3 Days Dublin – Quick 3-Day Dublin Adventure

If you’re looking for an unforgettable city break in Europe, Dublin, Ireland, should be at the top of your list. This lively destination has something for travellers of all ages and interests, whether you’re drawn to its rich history, stunning castles and cathedrals, or buzzing pub culture.

The city’s vibe is infectious—especially when you experience the famous craic (that’s Irish for fun and great atmosphere) in its pubs and bars.

Planning your first trip? Three days is ideal to soak in the sights, from must-see highlights like the Book of Kells and EPIC the Irish Immigration Museum to lesser-known attractions. Dive into whiskey blending experiences, join walking tours, or take day trips beyond the city.

And don’t worry about your budget—smart itinerary planning and money-saving tips can make your visit even better. Trust me, Dublin never disappoints!

When to Visit Dublin

The best times to visit Dublin are during the shoulder seasons—March, May, September, and October—when the weather is pleasant, crowds are thinner, and accommodation prices are lower than in peak summer. While summer (June–August) brings warmer weather, attractions are busier, and prices rise.

A highlight in March is St Patrick’s Day (17th March), a fantastic cultural experience, but expect large crowds and higher prices. For a balance of good weather and manageable tourist numbers, late spring (May) and early autumn (September–October) are ideal.

Getting to Dublin

Dublin is easily accessible by air and ferry. Multiple airlines, including British Airways, Ryanair, and Aer Lingus, operate frequent flights from the UK and Europe. From London, the flight takes just 1 hour 25 minutes, and deals can be found on Skyscanner.

If you prefer a scenic route, ferries run from Holyhead (Wales) to Dublin in 2–3 hours, with operators like Stena Line and Irish Ferries offering comfortable crossings.

How to Get to the City Centre from Dublin Airport

From Dublin Airport, you have several options:

• Airport Express Airlink Bus (€9) – The fastest option, taking just 10 minutes via the Dublin Tunnel.
• Aircoach (€7) – A 24-hour shuttle service stopping at key locations like O’Connell Street.
• Taxi/Uber (€25–40) – A metred private transfer, best for groups or late arrivals.

If you’re on a budget, the bus is the most economical choice, while taxis offer convenience for direct hotel drop-offs.

How to Get Around Dublin

Dublin’s compact city centre makes it perfect for walking, with most major attractions within easy reach. For a more structured sightseeing experience, the hop-on hop-off (HOHO) buses (like Do Dublin Bus or Big Bus Tours) cover key spots, including the Guinness Storehouse.

Taxis and Uber are widely available but can be pricey—better for short trips if you’re tired. For a fun alternative, try bike hire and explore at your own pace.

How to Save Money in Dublin

To stretch your budget, consider the Dublin Go City Pass, which includes entry to major attractions and tours. Self-catering apartments can also cut costs, allowing you to prepare meals instead of dining out for every meal.

Since Dublin is walkable, skip taxis where possible. If you want guided sightseeing, the hop-on hop-off bus is a cost-effective way to see the city while learning its history.

Where to Stay in Dublin for 3 Days

For a short trip, stay centrally in:

• St Stephen’s Green/Grafton Street – Upscale hotels near shopping and parks.
• Temple Bar – Lively nightlife, with budget apartments great for groups.
• Near Trinity College – A mix of historic charm and modern convenience.

If you’re traveling with family or friends, an apartment rental offers more space and savings compared to hotels.

3 Days in Dublin Itinerary

This itinerary balances must-see attractions, hidden gems, and even a possible day trip if you have extra time.

Dublin Itinerary – Day 1

Morning: Start at Trinity College, where the Book of Kells and the breathtaking Long Room library await. Then, head to Dublin Castle for a dose of Irish history. Refuel with coffee and cake at Bewley’s on Grafton Street, an iconic Art Deco café.

Afternoon: Take a unique Afternoon Tea Vintage Bus Trip, enjoying sandwiches, Irish tea, and 1950s jazz as you tour the city. Afterward, stroll through St Stephen’s Green or visit nearby museums like the National Gallery or Archaeology Museum.

Evening: Learn about Ireland’s famous spirit at the Irish Whiskey Museum, then cross the Ha’Penny Bridge to Temple Bar. Explore its vibrant street art, lively pubs, and buskers before dinner at Cleaver East (€50) for modern Irish cuisine.

Day 2: Medieval Wonders & Whiskey Trails

Start your second day in Dublin Castle, the heart of the Medieval Quarter since 1204. Once the seat of British power until 1922, it now houses government staterooms, the quirky Garda Museum, and the Revenue Museum. Don’t miss the Viking excavations, the stunning Gothic Chapel Royal, or the Dubh Linn gardens—the “black pool” that gave Dublin its name.

• Christ Church Cathedral (built in 1028) hides eerie treasures: a crypt with a mummified cat and rat found in an organ pipe, and medieval floor tiles.
• Next door, Dublinia brings Viking and Medieval history to life.
• St Patrick’s Cathedral (where Jonathon Swift, author of Gulliver’s Travels, is buried) dazzles with stained glass windows (€9 entry).

Afternoon delights:

• Sip award-winning whiskey at Teeling Distillery.
• Tour the seven-storey Guinness Storehouse (brewing since 1759), and enjoy a pint with skyline views at the Gravity Bar.
• End the day at Hairy Lemon, a pub from the Commitments movie, with traditional Irish music and vegetarian/vegan options.

Day 3: Famine Ships & Coastal Adventures

Cross the Liffey to the Jeanie Johnston, a three-masted tall ship replica that carried emigrants during the Great Famine (1845–1852).

The 50-minute guided tour (€14) reveals harrowing stories of the one million who fled to America, Canada, or Australia. Nearby, EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum traces 10 million journeys since the 1700s via an interactive pathway.

Need a break? Try:

• A 3.5-hour Dublin food tour or haunted 2-hour evening walk.
• Day trips to the Giant’s Causeway, Cliffs of Moher, or Belfast’s Titanic exhibition.

Pro Tips for Your Trip

• Save money: Use the hop-on hop-off bus (free with Dublin Go City Pass) for far-flung spots like the Guinness Storehouse. The pass covers 35 attractions—worth it for busy itineraries!
• Pack smart: Dublin’s weather turns chilly—bring a rain jacket year-round and a warm coat in winter.
• Eat cheap: Grab breakfast from a supermarket or cook in your apartment.
• Extend your trip: Pair Dublin with Galway for the ultimate European cities combo.