Dublin in the winter: 39 Best Things to do you’ll love in that season

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Dublin in the winter makes for a nice getaway you won’t forget! After having lived in Ireland for over 3 years, we now know what it is like to spend winters in Dublin and what the best things to do in the city are at that time of the year. And they’re not just about Christmas!

In this post, we gathered everything you need to know about Dublin in the winter from the best indoor visits Dublin offers in the winter to Christmas events. For clarity, we split this post in two parts:

• the best things to do in Dublin in the winter for first time visitors
• the best things to do in Dublin in winter for returning visitors/locals

For each section, we organised the activities by order of budgets so you can easily filter them according to your budget and interests. To help you plan out your couple of days in Dublin during the winter season, we also included:

• a 2 days in Dublin itinerary for first time visitors in the winter and,
• a 2 days in Dublin itinerary for returning visitors in the winter

You will also find information about Dublin winter weather, essentials you should bring, and where you should stay in the winter.

At the end of the post, we listed some of the best Christmas activities in Dublin in December. 

If you’re still hesitant about which Irish city to visit, check out our comparison guide between Belfast and Dublin. We also share about the relationship between the UK and Dublin in this post.

***Some of the links in this post are affiliate links meaning we earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. This does not change the fact that we only recommend products, stays, activities and attractions we are satisfied with and all opinions expressed here are our own.

Dublin winter Q&As 

What happens in Dublin during the winter? Dublin is a bustling city in the winter. There is a lot of landmarks to visit in Dublin in winter along with a lot of Christmas and Winter events to attend. For example, Dublin Castle organises a Christmas market and Christmas concerts. 

How cold does it get in Dublin Ireland? Dublin winters can be very cold and temperatures can go down to 0°C with snow. However, the main issue in the winter in Dublin is the wind. On non-windy days, the weather can actually be enjoyable with clear and sunny skies. 

How often does it snow in Dublin Ireland? It does not snow often in Dublin Ireland. It snows a little bit about 1 to 3 times per winter but the snow melts quickly. If you are looking for things to do in Dublin today and are afraid that snow might get in your way, don’t be!

Why doesnt Ireland get much snow? Winter in Ireland can get quite a bit of snow but winter in Dublin rarely sees snow. This is becauseDublin benefits from the influence of the Gulf Stream which warms up the atmosphere and therefore limits the snow. 

When is winter in Dublin Ireland

Winter in Dublin lasts from the end of November to the end of March. It usually lasts for about 4 months although it can feel like winter in Dublin is still here in April and sometimes May. The coldest month of the year is usually January. 

Dublin in October is usually nice with crisp sunny days and nice fall feeling to them. However, although winter arrives on average at the end of November, Dublin in November can start feeling like winter form the beginning of the month.  

Winter in Dublin can be a bit depressing as days are short with the sun rising around 8am and setting sometimes as early as 3-4pm.

Dublin winter weather

If you are looking for Dublin weather winter, you might freak out a little bit at first but don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. The average Dublin winter temperature is 5°C (41°F) with temperatures going as low as 0°C (30°F) and as high as 8°C (47°F). At night, temperatures can go as low as -5°C (25°F). 

The Dublin in November weather is usually more mild as it is still fall. We usually get sunny days with temperatures between 5°C (41°F) and 15°C (59°F).

The Dublin in December weather is usually colder and starts to feel like real winter with Christmas approaching. The average temperature is of 5.6 °C (42 °F), going as low as 2.6 °C (36.7 °F) and as high as 8.5 °C (47.3 °F).

These are average temperatures though. We can get very nice days even during the winter with temperatures in the comfortable 10°C. Dublin rarely gets snow. If it snows, it will generally be in February or March and very quick with snow melting as fast as it came.

How to dress in Dublin for the winter

If you are visiting Dublin in the winter, you will need to dress warm especially if you plan on spending a good amount of time outside and visiting. We would recommend at least the following clothes:

• A warm winter coat
• Scarf, hat and gloves
• Layers under your coat so you can be more comfortable during your visits
• Warm shoes such as boots. We recommend flat shoes as lots of parts of Dublin are paved with cobblestones. 

Where to stay in Dublin in the winter

Are you wandering where to stay for your Dublin winter trip? Below, you’ll find a selection of the most romantic hotels in Dublin that will warm your heart on cold days!

The Clayton Hotel, perfect to warm up during winter

From the pool and jacuzzi to the sauna and comfortable large rooms, the Clayton Hotel is one of the best hotels to relax in Dublin in the winter It is located in the Docklands, a quiet neighbourhood, only a 20 minute walk from Temple Bar. There is a pub right around the corner and plenty of restaurants and cafés around as well. We stayed at the Clayton once before and really loved it! You can see more photos and book your stay here.

