No need to find a four-leaf clover, it’s already your lucky day! If you’re planning a trip to Dublin, Ireland then we’ve put together this full, four-day itinerary. Of course, your itinerary might need to be adjusted depending on your flight times, but you can use this schedule as-is, or opt to pick and choose for a DIY approach to your vacation. We’ve got something for everyone- sightseeing notable landmarks, tasting local delicacies, and checking out the natural beauty of Ireland. Here’s how to spend four days in stunning Dublin, Ireland:
Dublin Itinerary: Day 1
It’s your first day in Dublin! After hopping off the plane and making your way to downtown Dublin, first things first- time to eat. After filling up, explore one of Dublin’s major landmarks then unwind with a pint and a traditional Irish meal.
- Arrive at Dublin International Airport and make your way to downtown Dublin
Traveling from Dublin International Airport to Dublin city center isn’t too difficult a trek. The airport is only a 20-minute drive away from downtown so it’s accessible by taxi, public bus, and airport express bus. For all the details on how to get from the airport to Dublin, head over to our Transportation Guide.
- Check into your Dublin accommodations
Once you’ve arrived in Dublin, check into your hotel, get settled, then venture out to sightsee! If you haven’t booked your hotel yet, here are a few tips when it comes to where to stay in Dublin. We’re highlighting a few areas of the city to look to when choosing what the best neighborhood is, in Dublin:
Temple Bar: Named for the iconic Temple Bar, this area is the epicenter of Dublin’s nightlife. Stay here if you’re hoping to enjoy live music, drinks, and meet like-minded travelers. It’s a popular area for young tourists and backpackers to reside in. Dance the night away, bar hop along the streets, or just unwind with a few friends of some Guinness.
Portobello: Portobello is quieter than Temple Bar and primarily residential. With cafes and restos lining the streets, the area is foodie haven! This neighborhood is also popular with families who want something further out from the hustle and bustle of the city center. This neighborhood is perfect for strolling through and browsing the independent boutiques.
Phibsborough: Phibsborough is the trendiest neighborhood in Dublin, in fact, Time Out Magazine named it one of the coolest neighborhoods in the world! The area’s revived Victorian structures, hip cafes, and charming shops have all attributed to the title. Travelers looking to wander down picturesque streets like the Royal Canal while stopping in quaint pubs should stay here.
- Grab some fish and chips at Leo Burdocks
While in the U.K., you’ve got to indulge in greasy, salty, and oh-so-tasty fish and chips at least once! If you’re feeling peckish after your flight, head to Leo Burdocks to fill your belly. Leo Burdocks first opened its doors in 1913 and is one of the most well-known fish and chip shops, in fact, they even count numerous celebs among its clientele.
- Relive the days of royalty at Dublin Castle
For your first day in Dublin, start your sightseeing at Dublin Castle. It’s one of the most important buildings in Irish history; from 1204 to 1922, the castle was the headquarters of the English, later the British administration. The castle was built on the site of a Viking settlement and visitors can actually see some of the excavation in process.
The Dublin Castle features the Medieval Tower, also known as the Wardrobe Tower, Gunner’s Tower, and Record Tower. Tourists can make their way through the castle and catch sight of an impressive art and antique collection. Head down to the castle gardens for a moment of peace and quiet, or check out the Dublin Castle Chapel.
Address: Dame St, Dublin 2, Ireland
Open daily, holidays: 9:45 a.m. – 5:45 p.m. (last admission 5:15 p.m.)
Closed December 25th, 26th & 27th & January 1st
Admission
Adult: €12
Senior (60+): €10
Student (valid student ID required): €10
Child (12-17): €6
Family (max. 2 adults & 5 children): €30
- Drink and dine at The Brazen Head
After a long day of touring around Dublin, treat yourself to a pint and a traditional Irish meal at The Brazen Head- Ireland’s oldest pub. The pub dates back to 1198 and the interior reflects the dedication to history. The walls are almost like a museum- see paraphernalia of Ireland’s past. Head over for one of their events like live music or storytelling, order a lager and tuck into steamed mussels, Irish stew, or chowder.
