Dublin 7 Day Itinerary

7-Day Dublin Itinerary: A Craic-ing Good Time

This itinerary balances popular attractions with local experiences for a truly memorable Dublin trip.

Accommodation:

  • Budget: Generator Hostel (social atmosphere), Abbey Court Hostel (central location)
  • Mid-Range: The Fleet (boutique hotel), Brooks Hotel (stylish, near Trinity College)
  • Luxury: The Shelbourne (iconic history), The Merrion (elegant, Michelin-starred restaurant)

Transportation:

  • Leap Card: Essential for public transport (buses, trams, DART). Purchase at Dublin Airport or convenience stores.
  • Walking: Dublin is very walkable, especially the city centre.

Things to Know:

  • Currency: Euro (€)
  • Language: English
  • Power Outlets: Type G (three-pin plug)
  • Tipping: 10% in restaurants is standard

Day 1: Arriving & Historic Charms

  • Morning: Arrive at Dublin Airport. Take the Airlink Express bus to city centre (€7). Check into your accommodation.
  • Afternoon: Explore Trinity College (book tickets online). See the Book of Kells and wander through the historic campus.
  • Evening: Dinner at The Winding Stair, a cosy restaurant with river views. Enjoy traditional Irish music at The Cobblestone pub.

Day 2: Literary Dublin & Guinness Delights

  • Morning: Visit the Dublin Writers Museum for insights into Ireland’s literary giants. Stroll through St. Stephen’s Green park.
  • Afternoon: Take a tour of the Guinness Storehouse, learning about brewing history and enjoying panoramic city views from the Gravity Bar.
  • Evening: Dinner at The Brazen Head, Dublin’s oldest pub (dating back to 1198).

Day 3: Day Trip to Glendalough

  • Morning: Take a bus tour or rent a car for a scenic day trip to Glendalough, a monastic site nestled in the Wicklow Mountains.
  • Afternoon: Explore the ruins of the abbey and enjoy hiking trails amidst stunning mountain scenery.
  • Evening: Dinner at a traditional pub in Dublin city centre, such as O’Donoghue’s or The Temple Bar.

Day 4: Viking & Georgian History

  • Morning: Visit Dublinia, an interactive museum showcasing Viking and medieval Dublin history.
  • Afternoon: Explore Merrion Square and admire the elegant Georgian architecture. Visit the National Gallery of Ireland for a dose of art.
  • Evening: Catch a live music performance at Whelan’s, a legendary Dublin venue.

Day 5: Coastal Beauty & Howth Hike

  • Morning: Take the DART train to Howth, a picturesque fishing village. Enjoy fresh seafood at The Brass Monkey or have a picnic by the harbour.
  • Afternoon: Hike the Howth Cliff Walk for breathtaking views of Dublin Bay and the Irish Sea.
  • Evening: Return to Dublin city centre and enjoy dinner at Fade Street Social, known for its creative dishes and cocktails.

Day 6: Kilmainham Gaol & Modern Art

  • Morning: Take a guided tour of Kilmainham Gaol, a former prison with a poignant history.
  • Afternoon: Explore the Irish Museum of Modern Art (IMMA) housed in a stunning 17th-century building.
  • Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner at Chapter One, a Michelin-starred restaurant for a special culinary experience.

Day 7: Farewell & Last Minute Adventures

  • Morning: Visit Grafton Street for souvenir shopping or browse the independent shops on Capel Street.

  • Afternoon: Relax in St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Ireland’s largest church. Enjoy a final Irish coffee at Bewley’s Café.

  • Evening: Depart from Dublin Airport.

Tips:

  • Book accommodations and popular attractions in advance, especially during peak season.
  • Download the Dublin Bus app for real-time bus schedules.
  • Be prepared for unpredictable weather; pack layers and a waterproof jacket.
  • Engage with locals - they’re generally friendly and happy to share their city knowledge.
  • Embrace the “craic” (fun and good times) that Dublin is known for!