How to spend 72 hours in Dublin.

A hidden gem in Temple Bar, this tiny alleyway has been transformed into a celebration of love, filled with colourful street art and romantic quotes by the artist Anna Doran. It’s the perfect place to snap some pics and soak in Dublin’s creative vibes. 

Heads up: Don’t get confused with the other ‘Love Lane’ on the other side of the city!  

2. Tap into Irish history at Dublin Castle 

Described at “the nerve centre of historical power in Ireland,” for centuries this epic building served as the headquarters of English, then British administration, before being handed over the the new Irish government in 1922 following Ireland’s independence. Prepare to learn a lot. 

Don’t miss: Venture around the back into Dubh Linn Garden, which is truly an oasis of calm in the heart of the city. 

3. Make like Marianne and Connell at Trinity College 

Ireland’s oldest university has seen some things. Explore the 47-acre city centre campus on a guided or self-guided historical walking tour, and don’t miss the Book of Kells Experience – an absolute must for history or book lovers. Side note: Normal People was filmed here… *swoon* 

There’s a reason this bustling hole-in-the-wall takeaway pizza joint has a near-constant queue outside. Loved by locals and visitors alike, the thick slices, crispy base and friendly service is worth the wait. The pepperoni slice with added hot honey is an absolute winner. 

Top tip: Arrive before opening to skip the queue and nab a spot to sit. 

Don't mistake this for a tourist trap, this legendary venue is a must – whether you’re watching a live band, or popping in for a swift half (or a dash of Irish whiskey – they have the country’s largest collection, don’t you know). They also sell merch, so you can literally go there and get the t-shirt. 

Looking for more pub recommendations? Check out Dublin’s best drinking holes with the Gastro Gays. 

Honouring the thousand-year-old culture and taste of Xi’An, one of the oldest cities in China, this street food spot serves up unique flavours for a twist on your usual Chinese. Order the Spice Bag and take it back to your apartment for a hard-earned TV dinner. 

Psst: Looking for more international Dublin dining spots? From French to Greek to Brazilian, here are our faves. 

Based in the cool Creative Quarter, this vibrant indoor market is full of independent vendors. Hunt for unique trinkets and objects with a story to tell, along with cheap eats and street snacks. (Fun fact: it’s actually Ireland's oldest market, having been around since the 19th century.) 

8. Take time to reflect at St. Patrick’s Cathedral 

Founded in 1191, although its history dates back to 450 AD, this impressive namesake of Ireland’s patron saint is one of the few buildings left from the medieval city of Dublin. Discover a peaceful atmosphere where you can take in everything happening around you. 

Established in 1198 – and proudly Ireland’s oldest pub – this gastrobar offers an authentic local experience where you can listen to Irish music, knock back a range of drinks, and tuck into delicious food in historic surroundings. A must-visit for the history alone. 

Psst: Find more pub recommendations in Dublin’s best drinking holes with the Gastro Gays. 

Visiting the home of Ireland’s most famous beer is one thing you cannot miss. Even if you’re not a Guinness drinker, the experience – from savouring the sights, sounds, tastes, and aromas of Guinness to printing your selfie on the head of your pint (yep, for real) – is a must. 

Top tip: The Gravity Bar offers the most breathtaking views of the city. 

Bringing the dirty south to the northside, this New Orleans-inspired bar and eatery fuses the vibrance, craic and soul of Southern and Irish hospitality. The menu – which heroes locally sourced ingredients and the flavours of Cajun Creole cuisine – will leave you craving more.