3 Days in Dublin | The Ultimate Itinerary for First-Time Travelers

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Last Updated on November 23, 2024 by sydabroad

If you are planning to spend 3 days in Dublin, then keep reading!

Dublin, the spirited capital of Ireland, is a city where rich history meets lively modern culture, making it the ideal destination for any traveler. Stroll through centuries-old streets lined with Georgian architecture, explore the city’s parks like St. Stephen’s Green, and visit renowned museums that capture Ireland’s unique heritage.

And, of course, no trip to Dublin would be complete without experiencing its legendary pub scene, where you’ll find cozy corners to sip a pint and listen to live Irish music that fills the air with warmth and cheer.

In this 3 day Dublin itinerary, I’ve packed in the very best this city has to offer so you can fully embrace its charm in a short time. From iconic landmarks and historic neighborhoods to the best spots to enjoy traditional Irish food, you’ll discover hidden gems, unbeatable pub recommendations, restaurant picks, tips on getting around, and essential highlights you won’t want to miss. So, let’s dive into your unforgettable journey through Dublin!

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This guide is all about how to spend 3 days in Dublin, Ireland.

3 Days in Dublin | The Basics

CURRENCY = EURO

The currency in Dublin is the Euro (EUR).

1 USD = .92 Euro

Dublin uses the euro, but did you known that Ireland actually operates with two currencies? While the Republic of Ireland, including Dublin, uses the euro, Northern Ireland (part of the United Kingdom) uses the pound sterling.

Ireland is split between the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland, which some people refer to as a separate country, a province, or even a region. If you plan to visit Northern Ireland, like Belfast, make sure to have British pounds on hand.

In Dublin, most places accept card payments, but it’s a good ideas to carry some cash for smaller purchases. ATMs are widely available, through a quick tip-use caution, as my card was eaten by an ATM in Dublin.

LANGUAGE = ENGLISH

Ireland has two official languages: English and Irish (Gaeilge). English is the primary language spoken throughout the country, including in Dublin, so travelers will have no trouble communicating. While Irish holds significant cultural and historical importance, it’s not commonly used in day-to-day conversation, especially in urban areas like Dublin.

You may still notice Irish language influences throughout the city, particularly on street signs, government buildings, and public transportation, where information is often displayed in both languages. Although it’s rare to hear people conversing in Irish in Dublin, you might encounter it more frequently in rural areas and regions known as the Gaeltacht, where Irish is preserved as part of daily life.

PHONE & INTERNET

I never had a problem with phone and internet service while I was in Dublin. All the cafes and restaurants had reliable wifi from my experience. I don’t think you will have an issue.

While traveling internationally, I suggest using an eSIM for affordable cellular data. Airalo makes it easy to purchase and install an eSIM suitable for the destination you are visiting. Purchase data with Airalo here.

DAILY BUDGET

Ireland can be on the more expensive side when compared to other countries in Europe. Especially in Eastern Europe like Montenegro, Hungary, and the Czech Republic. A mid-range budget is about 110 euros per day, this is about what I spent during my time here.

Dublin is possible to travel on more of a backpacker’s budget. Stay in hostels, cook your own meals, avoid the cocktail bars, and take the city buses as opposed to taxis.

TIPPING IN DUBLIN

Typically it’s up to you if you want to tip. It is normal to leave a 10% tip after dining in restaurants, cafes, or pubs. However, I found that when I paid with a card I wasn’t able to leave a tip on the receipt at times.

IS THE TAP WATER DRINKABLE?

Yes, the tap water is perfectly safe to drink in Dublin.

When is The Best Time to Visit Dublin?

Dublin is a great city to visit year-round. Keep in mind that during the summer months, you will likely get better weather yet, the city is typically more crowded with tourists. The winter will be cooler (and rainier) but prices will be lower and you will find fewer crowds.

I visited in March for Saint Patrick’s Day, which I highly recommend! It was a freaking blast! However, it’s important to plan because accommodation prices skyrocket.

Read more about celebrating St. Patrick’s Day in Dublin here.

How to Spend 3 Days in Dublin | Itinerary Overview

Day 1: Grafton Street, Ha’penny Bridge, The Brazen Head Pub, Guinness Storehouse | Day 2: Trinity College, St. Stephen’s Green Park, Walking Tour, Jameson Distillery | Day 3: Dublin Castle, National Gallery, Temple Bar District

How to Spend 3 Days in Dublin, Ireland

Below you’ll find my 3 days in Dublin itinerary. Feel free to rearrange these activities and adjust them based on your preferences. I’ve included a map later in this guide so that you can easily see where everything is in the city. Alright, let’s get into it!

