Dublin Tours: The 10 Most Unusual Tours In The City

Categories Dublin , Things To Do

Dublin is one of the most fun cities in the world. Known for its pubs , world famous drinks , and friendliest people in the world, the city has a lively vibe that can’t be beaten. Aside from the energy-pulsing vibe, there are so many things to do in Dublin . But if you are looking for something different, there are several unusual Dublin tours that you can check out in the city.

These tours are not your usual sightseeing tours in Dublin. So if you are looking for some of the weirdest, wackiest, most interesting, and spookiest Dublin tours, this list is for you.

Things you'll find in this article

Dublin Ghostbus Tour

Dublin haunted history walking tour, gravedigger tour, dublin cemetery tour, gangs of dublin walking tour, irish emigration tour, the bingo bus tour, dublin prison tour, whiskey blending tour, singing dublin walking tour, dublin ghost tours.

Dublin Tours Ghostbus

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Ghost tours are becoming quite popular in Dublin . It is also said that the first ghost tour bus in the world was first established in Dublin.

The Dublin ghost tours are normally done during the evening with activities involving visiting graveyards, haunted buildings , and churches and with the storytelling of the popular folklore , urban myths, and even some historical events in Ireland.

Here are some of the popular ghost tours in Dublin that you can choose from:

This Ghostbus tour takes you to a spooky trip in a 2-hour unique bus experience involving felons, fiends, phantoms and other Dublin darkest tales. You will also learn about Bram Stoker who was the author of the famous novel Dracula. They also recreate the strange activities of Dr. Clossey of the College of Physicians, who on his time robbed graves to indulge his experiments. It was also reported that two of his medical students disappeared during his time.

Cost: €28

To book this tour, click here .

This walking tour involves visiting some of the popular landmarks in Dublin but with a twist of the stories of ghost and ghouls – who are known to rob graves and feed on dead bodies.

You will also learn about interesting stories through insider’s knowledge from the Paranormal Study and Investigation in Ireland.

Cost: €19

To book this tour, click here.

This horror and comedy show lasts for 2 hours on a spooky designed bus. This bus tour will take you to the darkest and most gruesome tales of Dublin and the famous Gravedigger’s Pub where you can get the best pint of Guinness afterward.

Cost: €25

Glasnevin Cemetery

Glasnevin Cemetery is a popular cemetery and outdoor museum in Dublin. It is known as the final resting place of popular figures in Ireland.

This cemetery tour will take you back to the history of Ireland through the people buried in the cemetery. Learn the stories of Eamon De Valera, Daniel O’Connell, Charles Stewart Parnell, Michael Collins, Countess Marckievicz and Brendan Behan (just to name a few) through this guided tour.

Dublin has a tumultuous past involving gangs and organized crimes for the past 300 years. As the city of Dublin progressed, the crime rate also increased.

With Gangs of Dublin walking tour, you will learn about the various gangs in the city and the long history of crimes in Dublin. From the protestant weavers of Northern side of Dublin – Liberty Boys and the Catholic Butchers of Southern Dublin – Ormonde Boys, to more upper-class criminals of Hellfire Club in the 1750s. The tour is one of the most unusual yet interesting tours in Dublin

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The Irish diaspora is one of the largest in the world with over 70 million people across the world claimed to have descended from Irish ancestors. This is more than 10 times the current population of Ireland at just almost 5 million.

The Irish emigration was caused by a couple of factors. Which included a political connection with Britain that helped disperse the Irish army and auxiliary staff to countries colonized by the UK. The religious factors were in Irish monks and Celtic church pioneered the mass emigration to Britain and other parts of Europe and the Great Famine which resulted in millions of Irish leaving the country to escape poverty and hunger.

If you want to learn more about this interesting history of Irish diaspora and emigration, this Dublin tour is a must.

This Irish emigration tour in EPIC Museum, one of the best museums in Dublin , will help you explore the 1500-year history of Ireland.

Cost: €15

To book, click here.

This VIP ticket to the historic Jeanie Johnston ship will give you an interesting view of the Irish emigration and experience what the life was like aboard this 19th-century tall ship.

This Bingo Bus Tour is not your ordinary bingo game tour. The tour is conducted in a bus with a comedian as a bingo caller. As you wait for the elusive winning numbers, the bingo caller will entertain you with stories and have fun with the participants. This is a good alternative for the usual night out if you are looking for something fun and different with friends or strangers.

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Kilmainham Gaol museum

Kilmainham Gaol is a county jail in Dublin known for its long and dark history. The leaders of rebellions from 1798 to 1923 were detained here and sometimes executed. Many political figures and members of the Irish Republican movement were also jailed here during the Anglo-Irish War.

This county jail of Dublin also held ordinary prisoners. Convicts from all over Ireland were also detained here for long periods of time before they were transported to Australia.

This jail tour is one of the most interesting tours in Dublin as you will be guided to the political history that shaped Ireland today.

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Ireland is known for its world-class drinks and no visit in the country is complete without trying the Irish local drinks . This Whiskey Blending Tour will treat participants for a night of enjoyment.

It starts at the Irish Whiskey Museum where participants can learn about the history of whiskey and see the massive collections of Whiskey that dates back to the 1800s.

Aside from that, visitors can also make their own whiskey and take them home for souvenirs. The tour will end with whiskey tasting where visitors will be given 4 styles of Irish whiskey to try and enjoy.

Cost: €30

To book this tour, click here

Ireland is known for producing the world’s best singers and bands . So it is no surprise that you can find good singers in the country everywhere.

This Singing Dublin Walking tour is proof that Irish people know how to sing and entertain. If you want to try something really different in Dublin , this singing tour is a must. You can do it with your friends and family and you can learn the history of Dublin at the same time while enjoying the performance of your tour guides.

Cost: €250 for a group of up to 10 people

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Hi, I’m Christine – a full-time traveler and career woman. Although I’m from the Philippines, my location independent career took me to over 40 countries for the past 8 years. I also lived in 3 continents – from the Caribbean, South East Asia to Africa. But despite living in several countries, my love for Ireland remains the same. A country that had been a part of my life since I was 14 because of my love for Irish music and bands. Ireland Travel Guides was born because of this passion and hopefully, in some little ways, this website will be able to help you on your next trip to Ireland.

30 Best Things To Do In Dublin, Ireland  - Ireland Travel Guides

Friday 17th of September 2021

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14 best dublin tours: pub crawls, game of thrones & more.

Explore everything from busy pubs to medieval castles on one of these guided adventures.

The Best Dublin Tours

Dublin, Ireland- People dining outside of a colorful bar with traditional Irish music in the city of Dublin, the capitol of the Republic of Ireland located on Ireland's eastern coast.

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One of the best ways to explore Dublin is on a tour. Whether you're interested in a pub crawl, a ghost tour, a history adventure or a sightseeing excursion, there are plenty of options to choose from.

Whether you want to absorb the sights and sounds of Dublin , taste traditional Irish food and drinks or explore the scenic countryside, the following guided tours have got you covered. The trips, identified by U.S. News as the best using both traveler and expert input, focus on Dublin's history and heritage with unique twists. Some focus on its biggest attractions , others engage participants with fearsome tales and there are even a few that explore film locations from popular movies and shows. But all have one thing in common: knowledgeable guides to share the insights of a local.

Viking Splash Tours

Price: Adults from 33 euros; kids from 27 euros Duration: 75 minutes

Explore Dublin's streets and the Grand Canal Basin via amphibious vehicles with Viking Splash Tours. Along the 75-minute ride, passengers see popular sights, such as Georgian Dublin, various cathedrals and U2's recording studio. Outings begin and end at St. Stephen's Green . Viking hat-wearing guides win praise for their funny and informative storytelling. Tickets cost around 33 euros (about $35) for adults, with discounts for seniors, students and children ages 3 to 14. Children younger than 3 are not permitted on this tour. Tours take place multiple times a day, every day.

View & Book Tickets: Viking Splash Tours

Dublin Traditional Irish Musical Pub Crawl

Price: From 19 euros Duration: 2.5 hours

Described as a "moving concert," this 2.5-hour tour is led by two professional musicians who regale patrons with both tunes and information about traditional Irish music while traveling to pubs around the city's Temple Bar area. Revelers rave about the relaxed pace, the music and the storytelling. Tours last from 7:30 to 10 p.m. and are available four nights a week (Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday) from May to September. The tour operates on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays in April and October, and every Saturday (plus select dates around St. Patrick's Day) in March. The pub crawl costs 19 euros (approximately $20) to attend; alcoholic beverages cost extra. Travelers can also opt for a 5:30 p.m. pub crawl dinner show with Irish dancing for 55 euros (about $59) per person.

View & Book Tickets: Musical Pub Crawl

Secret Food Tours Dublin

Price: Adults from 79 euros; kids from 65 euros Duration: 3 to 3.5 hours

Sample a variety of favorite Irish dishes on this leisurely 3- to 3.5-hour stroll through Georgian Dublin – a small area in the southern region of the city. The tour includes four to six stops for samples of Irish potato cakes, Irish stew, ice cream, smoked salmon and a surprise dish. Guides provide commentary on the area's history and, of course, its cuisine. Foodies find this a satisfying way to learn about the city's dining and drinking culture, and the guides are regarded as dedicated and accommodating. Tickets start at around 79 euros (about $84) for adults; an upgraded drinks package that includes an Irish tea and a glass of beer or wine (plus a total of eight stops) is available for an additional 18 euros (about $19). Children (ages 3 to 12) and teenagers (ages 13 to 17) can participate at discounted rates of 65 euros ($69) and 69 euros ($73), respectively. Start times range from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. daily. Be aware that this tour cannot accommodate dietary restrictions or substitutions.

View & Book Tickets: Viator

Best Dublin Tours

Courtesy of Vintage Tea Trips

Vintage Tea Trips – Dublin Afternoon Tea Trip

Price: Adults from 49.50 euros; kids from 27 euros Duration: 70 to 80 minutes

Enjoy a traditional afternoon tea service while seeing Dublin's top sights on this 70- to 80-minute bus tour. The double-decker buses depart the Temple Bar area and drive past tourist hot spots like Phoenix Park and Christ Church Cathedral. Along the way, you'll sip tea and eat treats, such as scones and tea sandwiches. Travelers like the tea and food; they also say the experience is a novel way to see the city and enjoy the guides' commentary. Tours depart Thursday through Monday at 1:15 and 3:30 p.m.; there's an additional 11 a.m. start time on each of these days except for Monday. Adult fares start at 49.50 euros (around $52); tickets for children start at 27 euros (about $29).

Wild Rover Tours – Cliffs of Moher, Atlantic Edge Ocean Walk & Galway City Day Tour from Dublin

Price: Adults from 75 euros; kids from 70 euros Duration: 13 hours

Wild Rover Tours' buses take riders across Ireland to see some of the country's best natural sights. The first stop is the Cliffs of Moher for views of the Atlantic Ocean and thousands of seabirds. You'll then see Burren National Park and enjoy views of Galway Bay and the Aran Islands. The final stop is a visit to the city of Galway for a guided walking tour. Tour-takers rave about the stunning views as well as the professional, knowledgeable drivers and guides. The daily tour starts around 7 a.m. and ends at 8 p.m. Tickets cost 75 euros (about $80) for adults and 70 euros (roughly $74) for kids. The tour cannot accommodate anyone younger than 2. The price covers admission to all sites visited, but it does not include lunch. Wild Rover also runs day tours featuring the Giant's Causeway and Belfast, among other options.

Finn McCools Tours – Giant's Causeway and Titanic Tour from Dublin

Price: From 83 euros Duration: 13 to 14 hours

Travelers looking to hit several sites throughout Ireland and Northern Ireland in one day will want to consider this daytrip from Dublin. Buses depart from Dublin City Gallery on Parnell Square North at 6:45 a.m. and head to the ruins of Dunluce Castle for a photo op, followed by longer stops at Giant's Causeway – a group of thousands of basalt columns formed by a volcanic eruption, which stretches from Northern Ireland to Scotland. Next, you'll head to the Dark Hedges (an avenue of intermingling beech trees seen in the "Game of Thrones" TV series). After that, you'll spend about 1.5 hours exploring the Titanic Museum (admission is included), followed by a half-hour wandering through Belfast on your own. The bus returns to Dublin between 7:30 and 8:30 p.m. Travelers recommend the tour and say it's "worth every penny." Tickets cost around 83 euros (about $88) per person, regardless of age. The company offers several other tours throughout Ireland that depart from Dublin, as well as tours with departures from Belfast and Galway.

Dublin Free Walking Tour – Free Tour South Side

Price: Free Duration: 3 hours

Travelers regard guides of this walking tour as extremely knowledgeable about the city and its history. During this three-hour stroll of Dublin's south side, you'll see top city sights like Trinity College , Temple Bar and Dublin Castle, among others. The tours are offered every day at 9:30 a.m., 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. While the morning walks tend to focus on popular attractions, afternoon outings may stop at more off-the-beaten-path spots. There is no charge for these walks, though guides appreciate tips at the conclusion of the trip. Dublin Free Walking Tours also runs a walking tour of the north side of Dublin.

View & Book Tickets: Dublin Free Walking Tour

Best Dublin Tours

Courtesy of Gary McParland | Game of Thrones Tours

Game of Thrones Tours – Winterfell Trek from Dublin

Price: From 70 euros Duration: 11 hours

"Game of Thrones" fans regularly praise this tour, calling the featured stops and the stories shared by guides incredible. During this daylong outing, you'll visit the Tollymore Forest Park (the backdrop for many of the first scenes of the series), see Inch Abbey and have lunch at a local pub. The highlight of the tour is a hike through Old Castle Ward, which served as the filming location of Winterfell. Though you'll be transported to the different locations via coach, there is a lot of walking involved on the tour; patrons suggest wearing sturdy shoes or hiking boots. Tickets, which start at 70 euros (around $74), include entrance to the castle as well as use of cloaks and other cosplay props. It does not include lunch. Note: Children younger than 12 may not take the tour and children ages 12 to 17 must have a signed parental consent form. Schedules vary by season, but tours typically take place Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday during the summer months, and Wednesday and Saturday in the winter, spring, fall. Groups typically depart at 7:45 a.m.; buses arrive back to Dublin around 7 p.m. The company also offers this tour with a departure from Belfast.

Rural Tours – Dublin Mountain Pub Tour

Price: From 45 euros Duration: 5 hours

After you've had your fill of the pubs in central Dublin, check out what the rural pubs have to offer on this five-hour evening tour. You'll visit three rural pubs, including one of Ireland's oldest and most highly elevated. Tour-takers find the guides entertaining and hospitable and the beer and music first-rate. Tickets cost 45 euros (about $48), which includes transportation from and back to Dublin. Tours run on various days depending on the season and start at 6:30 p.m. year-round; they usually end around 11:30 p.m. Check the company's website or Viator for schedules and booking availability. Participants must be at least 18 years old to tour. Rural Tours also runs a pub tour in the Wicklow Mountains, among other options.

SANDEMANs New Europe – Dublin Dark Side Tour

Price: Free Duration: 2.5 hours

The Dublin Dark Side Tour explores the spookier side of Ireland's folklore and legends. The 2.5-hour walk through cemeteries and back alleys (as well as to landmarks like St. Patrick's Cathedral and Dublin Castle ) features tales of serial killers, ghosts and the Gaelic festival that spawned Halloween. Guides are consistently lauded as gifted, humorous storytellers who make the excursions fun rather than frightening (though other tour-takers note some stories are graphic). Tours start from Barnardo Square at 5 p.m. every day except Monday and Wednesday. Tickets are free, but tips are encouraged. SANDEMANs also operates a free walking tour of the city and a couple of ticketed private tours.

View & Book Tickets: SANDEMANs New Europe

Collins Day Tours – Glendalough, Wicklow and Kilkenny Full-Day Tour

Price: Adults from 40 euros; kids from 25 euros Duration: 9 hours

Highlights of this daylong excursion include Wicklow Mountains National Park, walking tours of the medieval city of Kilkenny and of the sixth-century monastic settlements in Glendalough Valley. There will also be plenty of photo opportunities along the way. Guides regularly win praise not only for their insight, but also for their enthusiasm and warmth. Tourists also find they are given plenty of time at each stop. Buses depart from Hotel Riu Plaza The Gresham Dublin at 8:45 a.m. every day and return to the city at 6 p.m. Tickets cost 40 euros (roughly $42) for adults, 35 euros (about $37) for seniors and youth ages 12 to 17 and 25 euros (approximately $27) for children ages 3 to 11. The price does not cover lunch or entrance to Kilkenny Castle.

unique dublin tours

Irish Day Tours – Cliffs of Moher Day Trip from Dublin

Price: Adults from 75 euros; kids from 37.50 euros Duration: 12 hours

Irish Day Tours' Cliffs of Moher tour makes for a great daytrip from Dublin. The tour departs the city at 6:50 a.m. Guides will take patrons through the iconic cliffs, stop in the charming village of Doolin at lunch time (though meals are not included in the cost of the trip), admire the rocky landscape of the Burren and spend some time wandering through Galway City before returning to Dublin around 7 p.m. Past visitors say the bus drivers and guides are highly entertaining and knowledgeable. Tickets start at 75 euros (about $80) for adults, with discounts for seniors and children. Irish Day Tours also conducts daytrips to Blarney Castle and Cork, as well as to the Connemara region, among other excursions.

View & Book Tickets: Option 1 | Option 2

DoDublin – Ghostbus Tour

Price: From 35 euros Duration: 2 hours

Listen as skilled storytellers recount legends of terrible acts and sinister figures – including the doctor believed to have inspired novelist Bram Stoker's Dracula character – while being shuttled around Dublin to a graveyard, a church and other purportedly haunted sites. Participants say there is a great deal of laughter during these lighthearted explorations of Dublin's dark side. The Ghostbus Tour lasts approximately two hours and takes place every Tuesday, Friday and Saturday, departing at 7 p.m. at 9:30 p.m. Tickets start at 35 euros (about $37). Tour-takers must be at least 14 years old to participate.

Dublin Literary Pub Crawl

Price: From 15 euros Duration: 2.5 hours

This walking tour is a kind of roving theatrical performance during which professional actors recount scenes from the city's storied history and its literary heritage, while quoting its most celebrated authors. During the roughly 2.5-hour walk, you'll visit four historic pubs in the city, as well as Trinity College. Book lovers declare the performers to be entertaining and memorable. The walk begins at 7:30 p.m. at, appropriately enough, a pub: The Duke Dublin. Outings are offered every evening from April through October and Thursday through Sunday from November to March. It costs about 15 euros (nearly $16) – slightly less for students – to take this tour. Drinks are not included in the price.

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45+ Unique and Unusual Things to Do in Dublin

Looking for some unusual things to do in Dublin that are unique to the Irish capital?

There is no shortage of tourist attractions and must-visit places in Dublin.

But did you know that there are also a host of unique and unusual things to do in Dublin that you won’t find anywhere else?

Even some of Dublin’s best tourist attractions are unique to the Irish capital.

In this article, I am sharing with you:

  • Unique things to do in Dublin.
  • Even more unusual things to do during a visit to Dublin.
  • My personal favourites and recommendations.

Strange things at Christ Church

Molly malone, the forty foot, irish whiskey museum, murphy’s ice cream.

*This post contains affiliate links, which may include Amazon affiliate links. To read more about affiliate links, please visit my Disclosure Policy page.

Unusual things to do in Dublin

Whether you are looking for 10 things to do in Dublin or 50 things to do in Dublin, this comprehensive list will give you some ideas of unique things to do in Dublin to add to your planned visit.

These will include things like unique museums to visit you will only find in Dublin, to some of the best quirky places to eat and drink in Dublin.

Unique things to do in Dublin involving the dead

Glasnevin cemetery and museum.

One of the 10 top things to do in Dublin is to visit Glasnevin Cemetery and Museum.

Opened in 1832, this large cemetery holds the graves and memorials of many notable Irish figures including Michael Collins, Charles Stewart Parnell, Maud Gonne (WB Yeats muse), Éamon de Valera (former Taoiseach and President of Ireland) and Luke Kelly (of The Dubliners).

The museum gives an insight into the lives of some of the people buried at the cemetery through interactive exhibits.

Why not join a guided tour of Glasnevin Cemetery and learn more about Dublin’s history. Find tickets, latest prices and availability here .

A picture of headstones in the Glasnevin cemetery in Dublin

Relics of St Valentine

Whitefriar Street Church, located on Aungier Street holds relics of Saint Valentine. A Roman Catholic Church, the relics were donated to this church by Pope Gregory XVI from the cemetery of St Hippolytus in Rome.

The relics include some of the remains of St Valentine in the form of a vessel tinged with the blood of the saint and some other remains of his body, thought to be bone.

The church itself is beautiful and contains shrines to St Valentine, Our Lady of Fatima and Our Lady of Lourdes.

St. Michan’s Mummies

If you are looking for Dublin things to see that are truly unique, then head to St. Michan’s Church located on Church Street where you will come across mummified remains that are 800 years old.

The church originates from the 11 th century, although the current building dates from the late 17 th century.

Despite the church having been rebuilt, the crypt where caskets stand has been left untouched and it is there you can view the mummies. These include a nun, a crusader six-and-a-half-feet tall and the bodies of the Sheares brothers who took part in the 1798 Irish Rebellion against the British rule in Ireland.

The crypt is made from limestone which keeps the vaults dry, making it an ideal environment for mummification. And as the wood dries out, the caskets open revealing their mummies.

Since the coffins have technically not been opened by anyone, this allows the public to view the mummies without causing problems with the church rules. Nonetheless, they are unusual and worth going to see.

Kingship and Sacrifice Collection

One of the top 10 free things to do in Dublin is to visit the National Museum of Ireland. And in particular, the Kingship and Sacrifice collection.

In this exhibition, preserved bog bodies are on display and visitors can view them and learn about how sacrifice and the burial of the victims in the bogs were related to Kingship and Sacrifice. Along with the preserved bodies, other artefacts such as royal regalia, weapons and feasting utensils are also on display.

I have personally seen the Bog Men in this museum and to say they are unique is an understatement. Just be warned that if you are a bit sensitive or don’t like things associated with death, then maybe steer clear of viewing the Bog Men remains.

If you are looking to keep costs down in the city, then find out more of the best free things to do in Dublin here .

unique dublin tours

If you are looking for unusual Dublin things to see, then head to Christ Church Cathedral. Originally a Viking church and now the Cathedral of the United Dioceses of Dublin and Glendalough (Anglican Church of Ireland), Christ Church Cathedral holds some unusual things to see alongside its magnificent architecture.

The preserved heart of Saint Laurence O’Toole, encased in a wooden heart-shaped box, is on display in the Cathedral.

And a mummified cat and rat are on display in the crypt. Legend has it that the cat chased the rat behind the organ and both became stuck. They were mentioned in James Joyce’s Finnegan’s Wake and are known locally as ‘Tom and Jerry’.

If you want to visit Christ Church Cathedral, pre-purchase your skip-the-line tickets here .

A panoramic picture of the exterior of Christ Church Cathedral in Dublin, Ireland.

Unique sights of Dublin

Kilmainham gaol.

One of the best things to do in Dublin , Ireland is to visit Kilmainham Gaol. This former jail housed many revolutionaries and political prisoners including the leaders in the 1916 Easter Rising.

Visitors to Kilmainham Gaol can only gain entry via timed guided tours which give an insight into the jail and its former inhabitants. As well as tours of the building and grounds, visitors can see artefacts from the 1916 Rising in the museum and artworks by prisoners incarcerated in prisons across Ireland.

If you are looking for a truly unique experience in Dublin, visit Kilmainham Gaol. Just make sure to book your tickets early (28 days in advance when they become available) to avoid long queues or disappointment. Get your tickets through the Kilmainham Gaol website .

unique dublin tours

One of the cool things to see in Dublin is the different exhibitions at Dublinia. Dublinia is an interactive museum located across the road from Christ Church Cathedral and shows the history of Dublin from the Vikings, through the Medieval Ages and into Modern-day Dublin.

Costumed characters are on hand to re-enact scenes and answer questions you might have about things from the era in which they are from.

There is a Viking level, one dedicated to Medieval Dublin, and one level on which there are temporary exhibits such as one in which kids can pretend to be archaeologists digging for artefacts.

If you are looking for children’s things to do in Dublin, I highly recommend a visit to Dublinia. With plenty of interactive exhibits and more, they are sure to find it fascinating.

And if you are planning a visit to Dublinia, why not get a Dublin Pass which includes entry to Dublinia and more. Get more information here .

unique dublin tours

GPO – General Post Office

Located on O’Connell Street, and hard to miss, is the headquarters of the Irish Post Office, the GPO (General Post Office). It is an important building and one of Ireland’s most famous.

During the 1916 Rising, it served as the headquarters for the uprising’s leaders and it was from there that Padraig Pearse read out the Proclamation of the Irish Free State.

The GPO has a visitor centre commemorating the rising called GPO Witness History and this is worth visiting.

If you are going to visit, or even just pass by the GPO, check the columns outside where you might be lucky enough to spot bullet holes remaining from 1916. Entry to the GPO Witness History Museum is included in the Dublin Pass mentioned above.

unique dublin tours

Dublin Castle and the Chester Beatty Library

Another unique place to visit in Dublin and one of the 10 best things to do in Dublin is Dublin Castle and the Chester Beatty Library, located on the grounds of Dublin Castle.

As well as being a major government complex, Dublin Castle has State Apartments that visitors can visit and you will also find the Revenue Museum, Garda Museum, several important Towers, and the Chapel Royal (now used as an arts centre).

On the grounds of Dublin Castle, you will also find the Chester Beatty Library, a unique and interesting place to visit in Dublin.

Located in the Clock Tower, this world-famous library is one of the best in Europe and is home to the amazing collection from the mining magnate Alfred Chester Beatty.

Among the collection are artistic, religious and secular works from around the world including the world’s finest collection of Qu’rans. This is also one of the best cheap things to do in Dublin as entry is free and it’s one of my favourite places to visit in Dublin.

A display cabinet at the Chester Beatty Library in Dublin filled with religious books.

Sitting in the middle of O’Connell Street, opposite the GPO is the Spire.

This 120-metre (390 feet) large, stainless-steel pin-like monument is also sometimes called the Monument of Light. It was built on the site of Nelson Pillar, which was damaged in an explosion by Irish republicans in 1966.

The base has a design running around it, representing the rock base under the Spire and the DNA double helix strand. At dusk, the base is lit up and also the top 10m. It is a sight to see.

unique dublin tours

Croke Park Stadium

Croke Park Stadium, located a short distance from the city centre is one of the best things to see in Dublin. Home to Gaelic games such as Gaelic football and hurling, this huge stadium is the principal national stadium of Ireland and also the headquarters of the GAA (Gaelic Athletic Association).

Visitors can take tours of the stadium, see the Hall of Fame and get a bird’s eye view of the stadium from the media centre. This is Ireland’s most famous sporting venues and worth a visit if you like sports.

Pre-book your stadium tour and museum visit here .

