Catherine - Savvy Family TravelPlanning a 2 day Dublin itinerary with the perfect mix of history, music, food, and lore can be overwhelming at first. Luckily, in Dublin, everything is fairly close together, and we’ve curated a detailed itinerary of the most impactful sites.
Whether you’re here for the Guinness, moody medieval lanes, or the sheer joy of live music spilling out of a pub doorway, two days is enough to get a good taste of the city.
I’ll break down exactly how to spend those 48 hours: where to go, how long to stay, and what to do if the weather turns so you can make the absolute most of your time in Ireland’s capital.
2 Day Dublin Itinerary
Day 1: Old Dublin
Morning (9:00–11:00): Trinity College, Book of Kells & Grafton Street
Kick off your 2 day Dublin itinerary at Trinity College. A 9:00 a.m. slot is ideal before tour groups arrive in full force. The famous library is currently under renovations, so you won’t see it in its full glory as some shelves have been emptied. A new Book of Kells Experience is ow available.
Plan to spend about 60 to 90 minutes at Trinity. Afterwards, wander out to Grafton Street for the shops and live street music and then dip into St. Stephen’s Green. The park is a perfect morning breather.
Walk time between stops: 5–10 minutes each.
Midday (11:00–1:00): Dublin Castle & the Chester Beatty Library
Next, make your way to Dublin Castle. It’s less “castle-y” than medieval European fortresses, but its State Apartments, Viking-era foundations, and gardens make this a worthy and underrated stop. It’s under 10€ to explore.
Right behind the castle is The Chester Beatty Library, one of the city’s most delightful (and free!) cultural gems, filled with manuscripts, Asian art, and rotating exhibitions. Since its FREE (operates on donations), we recommend checking it out if you skipped the Book of Kells.
We recommend lunch nearby at The Saucy Cow Vegan Food Temple Bar.
Afternoon (1:00–3:00): St. Patrick’s Cathedral & Christ Church Cathedral
Your next two stops are close enough to visit back-to-back. Start with St. Patrick’s Cathedral (€11 per adult), wander through its peaceful grounds, then walk 8 minutes to Christ Church Cathedral (€11.50), home to an expansive medieval crypt and beautiful architecture.
Late Afternoon (3:00–5:00): The Guinness Storehouse
Note: The Guinness Storehouse is typically open until 5pm, but closes at 2:30pm on Mondays.
Whether you drink or not, the Guinness Storehouse is iconic and absolutely belongs in a 2 day Dublin itinerary. The interactive exhibits, the brewing history, and the Gravity Bar’s panoramic views make it a crowd-pleaser.
The Guinness Storehouse is a 20 minute walk from Christ Church Cathedral or a 7 minute drive.
Time needed: 1.5-2 hours
If you don’t drink, try the Guinness 0.0 (it is quite good), or skip the tasting floor and enjoy the exhibits & views. You can also swap this stop out entirely with one of the attractions on our list of alternate ideas below.
Evening: Dinner and Entertainment
After Guinness, walk back toward Temple Bar or The Liberties for dinner. Here are some great options:
- The Quays Dublin – Temple Bar
- The Temple Bar (touristy but fun for first-timers)
- The Brazen Head (Ireland’s oldest pub)
For non-drinkers: Irish pubs are mostly about atmosphere and music. You won’t feel out of place ordering tea, a mocktail, or sparkling water.
Wrap up your night with a stroll over the Ha’Penny Bridge.
Day 2: History, Whiskey, and Music
Morning (9:00–11:00): Kilmainham Gaol
This is one of Ireland’s most important historic sites, and it’s powerful. The stories of the 1916 Easter Rising leaders have stayed with me for years now. Give yourself about 90 minutes here.
You must book ahead. Spots fill up weeks in advance.
Late Morning (11:00–1:30): Choose Your Own Adventure Before Lunch
Depending on the weather and your personal style, pick one of these activities before choosing a place for lunch.
