Dublin holidays

Public transportation

Dublin has a fantastic public transport network. The Dublin Bus routes run frequently from early morning until late at night, and for an easy, budget-friendly way to get around, we recommend using a Leap Card. These can be bought at newsagents, topped up online, and are valid on Dublin Bus, the DART, Luas, and suburban trains — making it simple and affordable to travel around the city.

Typical food and gastronomy

When in Dublin, you can’t go wrong with traditional Irish dishes! Potatoes are a staple, often served as colcannon (mashed potatoes with cabbage) or champ (mashed potatoes with spring onions). The famous Irish stew often comes with a twist, including a touch of Guinness, and pairs perfectly with a slice of hearty Irish soda bread to soak up all that delicious gravy.

What is the best time of the year to visit Dublin?

Dublin is bustling year-round, with something for everyone. October is a great month to visit, especially for theatre lovers, with the Dublin Theatre Festival running throughout the month. September is perfect if you’re into arts and culture, with over 700 performances happening during the Dublin Fringe Festival. You’ll never be short of events in Dublin!

Weather & Climate

The best weather to visit Dublin is from June to August, when the city enjoys warm temperatures and lots of sunny days. However, if you're looking for a more affordable trip, September and October offer mild weather and plenty of sunshine, with fewer tourists around. While winters can be cold, they’re generally dry, making Dublin a great city to explore year-round. The spring months (March to May) can be unpredictable, with a mix of sunshine and rain, but they also bring a fresh vibrancy to the city.

What language is spoken in Dublin?

English is the main language spoken in Dublin, but many signs and landmarks also feature Gaelic, adding a unique charm to the city.

Accommodation in Dublin

Dublin offers a wide variety of accommodation options, from elegant Georgian hotels to affordable hostels and everything in between. Whether you’re looking for luxury or a more budget-friendly option, you’ll find a place to suit your needs. For the best deals, it’s worth booking both your flights and hotels in Dublin at the same time.

Extra tips

For a break from the city, take a short train journey to Howth. It’s just a 25-minute ride from Dublin and offers stunning harbour views, cliff walks, and plenty of cosy cafés. Combine your city break with a package holiday from Dublin and make the most of your trip!

Dublin is a vibrant, accessible, and welcoming city for Irish travellers — offering rich history, great food, and plenty of things to see and do.

Discovering Dublin: a blend of culture, history, and lively entertainment

Dublin, the cultural heartbeat of Ireland, offers a fascinating journey through time with its mix of historical architecture and contemporary buzz. Established by Vikings in 841, Dublin is a city where history and modernity coexist seamlessly, making it a perfect spot for those seeking an enriching holiday experience. From the vibrant nightlife and exquisite dining options to the historical exploration and cultural immersion, Dublin ensures your visit is packed with memorable moments.

National Botanic Gardens

A mere 5km from the energetic city centre lies the tranquil National Botanic Gardens. Established in 1795, these gardens cover 19 hectares and boast a collection of over 15,000 plant species from around the globe, housed in beautifully restored glasshouses. The gardens also feature a visitor centre that provides insights into notable botanists and the history of the gardens themselves. For those looking to dine, the visitor centre's restaurant offers delightful bites.

Dublin's iconic Guinness experience

The Guinness Storehouse stands as a tribute to Ireland's most famous beverage. Across its seven floors, visitors can delve into the rich heritage of the Guinness brand, mastering the art of pouring the perfect pint. Nearby, the Old Jameson Distillery in Smithfield offers a glimpse into whiskey-making, complete with tastings and a Whiskey Taster Certificate. For a broader experience, Temple Bar is ideal for sampling an array of whiskies and Guinness, celebrated not only for its lively atmosphere but also for its beer garden and oysters. A visit during St Patrick's Day to the Guinness Storehouse introduces you to the heart of Ireland's iconic drink, capped with a pint at the Gravity Bar, offering sweeping city views.

Sports in Dublin

Sports enthusiasts can enhance their Dublin holiday with Gaelic football or hurling matches, central to Irish culture. For racing fans, the Curragh and Leopardstown offer thrilling horse racing experiences. Opt for midweek breaks or weekend packages to Dublin for the complete sports experience.

Shopping and nightlife

Grafton Street serves as Dublin's premier shopping destination, while Arnott's on Henry Street offers a range of Irish souvenirs, including knitwear and Guinness-themed products. The city's nightlife thrives with over a thousand pubs, ranging from traditional Irish pubs to trendy bars, ensuring an electrifying night out. For authentic Irish music, spots like Gogartys, The Cobblestone, or O'Donaghues are must-visits.

