It’s impossible to see a city — any city — in a mere 24 hours. It takes months, if not years, to really get under the skin of a place. But as travelers, we don’t always have months (let alone years!). Sometimes all we have is a single day, enough for just a cursory glance and testing of the cultural waters. You’ll never come away with an in-depth understanding of a city that way, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t try!
Which is exactly what I had to do when I found myself on an overnight layover inI had only twenty-four hours to visit the city and needed to cram a thousand-year-old city into one day of travel. Pack some snacks and put on your walking shoes. It’s going to be a busy day! Grab some breakfast at your hostel or somewhere nearby. Ask your hostel staff for recommendations — they’ll have some places to suggest! You’ll be on your feet all day so it’s best to fill up now. You’ll burn those calories off soon enough!
During your visit, you’ll have the option of a guided tour or a self-guided tour. The self-guided tour won’t cover as many exhibits, though it will be faster so just choose whichever option suits your interest.
Admission is 12 EUR for the guided tour and 8 EUR for the self-guided tour. The castle is open daily 9:45am-5:45pm.
It’s the official National Cathedral of Ireland, though unusually there isn’t actually a bishop here (official cathedrals usually require a bishop). Dublin has another cathedral (Christ Church Cathedral), which is quite rare — usually, only 1 cathedral is allowed in a city. This is why St. Patrick’s has become the National Cathedral: to avoid conflicting with Christ Church Cathedral as the city’s official cathedral.
The cathedral is open weekdays from 9:30am-5pm and from 9am-6pm on Saturdays (there are limited hours also on Sunday, which vary depending on the time of year). Admission is 9 EUR for adults and there are free guided tours available throughout the day.
If you find yourself with just 24 hours in Dublin, here's a suggested itinerary to make the most of your time:
Morning:
Start your day with a visit to Trinity College. Explore the beautiful campus and don't miss the stunning Book of Kells exhibition in the Old Library.
Take a stroll through Dublin's famous Temple Bar district. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, browse the quirky shops, and stop for a traditional Irish breakfast in one of the charming cafes.
Visit St. Patrick's Cathedral, a historic and iconic landmark in Dublin. Take a guided tour or simply admire the impressive architecture and tranquil surroundings.
Afternoon:
Explore Dublin Castle, located in the heart of the city. Take a guided tour to learn about the history of the castle and its role in Irish heritage.
Wander through the streets of the Creative Quarter, where you'll find an array of independent boutiques, art galleries, and stylish cafes. Take some time to browse unique shops and perhaps enjoy a light lunch.
Pay a visit to the Guinness Storehouse, Ireland's most famous brewery. Take a tour to learn about the brewing process, enjoy panoramic views of the city from the Gravity Bar, and of course, savor a pint of Guinness.
Evening:.
Walk along the lively River Liffey and cross the Ha'penny Bridge, an iconic symbol of Dublin. Enjoy the picturesque views and the bustling atmosphere.
Experience the vibrant nightlife in Temple Bar. Explore the pubs, listen to live music, and immerse yourself in Dublin's pub culture. Don't forget to try a pint of traditional Irish beer or whiskey.
If time permits, catch a performance at one of Dublin's renowned theaters, such as the Abbey Theatre or the Gaiety Theatre, for a taste of Irish arts and culture.
Remember to check the opening hours of attractions, as well as any specific events or festivals taking place during your visit. Dublin offers a rich blend of history, culture, and entertainment, and while one day is limited, this itinerary should give you a taste of what the city has to offer.