Address: 20 Lower Bridge St, The Liberties, Dublin, D08 WC64, Ireland
Monday – Thursday: 10:30 a.m. – 12:00 a.m.
Friday, Saturday: 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 a.m.
Sunday: 12:30 p.m. – 12:00 a.m.
Dublin Itinerary: Day 2
Day two of your Dublin itinerary is just as jam-packed! On day two adventure out on a Game of Thrones day tour! Check out filming locations from the iconic TV show while you step into the past and learn about Ireland’s culture. See stunning natural beauty first-hand as you appreciate the sights of memorable GoT moments.
- 6:00 a.m. Rise and shine with an early morning breakfast
The GoT day tour starts early so get yourself a quick sandwich at a local food stall. We suggest heading to O’Donovan which opens at 6:00 a.m. The resto dishes out cheap and cheerful hearty sandwiches- good for filling up before a full day of adventure. Try ham and cheese, stuffed chicken, or a BLT.
Address: 44 Pearse St, Dublin, D02 PX31, Ireland
Monday – Friday, from 6:00 a.m.
Explore Northern Ireland as you discover famed sights and landmarks where GoT was filmed. Venture out of Dublin and make your way towards Belfast on a day tour. Your tour will take you to King’s Road, known as Dark Hedges in GoT. Take a stroll underneath this imposing tunnel made from curved trees and relieve Arya Stark’s escape from King’s Landing.
Drive along the Antrim Coast, and drink in the spectacular seascapes. The Antrim Coast is home to the Cushendun Caves. You’ll recognize these as the spot where Davos Seaworth and Lady Melisandre landed ashore in season two and the location of the birth of the shadow baby.
Journey next to Belfast’s Giant’s Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Marvel at the 40,000 stacked basalt columns emerging from the sea, the result of an ancient volcanic eruption.
Your tour will finish at Ballintoy Harbour, a GoT filming location for Theon’s return to the Iron Islands as well as some of the areas around Dragonstone. The day tour will not only take you to these iconic filming points, but will also let you explore the scenic Belfast area. If you’re on a tight timeline and want to discover Northern Ireland (but you’re also a diehard GoT fan), this might be a great fit for your itinerary.
Pro-Tip: If you’re going to be traveling to Belfast as well as Dublin, you can also book GoT day tours departing from Belfast. If you’re hoping to get a little *wild*, book this tour which includes a ‘meet and greet’ with real direwolves! Or, book this tour that brings you to the historic Castle Ward, Inch Abbey and Tollymore Forest.
- 9:00 p.m. Return to Dublin
- 10:00 p.m. Enjoy a late dinner in the intimate Market Bar
It’s time to lay back, eat some delicious food, have a cocktail and just take in your surroundings at a cozy resto. Find yourself at Market Bar, a tapas bar with a chill vibe, with dishes like chorizo skewers, calamari, and charcuterie on the menu. The restaurant is located in what was once the ‘red light’ district, giving unique character to this now fashionable destination.
Address: 14A Fade St, Dublin, D02 A368, Ireland
Monday – Thursday: 12:00 p.m. – 11:30 p.m.
Friday, Saturday: 12:00 p.m.- 1:30 a.m.
Sunday: 12:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m.
Dublin Itinerary: Day 3
On day three of your Dublin adventure, take a quick half-day tour of the nearby Aran Islands before returning to Dublin to take in some historical and cultural sights. At the end of the day, pay a visit to the infamous Temple Bar for a night of revelry.
- 6:00 a.m. Enjoy an early brekkie at Keoghs Cafe
Your tour begins at 7:00 a.m., so grab a table at Keoghs Cafe at 6:00 a.m. for breakfast. Nom on an omelette, a breakfast sandwich, or eggs and bacon. They’re known for their muffins as well, so pick one up or pack one in your bag for later!
