of Dublin's history.
It is said that if you touch the statue of Molly Malone, you will get some luck. Mmmmm.
Well, having touched her countless times over my trips to Dublin, I'm still waiting to win more than a free ticket on the national lottery.
Nevertheless, it is a fascinating story and something you must do whilst visiting Dublin.
Walk Around Trinity College, the Library and the Book of Kells
- Why: Trinity College has stunning grounds and magical architecture, and the Book of Kells is a part of history.
- Where: South of O'Connell Bridge and opposite the Irish Whisky Museum. (map)
- How long: Give yourself half an hour for the Book of Kells and Library tour and another half an hour around the grounds.
- How much: A whopping €18.50 (£15.91), unless, of course, you're a student or senior. In which case, you'll pay €15.
**Do not spend money on this tour until they have finished the library restoration in mid-2025.**
Whilst busy, the grounds of Trinity College are sublime, peaceful and a relaxing spot to meander or sit down and relax with a picnic. The architecture is second to none in the city. You could happily spend hours here on a hot sunny day.
However, if you want more than a free walk around the grounds, you'll have to put your hand in your pocket and pay for a tour of the exquisite Trinity Library and the Book of Kells.
The Book of Kells is an illuminated manuscript of the four Gospels of the New Testament, written in Latin during the 9th century. It is kept in a very dark room, and you cannot see much at all, and there is a strict no-photo policy.
However, head up the stairs, and you enter a scene from Harry Potter, with insane arches and shelves from floor to ceiling full of books. It's mad yet beautiful at the same time.
Again, it is best to book in advance, even the day before, especially if you want to guarantee a spot at a time you want.
Spot a Masterpiece at the National Gallery of Ireland
- Why: The gallery holds works by Monet, Picasso and Caravaggio.
- Where: Next to The National Museum of Ireland and Merrion Square Park. (map)
- How long: You don't need more than an hour unless you're a real art fanatic.
- How much: Believe it or not, it's free.
Calling all art fans.
The National Gallery is a large building covering all types of art, from impressionism to cubism and on to expressionism, from every corner of the world.
The gallery is famed for housing The Taking of Christ by Caravaggio and the smaller but no less impressive Argenteuil Basin with a Single Sailboat by Monet.
Firstly, it's free, so why not, and secondly, if art is your thing, why not check it out? You might discover even more of your favourite artworks.
Sorry, as pleasant as some of the art is, I can't get overly excited by it, and my lack of literary excitement is down to that.
Dive into Dublin Castle
- Why: The National Gallery wasn't enough for you.
- Where: On the southwest corner of Temple Bar. (map)
- How long: Again, an hour should be more than sufficient.
- How much: A self-guided tour will set you back €8 (£6.88) unless you're a senior or student. Then you'll pay €6.
So, I have mixed views on this one.
Firstly, it's not a castle - it's more of a palace, and secondly, there isn't much to see other than paintings and statues, which, in my mind, makes it more of a gallery than a palace.
This, in turn, makes me and, therefore, this write-up as exciting as the National Gallery above.
If you go in knowing that, you will enjoy it more.
Okay, so, a scathing start, but in truth, there are beautiful corridors, chandeliers and, in some rooms, gorgeous furnishing and furniture.
Overall, the tour is good value for money, and you get to see a lot of impressive and skilful artwork. If that's your thing, you will enjoy Dublin Castle immensely.
Discover Ireland's Best Whisky at the Jameson Distillery
- Why: It is one of the best put-together tours in Dublin. Plus, you get to try a few drams.
- Where: In the Smithfield district behind St Michan's Church of Ireland. (map)
- How long: Forty-five minutes per tour, plus another forty-five minutes in the bar afterwards.
- How much: The standard tour costs €26 (£22.36) per person. Seniors and students are lucky enough to get in for €23.
Ending on a high and with no artwork in sight.
The Jameson Tour is, along with the Kilmainham Gaol's tour, my favourite thing to do on a city break in Dublin.