- Shopping – Grafton Street or the Shopping Centers on Henry St. Afterward, grab a cocktail at The Sackville Lounge.
- Street Art Walk – Especially around Temple Bar and the Liberties
- Merrion Square – Picnic, stroll and admire the Georgian doors, and find the Oscar Wilde statue
For lunch, you’ll have plenty of great options depending on where your late morning takes you. If you’re near Smithfield, Token is a fun stop with retro arcade vibes. (Great if you have kids on your 2 Day Dublin itinerary.)
Or, check out Fade Street Social for modern Irish flavors, The Woollen Mills for cozy comfort food overlooking the Liffey, or Gallagher’s Boxty House to discover traditional boxty pancakes.
Afternoon (2:00–4:30): EPIC Emigration Museum & Famine Memorial
EPIC is arguably Dublin’s best museum. If you’re doing a 2 day Dublin itinerary, this should be at the top of your list. It’s interactive, beautifully curated, and unexpectedly emotional.
Walk outside afterwards to see the Famine Memorial, one of the most moving sculptures in the city.
EPIC is open daily 10am to 6:30pm with last entry at 5pm. Tickets are slightly discounted online at €21.00 per adult.
Late Afternoon (4:30–6:00): Jameson Distillery
Getting to Jameson: Walk or Tram to Jameson Bow Street Distillery.
Their tour is interactive and fun even for non-whiskey drinkers. We suggest prebooking online.
Non-alcohol alternatives: Ask for the alcohol-free tasting or replace this stop with the Glasnevin Cemetery tour, Dublinia, or one of the many alternate ideas listed below.
Evening: Dinner, Live Music, & River Views
After you complete the tour and tasting at Jameson, head to The Cobblestone for some of the best live music. End the night with a peaceful stroll along the quays at sunset, taking in the river views.
Kids are allowed at the Cobblestone until 9pm. Check their website for their live music schedule to make sure you can catch a session that starts before nine.
Rainy Day Lifesavers in Dublin
If the sky opens up, at some point it will, you don’t need to panic or toss your entire 2 day Dublin itinerary into the nearest puddle.
Dublin is one of the best cities in Europe for finding cozy indoor options that still feel genuine. You may have noticed that most of the top activities in our 2 day itinerary are already indoor.
Here are some more swaps to keep your visit grand.
Vintage Tea Bus Tour
Cruise past major landmarks while nibbling pastries, sipping tea, listening to an entertaining narrator, and enjoying a tea party on wheels. It’s warm and whimsical, and more importantly, it’s dry. It fits beautifully into a 2 day Dublin itinerary without sacrificing sightseeing time.
Dead Zoo
Officially the Natural History Museum, unofficially “the Dead Zoo.” This spot is fascinating and it’s also free, indoors, and great for adults and kids.
National Gallery of Ireland
Light-filled, peaceful, free, and far more impressive than many visitors expect. Wander through Irish and European masterpieces while waiting out the drizzle.
Covered Shopping Arcades
A covered arcade is your go-to for staying dry while visiting stalls, local artisans, quirky boutiques, and cafés.
George’s Street Arcade and St. Stephen’s Shopping Centre are both solid options.
Experience the Creative Quarter
This is at the top of our list for our return visit, so I had to be sure to include it here. The Powerscourt Centre is a shopping center housed in a massive Georgian Townhouse.
GPO Museum
If you don’t make it to Kilmainham Gaol on the 2 Day Dublin Itinerary, but still want to delve into the powerful stories of the Easter Rising in 1916, head to the GPO Museum housed in the General Post Office Building.
More Things to Consider for a 2 Day Dublin Itinerary
If one of the big-name attractions doesn’t resonate with you, Dublin has an abundance of alternatives to swap into our 2 day Dublin itinerary without adding travel time.
Teeling Distillery
A slick, modern distillery experience right in the Liberties. It offers a more intimate vibe and some of the best storytelling in the city.
