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River Liffey in Dublin

Dublin in a Day: 24 Hours of Fun

March 8, 2024

Welcome to Dublin, a city bursting with history, culture, and vibrant energy! If you’re a history buff, a lover of landmarks, or simply looking for a good time, Dublin has something for everyone.

In just 24 hours, you can immerse yourself in the rich history of this ancient city, explore its iconic landmarks, and experience the legendary craic (fun and enjoyment) that Dublin is famous for.

We’ve put together three different itineraries to satisfy everyone, offering a guide on what to do in Dublin for a day and promising an unforgettable experience in the heart of Ireland!

24 Hours of Dublin Landmarks

You’re spending 24 hours in Dublin? Here’s the ultimate schedule to see the landmarks that make Dublin famous. Ready, set, go!

Morning

Breakfast at Queen of Tarts: Kickstart your day with a mouthwatering breakfast at Queen of Tarts. Think flaky pastries, yummy coffee, and good vibes all around.

Or get an Irish breakfast: If you fancy a savoury breakfast, look for a pub close to you and get an Irish breakfast. We suggest Slattery’s where you can get one of Dublin’s best Irish breakfast as early as 9am.

Christ Church Cathedral: Head over to Christ Church Cathedral, a jaw-dropping piece of history. Keep your eyes peeled for intricate details and hidden gems as you wander through this iconic Dublin landmark. Don’t miss the quirky legend of Tom the cat and Jerry the rat, forever immortalised in Dublin’s folklore.

Christ Church in Dublin

Late Morning/Early Afternoon

Dublin Castle: Time to feel like royalty at Dublin Castle. Wander through the fancy State Apartments and chill out in the Dubh Linn Gardens. It’s like stepping into a fairy tale!

Lunch at Temple Bar: Hungry? Temple Bar’s got your back! Dive into some delish grub and soak up the awesome vibe of this famous district. Don’t miss cool street art along the way. We recommend the Boxty House, where you’ll find Irish dishes, if you’re curious about Irish cuisine.

Dublin Castle

Read: The Best Places to Eat in Dublin

Afternoon

Trinity College: Next stop, Trinity College! You can’t miss this iconic building right in the heart of the city. If you have time, check out the Book of Kells and snap pics in the gorgeous Long Room Library. Trust us, it’s Insta gold!

Guinness Storehouse: Now, who’s up for some Guinness fun? At the Guinness Storehouse, you’ll learn everything about Ireland’s fave drink. Plus, you get to sip a pint while gazing out over the city. A nice way to experience Dublin, isn’t it?

Read: Where to Find the Best Guinness in Dublin

St. Patrick’s Cathedral: If Guinness is not your thing, make sure to swing by St. Patrick’s Cathedral. Built during the period from 1220 to 1260, the cathedral stands as a rare survivor from Dublin’s medieval era. Inside the cathedral, soak in its beauty and tranquillity, and don’t miss a moment to relax in its serene gardens. 

Trinity College in Dublin

Late Afternoon/Evening

Dublin’s Spire: Look up and prepare to be amazed by Dublin’s Spire on O’Connell Street. It’s a cool modern landmark that stands tall in the city skyline. Don’t forget to snap a selfie with it!

Ha’penny Bridge: The Ha’penny Bridge, built in 1816, is a beloved landmark in Dublin. Originally charging a ha’penny toll, it’s now a free pedestrian bridge over the River Liffey. You can’t go back home without seeing it!

Ha'penny Bridge in Dublin

Night

Dinner at The Church: Let’s dine in style at The Church, a restaurant in a former church. How cool is that? Enjoy yummy food and soak up the amazing atmosphere. It’s dinner with a side of history!

Temple Bar: Finish your epic day with a bang in Temple Bar! Hit up the legendary pubs, catch some live music, and dance the night away. It’s the perfect ending to your Dublin adventure!

the Temple Bar pub in Dublin

With this itinerary, you’re set for an incredible adventure through Dublin’s rich history and cultural heritage. You’ll uncover centuries of fascinating stories and traditions. Get ready to step back in time and discover the treasures of Ireland’s vibrant capital city!

Read: 35 Free Things to Do in Dublin

24 Hours of Dublin’s Rich History

You’re in for a treat with this itinerary! Get ready to dive into Dublin’s fascinating history for an action-packed 24 hours:

Morning

Breakfast at Bewley’s: Kick off your day with a hearty Irish breakfast at Bewley’s Café. It’s been around since 1927 and serves up some seriously tasty food. For a cheaper option, if you stay at I Lár, breakfast is on us!

Dublinia: Step back in time at Dublinia, an interactive museum that brings Dublin’s Viking and medieval past to life. Explore immersive exhibits and learn about Dublin’s evolution from a Viking settlement to a bustling medieval city.

Dublin Castle: Delve into centuries of Dublin’s history at Dublin Castle, originally built in the 13th century. Join a guided tour to uncover the castle’s fascinating past, from its role as a medieval fortress to its transformation into a seat of British rule in Ireland.

