Dublin 2 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring Dublin’s City Centre

Morning

  • 9:00 AM: Start your day at Temple Bar, a historic area filled with street performers, pubs, and restaurants.
  • 9:30 AM: Visit the nearby Dublin Writers’ Museum (open from 10:00 AM), dedicated to the lives and works of Dublin’s most famous writers, including James Joyce and Oscar Wilde. (£7-8 per person)
  • 11:30 AM: Take a short walk to the Dublin City Gallery, featuring an impressive collection of Irish and international art. (free admission)

Lunch

  • 12:00 PM: Head to The Brazen Head, Ireland’s oldest pub, for lunch and a pint of Guinness. Try their traditional Irish dishes like shepherd’s pie or fish and chips.

Afternoon

  • 1:30 PM: Visit the iconic Trinity College Dublin (open from 9:30 AM), one of Ireland’s most prestigious universities. See the Book of Kells, an illuminated manuscript from the ninth century (£10-12 per person).
  • 3:00 PM: Explore the adjacent St. Patrick’s Cathedral, a beautiful and historic church with stunning stained-glass windows.

Dinner

  • 6:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at The Boxty House, a cozy restaurant serving traditional Irish cuisine, including boxty (a type of Irish pancake). Try their famous boxty-filled dishes!

Evening

  • 8:00 PM: End your day with live music and craic (fun) at Whelan’s, a popular pub hosting various acts. Catch some local musicians or join in for a sing-along.

Where to Stay

  • Consider staying at the Hotel Riu Plaza The Gresham Dublin or the The Morgan Hotel, both located near the city centre and offering comfortable accommodations and great service.

Day 2: Discovering Dublin’s Coastline

Morning

  • 9:00 AM: Start your day with a visit to the National Gallery of Ireland (open from 10:00 AM), featuring an impressive collection of Irish and European art. (free admission)
  • 11:30 AM: Take a short walk to the nearby Leinster House, the historic home of the Irish Parliament, where you can see the beautifully maintained gardens.

Lunch

  • 12:30 PM: Head to Bewley’s Cafe for lunch and try their famous scones or other light bites. This is a great spot to people-watch!

Afternoon

  • 1:30 PM: Visit the James Joyce Museum, located in the Martello Tower, where you can learn about Dublin’s most famous writer and see his original manuscripts. (£7-8 per person)
  • 3:00 PM: Take a stroll along Dun Laoghaire Pier, which offers beautiful views of the coastline.

Dinner

  • 6:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at The Fish Shop, a great spot for fresh seafood and other tasty dishes.

Evening

  • 8:00 PM: End your day with a scenic drive to Howth, a picturesque coastal village offering breathtaking views. You can also visit the nearby Howth Castle or take a walk along the cliffs.

Things to Know:

  • Dublin is a very walkable city, but consider purchasing a Leap Card for convenient travel on buses and trains.
  • Be prepared for crowds and long lines at popular attractions.
  • Don’t forget to try some traditional Irish pub grub, like shepherd’s pie or boxty!
  • Be mindful of your belongings in crowded areas.

Tips:

  • Try to visit during the shoulder season (April-May or September-October) for mild weather and smaller crowds.
  • Consider purchasing a Dublin Pass for free entry to many attractions.
  • Learn some basic Irish phrases, like “Hello” (Dia duit), “Thank you” (Go raibh maith agat), and “Goodbye” (Slán abhaile).

Transportation:

  • The city centre is easily accessible by foot or bike.
  • Public transportation options include buses (Dublin Bus) and trains (DART).
  • Consider taking a taxi or ride-sharing service if you’re not familiar with the area.

Bonus Tips:

  • Don’t miss out on trying some traditional Irish music sessions at local pubs.
  • Explore Dublin’s many street art murals and public sculptures.
  • Take a stroll along the Grand Canal, which offers beautiful views of the city.
  • Visit the nearby Phoenix Park, one of Europe’s largest urban parks.

Hope you enjoyed this itinerary!