The Perfect 2 Days in Dublin: An Insider’s Itinerary

Having lived just outside Dublin in Clondalkin and visited more times than I can count, I’ve experienced the city as both a local and a traveler. I’ve even designed my own “Hidden Dublin” walking route to escape the tourist crowds—because Dublin reveals its true magic when you know where to look.

This 2-day itinerary blends iconic sights with local secrets I’ve collected over the years. Whether you want to dive into Irish history, savor pub culture, or discover quiet corners most visitors miss, I’ve got you covered.

Why trust this guide?
✓ Lived experience: Navigated Dublin’s quirks (like unpredictable rain and bus schedules) firsthand.
✓ Tested routes: My walking tours avoid Temple Bar traps while hitting underrated gems.
✓ No fluff: Only what’s actually worth your limited time.

Let’s get started—sláinte!

15 Dublin Don’ts – a little bit of Irish craic for you

Most asked questions about visiting Dublin for 2 days

1. Is 2 days enough for Dublin?

Answer: Yes! You can hit the highlights (Guinness Storehouse, Trinity College, Temple Bar) and still discover hidden gems (like Marsh’s Library or a local pub crawl). Focus on compact neighborhoods (City Centre, St. Stephen’s Green) to maximize time.

2. What’s the best way to get around Dublin?

Answer: Walk for short distances (most attractions are within 30 mins of each other). Use the Leap Card (€10) for buses/trams, or taxis (FreeNow app) at night. Avoid renting a car—central Dublin is pedestrian-friendly.

3. How much does 2 days in Dublin cost?

Answer (2025 estimates):

Budget: €80–€120/day (hostels, pub meals, free walks).

Mid-range: €150–€200/day (hotels, attraction tickets, dining out).

Splurge: €250+/day (luxury stays, whiskey tastings, guided tours).

Even on a tight budget, you’ll find plenty of free things to do in Dublin.

4. Is Temple Bar worth visiting?

Answer: Yes—for a quick peek and a photo—but don’t eat/drink there (overpriced and can be a tourist trap). Nearby Capel Street or The Cobblestone offer better pubs with live music.

See my detailed Dublin pub guide here

5. Can I see the Cliffs of Moher in 2 days?

Answer: Not realistically—it’s a 6-hour round-trip drive. Instead, take a half-day trip to Howth (30 mins by train) for cliffs, seafood, and coastal walks.

6. What’s the best time to visit Dublin?

Answer: April–May or September–October for mild weather and fewer crowds. Summer (June–August) is peak season but busy; winter (November–March) is rainy but festive. You can read my guide to the best time to visit here.

7. Do I need to book attractions in advance?

Answer: Yes, for:

Guinness Storehouse (slots sell out).

Kilmainham Gaol (book weeks ahead).

Book of Kells at Trinity College.

8. Where should I stay for 2 days?

Answer:

• City Centre (near Grafton Street): Best for first-timers.
• St. Stephen’s Green: Quieter but central.
• Smithfield: Trendy and close to Phoenix Park.

9. What should I skip with limited time?

Answer:

• Dublin Zoo (great but time-consuming).
• Jameson Distillery (Guinness Storehouse is more iconic).
• O’Connell Street (just walk through—it’s mostly shops).

10. Any local etiquette tips?

Answer:

Pub rules: Order at the bar (no table service), tip 10% only at sit-down meals.

Greetings: A nod and “Howya?” works fine.

Weather: Always carry a compact umbrella!

What to do in Dublin 2 days

If you are headed to Ireland and have only had two days in Dublin to cram in all the sights and want some craic in the pubs then this is the place for you. Dublin is a bustling energetic city and it is quite small so very walkable. I believe anytime is a good time to visit Ireland but you should be aware of the weather and that we have 4 seasons in one day so take an umbrella and make sure you have good walking shoes.

Tips for visiting Dublin – the best two days in Dublin

Uber is NOT available in Dublin but you can use the My Taxi app to get a taxi to where you have booked your accommodation. This will be somewhat expensive though at around €30 Euros. So if you don’t want to spend that kind of money and save it for your adventures in Dublin take the local bus. 