Whilst only a short tour, it is so well laid out, extremely informative and allows for interaction between the crowd and the tour guide. You learn how Ireland's most famous and popular whisky is produced, bottled and sold.
Within the meeting area, informative charts, timelines and updates drape the walls for you to gather the basics of who the key players were in the creation of Jameson Whisky. Then, you're taken into the first of three rooms, where you're shown an informative and historical video after a quick introduction.
In the second room, you get to smell and see the development of the whisky over the years of process, as well as further learning from the guide and an impressive light-up wall.
The tour guides enthusiasm and joy shine through, and their knowledge of Jameson Whisky is immense.
However, the highlight comes in the tasting rooms. I will leave that to your imagination, but, my God, it's good.
If all of that wasn't enough, there is a free dram at the bar after the tour and a lovely little shop to buy your gifts and memorabilia.
Where to Eat During a City Break in Dublin
In reality, no city break in Dublin would be complete without trying the city's culinary delights. Nevertheless, as you'll find out, Dublin is not a cheap city to visit, and a decent meal comes at a price. However, I think it's worth paying.
That said, you can pick up some fantastic foods at fantastic prices by moving away from the Temple Bar area. Although, if you are in Temple Bar on a Saturday, look no further than the local food market.
Another delight to look out for is the vast number of little cafes, ice creameries and bakeries that scatter the city. They are everywhere, and I have a lot of time for that. I am a bit of a cake fiend.
A few recommendations are Bittersweet Cafe near Dublin Castle, Scrumdiddly's out on the coast in Dunleary or the epic ice creamery in the city, Cloud Nine and The Lovely Food Company up north in Drumcondra.
If you like to eat local dishes when you visit somewhere, look no further than the Dublin Coddle, Irish stew, and a cheeky beef and Guinness pie.
Again, I can recommend all three. I know, I know, I'm a fatty.
Now, let's look at those places that made the cut. My first three suggestions on where to eat in Dublin are not for backpackers and gap-year extraordinaire, as they will wipe your monthly food budget in one sitting. Yet, if you have the money and want to experience the best of Dublin, you have to eat at them.
Here goes...
Trocadero
- What: Theater of dreams. Meet the celebrities on the wall and passion on the plate.
- Where: Just around the corner from Molly Malone. (map)
- How much: On average, a starter, a main course with two sides and a dessert will set you back around €65 (£56) plus drinks. (menu)
Welcome to Trocadero, one of the best places I've ever eaten.
Inside is a wash with famous faces, mainly from the theatre and Hollywood. Their signed pictures take up almost all the wall space, and if it's good enough for them, it's good enough for me.
Dim lighting and the decor add to the theatrical vibes and grandeur of what feels like eating within the expensive royal box at a Westend show.
The staff and head of house couldn't have done more. Truthfully, it felt as though they gave us the personal touch. It felt intimate, it felt powerful, it felt fantastic.
Then, the food. Wow! It blew me away. Flavours like that should exist and don't in most places.
I will never forget the food here. And if you get the chance, I highly recommend it. However, it is always best to book as they fill up quickly.
WILDE
- What: Elegant and classy dining.
- Where: Just off Grafton Steet within the five-star hotel The Westbury. (map)
- How much: Gulp! You're looking at about €80 (£69) per person for a starter, main, two sides and a dessert. (menu)
Once again, the food, the service and the ambience were executed to perfection.
Whilst the setting is a little lavish and, to some degree, excessive extravagance, I loved the style and class.
Everything from the service to the decor and the presentation of the food revolved around having that look of elegance.
Yet, all of that was blown away by the incredible taste of that lamb dish. As has only happened to me two or three times in my life, I nearly cried when I finished, as I knew I wouldn't ever find flavours like that again.
Finally, all that's left to say is come here, have the lamb and finish with a world-beating Crème Brûlée.
Dam... take me back.
Kinara Kitchen
- What: A taste of the East. Fantastic Middle-Eastern and Asian Classics.
