10 fun things to do in Dublin that you shouldn’t miss

Ireland’s biggest and most famous city, Dublin’s dynamic mix of rich history, vibrant culture, and exciting nightlife makes it a must-visit European destination.

From exploring the beautiful Trinity College and historic Dublin Castle to grabbing a pint at the Guinness Storehouse or enjoying a night out at Temple Bar, there’s no shortage of fun things to do in Dublin to suit every interest.

Whether you’re looking for a romantic day out with your other half or fun things to do in Dublin with kids, this list will help you find plenty of cool and unique activities to keep everyone entertained.

Fun things to do in Dublin at a glance

Fun things to do as a couple: Visit Dublin Castle, enjoy drinks at Temple Bar, and walk the cliffs of Howth.
Fun activities in Dublin for kids and families: Step aboard the Jeanie Johnston and visit The Little Museum.
Unique things to do in Dublin on your own: Tour historic Kilmainham Gaol and discover your Irish routes at the Emigration Museum.
Fun food experiences: Taste Guinness at its iconic storehouse or blend your own whiskey at Jameson Distillery.

Fun things to do in Dublin as a couple

1. Explore the historic Dublin Castle

Feel like royalty on a visit to Dublin Castle, a symbol of Ireland’s rich heritage that dates back to the 13th century. Wander through the grand stately rooms, peaceful gardens, and art-filled corridors for a glimpse into Ireland’s past.

Insider tip

Take a guided tour to access areas you can’t visit on your own, including the remains of the medieval castle, the original city walls, and the stunning Gothic Revival Chapel Royal.

Address and opening hous

Dame Street, Dublin 2. Open daily, 9:45 AM–5:15 PM. Guided tours are available between 10:00 AM–4:00 PM.

2. Go for drinks at Temple Bar

For an exciting date night in Dublin with your other half, head to Temple Bar. This iconic district is famous for its lively pubs, unique shops, and talented street performers. It’s a fun place to grab a few pints, people-watch, and soak up the city’s vibrant energy.

Best time to visit

Visit Temple Bar on the weekend for the liveliest atmosphere and traditional Irish music at every pub and bar.

3. Spend a romantic afternoon in Howth

Escape the city and spend an afternoon in Dublin’s charming coastal suburb of Howth. Wander through the quaint fishing village, take a scenic sightseeing cruise along the rugged coastline, and enjoy a romantic cliffside walk with panoramic views over Dublin Bay. Finish with freshly caught seafood at a cozy local restaurant like The Pier House or Octopussy’s.

Best time to visit

Stick around in Howth until the evening to watch the sunset over the sea and bay.

Fun things to do in Dublin with kids

4. Play captain on the Jeanie Johnston Tall Ship

Jump on board the Jeanie Johnston, a meticulously restored 19th-century ship that transported people across the Atlantic during the Great Famine in Ireland. Children will love pretending to steer the huge ship while exploring the immersive exhibits and lifelike models.

Insider tip

Join a guided tour to hear the stories of brave passengers and crew members who fled Ireland during the famine. Don’t forget to ask for a Master Mariner’s Activity Trail to keep little ones entertained.

Address and opening hours

Custom House Quay, North Wall, Dublin 1, D01 T9C2. Open daily, 10:00 AM–4:00 PM. Guided tours are available every 30 minutes.

5. Learn about Dublin’s past at The Little Museum

Discover the fun side of the city’s history at The Little Museum of Dublin, a small townhouse packed with quirky items donated by Dubliners themselves. The museum offers 30-minute guided tours filled with silly and fascinating stories that will entertain the entire family, from Irish literary legends to iconic moments in pop culture.

Highlights

Introduce kids to one of the most iconic bands of the 1980s at the museum’s U2 exhibit, which contains an impressive collection of memorabilia from Dublin’s legendary rock group.

Address and opening hours

33 Pembroke Street Lower, Dublin 2, D02 FK06. Open daily, 9:45 AM–4:30 PM. There’s a tour at least once every hour.

Fun things to do in Dublin on your own

6. Take an eerie tour of Kilmainham Gaol

For one of the most unique things to do in Dublin, join a guided tour of Kilmainham Gaol. This historic prison held key political figures and revolutionaries during Ireland’s fight for independence. Explore the deserted hallways, step inside the cramped cells, and hear stories of the brutal conditions faced by prisoners just 100 years ago.

Insider tip

Tickets for the prison tour are released 28 days in advance and can quickly sell out, so book as early as possible.

Address and opening hours

Inchicore Rd, Kilmainham, Dublin 8, D08 RK28. Open daily, 9:30 AM–5:15 PM.

7. Discover your Irish heritage at the Emigration Museum

EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum tells the story of how Irish people have spread across the world in one of the largest diasporas in recent history. With many interactive displays and modern exhibits, you can hear personal stories of Irish emigrants and learn about their huge impact on the world.

Insider tip

If you’re interested in learning more about your own Irish heritage, visit the museum’s Irish Family History Centre, where you can pay extra for a consultation with a genealogist.

Address and opening hours

The Chq Building, Custom House Quay, North Wall, Dublin 1. Open daily, 10:00 AM–6:45 PM (last admission 5:00 PM).

Fun things to do in Dublin for food and drinks

8. Explore the historic courtyards of Trinity College

Take a peaceful stroll around the courtyards and elegant neoclassical buildings of Dublin’s Trinity College, one of the world’s most beautiful and famous university campuses. Founded in 1592, Trinity has produced many well-known alumni, including Oscar Wilde and Samuel Beckett.

Highlights

Head inside Trinity’s magnificent Long Room Library to see the world-famous Book of Kells, an intricately illustrated manuscript and Celtic Gospel that’s survived for over 1,200 years.

Address and opening hours

College Green, Dublin 2. Trinity’s Old Library is open daily, 9:30 AM–5:00 PM.

9. Try a pint of “the black stuff” at the Guinness Storehouse

A visit to the iconic Guinness Storehouse is certainly one of the most fun activities in Dublin for beer lovers. Originally used as a fermentation house, this huge seven-story building is now a modern museum that tells the story of Ireland’s most famous stout. There are interactive exhibits on everything from brewing to branding. And you get to sample plenty of Guinness here, too.

Highlight

Enjoy a freshly poured pint at the 360-degree Gravity Bar on the top floor of the storehouse — it’s the best Guinness you’ll ever drink!

Address and opening hours

St. James's Gate, Dublin 8, D08 VF8H. Open Sunday-Thursday, 9:30 AM–5:00 PM; Friday and Saturday, 9:30 AM–6:00 PM.

10. Enjoy a whiskey tasting at Jameson Whiskey Distillery

At Dublin’s famous Jameson Distillery, you can learn everything you need to know about Irish whiskey. Take a guided tour of the 250-year-old distillery on Bow Street, learn about the production process, and enjoy a comparative tasting of several of the brand’s finest whiskeys.

Insider tip

Upgrade to the Jameson whiskey blending class for an even more hands-on experience, where you’ll learn how to measure and mix your own personal whiskey blend to take home.

Address and opening hours

Bow St, Smithfield, Dublin 7, D07 N9VH. Open Monday-Thursday, 10:00 AM-6:00 PM; Friday and Saturday, 10:00 AM–6:30 PM; Sunday 11:45 AM–6:00 PM.

FAQs

What are some cool activities in Dublin after hours?

Dublin’s famous nightlife offers endless amounts of fun. Head to the lively Temple Bar district for traditional Irish pubs and nightly live music. If you’re a solo traveler, a Dublin pub crawl is a great way to meet others who are up for a party.

What are some cool outdoor activities to do in Dublin?

During the warm summer in Dublin, you can sail along the River Liffey, explore the National Botanic Gardens, cycle through Phoenix Park, and hike the nearby Wicklow Mountains.

Are there any fun day trips from Dublin?

When you’re ready to escape the city, there’s no shortage of great day trips from Dublin. For natural beauty, don’t miss the Cliffs of Moher or the stunning landscapes of Glendalough in Wicklow.

Are there cool events or festivals in Dublin?

There are loads of fun events and festivals in Dublin worth planning your visit around. Celebrate Irish culture at its most colorful at the St. Patrick’s Day festivities in March, with plenty of parades and live music. Sample some of Dublin’s best food at Taste of Dublin in June. Or discover up-and-coming talent during the Dublin Fringe Festival in September.

How many days do I need in Dublin?

You’ll need at least two to three days to enjoy Dublin’s main highlights, including Dublin Castle, Trinity College, and the Guinness Storehouse. With four to five days, you can also take in some of Dublin’s best museums or see more of Ireland’s natural beauty with trips to Howth and Wicklow nearby.