Pearse Lyons Distillery
A boutique distillery located in a renovated church.
Howth Cliff Walk
One of Dublin’s most beautiful short hikes plus great seafood in town afterwards. Walk the pier and spot seals bobbing around waiting for scraps from fishing boats. There are about 10-20 seals who’ve taken residence near the West Pier.
Malahide Castle
A castle with beautiful grounds, a butterfly house, boutique shopping, cafes, and plenty of space to roam.
IMMA (Irish Museum of Modern Art)
Bold exhibitions inside a former military hospital. The grounds are amazing, too.
Botanic Gardens + Glasnevin
Greenhouses, Victorian architecture, and one of Ireland’s most historic cemeteries.
Kid-Friendly Additions to Your 2 Day Dublin Itinerary
Dublin is incredibly family-friendly, and swapping in kid-focused stops can make your 2 day Dublin itinerary even better for families.
Phoenix Park playgrounds
Let the kids run wild in one of Europe’s largest city parks. Frequent deer sightings are an added bonus.
Dead Zoo Lab, National Museum of Ireland
Weird, whimsical, and free. Kids are fascinated by the skeletons and ability to inspect animals up close.
Dublinia
A kid-friendly Viking-meets-medieval museum near Christ Church.
Imaginosity Children’s Museum
Hands-on exhibits for kids to climb, create, and explore.
Jeanie Johnston ship
A Famine-era ship that brings history to life with captivating storytelling.
Viking Splash Tour
A land-and-water adventure in an amphibious vehicle while learning about history.
St. Stephens Green Playground
A convenient stop for unstructured play when you’re already exploring central Dublin. Also in the park, be sure to visit the ducks and swans in the pond.
Croke Park
Croke Park is Ireland’s largest stadium and hosts GAA sporting events throughout the summer. See if you can catch a match or at least take a tour of the stadium. Great for soccer fanatics or families who want to learn about Hurling/Camogie.
Dublin Zoo
Reaching the zoo and giving it enough time will consume half a day, so I’d only hit this if Zoo’s are a huge favorite for your kids. Founded in 1831, its one of the world’s most famous zoos and is located inside Phoenix Park.
How to Get Around Dublin Efficiently
Walking will be the predominant mode of transportation. An Uber here and there though will save you time and energy.
To save money though, the LUAS tram is easy to navigate locally. So is the bus, but it’s slower than the tram.
Try the DART train to get to nearby day trip attractions like Howth or Malahide.
Dublin Reservations You’ll Need in Advance
Make sure to reserve these attractions early:
- Book of Kells
- Guinness Storehouse
- Vintage Tea Bus
- Jameson
- Kilmainham Gaol (3-4 weeks ahead as they open 28 days in advance and do sell out)
- Dublin Castle (timed entry recommended)
Where to Enjoy Dublin Nightlife Without (or With) Alcohol
Dublin may be known for its pubs, but your 2 day Dublin itinerary doesn’t have to revolve around drinking. The nightlife scene is full of options for all preferences.
Live music at The Cobblestone
Traditional Irish music, friendly crowds, fantastic atmosphere.
Comedy at The Laughter Lounge
A great way to wrap up your night without hopping between bars.
Theatre at Abbey Theatre or Gate Theatre
Ireland’s literary heart beats strong — perfect for culture lovers.
Speakeasies with full mocktail menus
Dublin’s cocktail bars are creative with non-alcoholic options. Try Vintage Cocktail Club or Peruke & Periwig.
Pubs that welcome non-drinkers:
Irish pubs are about music, conversation, and vibe. Zero pressure to drink. Kids are typically allowed until 9pm.
Arriving in Dublin
Most visitors will arrive into Ireland with a flight into Dublin International Airport, DUB.
Unfortunately, there’s not an express option downtown from the airport, but construction on a Metro North route is planned for completion in the early 2030s to address this gap.