Address: 1 & 2, Trinity St, Dublin, D02 A440, Ireland
Monday – Saturday: 6:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Sunday: 7:30 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Enroll yourself in a half-day tour of the closeby Aran Islands. The Aran Islands are known for ancient sites of medieval ruins. The 1,200 locals on the islands still speak Gaelic. Sail out from Dublin and admire the sweeping views of the surrounding rocky cliffs and the Atlantic Ocean. Arrive at Inis Mor, the largest of the three Aran Islands.
During your tour of Inis Mor, catch a glimpse of Dún Aonghasa, a Bronze and Iron Age fort perched on top of a 330-foot high cliff. Trek across the limestone islands and marvel at the natural and prehistoric beauty. Check out the landscape of the ocean against the rocky cliffs. Throughout the island you can spot 50 different monuments of Christian, pre-Christian and Celtic mythological heritage.
- 12:30 p.m. Return to Dublin
- 1:00 p.m. Nibble on bites at The Vintage Kitchen for lunch
Pick up a bottle of wine then get a seat at The Vintage Kitchen- a BYOB joint with a menu featuring duck liver crème with lime jelly, chorizo risotto, wild Irish game soup, and slow roasted lamb shank. The restaurant also has a small market section, and a BYOR policy- that’s bring your own records. A 70s record player spins tunes and guests should bring their own records as well.
Address: 7 Poolbeg St, Dublin 2, Ireland
Tuesday – Saturday: 12:00 p.m. – 2:30 p.m., 5:30 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Closed Sunday, Monday
- 2:30 p.m. Admire Christ Church Cathedral
After bring, make a stop at Christ Church Cathedral to appreciate the history and majestic sights. Christ Church Cathedral is Dublin’s oldest building and a very popular tourist destination.
Founded in 1028, the medieval cathedral boasts a tall, vaulted ceiling and numerous points of interest. Guests should check out the Crypt, underneath the cathedral which is the oldest surviving structure in Dublin. In the crypt, come across ‘The Cat and Rat’- two mummified inhabitants of Christ Church Cathedral. The Treasures of Christ Church exhibit is housed in the cathedral and includes manuscripts and ancient artifacts.
The church is still fully functional, so check out the official site to see what services will be taking place.
Open daily, except December 26th, more details on service hours here
Admission Fare:
Self-guided tours
Adults: €7.00
Students and seniors: €5.50
Children: €2.50
Guided tours
Adults: €11.00
Students and seniors: €9.50
Children: €6.50
- 4:00 p.m. Drink up at Guinness Storehouse
For a change of pace, stop by Guinness Storehouse for a pint and a tasting accompanied by an expert. Walk through the seven floors to gain insight into the founder of Guinness, how it’s made, and appreciate interactive exhibits along the way.
Finish at the Gravity Bar where you can drink pints alongside a panoramic view of Dublin. Add on a Guinness Connoisseur Experience to sample various stout styles with the expertise of a Guinness guide. Be sure to grab tickets ahead of your trip to skip the line.
- 7:00 p.m. Party at The Temple Bar
You can’t leave Dublin without enjoying some well-deserved partying at The Temple Bar. As mentioned, the Temple Bar area is a bar district where many younger travelers or backpackers stay.
The Temple Bar boasts live, Irish music every night, so guests can sip on whiskey while they enjoy some authentic tunes. In fact, the bar claims that it houses the largest and rarest collection of whiskeys in Ireland. Order up American and Irish pub fare, or some fresh oysters to go with your beer. If you want a change of scenery, head outside of the Temple Bar and enjoy a bar crawl along the main street.
Dublin Itinerary: Day 4
On your last day in Dublin, take it easy! Start by enjoying a leisurely breakfast, then go at your own pace and visit a Dublin attraction before basking in the sunshine at a local park. Plus- if you still have some room left, top off your vacation with a whiskey at the Jameson Distillery.
