What to do for Free in Dublin?

Dublin is a city with a rich history and plenty of interesting things to do. The compact city has lots of attractions and activities to offer its visitors. While Dublin can be an expensive city to visit, there are plenty of free things to do that won’t leave you bankrupt! Here’s a guide to what you can do in Dublin for free!

Visit the National Botanic Gardens

Dublin city is surrounded by stunning botanic gardens. The National Botanic Gardens can be found nine miles south of the city centre and is easily reached by bus. Explore the 19 acres of beautiful Victorian-style gardens, filled with a variety of different plant and flower species, water features and woodland walks. The gardens are open to the public for free, except for certain events. You’ll also find a pond, a cafe and a shop on-site.

Marvel at the Spire of Dublin

The Spire of Dublin is an impressive and iconic landmark in the city centre that is well worth a visit. Located in O’Connell Street, the giant metal sculpture is over 120 metres high and stands in the centre of a four-way crossroads. It’s an impressive sight to behold and it’s free for all to admire.

Discover Dublin’s Murals and Street Art

Dublin is home to an abundance of fantastic street art and murals, many of which are free to view. While graffiti and street art are often seen in an unfavourable light, some of the best and most interesting artworks can be found in Dublin’s backyard – literally! Wander the streets of the city and you’ll find works by Irish street artists like ADW, Chris Judge, The Artful Dodger and more!

Enjoy Free Taster Tours at the Guinness Storehouse

The Guinness Storehouse is a popular attraction for visitors, thanks to its preserved history, exciting interactive experiences and, of course, its namesake – the iconic Irish brew. While it may not come as a surprise that the world-famous stout isn’t free, what is less known is that you can take part in one of their daily ‘taster’ tours, where an experienced Guinness taster talks you through the brewery and beer making process – for free!

Take a Free Tour at or Visit a Traditional Irish Pub

Perhaps the most quintessentially Irish of all activities – visiting a traditional Irish pub! And many are free to enter and explore their unique atmosphere. You can also find free guided pub tours in the city which educate visitors on the history of the traditional Irish pub culture. A fun way to immerse yourself in some true Irish charm!

Relax in Phoenix Park

At 707 hectares, Phoenix Park is one of the largest walled parks in Europe and hosts a variety of attractions including sports fields, gardens, playgrounds, grazing deer and historical monuments. There’s also a visitors’ centre where you can learn about the nature reserve’s flora and fauna, as well as soak in some amazing views. It’s a wonderful place for walking, or just to have a picnic!

Enjoy Free Live Music at Rathmines

The historic Rathmines area has a great selection of pubs, restaurants and shops and it’s also home to some fantastic live music venues. Many host regular free events from established and up-and-coming musicians alike, so no matter what kind of music you’re into there’ll be something playing that you can enjoy. Irish dancing is particularly popular in the country’s capital – so if you’re visiting in summer there’s plenty of street shows you can watch for free!

Free Museums and Galleries

Dublin has several galleries and museums which are free to visit – such as The National Gallery of Ireland; The Hugh Lane; The Dublin City Gallery – the Hugh Lane; The Irish Museum of Modern Art; The Dublin Writers Museum; The National Museum of Archaeology; The Chester Beatty Library; and more! Most are close to public transport links making them easy to get to. So, whether you’re looking to immerse yourself in

An Insider’s Guide to Dublin: What to Do for Free

If you are looking for a less-touristy experience that won’t burn a hole in your pocket, Dublin has a lot to offer. From hidden gems to fascinating history and exciting cultural experiences, here is a guide to exploring the city for free:

Local Attractions

If you have already seen the Guinness Storehouse or the Trinity College, it’s time to explore some lesser-known attractions to get a taste of local life. Explore Glasnevin Cemetery, one of the largest cemeteries in Ireland, which is the final resting place of many famous Irish figures. Take a walk along the Grand Canal, a picturesque waterway with plenty of benches to sit and enjoy the view. Stroll around St. Stephen’s Green, a beautiful park with colorful flowerbeds and winding paths. If you want to witness some truly inspiring street art, take a walk down the Doctor Quay, home to some of Dublin’s most prominent graffiti.

Dining Spots

Irish cuisine has much more to offer than just fish and chips. For traditional Irish food, head to O’Neil’s Bar & Restaurant or The Brazen Head, the oldest pub in Dublin, which has been serving locals since 1198. If you are on the lookout for a Michelin starred dining experience without the hefty price tag, visit Chapter One in the heart of Dublin. Ensure to try the legendary Café en Seine; the new and improved version of this iconic bar has equally impressive food and drink menus that will please discerning foodies.

Cultural Experiences

Dublin’s vibrant culture and traditions are infamous the world over. Visit the National Museum of Ireland for free which houses some of the country’s greatest treasures. Take your tour of the exhibitions and admire the centuries-old artwork and rare manuscripts. You can also experience free live traditional Irish music most nights of the week at The Cobblestone, Ireland’s most celebrated bar for traditional music.

Local History

Dublin is a city steeped in rich history and fascinating stories. The Little Museum of Dublin offers a unique perspective of the city’s history through intriguing artifacts and multimedia installations. If you want to learn more about the city’s darker history, join one of the many free walking tours available in the city, which unwraps the dark history of Dublin’s past.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

Get away from the hustle and bustle of the city by walking, or rent a bike and ride along the Great South Wall. This 2.5 km walkway leads to a lighthouse and stunning views of Dublin Bay and the Irish Sea. If you want to explore a lesser-known neighborhood, head to Smithfield. It’s home to the popular street food market, food stalls, bars and artisan shops.

With this insider’s guide to Dublin, you’ll be able to explore and experience the city’s lesser-known gems and intricate artifacts. Whether you prefer exploring historical monuments, relaxing in beautiful parks or savoring some local cuisine, Dublin has something for everyone to enjoy.