The Beach House B&B, one of the best private places for couples in Dublin

The beach in the winter can be magical so come stay at this beach house! Located just right next to Sandymount beach, you’ll have views on Dublin Bay and can go on romantic beach walks at any time! We really like going to Sandymount as it is really close to the city yet a completely different atmosphere. You can see more photos and book your stay here.

The Shelbourne, one of the best hotels in Dublin for couples

Are you looking for that special place to stay at in the winter? The Shelbourne is probably what you are looking for! This historical landmark is a 5 star hotel located in Dublin City centre and offers amazing facilities including romantic thermal facilities, spa treatments, a large pool and high-end amenities. Go all in and book the Balcony Guest Room for a special night! You can see more photos and be amazed here.

Staying at an 11th Century Castle, a unique stay in Dublin in the winter

The Clontarf Castle is dated back to the 11th century and welcomes you in comfortable rooms for a memorable stay! If you want to spend a unique night in Dublin in the winter, this is it! The Clontarf Castle is located in Clontarf in the north of Dublin, a 40 minute DART ride from the city centre. You can find out more here.

Bonnington Hotel and Leisure Centre

Do you want to stay at a hotel with a pool and a hot tub to warm up on cold winter days? Then Bonnington Hotel and Leisure Centre might be just what you are looking for. This 4 star hotel offers large comfortable rooms and guests have access to a large pool and hot tub. Located close to the city centre, this would make for a lovely stay with your partner! You can find out more about this hotel here.

Our recommended itineraries for Dublin in winter

In this section, we have set out two 2 day itineraries for people visiting Dublin in the winter. You can read about each Dublin attraction in the next sections. In the next sections, we have included more things to do in Dublin in the winter so you can customise your Dublin winter itinerary to your preferences.

2 days in Dublin in the winter for first time visitors

Day 1 in Dublin in winter

• Visit the deer of Phoenix Park (Dublin’s weather is usually clearer in the morning) (2h)
• Visit the Jameson Distillery (2h)
• Cruise on the Liffey (45 minutes)
• Visit Dublin Castle & its Christmas market (1h30)
• Finish the night with some Irish Dancing at the Church Pub 

Day 2 in Dublin in winter

1. Trinity College and the Book of Kells (2h)
2. Illuminations on Grafton Street and St Stephen’s Green Shopping Centre (1h)
3. St George’s Arcades and lunch in the area (1h)
4. Visit the Guinness Storehouse and its winter village (2h)
5. Finish the night in illuminated Temple Bar 

2 days in Dublin in the winter for returning visitors

Day 1 in Dublin in winter

1. Start by some spa time at The Mayson (2h)
2. Visit the EPIC immigration museum, one of Europe’s best attraction (1h)
3. Have lunch and play Arcade games at Token (1h)
4. Go Ice skating (2h)
5. Comedy show at the Stag’s Head (2h)

Day 2 in Dublin in winter

1. Rooftop brunch at Ryleigh’s (1h)
2. Immersive experience at the Jameson Distillery Bow Street (45 minutes)
3. Visit the Irish Rock n Roll Museum & lights in Temple Bar (1-2h)
4. Dublin Castle Christmas choir concert (2h)
5. Walk around watching the Wild lights 

Festivals in Dublin in the winter

Dublin in de winter is a fun time to come as a few festivals are on. See for yourself:

• Dublin in November: Dublin Book Festival
• Dublin in December and January: New Year’s Festival 
• Dublin in January: Temple Bar TradFest 
• Dublin in February and March: Dublin International Film Festival
• Dublin in March: St. Patrick’s Day Festival 

Romantic things to do in Dublin in the Winter for couples

Although Dublin in the winter has a lot of touristy visits to offer, it also offer lots of fun things to do in Ireland for young adults, including romantic activities. In this section, we have included our top Dublin Ireland winter activities for couples.

1. Rooftop Brunch or Dinner at Ryleigh’s, a romantic way to admire Dublin in winter

Ryleigh’s rooftop steakhouse is one of the best restaurants in Dublin and is perfect for both day time and night time! The rooftop restaurant is perfect for an intimate date. If you are looking to impress your loved one, we recommend heading there at night once Dublin’s light are on. From up there, you will have beautiful views on the lit up skyscrapers and the Liffey. 