For a short visit to the city, an Uber (30-35€) downtown will be most efficient. There are also public busses for a couple euros but will use up more of your valuable time and are a hassle with luggage.
If your 2 day Dublin Itinerary is part of a wider road trip, don’t miss our popular 3 Day Ireland road trips (including Northern Ireland) and our immersive 14 day Ireland itinerary. We also have dedicated itineraries for Cork and Cobh.
Where to Base Yourself for a Short Dublin Stay
For a 2 day Dublin itinerary, convenience is everything. The city center is extremely walkable, but proximity to your first morning stop saves you time and your feet.
A quick neighborhood cheat sheet:
- The Liberties – Near Guinness, great food scene, gritty and cool.
- Temple Bar – Central and lively; stay here only if late-night noise doesn’t bother you.
- St. Stephen’s Green area – Polished, quiet, and perfect for walking to nearly everything.
- Smithfield – Near Jameson; hip and industrial.
- Grand Canal Dock – “Dublin’s Silicon Docks,” features modern hotels and river views.
Families tend to prefer St. Stephen’s Green or Grand Canal Dock; couples often gravitate toward The Liberties or Temple Bar. You can’t really go wrong — Dublin is compact enough.
Best Time to Visit Dublin
Here’s what to expect in Dublin, by season:
- Spring: Fresh blooms and St. Patrick’s Day energy.
- Summer: More sunshine, longer days, but the biggest crowds of the year.
- Fall: My personal favorite — fewer tourists, crisp air, fall colors.
- Winter: Affordable, easier to snag reservations, TradFest in January, and magical around Christmas.
Major Events to Consider
If you’re planning a 2 day Dublin itinerary, it’s worth checking what’s happening in the city while you’re there. These events can make your short trip feel even more memorable.
March brings the iconic St. Patrick’s Festival, a multi-day celebration filled with parades, music, and full-tilt Irish energy.
In June there is Bloomsday, when the city celebrates its literary history and passion.
Early fall is packed with creativity thanks to the Dublin Fringe Festival in September and the world-class Dublin Theatre Festival running from late September into October.
And if you’re visiting in January, TradFest fills pubs, churches, and historic venues with some of the best traditional Irish music you’ll ever hear.
What to Pack for Your 2 Days in Dublin
Packing smart will make your 2 day Dublin itinerary more enjoyable:
- Rain Jacket
- Comfortable, waterproof walking shoes
- Layers
- Small umbrella or poncho
- Portable charger
- Light scarf
- Stroller if traveling with little ones, including a rain cover. (Be prepared to navigate cobblestones, but overall, Dublin is stroller friendly)
FAQ: Planning the Perfect 2 Day Dublin Itinerary
Is 2 days enough time in Dublin?
It’s enough to sample the highlights without feeling rushed.
Can I do Dublin with kids?
Absolutely. Dublin is one of the easiest European capitals to explore as a family. The locals love children and always make my kids feel welcomed.
Is Dublin walkable?
Very. Most attractions are within 10–20 minutes of each other.
Do I need euros in Dublin?
Cards are widely accepted, but keep a few euros for musicians, cafés, or small vendors on your 2 day Dublin itinerary.
Should I rent a car for Dublin?
Not in Dublin as parking is limited and expensive. Save the car rental for road trips outside the city.
Is Dublin expensive?
It can be. Pubs and casual cafés help you keep costs down; sit-down restaurants add up fast. Book accommodations well in advance to help save money.
Catherine – Savvy Family Travel
My favorite pastime is finding fun, interesting experiences to share with family and friends.
I’m a mom of two energetic and curious boys. My tireless husband provides comic relief, is our favorite photographer, and an expert navigator.
I’m a firm believer that travel with kids doesn’t have to be intimidating or expensive. It can be affordable, epic, and, dare I say, even relaxing!
Are you a travel loving parent too? I’d love to meet you, please reach out via Messenger and say “hi!”
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