Dublin is a city that wears its past proudly, and as a result, there is plenty to do.  So, how can you possibly prioritise the best sites to see during such a short city break? Well, we’ve narrowed it down with some of the very best recommendations to help you plan your visit.

It’s a city of stories, some tragic, many hilarious, all unforgettable. Whether you’re drawn by the promise of a perfectly poured pint, or wish to explore deeper into the history, or both! This guide will help you plan and prepare for your trip to Dublin.

How to Get Around The City

Getting around Dublin is super easy, which makes city trips like this even easier. It has a compact layout and an efficient public transport system.

You’ll find a network of buses, trams (LUAS), and trains (DART), all integrated under the Transport for Ireland (TFI) umbrella. I highly recommend a TFI Leap Card, which offers discounted fares across all modes of public transport.

The LUAS tram system is particularly useful, with the Red and Green lines connecting key areas of the city.

Fancy a bike? Dublin Bikes has a bike-sharing scheme with numerous docking stations throughout the city. Similar to London’s Lime bikes.

Taxi services like Bolt and Free Now are available for more direct routes.

Best Things To Do During Your City Break To Dublin

Dublin has plenty to do that caters to any interest. History lover? Definitely check out Kilmainham Gaol prison (more to come on this).

Art lovers will appreciate the collections at the National Gallery of Ireland.

Enjoy a walk? The River Liffey or a visit to the Phoenix Park should be on your to-do list.

Foodies can indulge with a range of eateries offering traditional Irish foods to other country dishes.

Without further ado, here’s what we highly recommend;

Learn About Guinness at the Guinness Storehouse

A visit to Dublin wouldn’t be complete without exploring the Guinness Storehouse, the home of Ireland’s most iconic beer.

You will find it located in the heart of the St. James’s Gate Brewery. The Storehouse has a self-guided tour across seven floors, demonstrating the history and brewing process of Guinness.

Highlights include the Tasting Rooms, where you can sample different Guinness variants, and the Gravity Bar, which has panoramic views of Dublin, and the best bit?… a complimentary pint.

Visit Ireland’s Most Wanted in Kilmainham Gaol

Kilmainham Gaol is a poignant reminder of Ireland’s turbulent history. This former prison housed many of the country’s political prisoners, including leaders of the 1916 Easter Rising.

Today, it serves as a museum with guided tours that go into very specific details of the stories of its inmates and the broader context of Ireland’s struggle for independence.

The tour includes access to the prison’s cells, chapel, and the execution yard. It is quite a sobering yet insightful experience. Definitely book in advance to secure a slot.

Explore Dublin Castle

Dublin Castle has been a central figure in Irish history since its establishment in the 13th century. Originally built on the site of a Viking settlement, it served as the seat of British administration in Ireland until 1922.

Visitors can explore its historic State Apartments, the Chapel Royal, and the medieval undercroft. The castle also hosts various exhibitions and events throughout the year, so it’s worth checknig to see if there is anything on whilst you’re visiting!

Guided tours are also available.

Spend a Night (Or Day) at Temple Bar

Temple Bar is Dublin’s cultural quarter is highly regarded as the best part to a Dublin city break. Why? The nightlife is second to none, whether you’re a drinker or not. The area is teeming with pubs, restaurants, and galleries, making it a hub of activity both day and night.

The Temple Bar Pub, with its distinctive red facade, is a must-visit, but maybe just for one or two drinks given the price…Just around the corner, you’ll find Bad Bob’s, which is a lot more affordable and has five floors of entertainment, with everything you would expect from the temple bar area – live music, DJ sets, and more.

Preparing Yourself For An Amazing Trip To Dublin

Preparing for an amazing trip means taking that extra bit of time to research the must-see sights. Hopefully, this guide has helped break down the top attractions, and can help structure your city break. As always, double check what’s on in Dublin during the time of your visit.

Get ready to explore this wonderful city right in the heart of Ireland’s capital.