2 days in Dublin: How To Get Around Dublin

I always highly recommend a Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour to familiarize yourself in a new city, particularly where you are only spending two days in Dublin or any other city for that matter. Dublin City Centre is easy to walk and most sites you may want to visit are within an easy stroll.

Hop on Hop off buses in Dublin

There are two types of HOHO buses in Dublin and I am a great believer in taking one to get the lay of the land and in addition I have mobility issues and these make being able to see all the places I want to very easy. Here are the major differences in the hop on hop off buses.

Big Bus Tours

Riders can visit 36 different stops spread across the two routes offered by Big Bus Dublin. Unlike the other bus tour, companies Big Bus Tours have live commentary in English which you won’t want to miss and will have you in stitches by the end of the tour.

As if that weren’t enough, you can also use your tickets on either Big Bus or City Sightseeing buses. Now you can buy a 24-hour ticket for €34 which includes that free walking tour.

City Sightseeing

I’ve taken City Sightseeing buses in major capitals around the world from Toronto to Paris, Rome, London, Edinburgh, Oxford and the list goes on. They have a great selection of 30 stops. The best part is that you can use your Big Bus ticket on the City Sightseeing buses as well.

So for your 2 days in Dublin, you can see sites such as The Guinness Storehouse, Phoenix Park, Dublin Castle and more. Live commentary is provided on their Blue route while audio commentary in 8 different languages is available on every third Red Route. A 48-hour Hop-On Hop-Off Dublin bus ticket from City Sightseeing Dublin costs £33.87.

Public Transport in Dublin

Dublin Bus

The Dublin bus network is pretty comprehensive and all routes go through the City Centre. You can use the Journey Planner to find your nearest bus stop and figure out your destination. Remember though if you haven’t bought a Visitor Leap Car which is valid for up to 72 hours you must pay the exact cash amount.

Tram (LUAS)

Luas literally means ‘speed’ in Irish. There are two tram lines, which cross the city. A Red Line and a Green Line these lines do pass some major sites you may want to see and you can use your Leap Card on the Tram.

DART Rail Line

DART stands for ‘Dublin Area Rapid Transport’ the DART is a great way to get out of Dublin and see the coastline. The DART runs from the northern areas of Howth and Malahide through the city centre to Blackrock and Greystones. Again you can use your LEAP card on the DART.

Bicycle

Fancy something a little more eco-friendly then you might want to bike around the city. Dublin Bikes are a public bike-rental service. This is a great way to explore the hidden corners of Dublin. You can rent one from dozens of terminals dotted around the City Centre and inner-city suburbs. You can get 3 days for €5 which can be purchased at one of the many Terminals around the city.

Dublin pass 2 day itinerary

Is the Dublin pass worth it? With this itinerary spending two days in Dublin, you could buy a Dublin Pass which is useful and costs only €74 to €89 if you see all of the sites on the list here you will save at least €25 euros which is worth it. The pass includes free entry to over 30 of Dublin’s most popular tourist attractions, which we think makes for a great day out.

What to do in Dublin on your Dublin Weekend

Christ Church Cathedral

When putting your bucket list together of what to see in Dublin in 2 days you need to add one of Ireland’s most historic and sacred places – Christ Church Cathedral. Located in the heart of Dublin city centre, Christ Church was originally a Viking church and has been welcoming pilgrims and visitors for almost 1,000 years. This is an Anglican cathedral with a tiled medieval floor, vaulted ceilings and a stunning nave.

Take a tour of the Cathedral to find the crypt, the city’s oldest working structure, or climb into the belfry and discover its world-famous bells. Other hidden treasures are waiting to be discovered: Strongbow’s final resting place, the heart of St. Laurence O’Toole, a rare copy of the Magna Carta and the famous mummified cat and rat.

St. Patrick’s Cathedral

One of the best things to do in Dublin is to visit Saint Patrick’s Cathedral the National Cathedral of the Church of Ireland. As the largest cathedral and one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Ireland, Saint Patrick’s has been at the heart of Dublin and Ireland’s history and culture for over 800 years.

Kilmainham Gaol Museum

The history of Dublin includes the infamous Kilmainham Gaol Museum is the place where the Irish rebels were incarcerated. Accused of many crimes including the 1916 Easter Rising it was at Kilmainham that many lost their lives to a British firing Squad.

