Choose from 68 Fun Things to Do in Dublin
ShowingFilter 61-68 of 68 listings.
Skerries Mills
Rising out of the green Irish countryside, the working watermill and windmills in the town of Skerries are both scenic and historic. Learning about the operation of the mills provides context on the history of the area, which has ties to stone-ground milling back to the 12th century. Visitors can walk the interior of the mills to see how they operate, and even try their hand at milling flour the old way.
Particularly scenic are the two windmills perched up on the rolling hills, where you can find views of the nearby islands off the coast—as well as the idyllic wetlands and millpond. Take a stroll through the sprawling area to get a sense of true, Irish countryside, without even being that far from Dublin.
Practical Info
Skerries is a small coastal town 19 miles (30 km) north of Dublin City. Though the mills are located just outside of town (parking available) the town itself is also worth a stroll. Guided tours of the mill are given daily, and a bakery on site serves up tasty local breads and pastries. The mills are open from 10am to 4:30pm, and the costs for entry with tour are EUR 6.50 for adults and EUR 3.50 for children.
Address: Skerries, Dublin, Fingal, Ireland
Hours: 10am–4:30pm daily
Admission: Varies
From $ 67
Trim Castle
There are Anglo-Norman castles in Ireland, and then there’s the powerful Trim Castle. Located in the hills of County Meath, this massive, 12th-century fortress and castle is the largest Anglo-Norman castle in Ireland, and features a 20-sided building at the castle’s center in a uniquely cruciform shape. This building was surrounded by a ditch and a moat—both of which were needed to protect residents from the frequent outside attacks—since during the late 1100s when the castle was built, the area around Trim was the farthest frontier of English expansion into Ireland. Beyond these walls were Gaelic Irish, and the number of battles that took place in these hills is evidenced by the number of headless remains that have been excavated from the soggy ground. Though the castle today appears somewhat run down when standing and viewing from afar, visitors who take a tour of the interior will find themselves in a stone compound that’s stood for 900 years. Here amid the cold gray stones, where war, struggle, and harsh living conditions were an everyday part of life, the sense of rugged, historical chill is so powerful and potently felt, that the castle was used to film parts of the Hollywood classic, Braveheart.
Practical Info
Trim Castle is located in the town of Trim about 50 minutes from Dublin. Admission to the castle is $4 for adults, $2 for children, and the interior is accessible by guided tour only. In summer, the castle is open from 10am-6pm, with the last tour at 5pm. In October and November the castle closes as 5:30pm, and from November-Easter the castle is open from 10am-5pm, but only on weekends and holidays.
Address: Trim, Co. Meath, Ireland
Hours: In October and November the castle closes as 5:30pm, and from November-Easter the castle is open from 10am-5pm, but only on weekends and holidays.
Admission: $4 for adults, $2 for children
From $ 45
The Hill of Tara (Temair)
Despite being one of Ireland’s most important historical sites, it’s Tara’s otherworldly views and fascinating archaeological finds that make it such a popular day trip from Dublin. The Hill of Tara, known as Temair in Gaelic, is located in County Meath and was once the ancient seat of the High Kings of Ireland – a series of grassy landscaped mounds presiding over the surrounding land.
Ancient Irish mythology tells that 142 kings reigned from this mount in prehistoric times and Temair was renowned as the ‘sacred place of dwelling for the gods’. Legend dictates that Saint Patrick, patron Saint of Ireland, also visited the Hill, and a statue of him still reigns proud at the top.
To make the most of a visit to Temair, head first to the Hill’s visitor center, set inside a disused church, where an audio-visual presentation will fill you in on the area’s majestic heritage. Exploring the landscape, you’ll uncover a host of interesting ancient relics including a number of passage tombs and ceremonial enclosures, Neolithic burial mounds and a sizable temple constructed from over 300 wooden posts. Make sure you don’t miss the ‘Stone of Destiny’, an ancient coronation stone that remains one of Tara’s most famous monuments.
Entry to the site is free but the rough terrain means you’ll need to scramble over ditches and up slippery grass mounds, so don’t forget your hiking boots! Best of all are the views and Tara’s summit offers an expansive panorama of the landscaped surroundings – clamber up the hill at sunrise or sunset for the most dramatic view.
Ancient Irish mythology tells that 142 kings reigned from this mount in prehistoric times and Temair was renowned as the ‘sacred place of dwelling for the gods’. Legend dictates that Saint Patrick, patron Saint of Ireland, also visited the Hill, and a statue of him still reigns proud at the top.
To make the most of a visit to Temair, head first to the Hill’s visitor center, set inside a disused church, where an audio-visual presentation will fill you in on the area’s majestic heritage. Exploring the landscape, you’ll uncover a host of interesting ancient relics including a number of passage tombs and ceremonial enclosures, Neolithic burial mounds and a sizable temple constructed from over 300 wooden posts. Make sure you don’t miss the ‘Stone of Destiny’, an ancient coronation stone that remains one of Tara’s most famous monuments.
