Five Days In Dublin – Travel Guide For First Timers

Dublin, the capital of Ireland, a vibrant city bursting with history and culture. It has an extremely laid back vibe with an upbeat nightlife and live music at the pubs. Ireland has been on my bucket list for sometime and it did not disappoint. Something to keep in mind, Ireland is cold, at least for this Texan. We went in May and I had to buy extra sweatshirts and a pair of gloves. It also rains a lot. Dress in layers and carry a light raincoat or umbrella.

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Once you arrive in Dublin, I suggest you get acclimated. Take a stroll around the city. Visit Grafton Street and pose for a pic with Molly Malone, then hop inside Temple Bar for a nice cider! A Big Bus Tour is always a fun way to get to know a new city!

This 5-day itinerary offers a mix of Dublin’s historical, cultural, and modern attractions. These are all things I personally went to and recommend. Feel free to adjust it based on your interests and the time of year you visit.

First, let me say you must go to Beanhive Cafe. They have the most amazing latte art and the gluten free breakfast is so good. I went there almost everyday!

Here’s a suggested 5-day itinerary to help you make the most of your time in Dublin:

Day 1: Explore Dublin’s Historical Sights

• Start your day with a visit to Trinity College. Don’t miss the Book of Kells and the Library.
• Visit the Beautiful Cathedrals of Dublin. St Patrick’s Cathedral and Christ Church Cathedral. Don’t forget to look for the mummified cat and rat. If you have time visit Marsh’s Library, where you’ll find rare books from Dublin’s history.
• Cornucopia has many vegetarian and gluten free food options!
• Stroll along the River Liffey and enjoy some Irish music at the local pubs. I recommend The Brazen Head, Ireland’s oldest pub, dating back to 1198! Get to know the locals!

Day 2: Dublin Culture

• Start your day with a visit to the National Museum of Ireland – Archaeology. Don’t miss the bog bodies.
• Visit Dublin Castle and Chester Beatty Library next door. We chose the guided tour for the castle. Library admission is free. Have lunch at Silk Road Cafe inside Chester Beatty!
• Pay a visit to the National Gallery of Ireland and admire some beautiful Irish art. Admission is free.
• ZIzzi’s had wonderful gluten free pizza.

Day 3: All About The Dublin Drinks

• Visit the iconic Guinness Storehouse and enjoy a pint at the Gravity Bar with panoramic views of the Dublin. You can have Rockshore Cider instead of Guinness and it is fantastic! Book tickets ahead of time!
• Harkins Pub, next to Guinness had the best gluten free chips and mayo!
• Next up, Teeling Whiskey Distillery to sample some Irish whiskey.
• Head on over to the famous Jameson Distillery.
• Dinner at La Gondola.

Day 4: Day Trip To Kilkenny

• Explore the Medieval Castle built in 1260 and beautiful gardens. Wander along the streets of Kilkenny and have a bite to eat at The Fig Tree. Make sure to sit upstairs by the window if you can!
• Next, the tour takes you to Glendalough, to the beautiful Wicklow Mountains. You’ll feel as if you’re in a fairytale storybook.
• Last up is the sheep farm where you’ll learn how the dogs herd the sheep. You get to meet the dogs and pet the lambs.
• Book your Kilkinney Tour.

Another option would be The Blarney Castle Tour!!

Day 5: Cliffs of Moher

• Day tour to the Cliffs of Moher – Possibly the most beautiful place I have ever seen! Views are breathtaking!
• After the Cliffs you’ll head to the coastal town of Galway to do a little shopping and grab some lunch before heading back to Dublin. Long day, but so worth it!
• Book your Cliffs of Moher tour.

If you’re lucky enough to have more time on the Emerald Isle, consider adding Belfast in Northern Ireland to your list. I also recommend the National Botanical Gardens. They are absolutely stunning. For more tour information… Day Tours From Dublin – Making Memories On The Emerald Isle

Eating In Ireland with Celiac – Your Guide To Gluten Free Restaurants lists all of my favorite gluten free finds while in Ireland. I had no issue eating gluten free while there, everyone was very celiac aware.

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