How many days do you need in Dublin?

Thinking about a trip to Dublin but unsure how long to stay? It really depends on how deep you want to dive into the city’s history, pub culture, and buzzing neighborhoods. If you're just passing through, two days will cover the highlights. But three or four days give you time to soak up the atmosphere, explore beyond the city center, and even take a day trip. This guide breaks down how many days you need in Dublin, along with suggested itineraries to help you make the most of your time.

How many days do you need to see Dublin?

If you're just after the essentials, two days in Dublin is enough for a quick introduction. You can visit Trinity College, Dublin Castle, and the Guinness Storehouse, and still find time for a pint in Temple Bar.

Three days will allow you to explore the city more relaxed. You'll have time for places like Kilmainham Gaol, the National Museum, or even a whiskey tasting.

If you stay four days or longer, you can take a day trip — to Howth for coastal walks, to the Wicklow Mountains to explore nature or even to Kilkenny for medieval charm.

2 days in Dublin

Got just 2 days? You can still cover a lot but expect a fast pace. You'll hit the main historical sites, enjoy Dublin’s pub culture, and get a feel for the city's lively neighborhoods.

Suggested itinerary

This itinerary makes sure you see the must-visit spots while leaving time to soak up the local atmosphere.

Day 1: Historic Dublin and Guinness

Start your day at Trinity College to see the famous Book of Kells and wander through the stunning Long Room Library. From there, walk over to Dublin Castle, which has served as the center of power in Ireland for centuries.

Afterward, head to Christ Church Cathedral, one of Dublin’s oldest buildings, and explore its medieval crypt. If you're hungry, grab lunch at The Woollen Mills, a modern Irish eatery near the Ha’penny Bridge.

In the afternoon, make your way to the Guinness Storehouse, where you’ll learn how Ireland’s most famous stout is made. End the tour with a pint at the Gravity Bar, which offers panoramic views of the city.

For dinner, head to Temple Bar. Sure, it’s touristy, but it’s worth experiencing at least once. Grab a pint and enjoy live music at The Palace Bar — a classic, less-crowded option nearby.

Day 2: More history with local vibes

Start the second day with a visit to Kilmainham Prison, where many Irish revolutionaries were imprisoned. Afterwards, stroll through Phoenix Park, home to wild deer and the residence of the President of Ireland.

For lunch, grab a bite at Brother Hubbard Restaurant, a local favorite that serves fresh and hearty food. Then go to EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum, an interactive museum that tells the story of Irish emigration around the world.

End your itinerary in Smithfield, a neighborhood less crowded than Temple Bar. Take a whiskey-tasting tour at Jameson Distillery, then enjoy a final dinner at L. Mulligan Grocer, known for its craft beer and modern Irish cuisine.

3 days in Dublin

Three days means you can take your time, explore not only the tourist spots, but also delve deeper into the character of Dublin. You'll discover hidden gems, soak up the local culture and even escape to the coast for some fresh sea air.

Suggested itinerary

This plan mixes history, literature, local haunts, and coastal views — so you’re getting the full Dublin experience.

Day 1:  Literary legends and Dublin’s creative side

Start your morning in Merrion Square, where the statue of Oscar Wilde lounges smugly, as if he knows you’ll be Instagramming him. Pop into the National Gallery of Ireland to see Caravaggio’s The Taking of Christ and works by Irish artists like Jack B. Yeats.

Next, stroll down Grafton Street, where street performers and buskers provide the soundtrack to your morning. Need caffeine? Bewley’s is a classic. Need something stronger? It’s never too early for an Irish coffee.

For lunch, grab a seat at Bunsen, a no-frills burger joint that does one thing and does it really well.

In the afternoon, head to the Museum of Literature Ireland (MoLI) to get your fix of James Joyce and other literary greats. If you’d rather see a book you don’t have to read, Chester Beatty Library has one of the world’s best collections of ancient manuscripts.

Wrap up the day in Portobello, a bohemian neighborhood full of artsy cafés and vintage shops. For dinner, try Bastible, a small spot serving seasonal Irish dishes. Afterward, head to The Bernard Shaw, where the drinks are strong, the crowd is cool, and there’s usually a DJ spinning in the courtyard.

Day 2: Kilmainham and the Liberties

Kick things off with a visit to Kilmainham Gaol, the eerie, history-packed prison where Irish revolutionaries were once held. It’s one of the most powerful places in Dublin, so book ahead — this tour sells out fast.

From there, take a walk through Phoenix Park — if you’re lucky, you’ll spot the local deer that roam freely. For lunch, stop at Spitalfields, a cozy gastropub where the food is as good as the Guinness.

