Have you ever wondered what it is about Dublin that keeps people coming back time after time? Perhaps it’s the cobbled streets, the charming pubs or the captivating history; perhaps it’s a mix of the lot.
If there’s one thing everyone agrees on, though, it’s that the Irish capital is one of the friendliest cities around. You’ll be hard-pressed to find anyone who has spent time in Ireland and hasn’t been completely won over by the fun-loving locals.
So, with that in mind, if you’re looking for the perfect spot for a mixture of pubs and pints, history, and meeting new people, solo travel in Dublin should rank pretty high up your list.
Finding your feet on your own
Whether you’re a seasoned solo traveler or a first-time lone wanderer, heading off on a trip by yourself can be daunting. One of the great things about solo travel in Dublin is the ease of it all.
Despite being the capital city, many liken it to a big village. Think all the buzz and historic sites of somewhere like London, with the walkable, approachable allure of somewhere about a tenth of its size.
Your journey begins with a warm “céad míle fáilte” (a hundred thousand welcomes) as you land at Dublin Airport. From there, the heart of the city lies just over half-an-hour away, with regular shuttle bus services lining up complete with friendly drivers all too happy to help you with your heavy luggage.
For those doing some solo travel in Dublin, the compact nature of the city center truly is a blessing. The small-town vibe hasn’t come about by chance here – while you can of course venture further afield if the mood takes you, step off the bus alongside the iconic River Liffey and you can pretty much get around on foot. That said, if you’re not much of a walker, our pro tip is to check out Dublin Bikes, a wonderful way to get around the city easily and quickly.
Accommodation for solo travel in Dublin
Of course, one of the top priorities for doing solo travel in Dublin is finding a comfortable base from which to explore. That awful accommodation anecdote is far less amusing if you have nobody to share it with!
Luckily, Dublin is well stocked on this front, with everything from cozy hostels to boutique hotels on offer. The area around Temple Bar and St. Stephens Green are both home to various options that lend themselves to socializing if you wish.
One of our favorites is The Address Connolly. Located near Connolly Station in Dublin 1, it’s within walking distance of all the city’s main attractions. It also boasts a superb restaurant and a rooftop leisure lounge with stunning views, the perfect place to meet other travelers or simply unwind with a cocktail after a long day.
Lace up your walking boots and explore
As we’ve already mentioned, one of Dublin’s greatest appeals is its walkability. So, if you find yourself on your own and looking to explore, you could simply pull on your hiking shoes and hit the cobbles.
Alternatively, you could join our Dublin in a Day tour. As someone doing solo travel in Dublin, this is a great way to meet like minded adventurers and is the only tour that takes you to every part of town worth seeing in a single day.
Home to James Joyce, Oscar Wilde and one of the most famous libraries in the world at Trinity College, Dublin is without a doubt a city with a literary heartbeat. Several tours start out at the internationally renowned university, taking in the intricate pages of The Book of Kells and the historic college grounds.
Another key ancient site that is easily accessible from the center of town is Dublin Castle. The centuries-old structure sits in stunning gardens and state apartments which are open to visitors and give a glimpse into the nation’s regal past.
Next up, why not snap back to the present and indulge in some retail therapy in Dublin’s premier shopping district, Grafton Street. Filled with bustling boutiques, street performers, and captivating window displays, it’s the ideal spot to pick up some souvenirs of your travels or simply people-watch as you sip on a coffee.
If you’re ready for a stiffer drink, though, then you’ve come to the right place. Perhaps Ireland’s most famous export has its roots in Dublin and a trip to the Guinness Storehouse is the perfect way for a solo traveler to spend a few hours.
A sensory journey through Ireland’s iconic brew, it is far more than a tour – it’s an immersive celebration of Guinness and Dublin’s rich heritage, not to mention the fact it boasts some of the best views of the city and surrounding mountains.
Hit the pub: time for a pint and to enjoy the Irish
If you’ve not had your fill of the black stuff, another of our top recommendations is a trip to the time-honored institution that is the Irish pub.
For those who find themselves doing solo travel in Dublin, we can honestly say there is no better place to meet people. Prop yourself up at the bar, order your pint and be open to conversation – we’re sure the locals will oblige.
What’s more, it’s not just drinks on offer in the pub these days. Many of Dublin’s old watering holes have now become modern gastronomic marvels, and just because you’re visiting on your own, that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the food scene. Check out The Old Storehouse Bar and Restaurant, Peruke & Periwig or Rody Bolands for traditional Irish fare with a modern twist that will give you all the energy you need to continue exploring.
From the vibrant cultural scene to the warmth of local hospitality, Dublin truly offers everything a solo traveler could possibly ask for. The welcoming spirit embraces all those who walk its streets, so if you end up doing some solo travel in Dublin you will undoubtedly help create memories that you’ll be recounting for a lifetime.