Dublin
Getting Ready for St Patrick's!
Tips & Tricks
Reminder that you will need Euros € in Dublin.
You will need a UK convertor. They are usually pretty expensive to purchase so remember to bring it!
You do not have to buy all your St. Patrick themed stuff before you leave. They have literally everything you need there! Do not stress about this!
If you plan to visit Guinness, The Book of Kells/Trinity, Jameson or any of the other popular tourist attractions we suggest booking way in advance. You will want some activities to do during your downtime.
If you haven't booked flights yet (get on it!), try to leave as early as possible on the day of departure. You will have the best weekend but will be ready to go home!
It will be cold outside but hot in the bars, pack layers!
If possible buy alcohol in your home airport before departing.
You will need a UK convertor. They are usually pretty expensive to purchase so remember to bring it!
You do not have to buy all your St. Patrick themed stuff before you leave. They have literally everything you need there! Do not stress about this!
If you plan to visit Guinness, The Book of Kells/Trinity, Jameson or any of the other popular tourist attractions we suggest booking way in advance. You will want some activities to do during your downtime.
If you haven't booked flights yet (get on it!), try to leave as early as possible on the day of departure. You will have the best weekend but will be ready to go home!
It will be cold outside but hot in the bars, pack layers!
If possible buy alcohol in your home airport before departing.
Arrival!
Airport Exit
It is hard to get into town because the airport is jammed. Try to either pre-book a car or be prepared to take public transportation or just literally run to the taxi line as soon as you de-plane.
If you pre-book a car we suggest Blacklane but they are on the expensive side.
If you take public transport the Aircoach is both the fastest and most comfortable way to get to the Temple Bar area. It runs every 15mins on the hour and can be found outside both Terminal 1 & Terminal 2. Tickets can be bought on board from the bus driver. The Aircoach accepts notes and dispenses change.
If you find yourself lingering in the airport you may want to buy some alcohol for pregames if you haven't already.
If you pre-book a car we suggest Blacklane but they are on the expensive side.
If you take public transport the Aircoach is both the fastest and most comfortable way to get to the Temple Bar area. It runs every 15mins on the hour and can be found outside both Terminal 1 & Terminal 2. Tickets can be bought on board from the bus driver. The Aircoach accepts notes and dispenses change.
If you find yourself lingering in the airport you may want to buy some alcohol for pregames if you haven't already.
Night 1
You will most likely head straight out from the airport. If you happen to arrive with time to spare there are a ton of restaurants in Temple Bar (see Dublin dining). Try to eat before the night begins.
Spring of 2023 a ton of students went to either O'Reilly's or Academy their first night (Thursday). Obviously could change year to year but these are very popular choices.
You can also just bar hop Temple Bar but you will be doing this for the next couple days anyway.
Supermacs is a good place for late night snacks. Usually open till 2AM.
Spring of 2023 a ton of students went to either O'Reilly's or Academy their first night (Thursday). Obviously could change year to year but these are very popular choices.
You can also just bar hop Temple Bar but you will be doing this for the next couple days anyway.
Supermacs is a good place for late night snacks. Usually open till 2AM.
First Full Day/Night
Day
There are a bunch of restaurants to grab brunch or lunch. If you are a big group you should really book in advance.
This is a good day to tour Dublin (which is actually really awesome!). Head to Trinity College and visit The Book of Kells, tour Guinness or Jameson (or both), there is lots to see and do. If you are really adventurous book an all day excursion to the Cliffs of Moher (see Dublin activities)
Our Day 1 itinerary for Dublin is a good one to follow for this day.
Book any tours well in advance.
This is a good day to tour Dublin (which is actually really awesome!). Head to Trinity College and visit The Book of Kells, tour Guinness or Jameson (or both), there is lots to see and do. If you are really adventurous book an all day excursion to the Cliffs of Moher (see Dublin activities)
Our Day 1 itinerary for Dublin is a good one to follow for this day.
Book any tours well in advance.
Night
You will likely meet up with people pretty early to bar hop Temple Bar. Here you will find live music, sporting events and every college kid abroad (more or less).
If you are a big group try to book a dinner reservation in advance (see dining) but you can always grab pub food or fast food like Dublin Pizza Co.
You will likely either head back to Academy or possibly Dicey's later. You most likely will need a bracelet for Dicey's so if you think this is the plan, go early, get stamped and then head back later.
Also a good night to checkout one of the clubs like Academy or Flannery's.
If you are a big group try to book a dinner reservation in advance (see dining) but you can always grab pub food or fast food like Dublin Pizza Co.
You will likely either head back to Academy or possibly Dicey's later. You most likely will need a bracelet for Dicey's so if you think this is the plan, go early, get stamped and then head back later.
Also a good night to checkout one of the clubs like Academy or Flannery's.
