A destination close to France, Dublin is one of the 20 most beautiful cities in the world to visit. It invites you to stroll through its narrow streets, buzzing with history, where welcoming pubs weave the very fabric of its culture. In just three days, immerse yourself in the heart of this vibrant city, where surprises abound. Let yourself be carried away by the city's effervescence and the warmth of its people. What to do in Dublin in 3 days? Follow the Petit Futé guide!
Day 1: Discover Dublin's Old Town
There's nothing like immersing yourself in an old city to soak up its unique atmosphere!
Tip: if you're planning several visits during your stay, we recommend you buy the Dublin Pass from Go City right here it gives you free access to over 40 Dublin attractions.
Morning: From City Hall to Dublin Castle
Dublin's main monuments
Your first morning in Dublin begins at City Hall, a majestic neoclassical edifice. Situated at the crossroads between the Old Town, Temple Bar and the modern city center, City Hall offers an ideal starting point for your 3-day weekend in Dublin. The escapade continues at the superb Dublin Castle, with its impressive medieval architecture. Allow 45 minutes to explore the transformation of a medieval fortress into an 18thᵉ century palace, complete with state apartments, medieval tower and royal chapel.
If you want to make the most of your stay you can book this guided tour of Dublin, which will show you the city's must-sees .
Free tours in Dublin in 3 days
The morning continues with a 5-minute walk to the Chester Beatty Library. Here, a free 45-minute immersion in an astonishing collection of manuscripts and artifacts spanning the world's religions and cultures awaits you. The morning journey reaches its climax at St. Patrick's Cathedral, Dublin's XIIIᵉ century jewel. Imposing and majestic, it is the pillar of Irish Anglicanism (remember to book your admission ticket before your visit right here.)
Lunch break! A short 5-minute walk takes you to the Liberty Bell Pub in the Liberties district. It's the perfect place to enjoy a good meal and an Irish beer.
Afternoon: A moment of culture, between Guinness and modern art
The afternoon begins with a visit to the Guinness Storehousea museum dedicated to Ireland's iconic black beer(remember to book your ticket online before your visit!). Whether you're a beer lover or not, this is a fascinating cultural visit waiting for you during your 3-day weekend in Dublin. Nestled in the brand's former warehouses, the museum offers a journey through the history and manufacture of this beer.
Your cultural afternoon continues at the IMMA Museum of Modern Art, housed in a former military hospital. Here you can admire around 1,500 works of art, ranging from paintings to photographs and interactive installations. A 10-minute walk will take you to Kilmainham Prison, a building steeped in history and built in 1796.
A breath of fresh air is a must after all this! Then it's on to Phoenix Park, Europe's largest enclosed park. This haven of peace is home to various points of interest, including the presidential residence.
In the evening..
To visit Dublin in 3 days without immersing yourself in its folklore would be criminal! Numerous pubs, such as the Cobblestone, host evenings of traditional Irish music. You're in for an evening rich in local discoveries and Irish conviviality!
Day 2: Dreamy Dublin, cultural Dublin
The day begins with an immersion in history at the local cemetery, followed by an invigorating stroll through a magnificent botanical garden. The rest of the program promises to be just as enticing: a visit to a university, an exceptional library and a museum!
Morning: A leisurely stroll in a quieter Dublin
Glasnevin, a bucolic moment in Dublin
This second morning in Dublin opens with a verdant escapade in the Glasnevin Botanical Gardens, created in 1795. Far from being old-fashioned despite its great age, it has managed to retain all its credentials. Spread over 20 hectares, this haven of peace boasts an impressive collection of over 20,000 plants from all over the world, including 300 rare species threatened with extinction. The visit delights the eye as much as the sense of smell, with its four greenhouses, artificial waterfalls, sumptuous rose garden and Japanese garden. Let's face it: the day started with a bang!
The second visit, a little less bucolic, is still very interesting. Its proximity to Glasnevin Cemetery provides a gentle transition to this emblematic site, founded in 1832. A little like our national Père-Lachaise, it is the resting place of illustrious figures such as the revolutionary Michael Collins.
A gentle end to your morning..
Take a short break, then continue your stroll along the River Tolka, before rejoining the bus for the city center. This second morning in Dublin closes with a visit to The Spire on O'Connell Street, replacing the Nelson Column. Despite its more modest appearance than in the past, this street is still full of charm, inviting you to visit the Writers' Museum or the Hugh Lane Gallery.
