Dublin Ireland 5 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

Morning

  • Arrive at Dublin Airport and take the Airlink Express bus (€6) or a taxi ( approx. €25-30) to your accommodation
  • Check-in to your hotel or hostel, such as:
    • Generator Hostel Dublin: a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers
    • The Fitzwilliam Hotel Dublin: a luxurious option with stunning views of the city

Afternoon

  • Start at Trinity College Dublin (free admission) to see the beautiful Long Room and explore the campus
  • Visit the nearby Dublin Writers’ Museum (€7.50) to learn about Ireland’s literary heritage
  • Take a stroll through Temple Bar, a lively area filled with street performers, pubs, and restaurants

Evening

  • Enjoy traditional Irish cuisine at:
    • The Boxty House: try their famous boxty dishes and Guinness beer
    • O’Donoghue’s: a classic pub serving up live music and delicious pub grub
  • Explore the River Liffey waterfront and take in the city views

Tips and Insights

  • Be prepared for changeable weather and pack accordingly
  • Consider purchasing a Dublin Pass (€39-69) for free admission to many attractions and discounts on public transport
  • Don’t forget to try some Irish whiskey or craft beer during your stay!

Day 2: History and Culture

Morning

  • Visit Kilmainham Gaol (€8) to learn about Ireland’s struggle for independence
  • Explore the nearby Irish Museum of Modern Art (free admission) in the beautiful Royal Hospital Kilmainham building

Afternoon

  • Stop by Christ Church Cathedral (€7) and climb to the top for panoramic views
  • Visit the Dublin Castle (€10) and explore its State Apartments, Medieval Undercroft, and Chapel Royal
  • Take a break at St. Stephen’s Green, a tranquil oasis in the heart of the city

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at:
    • The Winding Stair: a cozy restaurant serving up seasonal Irish cuisine
    • L’Ecrivain: a Michelin-starred eatery offering a unique dining experience
  • Catch a show or concert at Vicar Street, a popular music venue

Tips and Insights

  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking, as you’ll be doing plenty of it!
  • Be respectful when visiting historical sites and churches
  • Don’t miss the street performers and live music in Temple Bar area

Day 3: Coastal Delights

Morning

  • Take a day trip to Howth, a charming coastal village (30-40 minutes by DART train, €6.50 return)
  • Hike up Howth Head for breathtaking views of the Irish Sea
  • Visit the National Transport Museum of Ireland (€7) to see vintage vehicles and memorabilia

Afternoon

  • Enjoy lunch at:
    • The King Sitric: a seafood restaurant with stunning harbor views
    • The Oar House: a cozy pub serving up fresh fish and chips
  • Take a stroll along the picturesque Howth Harbour

Evening

  • Return to Dublin city center and enjoy dinner at:
    • The Pig’s Ear: a popular spot for creative, farm-to-table cuisine
    • Bistro One: a cozy French-inspired eatery with a focus on local ingredients
  • Explore the lively Camden Street area, known for its bars, clubs, and live music venues

Tips and Insights

  • Be prepared for wind and sea spray in Howth!
  • Consider purchasing a DART train ticket (€6.50 return) for convenient travel to Howth
  • Don’t miss the stunning sunsets over the Irish Sea

Day 4: Breweries and Whiskey

Morning

  • Visit the Guinness Storehouse (€25) to learn about Ireland’s iconic stout and enjoy a rooftop pint
  • Take a tour of the Jameson Distillery Bow St. (€23) to discover the art of Irish whiskey-making

Afternoon

  • Stop by the Teeling Whiskey Distillery (€15) for a behind-the-scenes look at Dublin’s first new distillery in over 125 years
  • Visit the nearby St. Patrick’s Cathedral (free admission), also known as the National Cathedral and Collegiate Church of St. Patrick

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at:
    • The Old Mill: a rustic eatery serving up farm-to-table cuisine
    • The Fumbally Stables: a trendy spot for creative, seasonal dishes
  • Explore the vibrant Smithfield area, known for its street performers, bars, and restaurants

Tips and Insights

  • Be prepared for a busy day of brewery and distillery tours!
  • Consider purchasing a Whiskey and Beer Trail ticket (€50-60) for discounts on multiple attractions
  • Don’t miss the lively atmosphere in Smithfield Square

Day 5: Castles and Coastlines

Morning

  • Visit Malahide Castle (€12.50) to explore its stunning gardens, towers, and exhibitions (30-40 minutes by bus or taxi from Dublin city center)
  • Take a scenic drive along the Dublin Bay Coastal Drive (free) for breathtaking views of the Irish Sea

Afternoon

  • Stop by Sutton Cross, a charming coastal village with cafes and shops
  • Visit Portmarnock Beach (free), a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports

Evening

  • Return to Dublin city center and enjoy a farewell dinner at:
    • The Greenhouse: a Michelin-starred eatery offering a unique, plant-based dining experience
    • Chapter One: a stylish restaurant serving up modern Irish cuisine
  • Reflect on your amazing journey in Dublin and Ireland!

Tips and Insights

  • Be prepared for a busy day of travel to Malahide Castle and coastal drives!
  • Consider purchasing a Dublin Coastal Tour ticket (€40-50) for guided transportation and attractions
  • Don’t miss the stunning sunsets over the Irish Sea on your final evening in Dublin