Your Dublin Pass will cover the entry fee with no waiting in line and entry to the Museum. The tour is absolutely fascinating and will give you a real overview of Irish history. Kilmainham Gaol tickets in 2025 will cost €8.00 for adults, €6.00 for seniors, €4.00 for students, and €20.00 for a family (2 adults and 2-3 children under 18).

Guinness Storehouse

Your visit to Dublin may include the Guinness Storehouse and I have to include this one as it is one of the most visited attractions in Ireland (even though I think it’s a tourist trap). Touring the Guinness Storehouse is a rite of passage for anyone visiting Dublin. You will get one free drink and a fabulous view of Dublin from the Gravity Bar. Adult tickets for the Guinness Storehouse cost €26 (about $28) at the door, but can be purchased online for a discounted rate, according to Guinness Storehouse.

The tour is not of the brewery it is information panels and displays that describe the history of Guinness in Dublin and the pints upstairs in the Gravity bar are expensive after you get your first free and learn how to pour a pint of the black stuff.

Jameson Distillery Tour

The Jameson Distillery Bow St. carries on this ambition through the fully hosted Bow St. Experience, the distillery tour which has a firm focus on immersive storytelling. You’ll be invited to touch, smell, and most importantly, taste Jameson in the original Bow St. Distillery buildings. A 45 minute tour with tasting at the Bow Street Distillery will cost €26 per adult.

Jeanie Johnston Famine Ship

Learn about the Famine era and life on deck on this iconic tall ship. Take a guided tour and discover another side to Dublin’s multi-faceted past, the poverty-stricken Irish emigrants and the sailing industry of the 19th century. You’ll be amazed at how this life-size replica takes you back in time, it is a spitting image of the original that sailed in the mid-1800s. Adult tickets are €15.00 and you can purchase a combined ticket to the Ship and EPIC Museum for €32.00.

The Book of Kells – The New Book of Kells Experience in Dublin

Dublin’s iconic Book of Kells at Trinity College has unveiled a new immersive exhibition, blending ancient history with cutting-edge technology. Visitors now explore interactive displays detailing the manuscript’s 1,200-year-old origins before viewing the legendary Celtic gospel book itself.

The revamped experience includes 3D digitized pages, atmospheric lighting, and deeper insights into the monks who crafted this masterpiece. Still housed in the stunning Old Library Long Room (a highlight for Harry Potter fans), the updated tour makes Ireland’s most treasured artifact more accessible and engaging than ever. Adult tickets cost from €26 for the Book of Kells Experience, from €31 for the Trinity Trails and Old Library, and From €16 for just the Trinity Trails.

Pro tip: Book early—time slots fill fast!

You could also visit the actual Village of Kells where the great book was found. There is a copy of the book in the church that is quite beautifully done and the Celtic cross grave markers are pretty impressive.

Free Dublin Attractions from museums to historic sites

Free Museums in Dublin

National Library of Ireland is an amazing resource for learning about Dublin’s history and your own family genealogy. The library has guided tours and lots of information on finding your Irish family.

The Natural History Museum involves exhibits on Irish fauna and flora as well as mammals found in Ireland. Discover skeletons and stuffed specimens of non-Irish animal species, from elephants to whales.

Hugh Lane Gallery houses the foremost public collection of contemporary art in Ireland; the gallery also has a dynamic temporary exhibitions programme

The Chester Beatty Library displays the impressive collections of Sir Charles Beatty who made his wealth in mining. The treasures are displayed in two collections, “Sacred Traditions” and “Artistic Traditions.” The Museum is located near Dublin Castle.

National Galleries: The National Gallery of Ireland and the Irish Museum of Art are both free and include a wide selection of art and sculpture from the 14th to 20th centuries. If you prefer modern art then the Irish Museum of Art will be your happy place.

Botanic Gardens: The Botanic Gardens just north of Dublin’s city centre and near Glasnevin are a must-see for visitors. With amazing plants growing inside and outside the large glasshouses, it’s perfect for any kind of weather and any time of year! The gardens are right beside the Glasnevin Cemetery and hold the dubious honour of having a larger population of residents than Dublin City currently has.