- Where: Step off the Luas at Ranelagh Station, head down the stairs, and the smell will guide you up the road. (map)
- How much: A starter, main, rice, a side and a naan will cost around €45 (£38.80). Shhh - add a cheesecake for €8. (menu)
Being a big fan of Middle Eastern and Asian food, I had high hopes for this one, and it's fair to say I wasn't disappointed.
The super-friendly staff greet you at the door and show you to your table, which is beautifully laid out in a stylish yet not pretentious setting.
The menus are extensive, but between the three of us, we tried a good selection of it. Despite ordering way too much, we kept shovelling it in. Every dish was so full of flavour we couldn't stop.
I don't want to sound like a broken record or that I'm over-egging these food places, but I think this takes my number one spot for Middle-Eastern and Asian cuisine. Sadly, it blows my local ones out of the water.
If you enjoy a taste of the East, you must come here during your city break in Dublin. Make sure you book as it is small and was packed when we were there.
The Millstone Restaurant
- What: Attractive pub-styled restaurant with irresistible pub grub, just done better.
- Where: On the main road between Trinity College and Dublin Castle. Near Temple Bar and the Molly Malone Statue. (map)
- How much: There are a couple of options, but a standard starter and a main with two sides cost €35.95 (£31.00). (menu)
If you take fancy fine dining and add a hint of old-fashioned pub surroundings, you'll be close to imagining the Millstone.
The exterior is an exceptional mix of colour, style and vibrance, unlike any pub, bar or restaurant I've been to. Inside looks bright and warming, and I imagine it like how Scrooge felt whilst looking in a snow-frosted window on Christmas Day, watching happy people enjoying life to the max.
When you enter, it feels that nothing has changed for hundreds of years, with art hanging from the walls, tiles, red furnishing and old country manor house lamps sitting over a large open fireplace. It's beautiful but in a well-worn and loved way.
Although, the second you sink your teeth into that big juicy steak, you won't even notice your surroundings. You could be dining in a skip on a main road and still be in paradise.
The food is exceptional, full of flavour and topped with love. Give it a try, and let me know your thoughts in the comments below. Again, I advise booking.
Token
- What: Entertainment Arcade meets American-style fast food.
- Where: On the northern bank of the Liffey off Mellows Bridge and behind the Jameson Distillery. (map)
- How much: A delicious burger, fries and a dessert will cost around €30 (£25.90). (menu)
Having read the 'arcade meets American-styled fast food restaurant' quote above and seeing that picture, your imagination is leading you to the right place.
Surrounding the tables and well-stocked bar, games machines, dance mats, and shoot-em-up games cover the restaurant.
Everyone loves an arcade, and everyone loves a cheeky burger and chips, so combining the two seems like a winning combination, and it is.
Whilst good, the food isn't a match for a stand-alone restaurant. But that's not why you come to Token. You come here for the fun, laughter and excitement whilst munching away on a burger and chips.
It's something random and different, and I loved it.
J.P. Mooney’s
- What: Traditional Irish pub.
- Where: On the south side of Trinity College near the National Gallery. (map)
- How much: A classic Irish starter, main and a dessert will cost €30 (£25.90) - perfect. (No menu link, as currently under renovation)
**Currently undergoing renovation - September 2023.**Â
I can't speak for what's to come with the ongoing renovations, but if JP Mooney keeps their chef and the same great dishes from the old menu, it will be fantastic.
Honestly, it's a bit pointless describing how it used to look. But I'm hoping for the same great traditional Irish dishes that made it so famous.
I will have to come back as soon as possible.
Bewleys Cafe Theatre
- What: Light bites, snacks, coffee and cafes in a stunning environment.
- Where: Behind the Westbury Hotel, just off Grafton Street. (map)
- How much: Cream tea for two €25 (£21.60) or a coffee and a cake for around €15 (£12.90). You'd be silly not to. (menu)
I had to add at least one coffee and cake place. And... it had to be Bewleys.
Most of the cafes I've mentioned above were to die for, but Bewleys edged it into the blog due to its grandness, history and panache.
Bewleys is like the Ritz of the cafe world, with high ceilings, sublime stain-glass windows, impressive decor, dapper-looking staff and an air of elegance and grace you'd expect to find in a wealthy upmarket showroom.