We also loved coming here for brunch. Marie had the bacon avocado bagel and Eric had the eggs royale. It was delicious and the view during the day is beautiful as well. You can sit inside or on the terrace on the Liffey end. From up there, you might even see the snow falling on the city. The terrace part is open but there are outdoor heaters to keep you warm which is perfect if you are visiting Dublin in the winter! The restaurant is a bit out of the way so for convenience, here’s its Eircode so you can find it quicker: D01 XR83.

Budget: Bagel €11,95 ; Eggs Royale €13,95 ; Hot Chocolate €3,60

2. Go on an Irish whiskey tour with your partner

How many love songs have the word “Whiskey” in them? A LOT! Okay maybe you would only know that if, like me, you like country music. But anyway, learning about Whiskey is a great way to learn about Ireland and to spend some quality time with your partner. It is definitely one of the best things to do in Dublin for couples who appreciate this kind of drink. In Dublin, you can of course visit the Jameson Factory, but there are other distilleries as well such as the Teeling Distillery. Here are some tours we would recommend:

• Dublin: 2-Hour Whiskey Tasting Tour
• Roe and Co Distillery Cocktail Workshop Experience
• Pearse Lyons Whiskey Distillery Experience
• Teeling Distillery Tour and Tasting

These tours are great as they take you indoors which give you the opportunity to warm up on cold days in Dublin. A Whiskey bottle is also a great present for Christmas so visiting Whiskey distilleries in Dublin in the winter will not disappoint! 

Budget: €17 to €45 per person depending on the tour

3. Ice Skating, the perfect romantic activities in Dublin in winter

Winter in Dublin Ireland often rhymes with going on an ice skating date! Ice skating is a lot of fun and thankfully Dublin offers a couple of Ice skating rinks in the city. You will find one in South Dublin at Tallaght Stadium and one in North Dublin in Swords. The North Dublin rink is 500m2 and is made of real ice to make your experience the best possible. There is food and drinks available on site and parking is free for the first two hours. 

Budget: Tickets prices vary depending on whether it is off-peak or peak time but overall tickets are around €15. Pre-launch tickets are available for €10 if you subscribe to Swords on Ice Newsletter here. 

4. Heated pool in Dublin, the perfect Dublin winter escape

Are you looking to escape Dublin winter for under €50? Why not try a getaway at the Power Gym at The Mayson? Located in Dublin’s IFSC neighbourhood, The Mayson features a recent modern and well equipped gym and offers spin bike and versa climbing classes. But the real reason you should visit The Mayson in Dublin in the winter is because it features a lovely relaxing indoor and outdoor area including a beautiful outdoor heated pool, a sauna and a steam room. You can come to use the gym or just the relaxing area, it’s up to you! With a lot of greenery, the relaxing area is a beautiful place that will create a romantic moment away from bustling and cold Dublin!

Budget: €30 day pass

5. Walk an alpaca with your partner, one of the fun things to do in Ireland for young adults

Do you want to spend a cute moment with your partner? Walking an alpaca is probably one of the cutest and most romantic activity to do with your loved one. These animals are fluffy and quirky and will definitely make you laugh! 

While Dublin in the winter may look cold and grey, heading to the countryside to walk an alpaca might just be what you need to enjoy winter in Ireland. Irish landscapes are beautiful in the winter and you’ll get to immerse yourself in them while walking a cute fluff with your partner. 

The closest alpaca walk to Dublin is K2 Alpacas in Wicklow which is about an hour drive. 

Walking an alpaca in Ireland is one of the funnest thing we’ve done together since we moved to Dublin. 

Budget: varies but usually around €20-€40 per person

6. Escape boat, a unique activity in Dublin in the winter

When it becomes cold in Dublin, most of us are looking for indoor activities. As a couple, we usually search for fun activities we can do together as well and that are a bit unique. 

The Escape Boat is located on Charlotte’s Quay near the Bord Gaís Energy Theatre and is the perfect way to have fun together while warming up. It is a literal boat that has the same concept as escape rooms. As a couple, you’ll need to work together and solve the clues to escape a sinking boat. I won’t say more about this but, from experience, I advise you to stay away from water! We did this escape boat on St Patrick’s Day and it is one of the best escape games we’ve ever done! I’d say it’s in the top 5 of the most fun things to do in Dublin in the winter for couples in our experience!

Budget: €35 per person for two players

Things to do in Dublin in the Winter for first time visitors

In this section, you will find a selection of the best things to do in Dublin in winter for first time visitors. These activities are perfect to get away from the cold and the rain and still visit and learn plenty about Dublin. 