- 9:00 a.m. Get a full Irish breakfast at herbstreet restaurant
herbstreet is all about sustainable practices, they aim to minimize their carbon footprint while delivering delicious food. They stock locally-sourced ingredients to cut down on transportation costs and use energy-efficient appliances. Delight in full Irish breakfast, porridge, or avocado and eggs on toast.
Address: 9 Hanover Quay, Grand Canal Dock, Dublin, D02 KP20, Ireland
Monday: 8:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Tuesday – Friday: 8:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m., 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Saturday: 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m, 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Sunday: 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
- 10:30 a.m. Step back in time at Kilmainham Gaol
For an attraction a little off the beaten path, make your way to Kilmainham Gaol, Dublin’s county gaol that opened its doors in 1796. Here, men, women, and even children were jailed for crimes ranging from murder to theft. Many executions of significant rebellion figures took place here. Walk through the halls of this macabre location and witness the thousands of items from Dublin’s political history.
Pro-Tip: Pre-book your tickets if you’d like to attend the gaol. Tickets include a guided tour. Guests should arrive 15 minutes prior to their tour start time.
Address: Inchicore Rd, Kilmainham, Dublin 8, D08 RK28, Ireland
Kilmainham Gaol Museum is open all year round, except December 24th, 25th, and 26th
October – March: 9:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. (Last admission 4:15 p.m.)
April – May: 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. (Last admission 4:45 p.m.)
June – August: 9:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. (Last admission 5:45 p.m.)
September: 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. (Last admission 4:45 p.m.)
Admission Fare:
Adult Ticket: €8.00
Child Ticket (12 – 17 years): €4.00
Children under the age of 12 are free of charge but still require a ticket to gain entrance (pre-book online)
- 1:00 p.m. Relax and lunch in Phoenix Park
Hop over to Phoenix Park to grab a quick meal and coffee before basking in the sunshine, catching sight of deer, or strolling through the gardens.
There are two cafes in Phoenix Park: The Victorian Tea Room and The Phoenix Cafe. The Victorian Tea Room is located along the charming Chesterfield Avenue. Visitors can enjoy fresh coffee, tea served with cake. Or, take a seat at The Phoenix Cafe, next to the Walled Garden and Ashtown Castle. Here, you can grab salad, quiche, or desserts.
After lunching, take stock the nearby sights. Visit Magazine Fort, the prehistoric burial landmark, Ashtown Castle, or the various commemorative monuments. Appreciate the colorful blooms in the People’s Gardens or the Walled Garden. Phoenix Park is home to wild deer, so meander the pathways and you may run into some of these cuddly creatures.
Open daily, 24 hours
- 4:00 p.m. Take a final shot at the Jameson Distillery
Prior to hopping on your plane, take an hour or two to visit the Jameson Distillery Bow St. This building was originally called Bow Street Distillery and was established in 1780.
In 1805, Jameson took control and Jameson Irish Whiskey was distilled here until 1971. Take a guided tour, learn more about the art of whiskey distilling, and delight in a tasting of fine whiskey! You can also opt for the cocktail making or whiskey blending classes for your experience.
Address: Bow St, Smithfield Village, Dublin 7, Ireland
Monday – Thursday, Sunday: 10:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Friday – Saturday: 10:00 a.m. -8:00 p.m.
- 6:00 p.m. Say goodbye to Dublin and make your way to the airport
Remember to check out our Transportation Guide for Dublin for details on how to get from city center to the airport.
We’ve picked out only a fraction of the activities and things to do, see, and eat in Dublin, Ireland for this four-day itinerary! There’s so much more to do that narrowing it down to four days was difficult, so we’ve jam-packed this itinerary to keep you busy and immersed all day long. Travelers who wish to take it easy may want to omit one or two activities, or those who love the thrill of being away from home, might want to adjust or add something new- no matter what though, you’ll definitely enjoy your time in this magical city!