Museums and historic sites

Dublin's museums, such as the Old Library with the Book of Kells and EPIC, The Irish Emigration Museum, offer deep dives into Ireland's rich history. The vast Phoenix Park, home to Dublin Zoo and historic public buildings, provides a green sanctuary within the city. For history enthusiasts, Dublin Castle and Christ Church Cathedral are pivotal sites, offering insights into Ireland's past from Viking times through to modern independence.

Dublin holidays invite you to immerse yourself in a city where every corner tells a story, from its historic streets to its lively pubs and green parks. Whether exploring Dublin's storied past or enjoying its present-day pleasures, you're in for an experience that captures the essence of Ireland.

Dublin might not be the first destination that comes to mind when thinking of beaches, but the city and its surrounding areas boast some hidden gems along the Irish Sea that are perfect for a day out by the water. While Dublin itself is more famed for its cultural and historical attractions, a short journey from the city centre reveals scenic coastal spots worth exploring.

The best beaches near Dublin

Public Beaches

• Portmarnock Beach: Often referred to as the Velvet Strand due to its beautiful smooth sand, Portmarnock Beach is ideal for long walks and offers excellent conditions for windsurfing and kite surfing.

• Dollymount Strand: Located on Bull Island, this is a popular spot for Dubliners, offering a vast stretch of sand and dunes, making it perfect for walking, picnicking, and bird watching. It's also a great spot for kitesurfing.

• Sandymount Strand: Offering stunning views of Dublin Bay and the Poolbeg Towers, Sandymount Strand is great for a leisurely stroll or jog, especially at low tide.

Beaches with Sunbeds and Facilities

While most beaches near Dublin maintain their natural charm without extensive commercial development, you'll find basic amenities such as toilets and car parking available. For beaches with more facilities like sunbeds, cafes, and lifeguards during the summer months, Bray Beach in County Wicklow, just south of Dublin, is a good option. Though technically not in Dublin, Bray's seaside charm and its array of seaside amenities make it a popular choice for both locals and visitors.

Nearest beaches to Dublin City Centre

For those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, the nearest beaches offer a breath of fresh air:

• Sandycove Beach: Known for the Forty Foot bathing place, Sandycove is not only perfect for a quick dip but also rich in literary history, famously featured in James Joyce's "Ulysses."

• Seapoint Beach: Just a short DART ride away, Seapoint Beach is ideal for swimming and paddling, with amenities close by and great views across Dublin Bay.

Dublin's coastal vicinity provides a refreshing counterpoint to city life, with beaches that cater to serene walks, water sports, and family outings. Whether you're looking for a quiet spot to contemplate the sea or an active day out surfing the waves, the beaches near Dublin offer a delightful seaside escape.

Food and drink in Dublin

Dublin's culinary scene is a delightful journey through traditional Irish flavours, innovative street food, and beverages that have put Ireland on the map. Whether you're a foodie or simply looking to indulge in local cuisine, Dublin offers a taste of Ireland like no other.

Local dishes in Dublin

• Irish Stew: A heartwarming classic, made with lamb, potatoes, and carrots, seasoned to perfection.

• Boxty: A traditional Irish potato pancake, often served with a side of meat or as part of a hearty breakfast.

• Coddle: A Dublin speciality, this stew is made with sausages, bacon, potatoes, and onions, slow-cooked to create a comforting dish.

Street food

Dublin's street food scene is burgeoning, offering everything from gourmet burgers and artisanal sandwiches to international cuisine. Keep an eye out for food markets like Eatyard or the Temple Bar Food Market, where local vendors showcase the best of Irish produce.

Typical drinks

• Guinness: No visit to Dublin is complete without a pint of Guinness, Ireland's most famous export. For the full experience, head to the Guinness Storehouse.

• Irish Whiskey: Sip on smooth Irish whiskey at one of Dublin's many pubs or visit a distillery to learn about its production.

• Irish Coffee: Warm up with this classic concoction of coffee, whiskey, sugar, and cream, a perfect end to any meal.

Dublin's food and drink reflect its rich cultural heritage, offering a blend of traditional and contemporary flavours that are sure to satisfy any palate. From cosy pubs to bustling street markets, Dublin is a city that celebrates its culinary diversity, making it a must-visit for anyone looking to immerse themselves in authentic Irish cuisine.