3 Days in Dublin: A Local’s Perfect Itinerary

I’ve called Dublin home for 36 years, so I know the city inside out. The itinerary below has helped thousands of visitors decide what to do in Dublin for 3 days and make the most of their trip.

Many people underestimate just how much there is to see in Dublin city and the wider county, while many overestimate how far away some of the best day trip locations are.

3 days in Dublin is more than enough time to soak up both the city’s highlights and one day trip, but a well-planned itinerary is key to making every moment count.

3 days in Dublin itinerary overview

My map above will give you a lay of the land for where this 3 day Dublin itinerary will take you. You can tackle the days in whatever order suits your schedule.

And you’re not locked into the suggested day trip to Malahide/Howth – I’ve included several alternatives below, so you can swap things around depending on your interests and how you want to pace the trip.

Day 1 overview

Today is where you take in the most popular things to do in Dublin, mixing history, culture and a few of the city’s most iconic pubs into one well-paced day. You’ll visit the likes of Trinity College, the GPO, Christ Church Cathedral, the Guinness Storehouse and more.

Day 2 overview

Today leans deeper into Dublin’s rich history and literary past, with the likes of Dublin Castle, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, the Teeling Distillery and some of Dublin’s finest live music pubs.

Day 3 overview

Today is when you escape the city and explore the coast, hopping between seaside villages, cliff walks and some of Dublin’s best seafood spots. The highlights of today are Malahide Castle and the magnificent Howth Cliff Walk.

Alternative day trips from Dublin

If you fancy heading off from the capital, there are some excellent day trips from Dublin that you could swap for one of the days below. The closest and the most rewarding is to head to Wicklow (Sally Gap Drive, Glendalough and Powerscourt Waterfall). Another good option is the Boyne Valley (Newgrange, Trim Castle and the Hill of Tara).

Dublin Day 1: The city’s top sights

This 3 day itinerary for Dublin contains plenty of maps that’ll help you get the lay-of-the-land nice and quickly.

On day 1, you’ll visit one of the finest museums in Dublin, enjoy delicious food, explore Dublin’s key attractions, and end the day in cozy traditional pubs.

1. The city’s best breakfast

There are some excellent places to have breakfast in Dublin to kick-start the 1st of of your 3 days in Dublin. 

Head for Brother Hubbard on Capel Street. They have hearty classics with a twist; meaty mezze or Eggs Baba Bida are both delish!

Or, if you’re on the south-side, go to Joy of Cha, just near the Liffey for a solid cuppa tea and a hearty breakfast.

2. Trinity College

After fuelling up, take a stroll to Trinity College, home to the iconic Book of Kells exhibit.

Founded in 1592 by Queen Elizabeth I of England, Trinity College is steeped in history, and its stunning architecture makes wandering the grounds a delight.

The highlight here is the awe-inspiring Long Room, a library masterpiece built between 1712 and 1732.

Housing over 200,000 of the college’s oldest books, it’s a sight that will leave a lasting impression.

If you’re deciding what to do in Dublin for 3 days, visiting The Long Room is an experience you won’t soon forget.

3. Temple Bar

When you leave Trinity, it’s just an 8-minute walk to the bustling, cobbled streets of Temple Bar.

While this area is a hit with tourists, many locals, myself included, tend to avoid it – it’s pricey, and you can get some dodgy characters hanging around.

That said, there are some good pubs in Temple Bar worth popping into later in the day.

For now, though, stay focused and keep exploring!

4. The Ha’penny Bridge

Just a 2-minute walk from Temple Bar lies the Ha’penny Bridge, a historic cast-iron structure spanning the River Liffey.

Built in the early 1800s, it was Dublin’s first toll bridge, earning its name from the half-penny charge to cross.

Iconic and picturesque, the Ha’penny Bridge features on countless postcards and tourism ads.

You’ll cross it on your way to the next stop in this Dublin in 3 days itinerary!

5. The GPO Witness History Tour

The next stop is just a quick 6-minute walk away. Surprisingly, the GPO doesn’t appear in many Dublin guides, but it’s packed with history and well-worth your time.

The fascinating GPO Witness History Tour delves into the pivotal events of the 1916 Easter Rising, offering a poignant look at a defining moment in Ireland’s past.

Situated on historic O’Connell Street, the GPO is a perfect stop for anyone wondering what to do in Dublin for 3 days – especially if the weather takes a turn!

