dublin free city walking tour

+353 83 067 3393

[email protected]

Join Us for the Craic!

Belfast Cork Dublin Galway

We are Yellow Umbrella Tours. We are proud to be local and independent. Join us to experience the best of Dublin.

Best of dublin tour (southside), tips - based, everyday at 10am, 11am & 2pm at the spire (the big needle) on o'connell st..

Join us on this tour to experience the top attractions and get a feel for our charming city.

​- Trinity College – Temple Bar – Dublin Castle – Christchurch Cathedral – St. Patrick’s Cathedral

Meet beside the Spire (the big needle) in the middle of O’Connell Street.

Free Tour Dublin Highlights

Time: 10am, 11am and 2pm every day.

We offer Southside FREE walking tours several times daily. Also check out the Northside FREE walking tour at 3.00pm every...

Free Tour Northside

Time : 03.00 pm every day.

On this tour, we will visit famous locations such as The Garden of Remembrance: dedicated to those who gave their...

Tour Gratis Lado Sur

Todos los días a las 11:00.

La calidad de nuestros tours está garantizada porque se basan enteramente en las propinas. Tu guía no recibe dinero de...

Tour Gratis Lado Norte

Todos los días a las 16:00.

Misterios y Leyendas

Todos los días a las 18:00.

Callejones, leyendas, secretos, misterios… adéntrate con nosotros en el lado oscuro de Dublín para conocer su historia más desconocida.

Explore Our Most Popular Tours

Dublin Traditional Pub Tour

Everyday at 6PM at the Spire (The Big Needle) on O'Connell St.

Private Walking Tours

Want to explore the city on a personal level and from a local perspective?

Testimonials

What people say about us, southside dublin free walking tour.

Southside Tour with Peter was Fantastic. I am all about walking yours in towns and this was one of the best. It lasted about 3 hours, but I could have wandered around with Peter for a couple of more hours and not gotten bored. We got great general history of Ireland and insite to specific sites on the South Doubling tour. Highly recommend.

Absolutely recommend!

During my short trip to Dublin I decided to book a free walking tour with the Dublin Free Walking Tour – South Side. Our guide was Conor (with one ‘n’) who did a great job sharing bits of Ireland’s/Dublin’s history and present in a relatively short amount of time (one can learn a lot in 3 hours) and with some humour. I had lots of fun learning during this tour and I would 200% recommend anyone to book it. I’m sure you won’t regret it!

Great experience

Our tour lasted 2hr45 of the Southside, and was really excellent. Our tour guide gave us lots of information and was happy to answer questions, and was generally very friendly and easy to understand. It’s a contribution at the end as well, but nominally free. Would definitely recommend!

All you need to know within 2 hours

A great mixture between information, fact, cultural insights and first hand tips for pubs and restaurants. Would encourage everyone to go on a tour!

Must-do in Dublin

Had a fantastic South Side tour with Richie on Sunday morning. Very informative and funny, and we learned interesting history about Dublin. It’s three hours but time flies by! Highly recommend to anyone wanting to take a walking tour – best way to get your bearings plus learn about the buildings instead of just looking at them!

Interesting tour!

Very interesting tour about the history of the city of Dublin. Our guide Conor was dynamic and captivating! We recommend to discover the city at the beginning of your stay!

Informative and fun tours with a great guide

We did both the north and south side tours with Peter. He was absolutely fantastic and really knowledgeable, giving an insight into the city we never would have had walking round in our own. He was also really helpful in answering any questions and providing recommendations for the rest of our trip. Great experience and would definitely advise anyone visiting Dublin to book on to both tours.

Educational and fun. Highly recommended!

My hostel recommended this company to me. Incredibly knowledgeable guide for the free morning & afternoon walking tour (tour date 30.11.2021). Did not expect this level of knowledge and presentation skill from a free tour, but will definitely take a closer look at their normal tours next time I am in Dublin. I am sure they are fabulous too. Overall highly recommended!

I agree to the Privacy Policy

• Click to open search
• Open the main navigation
• Newsletter Opens in a new window

The best free walking tours Dublin has to offer

Small, compact and packed with stories to tell, Dublin is best visited in the company of an expert. Whether you’re looking for a deep dive into the city’s medieval history or need a primer on local folklore, Dublin’s range of free walking tours can accommodate. Yes, free: there’s no charge to take part in any of these tours, but you’re invited to give the guide a tip for a job well done.

There are a number of independent operators that offer free walking tours of the city, including Yellow Umbrella Tours, Generation Tours and Sandeman’s, who operate free walking tours in a host of other European cities.

Sandemans NewEurope Free Tour of Dublin

Generation Tours

Yellow Umbrella Tours Ltd

From Landmarks to Legends: Dublins Finest Free Walking Tours

Luke mcleod.

• December 3, 2023
• Reading Time: 8 minutes

Jump to Section

Related posts, farmleigh house, admission-free adventures: uncovering the best museums in dublin, discovering dublin on foot.

When you’re in Dublin, there’s no better way to embrace the city’s vibrant culture, history, and energy than by exploring its streets on foot. And what’s better? You can do it for free! Yes, we’re talking about  Dublin free walking tours .

The Charm of Walking Tours

Walking tours offer a unique perspective on Dublin that you just can’t get from the window of a tour bus. You’ll find yourself fully immersed in the city’s atmosphere, standing in the very spots where history was made, and walking the same streets as some of the world’s most famous writers.

Walking tours are also great for those unscripted moments, like stumbling upon a brilliant street performer, or discovering a hidden gem of a café. Plus, you get to burn some calories while you’re at it!

Why Opt for Free Walking Tours

Free walking tours are led by passionate, knowledgeable local guides who love their city and want to share it with you. They operate on a tips-only basis, so you can decide what the tour was worth at the end. This means that the guides are highly motivated to make your experience as enjoyable as possible!

On a free walking tour, you’re likely to be with a small, intimate group which means you can ask all the questions you want and won’t miss out on any interesting facts or stories.

And let’s not forget the main draw – these tours are FREE! This makes them a fantastic option for budget travellers or anyone looking to save some money. You can put those savings towards some tasty Irish grub, or perhaps entrance fees to some of Dublin’s fantastic  free museums  or other  attractions .

So, are you ready to lace up your walking shoes and start exploring? Dublin’s streets are waiting for you! And remember, this is just one of the amazing  free activities  you can do in Dublin. So, get out there and make the most of your visit to the Fair City!

Historical Dublin Walking Tours

Embrace the opportunity to step back in time and explore the rich history of Dublin. With the numerous  Dublin free walking tours , you have the chance to immerse yourself in the city’s past and uncover its many secrets.

Walking Through Dublin’s Past

Strolling through the cobblestone streets, you’ll be transported to a time when Dublin was a bustling Viking settlement. Each corner turned unravels another layer of Dublin’s story, from its medieval roots to its involvement in the fight for Irish independence. The city’s history is not confined to dust-cloaked books but is etched into the very fabric of the streets and buildings around you.

Walking tours not only provide a fun way to explore at your own pace but also offer a chance to delve deeper into Dublin’s history. You’ll walk the same streets as some of Ireland’s most influential figures, such as Daniel O’Connell and Charles Stewart Parnell, and learn about the city’s role in shaping the nation’s identity.

Must-Visit Historical Landmarks

During these walking tours, there are several historical landmarks you can’t miss.

• St. Patrick’s Cathedral : Built in honour of Ireland’s patron saint, this cathedral is a beacon of Dublin’s religious history.
• Dublin Castle : Once the seat of British rule in Ireland, the castle is now a testament to the country’s journey towards independence.
• Grafton Street : This famous shopping street has been the centre of Dublin’s social life for centuries.
• Trinity College : Home to the Book of Kells, this historic university has churned out notable alumni, including Oscar Wilde and Samuel Beckett.

These are just a handful of the historical gems you’ll uncover on your walking tour. For more options on free things to do in Dublin, check out our articles on  free attractions in Dublin  and  free activities in Dublin .

Every step you take on your  Dublin free walking tours  will lead you deeper into the city’s past, making your visit a truly memorable experience.

Literary Dublin Walking Tours

Dublin’s rich literary heritage makes it a haven for book enthusiasts and history lovers alike. Embarking on one of the city’s many  literary walking tours  is like stepping into the pages of a historical novel. And the best part? You can do it all for free!

Following the Footsteps of Literary Giants

Imagine tracing the steps of literary greats like James Joyce, Oscar Wilde, and Samuel Beckett as you wander through Dublin’s historic streets. It’s not just about visiting landmarks but also gaining an understanding of the inspirations and influences behind some of their most acclaimed works.

Several  Dublin free walking tours  focus specifically on the city’s literary heritage. These guided tours often include readings from the works of these authors, offering a unique and immersive experience. You’ll get to see the city through their eyes, exploring the sites and sounds that shaped their writing.

In addition to guided tours, you can also opt for a self-guided tour. With numerous resources available online, you can customise your own literary trail and explore at your own pace.

Famous Literary Landmarks

Dublin boasts a plethora of literary landmarks that have played significant roles in the life and works of its famous authors. Here are a few must-visit locations on any literary walking tour:

• Trinity College : Home to the Book of Kells and a rich library, it’s a treasure trove for any book lover.
• Oscar Wilde’s Childhood Home : Located in Merrion Square, it’s a testament to Wilde’s early life in Dublin.
• James Joyce Centre : Devoted to one of Ireland’s most influential writers, it offers insight into Joyce’s life and works.
• Sweny’s Pharmacy : Featured in Joyce’s Ulysses, it’s a must-visit for fans of the iconic novel.

Visiting these landmarks offers you a unique perspective on Dublin’s literary scene. And it’s just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the wealth of  free activities in Dublin . Whether you’re an avid reader, a history buff, or simply interested in Dublin’s cultural heritage, these literary walking tours are a fantastic way to explore the city. Not to mention, they’re a perfect addition to your list of free things to do in Dublin!

Street Art and Creative Dublin Walking Tours

If you’re a fan of urban art, you’ll be thrilled to explore Dublin’s vibrant street art scene. With our  Dublin free walking tours , you get to witness the city’s creativity in full bloom.

Dublin’s Vibrant Art Scene

Dublin is a canvas for many talented local and international artists. The city boasts a multitude of stunning murals, graffiti, and installations that turn ordinary streets into open-air galleries. From political statements to depictions of Irish legends, the street art in Dublin is as diverse as it is captivating.

These art pieces provide a unique perspective on Dublin’s culture, history, and contemporary issues. Not only do they beautify the cityscape, but they also provoke thought and inspire conversations. So, if you’re an art enthusiast, these walking tours are a must-do in Dublin. To explore more art-related activities, check out our guide on  free art galleries in Dublin .

Unmissable Street Art Locations

While Dublin has a wealth of street art scattered throughout the city, there are some locations you won’t want to miss on your walking tour.

• Temple Bar : Known for its lively nightlife, Temple Bar is also dotted with stunning street art pieces. Don’t miss the famous “Love Lane” filled with heart-themed art and quotes about love.
• Smithfield : This district is home to the ‘Icon Factory’, an artist’s cooperative that turned the surrounding alleys into an outdoor gallery dubbed the ‘Icon Walk’.
• Portobello : In this trendy neighbourhood, you’ll find a variety of thought-provoking murals and graffiti art, particularly around the Richmond Street area.
• The Bernard Shaw : Although the famous pub has moved, its original location on South Richmond Street still boasts some of the city’s most iconic murals.

Remember, the beauty of street art lies in its transient nature. What you see today might be replaced by a new masterpiece tomorrow. So, each walking tour brings with it the excitement of discovering something new.

A walking tour exploring Dublin’s street art is a fantastic way to see the city from a different angle. It’s not just about the art, it’s about the stories they tell and the conversations they spark. So, why wait? Put on your comfy shoes and let Dublin’s streets surprise you with their colourful creativity. For more free activities, check out our list of  free attractions in Dublin .

Pub Culture and Music Dublin Walking Tours

For many, the heart and soul of Dublin lies in its vibrant pub culture and rich musical tradition. If you’re keen to dive into this facet of Dublin life, a  pub culture and music walking tour  is the perfect way to do it.

The Heartbeat of Dublin: Its Pubs and Music

The pubs of Dublin are far more than just places to grab a pint. They’re community hubs, stages for local musicians, and keepers of Irish traditions. Many have been serving Dubliners for centuries and are steeped in stories. From traditional folk tunes to modern rock, music is a key part of Dublin’s pub culture. With a  Dublin free walking tour  focusing on pub culture and music, you’ll get to experience first-hand the atmosphere of these historical pubs and enjoy the live music they offer.

Iconic Pubs and Music Venues

While it’s impossible to cover all of Dublin’s iconic pubs and music venues in a single tour, there are a few that stand out and are often featured in these walking tours:

• Temple Bar Area  – Known as Dublin’s cultural quarter, this area is a hotbed of lively pubs, many offering live music sessions.
• Grafton Street Area  – Home to a number of pubs known for their live music, including traditional Irish music sessions.
• Camden Street Area  – This area is known for its modern and trendy bars, many of which showcase live rock and indie bands.

Remember, these tours are not about the drinking, but rather about immersing yourself in Dublin’s cultural heritage. It’s about the stories, the music, the people, and the atmosphere. It’s about experiencing the true heartbeat of Dublin.

And don’t forget, there’s more to Dublin’s culture than just its pubs and music. There are numerous other free activities to enjoy in Dublin, from exploring its  museums  and  art galleries  to attending  events  and visiting  attractions .

So, lace up your walking shoes and get ready to experience Dublin like a local!

Tips for Enjoying Dublin Walking Tours

Getting the most out of  Dublin free walking tours  requires a bit of preparation. Here are some tips on what to wear and bring, the best times for walking tours, and some safety and etiquette tips.

What to Wear and Bring

Ireland’s weather can be a bit unpredictable, so it’s best to dress in layers, ready for all possibilities. Comfortable walking shoes are a must because you’ll be on your feet for a few hours. Don’t forget to bring a waterproof jacket or umbrella, just in case of a sudden downpour.

You should also bring a bottle of water to stay hydrated, and a snack could come in handy if you get peckish during the tour. A camera or your smartphone is essential for capturing the sights and memories.

Best Time for Walking Tours

Dublin’s charm can be appreciated at any time of day, but the best time for walking tours largely depends on the type of tour you’re interested in. Early morning tours are great for beating the crowds at popular landmarks, while evening tours can offer a magical view of the city under the twinkling lights.

