Dublin Tourist Information
Planning your first trip to Dublin can feel overwhelming, especially if you have never been before. At the Ashling Hotel Dublin, we know the city well and want to share our local knowledge with you before you arrive.
Whether you are travelling solo, with a partner, or with your family, we have all the information you need to feel ready. From the best places to shop and must-visit nightlife spots to historic landmarks and top food recommendations, we have you covered.
General Information About Dublin
Dublin is famous for its rich history, Georgian architecture, lively pub culture, and literary heritage. Highlights include the Guinness Storehouse, Trinity College, and Temple Bar.
Yes, Dublin is very walkable. Most attractions, restaurants, and shops are within easy walking distance in the city centre.
Dublin can be expensive compared to other European cities, especially for accommodation and dining. However, there are plenty of free attractions and budget-friendly options.
English is the main language spoken in Dublin. Irish (Gaeilge) is also an official language and can be seen on signs, but English is used in everyday life.
The best time to visit Dublin is between May and September, when the weather is mild and there are many festivals and outdoor events.
3 to 4 days is ideal to explore Dublin’s main attractions, enjoy its culture, and take a short day trip outside the city.
As of 2024, the greater Dublin area has a population of around 1.45 million, making it the largest city in Ireland.
Yes, Dublin is generally safe for solo travellers. Common sense precautions apply, especially at night or in less busy areas.
Dublin has a mild, maritime climate. Winters are cool and damp (4–8°C), while summers are mild (15–20°C). Rain is common, so bring a waterproof jacket year-round
Tipping isn’t required but is appreciated. In restaurants, 10% is customary if service is good. Tipping in cafés, taxis, or bars is optional.
Dublin is in the Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) zone. During summer (late March to late October), it follows Irish Standard Time (GMT+1).
The best way is by Aircoach or Dublin Express bus, which run frequently. Taxis are also available and take about 25 minutes.
Yes, several buses serve popular hotel areas, and many hotels are on direct airport routes. There is no train service from the airport, but public transport is well-connected.
Dublin city centre is about a 20-minute walk from Heuston Station. Alternatively, the LUAS Red Line tram provides a quick and convenient route into the heart of the city.
Yes, you can travel to Dublin by train from most major Irish cities. Irish Rail (Iarnród Éireann) operates regular services from cities like Cork, Galway, Limerick, and Belfast.
Dublin has two main train stations:
Heuston Station serves trains from the south and west of Ireland, including Cork, Limerick, and Galway.
Connolly Station handles trains from the north and east, including Belfast, Sligo, and Wexford.
Both Heuston and Connolly stations are close to Dublin city centre. Heuston is about 2km away and easily accessible by LUAS tram, bus, or taxi. Connolly is within walking distance of O’Connell Street and many city centre hotels.
Yes, both stations are well connected. You can take the LUAS (tram), Dublin Bus, or a taxi to reach your hotel or destination quickly.
You can take the Enterprise train from Belfast to Dublin Connolly Station. The journey takes about 2 hours and offers scenic views along the way.
Yes, Irish Rail runs multiple daily services between Cork Kent Station and Dublin Heuston. The journey takes approximately 2.5 hours.
Yes, long-distance bus companies like Bus Éireann, GoBus, and Citylink offer frequent, direct services to Dublin from places like Galway, Cork, and Limerick.
No, the Leap Card is mainly for Dublin public transport. For intercity travel, you’ll need to purchase separate train or coach tickets in advance or at the station.
Yes, both Heuston and Connolly stations offer secure luggage lockers for short-term storage, which is handy for visitors arriving before check-in.
The Dublin Quays offer a mix of cultural and leisure activities, including riverside walks, historic landmarks, bars, and restaurants. Popular attractions include the Guinness Storehouse, EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum, and the Jeanie Johnston Tall Ship.
Dublin is home to many famous attractions, including the Guinness Storehouse, Trinity College and the Book of Kells, Dublin Castle, and Kilmainham Gaol. Other must-visit sites include Phoenix Park, the National Museum of Ireland, and the lively Temple Bar area.
Many of Dublin’s best attractions are free to visit, including the National Gallery of Ireland, the National Museum of Ireland, St. Stephen’s Green, Phoenix Park, and walking along the historic Dublin Quays.
The Dublin Quays offer great riverside walks, cultural attractions like the EPIC Irish Emigration Museum and the Jeanie Johnston Tall Ship, as well as vibrant bars, cafés, and live music venues.