Prefer exploring on foot? The award-winning 2-hour historical walking tour of Dublin is a must-try

6. Lunch in the oldest pub in Dublin

The next stop is a 20-minute stroll along the quays to The Brazen Head, Dublin’s oldest pub.

Dating back to the 12th century, stepping inside feels like traveling back in time. With its cozy atmosphere, it’s especially enchanting in winter, when a roaring fire adds to the charm.

This historic spot has hosted literary legends like James Joyce and Brendan Behan.

It’s the perfect place to grab a hearty lunch and fuel up for the rest of day 1 of your Dublin adventure.

7. Christ Church Cathedral

The next stop is just a 7-minute walk from The Brazen Head and is easily one of the most stunning buildings featured in this 3-day Dublin itinerary.

Originally built from stone in the early 11th century, Christ Church Cathedral has undergone several transformations over the centuries.

Inside, you’ll find breathtaking stained-glass windows, fascinating exhibits, and, for the brave, a crypt housing a mummy or two – an experience you won’t forget!

A fine Dublin fact: The cathedral was founded by the Viking King Sitric Silkenbeard, who converted to Christianity and built the cathedral on the site of a wooden Norse church.

8. The Guinness Storehouse

It’s coming to the end of day 1, but you still have plenty to look forward to, just a 15-minute walk away at the Guinness Storehouse.

St. James’s Gate has been the home of Guinness since 1837, offering visitors the chance to dive into its rich brewing heritage with their immersive tasting experience, where you’ll gain a newfound appreciation for the craft behind the iconic stout.

Book your ticket in advance (you’ll skip an often-lengthy queue) and journey through the Guinness story which ends with a pint in the Gravity Bar, which overlooks the city.

9. An evening in Dublin’s best live music pubs

Day 1 of this Dublin in 3 days itinerary is coming to a close. After the Storehouse, you can head back to your accommodation and chill for a bit.

Or you can head straight out. Here are some recommendations for you to consider:

• Food: Hawksmoor (steak), SOLE (seafood) and Pickle (Indian) are three of the top restaurants in Dublin
• Live tunes: The Cobblestone and Darkey Kelly’s are two brilliant pubs with music in Dublin
• Great Guinness: Bowes and Mulligan’s do some of the finest Guinness in Dublin
• Accommodation: If you’ve yet to decide, here are my recommendation for hotels in Dublin

Dublin Day 2: Castles, cathedrals and whiskey

The second day in this 3 day itinerary for Dublin is filled with interesting and unusual attractions, and plenty of great food and drink.

Below, you’ll find everything from Dublin Castle and one of the finest whiskey distilleries in Dublin to some more brilliant museums.

1. The Molly Malone Statue

The first stop of the day is a quick dive into Dublin’s history.

I’m referring to none other than the iconic Molly Malone statue, located near O’Neill’s Pub on Suffolk Street.

This famous figure has adorned countless postcards, and the song bearing her name has echoed through Irish pubs and streets for centuries.

2. Dublin Castle

Just a 10-minute stroll from Molly Malone brings you to the storied Dublin Castle, a site steeped in history.

Originally built in the 13th century, it, like many castles in Ireland, has evolved over centuries, with layers of renovations and expansions shaping its character.

As you wander through the grounds, you’ll spot traces of medieval stonework, elegant Georgian touches, and striking Gothic details – all blending to tell Dublin’s architectural story.

Start by exploring the grounds, then dive deeper on a guided tour to uncover the castle’s fascinating Viking roots. It’s a highlight of this 3 day Dublin itinerary and a must-see for history lovers!

3. Chester Beatty

The Chester Beatty Museum, nestled within the grounds of Dublin Castle, is home to one of Ireland’s most remarkable collections.

Founded by New York mining magnate Sir Alfred Chester Beatty, the museum houses an extraordinary array of artworks, manuscripts, and historical treasures that he generously gifted to Ireland.

The collections span cultures and continents, featuring masterpieces from China, Egypt, Ethiopia, France, India, Japan, and Southeast Asia.

Highlights include intricate Chinese woodblock prints, and artefacts dating as far back as 2700 BC.

4. St. Patrick’s Cathedral

St. Patrick’s Cathedral is a 10-minute walk from the last stop and is a breathtaking masterpiece dating back to the early 1200s.

Begin by strolling around the exterior, taking in its intricate flying buttresses, vibrant stained-glass windows, and striking Gothic architecture.

It’s a feast for the eyes and a glimpse into Dublin’s medieval past.

