Dublin on a Budget: 5 Days of Fun

Experience the luck of the Irish without breaking the bank in Dublin.

21 June 2023

Dublin, Ireland is an excellent destination for a trip on a limited budget. With a plethora of free attractions, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture, this city will not disappoint. Enjoy the Guinness Storehouse, St. Patrick's Cathedral, and Temple Bar without breaking the bank.

Travel plan

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Day 1

Discovering Dublin's Charm

  • Check in at Generator Hostel in Smithfield, a trendy and budget-friendly accommodation.
  • Walk around Temple Bar area, home to some of the best pubs, street performers, and markets.
  • Visit Dublin Castle to see stunning architecture and learn about Ireland's history.
  • Enjoy a pint of Guinness at Gravity Bar, a rooftop bar with panoramic city views.
  • End the day with live music at Whelan's, a famous music venue where Ed Sheeran once played.
Day 2

Literary Dublin

  • Start the day with a traditional Irish breakfast at Gerry's Coffee Shop.
  • Visit Trinity College Library, home to the Book of Kells, an illuminated manuscript from the 9th century.
  • Explore the Dublin Writers Museum and learn about literary giants such as James Joyce and Oscar Wilde.
  • Stroll around St. Stephen's Green park and enjoy the tranquility in the middle of the city.
  • Grab a pint at The Long Hall, a cozy pub known for its old-world charm.
Day 3

Nature Escape

  • Take a day trip to Howth, a seaside town just 30 minutes away from Dublin.
  • Hike up Howth Cliff for amazing views of the Irish Sea and the town.
  • Visit Howth Castle and its beautiful gardens.
  • Enjoy seafood and a pint of beer at the Oar House, a local favorite.
  • Walk around the Harbor for views of fishing boats and seals.
Day 4

Museums & Art

  • Start the day with a coffee and pastry at Brother Hubbard.
  • Explore the National Gallery of Ireland, home to works by Van Gogh, Monet, and Vermeer.
  • Visit the Irish Museum of Modern Art to see contemporary artworks.
  • Take a stroll around Merrion Square, a park with colorful Georgian houses.
  • Have dinner at The Brazen Head, Ireland's oldest pub, dating back to the 12th century.
Day 5

Last Day in Dublin

  • Start the day with a visit to the Guinness Storehouse, to learn about the brewing process and have a pint.
  • Shop for souvenirs at the Temple Bar Markets, filled with handmade crafts and vintage wares.
  • Visit the Christ Church Cathedral, an impressive Gothic church with an underground crypt.
  • Have a meal at The Winding Stair, a cozy restaurant with a view of the River Liffey.
  • Enjoy a final drink at The Cobblestone, a pub where traditional Irish music is played live every night.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Dublin, Ireland by plane is to fly into Dublin Airport, which is located approximately 10 kilometers north of the city center. Many airlines, both budget and full-service, offer flights to Dublin from all over the world.

Car

Driving to Dublin is a popular option for those who prefer the flexibility and freedom of having their own vehicle. The M1 and M50 are the main motorways leading to Dublin, with plenty of car rental companies available at Dublin Airport.

Train

While there are no direct trains to Dublin from outside Ireland, it is possible to take a train from other parts of Ireland or from the UK. The main train station in Dublin is Heuston Station, which serves the west and south of the country, while Connolly Station serves the north and east.

Boat

If you're coming from the UK or Europe, taking a ferry to Dublin is a great way to arrive. Irish Ferries and Stena Line both offer regular services from various ports in the UK, with Dublin Port serving as the main ferry port in Dublin.

Bus

Dublin is easily accessible by bus from other parts of Ireland, with many companies such as Bus Éireann and Dublin Bus offering frequent services. The main bus station in Dublin is Busáras, which is located near Connolly Station.

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