Dublin is a lively and welcoming city filled with things to do for all ages.
From historic tours and scenic walks to outdoor adventures, cultural attractions and family-friendly fun, there’s no shortage of options across the capital. Whether you’re planning a weekend trip, a day out with the kids or a local staycation, this guide covers some of the best activities in Dublin city and county.
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Top Attractions in Dublin
Dublin’s most famous attraction offers a self-guided tour through the history of Guinness, topped off with a pint and panoramic views in the Gravity Bar.
Trinity College & the Book of Kells
Step inside Ireland’s oldest university and see the stunning Long Room library and the 9th-century Book of Kells - a must for history and art lovers.
A key landmark in the city’s history, Dublin Castle has been everything from a medieval fortress to the seat of British rule - now home to state rooms, museums and gardens.
One of the most powerful and atmospheric sites in Ireland, Kilmainham Gaol tells the story of political struggle and rebellion through its preserved cells and guided tours.
Located in Phoenix Park, Dublin Zoo is home to over 400 animals and world-class habitats including the African Savanna and Himalayan Hills. A must-visit for families and animal lovers.
The General Post Office on O’Connell Street played a central role in the 1916 Rising. Today, the immersive GPO Witness History Museum brings those events to life with powerful exhibits and personal stories.
Outdoor Activities & Green Spaces
One of the largest enclosed city parks in Europe, Phoenix Park is home to Dublin Zoo, Áras an Uachtaráin and a herd of wild deer - ideal for walking, cycling or a relaxed picnic.
Dating back over 800 years, this beautifully preserved castle offers guided tours, walled gardens, a fairy trail and a modern playground - just outside the city and perfect for a half-day trip.
Newbridge House & Farm (Donabate)
Classic Georgian house tours and a working farm with indoor heritage displays, animals and a cozy courtyard tearoom. Offers a mix of history and hands‑on fun.
Fun for Families & Children
Dive into Ireland’s sporting passion with the original Sam Maguire & Liam MacCarthy Cups, a hands‑on Game Zone (hurling, Gaelic football) and a guided stadium tour that takes you pitch‑side, into dressing rooms and VIP areas.
GoQuest Indoor Challenge (Carrickmines)
A 90‑minute team adventure in up to 29 challenge rooms (or 22 family‑friendly rooms), blending puzzles, physical tasks and fun. Great for tweens, teens and groups.
Aquazone at the National Aquatic Centre
Cool down and ramp up the fun with a splash-filled day at AquaZone, Ireland’s premier indoor water park at the National Aquatic Centre. Packed with fast flumes, a wave pool, lazy river and the epic FlowRider surf machine, it’s ideal for families with kids of all ages.
Explorium – National Sport & Science Centre
Over 250 interactive STEAM exhibits, VR/AR zones, climbing walls and the Gravity Room. Ideal for ages 8+ and science lovers of all ages. Includes café on site.
Free Things to Do in Dublin
A peaceful green space in the heart of the city, perfect for a stroll among fountains, sculptures and tree-lined paths. Just steps from Grafton Street and ideal for a break between sights.
The National Gallery of Ireland
Free to enter and home to collections of Irish and European art, right in the heart of Georgian Dublin.
An often-overlooked gem with ancient manuscripts, global artefacts and rooftop views of Dublin Castle...and it’s completely free.
Day Trips
Just 30 minutes from the city by DART, Howth offers stunning cliff walks, fresh seafood, a bustling harbour and panoramic sea views. A great escape from the city.
Plan a guided walk with Howth Tours or a trip out to sea with the Coastal Boat Tours and leave time for a visit to the quirky Hurdy Gurdy Museum of Vintage Radio set in a Martello Tower overlooking the harbour.
Located near the famous Newgrange monument, this working open farm offers hands-on fun with bottle-feeding, tractor rides and plenty of animals to meet. A great day out just north of Dublin. Open from March - August.