DAY 1 | Pubs and Sightseeing

Brunch at Brother Hubbard

I was lucky enough to be welcomed to Dublin with sunny skies and crisp windy air. I was honestly shocked at how nice the weather was because I was expecting the worst. You know, the typical cold and rainy Ireland. After our 25 euro taxi ride to our hotel (yes, the taxi driver did accept card payments!), we checked in, freshened up, and hit the city!

Brother Hubbard was our first stop, a great cafe with a unique menu and healthy food. I loved the vibe of this restaurant and it was decently priced. It’s also located right in the city center, within walking distance of everything. If you aren’t looking for brunch food, there are plenty of delicious spots in this area.

Explore Grafton Street in Dublin

Grafton Street is the main shopping and pedestrian street in Dublin. It’s a great place to browse local shops, visit a cafe, and watch street performers. Most of the street is only a walking street so you don’t have to worry about vehicles.

After lunch, I picked up a coffee here on Grafton Street at Kaph Cafe. After that overnight flight, I needed a lot of caffeine to get me through the day. There are so many cute cafes on Grafton Street.

Visit Ha’penny Bridge and the River Liffey

The River Liffey flows through the heart of Dublin, with the iconic Ha’penny Bridge stretching across it. Built in 1816, this pedestrian bridge earned its name from the original half-penny toll once charged to cross. Today, the Ha’penny Bridge stands as a beloved symbol of Dublin’s charm and history-a must-see landmark with its beautiful ironwork and picturesque views of the city.

Enjoy a Pint at The Brazen Head Pub

The Brazen Head Pub is the oldest in Ireland! It opened in 1198, crazy right?! Well, this is a must to include during your 3 days in Dublin. The endless amount of quaint rooms in this pub feels like you’ve stepped back in time. I had an Irish coffee, which was much needed after a long travel day, and it was tasty! If you aren’t up for caffeine, grab a pint of Guinness!

The Iconic Guinness Storehouse

What better way to end your first day in Dublin than the renowned Guinness storehouse? Okay, hear me out, even if you are not a beer person (like me) this is a must when in Dublin.

The Guinness Storehouse is seven stories of interactive education with various stops along the way to learn all about the history of Guinness. This was not a guided tour, however, there was a point for a guided tasting – which I highly recommend doing.

Depending on your ticket you can learn how to pour a pint or even get your face printed on a pint of Guinness! At the end of the tour, head up to the gravity bar for your free beer and enjoy the incredible views of Dublin.

TICKETS: Depending on what tour you want to do, tickets will range from 22 to 70 euros. There are various tour options. This is a basic entry ticket that cost €30, it includes a self-guided tour and a complimentary pint.

DAY 2 | Historic Dublin

Trinity College and The Book of Kells Tour

Trinity College is the oldest operating university in Ireland. Founded in 1592, it’s an incredibly prestigious school with around 16 thousand students enrolled. Trinity College is also a popular tourist attraction in the city of Dublin. It’s a beautiful place to visit with so much history so I certainly recommend you add it to the itinerary.

The Trinity Library is a captivating place and home to the famous Book of Kells. This is an ancient manuscript containing words from the four Gospels of the Bible. Although the campus of Trinity College is free to visit, I suggest purchasing tickets to the Trinity Library – Book of Kells tour.

A standard ticket price is 18 euros and a student ticket cost 15 euros. Book your tickets online and I suggest visiting right at opening time or before closing for minimal crowds. Also, note that an audio tour is included with your ticket, just download the Visit Trinity app on your phone. This tour here consists of a fast-track Book of Kells ticket and a Dublin Castle tour.

Pro-tip: If you are not a student but still have an old student ID (or photo of it) use this to get discounts.

Saint Stephen’s Green Park

Saint Stephen’s Green is a charming historical park and garden in the city of Dublin. It’s the perfect place for a break from the city. Pick up a coffee and take in the beauty of this area, it’s a whole different vibe from the rest of Dublin. The park is also great for an afternoon picnic!