The beauty of  Dublin free walking tours  is that they run throughout the day, so you can pick a time that suits your schedule. Just remember, some sights and attractions may have different opening hours, so it’s worth checking in advance.

Safety and Etiquette Tips

Dublin is generally a safe city, but as with any urban area, it’s important to stay alert and aware of your surroundings. Stick with your group and follow the guide’s instructions. Remember to respect the city and its inhabitants by not littering and keeping noise levels to a minimum, especially in residential areas.

When it comes to gratuities, while the tour is free, it’s customary to tip your guide if you enjoyed the tour. The amount is entirely up to you and should reflect your appreciation of the guide’s work.

Exploring Dublin on foot allows you to immerse yourself in the city’s rich history and vibrant culture. By following these tips, you’re sure to have a memorable and enjoyable experience. And remember, there’s plenty more to discover for free in Dublin, from  museums  to  art galleries , so don’t stop at the end of your walking tour!

The Dublin Buzz was created in 2023 to help you find events and places to go without spending a cent!

Quick Links

List your event.

• Email: [email protected]

© 2024 All Rights Reserved.

Dublin Free Walking Tours

• Generation Tours

Best daily FREE TOURS in Dublin!

Dublin, the little city that satisfies even the most nomadic of travelers' wanderlust, is a wonderful mix of old and new - a beautiful town of Gothic Cathedrals, Georgian grandeur, Viking & Medieval character, a prestigious Castle, a rich tapestry of musical & literary greats, local legends, friendly faces, wonderful stories & storytellers, and world renowned nightlife...perfect for remarkable tours & experiences! On our free Dublin walking tours, our city is brought to life by exceptional local guides; come experience it all on our free city tours in Dublin.

Exploring Dublin with our free city tours

We love what we do at Generation Tours Dublin - meeting fun-lovin' travelers and showing you the best of real, authentic Dublin on unbeatable free walking tours.

We know your time in Dublin is precious and you want to get the best of the city while you're here, that's why our young local Dublin walking tour guides deliver exceptional experiences that go beyond the standard tourist-fare tours; we not only give you an unrivaled local insight into the fantastic history, heritage and culture of Dublin & Ireland, but also take you to really get under Dublin's skin, revealing local culture & life here today, and the remarkable stories, sites & sights, and quirks of our hometown.

Top quality local Dublin walking tour guides for tips only!

The excellent local Generation Tours guides who share their knowledge & passion on our free tours of Dublin do so for optional tips only - making authentic local culture and truly valuable city tour experiences accessible to all, regardless of budget. You're free to tip them whatever amount you like at the end of your tour - putting you in control while we provide unrivaled excellent walking tours of Dublin on fair terms. No more do you have to join overpriced tours; join our free tours of Dublin and see the difference!

And we’re more than just unbeatable quality Dublin walking tours – we’ll happily give you the best insider knowledge about what’s happening in the city, what to see & do in Dublin after your free tours, local hints & tips for getting the most out of your time here and, of course, how best to embrace our unique & famous nightlife. Book your spot on one of our free Dublin city tours now and meet us in front of The Old Storehouse Pub, 3 Crown Alley, in the Temple Bar district, for what is sure to be a real highlight of your time in Dublin.

Meet the local guides

We have tours in 5 cities

• Terms and conditions

• Private offer
• About & Partnership
• Alicante Spain
• Antwerp Belgium
• Barcelona Spain
• Belfast Northern Ireland
• Berlin Germany
• Bratislava Slovakia
• Bruges Belgium
• Brussels Belgium
• Bucharest Romania
• Budapest Hungary
• Bydgoszcz Poland
• Cadiz Spain
• Cordoba Spain
• Cork Ireland
• Dresden Germany
• Dublin Ireland
• Dubrovnik Croatia
• Edinburgh Scotland
• Galway Ireland
• Gdańsk Poland
• Ghent Belgium
• Glasgow Scotland
• Granada Spain
• Istanbul Turkey
• Jerusalem Israel
• Krakow Poland
• Leipzig Germany
• Lisbon Portugal
• Liverpool England
• Lodz Poland
• London England
• Lublin Poland
• Lviv Ukraine
• Madrid Spain
• Malaga Spain
• Mostar Bosnia & Herzegovina
• Munich Germany
• Naples Italy
• Nice France
• Paris France
• Porto Portugal
• Poznan Poland
• Prague Czechia
• Pula Croatia
• Riga Latvia
• Sarajevo Bosnia & Herzegovina
• Seville Spain
• Sibenik Croatia
• Sintra Portugal
• Sopot Poland
• Split Croatia
• Tel Aviv Israel
• Tirana Albania
• Torun Poland
• Valletta Malta
• Warsaw Poland
• Wroclaw Poland
• Zadar Croatia
• Zagreb Croatia
• Zakopane Poland

The best free walking tours and paid tours in Dublin. Personally verified by Walkative team.

Tours in dublin pay what you wish tours.

Check nearest tours

Dublin – walks on the trail of local attractions

Dublin is a city with a rich and complex history. Its witnesses are well-preserved monuments and attractions that bring here travellers from around the world. On the tourist trail of the Irish capital there are both buildings erected in the 11th century and those built only a few decades ago. Visiting the city, you can learn more about the most important events, culture and customs that formed the modern face of Ireland. Find out what is worth seeing in Dublin.

Dublin – visiting the most important points on the city map

Monumental religious buildings in Dublin allow you to learn about the history of the city. Particularly noteworthy is the Christ Church Cathedral. The history of this place dates back to 1038. At that time the first wooden temple was erected. More than 100 years later, a stone cathedral was built, which today is one of the symbols of Dublin and of Ireland itself.

Even more important in local tradition is the Cathedral of St. Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland. It was built in 1270 on the site of a wooden church. Today, it is the largest religious building in Ireland, which also bears the name of the national cathedral.

While visiting Dublin, don’t miss the city’s 12th century castle, which for centuries served as the center of English power on Irish soil. It now serves ceremonial and cultural functions.

Another jewel of the city is the Trinity College. It is the oldest college in the country and also a student campus, operating since 1592. The pride of the place is the Book of Kells Manuscript. It is one of the most valuable artifacts of the European Middle Ages. When visiting Trinity College, the university library is worth a look. Its decor exudes a unique atmosphere and brings to mind the Harry Potter books.

To learn more about the city’s more recent history, it is worth directing your steps towards the Central Post Office. It opened in 1818, and less than 100 years later became the centre of events of the Easter Rising and today stands as a symbol of Irish independence aspirations. Nearby is the iconic O’Connell Bridge, which is often depicted on Dublin postcards.

In search of the Irish spirit, the iconic Temple Bar district is not to be missed. It is known for its pubs and rich cultural offer. This is where the artistic heart of Dublin beats. Streets full of music and colourful facades attract both locals and tourists from all over the world.

Other places of interest include the Guinness Storehouse, the place where the famous dark Irish beer Guinness Stout is made. From there, you can direct your steps to the historic Jameson Distillery to learn the secrets of Irish whiskey production.

Free Walking Tour – Dublin with a local Walkative guide!

By European standards, Dublin is a relatively small capital city. This makes the city ideal for walking tours. It is worth walking around in the company of a Walkative guide! When joining free walking tours in Dublin, you will learn about the history of the city and a mass of interesting facts, you will also be able to see Dublin from the perspective of the locals. All you have to do to join our tours is to book a place through our website and show up at the meeting point. The walks do not have predetermined prices. It is entirely up to you to decide how much you will compensate the guide for his or her work!

We had just one day in Wroclaw and a decision to join Walkative tours was the right one! These guys are amazing! Their stories are very informative, full of history, legends, funny jokes! They took us to all astonishing places of Wroclaw. Perfect for a day trip to this lovely city! Thank you, Lukasz and Matt for the brilliant tours!

Dawie’s tour was the best theatre in Paris as well as informative!!!! He is great – even in the rain. Do it.

My group really enjoyed the amount of history explained in the tour, it was a nice way to get a lot of information on several of the key sites in the center of Paris in a compact amount of time. Excellent for orientation and background. I would certainly do other tours in the future.

To provide the best experiences, we use technologies like cookies to store and/or access device information. Consenting to these technologies will allow us to process data such as browsing behavior or unique IDs on this site. Not consenting or withdrawing consent, may adversely affect certain features and functions.

Insert/edit link

Enter the destination URL

Or link to existing content

• Santiago de Chile
• Santiago de Compostela

WALKING TOURS & ACTIVITIES IN DUBLIN

• PRIVATE TOURS

Free Tour of Dublin

Book the original Dublin free walking tour and visit many of the city's highlights with a local guid ...

Dublin Dark Side Free Walking Tour

Listen to the dark stories as we explore the more haunted side of Dublin

2-hour Dublin Highlights Private Tour

Make the most out of your visit and discover Dublin's main attractions with your private tour guide

3-hour Dublin Private City Tour

Enjoy a comprehensive overview of Dublin's fascinating history and must-see sites with your private ...

Tell us the landmarks, stories or parts of the city you want to see, how long you have to see them and when you want to go, and we’ll build an itinerary that suits you.

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipisicing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam

Discover the many faces of Dublin with a passionate local guide

From being the home of the world’s greatest writers, to epic Viking invasions, to fascinating folklore, Dublin’s main export has been stories. Come explore the capital of the Emerald Isle, as the Dublin’s best local guides tell you the tales of those who tried to tame this wild island.

The original  Free Tour of Dublin  covers many of Dublin’s top attractions including Dublin Castle, Temple Bar and Trinity College. After you’ve got the overview with the free walking tour, delve deeper with us!

In the evening, learn about Dublin’s haunted history on the Dark Side Tour . For those of you who want to escape the city for a day, we offer a  Howth day tour from Dublin. This excursion will take you to explore sights such as the Howth Castle and Baily Lighthouse, all just an hour out of Dublin.

If you are looking for a party, join us every night of the week for the best  pub crawl in Dublin.

Enjoy authentic local experiences

Dublin is part of the SANDEMANs NEW Europe network, one of the largest walking tour companies in the world. Offering daily tours in English and Spanish, we believe in supporting local communities and are committed to giving a voice to some of Dublin's best local freelance tour guides, who passionately share the city's history and culture with their own unique and always-entertaining style.

Aside from the Free Tour, in Dublin you’ll also find unforgettable tours and experiences. We’re looking forward to seeing you soon!

Tours & activities across Europe, Israel & USA

• Over 2 million guests per year
• Over 160,000 five-star reviews
• Over 100 tours daily, rain, hail or shine
• Top quality tours with local guides, whatever your budget

Things to do in Dublin

Ready to start exploring Dublin? Check out these useful tips and don't miss any of the city's main attractions

The best accommodation in town

Finding the right place to stay can be difficult - that's why we have sorted you out with a list of our favourite hostels and hotels in Dublin

The best places to eat in Dublin

Don't fall into any tourist trap! Here's a list of the top places to eat in Dublin recommended by locals

The greatest bars in the city

Discover our selection of popular spots among the locals to taste from a great pint of Guinness to delicious cocktails

The best shopping in Dublin

Find everything you are looking for with this guide to the best shops, markets and shopping streets in Dublin

The local expert guides we work with are proud to show you the best Dublin has to offer!

Scroll through to learn more about these unforgettable guides, including where they’re from, why they love Dublin and which tours they can offer you.

Participation in tours promoted by SANDEMANs NEW Europe is strictly on a voluntary basis. Neither SANDEMANs NEW Europe, nor the self-employed freelance guides who are the providers of the tours promoted by SANDEMANs NEW Europe, will be held responsible in any way for injuries to body or property incurred during tours. The tour guides reserve the right to deny participation in any tour, to any person, for any reason. Thank you for your understanding.

KEEP EXPLORING blog posts

How to Survive a Night Out in Dublin

Dublin is renowned for many things, calm quiet nights in, are not one of them. If you are heading to ...

The 5 Best Places to Celebrate St Patrick’s Day in Europe

St Patrick was a 5th Century British Christian missionary and bishop in Ireland. Known as the 'Apost ...

5 Reasons You Should Discover a City with a Free Tour

1. It's free! Perhaps the most obvious reason, but the most important one too! With the cost of tra ...

London's Hidden Gems - 10 Spots Worth Hunting For

We’ve all been there, on holiday in a new city and dutifully visiting the most famous sites along wi ...

5 Top European Destinations That Won't Break the Bank

Summer is finally getting underway in Europe! If you’re planning your next adventure, here are some ...

Head to the Highlands - 3 Unmissable Scottish Getaways!

With its ancient stone streets, iconic hilltop castle and numerous museums, it is no wonder that Edi ...

Where to Go Out in Berlin if You Don't Like Techno

Berlin is the techno capital of the world, home to the best club in the world (Berghain) and some of ...

10 Ways to Leave a Destination Better Than You Found It

Here are SANDEMANs, we are firm believers in the power of responsible travel, so we’ve put together ...

Gratuity - Top Tips on Tipping in London

Tipping. Gratuity. Whatever you want to call it. It’s important to understand how it’s done wherever ...

Our Cities As Emojis

Here at SANDEMANs NEW Europe, we run a mind-boggling number of walking tours in 20 cities across Eur ...

Thank you! Your support means more to us than we can express in words. Chris Sandeman and the SANDEMANs Live Community

Give anything you want

Wrong price format. Please enter a valid price.

Please enter a price greater than 0.

Payment is secured with

Dublin Free Walking Tour

• See all photos

Similar Experiences

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

DUBLIN FREE WALKING TOUR - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go

We have received your request correctly.

You will receive an email with a summary of your bookings.

Can't find it? Leave us your email and we'll send you a summary of your bookings.

Share it straight to social media with your campaign ID and name

Free Walking Tour of Dublin

• 9.40 / 10 23,732 reviews | 178,591 travellers Very good, very enjoyable told by the guide and very interesting the history of this city. 10 Adrián

Our Dublin tour is the best way to discover the capital , taking in the main monuments, neighbourhoods, and stories which make up the city.

Meet your tour group next to The Spire in central Dublin  at the selected time, ready to visit places such as the mythical Temple Bar neighbourhood.

Among the other highlights are the Town Hall, the Clarence Hotel, and the  cathedral to St. Patrick himself , as well as the other cathedral in the city, Christchurch. We'll also see Dublin Castle and cross Ha'penny and O'Connell Bridge as we criss-cross the city.

