What to do in Dublin in a day
Only have 24 hours before heading off to explore the rest of Ireland? We recommend planning your itinerary carefully to make the most of this vibrant and festive city.
Here are 3 different itineraries for a day in Dublin – feel free to mix and match!
For Those Who Love Wandering for the Atmosphere
1. The Liberties District
While The Liberties attracts many visitors thanks to the famous Guinness Storehouse, this historic district deserves a visit in its own right to soak in the vibe of the “real” Dublin.
At every street corner, you might stumble upon a church, a beautiful building, an old pub, or some street art. You’ll also find antique shops on Francis Street and a lively market (Liberty Market) on Meath Street.
![Guinness Storehouse][image1]
Guinness Storehouse
Also, don’t hesitate to walk along the remnants of the old city walls – witnesses of Dublin’s medieval past. Dating back to the 13th century, they can be spotted near St Audoen’s Church.
2. St Stephen’s Green
Laid out in its current form in 1880 thanks to Lord Ardilaun, who gifted it to the city, this Victorian park features several monuments and sculptures paying tribute to Ireland’s great figures.
Perfect for a nature break, it’s especially popular with Dubliners. In summer, concerts are held near the little bandstand. The park’s unique feature? A sensory garden for the visually impaired, with aromatic plants and descriptions in braille.
3. Ha’Penny Bridge
Dublin’s most iconic bridge charms photographers and hopeless romantics with its wrought-iron railings. Stop halfway across to take in the view.
![Ha’Penny Bridge][image2]
Ha’Penny Bridge
Fun fact: The bridge gets its name from the half-penny (ha’penny) toll pedestrians had to pay to cross it until 1919. Built in cast iron in England and assembled on site, this 43-meter bridge replaced seven ferries that once crossed the Liffey. Today, it’s one of the city's most romantic landmarks.
4. Irish Rock’n Roll Museum
A must-see for rock fans, this museum is packed with memorabilia and stories about legends like U2, The Cranberries, and Sinéad O’Connor.
5. Historic Centre – Temple Bar District
Take time to wander the cobbled alleys and admire the architecture, street art, and historic pubs. Don’t miss Love Lane, a colourful alley, and Blooms Hotel (Anglesea St), whose façade is a true work of art.
Fun fact: Contrary to popular belief, “Temple Bar” is not named after a pub, but after the Temple family, who owned land here in the 17th century. The district nearly disappeared in the 1980s before being saved by artists who moved in.
Don’t miss the Icon Walk, which tells Ireland’s cultural history through images, or the Temple Bar Food Market on Saturday mornings – even locals love it!
6. Pubs
No visit to Dublin is complete without enjoying a Guinness or an Irish coffee in a pub.
Temple Bar is without a doubt the most iconic... but also the most touristy. If you’re looking for something more authentic, try The Long Hall for a chic Victorian vibe, or John Fallon’s The Capstan Bar, a good old traditional pub.
For Literature Lovers
1. Trinity College
Founded in 1592 by Queen Elizabeth I, the university has shaped many brilliant Irish minds.
Walk in the footsteps of Samuel Beckett and Oscar Wilde at Trinity College, the oldest university in Ireland. The Old Library is a true cathedral of books (Harry Potter vibes guaranteed). You’ll also find the famous Book of Kells, a medieval illuminated manuscript.
Good to know: try to arrive early to avoid crowds and book your ticket in advance. Looking for a cheaper alternative? Check out Marsh’s Library.
2. Museum of Literature Ireland (MoLI)
Perfect to dive into Irish literature, with a first edition of Ulysses by James Joyce (a major figure in the museum). MoLI pays tribute to Irish writers past and present, with three floors of interactive exhibits.
You can get a discount by booking your ticket on the official website.
3. James Joyce Centre
If you haven’t had enough of James Joyce yet, this museum dedicated entirely to his life and works will quench your curiosity.
You can book your ticket online or pay at the entrance.
4. Dublin Literary Pub Crawl
Spend two hours in the company of actors performing works by great Dublin writers – from one pub to the next.
5. The Winding Stair
This charming venue, named after a poem by William Yeats, is both a bookstore and a bistro. We love the cosy atmosphere and the curated book selection celebrating Irish culture.
The bistro serves regional cuisine, though vegetarian options are limited (check out our top veggie restaurants in Dublin).
For History Buffs
1. Georgian Architecture
The brick buildings with their colourful doors, brass knobs and knockers are typical of Georgian architecture.
Legend has it that the doors were painted in bright colours so drunken husbands wouldn’t enter the wrong home!
To admire them, head to the south side of the Liffey – Merrion Square, St Stephen’s Green, and the Trinity College area.
Alternative: If architecture isn’t your thing, visit Kilmainham Gaol – a historic prison key to Ireland’s independence struggle.
2. St Patrick’s Cathedral
A masterpiece of Irish Gothic architecture, the cathedral offers a trip through time with stunning stained-glass windows, an impressive central nave, and majestic vaults.
![St Patrick’s Cathedral][image3]
St Patrick’s Cathedral
3. Dublin Castle
To discover centuries of Irish history, this is the place to be. While you can’t visit the entire castle, the well-designed tour gives a good overview of the different historical periods.
You’ll see the Record Tower, built in 1258 – the oldest surviving part of the castle still intact.
4. Dublinia
Dublinia takes you back to Viking and medieval Dublin, with reconstructions of daily life, a replica medieval dock, and a Viking ship. You can also climb neighbouring St Michael’s Tower for a panoramic view of the capital.
This interactive and fun museum is ideal for young visitors – or anyone young at heart!
5. Christ Church Cathedral
Right next to Dublinia, Christ Church Cathedral is an architectural gem reflecting nine centuries of history. Its majestic style blends Romanesque and Gothic elements beautifully.
Tip: The Dublin Pass (€69 for 1 day) gives access to several attractions like Christ Church Cathedral, Dublin Castle, Dublinia, St Patrick’s Cathedral, the Guinness Storehouse and more. It also includes free access to the hop-on-hop-off tourist bus.
Feeling inspired to visit Dublin in a day? If you’re staying overnight, check out our list of eco-friendly accommodations.
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