Dublin, Ireland is home to numerous iconic sights, and the ideal 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, which allows you the opportunity to explore on foot.
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You can use our easy-to-follow route to navigate to the top sights…for free! We also include a helpful Dublin Walking Tour Map at the end of the article.
Free Self Guided Walking Tour Dublin
This 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.
The route includes 15 Must-See Dublin Attractions, many of which can be entered. Some are free, while others 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!
Save, Pin or Bookmark our Free Dublin Walk to use during your Vacation to Ireland!
Dublin Walking Tour: 15 Sights To See
Alright, let’s get to it and go explore, shall we? Our self-guided, free tour of Dublin begins at…
#1 St. Patrick’s Cathedral
St. Patrick’s Cathedral was completed in 1191 and is the largest church in Ireland, with the spire reaching 140 feet. It was on this site in 450 AD St. Patrick baptized the first Irish converts.
As one of the top attractions in Dublin, an entry fee is required. Buy your ticket in advance and download it to your phone! Directions from St. Patrick’s to…
#2 St. Stephen’s Green
This 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 there is time in your Dublin Itinerary, consider having a relaxing picnic here. Alternatively, explore the area directly north of St. Stephen’s Green.
Top attractions in the vicinity are the Little Museum of Dublin, the National Museum of Ireland Archeology, and 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 are also near by. Directions from Saint Stephen’s to…
#3 Grafton Street
A pedestrian-only shopping lane, Grafton Street, is one of the must-see sights in Dublin. It 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 (open since 1869) and Bewley’s Café (opened in 1927).
Grafton is also popular with street performers and musicians that entertain the passers-by. Even U2’s Bono has performed here! Directions from Grafton Street to the…
#4 Irish Whiskey Museum
Whiskey is firmly part of Irish history. Today, distilleries dot the Dublin cityscape – each one offering a story along with samples of their product.
At the Irish Whiskey Museum, however, you get an unbiased version of the history of Irish whiskey…plus a chance to try some from several distillers!
While tickets are required for the tour and tasting experiences, visitors are free to stop in and check out the bar and shop. Directions from Irish Whiskey Museum to…
#5 Dublin Trinity College
The famous Trinity College was established in 1592 and is Ireland’s oldest university. Its official name is “The Holy and Undivided Trinity of Queen Elizabeth near Dublin”.
Some of the institution’s famous attendees include Oscar Wilde, Bram Stoker and Samuel Becket.
The 47-acre campus is arranged in squares around a bell tower and the library houses the Book of Kells. If you wish to enter, be sure to buy your ticket in advance! Directions from Trinity to…
#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 site is both architecturally and historically significant.
Built in the mid-1700s, it was the first ever specifically designed parliament structure, in that it featured a dual chamber. One for the House of Lords and one for the House of Commons.
In 1800, it was here that parliament voted (under bribery and threat of King George III) to abolish itself and unite 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 them, glass panes were never installed. This was due to a ‘window tax’ that would have driven up the cost!
Up for a fun detour? Great! Just around the corner is the famous Molly Malone Statue (MAP).
She is a character in an Irish folk song – a fishmonger by day and prostitute by night. Often referred to as ‘The Tart with the Cart’, visitors rub her bosoms for good luck. Directions from Parliament to…
#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 that leads north from the River Liffey.
The thoroughfare has been the site of protests, the annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade, battles during the 1916 Easter Rising and a bombing of the Nelson Pillar in 1966.
The street is named after Daniel O’Connell. He’s known as 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 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. Directions from O’Connell Bridge…
#8 River Liffey and the Ha’Penny Bridge
The next sight on our free Dublin Tour is the River Liffey. The waterway runs through the center of Dublin, dividing the city into north and south.
Several bridges span the Liffey, including three that are pedestrian-only. The most popular is the Ha’ Penny Bridge.
It dates to 1816 and got its nickname for the 1/2 pence toll once required to cross it. Directions from Ha’ Penny to…
#9 Dublin Temple Bar District
Every Dublin, Ireland vacation should include a few stops at a traditional pub! The energetic Temple Bar District is chock-full of Irish pubs, restaurants and tourist shops.
Enter the neighborhood through the Merchant’s Arch and turn right onto Temple Bar Street. Naturally, this is the prime place to join a Dublin Pub Crawl.
Several bars have live music starting mid-day and going late into the night. Our Favorite Dublin Pubs in the area are the namesake Temple Bar and The Quays. Directions from Temple Bar to…
#10 Dame Street Dublin and The Olympia Theater
The next stop is Dame Street, a major thoroughfare in the heart of Dublin City Centre. Lined with a mishmash of architectural styles, it’s home to numerous restaurants and shops.
That said, the Olympia Theater is the most prominent landmark on the street. Opened in 1879, 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 was completely restored in 2004. Directions from Olympia Theater to…
#11 Dublin City Hall
Built as the Royal Exchange in the mid-1800s, this building was transferred to the city government and renamed Dublin City Hall in 1850.
It’s free to step inside the rotunda and view the giant columns that support the domed ceiling. The murals tell the story of Dublin’s history, while tiled floor mosaic depicts the city’s Coat of Arms. Directions from City Hall to…
#12 Dublin Castle
Next up is the grand Dublin Castle. Built between 1208 and 1220, it was once the residence of viceroys.
Although now used as a conference center and event complex, the buildings represent some of the oldest architecture in the city.
It’s free to walk on the grounds, but a ticket is required to go inside, where they also offer guided tours. Directions from Dublin Castle to…
#13 Christ Church Cathedral of Dublin
Built around 1030 – making it older than St. Patrick’s – the medieval Christ Church Cathedral is one of the best places to visit in Dublin for a history lesson.
Expanded in 1171, most of the current structure dates between 1871 and 1878. Unless you are there to pray, you will need to purchase a ticket for entry. Directions from Christ Church Cathedral to…
#14 John’s Lane Church
Although lesser-known than St. Patrick’s and Christ Church Cathedral, we feel John’s Lane is a Dublin hidden gem!
It 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 was the colorful interior that we found to be the most striking. Plus, it free to enter! Directions to the last stop on the tour…
#15 The Brazen Head
Claiming to be Ireland’s oldest pub, The Brazen Head is said to have origins dating back to 1198. The classic Irish pub features quaint rooms, three bars and live music.
We believe it is a perfect place to stop for a pint at the end of a Dublin Self-Guided Walking Tour. Also read our complete review of The Brazen Head and why you should go there on a Sunday!
Tourist Map of Dublin, Ireland
When embarking on Self Guided Walking Tours of Dublin, a map is a must! Use this Dublin Sightseeing Map for turn-by-turn directions.
Overview City Center Map of Dublin
Use this map for an overview of the sights listed on our Self-Guided Dublin Walking Tour.
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 believe it is the Best Free Walking Tour Dublin because it allows visitors to see the city at their own pace.
However, those who want to learn more and meet fellow travelers may want to consider joining a Dublin guided tour.
Dublin Historical Walking Tour
This easy 2-hour walking tour focuses on the vibrant history of Dublin. Led by a local guide, participants are taken through the city while listening to interesting facts and information.
Dublin Dark Side Tour
There is a dark side to Dublin – as evidenced by gruesome stories of the past. On the Dark Dublin Tour you will learn about brothels, witches and the Hellfire Club while walking through back alleys…if you dare!
Ghost Tour Dublin
Set off to the spookiest spots in town! Learn about haunted tales on a spooky Gravedigger Ghost Tour. This is a bus excursion…which will give your feet a much-needed rest!
Dublin 1916 Easter Rising Tour
The Rebellion Walking Tour includes visiting key locations of the Easter uprising along with re-enactments and multi-media presentations.
Foodie Tour in Dublin
Join a guide on this highly rated Small Group Food Tour. Learn about history and local cuisine while feasting your way around town. Drinks included!
Dublin Street Art Tour
Visitors interested in learning more about the alternative side of Dublin can join this Street Art Tour to find off the beaten path haunts.
Dublin Private City Tour
Those who want a personal introduction can join this Private Walking Tour. On this exclusive excursion, you get to see Dublin with the help of a knowledgeable and attentive guide.
More Fun Dublin, Ireland Tours
- Visit the Guinness Storehouse to take a tour followed by a tasting!
- Head to the Jameson Distillery for a lesson on Irish whiskey!
- Sail away on a River Liffey Cruise!
Hop On Hop Off Dublin Tour Bus
The classic, red Hop On Hop Off Tour has two routes that stop at 28 places of interest. You can opt for a 1- or 2-Day Pass and two walking tours are included in the price!
Day Trips from Dublin, Ireland
One of our favorite getaways is a short jaunt to the coastal village of Howth. You can easily plan your own Day Trip To Howth – or book a tour.
Other simple Dublin day trips include the beachside community of Bray and the lovely village of Malahide.
You could also travel to Northern Ireland to see the city of Belfast. Make your way on your own or join a tour of Northern Ireland and Giant’s Causeway.
Other popular day tours from Dublin include seeing the stunning Cliffs of Moher (with a stop in Galway) or making a trip to the Blarney Castle, and kissing the Blarney Stone, of course!
Travel Tips for Your Dublin Trip
As we make our travel plans, we find that organization is key. To stay on top of all the details of your vacation, use our 26 page Printable Travel Planner!
Where To Stay in Dublin, Ireland
During the summer season, top value hotels book up quickly. Before you start your search, read our tips for Booking the Best Hotels.
Two highly-rated Dublin hotels are Leonardo Dublin Christchurch and Temple Bar Inn. Finding an apartment through Airbnb is another option for your Ireland trip.
Getting To Dublin
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 major European hubs like London, Frankfurt, Paris, Madrid, Lisbon and Amsterdam!
When we need to purchase cheap plane tickets, we start our search for the best deals on fares at Skyscanner.
Dublin Walking Tours: What You Will Need
Make sure you are prepared by bringing the following items along with you. You can read all of our packing hacks later, but go ahead and grab your FREE Checklist!
Travel Shoes
Although the city is very walkable, you will want to pack comfortable walking shoes. I like to wear lightweight trainers by New Balance and Kris prefers Merrell trail shoes.
Ireland Weather Attire
The weather in Dublin is always unpredictable. It’s best to bring along a packable raincoat or travel umbrella on your free walking tour of Dublin.
For those sunny summer moments, don’t forget sunglasses, sunscreen and a wide-brimmed travel hat.
Day Pack
Whether you prefer a backpack or a suitcase, you will also want a great day bag to organize all your daily travel essentials. When we explore a city on foot, we wear these small backpacks.
Travel Camera
While many travelers still use their phone, we believe it is best to invest in an actual travel camera.
We carry a Canon Rebel fitted with a 18-135mm lens. This DSLR is a perfect budget camera for beginner photographers and the kit comes with loads of accessories!
Ireland Travel Insurance
Trip insurance may help in the case of cancelled flights or lost luggage – as well as illness or injury while abroad. If you haven’t already obtained coverage, 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 additional advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page!
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