Ireland
Dublin: itinerary & travel tips
Dublin is a compact capital where almost everything important can be reached on foot. Trinity College, Temple Bar and the Georgian streets around Merrion Square are often only a few minutes apart. The River Liffey divides the city into a northern and a southern part, and each has its own character.
Dublin is a great fit for a short trip: museums with free entry, literary history, pubs with live music and the coast with Howth or Dalkey are all quick to reach. There are direct flights from Germany, Austria and Switzerland, and the flight time is around two hours. Expect changeable weather and pack a rain jacket in every season.
Ready-made itineraries
3 days · 20 stops
Dublin in 3 days
Three relaxed days in Dublin: arrival on Thursday, the Old Town and history on Friday, then architecture, neighbourhoods and food on Saturday, with an evening departure.
- Day 1Arriving and the Temple Bar area
- Day 2History and the Old Town
- Day 3Architecture, markets, farewell
Weekend like a local · 14 stops
Dublin: weekend like a local
A relaxed weekend in Dublin focused on local cafés, art and good food in Stoneybatter, Smithfield and around the Portobello area, without the tourist crowds.
- Day 1Arrival, Stoneybatter and Smithfield
- Day 2Portobello, art and departure
What to see
Trinity College and the Book of Kells
The famous medieval manuscript and the impressive Old Library with the Long Room are a classic of any visit to Dublin.
Guinness Storehouse
At the brewery site at St James's Gate you learn how the stout is brewed, and up in the Gravity Bar you can enjoy the view over the city.
Kilmainham Gaol
The former prison is a key site in Irish independence history and can only be visited on a guided tour.
Dublin Castle
The complex features state apartments, medieval remains and the Chester Beatty Library right next door.
St Patrick's Cathedral
Ireland's largest church is closely linked to Jonathan Swift, who was dean here.
National Museum of Ireland – Archaeology
Entry is free, and you can see Bronze Age gold jewellery as well as well-preserved bog bodies.
Where to stay
Temple Bar
For anyone who wants live music and a buzz in the evening; if you need peace and quiet, it's better to stay elsewhere, as it is loud and expensive.
St Stephen's Green and Merrion Square
A quiet, central location with Georgian architecture, parks and museums, good for first-time visitors.
Smithfield and Stoneybatter
For those who prefer something more local and a bit cheaper, with pubs, cafés and the Jameson Distillery nearby.
Docklands and Grand Canal Dock
Modern hotels and good transport links, suitable for business travellers and anyone arriving by train or Luas.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit is from May to September, when it is mild, the days are long and it stays light until late in the evening. Temperatures are usually between 14 and 20 degrees, but it can rain in any season. In high summer and around St Patrick's Day on 17 March, hotels are much more expensive and the city is packed. From November to February it is dark, wet and cool, but prices are lower.
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Getting there
Dublin Airport (DUB) is about 10 km north of the centre and has direct flights from Germany, Austria and Switzerland. By bus (Airlink, Dublin Express or city buses) you reach the city centre in around 30 to 45 minutes, and a ticket costs about 2 to 10 euros. A taxi takes 25 to 45 minutes depending on traffic and costs roughly 30 to 40 euros. There is no rail connection to the airport.
Getting around
The city centre is best explored on foot. For longer distances there is Dublin Bus, the Luas tram and the DART coastal rail line. A Leap Card saves you money compared with cash tickets, and cash on the bus must be the exact fare.
Daily budget
budget
€60
mid-range
€120
per person, without accommodation. Accommodation, restaurants and pub drinks are expensive, while many museums and parks are free to enter.
Local tips
- Have your pint away from Temple Bar too, as beer prices there are often much lower.
- Book the Guinness Storehouse, Kilmainham Gaol and the Book of Kells online in advance, as time slots often sell out.
- For a half-day trip, take the DART to Howth or Dalkey and walk a stretch of the coast.
- Check out live music pubs like The Cobblestone in Smithfield, where sessions are often more authentic than in the tourist venues.
FAQ
How many days do you need for Dublin?
Two to three days are enough for the main sights. With a fourth day you can plan a trip to Howth, Dalkey or the Wicklow Mountains.
Where is the best place to stay in Dublin?
For first-time visitors, the area around St Stephen's Green and the part south of the Liffey are convenient. Everything important is within walking distance there.
Is Dublin expensive?
Yes, hotels and restaurants in particular are often above German price levels. You can save with free museums, early booking and a Leap Card.
How do I get from Dublin Airport into the city?
The easiest way is the bus, for example Airlink or Dublin Express, which gets you to the centre in 30 to 45 minutes. Alternatively, take a taxi or a ride-hailing app.
Is Dublin safe and how much should you tip?
Dublin is generally safe for tourists, but in the city centre you should stay alert at night and watch out for pickpockets. In restaurants a tip of about 10 percent is usual; in pubs it is not expected.
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