
Visiting Dublin for the First Time? Here's What to See and Do
Here's where to go to get the most out of your first trip to the Irish capital.
Experience the conditions of medieval Dublin with a visit to this museum. Visitors learn about the weaponry Vikings used in battle, ancient languages spoken, and the ravages of plagues. Interactive exhibits include a re-created street scene and the dark interior of a Viking household. Discounted admission is available to Dublinia with the Dublin Pass or through a combined ticket with the nearby Christ Church Cathedral.
Dublinia is a must-see attraction for families seeking educational activities and for history buffs.
Be prepared for walking and stairs; St. Michael’s Tower has 96 steps to the top.
Dublinia is wheelchair-accessible but there is no elevator access to St. Michael’s Tower.
To reach Dublinia via public transportation, take the Red Line of the Luas tram to the Four Courts stop; the museum is a 7-minute walk away. From Grafton Street, Dublinia is a 15-minute walk along Dame Street. The museum is near other Dublin attractions, including Christ Church Cathedral and Dublin Castle.
Dublinia is open daily with slightly different opening hours depending on the season; check the website before a visit. Summer is the most popular season for the museum. If possible, choose a weekday over a Saturday or Sunday to avoid crowds.
This educational heritage center has a range of fun options for kids. Interactive exhibits offer the chance to try on Viking clothes and slip into the heavy chains of Irish slaves. Kids can also learn medieval games and hear Viking poetry. To learn more about medieval Dublin, download the Dublin City Walls app for a guided historical walk through the city.