Free Things to do in Dublin

Dublin has a multitude of outstanding tourist attractions and , just like any large city, an entire travel industry designed to be profitable. But, like in most large European cities, it is also possible to enjoy a great time in Dublin without the need to spend even a single cent (with exemption of course of your coffee or bus fare).

Below we have listed activities, both indoor and outdoor that will never really cost you a single penny.

Take a Stroll

The perfect way to see any city – and Dublin makes no exception – is to walk through it. Don’t forget to scrutinize though. Get a map, pack some water in your backpack, get your walking shoes on and start exploring. You can create an itinerary before you leave the hotel (or hostel). And it’s also a good idea to ask around and see what other budget travelers have done.

Where you should go? You can proceed to the Temple Bar, Parnell Square all the way to St Stephens Green or to the River.

Art Galleries

The public art galleries can all be visited for free. The most important art gallery in Dublin is The National gallery located at Merrion Square. This gallery contains the national collections of arts of Ireland and other master paintings of Europe, ranging from Orpen to Carravaggio. You can also visit the Hugh Lane Art gallery situated at Parnell Square. Contemporary arts both from 19th and 20th centuries are housed in this gallery.

The Irish Museum of Moder Art is another place that you can visit and which focuses on art. It contains more contemporary art compared to the Hugh Lane. The building in which the museum is housed is actually an old hospital dating from the 17th century. The gallery is worth your time because of its landscaped grounds and extensive views across the River Liffey.

Museums

Compared to other museums in most countries, the Dublin museums are free to visit. The National Museum has 3 various edifices- Decorative Arts located at Collin Barracks, Natural History Museum found in Merrion Square and Archaeology and History at Kildare Street. The Dublin Corporation also manages the Dublin Civic Museum, mapping the history of Dublin since the time of Viking.

Gardens and Parks

Bring your children to the many gardens and parks around the city. Some of the most beautiful include St. Stephens Green, Iveagh Gardens, Phoenix Park, Merrion Square, and war memorial of Island Bridge. You can also visit the Marley Park on the south part of the city and St. Anne’s Park on the north.

Government Buildings

Not so many travelers know that the wonderful Leinster House, the seat of the Parliament’s two houses is accessible to visitors. But in order to visit these wonderful buildings, you need to organize things beforehand and it would be easier to do it with the help of an elected representative.

When you are given the chance to come in, you can walk around the building or simply sit in The Dáil, the gallery for visitors and observe the politicians at work.

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