In the heart of Ireland’s vibrant capital, our whirlwind 24-hour journey through Dublin unfolded as a spontaneous adventure, weaving through historic landmarks, culinary delights, and unexpected discoveries. From the convenience of airport transfers to the depths of historical sites and the warmth of local gems, here’s everything we fit into our 24 hour Dublin trip.
What to do in Dublin for a day…
Following extensive research, we made a list of all the best things to do in Dublin during the 24 hours we had in the area. Below are the places we visited, in order of when we done them (not in order of best). The three must see places on the list would be The Jeanie Johnston, Kilmainham Gaol and The Secret Book Store.
1. Breakfast at Brother Hubbards
Our Dublin adventure kicked off with a delightful breakfast at Brother Hubbard, a hidden gem that had come highly recommended, and rightly so. Without a reservation, we were promptly seated, welcomed by a cheerful staff and an inviting atmosphere.
Opting for the classic scrambled eggs paired with toast, halloumi and a side of their recommended potatoes, my plate arrived as a work of art. The presentation was as beautiful as the flavours were delicious, setting a perfect tone for the culinary experiences that awaited us in Dublin.
Brother Hubbard’s not only lived up to its reputation but exceeded our expectations, making it a must-visit spot for anyone exploring Dublin’s vibrant culinary scene.
2. Walk around the Gardens at the Royal Hospital Kilmainham
With a bit of time to spare before our scheduled guided tour of Kilmainham Gaol, we seized the opportunity to wander through the tranquil Gardens at the Royal Hospital. While the museum was temporarily closed for refurbishment, the expansive gardens proved to be an enchanting escape.
The neatly manicured pathways, adorned with seasonal blooms, provided the perfect backdrop for a leisurely stroll. Despite the museum’s closure, the gardens offered a serene environment, allowing us to absorb the natural beauty and history that enveloped the Royal Hospital Kilmainham.
Although our original plan may have been altered, the impromptu exploration of the gardens added an unexpected layer of tranquillity to our Dublin itinerary, setting the stage for the forthcoming visit to Kilmainham Gaol.
3. Guided tour of Kilmainham Gaol
A highlight of our Dublin itinerary, Kilmainham Gaol claimed its spot at the top of my must-visit places, earning its stellar reputation through online recommendations. However, securing a tour proved to be a challenge, as both days of our visit were fully booked. Disappointment loomed, but a stroke of luck came our way when we discovered the website’s note about cancellations being released at 9 am each morning. We eagerly seized the opportunity and snagged a 12:45 pm slot.
Kilmainham Gaol, a prison museum with a rich historical significance, housed Ireland’s political prisoners who faced incarceration, torture, and execution. Our guided tour, led by an exceptionally knowledgeable and passionate guide, unfolded at a pace that allowed for absorbing information without feeling overwhelming.
Walking through the actual jail, we delved into the lives of past inmates, many of whom were political activists. The tour offered an outstanding, comprehensive glimpse into modern Irish history spanning the last 200 years, with Kilmainham Gaol often considered the birthplace of Irish Independence.
For enthusiasts of museums and history, this experience is a must. Priced at a reasonable €8 per ticket, it’s a bargain that immerses you in the rich tapestry of Irish history, particularly in the context of human rights. Check availability here.
4. Afternoon refuel at The Rolling Donut
Our post-Kilmainham Gaol exploration led us to an unexpected delight – The Rolling Donut. The tantalising aroma and eye-catching display we had passed on our way to the gaol proved irresistible, prompting a backtrack for some sweet treats before returning to our apartment, just a 30-minute taxi ride away.
The Rolling Donut didn’t disappoint with its impressive array of flavours and even included vegan alternatives. The star of the show? Huge, fluffy, sourdough doughnuts that were nothing short of delightful. To make the most of our visit, we opted for the 3-for-€7 offer, or you could go for the tempting €6 deal, which included a coffee.
Our selection included the tempting Blueberry Cheesecake, the rich Red Velvet, and the unique Vanilla Pistachio Glaze. My personal favourite, the Blueberry Cheesecake, was nothing short of divine. The Rolling Donut proved to be the perfect spot for a mid-afternoon refuel, adding a delectable touch to our Dublin escapade.
5. Walk through Temple Bar area
After a rejuvenating afternoon nap and a quick refresh, our evening plans led us to the lively and iconic Temple Bar area. This bustling riverside neighbourhood, adorned with cobbled pedestrian lanes, is a tapestry of crowded pubs resonating with live folk music and DJ sets. The dining scene is equally vibrant, with restaurants offering a diverse array of Asian, American, and Irish cuisine. Quirky boutiques, showcasing the creations of local designers, add an extra layer of charm to the area.