When the food and drink arrived, it too gives you that wow factor, and having tried a couple of different cakes and scones, I can say they taste as they look.
Everything is fresh, squishy and just what you expect, only better.
Where to Party in Dublin
Oh, Dublin!
A city break in Dublin isn't a city break without at least one night out, and no night out in Dublin is complete without mentioning Guinness, Temple Bar or live music. It's a sensory overload - but in a good way.
No matter the time of day or where you are in Dublin, you will hear music pouring from the bars, the streets or residential buildings. Music is the lifeblood of the city.
Along with the meaningful, often defiant songs of Irish history, you'll hear the harmonious tones of the flute, whistle, Accordion, fiddle, and more, accompanying the rhythmic crowds.
One of the best places to hear this is the Temple Bar area. However, it is touristy, and you will pay through the nose for a pint. Oh, and that pint, it should be Guinness. Personally, I'm not a fan, but it is true what they say... 'It tastes better over there'. Hence, you have to give it a go.
If pub vibes aren't you're thing, and you want to dance and party, head south to Wexford Street in Portobello, where you can dance into the early hours with banging tunes and slightly cheaper drinks.
Now we've covered the fruitful delights of what to drink, where to find the uplifting bars and what to expect. I have to mention safety.
Dublin is not the safest place to let your hair down. Tourists have been targeted on a night out, especially drunk tourists. Several people gave me a heads-up about the situation, and that tells the story. In parts, the city was as safe as any other, but certain areas within the inner city do have an edge to them. Keep your wits about you, and you should be perfectly safe.
The Duke
- What:Â Classic Victorian Irish pub.
- Where: On Duke Street, halfway up Grafton Street, and just around the corner from the Luas stop - Dawson. (map)
If tradition is something you look for, it doesn't come much better than here at the Duke.
With old beams, a classic, well-stocked, saloon-style bar, quieter rooms and a second bar upstairs, the Duke has something for everyone.
Along with alcohol, the Duke produces traditional pub grub, which I haven't tried. But it looks good.
How normal? You may think.
However, there is something very different about the Duke. Every night during the summer and between Thursdays and Sundays during the winter, there is a literary pub crawl, which starts upstairs at 7:15pm.
In truth, it wasn't for me, but it's energetic and one of the most crazy experiences I've had during my city break in Dublin. Poems, songs, the history behind them and their writers are spat out by two gents who undoubtedly love what they do.
Regardless of my views, if history, poetry, books, pub crawls and drinking are your thing, hit them up and give them a go. Let me know what you think in the comments below.
The Temple Bar Pub
- What:Â Large, loud, flamboyant pub with live music and non-stop entertainment.
- Where: In the heart of the Temple Bar area. Just look for the crowds. (map)
If you don't have a pint in Temple Bar Pub, you cannot say you've been to Dublin. The only downfall is that it's so popular you'll find it hard to get a seat, and you'll pay almost twice the price as anywhere else in Ireland. Yet, I think it's worth it.
With live Irish music, madness and joy, this large and busy bar never stops.
The external beauty continues inside with a horseshoe bar, a small corner stage, artwork and other items filling the walls. Your eyes won't know where to look next.
Be careful - dancing can break out at any moment.
Fitzsimons
- What: Old school pub with chaotic furnishing and a small but beautiful rooftop garden.
- Where: Again, in the Temple Bar area of Dublin. (map)
Hidden in plain sight within the famed Temple Bar area, this large bar with banging live music could effortlessly grab you, ease you from plans and keep you entertained all night.
However, on a sunny day, there is nowhere better than the roof garden with a separate bar, colourful floral displays and quality street art on the walls.
Fitzsimons is a butterfly changing daily from a family-friendly relaxing bar into a pre-drinking location for hen and stag do's to crazy live music and dancing into the early hours.
No matter your style of night out, you will find it here.
Merchant's Arch
- What:Â Small but perfectly formed old-school bar with epic live music.
