Visit Dublin in 3 days

A road trip in Ireland would not be complete without a stop in Dublin, the country's capital, both festive and historical.

Follow my guide to make sure you don't miss anything in just three days! 

Day 1

Welcome to Dublin! For your first day, dive directly into the vibrant and historical ambiance of this lively city.

Start with a visit to Trinity College, the oldest university in Ireland, founded in 1592. Besides the incredible architecture, it is mainly the Book of Kells that draws the crowds. This illuminated manuscript from the 9th century is a true national treasure. It is so precious that only a few pages are displayed at a time, the others being carefully preserved.

A walk through the Long Room, this gigantic and impressive library, will make you feel like you're walking in a Harry Potter set!

Next, head to Grafton Street. This pedestrian street is the perfect place for a bit of shopping or simply strolling. Among the street musicians (some are so good they end up signing recording contracts!) and the shops, you will truly feel the city's energy. For a gourmet break, stop by one of the local cafes for a latte and perhaps a warm scone with jam, a classic here.

After a stroll on Grafton, head to St. Stephen's Green, a beautiful Victorian park where you can breathe in the fresh air and relax. The park was the site of fierce fighting during the Easter Rising of 1916, but both sides agreed on a daily truce to allow the caretaker to… feed the ducks! :laughing:

For lunch, explore the surroundings of Dawson Street or Baggot Street, where there are numerous and varied restaurants. You will find everything from traditional pubs serving hearty Irish stew to modern establishments with vegetarian options and fresh local produce.

In the afternoon, continue with a good dose of history by visiting the Dublin Castle, a place filled with significant events, from royal receptions to rebellions.

If you have some time, explore the Chester Beatty Library, an amazing museum hidden in the castle gardens. You will discover rare art collections there, ranging from Islamic manuscripts to Japanese prints, proof that Dublin is truly a cultural crossroads.

Finally, to end the day on a high note, immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere of Temple Bar, the ultimate pub district. The district is named after Sir William Temple, a prominent diplomat who lived here, and not after religious temples. Between the live musicians, tourist groups, and locals looking for good music and a fresh Guinness, you will immediately feel like a local.

Day 2

After a good night's sleep, head towards Dublin's religious and artistic heritage.

Start the day at the magnificent Christ Church Cathedral. Founded in 1030, it is one of the city's oldest buildings. Besides its architectural beauty, there is a fun aspect to Christ Church: in the crypts, you can see "Tom and Jerry", a mummified cat and rat found trapped in an organ in the 19th century. Strange, but true!

Right next door, discover St. Patrick's Cathedral, the largest in Ireland. It is not only impressive, but it also has a literary connection with Jonathan Swift, the author of Gulliver's Travels, who was dean here for many years. If you are a book enthusiast, do not miss the Marsh’s Library, a charming little library hidden just behind St. Patrick's, where books are still chained to the shelves, as in the good old days.

At lunchtime, go on a culinary exploration in the George's Street area. You will find a multitude of trendy restaurants, from cozy little bistros to more international cuisines. Why not try a good meat pie or perfectly prepared fish and chips?

The afternoon is dedicated to culture and history. Head to the National Museum of Ireland to see incredible treasures, including the famous bog bodies, naturally preserved for thousands of years in the Irish peat bogs. You will be amazed by the state of preservation of these bodies over 2,000 years old. It’s both fascinating and slightly chilling.

After this historical adventure, you can head to the National Gallery of Ireland, where you will be surrounded by European and Irish masterpieces. The museum is free, so you don't need to deprive yourself of this burst of art and inspiration.

In the evening, dive into the lively atmosphere of Camden Street, named one of the trendiest streets in the world by TimeOut, where trendy restaurants and bars follow one another. You will find a variety of world cuisines, and after a good meal, why not end the evening in one of the local cocktail bars, or even in a pub to listen to a band playing Irish classics? I particularly recommend the Bleeding Horse Pub, which is typically Irish and festive.

Day 3

For this last day in Dublin, let's focus on history and nature.

Start with the fascinating Kilmainham Gaol, a former prison that tells the tumultuous history of Ireland and its struggle for independence. This visit is particularly moving as it takes you in the footsteps of the leaders of the 1916 rebellion. If you are fans of horror, Kilmainham Gaol seems to be one of the most haunted prisons in Ireland, so keep your eyes peeled for strange phenomena…

Right next door, discover the Irish Museum of Modern Art (IMMA), located in a beautiful former 17th-century hospital. The modern and contemporary art it houses contrasts with the solemn history of the prison, offering a beautiful cultural break. Don't forget to take a little walk in the gardens, perfect for a few souvenir photos.

Then, head to Phoenix Park, one of the largest urban parks in Europe. This park is twice the size of Central Park in New York! Take the time to explore this vast green space, where you might come across herds of free-roaming deer. If you fancy a fun break, the Dublin Zoo is located inside the park and is one of the oldest in Europe.

For lunch, why not have a picnic in the park? Grab a takeaway sandwich or a light meal from one of the local cafes before heading to the last major attraction of the day: the Guinness Storehouse. This museum immerses you in the world of the famous stout, from its production to its place in Irish culture. At the end of the tour, enjoy a pint of Guinness at the Gravity Bar, while taking in a panoramic view of the entire city. With more than 10 million pints of Guinness consumed daily around the world, it’s worth the visit.

End this beautiful day in the Smithfield district, a former industrial area that has been completely reinvented. Today, it is filled with restaurants, casual bars, and a charming outdoor market.

This is also where you will find the Jameson Distillery, another pillar of festive Irish culture. Take the time to enjoy a final dinner while reminiscing about these three days full of history, culture, and unforgettable moments spent in Dublin.

There you go! You are ready to discover the charming city of Dublin. For any questions or other suggestions for our readers, use the comments section below!