58 Things to Do in Dublin This Weekend

Dive into a world of science and adventure at Ireland's National Sports & Science Centre. It's packed with hands-on exhibits, VR zones, and climbing walls for all ages.

Tip: Great for families, friends, or anyone looking for a fun, educational experience.

Unleash your inner artist in a beginner-friendly mosaic workshop. It's a fun, hands-on way to create something unique and take a piece of Dublin home with you.

Tip: Perfect for a creative and memorable weekend activity.

Discover a vibrant market featuring cool vintage finds and handmade crafts. It's a perfect spot for unique shopping and soaking up the local atmosphere.

Tip: Check their schedule as it's a newer market and may not be weekly.

Embark on a mind-bending journey through enchanting, interactive exhibitions and optical illusions. This attraction offers a fun and surprising experience for everyone.

Tip: Suitable for all ages and a great way to spend an afternoon.

Enjoy a night of stand-up comedy at Dublin's premier comedy club. It's a fantastic option for a fun and different night out.

Tip: Book tickets in advance, especially for weekend shows.

Step back in time with a tour of this former prison, a significant site in Irish history. It offers a powerful and insightful look into the past.

Tip: Book your tickets well in advance as tours sell out quickly.

Take a scenic walk along the cliffs of Howth for breathtaking coastal views. It's a refreshing escape from the city with stunning natural beauty.

Tip: Wear comfortable shoes and check the weather before you go.

This charming museum offers an entertaining and engaging 40-minute history of Ireland through its unique collection. It's a great way to get context before exploring further.

Tip: Consider doing this early in your trip for historical context.

Explore a vast collection of Irish and European art, from Old Masters to contemporary pieces. Admission is free, making it an accessible cultural experience.

Tip: Allow ample time to wander through the diverse collections.

One of Europe's largest enclosed urban parks, perfect for a leisurely bike ride, spotting wild deer, or enjoying a picnic.

Tip: Rent a bike to cover more ground and enjoy the scenery.

Located within Dublin Castle, this library houses an incredible collection of manuscripts, prints, and drawings from around the world. It's a hidden gem for art and history lovers.

Tip: Free to enter and a peaceful escape within the castle grounds.

Discover the history of Dublin's working-class residents through preserved tenement apartments. It offers a unique and poignant glimpse into past lives.

Tip: Book tours in advance as they are guided and popular.

A beautiful Victorian park in the heart of Dublin, perfect for a relaxing stroll, people-watching, and enjoying the lush greenery and fountains.

Tip: Look for the small bullet marks near the stone archway for a historical detail.

Immerse yourself in authentic Irish trad music at this renowned pub in Smithfield. It's a lively spot with a great atmosphere and talented musicians.

Tip: Arrive early to secure a good spot, especially on weekends.

Learn about the 1916 Easter Rising at this immersive museum located in the historic General Post Office. It brings the events to life through interactive exhibits.

Tip: A must-visit for understanding a pivotal moment in Irish history.

Discover fascinating ancient artifacts and bog bodies at this museum, often referred to as the 'Dead Zoo'. It's a unique look at Ireland's natural and ancient past.

Tip: Free admission makes this a great budget-friendly option.

Ride the DART train to the charming fishing village of Howth for fresh seafood and stunning coastal scenery. The cliff walk is a highlight.

Tip: Combine with the Howth Cliff Walk for a full day out.

See incredible prehistoric gold artifacts, Viking treasures, and ancient Egyptian mummies. This museum offers a deep dive into Ireland's rich past.

Tip: Free to enter and a treasure trove of historical finds.

Find this hidden gem adorned with vibrant street art and colorful murals. It's a fantastic spot for unique photos and a less-trodden path.

Tip: Keep an eye out for this charming, artistic alleyway.

Visit this beautiful medieval castle and its stunning gardens located just north of Dublin. It's a picturesque escape with a rich history.

Tip: Easily accessible by DART train from the city center.

Try your hand at Ireland's national sports, Gaelic football and hurling. It's a fun and active way to connect with local culture.

Tip: Book in advance for a guaranteed session.

Explore contemporary art within the magnificent 17th-century Royal Hospital Kilmainham. The building and grounds are as impressive as the art.

Tip: Located near Kilmainham Gaol, making it easy to combine visits.

Take a guided tour of this historic cemetery, the final resting place of many notable Irish figures. It's also home to beautiful botanical gardens.

Tip: Consider a guided tour for the most insightful experience.

Explore the historic Dublin Castle, including its State Apartments and medieval Undercroft. The grounds offer a glimpse into centuries of Irish history.

Tip: Combine with a visit to the Chester Beatty Library located within the castle.

Escape the city bustle in this beautiful, lesser-known Victorian garden. It features a maze, grotto, and a charming cascade.

Tip: A peaceful spot for a quiet break from sightseeing.

Discover the stories of the Irish diaspora and their impact on the world. This interactive museum is engaging and informative for all ages.

Tip: Highly recommended for teens and anyone interested in Irish heritage.

Believe it or not, you can see actual Viking ruins preserved under a glass floor in the middle of this city center supermarket.

Tip: A quirky and unexpected historical discovery.

Enjoy a seaside town experience by taking the DART south to Dún Laoghaire. Walk along the pier and enjoy the coastal atmosphere.