We'll visit the Chester Beatty Library  and uncover the medieval relics and Viking remains of the city , as well as see Christ Church Cathedral and the Dubh Linn Gardens . Throughout the tour, the guide will share lots of interesting facts about the capital, such as St. Patrick's Day, the country's musical culture, and everything related to its language. 

After about three hours of sightseeing, we'll conclude this free tour in the vicinity of  Dublin Castle .

It's not possible to take this free tour if you're a group of more than 5 people. If this is the case, we recommend this  private tour of Dublin.

More Information

The activity takes place with a guide that speaks in English.

English–speaking guide

Not included

When to book.

You can book up until 1 hour before the activity as long as there are still places. Book now to guarantee your spot.

Type of voucher

Electronic. Show the voucher on your phone.

Accessibility

Wheelchair accessible.

Sustainability

All services published on Civitatis are carried out in accordance with our Sustainability Code .

Our providers commit to:

• Provide a safe and satisfying experience.
• Reduce, reuse, recycle.
• Incorporate eco-conscious technologies.
• Uphold fair employment standards.
• Foster the growth of local communities.
• Preserve the integrity of local culture.
• Safeguard both cultural and environmental heritage.
• Ensure ethical treatment of animals.
• Operate with honesty and transparency.
• Encourage sustainable behaviors among customers and staff.

This particular activity contributes as follows:

• Printed material is avoided.
• No single-use plastics are used.
• The activity helps the dissemination of local cultural heritage.
• No printing of documentation required.
• Promotes local employment.
• Has a gender equality policy.
• Has a carbon footprint offset policy.

Yellow Umbrella Tours Show more

Corporate name: Yellow Umbrella Tours Limited

Not permitted.

Frequently asked questions

Q - Why do this activity with Civitatis?

A - At Civitatis we guarantee the best quality and prices, click here if you want to know how we select our activities.

Q - How to book?

A - To reserve the activity, choose the date and complete the form on this page. You will receive your confirmation immediately.

If you have any other questions please contact us.

Free cancellation

Meeting point, where does the activity end.

Dublin Castle

You may also be interested in

Cliffs of Moher, Doolin, Burren, & Galway Day Trip

Glendalough, Wicklow & Kilkenny Day Trip

Go City: Dublin All-Inclusive Pass

Login to add activities to your favorites and access them from any device

This site is reCAPTCHA protected and Google's privacy policy and terms of service apply.

Log in to rate the opinions of other travelers

• Destinations
• Tours in Dublin

Free City Tour - Discover Dublin & Hidden Gems

Overview of the tour in Dublin

Join us on this 2.5-hour tour as we bring alive the rich and contrasting history of our beautiful city, taking in not only the major sites, but also the hidden gems and unique stories. We’ll begin at picturesque St. Stephens’ Green, where surrounded by the beauty of the park and the splendor of the Georgian Architecture, we will begin an overview of Ireland’s past and lay the foundations for the rest of the tour. ​From here we will head towards the iconic Trinity College, to the riveting statue of Molly Malone, and on to the heart of the city, the River Liffey where we discover rebellions of the past. Weaving our way through the cobblestone streets of Temple Bar, we enter a new Dublin, full of music, culture, and history.​ A short stroll away we will take the sights at Christ Church, dating back to the 11th Century, with its fascinating history. ​We will finish the tour at Dublin Castle. No better setting than the former seat of British rule in Ireland, here we unearth how the Republic of Ireland came to be.

This activity includes:

• Christ Church Cathedral
• Dublin Castle
• Leinster House
• Temple Bar Inn
• St Stephen's Green
• Dubh Linn Garden
• Molly Malone Statue
• Bank of Ireland
• Women's history
• Modern Dublin

Meeting point

Wolfe Tone Sculpture, St Stephen's Green

Our start point is at the Wolfe Tone Sculpture at the back entrance of St Stephen's Green opposite The Shelbourne Hotel. The guide will have a purple umbrella and a purple name badge.

Free Cancellation

You are free to cancel a booking anytime. We kindly remind you to cancel bookings you cannot arrive for. Being reported as absent decreases your customer level points and the benefits you can enjoy.

• Join Freetour
• Provider Sign In
• Affiliate Program
• Security & Privacy
• Terms & Legal
• Cookie policy
• Freetour Awards
• Ratings & Reviews powered by

• Want to become a guide?

Share my guruwalk

Free walking tour of dublin - discover dublin & hidden gems.

We are a Dublin based Walking Tour company provided by local guides. The guides we work with have a passion for the history of Ireland and are dedicated in showing you the true Dublin.

• No minimum number of attendees No minimum number of attendees is required for the tour
• Free booking and cancellation Free payment tour, no set price, booking and cancellation are free
• Accepts electronic payment This tour allows payment by electronic means or credit card

Tour description

Come and join us in unearthing the history of Dublin and leaving no trace behind! Our passionate, local tour guides are working hard to help rebuild Dublin and showcase the very best this fantastic city has to offer. Our Free Walking Tour of Dublin is a great way to start off exploring the city, 2.5 hours of visiting the most iconic locations in the capital , but also showing you the hidden gems too . We'll discover the places you need to visit to tick off your bucket list, but allow you to discover local Dublin as well! Dive into the tour that will explore 12,000 years of Dublin’s captivating and enthralling history.

What better way to discover the fascinating past of Dublin than on a guided tour with a native, local expert.

What will we see?

• St. Stephen’s Green
• Trinity College
• College Green/Old House of Parliament
• Molly Malone
• O’Connell Bridge
• Christ Church
• Dublin Castle.

Our tour begins at the Wolfe Tone Sculpture at the entrance of St Stephen's Green opposite The Shelbourne Hotel. Join us today and discover Dublin with a local!

What will we visit on this tour?

Our Tour begins at the Wolfe Tone Sculpture, at the entrance of St Stephen's Green opposite the Shelbourne Hotel. Look out for the purple umbrella!

Here we open the tour with a brief introduction to what we will visit. We will cover some statues such as Wolfe Tone & The Famine and speak of Women’s History, Irish Rebellions or The 1916 Uprising.

We will venture inside the park checking out more of Dublins rebellion past & Famine history, taking in the views of one of the cities most beautiful parks.

Here we visit Irish Parliament and dive into what makes the Republic of Ireland today, both politically and geographically.

We take a stop outside Trinity College, moving further into Dublins cultural history. We talk about how Trinity serves as a standing landmark in Dublin’s past.

Standing at the very central of College Green we take the views of Grafton Street, Dame Street, Trinity College and the Bank of Ireland. Here the guides will cover more on how the British Empire and the stand against them shaped Ireland today.

We take a stop at the statue of Molly Malone. A cultural icon of the city and a great local legend.

Changing it up to some more modern and cultural information we weave our way through the cobbled streets checking out local pubs, shops, street art and the iconic Temple Bar.

We dive even further back into Dublin’s past and talk about the founding of the city, the Vikings and take in the views and breathtaking outside architecture of Christchurch Cathedral.

Dublin Castle is one of the most visited places in Dublin. Here we talk about the handover of power from the British Empire and discuss what Dublin Castle does for the city today.

We finish up our tour at the Castle Gardens, Dubh Linn. Here we will discuss more on the Vikings, modern day Ireland and take a few moments to grab those picture perfect poses in an amazing picturesque setting.

How much does this tour cost?

Free tours do not have a set price , instead, each person gives the guru at the end of the tour the amount that he or she considers appropriate (these usually range from €10 to $50 depending on satisfaction with the tour).

Tour opinions

Tour opinions (3100)

Interesting tour Well educated guide English easily understood

The guided tour with Tara was a pleasure. She knows a lot of the country’s history and tells it in a light and funny way. I didn't even feel the time go by! Thank you Tara for a lovely morning 💛

Tara was amazing! We learn and discovered so much about Dublin in 2h30! Gave a us a lot of recommandation for Dublin ! Than you so much

Our guide Jack Redmond was great and very informative. Great introduction to Dublin!

I recommend this person to do the tour. Especially if you don’t understand English very well because he speaks very clearly and slowly. The visit was interesting, 2 hours, I spent a very good moment.

Who is this tour for?

What should you know, others cities to visit after dublin.

Find similar guruwalks in Dublin

Where are you traveling to?

This website uses cookies to improve your browsing experience and analyze the use of the website. Learn More

Self-Guided Dublin Tour

This post is a self-guided tour of Dublin that covers all the iconic sites on the city's south bank as well as some lesser-known haunts.

The tour should take approximately 1.5 hours or just a bit less than that. The walk is approximately 1.5 km (just over 1/2 a mile).

Don't forget that you can also book a pay-what-you-like live-guided tour of the city centre with us!

• Start: Viking Longboat Statue
• End: St Stephen's Green

Click the map to enlarge it or to download it to a smartphone.

GPS-Enabled Audio Tour

We also offer an audio tour of historic Dublin, researched, written, and recorded by one of our own tour guides.

Here’s a sample.

Book the Dublin audio tour .

1. Viking Longboat Statue

We’ll see a lot of monuments in the course of the walk, and this one wins the prize for the most useful.

It doubles as a bus stop. If you have it to yourself, pretending to row is a classic photo opportunity.

It surprises many visitors, but Vikings are a major part of Dublin’s story.

Initially raiders, in 841, some of them decided to settle down in Ireland, and they established towns along the coast.

2. Fishamble Street

Today, Fishamble Street is lined with modern buildings today, but its history was discovered starting in 1974 when the Dublin City Council decided to move its offices to a four-acre site here.

When archaeologists spoke up to say they’d found one of the most intact sites of its age in Europe, residents rallied around the idea of preserving it.

Those artifacts are mainly on display at the National Museum of Ireland, and the sidewalk here has little nods to them.

On the left side of the street, you can find five bronze markers with the shapes of artifacts unearthed here.

3. Handel’s Messiah

Also on the left, as the street begins to bend to the right, is a short, narrow white wall with a decorative arch.

This is the former entrance to the New Music Hall, wherein in 1742 the premiere of Handel’s Messiah was performed.

Messiah is a fixture across the English-speaking world during the Christmas season, and no less so here – except the annual tradition here happens on April 13 th , the same date as the original performance.

And since this is no longer a music venue, it takes place outside.

4. Christ Church Cathedral

There’s a lot to see on the grounds of Christ Church Cathedral – the stunning exterior, a labyrinth in the courtyard if you need somewhere to clear your head, and the interior, available to explore with either a guided or self-guided tour. 

Inside, you’ll discover impressive stained glass windows and a mosaic floor, and sacred objects from the building’s history as both a Catholic and a Protestant church.

You'll also find a tower with a world-record-setting number of bells – 19 – and a crypt with the preserved remains of a saint as well as of a mummified cat and rat.

All that inside the oldest structure still in use in Dublin.

The story of this church is long and interesting but you’ll need to learn more with the PDF and/or audio tour version.

If you’re interested in exploring inside, the church hosts services, tours, and music events.

Prayer services are held weekday mornings at 10 and evenings at 5, except on Wednesdays when they hold a choral evensong at 6. Sunday Eucharist is at 11 am.

Tours are available Thursday through Sunday, with first admission at 10 am and last admission at 4:15 pm.

Tickets are 7 Euros and fifty cents for adults with various discounts available.

The tour includes access to the bell tower and crypts, both of which involve stairs.

Tickets: https://www.mytoptickets.com/?3B041324-155D-D234-0AA684C0D2E68919

5. Dublin Castle

For more than seven centuries, Dublin Castle was the center of government in Ireland.

While there are still some older elements under the castle, most of what you can see dates from after a major fire.

It took place in the 17 th century, so the castle was rebuilt in the heyday of Dublin’s famous Georgian style of architecture.

Dublin Castle was built near the meeting of two rivers: the Liffey, where our tour started, and the Poddle, which still merges into the Liffey here, but today flows underground.

If you’d like to visit the castle, it’s open from 9:45 am to 5:45 pm daily, with final admission at 5:15 pm.

Self-guided and guided tours are available. Guided tours are an hour long and cover the State Apartments, the undercroft, and the royal chapel; tickets are 12 Euros with discounts for students, seniors, and children.

Self-guided tours offer access only to the State Apartments and exhibitions; these are 8 Euros, with the same discounts.

6. City Hall

City Hall is open to the public and free to enter.

Right through the door is a vast, impressive, echoing entrance hall with a massive dome, plus a glass elevator so you can see the whole thing from above.

All this opulence comes from the fact that when this was built in the 18 th century, it was the royal stock exchange and custom house.

But, when the city bought it in the 1850s for its current function, they added a floor mosaic with the city seal.

There’s also a rotunda, which is available to visit when it isn’t rented out for events.

And the basement is home to a small gallery with a broad exhibition of artifacts from Dublin’s history.

There’s also a café inside if you’re due to rest a while. The building is open Monday through Saturday, from 10 am to 5:15 pm.

7. Temple Bar And The Irish Rock ‘N’ Roll Museum

Curved St, Temple Bar, Dublin 2

The area you’ve been walking through is called Temple Bar. For newcomers, the name can be confusing – it’s the name of a neighborhood, not a drinking establishment.

For the “Bar” part of the name, think sandbar rather than whiskey bar. It was named for the riverbed it borders.

Today, the bars are of the whiskey rather than the sand variety, and the neighborhood has become a place where art meets nightlife.

The highlight of the neighborhood is its live music venues, and the Irish Rock N Roll Museum was built right in the middle of the action.

Within a few blocks, you’ll find art galleries, theaters, festivals, and lots of bars, more often than not with live music.

There are lots of other things to do in Temple Bar, and it’s well worth exploring this area at more leisure.

It’s also tourist central for Dublin, so scoping things out and making plans during the daytime can save you time after nightfall.

8. Bank Bar

The Bank is a bar and restaurant today, but it started out as a bank.

If you looked inside City Hall earlier, you’ll have gotten an impression of what Irish institutions of commerce looked like in the 18 th century.

This building takes that atmosphere into the late 19 th century.

The current interior was designed in the 1890s, and it was given the stained-glass ceilings, mosaic floors, and generally over-the-top décor that would inspire confidence in investors.

All that grandeur is still there – if you’re here during open hours, you’re welcome to step inside and get a look at the place, whether or not you plan to patronize it.

And if you did decide to stay awhile, you could also see the bank vaults, which are in the basement near the restrooms.

Another treasure on offer is a full replica of the Book of Kells – the main tourist attraction of Trinity College, a couple of stops ahead.

