Dublin in a Day: 8 Must-See Dublin Attractions to Add to Your Day-Trip Itinerary

Are you planning a trip to Dublin but don’t know where to start your tour? If this is your first time visiting this historic town, there are some sights and landmarks you don’t want to miss.

From the city’s vibrant food scene, the iconic distilleries that open their doors to visitors, and the history that’s around every corner, you’ll love Dublin’s unique spirit.

Whether you go sightseeing at the Dublin Castle, visit the St. Patrick’s Cathedral or make your way to the Old Trinity College Library, Dublin will capture your heart as soon as you arrive.

Read below to discover 8 amazing Dublin attractions you should include in your visit to Ireland’s capital city.

1. Visit a Traditional Irish Pub

Before you do any sightseeing, visiting a traditional Irish pub should be one of the first things to do in Dublin. Dubliners pride themselves on their culinary scene and having some of the best beers in the world.

Don’t miss the traditional Dublin Coddle, which is a hearty stew made of sausages, potatoes, and bacon. Next, try the Irish soda bread paired with a good Dublin breakfast, and top it all off with a cup of coffee.

2. Admire the Majestic St. Patrick’s Cathedral

St. Patrick Cathedral is the largest of its kind in the entire country and a proud symbol of the Irish faith. The cathedral was founded in 1191 and has been the home of over 800 years of Irish history and culture.

The cathedral was named after the patron saint of Ireland, St. Patrick, who performed Christian baptisms on the site over 1500 years ago. This was also where the famous Irish phrase ‘to chance your arm’ was invented.

It all began as a feud between two families who after a long period of fighting reconciled through the Door of Reconciliation. The head of one family, Gerald FitzGerald, decided to offer a truce by cutting a hole in one of the Cathedral doors. He then put his arm through the hole hoping the other family doesn’t chop it off.

Luckily, the two families shook hands through the door and put an end to the feud. The Door can still be seen at the north transept of the Cathedral.

3. Visit the Guinness Storehouse Factory

If you’re a fan of great quality beer, visiting the Guinness Storehouse Factory is the best things to do in Dublin for you. Guinness is not just any beer–it’s actually an Irish dry stout that’s dark in color and made with very specific brewing methods.

The brewery was founded by Arthur Guinness in 1759 and today, visitors can tour the Guinness building in the historic part of Dublin.

4. Go Back in History at the Dublin Castle

The Dublin Castle is a must-see if you want to learn all about the country’s governing bodies and historic events. The castle was built right where the Poddle Stream met the River Liffey, forming a deep, dark pool. In Gaelic, this ‘black pool’ was translated as ‘dubh linn’ which gave Dublin its name.

If you want to learn more about the most legendary people that lived and created in this city, hop on the Dubliner bus tour.

5. Tour the Old Jameson Distillery

The Old Jameson Distillery is among the greatest Dublin tourist attractions that represent the Irish love of booze. The distillery was established in 1780 and still stands strong today. Since its inception, Jameson has been a world-famous whiskey and the distillery attracts thousands of tourists year-round.

On the tour, you’ll hear the distillery’s incredible stories throughout time and experience a whiskey tasting. At the end of the tour, you’ll receive a complimentary glass of Jameson to cheer.

6. Learn All About the Irish at the National Museum of Ireland

The National Museum of Ireland is a mandatory part of your Dublin sightseeing tour. You’ll learn all about the country’s history at the museum’s four sites, each of which is dedicated to a different section like archeology, country life, natural history, and decorative arts.

The museum doesn’t charge an admission fee so visitors can enjoy the many exhibits, shop, have a cup of coffee and explore to their heart’s content.

7. Visit the Old Library at Trinity College

If you’re a bookworm, the 18th-century Old Library at the Trinity College will be the highlight of your trip. The Old Library is the only part of the entire college that’s open to the public so tourists can get a feel of the history, craft, and architecture that went in this masterpiece.

The most popular attraction in the library is the Book of Kells, which is a 9th-century gospel manuscript, dubbed Ireland’s greatest cultural treasure.

If you want to take a sneak peek at The Trinity College and discover more about its rich history, you can go for a tour with an official guide. The guide will lead you through the college campus and the 4 major squares and you’ll learn all about the 400-year history of the College, its traditions, and its principles today.

8. Pay Your Respects at the Glasnevin Cemetery Museum

The Glasnevin Cemetery is not only one of the most sacred places in Dublin; it’s also one of the most famous tourist attractions. This is because the Glasnevin is the eternal home of many famous people from Ireland and England, including poets, singers, politicians, revolutionary leaders, and other prominent public figures.

In the spirit of cemeteries, take the Gravedigger Tour if you’re into the mystical and supernatural. You’ll hear the most chilling horror stories about the town and the plague that ravaged the town in the mid 14th century. The tour starts at St Audeons Church (a.k.a. “Hell”) and ends at the Kilmainham Jail and Bully’s Acre Cemetery.

Put These Dublin Attractions on Your Checklist!

Dublin is a city full of life, history, and unforgettable sights. If you’re looking for adventure, you’ll be sure to find it there.

Start by walking the city streets and discover more about the culture, food, and customs of the people. Then, travel through time at the Dublin Castle, the St. Patrick’s Cathedral, and the centuries-old Trinity College Library.

For more Dublin hot spots, places to visit, and information about our tours, visit our blog.

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