Walking Tour of Dublin with Guru Walk

City walking tours are always one of my favorite activities when I visit a new location and I suggest you book them too! This is a great way to get a sense of where everything is, learn about the city itself, and you’ll get the best local recs from your guide. I love booking my walking tours with GuruWalk – check them out here! But always remember to tip your guide.

Pro-Tip: When traveling always ask the locals about their favorite restaurant, cafe, or thing to do. Whether this is a taxi driver, a waiter in a cafe, or a hotel clerk, this is the best way to find unique locations!

Tour The Jameson Distillery

Considering Ireland is known for its beer and whiskey, you can’t visit Dublin without checking out the Jameson Distillery.

The Jameson Distillery is located on Bow Street and truly is a full experience. Here, they offer guided tours, whisky tastings, cocktail-making classes, a bar with various delicious cocktails, and a gift shop of course. They truly take the Jameson experience to the next level and the atmosphere is lively, a great place to socialize.

TICKETS: Adult tickets cost 30 euros and student tickets cost around 18 euros. AKA use your old student ID if you have it! Check out this fully guided tour with a comparative whiskey tasting!

If you are a whiskey drinker, obviously do the tour. Yet, I would still suggest doing the tour if you are not a whiskey person (like me), it was an incredible experience.

Although whiskey usually isn’t my drink of choice, the tour was well worth it! It included the interesting history of how Jameson came to be, an interactive tasting, and a final drink at JJ’s Bar. I did enjoy how this tour was truly guided, unlike the Guinness tour. And our guide was exceptional, which made it so much better!

DAY 3 | Art, Castles, and Temple Bar District

Wander Around Dublin Castle

Dublin Castle, until 1922, was the seat of the British government’s administration in Ireland. It is located right in the heart of the city. Today, it’s a major Irish government complex, conference center, and popular tourist attraction.

I didn’t get the chance to tour inside, however, I did walk around the outside and learned some of the history behind Dublin Castle during my walking tour.

Check out this highlights and hidden gems walking tour in Dublin that includes a visit to Dublin Castle!

Visit The National Gallery

The National Gallery of Ireland houses an incredible collection of Irish and European art. It’s also free to enter! The perfect activity to escape the weather or if you are looking for free things to do in Dublin.

Temple Bar District

Temple Bar is a whole district in Dublin. Many are familiar with the famous Temple Bar Pub, which is honestly overhyped (we’ll get into that later), but the Temple Bar area is well worth a visit.

This area is touristy, but it’s a great place for a night out of pub hopping. It’s energetic, filled with music, and people from all over.

Optional: Day Trip to the Cliffs of Moher

If you have an extra day in Dublin or want to pack your first two days with city activities, a day trip to the Cliffs of Moher is an incredible addition to your itinerary.

Located on the southwestern edge of the Burren region, these breathtaking sea cliffs are one of Ireland’s most iconic natural wonders. I booked my trip through GetYourGuide, and it was an amazing experience. You can book the same tour here, and I highly recommend it!

The day started bright and early, with a 6 AM pickup in Dublin city center. The journey to the cliffs took about three hours, but the scenic drive across the Irish countryside made the time fly by. Rolling green hills, quaint villages, and coastal views added to the charm.

The bus was comfortable, and our guide made the trip extra enjoyable by sharing fascinating bits of Irish history and culture along the way. And yes, the soundtrack of Ed Sheeran our bus driver played added a fun touch to the ride!

Once we arrived, the Cliffs of Moher were every bit as stunning as I’d imagined. Towering over the Atlantic Ocean, they offer jaw-dropping views that are absolutely worth the trip.

Book your tour to the Cliffs of Moher from Dublin here.

We made a stop in Galway, Burren National Park, and Kilmacduagh. This truly is a full-day trip but well worth it. The Cliffs of Moher are incredible and driving across Ireland was beautiful.

Following the day trip, we were ready to hit the town for our last night in Dublin. We had eaten dinner at this wonderful pizza place in Galway to it was time to visit the bars when we got back.

Read my guide here all about visiting the Cliffs of Moher from Dublin.

Additional Things to Do in Dublin, Ireland

Day Trip to Another City in Ireland

If you have a little more time to explore, consider taking a day trip to another vibrant city in Ireland. From Dublin, you can easily reach places like Galway, Cork, or Belfast, each offering its unique charm and attractions.