The Bank Bar is open from 11 am to 10 pm daily.

9. Molly Malone Statue

This is Molly Malone. She’s the subject of a song called “Cockles and Mussels,” which is famous to the point of cliché among Irish people.

The title comes from the line “cockles and mussels alive, alive, oh,” which is a cry that street vendors selling mollusks actually used in the 19 th century when the song probably originated.

But its origins are mysterious, and its main character may or may not have been a real person.

Molly Malone is one of the most stereotypical Irish names you could think of.

The character, real or not, meets a tragic end.

After taking up the family business of selling seafood from a cart, she meets the song’s narrator and leaves a strong impression, but then dies of fever and haunts the streets, hawking shellfish for eternity.

And you actually can hear Molly’s voice today.

This is one of the Talking Statues of Dublin – twelve monuments that can talk to you through your phone with the help of a QR code on a plaque located nearby.

10. Irish Houses Of Parliament (Former Location)

We’ve already seen a couple of examples of transformed houses of commerce, a stock exchange turned into a city hall and a bank turned into a bar.

This is a house of parliament turned into a bank.

It was built in 1729 when Ireland was dominated by an English upper class but still had its own legislature.

Like the English Parliament, it was a bicameral or two-house parliament, with a House of Lords and a House of Commons.

They had no permanent home and met where they could, often in religious spaces or private homes, where it could be difficult to even fit all the members, much less do their work gracefully.

This building was commissioned to solve that problem.

The architect was himself a member of parliament, and he designed the first building in the world meant to serve exactly the purpose of a two-house legislature.

In 1800, the Acts of Union, passed by both the English and Irish Parliaments, formally joined the two lands into the United Kingdom.

The Irish Parliament was dissolved. Three years later, the Bank of Ireland acquired the building.

11. Trinity College

What you’re seeing now is the oldest part of Trinity’s campus, mostly consisting of 19 th -century buildings.

Trinity is the single college that makes up the University of Dublin.  Similar universities in the UK contain many colleges.

And that was the model the founders had in mind in 1592 when a Church of Ireland archbishop asked the English crown to grant land that had once belonged to a monastery for the creation of a university.

The bell tower, called the Campanile, is the centerpiece of this area – it’s from 1853, so it’s been here long enough to develop some lore.

Trinity is one of the most respected universities in the world, and its alumni can be found in many corners of the present and of history, including the Irish separatist movement.

Several Irish presidents went here, and it’s particularly known for its literary graduates.

James Joyce unsurprisingly wasn’t one of them, but Oscar Wilde, Jonathan Swift, Samuel Beckett, Bram Stoker, and lots of others were.

And when it comes to literary significance, Trinity also has an undeniable claim to fame: the Book of Kells , located in a stunning library just a few steps away from the Campanile.

It’s the university’s main attraction for visitors, but not the only one: the campus is also home to a zoological museum (only open during the summer), a science museum, an art gallery, and a theater.

12. The Book Of Kells

If you don’t know the Book of Kells, it isn’t the kind of book you sit and read.

No one is allowed to touch it, it’s in Latin, and even if you know the language, it’s written so elaborately that it’s almost unreadable.

But the decoration is the point: the Book of Kells is an illuminated manuscript.

It's a copy of the four gospels of the New Testament of the Bible written so artfully that it’s considered Ireland’s single foremost cultural artifact, and one of the greatest works of art of Europe’s Middle Ages.

The word “Kells” comes from the Abbey of Kells, which was where the book was kept for centuries and probably where at least part of it was made.

The building where it’s located is called the Old Library, built in 1712, and the part that houses the book is the Long Room, a 65-meter room that’s remarkably beautiful on its own.

It’s also home to a 15 th -century wooden harp – an instrument that was as essential at one time to Gaelic music as the fiddle is today.

This one is the basis for the harp design seen on the Irish emblem and on the logo of Guinness.

Because abbeys were wealthy, they were targets for Viking raids, and that disruption probably destroyed many works of Insular Art and ended the era of their creation.

Given how fragile the book is, its survival is remarkable, and it’s had some close scrapes.

It was stolen once, probably less for the book itself than for a jeweled cover; the cover was torn off and the book was thrown away, but somehow it was recovered.  

13. Irish Whiskey Museum

Famous as Irish whiskey may be, it’s on its way out of a dark age.

After a heyday in the 18 th and 19 th centuries, when there were many hundreds of distilling companies on the island, by 1972 the number was down to one.

That company was Irish Distillers Limited, which produces well-known brands like Jameson, and in 1988, that single company became a subsidiary of a beverage giant based in France.

But 1988 also saw the opening of the first new distillery in Ireland in many decades. And today, there are 32.

This museum opened in 2014 and tells the story of that rise and fall and rise again, going all the way back to the drink’s origins.

The word “whiskey” comes from the Irish phrase “uisce beatha,” which means “water of life” – a straight translation of the Latin “aqua vitae,” which was the medieval name for any kind of solution involving alcohol.

The museum offers tours, a whiskey blending experience, and a brunch.

Of course, it has a bar, which has around 100 whiskeys and hosts live music and other events Friday through Sunday evenings, closing at 10:30 pm.

14. Grafton Street

Grafton Street is Dublin’s most famous corridor for shopping and people watching, and from here until St. Stephen’s Green, where the street ends, it’s pedestrian-only.

The street is mostly retail, and it has a little of everything from high-end to low-end, and some of the oldest businesses here are Dublin or Irish exclusives, mostly high-end shopping.

There’s Brown Thomas, a classy Irish department store, JM Barnardo Furriers, Weir and Sons Jewelers, and James Fox Cigars and Whiskey.

The smallest local businesses are the musicians – Grafton Street is busking central for Dublin.

One other local business to keep an eye out for is Bewley’s Oriental Café, founded in 1927.

Besides a place to stop for coffee or lunch, it’s also a historic hangout for writers – James Joyce not only spent time there but mentioned it in his book Dubliners.

15. National Gallery Of Ireland

Merrion Square West, Dublin 2

The National Gallery has been one of the best places to see art in Ireland since 1854.

It’s got both a national and a continental focus, with plenty of Irish artists, but also lots of other Europeans, from medieval to modern.

The Grand Gallery in particular mixes the two – it’s a long, elegant space showing works from across Enlightenment Europe, but all with some relation to Ireland, whether by artist or subject matter or the painting’s back story.

A local favorite piece is Irish painter Frederic William Burton’s The Meeting on the Turret Stairs .

Or, for some emphatically Irish subject matter, you could find Daniel Maclise’s The Marriage of Strongbow and Aoife , which depicts the cementing by marriage of the alliance between Diarmat Mac Murchada and his Norman allies.

But you can also see Vermeer and Caravaggio and Picasso, among other greats.

Admission is free for the main gallery, with admission sometimes charged for temporary shows.

Exhibitions and events: https://www.nationalgallery.ie/whats-on

16. Oscar Wilde Statue

Oscar Wilde stood out, and in a city full of statues in simple bronze or stone, so does this monument.

Artist Danny Osborne did his research, and given Wilde’s taste for overdressing and living beyond his means.

Osborne chose fitting materials: it’s made of four different stones from places as far apart as Canada and India, with bits of porcelain and bronze, plus the giant chunk of quartz he’s sprawled on, which is the only element sourced from Ireland.

He’s wearing a Trinity necktie and his wedding ring.

The female figure in his view is his wife Constance Lloyd, pregnant with one of their two sons; one of their grandchildren officiated at the unveiling of the monument.

And the male torso is meant to be Dionysus, the ancient Greek god of wine and drama.

Behind the flashy exterior, though, his private life was shaky.

He had a lasting relationship with Lord Alfred Douglas, a young man who introduced him to London’s underground gay scene.

Wilde eventually found himself on trial for sodomy and gross indecency. He was sentenced to prison with hard labor for two years.

With all this in mind, to see what the artist had in mind for this statue, you have to look at it from both sides.

His face is split like a tragicomic mask. Viewed from the right, he’s smiling, and you can see the society man and the quick wit; the other side shows him as he emerged from prison.

Besides reading Wilde’s many words engraved on the statues, you also have another opportunity to hear this statue talk, just like the Molly Malone one; there’s a link to information in the notes.

http://www.talkingstatuesdublin.ie/

17. Leinster House

Leinster House is the home of the Oireachtas, the Irish legislature, since 1922.

As before the Acts of Union, it’s a two-house legislature, but without the distinction between nobility and non-nobility drawn under the old system, and without English names.

Today, the two houses are the Seanad, the upper house, and the Dáil, the lower house, both of which meet here.

Unlike the old Parliament House, Leinster House wasn’t built for the purpose of legislative action.

It was a private residence, finished in 1748 for a man who would eventually become the Duke of Leinster.

But in 1922, when the Oireachtas has its debut at Leinster House, closely watched by hopeful locals and curious international press, it gave them a particularly Irish welcome: the proceedings of the legislature were held in the Irish language.

Fun Fact: Leinster House was partly the basis for the United States’ White House, designed by Irish architect James Hoban.

18. National Museum Of Ireland – Archaeology

This museum covers the history of Ireland from the Stone Age to the Late Middle Ages, along with a few exhibits on the ancient Mediterranean.

The area called the Treasury shows a history of Irish art, from the Iron Age through the development of the church-influenced Insular style (including illuminated manuscripts) to the Viking-influenced style that followed.

Another show focuses on prehistoric gold ornaments made during the Bronze Age.

And another focuses on the more practical items of prehistoric life in Ireland, including a 4500-year-old boat and the island’s oldest known musical instruments.

The last of the permanent exhibitions focus on Viking life in Ireland, including relics from the elaborate burial traditions observed in the Norse religion, as well as Christian art created by those Vikings who settled and converted.

Other exhibits are shown on a temporary basis, and if you’re lucky – or unlucky, depending on how you feel about it – you may see bog bodies.

These are human remains naturally preserved in peat bogs, likely part of an ancient human sacrifice ritual.

Exhibitions: https://www.museum.ie/en-IE/Museums/Archaeology/Exhibitions

Events: https://www.museum.ie/en-IE/Museums/Archaeology/Events

The museum is open Tuesday through Saturday, 10 am to 5 pm, and Sunday and Monday, 1 - 5 pm. Admission is free, as it is at all four of the National Museum of Ireland locations.

19. The Mansion House

Through all of Dublin’s political upheaval and the game of musical chairs its governing institutions have played, this place has been unusually stable: since 1715, it’s been the official home of the Cathaoirleach, the mayor of Dublin.

It’s also been the scene of plenty of other major political moments.

In 1919, the first Dáil, or the lower house of the legislature, met here and spoke the declaration of Irish independence (there was also a centennial celebration of that event in January of 2019).

And in 1921, the Anglo-Irish Treaty, formalizing the terms of separation between the UK and the Republic of Ireland, was signed here.

And before either of those events, this was where Michael Collins, a leader of the Irish separatist movement, evaded arrest by the British military by sweeping the floor and pretending to be a janitor.

Civic ceremonies are held here today, such as when the city bestows the title of Freeman of Dublin, a high honor that comes with grazing rights on the public greens and the duty to defend the city in case of attack.

All kinds of political and cultural figures have been honored in this way, so take a moment to imagine a future siege of Dublin when the city is defended by Michael Gorbachev, Bono and the Edge, and Barack and Michelle Obama.

20. The Little Museum Of Dublin

Next to the national museums we’ve seen, this is a humble place, but it’s also a local favorite.

It’s a scrappy, homemade, self-described “people’s museum,” focused on the part of Dublin history that’s still in living memory – think more U2 paraphernalia and soccer memorabilia than illuminated manuscripts and bog bodies.

It’s also a young museum. In 2011, a call was put out to the public for objects that screamed 20 th century Dublin, and the results were arranged in three floors of a Georgian townhouse.

For Dubliners, it’s a nostalgia experience on top of being educational.

They sell a variety of tickets – for 8 Euros you can get either a roughly hour-long self-guided experience or their staple, a half-hour guided tour.

The same price gets you access to their several themed tours:

• a tour of Irish women’s history every Monday at 4 pm
• a walk of St. Stephen’s Green every day at 3:30 pm
• a tour themed around writers every day at 11:30 am
• a tour within the museum of queer Dublin history every other Saturday at 4 pm.

15 Euros gets you an all-day pass for whatever’s on the day’s schedule.

There are guided options in Irish sign and French, and there’s a free tour of the museum Wednesdays at 11 am. 

The building is also home to a project called the City of a Thousand Welcomes, which can arrange, usually with some notice, for you to meet a Dubliner, one-on-one or two-on-one. 

21. St. Stephen’s Green

As indicated at the last stop, there’s enough to see in St. Stephen’s Green to make a whole walking tour on its own.

But it’s also a good place for leisure, which may be in order by now.

The park is open 7:30 am to dusk Monday through Saturday, 9:30 am to dusk on Sundays.

From here on the northside of St. Stephen’s Green, you’re just a short walk from the lake that spans most of the park’s width.

When you reach the water, you can make a right and walk a little further to find a bridge crossing a narrow point in the lake and leading to the center of the park, where you’ll find a Victorian flower garden.

To the right from there is a garden designed for blind visitors, with plants chosen for their smell and physical texture, and to the left, in a bend in the lake, a bog garden.

The park was originally a commons used for grazing, but in the 17 th century, homes were built around it, and it became a private park for the residents.

In 1880 it became a public park, thanks to the philanthropic work of the Guinness family, the people behind Guinness beer.

One of them bought the park and paid for its renovation, and today he’s one of the many statues and monuments in the park.

During the Easter Rising, separatists seized the park, dug trenches, and fought against the British military, with a pause in the fighting so a groundskeeper could feed the ducks.

The park still shows the marks of that event: there’s a monument called the Fusilier’s Arch at the northwest entrance, which still has bullet holes in it.

And in the center of the park, opposite the bridge across the lake, is a bronze bust of Constance Markievicz, an Irish woman who fought in the Easter Rising, was the first woman elected to the British Parliament, and also served in the First Dáil and as a minister in the first government of the Republic of Ireland.

This is the end of the tour. We hope you enjoyed it. 

Free Walking Tours

Our free walking tour page lists the various pay-what-you-like walks that are available on a daily basis in English and Spanish.

These tours usually last 2.5 - 3 hours each. You can  book tours here .

Tourist Passes and Bus Tours

If you purchase a Dublin Pass or GoDublin Card , you'll get small-group guided walking tours included.