Jeanie Johnston Tallship

The Jeanie Johnston Tallship is a replica of a ship with the same name that made many voyages from Ireland to the US and Canada in the mid-1800s.

While moored on the docks in Dublin, it is a living museum on 19th-century emigration. It is also sometimes called a Famine ship as it ferried emigrants from Ireland during the Great Famine.

A 50-minute tour will give you the history of the boat, tell you what life was like for the passengers, and let you discover this great ship.

Entry to the Jeanie Johnston is included in the Dublin Pass .

unique dublin tours

If you are looking for one of my top 10 things to do in Dublin, then paying Molly Malone a visit is a must.

Originally located at the bottom of Grafton Street, she now resides on Suffolk Street, having moved in 2014, something that surprised me when I went looking for her in 2018!

There is a song about this famous fishmonger, selling her

Cockles and mussels, alive alive-o.

Whether the statue is based on a real person remains a mystery, but her bronze statue, erected as part of the 1988 Dublin Millennium celebrations is a must-see if you are in Dublin for a few days.

A picture of the Molly Malone statue, located on Suffolk Street in Dublin. she standing in her dress, wheeling her wheelbarrow full of cockles and mussels to sell.

The great outdoors in Dublin

National botanic gardens.

If you are looking for outdoor things to do in Dublin, then visiting the uniquely beautiful National Botanic Gardens in Glasnevin is a must. Founded in 1795 and home to over 20,000 living plants, these gardens are a beautiful place to visit on a sunny day in Dublin.

As well as gardens including a bog garden and rose garden, the National Botanic Gardens also have fine examples of Victorian glasshouses. These are home to palm plants, fern and cacti among other things.

This is a great free thing to do in Dublin , although you need to pay for a guided tour if you don’t want to self-guide your way around the gardens.

A picture of one of the glasshouses at the National Botanic Gardens, Dublin

St. Stephen’s Green

The beautiful Georgian square garden of St Stephen’s Green is located at the top of Grafton Street and is a lovely place to visit in Dublin.

A place of peace and tranquillity in a bustling city, St Stephen’s Green has a lake, ornamental gazebo, bandstand and various gardens and lawns. There is also a children’s playground.

There are also busts and statues at the entrances and dotted around the park which is worth seeing.

If you want somewhere quiet to sit down before continuing your sightseeing, head to St Stephen’s Green.

unique dublin tours

Phoenix Park

The best place for those who love the outdoors is the Phoenix Park. As one of the largest enclosed recreational parks in Europe, the Phoenix Park is home to Dublin Zoo, the Papal Cross, the President’s home of Áras an Uachtaráin, the Wellington Monument and the People’s Gardens.

There is also a herd of fallow deer which roam the park and can often be seen in the woods near the Papal Cross in the early morning.

It is a large space and one of Dublin’s most beautiful and unique spots to visit. And best of all, it is free (although Dublin Zoo is payable).

unique dublin tours

Samuel Beckett Bridge

One of the best things to do around Dublin is to go and cross the Samuel Beckett Bridge over the River Liffey.

A new addition to the city since I left, this cable-stayed bridge joins Sir John Rogerson Quay on the southside to Guild Street and North Wall Quay on the northside.

The shape of the spar and the cables are said to invoke an image of a harp lying on its side. If you are looking for unique things to photograph in Dublin, this bridge is a must.

unique dublin tours

Ha’Penny Bridge

One of the coolest things to do in Dublin is cross the Ha’Penny Bridge. This pedestrian bridge over the River Liffey was built in 1816 and connects Temple Bar with Lower Liffey Street and used to cost a ha’penny (a half penny) to cross it.

Its official name is the Liffey Bridge and is made of cast iron. It was made to replace the ferries that were in operation to bring people from one side of the Liffey to the other.

It is an iconic sight in Dublin and one of the most photographed parts of the city.

unique dublin tours

The Meeting Place

This bronze statue of two ladies talking is located at the end of Lower Liffey Street, just across from the Ha’Penny Bridge and is something I have passed hundreds of times in Dublin.

It features two ladies having a chat after shopping in the city, one with an Arnott’s bag from the shop on nearby Henry Street.

It was erected in 1988 and is a statue you are sure to come across if you go to the northside of Dublin via the Ha’Penny Bridge. Make sure to grab a picture as you pass by.

unique dublin tours

Famine Memorial

Head to Custom’s House Quay and there you will find the Famine Memorial.

This poignant memorial has five life-size figures dressed in rags and clutching their children and belongings. They represent the hundreds of thousands of people who fled Ireland during the Great Famine in search of a new life.

It was created in 1997 and has a sister memorial in Toronto, created in 2007.

unique dublin tours

Proclamation Sculpture

Another unique thing to do in Dublin is to see the Proclamation Sculpture across the street from Kilmainham Gaol.

A permanent outdoor sculpture, it honours the leaders of the 1916 rising as well as the authors of the Irish Proclamation of Independence.

The sculpture by Rowan Gillespie has fourteen figures representing those executed in Kilmainham Gaol, blindfolded and with bullet holes. It is a powerful reminder of the struggles for a Free Ireland.

A picture of the Proclamation Sculpture in Dublin

Brown Thomas

If you are looking for unique Christmas things to do in Dublin, then you need to head to Grafton Street to see the dressed windows of Brown Thomas.

Formerly the home of Switzers, this activity in the festive season is a Dublin tradition and I regularly went into the city centre with my family to view the Christmas windows at then-Switzers (now the home of Brown Thomas).

Poolbeg Lighthouse

If you are looking for unique and adventurous things to do in Dublin, then why not take a walk to Poolbeg Lighthouse .

This red, active lighthouse at the mouth of the River Liffey has been a navigational aid to visiting boats and ships since 1767, with the present lighthouse having been built in 1820.

As one of three in Dublin Bay, it extends 4 miles into the bay at the end of one of the longest remaining sea walls in Europe. It once held the honour of being the longest walls in the world.

It commands great panoramic views from Howth in the north to Bray and the Wicklow Mountains in the south and is a great place to visit if you fancy a long walk.  Just make sure to watch the weather forecast before you set off.

A picture of the walkway leading to the Poolbeg Lighthouse in Dublin Bay

The Hungry Tree

Have you ever seen a bench being swallowed by a tree? If not, and you’d like to, then you can do so by visiting one of the Dublin hidden gems.

Located in the Kings Inns Park, the tree in question is a London plane and was planted over 100 years ago next to a cast iron bench from the early 1800s.

Over the years, the tree has grown to encompass the bench, earning it the name of the Hungry Tree.

A picture of the Hungry Tree, a chair being swallowed by a tree, one of the unique and unusual things to do in Dublin

Garden of Remembrance

The Garden of Remembrance is located in the northern fifth of Parnell Square and was created to remember

Those who gave their lives in the cause of Irish Freedom.

Originally opened in 1749 as a pleasure garden whose fee was used to fund the Rotunda hospital, it was commemorated, during the 50 th anniversary of the 1916 Easter Rising, by Eamon de Valera to all the freedom fighters from various Irish rebellions during British rule.

It has a sunken water feature, and a statue of the Children of Lir. It is a place of quiet reflection and is free to visit.

A picture of the cross water-feature in the Garden of Remembrance, Dublin

Wolfe Tone Statue

Theobald Wolfe Tone was a Dublin-born republican who lived in the late 1700s. He was a rebel who led a French military force during the 1798 insurrection.

His statue stands at the entrance to St Stephen’s Green, not far from the Shelbourne Hotel. If you are passing by St Stephen’s Green, he is worth a visit and you can find out more via the QR code located near him.

unique dublin tours

Táin Bó Cúailgne Mosaic

When it comes to cool things to do, Dublin has a few and visiting the Táin Bó Cúailgne Mosaic is one of them. A colourful mosaic located along Nassau Street, it depicts the Irish folk story of Cuchulain.

It was created by a Belfast artist, Desmond Kinney in the 1970s and is a sight to see.

The mural depicts several events and characters from the story of Cuchulain and is located in a car park behind the Kilkenny shop. It’s one of the cheap, fun things to do in Dublin.

A close-up of the Tain Bo Cuailgne mosaic in Dublin

One of the best things to do near Dublin is pay a visit to the Forty Foot.

Located in Sandycove near Dun Laoighaire, this is somewhere my dad swam in his youth.

It is a promontory (raised mass of land) where the people of Dublin have been swimming for over 250 years. It was once named one of the best places to swim in the world by the New York Times and it featured in James Joyce’s Ulysses. It is an interesting place to visit and damn cold to swim in!

Unusual things to do in Dublin involving Art, History, Literature and Culture

The long room library in trinity college.

If you are looking for unique literary and cultural things to do in Dublin, then you must visit the Long Room Library in Trinity College.

This 65-metre (213 ft) long chamber was built in the early 1700s and houses over 200,000 of the Trinity Library’s oldest books. The room is lined with marble busts of philosophers, writers and men who supported Trinity College.

It also houses one of the last copies of the 1916 Proclamation of the Irish Republic and the Brian Boru harp (the national symbol of Ireland).

unique dublin tours

The Dead Zoo

Another great place to visit in Dublin for something unique is the Natural History Museum, also known as the Dead Zoo.

This museum holds specimens of fauna native to Ireland and from around the world over two floors. You can also view the Irish Elk Collection including the now extinct giant deer.

It is also one of the best free museums in Dublin and can be combined with a visit to the National Gallery of Ireland which is located beside it on Merrion Square.

unique dublin tours

Dublin Writer’s Museum

Located on Parnell Square and facing the Garden of Remembrance is the Dublin Writer’s Museum in an 18th-century house.

In the museum, you will find displays, activities and collections of works from Irish literature. The writers featured in the museum have made significant contributions to literature both in Ireland and around the world.

There are personal letters, first editions of famous books and more on display. If you love literature you will love the Dublin Writer’s Museum.

Why not take a private literary tour of Dublin and visit this and other places in Dublin. Find more information and book a tour here .

Francis Bacon’s Preserved Art Studio

In the Hugh Lane Gallery, also on Parnell Square, you can find the complete Francis Bacon Preserved Art Studio. The gallery obtained the entire contents of the artist’s South Kensington studio and recreated it at the Hugh Lane Gallery in Dublin.

Even the walls, doors, floor and ceiling were removed from London and transported to Ireland.

It is perfectly preserved for visitors and shows the chaotic nature of the man. It is a truly unique thing to do in Dublin.

Oscar Wilde House

The Oscar Wilde House is where the writer spent most of his formative years and is located at Merrion Square, at the American College who run tours of the house.

Visitors can travel through various rooms including the dining room, sitting room and his doctor father’s surgery. To find tour availability and prices, click here .

unique dublin tours

Statue of Oscar Wilde

And if you are visiting the Oscar Wilde House, make sure to go and see his statue across the road on Merrion Square.

He is reclining, looking across at his former childhood home and his statue is made from three different types of stone.

He is flanked by two additional statues, one of his nude pregnant wife and one of a male torso representing the Greek God of drama, Dionysus.

unique dublin tours

James Joyce Statue

This bronze statue on North Earl Street pays homage to one of Ireland’s most famous writers. Standing adjacent to the GPO on O’Connell Street, this statue of Joyce was erected in 1990 and shows the man in a relaxed pose in his home city.

It is visited by literary fans who often flock to the city for the 16 th of June to celebrate Bloomsday, a literary festival in honour of the writer’s most famous novel, Ulysses.

Irish Jewish Museum

Another unique thing to do in Dublin is to visit the Irish Jewish Museum.

Located in the once highly Jewish area of Dublin at Portobello around the South Circular Road, it is dedicated to the Irish Jewish community.

The museum was once a former synagogue and displays a collection of memorabilia from Jewish communities across Ireland for over 150 years.

National Leprechaun Museum

If you are looking for something that is unique to Ireland, then there is no better place to visit than the National Leprechaun Museum. You’ll find this unusual museum on Jervis Street, across the road from the shopping centre of the same name.

This privately-owned museum is dedicated to Irish legends and folklore through the tradition of oral storytelling and of course, features leprechauns.

Visitors are guided through a series of rooms, each depicting an Irish tale or legend and can learn about the basics of what a leprechaun is and what defines them. Other creatures are also references in what claims to be the first leprechaun museum in the world.

Freemason’s Hall

The Grand Lodge of Ireland in Molesworth Street is one of the best alternative things to do in Dublin.

Formed in 1725, this is the second most senior Grand Lodge in the world and the Freemason’s Hall in Molesworth Street was opened in 1869 and still serves as the headquarters of the Irish Freemasonry today.

Tours of the hall can be taken during the summer months and the museum which gives an outline of the history of the Masonic Fraternity in Ireland is open all year round.

The Hall is stunningly beautiful and worth visiting if you are in Dublin during the summer. Click here for more information .

Sweny’s Pharmacy – Readings of Ulysses

If you want some different things to do in Dublin, then seek out Sweny’s Pharmacy on Lincoln Place, not far from the back of Trinity College and towards Merrion Square.

This pharmacy featured in the James Joyce novel Ulysses and often holds readings of chapters of the famous book. It also features during Bloomsday, one of the great festivals in Ireland .

Check here for news on readings.

unique dublin tours

Little Museum of Dublin

One of the best things to do around Dublin is to pay a visit to the Little Museum of Dublin.

Housed in an 18th-century Georgian House on St Stephen’s Green, this small museum tells the story of the Irish capital through the 20 th century.

With a collection of over 5,000 artefacts and memorabilia donated or on loan from the people of Dublin. The museum also holds classes for kids and you can also take short walking tours from the museum. Find out more here .

unique dublin tours

There is one thing that Ireland is famous for and that is whiskey. And there is no better place to learn about Irish whiskey and the distilleries that make it than the Irish Whiskey Museum on Grafton Street.

Learn about famous brands and distilleries and the difference between the different blends of whiskey. Visitors can also taste a selection of Irish Whiskeys. Just make sure you aren’t driving afterwards!

You can visit the Irish Whiskey Museum during a trip to Dublin and have lunch on a tour. Click here for the latest prices and availability of this experience .

unique dublin tours

Unusual places to eat and drink in Dublin

Guinness storehouse.

One of the top 5 things to do in Dublin and a unique place for a drink is the Guinness Storehouse.

As one of the top Dublin tourist attractions at St James’ Gate, it welcomes thousands of visitors every year. You cannot go to Dublin and not visit the Guinness Storehouse.

Visitors will learn about how the famous drink is brewed with four key ingredients, and about the founder, Arthur Guinness.

There are lots of interactive displays that not only help you learn about the brewing process but also about other aspects of the business such as transport, storage and marketing.

Split over seven floors, there is a restaurant on the fifth where you can eat dishes in which Guinness is an ingredient.

And the top floor is home to the Gravity Bar where you get a free pint of Guinness (included in your entry ticket). Enjoy a pint of the ‘black stuff’ while taking in 360-degree views across Dublin city.

This is a truly unique place to visit in Dublin and you can get your entry tickets by clicking here .

Cath Jordan, author of Travel Around Ireland, at the Guinness Storehouse at the gateway made from barrels with words such as heat, roar and smells on them.

Teelings Distillery

A not to miss in Dublin is the Teelings Distillery, one of the best distilleries in Ireland .

Opened in 2015, the first in 125 years, the Teelings Distillery is located in the city centre approximately 15 minutes from St Stephen’s Green.

Visitors to the Teeling Distillery can tour and learn about the process of making whiskey in an active, working distillery and afterward taste some of the whiskey produced on-site.

There are different levels of tasting experiences available. Find out more on the Teeling Distillery website .

unique dublin tours

The Temple Bar

Anyone who visits Dublin is sure to pass through Temple Bar, the bar and nightlife quarter of Dublin located on the southside between Dame Street and the River Liffey.

And while there are many pubs, bars and restaurants to visit, none are more famous than the one that shares its name with this area of Dublin, The Temple Bar .

This popular pub, especially among poets and artists, has live music daily and is a must-visit for a drink if you are going to be in Temple Bar and looking to enjoy some Irish craic and a warm atmosphere. Just be warned, the prices are eye-watering!

unique dublin tours

On South Great George’s Street, you will find a unique place for a drink, The George , Dublin’s most iconic LGBTQ bar and club.

Home to some of the country’s best drag shows and entertainment, The George is not only for the LGBTQ community. Opened in 1985, The George is a great place to have a drink in Dublin, whether at lunchtime or late at night.

unique dublin tours

If it is unusual places to eat in Dublin you are looking for, then head to The Church .

A converted church that is now home to a café, restaurant and late bar, The Church has everything in one place.

You’ll find it at the corner of St Mary Street and Jervis Street and you can enjoy pre-dinner drinks at the bar, then enjoy dinner upstairs, before heading back downstairs to dance the night away.

If you want everything in one place, The Church is ideal (it’s where I had my hen party!).

unique dublin tours

The Brazen Head

Located on Merchant’s Quay, The Brazen Head has a history dating back to the late 12 th century.

Originally a hostelry and then a coaching inn, the present building was completed in 1754. It is Dublin’s oldest pub and you can enjoy food and drink alongside live music and even storytelling.

If you are going to be visiting Christ Church Cathedral or the Guinness Storehouse, make sure to pop into The Brazen Head on your travels.

A picture of the exterior of The Brazen Head, Dublin's oldest pub with grey skies above it and the Irish flag on a pole.

If you are visiting Dublin in summer and would love some delicious ice cream, then find Murphy’s Ice Cream on Wicklow Street.

The original shop is located in Dingle and is famous for its homemade ice creams. Ice cream flavours can change and alongside the usual, you’ll find unique flavours to try.

To give you an idea of some there have been:

  • Irish Brown Bread
  • Honeycomb Caramel
  • Dingle Sea Salt
  • Irish Coffee

As many Irish ingredients are used as possible and the base ingredient of milk is from Kerry cows. For a taste bud sensation, have Murphy’s Ice Cream.

My personal favourites have been the honeycomb caramel and the Dingle sea salt. Yum!

unique dublin tours

Unique and Unusual Things to Do in Dublin – Warp-up

There are lots of unusual things to do in Dublin that you won’t find anywhere else.

This list of ideas includes some ideas for unique and unusual, cheap things to do in Dublin. Literary fans, history buffs and more will love visiting these places and doing some of the best, cool things to do in Dublin, Ireland.

While many of these things to do and see are family-friendly, if you are looking for even more child-friendly things to do in Dublin, then read the Best things to do in Dublin with kids post from Passports and Adventures.

This article has ideas for some amazing things to do in Dublin as a family as well as all the information you need for visiting the Irish capital with kids.

Discover more about visiting Dublin with these articles:

  • Is Dublin Safe to Visit?
  • Getting Around Dublin
  • Underground Donut Tour of Dublin: Review
  • AB Tours of Dublin: Review
  • Best Food Tours of Dublin
  • Best Walking Tours of Dublin
  • Best Whiskey Tours of Dublin
  • Best Cliffs of Moher Tours from Dublin
  • Best Day Trips from Dublin
  • 3 Day Dublin Itinerary
  • 1-Day Dublin Itinerary
  • Best Time to Visit Dublin

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by Cath Jordan

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5 Utterly Unique Tours you can only do in Dublin!

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95 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Dublin, Ireland

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Ireland is known around the world as the Emerald Isle, partly due to the stunning green landscape and natural beauty, and the many cultural gems that lie within its borders. If you’re planning a trip to the country, Dublin is the hub for all the excitement.

The city has something for everyone and every occasion with historic buildings, serene gardens and action-packed ghost tours. Dublin has also been a source of inspiration for many artists, so you’re bound to come across a location from James Joyce’s “Ulysses” or a filming location from “Braveheart.”

Bookworms especially will truly love digging into what made Dublin a literary inspiration to many, and learning about the city’s place among the 6 UNESCO World Heritage Cities of Literature.

Whether it’s taking a literature tour, or visiting the Museum of Literature, visitors can try to catch some of that same inspiration to write their own story in Dublin.

Whether you’re after history, culture or simply the best pint of Guinness in the world, Ireland’s capital city truly has it all. Read on and discover fun and unusual things to do in Dublin .

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  • Dublin tours

1 – Enter the hallowed halls at Trinity College Dublin

Trinity College in Dublin

This college , built in 1592, is a must-see for history buffs. It may be an easy couple of minutes walk from Pearse station right in the middle of Dublin, but it’s worth seeing even if you had to travel for hours across the countryside.

Learn more about the history of the College (the oldest University in Ireland) during one of the walking tours in Dublin where you can discover more about the famous manuscript of the Book of Kells and illustrious former alumni.

Wander through the historic quadrangle and gaze at the iconic pillars, as you bolster up your camera roll.

2 – Get a backstage pass to the Guinness Storehouse

Guinness Storehouse, Dublin

Learn all about the world’s most famous stout beer at the source. Did you know that the origins of Guinness go all the way back to 1759? With a $35 admission, you can go on a self-guided tour of the production facilities and get a pint of the freshest Guinness you will ever taste on the house.

Whether you are a beer lover or not, visiting the storehouse is one of the essential things to do in Dublin. Even the architecture of the storehouse itself is a treat to behold, shaped like a giant pint glass the building stretches over a staggering seven floors!

  • Guinness Storehouse tickets

Read more about Guinness Storehouse Tickets Price .

3 – Head over to the Book of Kells in the Old Library Exhibition

Book of Kells, Old Library Exhibition, Dublin

Right in the heart of Trinity College, the Old Library Exhibition is one of Ireland’s most significant cultural artifacts. The world’s most famous Medieval text lives here. Opt for the Book of Kells tour to learn further about the symbolism hidden within the manuscript!

The library is a sight to behold by itself, so make sure to keep your eye on the prize and catch a glimpse of the Book of Kells ! Marvel at exquisite and colourful illustrations depicting various animals and fantastical creatures! These scenes were handcrafted by skilled monks back in the 9th century!

  • Book of Kells tours

4 – Explore your ancestry at the Irish Emigration Museum

Irish Emigration Museum, Dublin

The Irish Emigration Museum has one of the most comprehensive ancestry discovery services around for those with Irish heritage.Located in the beautiful old historic docks, the world’s first fully digital museum is anything but old-fashioned.

Learn all about Ireland’s 1,500 years of emigration history, and get a complimentary audio tour and souvenir passport if you book your admission tour ahead of time!

Trace the stories of Irish emigrants who started a new life across the globe in the United States, Australia or Canada. The museum also highlights the success stories of Irish emigrants who made significant achievements in politics, art and sciences.

  • Irish Emigration Museum tickets

5 – Spot some deer at Phoenix Park

Phoenix Park, Dublin

This is one of the more soothing things to do in Dublin with sprawling gardens, historic buildings and fields of frolicking animals. Phoenix Park is the place to take a book, a picnic rug and settle in on a sunny day (just remember to be patient with the Irish weather).

Whilst the property is not open to the public, the official residence of the President of Ireland (Áras an Uachtaráin) is located within the vast grounds of the Phoenix Park!

A visit here is sure to drop the heart rate a few beats per minute, so if you need a bit of relaxation, this park has got you covered!

6 – Visit the famous “Game of Thrones” filming locations

Game of Thrones filming locations in Dublin

If you have ever seen (or even just heard) of the iconic TV show “Game of Thrones,” this tour of the filming locations in Ireland will surely blow your mind. On a day trip from Dublin, you’ll be taken to wild forests, crumbling ruins and castles — by extras from the TV series who will give you the insider information on how and when certain shots were made. You can’t get any more of an insider’s view than that!

The tour also includes dressing up in some awesome Game of Thrones costumes involving cloaks, shields and swords for some excellent and unique photo opportunities!

  • Game of Thrones tours from Dublin

Read more: Game of Thrones Tours from Dublin – Which One is Best?

7 – Snack your way around town on a food tour

food tours in Dublin

This 3.5-hour tour kicks off in the morning, so you can try everything from bakery breakfast snacks to local cheeses for lunch. Save room for dessert because Ireland makes some trademark chocolate.

Or why not improve your culinary repertoire during some fun cooking classes ? Experience Irish hospitality firsthand as you learn how to prepare some delicious dishes in a local Irish home either in central Dublin or up north in the coastal town of Skerries. Rustle up leek and potato soup, a Guinness casserole or a heart warming Irish coffee.

  • food tours in Dublin

8 – Take a tour around the stunning St Patrick’s Cathedral named after the Patron Saint of Ireland

St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Dublin

Admiring the stained glass windows and monuments at St. Patrick’s Cathedral is on just about a visitor’s list of things to do in Dublin. Did you know that St. Patrick’s Cathedral is actually the tallest church in the whole of Ireland? The magnificent spire towers up to 43 meters!

While it’s definitely a sight to behold, you could find yourself waiting a while to get in. With a skip-the-line walking tour, you’ll head right on in with your guide and learn all about this bewildering example of gothic architecture.

  • St. Patrick’s Cathedral tickets

9 – Find the heart of the city at Dublin Castle

Dublin Castle in Ireland

Built in the 13th century, Dublin Castle has a fair few tales to tell. With a stunning gallery displaying Irish works of art, as well as occasional live performances, this is a hub of action in Dublin.

The best bit? Admission is free! However, make sure to book your free ticket ahead of time so you can make sure you can get in! Pass by the majestic castle during one of the city tours in Dublin and learn more about its historical significance. Discover more about the grandiose St Patrick’s hall used for ceremonial banquets and the impressive State apartments.

10 – Cross the historic Ha’penny Bridge

Ha’penny Bridge, Dublin

Crossing the River Liffey through this cast-iron bridge built in 1816 has got to be on your list of things to do in Dublin. To get the best views and photo opportunities, you just need to take a short walk from O’Connell Street right in the heart of the city. You’ll also be getting some prime people-watching done in no time!

You can also take a short boat cruise along the river during one of the Liffey River tours! Pass by impressive architectural wonders along the riverbanks such as the gorgeous 18th-century Custom House and the old Georgian Quaysides.

11 – See the city your way on a hop on hop off bus

bus tour in Dublin

A hop-on hop-off bus pass gives you access to a bus that stops at all the key places around town, in addition to an interesting audio commentary. You even have the option for 24- or 48-hour tickets, so how much you want to see of this great city is truly up to you!

If you feel like treating yourself why not book onto the Afternoon tea vintage tour ? Sip on hot tea and tuck into the selection of finger sandwiches and cakes on a double decked vintage bus as you cruise around the main city landmarks!

  • bus tours in Dublin

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Tour Dublin on a bus with afternoon tea

unique dublin tours

Combine the best of the traditional Irish experience and tour Dublin in a vintage bus — while having afternoon tea on board!

Elevate your typical sightseeing excursion by admiring the city from your double-decker, and feast on some of the most delectable finger foods. Your guide will explain what you see along the way, making this an informative trip too!

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12 – Explore Dublin’s history at the Little Museum of Dublin

Little Museum of Dublin, Dublin

Housed in a beautiful old Georgian building in St. Stephen’s Green right in the city center, the museum has comprehensive displays of Dublin’s history. With a skip-the-line ticket, you can head straight in to learn about everything from the Vikings to the rock band U2.

Learn more about pivotal historic events that have shaped the history of Dublin such as the 1916 Easter Rising or spend some time in the Oscar Wilde room, learning more about the background of this beloved Irish author and poet!