Navigating through the lively Friday night crowd, we attempted to enter the famous Temple Bar itself, but the queues spilled out the door. Undeterred, we strolled up to a less crowded bar, stumbling upon The Quays Bar. While still buzzing with energy, we were fortunate enough to secure a seat and swiftly order our drinks.
Amidst the lively ambiance, I opted for a classic Guinness, embracing the true Dublin spirit as we soaked in the live music and the vibrant atmosphere of Temple Bar.
6. Dinner at Las Tapas De Lola
Our evening unfolded with a pre-booked table at the highly recommended Las Tapas De Lola, a vibrant and atmospheric Spanish gem, courtesy of a friend’s suggestion. Nestled in the heart of Dublin, this restaurant offered an authentic and inventive array of tapas creations paired with a carefully curated selection of wines.
The menu, a delightful tapestry of Spanish flavours, invited diners to choose 2 or 3 tapas per person. Intrigued by the variety, I settled on the fried aubergine, prawns, and the classic patatas bravas.
What made the evening truly special was not just the delectable dishes but the warm and friendly Spanish staff who curated an immersive dining experience. From the lively ambiance to the flavourful creations, Las Tapas De Lola successfully transported us to the heart of Spain. A thoughtful aperitif on the house was a lovely gesture that added an extra layer of hospitality to an already delightful evening.
7. The Molly Malone statue
Our Dublin exploration continued the next morning with a visit to the iconic Molly Malone statue, a bronze representation of the fictional fishmonger from a well-loved Irish song. Known affectionately by locals as “The Tart with the Cart,” Molly Malone stands as a fun and free landmark in the heart of Dublin.
As we approached the statue, plaques dotted the area, providing insights into the history of Molly Malone and information about the sculptor. A unique tradition awaited us – it’s said that, traditionally, you touch her cleavage for good luck. This quirk is evident in the bright polish on the bronze in that particular area, standing out from the rest of the statue.
A visit to the Molly Malone statue not only pays homage to Dublin’s musical heritage but also provides a light-hearted and free experience in the heart of the city.
8. Walk through Trinity College
Nestled in the heart of Dublin, Trinity College, spanning a vast 19 hectares and boasting Georgian buildings, is renowned for its distinguished humanities, science, and medical programs. This historic university offers both guided and self-guided tours, but we opted for a more leisurely approach, grabbing a Starbucks to savour as we strolled through the campus, basking in the beauty of its architecture.
The buildings of Trinity College exude a timeless elegance, creating an atmosphere that seamlessly blends academic excellence with architectural grandeur. As we meandered through the well-manicured grounds, our casual exploration revealed a rich tapestry of history and learning.
While the option for guided tours beckoned, our decision to take an unscripted journey through the university allowed us to appreciate the charm and character of Trinity College at our own pace.
9. Guided tour on The Jeanie Johnston: An Irish Famine Story
A serendipitous discovery during our Dublin sojourn led us to The Jeanie Johnston, diverting our plans from the EPIC museum. The allure of this tour lay in the intriguing sight of a replica 19th-century ship that once carried Irish emigrants to America during the Great Famine. Little did we know, this experience would become the highlight of our Dublin trip.
Offering both below and above-deck insights, The Jeanie Johnston unfolded a riveting narrative of Irish emigration. The ship’s fascinating history, coupled with tales that ranged from heart-warming to heart-wrenching, painted a vivid picture of the challenges faced by those seeking a new life across the Atlantic. Our guide, Steve, possessed a storytelling talent that made the past come alive, and I found myself captivated by every word.
Below deck, the ship’s interior provided an immersive experience, offering a glimpse into the harsh realities of the Great Famine era. Remarkably, thanks to the compassion and expertise of the humanitarian captain, doctor, and ship owner, no lives were lost during the numerous voyages.
While I’d love to share the awe-inspiring conclusion, I’ll leave that for those who make the journey themselves. The hour-long tour, priced at €15 for adults, proved to be an investment in a profound and moving exploration of history. We did not pre-book this tour, but you do so on their website here.
10. Lunch at Cornucopia Wholefoods Restaurant
Our spontaneous exploration led us to another gem in Dublin – Cornucopia Restaurant. Drawn in by promising Google reviews highlighting its appeal for vegans and vegetarians, we decided to make it our lunch stop. What awaited us was not just a meal but an experience, set against a backdrop of lovely personnel and a cosy atmosphere.