Next, explore The Liberties, one of Dublin’s oldest neighborhoods. Here, you’ll find St. Patrick’s Cathedral, but the real reason you came? Whiskey. Teeling Distillery is the new kid on the block, giving Jameson a run for its money with small-batch, craft-style whiskey.

For dinner, head to L. Mulligan Grocer, where the beer list is almost as long as the menu. End the night at The Cobblestone, a no-frills pub where you’ll hear some of the best traditional Irish music in town.

Day 3: Escape to the sea – Howth day trip

After two days of city life, it’s time for some fresh air. Take the DART train (about 30 minutes) to Howth, a fishing village that feels worlds away from Dublin.

Start with the Howth Cliff Path Loop, a stunning coastal walk where you’ll get postcard-worthy views of the Irish Sea. Along the way, look out for the Baily Lighthouse and, if you're lucky, some seals hanging out near the harbor.

By now, you’ll have worked up an appetite. Aqua is the go-to for fancy seafood with ocean views, but if you just want classic fish and chips, Beshoff’s is the local favorite.

Spend the afternoon exploring the harbor or, if you’re feeling adventurous, hop on a boat tour to Ireland’s Eye, a tiny uninhabited island with dramatic cliffs and seabirds galore.

Back in Dublin, finish your trip with a drink at Peruke & Periwig, a vintage-style cocktail bar where the drinks are as creative as the decor.

4 days in Dublin

Four days means you get to experience Dublin at a deeper level — beyond just ticking off sights. You’ll explore its artistic side, dive into the pub culture without rushing, and take a day trip that’ll show you Ireland’s wilder side.

Suggested itinerary

This plan is all about variety — historical sites, buzzing neighborhoods, and an escape into the Irish countryside.

Day 1: Dublin’s icons and Guinness

Your first day is all about the big hitters. Start with Trinity College, the Book of Kells, and a wander through Dublin Castle. Stop for lunch at The Woollen Mills, then explore Christ Church Cathedral and its underground crypt.

In the afternoon, dive into the Guinness Storehouse for the full pint-pouring experience. End your day in Temple Bar, but dodge the overpriced tourist traps — head to The Long Hall or The Stag’s Head for a more authentic atmosphere.

Day 2: Dublin’s cool and creative neighborhoods

Start with Kilmainham Gaol, then take a morning walk through Phoenix Park. For lunch, try Two Boys Brew in Phibsborough, a neighborhood that’s not on every tourist’s radar (yet).

In the afternoon, head to EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum, then explore Rathmines, where Dublin’s young creatives hang out. Browse indie bookstores, vintage shops, and quirky coffee spots before dinner at Forest & Marcy, a small but standout bistro.

Wrap up the night at The Big Romance, a laid-back bar known for its vinyl music collection and craft beer selection.

Day 3: Coastal adventure – Dún Laoghaire and sea swimming

Take the DART train to Dún Laoghaire, a picturesque coastal town. Walk the East Pier, then warm up with a famous hot chocolate from Teddy’s Ice Cream.

Next, visit the James Joyce Tower and Museum in Sandycove. If you’re feeling brave, take a dip at The Forty Foot, Dublin’s most iconic sea swimming spot.

For lunch, grab seafood at Fish Shack Café, then head back to Dublin in the late afternoon. End the day with a lively pub session at Whelan’s, where live bands keep the energy high.

Day 4: Wild Ireland – Wicklow Mountains day trip

On your last day, get out into the countryside. The Wicklow Mountains are just an hour away and home to some of Ireland’s most breathtaking landscapes.

Start at Glendalough, a 6th-century monastic site with a stunning lakeside setting. Hike one of the scenic trails, and don’t forget to stop by the Poulanass Waterfall.

For lunch, grab a bite in the charming village of Laragh, then take a drive through the dramatic Sally Gap, a winding mountain pass made famous by P.S. I Love You (don’t worry, no cheesy movie moments required).

Back in Dublin, finish your trip with a relaxed dinner at Etto, a Michelin Bib Gourmand bistro, or go all-in with a tasting menu at Chapter One.

Best area to stay in Dublin

Dublin may not be huge, but picking the right neighborhood can make or break your trip. Want to be in the middle of the action? Need a quieter spot for the family? Here’s where to stay, based on your travel style.

Temple Bar: Best for first-time visitors who don’t mind noise

If you’re visiting Dublin for the first time and want to be right in the middle of the action, Temple Bar is where you’ll want to stay. Pubs, live music, and cobbled streets — this is the Dublin you’ve seen in movies. You’ll be a short walk from Trinity College, Dublin Castle, and the River Liffey, with plenty of bars and restaurants right outside your door.