Second Full Day/Night
Grab brunch (lots of good options under Dublin dining).
At 12:45 there is a Ireland vs Scotland Rugby match. Find a bar to watch and watch with the locals. It is a very memorable experience! An absolute must!!!
This is a good day to nap. Head back to hotel and relax for a bit.
Grab dinner in Temple Bar (see dining). Make a reservation if you are a big group.
Head to Diceys at 4pm to get a stamp. Even if you don't stay you will have access later.
There is a hidden gem that is the International Comedy Club Dublin. They have shows most Saturdays at 7pm and 9 pm. It is a great way to relax while also being entertained!
Head to Diceys after show and hang out with every other American college student!
At 12:45 there is a Ireland vs Scotland Rugby match. Find a bar to watch and watch with the locals. It is a very memorable experience! An absolute must!!!
This is a good day to nap. Head back to hotel and relax for a bit.
Grab dinner in Temple Bar (see dining). Make a reservation if you are a big group.
Head to Diceys at 4pm to get a stamp. Even if you don't stay you will have access later.
There is a hidden gem that is the International Comedy Club Dublin. They have shows most Saturdays at 7pm and 9 pm. It is a great way to relax while also being entertained!
Head to Diceys after show and hang out with every other American college student!
St. Patrick's Day!
Grab food on way to the parade (we like KC Peaches for something quick). There may be a mad rush to get a spot but don't worry, you will be fine.
The Parade starts from the northern edge of Parnell Square, near the Hugh Lane Gallery, at 12:00 noon. It then winds its way slowly down O'Connell Street, past Trinity College at College Green and on to Dame Street before it finishes at St. Patrick's Cathedral. The entire parade lasts approximately two hours.
After the parade you will bar hop most of the day away in Temple Bar.
If you are staying till Monday this is a good day to go to Diceys at 4pm and get a stamp. You can go back and forth to Diceys all night.
Don't forget to get dinner. There are a ton of casual places in Temple Bar but if you need a sit down we suggest a reservation.
On your way back to Diceys check-out some of the other popular places on Camden St - Flannerys and Copper Face Jacks.
The Parade starts from the northern edge of Parnell Square, near the Hugh Lane Gallery, at 12:00 noon. It then winds its way slowly down O'Connell Street, past Trinity College at College Green and on to Dame Street before it finishes at St. Patrick's Cathedral. The entire parade lasts approximately two hours.
After the parade you will bar hop most of the day away in Temple Bar.
If you are staying till Monday this is a good day to go to Diceys at 4pm and get a stamp. You can go back and forth to Diceys all night.
Don't forget to get dinner. There are a ton of casual places in Temple Bar but if you need a sit down we suggest a reservation.
On your way back to Diceys check-out some of the other popular places on Camden St - Flannerys and Copper Face Jacks.
Dining For Big Groups
Bunsen - For great burgers
The Market Bar - Has something for everyone!
The Port House Pintoxo - Great tapas option
Sprezzatura - Italian in Camden Market
Tippenyaki - Hibachi!
Rustic Stone - More upscale but really good!
The Market Bar - Has something for everyone!
The Port House Pintoxo - Great tapas option
Sprezzatura - Italian in Camden Market
Tippenyaki - Hibachi!
Rustic Stone - More upscale but really good!
Day 1
Day 2
12:00PM
Trinity College
Tour the Book of Kells (need tickets) and the beautiful campus.
1:30PM
Ha'Penny Bridge
Iconic bridge in Dublin. Walk across on way to Guinness Storehouse
2:00PM
Guinness Storehouse
Very popular activity in Dublin. Different ticket options offer different experinces.
6:00PM
Head to hotel to relax
Day 2
8:00AM
Cliffs of Moher
Could not recommend this more. It's a long day, but SO worth it for the views. Full day activity - 8 am to 7 pm
7:00PM
Head to hotel to get ready for dinner!
Brunch & Lunch
Dinner
Desserts & Snacks
Brunch & Lunch
31 Lennox
V
VE
GF
DF
Great Italian style brunch option. Def a litte nicer and has lunch and dinner too.
$$ - $$$
Menu
Alma
V
VE
GF
Cute brunch place. Has vegetarian options.Has good sandwiches too! Must try the poached eggs! Good vibes.
$$ - $$$
Menu
Avoca
V
Good for brunch. Get the cinnamon maple brioche french toast, omg! Cafe is located at top of Suffolk St store
$ - $$
Call to book
Bewley's Grafton Street
V
VE
GF
Delicious brunch options!!! Must get hot chocolate. Gorgeous interior. Their coffee is amazing. Has small plates from 6-10pm too.
$$ - $$$
Menu
Brother Hubbard
V
VE
GF
DF
Very popular brunch. Has multiple locations. Heavily recommend the potato sides with your breakfast.
$$ - $$$
Menu
Chimac
DF
Korean restaurant known for their fried chicken. Has a fast food vibe but supposed to be good. Has a couple locations
$$
Website
Coffee Co at Cloud Nine
Great spot for basic breakfast pastries, coffee and gelato!
