Dublin City Breaks
Known as the vibrant capital of Ireland, Dublin is one of Europe’s most popular destinations for a city break. It offers plenty to couples, families and solo travellers, from museums and galleries to sports and music events. There are also brilliant restaurants, buzzing bars and lively nightlife to enjoy once the sun goes down.
Are you thinking of booking a city break in Dublin? Read on to discover more about the city’s history and what it offers.
What is Dublin famous for?
Dublin is famous for its bustling pubs, with many offering live music to entertain guests. In the book Ulysses by James Joyce, Leopold Bloom contemplated that a “good puzzle would be to cross Dublin without passing a pub”. The answer is that there’s only one pub-free route through the Irish capital, home to over 1,000 bars, taverns and taprooms.
The city is also one of six with UNESCO City of Literature status. Dublin has produced many top-class creatives, writers and poets, including four Nobel Prize winners: W.B. Yeats, George Bernard Shaw, Samuel Beckett and Seamus Heaney.
Things to do in Dublin
You’ll never struggle for things to do in Dublin. Ireland’s capital city offers a wide range of attractions and landmarks, including museums, parks, bars and restaurants. Below, we’ve picked out five things you could do during your Dublin city break.
1. Enjoy the Guinness Storehouse Experience
No trip to Dublin is complete without visiting the home of Ireland’s most famous export – Guinness. So, head to the Guinness Storehouse, where you’ll learn more about ‘The Black Stuff’.
Delve deep into the iconic drink’s origins and history with the Guinness Storehouse Experience. Wander around St. James’s Gate Brewery and see where the stout has been brewed since 1759, with entry to the Guinness Tasting Rooms included. Soak up panoramic views of Dublin in the Gravity Bar, and learn how to pour the perfect pint of Guinness. There are also options for an extra pint with your selfie added to the head.
2. Visit the Kilmainham Gaol Museum
Dublin is home to many fantastic museums. One is the Kilmainham Gaol Museum, where you can walk on the wings of Europe’s largest unoccupied prison.
You’ll get a snapshot of the jail’s intriguing history via a guided tour, learning about how harshly it treated prisoners – many of whom were famous political figures and fought for Irish independence. There’s also a fantastic permanent exhibition which explores the prison’s social history in the 1800s, the history of Irish nationalism between 1796 and 1924 and the prison’s restoration.
3. Dine in Dublin’s finest restaurants
There’s no shortage of fantastic places to eat in Dublin. From restaurants serving traditional Irish cuisine to international offerings from Italy, Spain and Scandinavia, there'll be something to whet your appetite. Many of the city’s best eateries use locally sourced produce. And there are even a handful of Michelin-starred restaurants worth considering if you're looking for a fancy culinary experience.
Some of our favourite restaurants in Dublin are:
4. Grab a drink at The Temple Bar Pub
The Temple Bar Pub is the most famous in the Irish capital. Located in the heart of Dublin, this iconic venue offers a warm feel, hearty food and a wide range of drinks.
You'll find a host of Irish beers available at The Temple Bar, including Guinness, Murphy's and Kilkenny. The pub is also the home of Ireland's largest whiskey collection, including its signature blend, while also offering cocktails, wines and coffees. While you're there, traditional Irish music keeps you entertained, with musicians taking to the stage every hour the bar is open.
5. Relax and unwind on St. Stephen’s Green
- is a tranquil oasis in Dublin’s city centre. Since opening to the public in 1880, the park has offered a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Its lush green gardens, colourful flower beds and serene lake make it perfect for a leisurely stroll or a relaxing picnic. It’s also steeped in history, illustrated by the elegant architecture and statues.
6. Shopping in Dublin
Indulge in the vibrant shopping scene in Dublin, the lively capital of Ireland. From iconic department stores to charming local boutiques and bustling markets, Dublin offers a diverse range of retail destinations. Embark on a shopping spree through the bustling streets, immersing yourself in the city's unique blend of traditional and contemporary shopping delights. Experience the allure of shopping in Dublin!
Questions about Dublin city breaks
Discover everything you need to know to make the most of your Dublin city break.
Is Dublin a good city break?
Dublin is an excellent choice for a city break. It offers a mix of history, culture and entertainment, allowing you to pack plenty into your trip. Explore historic sites and landmarks, relax in serene green spaces or revel in lively pubs and soak up the Irish spirit.
How many days do you need in Dublin?
We suggest spending 2-4 days in Dublin, allowing you to cover the city’s highlights. Make the most of your stay by basing yourself at Leonardo Hotel Dublin Christchurch or Leonardo Hotel Dublin Parnell Street. Both hotels are in the city centre, meaning less travel time to many of the Irish capital’s main attractions.
What time of year is best in Dublin?
If you’re a fan of the sunshine, the summer months are the best time of year to visit Dublin. The Irish capital enjoys its warmest weather in June, July and August, with average temperatures between 14°C and 16°C.