You can’t help but feel the history and the culture when walking around Dublin’s streets. Literary giants from Wilde to Yeats, to the musical traditions and Molly Malone’s statue, to the sites of the Easter Rising and the fight for independence. There is something to see everywhere you look. If you are on a tight schedule, a solid plan is essential. This guide will help you make the most of your day in Dublin, or let our experienced guides take you through some of the essential stops in our Dublin in a day tour.
Trinity and Grafton Street
Trinity College Dublin is a great place to start your day. Right in the city center and close to many landmarks, it really helps you get a feel for the city. This historic university was founded in 1592 and is on par with Oxford and Cambridge.
The highlight of their collection is the Book of Kells, an illuminated manuscript. So important is the Book of Kells, that Trinity has an interactive experience to bring you closer to the history. It is best to book in advance to avoid disappointment and skip the queues, or join our Dublin in a day tour.
From soaking in history, immerse yourself in some music. Grafton Street is the main shopping street, but music is why you should visit. It is famous for buskers, some of whom, such as Hozier, have launched international careers. Established artists like Chris Martin and Ed Sheeran have even been known to surprise fans with impromptu gigs. If you want to put up your feet for a moment, you need to visit Bewley’s, a café that has its roots in the 1920s and is beloved by artists and adorned with local artwork.
Highlights:
- The Book of Kells and immersive Book of Kells Experience.
- The Long Room Library, one of the world’s most beautiful.
- Grafton Street’s famous buskers (Hozier started here!)
- A stop at Bewley’s café for tea and art-filled interiors.
Dublin Castle
From the Trinity end of Grafton street, head towards the next stop of Dublin Castle. On your way, say hello to the legendary cockle seller, Molly Malone, whose statue is on Suffolk street.
A fortress has sat on this spot by the Dubh Linn (black pool), since the Viking era. This was the seat of British power in Ireland from 1204 til independence in 1922.
Walking around the grounds, you can feel the weight of the centuries. If you want someone to bring this long history to life for you, take advantage of our Dublin in a day tour where our knowledgeable local guides can regale you of the stories held within these walls.
Why Visit: Once the seat of British power in Ireland (1204–1922), the Castle has witnessed centuries of change, from the Normans to independence.
Christchurch and Viking Dublin
There are 2 reasons this makes the list of places to see in a day. The first is the historic Cathedral itself. Originally founded by the Vikings, this is the older of the two cathedrals of Dublin (interestingly, neither is catholic.) Take a trip to the crypt for some very unusual exhibits. Visit the other cathedral, St Patrick’s on our Dublin in a day tour to hear about Jonathan Swift, author of Gulliver’s Travels, and his time as the Dean.
For those who want to learn more about the viking origins of the city, Dublinia cannot be missed. Attached to the cathedral is an interactive museum that transports you back in time, visiting viking houses and walking medieval streets.
The Waterfront
Leaving the Cathedral, head to the waterfront. Before you get there however, take a little detour through Temple Bar. Best known for the nightlife, you can guarantee a night of music and craic, but it is pricey and locals avoid it. Pass through Temple Bar and you meet the Liffey, its buildings telling Dublin’s story — the good, the bad and the ugly. Heading east, Guinness will taste all the sweeter later.
Ha’penny Bridge, built in 1816, is one of the city’s most iconic sights. Next is O’Connell Bridge, wider than it is long, leading to O’Connell Street and the GPO, scarred by the 1916 Easter Rising.
Further along, the Famine Memorial, EPIC Museum and Jeannie Johnston tall ship recall Ireland’s darkest era — the Great Hunger, mass emigration, and the voyages that carried people to new lives abroad.
Why Visit: Dublin’s story is written along the River Liffey — from rebellion to emigration to modern culture.
Highlights: Temple Bar, Ha’penny Bridge, O’Connell Street, Famine Memorial, EPIC, Jeannie Johnston.
Tip: Book EPIC and Jeannie Johnston ahead.
The store house and The liberties
Let’s head west to the Liberties, Dublin’s historic home of breweries and distilleries. Around 37 whiskey distilleries operate here, most in the “golden triangle.” (And yes, Irish whiskey has the proud “e.”) Our favourite is Teeling’s — wander through, breathe in the aromas, and let the guides share the story of uisce beatha, the water of life. We love it so much it’s part of our Dublin in a Day tour.
And then, the legend: Guinness. At St. James’s Gate, the Guinness Storehouse celebrates this iconic brand on its original site. Pour your own pint and enjoy it in the Gravity Bar, with unmatched 360º views of the city.
Why Visit: Dublin’s working-class neighbourhood turned brewing & distilling hub — home to both whiskey and Guinness.
Highlights:
- Teeling’s Distillery: whiskey tour & tasting.
- Guinness Storehouse: brewery history, pour your own pint, and views from the Gravity Bar.
Round off the day with a pint and some music
If it is music you are looking for, look no further than O’Donoghue’s. This classic pub has been around since the 18th Century and features incredible live music 7 nights a week. The Cobblestone is another great pub popular with the locals that also has live music every night, perfect to get your fix of trad tunes. Looking for something a little quieter? Pay a visit to the Long Hall or Grogan’s and enjoy your pint of choice.
Why Visit: Dublin’s pubs are where music and conversation come alive.
Highlights:
- O’Donoghue’s: Legendary live traditional music.
- The Cobblestone: Beloved local music pub.
- The Long Hall & Grogan’s: Quieter, atmospheric pints.
The Easy Way: Dublin in a Day Tour
To make the most of 1 day in Dublin, this guide highlights the key landmarks to give you a real feel for the city. But if you’d prefer to relax and let someone else handle the planning, the Dublin in a Day: City Highlights Tour is the perfect option. You’ll see Trinity College and the Book of Kells (plus the immersive Book of Kells Experience), explore Dublin Castle, visit St. Patrick’s Cathedral, enjoy a whiskey tasting at Teeling’s, and finish with a pint at the Guinness Storehouse, all in one unforgettable day.
What’s Included: Trinity College & the Book of Kells, Dublin Castle, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Teeling’s Whiskey, and the Guinness Storehouse.
Why It’s Worth It:
- Skip-the-line access.
- Expert local guides to bring history to life.
- Stress-free planning — see it all in one day.
Perfect For: Visitors short on time who want a complete Dublin experience.
Frequently Asked Questions about Spending 1 Day in Dublin
Is 1 day in Dublin enough to see the main attractions?
Yes, with a well-planned itinerary, you can see Dublin’s highlights in a single day. Must-sees include Trinity College and the Book of Kells, Dublin Castle, the Guinness Storehouse, and a stroll along the River Liffey. Joining a guided “Dublin in a Day” tour can help you make the most of your time.
What is the best way to get around Dublin in one day?
Dublin is a very walkable city, and many top attractions are close to each other. You can easily explore on foot or by renting a bike. Public transport and taxis are also available if you want to save time between stops.
What should I not miss if I only have one day in Dublin?
If you have just 1 day in Dublin, don’t miss Trinity College’s Book of Kells, the Long Room Library, Dublin Castle, Temple Bar, and the Guinness Storehouse. For a local experience, end the day with traditional live music in a Dublin pub.
Ready to make the most of your 1 day in Dublin without the stress of planning? Join our expert-led Dublin in a Day: City Highlights Tour and experience the city’s best sights – all in one unforgettable day. Skip the lines, hear the stories behind the landmarks, and enjoy Dublin like a local.