It’s an absolutely essential thing to do for history buffs!

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13 – Journey back in time at Christ Church Cathedral

Christ Church Cathedral, Dublin

Get a taste of what it was like to be a pilgrim in the Middle Age and clamber your way through the crypt of Christ Church Cathedral . Built in 1028, this church is one of Ireland’s most sacred historical monuments. Explore the architecture and countless exhibits, and even spy the historic Magna Carta.

You can even come face to face with some Viking relics such as a 9th-century Norse King wooden statue! One extremely rare feature on display are the mummified cat and rat that were found amongst the Cathedral organ pipes!

Book your ticket ahead of time, skip the queue and jump straight into your self-guided tour of this historic gem!

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Return to the Jurassic era at Dinos Alive

unique dublin tours

Journey back millions of years ago and encounter realistic dinosaurs that once roamed the earth. At Dinos Alive, you can walk among life-size moving replicas of a T-rex, stegosaurus and velociraptor among 80 other specimens. Interactive and educational, this is the perfect outing for families and kids!

14 – Enjoy new renditions of your favorite songs at a Candlelight Concert

candlelight concerts in Dublin

Find yourself surrounded by thousands of candles as your favorite songs play at a Candlelight Concert. Experience the moment of listening to a variety of music as the candles glow, from the best of Radiohead to a string rendition of Coldplay’s best hits, a tribute to Taylor Swift’s music, seasonal Christmas music, and classical music performances.

Concerts start as low as 19 euros, making this activity, not one to miss whether you’re looking for date ideas or a new musical experience. Concerts take place in interesting venues across the city such as the historic Belvedere townhouse with impressive stucco ceilings or St Andrews Parish Church!

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15 – Immerse yourself in the African Savannah at Dublin Zoo

Dublin Zoo

A short drive from the city center or a brief walk from the Guinness Storehouse, Dublin Zoo is the city’s hub for animal lovers. The zoo has been involved in animal welfare and conservation for 190 years so you can expect a great experience and a huge variety of happy animals if you make the journey over there.

Watch the prowling tigers, witness the ring tailed lemurs swinging from the overhead branches or watch the elegant giraffes gracefully munching on the trees. See if you can spot the hippo’s wallowing in the muddy waters or observe the sea lions diving off the rocks.

16 – See the “Braveheart” filming locations on a Wicklow Mountains day trip

Wicklow Mountains day trip from Dublin

This is one of the most breathtaking escapes you can do in all of Ireland. A full-day trip out of Dublin will take you to sixth-century ruins, the set of the movie “Braveheart” and the wilderness of Wicklow Mountain National Park. Rom com fans may recognize some of the scenery that features in the famous ‘P.S I love you!’

Some tours also pass by a sheepdog farm so you can witness the traditional herding of a flock of sheep! Breathe in the rural fresh air and admire the serene lakes of Glendalough.

You have the option to swing past a traditional Irish pub in the heart of the countryside. You couldn’t plan a better day in this beautiful country!

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Check out the best day trips from Dublin .

17 – Explore Dublin’s haunted side with scavenger games

scavenger games in Dublin

If an ordinary walking tour doesn’t quite seem exciting enough for you, grab your friends and hop on a scavenger game that takes you around all of Dublin. Use puzzles and clues to uncover the dark, haunted side of this historic city.

You’ll hear all the scary stories of Olympia Theatre and St. Ann’s Church, as you use the phone app to help you around on this 1.5-hour spine-tingling tour of the city.

Feeling in the mood for love? There is even a Romantic Dublin city exploration scavenger game where you can uncover some of the most dreamy and passion filled sites of central Dublin!

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18 – Uncover sacred texts at the incredible Chester Beatty Museum

Chester Beatty Museum, Dublin

The Chester Beatty Museum gets a raving review from Lonely Planet, being hailed as “not just the best museum in Ireland, but one of the best in Europe.” Situated in the heart of Dublin castle, the location is definitely not one to be missed!

The museum has world-class collections from famous artists all over the world. The museum is divided into three main sections, Arts of the Book, Sacred Traditions, and East Asian Art. Expect plenty of finely illustrated manuscripts, ancient Egyptian papyri and intricate calligraphy.

Raving reviews or not, you know you’re seeing one of the best art collections in the area. One of the best bits? Free admission!

19 – Travel to the end of the Earth on a Cliffs of Moher day trip

Cliffs of Moher day trip from Dublin

Standing at the Cliffs of Moher, one of the most stunning natural wonders, feels like you are literally at the end of the Earth. The area was rumored to be used in some of the “Star Wars” films and you’ll understand why once you see it for yourself.

When visiting the Cliffs of Moher don’t forget to keep an eye out for the extraordinary wildlife that inhabits these rocky ledges. You may glimpse some attractive seabirds such as puffins, razorbills, or guillemots!

If you’re in Dublin, the best way to get the best experience is to hop on an expansive 12-hour day trip that takes you to all the key stops along the Galway coastline.

  • Cliffs of Moher day trips from Dublin

Check out the best Cliffs of Moher Tours .

20 – Uncover history at the National Museum of Ireland

National Museum of Ireland, Dublin

Dublin has one of the finest collections of Irish treasures and artifacts, and the National Museum of Ireland , which is composed of four museums, is the cream of the crop. The best bit is all four locations cover a distinctly different area, so you can really explore your passions, regardless of what they are.

All museums are within the center of the city, you can choose to visit the natural history, archaeology, country life or decorative arts museum, or head to all four!

21 – Cruise through the Canals of Dublin

boat tours in Dublin

When a city has a beautiful river that flows right through its center, hopping on a boat tour is one of the best ways to gently roll past all of the sights. Flowing down the River Liffey is no exception.

With an admission of 15 euros for adults (children under 4 are free), this is one of the best things to do in Dublin if you want to learn all about the city’s history!

Or opt for a cruise along Dublin’s Grand Canal that was developed during the late 18th century to facilitate the trade and transportation of goods to and from the city!

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22 – Get some celebrity selfies at the National Wax Museum

National Wax Museum, Dublin

Get up-close and personal with all your favorite celebrities and characters, and come home with a camera roll full of shots — your friends won’t quite believe. Although they’re only wax models , with the right angle, no one will ever know whether you met the entire Star Wars cast on your latest trip to Dublin.

With an admission of 15 euros for adults, you get to see all the exhibits and, for an extra cost, you can learn all about the technology and make a wax casting of your hand!

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23 – Visit the iconic St. Stephen’s Green

St. Stephen’s Green park, Dublin

Those familiar with James Joyce’s “Ulysses” will know a thing or two about St. Stephen’s Green, an iconic location mentioned in the famous novel. You will definitely feel the magic of the place, as you walk through the dappled light coming through the glorious old trees. It’s a scenic walk just south of the Ha’penny Bridge.

Another option is the beautiful St. Anne’s Park, home to the annual rose festival and farmers’ markets every Saturday. So whether you want to stop and smell the roses, or pick up some local organic produce, visiting this place definitely needs to be high up on your list of things to do in Dublin!

Alternatively head to the historic Merrion Square Park on the Southside of Dublin’s city center. Walk through this historic Georgian park surrounded by attractive red brick townhouses. Since the childhood home of Oscar Wilde is nearby, you can find a statue commemorating the famous author reclining on a large rock!

24 – Set out on a hike through Howth

hiking near Dublin

Inhabited since prehistoric times, the ancient village of Howth is now an outer suburb of present-day Dublin. Despite being close to the city, you’ll find yourself traversing some of the wildest hiking paths you’ve ever been.

Join a four-hour hiking tour during one of the Howth day trips from Dublin where an experienced guide can take you further than you would ever be able to discover on your own. Hike along the cliffs whilst gazing out onto the Irish sea and capture some striking photos of the historic Baily Lighthouse.

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25 – Play the national sports at Experience Gaelic Games

Experience Gaelic Games, Dublin

The Gaelic culture created a few fun and unique sports that you won’t really get the chance to play anywhere else, or at least won’t have an experienced player to show you the ropes. Experience Gaelic Games is great for all the sporty types who want to try their hand at hurling or Gaelic football.

You can book a group activity if you’re traveling with a large group or simply drop in if you’re traveling solo (a great way to meet some fellow travelers).

26 – Tour the ruins at Glendalough on a day trip

Glendalough day trip from Dublin

Head out to the stunning Irish countryside for the day on a tour to Glendalough. There are the ruins of a monastery and other structures all the way from the sixth century. Visitors can observe the remains of seven churches that made up the monastic complex.

The site also used to contain a round tower that would have perhaps been used as a bell tower or to take refuge from marauding Vikings who frequently raided the area during the 9th and 10th centuries!

Not only will you get a taste of Irish history on this tour, but also a complimentary drink of Irish whiskey. You’ll also get the chance to pick up some handmade souvenirs at Avoca Handweavers.

  • Glendalough day trips from Dublin

27 – Capture some magic at the National Leprechaun Museum

National Leprechaun Museum, Dublin

The Irish people are famous for their folklore and storytelling, and the National Leprechaun Museum has some of the finest examples around town. It has great exhibits and tours that teach you all about the magic side of Irish history.

Leprechauns are mischievous Irish fairies that are often depicted as skilled shoemakers. According to folklore, the leprechauns also tend to hide secret treasures! Learn more about these fascinating fantastical creatures along with other Irish mythical creatures such as the banshee or the shapeshifting and devious púcas!

There are daytime tours for the young ones and nighttime tours for adults and those who want a spookier and darker take on Irish folklore.

28 – Surround yourself with color and creativity on a Street Art Tours

street art tours in Dublin

Head to the streets to see the intricate designs of street art throughout the streets of Dublin, taking on the colorful images and learning about the artists who have left their art for the public to enjoy.

While searching for the art-filled streets, you’ll find the beauty of Dublin that is not so commonly seen or explored by other travelers, making this an optimal opportunity to dig deeper into the hidden corners of the city, full of local charm.

Street art tours depart almost daily.

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29 – Ride around town on a bike tour

bike tours in Dublin

If you can’t cover enough ground on foot or you want to see the Guinness Storehouse and Dublin Castle on the same day without exhausting yourself, best to hop on a bike tour.

Cycle around the centre to soak up the main city highlights or opt for a bike tour of Howth so you can see the majestic cliffs along the coastal path, snap some photos of the historic Baily Lighthouse and gaze up at the Martello tower.

There are also electric bikes available for those who don’t want to tackle the hills or simply want to save energy for the pub crawl that night!

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30 – Walk past famous tombstones at Glasnevin Museum

Glasnevin Museum, Dublin

Consistently rated as one of the most unique things to do in Dublin, a tour of Glasnevin Cemetery Museum will take you past the resting places of many iconic Irish characters. The Cemetery is home to a staggering 1.5 million deceased individuals.

The guides will tell you all about Dublin’s weird and wacky history, as you pass the tombstones of the many thieves, authors and politicians from the Victorian era that are buried there.

Next to the Glasnevin Cemetery Museum you can find the Irish National War Memorial Gardens which pays homage to the Irish lives lost during World War I.

31 – Sample the best Irish beers at a beer tasting

beer tastings in Dublin

From central Dublin to the coastal cities of Ireland, book a beer tasting to get a sample of local beer culture, the best Irish beers, and of course, a fun time!

Have a Guinness and learn how to pour one properly when you book a beer tasting at the Jameson distillery or get into the spirit of the coastal way of life as you try the most popular beer amongst the locals in Howth, enjoying the fresh catch of the day and other classic Irish dishes.

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32 – Escape the weather at Fun Galaxy

Fun Galaxy, Dublin

If the weather outside is rainy and the kids are restless, Fun Galaxy in Dublin has you covered. Open rain, hail or shine, this indoor play and entertainment center will help the sour weather days pass in no time. Expect plenty of fun slides, ball pits, secret tunnels and building blocks so the kids can get creative!

A great way to let the young ones roam free in a supervised environment, while you eat some of the fresh local food and plan the rest of your trip to this magnificent city!

33 – Learn the basics and be a master in kitesurfing

kitesurf in Dublin

Jump on a kitesurfing course for more adventures in Dublin. Quickly learn the basics and become proficient even as a first-timer. Master essential skills such as downwind body dragging, executing power strokes, and holding the kite with one hand.

With just a few sessions, you’ll be ready to take on the world of professional kitesurfing. Don’t miss this opportunity to soar through the waves. Take in the stunning scenery of the Irish sea whilst improving your cardiovascular fitness, your balancing skills on the board and of course your upper body strength!

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34 – Spot the iconic Molly Malone Statue

Molly Malone Statue, Dublin

The tale of Molly Malone is such a popular Irish folk tale that the resultant song has become the unofficial anthem of Dublin. It tells the story of a woman who works all day selling fish just to keep her head afloat. Whether it’s true or not, the bronze statue down at Suffolk Street is sure to inspire some romanticizing about the past!

The statue was created by the Irish sculptor Jeanne Rynhart in 1988. Although the origins is unknown, some locals affectionately refer to the sculpture as ‘Nicky’ or referring to the basket of cockles and mussels ‘The Trollop with the Scallops!’

35 – Try on some Viking clothes at the fascinating Dublinia History Museum

Dublinia, Dublin

This one is for the history buffs. Ireland has a rich history, with many cultures finding refuge in the green rolling hills over the years. The Dublinia Museum gives you more than just a taste of this city’s medieval and Viking past.

On display you can find some ancient archeological artefacts left behind by Viking settlers thousands of years ago! Find out what Dublin was really like during the Medieval period, what were the common trading products or what were the typical punishments for wrongdoers?

It’s located in the heart of the old city at Christchurch, so you will be literally walking in the footsteps of Vikings!

36 – Watch the sun go down on Galway bay on a day trip

Galway bay day trip from Dublin

Visit Galway Bay, one of the places with romantic sunsets in the world, at least once while you’re in Dublin. Look out into the Bay to try and spot one of the traditional fishing boats known as a ‘Galway Hooker.’ These typical fishing boats traditionally have beautifully eye-catching red sails!

The best way to do that is to book a day trip from Dublin. It’s a scenic 14-hour tour that takes you through the countryside, down the Wild Atlantic Way — with free time to venture through the historic city of Galway.

With so much beauty along the west coast of Ireland, this tour is the best way to pack it all in!

  • Galway day trips from Dublin

37 – Paddle through Dublin Bay on a kayaking tour

kayaking in Dublin

If visiting the wild seals in a UNESCO-listed biosphere reserve sounds alright to you, better consider kayaking and seeing Dublin from the water. Simply hop on the train down to the bay, have all the equipment and safety gear taken care of, and get straight to exploring the area’s picturesque sand dunes and beaches. You can choose from morning or afternoon, so this tour works right into whatever your lunch plans are!

Or discover the delights of Dublin Bay by land during an enthralling Bull Island tour . Bull Island sits in Dublin bay and is connected to the mainland by a narrow strip along the Causeway Road. Take a walk along the marshes, beaches and dune areas teeming with wildlife.

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38 – Splash around and plunge down some slippery slides at the best Dublin waterparks

Aquazone, Dublin

Head to AquaZone in Blanchardstown and let the rolling waves and exhilarating slides do the rest! With eight different rides, there’s something designed for everyone. Whether you are traveling as a family or just want to unwind on a rainy day, this is the best place to spend the day.

Alternatively check out Dublin’s first inflatable water park called Harbour Splash. It bears a strong resemblance to obstacle courses like Ninja Warriors .It’s suited for the skill levels of children and adults, so everyone can enjoy the exhilarating race around the course. Just make sure you’re prepared to fall in a few times!

39 – Hop on a train to Burren and Limerick on a day trip

Burren and Limerick day trip from Dublin

Most people know Ireland for lush greenery, rolling hills and beautiful stone houses. Well, hopping on one of the Burren day trips from Dublin is undoubtedly the way to see all that.

Head out at 7 a.m. and stop by Limerick to see the historic sites, Bunratty Castle and Folk Park (a reconstructed 19th-century village). Then take a scenic trip through the one-of-a-kind landscape of the Burren before taking the gentle train ride back to Dublin. It sounds like a dream!

  • Burren day trips from Dublin

40 – Head to the spooky Kilmainham Gaol Museum

Kilmainham Gaol Museum, Dublin

This 19th-century prison was known for treating prisoners extremely poorly and harshly. Luckily these days, it’s no longer active. It’s now a museum, displaying and documenting the dark past of this spooky building.

It was used over the years to hold many political prisoners, most famously the leaders of the 1916 Easter Rising. It was here at the Kilmainham Gaol that these leaders were tragically executed by a firing squad.

It offers some awe-inspiring (albeit chilling) insights into the life of a 19th-century Irishman. Visiting Kilmainham Gaol Museum is definitely one of the quintessential things to do in Dublin!

41 – Climb aboard the Jeanie Johnston Tall Ship

Jeanie Johnston Tall Ship, Dublin

The Jeanie Johnston Tall Ship was a famous ship built for taking Irish people across the seas to escape the Great Famine between 1845 and 1852. If you head down to Custom House Quay, a knowledgeable guide will take you below deck on this incredibly accurate replica of the original ship.

You can even see the sleeping quarters to imagine the cramped conditions where passengers slept! You will learn about the spine-tingling stories of real passengers who were aboard trying to cross the Atlantic to the Americas.

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42 – Reflect on the atrocities of human starvation in front of The Famine sculptures

The Famine Sculptures, Dublin

These bronze sculptures were constructed in 1997, depicting the lives of those who needed to flee Ireland in order to get away from famine and disease.

The sculptures were created by the Irish artist Rowan Gillespie to mark the 150th anniversary of the Great Famine. Although the exact statistics are unknown, it is believed that around one million Irish perished as a result of this catastrophic famine!

These breathtaking creations will truly bring you into the world of a 19th-century Irish person and are a great way to connect with the history of this city. Just down by Custom House Quay in Dublin, it’s a very easy stop on a walk around town!

43 – Savour a dram of Irish whiskey and embrace the Irish folk tunes at The Temple Bar

The Temple Bar, Dublin

The oldest pub in the area, the Temple Bar has a long history and bustling nightlife, but you need a local to help you discover all its sides. Luckily, you can book one of the Temple Bar tours with a guide who will reveal all the little-known sides of this iconic local spot.

You’ll learn all about the long-standing and impressive creative arts scene that revolves around The Temple Bar — as well as enjoy a drink (included with tour) in the most popular place in town!

44 – Slow down at the Garden of Remembrance

Garden of Remembrance, Dublin

These beautiful gardens were put together in 1966 to honor the many Irish people who gave their lives to fight for freedom. In the center of the garden there is a sunken pool which represents the well of life and there are many engraved paving stones with quotes and extracts from the works of celebrated Irish poets and authors

There are commemorations for various rebellions against the British settlers. While you soak up the sunshine in these peaceful surroundings, you’ll be able to learn a thing or two you probably didn’t know before coming to the Emerald Isle!

45 – Open your mind at the Irish Museum of Modern Art

Irish Museum of Modern Art in Dublin

This place is an exceptional hub for Irish creatives. From screenings of local short films to workshops that teach you all about Ireland’s history, there’s something for everyone at the Irish Museum of Modern Art .

Keep an eye on its website, as it has a steady stream of free exhibitions and workshops during every season. It’s a great place to soak up some culture without breaking the bank! The gallery is located within the historic Royal Hospital Kilmainham and is surrounded by 48 acres of green parkland.

46 – Book it to the Aran Islands on an airplane tour

Aran Islands, Ireland

Experience a full day of ultimate exploration, concentrating on the culture and history of the Aran Islands. Located on the coast of Galway are the Aran Islands, 3 rocky islands housing ruins that remind visitors of the various prehistoric cultures including the Inis Mor. Enjoy the natural pools, the beautiful views from the high cliffs, and other medieval ruins.

Book an airplane tour, and soar through the Irish skies, taking in the magnificent view of the ruins like the Dun Aengus fort, the islands, and the sea.

  • airplane tours in Dublin

47 – Breach the walls of Malahide Castle

Malahide Castle, Dublin

Take a day trip and discover some of the ancient parts of the North Bay of Dublin. A 7.5-hour drive will take you to the 11th-century Malahide Castle . The castle was originally constructed by the Knight Richard Talbot, and the castle remained in the hands of the Talbot family for an extraordinary 800 years!

Malahide Castle even features in Shakespeares ‘Henry the 4th, part two!’ You can get inside to see all the wonders of ancient Irish architecture and gardens. You also have a bit of free time for lunch to sample some local snacks at one of the historic pubs nearby.

  • Malahide Castle tours

48 – Pay the National Gallery of Ireland a visit

National Gallery of Ireland, Dublin

No matter the weather outside, the day of the week or your budget, the National Gallery of Ireland is for you. Open seven days a week and with free admission, wherever you’re up to in your trip, this is definitely one of the must-see things in Dublin.

Explore the artworks of Ireland’s most celebrated painters such as Jack B. Yeats and Sir John Lavery! You won’t be disappointed by the collection of European masters such as ‘The Taking of Christ by Caravaggio’ and works by Rembrandt and Titian.

Simply book your ticket ahead of time and head on! Gaze at the huge collection of local and international art it has to offer!

49 – Brave the Atlantic on coasteering activities at the coast of Bray

coasteering in Dublin

If you’re looking for a more challenging coasteering experience in Dublin, go for the Bray Head in County Wicklow on the southern coast. Known for its rugged coastline, sea caves and cliff jumps, Bray offers a range of coasteering activities for thrill-seekers.

Before you go coasteering in Dublin, it’s important to ensure that you have the right equipment and a qualified guide.

If you don’t feel daring enough to brave an exhilarating coasteering expedition, there is also a hiking trail along the cliffs known as the Bray Head Cliff Walk!

50 – Get lost in a hedge maze

hedge maze in Dublin

Ireland is known for its greenery and the gardening skills of the locals definitely come to the foreground, with some of the incredible hedge mazes around the country.

Kildare Maze in the North Kildare countryside and Greenan Maze in the Wicklow Mountains are prime examples that you can reach from Dublin. Open every day during the summer months, there’s no better time to test your puzzle-solving skills in the great outdoors!

The Kildare Maze adopts a new design each year since the maze is replanted annually meaning that locals come back year after year seeking a new challenge!

51 – Live the life of a Dubliner at 14 Henrietta Street

14 Henrietta Street, Dublin

This is the most multidimensional museum you will ever set foot in. A museum within the walls of a house some 300 years old, 14 Henrietta Street tells the story of how the house came to be — and all of the lives that have lived there and called it home.

This is the most interactive way to learn about the urban Irish way of life and definitely one of the most unique things you can do in Dublin!

52 – Explore the countryside on horseback

horse riding near Dublin

Forget worrying about connecting buses, trains or taxis, take a round trip from Dublin around County Wicklow — all on horseback. You’ll get to move through the hillsides and scenery at a pace that will really let you soak it all in.

Gallop across the Wicklow Mountains National Park on horseback and breathe in the fresh rural air or if you are beginner, take it easy and leisurely admire your surroundings at a stately walking pace!

You’ll see a sixth-century monastery and have time for lunch in a historic village. What more could you possibly want?

  • horse riding in Dublin

53 – Head out to Powerscourt Gardens

Powerscourt Gardens, Dublin

Escape the city for the day and head out for eight hours on a scenic tour in Glendalough and Powerscourt . Walk through the Powerscourt House (voted in the top 10 mansions by Lonely Planet), a lavish 18th century Palladian-style mansion that was originally a Mediaeval castle. Visitors particularly enjoy the mighty Triton lake and the different themed gardens such as the gorgeous Italian and Japanese inspired areas.

You will also have the opportunity to see the Powerscourt, the tallest waterfall in Ireland with 121 meters of flowing water. It’s home to a plethora of wildlife and a peaceful scene, to say the least!

After all that, you’ll be sure to return to Dublin more relaxed.

  • Powerscourt Gardens tours from Dublin

54 – Visit the Edwardian Mansion at Farmleigh

Farmleigh, Dublin

If you head over to Phoenix Park, you’ll find one of the most well-maintained examples of Edwardian architecture, along with a beautiful guesthouse and currently working farm. Did you know that the Farmleigh mansion was originally the property of the famous Guinness family until it was acquired by the Irish State in 1999?

Farmleigh has free parking on site for motorists and an easy trip for those traveling by train or foot. You can walk through the mansion, view the works in the gallery or simply soak up the serenity in the farmyard!

55 – Have a fantastically wild time in some of Dublin’s top notch theme parks

Emerald Park, Dublin

One of the best amusement parks in Ireland can be found just a short train ride from Dublin DART train station. Funderland Dublin is a traveling entertainment company that has rides and performers from all over the world — and has been a success all over Europe.

If you are looking for a crossover between a zoo and a theme park look no further than the Tayto Park (also known as Emerald Park). Fom adrenaline-pumping rides to breathtaking tiger enclosures, this is a place for an adventurous day out. Thrill-seekers are likely to get a good night’s sleep after!

56 – Feel like a rock star at The Irish Rock ‘N’ Roll Museum Experience

The Irish Rock ‘N’ Roll Museum Experience, Dublin

Dublin has a rich musical history and thriving arts scene, and The Irish Rock ‘N’ Roll Museum is a great place to connect with it. You’ll get to marvel at an iconic performance space that has contained Thin Lizzy, Hozier and Van Morrison, spot some memorabilia from Michael Jackson and U2, and even try your hand (or voice) at recording your own song in the beautiful rehearsal studios.

Check out the Wall of Fame where the iconic names and photos of Irish rock legends are put on display. Real music buffs will also enjoy perusing the collection of vintage guitars including some rare models.

  • Irish Rock N’ Roll Museum experience

57 – Peek into Francis Bacon’s studio at Hugh Lane Gallery

Hugh Lane Gallery, Dublin

One of the most unique exhibits lives at Hugh Lane Gallery in Dublin. Francis Bacon, a famous Irish artist, was notorious for keeping his studio in a state of disarray. One clever conservator had the idea to transplant his chaotic studio setup into Hugh Lane Gallery in Dublin, Francis Bacon’s hometown.

At this exhibit, you’ll get to see the studio the way he would have left it, a very interesting look into the mind of an artist!

58 – Sample the local liquor at the Irish Whiskey Museum

Irish Whiskey Museum in Dublin

Chances are you’ve had an Irish whiskey or two in your time, so why not brush up your knowledge on the stuff, while sampling a few of the finest examples? If you head over to the Irish Whiskey Museum , you’ll get to talk with a master blender about the history of several whiskeys.

Learn more about the distillation processes, how the industry has evolved over the years and understand how to taste like a professional, analysing the complex aromas and overall smoothness.

You even get to take home a small bottle of your own blend you make on the tour!

  • Irish Whiskey Museum tours

59 – Sample some heart warming whiskey and learn more about the production during a Distillery tour

Distillery tours, Dublin

With probably the most famous Irish exports being whiskey, you might as well get the local’s view while you’re in town.

Luckily, the Jameson Distillery on Bow Street and the Teeling Whiskey Distillery are both in Dublin, so there’s plenty of avenues to learn all about this great local product.

Both distilleries offer great insider tours, showing you how their whiskey is made, giving you a sample along the way.