Free Attractions in Dublin

Glasnevin Cemetery: If you are trying to trace your Irish ancestors or simply visit the graves of some of Dublin’s famous and infamous a trip to Glasnevin is in order. There are fee-based walking tours and an entry fee to the Museum but the Cemetery is free and there are maps to show you where some of Dublin’s famous are buried. You should also drop in for a pint at the Gravediggers pub around the corner for some very Irish company.

The General Post Office: One of Ireland’s most famous buildings the Post Office on O’Connell Street was the centre point for the great 1916 “Rising” during the fight for independence. You can wander through the Post Office and don’t forget to check out the bullet holes on the outside columns. There are interpretative panels that explain the events of 1916 and there is an option of a paid admission and tour.

Molly Malone Statue: The statue was located on Grafton street but was moved a few years ago to make room for the construction of the LUAS track. The statue is located on Suffolk Street, in front of the Tourist Information Office.

Molly was not a real person the song that makes her famous is an old one is a story made up of a fishmonger who sold her wares on the streets of Dublin and died young of a fever. In the 20th century, a legend grew up around the fictional Molly when the Dublin Millennium Commission endorsed in 1988 claims made for a Mary Malone who died in 1699 and they declared the 13th of June to be “Molly Malone Day”.

You will probably be introduced to the Molly statue by the guides on the HOHO buses as the “Tart with the Cart” of the “trollop with the scallops”. The fact that the statue has a low-cut dress has led to what is known here in Ireland as being “handsy” rubbing the statue’s breasts for good luck.

Temple Bar District: An immensely popular spot with tourists Temple Bar is a complete rip-off zone. Feel free to wander the streets and soak up the vibe of the area as it is very popular. However, getting a few drinks in one of the pubs will set you back a pretty penny.

The Ha’Penny Bridge: Just down from the Temple Bar area, you will spot the Ha’Penny Bridge crossing the Liffey. It got its name because they used to charge a ha’penny for pedestrians to cross the Liffey. These days it is one of the most iconic sites in Dublin.

St. Stephen’s Green: Gorgeous green space in the centre of the City has a complex and eventful history starting with its beginnings as a church area for those with leprosy to The Beaux Walk situated along the northern perimeter of the park became a popular location for high society to promenade. The park itself hosts a large number of important sculptural monuments to Irish history. Many species of birds and plants also call the park their home.

Trinity College Dublin: Situated right in the middle of the city alongside Grafton Street, Trinity College has hosted renowned playwrights including Samuel Beckett and Oliver Goldsmith. The book of Kells and the old library are the main attraction of Trinity College, but you can wander the grounds at no charge.

Phoenix Park: Phoenix Park is an oasis in the middle of a bustling city. One of the largest parks in Dublin it covers over 7210 hectares. There are stunning monuments and statues, herds of deer, a fairy walk and benches to sit and people to watch. The park is also located near the Dublin Zoo which you do have to pay for.

Free walking tours of Dublin

Here are the best free walking tours in Dublin, perfect for budget travelers who want local insights without the price tag:

1. Dublin Free Walking Tour

📍 Meeting Point: Outside City Hall (2 Dame St)
⏰ Schedule: Daily at 10 AM, 11 AM, and 2 PM
🎟 How It Works: Pay-what-you-wish (€5–€15 suggested)
✔ Highlights:

• Trinity College & Dublin Castle
• Temple Bar’s hidden history
• Viking & medieval Dublin
  💡 Why Choose It? Lively guides with deep historical knowledge.

2. 1916 Rebellion Tour (Revolutionary Dublin)

📍 Meeting Point: The Spire on O’Connell St
⏰ Schedule: Daily at 11:30 AM
🎟 How It Works: Donation-based (€10+ recommended)
✔ Highlights:

• Easter Rising sites (GPO, Post Office)
• Irish independence stories
• Local legends & rebel pubs
  💡 Why Choose It? Passionate storytelling—great for history buffs.

