Dublin is one of the most stunning and lively cities in not only Ireland but the world. This charming location is home to some of the most welcoming people and locales you will find throughout all of Europe. Though visitors will find many tourist attractions, some a bit overpriced, there are many opportunities to make the most of your trip to Dublin without going broke. Dublin’s rich history, entrenched in art, nature, literature, architecture, and culture can all be experienced here no matter what your travel budget is. I have been lucky enough to visit Dublin nearly a dozen times which has allowed me to find some amazing locations often overlooked by tourist guides or travel sites. 

1. Phoenix Park is one of the largest and most historic public parks in Europe.  Only a mile and a half from O’ Connell Street in the heart of Dublin you will find the unique and stunning Phoenix Park. This sprawling park seems like something out of a fairy tale, with open green plains, walking paths that go on for miles, and local wildlife this park truly seems endless. Open year-round, visitors are offered an array of activities that go way beyond the usual offerings of a park. Some of the more popular parts of the park to visit range from zoological and Victorian flower gardens to a nearly 300-year-old fort, castle, and prehistoric burial chamber. At nearly 1800 acres there are hundreds of ways to enjoy this urban park, from hiking, biking, and picnicking to feeding the freely roaming deer it is easy to spend an entire day just making your way through this beautiful park. Due to its popularity and location, if you are planning on driving remember to plan ahead because traffic can back up leaving you with a significant wait period entering or exiting the park. 

2. Molly Malone is arguably one of the most famous Dubliners, anyone who has ever visited the Emerald Island or has heard one of the many remakes of this beloved song has heard the ballad of Molly and her tragic ending. Though there is no actual proof that Molly ever existed her story is one that is based in reality and stands testament to the hardships that many young women faced while living in Ireland. Located on Suffolk Street, the Molly Malone Statue portrays Molly, dressed in her traditional attire, pushing her cart through the street as her infamous story tells. Though I am usually not one for statues, there is something different about Molly, with stunning realism and movement made within the brass it feels as though part of Molly is still alive, sharing her story and her life with all of those who roam the streets that she once dwelled.

3. Temple Bar is one of the most popular locations in all of Dublin. With lively music, delicious food and drinks, and endless shops and restaurants it’s no surprise that this location is visited by 3.5 million visitors a year. With so much liveliness it’s hard not to be lured to this location. Though there are a million ways to spend your vacation fund in this location my favorite thing costs literally $0. I love walking the old stone roads that make up Temple Bar. The two best times are in the early morning before while the bustling city is still or in the evenings, as the nightlife starts taking hold. Simply walking the streets and taking in the environment, listening to the beautiful music floating through the air, and seeing all of the beautiful architecture under the moonlight is one of the best things about this city. In addition, this popular location is home to one of the best farmers’ markets in the city.

4. The National Museum of Ireland, like many of the museums in Ireland, is free to the public. This stunning museum is home to many of the most important and influential archaeological, historical ( fine arts, natural, and anthropology) and cultural pieces. This one-of-a-kind museum is the perfect place for either a major history buff or those who are just interested in learning more about Ireland and its rich history. Due to the size and amount of historical items in this location, it is best to plan to spend 2-3 hours making your way through this beautiful museum. Some of the most popular exhibits are the Tara Brooch, Giant Irish Deer, and Irish Explorer Thomas Heazle Parke. Besides the daily exhibits, there are year-round events and activities to help you explore the museum more in-depth.

5. Iveagh Garden is one of the most beautiful locations in all of Dublin. Located in Stephen’s Green this victorian garden seems like it is something taken straight out of a fairytale. Home to beautiful statues, bubbling waterways and ponds, handcrafted bridges, and a variety of breathtaking flowers and trees this little haven is not exactly what is to be expected only a few feet from the bustling city that surrounds this garden. This is the perfect location for a picnic or a short walk-through if you want to get a few moments of peace in the lively city. 

6. While walking through Dublin, St. Patrick’s Cathedral is easily one of the most recognizable historical sites in the city. This over 750-year-old cathedral is a stunning example of Gothic Architecture which has been completely restored and offers guided tours regularly throughout the day.  Each tour is about an hour long but visitors are welcome to stay after the tour to look at the cathedral in more detail. With high arched ceilings, intricate stained glass windows, and beautifully handcrafted statues this location is a sight to behold. Besides its stunning architecture, this cathedral is also home to its world-famous choir which still performs daily throughout the academic year. 

7. Garden of Remembrance located in Dublin 1, is one of the most stunning memorial gardens in all of the city. Located on Parnell Street this memorial garden, also known as Gairdin Cuimhneachain has many unique and beautiful elements such as the Children of Lir monument and a beautiful decorative pool that has a mosaic of various broken ancient weapons which comes from the Celtic custom which signifies the end of hostilities and the time of peace. This beautiful memorial is not only a significant memorial but also a beautiful place to take a moment from the bustling city to admire the rich history, art, and craftsmanship which Ireland is known for.    

  

8. Ha’Penny Bridge is one of the most recognizable locations in all of Dublin. This pedestrian bridge located over the River Liffey connects the popular city areas of Temple Bar and North Quay. This historical bridge is over 200 years old, originally being constructed in 1816. Besides its centralized location, this location has become a popular location for travel photos and to take in the stunning views of the River Liffey. 

9. The National Museum of Art is arguably one of the best ways to spend a few hours in Dublin. Housing both Irish and European painting, engraving, and sculpture, this gallery offers a wide array of art in its collection, with an emphasis on Dutch Masters and Italian Baroque including artists like Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Caravaggio. While there make sure to take advantage of the library and archives collections which includes Western European art from the Middle Ages.  

10. Chester Beatty Library, though not the most famous library in Dublin, it is a hidden gem that can’t be missed while in the city. This library has been named one of the best museums in Europe by Lonely Planet due to its extensive collection of rare and ancient books, manuscripts, and art from around the world. With a variety of pieces on hand from Egyptian papyrus texts, jade imperial Chinese texts, Islamic texts, and Renaissance literature this location is home to the history of the world. Beyond its extensive and impressive collection of books and literature, there are also a variety of rotating exhibits set up to help visitors have a deeper understanding of these priceless treasures and their impact on the world of the past and present.