Entry to the site is free but the rough terrain means you’ll need to scramble over ditches and up slippery grass mounds, so don’t forget your hiking boots! Best of all are the views and Tara’s summit offers an expansive panorama of the landscaped surroundings – clamber up the hill at sunrise or sunset for the most dramatic view.
Address: Dublin, Ireland
From $ 43
Dublin Cruise Port
Ireland's capital city is an important stop for cruise liners on round-the-world, transatlantic, and European routes. Not only do cruisers disembarking in Dublin have easy access to all of the city's top sights"”from Dublin Castle to Trinity College and the Book of Kells"”but they can also head to day-trip destinations outside the capital.
The Basics
Cruisers disembarking in Dublin can choose between a range of shore excursions and tours. Popular destinations include the Guinness Storehouse, the Jameson Distillery, St. Patrick's Cathedral, and shopping districts including Grafton Street and Temple Bar. Visitors can also join half-day and day tours that venture to scenic locales outside the city, such as Glendalough in County Wicklow, the Cliffs of Moher in County Clare, or even Belfast and the Giant's Causeway in Northern Ireland.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Many Dublin shore excursions include pickup and drop-off at the port.
- Avoid wasting time waiting in line by booking skip-the-line tickets to popular Dublin attractions and experiences.
- Tours that venture outside the city typically require some travel time, with out-of-town tours lasting longer than in-city excursions.
- A hop-on hop-off tour bus is an efficient way to travel between major sights in Dublin.
How to Get From Dublin to the Dublin Cruise Port
Cruise ships docking in Dublin typically arrive at either Alexandra Quay in Dublin Port, about 1 mile (1.5 kilometers) from the city center; or Dun Laoghaire Port, about 7.4 miles (12 kilometers) from the city center. Many cruise companies provide shuttle buses to the city center.
Alternatively, from the Dublin Port, head for the Point Luas Stop, situated opposite the entrance on East Wall Road, and ride the Red Line Luas tram to Abbey Street. From Dun Laoghaire Port, ride the Dart train to Pearse or Tara Street stations.
Port Information
Free Wi-Fi is available at Terminal One in Dublin Port. Taxis are readily available at the port. Tourist information offices can be found on O'Connell Street and Suffolk Street in Dublin city center, and on Marine Road in Dun Laoghaire. The official currency is the euro and English is readily spoken.
Address: Ireland
From $ 23
Phoenix Park
At 1,752 acres (709 hectares), Phoenix Park is one of the largest urban parks in Europe. This is the home of the Dublin Zoo, as well as the Victorian People's Flower Garden, ÃÂras an Uachtaráin (the official residence of the president of Ireland), and a herd of about 300 deer, which roam freely around the woodland areas and grassy lawns.
The Basics
Though it began as a royal deer park for King Charles II during the 17th century, Phoenix Park is now a public park and one of Dublin's most beloved recreational spaces. It attracts a steady stream of dog walkers, joggers, strollers, and picnickers.
Many out-of-town visitors come to the park to visit Dublin Zoo or to tour ÃÂras an Uachtaráin, where the president of Ireland lives. Some travelers arrive at Phoenix Park via hop-on hop-off tour buses, and explore the park on foot or by bike. Bicycles are available for rent near the park's main entrance.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Phoenix Park is a must for families, active travelers, and anyone who wants a break from the city streets.
- For more information on the park, stop by the visitor center, which contains exhibits on the history of the park.
- Phoenix Park offers many wheelchair-accessible paths.
How to Get There
Phoenix Park is 1.8 miles (3 kilometers) from Dublin city center. Ride the Red Line Luas tram to the Museum or Heuston stops. Dublin bus routes 25 and 26 go to Parkgate Street near the main park entrance.
When to Get There
Summer is the busiest season, but thanks to its huge size, the park never feels crowded. Go in autumn to see the park's many deciduous trees display their fall foliage. Fall is also deer rutting season, when bucks vie for the attention of does. Visit during daylight hours when most of the park's attractions are open.
What to See in the Park
Adjoining the visitor center is Ashtown Castle, a restored medieval tower house. ÃÂras an Uachtaráin, the grand residence of the president of Ireland, can be explored on a guided tour (Saturday only). Near the Parkgate Street entrance sits Dublin Zoo. The Victorian People's Flower Garden is situated between the Parkgate Street entrance and the North Circular Road Gate entrance.
Address: Dublin, Ireland
From $ 23
Trinity College
Ireland’s prestigious academic institution, Trinity College sits in Dublin’s city center and boasts alumni including esteemed literary legends such as Oscar Wilde, Bram Stoker, and Samuel Beckett. Founded by Queen Elizabeth I in 1592 for the exclusive use of Protestant men, the university now welcomes all religions and genders. Tourists from the world over come to wander the historic cobblestoned campus and see the Book of Kells, a prized medieval manuscript housed in the Trinity College Library.