A hop-on-hop-off bus ticket will get you easy transportation around the city - directly to Dublin's most popular attractions. Audio guides and guided walks are also offered with each ticket.

Back to top

RELATED POSTS:

• Free Dublin Walking Tours
• Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus Tour

Choose a Destination... I want them all PLUS general travel tips. Amsterdam Berlin Boston Charleston Chicago Dubai Lisbon London Los Angeles Miami Nashville New York City New Orleans Paris Philadelphia Prague Rome San Francisco Washington DC

About The Author

Stephen Pickhardt

North america, united kingdom & ireland, middle east & india, asia & oceania.

Original Dublin Walking Tour Includes:

• Dublin Castle;
• Christ Church Cathedral;
• Viking Dublin;
• Temple Bar;
• Medieval Dublin;
• 1916 Easter Rising;
• Irish Revolutionary Period & Independence;
• The River Liffey;
• The Ha’Penny Bridge
• Trinity College
• Old Irish Parliament Buildings;
• Irish Language, Traditions and Customs;
• Irish Literature and culture.

Customer Reviews

Read some of our amazing reviews from visitors just like you.

Keith was very knowledgeable and provided us with a lot of information about Ireland’s history.

Dan was so funny and knowledgeable. He’s also a great storyteller. Wonderful tour. You’ll really learn a lot while enjoying his sense of humor.

Increíble tour! Mucha historia y curiosidades de la ciudad! Gracias a Daniela por todo su conocimiento y por contagiarnos el interés de querer seguir conociendo sobre irlanda!

Muy linda experiencia con Daniela. Explicaciones súper claras y muy apasionada sobre la ciudad y su historia. Lo pase realmente muy bien!

Great experience, many thanks to Keith.

Daniela es fantástica. El tour es muy completo y da mucha información sobre el conector histórico. Totalmente recomendado!

Me ha encantado el tour con Daniela! Muy recomendable el tour y la experiencia inmersiva en Dublin

Daniela ha estado estupenda!!

Excelente el tour con Daniela! Muy entretenida y divertida!

Genial Daniela!

Daniel increible

Dave was absolutely brilliant, very friendly, answered each and every question with enthusiasm and had an abundance of knowledge. Clearly very passionate about what he does and was an excellent guide 10/10. Visited many historic spots and gave many recommendations for places to visit in Dublin.

HELENA'S the best!

Si buscan un tour con buena energía, con buen conocimiento y ultimada mente bien relajado, Daniela lo hace rebién! Estuvo atenta y dispuesta a responder las preguntas con honestidad y realista! Sumamente amable y lo recomiendo!!

Nuestra guía fue Marina, quien supo trasmitir sus conocimientos sobre la historia y la cultura de Dublín de forma muy amena y divertida. Sobre todo me gustó que incluyera anécdotas y consejos sobre qué vale la pena y qué no visitar. Personalmente creo que hizo un trabajo estupendo y recomiendo ir con ella a hacer los tours.

Hemos hecho el free Tour con Marina y ha sido fantástico. Muy amable, muy entretenido y dinámico. Recomendable para todo visitante de Dublín. Mercii!!!!

Un tour muy completo, pasas 3h super entretenidas aprendiendo muchos detalles sobre la cultura irlandesa, mientras visitas los monumentos más emblemáticos (y los diez minutillos para la guiness vienen de lujo). Además, si te toca con Marina, has tenido suerte, de las mejores guias que hemos tenido

dave is the best

Marina es una genia, sabe muchísimo sobre la historia de Irlanda y lo hace super interesante! Recomiendo!

Estupendo tour por Dublín donde Marina nos contó no solo la historia general, si no también las anécdotas de los lugares que visitamos. Tour ameno y muy recomendable!

Marina super amable y simpatica. Explica muy bien todo!

Verry nice guide. Learned a lot about Dublin

Very good experience, they show you a lot of things and stories from the dublin past

Muy bueno el tour con Marina , súper recomendable

Marina una crack!!!

Guida super carismatica, bellissima esperienza, consiglio!!

Super tour! One of the best free walking tours I have done. Ian was an amazing guide 👍🏻

Kieran is a perfect tour guide - straight to the point, sarcastic, dark humour and insightful. I enjoyed the tour a lot. Recommended.

Great tour guide, explaining the history, language and landmarks or Ireland in a fun and engaging way

Fantastic tour with Kieran, who offered a great balance of history, folklore, legend, knowledge, and humour. Highly recommended!

Additional information

Joining the tour.

Please arrive at least 10 minutes before the tour starts and show your booking confirmation to one of our guides. Look for the green umbrellas and lanyards.

Group Bookings

Groups of more than 10 people must contact us and book at least 24 hours in advance.

Getting Here

Our meeting point is at 3 Crown Alley, near Temple Bar Square in the heart of the city centre. It’s a 2 minutes walk from both Dublin Castle and Trinity College. Type Original Dublin into Google Maps or simply click on this map. Either will take you straight to us.

Who are we?

We are Original Dublin – a local Dublin tour guide collective crafting experiences unlike any other in the city to ensure you get the best from your time in the Irish capital.

• [email protected]
• +353876874981
• 3 Crown Alley, Temple Bar, Dublin 2

Dublin.ie – https://dublin.ie/live/things-to-do/walking-tours/

Walking tours

One of the big benefits of living in Dublin is that there’s always something to do. Even a stroll through the streets can be entertaining. Thanks to the city’s compact size, rich history and beautiful built heritage, there is something to see around every corner.

Here we run through some of the best walking tours Dublin has to offer.

Pat Liddy’s Walking Tours of Dublin

As an award-winning tour operator, you know you’re in safe hands with Pat Liddy . However, he isn’t just a safe bet. His love of Dublin is so infectious and his knowledge so in-depth that you’ll feel like a local afterwards. The rest of the team is just as Dublin-mad as Pat himself, so get your questions ready!

He has a selection of themed walks to choose from, covering everything from Dublin’s hidden corners to St. Patrick.

1916 Rebellion Walking Tour

As a powerful step towards independence, the 1916 Rising was one of the most significant events in modern Irish history. And the fighting largely took place on the streets of Dublin. Here, the memories – and some of the bullet holes – remain to this day.

On this walking tour, you’ll follow in the footsteps of the rebels. Author and historian Lorcan Collins will take you to the most notable sites where you’ll be able to envisage the scenes that took place over a century ago.

Kilmainham Gaol, Dublin 8

Richmond Barracks to Kilmainham Walking Tour

This walking tour starts in Richmond Barracks , where the signatories of Ireland’s Proclamation were held before being marched to their executions at Kilmainham Gaol. You’ll follow their journey through the streets of Dublin, hearing local stories and little-known facts along the way.

This tour takes a rarely explored route through the city – one which is steeped in rich political and cultural history.

Generation Tours

Offering free themed tours; the only Fables & Folklore free tour in Dublin, covering the mythology, traditions, beliefs and characters – real and fictional – that have shaped the Dublin and Ireland of today, and our newest free tour is the Musical Dublin Free Tour, led by a bona fide local musician and balladeer who plays and sings while guiding you through our rich musical heritage, how it helped create a national identity, reflected the happenings of society here through the ages, and spurred a cultural reawakening here in the 60s & 70s, as well as the present day folk revival we’re experiencing in the city today. You even learn a few songs to song along too if you like.

Dublin Free Walking Tours

Leaving twice a day from the Spire on O’Connell Street, Dublin Free Walking Tours offers an affordable introduction to some of the city’s main attractions. After meeting at the very heart of the city centre, you can either explore the north of the city or the south of the city.

The south side tour covers Trinity College, Temple Bar, Dublin Castle, Christchurch Cathedral and St. Patrick’s Cathedral. If you go north, you’ll take in the Garden of Remembrance, Moore Street Market, the Spire, the Custom House and the GPO.

These walking tours are a great way for newcomers to figure out the layout of the city centre.

The General Post Office (GPO) on O’Connell Street

Historical Walking Tours of Dublin

If you want a crash course on Irish history, this is the tour for you. Over two hours, you’ll learn about everything from the Great Famine through to the Northern Ireland conflict.

All guides are history graduates from Trinity College and NUI, so you know you’re in good hands. They’ll provide tons of information, along with a little humour and plenty of entertainment.

Dublin Literary Pub Crawl

Traditionally, writers are known for being fond of a tipple. So it makes sense to learn about Dublin’s pub culture and its literary history at the same time.

On this two hour walking tour, you’ll take in some of the city’s best-known watering holes and learn about the writers who frequented them. Expect energetic actors to recite the words of beloved poets while standing in the streets that inspired them. There’s no better way to get to know Dublin.

Oscar Wilde memorial sculpture, Merrion Square

Dublin Tasting Trail

Eat your way around the city on this three hour walking tour, which stops at six or seven special eateries. Each one is carefully chosen for its delectable culinary treats.

Hailed by travel writer Pól Ó Conghaile as: “the gold standard for urban food tours in Ireland”, this is one of the best ways to sample the best dishes in Dublin.

The Icon Walk

Discover some of Temple Bar’s quieter side streets as you check out the murals of Dublin’s most beloved legends. Billed as “the greatest story ever strolled”, The Icon Walk tells the stories of William Butler Yeats, Oscar Wilde, Luke Kelly, Phil Lynott and more.

Afterwards, you can pop into the Icon Factory where you’ll find more works by the artists behind the painted murals.

The Icon Walk Dublin

Traditional Irish Music Pub Crawl

Two professional musicians will be your guides as you stop by some of the city’s best-loved pubs. You’ll get to experience some live Irish music at Oliver St. John Gogarty’s, The Ha’Penny Bridge and Brannigan’s. Between venues, your guides will also serenade you with traditional songs as they share the history of Irish music with you.

Dublin Ulysses Tours

For fans of James Joyce’s masterpiece, the Dublin Ulysses Tour retraces Leopold Bloom’s path through the city. Starting at The Palace Bar and continuing on to Sweny’s Pharmacy, you’ll get to explore the historic parts of Dublin that Joyce knew so well.

During this three hour walking tour, the writer’s relationship with the city is explored and explained – well, as much as Joyce can be!

Monto Walking Tours

If you’re looking for something a little bit different, this free walking tour guides you through Dublin’s once famous red-light district – the Monto.

During a two hour stroll through Dublin’s north inner city, you’ll hear tales of murder and mystery from the brothels and tenements that once lined the streets. Since the 1970s, local historian Terry Fagan has been recording the area’s past so you won’t find a more knowledgeable tour guide.

Dublin and U2 Walking Tour

Combining U2’s and local Dublin history, our Dubliner Tour Guide, in this unique Walking Tour will take you through the places that shaped U2 and their music.

This U2 Dublin Walking tour is for you if you love Music and the history of Dublin, the hometown of all the members, and where everything started.

If you’re doing some sightseeing in Dublin, you’ll find more great attractions in our guides to the city’s museums , galleries and markets .

You might also like...

Attractions in Dublin

The Big Hitters One of the biggest benefits of living in Dublin is the huge choice of world-class galleries, museums and cultural attractions located right on your doorstep. Dublin’s rich history and culture means you’ll never run out of interesting places to visit. Best of all, many of them are free. Below, we run through some of the best attractions in Dublin.

Food and drink

While the city has always been internationally known for its liquid exports, Dublin’s food scene has also come along in leaps and bounds in recent years. The delicious and reasonably priced food on offer is just one of the many perks of life in the city. For newcomers, here’s an introductory guide to food and drink in Dublin. The Dublin food scene With four Michelin-star restaurants, Dublin has its fair share of fine dining experiences. However, you don’t need to go to top-class eateries to g

As anyone who has ever been to Dublin will tell you, we’ve got a vibrant nightlife. As the sun sets on the Liffey and darkness sets in, pubs, late bars and nightclubs fill with people looking for a great night out. Bars and pubs There are around 772 pubs in Dublin, so you won’t have a hard time finding somewhere to have a jar. (That’s Dublin slang for a pint!) The city is divided into north and south by the River Liffey. Temple Bar, which is famously associ

Best Self-Guided Walking Tour of Dublin (With Map)

By Author Keith O'Hara

Posted on Last updated: December 29, 2023

If you’re after a self-guided walking tour of Dublin that packs a punch, you’ve landed in the right spot.

I’ve lived in Ireland’s capital for 34 years and I’m very confident you’ll love the mini-itinerary that I’ve outlined below.

It includes a one and two day option and it takes in the main things to do in Dublin , unique sights that tourists tend to miss and some historical pubs, too.

Our free Dublin walking tour follows a clear, logical route to ensure that you make the most of your time here. Dive on in!

Table of Contents

Day 1 of our self-guided walking tour of Dublin

Click to enlarge image

The Dublin walking tour map above will give you an overview of where our route will take you over each day.

As you can see, each day has a clear route and packs in a mix of key attractions and places you hopefully won’t have heard of.

If you want a guided tour, you’ll find organised Dublin walking tours with excellent reviews right here (affiliate link).

Money saving tip: If you’re planning on visit some of the main fee-paying attractions in the city, the Dublin Pass can save you €50+

1. Molly Malone Statue

Photos via Shutterstock

Day 1 of our self-guided walking tour of Dublin kicks-off at the now-iconic Molly Malone Statue on Suffolk Street in the heart of the city.

The bronze statue shows Molly, a famous character from the Irish song ‘Molly Malone’, who sold ‘Cockles and Mussels’ on the streets of the capital.

The statue was erected in 1988 and it has moved a handful of times. You won’t spend long here, but it’s a nice starting point for your stroll!

2. Trinity College

Our second stop of the day is a handy 2-minute walk from the first! Trinity College is one of the most famous landmarks in Ireland .

It is a renowned educational institution and it was established in 1592. It’s also inside the grounds of Trinity that you’ll find the ancient Book of Kells .

Trinity is the oldest university in Ireland and you can take a ramble through its impressive grounds, admire its magnificent architecture and tour the wonderful Long Room Library .

It’s in the Long Room that you’ll find 200,000+ of the college’s oldest books. It’s worth booking the skip-the-line ticket here as it gets busy ( this ticket gets you access to Trinity and Dublin Castle).

Related reads: See our guides on where to stay in Dublin + the best hotels in Dublin in 2024

3. The Palace Bar

Photos via The Palace on FB

The next stop on our self-guided walking tour of Dublin is going to be a brief one (I’m not suggesting you go drinking at this stage of the day!).