Emerald Park (formerly Tayto Park)
Ireland’s only theme park and zoo, Emerald Park features thrill rides, rollercoasters, playgrounds and a walk-through animal park. Just outside Dublin, it’s a full day out for families of all ages.
Culture, History & Heritage
Explore prehistoric Ireland (bog bodies, Bronze‑Age treasures, Ardagh Chalice) at Kildare Street and decorative/military history at Collins Barracks with free admission. The “Dead Zoo” Natural History branch is temporarily closed for restoration but accessible via the Dead Zoo Lab at Collins Barracks.
Dublinia – Viking & Medieval Experience (Christ Church area)
Immerse in medieval and Viking Dublin with interactive exhibits, a climb to St. Michael’s Tower and living history displays. Open daily and perfect for families.
Built on the site where St Patrick is said to have baptised converts, this impressive 800-year-old cathedral features stunning architecture, guided tours and historical exhibitions.
National Maritime Museum of Ireland (Dún Laoghaire)
Housed in a restored 180‑year‑old Mariners’ Church, this hands-on maritime museum explores Ireland’s seafaring history with exhibits of ship models, artifacts and RMS Leinster memorabilia. Family-friendly and rainy-day ready
Quirky & Local Experiences
Casino Model Railway Museum (Malahide)
Ireland’s only model railway museum showcasing hundreds of handcrafted O‑gauge trains and interactive panels in the restored Casino building in Malahide village. Perfect for all ages.
National Print Museum (Beggars Bush, Haddington Road)
A charming working print workshop in a converted chapel, showcasing over 10,000 letterpress items (including a Gutenberg replica and a 1916 Proclamation press), print demos, café and family workshops.
National Transport Museum of Ireland (Howth Demesne)
Ireland’s only comprehensive collection of road transport with over 60 rare vehicles (buses, fire engines, trams, lorries) dating from 1883–1984. Open weekends & bank holidays and ideal for nostalgic, educational discovery of past transport in Ireland.
Visitor Tips for Exploring Dublin
- Dublin is compact and easy to explore on foot, especially around the city centre. Allow time to wander side streets and discover hidden gems along the way.
- Public transport is reliable and well connected. Use a Leap Card for easy access to buses, DART trains and LUAS trams - perfect for getting to the coast or across the city without a car.
- Book ahead for popular attractions, particularly at weekends or during school holidays. Venues like Dublin Zoo, the Guinness Storehouse and EPIC Museum can sell out during peak times.
- Mix indoor and outdoor options. Even in summer, the weather can be unpredictable, so plan a few flexible stops like museums, parks or covered markets.
- Plan short bursts, not long marathons. Group attractions by area to avoid zig-zagging across the city. It keeps the day more relaxed - especially if you’re with a mixed group or on a short break.
- Many museums and galleries are free. The National Gallery, Archaeology Museum and Collins Barracks all offer free entry and are great for all ages.
- The coast is closer than you think. Take a short DART ride to Howth, Malahide or Dún Laoghaire for sea air, scenic walks and a change of pace - ideal for a day trip.
FAQ: Things to Do in Dublin
What are the top things to do in Dublin?
Highlights include Trinity College & the Book of Kells, Dublin Castle, Phoenix Park, EPIC Museum, Guinness Storehouse, Temple Bar and coastal villages like Howth and Dalkey.
Are there free things to do in Dublin?
Yes, many! Explore St. Stephen’s Green, National Museums (like Archaeology or Collins Barracks), the Chester Beatty Library or take a self-guided walking tour around historic districts.
What are some good family activities in Dublin?
Families love Dublin Zoo, Viking Splash Tours, Explorium, GoQuest, Dublinia and the National Leprechaun Museum - with indoor and outdoor options available.
Can I explore Dublin without a car?
Absolutely. The city centre is walkable and DART, LUAS and bus services connect key areas including Howth, Dún Laoghaire and the Phoenix Park.
What’s the best time of year to visit Dublin?
Summer offers festivals and long evenings, but spring and autumn are ideal for fewer crowds. Many attractions are open year-round - rain or shine.
Updated August 2025
