3 Days in Dublin Itinerary

Trinity College and the Book of Kells

Start at Ireland's oldest university, founded in 1592. The Book of Kells exhibition displays this 9th-century illuminated manuscript - a masterpiece of medieval art. The Long Room library, with its barrel-vaulted ceiling and 200,000 ancient books, is equally breathtaking.

Grafton Street and St Stephen's Green

Stroll Dublin's main pedestrian shopping street, often filled with buskers. At the top, enter St Stephen's Green, a beautiful Victorian park perfect for a wander. The gardens, fountains, and duck pond offer a peaceful retreat.

Lunch at Meeting House Square

Head to Temple Bar's Meeting House Square. On Saturdays, a food market fills the space. Any day, the surrounding restaurants offer everything from traditional Irish to international cuisine. Try Queen of Tarts for excellent baked goods.

Dublin Writers Museum

Housed in a Georgian mansion on Parnell Square, this museum celebrates Dublin's remarkable literary heritage. From Swift to Yeats, Beckett to Wilde, the city has produced four Nobel Prize winners. Interactive exhibits bring their stories to life.

Ha'penny Bridge and River Liffey Walk

Walk across Dublin's iconic pedestrian bridge, built in 1816 and named for the original half-penny toll. Follow the river east to the Samuel Beckett Bridge, a stunning modern harp-shaped structure. The contrast captures Dublin's old-and-new character.

Dinner in Temple Bar

While Temple Bar is touristy, it offers undeniable atmosphere. For quality food, try The Vintage Kitchen (reservation essential), Elephant & Castle for American-style brunch-all-day, or escape the crowds slightly to Fade Street for better options.

Traditional Music Session

Experience authentic Irish music in a traditional pub. The Cobblestone in Smithfield is beloved by locals for genuine sessions. O'Donoghue's (where The Dubliners started) is another classic choice. Sessions typically start 9-9:30pm.

Georgian Dublin Walking Tour

Explore Dublin's magnificent Georgian squares - Merrion Square (where Oscar Wilde lived) and Fitzwilliam Square showcase the city's 18th-century elegance. The colourful doors are iconic. Number 29 offers tours of a preserved Georgian home.

Kilmainham Gaol

This former prison tells the story of Irish independence. Leaders of the 1916 Easter Rising were executed here in the stone-breakers' yard. The guided tour (only way to visit) is powerful and moving, bringing Irish history vividly to life.

Lunch near Kilmainham

Before or after the gaol, eat nearby. The Fumbally (back towards centre) serves excellent brunch. Roasted by Copper House Coffee is closer. The Royal Hospital Kilmainham grounds (IMMA - Irish Museum of Modern Art) are lovely for a picnic.

Guinness Storehouse

Dublin's most popular attraction traces Guinness's 250-year history through seven floors of a Victorian fermentation plant. The interactive exhibits cover brewing, advertising, and responsible drinking. The Gravity Bar at the top offers 360-degree views with your included pint.

Stroll Through the Liberties

The neighbourhood around Guinness is Dublin's oldest. Wander the streets to see a different side of Dublin - working-class heritage, street art, and local character. Thomas Street and Francis Street (antique shops) are the main arteries.

Dinner in the Creative Quarter

Head to the area around South William Street and Drury Street for Dublin's best contemporary dining. Try Coppinger Row for Mediterranean sharing plates, Bunsen for gourmet burgers, or Assassination Custard for creative small plates.

DART to Howth

Take the DART (Dublin's coastal railway) north to the fishing village of Howth. The 30-minute journey follows the coast with beautiful views. Howth's harbour, seafood restaurants, and walking trails make it a perfect day trip.

Howth Cliff Walk

The loop walk around Howth Head offers stunning views of Dublin Bay, the Irish Sea, and Ireland's Eye island. The full loop takes 2-3 hours, but you can do shorter sections. The paths are well-maintained but can be muddy.

Seafood Lunch in Howth

Howth is Dublin's seafood capital. Try Octopussy's seafood restaurant, King Sitric for fine dining, or grab fish and chips from Beshoff Bros to eat by the harbour watching the seals that hang around the fishing boats.

Howth Market and Village

On weekends, Howth hosts excellent craft and food markets. Any day, wander the harbour area, browse the fishing boats, and explore the village. The ruins of Howth Castle (grounds only) are worth a look.

Alternative: Dun Laoghaire

If you prefer a shorter walk or more facilities, head south instead to Dun Laoghaire. The Victorian piers offer long harbour walks, and the town has more shops and cafes. The ferry port adds maritime atmosphere.

Return to Dublin

Take the DART back to Dublin. Pearse Station drops you near the centre, or Connolly for the north side. The evening light on Dublin Bay can be magical.

Farewell Dinner

End your Dublin trip with a special dinner. Chapter One (Michelin-starred, Parnell Square) offers fine Irish cuisine. The Winding Stair (O'Connell Bridge) serves Irish classics with river views. For atmosphere, Fade Street Social delivers modern Irish tapas.