Edited by Holly Stark.
48 hours may not seem long when exploring one of the most vibrant and historic cities, but you’ll be surprised by how much you can fit in. Dublin, Ireland's Ancient East and capital, is home to an incredible 5000 years of history, peaceful green landscapes, folklore told by the best storytellers in the world and atmospheric live music. With a variety of things to do in Dublin, your 2 days in Dublin itinerary will be packed with the best of the capital. From visiting the majestic churches and cathedrals to tasting your way through the best of traditional Irish cuisine to soaking up the vibe of a cosy pub or distillery, enjoy the best of Dublin during your 48 hours in the capital.
Day 1 - Morning
Spend your first morning at the spiritual heart of the city. Christ Church Cathedral was founded around 1028 and is without a doubt one of the best Dublin’s attractions. Step off Dublin's packed streets and into a timeless place of worship and quiet contemplation. Once inside the incredible, ancient structure, admire the stunning interior and ancient medieval crypt, as well as the sweet sounds from the choir school which are sung every day except Mondays and Fridays. Head to the Marsh Library, located in St. Patrick’s Close, adjacent to the cathedral. A Dublin must see and hidden gem, the Marsh is Ireland’s oldest public library. Established in 1707, traditional, original oak wood bookcases line the walls and hold more than 25,000 books, including the rare, original and well-known. James Joyce, Bram Stoker and Jonathan Swift have read from the huge collection. Space is a beautifully-preserved structure from the early eighteenth century.
Day 1 - Lunch and Afternoon
After your intimate meeting with the past, step further back into time as you enjoy traditional Irish food at The Hairy Lemon. Every Sunday, Monday and Tuesday from 8 pm onwards, the pub is home to great live music, known as The Hairy Lemon Trad Sessions. The spot also has an extensive traditional menu featuring a famous beef and Guinness Pie, traditional Irish stew and Dublin coddle, as well as vegetarian dishes, pasta dishes, fish and burgers. The characterful restaurant is sure to have something to satisfy your taste buds. Walk off your lunch at Trinity College. Because of its charming backdrop and the famous people connected with it - Oscar Wilde studied here - Trinity College is among the most popular Dublin attractions. A Dublin must see for anyone interested in medieval art, typography and graphic design, the vivid and colourful Book of Kells can be viewed in a case. Undoubtedly considered the most precious item on the Trinity campus, the Book of Kells is an illuminated manuscript from 800AD which is housed in the Old Library building of the university
Day 1 - Evening and Night
At dusk, head the Brazenhead. There are many things to do in Dublin at night, but your Dublin in 2 days itinerary would simply not be complete without a trip to the oldest pub, which dates back to 1198. It might be fairly packed but the food is great, it’s full of Irish charm and every evening you can experience the storytelling of great Irish folklore. Sip a Guinness alongside the locals here then finish up with a cocktail at the Vintage Cocktail Club for a refined, speakeasy-vibe bar and candle-lit cocktails. If you’re not quite ready to end your night, head to The Liquor Rooms or discover Temple Bar.
Day 2 - Morning
After spending Day 1 of 2 days in Dublin in the North, Day 2 is all about exploring the South. The General Post Office (GPO) is one of the most iconic and top things to do in Dublin. The architecture is visually impressive, in the Greek Revival Style, built with Wicklow granite and the portico of Portland stone. It is steeped in Irish history and is symbolic as was the main headquarters of the Irish Volunteers in the 1916 Rising. Today the General Post Office offers a wide range of services. It is a space of business, public service, remembrance, protest, and pageantry. It has an interactive exhibition on the 1916 Rising, a cafe and a shop with great gifts to take home. Eat lunch at The Church; one of the best Dublin attractions. Enjoy coffee, drinks, great Irish food and traditional Irish music beneath the beautiful stained glass window and the original Renatus Harris built the organ. Appreciate the art, history, architecture and luxury of a stunning building and see for yourself why The Church has established itself as one best of Dublin experiences for visitors to the city.
Day 2 - Afternoon
Head to the best find in town, McNeills, located close by on Capel Street, for a pint of Guinness. Dublin is a city full of drama and within the relatively small capital, some of the world’s most well-known playwrights were born and raised, and everyone from Irish rebels to international actors have graced Dublin’s various stages. Explore Dublin Theatre which opened its doors in 1662, find out what’s on and even catch a play. If that’s not your thing, try and Vintage Tea Experience; delicious afternoon tea, cakes and biscuits, 50’s jazz and enjoy the sights city sights while you ride a double-decker bus.
Photo credit: commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Teeling_I
Day 2 - Evening
Spend your evening at a whisky tasting session. The Jameson Whisky tasting is really popular so it may be better to try a different distillery. The Teeling Whiskey Distillery is located in the heart of Dublin City Centre and is the first new distillery in Dublin for over 125 years. As Dublin’s newest destination for whisky fans, anyone with an interest in Dublin’s long association with Irish whisky should not miss this one. Complete your 2 nights in Dublin at The Hole in the Wall Tavern where the owner used to secretly pass a pint through the hole to English officers in Ireland. It is old, authentic and has a wide selection of wine. It’s best to make a reservation, and it’s not in the city centre, so you may have to grab a taxi. If you only have one day in Dublin, you can mix and match from the Dublin in 2 days itinerary and spend your 24 hours in a tailored way that suits you. If you’re wondering “is two days in Dublin enough?” then yes, it is. Cram pack your days with historical and cultural attractions and as the sun sets, step out onto the cobbled streets to enjoy the vibrant Dublin nightlife.
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