Continue your whisky tasting at Pearson Lyons Whiskey Distillery , found inside a 12th-century church, only 5 minutes away from the Guinness Storehouse.

60 – Explore Northern Ireland on a day trip

Northern Ireland tours from Dublin

There’s a lot to see in Ireland and, luckily, Dublin is within a day’s reach of just about everywhere. A day trip on a luxury coach can take you to Ireland’s other major city  — Belfast.

On one of the Belfast tours from Dublin , you may also get the chance to see the UNESCO-listed geological phenomena known as the Giant’s Causeway or the legendary Dunluce castle that featured in none other than Game of Thrones!

61 – Gaze up at the impressive basalt columns of the Giant’s Causeway

Giant's Causeway, Belfast

The Giant’s Causeway is a natural wonder consisting of approximately 40,000 interlocking basalt columns, formed by the cooling of volcanic lava millions of years ago!

According to Irish folklore, the Giant who created the Causeway was called Finn McCool who wanted to reach across the sea to Scotland!

Some trips include Antrim where you can take in the stunning views of the rugged and dramatic coastline from the world-famous Antrim Coastal Road! Pass through the Glens of Antrim, nine scenic valleys full of unspoiled green rolling hills.

  • Giant’s Causeway day trips from Dublin

62 – Relax at the Irish National War Memorial Gardens

Irish National War Memorial Gardens, Dublin

Located in the suburbs of Dublin, these humble gardens have become one of the most famous memorial gardens in all of Europe. Once you stop by and walk through the scenery and monuments, it’ll be clear to you why.

Dedicated to the soldiers that fought in World War I, this garden was designed by one of the most prestigious landscape designers in the world. It provides a soothing and solemn place to visit in Dublin.

Directions on Google Maps

63 – Learn about the rebellion at Gpo Witness History Visitor Center

Gpo Witness History Visitor Center, Dublin

The Easter Rising of Ireland is commonly known as one of the most significant events in Irish history. It was a six-day rebellion in 1916 and the GPO Witness History Visitor Center provides the most comprehensive view of the event.

The GPO is an abbreviation for the General Port Office, and it was this former Post Office building where the Easter Rising leaders set up their headquarters.

You’ll learn all about how the Republic of Ireland came to be if you grab a skip-the-line ticket!

  • Gpo Museum tickets

64 – Let loose at Fort Lucan Adventureland

Fort Lucan Adventureland, Dublin

This is Dublin’s biggest playground. It’s not only large, but also densely packed with action. With go-karts, slides and zip lines, there’s so much fun to be had over at Fort Lucan Adventureland .

Plunge down the Racing River waterslides, challenge yourself to a round of Viking themed crazy golf or let the kits run loose and clamber up the nets and across the decks of the Pirate Ship playground!

It’s also suitable for all ages, so whether you’re traveling as a family or simply a group of friends, no one will miss out on the action here!

65 – Go hiking through the stunning natural scenery of the wild Connemara National Park

Connemara National Park, Ireland

Located in County Galway and surrounded by the Twelve Bens Mountain range, the Connemara park area is full of stunning woodlands, grasslands, forests, lakes, bogs and peatlands!

As you hike along the heaths, keep an eye out for red deer and wild ponies! The natural area is a haven brimming with birds such as red grouse, skylarks and even glorious buzzards and peregrine falcons!

Many day trips to Connemara stop off at Kylemore Abbey, a 19th century neo-Gothic estate with impressive Victorian walled gardens!

  • Connemara day trips from Dublin

66 – Stroll over to Spire of Dublin and O’Connell Street on a walking tour

walking tours in Dublin

The Spire of Dublin, also known as the Monument of Light, is a 120-meter tall pillar in the middle of historic O’Connell Street. Hop on a walking tour that begins with a drink at the International Bar. Go around these iconic landmarks and learn about their history and significance, from a knowledgeable local!

Fancy brushing up your photography skills? Take one of the Instagram tours led by an influencer who will uncover some of the best spots in Dublin for those unique and awe-inspiring instagram shots!

  • walking tours in Dublin

67 – Kiss the famous Blarney Stone on a day trip to Cork

Blarney Castle, Dublin

Down in the south of Ireland, there are some iconic spots that you must see while visiting Dublin. If you hop on a Dublin Rail tour down to Cork, you’ll get to see the iconic medieval stronghold Blarney Castle, as well as a chance to kiss the globally famous Blarney Stone.

Cork day trips from Dublin also include a city tour of Cork center as well as a stop off in the town of Cobh, known as the Titanic’s last port of call in 1912. Wander around the Cathedral and visit the Queenstown Story Heritage center to learn more about Irish emigration and local naval history.

  • Blarney Castle day trips from Dublin

68 – Explore the awe-inspiring mountains and stunning beaches along the Ring of Kerry

Ring of Kerry, Ireland

The Ring of Kerry is a 179 kilometre long circular route around the Iveragh Peninsula in County Kerry. The route is famous for its scenic beauty such as gorgeous green valleys, rugged coastline and plenty of charming villages and picturesque towns along the way.

Highlights along the route includes the Ladies Views with incredible views of the Killarney Lakes, gazing up at the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks mountain range (the Carrauntoohil peak is the highest summit in Ireland) and the large natural harbour of Dingle Bay with its attractive fishing village full of colourful houses.

  • Ring of Kerry day trips from Dublin

69 – Cross the stunning Samuel Beckett Bridge

Samuel Beckett Bridge, Dublin

Opened in 2009, the Samuel Beckett Bridge is an incredible feat of design and construction that is a sight to behold. The bridge was constructed by the world famous Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava and the form is said to resemble a harp, a traditional Irish symbol.

It connects Sir John Rogerson’s Quay to Guild Street across the River Liffey. This is a scenic walk that will show you a magnificent blend of old and new, as you cross this modern masterpiece.

The bridge is named after the famous Irish playwright Beckett, famous for his surrealist and existential plays such as ‘Waiting for Godot’ and ‘Endgame.’

70 – Shake hands with an 800-year-old Mummy at St Michan’s Church

St Michan’s Church, Dublin

Dating back to the 11th century, St Michan’s Church is amongst one of the oldest churches found in Dublin. Underneath the ancient St. Michan’s Church lies a crypt that has preserved all that lies within it.

There are ancient bodies of exiled Vikings, as well as other antiquated items. Some stories even say that it was the crypts of St. Michan that inspired the gruesome novels of Bram Stoker such as the legendary ‘Dracula’!

You’ll also see the organ on which Handel supposedly first played the Messiah. There is so much history wrapped up in this church that any history buff should not miss it off their list.

71 – Watch a game of Gaelic football at Croke Park Stadium

Croke Park Stadium, Dublin

Croke Park is the hub for all Irish sports. Home of Gaelic football, hurling and the Gaelic Athletic Association, this is the place to go for those interested in the local games. The Croke Park stadium is the largest in the whole of Ireland, with a capacity for over 80,000 spectators!

You can keep an eye on the calendar and catch a game. For those who crave even more information, you can book a two-hour tour of the stadium to learn all about the history of the games. You’ll be able to teach everyone at home a thing or two!

  • Croke Park Stadium tours

72 – Have lunch and a drink at The Church

The Church Bar, Dublin

It may be called The Church and housed in an old church, but this restaurant and cafe is not where you’ll find regular mass or services at Easter. Enjoy a pint of Guinness and check out their schedule for live traditional Irish music and dancing!

Dining here is one of the most bizarre and unique things to do in Dublin, as there aren’t many churches in the world where you can have a glass of Pinot Noir at 11:30 p.m.

73 – Head to the ‘secret’ Iveagh Gardens

Iveagh Gardens, Dublin

One of Dublin’s best-kept secrets, the Iveagh Gardens have lived many lives over their 300-year history. Much of this history has been very well maintained and conserved. Walk past beautiful fountains, stone arches and rustic grottoes in these beautiful Victorian landscaped gardens!

There is also a fun yew maze waiting to be explored, one of the few remaining mazes left in Ireland! Once you’ve learned all about the background of the structures in the gardens, don’t forget to stop and breathe in the fresh, green air — before retiring to the hustle and bustle of metropolitan Dublin.

74 – Visit the iconic Sweny’s Pharmacy

Sweny’s Pharmacy, Dublin

A location in the famous James Joyce novel “Ulysses,” Sweny’s Pharmacy is a general physician’s office turned pharmacy. It had changed very little from when a young James Joyce first walked through the doors in 1905.

This is truly a time capsule back into the early 1900s and is a perfect way to get a look into what Dublin looked and felt like all those years ago. Admire the original wooden cabinets, antique shelves and old fashioned glassware!

A pause at Sweny’s Pharmacy is a common stop off during the James Joyce-themed tours around Dublin!

75 – Discover Celtic history on a Boyne Valley day trip

Boyne Valley day trip from Dublin

Journey back in time on a bus tour, hosted by an expert guide, through the rich Celtic History of Ireland. You’ll get to see Celtic tombs, 6,000-year-old artwork and some of the oldest archaeological sites in all of Ireland.

Explore the fascinating Anglo-Norman Trim castle which was constructed in the 12th century, the largest Anglo-Norman castle in the whole of Ireland. Located on the banks of the river Boyne, the castle stands in full grandeur with soaring defensive towers! You may recognise the castle from the famous movie ‘Braveheart!’

The tour includes entrance fees and transport to and from every site, so all you need to do is sit back and enjoy the ride!

  • Boyne Valley day trips from Dublin

76 – Uncover the secrets of ancient and spiritual Neolithic burial site of Newgrange

Newgrange, Ireland

History buffs should take a trip to the UNESCO World Heritage Site Neolithic tombs of Newgrange located in County Meath. According to historians, these tombs are estimated to be around 5,000 years old, making them even older than the epic pyramids of Giza!

Look closely at the decorative entrance stone, carved with spirals and geometrical shapes!

Some tours include the Hill of Tara, known as the seat of the High Kings of Ireland! Learn more about the different ringforts, a Neolithic passage tomb and the standing stone of Destiny!

  • Newgrange day trips from Dublin

77 – Grab some of Leo Burdocks famous Fish & Chips

Leo Burdocks, Dublin

Serving up some of Ireland’s finest feeds since 1913, Leo Burdocks has survived the wars and much of Ireland’s tumultuous history.

However, if time is anything to go off, you know the fish and chips aren’t going to be anything short of extraordinary. Head down to the old city in Christchurch and taste it for yourself!

They even have their own Wall of Fame listing famous celebrities that have passed by to enjoy their fish and chips over the years! From Edith Piaf to Bruce Springsteen to Snoop Dog, they’ve all been there!

78 – Spot the castle on a Kilkenny day trip

Kilkenny day trip from Dublin

Widely known as south-east Ireland’s top attraction, Kilkenny Castle is a must-see while you’re in Dublin. If you book a bus tour that takes you out there, you’ll get the convenience of hotel pick up (and drop off on the way back) — while you’re ferried out to Kilkenny castle via the scenic Irish countryside!

Combine your trip to Kilkenny with one of the Waterford Crystal tours from Dublin . The Waterford Crystal Factory, originally founded in 1783 is world famous for producing some of the finest crystal and glassware! Some of their glass chandeliers hang in prestigious locations such as Westminster Abbey and the Kennedy Center!

  • Kilkenny day trips from Dublin

79 – Stop and smell the roses at the National Botanic Gardens

National Botanic Gardens, Dublin

The weather in Ireland isn’t all cloudy and miserable. The climate allows for some of the most vibrant and diverse gardens to grow and the best way to experience that is by stopping by the National Botanic Gardens .

This 50-hectare garden has 17,000 different plant species, so there’s going to be something colorful at every turn. Check out the historical glasshouses such as the Curvilinear Range (one of the world’s earliest iron glasshouses) and the Palm House full of exotic and tropical surprises! There is also a very impressive orchid collection including some rare and endangered specimens.

80 – Visit the haunted Montpelier Hill (Hellfire Club)

Montpelier Hill, Dublin

Known as the Hellfire Club to the locals, Montpelier Hill is a sight full of ghost stories and a dark past. It’s a worthwhile trip for those interested in strange stories you won’t be able to find anywhere else.

If you really want to know all these haunted tales, get yourself on a dark side of Dublin tour. Learn all about them from a guide who’s an expert on the supernatural side of the city. Some locals have spread rumours of sightings of a massive black cat, others swear on the mysterious stone chair located on the hill that becomes unbearably hot to sit on!

Even if you don’t believe in all the scaremongering magic hocus pocus, a hike up Montpelier Hill is a great way to enjoy some spectacular panoramic views of the city below and the surrounding countryside!

  • Dark Dublin tours

81 – Solve clues and unlock challenging riddles with some thrilling escape games

outdoor escape games in Dublin

Embark on some fun outdoor escape games in Dublin where you can learn more about the history and culture of the city itself! Get to know the city at your own pace and you move around important landmarks in order to complete your quest!

From Alien Invasions to Ghost hunts there are themes that will spark your curiosity! There’s also a Famous Dublin Pubs Outdoor Escape room so you can orientate yourself around the best and most historic watering holes in anticipation for the evening ahead!

  • escape games in Dublin

82 – Move your body at a dance class

dance classes in Dublin

Take the ultimate souvenir home and learn traditional Irish dance, surrounded by other eager learners and guided by a dance professional.

With dance classes taking place inside a traditional pub, let the traditional sounds of Irish music wake up your inner dancer, and feel included in a time-honored tradition near and dear to the Irish.

After your dance lesson, watch a full-blown dance show by traditional Irish dancers, as you enjoy a pint of refreshing Guinness as your reward for a job well done.

  • dance classes in Dublin

83 – Follow in the footsteps of James Joyce at the MoLI, the Museum of Literature Ireland

Museum of Literature Ireland, Dublin

Situated in a historic building at 86 St. Stephen’s Green, the MoLI – Museum of Literature Ireland is housed in the former home of James Joyce, one of Ireland’s most celebrated authors!

At the MoLI visitors can even set eyes on the first original copy of Ulysses! Learn how the tradition of storytelling has evolved from the Mediaeval period up until the present day with engaging interactive displays and audio-visual installations.

There are constantly changing exhibitions focusing on different Irish authors and a calendar of events throughout the years involving storytelling sessions!

  • Museum of Literature Ireland tickets

84 – Celebrate at the St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Dublin

St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Dublin

St. Patrick’s Day is an important date on the Irish calendar. Joining this parade is one of the most exciting things to do in Dublin if you happen to be in town at the right time.

The center of Dublin comes alive and is taken over during the day of the 17th of March (even if it’s a weekday) for this annual event.

This is a great opportunity for the solo traveler on a budget to soak up some local culture with free access.

85 – Pull back some pints of Guinness in some of the most cosy and atmospheric Dublin pubs

The Hairy Lemon pub in Dublin

The Hairy Lemon is a great place to feel like a local Irishman. Watch a match of local football or even jig to some traditional Irish music! Or why not pop into Ireland’s oldest pub, The Brazen Head established in 1198! The current building was constructed in 1754 and formerly served as a coaching inn. Warm up by the fireplace and enjoy live traditional music every evening after 9pm!

For Irish whisky, head to The Stags Head , winner of Ireland’s Best Traditional Pub of The Year in 2019. On Tuesdays and Thursdays they run Irish folklore and storytelling sessions!

Pop into The Celt for excellent pub grub accompanied by live Irish music. Their traditional wooden bar and walls laden with quirky photographs, memorabilia, posters and hanging bicycles creates an eccentric atmosphere!

Directly behind the Old Central Bank building you will stumble across The Old Storehouse Bar and Restaurant . Expect plenty of live Irish music, a lively atmosphere and they even have a special vegan food menu!

Last but not least, don’t leave Dublin without visiting Kehoes Pub established in 1803. The Victorian style interior has remained perfectly intact up until today with stylish saloon style mahogany doors.

86 – Immerse yourself in an Irish music show

Irish Music in Dublin

There’s no better way to feel like you’ve truly experienced all that the Irish culture has to offer than seeing a performance of traditional Irish music — while sitting down to a three-course meal of entirely traditional Irish food.

There’s even the chance to get yourself involved, as a guide will run you through some basic Irish dancing steps so that you can join in on their action. You’re bound to have a great story to tell everyone at home after this!

Experience more Irish music and dance at The Irish House Party Dinner and Show , where if you’re not up dancing or clapping, you’re digging into some rich Baileys-infused chocolate cake.

  • Irish music shows in Dublin

87 – Reserve your table at the best restaurants

Chapter One, Dublin

Embrace the decadent flavors and formal hospitality at Chapter One . Spend a memorable evening at the sophisticated The Ivy Dublin . Choose from their Lunch and Early evening set menus, the Taste of Ireland evening set menu or opt to go à la carte. The interior is covered in fun and colourful plant inspired wallpapers, vibrant prints and lively plant plot greenery dangling down over the bar.

Find out what’s for lunch at Etto , serving a constantly rotating menu, offering fresh dishes like roast potato gnocchi with wild garlic and truffle pesto, and other modern European cuisines.

Meat lovers can access some of the finest quality cuts of Irish beef (straight off the farm) at the award winning FIRE Steakhouse & Bar . The refined restaurant area used to be the Lord Mayor’s Supper Room back in 1864. Admire the historical features such as the stained glass windows and vaulted ceilings!

Head to the Trocadero Restaurant Dublin for a pre-theatre dinner. Located in an attractive red brick Georgian building along St. Andrew Street, it’s super close to many of the city’s theatres. The decor is art deco and art nouveau inspired with photographs of various theatre divas and film stars lining the walls!

88 – Soak up the Dublin Theatre festival

Abbey Theatre, Dublin

Over the years, Dubin has been the home for many famous playwrights such as George Bernard Shaw, Samuel Beckett and Sean O’Casey to name a few! If you’re lucky enough to be in town during the later stages of summer, witness the Dublin Theatre Festival . It is always a hotspot for arts and culture, and a perfect place to see the local artists and theatre-goers do their thing.

If you don’t make it in time for the festival, you need not despair. The Gate Theatre and Abbey Theatre have shows running all year round. If you love theatre and want to catch some while you’re visiting, there’ll always be something on.

89 – Soar through Dublin with Zipit Forest Adventures

Zipit, Dublin

Zip line through the green landscape of Ireland, what more needs to be said? Nestled in the beautiful Dublin Mountains, Zipit Forest Adventures is a high ropes course and zip line park that is sure to get the blood pumping.

Jump across the floating platforms, keep your balance on the money bridge, harness yourself up for the zip line and conquer your fear of heights whilst scrambling up the telephone pole! This has got to be the best way to connect with the brilliant nature Ireland has to offer!

90 – Feel on top of the world with a drink in hand at the best rooftops

Sophie’s Rooftop Bar and Terrace, Dublin

Climb to the top of The Marker Hotel Dublin located in central Dublin to take in some of the most expansive views of the city, while soaking in the best lively ambiance in the evenings, exclusive cocktails, and yummy bites.

Practice how to say sláinte when you visit Sophie’s Rooftop Bar and Terrace , featuring an expansive view of Dublin, and where you can order American and Irish-infused foods, with your choice of wine or cocktail.

Tucked in the picturesque Temple Bar area is Vintage Cocktail Club , which is the perfect ambiance for a chill evening of perfectly concocted drinks, chit-chatting with friends, and appreciating the bar’s 1920s-style decor.

Be seen at Layla’s Restaurant and Terrace , a stunning glass rooftop terrace offering incredible views of the city, while also evoking a swanky vibe inside.

91 – Get your adrenaline pumping at Glencullen Adventure Park

Glencullen Adventure Park, Dublin

One of the most exciting things to do in Dublin is to head over to Glencullen Adventure Park and ride around dodging obstacles and racing up hills.

This is a BMX bike park with trails suited to all skill levels, so it doesn’t even matter if you’ve never ridden a BMX before or you’ve done it a thousand times.

Maybe even race your friends to see who’s got the best skills!

92 – Place a wager at Shelbourne Park Greyhound Stadium

Shelbourne Park Greyhound Stadium, Dublin

If you don’t mind a little flutter, then consider booking a spot at Shelbourne Park Greyhound Stadium while you’re in Dublin. Greyhound racing has been running in Shelbourne Park since its establishment back in 1928!

It is important to remember to book ahead of time because they’re only operating at a limited 200-person outdoor capacity! It is here in the same venue that important national events such as the Irish Greyhound Derby take place! Place your bets and get ready for some lively crowds!

93 – Transport yourself into a higher dimension with a mind blowing VR experience at Zero Latency Dublin

Zero Latency Dublin

Put on your VR headset and enter into a world of sheer fantasy and pure imagination at the exciting Zero Latency Dublin . Experience battling against robots or zombies with their free roaming state of the art technology. Combat against friends in a fun virtual group challenge, perfect for bachelor/ette parties!

There are a wide range of different game scenarios available such as Space Stations, haunted houses to cooking! Even if you are not a frequent gamer, are you ready to take the leap and experience virtual reality at its best?

94 – Enhance your golfing swing at some of Dublin’s best golf courses

Deer Park Golf, Dublin

The Castleknock Golf Club offers an outstanding 18 hole course full of undulating greens and manicured fairways. After the game, relax on the clubhouse modern balcony for a refreshment overlooking some of course holes!

Alternatively head to Deer Park Golf which caters for a range of golfing abilities. In addition to their 18 hole traditional course, they also provide a smaller 9 hole option or a 18 hole family friendly Pitch and Putt!

For a dose of history, look no further than The Royal Dublin Golf Club , established back in 1885! This famous golf course has hosted many championships over the years such as the Irish Open, the Irish PGA Championships and the Irish Close.

95 – Party like the Irish on a pub crawl

pub crawls in Dublin

Dublin isn’t short on pubs, but it can be hard to sort the historical icons from the touristy gimmicks. Luckily, plenty of local experts are happy to lend their knowledge of the streets to take you to all the hottest places in town.

There’s even a tour that takes you to all the pubs that inspired the many great Irish writers. You can hear their stories while enjoying a pint at the very table they conceived one of their greatest novels!

  • pub-crawls in Dublin

How to get to Dublin?

Get to the city center, easily, fast, and smoothly when you pre-book one of the airport transfers in Dublin , instead of waiting for a taxi, or figuring out where to buy a ticket for the next bus.

When you pre-book an airport transfer, you’ll have the luxury of having someone wait for you at arrivals, and drop you off at the door of your hotel.

If you are arriving into Dublin on a cruise ship, make sure to take a look at the different shore excursions in Dublin to maximise your time and fully explore the area. Take a day trip to explore the natural wonders of Glendalough, take a city bus tour of Dublin’s historic center or go further afield to uncover the archeological gems of the ancient Bru na Boinne neolithic tombs!

Where to stay in Dublin?

Stay in the middle of everything when you stay at Wren Urban Nest , a luxurious and modern hotel in Temple Bar only a few minutes walk from Trinity College, Gaiety Theatre, and Dublin Castle. Rest every night in the minimalistic and chic designed rooms, and wake up every morning to a fresh latte from the restaurant downstairs.

Soak in the classic Georgian decor and design of Castle Hotel , situated in the heart of Dublin city center, from marble chimneys to crystal chandeliers. Enjoy a full English-style breakfast, with vegan options inside one of the two restaurants inside the hotel before heading out to explore the city.

For budget travelers, spend the night at the ultra-modern and hospitable Holiday Inn Express , situated in the center of Dublin, and only a few minutes’ walk from Grafton Street, Temple Bar, and the National Gallery. Enjoy a filling breakfast, complimentary to guests, every morning.

  • best hotels in Dublin

Visiting Dublin on a budget?

Check out a free walking tour in Dublin , to get a perfect introduction to the city, exploring it as you crisscross through the different neighborhoods; spotting different restaurants and places to check out later.

When you buy the Dublin Pass , you’ll receive heavily discounted entrances to some of the city’s best 35+ attractions plus reservations on the hop-on-hop-off bus.

Where to go next?

Once you’ve checked off the incredibly fun things to do in Dublin, make your way to some of the other incredible destinations.

Killarney and its incredible natural landscapes of high-peak mountains, profound valleys, dazzling lakes, and quaint villages await visitors, with a side of lively bars, shops, and restaurants to fuel up at. There are many things to do in Killarney such as taking a scenic drive around the Ring of Kerry for breathtaking views of the Atlantic and the distant Skellig Islands or hiking to the 20 meters high rocky Torc Waterfall!

Head to Ireland’s west coast to visit Galway, full of life with its bustling pubs playing traditional music, and some of the most beautiful castles dotting the rolling green mountains. Taking a boat trip on the River Corrib or tucking into some fine oysters and tasty seafood are some of the best things to do in Galway !

Feel the spirit of the Titanic when visiting the capital of Northern Ireland, Belfast, and check out the Titanic Museum, or the natural phenomena of the Dark Hedges, and other incredible things to do in this seaside city. There are so many things to do in Belfast for example such as uncovering the dark history of the Crumlin Road Gaol, stepping onboard the HMS Caroline (the only surviving ship from the Battle of Jutland) or relaxing in the Victorian style greenhouses of the Botanical Gardens.

Expand to other must-see sites around Dublin that are a bit harder to see like the Dingle Peninsula , and South Ireland on multi-day trips from Dublin .

Final thoughts

Feeling the call to visit Dublin yet?

We hope that our list of things to do in the capital of the Emerald Isle has inspired a few ideas to get your itinerary started. From the academically stunning Trinity College to the broad day trips around the country within reach, the number of attractions the city has are waiting for you to arrive.

Happy travels!

15 Top-Rated Dublin Tours to Take in 2023 (Expert Review)

March 18, 2024

Paula Martinelli

Planning a dream trip to Ireland? Then you’ll no doubt be spending time in the country’s capital of Dublin. This fascinating city is one of the most popular cities in Europe and it’s easy to see why! Not only is it famous for being a UNESCO ‘City of Literature’, but you’ll find plenty of awesome Dublin tours you should add to your bucket list!

For those short of time, the best way to explore Dublin is by taking advantage of the city’s many tours . This way, you’ll have a local guide with you who will teach you so much about this incredible destination and its iconic landmarks . Thanks to its central location, Dublin is also a great city for day trips, so you can always head out to explore the nearby counties.

This epic guide covers the top-rated tours in Dublin that you need to be aware of. Whether you’re looking to head out on a river cruise, try the local cuisine, or explore ancient castles, there’s an option for everyone. Below, I’ve included a variety of tours, each in a different category , so you’re sure to find something to your liking. So let’s dive right in!

14. Castle Tours from Dublin: Blarney Castle Day Trip from Dublin

Dublin in a Day

Companies Providing Dublin Tours

There are many travel agencies out there providing tours in Dublin, but the best two by far are Get Your Guide and Viator, whose tours are featured in this article. Both of these companies have exceptional ratings on Trustpilot, excellent customer service, and offer lots of affordable tours with a very easy and simple booking experience.

Get Your Guide  is one of the top options because they work with high-quality tours and offer flexible cancelation policies. This company has been providing top-notch tours and excursions all over the world for more than 12 years and is known for its highly professional and friendly tour guides.