Low Budget things to do in Dublin in the winter for first time visitors

7. Visit the deer in Phoenix Park, one of the cool things to do Dublin offer

On a crisp sunny day, Phoenix Park is the perfect visit while in Dublin. Phoenix Park is to Dublin what Central Park is to New York: a statement. There is lots of things to do in Phoenix Park including checking out the obelisk, walking to the Pope’s Cross and finding the Phoenix Park deer. Seeing the deer in Phoenix Park is actually one of the cool things to do Dublin offers that is often overlooked by first time visitors! 

Best time to visit Phoenix Park in Dublin in winter

Dublin in the winter can be unsteady. We would not recommend heading to the park if it rains. However, if it’s a crisp sunny day or if it is snowing in Dublin, the park is beautiful!

How to get to Phoenix Park

From Dublin city centre, you can hop on the Red Luas line and get off at Heuston Station. Tickets are just a few euros. From Heuston Station, it takes a 5-10 minute walk to reach the park. Alternatively, you can walk, ride a bike or drive to the park. Parking in the park is free.

Budget: Free 

8. National Botanic Gardens to warm up in the glass houses

The National Botanic Gardens are one of our favourite places in Dublin no matter the season. During winter, there isn’t a lot of flowers outside. However, the park is still beautiful with tall strong  diverse trees, ponds and small bridges. 

The beautiful glass houses are warm and host tropical plants and flowers which will both delight you and allow you to get warm between your visits. Visiting the National Botanic Gardens in Dublin in winter is a great activity!

How to get to the National Botanic Gardens

On a sunny day you can walk for 30-40 minutes from the city centre along the canals which is very nice. You can also take Bus 83A or the Green Luas line from Temple Bar and get off at Phibsborough station. 

Budget: Free

9. Irish Dancing at the Church Pub, one of the best places to visit in Dublin in winter

Watching some Irish Dancing at a pub is the perfect way to immerse yourself in the Irish culture while keeping warm on a cold day in Dublin city in winter! One of the best places to visit in Dublin in winter for an Irish Dancing show is The Church Pub. The Church Pub used to be an actual church as its name reveals. It is a beautiful unique building which offers a comfortable and modern setting with delicious food and drinks. You can come here to shelter from the cold and recharge after a long day of exploring Dublin city. 

Budget: $

10. Temple Bar, one of the must see Dublin Ireland attractions

Temple Bar is one of the must see Dublin Ireland attractions. It is famous for being home to some of the best pubs in the city and hosting live performers day and night. During winter, Temple Bar is decorated for Christmas usually from November to January. It creates a magical ambiance and a warm atmosphere with people getting together for a drink and to sing all the popular songs the Irish love so much!

On your first time in Dublin, visiting Temple Bar is a must. All pubs are mostly indoors so it is a great step to add to your Dublin itinerary in the winter. 

Budget: Free unless you get drinks and food ($ to $$)

11. St George’s Arcades

The St Geroge’s Arcades are usually overlooked by first time visitors who just don’t know they even exist. However, they are quite cool as they sit in an old building made of red bricks. They host numerous little shops and a wine and cheese bar making it feel like a bit of a market.

The Arcades are completely covered so it is a perfect addition to your Dublin itinerary if it’s a rainy day! We recommend checking them out to feel like a local.

Budget: Free

Higher budget things to do in Dublin in winter for first time visitors

12. Dublin Castle, one of the best things to do in Ireland in winter

Dublin Castle

Dublin Castle is one of the best things to do in Ireland in winter as it is a statement of Dublin and is completely indoors. The Castle is still used to this day for government matters and private events. It’s open almost every day of the year and is a greta visit. It is fully furnished and you can get audio guides or do a guided tour. 

Events at Dublin castle in the winter

In Dublin in December, Dublin Castle organises Christmas events which usually include a Christmas Choir concert at the chapel and private drinks and canapés at the castle. The castle is also decorated for Christmas with nutcrackers, garlands, Christmas trees in several rooms and more. We attended one of these events and really loved it. The choir was amazing and sitting in that chapel at Christmas really was special. 

Dublin Castle Christmas market

The castle also organises a Christmas market every year in the courtyard. There are about 30 stalls with homemade and local arts and crafts and food and drinks. 

It is truly a beautiful visit that we recommend if you are visiting Dublin in the winter. 

Budget: €8 per ticket to the castle. Free access to the Christmas market. About €20 per person for the special winter events.You can grab fast track tickets here .

13. St Patrick’s Cathedral, one of the indoor Dublin things to do in December

The St Patrick’s Cathedral is an unmissable attraction of Dublin. Again, the visit is indoors so it is perfect for Dublin in the winter to keep warm or to escape the rain. In Dublin in December, the Cathedral organises choir concerts of Christmas carols. Tickets must be booked online closer to the time as there are limited spots.

You can book tickets to the Cathedral here.

Budget: €8 per person, audio guides are available

14. Liffey Cruise

With this cruise, you will embark on an all-weather red river boat to cruise on the River Liffey and to learn more about Dublin from the arrival of the vikings to modern days. This is one of the best Dublin attractions for couples as you can sit together and let yourself cruise in a beautiful scenery. 

Budget: €16 per person

15. Trinity College and the Book of Kells

One of the top things to see in Dublin is Trinity College and the Book of Kells. What is great is that the visit is mostly indoors making perfectly suitable for a Dublin winter visit. Before anything, Trinity College is an actual college but it’s also beautiful and will make you feel a little bit like you are in Harry Potter which is also suited for Christmas time in our opinion. 

But the main attraction at Trinity College is the Book of Kells which is an old library and one of the most visited Dublin sites. The visit is quite unique and you’ll learn a lot of the history of the Book of Kells, a national treasure, on top of visiting the library. 

Budget: Entrance to the Book of Kells costs €18. You can grab this Fast-Track Access Tickets for the Book of Kells and Dublin Castle guided tour for €59

16. Guinness Storehouse and the Guinnes Storehouse Winter Village

The Guinness Storehouse is one the cool things to do Dublin offers and it is true especially during winter. In Dublin in the winter, the Guinness Storehouse offers a wonderful visit indoors which will teach you everything about how this popular and famous drink is made. At the end of the tour, you also get to sample the beer! Some tickets give you access to the Gravity bar which offers a 360° view on Dublin.

The Guinness Storehouse usually organises a Christmas winter village on their premises. Entrance is free but booking might be required. The Guinness Storehouse Winter Village is usually on the floor area and features local craft vendors, food trucks and artists. The winter village usually opens during the month of December. 

For information, some paying tickets include entrance to the Winter Village and to the Guinness Storehouse.

Budget: Between €22 and €70 depending on the experience you choose. You can purchase tickets here which includes a pint of Guinness or soft drink at the Gravity Bar with a 360° view on Dublin. 

17. Jameson Distillery on Bow Street

The Jameson Distillery is another indoor visit that is typical of Dublin. At the distillery, you’ll learn about how Jameson Whiskey is made in 3 different fully immersive experiences. The visit includes a taste straight from the barrel and a comparative whiskey tasting. 

Budget: €25 per person. You can book tickets here. 

18. Vintage Tea Trip

Are you looking for things to do in Dublin in the winter with your partner? Why not hop on this Vintage Tea Bus for a unique date! This double decker bus is dated from the 1960s and offers a traditional afternoon tea with sandwiches, scones, dessert and teas and hot chocolate. The hosts love to share stories about the city which makes the ride even more fun! This is a great way to discover Dublin in winter as you’ll be discovering the city while staying all cozy and warm. 

Budget: €49,50 per person

Things to do in Dublin in the Winter for returning visitors/for locals

If you have already visited Dublin, there is a good chance that you don’t want to return to the same places to visit in Dublin in winter. In this section, we used our experience as expats living in Dublin to share a selection of the other top things to see in Dublin in the winter besides the usual touristy places. 

Low Budget things to do in Dublin in the Winter for returning visitors/for locals

19. National Gallery of Ireland, one of the most inspiring places to visit in Dublin in winter

The National Gallery in Dublin is a national museum located near Merrion Square in the city centre. It hosts the national collection of Irish and European art. Exhibitions rotate so if you have been before it is unlikely that the same exhibition will still be on. You could honestly spend hours at this museum, exploring the different rooms and looking at the art. It is a beautiful museum that is worth checking out on your second time to Dublin.

Of course, it is especially great when visiting Dublin City in winter as you’ll be sheltered from the cold and the rain and warmed up with inspiration from all the art surrounding you!

Budget: Free

20. Custom House, a great Dublin winter visit

The Custom House is located in the IFSC and is quite often overlooked by visitors returning or not as it is not in the main city centre area. However the Custom House is a very interesting visit, one that we particularly appreciated at least. The Custom House exhibition will teach you lots about Irish history and how Ireland became independent. The staff is truly passionate and will also answer any questions you may have. 

This is one of the must sees Dublin has to offer to returning visitors or locals in the winter. It actually can also be a great free visit for first timers! 

Budget: Free

21. The IMMA

The Irish Museum of Modern Art is located across from Phoenix Park and is free to access. Booking may be required depending on the number of spots available. This is one of the indoor Dublin sites that is perfect for returning visitors who wish to expand a bit on Dublin and Ireland. 

The IMMA features several indoor exhibitions about different subjects which is great for the winter. I would recommend checking out what they are about as when we went, it was a little bit dark. 

The Gardens of the IMMA are beautiful and well maintained. It is a nice place to wander around on a crisp sunny winter day. If you are wondering what to do in Dublin in the winter with your partner, then the IMMA is a good idea, especially because there is sometimes a band playing live music in the gardens on the weekend, including in the winter. You can sit outside and eat your picnic while listening to music! 

Budget: Free

22. The Square Ball, for a fun time in Dublin City centre in winter

The Square Ball Pub has become “our local pub” as we like to call it. This pub has lots going on and we’re here for it! 

The Square Ball offers boards games for rent. You can order a couple of drinks and choose between the numerous games they have from Jenga to Carcassonne. We played Jenga and had a lot of fun. They also offers hot wings challenges and quizz nights. 

This might be more of a visit for locals although it is great for tourists as well if you are looking to immerse yourself in the Dublin lifestyle!

What we loved the most was our Bingo night. And we are talking typical Irish pub Bingo night! We played with “the lads” and couldn’t stop laughing. They were cracking jokes after jokes and between them and our amazing host (and comedian) Craig, it was a memorable night. From playing Bingo to dance offs and the general ambiance, we had a really great time. Needless to say that Bingo winners get free drinks which gets the competition going haha.

Also their chilli fries are excellent!

Budget: Just drinks, the Bingo is free.

23. Comedy Show at the Stag’s Head, for a warm night on a cold Dublin winter day 

The Stag’s Head is a Victorian pub located on Dame Court just a few minutes from Dublin’s castle. Its originality is already quite interesting to check out. That said, the reason that we discovered this pub is the free comedy shows it offers every Sunday, Monday and Tuesday. Comedy Crunch features several humorists on the downstairs part of the pub. At the end of the show, the pub distributes free ice cream which we are definitely not against! 

This is a great experience is the weather is too cold and you want to spend a fun night. 

Doors open at 8:15pm and entrance is free with free ice cream! You can check out Comedy Crunch Facebook page for all the details. 

Budget: Free + drinks

24. Geological Museum

The Geological Museum is a bit of a hidden gem in Dublin and few tourists actually know it’s there. The building must be one of the most unique ones in Dublin with its Victorian architecture and its heavy wooden door. Looking at it, you might even feel like you have just been transported to Spain or Italy for a second. 

In addition to the beauty of the building, the museum itself is very interesting. There you can learn more about geology. The museum comprises about 100 000 specimens of minerals, rocks and fossils. 

Budget: Free

25. The Little Museum of Dublin

Between art, music legends and history, the Little Museum of Dublin is one of the cool things to do Dublin offers. You can wander in the museum and hop on the guided tour and walking tour as well. At the museum you will find exhibitions on popular historical bands like U2, on the history of Dublin and art exhibitions as well.

Budget: €10 per person

Higher budgets fun things to do in Dublin Ireland in the winter 

26. Token

We had a lot of fun at Token! Token is located by Smithfield Luas station. Token is both a bar restaurant and a place where you can play arcade games and pinball. They have other 40 machines which include games like Guitar Hero, Ninja Turtles and Pacman. You can either book a table for food or just play games and get drinks at the bar. Token has lockers where you can leave your coats and bags. You will need to purchase tokens (hehe) to play the games and then off you go. Honestly, we had a blast! The food also looked delicious! This is one of the fun things to do in Ireland for young adults as you will have a good time, can even compete against each other and there are no children allowed (18+ only). 

Budget: Tokens are €5 for 10, €10 for 22 and €20 for 50. In an hour we used about 32 tokens (€15) together.

27. Irish Rock n Roll Museum

It’s no secret that music is a big part of Irish culture and that Dublin is one of the best music cities in the world. At this museum, you can learn about the history of famous Rock ’n’ Roll musicians and bands that have passed through Ireland. From the Wall of Fame to starting your own band, this is quite a fun visit for music enthusiasts. 

Budget: €15 per adult

28. Leprechaun Museum

Leprechauns are a big symbol in the Irish culture and legends. The Leprechaun Museum is a lot of fun and is very much targeted at adults. It’s a great visit for couples and might not always be suitable for kids. The Leprechaun Museum offers different themed nights and visits on top of their regular tour. Here you will learn about the folklore and the home of leprechauns. This is a great visit in Dublin city in the winter!

Budget: €18 per person

29. Irish Whiskey Museum 

More Whiskey you say? Well, you are in Ireland after all! Although the big distilleries like Jameson are great visits and offer great tours, the Irish Whiskey Museum is a bit of a hidden gem. The museum offers guided tours of the exhibits and interactive tastings at the end. We have never been but we have heard amazing thing about the tours from our friends. 