Once you’ve admired the outside, step inside to explore the cathedral’s magnificent interior. Remember, this is a sacred space, so take a moment to soak in its atmosphere respectfully.

5. Marsh’s Library

Right next door to St. Patrick’s Cathedral lies one Dublin’s hidden gems – Marsh’s Library, Ireland’s oldest public library, opened in 1707.

With its dark oak bookcases, rolling ladders, and an air of timeless elegance, Marsh’s is a must-visit for history and book lovers alike.

This literary treasure trove is home to over 25,000 rare books and manuscripts, including works from the 15th to 18th centuries.

Notable figures like Jonathan Swift, author of Gulliver’s Travels, once browsed these very shelves.

6. Lunch time

You’ve had a busy morning exploring Dublin, so it’s time for lunch. I’ve created the map above to show you some great options nearby.

Two Pups is always a great shout, but it can be very busy around lunchtime. There’s a great lunch menu here with something to tickle even the fussiest of tastebuds.

7. Jameson or Teeling Distillery

Right – you’ve two options next:

• The Teeling Whiskey Distillery: 5-minute walk from your last stop
• The Jameson Distillery: 20-minute walk away on Bow St. 

I’ve done both of these tours in recent years and, to be honest, it’s very hard to say which is better – both are excellent.

8. An evening spent sampling the best Guinness in Dublin

Day 2 of this Dublin in 3 days itinerary is coming to a close.

As was the case with day 1, either head back to your accommodation (here’s the best Dublin neighbourhoods if you’ve yet to decide) or head straight out.

• Food: Rosa Madre (Italian), Uno Mas (European) and Hang Dai (Chinese) are all excellent
• Historic pub crawl: If you want to visit several ancient pubs, follow my Dublin pub crawl
• Live tunes: Nancy Hands and the Old Storehouse are two reliable pubs with live music in Dublin

Dublin Day 3: Malahide and Howth Village

If you’re wondering what to do in Dublin for 3 days that takes you away from the city, this should tickle your fancy.

Now, if you’re not familiar with public transportation in Ireland, don’t worry – getting around Dublin by train is easy. And you’ll find the info you need below.

1. Get the DART to Malahide

Get a bit of a lie-in on the final leg of your 3 days in Dublin – today you’re off to Malahide and Howth.

Make your way to your nearest DART station (e.g. Connolly) and buy a ticket (there are machines in the station) to Malahide.

This journey takes approx. 30-minutes and leaves from Connolly Station on Amiens St. Aim to sit on the right-hand side of the carriage for glimpses of the seaside, and beautiful countryside during your journey.

2. Breakfast in Malahide village

There are some excellent places to have breakfast in Dublin to kick-start the last of your 3 days in Dublin.

If you want to wait until you land in Malahide, head to either the Greenery or Déjà Vu.

The beauty of both of these places is that they’re a stones throw from the marina, the coast and Malahide Beach.

3. Malahide Castle

While there are plenty of things to do in Malahide, it’s Malahide Castle that tops the list.

You’ll find the entrance to the grounds just past the DART station on the left (look for the car park).

The castle was built in the 12th century by the Talbots who lived in the castle for around 800 years. 

Now, you have 2 options here – you can explore the castle grounds (they’re huge – you’ll need at least 1 hour) or you can take the tour and learn about the history.

4. Take the DART from Malahide to Howth

Howth is only 2 short train rides away from Malahide but NOTE that you’ll need to change trains.

• 1: Get the DART at Malahide heading towards Bray
• 2: Get off at Howth Junction after three stops
• 3: Jump on the DART to Howth

5. Coffee from Howth Market

Right across from the DART station in Howth, you’ll find the charming Howth Market.

While it might be tempting to settle in for lunch, hold off for now – you’ve got a scenic walk ahead. Instead, grab a quick pick-me-up to keep your energy up.

The market offers plenty of options, from coffee and ice cream to an array of sweet treats.

6. The Howth Cliff Walk

Howth is home to one of the finest walks in Dublin – the Howth Cliff Walk.

While there are many variations of the trail, it’s the Green Route that I recommend to most visitors.

It’s a moderate walk that requires good fitness and it begins from the village centre. You’ll want to allow around 2 hours to complete it.

If the cliff walk doesn’t tickle your fancy, you have two options:

• Take the bus to Howth Summit: You can take a short walk to Bailey Lighthouse from here
• Walk the pier: It’s easier going and much shorter (around 25 minutes)

7. Some of Dublin’s best seafood

You’ll have worked up an appetitive at this stage.

