The Ultimate 1-, 2-, & 3-Day Dublin Itinerary

While we definitely encourage our readers to venture further south, west or north on their visit to the Emerald Isle to take in the rolling green hills and dramatic coastlines Ireland is famous for; it’s likely your trip will include a few days in the bustling capital of Dublin. Steeped in history stemming all the way back to its foundation by the Vikings in 841AD, Dublin has a rich cultural and literary tradition, with writers and musicians such as James Joyce, Samuel Beckett, Oscar Wilde, Bram Stoker and the Dubliners tracing their origins here. It’s a tangible history that can be felt as you amble down Dublin’s Georgian Streets or peer at the memorabilia on the walls of one of its many, many pubs. 

This walkable is easy to get to and you can tick off most of the main sites in a few days. And there’s great pubs, music and food everywhere you go, with friendly and hospitable locals that will enhance your visit with their charm, ‘craic’ and humour. A visit to Dublin has a little bit of everything, and you’re never too far from the Dublin Mountains or coast, if hiking or sea swimming is your thing. Here’s our picks for the top things to do on a 3 day, or shorter, trip to the vibey capital. 

And don't forget to pack mobile data for your trip. With a travel eSIM for Ireland, you can get connected instantly in a few taps and skip the roaming fees!

Day 1: Exploring Dublin’s Iconic Landmarks

Morning - Trinity College & Dublin Castle

Start your Dublin adventure early at Trinity College. Arriving early (ideally before 9 AM) ensures you beat the crowds to see the legendary Book of Kells, an intricate illuminated manuscript crafted by Celtic monks in the 9th century. Afterwards, step into Trinity’s Long Room Library, one of the most breathtaking libraries in the world, lined with towering bookshelves and a collection of countless rare texts. Hopefully, your early start has helped you get in before the masses for some tourist-free photos

From the Old Library, it’s only a short walk to Dublin Castle, the historic heart of the city. Originally established as a Viking fortress, the castle later became the seat of British rule in Ireland.

Explore the State Apartments, the Medieval Undercroft, and the beautiful Dubh Linn Gardens behind the castle. There’s also a cracking free museum here, the Chester Beatty, if you feel you have time to pay it justice. 

Next up, continue in the same direction towards St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Ireland’s largest church and a striking example of Gothic architecture in this Georgian city. Built in honor of Ireland’s patron saint, the cathedral is steeped in history. Just outside, you can pick up some art prints, or grab a coffee to go and take a breather in St. Patrick’s Park, a tranquil green space that feels further out of town than it is.

Heading back into the city centre, a short walk away is Christ Church Cathedral, another of Dublin’s medieval landmarks that has stood for almost 1000 years. Take a moment to admire the stunning stained glass before you brace yourself and step into the crypt, which houses a number of creepy medieval artifacts and even a mummified cat in pursuit of a mummified rat. Affectionately dubbed, Tom & Jerry by locals, this grisly pair were even referenced by Joyce in Finnegans Wake. 

Lunch: The Brazen Head, Bambino, or MASA

For lunch, experience one of the pubs that claim to be Ireland’s oldest, The Brazen Head (est. 1198, it has fierce competition from Sean’s Bar in Athlone, claiming 900AD).  This cozy, historic spot serves up hearty Irish cuisine like Guinness beef stew and seafood chowder.

If you prefer to stay lighter on your feet with a trendier option, consider Bambino for an amazing New York-style pizza slice, or MASA, a vibrant taqueria serving delicious tacos and margaritas.

Afternoon: Guinness Storehouse

No visit to Dublin is complete without a stop at the ‘Home of the Black Stuff’, the Guinness Storehouse. Even the locals will agree it's worth a visit. This multi-story, interactive museum details the history of Ireland’s most famous stout, from brewing to advertising - and their ads are great, by the way. End your tour at the Gravity Bar, where you can enjoy a freshly poured pint with panoramic views of Dublin. You can even pour your own ‘perfect pint’ and get the certificate if you really want to impress your friends… 

Evening: Temple Bar

As the sun sets, head to Dublin’s tourist Temple Bar District. While The Temple Bar itself is mostly a tourist photo spot (see: our featured header image), the surrounding cobbled streets are filled with authentic live music venues and traditional pubs. Sure, the pints cost an arm and a leg, but for our money, it’s worth having one in The Temple Bar. For dinner, enjoy a meal at The Bank on College Green, a beautifully restored historic bank serving modern Irish cuisine.

Alternatively, try the trendy Uno Mas, a contemporary Spanish-Irish fusion restaurant, or Etto, a stylish bistro known for its seasonal dishes and modern European fare.