Chopped
V
VE
GF
DF
Salad place. Great option for a healthy lunch. Lots of locations
$ - $$
Locations
Jay Kays
V
VE
GF
Good brunch options. Fan faves are french toast and breakfast burrito. Classic Irish breakfast also good.
$
Menu
KC Peaches
V
VE
GF
Full breakfast and lunch menu but also has healthy options. Good "morning after" food. Has multiple locations
$$
Menu
Lemon Jelly
V
VE
GF
DF
Great for brunch. Has breakfast and lunch too! Get the crepes. Worth the wait.
$$
Menu
The Morning
V
VE
Has great options for a quick bite, like focaccias and buns. Good coffee too!
$$
Location
Two Pups
V
GF
DF
Great brunch option nearish to Dublin Castle. We like the avo toasts and Mexican eggs. Has a lot to choose from!!
One Society
V
VE
GF
Get the pancakes or the Irish breakfast. Closed Mondays and Tuesdays
$$ - $$$
Menu
Platform 61
V
GF
DF
Bottomless mimosas and great food, service and location!
Rating: 10/10
Rating: 10/10
$$ - $$$
Menu
Dinner
Bunsen
GF
Great burger option! Burgers and fries both great and the shakes are amazing too. Fast but not fast-food! Can reserve large tables.
$
Menu
Eatyard
V
VE
Street food market. Has a ton of great options. Book a table if you want to sit and eat because seating is limited.
$$
Information
Elephant & Castle
V
GF
Really good food in Temple Bar. Need a reservation! Must get the wings.
$$ - $$$
Menu
Fade Street Social
V
VE
GF
A little more on the upscale side. They have a ton of wood fired options that are really good! They also have vegan and vegetarian options on the menu.
$
Menu
Glovebox
V
Parking garage turned into an art gallery with small bites and drinks. Very cool!
$$
Menu
Gourmet Burger Kitchen
V
VE
GF
Inexpensive but good burgers in Temple Bar. Must get rosemary fries!
$$
Menu
M&L Szechuan Chinese
V
VE
GF
Hidden gem Chinese in a good location close to Temple Bar. Highly recommend. Email to book
$$ - $$$
Menu
Neon
V
VE
GF
Asian street food and you get to design your own ice cream cone for dessert! They offer deals for students. Good option for take-away.
$
Menu
The Market Bar
V
GF
DF
Good for big groups. Has something for everyone. Book city center location.
$$ - $$$
Menu
The Port House Pintoxo
V
VE
GF
Tapas in the Temple Bar area. Very large menu and good prices. Good for larger groups.
$$
Menu
Pi Temple Bar
V
VE
Great pizza option in Temple Bar. Somewhat of a small restaurant but doesn't ever feel too crowded.
$$
Menu
Tippenyaki
V
GF
DF
Habachi! Great option for a large group and food is decent! Vibe makes up for the food. Slightly out of the way but still walkable.
$$ - $$$
Menu
Thunder Road Cafe
V
GF
Has an American vibe. Good for wings, burgers, etc. Good hangover food!
$$ - $$$
Menu
Sophie's
V
VE
GF
DF
Has great views and good option for steak, pizza, etc. Has a famous swing for good insta pics!
$$ - $$$
Menu
Sprezzatura
V
VE
Affordable Italian in Camden Market. Has an option to book up to 12 people online.
Red Torch Ginger
V
VE
GF
Great option! Really good food and vibe. Asian/Thai type food.
$$ - $$$
Menu
Quays
V
GF
Traditional Irish pub but has lots of options including vegetarian and gluten free.
$$ - $$$
Menu
The Shelbourne
V
High tea is AMAZING! Great food, tea and vibes. Def on the expensive side but worth it! Need a reservation.
$$$
Reserve Now
Desserts & Snacks
The Rolling Donut
VE
YUM! They have a €5 coffee and donut deal. Lots of locations.
Cliffs of Moher
Could not recommend this more. It's a long day, but SO worth it for the views. Full day activity - 8 am to 8 pm
Dublin Pedal Tours
So incredibly fun! Drink and pedal your way around the city!! Great activity with your friends.
Grafton Street
Good street for shopping!
Guinness Storehouse
Different ticket options to choose from but they all come with beer! Totally worth it. Pay more to go to the Skybar which has a 360 degree view of Dublin.
Guinness & Jameson Tour
Skip the line and tour both of these Dublin experiences. Comes with a free pint and a whiskey tasting. Great way to kill time during St. Patty's when you need a break from the bars.