The catch? It’s noisy. If you plan to be in bed by 10 p.m., this isn’t your spot. But if you want to step out of your hotel and straight into a buzzing nightlife scene, it’s perfect.

• Stay here if: You want Dublin’s pub culture at your doorstep and don’t mind the crowds.
• Skip it if: You’re a light sleeper or prefer a more laid-back vibe.
• Top pick: The Clarence – A stylish riverside hotel owned by Bono and The Edge.

St. Stephen’s Green: Best for families and a relaxed stay

Just south of the city center, St. Stephen’s Green offers a quieter, more elegant side of Dublin. You’re still close to Grafton Street shopping, museums, and parks, but without the rowdy crowds of Temple Bar.

The green itself is a great spot to let the kids run around, and you’ll find plenty of cafés, restaurants, and easy access to public transport. Bonus: You’re within walking distance of top sights like the Little Museum of Dublin and the National Gallery.

• Stay here if: You want a central but peaceful base with parks and family-friendly attractions nearby.
• Skip it if: You’re looking for wild nightlife.
• Top pick: The Shelbourne – A luxurious historic hotel overlooking the park.

Smithfield: Best for a local vibe

If you want to stay somewhere a little different — cooler, less touristy, and full of character — Smithfield is the way to go. This former industrial area has transformed into one of Dublin’s trendiest neighborhoods, packed with coffee shops, whiskey bars, and live music venues.

You’ll be close to the Jameson Distillery, Phoenix Park, and some of the city’s best pubs that aren’t crammed with tourists. It’s also a great base if you want to check out Dublin’s thriving art scene, with The Complex and Light House Cinema just around the corner.

• Stay here if: You want a hip, up-and-coming area with a more local feel.
• Skip it if: You’d rather be within walking distance of every major attraction.
• Top pick: The Hendrick Smithfield – A stylish boutique hotel with an urban-chic vibe.

Things to know before going to Dublin

Dublin is a city that’s easy to love — but it’s also one that can catch you off guard if you don’t know what to expect. It’s walkable but has patchy public transport. The weather is unpredictable, and yes, it’s pricier than you might think. Whether you’re budgeting for your trip, figuring out how to get around, or wondering about the best way to arrive, here’s what you need to know before you go.

Daily budget

Dublin isn’t the cheapest city, but what you spend depends on how you travel. If you're on a budget, expect to spend around $55-85 (€50-80) per day, staying in hostels, eating at casual cafés or grabbing takeaway, and sticking to free attractions like the National Museum or Phoenix Park.

If you want a bit more comfort, $110-220 (€100-200) per day will cover a boutique hotel, a mix of pub meals and restaurant dinners, and entry to paid attractions like the Guinness Storehouse or Kilmainham Gaol.

For a luxury experience, $275+ (€250+) per day gets you a high-end hotel, fine dining, and private tours. And if you’re planning to drink in Temple Bar, be prepared — pints here can cost $8-11 (€7-10), sometimes more.

How to get around

Dublin is best explored on foot, and most major sights are within a 20-minute walk of each other. But for when you need to go further, you’ve got a few options. The Luas tram is the easiest and fastest way to get around, especially between areas like Smithfield and St. Stephen’s Green. The DART train is useful for coastal trips to places like Howth or Dún Laoghaire. Buses cover the whole city, but they can be slow, and figuring out routes isn’t always straightforward.

If you’re taking multiple trips, get a Leap Card — it’ll save you money on public transport and works on buses, trams, and trains. Taxis are expensive, and Uber doesn’t operate here like it does elsewhere — use the FreeNow app instead.

How to get to Dublin

If you’re flying in, you’ll land at Dublin Airport (DUB), about 30-40 minutes from the city center. The Dublin Express bus is the cheapest way to get downtown, while taxis cost around $33-44 (€30-40).

If you’re coming from the UK, ferries from Holyhead, Liverpool, and other ports arrive at Dublin Port — it’s only a short bus or taxi ride into the city.

For travel within Ireland, Dublin is well connected by Irish Rail and Bus Éireann, with trains and buses running to Galway, Cork, Belfast, and beyond. Just don’t expect high-speed rail — this is Ireland, not Japan.

Plan your trip with Rough Guides

Dublin’s got the history, the nightlife, and the charm — but planning the perfect trip? That’s where we come in.

Want expert tips? Check out our Rough Guide to Ireland for everything from the best pubs to secret spots most tourists miss.

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