3. Sandeman’s New Dublin Tour

📍 Meeting Point: Barnardo Square (near City Hall)
⏰ Schedule: Daily at 10 AM & 2 PM
🎟 How It Works: Tip-based (€5–€20 typical)
✔ Highlights:

• Christ Church Cathedral
• Ha’penny Bridge & River Liffey
• Temple Bar’s real vs. touristy side
  💡 Why Choose It? Engaging, theatrical guides.

4. Sandeman’s Dark Dublin Free Tour (Ghosts & Crime)

📍 Meeting Point: Wolfe Tone Statue, St. Stephen’s Green
⏰ Schedule: Fridays & Saturdays at 6 PM
🎟 How It Works: Pay-what-you-feel
✔ Highlights:

Dublin’s grim past (executions, plagues)

Haunted alleys & cursed sites
💡 Why Choose It? Spooky fun for evening thrills.

Pro Tips for Free Tours:

✅ Book ahead (some require online registration).
✅ Arrive 10 mins early—groups fill fast.
✅ Bring cash for tips (guides rely on them).
✅ Wear comfy shoes & a rain jacket—Dublin weather is unpredictable!

Bonus Free Walk: Phoenix Park (DIY tour)—spot wild deer, the Papal Cross, and Áras an Uachtaráin (Irish President’s home).

My Hidden Dublin Walking Tour Itinerary

📍 Distance: 3.5 km (2.2 miles) | ⏱️ Time: 2–3 hours (longer with stops)
🚶 Theme: Secret history, literary haunts, and local flavor

Start: St. Audoen’s Church (1)

📍 Cornmarket, Dublin 8

Dublin’s only surviving medieval parish church (1190).

Look for: The eerie 9th-century “Lucky Stone” rubbed for centuries by pilgrims.

Hidden Lane: St. Audoen’s Arch (2)

📍 Next to the church

Sneak under this 12th-century archway—one of the last remnants of the old city walls.

Local secret: The tiny alley here was a Viking trade route.

The Brazen Head (Back Entrance) (3)

📍 Bridge St. – enter via the side alley

Dublin’s “oldest pub” (1198), but skip the crowded front door.

Order: A pint in the secluded back courtyard where Joyce and rebel leaders drank.

Dubh Linn Gardens (4)

📍 Behind Dublin Castle

• The real “Black Pool” (Dubh Linn) that gave Dublin its name.
• Find: The swirling Celtic-design garden marking the original Viking harbor.

Marsh’s Library (5)

📍 St. Patrick’s Close

• A hauntingly beautiful 1701 library with unchained rare books.
• Look for: Centuries-old reader graffiti in the margins.

The Gravediggers (6)

📍 *Glasnevin (take the #40 bus or a 10-min taxi)*

• End at this legendary pub (officially Kavanagh’s) beside Glasnevin Cemetery.
• Why: They still serve Guinness in old-fashioned “coffin vans” (metal trays).

Where to Eat in Dublin

There are some fabulous places to eat in Dublin but try to avoid Temple Bar as it can be very overpriced and not great food. Don’t be worried about food allergies or food sensitivities Ireland’s laws ensure that all ingredients must be clearly accessible.

Dublin’s food scene blends hearty Irish classics with modern global flavors. Here are the top spots to try during your 2-day trip:

The Woollen Mills

📍 Location: 42 Lower Ormond Quay
🍽️ Why Go? A riverside gem serving elevated Irish dishes like slow-braised lamb and seafood chowder. Great for brunch or dinner with a view of the Ha’penny Bridge.

The Brazen Head

📍 Location: 20 Bridge St.
🍺 Why Go? Ireland’s oldest pub (since 1198!) offers live music, Guinness stew, and a rowdy, authentic atmosphere. Go for dinner and stay for the trad sessions.

Govinda’s

📍 4 Aungier St.
🌱 Why Go? Affordable vegetarian Indian buffet with hearty dhal, curries, and desserts. A local favorite for quick, healthy eats.

If you are in Temple Bar and need to eat here are a few of my personal recommendations:

Bunsen

📍 Locations: Temple Bar, South Anne St.
🍔 Why Go? No-frills burgers hailed as Dublin’s best. Order the “Bunsen Burger” with cheese and crispy fries—cash only.