- Where: On the southern bank of the Liffey as you step off Ha'penny Bridge (map)
The insanely colourful entrance on the southern entry point to the glamourous Ha'penny Bridge is enough to draw you inside, where, if you poke your head left, you'll see the small stage at the end of the bar.
That spot is reserved for talent!
Honestly, I've sat there a few times just listening in awe of the singers and their songs.
When you get a chance, check out the whole bar. It's beautifully decorated with a superb rounded staircase to the second floor that overlooks the bar below.
Like the singing and selection of drinks, I love the busy decor. Everywhere you look, there's something to see or read.
This may well be my favourite pub in the Temple Bar area. Enjoy it.
Gin Palace
- What:Â It is what it says, an enormous gin palace with Victorian-era decor.
- Where: On the corner of Liffey Street Lower and Middle Abbey Street, a couple of blocks north of the Liffey. (map)
If the Merchants Arch is my favourite pub in Dublin's Temple Bar, this may well be my favourite bar in Dublin. But it's no secret - I love gin.
Firstly, they have every gin going, and if you can think of one and they don't have it - I'll be astonished.
The team behind the bar know a thing or two about gin, so give them a flavour you like, and they'll find you your perfect gin.
Alongside the ridiculous amount of gin and friendly and knowledgeable staff, there's elegant decor too. All of which add to the ambience and effect.
In fact, it reminds me of a theatre, with its little booths, complete with stained glass windows and chandeliers.
Overall, it's just a nice place to be, and somewhere you can relax, have a conversation and all over a sophisticated gin.
What's not to love?
Wexford Street
- What:Â Street with numerous bars and clubs in a lively area.
- Where: In the Portobello area of Dublin, about five minutes from St Stephen's Green. Ps... There is a Luas stop there. (map)
Okay, it's time for something slightly different. I wanted to show you another side of Dublin's nightlife. It isn't all pubs and sitting, watching a live band tapping your feet.
Oh no.
Wexford Street has Dublin's bar and club scene, with the likes of The Jar, Whelan's and Opium all within a stone's throw of each other. All three stay open until 2:30am on weekends and have great vibes, dance floors, the occasional DJ or live band and a bar stocked for even the most hardened drinkers.
You'll find a much more varied music scene here, and nights get wild.
Furthermore, drinks here are cheaper than in the Temple Bar, so if money's tight, take the Lucas to St Stephen's Green and head off to Wexford Street.
Just remember, the Luas stops at half past midnight on weekends, so you'll be taxing it or crawling back to the centre.
Is Exploring Dublin Safe?
With no real concerns over natural disasters, Dublin's main safety issues come in the form of road safety and crime.
Regarding crime, Ireland has always been one of the safest countries in Europe.
However, in Dublin, violent crimes, stalking and street muggings have become more frequent. So much so that in 2023, the US embassy warned people travelling to Dublin about walking alone.
Furthermore, locals will always warn you to be careful in the city. Typically, you'd think it's just a couple of scared individuals. However, when so many people tell you something, you begin to listen. From their words, it felt like a city under siege, but from within.
In truth, and it is sad to say, there were a lot of street drinkers and homeless people, and there were areas where people congregated in an intimidating way. Yet, where there are lit streets, crowds and good vibes, you wouldn't have known anything other than a good time.
During your city break in Dublin, always keep your wits about you, and more so at night, use public transport where possible, and try not to walk around alone.
When it comes to road safety, Dublin's roads are reasonably safe, but not in a way you may imagine.
There's so much traffic trying to weave around the one-way systems, including cars, taxis, trams (luas) and buses, that no one can drive fast enough to injure a pedestrian. There are traffic lights and crossings every few meters, and frankly, if you run out in front of a car at three miles an hour, it will be your fault.
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Hopefully, having read this city break in Dublin blog, you would have cleared your throat, got your singing voices ready, and have a quenching thirst for Guinness.
If so, the city is waiting for you.
Finally, please let me know your views of Dublin and my blog in the comments below. Likewise, if you have further questions, add them there too or contact me on Instagram.
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