DUBLIN – Your Activity Guide To Ireland’s Vibrant Capital!

Welcome to Dublin! If you’re here, you’re here for a fantastic adventure through the capital of Ireland. Ireland’s friendly, welcoming spirit makes it so special. From the lively streets of Temple Bar to enjoying the iconic Guinness or exploring the stunning Dublin Castle, Dublin is packed with surprises.

Whether you’re a curious solo traveller or doing a quick stopover in Ireland, I’ll share some info, tips, and suggestions on Dublin’s must-see attractions and activities to discover within a day or two. Are you ready?

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Language & Currency In Dublin

Language: Ireland has two official languages, Irish (Gaeilge) and English. Irish is a Celtic language and is the first official language of Ireland. You’ll see it on road signs, public buildings, and official documents. While Irish is taught in schools and spoken in certain regions known as Gaeltacht areas, most people in Ireland speak English daily in business, education, and media.

Currency: Ireland uses the Euro (€) as its official currency. Banknotes come in values of 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, and 500 Euros. However, the higher denominations are less commonly used in daily transactions. Although credit cards are accepted in most establishments, carrying some cash is always a good idea, especially if you’re venturing into more rural areas.

Explore Dublin, home to Guinness and good vibes

Travelling alone but feeling nervous? The Female Solo Travel Ebook has tips for planning safe, confident, and unforgettable adventures!

1. Hop-On-Hop-Off (HOHO) Bus

Firstly, grab a 2-day Hop-On-Hop-Off Pass (HOHO Pass) before diving into Dublin – this is my favourite activity for any solo trip I do. This pass is a total game-changer, saving you time and money while whisking you directly to the city’s main attractions and activities. The best part? You can hop on and off at any stop along the route as much as you like!

The Dublin route has 25 fantastic stops and takes about 105 minutes. When you hop on, you’ll get a super handy map showing all the key attractions at each stop. Plus, you’ll receive complimentary earphones with fun and engaging commentary during the ride. So sit back, relax, and get ready to explore Dublin in style.

Opt for a HOHO Bus Tour to kick off your experience!

Iveagh Gardens

Check out the Iveagh Gardens in Dublin, Ireland, a hidden gem called ‘Dublin’s Secret Garden.’ It is known for its tranquil and picturesque setting, combining formal gardens with a touch of natural wilderness.

The gardens feature formal and informal styles, including sunken lawns, rockeries, woodlands, fountains, and a maze. One of the most striking features is the cascade, a series of waterfalls leading to a rustic grotto. This area offers a peaceful retreat within the city.

Cascade and fountains inside Iveagh Gardens

Dublin Castle

Built way back in the 1200s for King John of England, Dublin Castle was the centre of British rule until Ireland gained independence in 1922. Wander through the ancient Norman Tower, pretend you’re royalty in the Throne Room, and snap pics in the stunning St. Patrick’s Hall—it’s all seriously cool.

Don’t forget to chill out in the Dubh Linn Gardens (once a dark pool, now a peaceful green spot) and check out the Gothic vibes of the Chapel Royal. Whether you’re a history buff or just into pretty places, Dublin Castle is the perfect mix of epic stories, grand rooms, and Insta-worthy corners—definitely a highlight on any City Walking Tour!

Inside the stunning Dublin Castle

St. Andrews Street

Explore St. Andrews, a popular area perfect for catching a vibe, whether travelling solo or with friends and family. Here, you’ll find amazing restaurants, bars, street artwork, Irish music, Guinness, and a deep feel of Irish charm. Stop by The Old Storehouse Bar & Restaurant, where you can drown yourself in Guinness!

Also, if you’re looking for a cool food spot, The Street Food Factory shop serves amazing noodles, delicious fried chicken cones, bubble waffles, yummy skewers and crofles- croissant waffles! For an evening activity, stop by the famous Temple Bar (with more Guinness), where Irish music runs into the night, providing a true, authentic Irish experience.

I love the streets in St. Andrews – they are so vibrant!

Molly Malone Statue

Located nearby, the Molly Malone statue on Suffolk Street is a must-see for anyone visiting the city for a bit of banter. This beloved landmark celebrates the legendary fishmonger from the catchy Irish tune ‘Molly Malone’ or ‘Cockles and Mussels’. Sculpted by Jeanne Rynhart in 1988, Molly is showcased in her 17th-century uniform, pushing a seafood cart through the streets.