While there are many old pubs in Dublin , few are as visually impressive as the Palace Bar, which you’ll find a 3-minute walk from Trinity.

This pub was built in 1823 and it stands today, many years later, as a Victorian shrine, of sorts. Admire its impressive interior, first, and then saunter inside for a nosey (you can return here later).

It’s located just inside the cobbled streets of Temple Bar , so you can have a nosey around this area, if you like.

Related reads: See our guides on the best pubs in Dublin , the best Guinness in Dublin and the best pubs with live music in Dublin

4. O’Connell Bridge

When you’re ready, take the 3-minute walk to O’Connell Bridge, which spans the murky waters of Dublin’s River Liffey.

O’Connell Bridge replaced Gandon’s Carlisle Bridge, which opened in 1794. The bridge that stands to this day opened back in 1880 and cost £70,000 to build.

It measures at 148 ft in length and 160 ft in width. Named after political leader Daniel ‘The Liberator’ O’Connell it boasts impressive features, like its impressive lanterns.

Related reads: See our guides on spending 1 day in Dublin , 2 days in Dublin and 3 days in Dublin

5. The General Post Office

Walk up the historic O’Connell Street (be careful – there are plenty of dodgy characters that hang around here) and head straight from the The General Post Office (GPO) – it’s around a 4-minute walk from the last stop.

The GPO was built during the early 19th century and it’s here that you’ll see some of the more impressive architecture in Dublin , courtesy of the buildings neoclassical design.

This building played a key part in Irish history during the Easter Rising of 1916 when it served as the rebel headquarters. You can take a tour here that’ll immerse you in the city’s past.

6. The Spire

One of the more unique places you’ll visit on this walking tour of Dublin is the Spire – it’s less than 1-minute walk from the GPO… you can’t miss it.

Also known as ‘the Monument of Light’ (along with many other colourful nicknames…), the Spire stands 394 feet tall and it was erected in 2003.

I’ll be honest – the Spire is impressive when viewed from afar, but there’s no real point of seeing it up close.

7. The Ha’penny Bridge

The next stop on our self-guided walking tour of Dublin is a 7-minute walk from the Spire and it’s arguably one of the most beautiful bridges in Europe!

The Ha’penny Bridge , officially known as the Liffey Bridge, is an iconic pedestrian bridge that spans the River Liffey that was built in 1816.

It’s name comes from the fact that you once had to pay a toll to cross the bridge. The cost was a Ha’penny and there were turnstiles at either end of the bridge.

The bridge is a little slice of ‘old-Dublin’ that still used heavily to this day. It’s believed that around 27,000 people cross it each day.

Related read: See our guide on how to get around Dublin

8. St. Michan’s Church

Photos with thanks to Jennifer Boyer

You won’t find our next stop, St. Michan’s Church , on many Dublin walking tours, however, it’s  well-worth  a visit.

It’s a 12-minute walk from the Ha’penny Bridge and it’s here that you’ll find a historic building that dates back to the 11th century.

Oh, you’ll also find crypts with mummies… yes, mummies. In fact, some of the mummies at St. Michan’s are thought to be over 400 years old.

If you’re looking for unique things to see in the capital, make sure to add this one to your self-guided walking tour of Dublin.

9. The Brazen Head

We’re off Dublin’s oldest pub, next – The Brazen Head (a 4-minute walk from St. Michan’s).

The present building that you see today dates back to 1754, local legend claims that the site has housed a tavern since 1198.

And though no documents exist to prove that, we know that there’s been a licensed alehouse here since the mid 17th-century at least (which is old enough!).

If you’re feeling peckish, this is a handy lunch-spot. It’s well worth visiting either way as this place is steeped in history .

10. Christ Church Cathedral

One of the most popular stops on this self-guided walking tour of Dublin is the stunning Christ Church Cathedral , a 6-minute walk from The Brazen Head.

Christ Church Cathedral was founded in the early 11th century under the Viking king Sitruic Silkenbeard (amazingly, that is his real name!).

Originally built as a wooden structure in 1030 with the help of an Irish priest, it was rebuilt in stone in 1172.

The current Gothic-style cathedral, with its striking architecture and impressive interior, has been standing since the 12th century.

11. Dublin Castle

Few castles in Ireland receive visitor numbers like our next stop. Dublin Castle is a 4-minute walk away and it’s here you’ll find an impressive structure that dates back over 800 years.

Originally developed as a medieval fortress under the orders of King John of England, work on Dublin Castle was started by Meiler Fitzhenry in 1204 when the city was under Norman rule following the invasion of 1169.

Constructed on elevated ground once occupied by an earlier Viking settlement, it was completed in 1230 and took on the look of a classic Norman courtyard design.

One of the most prominent parts of the castle today, the imposing Record Tower is the only surviving tower of the original Medieval fortifications.

While its rectangular battlements on the roof are actually a 19th-century addition, they look pretty convincing! 

Related read: See our guide on the best castles in Dublin

12. St. Patrick’s Cathedral

Another firm favourite on this self-guided walking tour of Dublin is located a 12-minute walk from the castle.

St. Patrick’s Cathedral is a historic religious landmark that was founded in 1191. It’s the largest church in Ireland and it boasts Gothic architecture.

When you arrive here, take some time to saunter around the part and admire the cathedral’s exterior, before heading inside to get an eyeful of its outstanding interior.

13. The Guinness Storehouse

Photos © Diageo via Ireland’s Content Pool

Few Dublin walking tours can resist rounding off a day of strolling at The Guinness Storehouse , which is a 17-minute walk from St. Patrick’s Cathedral.

Book your tickets in advance (self-guided or guided) and immerse yourself in the story of the most famous of the many Irish beers .

The building itself is part of the Guinness Brewery and it acts as a seven-story visitor centre that takes visitors through the history of Guinness along with how it’s made and more.

The tour finishes on the rooftop in the impressive Gravity Bar that overlooks Dublin City and beyond.

Day 2 of our self-guided walking tour of Dublin

1. St. Stephen’s Green

We’re going to kick-start day two of our self-guided walking tour of Dublin at St. Stephen’s Green , which is often referred to as the ‘Lungs of Dublin’.

You’ll find the nine hectare/22-acre park at the top of busy Grafton Street when it’s home to commemorative sculptures, extensive trees and a large pond.

It has a pretty  wild  history that few are familiar with (read more here ) and it’s a nice, calm spot to kick-start the day!

2. Leinster House

The second stop of the day takes us 4 minutes down the road to Leinster House – the epicenter of Irish politics.

This is an impressive Georgian building that dates back to the 18th century. Now, while you can take a guided tour, if you like, you’re arguably best off admiring Leinster House from afar.

Unless you’re interested in politics, that is – in that case head on in for a journey back through Ireland’s political past.

3. National Gallery of Ireland

Photo left: Cathy Wheatley. Others: James Fennell (Tourism Ireland)

The National Gallery of Ireland is a 5-minute walk from Leinster House and it’s here you’ll find one of the most popular museums in Dublin .

It’s also one of the best free things to do in Dublin when it’s raining! For visiting art enthusiasts, the National Gallery of Ireland is an absolute must.

This cultural treasure trove houses a vast collection of paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts spanning various periods, from the Renaissance to the present.

Ireland’s artistic heritage can go overlooked by tourists and locals alike – this is an excellent opportunity to immerse yourself in it.

4. Merrion Square

Located in Dublin’s charming Georgian quarter, Merrion Square is a delightful mix of greenery and history (and it’s only 5 minutes from our last stop).

The square boasts finely manicured gardens that feel a far-cry from the busy city streets that lay just minutes away.

If you head for a stroll through its grounds, you’ll stumble upon impressive sculptures (including one of Oscar Wilde).

5. Irish Whiskey Museum

Photos by Brian Morrison via Failte Ireland

If you’re taking this self-guided walking tour of Dublin and it’s raining, our next stop will provide some welcome respite from the elements!

You’ll find the Irish Whiskey Museum a handy 15-minute stroll from Merrion Square and it’s here that you’ll discover the story behind the coveted Irish Whiskey .

I’ve done this tour in recent years and it offers a good mix (terrible pub intended…) of sippin’ and storytellin’.

You’ll get an insight into the history of whiskey and how it’s made and there’s also a tasting at the end.

6. Mulligan’s

© Tourism Ireland

Many Dublin walking tours take you to the busy pubs in Temple Bar . However, if you want to dodge the tourist traps, take the 6-minute walk from the Whiskey Museum to Mulligan’s.

You’ll find it on Poolbeg Street where it’s loved by locals and tourists alike for its old-worlde charm.

The pub received its license in 1782 but it operated as a Shebeen (a place where drink was sold illegally) for many years before.

The biggest compliment that I can give Mulligan’s is that walking through its doors makes you feel like you’ve stepped back in time.

Expect a lovely, traditional interior, a fine pint of Guinness and a furnishings that have stood the test of time.

7. The Custom House

The next stop on our self-guided walking tour of Dublin is the magnificent Custom House, a 4-minute walk from Mulligan’s.

This is an architectural marvel on Dublin’s waterfront and it was designed by James Gandon in the late 18th century.

The Custom House is famous for its neoclassical facade which is best admired from afar, first, before up close.

The building is now home to the Department of Housing.

8. The Famine Memorial

Dublin’s Famine Memorial is a poignant tribute to one of Ireland’s darkest chapters in history.

Located on Custom House Quay, a 4-minute walk from the Custom House, these haunting sculptures depict the devastating impact of the Great Famine in the 19th century.

The memorial serves as a solemn reminder of the suffering endured by the Irish people during that time and stands as a testament to the resilience and spirit of those who lived through the tragedy.

Photo left: Eileen Coffey. Others: Ros Kavanagh (via Fáilte Ireland)

The next stop on our self-guided walking tour of Dublin is a handy 2-minute walk from The Famine Memorial.

EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum explores the profound impact that Irish emigrants have had across the world.

The museum is housed inside a vaulted space and stories are told via interactive exhibitions and striking displays.

You’ll need to pay into this one but it’s well-worth it (especially if it’s raining!).

10. The Jeanie Johnston

Photo left: Gareth McCormack. Others: Dylan Vaughan (via Failte Ireland)

Many Dublin walking tours omit the brilliant Jeanie Johnston Famine Ship which sits a 2-minute walk from the EPIC Museum.

The Jeanie Johnston is an impressive replica of the original ship that transported Irish emigrants to North America during the Great Famine.

The ship is a floating museum that offers an insight into the challenges faced by those Irish men and women that sought a better life across the pond.

You can take a guided tour here where you’ll be immersed in a story that shaped the very DNA of Ireland.

Dublin walking tours FAQs

We’ve had a lot of questions over the years asking about everything from ‘What’s a good route with free attractions?’ to ‘What unique stops should be included?’.

In the section below, we’ve popped in the most FAQs that we’ve received. If you have a question that we haven’t tackled, ask away in the comments section below.

What’s a good route for a self-guided walking tour of Dublin?

If you use our Dublin walking tour map above, you’ll find a clear, logical route that takes in the city’s top sights over the course of two days. You could easily chop and change this route if needed.

Can you walk around Dublin in a day?

You can see the main sights in Dublin city in one day. If you follow the route on our Dublin walking tour map, you’ll only be walking from attraction-to-attraction for a total of 1.5 to 2 hours.

Can you walk around Dublin easily?

Yes. Dublin City is very walkable. Once you have a clear itinerary and know where you’re visiting and when, you’ll have no problem exploring the city on a self-guided walking tour of Dublin.

Keith O’Hara has lived in Ireland for 35 years and has spent most of the last 10 creating what is now The Irish Road Trip guide. Over the years, the website has published thousands of meticulously researched Ireland travel guides, welcoming 30 million+ visitors along the way. In 2022, the Irish Road Trip team published the world’s largest collection of Irish Road Trip itineraries . Keith lives in Dublin with his dog Toby and finds writing in the 3rd person minus craic altogether.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Jetsetting Fools

Travel Far. Discover More. Spend Less.

Dublin Walking Tour: A Self-Guided Walk To Dublin, Ireland Sights

Welcome to JetSetting Fools, here you will find our best travel tips for destinations worldwide. Some of the links on this site are Affiliate Links and if you use them to make a purchase, we may earn a commission. For more information, read our Disclosure Policy .

Dublin, Ireland is home to numerous iconic sights and historic attractions – and the best way to see them is on a Dublin Walking Tour. We have devised a go-at-your-own-pace Free Self Guided Walking Tour of Dublin that features the best of the city. 

The top places to visit in Dublin are clustered together in the heart of the city center, which allows guests the opportunity to explore on foot. Travelers can use our easy-to-follow Self-Guided Dublin Walking Tour to navigate to the top sights… for free ! We even include a helpful Dublin Walking Tour Map to help you make your way.

Free Walking Tour Dublin, Ireland

Our free walking tour of Dublin is a self-guided adventure to top attractions. The walk focuses on downtown Dublin and is an easy, flat stroll through the city center. Our Dublin sightseeing tour, without any stops, should take about 2 hours at a casual pace.

How To Use Our Free Walking Tour Dublin

For each sight on our Dublin free tour, we provide a brief introduction, as well as some background information. Additionally, we include directions from one sight to the next. You will find our helpful map of Dublin tourist attractions – plus a printable Dublin, Ireland tour map –  at the end of the article. 

The route includes 15 Must-See Dublin Attractions, many of which can be entered. Some sights are free, while other require a ticket (we indicate if there is an admission fee). If you plan on entering several sights, the Dublin Pass will likely save you money and so will our article covering 50 Free Things To Do in Dublin !

Why Use Our Dublin Walking Tour Free Route

If you only have one day, this free walking tour of Dublin, Ireland will surely get you acquainted with the city, as it includes stops at all the top things to see. Visitors can complete the walk of Dublin highlights in just 2 hours, but those who are entering attractions can plan a full day of sightseeing. 

Those with 2 days in Dublin – or more – can use our Free Tour Dublin Walk on the first day of their trip to get oriented. We also offer recommendations for more things to do in Dublin at the end of the article.

Free Tours Dublin: What You Need To Know

Our Free Tour of Dublin, Ireland is as advertised: absolutely free! Visitors simply follow our step-by-step tour as outlined below to the top sights. Our self-guided tour allows travelers to experience Dublin at their own pace and enter attractions as desired.

