40 Things to Do in Dublin
Dublin buzzes with history, literary connections, and legendary pub culture, often giving the impression that exploring Ireland’s capital requires plenty of euros. However, uncovering the city’s true character is easily achievable on a budget, as there are numerous fantastic free things to do in Dublin. Experiencing its Georgian squares, world-class museums, and sprawling parks reveals a wealth of accessible attractions for savvy travelers looking for value.
This guide points you towards 40 specific activities and sights you can enjoy in Dublin entirely free of charge. From viewing national treasures and wandering historic college grounds to coastal walks and soaking up the street atmosphere, you can craft a full and rewarding itinerary. Prepare to discover the best of Dublin without spending on admission fees.
Free Museums and Galleries
National Museum of Ireland – Archaeology: Explore prehistoric gold, Viking artifacts, and bog bodies detailing Ireland’s rich past. Located on Kildare Street, admission is always free.
National Museum of Ireland – Natural History: Discover Irish wildlife and geological exhibits in this Victorian “Dead Zoo” cabinet-style museum. Entry is free to explore its fascinating collections on Merrion Street.
National Museum of Ireland – Decorative Arts & History: Visit Collins Barracks to see exhibits covering Irish military history, furniture, fashion, and silver. Free admission allows exploration of diverse historical facets.
National Gallery of Ireland: Admire an extensive collection of Irish and European fine art, including works by Jack B. Yeats and Caravaggio. Located on Merrion Square West, general admission is free.
Irish Museum of Modern Art (IMMA): Explore exhibitions of modern and contemporary art housed in the historic Royal Hospital Kilmainham. Access to the permanent collection and grounds is typically free.
Hugh Lane Gallery: Discover works by Irish and international artists, including Francis Bacon’s reconstructed studio. Located in Parnell Square North, admission is free.
Chester Beatty Library: Explore manuscripts, prints, and decorative arts from across Asia, the Middle East, North Africa, and Europe. Situated in Dublin Castle grounds, entry is free to this acclaimed museum.
Science Gallery Dublin: Check the current exhibition schedule at Trinity College’s unique gallery blending science and art. Admission is often free, but confirm for specific events.
Parks Gardens and Green Escapes
Phoenix Park Exploration: Wander through one of Europe’s largest enclosed urban parks. Spot the wild fallow deer herd, see Áras an Uachtaráin from afar, and enjoy vast green spaces.
See the Wild Deer in Phoenix Park: Patiently observe the large herd of wild fallow deer that roam freely throughout Phoenix Park. Remember to keep a respectful distance and never feed them.
St Stephen’s Green Relaxation: Enjoy this beautiful Victorian park in the heart of the city center. Stroll the paths, feed the ducks (bring appropriate food), and admire the sculptures.
Discover Iveagh Gardens: Escape the bustle in this lesser-known public park often called Dublin’s “Secret Garden.” Enjoy the maze, fountains, and peaceful atmosphere tucked away behind Earlsfort Terrace.
National Botanic Gardens Glasnevin: Explore stunning glasshouses and extensive plant collections from around the world. Entry to the gardens is free, offering a beautiful horticultural escape.
Walk Through Merrion Square Park: Relax in this elegant Georgian square featuring colourful flowerbeds and the famous statue of Oscar Wilde lounging on a rock. It’s a lovely spot for a break.
Visit the Garden of Remembrance: Spend a quiet moment at this memorial garden in Parnell Square dedicated to those who died for Irish freedom. Admire the Oisín Kelly sculpture and reflective pool.
Historic Walks and City Views
Walk Along the River Liffey: Stroll the quaysides flanking the river that divides Dublin. Admire the bridges, historic buildings, and watch the city life unfold along the water.
Cross the Ha’penny Bridge: Take an iconic walk across this charming cast-iron pedestrian bridge connecting Temple Bar to the north side. It offers lovely views up and down the Liffey.
Wander Trinity College Dublin Campus: Explore the historic grounds of Ireland’s oldest university. Admire the architecture of buildings like the Old Library (entry paid) and soak up the scholarly atmosphere.
