How to Spend 2 Days in Dublin, Ireland: The Perfect 48 Hour Itinerary
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Planning a trip to Dublin but not sure how to make the most of your time? Maybe it’s your very first visit, you’re back again to soak up the city vibes, or it's just a quick stop on your bigger Ireland adventure, Dublin has something special for everyone. Trust me, you don’t want to skip it!
To be honest: The very first time I visited Dublin (almost 10 years ago), I didn’t love the city. But here’s the thing - I didn’t really give it a fair shot. I skipped almost every "touristy" item on the list.
The second time I went back, everything changed. We had two days of glorious summer sunshine, and I finally leaned into all of the "must-dos" that everyone talks about.
And you know what? That’s what completely made the trip. From exploring iconic landmarks to soaking in the lively pub culture, I finally understood why Dublin is such a beloved city.
If you’re planning a visit, this guide will show you how to make the most of 48 hours in this lively, historic city. Here’s everything you need to know for an unforgettable two days in Dublin, Ireland, including an itinerary for each day, where to stay, unique tours and experiences, great restaurants, and how to get around the city. Let's go!
Table of Contents
Introduction
Quick Guide for Visiting Dublin
How to Get Around Dublin
Top 5 Must Do’s in Dublin
2 Days in Dublin, Ireland: The Ultimate 48 Hour Itinerary
Day One: City Walking Tour, Guinness Storehouse, Temple Bar, and more
Day Two: EPIC Museum, Trinity College, St. Stephen’s Green, and more
Bonus Day 3: Day Trip Out of the City
Other Top Attractions in Dublin
Best Tours & Unique Experiences
Where to Stay in Dublin
Where to Eat and Drink
FAQ
Final Thoughts
🇮🇪 Quick Guide for Visiting Dublin:
Before we get into the itinerary, here’s a quick guide to help you get your bearings in Dublin:
Currency: Euro (€)
Language: English, with Irish (Gaelic) as the official second language (you’ll see signage with both).
Where to Stay: Check out Zanzibar Locke or The Alex Hotel for a stylish hotel right in the city center.
Getting Around: Dublin is very walkable, and public transport via buses and the LUAS tram is easy to use. For convenience, consider getting a prepaid Leap Card for seamless travel across bus, train and tram services in the city.
Best Time to Visit: From May to September, the weather is generally best. My personal favorite month is June. But if you’re up for some festive vibes, March is the time to go for St. Patrick’s Day - just be ready for the crowds!
View of Dublin Castle from the castle’s gardens
How to Get Around Dublin
Navigating Dublin is actually very simple, and that's coming from someone with no sense of direction (thank goodness for Google Maps). The compact city center is best explored on foot, and with just 2 days in Dublin, I would suggest walking to your destinations whenever possible! This way, you’ll get a more immersed feel of the city.
Plus, most of the main attractions are within a short walking distance of each other, making it super easy to enjoy the city on foot at your own pace.
Public Transportation in Dublin
If you want to take a little break from walking, the Dublin Bus system operates frequently and covers most areas, while the Luas tram service offers quick and efficient routes through key parts of the city. Both options are affordable and convenient. For shorter trips, you can also hop on a city center shuttle or take advantage of the Leap Card, which allows seamless transfers across buses, trams, and trains.
Map of Dublin Sites
For a stress-free planning experience, visualize your stops in advance with this interactive map of Dublin attractions:
Short on Time? Here are the Top 5 Must-Do's in Dublin
Tour the Guinness Storehouse and the Jameson Distillery
Walk the cobbled streets of the Temple Bar district
Stroll through St. Stephen’s Green and Grafton Street
2 Days in Dublin, Ireland: The Ultimate Itinerary
Day 1
Morning: Historical Walking Tour
Start your day by taking a guided historical walking tour to explore landmarks like Dublin Castle (don’t miss the Castle Gardens!), St. Patrick’s Cathedral, and Christ Church Cathedral as well as some hidden gems. Alternatively, DIY your morning tour with a relaxed stroll along the cobbled streets of the city. Be sure to hit the must-see spots listed above, and end near Christ Church Cathedral.
St. Patrick’s Cathedral
Dublin Castle as seen from the gardens
Midday: Lunch in Dublin's Oldest Pub
Enjoy lunch at The Brazen Head, Dublin's oldest pub, established in 1198! Located just a short walk away from all of the sites listed above. We absolutely loved our meal there and the overall vibe. Alternatively, scroll down to "Where to Eat and Drink in Dublin" for some other delicious spots. In the mood for something sweet? Murphy’s Ice Cream needs to be on your list!
Afternoon: Guinness Storehouse or Whiskey Distillery Tour
Dive into Dublin’s iconic brewing traditions at the Guinness Storehouse, where you can learn about the history and craft behind Ireland’s most famous stout. Don’t forget to cap off the tour with a pint of Guinness at the Gravity Bar, which has stunning panoramic views of the city.
>> Book your Guinness Storehouse tickets in advance! Tours fill up very quickly, since this is one of Dublin's most sought-after experiences. For a a more in-depth tour and tasting, book the Connoisseur Experience.