Afternoon: Irish culture in the spotlight
What to do in Dublin in 3 days? Fill up on culture!
After a delicious Irish meal, you'll be immersed in the academic and historical world of Trinity Collegethe city's most prestigious university. If Dublin is one of the best cities in which to study, it's thanks to Trinity College! More than just a renowned educational setting, it's also famous for its superb parkland and museums. In particular, we invite you to visit the ancient library housing the famous Book of Kells. Don't forget to book! The best option is to book the Book of Kells ticket , which allows you to avoid the wait at the entrance and also includes a guided tour of Dublin Castle.
Cultural Dublin then invites you to discover its National Gallery of Ireland, where free admission gives access to permanent collections of Irish and European art. These include works by renowned artists such as Johannes Vermeer and Diego Velázquez.
After culture, relaxation..
After a well-earned snack, head for Merrion Square, where a central park framed by colorful Georgian mansions awaits you. The walk continues to St Stephen's Green, a romantic green space ideal for a relaxing break, with its benches, lawns and duck pond. Your second afternoon ends in shopping mode, with a vibrant exploration of Dublin city center, before heading to the Portobello district.
In the evening..
Portobello's nightlife is in full swing! From concerts at Whelan's to shows at the prestigious National Concert Hall, let the magic of Irish music and culture wash over you!
Day 3: Howth, a magical excursion near Dublin
Just a stone's throw from Dublin city center, head for Howth, a peninsula offering an enchanting setting for this weekend.
Morning: Discovering Howth
A little outside Dublin, a visit to Howth is a must before heading back to France! You begin your escapade with a journey from Dublin's Tara Street train station. From there, a short 30-minute journey on the Dart, the local subway, takes you directly to the Howth terminus. Alternatively, book this guided half-day excursion along the coast to the village of Howth .
That's where the magic happens! The urban landscape of the last two days gives way to the serene atmosphere of a fishing village. The transition to this coastal tranquility is immediate. As soon as you leave the resort, you're greeted by the Howth market, the ideal place to stock up on local produce and regional flavours.
The walk continues to the small marina, where the jetty stretches out towards the Howth Lighthouse. Time to get out the cameras! Here you are, immersed in an idyllic setting that seems almost disconnected from the hustle and bustle of Dublin. Recharge your batteries with a good local dish, but not too heavy, because a beautiful hike awaits you in the afternoon!
Afternoon: Irish fairytale hikes
From Howth Harbour, you're free to venture out on the lovely trails, ranging from 6 to 16 km in length. Rest assured, there's something for everyone! Do you have the time and courage to take on the longest hike? Then you'll have the chance to fully embrace the beauty of the peninsula, completing a complete loop through its dreamy landscapes.
Good news: the route is clearly signposted, directing walkers to the Howth Cliff Walk, a path that winds along the cliffs. The panoramic views of the coast are nothing short of spectacular! We advise you to dress warmly, however, as winds often sweep across this coastal area. The path, lined with Ireland's characteristic lush greenery, takes you step by step to the Baily lighthouse.
You won't be able to say you didn't enjoy Ireland's natural beauty during your 3-day weekend in Dublin!
Where to stay in Dublin for 3 days? Our selection of the best hotels
Your 3-day stay in Dublin is an opportunity to discover the city's 17 must-sees, between culture and nature. Put your bags down in a hotel in the Old Town, and enjoy the unique atmosphere of Ireland!
- The most elegant
Fall for the elegance of theAriel House, a charming Victorian-style hotel. Chic is everywhere, immersing visitors in a haven of peace punctuated by adorable little touches. Parking included is a big bonus! Click here to book this Dublin establishment in just a few clicks.
The best location
Located close to all the main points of interest, the Harding Hotel offers all the comforts of a grand hotel at an affordable price. It's perfect value for money, just the way you like it on vacation! Clickhere to book a room at this downtown hotel .
Top of the range
The Fitzwilliam Hotel fully deserves its 5 stars! Luxury rooms, top-of-the-range services, chic is everywhere, including in its two succulent restaurants. A great address to book now, right here.
The best time to visit Ireland is in summer, if you want to enjoy mild temperatures. Or would you rather travel in autumn? Discover the ideal destinations for travel in October. Dublin is an enchanting city, as is the rest of the country. Extend your stay and discover the 17 must-do things to do in Ireland- you won't regret it!
Here are the most popular things to do during a two- or three-day stay in Dublin:
