Ireland Itinerary: Dublin Free Walking Tour
- Laura
- Aug 12
- 7 min read
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In the heart of Dublin Ireland, 1000 years of Celtic history is etched in the downtown skyline. Artsy and energetic; this little city is bursting with stories to tell. Our downtown Dublin free walking tour will help you get to know this friendly town of buskers, cafes, and pubs.
Randy and I think a walking tour is one of the best things to do in Dublin, Ireland. On foot you can interact with the shopkeepers, street performers, and locals that make this city tick. Our route includes some of Dublin’s most iconic churches, pubs, green spaces, and shopping streets.
When thinking about what to do in Dublin Ireland a few must-see sites percolate to the top. This walk hits them all. Our Dublin free walking tour begins with stops at St Patrick’s Cathedral and Christ Church. We then explore Dublin Castle, Temple Bar, the Book of Kells Experience, the Museum of Natural History, St. Stephen’s Green, and Grafton Street.
WHERE IS DOWNTOWN DUBLIN
Dublin is the largest city in Ireland, and its capital. The city sits on the Irish Sea at the mouth of the River Liffey – which flows through the city center. Downtown Dublin is roughly the area between the James Joyce Bridge and the Samual Beckett Bridge on the north and south sides of the river. Our walk focuses on downtown’s south side.
When considering what to do in Dublin Ireland, it’s good to know that the downtown area is compact and extremely walkable. The city has wide sidewalks and many pedestrian lanes which make a walking tour a great choice of things to do.
ROUTE DETAILS: DUBLIN FREE WALKING TOUR
Our Dublin free walking tour begins at St. Patrick’s Cathedral and ends on Grafton Street. Dublin is full of alleys and twisting streets. We have provided the addresses for each stop. We suggest using a street map or phone map app to guide you from stop to stop.
Walk Distance: 2.6 miles (4.2 km)
Walk Duration: Without stopping this walk would take about 1 hour and 15 minutes. Touring St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Christ Church, Dublin Castle, seeing the Book of Kells, the Natural History Museum, having a drink in a pub, and shopping on Grafton Street – plan for a 4-6 hour outing.
DUBLIN IRELAND TOURS
This walk works well as an afternoon activity. Bundle your walk with a Dublin Ireland tour in the morning or evening:
DUBLIN IRELAND HOTELS
Our Dublin free walking tour ends in the St. Stephen’s Green neighborhood. In this area there are many mid- and higher-end hotels to choose from:
WEATHER AND BEST TIME TO VISIT DUBLIN
Dublin Ireland weather stays quite constant throughout the year with temperatures ranging from the 40’s F to the 60’s F (winter to summer). The weather changes frequently with lots of rain. We think the best time to visit Dublin is during the months of May, June, September, and October when the city is bustling – but crowds are not at peak.
FREE WALKING TOUR DUBLIN MAP
DAY TOURS FROM DUBLIN IRELAND
WALKING ROUTE: BEST THINGS TO DO IN DUBLIN IRELAND
Stop 1: St. Patrick’s Cathedral
Address: St Patrick's Close, Dublin, D08 H6X3, Ireland
St. Patrick's Cathedral was founded in 1191. Topped with Greystone turrets, the Roman Catholic church is the National Cathedral of the Church of Ireland. Inside of the church see gorgeous stained-glass windows and the crypts of Irish statesmen. There is an entrance fee; guided tours are held in twice a day Monday through Saturday.
STOP 2: Christ Church Cathedral
Address: Christchurch Pl, Wood Quay, Dublin, D08 TF98, Ireland
Christ Church Cathedral (The Cathedral of the Holy Trinity) is an 11th century Roman Catholic church. The medieval cathedral that was founded by the Viking King Sitric Silkenbeard in 1028. Over the centuries it has been expanded and rebuilt by many rulers.
Pay the cathedral entrance fee, and explore its soaring nave and tiled floor. There are ancient tombs and religious relics to observe. Outside, search for the homeless Jesus statue that lies on a bench. Tours and self-guided audio tours are available. Open 7 days a week.
Many horsedrawn carriages give rides around the Christ Church area so be on the lookout. Hop onboard a jaunting car (two wheels) or carriage (four wheels) to see Dublin from a different perspective.
Stop 3: Darkey Kelley’s Bar and Restaurant
Address: 19 Fishamble St, Christchurch Pl, Temple Bar, Dublin 8, D08 PD8W, Ireland
Darkey Kelley’s is our first pub stop of the day. The pub’s namesake, Darkey Kelley, was an 18th century brothel owner who was burned at the stake for witchcraft. The pub, named in her honor, is a long-time favorite Dublin watering hole.
The bar’s interior is warm and homey. From (mostly) wherever you sit, you will be able to see and hear the great trad-music sessions for which the venue is known. There is a full menu serving lunch and dinner between noon and 9:45 PM. Stop for a pint of Guinness, some conversation, and great Irish tunes.
On the walk to our next stop, pause at some of the many shops with Irish crafts along the route. There are shops selling Aran sweaters, Celtic jewelry, Irish coffee, tea, whiskey, and biscuits.
Stop 4: Dublin Castle
Address: Dame St, Dublin 2, Ireland
Dublin Castle is a major government center and tourist attraction. The castle was constructed in the 13th century on top of an old Viking settlement. In 1922, Ireland assumed independence and the Irish government took control of the complex.
If you enjoy touring historical sites, visit the castle’s gardens and state apartments. A self-guided tour takes in several apartment rooms including the Battleaxe Landing, Drawing Room, Throne Room, and Portrait Gallery. There is an entrance fee.
On the trek between Dublin Castle and the Temple Bar Pub, glance about for the abundant street art on this stretch. The city is famous for its colorful (and often political) street art. Look for murals painted on benches, buildings, and signs. A short diversion to see the Bloom Hotel on Angelsea Street is worth the trip.
Stop 5: Temple Bar Pub
Address: 47-48 Temple Bar, Dublin 2, D02 N725, Ireland
The Temple Bar Pub is a Dublin institution. The brightly painted red and gold bar is a favorite of tourists looking for music and libation. Located on this corner since 1840, the pub advertises the largest collection of whiskies in Ireland; and the largest selection of pub sandwiches “anywhere in the world.”
The Temple Bar Pub is a great place to go for live music and souvenirs. The onsite shop sells Temple Bar clothing and local crafts. The pub also offers classes (Irish Coffee and whiskey tasting) and walking tours.
Temple Bar Pub is located in Temple Bar neighborhood – Dublin. This is the area between Dame, Westmoreland, and Fishamble Streets; and the River Liffey. The district is packed with pubs offering traditional Irish menus and trad-music sessions. In this neighborhood locals mix with tourists and the atmosphere is craic (fun and welcoming).
From the Temple Bar Pub wander the streets and alleys of the Temple Bar neighborhood – Dublin. Keep an eye out for these terrific bars. Stop in at any that pique your interest for another pint of Guinness and an Irish song.
The Quays: 10-12 Temple Bar, Dublin 2, D02 EW63, Ireland
Oliver St John Gogarty’s: 2 Fleet St, Temple Bar, Dublin, Ireland
Stop 5: Trinity College Book of Kells Experience
Address: Trinity Long Room, The University of Dublin Trinity College, College Green, South-East Inner City, Dublin, Ireland
If you are intrigued by religious artifacts, our next stop will be the highlight of the trip. Take a stroll through Dublin’s Trinity College campus. The university was established by Queen Elizabeth I in 1592. Located in the heart of Dublin, the 47 acre campus lists Oscar Wilde, Samuel Beckett, and Bram Stoker as alumni.
The Book of Kells Experience is located on the Trinity College campus. The Book of Kells is a 9th century manuscript that depicts four gospels of the Christian New Testament. At the Book of Kells Experience visitors can view the intricate illustrations of the ancient book, and explore the college’s Old Library and Long Room. There is an entrance fee.
Stop 6: National Museum of Ireland: Natural History
Address: Merrion St Upper, Dublin 2, D02 F627, Ireland
The Natural history museum is a branch of the National Museum of Ireland. The museum is sometimes referred to as the “Dead Zoo.” See four floors of mammals, fish, birds, reptiles, and more. Admission is free.
Stop 7: St. Stephen’s Green
Address: Grafton Street, South City Centre, Dublin
St. Stephen’s Green is a large green space in downtown Dublin. The garden is home to a number of sculptural monuments linked to Irish history. Take a walk around the park. Enjoy the natural environment, and see how the locals relax and play.
Stop 8: Grafton Street Shopping
Address: Grafton Street, South City Centre, Dublin
End your Dublin free walking tour on Grafton Street. The .5km road is a pedestrianized shopping zone. Along Grafton Street find department stores, artisan craft shops, vintage clothing, antiques, and jewelry stores. There are often buskers entertaining on the sidewalk. Buy some gifts for home and enjoy an Irish coffee.
Slán (Goodbye) from feisty Dublin, Laura and Randy
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