Viator   is also a safe and reliable option that provides a 24-hour flexible cancellation policy. They are part of TripAdvisor and offer 200,000+ affordable tours worldwide and multilingual customer service.

Dublin in a day best Itinerary

OVERALL TOP 5 Best Tours in Dublin

tours in Dublin

Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour

This hop-on hop-off bus tour offers you one of the best ways to explore Dublin. You can opt for a 24-hour or 48-hour ticket, and the bus stops at all of the city’s major attractions. This includes Trinity College, Phoenix Park, and Merrion Street. As you make your way around Dublin, you can listen to live commentary which is available in several languages. Your entrance fee to the Little Museum of Dublin is also included.

Dublin in a Day

Walking Tour of Dublin

You’ll find plenty of incredible tours in Dublin, but this walking tour is one of the best options! It’s run by Finn McCools Tours and will allow you to see most of the city’s famous landmarks in one go. This includes the Daniel O’Connell statue, Trinity College, the Christchurch Cathedral, and the GPO Museum.

The Giant's Causeway, Ireland

Giants Causeway, Dark Hedges, Dunluce & Belfast Tour

This 12-hour tour is one of the most popular tour options from Dublin. You’ll be exploring Northern Ireland and will get to visit several iconic locations. This includes the Giant’s Causeway, the Dark Hedges, Dunluce Castle, and NI’s capital – Belfast. All your transport is included and there will be live commentary onboard too. This is a great option if you’re after a tour that will sort all the logistics for you.

Cliffs of Moher Ireland

Cliffs of Moher, Kilmacduagh Abbey & Galway Day Tour

This fantastic 13-hour tour is perfect for those who are short of time. Not only will you get to visit the famous Cliffs of Moher , but you’ll also explore Galway City, Kilmacduagh Abbey, and The Burren. All your transport is included, and you’ll benefit from onboard live commentary throughout your trip. Your Cliffs of Moher entrance ticket is also included, but you’ll need to pay for your own food.

Guide of Cliffs of Moher

Cliffs of Moher Tour Including Wild Atlantic Way and Galway City

For those who want to explore some of Ireland’s other awesome destinations, check out this full-day tour from Dublin . You’ll be traveling along the famous Wild Atlantic Way and will get to visit some of its iconic attractions. This includes the Cliffs of Moher , Galway City , and Burren National Park. Along the way, you’ll pass by some other sights too including Dungaire Castle and Bunratty Castle.

Top-Rated 10 Best Tours in Dublin

Best private tours in dublin: dublin private walking tour.

Dublin in a day

Why Take This Tour:

This awesome private walking tour is an awesome addition to any Dublin itinerary ! You’ll wander through the city, and learn about its history and culture without the presence of 10-15 other people. This means you’ll have the guide’s full attention and you’ll be able to ask them any questions you may have.

This tour will take you past several of Dublin’s iconic landmarks too including Trinity College, Temple Bar, and the Molly Malone Statue. Other locations you’ll visit include the GPO Museum, Ha’penny Bridge, and Grafton Street. The only attraction you’ll need to pay for is the GPO Museum if you’d like to go in.

  • Thanks to the local guide, you’ll get a unique insight into the city
  • Your guide will give you insider tips on where to eat and visit
  • You’ll have a more personalized experience

Best Boat Tours in Dublin: River Liffey Sightseeing Cruise

top rated Dublin tours

This 45-minute sightseeing cruise will take you along the River Liffey. As you cruise along, you’ll get to marvel at Dublin’s iconic monuments from the river. This includes the famous Temple Bar, Ha’penny Bridge, and Custom House. The River Liffey is rather impressive in itself and will take you past historic neighborhoods, so make sure you take plenty of photographs.

If you’ve only got one day in Dublin then try to squeeze this tour into your itinerary! Not only will you be treated to scenic views, but you’ll get to learn about the city’s history, dating right back to the arrival of the Vikings.

  • You’ll get to admire the city from a unique perspective
  • On this tour, you’ll learn so much about Dublin’s history
  • This river cruise is wheelchair accessible

History Tours in Dublin: Historical 2-Hour Guided Walking Tour of Dublin

Trinity College, Dublin

There are plenty of fantastic tours in Dublin but none of them are quite like this historical walking tour ! It’s the city’s longest-established walking tour as it’s been around since 1986. You’ll get to visit some of Dublin’s most important landmarks including Trinity College, the City Hall, and Temple Bar, and will learn about the city’s fascinating history along the way.

On this 2-hour tour, you’ll also get to learn about the events that have shaped Ireland as a country. This includes the Potato Famine, the War of Independence, and the 1916 Rising. Your guide will delve into the Northern Ireland Peace Process too and what that meant for the city.

  • Some of the entrance fees are included
  • The guides are highly educated when it comes to the city’s history
  • You’ll also get to learn about some of Ireland’s most complex events

Top Food Tours Dublin: Irish Food Trail – Walking Tour of Dublin

Tours in Dublin

If you’re looking to try some of Ireland’s best dishes, then check out this Irish Food Trail tour . The tour lasts for around three hours, and you’ll get to visit some of the city’s most popular restaurants and pubs. Your guide will also take you to some fantastic hidden gems, so you’ll be sorted for the rest of your trip when it comes to food options.

Not only will you get to sample some of the local delights, but this tour also includes wine-tasting and craft beers. As such, this food tour offers excellent value for money, so why not include it in your Dublin itinerary ?

  • You’ll get to sample the very best Irish cuisine
  • Your local guide will give you insider tips on Dublin’s foodie scene
  • The minimum drinking age for this tour is 18 so just keep that in mind

Fun Ghost Tours in Dublin: The Dublin Ghostbus Tour

Dublin tours, Ireland

For those after something a bit scary, then check out this Dublin Ghostbus tour . On this tour, you’ll get to learn about some of the city’s most terrifying tales, listen to ghost stories, and understand the real origins of Dracula. Bram Stoker was actually born in Dublin which is really interesting!

Along the way, you’ll visit some creepy and haunted locations including the Hellfire Clubroom, the Victorian Theatre, and St. Kevin’s Graveyard. The onboard guides are fantastic storytellers, so prepare to be thoroughly spooked during this epic tour. They’ll dive into the city’s most intriguing and gruesome tales, so make sure you’re listening carefully!

  • Your guide will teach you all about Dublin’s darkest tales and histories
  • You’ll benefit from a free walking tour that usually costs €20
  • Unfortunately, this tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or children under the age of 14

Whiskey Tours in Dublin: Jameson Whiskey Distillery Tour with Tastings

Dublin in a day itinerary

Ireland is known for its whisky, and for the best experience, you’ll want to head on this Jameson Whisky Distillery Tour . You’ll be going on a guided tour of one of the world’s most famous distilleries and will get to learn all about the iconic Jameson Whisky. There are three different experiences to enjoy, and you’ll be exploring the original Bow Street buildings.

What’s great about this distillery tour is that whisky tasting and a cocktail are both included. So just make sure you don’t have to drive anywhere afterward, so you can truly enjoy the experience! At the end of the tour, you can head to the shop and even purchase a personalized bottle of whisky if you wish!

  • Whisky tasting is included with the tour
  • You’ll get to have a signature Jameson cocktail
  • The distillery tour has a maximum capacity of 10 people so won’t feel crowded

Bike Tours in Dublin: See Dublin By Bike

St. Patrick's Cathedral, Dublin

You’ll want to check out this incredible Dublin bicycle tour if you’re looking to see a lot of the city in just a short amount of time. Your guide will take you past many of the city’s top attractions including Dublin Castle, the Guinness Brewery, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, and Temple Bar. You’ll also be cycling through traditional Georgian streets, so you’ll get to admire the architecture as you head past.

As you stop at the locations, your guide will delve into the history of the area. Not only that, but they’ll take you to some fantastic hidden spots including Blessington Street Basin and the Roe Distillery’s Windmill.

  • You’ll get to refuel with snacks throughout the bike ride
  • As Dublin is a relatively flat city, this tour won’t be challenging
  • The minimum age for this tour is 14 so just keep that in mind

Best Day Tours from Dublin: Kilkenny, Wicklow Mountains, Glendalough, Sheep Dog Trials, Day Trip from Dublin

Dublin day tours

This fantastic day trip from Dublin is undeniably one of the best options if you’re looking to get out of the city. You’ll be departing Dublin early so you can make the most of your day, and will then get to visit a variety of awesome destinations. This includes Kilkenny City (and its castle), Wicklow Mountains National Park, The Wicklow Gap, and Glendalough.

While on this tour, you’ll also get to experience a working Irish sheep farm. Here, you’ll get to watch a sheepdog demonstration and mingle with the farmer’s animals including the dogs. If you’re short of time in Ireland, then this action-packed tour is one of your best options!

  • You’ll be traveling around in a luxury, air-conditioned coach
  • Guided walking tours of Kilkenny Medieval City & Glendalough Monastic Site are included
  • You’ll get to visit a variety of destinations in just one day

Pub Tours in Dublin: Generation Pub Crawl

Exploring Dublin for a day

Ireland as a country is famous for its pub scene and the capital city of Dublin is no different. For the best experience, check out this Generation Pub Crawl tour as you’ll get to visit the city’s top venues. You’re guaranteed to have a brilliant evening if you hop on this pub crawl, as you’ll get to appreciate the local culture and meet new people.

On this tour, you’ll visit five venues in total where you’ll benefit from skip-the-line entry. Along the way, you’ll listen to live Irish music, party with your new friends, and meet the locals. Don’t forget about the free drinks either!

  • This tour includes free shots, a complimentary pint of Guinness, and discounts on other drinks
  • Your guide will take you to Dublin’s best nightlight spots
  • You need to be at least 19 years of age to participate in this tour

unique dublin tours

Ireland is full of fascinating ancient castles but one of the most popular has to be Blarney Castle. This day trip from Dublin will take you to this iconic Castle which dates back over 600 years. While here, you’ll have the chance to kiss the famous Blarney Stone, which in turn is supposed to grant you the gift of eloquence.

On this awesome tour, you’ll also visit the Rock of Cashel and Cahir Castle; both of which are located in County Tipperary. As the coach takes you to these destinations, make sure you appreciate the amazing views along the way. Trust me, you’ll be blown away by the country’s beauty.

  • Entrance fees to Blarney Castle are included
  • You’ll get to visit three of Ireland’s most popular attractions in one day

Best Dublin Tours Conclusion

As you can see there are so many fantastic tours in Dublin. Whether you’re looking to try the local cuisine, visit the city’s most popular attractions, or learn about Dublin’s eerie history, there’s honestly something for everyone.

The tours you choose will all depend on how much time you have in the city. If you’ve only got one day in Dublin then you’ll want to opt for short tours, so you’ve got a chance to explore some of the landmarks self-guided. For those who have longer, then why not head out of the city on a day trip or two? This way you’ll get to visit some of the most famous landmarks in Ireland !

If you’ve got any further questions about the best tours in Dublin then don’t hesitate to reach out. Simply leave a comment below, or feel free to add additional tours that you’ve experienced!

If you are planning a trip to Ireland, you will love these articles:

  • 25 Best Things to Do in Killarney
  • Wild Atlantic Way Itinerary
  • Top Things to Do in Clifden, Ireland
  • 30 Best Things to Do in Kerry
  • Top-rated Hotels on the Ring of Kerry
  • Ring of Kerry Driving Route
  • Dingle Peninsula Drive
  • Ireland Bucket List: 30 Places to See
  • How to Hike the Causeway Coast Way

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Home » Europe » Ireland » Dublin

24 Awesome Things to Do Dublin in 2024 • Epic Insider Guide

From discovering the roots of Guinness and Irish Whiskey to mummified animals and hungry trees, there are so many diverse things to do in Dublin to satisfy any curious traveler.

Given that there’s so on offer, how will you know what to do to make the most of your trip to this cultural powerhouse of a city?

Well don’t worry, because I’ve gone and done the hard work for you! Combining my own experiences with insider knowledge, I’ve put together this list of the best and perhaps lesser known things to do in Dublin.

AT A GLANCE: Our Top 5 Picks for Things to do in Dublin

  • The Top Thing: Explore the Magical World of Guinness
  • Most Unusual: Take a Trip on Dublin’s Ghost Bus Tour
  • Best at Night: Enjoy a Backpacker Friendly Pub Crawl
  • Most Romantic: Have a Picnic in the Gardens
  • Best Free: See Ireland’s Largest Church

So without further ado, let’s jump into what awesome stuff Dublin has to offer.

unique dublin tours

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unique dublin tours

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The Best Things to Do in Dublin

Where to stay in dublin, some additional tips for visiting dublin, faq on things to do in dublin, final thoughts on things to do in dublin.

With so much to see when you’re visiting Dublin , you might worry about running out of time! I’ve listed the top 5 unmissable things to do below so you don’t miss out – even if you’re only on a short trip.

Appreciate good beer Dublin

Explore the Magical World of Guinness

Enjoy a free pint and learn all there is to know about Ireland’s most famous export.

Take a spooky trip on the Ghostbus

Take a Trip on Dublin’s Ghost Bus Tour

Learn about Dublin’s dark past on this spooky 2 hour ghost tour.

Get drunk Dublin style on a backpacker-friendly pub crawl

Enjoy a Backpacker Friendly Pub Crawl

Check out Dublin’s coolest pubs and meet new people on this epic pub crawl.

Iveagh Gardens

Have a Picnic in the Gardens

Enjoy some time to yourselves in Dublin’s Iveagh Gardens.

St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Dublin

See Ireland’s Largest Church

Checking out St Patrick’s Cathedral is one of the coolest things to do in Dublin.

1. Eat all the food that Dublin has to offer

Eat all the food that Dublin has to offer

Foodies and hungry backpackers will be pleased to hear that Dublin is full of gastronomical gems. The best way to discover all this food is on a tour of the city with a local, as you’ll be shown all the cool, hidden places that tend to get missed by tourists.

No trip to Ireland is complete without a pint of Guinness with an Irish breakfast. So a food tour around Dublin will leave no stone unturned. This is a great way to get to know the city on your visit to the Republic’s capital.

2. Eat and drink inside an old Church

The Church

Ever seen a church converted into a bar and restaurant? Well, you will once you’ve visited The Church in Dublin. Dating back to the early 18th Century, the building certainly looks the part thanks to its wood panelling, columns, wood beams – even the organ’s still here.

However, instead of pews and cushions, you’ll find beer taps and pints. Coming here is a truly unique thing to do in Dublin, for foodies and beer lovers alike. And don’t worry: the church was deconsecrated in 1986, so there’s no actual blasphemy happening on hallowed ground here.

  • Entrance: Free
  • Hours: Monday – Wednesday (10:30am-10pm), Thursday (10:30am-11:30pm), Friday (10:30am-12:30am), Saturday (10:30am-01:30am), Sunday (11:30am-10pm)
  • Address: Junction of Mary St. and, Jervis St, Dublin 1, D01 YX64, Ireland

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With a Dublin City Pass , you can experience the best of Dublin at the CHEAPEST prices. Discounts, attractions, tickets, and even public transport are all standards in any good city pass – be sure invest now and save them $$$ when you arrive!

3. Live like royalty in your very own castle

castles in ireland

Look, there’s no shortage of great choices when you’re looking at where to stay in Dublin . But hear me out here… It’s a bloody castle!

This unique accommodation is one of the most affordable castles in Ireland , and it’s only 20 minutes from Dublin city centre by public transport. It’s a good option if you want to explore the city, but prefer to stay amongst nature.

You’ll be on the northern coastline of Dublin Bay, with 360-degree views of the sea. The castle is beautifully restored and sleeps 4 guests in two bedrooms. Even if you make it a short break away from the city, staying here is sure to give you a memorable experience.

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4. Get your Guinness on at the Guinness Storehouse

Get your Guinness on at the Guinness Storehouse

Everyone knows about Guinness, right? It’s literally one of the most famous things about Dublin, one of its most well-known international exports, and is therefore pretty much synonymous with the city. It sort of automatically makes this one of the most awesome things to do in Dublin. Yep, the Guinness Storehouse involves a tour and it’s all about the black stuff, of course, so naturally, this one piques our interest, you know? Combine that with tastings, which we’re wholly down with, plus a rooftop bar and a free pint, and we’re all over this one.

  • Entrance:  €15-30
  • Hours:  Wednesday (10am–5pm), Thursday (10am–5pm), Friday (10am–5pm), Saturday (10am–6pm), Sunday (10am–5pm), Monday (10am–5pm), Tuesday (12–5pm)
  • Address:  St. James’s Gate, Dublin 8, D08 VF8H, Ireland

5. Pay a visit to St Patrick’s Cathedral

St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Dublin

Visiting St Patrick’s Cathedral is one of those things that everyone should add to their Dublin itinerary . There is a fee for visiting parts of the building, but it’s also well-worth admiring from the outside.

Interestingly Jonathan Swift – the author of Gulliver’s Travels – was Dean of the Cathedral in the 1700s and is buried in the grounds. The Cathedral itself is over 800 years old and is one of the coolest free things to see in Dublin.

  • Entrance:  €7-8
  • Hours:  09:30-17:00 (Monday-Friday), 09:00-17:00 (Saturday)
  • Address:  St Patrick’s Close, Dublin 8, A96 P599, Ireland

6. Explore the National Leprechaun Museum

Love legends Let s go to the National Leprechaun Museum

Discover the myths, legends, and everything there is to know about the famous Irish leprechaun. Although it’s a stereotype that’s kinda faded into the mists of time and old Simpsons episodes, there’s an interesting history of these creatures

The Irish are renowned for their storytelling abilities, making this a great activity if you want to experience something truly unique to do in Dublin. It’s also a great option if you’re travelling with kids.

  • Entrance:  €10-18
  • Hours:  Wednesday (Closed), Thursday (10am–6pm), Friday (10am–8pm), Saturday (10am–8pm), Sunday (10am–6pm), Monday (10am–6pm), Tuesday (Closed)
  • Address:  Twilfit House, Jervis St, Dublin, Ireland

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7. Learn all about whiskey at the Jameson Distillery

Old Jameson Distillery, Dublin

If you love whiskey or are keen to learn more, then visiting the famous Bow Street Distillery is an absolute must when you’re in Dublin. Learn the secrets behind creating world-class Irish whiskey, and enjoy some tastings along with your complimentary Jameson cocktail.

The Distillery was actually awarded World’s Leading Distillery Tour, so you definitely can’t go wrong. You’ll also have the option to buy a bottle of personalised whiskey that’s exclusive to the Jameson Distillery itself, which is quite possibly the best souvenir you could find in Dublin.

  • Entrance:  €19-25
  • Hours:  Sunday – Thursday: Open 11:00am – Last Distillery Tour at 5:30pm, Friday – Saturday: 11:00am – Last Distillery Tour at 6.30pm
  • Address:  Bow St, Smithfield, Dublin 7, D07 N9VH, Ireland

8. Be a bookworm at Dublin’s libraries

Trinity College Library

Dublin has some world-famous libraries associated with it. Marsh’s Library is particularly popular, and coming here is an awesome thing to do for book lovers in Dublin. It opened its doors in 1707, so there’s as much history as there are books to be discovered – it’s even got the original oak bookcases. It’s also seen some big names, including Bram Stoker, Oscar Wilde, and James Joyce.

Visiting the Trinity College Library is also a popular activity for book-lovers visiting Dublin. With over 6 million books within its walls, it is the largest library in Ireland and dates all the way back to 1592. While it’s in full use by the university, visitors flock here all year round to marvel at this inspiring place.

9. Do the James Joyce no-pub challenge

Speaking of James Joyce, the Dublin writer once wrote, “A good puzzle would be to cross Dublin without passing a pub,” ( Ulysses, 1922). The challenge was accepted – for almost 100 years – until it was eventually solved (by an algorithm no less).

Today, the challenge has become one of those famous things to do when you’re in Dublin. It’s great fun especially if you’re travelling in a group, and if you don’t succeed – well, what’s the worst that can happen when finding a pub? Reboot with a pint, and give it another go.

1 0 . Take a spooky trip on the Ghost bus

Take a spooky trip on the Ghostbus

This 2-hour bus tour is the perfect blend of history, horror, and comedy! It’s a great way to learn about Dublin’s darker side, with just enough laughter to lighten the mood. Who knew plague and torture could get so entertaining?

There’s a great atmosphere throughout the bus, but you’ll get to enjoy a pint of Dublin’s best Guinness to top it all off. This is a really great experience for history lovers, and one of the coolest things to do in Dublin at night.

  • Entrance:  €28
  • Hours:  Starts at 7:45 PM
  • Address:  Dublin Bus Head Office 59 Upper, O’Connell Street Upper, Dublin 1, D01 RX04, Ireland

11. Wind down in the Iveagh Gardens

Iveagh Gardens

For a more relaxing experience, the Iveagh Gardens are a great place to have a picnic and chill out. They’re located close to St Stephen’s Green but are less well-known, so you’ll be sure to have some peace from the bustling city.

These beautiful gardens date back over 300 years, so you’ll be sitting in a piece of Irish history. It’s a beautiful place to come and enjoy a picnic or some time alone, away from busy tourist areas.

  • Entrance:  Free
  • Hours:  08:00-16:00
  • Address:  St Stephen’s Green, Park, Dublin 2, D02 HX65, Ireland

12. Go and see The Hungry Tree

The Hungry Tree

For something completely low-key and left-field, why not visit a tree that’s ‘eating’ a cast-iron bench? The tree itself is 80-years-old and is also located on the grounds of the oldest surviving law school in Dublin: the King’s Inns.

The bench is actually older than the tree, which was seeded slightly too close to it, evidently. Today, it’s so popular that it’s become a bit of an icon in Dublin. The tree has even gained “heritage” status – talk about fame.

  • Hours:  07:30-19:30 (Monday-Friday)
  • Address:  King’s Inn Park, Co. Dublin, Ireland

1 3 . Wakeboard outside Google’s EU HQ

Googles EU HQ

You’ve heard of Silicon Valley, but Silicon Docks might be new to you. It’s Ireland’s version of the tech-paradise and hosts a load of big names, including Facebook, Twitter, Airbnb, LinkedIn, and Google.

Wakeboarding might not be the first activity that springs to mind in this area, but it’s one of the coolest and slightly less well-known things to do in Dublin. No previous experience is required and it’s also kid-friendly, just head to Wakedock in the Grand Canal Dock and get started!

14 . Explore the rich history of Irish Literature

Explore the rich history of Irish Literature on a walking tour around Dublin

Dublin is a charming city and has inspired a number of artists throughout the years. There are several literary heavyweights that inhabited Dublin at one point or another, these include Oscar Wilde, Samuel Beckett, W. B. Yeats, and Bram Stoker (the mastermind behind Dracula ).

If you’re a book lover, looking out for tributes to these writers is an exciting thing to do as you explore the city. There are also a number of literary tours available if you really want to dig deep – these will take you around the former homes and small museums dedicated to the authors.

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15. Get drunk Dublin-style on a backpacker-friendly pub crawl

Get drunk Dublin style on a backpacker-friendly pub crawl

Dublin is famous for pubs, so a pub crawl ought to be part of any traveller’s itinerary. You might not be able to visit every single pub on your weekend in Dublin ; there is over 1000 total. But a crawl is probably the best way to see as many as possible!

Each pub is unique with its own share of that Irish charm, but some will inevitably be more touristy than others. This top-rated traditional bar crawl is backpacker-friendly, so you’ll be able to get to know other travellers while experiencing local favourites.

16 . Chill on St Stephen’s Green

St. Stephen's Green

St Stephen’s Green is one of the most popular places to come to Dublin for a day trip of rest and relaxation. A popular thing to do in Dublin is to walk around the park on the lookout for some of its historic features, which include the magnificent Iveagh House.

Picnics are also a popular activity on the Green. There are some nice food vendors nearby; Aungier Danger sells some amazing doughnuts, so definitely grab yourself a couple.

  • Hours:  07:30-dusk (Monday-Saturday), 09:30-dusk (Sunday and Bank Holidays)
  • Address:  St Stephen’s Green, Dublin 2, Ireland

1 7 . Big feels at The Little Museum of Dublin

The Little Museum Dublin

Great things come in small packages, and this quaint museum is no exception. Situated inside a Georgian house on St Stephen’s Green, the museum has over 5,000 artefacts explaining Dublin’s history during the 20th century.

It’s one of the coolest places to visit in Dublin and has won and been nominated for various titles, including the European Museum of the Year in 2012. Exhibits include the very first edition of James Joyce’s Ulysses and a statue of Bono, amongst other things. There’s also a tour every Thursday on the history of women in Dublin, which is pretty cool.

  • Entrance:  €8-12
  • Hours:  Open every day from 10 am to 5 pm. The last admission is at 4.45 pm.
  • Address:  15 St Stephen’s Green, Dublin 2, Ireland

18. See the city on two wheels

See the city on two wheels

What’s better than a walking tour of Dublin? A cycling tour, of course. As long as you’re comfortable on two wheels and up for a bit of exercise, seeing Dublin on two wheels is a super fun thing to do.

On this cycling tour of Dublin, you’ll get to hear all about the likes of the massive St Patrick’s Cathedral, Temple Bar, the Georgian architecture of Northside, College Green, Dublin Castle and loads more. A coffee break is included, so you can really take the time to soak it all in.

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19. Make friends with mummies at St Michan’s Church

flickr-dublin-church

Ireland’s crazy history also involves Vikings – who are to thank for St Michan’s Church. Dating back to 1095, the Church sits on the banks of the River Liffey and attracts numerous visitors to its vaults and crypts.

The mummies are preserved members of crusaders and influential Irish families, who lie in open coffins and are popular visitor attractions in Dublin.

  • Hours:  12:30-15:30 (Monday-Friday), 10:00-12:45 (Saturday)
  • Address:  Church St, Arran Quay, Dublin 7, Ireland

20. Learn all about Irish rugby history

Irish rugby history

Another of Ireland’s most famous exports is its rugby. The Landsdowne Road Stadium was the oldest surviving stadium in Ireland, housing the sport from 1872. It was replaced by the new Aviva Stadium in 2007, used by Ireland’s world-class Rugby Union team as well as their national football team.

Sports fans visiting Dublin can take a tour around the new stadium. You’ll be taught all about Irish rugby history, walk through those famous tunnels and see the dugouts and the team’s dressing rooms.

  • Entrance:  €10-15
  • Hours:  10:00-17:00
  • Address:  Lansdowne Rd, Dublin 4, Ireland

21. Creep around the crypt at Christ Church Cathedral

Christ Church Cathedral Dublin

Dublin’s Christ Church Cathedral is magnificent from the outside, and home to the largest crypt to be found in Great Britain and Ireland. The crypt is a whopping 63.4 metres long and dates all the way back to the 12th century, while the Cathedral has been around since 1030.

The top things to see here are the Cathedral’s stunning architecture, but most visitors are attracted to the mummified animals – a cat and a rat found stuffed inside the organ pipes. If you’re around, this is definitely one of the more unusual things to do in Dublin.

