Dublin on a Dime

Traveling is incredible. There are so many places to see and experience that can change the way we approach the world. Traveling is also expensive. When my husband and I decided to spend our honeymoon in Dublin, Ireland I was in the throws of my Masters program, and he was working at a public school–we weren’t rolling in cash. We wanted to have a good trip, but we didn’t want to throw our money away on tourist attractions that cost too much, and kept us from really enjoying the city. For us, we found that the best way to spend our time and money was to mix tourist and local. We wanted to support local business while in Dublin, and learn about the country through its museums and its people.

Dublin Castle

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Dublin Castle was built in the early 13th century and served as a thriving settlement for the Vikings. After the British monarchy drove out the Vikings, Dublin Castle was used as a prison, court, treasury, military fortress, and seat for the English administration in Dublin for over 700 years. It now serves a the venue for presidential inaugurations and State House dinners. The guided tour costs less than 10.00 euro/11.96 dollar for an adult ticket and is open year round. 

The Little Museum of Dublin

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The Little Museum of Dublin is an award winning museum highlighting the history of Dublin through a 5,000 piece collection generously donated by Dubliners. Although there are plenty of great museums to uncover during your trip, we loved this one because it told the story of Dublin straight from the archives and histories of the people themselves. They also have a cool room dedicated to U2, which is a big plus for any fan. Guided tours cost 10.00 euro/11.96 dollar per person. 

St. Stephen’s Green

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Located next door to the Little Museum of Dublin sits St. Stephen’s Green, a public park that was home to one of the most infamous battles in Ireland’s independence, the Easter Rising. In 1916, rebel fighters who wanted to gain their independence form British rule met on the grounds of the garden. The battle lasted six days, but the bullet holes in the archway of the park, as well as the names of those who died in the battle remain.

Saint Annes Park

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Built by the Guinness brothers in 1835, the grounds and gardens include nurseries in the Clock Tower Gardens, 18 tennis courts, and picnic areas. With over 500 acres of land, gardens, and trees, the park is a beautiful glimpse into Dublin’s green spaces. Enjoy a picnic or a walk in the park. An added bonus–you’ll meet a few sweet dogs along the way too!

The Palace Bar

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The Palace Bar sits down the street from Trinity College. The 100 year old pub has been featured in documentaries and publications for years. Grab a pint of Guinness and have a chat with the locals. We learned so much about Ireland from talking with the bartender.

Trinity College

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Trinity College is located in the center of Dublin. The 47 acre campus is free to explore and marvel for architecture and history lovers. Campus historical tours are offered by Trinity students and alum every day. Trinity College also hosts the Trinity Library where you can visit the Book of Kelles. If you want to know what the library at Hogwarts might look like, then you should pay a visit.

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Temple Bar Street

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Temple Bar might be one of the most famous pubs in Dublin, but the streets around Temple Bar offer much more history. Shops and restaurants dating back to the early 1600s offer the best gifts, stews, and beers you’ll ever experience.