Day 2: Parks, History & Nightlife

Morning: Phoenix Park & Kilmainham Gaol

Begin your day at Phoenix Park, Europe’s largest enclosed park. Rent a bike or take a leisurely walk to see the wild deer that roam freely. The official residence of Ireland’s president is housed within the park, and if you’re lucky, you may bump into Michael D Higgins out walking his dogs. He’s always up for a chat. Just remember, although he looks like one, he’s not a leprechaun, he’s our head of state…  If you’re traveling with family, visit Dublin Zoo, one of the world’s oldest zoos and home to over 400 animals.

Not too far away, take a guided tour of Kilmainham Gaol,for a moving journey through Irish history. This former prison played a key role in Ireland’s armed struggle for independence, and is noted as the location where 14 leaders of the 1916 Rising were executed. The rising was a seminal moment in modern Irish history, helping pave the way to the nation's independence in 1922. Kilmainham Gaol is also notable for its unique, panopticon style design, and the jail was used as a prison location for films like Michael Collins and In the Name of the Father. It’s an absolute must-see, but tends to sell out these days, so make sure you book tickets in advance. 

Lunch - Brother Hubbard or Two Pups Coffee

For lunch, try Brother Hubbard, a Dublin 8 classic offering fresh Middle Eastern-inspired dishes.

If you’re in the mood for something trendier, Two Pups Coffee in Dublin’s famous Liberties area is a fantastic spot known for its specialty coffee and creative brunch options.

Afternoon - Jameson Distillery & Grafton Street

After lunch, head to the Jameson Distillery Bow St. for an interactive whiskey tour and tasting session. Learn about the history of Irish whiskey and enjoy a guided tasting of different Jameson blends. Sláinte! 

Spend the rest of the afternoon strolling down Grafton Street, Dublin’s main shopping hub, especially beautiful when lit up for Christmas. Watch talented street performers (Rodrigo Y Gabriela even got their start busking on Dublin’s streets), explore luxury boutiques, and pop into Brown Thomas, Ireland’s premier department store. Nearby, St. Stephen’s Green is a lovely spot to rest your feet and people watch before the evening festivities.

Evening: South William Street & O'Donoghues

For dinner, explore the lively dining scene around Fade Street or South William Street. Some top choices include Delahunt, The Greenhouse, or Fade Street Social.

After dinner, experience traditional Irish music at O’Donoghue’s, a historic pub where legends like The Dubliners once frequented for legendary, 2 or 3 day music and drinking sessions. If you’re after a more modern nightlife scene, check out bars like Caribou, Fidelity, Love Tempo or The Big Romance, all known for craft cocktails and DJs spinning on the decks until late.

Day 3: Day Trips & Hidden Gems

For your last day, escape the city with two fantastic day trip options:

Option 1: Howth Coastal Walk & Seafood

Take the DART train to Howth, a quaint fishing village just 30 minutes from Dublin. Start your day with the Howth Cliff Walk, a breathtaking, but not too challenging trail with stunning views of the Irish Sea. After your hike, reward yourself with a seafood lunch at Aqua, known for its fresh fish and great waterfront views, or Octopussy, a cosy tapas-style seafood spot.

Spend the afternoon exploring the Howth Market, browsing artisan goods, and visiting Howth Castle and Gardens. Before heading back to Dublin, grab a coffee at Bodega Coffee or enjoy a drink at The Harbour Bar.

Option 2: Wicklow Mountains & Glendalough

For a more nature-filled escape, explore ‘the Garden of Ireland’ with a day tour to Wicklow Mountains & Glendalough. This scenic region is famous for its rolling green landscapes, picturesque lakes, and ancient monastic sites. Conquer the mighty Sugar Loaf mountain (it’s really more of a hill), before paying a visit to Powerscourt Gardens, one of Europe’s most beautiful gardens, containing Ireland’s highest waterfall; or explore Glendalough, home to medieval ruins and stunning walking trails.

Evening: The Woolen Mills, Sophie’s, or The Old Storehouse,

After returning to Dublin, end your trip with dinner at The Woollen Mills, a contemporary Irish eatery known for its local flavours and warm ambiance. Or if you’re in the mood for rooftop drinks and Instagrammable locations, check out Sophie’s for gorgeous city views. 

If you're looking for a lively atmosphere, The Old Storehouse in Temple Bar offers great live music almost every evening. 

If you still haven’t gotten your fill of real Irish pubs (they really are fantastic), do a mini pub crawl hitting Grogan’s (for pints and toasties), Keoghs (for a classic pint of Guinness), and Mulligans (one of Dublin’s best no-frills, read: old man, pubs).

- Cathal Prendergast is a freelance travel writer from Ireland.