The Basics
With its handsome Georgian and classical architecture, the Trinity College campus is a must-see for visitors to the Irish capital. Sightseers can tour the grounds independently or join a guided tour. Most walking tours of Dublin city center include Trinity College, along with other neighboring landmarks, such as the General Post Office (GPO), the Molly Malone Statue, and Dublin Castle. The campus is home to several standalone attractions including Dublin’s Science Gallery and the Zoological Museum, though the biggest crowd-pleaser is the Book of Kells in the Old Library, visitable for a small fee.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Much of Trinity’s campus is cobblestoned, so avoid wearing heels that may get caught in the crevices.
- Lines of travelers looking to see the elaborate rows of books frequently form outside the Old Library. Book an entrance ticket in advance to skip the line, or sign up for an early-access guided tour to see the Book of Kells without the crowd.
- As a large portion of the campus is open-air, bring an umbrella and waterproof layer in case of rain.
How to Get There
Trinity College is south of Dublin city center, near pedestrian-only Grafton Street. Take the Luas Green Line tram to Stephen’s Green, the Luas Red Line tram to Abbey Street, or the DART train to Dublin Pearse station. From all three, the walk to campus is less than 10 minutes.
When to Get There
Go early in the morning or in late afternoon to avoid the midday rush. If you plan on seeing the Book of Kells, buy a Trinity College Library ticket in advance or be prepared to wait in line. Student-led, 30-minute campus tours, which depart from the Main Gate, are available in summer.
View the Book of Kells
Trinity’s headline attraction is the illustrated ninth-century manuscript known as the Book of Kells. The illuminated manuscript of the four gospels was created by Irish monks, who painstakingly covered each page in elaborate and colorful Celtic-inspired imagery. Four pages from two volumes of the book are displayed in glass cabinets at Trinity College’s Old Library, which also contains an exhibition chronicling its creation and storied history.
Address: College Green, Dublin 2, Ireland
Hours: Hours vary
Admission: Free
From $ 15
Sky Road
Even though it’s only seven miles long, Clifden’s Sky Road feels like a journey through all of Connemara and time. When driving this winding, rural road, views look down on the town of Clifden and its two iconic spires—which is a view you’re sure to see on any postcard of Western Ireland or Connemara. Behind the town are the 12 Bens hills, standing brown, rugged, and proud, and as the drive loops around away from town, views stretch out to the offshore islands and the open Atlantic Sea. Aside from the sweeping landscape views, ancient castles and historic mansions are around every bend in the road. At the 19th century Clifden Castle—built in a Gothic style—visitors can walk the dirt road that leads right up to the castle. Another stroll is up Memorial Hill and offers famous view of Clifden, and by turning uphill at the fork in the road, the drive climbs past the old Coast Guard station to 500 feet above sea level. There is a small parking lot near the road’s summit, where whitewashed cottages appear as flecks on the misty, wave battered coast. The Sky Road has often been called one of Ireland’s most scenic drives, and seeing as it’s just a short loop from Clifden, is an Irish road trip that any Connemara visitor with a car can enjoy.
Practical Info
The Sky Road is most often driven in a clockwise direction from Clifden, eventually meeting up with the Clifden/Westport N59 Road after Eyrephort and Streamstown Bay. The Sky Road is also popular with cyclists, and on sunny days can almost become crowded with locals, photographers, and sightseers.
Address: Sky Road, Clifden Co. Galway, Ireland
From $ 346
Dunmore Cave
The limestone cave complex at Dunmore stretches around 0.5 km (0.25 miles) underground and descends to a depth of 46 m (150 ft). It is open for guided tours of the caverns, which are rich in gleaming limestone stalactites and stalagmites that have been forming, drip by drip, for more than 300 million years. The most spectacular is a vast, colonnaded pillar dubbed the "˜Market Cross', which is found in a chamber known as the "˜Town Hall' and is over five m (16.5 ft) high. There is evidence in ancient Irish literature of man settling in the caves as far back as the ninth century, while bones and teeth found in the inner chambers of the complex are thought to be the remains of Vikings murdered in 928. In addition, a hoard of silver and bronze coins, wire buttons and ingots were discovered there in 1999; they are currently displayed in the National Museum of Ireland in Dublin and are believed to date from around 970 AD. A small visitor center showcases the history and geology of the cave complex.
Practical Info
Ballyfoyle, Castlecomer Road, Kilkenny. Open Mar"“mid-June, Sept 11"“end Oct daily 9.30am"“5pm; mid-June"“Sept 10 9.30am"“6.30pm; Nov"“Mar Wed"“Sun 9.30am"“5pm. Guided tours only. Admission adults €4, seniors €3, students & children €2. Best accessed by road, 10 km (6.25 miles) north of Kilkenny on the N78.
Address: Castlecomer Road, Kilkenny, Ireland
Hours: Varies by season
Admission: Adults: €4, Seniors: €3, Students & Children: €2
From $ 40