The Old Storehouse

📍 Location: Crown Alley, Temple Bar
🎻 Why Go? Hearty Irish fare (think fish and chips or beef & Guinness pie) with live music nightly. Tourist-friendly but genuinely fun.

Clement & Pekoe 

📍 50 William St S, Temple Bar
Why Go? Specialty coffee brewed with precision. Their flat white and homemade banana bread are legendary among Dubliners.

Pro Tip: Book dinner reservations for pubs like The Brazen Head—they fill fast!

Free Traditional Music sessions in Dublin

So many pubs so little time but you have to find a great pub or two when in Dublin for your 2-day Dublin itinerary and here’s a selection.

O’Donoghues

Home of The Dubliners, O’Donoghues is perhaps the greatest, traditional Irish pub in Dublin. Always busy, especially when Ronnie Drew and the Dubliners would come and play, for free, with other local musicians.

O’Neills

O’Neill’s has traditional Irish music sessions but also Irish dancing, jigs, reels and all sorts of mischief and fun. The food is pretty excellent too.

Kehoe’s

John Kehoe’s has been around since 1803 and it always looks the same – it never changes. Ever. That means it’s completely authentic, unspoilt and brimming with atmosphere and tradition. A trad session here is usually small but absolutely fantastic.

Gogarty’s

The Oliver St John Gogarty, or just Gogarty’s, is in Temple Bar and has live Irish music and ballads every single day of the week, all afternoon and into the night. That’s upstairs. Downstairs, other sessions can spark up at any time. Enjoy the very best of live traditional music every day from 1 pm till 2.30 am, cocktails will set you back around €10 euros each and a pint around €9 rather ridiculous prices to be honest.

The Cobblestone

This is arguably the best pub in Dublin for live traditional Irish music sessions. The Cobblestone is in Smithfield, near the Jameson Distillery and across the river from Guinness’s. The owner has made sure he has the best musicians in the city and you’ll be impressed every night of the week and all afternoon at the weekends.

Your hotel in Dublin

Word of advice here don’t attempt to stay in Temple Bar the noise and the extortionate pricing will ruin your trip. There are no castles in Dublin itself but if you want a Castle Stay here are a few on the outskirts of Dublin.

Where to stay in Dublin

Harding Hotel

Overlooking Christ Church Cathedral, Harding Hotel is located beside Dublin’s Temple Bar district. It offers spacious rooms with free Wi-Fi, a bistro-style restaurant and a lively bar. A simple budget hotel with a good rating from its guests.

The Fitzwilliam Hotel

Fancy a luxury splurge then the Fitzwilliam is for you. In central Dublin, The 5-star Fitzwilliam Hotel offers luxurious accommodations. Guests can enjoy the restaurant and bar There is a gym, and the hotel’s interior design is by Sir Terence Conran. The city’s Temple Bar area is just a 5-minute stroll away, as is Trinity College. The Fitzwilliam is just 9.7 km from Dublin Airport and Heuston Train Station is 2.4 km away.

Staycity Hotels – St. Augustine

With balconies overlooking the city or the courtyard, Staycity Aparthotels Saint Augustine Street provide stylish accommodations in the heart of Dublin. Close to Christ Church Cathedral, Temple Bar is a 5-minute walk away.

Hotel St. George by Nina

Located at the top of O’Connell Street, The Hotel St. George is in the heart of Dublin city centre, within 200 m from the shopping district of Henry Street. With free WiFi, bedrooms also have private bathrooms. Hotel St. George is within a 15-minute walk from landmarks such as Trinity College, Temple Bar, Grafton Street and Croke Park. The Dublin Airport Shuttle stop is just 2 minutes from the property and Dublin Airport is 5 mi away.

Castles to stay near Dublin

Clontarf Castle Hotel

Dublin is a little short on castles within the city the two best castle in Dublin are just outside of the city. The original Clontarf Castle dates back to 1172 but the “newer” building is significantly younger. Located in the seaside village of Clontarf which is just north of Dublin’s city centre and a few miles from the Dublin Airport it is located in a quiet and peaceful setting.

Clontarf Castle has seen a lot of history in its day from the Templar Knights to the Cromwellian conquest and of course the Rising. Irish chieftain Brian Boru gave the Vikings one of their rare defeats at the former port of Clontarf in 1014.

