5 Free Things to Do in Dublin

Fancy a trip to Dublin, Ireland? I know that I do. Dublin is a beautiful city with so many things to offer, some of them even for free. Check them out. Some of the best things in life come for free, right? I mean nothing you could pay for, can top watching a sunset with your loved one. Embrace the free things Dublin has to offer – you will enjoy them!

1. Take a Walk Through the City

The Half Penny Bridge in Dublin

Getting to know a new city means spending some time walking through it. And no, it doesn’t mean shopping – it means soaking in the energy of the city itself, and the people in it. And what better way to do that, than to take a long walk?

You could do this in an old-fashioned way – completely by yourself with a help of a map, or you could take a tour.  Believe it or not, there are guided Dublin tours that are completely free. The guides are paid in tips only, and it doesn’t affect the quality of the tours whatsoever. These are actually some of the best tours in Europe. Find out more about free Dublin tours on this link.

2. See Trinity College

trinity college in dublin

Trinity College is, by all means, a must-see attraction in Dublin. Even better – seeing it is free. Walking around the campus and getting to know the college is not charged, but if you would like to see the ancient Book of Kells (which I have to recommend); you’ll need to pay the fee for the entrance to the Old Library.

Trinity College is the oldest college in Ireland. It was founded in 1592 by Queen Elizabeth I, and it still has that 16th century charm. The architecture of the building is amazing, and the beautiful lawn, and cobblestone paths only build up the unforgettable impression.

3. Pay a Visit to the National Museums

national museum of ireland

This is quite hard to believe, but Dublin is a home of three National Museums that are completely free for visitors. Make sure you visit them all.

The National Museum of Ireland is located in Kildare Street. It is a must-visit attraction for all those interested in history. It holds many interesting artifacts dating from the prehistoric times, to the middle ages. Unfortunately, photography is not allowed, so you’ll have to bring your memories only.

Another National Museum of Ireland lies in Collins Barracks. It is not as popular as the one in Kildare Street, but it is a cool place to visit. Photography is not allowed here either, and the museum is a bit far away from the city center, but if you have the time, I certainly suggest you to visit it.

The last of the three free museums is The National History Museum, located in Merrion Street. The locals usually refer to it as The Dead Zoo, and for a good reason indeed. The main attraction of this museum is a Victorian collection of dead stuffed animals. Not recommended for those who love animals. I would certainly skip it myself.

All museums are open from Tuesday till Saturday from 10am to 5pm and on Sundays from 2pm to 5pm. Monday is, as almost everywhere in the world, the day when museums are closed.

4. Visit the National Galleries

exterior view at irish museum of modern art

There are two National Galleries in Dublin that are completely free to visit – The National Gallery of Ireland, and The Irish Museum of Modern Art. The National Gallery is home to a big collection of art dating from the 14thto the 20th century.

Here you can fins works by Irish and international artists as well, including names like Yeats, Caravaggio and Monet. The Irish Museum of Modern Art holds a 4,500 piece collection of modern arts. It is mainly focused on photography, paintings and sculptures.

5. Take a Break in The Phoenix Park

Beautiful landscape in the Phoenix Park Dublin

Once you get tired from all the free things to do in Dublin, check this one out and have some time to relax. Visit the Phoenix Park.

Main entrances of the park are at Parkgate Street and Castleknock Gate, and the gates of the park are open 24 hours a day. The Phoenix Park is one of the largest city parks in the world, covering the area of 1752 acres. It was established in 1662 and it offers a beautiful view to big green fields, amazing flower beds and impressive monuments. Find out more about the Phoenix Park on the official website.

Apart from the good things that cost money, there are also good things that are completely free. These are the free things you could do in Dublin. Anyone already tried them?

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About the author

Sarah

I’m a free spirit who likes to travel, cook and fly. Licensed paraglider pilot, I spend all my spare time flying. In the meantime, I like to share my recipes and travel experiences.

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