Tip: Combine with a coffee at Happy Out overlooking the pier.

Experience world-class theatre at Ireland's national theatre. Check their schedule for a diverse range of plays and performances.

Tip: Book tickets in advance for popular shows.

Beyond the main collections, explore the Higgins Collection within the National Gallery, featuring exquisite drawings and prints.

Tip: A quieter, more intimate art experience within the gallery.

Visit a well-regarded zoo located within Phoenix Park, offering a variety of animals and habitats. It's a great option for families.

Tip: Can be a full-day activity, especially with children.

Wander through the historic grounds of Ireland's oldest university. While the Book of Kells is popular, the campus itself is beautiful to explore.

Tip: Consider visiting the Long Room library (requires separate ticket for Book of Kells).

Tour this replica famine-era emigrant ship and learn about the challenging journeys of Irish emigrants. It's a moving historical experience.

Tip: Offers a tangible connection to a significant period in Irish history.

Explore the historic Dublin Castle, a significant landmark that has served as a Viking fortress, royal residence, and administrative center.

Tip: Take a guided tour to get the most out of your visit.

Learn about the history and brewing process of Ireland's iconic stout. Enjoy panoramic city views from the Gravity Bar.

Tip: Book tickets online in advance to save time.

Marvel at the stunning architecture and rich history of Ireland's national cathedral. It's a significant landmark with beautiful interiors.

Tip: Allow time to explore the grounds and interior.

Wander through the lively cobblestone streets of Temple Bar, known for its traditional pubs, street performers, and vibrant atmosphere.

Tip: Enjoy the atmosphere during the day, but be aware it can be touristy and expensive.

See the beautifully illuminated manuscript of the four Gospels at Trinity College. It's a masterpiece of medieval art and calligraphy.

Tip: Tickets often include access to the Long Room library.

This architecturally unique shopping center offers a blend of high-street brands and independent boutiques, all under a distinctive glass roof.

Tip: A good spot for browsing even if you're not buying.

Experience the lively atmosphere of Grafton Street, famous for its talented buskers and vibrant street performers.

Tip: A great place to soak in the city's energy.

Explore a vast collection of Irish and European art, from Old Masters to contemporary pieces. Admission is free, making it an accessible cultural experience.

Tip: Allow ample time to wander through the diverse collections.

Get an insightful overview of Dublin's history and culture with a free walking tour. Guides share local stories and tips.

Tip: Tip your guide at the end based on your experience.

Discover a vibrant market featuring cool vintage finds and handmade crafts. It's a perfect spot for unique shopping and soaking up the local atmosphere.

Tip: Check their schedule as it's a newer market and may not be weekly.

Explore one of Dublin's two medieval cathedrals, featuring stunning architecture and a fascinating crypt. It's a cornerstone of the city's history.

Tip: Consider attending a service for a more spiritual experience.

Venture out to the stunning glacial valley of Glendalough, known for its ancient monastic settlement and beautiful lakes.

Tip: Accessible via bus tours from Dublin.

Discover a wide range of artifacts, from Irish furniture and silver to military history and costumes. It's a comprehensive look at Irish material culture.

Tip: Free admission makes it an excellent cultural stop.

Step into Ireland's oldest pub, dating back to 1198. Enjoy traditional music and a historic atmosphere that has welcomed patrons for centuries.

Tip: It's worth visiting more than once to experience its charm.

Enjoy a seaside experience in Bray, known for its promenade and the scenic cliff walk to Greystones. It's a popular coastal escape.

Tip: The cliff walk can be challenging but rewarding.

Located in County Mayo, this museum showcases the beauty of Irish rural life and traditions. It's a journey into the past of everyday people.

Tip: This museum is outside of Dublin, requiring a day trip.

Discover a significant collection of modern and contemporary Irish art, including Francis Bacon's studio. It's a must-visit for art enthusiasts.

Tip: Free admission to the permanent collections.

Enjoy a kayaking adventure along the coast of Dalkey, exploring its scenic bays and islands. It's an active way to see the coastline.

Tip: Book a guided tour for the best experience.

This branch houses the museum's extensive collections of Irish antiquities, including prehistoric gold, Viking artifacts, and medieval treasures.

Tip: Free admission and centrally located.

Journey back to Viking and Medieval Dublin with interactive exhibits that bring the city's past to life. It's an engaging experience for all ages.

Tip: Located near Christ Church Cathedral, making it easy to combine visits.

Experience a diverse range of theatrical productions at the Gate Theatre, known for its high-quality performances and classic plays.

Tip: Check their schedule for upcoming shows and book in advance.

Enjoy a day trip to the medieval city of Kilkenny, famous for its impressive castle and charming streets. It's a picturesque escape from Dublin.

Tip: Easily accessible by train from Dublin.

Take a tour of this distillery to learn about the whiskey-making process. They sometimes offer free tours, making it a great value.

Tip: Check their website for tour availability and pricing.

Discover fascinating ancient artifacts and bog bodies at this museum, often referred to as the 'Dead Zoo'. It's a unique look at Ireland's natural and ancient past.

Tip: Free admission makes this a great budget-friendly option.

Discover a wide range of artifacts, from Irish furniture and silver to military history and costumes. It's a comprehensive look at Irish material culture.

Tip: Free admission makes it an excellent cultural stop.