Viking at Dublinia in Dublin
Image courtesy: Visitdublin.com

Late Morning/Afternoon

Lunch at the Brazen Head: As Ireland’s oldest pub dating back to 1198, the Brazen Head is more than just a place to eat – it’s a living piece of the city’s past. Enjoy traditional Irish dishes like hearty stews, fish and chips, or classic shepherd’s pie, all served in a cosy atmosphere filled with charm and character.

St. Patrick’s Cathedral: Head to St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Ireland’s largest church and a testament to Dublin’s religious heritage. Explore the stunning Gothic architecture, wander through the tranquil grounds, and pay homage to the legendary patron saint of Ireland.

Trinity College: Head over to Trinity College. It’s like stepping into a time machine with its old buildings and famous library. Explore the cobblestone pathways, admire the grand architecture, and marvel at the illustrious Book of Kells, a medieval manuscript housed in the college’s library.

Inside St Patrick's Cathedral
Image courtesy: Libertiesdublin.ie

Evening

Dinner at The Church: Located in a former church dating back to the 17th century, The Church is now a trendy restaurant and bar in the heart of Dublin. Dine amidst stunning architectural features, including stained glass windows and a beautiful organ loft, while enjoying delicious food and drinks.

Inside the restaurant of The Church in Dublin
Image courtesy: The Church

Night

The Temple Bar: Located in the heart of the vibrant Temple Bar district, The Temple Bar is another historic pub with a colourful past. It dates back to 1840 and has become synonymous with Dublin’s lively nightlife scene. Visitors can enjoy live music sessions, a wide selection of beers, and a lively atmosphere.

With this itinerary, you’ll embark on an unforgettable journey through Dublin’s storied past, uncovering centuries of history, culture, and tradition along the way. Get ready to be transported through time as you explore the treasures of Ireland’s capital city!

Read: Dublin Nightlife: Where to Dance and Drink

24 Hours of the Dublin Craic

If delving into history isn’t exactly your jam, fear not – Dublin has a ton of awesome activities to keep you entertained for a full day of excitement. Follow us!

Morning

Breakfast at Brother Hubbard: Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Brother Hubbard (Capel Street). Fuel up with tasty dishes like scrambled eggs, pulled pork or even French brioche to get ready for the day ahead.

Street Art Tour: Join a street art tour to discover Dublin’s colourful murals and graffiti. Snap photos for your Instagram and learn about the local street art scene from passionate guides.

Grafton Street: Hit up Grafton Street for some retail therapy. Explore trendy boutiques, street performers, and grab some souvenirs or funky clothes to remember your trip.

Dublin street art

Late Morning/Early Afternoon

Lunch at Pitt Bros BBQ: Head to Pitt Bros BBQ for a finger-licking lunch experience. Feast on mouthwatering BBQ ribs, pulled pork buns, and loaded fries to satisfy your hunger. And if meat is not your thing, we have an alternative:

Lunch at Cornucopia: If you’re a vegetarian or simply looking to enjoy a healthy and satisfying meal, Cornucopia promises a culinary experience that’s sure to please!

Guinness Storehouse: Discover the story of Guinness beer through fun exhibits and hands-on experiences. Learn about how Guinness is made, pour your own pint, and enjoy breathtaking views of Dublin from the Gravity Bar. The Guinness Storehouse is a fantastic experience for everyone, whether you’re a beer lover or just curious.

Try an Escape Game: Escape games are a fun and immersive way to spend an hour in Dublin, making them a perfect addition to your itinerary for a day of excitement and adventure! Our favourites are The Incognito Escape Room and Escape Boats.

Inside Guinness Storehouse in Dublin
Image courtesy: Theirishroadtrip.com

Late Afternoon/Early Evening

Have Dinner at Buskers on the Ball: For a lively and delicious dinner experience in Dublin, head to Buskers on the Ball. After dinner, challenge your friends to a game of pool, ping pong, or foosball, adding a playful twist to your dining experience. With its lively ambiance and tasty food, Buskers on the Ball is the perfect spot for a memorable dinner in Dublin!

Night

Live Music at Whelan’s: Dive into Dublin’s vibrant music scene at Whelan’s, a legendary venue known for hosting up-and-coming bands and live gigs. Sip on beers from all over the world while grooving to the tunes. Alternatively, you can:

Party at The Grand Social: The Grand Social is a hotspot for late-night fun. Enjoy live music, DJ sets, and quirky events in a lively atmosphere.

Live music at Whelan's in Dublin
Image courtesy: dublintownstories.wordpress.com

Read: Your Guide to the Best Pub Crawls in Dublin

With this fun-filled itinerary, you’re all set for an unforgettable adventure through Dublin! From delicious food to lively entertainment, you’ll experience the best the city has to offer in just 24 hours. Get ready to make memories, laugh with friends, and soak up the vibrant atmosphere of Ireland’s capital.

To Sum Up

Whether you’re interested in landmarks, history, or just soaking up the lively atmosphere, Dublin has something for everyone. We hope you’ve enjoyed our guide and that your 24 hours in Dublin are filled with unforgettable moments. Book your stay at I Lár and continue your Dublin adventure with us!