The basics

Language: English (Irish)
Currency: Euro €
Getting there: From Dublin Airport take a taxi, Airlink or Aircoach.
Power: Type G (Same as UK)
Internet: We recommend getting an E-Sim, you can do that HERE.

I had stupidly left Ireland off my list for quite some time. If you are Irish and are reading this – I just want to admit that I was stupid and ignorant and I’m sorry. There was a part of me that assumed this part of the world looked and would feel very much like the UK. I couldn’t be more wrong. I have never had a huge desire to explore the UK, so pair that with my ignorance and that is why I had waited this long to visit Ireland. I recently found out that I am 48% Irish for which I am incredibly proud of, and during my short visit I truly felt a connection with the place and the people.

The moment I arrived in Dublin, the Irish culture was evident and strong. I turned one corner and felt like I was in the meatpacking district in New York City and turned another to find irish dancing, fiddle playing and pints of guinness. I started to realise how strong the Irish spirit is and of course how much they have influenced the world.

I only got to spend 2 days in Dublin, and we will be heading back for further exploration in the future but here is what we recommend for your weekend in Dublin.

Where to stay

The city centre is quite small, so it’s possible to stay in the surrounding neighbourhoods instead of right in the tourist areas – but you are a tourist, so it’s ok to be one and stay in where it’s easiest to access all you want to see. Check out our Airbnb Guide on booking the right place for you.

Temple Bar
The ultimate tourist location. So many locals would tell me NOT to go to Temple Bar which I found really funny because of course it seems like the number one place to go. It is fun...and for tourists it’s kind of essential to visit once. It’s a very central location for accommodation.

Portobello
Just south of the city centre but still very close. More of a local atmosphere with great food and pubs.

Smithfield
Another local area within walking distance of all the sights. We went to the best pub we’ve probably ever been to here! The Cobblestone.

St Stephen’s Green
Beautiful area! Great cafes and things to do nearby whilst being surrounded by the beautiful St Stephen’s Green.

WHERE TO EAT

Brunch
Brother Hubbard (North or South)
Highly recommend!
Meet Me in The Morning
Vice
Hatch & Sons

Dinner
Tomahawk
Looking for steak? Look no further.
Uno Mas
777
Bunsen Burger
Pi Pizza

Other dinner recommendations
Cloud Nine (Ice cream)
Host
Bastible
Locks
Variety Jones
Forest Avenue
Bread 41
Gertrude

Coffee
Indigo Cloth
Beautiful menswear and speciality coffee in the heart of Temple bar.
Vice
These guys do the best Irish coffees!
Brother Hubbard
Good cup with brunch
Meet Me in The Morning
3fe
Hatch & Sons
Two Pups

Other coffee recommendations
Proper Order
Love Supreme
Coffee Angel
Shoe Lane
The Fumbally

Drink (recommended by the locals)
The Cobblestone
This pub is amazing, and authentic. There are people in the corner putting on impromptu performances and they’ve also got a live room where we saw an amazing live band for 10Euro. An unreal performance and night for all who were there. Go here!
L. Mulligan Grocer
Piglet Wine Bar
Kehoe’s
Grogans
Loose Canon
The Hacienda
Izakaya
Token

What to do

Guinness Storehouse
I don’t even like Guinness but can you go to Dublin without visiting this iconic storehouse? Probably not! It’s worth it. Definitely buy your ticket at the link above by the day before for your time slot. It will save you so much time.

Emigration MuseumI absolutely loved this museum. Knowing that half my family are Irish and emigrated during the potato famine, this really was eye opening. We really all are a little bit Irish.

The Little Museum of Dublin
A very small but amazing museum. The guide runs you through a 30 minute tour in 2 different rooms. Tours run every 30 minutes. He was amazing and it’s worth visiting for a good history recap of Ireland and Dublin. Hatch & Sons is below the museum where you can get some great food and coffee at 10% off after visiting the museum. St Stephen’s Green is right across the road so there is plenty to do in this area.

Teelings Whiskey Distillery
Much quieter than the Guinness Storehouse. Worth a visit - especially if you love Irish Whiskey.

Trinity College Library – Book of Kells
I was pretty speechless over this place. I would make this your number one thing to do in Dublin! Book tickets online to avoid the queues.

Other things to do (recommended by locals)

Irish Museum of Modern Art
Hugh Lane Gallery
National Gallery
The RHA
Science Gallery
Phoenix Park
Howth/Malahide