Originally at the bottom of Grafton Street, she moved to Suffolk Street in 2014 and has been stealing hearts (and photo opportunities) ever since. Don’t forget to give her a friendly rub for good luck – her polished bosom is a testament to her charm!

Molly Malone is a popular attraction on Suffolk Street

Saint Patrick’s Park & Cathedral

Stumble upon lush gardens, colourful flowerbeds, and a tranquil water feature in Saint Patrick’s Park, right next to the grandeur of Saint Patrick’s Cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece from the 12th century.

Inside, you can peek at Jonathan Swift’s final resting place and even check out the quirky Door of Reconciliation, where ancient feuds were settled with a handshake through a hole! This cool place is great for chilling and offers great photo opportunities.

The stunning St. Patrick’s Park & Cathedral

St. Nicholas

St. Nicholas’ Church in Galway is like a cool time capsule! It’s been around since the 1300s and is dedicated to St. Nicholas, who inspired Santa Claus. The church has this remarkable steeple called the Lantern of the West that sailors used to look for when they sailed into port.

Inside, it’s all about those fancy stained glass windows and cool wood carvings that make you feel like you’ve entered a medieval fairy tale. But it’s not all history; St. Nicholas is also a hotspot for concerts and fun events that unite the community.

St. Nicolas in Galway

Famine Memorial

The Famine Memorial near Custom House Quay in Dublin is like a powerful history lesson wrapped in bronze sculptures. Created by artist Rowan Gillespie, these statues show people from Ireland’s past going through tough times with style.

Even though they’re serious, they remind us of how strong and determined the Irish can be, even when things get really tough. It’s a spot where you can think about history and honour the people who faced challenges head-on, all while being reminded that Dublin has a spirit that never gives up.

The memorial represents the powerful history of Ireland

Ha’ Penny Bridge

Originally called the Wellington Bridge but better known for its halfpenny toll (hence the nickname), this curvaceous Ha’Penny Bridge spans the River Liffey with a flair that’s as much about history as it is about Instagram-worthy views.

Whether a local crossing on your daily hustle or a visitor capturing that perfect Dublin moment, the Ha’penny Bridge invites you to stroll, snap, and soak in its delightful blend of old-world elegance and modern-day allure. You can also do a River Liffey Boat Tour, which passes the Ha’Penny Bridge.

Walk across the popular Ha’Penny Bridge

Cloud Nine

Looking for a cute Instagrammable spot? Cloud Nine Dublin is the ultimate haven in the city’s heart, where every visit feels like a luxurious escape. This trendy spot offers a perfect blend of cosy ambience and chic decor, making it an ideal destination for indulging in delicious treats and quality coffee.

Whether catching up with friends over brunch or enjoying a peaceful moment alone, Cloud Nine Dublin promises a relaxing and uplifting experience. It’s more than just a cafe—it’s a sanctuary where you can unwind, recharge, and savour the simple joys of life amidst Dublin’s vibrant energy.

Drinking Experiences In Dublin

If you’re visiting Dublin for less activities and more booze, it offers an eventful experience with bars and cool places offering just that. Opt for a Guinness Tour or visit museums and distilleries dedicated to booze.

Irish Whiskey Museum: The Irish Whiskey Museum’s interactive exhibits explore Irish whiskey’s fascinating history and heritage, showcasing its evolution from ancient times to modern-day production.

Teeling Whiskey Distillery: Experience the spirit of Dublin’s first new distillery in over a century. Teeling Whiskey Distillery showcases its innovative approach to whiskey-making, culminating in tastings of its award-winning spirits.

Pearse Lyons Whiskey Distillery: Located in a historic church, this distillery combines traditional whiskey-making techniques with a unique setting. On a Pearse Lyons Whiskey Distillery Tour, visitors can explore the process and enjoy tastings in a truly atmospheric environment.

That’s A Wrap!

Dublin totally delivers when it comes to charm, history, and good vibes! From ancient castles to buzzing pubs with Guinness, lively streets to peaceful parks, this city knows how to show you a good time. Whether you’re geeking out on history, dancing to live music, or just soaking up the Irish spirit, Dublin is one of those places you’ll never forget.

So if you’re planning a trip to Ireland, whether solo or with friends, make sure Dublin is at the top of your list to explore—because once you experience its magic, you’ll be planning your return before you’ve even left!