Or, opt for a whiskey tour at the Jameson Distillery or Teeling Distillery. I can highly recommend the (award-winning!) Jameson Bow St. Experience even as someone who doesn't love whiskey. The guided whiskey tasting and immersive history was super well done.
>> Book your Jameson Distillery tour or Teeling Distillery Tour in advance.
Outside of the Guinness Storehouse
Pint pouring class at Guinness
Jameson Distillery tasting & tour
Evening: Drinks and Live Music
For dinner, treat yourself to a delicious meal at one of the restaurant recommendations listed below (scroll down to "Where to Eat & Drink in Dublin") before heading out for the evening!
Wrap up your first day by hopping between iconic pubs like the Temple Bar (a must-visit for first timers), or discovering slightly less-crowded spots like The Palace Bar for live Irish music.
Day 2
Morning: EPIC Museum & Famine Memorial
Dive into Irish history at the EPIC Museum, which features 20 interactive exhibits diving the history of the Irish diaspora and their emigration to other countries. It was actually the winner of "Europe's Leading Tourist Attraction" for three years in a row! Don’t forget to check out the powerful Famine Memorial just around the corner.
>> Book your museum entrance tickets in advance.
Afterwards, take a scenic walk along Dublin’s River Liffey. You’ll see some iconic sights like the Ha’penny Bridge, the first pedestrian bridge to cross the Liffey built in 1816, and the more modern Samuel Beckett Bridge.
Noon: Lunch at a Local Favorite
Stop at a charming café or eatery for a relaxing lunch. Try The Woollen Mills, which is known for its Irish cuisine and roof terrace overlooking the River Liffey, or Fish Shop for the best fish and chips in a super stylish setting. (More restaurant options listed below!)
Afternoon: Trinity College and the Long Room
Next, visit Trinity College, where the star attraction is the beautiful Old Library "Long Room," and the famous Book of Kells. Reserve tickets in advance to skip the long queues. Note that at the time of publishing this guide (early 2025), most of the books are off the shelves for an extensive restoration project, so the library will not look exactly like the photos you see online.
After visiting the library, pop around the corner and see the Molly Malone Statue en route to your next stop. This statue was created to honor the fictional fishmonger celebrated in the famous Irish ballad "Molly Malone." PS. Touching the sculpture is now highly discouraged by the city of Dublin. Photos only, please!
The Ha’penny Bridge
Trinity College Library “Long Room”
Molly Malone Statue
Late Afternoon: St. Stephen’s Green and Shopping on Grafton Street
Take in the atmosphere of St. Stephen’s Green, a beautifully landscaped park right in the city, before heading to Grafton Street, Dublin’s shopping haven, for boutique finds and street performances. You can also add in the nearby Drury Street and George’s Street Arcade for more unique shopping opportunities.
If you're into a good photo-op, check out Dublin's "Umbrella Street," located on Anne's Lane right off of Grafton Street. The colorful umbrellas suspended over the street are a magical backdrop for a picture.
Evening: Dinner and a Show
End your time in Dublin with a final Irish feast. Order traditional pub fare at a spot like Devitts (alternative restaurant recommendations below) and afterwards, walk just a minute up the street to Whelan's - an awesome live music venue, which was featured as a filming location in PS. I Love You.
Looking for something super unique? Go for a nightcap at the Vintage Cocktail Club, a hidden gem spot located behind an unmarked door in Temple Bar. This speakeasy-style bar is the perfect moody spot for craft cocktails.
St. Stephen’s Green from above (stock drone photo)
Dublin's "Umbrella Street"
Have Extra Time? Bonus Day 3: Day Trip Out of the City
Option One: Day Trip to the Cliffs of Moher and Galway City
If you have some extra time during your trip, consider taking a day trip to the breathtaking Cliffs of Moher and the vibrant little city of Galway - my personal favorite city in Ireland! These stunning spots are completely worth the journey to the opposite coast, and guided tours make this long-day excursion both effortless and incredibly enjoyable.
Option Two: Wicklow Mountains, Glendalough & Kilkenny Tour
Explore the classic beauty of Ireland with a trip to the Wicklow Mountains, Glendalough, and Kilkenny. Think stunning landscapes, peaceful lakes, charming medieval streets, and a whole lot of history. Bonus: movies like P.S. I Love You and Braveheart were filmed in this area.
Take a day trip to the iconic Cliffs of Moher
Other Top Attractions in Dublin
For those wanting to explore a bit more during your two days in Dublin, check out:
Kilmainham Gaol prison tour to uncover Ireland’s revolutionary history.
The National Gallery of Ireland for beautiful European & Irish art displays.
Iveagh Gardens for a hidden gem escape, often referred to as "Dublin’s Secret Garden."
Phoenix Park for its expansive gardens and wild deer.
Irish Whiskey Museum, which also hosts an Irish Coffee Masterclass
Pro tip: If you decide not to pre-book any tours or guided experiences during your time in Dublin, get the Go City Dublin Pass.