Walking Tour Dublin: Free & Guided

Visitors will see touts for many Free Tours in Dublin that are guide-led. However, it is essential to understand that a Guided Dublin Free Walking Tour is not, in fact, free. These Free Walking Tours Dublin are tip based – and guides expect (and hopefully deserve) tips. 

While we have outlined our Best Free Walking Tour of Dublin, visitors may opt to join one of the many guided tours. There are many themed guided walks in Dublin, including historical walking tours, street art tours and Dublin food tours.  We feature a few of the highly-rated Dublin walking tours – that are guided and require a fee – at the end of the article. 

Save, Pin or Bookmark our Free Dublin  Walk to use during your trip to Ireland!

Dublin Walking Tour: 15 Sights To See

Our self-guided, free tour of Dublin begins at Saint Patrick’s Cathedral. Use the provided links or the downtown Dublin Map at the end of the post to navigate from sight to sight. 

#1 St. Patrick’s Cathedral in Dublin, Ireland

The first sight on our city tour of Dublin is the iconic St. Patrick’s Cathedral. It was on this site that in 450 AD St. Patrick baptized the first Irish converts. St. Patrick’s Cathedral was completed in 1191 and is the largest church in Ireland. The spire reaches 140 feet.

The cathedral is one of the top attractions in Dublin and visiting requires an entry ticket. Buy your ticket now and download it to your phone!

Map Directions from St. Patrick’s Cathedral to St. Stephen’s Green.

#2 St. Stephen’s Green

The second attraction on our Dublin, Ireland sightseeing tour is St. Stephen’s Green. The 22-acre park in the center of Dublin was created in 1664 and has been open to the public since 1880. St. Stephen’s Green features a pond, a bandstand, memorials, statues, several paths and green lawns. If you wish, you can visit the official site for more information about the park.

If there is time in your Dublin itinerary, consider having a relaxing picnic in the park. Alternatively, explore the area directly north of St. Stephen’s Green. Top attractions in the vicinity are museums (The Little Museum of Dublin, The National Museum of Ireland Archeology, The National Gallery of Ireland), the Irish parliament building (called Leinster), the historic Mansion House (the residence of the Lord Mayor of Dublin) and Merrion Square Park. 

Map Directions from Saint Stephen’s Green to Grafton Street.

#3 Grafton Street

The pedestrian-only shopping district, Grafton Street, is the next stop on our tour – and one of the must-see sights in Dublin. Grafton Street leads from St. Stephen’s Green to Trinity College and features long-standing stores, recognizable brands, and historic cafes.

Sights to look for are the Brown Thomas Department Store (opened in 1849), Weir & Sons jewelry store (opened in 1869) and Bewley’s Café (opened in 1927). 

Grafton Street is also popular with street performers and musicians that entertain the passers-by. In fact, even U2’s Bono has performed on Grafton. No Dublin visit is complete without strolling the iconic street. 

Map Directions from Grafton Street to Irish Whiskey Museum.

#4 Irish Whiskey Museum

Whiskey is firmly part of Irish history. Today, distilleries dot the city landscape – each one offering their own story and tastings of their product. At the Irish Whiskey Museum, however, visitors get an unbiased version of the history of Irish whiskey…plus a chance to taste the product from several distillers. 

The Irish Whiskey Museum is conveniently located on Grafton Street – making it a popular stop on walking tours in Dublin, Ireland.

While tickets are required for the tour and tasting experiences at the Irish Whiskey Museum, visitors are free to stop in and check out the bar and shop. If you are skipping the guided tour, brush up on your Irish whiskey history . 

Map Directions from Irish Whiskey Museum to Trinity College.

#5 Dublin Trinity College

The famous Trinity College is the next stop on our Dublin walk (and it’s just across the street from the Whiskey Museum).

Established in 1592, Trinity College is Ireland’s oldest university and a must see in Dublin. The official name is College of the “Holy and Undivided Trinity of Queen Elizabeth near Dublin”, but is just called Trinity College for short.

Some of the college’s famous attendees are Oscar Wilde, Bram Stoker, Samuel Becket and Courtney Love. The 47-acre campus has buildings arranged in squares around a bell tower and the library houses the Book of Kells (buy your fast-track ticket ). 

Map Directions from Trinity College to the Irish House of Parliament.

#6 Irish House of Parliament

Directly opposite the main entrance to Trinity College is the former Irish House of Parliament, and today houses the Bank of Ireland. The building is both architecturally and historically significant, which is why it is an important stop on walks around Dublin. 

Built in the mid-1700s, the Irish House of Parliament was the first ever specifically designed parliament structure, in that it featured an interior with a dual chamber – one for the House of Lords and one for the House of Commons. It’s a design that is still used today in bicameral government buildings around the world.

In the year 1800, however, it was inside the building that the parliament voted (under bribery and threat of King George III) to abolish itself in order to unite Ireland and Britain under as the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland. It was a relationship that only lasted 22 years. 

One odd thing to note about the building is the absence of windows. While there are places for windows, glass panes were never installed as there was a Window Tax that would have driven up the cost. 

Want to take a fun detour? Just around the corner from the House of Parliament is one of the most famous statues in Dublin – the Molly Malone Statue ( MAP ). Walk past the front of the Parliament House and turn left on Church Lane and walk about a block to find the famous Molly Malone. She is a character in an Irish song – a fishmonger by day and prostitute by night. The statue is often referred to as ‘The Tart with the Cart’ and visitors rub her bosoms for good luck. 

Map Directions from Parliament Building to O’Connell Street.

#7 O’Connell Street and The Spire

Continue your Free Dublin Walking Tour by making your way north to the O’ Connell Street Bridge. Standing on the bridge, look up the stretch of O’Connell Street as it leads north from the River Liffey. The street has been the site of massive protests, the annual St. Patrick’s Day parades, shellings during the 1916 Easter Rising and a bombing of the Nelson Pillar in 1966. 

The street is named after the influential Daniel O’Connell (who is called The Liberator for his part in the Catholic Emancipation and his efforts to repeal the 1800 Act of Union). His statue stands at the north end of the bridge.

Further along the street are many other statues featuring some of Ireland’s most celebrated figures – as well as the Spire of Dublin. Officially called Monument of Light , the Spire was built on the site of Nelson’s Pillar and reaches a height of 390 feet. The needle-like monument stands as a symbol of Dublin.

Map Directions from O’Connell Bridge to Ha’Penny Bridge.

#8 River Liffey and the Ha’Penny Bridge

The next sight on our free Dublin Tour is the River Liffey. The river runs through the center of Dublin, dividing the city into north and south. The river has been an important part of the city’s trade since the time of the Vikings. 

Several bridges span the river, including three that are designated pedestrian-only, which makes for nice walks in Dublin. The most popular footbridge is the Liffey Bridge, which dates to 1816 and is better known as the Ha’ Penny Bridge for the 1/2 pence toll once required to cross it. 

Map Directions from River Liffey to Temple Bar District.

#9 The Dublin Temple Bar District

Every Dublin itinerary should include one or two stops at a traditional pub! The energetic Temple Bar District on the south side of the river is chock-full of Irish pubs, restaurants and tourist shops – and is one of the Dublin areas most visited by tourists.

Enter the district through the Merchant’s Arch, directly across from Ha’Penny Bridge and turn right onto Temple Bar. It’s fun to simply roam, but Temple Bar Street is not to be missed! 

The Temple Bar District is one of the best places in Dublin for a Pub Crawl ( like this one! ). Several of the bars have a line-up of live music starting mid-day and going late into the night. Our favorite pubs in the district are The Temple Bar and The Quays. 

Map Directions from Temple Bar to Dame Street and the Olympia Theater.

#10 Dame Street Dublin and The Olympia Theater

The next stop on our free tour of Dublin is Dame Street, a major thoroughfare through the heart of Dublin City Centre. Lined with a mishmash of architectural styles, the street is home to numerous banking institutions, restaurants and shops. 

That said, the still-operating Olympia Theater is, perhaps, the most prominent landmark on the street. Opened in 1879, The Olympia Theater is the premier theater and concert hall in the Dublin city center. 

The stage has seen a slew of famous acts from Charlie Chaplin to Mumford & Sons. The theater underwent a major overhaul in the 1970s and the original iron and glass awning had to be completely restored after a truck crashed into it in 2004. For more about the history – and upcoming events – visit the official website . 

Map Directions from Olympia Theater to Dublin City Hall.

#11 Dublin City Hall

Built as the Royal Exchange in the mid-1800s, the building was transferred to the city government and renamed Dublin City Hall in 1850. The building is still used by the Dublin City Council today.

It is free to visit Dublin City Hall. Step inside the rotunda, where giant columns support the domed ceiling. The murals on the walls of the rotunda tell the story of Dublin’s history, which the tiled floor mosaic depicts the city’s Coat of Arms.  

Map Directions from Dublin City Hall to the Dublin Castle.

#12 Dublin Castle

Next up on our Dublin historic walking tour is the grand Dublin Castle. The Dublin Castle was built between 1208 and 1220 as the residence of viceroys.

Although the castle is now used as a conference center and event complex, the buildings of Dublin Castle represent some of the oldest architecture in the city. It remains one of the top tourist attractions in Dublin. It is free to walk on the grounds, but a ticket is required for admission inside, where they also offer tours of Dublin Castle. Get more details for you visit.

Map Directions from Dublin Castle to Christ Church Cathedral. 

#13 Christ Church Cathedral of Dublin

The Christ Church Cathedral is the next stop on our tour. One of the top attractions in Dublin, Ireland, the Christ Church Cathedral dates to Medieval times. 

The church was built around the year 1030 – making it older than St. Patrick’s and one of the best places to visit in Dublin for a history lesson. It was expanded in 1171, but most of the current structure was built between 1871 and 1878. An entry ticket is required for admission, unless you are there to pray. Visit the official Christ Church website for more information.

Map Directions from Christ Church Cathedral to John’s Lane Church. 

#14 John’s Lane Church

Although lesser-known than St. Patrick’s and Christ Church Cathedral, we think the John’s Lane Church is one of the Dublin hidden gems, which is why we include it in our free Dublin walking tour. 

The church was built on the previous site of St. John’s Hospital between 1862 and 1895. The French Gothic steeple reaches over 200 feet and is the tallest in Dublin – however, it is the colorful interior that is most striking. John’s Lane Church is one of the churches you can enter in Dublin for free.

Map Directions from John’s Lane Church to The Brazen Head Pub. 

#15 The Brazen Head

Claiming to be Ireland’s oldest pub, The Brazen Head is said to have origins dating back to the year 1198. The classic Irish pub features quaint rooms, three bars and live music. 

The traditional Brazen Head pub is a perfect place to stop for a pint at the end of a Dublin Self-Guided Walking Tour. For more information, read our article about The Brazen Head and be sure to also check out our Guide to Dublin’s Best Pubs !

MAP OF CITY CENTER DUBLIN, IRELAND

When embarking on Self Guided Walking Tours of Dublin, Ireland, a map is a must! We provided map links to each sight on our free Dublin walk, but we have a few more maps that will help you get from the first to the last stop!

Walking Route for Self Guided Tours in Dublin

Use this  link to Google for a Dublin sightseeing map that has turn-by-turn directions for our Self-Guided Walking Tour Dublin, Ireland. Note: While the map does not list every sight, the route is inclusive of all the stops on our tour.

Interactive City Center Map: Dublin, Ireland

Use this link to a Interactive Downtown Dublin Map to help route your way to the sights and attractions listed on our Self-Guided Dublin Walking Tour. 

Dublin, Ireland Self-Guided Walking Tour Map PRINTABLE

This is a printable map of Dublin. To print our Dublin, Ireland must-see map, first click on the map to enlarge it, then right-click and select Print. 

More Tours and Guided Walks in Dublin

Our above outlined free tour of Dublin is a great way to see the city. In fact, we think it is the Best Free Walking Tour Dublin that allows visitors to see the city at their own pace. 

However, visitors who want to learn more about the history of Dublin and meet fellow travelers may want to consider joining a Dublin tour guide for their walk.

The guided tours in Dublin range in price and duration – and focus on specific themes. 

Dublin Historical Walking Tour

The history of Dublin is fascinating. Join one of the easy 2-hour walking tours of Dublin that focuses on that vibrant history. Led by a local guide, participants are guided through the city while listening to the interesting facts and information that shaped Dublin. Get the details!  

Dublin Pub Crawl

When we think about things to do in Dublin, the first thing that comes to mind is drinking in pubs. We could have easily spent our days in Dublin doing nothing more than sipping pints of Guinness goodness; it really does taste better in Dublin!

However, then we would have missed out on Dublin sightseeing – and we weren’t going to visit Dublin and not see the top tourist attractions!

After a day of Dublin city sightseeing, however, visit the best pubs in Temple Bar on one of the entertaining Dublin night tours to the best bars! Book this tour!

Dublin Dark Side Walking Tour

There is a dark side to Dublin – as evidenced by gruesome stories of the past. On the Dark Dublin Tour participants will learn about the brothels and witches and the Hellfire Club while waltzing through back alleys and dark city streets. Book it…if you dare!

Ghost Tour Dublin

Join one of the Dublin guided tours to the spookiest spots in town! Learn the haunted history of Dublin on a spooky Gravedigger Ghost Tour. Note: This is a bus tour…which will give your feet a much-needed rest. Find out more!

Dublin Literary Pub Crawl

Follow in the footsteps of Ireland’s most famous writers…to the pubs, of course! On this Dublin Literary Tour, listen to stories of the great writers and learn about Dublin’s pub culture. Book the Literary Pub Crawl! 

1916 Tour Dublin

The 1916 Tour is a Dublin history tour that focuses on the events of the Uprising. The 1916 Rebellion Walking Tour includes visiting key locations, re-enactments and multi-media presentations for a unique experience. Learn more!

Pro Tip: Looking for free walking tours about the Easter Rising? Use the Self Guided Dublin Walking Tour audio guide podcast for a basic intro.

Food Tour in Dublin

Join a guide for a grazing tour of Dublin on this highly rated Food Tour. Learn about the history and local cuisine while feasting your way past city sights. Reserve your space!

Alternatively, embark on a journey to experience the contemporary food culture with the best bites at a few of the top restaurants. Get the details!

Street Art Tour Dublin

The city of Dublin has a vibrant street art scene. Visitors interested in learning more about the alternative side of Dublin can join the Street Art Tour to find off the beaten path local haunts. Book it!