Budget: €20 per person

30. EPIC Immigration museum & the CHQ Christmas decorations

The EPIC Immigration museum is located in the CHQ in the IFSC, the financial centre of Dublin. It is known as one of Europe’s leading attractions and has won many awards. This interactive museum takes you through different aspects and questions around how the small island of Ireland has impacted the world. This is a very interesting museum especially if you are an expat/immigrant yourself. 

The EPIC museum is part of the CHQ building which is always well decorated for the Holidays so it’s a great place to visit for winter in Dublin Ireland. 

Budget: €20 per person. You can purchase tickets here.

31. Croke Park

Croke Park is a big stadium located in the North of Dublin. It has hosted lots of games but also concerts like The Script. During the visit, you can learn more about the history of the place and go to the rooftop for a 360° view of Dublin!

This is a fun visit in Dublin in the winter as most of it is indoors and in the backstage. When checking out the bleachers, you are covered and therefore protected from the wind and the rain. We would recommend going on a decent day (avoid stormy days) so you can access the rooftop visit as well.

The visit also includes admission to the Gaelic Football (GAA) Museum.

Budget: €21 per person

32. See a show at the Olympia Theatre

The Olympia Theatre is located on Dame Street, one of the main avenues of Dublin. It is one of the main theatres in Dublin and used to be called The Empire Palace. It was built as a Victorian music-hall with red touches in the mid-mid-nineteenth century. It is a beautiful building inside and out. Some of the most famous artists in the world have performed here including Charlie Chaplin, Laurel and Hardy, and David Bowie.

We highly recommend going for a concert or a show! 

33. Roe &Co Distillery 

At Roe & Co Distillery, it is a different experience that you will receive. From the flavour workshop to the Power House Bar, Roe & Co offers a guided tour of their fully operational distillery. You can even create your own blend of Whiskey! At the end of the tour, you can relax with a Roe & Co cocktail and reminisce about everything you have learned.

This is a great tour to do in Dublin in the winter as it is all indoors and quite different from the usual distillery tours. 

Budget: €23 per person. You can purchase tickets here. 

Christmas in Dublin

Visiting Dublin in the winter also means that you might be choosing to come to Dublin in December. December is a magical time Dublin offers as the city is decorated for Christmas and lots of Holiday events are on. From Christmas markets to Christmas Lights and special visits, we set out everything to do in Dublin at Christmas in this post. We have also included set out some of these Christmas events below.

34. Grafton Street and Henry Street

Grafton Street and Henry Street are two of the main shopping streets in Dublin. At Christmas time,  these streets become magical with stores putting on their best Christmas decorations. Some of the best stores to check out are Arnott’s on Henry Street and Brown Thomas on Grafton Street.

35. The magical Wild lights festival

In December, Dublin city organises the Wild lights festival which is essential the projection of Christmas lights all over the main monuments of the city. This really makes the city feel Christmasy! Some of our favourite places to spot those lights are:

• the Customer House
• the Samuel Beckett Bridge (look out for this one!!)
• the General Post Office on O’Connell Street
• Trinity College

These winter lights Dublin City sets everywhere are the perfect occasion to take a walking tour throughout the city!

36. Choir concert at St Patrick’s Cathedral

What could be more beautiful than listening to Christmas carols in one of the most beautiful churches of Dublin? The Christmas choir concerts at the St Patrick’s Cathedral are a popular events attracting hundreds of locals and visitors. We would recommend booking in advance! 

37. Christmas markets in Dublin

From Dublin castle’s Christmas market to the Guinness Storehouse winter village and Sword Christmas market, you’ll have your choice! If you are a first time visitor, we recommend checking the markets at Dublin Castle or the Guinness Storehouse as those are two of the main landmarks you should see during your first visit to Dublin in the winter. If you are a returning visitor or a local, 

You can check out the Christmas market in Phoenix Park or on the Dublin Docklands. 

38. Bord Gais Energy Theatre

The Bord Gais Energy Theatre is located in Dublin 2 in the Docklands and features lots of Christmas shows in the winter. It is worth checking out what is on at the time of your visit for a memorable night! 

39. Christmas events in Dublin that took place in the past and that might reappear

• The Christmas Panto Bus tour: This is essentially a bus escape game on the theme of Christmas! You will need to solve puzzles and riddles to help the elves save the magic of Christmas!
• The Singing Cinema: With four Christmas movie and bottomless popcorn, this cinema organises sing-along cinema sessions!

