7 days in Dublin, Ireland: What to see, eat and do. Full city guide
Dublin, the friendly city with a thousand stories to tell! As Ireland’s capital, Dublin boasts a rich history, beautiful green spaces, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Explore the iconic Trinity College and its majestic Long Room library or take a stroll down the cobblestone streets of Temple Bar, where you can enjoy traditional Irish music in any one of its many lively pubs. For literary enthusiasts, Dublin is a treasure trove, as the birthplace and home of renowned writers like James Joyce, Samuel Beckett, and W.B. Yeats.
Things to consider before arriving to Dublin
English is widely spoken, making communication a breeze.
The city is pedestrian-friendly, perfect for leisurely strolls and exploring.
The weather can be unpredictable, so expect some rain.
Dublin is perfect for history buffs, literature lovers, and beer connoisseurs.
What to bring with you
1. A rain jacket or umbrella to combat that unpredictable Irish weather.
2. Comfortable walking shoes for exploring the city’s attractions.
3. An adapter for your electronics, as Ireland uses Type G plugs.
Best time of the year to visit
For mild weather and enjoyable outdoor activities, the best times to visit Dublin are from May to June and September to October.
How to get into the city
1. By plane: Fly into Dublin Airport, conveniently located just 10 km north of the city center. From there, hop on the Airlink Express bus or catch a taxi to travel into the heart of Dublin.
2. By train: Irish Rail’s intercity services connect Dublin to major towns and cities across Ireland. Dublin’s primary train stations are Heuston Station and Connolly Station.
3. By ferry: Dublin Port is the main ferry terminal, with services from the UK and France. Once you’ve disembarked, you can take a public bus or taxi into the city center.
7 day city guide trip in Dublin
Day 1 – Welcome to Dublin!
Start the day with a proper Irish breakfast at The Pepper Pot, located in the iconic Powerscourt Centre. Take a stroll around St. Stephen’s Green and then head to the Guinness Storehouse, where you can learn about the history of the famous Guinness beer and enjoy a pint at the Gravity Bar, with a panoramic view of Dublin. End the day with live music and a pint of Irish ale at the Temple Bar.
Day 2 – Exploring the City
Visit Dublin Castle, the former seat of British rule in Ireland. Then head to Trinity College to see the Book of Kells, an illuminated manuscript Gospel book in Latin, from circa 800 AD. For lunch, try some traditional fish and chips at Beshoff Bros. In the afternoon, take a stroll around the colorful streets of Temple Bar and Grafton Street.
Day 3 – Day Trip to Howth
Take a train to the charming seaside town of Howth, where you can go for a walk along the cliffs with stunning views of the Irish Sea. Have some fresh seafood at one of the local restaurants, like The Oar House, before taking a boat trip to spot some seals and dolphins.
Day 4 – Dublin’s North Side
Explore the north side of the city, starting with a visit to the Glasnevin Cemetery Museum, home to the graves of many famous Irish figures. Then head to the Croke Park Stadium, where you can learn about Irish sports like hurling and Gaelic football. Finish the day with a traditional pub crawl in the charming neighborhood of Phibsboro.
Day 5 – Day Trip to Wicklow Mountains
Take a day trip to the Wicklow Mountains National Park, where you can go for a hike, visit the Glendalough Monastic Site and its impressive round tower, and see the famous Guinness Lake. Don’t forget to stop by the Avoca Handweavers for a traditional Irish wool blanket or sweater.
Day 6 – Art and Literature
Visit the National Gallery of Ireland, which houses an impressive collection of Irish and European art. Then head to the James Joyce Centre and learn about the life and work of one of Ireland’s most famous writers. End the day with a play at the Abbey Theatre, Ireland’s national theatre.
Day 7 – Departure
Before leaving Dublin, visit the Kilmainham Gaol Museum, where many Irish revolutionaries were imprisoned and executed. Then head to the Phoenix Park, one of the largest urban parks in Europe, where you can see the Dublin Zoo and the Presidential residence. Finally, say goodbye to Dublin with a pint of Irish whiskey at the Whiskey Museum.
How to continue your travel after you have spent 7 days in Dublin
If you’re looking for more Irish charm, head to Galway, a beautiful city on the west coast of Ireland known for its traditional Irish music and friendly locals. Alternatively, you can visit Belfast, the capital of Northern Ireland, where you can learn about the city’s turbulent history and see the famous Giant’s Causeway. Both cities are easily reachable by train or bus from Dublin, and offer a great way to experience different parts of Ireland.
