Ah, Dublin! The city of craic (fun), Guinness and enough history to fill a library. But let’s be honest, it can also be a bit pricey.
Fear not, fellow budget traveller! Dublin is bursting with things to see and do that won’t break the bank. In fact, with a tenner in your pocket and a sense of adventure, you’re all set for a fantastic time.
The National Gallery
Free
Art lover or just curious? Dublin’s National Gallery is a must-see for anyone visiting the city. They boast a fantastic collection of European and Irish art, from famous names like Caravaggio and Vermeer to brilliant Irish talents. Wander through rooms filled with beauty, and don’t worry about breaking the bank – entry to the permanent collection is completely free! So why not pop in and see what treasures await?
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Entertainment at Meeting House Square
Free
During the summer months, Meeting House Square transforms into an open-air cinema. They’ve got a whole calendar of free fun lined up, from movie nights under the stars to toe-tapping concerts and even some lawn games to get competitive with your mates. It’s the perfect spot to unwind after a day of exploring, grab some cheap eats from nearby and enjoy the city vibes without breaking the bank. Who knows, you might even discover your new favourite band or movie under the Dublin sky!
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Howth Cliff Walk
Free
If spectacular sea views are your kind of thing, you’ll absolutely adore Howth Cliff. Just a short distance from the bustling city of Dublin, this picture-perfect spot provides a chance to snap those all-important holiday photos with the entire family. Why not see the area by tackling the well-loved Howth Cliff Path Loop?
This 6km clifftop walk takes around 2 hours to complete, starting and finishing in the idyllic village of Howth. Along the way, you’ll see the lighthouse, plenty of greenery, and get a peek into the villagers’ lives. Remember to take your walking boots – the clifftop terrain can be a little rough underfoot, but it’s all worth it to see the stunning coastline!
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Kilmainham Gaol
Adult €8, child €4
Kilmainham Gaol is a haunting former prison that played a significant role in Irish history. The tours are excellent, offering a glimpse into the lives of prisoners and the events that shaped Ireland. You’ll get the chance to wander through the very halls where Irish revolutionaries like the Easter Rising leaders once walked. Plus, tickets are super affordable, making it a history buff’s dream!
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Phoenix Park and Ashtown Castle
Free
Phoenix Park is one of the largest enclosed city parks in Europe and you can easily spend an afternoon there, spotting fallow deer, and breathing in fresh air – all for free. Nestled in the park is a hidden gem – Ashtown Castle, a medieval tower house whispering tales of old. Explore its nooks and crannies, then grab a coffee at the charming Visitor Centre cafe. It’s a perfect way to spend a sunny day in Dublin!
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The Bernard Shaw
This quirky emporium is a haven for foodies, music lovers and art enthusiasts. The Racket Space is home to small film screenings, art exhibitions and music events, with the Racket Store selling everything from vinyl to second-hand fashion.
Imagine this: a sunny afternoon, chilling in their epic beer garden and grabbing a juicy burger (prices from €9.20). They even have a fun “Eatyard” with different vendors, so you can mix and match your meal. The Bernard Shaw hits the spot for good vibes and quirky entertainment, definitely check it out!
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Wander the Liffey Quays
Free
The River Liffey snakes through the heart of Dublin, and the quays are a great spot for a leisurely stroll. Watch the locals fish, admire the city skyline, or grab some fresh seafood from the stalls on offer. If you’re feeling peckish, you can usually find some tasty and affordable street food vendors along the way.
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Marsh Library
Tickets €7
For book lovers, a trip to Marsh’s Library is essential when visiting Dublin. The phenomenal building is over 300 years old and is ripe with history inside. In fact, it was the very first public book collection in Ireland back in 1707.
Whether you’re searching for a particular book or stopping by to appreciate the 18th-century architecture, you’re in for a real treat. The gallery walls are lined with deep mahogany wood bookshelves where over 25,000 classics are stored. There’s even a secret garden to explore! Without a doubt, this is one of Dublin’s most fascinating attractions.
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Photo Museum Ireland
Free
Ever get sucked into scrolling through endless phone pics? Well, take that love of photography and feed it for real at the Photo Museum Ireland in Dublin! They’ve got a constantly changing line-up of cool exhibitions by Irish and international artists, all shown in a bright and airy space. The best part? It’s completely free!
So ditch the filter frenzy and head over to experience photography as art. You might just surprise yourself with what you discover (and it definitely won’t drain your battery).
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Iveagh Gardens (Dublin’s Secret Garden)
Free
Nicknamed Dublin’s secret garden, it would be impossible not to include Iveagh Gardens in our lineup of the city’s hidden gems. This beautiful inner-city escape was designed over 150 years ago in 1865, featuring plenty of eye-catching details.
Inside, you’ll find two diligently sculptured fountains, a spectacular waterfall, and a sundial at the centre of the Iveagh maze. There’s also a vibrant rosarium which springs to life in summer, expansive woodland, and plenty of rockeries. The keepers maintain the grounds immaculately, providing ample opportunities to snap beautiful photos. Why not take the whole family for a breath of fresh air in the city?
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