Regarded as one of the greatest composers of the Baroque era, Handel was a regular guest at the castle during the Dublin premiere of his famous work Messiah.

Captivated by Dorothy “Dolly” Vernon, the lady of Clontarf Castle’s charms, Handel would compose Forest Music in her honour.

Given its proximity to Dublin, there is a plethora of things to do in the area. Take a ride into Dublin and enjoy all the off the beaten path sites. Hang out in some pubs for trad music. Or simply wander around the lovely village of Clontarf. Just a short walk away from Clontarf Castle Hotel sits an elegant townhouse with a bright red door. This is the birthplace of Bram Stoker the author of Dracula.

A deluxe bedroom ranges from €159.00 including breakfast to €299.00 for a Queen boutique suite.

BOOK YOUR STAY AT CLONTARF CASTLE NOW

Luttrellstown Castle Resort

Lutrellstown Castle Resort is only around 30 minutes outside Dublin and is a true 5* experience.  It is a Castle that is for hire on an exclusive basis and it is set within 560+ acres that includes a championship golf course. The Castle dates to the 15th century and it is believed that Sir Henry Luttrell seized the estate in 1436, during the reign of King Henry VI.

Over the years many notable celebrities and members of the royal family have spent some time at Luttrellstown Castle. The Grand Duke of Luxembourg, Prince Rainier and Princess Grace of Monaco, Fred Astaire, Douglas Fairbanks, Queen Magrethe II of Denmark, Paul Newman and Ronald Reagan have all stayed in this stunning Irish castle. More recently, the world’s media descended on Luttrellstown Castle Resort in 1999 for the fairy-tale wedding of David and Victoria Beckham.

Luttrellstown Castle with its 11 bedrooms and bridal suite range from €55000 – 55000 per week. Rentals are from Saturday to Saturday only.

2 Days in Dublin: Essential FAQs for First-Time Visitors

1. Is 2 days enough to see Dublin?

Yes! You can cover the top attractions (like Trinity College, Guinness Storehouse, and Temple Bar) while still enjoying local pubs and hidden gems. Focus on central neighborhoods to maximize your time.

2. What’s the best area to stay in for 2 days?

• City Centre (Grafton Street/Temple Bar): Best for first-timers (walkable to major sites).
• St. Stephen’s Green: Central but quieter.
• Smithfield: Trendy area near Phoenix Park and great pubs.

3. How do I get around Dublin efficiently?

• Walk: Most attractions are within 20–30 minutes of each other.
• Public Transport: Use a Leap Card (€10) for buses, trams (Luas), and trains (DART).
• Taxis: Use the FreeNow app (like Uber). Avoid renting a car—parking is expensive.

4. What’s the best way to experience Dublin’s pub culture?

• Skip Temple Bar pubs (overpriced and touristy).
• Try these instead:
  • The Cobblestone (best trad music).
  • The Long Hall (historic Victorian pub).
  • Kehoe’s (local favorite).

5. Do I need to book tickets in advance?

Yes, for:

• Guinness Storehouse (slots sell out).
• Book of Kells & Trinity College (long lines without booking).
• Kilmainham Gaol (book weeks ahead—it’s worth it!).

6. What’s the best day trip from Dublin if I have extra time?

Howth: Scenic coastal village (30 mins by train) with cliff walks and seafood.

Glendalough: Stunning monastic ruins in Wicklow (1-hour drive).

Newgrange: Ancient passage tomb older than the pyramids (1-hour drive).

7. What should I skip if I’m short on time?

• Dublin Zoo (great but time-consuming).
• Jameson Distillery (Guinness Storehouse is more iconic).
• O’Connell Street (mostly shops—just walk through).

8. How much should I budget for 2 days?

• Budget: €80–€120/day (hostels, pub meals, free walks).
• Mid-range: €150–€200/day (hotels, paid attractions, dining out).
• Splurge: €250+/day (luxury stays, whiskey tastings, guided tours).

9. What’s the best time of year to visit Dublin?

• Best Weather: April–May & September–October (mild, fewer crowds).
• Festive Season: December (Christmas markets, cozy pubs).
• Avoid if possible: November & January–March (rainy and cold).