There’s a good mix of casual and formal restaurants in Howth. Here are my favourites:

• Aqua (formal): Located on the western pier, Aqua is a more formal dine-in affair
• Beshoff Bros (casual): One of the more popular chippers in Dublin for a tasty, casual feed

8. St. Mary’s Abbey

While it may be tempting to head for a drink after dinner, there are plenty more things to do in Howth that don’t require a huge amount of effort.

One of my favourites is St. Mary’s Abbey, located a 3-minute walk from the pier in an elevated position overlooking the harbour.

The first church here was founded around 1042 by Viking leader Sigtrygg Silkbeard, the Hiberno-Norse King of Dublin.

In 1235, a new church was built by the Archbishop of Dublin, but only ruins remain today, dating back to the late 14th or early 15th century.

Another option is the Hurdy Gurdy Vintage Radio museum, located inside a Martello Tower.

9. Howth’s lively pubs

I’m going to recommend that you round off your Dublin in 3 days itinerary in Howth, rather than Dublin City.

While there are plenty of pubs in Howth, these are the ones that I keep going back to:

• The Abbey Tavern: A classic Irish pub with a rich musical history
• McNeills of Howth: A cosy pub that pours a fine pint

10. Getting back to the city

Time to head back to Dublin, and your best bet is the DART from Howth station.

It’s a direct train and takes around 30 minutes. Now, a warning – I get asked is Dublin safe a fair bit.

Like any busy city, it has its bad spots. The area around Connolly Station is one of the areas to avoid in Dublin, so don’t hang around here.

Practical tips for spending 3 days in Dublin

And that is a wrap on my 3 day Dublin itinerary. But don’t go just yet – the most useful information of all is below.

You’ll find neighbourhood maps showing the best areas to stay in, how to get around and how to save money on public transport.

Where to stay in Dublin

Deciding where to stay in Dublin can be tricky. You want a base that’s central to your itinerary and that fits your budget.

My preferred locations are around St Stephen’s Green (very central) and Ballsbridge (safe, leafy area a short walk/bus from the city).

My map above lays out the best areas. You can read more in my Dublin neighbourhood guide.

Getting to the city from the airport

Getting from Dublin Airport to the City Centre can cause confusion for some. The main thing to note is that there’s no train or tram from Dublin Airport to the city centre, so you’re choosing between bus and taxi.

Buses are the cheapest option (from around €2), while taxis or apps like Uber are faster and far more convenient, typically costing €25 – €35 depending on traffic.

How to get around Dublin

Renting a car in Dublin is expensive and unnecessary. Getting around Dublin is straightforward once you understand the basics:

• Main transport: Buses, the LUAS tram and the DART train cover most areas you’ll visit, and the odd taxi fills any gaps
• Paying: You can’t tap contactless on public transport, so it’s worth picking up a travel card (you can buy LUAS/DART tickets with card at the stations)
• Card one: The Visitor Leap Card offers unlimited travel for 24 hours (€8), 72 hours (€16) or 7 days (€32)
• Card two: The DoDublin Card (€49) includes 48 hours on the hop-on hop-off bus and 72 hours of unlimited public transport.

The Dublin Pass is a money saver

If you’re spending 3 days in Dublin, the Dublin Pass is a smart choice. For around €69, it includes entry to top attractions like the Guinness Storehouse and Jameson Distillery. If you plan to visit several fee-paying sights, it can save you up to €62.50

Best time of year to visit Dublin

The best time of year to visit Dublin depends on what you value most. May, September and October offer the best all-round balance with mild weather, long days and fewer crowds, while summer brings the warmest conditions and the crowds.

If you’re trying to save money, winter months are when the cost of a trip to Ireland drops, but you’ll trade that for shorter days and more unpredictable weather.

Handy info for tourists

Planning a trip to Ireland properly is half the battle – build a realistic itinerary and don’t try to cram too much in.

The weather in Ireland is wildly unpredictable year-round, so pack layers and waterproofs no matter when you visit.

Tipping in Ireland isn’t the same as it is in the US – you don’t need to tip heavily (10% in restaurants is plenty). See my Ireland travel tips guide for more.

Is 3 days in Dublin too many?

Deciding how much time for Dublin can be a sticking point for some visitors. In my opinion, anything more than 4 is over-the-top.

In 3 days, you’ll see the city’s main attractions and some of the coast. If you have 4 or more days, do day trips from Dublin, like Wicklow or Kilkenny. See my Road Trip Itinerary library for routes to follow.