As Ireland's largest city, Dublin has much to offer, ranging from museums and history to incredible nightlife. This list includes a range of activities and restaurants within the city, as well as a few accommodation options, so that you may tailor any travel plans to your exact needs. By no means is this a list of the only things to do in Dublin, but it does hit the major tourist sites such as the Temple Bar and Guinness Storehouse, as well as a few quieter sites around town.
Things to See
Guinness Storehouse Tour
Perhaps the most widely recognized attraction in Dublin, the Guinness Factory is a great spot to learn how Ireland’s signature stout is brewed. The tour itself is self-guided, takes around two hours, and ends with a tasting (included in the ticket price) on the rooftop bar. From there, you’re also able to get a panoramic view of Dublin. If you and your partner are huge Guinness enthusiasts, they also offer more specialized tours that can range anywhere from a behind the scenes guided tour to a full tasting of some exclusive beers. If you don't want to take the tour, you're also able to go up to the bar and grab a pint. Even if you don’t drink, Guinness is one of the most universally recognizable things about Ireland, and for that, it’s worth the trip.
St. Stephen's Green
St. Stephen’s Green is a beautiful green space located in the heart of Dublin, and offers a reprieve from the noise of the city. Depending on the time of year you visit, there are some performances and other activities happening around the park, such as orchestras on the lawn during the summer. Additionally, it is located near major shopping areas such as Grafton Street and the St. Stephen’s Green shopping centre, which allows you to jump back and forth from the excitement of the city to the quiet of the green at your leisure. You could easily spend a few hours or a full day in this part of the city.
National Botanic Gardens
Full of architecture and flora, the national botanic gardens offers a peaceful and romantic experience to any and all visitors. With events going on year-round, you don’t have to worry about visiting at the wrong time because there isn’t one! Standard admission to the gardens includes entry and allows you to tour the gardens in your own time, but there are also guided tours and classes available, such as sustainable gardening or a beginners class in starting a vegetable garden. The most recognizable structure in the park is the greenhouse, which is the perfect spot to see the plants and take some pictures with the person you love.
Image Source | Open House Dublin
Temple Bar Area
Although you may recognize this name from the famous pub, the Temple Bar area has much more to offer than drinks and pub food. Filled with live Irish music, delicious food, multiple art galleries, shopping, nightlife, and tons of cultures, this area gives you a multitude of places to explore. While the biggest attraction is, of course, the Temple Bar, it would be a pity to assume this is the only thing to see there. One of the main sights in the area is the Temple Bar Book Market, in addition to plenty of other pubs and restaurants to be explored. Nighttime, however, is when the most of the excitement happens. If you're looking for incredible nightlife and a fun night out with the locals, this is the best spot to find it.
National Gallery of Ireland
Besides its extensive collection of art, the National Gallery of Ireland is a completely free experience, located near Trinity College and St. Stephen's Green. Here, European works that date all the way back to the fourteenth century are housed in addition to hundreds of other collections. With beautiful art and magnificent architecture, you could easily spend a few hours admiring everything with your better half.
Image Source | Irish Building Magazine
Places to Eat
The Temple Bar
This couldn’t be a proper list without at least mentioning Temple Bar. One of the biggest tourist attractions in Dublin, it’s worth the trip for the gorgeous exterior alone. Situated on a cobblestone street with many other historic buildings around it, Temple Bar is a great place to grab a pint with your partner. While a bit on the expensive side, it’s well worth it for the experience. If you’re looking for a quieter area for drinks, however, there are many other pubs and restaurants around the area, such as Roberta's Restaurant & Bar, Bad Bob's, and Ciao Bella Roma.
Peploe's Wine Bistro
Peploe's Wine Bistro is an upscale European Restaurant located near St. Stephen's Green. It's the perfect spot for a quiet and romantic dinner, and gives you the time to walk through St. Stephen's Green before or after your meal. The owner and founder, Barry Canny, has a great passion for food and atmosphere, and this is beautifully reflected in the design of the restaurant. Canny wanted to create a space for "simple good food, fine wine, and art". If you're interested in a quiet dinner experience, be sure to book well in advance as this is a hugely popular spot in town.
Image Source | Dublin Convention Bureau
The Blind Pig
Looking for a truly unique dining experience in Dublin? The Blind Pig is an underground speakeasy in the heart of Dublin, tucked away in a secret location that’s only given to you after making a reservation. Themed after the speakeasies that were established during the prohibition era, the Blind Pig is the perfect spot for a few drinks or for dinner, and is sure to deliver a night that is absolutely unforgettable.
Glover's Alley
Created by Andy McFadden, Glover's Alley is a contemporary Irish restaurant inside the Fitzwilliam Hotel that overlooks the gorgeous St. Stephen's Green. Aside from delicious upscale dining, Glover's Alley also sources their food locally, providing a meal that is filling and supports local Irish farmers. Additionally, the restaurant itself is lavishly furnished with a 1920's feel, complete with pink suede chairs, marble tables, and gold fixtures throughout. While dining here comes with a hefty price tag, the Michelin-starred food and ambience more than make up for it. If you aren't picky, try the surprise tasting menu; it's sure to blow you away!
Image Source | Glover's Alley Gallery
Places to Stay
The Shelbourne
Situated right across the street from St. Stephen’s Green, The Shelbourne is the perfect spot for a romantic getaway. While a bit on the pricey side, if you’re traveling to Dublin and have the desire to go all out, this is the perfect spot for you. This hotel also offers proximity to the shopping on Grafton Street as well as access to a multitude of bars, restaurants, and cafes that are within walking distance. Complete with a spa and salon, the Shelbourne is the perfect spot to relax on a weekend away.
Image Source | Architectural Holidays
Hilton Garden Inn Dublin Custom House
Located on the River Liffey, the Hilton at the Dublin Custom House allows you to stay in the heart of Dublin for a lower price tag. Right next to the hotel is EPIC, the Irish emigration museum, where you can learn about the Irish diaspora and see the dramatic lighting and design. Additionally, the hotel is within walking distance of Temple Bar and historic cobblestone roads, so you're never far from an exciting night. Whether you’re looking to learn about Irish people or looking for a fun night out, this hotel is situated in the middle of it all.
Radisson Blu. St Helen's
Although a bit outside of the city centre, the Radisson Blu St. Helen’s is just a short bus ride away from all the sights in Dublin. This hotel is perfect for you if you’re looking for a quiet weekend away and wanting to control how often you’re surrounded by the crowds. Built inside a 16th century mansion, this hotel offers a spa and bar, as well as a cozy atmosphere, beautiful architecture, and gardens - the perfect spot for relaxation and quiet with the one you love.
Whether you're looking for a quiet weekend away or days filled with energy, Dublin is the perfect spot for it all. With options for any person in any price range, this is the perfect spot for a short getaway!