10. Any local etiquette tips?

Pubs: Order at the bar (no table service). Tip 10% only at sit-down restaurants.

Greetings: A simple “Howya?” or “Cheers” works fine.

Weather: Always carry a light jacket & umbrella—rain is unpredictable!

Spending two days in Dublin is a perfect way to explore the city’s rich history, culture, and natural beauty. From exploring iconic landmarks like Trinity College and St. Patrick’s Cathedral to indulging in traditional Irish cuisine and lively nightlife, there is something for everyone.

Visitors can also escape the hustle and bustle of city life by taking a stroll in one of Dublin’s many parks or enjoying a scenic boat ride along the River Liffey. With so much to see and do, it is no wonder why Dublin continues to be a popular destination for travellers from all over the world.

What have you discovered on your 2 days in Dublin itinerary that you think folks should know about? Let me know in the comments I would love to hear your discoveries.

Rest assured this will give you a tiny taste of Ireland and you will be back for more.

Food tours in Dublin you might enjoy

Dublin Coastal Craft Beer and Seafood Trail with a Local

Known for its bounty of seafood, bars, restaurants and, importantly, beer, the small historic fishing village of Howth is perched on the coast just a short drive from downtown Dublin. Join in a guided half-day tour, featuring a freshly-caught two-course seafood lunch and a selection of North County Dublin’s finest craft beers.

With this tour, discover the rich Norman and Viking history of medieval Ireland. Discover some of Howth’s less-known eateries and bars, popular with locals Sample Ireland’s freshest seafood: Dublin bay prawns, Oysters, Gambas, and more Hear of Norman and Viking invasions and discover legends from 12th-century Howth Walk across Howth Harbour and watch fishing boats return with the latest catch

Read more about Dublin Coastal Craft Beer and Seafood Trail with a Local

 Delicious Dublin Food Tour

Discover Dublin’s burgeoning culinary culture—and visit a number of the city’s characterful eateries—on this small-group walking tour. Be sure to arrive hungry: this lunchtime tour kicks off in the late morning, and includes a number of samples. Try local cheeses and chocolates, drop by bakeries and food halls, and head off the tourist trail when you visit venues that locals love.

As you go, learn more about Ireland’s gastronomic history. Small-group walking food tour of Dublin Enjoy numerous samples of local dishes Get off the tourist trail and see another side of the city Learn all about Ireland’s rich food culture from your guide

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The Irish House Party Dinner and Show Dublin

Immerse yourself in a night of traditional food and entertainment at the Irish House Party in Dublin. You’ll experience one of the city’s best ways to spend an evening at this dinner-and-show event complete with authentic Irish fare, diverse music, dancing and storytelling. Enjoy some traditional Irish food like Guinness stew and Baileys-infused chocolate cake, and sing and dance the night away with a talented group of performers.

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Traditional Irish Night Show Ticket in Dublin with optional Dinner

Enjoy an evening of traditional Irish food, music and dance with an Irish show at the Belvedere in Dublin. Get set for a night of non-stop entertainment as professional Irish folk musicians and dancers take to the stage to perform Irish dances, jigs and reels. Tuck into a delicious 3-course dinner of typical Irish cuisine, sip a pint of Guinness (own expense) and maybe even get up on stage to try your hand at Irish dancing.

Read more about Skip the Line:Traditional Irish Night Show Ticket in Dublin with optional Dinner

Dublin Secret Food Tour w/ Private Tour Option

Eat like a true Dubliner on this small-group Dublin food tour. With your guide, seek out authentic pubs, cafés, food shops, and markets, and savor Irish specialities including a traditional breakfast, artisanal cheeses, ice cream, and more. Pair your tastings with an Irish cream liqueur and another tipple, and admire some of Dublin’s hidden gems and learn about its culinary heritage as you eat and explore. Tour is limited to 12 or fewer.

Read more about Dublin Secret Food Tour w/ Private Tour

👉 2 Week UK and Ireland Itinerary for First-Time Visitors

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👉 Exploring the Troubles taking a Black Taxi Tour

👉 Global Food Guide Cuisine & Food Culture