Visit Howth

Just a short drive from Dublin, Howth is a picturesque coastal village that’s worth a visit. Our taxi driver highly recommended it, and i can see why! With its stunning cliff walks, beautiful harbor, and fresh seafood restaurants, Howth offers a perfect escape from the city bustle.

Take Fun Photos at Umbrella Street

For a fun and colorful photo opportunity, head to Umbrella Street located at 34 Anne’s Lane. This charming alley is adorned with vibrant umbrellas, creating a fun atmosphere that’s perfect for snapping cute photos.

Trip to Blarney Castle

Blarney Castle is an iconic landmark in Ireland. It’s located right outside Cork and is home to the famous Blarney Stone, which is said to give the gift of eloquence to those who kiss it. The pretty gardens surrounding the castle are also nice to explore, making it a wonderful day trip option for history and nature lovers alike.

Relax at Saint Patrick’s Cathedral

Saint Patrick’s Cathedral, the largest cathedral in Ireland, offers a serene escape in the heart of the city. The beautiful green space in front of the cathedral is an ideal spot to relax and people-watch. During my trip, we picked up a flaky croissant from a nearby cafe and took a leisurely walk around the peaceful grounds.

National Museum of Ireland

For those interested in history and culture, the National Museum of Ireland is a must. The museum showcases Ireland’s rich heritage, with exhibits ranging from ancient artifacts to decorative arts. Admission is free, making it a perfect stop for a relaxing afternoon.

Little Mermaid of Dublin

While the Little Mermaid statue may be famous in Copenhagen, Dublin has its own charming version that’s worth seeking out. The statue is inspired by the beloved fairy tale and is located near the River Liffey. It adds a whimsical touch to the city’s artistic landscape and is a great photo spot in the heart of Dublin.

Where to Stay During Your 3 Days in Dublin

I stayed at the Ibis Hotel just outside of the city center. It was very affordable in a good location to catch the bus into the city, and the room was nice and spacious with its bathroom and all. It’s not the nicest hotel but is worth it for the price in my opinion. Although, if I went back, I’d find something closer to the city center. Here are a few recs I’ve listed below.

Generator Dublin | For a more budget-friendly option in Dublin, check out the Generator. This hostel is located in one of Dublin’s trendiest areas right next to the Jameson Distillery! It’s a social hostel with a fun vibe. Check availability here.

Number 31 | This hotel is a beautiful Georgian townhouse with a modern twist. Number 31 has an amazing breakfast for guests and is one of the best boutique hotels in Dublin. Check availability here.

The Alex Hotel | The Alex Hotel is a beautiful property in Dublin that was once where a train station used to be. Inside, you’ll find sleek Art Deco fixtures and a lovely co-working space. The rooms are chic and clean, making it a perfect stay in Dublin. Check availability here.

InterContinental Dublin | For those looking for a more luxurious stay in Dublin, consider the InterContinental. They have a beautiful lobby lounge with marble details and crystal chandeliers. This was formerly the Four Seasons, so it’s a top-tier property. Check availability here.

Find a Place to Stay in Dublin

Booking.com

Heading to Germany soon? Check out my travel guide to Berlin, Germany here.

3 Days in Dublin, Ireland | FAQs

Are 3 Days Enough for Dublin?

Yes, three days is the perfect amount of time to explore the highlights of Dublin. A well-planned itinerary will let you make the most of your time and leave with a solid sense of Dublin’s charm and history.

Where to Visit in Dublin for The First Time?

If it’s your first time in Dublin, you have to start with some of the city’s most iconic spots. Visit key attractions like Trinity College, Dublin Castle, the Guinness Storehouse, St. Stephen’s Green, Temple Bar, and Grafton Street.

Is Dublin a Walkable City?

Dublin is a walkable city! Many of the major attractions are within walking distance from one another. Once you are in the city center, you can walk just about anywhere. You will be doing a lot of walking, so bring comfy shoes.

How to Get to Dublin?

The main airport in the city is the Dublin Airport (DUB). It’s easy to navigate and Dublin is a pretty small city so it’s not too far from the city center.

How to Get Around Dublin?

As I mentioned, the city is relatively small. Once you are in the city center you can get to just about anywhere on foot. Which is so convenient in my opinion and another reason I loved Dublin so much. On the other hand, if you want to rent a car in Dublin, I love using RentalCars.com for renting cars abroad! They’ll make sure you get the best rate across rental companies and have a wonderful cancellation policy. If you want to rent a car in Dublin, check out your rental options here!

