Top Things To Do In Dublin

Tailoring each experience to your wishes by locals who love their city

Tourist posing in a green hat and yellow jacket in front of a tourist attraction in Dublin
Tourist posing in a green hat and yellow jacket in front of a tourist attraction in Dublin

Wondering what to do in Dublin? The best private tours & experiences with locals

Dublin is a beautiful blend of heritage and hedonism – a city with history dating back to the times of Vikings and Victorians, but with a startlingly modern, multicultural appeal. Charismatic and convivial, the locals are always up for a pint of Guinness at the pub and happy to share their take on the best things to do in Dublin. A few recommendations are bound to come up again and again: From soaking up 9th-century architecture and uncovering the city’s literary heritage to exploring breathtaking cliffs and castles along the pristine coastline, the most incredible things to do in Dublin are those that center around the city’s history, culture, and natural beauty.

Tourists walking down the famous Anne Street in Dublin with a local guide

A living museum

Dublin can trace its origin back more than 1,000 years, and its storied past reads like an epic novel. Stepping back in time in a city with so much tangible history is easy, and exploring the centuries-old landmarks are some of the most enchanting things to do in Dublin. Stroll along the 200-year-old Ha’Penny Bridge stretching across the River Liffey, and discover medieval castles and cathedrals proudly on display between other architectural treasures from the city’s Georgian heyday. No matter which of the city’s eras you encounter, the history of Dublin is truly captivating.

Local guide showing tourists around Temple Bar in Dublin

Drinking in Dublin

If there’s one thing the Irish capital is known for, it’s the city’s iconic drinking culture. Red-bricked pubs are at the center of socialization, and some of the most memorable things to do in Dublin involve downing a pint or two. Perhaps you’ll explore the historic Temple Bar district, the soul of the city’s nightlife, or maybe you’ll bar-hop between century-old institutions echoing with laughter and festive Irish fiddles. Wherever you go, you’ll soon learn that music, beer, and whisky are the cornerstones of the Irish pub culture, and grabbing a drink after dinner is a must.

Tourists admiring the street art on a building in Dublin while exploring the city with a local guide

Scenic splendor

Just outside the compact city, natural beauty reigns supreme. Charming seaside towns (some with tales from the days Dublin had its hands full with Vikings) are dotted along the sparkling coastline, existing peacefully in the shadow of cliffside castles. Planning a day trip to one of these beautiful locations should be high on the list of things to do in Dublin. But the city itself isn’t lacking in nature. Exploring the sprawling central park, St Stephen's Green, and the 300-year-old Iveagh Gardens – fondly referred to as Dublin’s “Secret Garden” – are two more brilliant things to do in Dublin.

Latest reviews from our guests

    Jose was very knowledgable and engaging! We enjoyed all the sites and history he shared with us!

    18 May 2026

    Don S

    We thoroughly enjoyed our walking tour with Declan. He chose very interesting places to show us, and his knowledge of the city and history is quite extensive. He made us feel so comfortable from the start, like friends taking a walk together as he talked about Dublin and Ireland. We would definitely recommend booking your Dublin experience with Declan.

    14 May 2026

    Beth J

    After the booking with City Unscripted we received a questionnaire regarding our preferences. Shortly after completion we received the credentials of our guide. We immediately we had very good communication with José Luis to plan our journey. He picked us up at Pearse Station to start our tour. First he guided us through the modern part of Dublin. Then we took the bus to the old city where we did an intense walking tour. We enjoyed lunch together in a nice pub (Stags Head). We continued to other neighbourhoods (e.g. Temple Bar) and visited the Book of Kells Experience at Trinity College together with the old library. This is a must see. We bought tickets in advance as José Luis advised us. He was very well prepared and had a lot of pictures on his tablet to show us during the walk.

    13 May 2026

    Alfons M

    Declan is an excellent guide and ambassador for Dublin and Ireland. He’s able to convey his vast knowledge in a way that helped us learn, while also having fun.

    13 May 2026

    Beth J

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Experiences for all types of travelers

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Experiences
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Locals outside a popular pub in Dublin after a night out

Best Dublin Night Tours

A typical street view of a rainy day in Dublin

Private Tour Guides In Dublin

Walking tours in Dublin

Walking tours in Dublin

Private tour guides in Dublin

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Dublin Food Tours

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Dublin Layover Tours

Tours With Locals In Dublin

Tours With Locals In Dublin

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