I always seem to see Dublin one day at a time. On my last visit I landed at breakfast and took off before dinner had fully digested, and this trip is no different. But even with just 24 hours in Dublin, I manage to get a good taste of the city and find a lot of reasons to return.

24 Hours in Dublin

24 Hours in Dublin

I start my day in Dublin with breakfast at Clement & Pekoe, a stylish cafe in the heart of the city. It’s known for having some of the best coffee in Dublin, and the flat white that accompanies my meal proves it.

Clement & Pekoe, Dublin

Trinity College Dublin

Caffeinated, I walk over to Trinity College to take in the sights and visit the famous Book of Kells. The 9th-century manuscript is one of the most visited attractions in the city, which seems fitting given Dublin’s rich literary history.

Trinity College, Dublin

The book is beautiful, but it pales in comparison to what’s upstairs.

The Trinity College Library is one of the most captivating rooms I’ve ever set foot in, with its two tall galleries of leather-bound tomes resting under a breathtaking barrel-vaulted ceiling.

Trinity College Library, Dublin

Despite being on a tight schedule, I linger in the library for much longer than planned.

Trinity College Library, Dublin

Every time I start to leave, my feet avoid the exit, taking me for one last look at the awe-inspiring interiors. There are few places on Earth I’ve ever been so moved by.

Trinity College Library, Dublin

When my shoes finally descend the stairs, I find myself outdoors in a pool of bright sunshine. It’s perfect walking weather, and it whisks me off to continue my 24 hours in Dublin at EPIC Ireland.

Trinity College Library, Dublin

EPIC Ireland

EPIC Ireland opened just five days before my trip to Dublin, so I’m lucky to be one of the first to see it.

The museum explores the global journey of the Irish people, following the routes of emigrants and their descendants over the centuries.

EPIC Ireland, Dublin

Its interactive exhibits bring the story of Ireland’s people to life. Even though I don’t have Irish ancestry myself, I still find the immersive experience both moving and entertaining.

And that’s to say nothing of informative—did you know that Rihanna has Irish ancestry? I didn’t, either.

EPIC Ireland, Dublin

Lunch in Dublin

From the museum I continue my 24 hours in Dublin by following the Liffey down to the famous Ha’penny Bridge. There I head up a secret set of steps to a restaurant called The Winding Stair.

The Winding Stair, Dublin

It’s a book lover’s dream, with shelves of titles lining the walls and rustic tables and chairs straight out of a Parisian bistro.

I linger over lunch, taking in the ambiance and watching the chefs in the open kitchen as the sun streams through the windows.

The Winding Stair, Dublin

Shopping and Cafes

Back outside, I drift through Temple Bar and past the famous Christ Church Cathedral on my way to explore Dublin’s shopping and cafe scene.

Christ Church Cathedral, Dublin

I wander down colorful roads like Drury Street and South William Street, eventually ducking into the Powerscourt Centre. It’s set in a converted historic townhouse with an airy central atrium, and has cute cafes and great little shops.

I particularly like Article, which has lovely paper goods, and MoMuse, where I could spend all day cocooning myself in cashmere scarves.

Powerscourt Centre, Dublin

By the time I’m through, it’s cake o’clock and I’ve discovered just the place for it. Down a seemingly deserted side street, The Cake Cafe is hidden in a little courtyard with quirky decorations surrounding multicolored outdoor tables.

I settle in for a fat slice of chocolate Guinness cake—when in Rome!—and soak up the sunshine while resting my feet.

The Cake Cafe, Dublin

Parks in Dublin

Soon my 24 hours in Dublin take me off again to explore, this time in Dublin’s parks.

I’ve always loved St Stephen’s Green, but in an effort to branch out I head to the neighboring Iveagh Gardens. They’re stunning with their little corners full of statues and surprises.

Iveagh Gardens, Dublin

I spy an empty bench and absorb a few chapters of War and Peace as playful dogs chase balls around me.

Dog in Iveagh Gardens, Dublin

Dublin Pubs

An hour later, my boyfriend arrives—he’s been speaking at a conference all day—and we head back into the city streets in search of a pub and a pint.

P.Mac’s is just the place, with its quirky vintage lampshades and giant red candles dripping wax on wooden tables. The Guinness is good, and goes down as quickly as the sun.

P.Mac's, Dublin

Dinner in Dublin

The day ends with dinner at The Pig’s Ear, where we enjoy a great meal of Irish dishes in an intimate dining room that blends style and simplicity in all the right ways.

The Pig's Ear, Dublin

24 Hours in Dublin and Beyond

The next morning we’re up early to catch our flight, and just like that my 24 hours in Dublin come to an end.

But even with such a short time in Ireland, I’ve managed to experience a lot of what the city has to offer and stow away a few ideas for my next trip. I just hope it’s longer than one day.

What would you do with 24 hours in Dublin?

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24 Hours in Dublin

25 Comments on Lady’s 24 Hours in Dublin Guide

  1. I’ve only been in Dublin one time, but my favorite places while there were St Stephens Green, St Patrick’s Cathedral, Phoenix Park. taking a stroll along the River Liffey 🙂 was also nice, and the weather was great when i was there.

  2. Isn’t that library wonderful? It made my heart sing! And I’m so happy you enjoyed the Winding Stair! Such of a treasure of a restaurant. Dublin is an amazing city – I need to go back soon and have a big slice of that Guinness cake!

  3. Great post! I’ve been to Dublin over a dozen times since my stepmom hails from there and stepsisters still live there, and you’ve still managed to find new places I haven’t been and didn’t know about. I’m particularly psyched to check out EPIC Ireland next time I’m in town! Amazing post as always, Lady! 🙂

  4. I am planning to visit Ireland early next year and this was such a great ‘to see’ list for Dublin. Thanks for the tips and inspiration! I am a new reader and loving the blog. Beautiful work 🙂

    xx Carla

  5. We’re planning our first Ireland trip for this summer! Do you have any hotel recommendations for Dublin that are in the heart of the sighteeing sights?

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