  • Entrance:  €3-7.50
  • Hours:  09:30-17:00 (Monday-Saturday), 12:30-14:30 (Sunday)
  • Address:  Christchurch Pl, Wood Quay, Dublin 8, Ireland

22. Experience the grand Powerscourt Centre

grand Powerscourt Centre

If you like shopping and history then you’re in luck – the Powerscourt Centre Dublin provides an experience that perfectly comprises both to make a unique shopping experience.

Set in a huge Georgian house just off Grafton Street, The Powerscourt Centre is basically a boutique mall of shops, cafes and restaurants centred around an atrium. Antiques, make-up, sneakers… you can get it all. If you’re so keen on shopping, a walk around the building is a worthy thing to do in itself.

  • Hours:  11:00-17:00 (Monday-Saturday), 12:00-17:00 (Sunday)
  • Address:  59 William St S, Dublin 2, D02 HF95, Ireland

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23. Tour around ‘Little Jerusalem’

Little Jerusalem, Dublin

Ireland is a predominantly Catholic country, so you may not be so aware of the Jewish community in Dublin. There are some amazing tours on offer, which will unveil another and lesser-known side to the city. You’ll be taken around historic areas where Jews were ‘permitted’ to live from the 12th Century until their expulsion in 1290).

You’ll also be taken around Ireland’s modern-day Jewish community, where you’ll find kosher bakeries and learn all about its turbulent past.

  • Hours:  16:00-21:30 (Tuesday-Sunday)
  • Address:  3 Wynnefield Rd, Rathmines, Dublin, D06 F2Y2, Ireland

24. Take a stroll along the River Liffey

River Liffey

The River Liffey flows through the centre of Dublin, dividing the north from the south side. Walking along its banks is one of the best things to do in Dublin on your first visit to the city, as it acts as a reference point for Dublin’s major attractions.

Walking along the river is a day out in itself; there are plenty of places to stop off for breakfast, lunch and dinner, and you’ll find numerous activities along the river. It’s beautifully lit up at night, so make sure it check it out in the evenings.

To make your trip as amazing as it can be, you’ll need to find an awesome place to stay in Dublin. These are our top recommendations for accommodation in Dublin…

Best Airbnb in Dublin: Designer Apartment heart of Dublin

Airbnb in Dublin

This modern and spacious apartment is one of our top Airbnbs in Dublin . Sleeping up to 3 guests, it’s the perfect place to stay if you’re wanting to enjoy the city both day and night.

Like all good things, this Airbnb is surrounded by pubs and bars. Note that it can get a little noisy, however, so make sure to keep location in mind when you book!

Best Hostel in Dublin: Kinlay House

Kinlay House best hostels in Dublin

Kinlay House is one of Dublin’s best hostels ; it’s affordable, Wifi and breakfast are included and has an unbeatable location.

The hostel is right in the heart of Temple Bar, close to both Trinity College and Grafton Street. It’s also a 30-minute direct bus from the airport, so getting here is a piece of cake.

Best Hotel in Dublin: Egans House

Egans House

Situated in Phibsborough, this cosy hotel is the perfect base for your trip to Dublin.

All rooms come with ensuite bathrooms, as well as tea and coffee making facilities, flatscreen TVs, and Wifi. It’s just a 15-minute drive from the airport, and there’s a garden, restaurant and bar for guest use.

  • Invest in good travel insurance! You never know what may happen on the road.
  • Walk everywhere! Dublin isn’t huge, and it’s pretty easy to get everywhere on foot. If you’re travelling on a budget, this is a great way to save money.
  • If you’re not able to walk, a Leap Visitor Card costs €19.50 and gives you 3 days unlimited access to a number of bus, tram and rail services.
  • Bring a good water bottle with you and avoid buying single-use plastic ones!
  • Keep your belongings close. Ireland is absolutely safe to visit , but pickpockets tend to target unassuming visitors.
  • Steer clear of streets and crowds after pub closing times – especially on weekends – as things can get pretty rowdy.
  • Head to one of Ireland’s many festivals for an extra good time!

Don’t forget your travel insurance for Dublin

Hey, I know, paying for insurance doesn’t sound super exciting. But believe me, things don’t always go to plan. Having good travel insurance for Ireland is the best backup for a worst-case scenario.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

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SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Here are some quick answers to common questions about what to do and see in Dublin.

What can I do in Dublin right now?

Through Airbnb Experiences you can find a huge array of things to do in Dublin today. You can also check out GetYourGuide for unique experiences.

Are there fun things for kids to do in Dublin?

Staying in a Castle is an experience no child will ever forget. Go and explore the National Leprechaun Museum. Then, when you’re ready to relax, head to the Iveagh Gardens.

What is good for couples to do in Dublin?

Besides sex, no trip to Dublin is complete without a visit to The Guinness Storehouse . The Jameson Whiskey Distillery Tour is also a fun and unique experience in Dublin.

What are the best free things to do in Dublin?

St Patrick’s Cathedral is iconic, and it has free entry. Iveagh Gardens are also a must-see in Dublin. It’s a perfect place to take your picnic to save some pennies on food and drinks too.

Yup, there you go. All done. That was a whirlwind of awesome stuff, we have to say.

Who knew there was so much spooky stuff going on in Dublin? If you like your stories scary and your stays spooky, you’ll definitely like this city. Then again, if you like drinking, this is the place for you too!

But it ain’t all about that either – the history here! The literary heritage! Man, it makes our heads spin to think about all of the awesome things you can do in Dublin.

So we’re glad to have been able to select what stood out for us the most. Now go have fun and don’t drink too much, eh?

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Sophie Steinebach

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Tour de Mitología y Folclore

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Queer Dublin Walking Tour

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Original Dublin Walking Tour

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Dublin Music Tour

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Dublin Mythology & Folklore Tour

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Tour gratis en Español

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Free Walking Tour of Dublin

Why original dublin.

Because you’ve made it your mission to visit Dublin, and we’ve made it ours to ensure that you get more than a visit. We promise you more than just a great tour – We make our Dublin, your Dublin.

We’re Original Dublin, and our collective of accredited tour guides, writers, actors and musicians show people the beating heart of Dublin itself.  This is our hometown. We can give you a local perspective of our wonderful city. 

Winner of the 2022 Freetour.com award for ‘Most Original Tour’ & the Platinum Award for ‘Event Storytelling’ at the 2022 Eventex Awards. 

Elevate your trip with a unique Dublin Walking Tour. Book now for a stroll through Dublin City that you’ll never forget.

What Do Our Guests Say?

Our guide Keith was a great, funny, and full of knowledge.

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Kate was fantastic! I couldn't have asked for a better guide. Very knowledgeable, very nice, very accommodating, and best of all very funny and with an awesome voice. Give that girl a raise, a promotion, and a Bentley!

Amalia Dorgan Avatar

Kate was an awesome storyteller and guide!! We loved it!

Jake Means Avatar

Tour fantastique avec le highlight and secret tour avev Keith, on a bien ri !!!!

Gabriel Lavayssiere Avatar

Very nice tour! The guide Keith as the best humour and we ad a really great time learning about Dublin!!

Camille Doucet-Champeau Avatar

A really nice tour, by foot, of the city with an entertaining and inspiring guide (Dan) who really knew what he was talking about. I can strongly recommend this tour.

Olof Sundin Avatar

Great and interesting tour with Keith. Loved his sense of humour 🙂

Leo Grech Fleri-Soler Avatar

On my first day in Dublin, I decided to take this tour and I am thankful I did. Our guide was informative and friendly, not only giving us a brief history of the places we passed, but also advice on where to go and eat at next. I was able to get oriented with the city, as well as learn about Ireland and its history. I recommend this tour for any new or returning travelers.

Taylor Vraney Avatar

Very happy with my great tour!

Andrew Milich Avatar

Excellent walking tour with Dan. We toured the Dublin Castle, the Christ Church Cathedral, the Temple Bar District, & O’Connell Avenue. Dan was very knowledgeable & took good care of our group. We received an education on the history of Ireland from the early Vikings to Modern Contemporary culture. Dan was willing to answer all of the group’s questions & provided us with many local recommendations. Excellent introduction for our Dublin experience!

George Massey Avatar

6/29/24 UPDATE: I just took this tour a second time. Alan's enthusiasm, knowledge, and humor have only increased since I too this tour a couple of years ago. Thanks for a great time!! -- Alan guided us on the Fables and Folklore tour and it was great! We walked around central Dublin, stopping at relevant places while learning about the mythology of Ireland and how it continues to inform Irish culture. Additionally we got a great feel for Dublin city through stories of real-life characters from its past. A great time! Highly recommend!

Eric Fulgenzi Avatar

My friend, her daughter, and I took the Mythology & Folklore tour this evening! Emily was our guide. She made sure the tour was funny, engaging, and interesting. We had a wonderful time. I’m headed back to Dublin in the fall with family and will definitely book another tour through Original Dublin.

Danielle Kirrane Avatar

Dan was a great tour guide. He brought us throughout the city to many great spots and discussed historic facts surrounding the city.

Daniel Avatar

A brilliant tour, Gemma was a great story teller and despite it pouring with rain kept the tour energetic, captivating and fun

Ashleigh Avatar

Marina lo ha hecho muy bien. Le ha puesto muchas ganas a pesar de que éramos 6 gatos bajo la lluvia. Ha contestado todas nuestras preguntas y ha llenado de anécdotas el recorrido haciéndolo muy dinámico. Soy Belén con el gmail de mi hija que yo tengo hotmail. 🙂

Inkauta Criminal Avatar

Ottima esperienza con la compagnia di una guida (ROSS) brillante, competente e coinvolgente, che ci ha permesso di attraversare fisicamente e nei suoi miti Dublino e l’Irlanda!

Matteo Frivoli Avatar

Daniela lo ha hecho genial

Irene Avatar

Daniela, ha estado fabulosa, genial muy recomendable

Mª Montserrat Gómez Romero Avatar

Daniela es excelente guía

Ángela Echeverri Avatar

Daniela ha estado genial. Nos ha encantado el tour.

Leire Iparragirre Avatar

¡Daniela estuvo fabulosa!

Olatz Abit Avatar

Daniela mola

César Molina Avatar

Five stars because it's an original and "politically-incorrect" tour which depicts the true history of Ireland and its brave and proud people, against the foreign colonialism. My guide was Berry and he is great!

Alessandro De Donno (aded) Avatar

Helena was a lovely tour guide for Pride and Irelands history within the LGTBQI community! Highly recommend 🙂

Stephanie Coopman Avatar

This tour was so fun & I learned so much about the history and “personality” of the city of Dublin! Our tour guide, Alan, was absolutely fantastic- he shared so many stories & recommendations for the city. The best walking tour of a city I have ever done!

Lela Sanford Avatar

A great way to get a crash-course introduction to Dublin and Ireland history with a very knowledgeable leader and a decent amount of humor thrown in too! We had a little one along and easy strolling route as well.

Jason Goldstein Avatar

Muy bien, Marina ha sido dinámica y nos a contado tanto historias como anécdotas. El tiempo ha pasado rápido. Muchas gracias

Iris M Avatar

Marina ha sido una guía fantástica. Súper recomendable para visitar Dublín con muchas dosis de historia irlandesa y unos toques de humor

Alberto Sacristán Latorre Avatar

Muy bueno! Y Rebecca una genia! Tour super completo, divertido y con información que te da un panorama general de Dublin e Irlanda. Gracias!

Rosario Guardiola Avatar

Lovely tour, really was able to learn a lot about the area in such a short period of time. Our tour guide was super funny and relatable so the experience was great.

Ehrin Quinn Avatar

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We are Original Dublin – a local Dublin tour guide collective crafting experiences unlike any other in the city to ensure you get the best from your time in the Irish capital.

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16 Cool and Unusual Things to Do in Dublin

unique dublin tours

Dublin has no shortage of attractions, but canny visitors want to enjoy experiences that go beyond the tourist traps. So, how about a James Joyce reading, a swim in the Irish Sea or a visit to a vintage radio museum in a Martello tower? Here, Culture Trip picks the top things to see and do in Ireland’s capital that will surprise even the most frequent visitor.

Dublin is brimming with unique things to do outside the obvious highlights , and by taking the occasional detour off the typical tourist agenda – or simply choosing a different kind of guide or an alternative mode of transport – it’s possible to see the city in a whole new way. Whether you want to wakeboard in the docklands, catch a relaxed gig in a hallowed setting or get up close to the local flora and fauna, here are some of the most unusual things you can do in the Irish capital.

Attend a reading of ‘Ulysses’ at Dublin’s Joycean pharmacy

Sweny’s has been open on Lincoln Place since 1847, originally as a pharmacy but today as a non-profit literary landmark and a place of worship for fans of one of Dublin’s most celebrated writers, James Joyce . The interior of the store has been preserved almost exactly as it was when Joyce was alive, although now it’s full of books instead of medicines and toiletries. However, it still sells bars of the lemon soap that Leopold Bloom, the main character in Joyce’s Ulysses (1922), buys here in the novel. Drop in to buy a literary souvenir or to attend the free readings of Ulysses and Joyce’s other works that dedicated volunteers host throughout the week.

Go deer spotting in Phoenix Park

Phoenix park, Dublin, Ireland

Visit a haunted library

Plunge into the irish sea at the forty foot.

Natural Feature

Forty Foot Dublin

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Take a Secret Street Tour of Dublin’s Liberties

Architectural Landmark

Plenty of companies offer walking tours of Dublin , but few give back to the city like Secret Street Tours do. Founded by a Trinity College Dublin graduate, this non-profit employs homeless people as guides. The 90-minute tour of the historic Liberties district – home to landmarks such as St Patrick’s Cathedral – is led by Derek, a man who has lived in that neighbourhood since he was born. As well as directly helping the homeless people of Dublin (the majority of the €15/£13 fee goes to the guides), you’ll get to see a part of it through the eyes of a lifelong resident.

Enjoy a gig at the Dublin Unitarian Church

The Dublin Unitarian Church on St Stephen’s Green has a long history. It was built more than 150 years ago using money bequeathed by Thomas Wilson, a congregation member whose father was George Washington’s aide-de-camp in the American War of Independence. Other former members include the Irish revolutionary Robert Emmet and John Jameson, founder of the eminent distillery. Visitors to this church may be surprised to find that it doesn’t host solely religious services; it also opens its doors for regular gigs, welcoming musicians to make use of the exceptional acoustics. Hozier, Dermot Kennedy and Markéta Irglová of the Swell Season have all played here in the past.

Explore a vintage radio museum inside a Martello tower

Try a brown-bread ice-cream cone from murphys.

Ice Cream Parlour, Irish, Ice Cream

After becoming famous for the all-natural, handmade ice cream it sells from a shop in Dingle , County Kerry, Murphys Ice Cream opened a much-awaited Dublin store on Wicklow Street in 2010. Its award-winning ice cream is made with milk from Kerry cows – a rare breed native to Ireland, descended from ancient Celtic cattle – and features unusual, distinctly Irish flavours such as aran donn (caramelised brown bread) and salann (Dingle sea salt). Murphys even makes flavoured sorbets using distilled Irish rainwater.

Take a public tour of the Grand Lodge of a mysterious international fraternity

Having originated as a network of small local organisations of medieval British stonemasons, Freemasonry developed into a global fraternity during the 18th and 19th centuries. Despite currently having 6m members worldwide, the group is still an enigma to outsiders, as it’s based around secret handshakes and guarded meetings. A visit to its Irish headquarters on Molesworth Street – the second most senior Grand Lodge of Freemasons in the world and the oldest in continuous existence – will appeal to anyone with a curious streak. Public tours are available every weekday during the summer months for €5 (£4.30) per person.

Experience what life was like on a famine ship

Historical Landmark, Architectural Landmark

Jeanie Johnston boat on the river Liffey in Dublin at sunrise.

The Great Famine of the 1840s saw around 1m Irish people die from starvation and illness, while more than 1m were forced to emigrate. Many of these people departed from Dublin’s Custom House Quay, where an authentic replica of a famine ship is currently docked, acting as a museum and reminder of a devastating moment in Irish history. You can take a 50-minute guided tour of the Jeanie Johnston (adult tickets cost €15/£13), which made 16 journeys between Ireland and North America during and after the famine, carrying over 2,500 people. Below deck, life-size mannequins depict actual passengers who braved the arduous journey to the New World.

Tour the crypts at St Michan’s Church

Have lunch with the hungry tree at king’s inns park.

The park at King’s Inns – Ireland’s oldest legal institution and law school – is a pleasant spot for a picnic on a fine day. It’s also the home of Dublin’s Hungry Tree, a sturdy London plane tree that’s thought to date from the 1930s. It’s so named because it has managed to devour much of a cast-iron bench that sits beneath it, absorbing the entire backrest into its trunk. While you’re in the area, don’t miss the Blessington Street Basin – this under-rated park and reservoir near King’s Inns is a place that even many Dubliners don’t know about.

Kayak with seals in Dalkey

Sports Center

Long exposure sunset at Bullock Harbour, Dalkey, Dublin

Both of Ireland’s two native seal species – common seals and grey seals – are plentiful in Dublin Bay, and the best way to see them up close is by kayak. Every day, Kayaking.ie offers three-hour guided tours around Dalkey Island and the surrounding area, departing from the slipway at Bullock Harbour in the suburb of Dalkey (accessible by DART train). The company also offers evening tours, allowing you to see unrivalled views of the bay at sunset. All tours are suitable for beginners, and equipment is provided.

1916 Rebellion Walking Tour

The 1916 Rebellion Walking Tour was founded in 1996 by Lorcan Collins, author, historian and Dubliner. This two-hour walking tour meets daily at The International Bar, where participants receive a copy of the 1916 Proclamation and some explanatory literature. After a brief introduction to the build up to the Easter Rising of 1916, the tour then visits the sites of the revolutionary period, including the GPO, City Hall and Dublin Castle. The tour also covers the War of Independence when Michael Collins battled for Irish freedom from 1919-1921 and also includes a discussion on the Irish Civil War, 1922-1923. The tour is highly educational but also great fun and very interactive. Prior knowledge of events is not required.

Glasnevin Cemetery

Glasnevin Cemetery, Finglas Road, Glasnevin, Dublin, Ireland

Howth panoramic e-bike tour

Cycle to the most breathtaking views in Ireland without getting out of breath. Our e-bikes are great fun, easy and trusty on the tarmac or the trails. We mix the insider tracks and tales of this truly amazing peninsula while taking you to unrivalled panoramic views away from the crowds surrounded by nature and beauty.

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See & Do

29 must-visit attractions in dublin, ireland.

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The best bed & breakfasts to book in and around dublin.

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Hip Apartments in Dublin You'll Want to Call Home

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Guides & Tips

12 fun tours to discover the best of dublin.

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A Brief History of Dublin’s Mysterious Molly Malone

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33+ HIDDEN GEMS IN DUBLIN – That not even locals know about!

Dublin is a fantastic city to explore for the first time. You have those iconic attractions, such as the Guinness Storehouse, Dublin Castle, and the Book of Kells. And while they are all wonderful places to visit, they also have ALOT in common. And that is crowds, lots and lots of crowds.

So, as an Irish girl born and bred, I thought it was only right for me to show you how to explore our capital city like a local. In this guide, we will take a look at some of the top hidden gems in Dublin, all worth adding to your Ireland bucket list.

I’m not going to lie, it took me a minute or two to think about what is considered ‘off the beaten path’.

Yes, I may know about it, but how many others do? That’s when I came up with the idea to write a list of my favourite unusual things to do in Dublin.

This guide will walk you through some of the top Dublin hidden gems, some are located right inside the city walls, while others involve a little bit of light travel.

So, if you have planned an extended trip to Dublin or are looking to spice up your weekend in Ireland’s capital city. Look no further, because this post will give you the in’s and out’s of some of the best Dublin off the beaten path experiences and locations.

Before you visit Ireland, here’s some quick recommendations… 🏨 Looking for somewhere to stay? Then take a look at Booking.com 🚌 Seeking a sense of adventure? Then book day tours and activities with GetYourGuide or Viator 🏥 Wan’t to keep yourself insured as you travel? Then I recommend SafetyWing . 🚘 Planning a road trip? Then check out RentalCars.com 📸 Don’t want to forget the memories? Then this camera is for you! 📞 Want to stay connected? Airalo has the best e-sim deals.

Unusual Things to do in Dublin 

Ireland may be a small country but it’s capital sure packs a punch when it comes to hidden gems of offer. Let’s kick off this post with some of the most unusual things to do in Dublin. I’m talking strange, unique, and well, damn right cool. These are parts of the city that often go unnoticed, activities that both locals and tourists often miss.

The Hungry Tree, King's Inn Park, Dublin, Ireland

1. The Hungry Tree, King’s Inn Park, Dublin, Ireland

There are many secret Dublin attractions, some are man-made and some were created by nature itself.

The first gem is a rather unusual one. It is located in Kings Inn park on the Northside of the city. And in that park, lies a tree…but…it’s not just any old tree. It’s a rather famish tree for that matter.

Yes, that’s right. The tree is starting to grow over a park bench, ultimately eating away the bench’s existence.

This secret Dublin spot is becoming increasingly popular and with the hungry tree becoming a famous addition to many’s Instagram feeds. If you ask me, this is one of the top hidden gems in Ireland . It’s just so really strange, yet wonderful thing to see!

Dublin Under Sail

2. Dublin Under Sail

Easily one of the best things to do in Dublin is take on Dublin Bay with Dublin Under Sail .

An experience like no other. Hop on board the Brian Boru for an opportunity to see Ireland’s Capital from a whole different perspective.

The experience lasts 3 hours in total, passengers will learn what it is like to sail a tall ship. They can decide to get involved in the running of the ship or just sit back and relax with a cuppa while enjoying the scenic views of the Dublin coastline.

If you are looking for something unique to do while in Dublin this is a great option.

Check Out my Youtube Video for a Better Idea of the Experience

unique dublin tours

3. Oscar Wilde Statue , Merrion Square, Dublin, Ireland

Next on the list is the Oscar Wilde Statue in Merrion Square only a short walk from Grafton Street.

Oscar Wilde was a famous Irish Poet who wrote some amazing pieces throughout the 1880’s. In the 1890’s, he later went on to write one of London’s most popular playwrights, writing plays like ‘the importance of being Earnest’ and ‘Salome’.

The park in which the Statue ordinates is also a beautiful place to explore and is truly an off the beaten path Dublin location in it’s own right. The best part about the park is it is quite and tranquil, yet still within the grounds of the city centre.

Also, those interested in Irish litriture may want to checkout the ‘ Dublin Literary Pub Crawl ‘ learn about Ireland’s famous writers all while relaxing with a ice cold pint.

🏆 MOST UNIQUE TOUR

Oscar Wilde Statue, Merrion Square, Dublin, Ireland

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Dublin Literary Pub Crawl ✔️ Guided walking tour ✔️ Local actors to four Dublin pubs ✔️ Literary Quiz

Kayaking in Dublin

4. Go Kayaking down the River Liffey

Another unusual thing to do in Dublin is Kayak down the River Liffey.

Wait! Hear me out…. the first time I heard about this idea I was a little bit sceptical. The Liffey isn’t exactly my dream place to kayak, but I can assure you, you do not get wet in the process.

City Kayaking offers a range of experiences from one-hour rentals, city tours and my personal favourite the music under the bridge tour.

In the music under the bridge tour , you spend 2 hours kayaking to each bridge along the River Liffey.

At each stop, you will be greeted by some brilliant live performances and we Irish are known for our musical talents. It’s one of my favourite things to do in Dublin as it is well and truly a unique experience.

The Doors of Dublin, Merrion Square, Dublin, Ireland

5. The Doors of Dublin, Merrion Square, Dublin, Ireland

Taking the internet by storm recently is the ‘ Doors of Dublin’ phenomenon. Many of these famous doors can be found right next to the Oscar Wilde Statue in Merrion Square.

The square features some of Dublin’s most iconic Georgian houses where most doors are painted a vibrant colour or have a unique and unusual design to them. These doors can also be found in the likes of Fitzwilliam Square and on Baggot Street.

The phenomenon is becoming so popular that it even has its own dedicated Instagram account and a hashtag.

However, it is still not one of the top things to include in a Dublin itinerary making it perfect for those looking for something unusual to do in the city.

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Huguenot Cemetery, Dublin, Ireland

6. Have a look at the Ancient Huguenot Cemetery

Tucked away in the heart of the city, the Huguenot Cemetery offers a distinctive glimpse into Dublin’s intriguing history.

This hidden gem should be on your list as it is like taking a journey back in time, as the cemetery is the final resting place for members of the Huguenot community who fled religious persecution in France during the 17th and 18th centuries.

The carefully preserved tombstones, inscribed with old French surnames, are poignant reminders of the city’s multicultural past.

This cemetery, though small and easy to miss, provides a unique perspective on Dublin’s history seldom found in standard tour routes.

Now, while it is not possible to walk inside, it is a cool place to walk by and stop for a moment.On the left wall, there is a plaque with the names of those buried in the cemetery.

The Hellfire Club Walk

7. Hike up the Dublin’s Spooky Hellfire Club Ruins

The Hellfire Club is one of the most off the beaten path places to visit in Dublin.

The old house ruins are located on the foot of Montpellier Hill. But…there is so much more than meets the eye when it comes to the Hellfire club. Like many old buildings, the club is subject to some old Irish myths and legend.

Some even believed that the house was burnt down by the devil leaving it in its ruined state that we see today. Besides being one of the freakiest places in Dublin, the hellfire club is the ideal place for a picnic while watching the sunset. It is also home to phenomenal views of Dublin city and beyond.

The hellfire club is located in the Dublin Mountain, so the weather at times can be unpredictable, I advise checking out my packing guide to make sure you are prepared 😉

Unique things to do in Dublin

Now, I want to bring your attention to some of the most unique things to do in the city. These are experiences that are often overlooked including some of the most breathtaking views, thrilling experiences and underrated attractions.

Dublin Sunset - Smithfield Tower

8. Smithfield Tower

Smithfield Tower, one of Dublin’s best kept secrets and it is located just a 10 minute walk from the city centre.

This Dublin Hidden Gem will have you climbing up 200+ steps however the epic view of Dublin City from the top is well and truly worth the climb.

The skinny observation deck offers 360 views of Ireland’s capital city and is the perfect place to watch the sunset.

Tickets into the observation deck only cost five euros and there are no lifts so you must be prepared to climb.

You can purchase tickets from the  Generator Hostel  located beside the tower. If you are looking for more cheap or free things to do in the city please check out my  Free Dublin Attractions Guide .

9. Walk Along the Croke Park Skyline

We Irish are proud of our heritage, and there is nothing we enjoy more than a good olde banter over a game of GAA. Croke park is our national stadium for our iconic sports, Gaelic Football, Hurling and Camogie.

But…getting the opportunity to see a Gaelic Game unfold is not the only way to experience Croke Park. Unknown to many local’s is the Croke Park Skyline Tour.

The experience brings visitors 17-stories high, and allows them to walk along the stadiums skyline. Throughout the experience, you will see some breathtaking 360 views of the Dublin Skyline and even have the ability to look down into the stadiums playing fields.

