A trip to Dublin promises a city break unlike any other. Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, as a couple, or with family, Dublin offers something for everyone. We’ve put together a list of the Top 12 Best Attractions in Dublin, all of which are must-see spots, listed in no particular order. Enjoy exploring!
Trinity College (above image)
Trinity College is a cultural, historical, and academic landmark in Dublin. Over 400 years old, the university is a fantastic place to wander, with its beautiful college buildings, gardens, and libraries open to the public for free. The college is home to the Book of Kells, the world’s most famous medieval manuscript, and visitors can pay to see an exhibition showcasing the book and other historical treasures.
Location: College Green, Dublin 2.
The National Gallery
The National Gallery is one of Ireland’s premier attractions, boasting a collection of over 15,000 paintings. Admission is free, and you can enjoy guided tours and classes without charge. Families traveling with children can borrow audio guides designed for younger audiences and take advantage of the drop-in creative spaces where kids can make their own artworks.
Location: Merrion Square West, Dublin 2
Kilmainham Gaol
For a more laid-back experience of Dublin, consider visiting Kilmainham Gaol. Located just 2.5 km from the city center, it’s easily accessible by taxi, bus, or LUAS. Kilmainham Gaol is a significant part of Irish history, having served as a prison during some of the country’s most politically turbulent years, from the 1780s to the 1920s. All tours are guided and offer insights into some of the more somber chapters of Irish history.
Location: Inchicore Road, Kilmainham, Dublin 8.
The Phoenix Park
Originally created as a Royal Deer Park for Charles II, Phoenix Park spans 1,752 acres and now serves as the residence of the President of Ireland. The house is open to visitors on Saturdays, with access granted on a first-come, first-served basis. Even if a tour of the President’s residence isn’t your thing, there’s plenty to enjoy in the park. It features numerous historical monuments, lovely gardens, and two playgrounds for children, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
Location: Parkgate Street, Dublin 8
Dublin Zoo
Located in The Phoenix Park, Dublin Zoo is home to over 400 animals. It is a registered Irish charity and it runs several conservation programs. A joy for adults and children alike, the 28 hectare Zoo runs daily activities and talks, so you can stroll around the park using your zoo map, or try getting more involved.
Location: Phoenix Park, Dublin 8.
Dublin Castle
Built in 1204, Dublin Castle is known to many as the heart of Dublin City. The site is over 11 acres and holds two museums, two gardens, restaurants and more. It is free to explore the grounds and gardens and guided tours are available. Don’t miss the Chester Beatty Library on the grounds, it is home to collections from all over the world and is the only museum in Ireland to win ‘European Museum of the Year’.
Location: Dame Street.
Croke Park and The GAA Museum
If you are interested in learning more about Irish history and culture, the GAA Museum is a must see attraction. Located in the impressive Croke Park Stadium, you can take a guided tour and learn more about Ireland’s national sports, GAA football and Hurling. Highlights of the tour include access to the pitch through the player’s tunnel with match day sound effects and a short movie of the history of the stadium.
Location: Croke Park, Drumcondra, Dublin 3
The Guinness Storehouse
Arguably one of the most famous attractions in Dublin, the Guinness Storehouse is central to Dublin’s heritage and hosts some of the best views, tastes and smells in the city. The guided tour takes you through the history of the famous beverage and a master brewer guides you through the brewing process. You can learn how to pull the perfect pint yourself, or wait until you reach the Gravity bar at the end of the tour and enjoy a pint of the black stuff and survey Dublin through the spectacular 360 degree glass walls.
Location: St James’s Gate, Dublin 8
Glasnevin Cemetary and Museum
This attraction is about 11km from the city center, but is easily accessed by taxi or bus and is definitely worth the trip. The resting place for over 1 million people, you can learn about the men and women that shaped Ireland through guided tours and interactive exhibitions. You can also visit the Genealogy Workstations and track down your Irish ancestors.
Location: Finglas road, Glasnevin, Dublin 11
The Old Jameson Distillery
For whiskey lovers all over the world, the Old Jameson Distillery is one of Dublin’s must-see attractions. Although not a functioning distillery anymore, you will go on a guided tour and learn about the triple distilled whiskey and at the end, taste the finished product for yourself.
Location: Smithfield, Dublin.
Dracula Castle
Dracula Castle is one of the newer attractions on this list but it is already receiving rave reviews online. Take a tour of Bram Stoker’s castle, meet the characters in real life and catch the amazing Castle Dracula show. This activity is only available on Fridays and fills up fast so book early to avoid disappointment.
Location: Clontarf Road, Dublin 3.
The National Wax Museum
A treat for adults and children, The National Wax Museum is a fun way to spend a couple of hours in Dublin. From Irish celebrities, to historical figures to superheroes, you can find just about anything in this museum. The chamber of horrors is a fright-filled walk through the dungeon and there is a dedicated Kid’s World with puppet shows and more.
Location: Dame Street, Central Dublin.
We hope you enjoyed the above must-visit attractions in Dublin. It’s a great city to visit and comes highly recommended from Bookmundi. We wish you a fantastic travel experience to one of Europe’s must innovative capitals.