Where to eat in Dublin in the winter

Winter in Dublin can be cold and wet so you’ll need some good food to keep your energy levels high and visit the city. From traditional Irish food to romantic restaurants and Asian cuisine, we cover all the top restaurants we’ve been to. In the meantime, here are some of our favourites:

• Ryleigh’s: For brunch or dinner with a rooftop view, this is the perfect place to start off or finish your day right. The menu comprises breakfast bagels and Irish breakfast along with an amazing steak dish.
• LovinSpoon: Located just up O’Connell Street, LovinSpoon is one of our favourite places for an Irish breakfast. Trust us when we say that you will get all the energy you need there!
• Mama Yo: This is a new restaurant that opened in February 2022 and offers Chinese cuisine with a twist of modern technique. It is similar to tapas but with Chinese food.
• Bar Rua: This is a pub located in one of the most bustling parts of the city. We loved the Chowder and the Fish and Chips. It is a bit pricy but they do organise events regularly so there might be something going on next winter!

How to get from Dublin airport to Dublin city

When arriving at Dublin airport for a Dublin Christmas, I imagine you will want to get to Dublin city and the Christmas decorations as fast as possible. Don’t worry, getting to Dublin city centre from the airport is extremely easy and quite budget-friendly. You have a couple of options to get to Dublin.

How far from Dublin airport to Dublin City centre

The drive from Dublin Connolly to Dublin airport is about 14km long which takes about 25 minutes. The drive is a bit longer from Dublin Heuston to Dublin airport as Heuston station is on the opposite end of the city. The Dublin airport to Dublin city bus ride can take up to 40 minutes if you are taking a slow Dublin airport to Dublin City bus.

Dublin airport to Dublin City centre by fast bus

First, you can take fast buses from Dublin airport to Dublin City center. When coming out of the airport, go across the road and on your left, you will see an Airlink Bus stop with Airlink Buses. Airlink buses take you to Dublin city centre in about 20 minutes. One ticket costs around €8. You can buy your ticket online but in that case you will need to print it ahead of time. You can also buy a ticket directly at the airport. To do so, after exiting through the arrivals doors, go to your right where the car rental companies are. There you will see an information point where you can buy a ticket. Airlink buses are a bit expensive but they save you a lot of time. Be mindful that due to travel restrictions, their schedule might be different so always check beforehand. 

Dublin airport to Dublin City center by slow bus

Second, you can take slower buses from Dublin airport to Dublin City centre. To find the Dublin airport to Dublin City centre bus, you will need to come out of the airport, go across the road and the parking lot. City buses will wait for you there. Tickets for city buses are a lot cheaper (around €3) but the route usually takes about 40 minutes. Route 16 is one of the buses you can take and it will drop you off on O’Connell street. From there you can walk to your Airbnb. Be mindful that bus drivers only take coins (no bills!) and the exact amount of your ticket as they don’t give change. I would recommend having plenty of change so you can pay the exact amount of your fare. 

By taxi

Your third option is to take a taxi. It’s really easy to find a taxi at Dublin airport and the whole process is very straightforward. When coming out of the airport, go to your right. You will see a big lane and a number of taxis waiting there. Depending on the time of your arrival, there might be a line already but having gone through the process numerous times, it is usually less than a 15 minutes wait. Dublin airport taxi fare to Dublin City centre is usually around €25 depending on whether you are traveling during the day or night and if the taxi goes through the tunnel (€3-€4) or not. I would recommend asking your taxi driver for an estimate of the taxi fare from Dublin airport to Dublin City centre before getting on, as sometimes, some (emphasis on some) try to scam tourists and charge them way more than a reasonable and fair price. Once you have arrived, you will be able to pay by card. Always ask for a receipt just in case. 

By car

And finally, your last option is to rent a car. If you plan on staying in Dublin for your entire trip, you will not need a car as there is good public transportation for tourists such as buses, the las and bicycles. Also note that Dublin is not a very big city and you can easily walk around or get a cab to go around. That said, if you really want or need to, renting a car in Dublin is fairly easy although there are a couple of things you should know. 

I would recommend always booking your rental car in advance at least a few weeks before your trip. When booking, you will notice that most rental companies only accept credit cards. If you want to rent a car with a debit car, you will need to pay for extra insurance which often times doubles the cost of the rental. Finally, when you arrive at the airport, the rental companies will be located on your right by the doors. From there you will need to take your company’s shuttle to another parking lot. The shuttles come right outside the door by the taxi lane. Wait for your shuttle to take you to the parking lot. There you will be able to get your car.

Any questions on Winter in Dublin? Drop them in the comments or on insta and we will get back to you asap.