Yes, popular day trips include Howth, the Cliffs of Moher, Wicklow Mountains, and the coastal town of Bray.
Top museums include the National Museum of Ireland, EPIC: The Irish Emigration Museum, the Little Museum of Dublin, and Dublinia.
Live music can be found in Temple Bar pubs, Whelan’s, The Cobblestone, and other traditional Irish pubs across the city.
Top historical sites include Dublin Castle, Kilmainham Gaol, Christ Church Cathedral, and the General Post Office (GPO), which played a key role in the 1916 Rising.
Phoenix Park is one of Europe’s largest urban parks and home to Dublin Zoo and wild deer. St. Stephen’s Green and Merrion Square Park are also popular for picnics and relaxation.
Yes, the Guinness Storehouse is one of Dublin’s most visited attractions. Visitors can explore the history of Guinness, enjoy interactive exhibits, and have a pint in the Gravity Bar.
Explore the National Leprechaun Museum, take a Viking Splash Tour in an amphibious vehicle, or visit Marsh’s Library – one of the oldest in Ireland.
Yes, the Book of Kells is a must-see. It’s housed in Trinity College’s Old Library and features stunning medieval artwork. Booking in advance is recommended.
Yes, river cruises are available on the River Liffey. These offer a unique view of Dublin’s bridges, waterfront buildings, and historical landmarks.
Dublin has a thriving food scene, with great options across the city. Try Chapter One for fine dining, The Woollen Mills for traditional Irish food, or the Temple Bar area for lively pubs serving great food.
Traditional Irish food can be found in places like The Brazen Head (Dublin’s oldest pub), The Hairy Lemon, and Gallagher’s Boxty House, which serves classic dishes like Irish stew and boxty pancakes.
Yes, Dublin has many options for plant-based dining. Cornucopia, Sova Vegan Butcher, and Glas are some of the best vegetarian and vegan restaurants in the city. You can also find options in are restaurant at The Ashling Hotel Dublin.
Yes! Dublin is a UNESCO City of Literature, home to famous writers such as James Joyce, Oscar Wilde, and W.B. Yeats. The Dublin Writers Museum, MoLI (Museum of Literature Ireland), and guided literary tours are great for book lovers.
Some of the best pubs include The Brazen Head (Dublin’s oldest), The Long Hall, and The Temple Bar. Many offer live music and traditional Irish charm.
Temple Bar is known for its cobbled streets, vibrant nightlife, live music, and busy pubs. It’s popular with tourists looking for an energetic atmosphere.
Most pubs close by 11:30pm on weekdays and later on weekends. Restaurants typically serve dinner until 9–10pm.
Temple Bar is the most popular nightlife area for tourists, known for its pubs and street performers. Camden Street, George’s Street, and Portobello also offer great bars, clubs, and live venues.
Most Dublin pubs have a casual dress code, though some nightclubs and cocktail bars may require smart-casual attire, especially at weekends.
Must-try foods include soda bread, full Irish breakfast, seafood chowder, Guinness stew, and Irish farmhouse cheeses. For drinks, try a pint of Guinness or an Irish whiskey.
Yes, Dublin has several food markets, including Temple Bar Food Market (Saturdays), Dublin Food Co-op, and the Honest2Goodness Market in Glasnevin.
Absolutely. There are food tours, whiskey tasting tours, and pub crawls available across the city. These are a fun way to explore Dublin’s culinary and drinking culture with a local guide.
Yes, Dublin is a cultural hub. Catch a show at the Abbey Theatre, see live music at Whelan’s, or attend festivals like TradFest, Bloomsday, or the Dublin Theatre Festival.
Yes, Dublin has several Michelin-starred restaurants, including Chapter One, Liath, and Patrick Guilbaud. Booking ahead is strongly recommended.
Grafton Street and Henry Street are the main shopping areas, featuring high-street brands, designer stores, and Irish boutiques. For a unique shopping experience, check out George’s Street Arcade or the Powerscourt Centre.
Grafton Street and Henry Street are the main shopping areas, featuring high-street brands, designer stores, and Irish boutiques. For a unique shopping experience, check out George’s Street Arcade or the Powerscourt Centre.
For Irish souvenirs, visit Kilkenny Design, Avoca, or Carrolls Irish Gifts. The Irish Design Shop and the Dublin Flea Market also offer unique, locally made items.