On the tour, you are equipped with a harness and a tour guide. This is an experience not to be missed and certainly one of the best unique things to do in Dublin.

So, what are you waiting for? Get ready to add the Croke Park Skyline tour to your Adrenaline Junkie Bucket List.

✋ Don’t travel to Ireland without Travel Insurance… If you want to be covered for medical emergencies, travel delays or lost luggage while in Ireland then I highly recommend getting travel insurance before your trip. As someone who has been hurt abroad I know how important being insured is! Safety Wing is a great option for this, you can book it on the day of your travels and they offer a range of benefit which you can read more about here .

The Croke Park Stadium and Museum Tour

10. The Croke Park Stadium and Museum Tour

Ok, so if soaring 17 stories above the ground is not your cup of tea.

Don’t fret. It is still possible to experience and learn all about the Gaelic Games by taking the Croke Park Stadium and Museum tour.

The tour will tell visitors all there is to know about our three national sports, Gaelic, Hurling and Camogie.

Croke Park is also famous for hosting musical acts such as U2, Elton John, Ed Sheeran, One Directions and Pharrell Williams. The stadium can hold over 82 thousand people at a time.

The Croke Park Tour costs €14 per person and is FREE for those who hold a Dublin Pass .

Design your own Cheesecake at Mad Egg

11. Design your own Cheesecake at Mad Egg

More and more Mad Egg restaurants are popping up over Dublin and it’s a good thing too because local’s are becoming obsessed with designing their own cheesecakes.

So, if you are looking to feed your sweet tooth and want to do it in a cool and unique way. Head on in to Mad Egg for a full filled experience.

Topping choices include Milk, White or Dark Chocolate. The Choice of Roasted Hazelnuts, Peanut Butter Pieces, Oreo Crumbs, Honeycomb Nuggets, Smashed Maltesers, Kinder Bueno or Daim Pieces. And Finally the sticky stuff, Nutella or Caramel.

Also, while your there, give the love me loco chicken a try. It’s Delish <3

Skiing on Ireland's Dry Slopes

12. Skiing in Ireland. Who Knew?

Now, this is something I am almost certain you didn’t know about. You can ski in Dublin?!

Ok, so it’s not the alps, not even close, and we certainly do not get the same level of snow … but it is a cool thing to do in Dublin if you’re looking for something a tad bit different.

Ski club Ireland hosts the only dry slopes in Ireland (located in Kilternan ).

It will set you back 30 euros for a 3-hour practice session, however, that also includes all rentals. It’s a great deal if you ask me.

But, I will warn you it is harder to get the hang of compared to fresh snow. Let’s just say, I laughed a lot the first time I visited.

For an extra bonus, the top of the highest slope offers a stunning view of the Irish coast line <3

Horse Boy Mural

13. Check Out Dublin’s Street Art Scene

Throughout the recent year’s, the Dublin street art scene is thriving with murals popping up all over the city.

If you want to get a little off the beaten path in Dublin why not join in on a FREE alternative Dublin walking tour .

The tour leaves everyday at 11am and ticks off some of the top Dublin hidden gems. Including the top street art murals in the city.

The tour also covers, emerging Dublin scenes, some of Dublin’s best kept secrets, the Art and Music History, Cool Bars, Cafes, Markets, some Cheap Eats and some good old Insider’s Knowledge.

Tours that are Off the Beaten Track in Dublin

Now, let’s take a look at some fun and underrated tours that you can take while visiting Dublin. As I mentioned, Dublin has it’s typical tourist attractions, such as the Guinness Storehouse and Trinity College but there is so much more to this little city than meets the eye. I’m talking about the surrounding coastlines, mountains and scenery. Oh! and I’d advise that you are familiar with Ireland tipping etiquette before booking your tours.

Local Tip for Ireland Travel… 🚌 There are a range of things to see and do in Ireland that might surprise you. When booking tours or activities I highly recommend shopping around for what’s out there. I tend to use either GetYourGuide or Viators to see fun and unique things I can take part in that I wouldn’t otherwise know about.

Ireland's Eye, Dublin, Ireland

14. Get a Boat out to Ireland’s Eye

Ireland’s Eye is a remote Island off the Irish coast near a Dublin fishing village, Howth.

The island is the perfect place for wildlife spotting opportunities. Explorers can see seabirds, Sea Gulls and mannnny seals.

I took my first trip to the Island back in 2012 and that day there was a swarm of birds flying about. It was super cool to see.

A trip around the Island cost €15 per adults whereas a trip onto the island costs €20. A visit to Ireland’s Eye is a truly unique thing to do in Dublin.

After enjoying a trip out to Ireland’s eye, return back to the mainland for a stroll along one of Ireland’s Best Cliff Walks , Howth Head.

🏆 IRELAND’S EYE TOUR

Ireland's Eye, Dublin, Ireland

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Boat Tour Around Ireland’s Eye ✔️ 1 hour boat tour ✔️ English Commentary ✔️ Raw Scenic Views

unique dublin tours

15. Dublin Mountain Pub Tour

There is more to Dublin than just the city. In fact, on the south side of the county lies the Dublin Mountains.

Or hills if you want to compare them to the mountains in other European countries , such as Italy or France.

And while the mountains are a beautiful spot to spend the day, they can be quite difficult to reach, especially without a car.

However, there is a drink/food tour that takes you on a little pub crawl around the Dublin Mountains, stopping in the three highest pubs in Dublin.

There, you can spend the evening sipping an ice-cold Guinness, eating some traditional foods, and listening to live music with an incredible view. What more could you ask for?

🏆 DUBLIN MOUNTAIN PUB CRAWL

Things to do in Dublin for Free The View of Dublin City from the Ticknock Mountain Trail

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ DUBLIN MOUNTAIN PUB CRAWL ✔️ Transportation to Doolin ✔️ Bout Trip to Inis Oír ✔️ Sail Beneath the Cliffs of Moher

unique dublin tours

16. Hike with a local

Ireland is known for it’s famous Cliffs of Moher but what many people don’t realise is that Dublin is a coastal city, which means it is surrounded by some of the most beautiful scenery.

One of my favourite places is the fisherman town of Howth, which is a popular spot for locals to go for an evening walk, watch the sunset, or grab some fish and chips.

It is also home to one of Ireland’s most beautiful cliffs, and all be it they are not the highest in the country , they are still pretty mighty.

You can even hike the cliffs alongside local guides, Mark and Missy. They bring a small group of people around the area 3 of 4 times a weeks.

Here you can learn about the cliffs history, landscapes, and scenery.

And believe me, the scenery is to die for!

unique dublin tours

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ HOWTH CLIFF WALK WITH LOCALS ✔️ Guided Tour ✔️ Stop at hidden gems ✔️ One alcoholic pint

unique dublin tours

17. Horse Riding in Glendalough

If you are looking for a reason to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, then why not book a horseback riding tour of Wicklow?

Spend the day checking out some of the most incredible landscapes, such as Glendalough, Sallys Gap, and Guinness Lake.

You will also have a 1 hour and 30 minutes horseback riding session where you ride through the lush green landscapes of the park.

Really get to understand why Ireland is called the Emerald Isle.

The tour includes live commentary, a local guide, and transfers to and from the city.

unique dublin tours

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ HORSE RIDING IN WICKLOW NP ✔️ Transportation to Doolin ✔️ Bout Trip to Inis Oír ✔️ Sail Beneath the Cliffs of Moher

unique dublin tours

18. Traditional Irish Music Show

Experience a traditional Irish meal, music, and dance during an evening performance at Dublin’s Belvedere.

Prepare yourself for an endless evening of fun as skilled Irish folk musicians and dancers perform reels, jigs, and dances.

Enjoy a pint of Guinness, indulge in some delicious traditional Irish culture, and perhaps even try your hand at Irish dancing by going up on stage.

You will experience it all, from the ‘old style’ traditional solo Irish Dance to the familiar jigs and reels, the synchronised precision, and heart racing rhythms that characterise what Irish dancing has become today. 

This nighttime experience is a great evening for a group of friends, families and couples.

unique dublin tours

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Traditional Irish Music Show ✔️ Learn some Irish Dance ✔️ Live Performances

7 Dublin Hidden Gems You Probably Never Heard of

Ireland has MANY tourist attractions such as the Cliffs of Moher and the Giants Causeway that is well known across the world. But…right in the capital there is a range of unique things to do in Dublin are typically not featured in the guidebooks. In fact, I wouldn’t be surprised if locals in the city even knew they existed.

Sweny’s Pharmacy, Merrion Square, Dublin, Ireland

19. Sweny’s Pharmacy, Merrion Square, Dublin, Ireland

Ok, so continuing with the Merrion Square theme, the next on the list for secrets of Dublin is Sweny’s Pharmacy.

But…wait, it’s not actually a Pharmacy…well not anymore, that is.

This hidden gem is somewhat of an iconic spot, as it was mentioned in the famous Irish author James Joyce’s book ‘Ulysses’.

Now, the old pharmacy serves as a vintage book and craft store.

Still, it is a pretty sweet gem for those who love literature and the talent of James Joyce.

Iveagh Gardens, Dublin, Ireland

20. Go for a Peaceful Stroll in the Iveagh Gardens

Ok, so right in the heart of Dublin lies the lesser known Iveagh Gardens. The park is only a short walk from the extremely popular and busy St. Stephens Green Park.

The Iveagh Gardens is a great place to go if you want to have a little relaxation time while on your travels in Dublin.

The park is small but very rarely busy, making it the perfect hidden gem to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

For those of you who are wondering, the word ‘Iveagh’ is pronounced as ‘Ivy’. What can I say…the Irish language is a complicated one.

Winding Stair Bookshop, Dublin, Ireland

21. Winding Stair Bookshop

Visit one of Ireland’s oldest surviving independent bookshop, the Winding Stair . The colourful bookshop is home to both new and second hand books all sold at exceptional value.

The credit themselves in stocking some more ‘unusual books’ that are not normally stocked in larger chain bookstores.

They have a wide range of genres ranging from ‘fiction, poetry, drama, current affairs, gardening, cookery, art and design, humour, non-fiction and a children’s section’.

But…not only is the bookshop truly unique in its own right. It also serves a multipurpose with the restaurant’s next store serving under the same name. It’s the best of both world’s.

Rory Gallagher's Corner in Temple Bar

22. Find Rory Gallagher’s Corner in Temple Bar

Ireland is known for it’s musicians, and one of the places you often see our talented buskers play is in the Temple Bar area.

So, our next hidden gem in Dublin is in the perfect location.

Go wandering around the streets of temple bar in search for Rory’s Corner.

Once you find it, look up. You will find an exact replica of the 1916 Fender Strarocaster Guitar owned by Rory Gallagher himself. Rory was an Irish musician believed to be the best blues guitarists in the world. Rory passed in 1995 and the memorial was created in 2006.

2 Day Dublin Itinerary Custom House, Dublin, Ireland

23. Go to Tara Street for the Best View of the Custom House

Possibly, one of the most stunning buildings in all of Dublin is the Custom House.

It is located in the heart of Dublin City and at certain times of the day the 18th century building reflects onto the River Liffey.

The best spot to take a picture of the Custom House is from Tara Street. I’d suggest going in early in the morning for the picture perfect reflection.

The building is also lit up at night making this the perfect spot for some night time photography of Dublin.

Famine Memorial in North Dock Dublin

24. Reflect at the Famine Memorial in North Dock, Dublin

The Famine Memorials located on the North Docklands was made back 1997 by Dublin sculptor Rowan Gillespie.

The memorial pays tribute to over 1 million people who died during the Irish famine.

The famine had a huge impact on the Irish and our population dropped by nearly 25%.

Due to those who died from starvation and those who emigrated abroad.

We as a country have still not recovered from this devestating history, so much so that the population is still too this day less than the pre famine days.

National Photographic Archive, Temple Bar, Dublin, Ireland

So, this next one, is something even I didn’t know anything about until recently. I was strolling the streets of temple bar with my camera in one hand and my phone in the other and when I bent down to get a reflection puddle shot, a man stopped me to ask what I was doing. He presumed I was a tourist, and if I am being honest I don’t blame him, I was rocking the tourist look that day. He told me to check out the National Photographic Archive. And…boy am I glad I did.

The National Photographic Archive is a FREE exhibition that showcases the archived collections of the National Library of Ireland. It is a great place to learn about the troubles of Ireland. I 100% recommend you pop in, even if it is only for 10 minutes or so.

Non Touristy Things to do in Dublin

For the final section of this post I want to show you some of the best non touristy things to do in Dublin. Let’s explore the city like a local, from the mostbest sunset locations, walks and experiences.

The Sunset at Howth Lighthouse

26. Catch the Sunset in Howth

Another fantastic thing to do in Howth is catch the sun go down over the water. There are many wonderful sunset locations in Dublin but I think Howth is my personal favourite.

Howth is also a popular place to go on a day trip from Dublin . While, the coastal town is still located in County Dublin.

The beautiful surroundings and having access to one of the best Cliff walks in Ireland makes visitors feel as if they left the city far behind.

It is the only place in the Capital where the sunsets on the water. Head out onto the pier and walk toward the Howth lighthouse. There you will have the perfect view of the sky changing from day to night.

It is easy to reach Howth via the DART train or a local taxi (although Dublin is expensive so I wouldn’t advise this)

Dublin Secret Spots Kiliney Hill, Dublin, Ireland

27. Spend the day exploring Kiliney Hill and the surrounding area

Kiliney Hill is possibly one of my favourite walks in Dublin . The easy going uphill walk offers outstanding views from the top. With panoramic views of the Dublin seaside to the left and an outstanding view of the Wicklow mountains to the right.

It is possible to spend hours sitting there, admiring the view and watching the world go by.

After spending a few hours on the hill, why not go for a dip in the ocean at another amazing hidden gem in Dublin, the Vico Bathing Place. Or otherwise known as the ‘Dublin baths’.

If you are looking to discover some more hidden walks in Dublin, consider visiting Ticknock for an epic view of the city.

unique dublin tours

28. Go back in Time at the Stella in Rathmines

Get ready to go back in time with the Stella Movie Theatre in Rathmines. The old movie theatre has been restored to ‘reflect the glamour and glitz of the 1920’s for an entire new generation of movie-goers’.

This is honestly such a unique movie experience to enjoy while in Dublin. The seats represent a 1920 style lounge chairs that visitors can lie back and cuddle into as the movie plays.

The theatre is also kitted with a cushioned foot stool, a blanket and a side table for all your movie snacks and drinks.

Movie goers can order a range of food and drink, which are brought out your seats when ready.

War Memorial Gardens at the Phoenix Park

29. War Memorial Gardens at the Phoenix Park

Next on the list is the National War Memorial Garden’s located beside the Phoenix Park in Dublin.

This stunning garden is a tribute to the 49,400 Irish soldiers who lost their lives in ‘the Great War, 1914–1918’.

It is a beautiful garden that has two identical flower bed sections that lay side by side of each other.

The Memorial garden is not super known and is a great place to visit and pay respect to the lives lost.

It’s also a great starting point for those wanting to explore the Phonix park.

All, while doing a completely non touristy thing to do in Dublin.

The Aras an Uachtarain, County Dublin, Ireland

30. Visit Ireland’s Presidents House the ‘Aras an Uachtarain’

The ‘Aras an Uachtarain’ is the official residence of the President of Ireland. Michael D the Irish president kindly allows members of the public to take a tour of the residence. And the best thing about it is it doesn’t cost a dime. Yes, that’s right it’s 100% FREE. And possibly one of the best FREE Things to do in Dublin.

The tours are delivered by the Office of Public Works and allows visitors to view the main reception and state rooms of Áras an Uachtaráin.

The tour takes around an hour to complete and are available most Saturdays throughout the year. For those interested in taking part in the tour, tickets are sold on first come first served basis from the Phoenix park visitor centre.

Deer Spotting in the Phoenix, Dublin, Ireland

31. Go Deer Spotting in the Phoenix Park

A visit to the Phoenix Park is a must on any Ireland itinerary , but did you know that the park is home to over 400 deer? Yep, that’s right, 400 HUNDRED :O

If you plan on visiting the park during your trip to Dublin be sure to keep an eye out for the herd. They tend to stick together and I have seen them a handful of times hanging out by the Pope’s cross.

With that being said it is extremely hard to find the deer on foot, so consider renting a car or bike to cover more ground. After all, the deer are free to roam the 707 hectares park.

If you so happen to come across a park warden, ask if they could point you in the right direction.

*It is important to note that feeding the deer human food is prohibited. In the photo above, I was holding leaves and the deer came over towards me*

Transport in Dublin

32. Use Dublin Bikes to Travel Around the City

Did you know that it is FREE to use Dublin bikes?

Yes, that’s right! Riders can avail of a 30-minute FREE cycle session once they return the bike before the time is up.

They can then pick up another bike and start the timer all over again.

Just be mindful that to avail of this service, riders must register and put in their credit card details, just in case they go over the 30-minute limit. And, it is so important to know the rules of the road in Ireland before deciding to rife one of these bikes. I can not stress that enough.

unique dublin tours

33. The VCC (Speak Easy)

One truly unique thing to do in Dublin is visit one of the cities many speak easy’s. My favourite is the VCC in Temple Bar. You HAVE to book and enter through an unassuming door. I felt like I was transported back in time.

The decor is gorgeous and the atmosphere is cosy and intimate. It’s the perfect spot to catch up with friends or enjoy a romantic date night. The staff is super friendly and knowledgeable about their craft, and they take great care in selecting only the freshest and highest quality ingredients for their cocktails.

I loved trying their unique drinks and was blown away by the creativity and attention to detail that went into each one.

So if you’re looking for a truly special bar experience in Dublin, don’t miss the Vintage Cocktail Club.

unique dublin tours

34. The Gap Mountain Biking

I recently went mountain biking in The Gap and to be honest I can not believe it’s not more well-known! Although it’s not technically located in Dublin, it’s only a short drive away in Wicklow, so it’s definitely worth checking out if you’re in the area.

The trails are well-maintained and offer a great mix of easy and challenging routes, so there’s something for everyone. As you cycle out of the forest you are presented with Epic views of the Wicklow mountains and beyond. That was my favourite part!

It is also quite reasonably priced, they offer a range of options from rentals and guided tours.

The staff is super friendly and knowledgeable, and they’re happy to help with anything you need. I had an amazing time at The Gap and can’t wait to go back again soon!

Hidden Gems in Dublin Map

Thanks for reading!

I hope you enjoyed this post and have an amazing time on your trip to Ireland. If you need any help with your planning feel free to message me on Instagram or Facebook 🙂

Like this the top Dublin Hidden Gems? Well, why not pin it on Pinterest?

Dublin Hidden Gems Pinterest Graphic

Disclaimer: I was invited by the Dublin Undersail and Dublin City Kayaking as a guest to enjoy the experience. As always all opinions are my own. This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I may make a small commission at no extra cost to you.

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15 Best Dublin Tours: Food, Culture and More!

Picture of Nicola Rae

  • By Nicola Rae
  • June 1, 2020
  • Category: Dublin

Whether you’re new to Dublin or a seasoned pro, tours can be a great way to experience a new side of the city. Covering everything from food and booze to history and the downright spooky, these tours will help you dig deeper into the Irish capital.

In this post, I’ll break down the 15 best Dublin tours so you can experience all Dublin has to offer.

In This Post:

1. Best Walking Tour Of Dublin

2. dublin hop-on hop-off bus tour, 3. fast pass book of kells and dublin castle tour, 4. guinness storehouse tour, 5. exclusive guinness storehouse tour with connoisseur, 6. dublin by kayak sightseeing tour, 7. dark side of dublin walking tour, 8. jameson whiskey distillery tour and tasting, 9. best dublin local food tour, 10. traditional irish pub tour in dublin, 11. luxury whiskey and food tasting in dublin, 12. afternoon tea on a vintage bus tour around dublin, 13. irish whiskey museum tour and whiskey blending class, 14. dublin traditional irish music pub crawl, 15. jewellry making with a pro, final thoughts on the top dublin tours.

One of the best ways to get familiar with Dublin is to take a walking tour of the city center. In doing so, you’ll get to see some Dublin highlights and famous sightseeing destinations.

I love walking tours. If I’m exploring a new European city , I try to do a walking tour early in my trip because it gives me ideas for things I might want to explore later.

Getting home from a trip only to realize I missed something awesome is a terrible feeling, and a walking tour is a great way to make sure that doesn’t happen.

This guided walk by Finn McCools Tours will take you to many of Dublin’s must-see attractions like O’Connell Street, Trinity College, Christchurch Cathedral, and Temple Bar.

Your guide will share local tips and historical facts while you get a sense of everything the city has to offer.

trinity college dublin where to stay

Dublin Walking Tour Logistics:

  • Duration: 90 minutes
  • Starting Location: O’Connell Street at the O’Connell Statue
  • Includes: Tour Guide
  • Booking: Click here for tickets

Like most major cities, Dublin has a Hop-on Hop-off bus tour. This bus tour will take you to all the main attractions in the Irish capital, including the Guinness Storehouse, Trinity College, St. Stephens Green, and more!

The tour includes an onboard commentary explaining each point of interest and a map of popular Dublin attractions.

You’re free to get on and off the bus as you please, making this a great option for those who want to do a self-guided Dublin tour without miles of walking.

If I don’t have a lot of time in a city, I try to grab a Hop-on Hop-off pass.

It’s quicker than learning a new public transportation system and it’s nice to hear the guided commentary while traveling between attractions. In Dublin, you can grab a 24-hour or 48-hour pass depending on your travel schedule.

dublin hop on bus best tours to do

Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour Logistics:

  • Duration: 24 hours or 48 hours
  • Starting Location: You can get on the bus at any of the stops on its itinerary
  • Includes: Unlimited bus travel for the duration of your pass, guided commentary as you travel
  • Booking: Click here

On my first trip to Dublin , I was wowed by the Dublin Castle and Book of Kells. The grounds were breathtaking and the exhibits were packed with history.

The Book of Kells certainly didn’t disappoint and I probably would have moved into the Trinity Library if they let me.

The only downside of my visit was that I had to wait in line for over an hour just to get in. Had I known about this fast-pass access tour of the Book of Kells and the Dublin Castle, it would have been a gamechanger.

With this tour, you get to skip the line and explore the attraction with a tour guide.

Your guide will take you through the gardens of the Dublin Castle, the impressive Trinity College Library, and the Book of Kells exhibition.

If you want a more streamlined experience with a knowledgable guide, this tour is a great choice!

dublin castle weekend itinerary

Book of Kells and Dublin Castle Tour Logistics:

  • Duration: 2.5 hours
  • Starting Location: Trinity College Main Gate
  • Includes: Entrance to Book of Kells at Trinity College Library

You can’t visit Dublin without seeing the Guinness Storehouse . This iconic Dublin landmark has a reputation for being one of the top things to see in Ireland, let alone Dublin!

The Guinness Storehouse facility is sprawling and rich with information. I felt like I was in an amusement park — a delightfully beer-themed amusement park!

Tours are self-guided and you’ll be able to see exactly how that famous Guinness beer is created from start to finish. In addition to learning about the science of brewing, you’ll learn about the history of Guinness at St. James’s Gate.

Finally, you’ll end your tour with a perfect pint in the panoramic Gravity Bar high above the city.

guinness storehouse

Guinness Storehouse Tour Logistics:

  • Duration: Self-Paced, recommended 2-3 hours
  • Starting Location: St. James’s Gate, Dublin
  • Includes: Access to Guinness Storehouse, Gravity Bar, and 1 pint of Guinness.

If you’re looking for an even more memorable Guinness Storehouse experience, you can sign up for a private session with a professional Guinness connoisseur.

With this upscale tour, you’ll skip the crowds and be taken to a private bar in the Guinness Storehouse. There, you’ll learn about four varieties of Guinness from an officially trained connoisseur.

Of course, you’ll get to try all four types of this iconic beer, all from the comfort of your exclusive bar.

Activities to do in Dublin Guinness Storehouse

Exclusive Guinness Storehouse Tour Logistics:

  • Duration: 2 hours
  • Starting Location: Guinness Storehouse at St. James’s Gate
  • Includes: Private bar access, 4 types of Guinness, private Guinness connoisseur

Want to see Dublin from a different perspective? How about from a kayak on the river Liffey?

In this Dublin kayaking tour, you’ll paddle past some of the top city attractions with an experienced guide.

The kayaking tour is perfect if you like a bit of physical activity mixed in with your sightseeing. All ability levels are welcome and you’ll definitely leave with a unique Dublin memory.

kayaking in dublin tours

Kayak Sightseeing Tour Logistics:

  • Duration: 1.5 hours
  • Starting Location: Custom House Quay, North Dock, Dublin
  • Includes: Kayak equipment, life vest, waterproof clothing protection, tour guide

If you’ve got a knack for all things spooky and creepy, you won’t want to miss this Dark Side of Dublin walking tour by Sandemans New Europe.

While Dublin may look beautiful and peaceful on the outside, it has some dark and freaky history below the surface.

In this walking tour, your guide will share stories that you won’t find in the guide books — tales of hauntings, serial killers, cults, and ghosts. Perfect for history buffs and adrenalin junkies alike.

Dark Side of Dublin Walking Tour Logistics:

  • Starting Location: 10 Essex Street East, Temple Bar

Jameson is one of the most famous Irish whiskeys. In this distillery tour and tasting, you’ll learn about how it’s made and what makes Jameson stand out from the competition.

See the original Jameson distillery buildings on Bow Street, sample a taste right from the barrel, and see if you can spot the differences in a Jameson taste test.

I’m proud to say that I passed the test and somehow managed to pick out the Jameson from a flight of samples!

Bottles of Jameson

Jameson Whiskey Distillery Tour Logistics:

  • Duration: 45 minutes
  • Starting Location: Jameson Distillery Bow Street
  • Includes: tour guide, whiskey tasting, Jameson cocktail

Foodies, this one is for you! Spend the afternoon exploring some of the best cuisines in Dublin on this Local Food Tour.

On this three-hour guided experience, you’ll stop at eight different restaurants, pubs, markets, and shops. As you sample delicious foods, your guide will discuss important elements of Irish food history and culture.

Reviewers say you’d better come hungry because you’re not going to want to miss anything at these fabulous local eateries.

best irish food boxti

Dublin Walking Food Tour Logistics:

  • Duration: 3 hours
  • Starting Location: Grattan Statue in College Green
  • Includes: Food, Drinks, Guided Tour

This traditional Irish pub tour will take you out of the tourist area and into some of Dublin’s best pubs . You’ll visit 3-4 different pubs and sample different local drinks like whiskey, craft beer, and Guinness.

Expect to learn about Irish pub and craft beer culture while connecting with your tourmates in this intimate, authentic experience. Guests loved the knowledgeable guide and the chance to enjoy an evening of traditional Irish music.

best pub tours in dublin

Traditional Irish Pub Tour Logistics:

  • Duration: 4 hours
  • Starting Location: The Spire on O’Connell Street
  • Includes: Guided tour to 3-4 different pubs, tasting of craft beer, Guinness, single malt Irish whiskey, and craft Irish gin and tonic

Still hungry? I’ve got you covered! This luxury whiskey and food tasting in Dublin will let you explore some of the finest whiskeys, cheeses, and chocolates you can find in the city.