Dublin Private City Tour

Those who want a personal introduction can join one of the Dublin Private Walking Tours. On this private tour, visitors get to see Dublin with the help of a local guide. Get the details!

For more themed Dublin walking tours, check out these of Dublin City Tours .  

More Fun Dublin, Ireland Tours

Once you have the lay of the land, indulge in a few essential Dublin experiences and tours.

• Visit Dublin’s Guinness Storehouse for a connoisseur tasting
• Head to the Jameson Distillery for a lesson on Irish whiskey
• Take a River Liffey cruise

Hop On Hop Off Dublin Tour Bus

Visitors interested in sightseeing without all the walking can catch a ride on one of the Dublin Bus Tours. The Dublin sightseeing bus routes make stops at (or near) all of the top attractions. The bus tickets also include other perks, like on-board commentary, discounts at top sights and a guided Dublin walking tour. 

Sightseeing Hop On Hop Off Bus Dublin

The classic, red Hop On Hop Off Tour in Dublin has two routes that stop at 28 places of interest – plus two walking tours included in the price. Visitors can opt for a 1- or 2-Day Pass .  

Green Do Dublin Hop On Hop Off Bus

Do Dublin is another tour company that offers a Hop On Hop Off Dublin, Ireland bus service. In addition to the 24- and 48-hour bus tickets , the Dublin tour company tickets also include transportation to and from the airport, as well as use of all Dublin city bus routes – plus free admission to The Little Museum of Dublin. 

Top Tip : A Dublin City Bus Tour is also included in the Dublin Pass , which can save money on entry into sights, too!

Tours and Day Trips From Dublin, Ireland

Use the city as a base and explore Ireland on one of many Dublin day trips. Visitors can explore on their own or join one of the highly rated tours that explores the region outside of Dublin City Center.

One of our favorite getaways is a short jaunt to the coastal village of Howth. Visitors can easily plan their own Day Trip To Howth – or book a guided trip . Other simple day trips from Dublin include the beachside community of Bray and the lovely village of Malahide .

Visitors can also travel to Northern Ireland to see the city of Belfast . Again, plan the trip on your own or join a tour from Dublin of Northern Ireland and Giant’s Causeway .

Other popular day tours from Dublin include seeing the stunning Cliffs of Moher (with a stop in quaint Doolin ), Visiting Galway or making a trip to the Blarney Castle (and kissing the Blarney Stone, of course!).  

Dublin day tours are offered by many companies. Read reviews from fellow travelers to find the best Ireland tours from Dublin on Viator ! 

Looking for multi-day Ireland trips? Set out from Dublin to see Ireland highlights on a five-day tour or enjoy the sights of Ireland on a six-day trip . 

Travel Tips For Your Dublin Trip

We have just a few final tips for your trip to Dublin! Planning an Ireland trip can feel a bit overwhelming – so we are outlining the essentials below – like where to stay, how to get there and what to pack.

Also check out our 3 Day Dublin Itinerary and 7 Day Ireland Itinerary for even more things to do! If you are coming from abroad, read our advice on Planning a Trip to Europe . 

As you make your plans, you will find that staying organized is key. To stay on top of all the details, use our Printable Travel Planner , which includes 25+ pages of travel organization! 

Where To Stay in Dublin, Ireland

We think the best place to stay in Dublin, Ireland is in the center, where it is easy to access the top sights and attractions on foot.

That said, during the summer tourist season, top value hotels book up quickly – so you will want to make sure you secure Dublin accommodations in advance of your trip. Before you start your search, read our tips for Booking the Best Hotels . 

Two of the highly-rated Dublin hotels are Leonardo Dublin Christchurch and Temple Bar Inn . Budget travelers can search for Dublin Hostels – like  Garden Lane Backpackers . Finding a vacation rental through Airbnb is another option on your vacation to Ireland.

Getting To Dublin, Ireland

Dublin can be reached by plane, train, bus, or ferry. Our preferred method of getting anywhere is by flying, we are JetSettingFools, after all! When we do need to purchase cheap plane tickets , we start our search for the best deals on airline fares on Skyscanner . 

Flying to Dublin from the US is easy, with direct flights from DC , Philadelphia , Boston , NYC , Chicago , and SFO . Additionally, DUB is well-connected with all major European hubs like London , Frankfurt , Paris , Madrid , Lisbon and Amsterdam !

To get between destinations when flights are not possible, we usually rely on public transportation and take trains or buses. Dublin Bus and Bus Eireann provide bus transportation services in Ireland. 

We aren’t keen on driving abroad, but renting a car can often save time and money (especially when traveling with more than two people) – and having a car rental allows for greater discovery.  

Dublin Walking Tours: What You Will Need

Now that you know all about the Best Walking Tours of Dublin – plus other fun activities and essentials – it’s time to get ready for your sightseeing!

Make sure you are prepared by bringing the following items along with you. You can find all of our packing hacks  and advice on our Packing Page  – and grab your FREE packing checklist !

Travel Shoes

Although Downtown Dublin, Ireland is a very walkable, travelers will want to ensure they pack comfortable city walking shoes . I like to wear lightweight, rubber-soled shoes, like Columbia shoes or NB Trainers . Kris prefers wearing Merrell trail shoes, even in the city!

Ireland Weather Attire

The weather in Dublin is always unpredictable. It’s best to bring along a packable raincoat or travel umbrella for your free walking tour of Dublin. For those sunny moments, don’t forget sunglasses ,  sunscreen and a wide-brimmed travel hat . 

Whether you travel with a backpack or a suitcase , you will also want to have a great day bag to organize all your daily travel essentials . When we explore a city on foot, we like to wear small backpacks where we can stow our wallets, keys, map, jacket and umbrella.

Travel Camera

On walking tours of Dublin, Ireland visitors see heaps of top sights. While many travelers use their phone, we believe it is best to invest in an actual travel camera that will take high-quality photographs. We carry a Canon Rebel  with a 18-135mm lens . This DSLR is a perfect budget camera for beginner photographers – as it comes bundled with heaps of accessories and is easy to use! 

WiFi Connection

In our free Dublin Walking Tour, we include map links to get from sight to sight. However, in order to use those links, you will need a WiFi Connection . While many US cellphone providers offer temporary international data packages, they can be expensive! Instead, we recommend purchasing a WiFi Mobile Hotspot . 

Not only can we connect up to ten devices at one time (which is perfect for families or friends traveling together), but we purchase an eSIM in advance and are connected the minute we touch down off that long-haul flight . We would be lost without it – literally! That said, we still think it is also a good idea to carry a paper Dublin map and/or guidebook .

Ireland Travel Insurance

Travel insurance may help in the case of cancelled flights or lost luggage – as well as illness or injury while abroad. Consider traveling protected with World Nomads .

Start planning your trip to Ireland ! Search for the lowest airfares , the best accommodations and fun things to do …then start packing !   Want more travel advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for more tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page !

Pin it! See all of our travel pins on our JetSetting Fools Pinterest Board .

Share This Story!

• Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on LinkedIn (Opens in new window)

29 thoughts on “ Dublin Walking Tour: A Self-Guided Walk To Dublin, Ireland Sights ”

Pingback: Wanderlust: Adventures in Ireland, Part 1 – Not So Subtly Sam

Pingback: Ireland: Some Do’s and Don’ts | Telltale Blush

Pingback: Madeline On Earth – Dublin, Ireland – Many Adventures of Madeline

Pingback: Ireland Frugal Travel - Dublin Part 2 - MoneyAhoy

Pingback: Planning our trip to Dublin - Adventitious Violet

Comments are closed.

Huge argument emerges over use of one of Ireland's most historical buildings as pub

A major spat has erupted over the use of one of Ireland's most historic buildings as a pub. The venerable Taylor's Hall in Dublin's Liberties, dating back 300 years , is at the heart of the controversy after a local collective who renovated it was compelled to halt its public operations there.

This is the very building where Irish revolutionary Theobald Wolfe Tone first encountered the Catholic committee and became the meeting point for the illustrious United Irishmen of 1798, who led an insurrection against the British. The Liberty Renaissance group had turned part of the premises into a dynamic cultural centre, earning praise from locals who dubbed it a "shrine to Wolfe Tone".

However, the initiative has now been stopped in its tracks due to a significant outcry from community representatives, including Cllr Mannix Flynn, leading to a decision to terminate the lease, reports the Irish Mirror .

• Irish American bartender who served Joe Biden marks 50 years at McGillin's in Philadelphia

Irish pub on wheels roaming the US greets everyone with 'a grin and a Guinness'

Local councillors have recently passed a motion to strip An Taisce of the lease and instead dedicate the storied structure to 'community use within the area which desperately needs such amenities'.

The motion further declared: "The disposal of this building and its conversion into a pub is an absolute scandal. It was carried out opaquely, eluding the awareness of councillors who are tasked with oversight in all matters concerning property disposals and subletting."

The council owns the building, but it's under the stewardship of the conservation organisation An Taisce. Liberty Renaissance, run by John McClafferty and Paul Clinton, had leased the historic building from An Taisce and invested €800,000 into its refurbishment. Despite their efforts, a planning permission loophole has kept the doors closed.

The dispute erupted last September when Independent Councillor Flynn questioned Liberty Renaissance's alcohol licence. McClafferty, 45, co-owner of Liberty Renaissance, expressed his frustration to the Irish Sunday Mirror: "We were open a year, we brought vibrancy to the liberties and 22 jobs."

"Mannix Flynn came in, in September and said: 'You're bastardising this building, we said 'excuse me Mannix we've created a community space. 'We do lunch, yes we do pints."

John emphasised that serving drinks was secondary to the cultural activities: "We have the Liberties running club in, weddings, and the hall free of charge to the local community. We have hot yoga there every Sunday and 300 people from the running club in recently all free of charge.

"We do walking, history and Viking tours, it's not a beer garden, it's a walled garden where beer is served. It's heartbreaking as we put life and money back into the building and if we didn't, it would be falling apart."

He highlighted the building's historical significance, noting that figures like Robert Emmet and Wolfe Tone, members of the United Irishmen, met there and the 1798 Rebellion was planned within its walls. Liberty Renaissance aimed to preserve and revitalise this important piece of history.

• Murph's Bar in Philadelphia is the traditional Irish pub serving great Italian food
• Ireland is one of the countries with most pubs per people

John remarked: "The room downstairs is untouched from 1706. If we didn't do it the building would have fallen apart like the Iveagh Market. The last thing the city needs is more dereliction. Just look at the Iveagh market or the boardwalk; they're all closed."

He also highlighted the rapid decline of the area, saying: "We're closed two weeks to the public and already there are crack pipes out the front and needles in the garden and already someone has sprayed graffiti on the front of the building. This is killing me."

On the other hand, Independent Councillor Flynn, aged 66, expressed his belief that An Taisce is not upholding its duty to protect the historical essence of the building.

Speaking to the Irish Sunday Mirror, he said: "This building belongs to Dublin City Council. t's under the charge of An Taisce whose job it is to protect the building and to guard the historical infrastructure of the city. In this instance they failed to do both.

"We have a motion in Dublin City Council that was agreed by the South Central committee meeting unanimously that we would take back charge of Taylor's Hall. I think it's time to realise that the caretakers of Taylor's Hall which are An Taisce are not fit for purpose and they're a danger to the building.

"There's equally strong potential to develop Taylor's Hall as a proper community hub utilised by the local community. I'd like to see a community hub put in there to serve the people of the Liberties and Christchurch.

"It's a national monument, we don't need another drink venue, the last thing that Dublin City Council needs to be involved with is public house making."

Historian Paddy Cullivan, 50, known for his show, The Murder of WolfeTone, has performed over 10 of his historical shows at Taylor's Hall and expressed disappointment over its closure. He stated: "Not only was there a portrait of Wolfe Tone on the wall of the main room but it was a really warm and welcoming place for any kind of cultural event.

"My show is highly cultural but what was even better was Wolfe Tone's office was upstairs. John and Paul have respected the historical nature of the building to the point where Paul's wife Anne Clinton did the most beautiful portrait of Wolfe Tone which stands on top of the fireplace in Taylor's Hall."

• Fiddler's Green is the California Irish pub famous for its brown bread and breakfasts
• Best Irish towns to visit for their unique pubs

He mentioned that tourists and ancestors were drawn to Taylor's Hall before bureaucracy interfered. He added: "When I did my Wolfe Tone Show there in June, a relative of Wolfe Tone came from America to see the show.

"In November of 2023, they put on the Wolfe Tone 225 commemoration event which was two days of historical discussions about Wolfe Tone. So this place has once again become the best cultural hub in the city since the United Irishmen were walking through the hall itself.

"It's absolutely shocking that anybody would close down some space in the Liberties with Mother Redcaps shut for years behind it, The Iveagh Markets, completely derelict. This place had become an amazing cultural hub in the Liberties no matter what anybody says, the fact of it having a bar is beside the point.

"Myself and others, including the 1798 walking tour from Belfast had come down and it became the hub where they have their walking tour and bring people to show them where Wolfe Tone worked. Taylor's Hall had become a shrine to Wolfe Tone essentially.

"In shutting it down, we're shutting down our ability to celebrate Wolfe Tone in the place he's most associated with. I donated 5000 euros worth of artwork that the boys had framed, and we're about to put throughout the building. All high-quality prints to do with the 1798 Rebellion.

"I'm flabbergasted that they've been singled out after having done so much for the local community, for local people in the liberties, walking tours, historical tours and for tourists. What we really need to do is let people's places like this open and flourish. Why would you focus on the living and breathing places to close down. You either want Dublin to work and flourish or drown in regulation."

Padraig McKeon, A spokesperson for An Taisce, said: "Taylor's Hall is an iconic building which we are keen to see stay in active use by and for the community in the south inner city.

"We are happy to facilitate the efforts of our tenant in support of that objective but anything happening on the site must meet the requirements of Dublin City Council to be fully compliant with planning and related regulations."

A representative for Dublin City Council elaborated: "The council initiated enforcement action pursuant to the Planning and Development Act 2000 in respect of the unauthorised use of the lower ground floor for use as a public bar/public bar food/restaurant use where persons can come in off the street and be served food and drink, including alcoholic drinks.

"The operators of the premises were written to requiring the cessation of the unauthorized use as outlined above. Recent inspections by the Planning Enforcement Section have revealed that the unauthorized use has ceased."

For the latest local news and features on Irish America, visit our homepage here .