Grafton Street is Dublin’s most iconic shopping street, known for its boutiques, street performers, and upmarket shops. Henry Street offers affordable retail options and is home to major department stores.
Local crafts and artisan goods can be found at the Irish Design Shop, Avoca, and weekend markets. Look for handmade woollens, pottery, art prints, and organic food products.
Yes, Kildare Village is an outlet shopping destination about an hour from Dublin. It offers discounts on designer brands and is accessible by bus or train.
For luxury shopping, head to Brown Thomas on Grafton Street, which features designer brands like Chanel, Louis Vuitton, and Gucci.
Yes, non-EU visitors can claim VAT refunds on eligible purchases. Look for shops offering Tax Free Shopping and keep your receipts for airport processing.
Yes, Dublin has several central shopping centres including Stephen’s Green Shopping Centre, Ilac Centre, and Jervis Shopping Centre, all within walking distance of main attractions.
Yes, Dublin has a thriving vintage scene. Visit Siopaella, Nine Crows, and Tola Vintage for unique fashion finds, or browse charity shops for affordable treasures.
One of the closest hotels to Heuston Station is Ashling Hotel Dublin, located just a two-minute walk away. This makes it a convenient choice for travellers arriving by train from across Ireland.
Several hotels are located near Phoenix Park, but Ashling Hotel Dublin is just a five-minute walk away, offering easy access to one of Europe’s largest city parks.
Yes, Ashling Hotel Dublin is located just a two-minute walk from Heuston Station, making it one of the most convenient places to stay for those arriving by train.
Ashling Hotel Dublin is one of the closest hotels to Phoenix Park, just a five-minute walk away. This makes it an ideal base for exploring the park, Dublin Zoo, and other nearby attractions.
Yes, Ashling Hotel Dublin offers on-site parking for guests at an additional charge, providing a convenient option for those driving to the city.
Ashling Hotel Dublin is situated close to the Dublin Quays, offering easy access to the riverfront, historic sites, and cultural attractions such as the Guinness Storehouse and EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum.
Yes, Ashling Hotel Dublin is located close to Smithfield, just a short LUAS tram ride or a 10-minute walk away.
Ashling Hotel Dublin is one of the nearest hotels to Collins Barracks, home to the National Museum of Ireland – Decorative Arts & History, just a five-minute walk away.
Ashling Hotel Dublin is located within walking distance of Dublin Zoo, making it a convenient place to stay for families and visitors exploring Phoenix Park.
Ashling Hotel Dublin is conveniently located right beside the LUAS Red Line, with the Museum stop just outside the hotel, providing easy access to the city centre.
Ashling Hotel Dublin is a short distance from Kilmainham Gaol, accessible by a quick LUAS ride or a 15-minute walk.
One of the closest hotels to Heuston Station is Ashling Hotel Dublin, located just a two-minute walk away. This makes it a convenient choice for travellers arriving by train from across Ireland.
Top family attractions include Dublin Zoo, Imaginosity Children’s Museum, Viking Splash Tours, and Phoenix Park. Kids also enjoy the Natural History Museum (The Dead Zoo) and interactive exhibits at Dublinia.
Yes, Dublin Zoo in Phoenix Park is one of the oldest and most popular zoos in Europe. It has a wide variety of animals, educational displays, and excellent facilities for families.
Many hotels and public car parks around Heuston Station offer parking facilities, some with daily or overnight rates.
Several hotels are located near Phoenix Park, but Ashling Hotel Dublin is just a five-minute walk away, offering easy access to one of Europe’s largest city parks.
Yes, great indoor options include & Sport Centre, AquaZone Waterpark, and Imaginosity. Many museums also have child-friendly exhibitions and play areas.
Phoenix Park is the largest and offers playgrounds, cycle paths, and picnic spots. Other favourites include St. Stephen’s Green, Herbert Park, and Marlay Park.
Yes, some walking tours are tailored for children, including treasure hunts, Viking-themed tours, and history tours that include interactive storytelling.
Yes, buggies are allowed on buses, trams (LUAS), and trains. Some bus drivers may ask you to fold the buggy during busy times, especially on double-decker routes.
Yes, many restaurants and cafés in Dublin have kids’ menus, high chairs, and colouring activities. Family-friendly spots include Captain Americas, Milano, and Boojum for casual dining.