On this tour, you’ll sample five premium Irish whiskeys that have each been thoughtfully paired with fresh cheese or chocolates.

This food and whiskey experience will take you to three different pubs in the city center. And your guide will make sure you leave more of a whiskey expert than you were when you arrived.

Luxury Whiskey and Food Tasting Tour Logistics:

  • Starting Location: Dingle Whiskey Bar
  • Includes: Tour Guide, 5 whiskey tastings, artisan cheeses and chocolates

This tour might be one of the most unique things to do in Dublin! Enjoy afternoon tea and snacks while you cruise around the city in a fully restored double-decker bus from the 1960’s.

As you explore the city on your adorable vintage bus, tour guides will share their favorite Dublin tales and interesting historical information.

You’ll get to relax with a delicious assortment of sandwiches, scones, and desserts while sipping on tea or coffee in this charming time warp.

afteroon tea in dublin vintage bus

Afternoon Tea and Vintage Bus Tour Logistics:

  • Duration: 80 minutes
  • Starting Location: 4 Essex St. East, Temple Bar
  • Includes: Full afternoon tea with bottomless beverages, souvenir cup

You’ll feel like a true whiskey expert after attending this Irish Whiskey Museum Tour and whiskey blending experience. This Dublin activity kicks off with a 45-minute guided tour of the Irish Whiskey Museum by a knowledgable whiskey enthusiast.

After learning about 2000 years of Irish whiskey history, you’ll be taken to a tasting room where you can sample four types of famous Irish whiskey. Your guide will teach you proper tasting techniques and you’ll learn the backstory of each pour.

Then, with your newfound expertise, you’ll get a chance to create your own personal whiskey blend. Once your custom whiskey is perfect, you’ll get to take home a miniature bottle of your masterpiece.

Irish Whiskey Museum Tour and Whiskey Blending Class Logistics:

  • Starting Location: Irish Whiskey Museum, 119 Grafton Street, Dublin
  • Includes: Museum tour, four whiskey samples, a mini bottle of blended whiskey

Part of what makes the Dublin pub culture so special is the lively music scene. In this Traditional Irish Music Pub Crawl, you’ll get to visit two popular pubs accompanied by musicians.

These musicians will be your guides for the evening and at each stop, you’ll hear a live performance.

Don’t miss this unique chance to go behind the scenes of the Dublin music culture on the Irish Music Pub Crawl.

Live music in dublin best tours

Irish Music Pub Crawl Logistics:

  • Starting Location: 18 Anglesea Street
  • Includes: seating at each bar on the tour, live musical performances, guided tour

Learn how to make a sterling silver ring from scratch with pros! 

This is a great experience to have whether you’re a solo traveller, a family, or a couple. You’ll mark your silver to size it, use a handsaw to cut it, form the ring, and shape it with a mallet.

After it’s soldered, you get to make any markings you want on the ring — how you want it curved, the textures you like, and more! You’ll use a planishing hammer and a file to do this.

At the end, simply polish it up and put it on your finger (or, pack it away as a gift for someone). 

This is one of the most interesting and fun experiences and tours in Dublin. 

  • Starting Location: 24 Drury Street
  • Includes: tea, coffee and water, a chocolate bar snack, materials for making a ring, and you keep the ring that you’ve forged! 

These tours in Dublin can enhance your experience by giving you the opportunity to connect with locals, learn about the city’s history, and discover hidden spots that most people overlook.

If you want to get to know Dublin faster with the help of an experienced guide, grab one of the tours above and let the adventure begin!

Images in this article are courtesy of Shutterstock.com — a website for sourcing royalty-free images and videos.

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The 15 Best Dublin Tours for Food, Culture And More!

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About The Author

Nicola is a world traveller and online English teacher. She spent 2 months living in Dublin while exploring all corners of the city and fell in love with it. You can learn more about Nicola on her website, See Nic Wander .

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Led by experts in everything from Irish history to where to get the best food, Dublin's tours are hard to beat. See and taste much of the city in one go on a guided tour by foot, bike, boat or bus.

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Discover the captivating life and times of Dublin’s literati in an engaging, off-the-beaten-path private walking tour of the capital of the Emerald Isle that many famous poets and writers called home.

Explore some of the most important sites of the Easter uprising in Dublin in 1916, and learn about Ireland’s long road to independence from British rule on this private walking tour.

Enjoy a private welcome tour of Dublin with an expert guide on this introduction and orientation city stroll where you will discover the highlights of Ireland's capital and a few hidden gems too!

Immerse yourself in the history and life of the Irish Capital and discover the best of Dublin highlights on a half-day tour including a visit to the world-famous Trinity College and the Book of Kells.

Enjoy the True Dublin Experience and enjoy its traditional, casual and welcoming atmosphere where locals gather to meet old and new friends while tasting a pint of beer or "the black stuff".

Discover the best of Dublin in a day including a guided visit to the Book of Kells at Trinity College and to the Guinness Storehouse to explore on your own.

Discover Ireland's most popular landmark, the Cliffs of Moher, which stretches for 5 kilometres along the Wild Atlantic Way on this private day trip from Dublin to one of the wonders of the world.

Journey through the Irish Valley of Kings, including the historic Boyne Valley and Newgrange, as you discover its myths, legends and bloodshed on this private day trip from Dublin.

Join the fastest growing community of professional tour guides.

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ChaperoneVIP

Book your authentic Irish private tour with ChaperoneVIP for an unforgettable experience with Éamonn, your local Dubliner.

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A Chara, (my friend)

Éamonn here, your own personal tour guide and driver for your Irish adventure. As a Dublin man born and bred who also has family in the south and west of the island, I’ve always had a great appreciation for Ireland as a whole, our history, and our people.

Over the years I have personally welcomed hundreds of tour groups, made up of friends, families, some with Irish ancestry and often first time visitors on a bucket list trip of a lifetime! I also specialise in ancestry adventure tours for US visitors making the trip back to the old sod.

My high-quality tour experiences are carefully crafted to make the most of your time in Ireland with an emphasis on seeing and doing as much authentic Ireland as possible with each and every unique tour including my four personal pillars:

History, Music, Craic (which is our word for ‘fun’) and a pint (Our beloved pub culture).

It’s important to me that my guests meet locals and have a truly genuine experience when in Ireland and feel the warm Irish hospitality that we are renowned for and that you will go home with a true understanding of our unique and friendly country, and its people.

Hope to see you in Ireland soon!

- Éamonn.

ChaperoneVIP Private Tours

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Your Irish journey begins here.

Reserve your ChaperoneVIP tour with Éamonn for an unforgettable trip.

Our Mission

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Although I regularly get to visit these beautiful and fun places in Ireland, I am aware that for my tour guests, it may be the one and only time so it’s important for me that EVERY TIME we make great memories and it is an authentic and special Irish experience. This is achieved by truly understanding my guests and getting to know them so that I can tailor a great tour in advance and then even fine tune it on the day!

Please note that the tour ideas listed on the website are only suggestions and every single tour is personalised to you after some brief correspondence as we collaborate together to make it a special experience to engage everybody.

The main tour van is a spacious and comfortable vehicle with air con and a mic for up to 7 passengers.

The BMW 740 sedan is exclusively for Dublin City tours for up to 3 passengers.

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Dublin Tours

Choose from

Our Ultimate Dublin City and Bay Tours

Family Fun in Dublin City Tour

the 1916 Irish Revolution Tour

Dublin City and Pub Tour

Dublin Rivera and Glendalough Tour

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Irish Countryside Tours

Day tours from Dublin with an average duration of 8 to 9 hours. Options include

Wicklow mountains drive and live working sheepdogs demonstration

The Full Kilkenny experience

Galway city pubs, moonshiners and craic out West

Irelands oldest pub and old distillery combo

Belfast: The IRA and political troubles

The Long Way to Tipperary tour with ancient Rock of cashel and beautiful Cahir castle

Braveheart castle & Newgrange 5000 year old chamber tour

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The Great Irish Road Trip

Extended day tours from Dublin to the North, South or West Irish coasts, average duration of 11 - 12 hours. Options include:

The Cliffs of Moher & West of Ireland experience

The Giants of Causeway and Northern Ireland coastline experience

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Booking Enquiry

Have a question or want to enquire about booking? Fill out the booking enquiry form and Éamonn will get back to you ASAP.

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Get in contact with Éamonn with any questions you might have about our irish tours.

  • Itinerary: Kilbeggan Whiskey Distillery 1757 Moran’s Oyster Cottage (food stop) Claddagh harbour Salt Hill Eyre Square Tigh Choili (Trad Music) Latin quarter, Shop Street Sean’s Bar (Ireland’s oldest Bar)
  • Itinerary: Toners Pub – Situated on Baggot Street, Toners is one of Dublin’s oldest and most famous traditional pubs. Kehoes Heritage Pub – first licensed in 1803 when the winds of revolution permeated the Dublin air and now this authentic, unpretentious Victorian shrine is one of the last great heritage pubs of Dublin. Confession Box – Dating back to the Irish War of Independence (1919-1921), this pub has a quirky story behind where its name originated. The Celt – Traditional Irish Pub Darkie Kelly’s – One of the best-known pubs in Dublin for traditional Irish music. We are in one of the oldest parts of Dublin city and one of the most enduring legends surrounding Dublin must be that of the woman – Darkey Kelly. 37 Dawson Street – Opulent and quirky whiskey bar and restaurant with cocktails and modern food, plus whiskey tasting. Dingle Whiskey Bar – A Dublin outpost of the Dingle Distillery in Kerry, it was carved out of a former jewellery shop on Nassau Street. Porterhouse – The Porterhouse in Temple Bar opened in 1996 as Dublin’s first pub brewery. The Brazen Head – Officially Ireland’s oldest pub, dating back to 1198. The Brazen Head pub is famous for live Irish music sessions & an award-winning restaurant. Hole in the Wall – The longest pub in Ireland and has the longest continuous bar counter. Johnny Foxes – Ireland’s highest traditional pub in a mountain location with decorative farm tools, hooley nights and live Irish music. The Gravediggers Pub – Ireland’s most haunted bar. The pub got its nickname because it’s built into the wall of Glasnevin Cemetery and gravediggers used to come in for a few scoops after a hard night’s digging. The Dawson Lounge – Officially the city’s smallest pub, the Dawson Lounge is well worth a visit for a pint or two. The Sidecar Bar – The Sidecar is a stylish, elegant, and modern take on 30’s cocktail bar. Located in Dublin city centre and part of The Westbury Hotel The Mint Bar – This great little bar is located at the Westin Hotel – they make some excellent cocktails – both classic as well as some more modern twists. 37 Dawson Street – Opulent and quirky whiskey bar and restaurant with cocktails and modern food, plus whiskey tasting. Octagon Bar – Stylish venue in an upscale hotel, with a cool 8-sided bar and art deco back room, plus cocktails. The Liquor Rooms – Award-winning cocktail bar and late-night venue. Creative cocktails and sharing platters in a cosy basement bar with opulent rooms, plus a dance floor.
  • Itinerary: Guinness Storehouse area St. Patricks Cathedral Christchurch Cathedral Dublin City Walls River Liffey Ha’Penny Bridge Phoenix Park Arbour Hill Cemetery The Famine Structures Coast Road/Dublin Bay Howth Head & Harbour Howth Castle John Kavanagh’s – The Gravediggers Bar The Jameson Distillery Airfield working farm – Dundrum.
  • Are tours available year-round? ChaperoneVIP offers private tours throughout the year. You can choose the best season for your visit, be it the vibrant spring, warm summer, colourful autumn, or magical winter. Éamonn will make sure your experience is optimised for the season.
  • How can I contact Éamonn to discuss my tour preferences? You can reach out to Éamonn directly by using our Contact page on the ChaperoneVIP website. He will promptly respond to your inquiry and begin planning your unforgettable Irish adventure.
  • What distinguishes ChaperoneVIP's private tours in Ireland from the rest? Éamonn is a private tour specialist and is passionate about Irish history and culture, ensuring that your tour is both unique and educational.
  • Can we customise our tour itinerary? Absolutely! Our private tours are designed with your desires in mind. Éamonn will work closely with you to craft an itinerary that suits your specific interests, whether it's historical landmarks, natural wonders, or academic pursuits.
  • Itinerary: Georgian Dublin – See the famously colourful and elegant Georgian townhouses. Aviva Stadium – Pass by the beautifully designed home of Irish soccer & rugby. Coastal Drive – We hug Dublin Bay and enjoy famous landmarks such as the Poolbeg stacks and 200-year-old Martello Tower. Dun Laoghaire Harbour – 1916 revolution & maritime history with a bit of seal spotting! Dublin Riviera – As we climb in elevation, we pass Dublin mansions overlooking beautiful Dublin Bay from a peak. Killiney Hill Park – For active guests, we can take a strenuous walk up to a height where we find the Pyramid of Dublin at 500 feet. Manderley Castle – we pass by the historical 1840 home of Irish music legend Enya. Powerscourt House & Gardens – Epic for nature lovers, these Slazenger family gardens, and collection of statues are quite breathtaking. Glencree German Cemetery – Tranquil resting place of German forces washed up onto Irish soil during the World Wars and an international centre for reconciliation. Glendalough – Monastic site of St. Kevin with an incredible old round tower and ruins along with the rugged beauty of the upper lake. Guinness Lake – Owned by the Guinness estate, this private lake, Lough Tay, resembles a pint of the black stuff. Jonnie Fox’s – World famous Irish pub established back in 1798 and one of Ireland's highest pubs with a fantastic museum attached.
  • Itinerary: Arbour Hill cemetery – Final resting place of the 1916 Irish patriots Battle of Mount Street Pearse Street St. Patrick’s Cathedral – Built 1220 – 1260 Liberty Hall Women of 1916 GPO Moore Street
  • Can I customise my private tour to the Cliffs of Moher? Absolutely! ChaperoneVIP specializes in crafting bespoke itineraries. You can personalize your tour by adding specific attractions or activities to make it truly yours.
  • What is included in a Northern Ireland Tour with ChaperoneVIP? Our Northern Ireland Tour, guided by owner Éamonn, encompasses iconic locations like the Giant's Causeway, Belfast, and more. We include transportation, expert commentary, and the flexibility to cater to your preferences.
  • Why should I choose ChaperoneVIP for a private tour to the Cliffs of Moher? ChaperoneVIP provides a unique, immersive experience, with a dedicated focus on customer satisfaction. Our expert guides, like owner Éamonn, bring in-depth knowledge of the region, making your Cliffs of Moher visit truly special.
  • What is ChaperoneVIP's approach to private tours in Ireland? ChaperoneVIP offers exclusive, tailored private tours to ensure an unforgettable experience, whether you're visiting the Cliffs of Moher or exploring Northern Ireland. Our focus is on personalized, luxury travel.
  • Itinerary: - River Liffey sights: since 1816 The famous Ha’penny bridge - Irish revolutionary cemetery: The 1916 Irish rebellion leaders final resting place - Dublin emigration history: The famine sculptures - The Phoenix park: A vast Dublin City gem - Try traditional Irish sports: For sports fans we can show you the Gaelic sport of hurling - Guinness brewery area: Dominating the Liberties area of Dublin 8 since 1759 - Dublin whiskey quarter: Old relics of distilleries and the modern whiskey boom! - Traditional Dublin Guinness pub: maybe ‘The Gravediggers’ Established 1833! - Dublin whiskey distillery: why not try an Irish coffee or a tasting flight - Old city walls: the last original gateway into olde Dublin - Dublin cathedral’s area: almost 1000 years of worship - Howth harbour: A picture perfect fishing village, 800 year old Anglo Irish castle and a refreshing cliff walk with Dublin Bay views - Temple Bar area: Dublins party central with a great atmosphere - live music in a fun Dublin pub: what a way to finish!
  • Are meals and entrance fees included in the tour cost? Meals and entrance fees are not included, allowing you the flexibility to choose where and what you'd like to eat, as well as any additional attractions you wish to explore.
  • What is the best time to visit Ireland for a private tour? Ireland's beauty is year-round. Spring and summer offer mild weather, while autumn showcases stunning foliage. Winter tours provide a unique, cosy experience.
  • Is transportation included in the tour package? Yes, luxury transportation is included in all our private tours for your comfort and convenience.
  • How do I book a private Dublin tour with ChaperoneVIP? Booking is easy! Simply visit our website, select your preferred tour, and fill out the booking form. We'll get in touch to plan your dream Irish adventure.
  • Is there a minimum group size for private tours? Our private tours are designed for individuals, couples, families, or small groups, and there is no minimum group size requirement.
  • Can I customise my tour itinerary? Absolutely! We specialize in creating personalized tours. Share your interests and preferences, and we'll craft an itinerary that suits you.
  • Can I customise my private tour in Ireland with ChaperoneVIP? Absolutely! ChaperoneVIP specializes in crafting bespoke experiences. You can tailor your tour itinerary to include specific destinations, activities, and themes that align with your interests.
  • What types of private tours does ChaperoneVIP offer? ChaperoneVIP provides a range of private tours, including historical, cultural, ancestral, and scenic tours throughout Ireland. These can be customised to suit your preferences and interests.
  • How can I book a private tour with ChaperoneVIP? Booking a private tour with us is easy. Simply visit our website and fill out the booking enquiry form or contact us via email or phone. Éamonn will personally assist you in planning your ideal tour.
  • What is the duration of ChaperoneVIP private tours? Tour durations can vary based on your preferences. We offer half-day, full day and extended day tours, allowing you to explore Ireland at your own pace.
  • What is ChaperoneVIP? ChaperoneVIP is a distinguished tour company offering private, bespoke tours in Ireland. Éamonn, the owner and expert guide, has an extensive background in Irish history, culture, and geography, ensuring a personable and fully immersive experience.
  • Itinerary: Galway Bay Kilcolgan Kinvara Hazel Mountain Chocolates Lisdoonvara Cliffs of Moher Seans Bar Doolin Pier
  • Itinerary: Titanic Experience Black Taxi Tour Falls Road Giants Caseway Game of Thrones – Iron Islands
  • Itinerary: Giants Causeway Dark Hedges Ballintoy Dunluce Castle Bushmills Distillery
  • Itinerary: Guinness Factory area – leaving Dublin, we pass through the Liberties area of Dublin where Guinness history is everywhere. St. Canices Cathedral & Round Tower – an ancient worship site home to a magnificent cathedral with ornate tombs and a 1000+-year-old round tower you can climb! Dominican Black Abbey & St. Mary Cathedral – 2 awe-inspiring locations gloriously representing the Catholic faith in Kilkenny with beautiful architecture and the most incredible stained glass. Kilkenny Castle – 800 years of history changing with the times, Kilkenny castles imposing facade and immaculately restored interior with antique furniture and priceless art is a rare sight to behold. Kytelers Inn – 13th Century pub in the heart of medieval Kilkenny. Smithwick’s experience -Irish Brewery tour for lovers of the original red ale.
  • Itinerary: House of Waterford Crystal Reginald’s Tower (Viking Ireland) Kilkenny Castle St.Canice’s Cathedral & round tower
  • Itinerary: Rock of Cashel Cahir Castle River Suir Horse & Jockey Hotel
  • Itinerary: Castletown House (Manor estate) Sean’s Bar, Athlone (Ireland’s oldest Bar) River Shannon Kilbeggan Whiskey Distillery 1757 Athlone Castle

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Things to do near temple bar, things to do near northside.

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Glasnevin Cemetery

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Ireland’s National Cemetery is the final resting place of over 1.5 million people, including a few names you may recognise…

Located in Dublin city, Glasnevin Cemetery is Ireland’s largest burial place, 124 acres of monuments, crypts, gravestones and other tributes to the dead. The cemetery is home to a who’s who of Ireland’s history, including Eamon DeValera, Michael Collins, Charles Stewart Parnell and Countess Markievicz. Legendary statesman Daniel O’Connell even has his own tower. The O’Connell Tower was erected in 1855 to commemorate the great man, who lies in a crypt beneath. Climb the 19th-century staircase for some of the best views over the surrounding city.  

The inhabitants of Glasnevin Cemetery live on through their stories and there are a number of fascinating tours you can take, such as the Dead Interesting Tour, focused on lesser-known folks, and the Women in History tour that features some of the amazing women buried here. Don’t miss out on the Extra-ordinary Lives exhibition in the Visitor Centre either. It tells unique stories of a lion tamer killed by a lion, a woman who was buried twice and many others. Glasnevin Cemetery is also an exceptional resource for anyone tracing their family history with almost 200 years of burial records digitised and available to professional and amateur genealogists. 

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Glasnevin Cemetery, Dublin city

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Need to know

Uncover Glasnevin’s connections to people and events in the last 200 years of Ireland’s history on the Irish History Tour in Glasnevin Cemetery.

You can buy tickets online for a range of tours, with the option of adding in a visit to the exhibition and the Tower Climb.

Visit Glasnevin Cemetery’s online archive of burial records , which dates back to 1828.

Dublin highlights

Don’t miss these things to see and do

unique dublin tours

The Little Museum of Dublin

Step into one of Dublin’s most elegant houses and envelop yourself in a unique take on the city’s history

unique dublin tours

The Book of Kells and Trinity College

Make your way to Dublin city, and discover a dazzling cultural treasure

unique dublin tours

Guinness Storehouse

Trace the story of Guinness, Ireland's famous stout, on your self-guided tour at the Guinness Storehouse at St James’s Gate in Dublin city!

unique dublin tours

Temple Bar in Dublin city-centre

The best of Dublin city squeezed into a few blocks. Welcome to Temple Bar

unique dublin tours

Dublin's Phoenix Park

Europe’s biggest enclosed public park is teeming with beautiful stately homes and stunning sights, and it’s even got its own herd of fallow deer

unique dublin tours

Kilmainham Gaol

For a hauntingly vivid look back through Ireland’s history, a trip to Kilmainham is a must

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EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum

Allow EPIC to take you on a journey through time as you discover the history of emigration from the island of Ireland

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John Kavanagh The Gravediggers

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National Botanic Gardens

unique dublin tours

Cobblestone

unique dublin tours

St Patrick's Cathedral

unique dublin tours

Step into one of Dublin’s most elegant houses and envelop yourself in a unique take on the city’s history

Trace the story of Guinness, Ireland's famous stout, on your self-guided tour at the Guinness Storehouse at St James’s Gate in Dublin city!

Europe’s biggest enclosed public park is teeming with beautiful stately homes and stunning sights, and it’s even got its own herd of fallow deer

For a hauntingly vivid look back through Ireland’s history, a trip to Kilmainham is a must

John Kavanagh The Gravediggers in Glasnevin, was founded in 1833 and is still in the Kavanagh family.

Founded in 1795, the National Botanic Gardens are a botanic haven within the bustling capital city. Set in Glasnevin, County Dublin, the gardens contain more than 15,000 plant species from habitats around the world. Admission is free.

The Cobblestone pub and music venue is based in Smithfield in Dublin City. The pub has live music every night and is located close to the Four Courts, the National Museum of Ireland Decorative Arts & History and the Jameson Distillery Bow St.

St Patrick’s Cathedral is one of Dublin City's most popular attractions. Founded in 1191 and with a history that dates back to 450 AD, the Cathedral is one of the few buildings left from the medieval city of Dublin. Jonathan Swift, Dean of St Patrick's, is one of around 700 burials on the site.

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OASIS ANNOUNCE THEIR FIRST UK AND IRELAND SHOWS IN SIXTEEN YEARS

  • Aoife Walsh
  • Tue, 27 Aug 2024

Oasis today end years of feverish speculation with the confirmation of a long awaited run of UK and Ireland shows forming the domestic leg of their OASIS LIVE 25 world tour. Oasis will hit Cardiff, Manchester, London, Edinburgh and Dublin in the summer of 2025. Their only shows in Europe next year, this will be one of the biggest live moments and hottest tickets of the decade.

The Oasis live experience is unlike anything else. The roar that greets them as they step on stage. A set full of wall-to-wall classics. The spine-tingling sensation of being in a crowd singing back every word. And especially the charisma, spark and intensity that only comes when Liam and Noel Gallagher are on-stage together.

The brothers have flourished with their own projects since the band split in 2009, with ten UK #1 albums between them as well as countless festival headline sets and stadium and arena shows. But Oasis is something else. There has been no great revelatory moment that has ignited the reunion – just the gradual realisation that the time is right. Yet the timing must be a subconscious influence. This Thursday represents thirty years to the day since their electrifying debut album ‘Definitely Maybe’ was released, while 2025 will see the equally essential second record ‘(What’s The Story) Morning Glory?’ reach that same anniversary.

Oasis commented,

“The guns have fallen silent.

The stars have aligned.

The great wait is over.

It will not be televised.”

Plans are underway for OASIS LIVE ’25 to go to other continents outside of Europe later next year.

Oasis’s legend has only been amplified in their absence. The classics that Liam and Noel have played in their solo shows have inspired phenomenal public demand for the band to make a long-awaited return, while the ‘Knebworth 1996’ film provided a taste of their exhilarating live performances to a whole new generation. They remain a huge draw in the streaming era, with 21.5 million monthly listeners at Spotify alone and a total of 12 billion streams to date. This Friday will also see the release of the Deluxe 30th Anniversary Edition of ‘Definitely Maybe’, which is available to pre-order here.

Tickets for the UK dates go on sale from 9am on Saturday, August 31st. Dublin tickets will be available from 8am that same day from www.ticketmaster.ie ,  subject to licence. The shows are:

4th – Cardiff, Principality Stadium

5th – Cardiff, Principality Stadium

11th – Manchester, Heaton Park

12th – Manchester, Heaton Park

19th – Manchester, Heaton Park

20th – Manchester, Heaton Park

25th – London, Wembley Stadium

26th – London, Wembley Stadium

AUGUST 2025

2nd – London, Wembley Stadium

3rd – London, Wembley Stadium

8th – Edinburgh, Scottish Gas Murrayfield Stadium

9th – Edinburgh, Scottish Gas Murrayfield Stadium

16th – Dublin, Croke Park

17th – Dublin, Croke Park

A quick recap of the Oasis story. Formed in Manchester, the band quickly became one of the biggest cultural phenomenons of the era as ‘Definitely Maybe’ became the fastest-selling debut album in British history – and has since reached 17 x Platinum in recognition of 5 million+ domestic sales. All seven of their studio albums went straight to #1, as did their 2010 compilation ‘Time Flies…’. Their catalogue of features eight #1 singles, from ‘Some Might Say’ to ‘The Importance of Being Idle’, as well as another fifteen Top 10 hits.

That huge following translated to the live arena, most famously playing to 125,000 people each night during two shows at Knebworth. Other big moments included two headline sets at Glastonbury in 1995 and 2004; huge homecoming shows at Manchester City’s Maine Road stadium; and a run of Wembley Stadium gigs which were documented in the live album ‘Familiar To Millions’.

Their accolades have included six BRIT Awards, including the Outstanding Contribution to British Music, two Ivor Novellos, and seventeen NME Awards.

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