The first city most people think about when you say “Ireland,” in Dublin. Not only because most international flights stop in Dublin, but because it is the heart of city life for the Irish.

The VGB squad knew we had to stay in Dublin for a few nights to get the full experience because there is so much to do! I have an Irish heritage so this was a trip of a lifetime for me. We started and finished our trip in this bigger-than-life city and here are a few things we want you to experience if you ever get the opportunity to visit!

Top 5 Things To Do In Dublin, Ireland

Trinity College

The college was founded in 1592 by Queen Elizabeth and modeled after Cambridge University and Oxford University. It was set up in part to consolidate the rule of the Tudor monarchy in Ireland. The University is in the middle of Dublin, located on College Green, opposite the historic Irish Houses of Parliament.

Believe it or not, the campus and architecture of these buildings are not the most exciting attraction. The Library of Trinity College is spectacular. It houses over 6.2 million printed volumes and most importantly the Book of Kells. Fun fact, it is the inspiration behind Harry Potter’s food hall design too!

I am a huge reader and book nerd so I totally geeked out. This was my favorite place in Dublin. I could have stayed there for days taking it all in. It’s a must-see. I promise it will not disappoint.

Walk Around Downtown

This city is booming! Tons of people, art, architecture, historic buildings, shopping, and food surround the River Liffey which flows through the center of Dublin. It was so much fun to get out and walk the streets and feel the vibes of this city. We didn’t have a plan or a schedule because we wanted the freedom to stop at any store or restaurant we saw and enjoy the culture. Mission accomplished!

I suggest you take your time and try some ice cream or coffee in one of the local shops. Every place I tried something at, did not disappoint. I would walk through the streets with my treat and enjoy the architecture and copper on the buildings. It was beautiful and lively.

The River Laffey flowing through the middle of Dublin was awesome. It reminded me of Chicago but better! We wanted to feel the luck of the Irish so we took some spare change, made a wish, and threw it into the river. If you want to take a river cruise to see the city, those are available. You don’t have to make reservations, just buy a ticket at any of the kiosks.

Pub Crawl

When you are in Ireland, so do as the Irish do! There is a pub on every corner, not just in Dublin, but throughout Ireland! I always tried their coffee with Bailey’s Irish Crème. It was cold when we were there, so it was the perfect pub drink for me.

The good or bad thing about Ireland…it’s all about your perspective….the pubs open super early and they are packed at 10 am! At every pub we visited, there were always friendly faces and we met some amazing locals. Don’t be afraid to get comfy and start a few conversations. Plus, you get awesome recommendations on where to go when you meet a local.

The Temple Bar is the most famous. It is beautifully decorated and I love the ivy that crawls up the brick and stone from the outside. Be prepared to fight the crowd if you do this one. They always have live music too, so if you want to experience that then this is the place to visit.

Guinness Brewery Tour or Jameson Whiskey Tour

While we are on the subject! These two tours are both in Dublin and whether you like to partake in drinking or not…they are worth the visit.

See our posts on these two tours to find out which best suits you! Or do what we did, and go to both!

Read More: What The Guinness Storehouse Tour Is Like In Dublin, Ireland

St. Patrick’s Cathedral

Founded in 1911, this is the National Cathedral of the Church of Ireland. St. Patrick’s is the largest Cathedral in Ireland. The gothic style will give you goosebumps. This place is gorgeous, and every detail will give you an appreciation for the Church and art. We didn’t get to go in, but I highly suggest that if you can…please do. I have seen other bloggers’ photos of the inside and it is insane. The beauty of this church is breathtaking.

There you have it, our top five things to do in Dublin, Ireland! There is something to do for everybody in Dublin. Whether your focus is on art, architecture, food, drinking, shopping, or sightseeing, this city has it all. Seriously though, do not miss Trinity College. I promise it is the best place you will visit in Dublin.

Read Next:

How We Turned Ourselves into Galway Girls and followed Ed Sheeran’s Music Video Through Galway, Ireland

What the Guinness Storehouse Tour is like in Dublin, Ireland

The Hidden Jewel of Cobh, Ireland

Why you should travel to Ireland and visit the Cliffs of Moher

How To Spend 3 Days In Dublin, Ireland