Ha'Penny Bridge
Very pretty, go by during the day so you can really appreciate it.
Love Lane
Pretty street in Temple Bar with murals all over the walls. Very instagrammable.
Jameson Distillary Tour
Loved it! They even have a cocktail making class. Lots of different tour options.
St Patricks Parade
If you are in town for the holiday you really shouldn't miss it. Always falls on March 17th. Wear something green!
Trinity College Library - Book of Kells
And absolute must visit it is so pretty! Get tickets to enter the Book of Kells (library) well in advance!
Budget
Average
Splurge
Budget
Abbey Court Hostel
Double, private ensuite, approx $150 pp per night. They have multiple bed options.
St. Patty's Day - Unavailable
St. Patty's Day - Unavailable
Academy Plaza Hotel
Doubles approx $140 pp, per night. They can be very strict about additional people in the room (especially St Patty's)
St Patty's - Triples approx $170 pp, per night
St Patty's - Triples approx $170 pp, per night
Clayton Hotel Burlington Road
About a 30 m in walk to city center. Doubles approx $106 pp, per night
St Patty's - Deluxe double (sleeps 3) approx $152 pp, per night
St Patty's - Deluxe double (sleeps 3) approx $152 pp, per night
Premier Inn Dublin City Center
Standard room (sleeps 3), $50 pp, per night.
St. Patty's - Standard room (sleeps 3), $104 pp, per night.
St. Patty's - Standard room (sleeps 3), $104 pp, per night.
Stay City - City Center
Studio (sleeps 3) approx $93 pp, per night.
St. Patty's - Unavailable
St. Patty's - Unavailable
Average
Dublin Citi Hotel
Twin standard approx $135 pp, per night
St. Pattys - Has a min stay limit. Doubles approx $191 pp, per night
St. Pattys - Has a min stay limit. Doubles approx $191 pp, per night
Temple Bar Inn
Located in the middle of it all! More a hotel than a hostel. Standard double approx $87.50 per person, per night.
St. Patty's - Doubles approx $135 per night, per person
St. Patty's - Doubles approx $135 per night, per person
Hilton Garden Inn
A little less central but a quick and easy uber to wherever you want to go and much less of a scene. Doubles approx $110 per night, per person.
Trinity City Hotel
Classic queen room approx $137 pp, per night
St. Patty's - Unavailable
St. Patty's - Unavailable
The Moxy
This is a Marriott brand hotel. It is very reasonable when it is not peak season (ie St Patty's). Queen rooms approx $110 per night, per person
Splurge
Leonardo Hotel Christchurch
Standard double approx $152 pp, per night
St.Patty's - Twin room approx $216 pp, per night
St.Patty's - Twin room approx $216 pp, per night
Cassidy's Hotel
Double room, approx $200 pp per night.
St. Patty's - Heritage Double room approx $196 pp, per night.
St. Patty's - Heritage Double room approx $196 pp, per night.
The Morgan
Queen room (sleeps 2), approx $187.50 pp, per night
St. Patty's - Queen room approx $213 pp, per night
St. Patty's - Queen room approx $213 pp, per night
Temple Bar Hotel
The Snug (sleeps 20, approx $131 pp, per night.
St. Patty's - Doubles as much as $488 pp, per night
St. Patty's - Doubles as much as $488 pp, per night
The Grafton
Doubles approx $213 pp, per night.
St. Patty's - Unavailable
St. Patty's - Unavailable
The Norseman
Literally in Temple Bar. Triples approx $215 pp, per night.
St. Patty's Day - Triples from $525 pp, per night.
St. Patty's Day - Triples from $525 pp, per night.
Bars & Clubs
Bars & Clubs
Camden Street
Great area to do a pub crawl. Just walk in and out of the various pubs until you find one you like!
Copper Face Jacks
(20+ Thurs, 21+ Fri,Sat) - Most famous night club in Dublin amongst Irish men. Very fun though! In Camden St area.
Dicey's
Very popular spot. Best to go when it opens, get a stamp so you can come and go as you please. Very fun over St. Patty's weekend. Try to get advanced tickets. In the Camden St area.
Doyles
Trinity students bar. Bar area and talking downstairs, dance floor upstairs. Good for day partying. On College St.
Flannery's
(20+) Good spot for dancing till the morning. All college kids. On Camden St.
International Comedy Club
A very fun break from the bar hopping. Buy tickets in advance but can be same day.
O'Reilly's
Another fun option! Lots of abroad kids. Gets crowded, especially St. Patricks. You will see everyone and their mother! Located on Tara St.
Temple Bar Area
Area with cool pubs that you can do a pub crawl day or night. There is a 24 live cam video. Has lots of live music everywhere.
