Weekend Break in Dublin: Explore the Irish Capital's Hidden Gems

The Irish capital, its cobblestone streets awash with history, welcomes you with warm hospitality on every corner. A weekend in Dublin allows you to explore this vibrant city’s rich cultural tapestry. Stroll along the River Liffey as the Ha’penny Bridge sparkles in the evening light, or lose yourself in the timeless beauty of Trinity College and marvel at the inspirational Book of Kells.

Dublin’s charm extends well beyond its landmarks, however, from laughter echoing from cosy pubs where locals share stories over a glass or two of Guinness to traditional music that fills the air on a winter’s evening. Savour the city’s vibrant culinary scene, explore its art-filled galleries and wander peaceful St. Stephen’s Green as you peer into Dublin’s soul. Whether you’re drawn by its literary past, traditional music or hidden gems, a weekend in Dublin offers an unforgettable experience. Here’s a handy guide to help you make the most of your weekend in this captivating city.

Why not begin your sightseeing at Trinity College, Dublin’s most prestigious university? Established in 1592, its picturesque campus is steeped in history. Wander its cobbled courtyards before entering the Trinity College Library, home to the breathtaking Long Room, an architectural marvel filled with ancient books and manuscripts. The library’s main attraction is the Book of Kells, a ninth-century manuscript showcasing the artistry of early Christian monks.

After soaking up the city’s literary history, head to Dublin Castle, a symbol of British rule in Ireland until 1922. A guided tour will take you through the elegant state apartments, medieval undercroft and the Chapel Royal. Nearby, majestic St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Ireland’s largest place of worship, provides a tantalising insight into Dublin’s religious heritage. Built in 1191, it’s an architectural gem that honours Jonathan Swift, author of Gulliver’s Travels, who served as its dean.

• St. Patrick's Cathedral, St Patrick's Close, Dublin, D08 H6X3
• Self-guided tickets: adults €10, students and seniors €9, children €4.50, infants (0-5) free. Family tickets (two adults and up to three children) €28. Joint entry for St. Patrick's Cathedral and Marsh's Library €15
• Tickets can be bought online and at the cathedral

As the sun sets, make your way to Dublin’s iconic Temple Bar district. Known for its lively atmosphere and cobbled streets, it’s the heart of Dublin’s nightlife. While the area is famous for its watering holes, the highlight is the Temple Bar Pub itself, where you can enjoy live traditional Irish music, a pint of Guinness, and the company of locals and travellers alike. For an authentic experience, venture into Dublin’s oldest pub, The Brazen Head, which dates back to 1198. Remember to plan your public-transport or taxi journey back to your accommodation in advance, so you can enjoy a pint of the black stuff without having to designate a driver.

Start the second day of your weekend in Dublin with a visit to Kilmainham Gaol, a former prison that has become synonymous with Ireland’s struggle for independence. The guided tour brings Ireland’s history to life, recounting the stories of revolutionaries who were imprisoned here. Next, a 20-minute walk through the vibrant city centre takes you to the Guinness Storehouse, where you can delve into the fascinating history of Ireland’s most famous beer. Spread over seven floors, this interactive museum offers insights into the brewing process and culminates with panoramic views of the city from the Gravity Bar, all while sipping a perfectly poured lunchtime pint.

• The Guinness Storehouse, St. James's Gate, Dublin 8, D08 VF8H
• Mid-week entry tickets start at €20 online (€22 at the storehouse itself) and include a self-guided tour, entry to the tasting rooms and a pint of Guinness in the Gravity Bar

If you’re looking for a peaceful spot to unwind after lunch, St. Stephen’s Green is a glorious park in the heart of Dublin. Take a leisurely stroll around its ponds and gardens or relax on a bench to soak up the scenic surroundings. For a spot of retail therapy, Grafton Street is Dublin’s premier shopping district. Expect high-end boutiques, lively street performances and dozens of cafés, including Bewley’s Oriental Café, a Dublin institution for nearly a century.

Dublin is a cultural hotspot and the Abbey Theatre, founded by W.B. Yeats, is renowned for its contemporary Irish productions and classic plays. If you're enjoying a romantic weekend in Dublin, why not treat yourself to dinner at Chapter One after the show? This delightful Michelin-starred eatery is one of the best restaurants in Dublin, serving refined Irish cuisine in an intimate atmosphere. For a more casual yet quintessentially Irish experience, The Woollen Mills is a beloved restaurant serving locally sourced dishes with a modern twist. Enjoying a long weekend Dublin break? There's even more to discover on a third day.

If you're looking for things to do in Dublin that aren't swarming with tourists, the Little Museum of Dublin is a charming attraction in a Georgian townhouse. It makes a wonderful starting-off point for the end of your long weekend in Dublin. Drawing on quirky artefacts and engaging storytelling, it offers a unique look into Dublin’s 20th-century social history. You can then take a short – approximately seven-minute – walk to Merrion Square, home to beautiful Georgian architecture and a statue of Oscar Wilde, one of Dublin’s most famous literary figures. It’s a great spot for a quiet moment and a reminder of Dublin’s literary heritage.

• The Little Museum of Dublin, 33 Pembroke Street Lower, Dublin 2, D02 FK06
• Open: 9am to 5pm every day (last tour from 4pm)
• Ultimate Experience tickets from €20

Art lovers will be spoiled for choice on a long weekend in Dublin, with the National Gallery of Ireland offering an impressive collection of European and Irish works by artists including Caravaggio and Jack B. Yeats. If you’re more interested in traditional music than Dublin's museums, you can catch a walking tour of Irish musical history that takes you through ancient pubs while listening to live performances and learning about the roots of Irish songsmithery. A stroll along the River Liffey to cross the iconic Ha’penny Bridge provides you with stunning views of the city and rounds off the perfect weekend in Dublin.

The best times to visit Dublin are in the late spring (April to June) and early autumn (September to October) when the weather is mild and the city isn’t too busy with tourists. If you're not worried about the crowds, however, consider spending a weekend in Dublin in the middle of March, when a home Six Nations rugby encounter coincides with the St. Patrick's Day celebrations. The city-centre atmosphere is utterly absorbing.
 

Getting around Dublin is easy and you can walk to most of the city’s attractions. If you need to travel longer distances, the Dublin Bus network, LUAS tram system and DART suburban train are all very efficient. A three-day Leap Visitor Card costs just €16 and gives visitors unlimited use of the public transport system. A €75 Dublin Pass gives you free entry to many attractions and includes a hop-on-hop-off bus tour. Many of the city’s museums and galleries, including the National Gallery of Ireland, offer free admission.
 

A weekend in Dublin offers visitors a beautiful blend of history, culture and dynamic energy. Whether you’re enjoying a pint in a traditional pub, discovering the city’s literary past, or immersing yourself in Dublin’s vibrant music and theatre scene, this charming capital leaves an indelible mark. If you're travelling more widely and need to find the perfect hotel in Belfast or London, you're covered here too.