I stayed at a hotel a bit outside of the city and we either took a taxi or city bus to get in and out of downtown. If you have the time, I recommend the buses.

They are efficient and cost way less than a taxi or Uber, only a couple of euros. If you want to use rideshare, download the Free Now app. This is similar to Uber – it’s just what the locals use and can be a bit cheaper. Although Uber is also available in Dublin

Pro-Tip: Make sure you have exact change for the bus and you will likely need to wave them down once you are at the bus stop. Most times the drivers will not stop unless you physically wave them down.

Where to Eat and Drink in Dublin

The Best Pubs in Dublin

• The Brazen Head: Dating back to 1198, this is the oldest pub in the city and well worth a spot on your 3 days in Dublin itinerary.
• Temple Bar Pub: I have this on the list because it is an iconic spot and one of the most popular bars in Dublin. However, it is overhyped, packed with tourists, and overpriced drinks. Honestly, I would just go for the iconic photo out front.
• Stag’s Head: Dating back to 1770, this is another pub you can’t miss.
• Bad Ass Cafe: Loved the live music here! It’s located in the Temple Bar District.
• Old Storehouse: Also located in the Temple Bar District, this one was much bigger than most of the other pubs.
• Ryan’s: If you want to visit a local pub, head to Ryan’s on Camden Street. My friend and I were probably some of the few people who were not Irish in that place. The drinks are also a bit more affordable.

If You’re looking for cocktails…

Okay, Dublin had some incredible cocktail bars. I listed the three we went to below, and honestly, you should try to visit all of them because they are so unique!

• The Church Bar: This is an old church turned bar and restaurant. It was SO cool. The cocktail I had here might have been my favorite of the trip. Also, the food looked incredible!
• Vintage Cocktail Club: A speakeasy in the Temple Bar District. Look up photos on Google because the door can be difficult to find and you have to ring the doorbell to get let in. The drinks were amazing and the experience was one of a kind.
• The Bank Bar: Again, another amazing experience. I know Dublin is known for their pubs but omg did they have some impressive cocktail bars? The atmosphere was vibrant, filled with live music and so much amazing energy.

The Best Restaurants and Cafes in Dublin

• Brother Hubbard: Great for breakfast and brunch.
• Kaph: For yummy coffee.
• Leo Burdocks: Amazing fish and chips (there are two locations, we accidentally went to the to-go location instead of the sit-down restaurant.)
• Chicobo: Our taxi driver insisted we start our Saint Patrick’s Day here for an Irish breakfast. So we did and it was delicious! also much needed to keep up with the long day ahead.

Travel Tips for Visiting Dublin, Ireland

Download the “Free Now” App

Navigating Dublin can be a breeze if you download the “Free Now” app, which provides access to local taxis and rideshares. While Uber is available in Dublin, local services like Free New can be more reliable, especially during busy times like St. Patrick’s Day. On the other hand, public transportation is also an option, but be prepared for potential delays due to the crowds.

Wear Layers

Dublin’s weather can be quite unpredictable, so it’s essential to dress in layers. Mornings might be chilly, but by midday, it could be much warmer. A light jacket or sweater can be perfect for the cooler hours, while a breathable top will keep you comfortable during warmer temperatures.

Flag Down the Yellow City Buses

Navigating Dublin’s public transportation can be a bit different from other cities. When you’re waiting for a yellow city bus at a stop, you may need to actively flag it down. Buses often stop only when they see someone waiting, so don’t hesitate to wave your hand when you see one approaching.

Have Exact Change for City Buses

When using Dublin’s city buses, it’s important to note that they only accept coins, and you must have the exact fare ready. Make sure to keep some coins handy while you explore the city.

RELATED POST: What to Wear in Dublin: Packing Tips + Inspo

Safety in Dublin

I felt incredibly safe in the city the whole time. It was me and a friend and let me tell you, we were out all night. I mean we were there for Saint Patrick’s Day. And being just the two of us girls we always felt safe in the city. Just like any other city, use common sense, watch for pickpockets, and you will be fine.

Map of Dublin, Ireland

Dublin, Ireland is a city that needs to be on everyone’s bucket list. Especially for Saint Patrick’s Day! I hope you found this 3 days in Dublin Itinerary helpful. As always, if you have any questions about Dublin, comment below or DM me on Instagram.

RECOMMENDED TOURS IN DUBLIN

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