Cornucopia offered a diverse menu catering to various dietary preferences, including sweet treats, coffee, and substantial meals—all delicious. Our choice for a light afternoon bite was the Cesar wrap, a perfect blend of flavours that satisfied our cravings without weighing us down.
The restaurant’s commitment to quality ingredients and wholesome offerings made this impromptu lunch stop a delightful and nourishing part of our Dublin journey.
11. The Secret Book and Record Store
Just a stone’s throw from Cornucopia, a sign for a ‘secret bookstore’ beckoned, and curiosity led us to this hidden gem. The Secret Book and Record Store, a cosy and independent bookshop, revealed itself as a haven for book and vinyl enthusiasts alike.
Browsing through the shelves, we discovered a curated selection of new and second-hand titles, along with an eclectic vinyl collection. The store’s charm lies not only in its atmosphere but also in the diverse array of classics and unconventional picks. It’s a treasure trove where you’re likely to stumble upon something you might not have considered otherwise.
As an aficionado of classic fantasy novels, I found the store’s selection particularly appealing. For anyone with a love for books, The Secret Book and Record Store is a must-visit. Embracing a personal tradition of buying a book in every place I travel, I added a copy of ‘Irish Fairy And Folk Tales’ to my collection, a tangible memento from the heart of Dublin.
12. A tipple at Temple Bar Pub before departure
As our Dublin adventure drew to a close, we made one final attempt to experience the famed Temple Bar pub, and luck was on our side, a table awaited us. The vibrant atmosphere of the pub, paired with the infectious energy of live music, set the stage for a memorable farewell to the city.
Amidst the lively tunes, we raised our glasses to the culmination of our 24 hours in Dublin. The Temple Bar Pub provided the perfect backdrop for a relaxed evening, allowing us to soak in the ambiance, savor some live music, and enjoy a drink before collecting our bags for the journey home.
The spirited atmosphere and the lively tunes marked the perfect end to our Dublin escapade, leaving us with fond memories and a desire to return to this dynamic city.
How to get from Liverpool to Dublin
Living in close proximity to Liverpool Airport certainly has its perks. With just a 3-minute drive or a brisk 10-minute walk, getting to the airport is a breeze. Ordinarily, I opt for the latter, enjoying the fresh air and exercise, but on this particular day, with the temperature hovering at a chilly 1 degree, we decided to be a bit lazy and got dropped off at the entrance.
The flight itself is a brief 20 minutes, providing just enough time to savor a comforting cup of coffee and delve into a few chapters of my book before we touch down on Irish soil. Liverpool Airport, in my opinion, stands out as one of the most organized and efficient airports I’ve had the pleasure of traveling from, making it my go-to choice when planning a trip.
What’s even more appealing is the cost of the flights – a mere £48 for a return journey. This budget-friendly fare becomes even more enticing when you consider that a taxi ride to the city centre can set you back £25! It’s the perfect start to a wallet-friendly adventure in Dublin.
How to find accommodation in Dublin City Centre
When embarking on a city break, finding the ideal accommodation involves a bit of research to secure the best deal in the perfect location. Our quest for a central spot led us to Staycity Aparthotels (Dublin, City Quay), a gem we discovered through booking.com. The price point was equally enticing, coming in at just £136 for a room that comfortably accommodates four.
Adding a touch of excitement to our stay, Staycity Aparthotels offered the option to bid for a room upgrade before check-in. Given the chilly January weather, we took a gamble and submitted a bid of a mere £7. Upon our arrival, the pleasant surprise awaited us – we had won the bid and were promptly upgraded to a more spacious room on the top floor. This unexpected twist not only elevated our stay but also treated us to breath-taking views of the cityscape.
Best airport transfers
Our initial plan involved budgeting for taxis to shuttle us between the airport and our centrally located Staycity Aparthotel. However, upon landing in Dublin, a keen eye caught sight of the Dublin Express bus stop, prompting us to reconsider our transportation strategy.
To our delight, the Dublin Express offered return tickets at just €14, a significant cost-saving revelation compared to our initial taxi budget. Not only did this decision spare us approximately €45, but it proved to be an equally convenient mode of transport. The bus efficiently dropped us off at City Quay, a mere 4-minute walk from our apartment, allowing us to reach the check-in counter by around 8 am.
This unexpected find not only lightened our financial load but also introduced us to the city’s public transport, setting a frugal and efficient tone for the rest of our Dublin adventure.