With this mobile pass, you can gain access to dozens of iconic landmarks and activities, including the Guinness Storehouse, Dublin Zoo, and the EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum, all for one bundled price. There are two options for the pass: "Explorer Pass" or "All-Inclusive Pass." Explorer limits you to 3-7 attractions, while the All-Inclusive option is unlimited.
Best Tours & Unique Experiences in Dublin
Where to Stay in Dublin
Boutique (4 ⭐)
Zanzibar Locke - stylish, apartment-style accommodations with a focus on both comfort and creativity, located along the River Liffey near Ha'penny Bridge.
The Alex Hotel - regularly ranked as one of the top hotels in Ireland, featuring thoughtful design and luxury amenities.
Wren Urban Nest - Scandinavian design-inspired rooms with a focus on sustainability, located near Trinity College.
The Marlin Hotel - a comfy and modern stay right in the heart of Dublin, with on-site restaurant and coffee bar. I stayed here during my most recent trip to Dublin and had a wonderful experience.
Mid-Range (3 ⭐)
Drury Court Hotel - cozy family-run hotel with modern rooms near Grafton Street.
Albany House - originally built in the 18th century, this hotel exudes Georgian charm, located right near St. Stephen’s Green.
Zanzibar Locke (image via Booking.com)
The Alex Hotel (image via Booking.com)
Where to Eat and Drink in Dublin
Restaurants & Eateries
The Winding Stair - Cozy restaurant with modern Irish dishes and River Liffey views.
The Woollen Mills - Irish classics with a modern twist near Ha’penny Bridge.
Chapter One - Michelin-starred, elegant dining with creative dishes.
Fish Shop - Intimate spot for incredible fish and chips with great wine.
SOLE Seafood & Grill - Stylish restaurant serving fresh Irish seafood.
Tang Café - Middle Eastern-inspired breakfast, brunch, and great coffee.
Full Moon Thai - Authentic Thai cuisine near Dublin Castle.
Pubs & Drinks
Temple Bar Pub - The lively heart of Dublin's nightlife with Irish music and perfect Guinness pours.
The Brazen Head - Dublin's oldest pub (est. 1198), serving Irish dishes and great drinks.
The Palace Bar - A historic pub known for its whiskey and live Irish music.
Devitts - Cozy pub with great food, drinks, and nightly traditional music.
Whelan's - A live music venue known for its atmosphere and for being in the movie PS. I Love You.
The Cobblestone - Famous for daily live Irish music sessions, held multiple times per day.
The Vintage Cocktail Club - Hidden speakeasy with 1920s vibes and crafted cocktails.
Coffee & Cafes
Kaph - Cozy specialty coffee spot in Dublin’s heart. Discovered it by accident on my first trip - best latte ever!
The Fumbally - Spacious, rustic café focused on creativity, sustainability, and great coffee.
Clement & Pekoe - Known for excellent coffee and a unique loose-leaf tea selection.
Soren & Son - Scandinavian-inspired café with great coffee and pastries.
Copper + Straw - A modern café serving specialty coffee and fresh pastries, right near the Jameson Distillery.
The Brazen Head
The Temple Bar
FAQ
When is the Best Time to Visit Dublin?
The best months to visit generally are May - September for good weather. Avoid larger summer crowds by sticking to either end of that date range. Alternatively, March gives you the chance to participate in St. Patrick’s Day celebrations!
Is 2 Days in Dublin Enough?
Yes, definitely! With this itinerary, you can cover most major attractions, some hidden gems, and get a true taste of what makes Dublin so special. Two days in Dublin is truly the perfect amount of time, especially if you plan to continue on and explore the rest of the country.
How Do I Get From Dublin Airport to the City Center?
Hop on the Dublin Express, which runs regularly from the airport to the city center. It’s convenient and affordable, plus you can buy your tickets in advance to avoid any guesswork upon arrival.
What Are the Must-See Attractions in Dublin?
Some must-see attractions include the Guinness Storehouse, Jameson Distillery, Trinity College and the Book of Kells, Temple Bar district, Dublin Castle, and St. Patrick’s Cathedral. These iconic sites should be on every single first time visitor's itinerary!
Is Dublin an Expensive City to Visit?
Dublin can be relatively expensive, especially for accommodations and dining. However, there are many free or affordable attractions, like museums with free admission (i.e. The National Museum of Ireland), parks like St. Stephen’s Green, and self-guided walking tours, which can help keep your trip budget-friendly.
Final Thoughts
Two days in Dublin is an ideal amount of time to dive headfirst into the lively energy of the city and all of its highlights. Plus, plenty of time to have a few pints of Guinness while you're there!
And trust me, the charm doesn’t end at the city limits - if you can spare the time, Ireland’s lush countryside, historic castles and adorable villages are just waiting to be explored next. Make sure to plan at least a day trip to nearby highlights, or even a full road trip around the country.
Ready for the craic? Happy travels to Dublin!
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How to Spend 2 Days in Dublin, Ireland: The Perfect 48 Hour Itinerary