Explore Georgian Dublin: Walk around Merrion Square and Fitzwilliam Square to admire the elegant Georgian townhouses with their colourful doors. It’s a glimpse into Dublin’s architectural past.
Stroll Down O’Connell Street: Walk along Dublin’s main thoroughfare, observing famous landmarks like the Spire and the GPO (General Post Office). See statues commemorating key figures in Irish history.
Walk Through Temple Bar (Daytime): Explore the cobbled streets of Dublin’s famous cultural quarter during the day. Admire the colourful pub fronts and browse unique shop windows before the evening crowds arrive.
Discover the Liberties Neighborhood: Wander through one of Dublin’s oldest areas, known for its market streets and historic character. Experience a slice of traditional Dublin life south of the Liffey.
Walk the Grand Canal Way: Enjoy peaceful stretches of towpath along the historic Grand Canal south of the city center. Follow the route immortalized by poet Patrick Kavanagh.
Walk the Royal Canal Way: Explore sections of the towpath along the Royal Canal on the north side of Dublin. Discover locks, bridges, and enjoy tranquil waterside scenery.
Architectural Gems and Sacred Spaces
Dublin Castle Courtyards: Explore the upper and lower courtyards of Dublin Castle for free. Admire the mix of architectural styles from medieval to modern within this historic complex.
See St Patrick’s Cathedral Exterior: Admire the impressive architecture of Ireland’s largest cathedral from the outside. Its scale and Gothic details are remarkable even without entering (entry fee applies).
View Christ Church Cathedral Exterior: Gaze at the stunning architecture of Dublin’s other medieval cathedral. Admire its flying buttresses and the connecting covered bridge from the street (entry fee applies).
Visit Whitefriar Street Church: Step inside this Carmelite church known for housing relics associated with St. Valentine. It offers a quiet space for reflection off Aungier Street.
Admire Government Buildings: Walk past the impressive Edwardian Baroque Government Buildings on Merrion Street Upper. Appreciate the grand architecture housing key state departments.
View the Custom House: Admire James Gandon’s neoclassical masterpiece overlooking the River Liffey. Its elegant dome and detailed stonework are best viewed from the south quays or Butt Bridge.
See the Four Courts: Observe another James Gandon architectural gem, housing Ireland’s main courts, from across the River Liffey. Its distinctive dome is a prominent city landmark.
Visit St. Michan’s Church Grounds: Explore the churchyard of this historic church known for its preserved mummies (vault tours paid). The exterior and graveyard offer a sense of history.
Coastal Paths and Waterways
Walk the Howth Head Cliff Path Loop: Take the DART train to Howth village (train fare applies) and enjoy a stunning free coastal walk. Experience dramatic cliff views, seabirds, and the Baily Lighthouse overlook.
Explore Bull Island & Dollymount Strand: Visit this UNESCO Biosphere Reserve accessible via a causeway. Walk the long sandy beach, observe birdlife in the nature reserve, and enjoy views back towards the city.
Walk the Great South Wall to Poolbeg Lighthouse: Embark on a long walk out along the South Wall breakwater extending into Dublin Bay. Reaching the distinctive red Poolbeg Lighthouse offers fantastic sea and city views.
Markets and Lively Streets
Listen to Grafton Street Buskers: Stroll down Dublin’s premier pedestrian shopping street and enjoy performances by talented street musicians (buskers). The lively atmosphere and free entertainment are a city highlight.
Browse Moore Street Market: Experience one of Dublin’s oldest traditional street markets. Hear the calls of vendors selling fruit, vegetables, and flowers, offering an authentic slice of city life.
Window Shop on George’s Street Arcade: Walk through this beautiful Victorian indoor market. Browse the unique stalls and small shops housed within the ornate structure.
Explore Temple Bar Food Market (Saturdays): Wander through Meeting House Square on Saturdays to browse stalls offering artisan foods and products. Enjoy the atmosphere even if just looking.
