Only have 24 hours in Dublin and want to experience everything that this city has to offer? We’ve got your back. James Joyce wrote, ‘When I die Dublin will be written in my heart’. And we’re sure you’ll find a special place for it in yours too after you’ve spent a day here. It’s one of the best-loved cities in the world and for good reason – it’s jam-packed with history, culture, charm and unrivalled craic. And, of course, Guinness. From historical landmarks and haunted graveyards to drams of whiskey and bowls of beef stew, there are so many different sights, sounds and tastes to enjoy here. And if you’ve only got 24 hours in Dublin to spare, you’ll really need to make the most of your time. Find out how to squeeze in all the best bits below.
Morning
24 hours in Dublin: let’s do it! Start as you mean to go on by setting your alarm early so you can fit in as much exploring as possible. And to do it all properly, you’ll need all the energy you can muster – so a good breakfast is key. If you’re a meat eater that can handle a serious plate of food, find a local cafe serving up a traditional Irish breakfast of bacon, sausages, black pudding and eggs. Alternatively, enjoy a vegetarian version or perhaps a few farls, also known as Irish potato bread. When you’re feeling satisfied and ready to start your adventure, head to Trinity College: one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the world. It’s home to the famous Book of Kells – a ninth century illuminated manuscript that contains the four Gospels of the New Testament. Visitors can enjoy a guided tour of the Old Library to discover the history of this literary work, as well as tour the Long Room – a stunning library with over 200,000 books and manuscripts. That’s a lot of words to get through. We love the smell of old books, but after all that information you’re likely to want a bit of fresh air. Take a tranquil stroll through St. Stephen's Green, a public park in the heart of Dublin that first opened way back in 1880. You’ll see an interesting variety of plants and wildlife in this well-landscaped spot and there are plenty of great photo opportunities to be had here too.
Lunch
After a typical Irish lunch? We hope so, as it’s always worth eating like a local when you’re somewhere new. In Dublin, this looks like a hearty and hot bowl of beef stew or soup with a slice of Irish soda bread. Other popular dishes include boxty – potato pancakes; colcannon – mashed potato with cabbage; and barmbrack – a yeast bread with added sultanas and raisins. Of course, there’s always a good old fashioned classic beef and Guinness pie to enjoy too. You’re likely to find somewhere decent wherever you happen to be in the city around lunchtime, but if you’re close to Grafton Street, you’ll have lots of choice. This pedestrianised shopping street is lined with all sorts of cafes and restaurants offering a variety of cuisines. Lunchtime is about the right to have a pint too, especially if it’s Guinness you're craving.
Afternoon
Ready to return to adventure mode? Take a trip back in time to Dublin Castle: a historic landmark in the heart of the city, with a history dating back over 800 years. Join a guided tour of the castle's grounds and learn about its rich history, including its use as a royal residence and the site of the Irish government. Whether or not you enjoyed a pint with lunch, you’ll want to head to the Guinness Storehouse when you’re back in the present day. This seven-storey museum is located in the historic St. James's Gate Brewery and happens to be one of the city's most popular attractions and a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Irish beer and brewing. As well as offering a fascinating look into the history and production of Guinness, there are unsurprisingly plenty of opportunities to taste the famous stout. Enjoy ‘a pint of gat’ – as the locals say – at the Gravity Bar, where you’ll also get some pretty impressive panoramic views of the city. Prefer your liquor a bit stronger? Visit a local whiskey bar or take a guided tour of the Jameson Distillery to learn about the history and production of Irish whiskey (and enjoy a tasting session).
Evening
Your 24 hours in Dublin may be coming to an end but there’s still so much fun to be had. It’s time to stroll along the cobblestone streets of Temple Bar: one of the city’s most famous neighbourhoods and a great place to welcome in the evening. It’s known for its colourful buildings, live music and vibrant nightlife – you may recognise it when you see it in real life as it’s been featured in many television programmes and films over the years. There are lots of places to eat here too, so take your pick from a range of cozy pubs boasting homemade food and signature dishes. Nighttime is also the best time to experience Dublin’s haunted history. That’s right, we’re suggesting you try out a spooky ghost tour. Sceptic or believer: it’s a unique and thrilling way to learn about the city’s folklore, especially if you’re up for a spine-tingling adventure to end your day in Dublin.